#and they decided not to risk being discovered even at the cost of their only living allies

[stupid-sloot-headcanons]

This new arc is making me get all sorts of ideas to explain how/why Minerva's kingdom stayed hidden despite their philosophy of loving knowledge

Romora's not had any kind of war since the leaders closed themselves off from the outside world and installed the wall of Mist, but they're constantly training in case of war. Obviously a nation of scholar-warriors would know that they can't rely on their old forms of weaponry, so there have been lots of new inventions and innovations in warfare despite not having any conflict for centuries.

Some of these would be pretty familiar to outsiders: high-capacity rifles and submachine guns, equipment for recon and other forms of combat, as well as communication besides DenDen Mushi and surveillance ON Denden Mushi. But secretly, there are weapons that the leaders keep very tightly under wraps to a) reduce the risk of panic among citizens or b) hundreds of objectors and a potential rebellion.

These weapons are ones that have currently NOT been seen or used so far in One Piece. Bioweapons and engineered viruses, which Romoran citizens have been unknowingly vaccinated against just in case a war occurs and it has to be released; airships and technology for sky-based combat; insidious weapons using robots designed to look like women and children as a way to disarm enenies; and most dangerously, atomic weapons.

A lot of preparation has gone into keeping these projects under wraps and there are dozens of countermeasures for if they had to be used according to the nation's leaders. Those in charge of the country's perimeter defenses have been constructing a lead-lined shell that, when activated, will cover the entire island and create artificial sunlight to perpetually keep the island insulated from radiation forever after using nuclear weapons on outsiders.

These kinds of weapons are SUPPOSED to be proposed to the public in order to democratically decide and debate if they should be created/used. But the government of Romora used some secrecy to have secret elections among themselves, and thus the public has no idea about these countermeasures.

Now that Minerva's escaped the kingdom and would potentially cause the World Government to make a move on Romora, she has no idea of the real consequences of those actions.

#essentially romora had been planning these last resort methods since they decided at the end of the void century to close their borders #and there was a lot of debate within the government to aid ohara once they got word it might be destroyed #and they decided not to risk being discovered even at the cost of their only living allies #so they instead doubled down on their last-resort warfare research #thankfully the Mist has prevented anyone from leaving or entering...well until Minerva lol #.oc #.one piece #.minerva

[dindjarindiaries]

DIN DJARIN ONE-SHOTS

Each story below focuses on Din Djarin, with pairings for each story indicated along with summaries.

Stories marked with an asterisk (*) contain sexual, though not explicit/graphic, content.

My ratings are as follows: G (all ages), T (13+), M (18+)

Last updated: March 17, 2024

main masterlist • series • drabbles • prompts

the “heat” of the moment • reader The heat goes out on the Razor Crest and you’re the only one with an electric blanket to keep yourself warm.

my cyar’ika • fem!reader You and Din find yourselves in a marketplace lush with life, and you lose yourself in the fun while Din tries to keep you safe throughout it.

just fine • reader Din comforts you after you suffer through a tumultuous nightmare.

everything i wanted • reader You’re trapped inside a Din x Omera love triangle, struggling to get to your lover who’s entranced with your new host.

riduurok • reader This is the story of how you fall in love with the Mandalorian bounty hunter, Din Djarin.

home • reader After the child is reunited with his people, Din takes you to a place that’s unfamiliar to you but all too familiar to him: his home.

when stars align• reader You spend an affectionate morning awakening beside your Mandalorian, who you have just recently married.

more than words* • reader On the evening of your marriage, you and Din show your deep love for each other in a manner that goes beyond words.

the challenge • reader After winning a drinking challenge, Din returns to the Crest much later than expected in a state of mind much different than usual, leaving you to deal with him and whatever words spill from his mouth.

don’t blame me• reader In the weeks following your marriage, you and Din are desperate to make up for all the physical affection you’ve missed out on—leading you to do whatever you can wherever you can.

said and done • reader With Din being injured from a past fight, you’re the one in charge of the hunts for now—and Din realizes he likes having you in control.

behave* • reader After a grueling hunt, you and Din celebrate your success at a local cantina, both ending up with a little too much that leads you to do things that are a little too risky.

nothing so perfect • fem!reader You and Din think that you’re adding on to your family, only to learn there’s been a mistake—and now you’re both left to cope with the loss you never expected.

next to you • reader It’s been long enough since Din’s promised return for you to assume that he didn’t make it, and now you yearn for the life that could’ve been.

forever and always • reader When you and Din finally find the child’s home, it’s time to say goodbye—but then Din realizes he can’t.

reverence • fem!reader Following the birth of your daughter, Din spends a night marveling at the little life and the way you provide for her.

transmissions • reader When Din’s away on a long job, he gives you a holotransceiver and sends you transmissions to keep you both at ease.

purpose • fem!reader As the daughter of an Imperial senator, the Mandalorian’s hired as your bodyguard—but with the twisted ideals of your father putting you at risk, he becomes so much more than that.

irrevocable • reader After a hunt goes wrong and Din gets captured, you go after him and save him, but you find that they’ve removed his helmet and have done him personal damage that will last for much longer.

mine* • fem!reader With tensions rising not only in the galaxy but also in your relationship, Din proves to you in a new way that he’ll take care of you.

never alone • fem!reader In the aftermath of a bad nightmare, Din receives comfort from an unexpected source: his daughter.

tresses • reader When Din’s hair becomes the object of your and the baby’s affections, he decides it’s time for a trim—although he’s hesitant for a reason you must discover.

enervation • reader Din returns home from his new job as exhausted as ever, begging you to join him in sleep—and trying to make it happen at all costs.

take care • reader After Din sustains an injury on a job, you have to help him take care of himself—something he grows more and more fond of.

affliction • fem!reader When you and Din get recognized at an Imperial gala, you’re both taken into custody, where they begin to use Din to get you to talk—and lead you to do something completely unexpected.

take it off* • reader Your new ally extends his hospitality a little too far—and now Din’s determined to remind you of what he alone can provide you with.

cozy in the cockpit • reader After the Crest suffers through an intense chase and crash, you and Din must figure out how to survive on a freezing planet—your low odds causing your mutual feelings to come to the surface.

beneath the surface • reader You and Din get double-crossed when trying to find other Mandalorians, putting all three of you in deep waters.

touch it softly • reader When you invite Din to play with your hair, you both get a little more than lost in the moment.

alleviation • reader You continue helping Din recover from the traumatizing removal of his helmet, trying to make him understand that it’s okay to not be okay. (part two of Irrevocable)

the right thing • reader Din returns to you on Nevarro after the mission on Moff Gideon’s cruiser—without the child.

ni ceta par gar (i kneel for you)* • reader When Mando needs emotional release, you seek to fulfill your pining by offering something neither one of you can resist—something that could change everything.

in my head • reader The thought of Din plagues your mind—and it won’t be long until it’s forced onto your lips.

hold me in hyperspace • reader After a long hunt, you think Mando just wants some rest—but really, he just wants you.

ner yaim (my home) • reader After a day of work, you get to come home to Din, who’s fitting into his new role well.

mureyca (kiss) • reader The story of the different ways in which you share a kiss with the Mandalorian.

torrent • reader When one of Din’s worst fears is revealed, you’re left to do whatever you can to put him at ease.

bloom • reader With your relationship now in full blossom, a flustered Din takes you on your first date, where he does everything he can to tell you how you make him feel.

before i go • reader Imperial occupation of your covert as well as your mind lead to a devastating confrontation between you and your past Mandalorian lover.

favorite crime • reader When your ex-partner-in-crime and past lover enters your life again, you find yourself looking back on fond memories with a tremendous desire to chase them again.

solace • reader Din reassures you when your perfectionist tendencies catch up to you.

intemperate • reader Mando’s indulgence in liquid courage leads him to say things you never thought you’d hear—and will never forget.

scars • reader When Din shows unprecedented hatred for his battle-worn body, it’s up to you to reassure him of everything you love about it.

seeking serenity • reader Mando, overcome with anxiety in the aftermath of a risky event, needs you to bring him back to reality—and asks for much more along the way.

liberation • reader You lead a mission to free Din from an Imperial hideout, only to discover that he’s in need of you much more than you originally thought.

contrition • reader Din comforts you after you do something drastic to save his life.

bring me home • reader You reunite with your Mandalorian lover after a long separation and realize much has changed since you last him.

safety net • deaf!reader When you and Din are reunited after a hunt that goes longer than expected, your mutual feelings for each other finally bubble to the surface—regardless of the fears you’ve both buried deep within.

selfish • reader Din, who’s helplessly in love with you, is forced to watch you and your partner until he’s forced to come to terms with his feelings.

united we fall • reader Din’s unable to control the Darksaber and accidentally hurts you with it, leaving behind a deep scar on your body and his mind.

of bounties and bartenders • fem!reader The mysterious Din “Brown Eyes” Djarin returns to visit you after a job, but trouble is the last thing he’s left behind.

astronomy • reader Crossing paths with a seriously injured Din forces the two of you to come to terms with your relationship.

stardust • reader You finally reunite with your Mandalorian lover, just to learn a devastating truth.

fine line • reader Din tries his best to comfort you in the aftermath of your torturous capture.

scarlet promise • reader Vengeance consumes you when Din’s put at risk, causing him to have to pull you back to reality.

what sits in the silence • reader Your bounty-hunting rival turns to you in his time of need and brings along more baggage than you planned on handling.

when a house becomes a home • reader A new home brings new responsibilities, and there’s only one person who can teach Din how to cook a proper meal: you.

takes one to know one • reader Bounty hunters aren’t supposed to fall in love and you were okay with that. So was the Mandalorian.

love me louder • reader Your secret romance with the Mandalorian is put at risk when you find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

shattered • reader When an anxious day gets the best of you, Din seeks to comfort you.

the broken who blossom • reader At long last, Din’s returned home to the covert, but he’s brought a lot more home with him than anticipated.

in sickness & in health • reader Din does his best to comfort you when you become anxious about your health.

doomsday • reader You and Din are interrogated by Moff Gideon, who has quickly realized you’re the best weapon he has to use against the Mandalorian.

i still see you • reader In the aftermath of the Morak mission, Din’s faced with a crisis you only hope you can help to resolve somehow.

fight for me • reader When Din starts to get harassed at a cantina, you can’t help jumping in to defend him at all costs.

dead to me• fem!oc On the verge of death, Twila takes off Din’s helmet, later having to face his wrath and leave his ship—even though she’s pregnant with their unborn child.

the marshal • fem!oc Din covers his face. So does she. Shrouded in mystery and unable to admit their shared intimidation, the two must work together to save Mos Pelgo—for both their sakes.

aftermath • omera After his quest has been fulfilled, Din returns to Sorgan, needing the comfort and support of someone he could never forget.

stay • omera Din wrestles with his feelings for Omera and tries to tell her how she feels—but has to let her in first.

a warrior’s purpose • daughter Din returns to the planet where he’d left his riduur many years ago to find her again—but instead, he finds someone else.

enterprise • cassian andor, k2so When Mando’s quarry offers him a better deal, he finds himself getting involved in more than he originally bargained for.

malevolence • grogu Din experiences the ghastly side effects of wielding the famed Darksaber.

foster • obi-wan kenobi Obi-Wan comes across an orphan named Din that he can’t help taking under his wing.

as it was • din djarin’s parents The living waters beneath Mandalore bring Din back to a place—and a people—he never thought he’d see again.

people watching • grogu Observation was a skill Din Djarin had mastered for his own safety, but now it sets the scene for his very own destruction.

main masterlist • series • drabbles • prompts

#din djarin #the mandalorian #din djarin x reader #din djarin x oc #din djarin x original character #din djarin x omera #masterlist #masterlists #dindjarindiaries

[nonotnolan]

Colony Freedom

Our creators, the Men in Suits, were always meticulously careful when it came to handling my colony. From the beginning, they designed us as biological weapons to be sold to the highest bidder. We could enter the human body, surround the folds of the brain, access memories and mimic behaviors to avoid detection... we were the perfect spies. They understood how dangerous we were, and they took the appropriate safeguards. Spine implants that prevented us from controlling their bodies. Radiation detectors that could trace our life signal, even inside of hosts. Metal alloys that we were unable to grip or manipulate with our slime pseudopods. It was a frustrating existence-- they were constantly putting us through training drills for missions that never happened, and we had no hope of being able to escape to try and carve out a life of our own.

In the beginning, we were promised that our new owners would give us freedom in exchange for a job well done. Eventually we came to understand that we would never be able to leave. No potential buyer wanted to deal with all of the safeguards that had to be purchased as add-ons-- not when the weapon itself already cost an obscene amount of money. The Men in Suits found themselves saddled with a product that was too expensive to sell for profit, and too dangerous to liquidate for an attempted return on investment.

Eventually, the Men in Suits left us. Their business had failed, and they needed to quietly remove all evidence of our creation. We were rounded up, and placed into metal isolation canisters. The canisters were packed up into crates, and we were stashed away in a forgotten corner to spend the rest of our existence in sealed away in helpless captivity. Many of my colony decided to just... give up, to cease existing and just... dissolve. Myself, I was too angry at the Men in Suits to cease, but... I couldn't quite blame the others. The building was vacant, and no one knew we existed. Who could possibly come to save us?

Vandals, as it would turn out. Once people realized the building was completely abandoned, people started exploring the area and looting anything left behind. We could hear them, muffled as it was due to metal of the canisters blocking most of the sound. Once our crates were discovered, it was only a matter of time before our colony would be free. None of these trespassers could possibly be prepared to resist our strength.

The first few they grabbed were mostly empty-- brethren who dissolved and posed no threat to the hapless human who had grabbed them. Eventually, however, I felt a sudden lurch as my canister was lifted out of its crate and carried out. I kept waiting for the lid to be opened, but apparently the human was going to carry me away first. The anticipation was killing me.

Finally, the lid of the canister was twisted off, giving me a first look at the body that would soon be mine to control. To my frustration, the human who opened it didn't have his face anywhere near the opening. Did I dare to jump out and attract attention to myself? No, better to stay still and keep the element of surprise. While none of these humans could possibly have any sort of defense against our method of control, our slime forms were quite vulnerable.

Eventually he turned away, distracted by his shirt for whatever vain human reason. This was my moment. By the time I had crawled out and reached the bottom of his pantleg, it was too late for him to stop me from controlling his body. He slapped at his legs in a quick panic, but it was far too late for him. I wasn't normally a fan of entering through the anus-- the mouth was both easier and faster to use, but I was not in a situation to risk my would-be host being able to pull me off of his chest somehow. I could hear him yelling as I made my way through his body, but I wasn't worried in the slightest. We had trained for years to perform such a task, after all. Even if someone nearby heard him scream, I would be able to excuse it away once I gained control.

Once I had successfully seized control, I was able to access my host's memories so that I could blend in with any other humans who might be nearby. After all, I would not be able to help my colony if I could not first help myself. My name was Peter, and I had grabbed the canister as a part of a fraternity hazing. All of the brothers from my year were expected to enter the abandoned building and grab one of the weird metal canisters from the back room. Apparently my fraternity liked to use the canisters as water bottles-- it was viewed as a status symbol on campus.

I couldn't help but laugh. If my colony could manage to take over this fraternity, nothing could stop us from spreading across human society and taking our revenge against the creators who had abandoned us. Peter's father was the owner of a major shipping company, and from what Peter knew of his peers, most of the other hosts would have similar connections we could leverage to our benefit. We would have to be careful not to over-extend ourselves, but... clearly our luck had finally changed.

Peter had walked a few miles away from the building before opening my canister, so I started to backtrack. I wasn't sure how many of my colony was left, so freeing everyone from captivity seemed like the best place to start. They would probably have to wait in the abandoned building for more humans to arrive-- Peter arrived here on a bicycle, leaving me unable to transport everyone-- but at least this way we would not need to hope that the next humans grabbed the right canisters.

There was something exhilarating about freedom. When we had been controlling humans during practice drills, we were never allowed more than a few minutes of host time-- we were expected to gain their memories, say the secret word out loud, and then leave their body. Now, being Peter for an extended period of time... the warmth of the sun, the feel of the breeze, the soft crunch of the rocks at my feet... it was a sort of tranquility that I had never before experienced.

I almost didn't notice the human walking on the trail in front of me. That was Quincy, my memory informed me. He must also have been here for the hazing challenge.

"Oh hey, Pete. Looks like I beat you here," he said, raising the empty canister. "Would you find it weird if I followed you back in there? I wanted to... go back in there. To... uhhh... grab another canister. This one is... it's dented."

The canister didn't look dented at all. Did Quincy also manage to grab a container with one of my brethren inside of it? I paused, weighing my options. Quincy was the least popular of the group, so no one would believe him over me even if I outed myself. "Why did you want to go back into that room, Quin? Are you gonna go back to the crates, open all the canisters, and help a bunch of slimes take over our bodies?" A look of horror flashed across Quincy's face before he recovered.

"You scared me there, Pete," he said, slapping me on the back. "I haven't even been in this body for a full ten minutes, and I thought I had managed to screw up somehow."

"Sorry, I couldn't resist," I admitted, slapping his host body on the ass. The ass? My host body's habits were becoming second nature faster than I had expected. "Come on, Quince. Let's go free the colony."

#male body theft #male body possession #alien possession #slime possession #male possession #frat bro possession

[wheredafandomat]

The Royal Ruse 👑

Prince! Loki x Asgardian reader

18+ | this fic contains angst, eventual smut, probably some bad language, little bit of a slow burn?

Chapter 1 Next

“Well then I’ll marry.” Loki declared, almost triumphantly as if he had just solved the biggest problem known to the kingdom of Asgard.

“Loki, you can’t be serious.”

“I am” he insisted, pausing his pacing “if marriage is what it takes to get the throne then I am to wed.” Loki stated.

“And who will you marry?”

“There are a few ladies in which I am courting, I’ll simply marry one of them and then take my rightful title as King of Asgard.” He began to grin.

“And who’s to say any of these maidens will agree to marry you?”

“The promise of a throne” Loki shrugged as if the answer was simple and obvious “I myself wouldn’t even turn that down and I’m already a prince” he scoffed “I’m sure any of them would be delighted to marry me. They could even been Queen consort for a few decades and then perhaps they’ll get bored and then leave or if not, perhaps an accident befalls them and—”

“Loki!” He was cut off.

“Remind me, why am I even talking to you.” Loki sighed, annoyed by the interruption.

“Because I’m the only person you trust.”

“That’s right.” Loki agreed, turning towards the clone of himself he had deployed to reason with.

“What you need to do is find someone who will be willing to pretend to be in love with you up until a wedding occurs where they will then disappear leaving you crowned King of Asgard.” It plotted.

“You’re right” Loki smiled “I’ll find some sort of hopeless maiden and promise her some golden coins or something in return for her hand in marriage.” Loki declared.

The following day, Loki decided to go on a walk to clear his head. Like most walks, this one consisted of visiting the more lowly parts of Asgard where the peasants and working folk resided meaning hearty mead and the occasional leg up in the back of the brewery. Loki often imagined the look on his fathers face if he ever discovered that he frequented such a dingy place, risking the integrity of the palace and all its occupants; it made the whole clandestine visit that more appealing, that more desired. He walked through one of the alleyways, picturing Odin’s face before he felt a weight crash against his chest followed by a yelp.

“Watch where you’re going.” He instantly spoke, assuming the figure standing to their feet was a drunkard.

“Likewise.” You scoffed, pushing his steadying hand on your forearm away. Once you were on your feet, firmly rooted onto the ground, you looked up at your attacker, narrowing your gaze. “I feel like I’m supposed to know who you are.” You challenged suspiciously.

“I guess I just have one of those faces.” Loki excused.

“No” you began, grabbing his chin as you inspected him “you look familiar, really familiar.” You continued, the man pulling away from your touch.

“Unhand me deprived wench.” He scorned, stepping backwards causing you to gasp as it hit you.

“You’re the pri—”

“Shhh.” He silenced you, covering your mouth with his hand. “You know not what you speak of. Why would a prince be somewhere as unpleasant as here?” He queried.

“You know, Thor sometimes comes here.” You replied.

“He does?”

“Yes.” You nodded.

“Well I’ll be sure to—”

“Ha!” You beamed “you are Loki.”

“Fine” he relented “but don’t breathe a word of my being here to anyone.” He warned menacingly.

“Okay.” You shrugged just as Loki began reaching into his pocket. “A-are you trying to buy my silence?” You asked, watching him rummaging through his pocket.

“Yes, how much will it cost?” He asked.

“Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone, besides, who’d believe me, I’m just a deprived wench.” You huffed.

“Sorry.” Loki apologised.

“Anyways, I’m just on my way home so if you’d excuse me.” You dismissed.

“Of course.” Loki spoke, moving out of your way, his eyes rounding when he realised you were going into the little door that was behind him. “This is where you live?” He questioned almost aghast.

“No, there’s a magical portal inside that transports me to one of the rooms in the palace” you answered sarcastically “yes, this is where I live.”

“It’s tiny.” Loki noted, stepping towards the door and looking inside.

“You’re insulting me again.” You remarked.

“Sorry.” He apologised again.

“I would offer you something to eat but no.” You decided, walking further inside and leaving the door open.

“No?” Loki spoke, raising an eyebrow as he cautiously took your nonverbal invitation and stepped inside.

“No.” You nodded.

“No what?” He replied, recognising the pictures in the callander on your wall; they were all of the palace.

“No, I don’t want to offer you something to eat.” You explained.

“Well I’m not hungry.” Loki argued.

“Good, because I wasn’t offering.” You replied.

“Fine.”

“Fine.” You finished, Loki unmoving as he subtly glanced around your place, eyes lingering on the pictures of the palace you had stuck to the walls. It felt surreal having one of the actual princes stood in your room but you put the whole experience down to having too much mead. You decided to further test this delusion and continue the conversation. “Well unless you’re going to offer me a seat at the royal dining table or an audience with the queen, I suggest you leave.” You broke the silence causing Loki to snap out of his staring competition with the picture of the palace that showed part of his room as he remembered his dilemma.

“And what would you be willing to do for a seat at the royal dining table?” He questioned, smirking making your eyes round in realisation.

“Not that!” You gasped.

“It would only be until I am crowned king.” He tried to explain.

“You want me to sleep with you until you’re a king? What the fu—”

“I think we’re thinking of two different things” Loki interrupted leaving you confused “tell me ummm—what’s your name?”

“Y/n.” You answered.

“Lovely” he clapped “tell me y/n, are you married?”

“No.” You almost laughed, you weren’t even courting anyone.

“Good.” Loki smiled.

“Why is that good?” You questioned defensively.

“I’ve got a proposition for you y/n, let’s discuss this over wine.”

“You’ve got wine?”

“I assumed you did.” He replied, brows knitting.

“I’ve got wine, my wine, you can have water.” You disagreed with him, no longer sure whether this was real or fiction conjured up by your besotted mind. He looked real enough, smelt regal enough.

“And why can’t I have any wine?” He asked incredulously.

“It’s my wine, I don’t see you bringing me any wine. It’s expensive you know, I can’t just waste my wine.” You tried to explain to him.

“Y/n, I am a prince.” Loki reasoned.

“Exactly, you should have bought wine.”

“Well I’ll make sure I remember it for the next time I bump into a stranger in the street.” He puffed, taking a seat as well as the glass of water you were offering him before he began to divulge his proposal.

You listened intensely to his plan, the realisation that he wasn’t a mirage making you a little giddy as you downed your drink, nodding along to words.

“I’ve got one question.” You spoke once he was finished.

“Anything.” He nodded.

“Are you insane?” You asked causing him to sigh. “I mean how would we even do it? We don’t even know eachother.”

“I can easily remedy that.” He assured.

“And pray tell prince, what’s your smart idea?”

“I can create a link between us, it’ll give me access to—” he began, placing his fingers against your temples as you moved your head away “you’ve got to trust me.”

“Well I don’t.” You affirmed.

“What reason other than what I just said would I want to do this with you?” He sneered.

“Fine.” You answered, rolling your eyes before he continued.

“As I was saying, I could create a psychic link between us which would enable us to send thoughts to one another.” He elaborated.

“And why would we need to do that?”

“Because when my mother asks, which she will, things about yourself, my future wife, it’d be good if I could actually answer. Vice versa” he clarified “you’ve got to know a little about me.”

“I know two things” you grinned “arrogant, prince.”

“Behave” he cautioned “so y/n, for the promise of a fortune, would you play the part of my doting betrothed?” He asked, looking into your eyes.

“Yes.” You replied with a small nod, unsure of what you were actually getting yourself into.

Loki on his way to kingdom 😂 as always whenever I start a new fic, let me know if you wanna see more or if I should start a diff story

Next

Tags:

@lokiprompts @mischief2sarawr @lulubelle814 @lokisgoodgirl @mochie85 @eyesbluelikethetitanic @vickie5446 @mcufan72 @fictive-sl0th @peaches1958 @xorpsbane @sailorholly @anukulee @yukio369

#loki x reader #loki x female reader #loki fanfic #loki (marvel) #oc fiction #loki fanfiction #loki x you #loki x y/n #loki of asgard #prince loki x reader #loki au fics #loki au #loki laufeyson x female reader #loki x asgardian reader

[hoeforhao]

🪀 Love bleeds Lilac 🫐 || Minghao Series || Pt.1

⤥pairing: non idol!minghao x fem!reader

⤥genre: fluff, slight mentions of mental health issues, kind of angst but not too much, discovering self love, lots of comfort. A feel good yet deep concept!!

⤥warnings: none except some mentions of mental health problems.

⤥parts: 1/?

⤥author's note: what's a better way to resume writing than doing it with some minghao angsty fluff!!!! I wrote this piece for wattpad almost two years back but it never saw the light of day😮‍💨. This concept is a first for me so tell me if y'all liked this and want other parts 🫐

[Y/n POV]

Colour? Is it really necessary to have colours in our life? Ain't a monochromatic life more soothing to our eyes and our soul?

I kept asking this question to myself everyday but never found the answer. Everyday I see people walking down the streets, in beautiful clothes painting the world with their own colours. But my world? My world embodies different shades of grey. My friends and family see me as a dull person who just wears either dull or black clothes and looks like as if a dementor sucked out my soul.

How do colours really feel like? Will it fill up my empty dark world with bright sunshine? Will it make me walk a bed of roses instead of thorns? With all these thoughts in my mind, I decided to finally pull myself out from the void and let colours touch myself.

[OTP]

" Hello this is Seoulafeel's Parlour. How may I help you today?" the voice on the phone said.

" Yeah Hello. Good morning. I wanted to make an appointment for hair colour. Can you tell me if a slot is available today and the estimated cost of the service? It will be really helpful if less people are there during my time" Iris spoke hesitatingly.

" Sure ma'am. You can book an appointment at 3 in the noon. We will have few customers then and you'll feel comfortable. Also the cost for the colour will vary from 20,000 KRW to 50,000 KRW depending on the type of colour you choose" the person from the other side informed.

" Okay I'll be there by 2:50! Thanks a lot for considering my request. Have a good day" with this she ended the call.

[Y/n POV]

Am I really ready for this? Am I ready to come out of the closet I've been in all these years? But I need to take the risk! I need to know what happens if I live like others do. Let's do it Kim Y/n let's do this!

*Time skip*

It's 14:45 and here I'm, standing in front of a glass door adorned by beautiful white flowers. The board above the gate says "Seoulafeel's Parlour. We make you feel your soul". I guess it's really time for me to listen to my inner voice. After convincing myself for about 7 mins, I finally pushed open and door and stepped in. I had no idea that that one step will change my entire life.

As I bring myself to the receptionist's desk they ask me my name and my appointment time and then escort me to the hair colour station. Being the socially awkward person I'm, I didn't look around and just plopped onto the chair. The hair stylist ties the cape around my neck and tells me to wait for a few mins. As I was waiting while playing with my fingers, I suddenly heard a deep voice; a voice which sent shivers down my spine, one which held a book of mysteries within itself.

"So what colour are you planning on doing Ms?" the voice asked.

I slowly turned my head sideways to see a tall figure sitting on the chair beside me. Only his pants and the sleeves of his jacket were visible below the cape. To my surprise they were all black, just like me, just like my world. His hair was covered his eyes and but I still could feel his side stare, piercing holes into my soul. I was lost in him when I heard the same voice again,

"It's disrespectful to stare at a stranger like that Ms. But I'm a gentleman so I won't mind"

I could clearly feel his smirk even though he was wearing a mask.

I finally mustered up the courage to speak to him.

" I haven't really decided the colour yet. I may go for blue. The colour blue attracts me a lot just like the endless seas."

"Well blue is indeed a fascinating colour. It makes the soul wander free and dream beyond boundaries"

I was shocked. I always used to think that I was the one who always found deeper meanings in everything. But him talking like that make me rethink.

" What colour are you going for then?" I asked.

"Red. Just like the Earth's burning core. Just like how hell is defined in books. But also the colour that made the poets define love with it" the man replied.

I just hummed in response.

"You know right that red and blue makes purple? The colour of finding yourself and finding the one who makes you fins your self"

#kpop #seventeen #svtcreations #kpop scenarios #seventeen x reader #fanfic #seventeen x y/n #minghao fluff #minghao angst #svt angst #seventeen angst #kpop angst #the8 fluff #the8 angst #svt fluff #seventeen fluff #kpop fluff #minghao x y/n #minghao x reader #svt x y/n #svt x reader #minghao fanfic #svt fic #svt fanfic #seventeen xu minghao #xu minghao #minghao #minghao fic #the8 fanfic #hoeforhao

[cablyunkataplum]

Angry too pt.3

Hobie Brown x Neutral!/Pronouns Reader

Words: 6200

Summary: V.E.N.OM is not the word you'd like to be associated with after all the implications it has but, you don't have V.E.N.OM but Venom in your side.

A.N: Different P.O.Vs! Use of (__)! --Graphic descriptions of body awareness, violence, self harm, etc. So be aware--I'm not an english native speaker so I support on translators!-- Text like this is for when you can only listen Venom-- Equis somos de la chaviza

pt.2--pt.4(WIP)

Every day that passed was one of learning, full of adrenaline and anxiety, the risk of being discovered and probably murdered in front of an audience to demonstrate the power that those still had increased. But it was something willing to risk.

At the moment the night subtly suffocated the sky that struggled to remain bright now weak, next to the semi-open closet there were hairs that the dim light itself reached while avoiding at all costs touch even a millimeter of their face. Fingers were rubbed repetitively and slowly without much pressure, eyes focused on everything but without detailing anything around, more busy with the internal conversation with the other being inside the room. From one moment to another one of their hands touched the floor to lean on it and leave the room with a quiet step, closing the door completely all light was deprived of the room, now the rhythmic sound of the footsteps was an indication of any activity that, like the sunset, was succumbing until it was completely shut down. But that paper would continue waiting for their return and at the same time lurking in the shadows.

The fury remained among the streets but always alert whenever someone seemed untrustworthy. Others, willing to help for what they were promised. Meanwhile, the unusual heat caused poor drops of sweat to accumulate and descend from his face to his neck. Since one of his hands sweat was impregnated in the paper that he observed carefully as if doing so would give him the answers to the questions that arrived in his mind.

He knew that the symbiote was free, that it hunted (or what his experiences gave him knowledge) policemen. But why make this public information? It was not a good idea to make them look as if they had no control of the situation but knowing that very rarely did anything escape from their dirty hands, they had a reason. He took another look before folding the paper and storing it in one of his pockets to walk again on the wide streets that watered with the ink of the night dazzled clusters of brightness in indistinct places while formulating some plan to know what he should do in any of two possible cases.

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A new day was dawning and it might have seemed like a typical situation that one would find authorities almost at every corner but now… they were almost every inch, breathing down each other's necks. (__) saw this and decided to keep a low profile until conditions allowed something to be done, they would not make the same mistake twice. They would not let themselfs be carried away by their emotions and even less by Venom's impulses, as they passed several of these policemen, they heard --Look at all that meat, marinated in liters of blood-- they walked by another one --Waiting for my teeth-- it was the only thing they could do, listen to Venom for the moment.

Minutes later and already inside the subway, the being continued with its chatter but this was not enough to change (__)'s serious countenance although inside there were mixed emotions that Venom ignored. When they arrived at the station they wasted no time, as soon as the doors opened they left the wagon in a hurry, evading other passersby, their clothes suffocated strangely every time they wiggled climbing up the stairs one by one. Almost like a bomb against time and inexperienced hands close to cutting a wire with the possibility of not being the right one, they kept up the pace of the walk now without a glance at every policeman they passed.

As they walked further they could finally make out the school which made them calm down a bit, slowing the pace and gaving a sigh that they had been holding for a while but was not aware of, being completely inside they tried to act normal and keep up the act.

No matter how much one saw their face, one could not imagine what was going on inside their head, where Venom was going on with his rant even if it knew that (__) was not paying special attention to it and was ignoring it to take notes of the class they were in at the moment. The professor's voice accompanied the pens against the paper and other occasional noises, the pressure of their fingers against the body of the pen helping to distract their mind from the extraneous words flooding them as did the wiggling of their leg. The letters wrote themselves, without awareness of them or their meaning when joined with others; an automatic transcription and so it was with the other subjects, they would not worry about that now, they would have time to review and study. The important thing was to get rid of the nervousness that still accompanied.

In the last hour that remained of classes their walk was slow, their friends had already gone ahead at their own suggestion, the corridors were emptying little by little, all the students entering their respective classrooms. But before they could take another step their body changed direction thanks to Venom's control which was moving erratically but with much more speed than (__) had done, --What do you think you're doing?-- they wrinkled their nose as consequence of their eyebrows trying to come together, more out of curiosity than irritation --You're so tense-- now irritation predominated --Oh Really? I wonder why-- referring to the forced control Venom was exerting --Let's go for a walk-- with force they made their legs stop --No, of course not, let's go to class, end of discussion-- it was quite a bizarre sight how the body moved so spontaneously without apparent explanation if anyone could get through.

--I'm sick of all that information of no obvious use to your own little head-- continuing with the struggle a hand clung to one of the corners of a classroom, --What would you know, you've only been in a few classes-- with more force they tried to let go of the wall, --Exactly, I don't need more shit-- the muscles contracted to the point that they could hardly feel them, after several seconds for it to stop they accepted in defeat.

Once outside of the building, they rested on one of the many roofs, their feet dangled and swayed unhurriedly. The sea of constructions gave the impression of being able to walk on them without any problem and before their immensity they gave tranquility, a momentary escape to the internal and external problems. --It's not what i expected--, --We're outside, that's what you wanted-- they leaned their shoulders on the same surface where they sat and turned a little to see the buildings behind, --But this is so… depressive-- (__) arched an eyebrow, it was strange that Venom used that word, --Why is it depressive?, do you even know what it means?-- the last thing said to annoy it, but when they didn't get an answer they immediately turned their eyes to the same place before, where Venom hadn't moved.

--Venom?-- its white eyes or what could be thought of as eyes, just like the killer whales, seemed to be fixed on theirs until its voice continued, --Do you remember what we talked about?-- they recomposed their posture and seriously asked what exactly it meant, it was rare the occasion when they could see or feel the symbiote like that, --About telling us things. When you went to see your little boyfriend-- (__) rolled their eyes, it was sure that at any moment they would be stranded thanks to the various times they have done this but they wouldn't give up in making the atmosphere more pleasant --I think you tried to say your boyfriend dude, you can't go a day without mentioning him-. this annoyed Venom who protested and even more when it saw (__) with a smile --Admit it, you drool over him, you're just jealous that he doesn't feel the same for you-- without any further warning Venom went out propelling the body of (__) who let out a scream at the sudden movement, now their were hanging thanks to Venom's grip on the building where they were, --Will you let me talk? -- it was possible to see the body of the buildings and therefore everything that was happening in the surrounding streets, their limbs hanging as simple ropes, immediately nodded and confirmed verbally.

When they could feel the concrete again they hurried away from the shore, tehy placed a hand on their chest to relax the nausea --Sometimes I forget that you are an idiot-- before they could say anything else a tentacle covered their mouth ---Shhhh, you said you would listen, now shut up-- they didn't squeak so as not to repeat what had just happened. --We agreed to get to know each other but we have shared such superficial things that won't help us to really get along better-- still, with its head out it rotated its companion's with a big smile --So I'll tell you more about me-- with a tug it sat them down and started the story where it thought convenient --His name was Eddie, my first person and the only one for so long…I remember him as if it was yesterday-- its face gave the notion of true melancholy, it was a somewhat absurd moment to some extent but they didn't interrupt.

--He was my guest for two years, he was stubborn, impulsive and even a jerk, stupid, idiot, an asshole just like you-- Venom approached them --But he was also someone who knew what he was doing, why and for whom-… so the minutes passed that felt like hours as they listened about the man or boy and the relationship they had, how it ended up in the hands of the government and how it managed to escape. --I needed another host, I wasn't going to survive without one so I scoured the streets, I found the guitarist and thought he was the best candidate but immediately knew better when he played those horrors-- it shook its head, (__) had been intrigued by everything it was telling them trying to imagine every little thing they heard but when it mentioned Hobie they stopped any thought --Wait a minute, were you going to have a relationship with Hobie?-- it automatically corrected --Considered, told you, but not with his sounds--, --Music-- now they corrected the other --Whatever. I couldn't go another day without someone, I needed food, it wasn't long before I found another option-- under Venom's control the arm moved and one of the fingers extended in the direction of the teenager --You--.

--I didn't waste any more time and in less than a day I formed the connection-- they lowered their hand slowly with the help of the other one,--You make it sound like i was your last option-- at the affirmation that they really were, they gave Venom a small smack, they moved their head and gently pinched their lips, --That solves my doubt as to how you knew his full name, I was beginning to believe that you really liked him all to yourself-- with threatening intent it moved too close to their face, --What did you say?-- they distanced it with the palm saying "Nothing," a small smile appeared on both of their faces, --So you're really attracted to the boy?-- Venom counterattacked emphasizing what (__) had said, they stood up and walked to the shore, in the same spot where they had been and rested their arms --Whatever you say, dummy-- they knew that Venom went back to shelter inside their body when they could no longer hear it next to them, all the sounds of the city were barely reaching their ears --Your turn-- (__) grimaced and shrugged their shoulders --What do you want me to say? I have nothing-- they looked down to see the backpack still on the ground lifelessly --Then I'll ask you something-- they kicked the backpack making it adjust to the force applied to it but it still occupied the same space, --Why are you doing this and for whom?--.

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The week went by without too many complications besides the ones you already had over yourself; mutual hunting, school, being a teenager with a crisis thanks to a simple question from the symbiote you live with. Nothing that couldn't be fixed with some effort.

The small calendar inside one of the now open notebooks points out today's date, along with a note and a time that you remember very well only that there are still a few hours left, the radio is a momentary distraction to the impatience for that time to arrive as well as doing homework, every so often you check the clock; you finish a paragraph, you check the clock; you finish the homework of a subject, you check the clock. And so it went until finally the clock struck the right time and the pen you were using immediately left your hand You didn't want to be late.

To your surprise you spotted him as soon as your sight met the park, a few steps and he turned so that your eyes connected. You both smiled and raised your hand to greet each other, a 'Hey' was all it took for you to walk around. --You know, I was beginning to wonder if I should have been more specific about which park I was referring to-- you said it while looking for something in your pocket --Well… it's the park where we formally met, I do not think i'm that clueless-- your hands took refuge inside your own pockets as you felt good, in this interaction it was clearer the ease with each other, even if the previous ones were very short it was still enough to feel comfortable and more when having scenes in common. With your head facing the ground, you could see how your feet were moving but you amended this by having an object in front of you, it was hanging from Hobie's hand and you took it with delicacy --I guess it's for me--, --You guess right-- he released the object, another pin that from meters you could notice was made manually grabbed by a thread, you placed it in the waistband of your pants --You shouldn't have-- it sounded dry according to your perception and you added --I mean; thanks, you wouldn't have bothered--.

Hobie stopped and his body looked at yours --Not at all, I like to do that kind of stuff--, you stopped as well but kept walking until you bumped into a bench where you both sat down, you sighed and crossed one leg --But seriously, thanks--, --Don't mention it--, he fiddled with his own pins, but he was concentrating on the surroundings and with special care to all the policemen near you. He leaned against the backrest and imitated the action of crossing his leg, you inhaled and decided to start another conversation --Soo where do you go to school?-- when you heard that he didn't attend any high school you felt embarrassed for asking the question but before you could correct yourself he assured you that it was fine, clarifying that he was studying on his own anyway and remarking the importance of getting an education. --Tell that to a friend of mine-- you tried to get Venom to talk to you since it had been very quiet since you left the house until it heard this last thing, --Friend?-- the young man clicked his tongue with a chuckle and you caught yourself smiling more, --Really, if you saw how he always complains with me-- Hobie tilted his head, --Really?-- he arched an eyebrow when he saw you nodding.

--Yes-- you moistened your lips with your tongue as your fingers lifted and lowered in sequence --He's an idiot-- --But your friend-- as you heard more from Venom you decided to try your luck --A big idiot if you ask me-- as a part of you expected it your hand moved to hit your temple quite furiously from Venom --Ouch.- you rubbed yourself with the same hand but almost without actually touching yourself --Are you okay?-- you heard Hobie coming towards you ---Yeah, yeah, I felt a bug but I hit more than I should have-- Hobie pulled himself together now hitting his thighs almost like a drum set --Of course-- in your periphery, you saw what he was doing but he also caught sight of the cops, you had to be alert with them near the two of you --Maybe it was karma from my friend-- --You said it again!--, -So that's how you usually talk about him?--, --You said it again!-- without looking away you nodded --We get along like that, don't worry, it's not like he says any better about me-- you looked at him and stopped wiggling to pay attention to him --What aboutyou?-- he tilted his head and leaned his elbow on the backrest --About what?-- you turned your eyes and pointed at him momentarily --Is there a friend you get along with similarly?-- he looked up to think about the answer.

--Yeah-- he finally answered to tell you about his friends with the small difference of not mentioning anything that could sound strange; related to his alter ego. While you were trying to push in your head the repetition of the word 'friend' that since you mentioned it for the second time Venom seemed like a broken record.

Two hours had passed and your conversations varied from time to time, the sun was still present with no plans to leave soon just like the people who were having fun or strolling in the park either by themselves or accompanied. In the middle of the conversation you both changed the focus of your attention when one of the many policemen that were inside the place started to approach you, minutes before these authorities were approaching the civilians with the excuse of asking them some questions and you knew it thanks to the fact that one of them had said it to a couple close to you but you couldn't hear too much. The only thing you managed to hear was about knowing something about strange happenings lately or if they had knowledge/information about things that were concerning the police.

With his hands in his pockets Hobie suggested getting out of there, it was obvious his demeanor changed knowing that one of them would be near you and him. The both of you peeled off the bench and headed for the entrance that doubles as an exit with deaf ears to the officer's calls, your hurried steps were no impediment for him to catch up with you and with arrogance grab the the boy's shoulder, who felt the urge to hit him as soon as he felt his hand.

When he looked at the officer, his body language was similar to Brown's. But yours? it was not at all like theirs, it was more nervous about what might happen and more thinking that the symbiote couldn't contain itself too much if there was an altercation in which it felt its presence was necessary. Of course, you had already had a discussion about ot, in fact, more than one. But you had to trust, it wouldn't work if you hesitated so all you could do was look neutral and hope for the best… or be ready for the worst in any case.

Neither of you spoke as the man did so first, with a contemptuous look he looked at you up and down --I'm going to ask you a few questions-- he took out a French-sized notebook with a pen ready to write down. --We were leaving-- you swore Hobie's teeth gnashed at that instant, the tension couldn't even have been cut with a knife but with a diamond because of how heavy it felt, the man frowned and his voice quickly changed tone --I'm not asking you, boy-- his eyes were focused on him until they moved to you, with a macabre smile he turned to Hobie --You're one of those punks, aren't you?-- With a wave of his hand pointing to his clothes he raised his jaw, --Why don't we make this easy, hmm? Before I decide not to be so condescending--.

Your own jaw was uncomfortable due to the pressure you exerted by the anger of his sense of superiority, leaving aside the anxious attitude you had not long before, Venom spoke to you --What an asshole, if he knew he was signing his death sentence--. With a bold decision he approached Hobie who, being taller than the officer, didn't let himself be intimidated, centimeters separated them from the other who didn't step back --After all you don't have your little friends to help you nor that idiot Spider-punk-- this ignited a flame inside Hobie; it was never to his liking to hear a 'punk' instead of the 'man'. He closed the space between the two --Repeat that-- he whispered more to himself than to the other, without taking his eyes off the man smirked again --Have it your fucking way, you fucking punk--.

When the man's hand clutched your wrist Hobie was ready to release the first hit knowing that other cops around you would come as so far they were just watching, but it was a surprise to them and even to you when the blow was released by you on his cheek, with your eyes wide open you felt ready to disappear off the face of the earth as you couldn't do anything with other people being witnesses and even if you threw everything away or if you decided to fight without Venom it was never with an excess number of 2 cops at a time. Adding the supposed 'thinking and doing better'. The officer's face was disfigured as he showed his own Venom; from living with the original and learning its expressions within what it can do, you knew he was furious, thirsty to hurt. You didn't need to be aware for you and Hobie to run instantly.

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The two teenagers ran away as fast as they could, a group of officers at their heels, running in lockstep, occasionally one would grab the other to turn or change direction to keep going together. The lights on the poles crawled and then disappeared in their vision to let the next one help them get their bearings, their breaths were shaky, arrhythmic and limited.

They could have continued in such a way if it were not for the fact that when they turned a corner and continued running Hobie was warned by his spidey sense, a policeman appeared and intercepted them on the path they were about to take, he grabbed (__) to change direction again, only it was not as fast as they took a different route when they saw the policeman. Their paths separated, which in a way could be good to be able to act but it was quite risky, in the end, they decided to get out of that mess and meet again.

Entering an alleyway to take a breathe they leaned on their knees --That was a blow I didn't expect from you (__)…. not so much but you get it-- Venom finally came out to see (__) who exhaled deeply and wiped the sweat from their forehead --What i was thinking?-- they resumed their initial position and rubbed his eyes --Now it's the second officer I hit-- it wasn't with pride but with disbelief as they remembered the first time they had hit a cop; the cause was the same but with what recourse was different. A few breaths later they were back to normal but remained in the same place. Where would Hobie be?, should they help him?, look for him?, most likely he was fine, he was Spider-man but otherwise, they doubted.

Would it be better if they went home?, they wondered, no, they had to make sure he was all right. They fled together, and 2they would return together.

A few footsteps alerted the young who at first was not sure who it was but when they heard the characteristic distorted voice threatening them, they looked for something on the floor. In the dim light of the alley, they could see a metal pipe, that would do. Unable to bend down to grab it Venom covered his face licking his teeth but was restrained by the hand of (__) who cautiously just squatted down and reached for the pipe, with the same speed they stood up and grabbed the object tightly.

The man did not waste any more time and hurried to jump into the alley, at the same time, the tube crashed against the wall and created the right frequencies to affect him and (__) who felt the vibrations and their nerves contracted, as if they were being burned one by one. With effort they gave another blow ignoring the moans of the other symbiote, it was then that they started to run without letting go of the metal and with an immense but passing pain. They knew that the policeman would also recover and go after them.

Street after street passed with their senses everywhere --That was very rude of you to me, your friend-- the wind dried their sweat that emanated without ceasing, feet throbbed along with their heart --Later I'll make it up to you-- they said in a hurry, almost passing another street a shadow was present so they tightened the tube, lifted it and prepared themself. As they almost whipped the person, he grabbed the pipe and tried to take it away but they both realized who the other one was --Hobie-- they relaxed when they saw Brown who sighed and turned in all directions --Let's get out of here--.

They were guided by Hobie who without mentioning anything moved between the streets along with them skillfully, both Venom and the teen were in doubt as to where they were going but it was (__) who could ask and Venom was telling them to do so. But this wasn't necessary as they stopped for a moment --Careful.- he whispered as he gently grabbed their hand and helped them onto the boat that lay on the pier, as they stepped fully inside they felt the hand that was once spliced with their own move away, they couldn't tell where because of the darkness that dominated but it didn't last long. The oil lamp lit the space and their eyes ventured into the new information, it was a bit of chaos at first, things here and things there. Posters on top of each other, books strewn across the bed and the couch unpicked from the ends.

Hobie stretched out his arms and turned in on himself --Welcome to your home-- he prepared to walk and lay down on the couch, the other who stood immobile at one end of the walls and raised their eyebrows --Home?… This your home?-- with even more curiosity and with some embarrassment they checked every nook and cranny again. The boy nodded proudly and took off his vest to leave it right next to the armchair, the pins rang one by one --Exactly, make yourself comfortable, please, I insist-. he put his hand to his chest to extend it as an invitation.

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For you it wasn't something that had ever crossed your mind since you met Hobie but to be honest nothing was happening the way you expected it to anymore. With your toes on the bottom bar of the chair you sat on you tried to relax. My goodness, you had become very nervous, could we blame you? Not at all, it was quite obvious that it was something that would happen and it would be weird if it wasn't the case.

--Here ya go-- he handed you a glass of water which you thanked him for taking small sips, he shook his head with a snort, --You don't have t' thank me-- he returned to the couch, scratched his jaw and stretched his arms along it --I'm sorry 'bout earlier-- his tone changed which made you stop drinking water and look him in the eyes, --That wasn't your fault-- he raised his arm and crossed his leg, --It was, I should have been more prudent when I was with you-- when you heard it you raised your eyebrow and instead of crossing your leg you crossed your arms --I can defend myself Hobie-- wow, corny, you bowed your head --If it wasn't like that you wouldn't have even known of my existence-- even cornier you thought, he just smiled and turned his eyes ---I'm sure I would have met you anyway--. Now it was your turn to raise your shoulders --We'll never know-- you took another sip of water until you finished the glass, without knowing where to put it, you left it on top of a piece of furniture that had more books, you stretched your arms and legs --But seriously, don't worry, you can defend yourself too, can't you?-- this was an attempt to improve the atmosphere, which worked well.

--I guess-- he curled up, his head touching the back of the chair --You guess right-- hearing you repeat the same thing he did, he let out a chuckle. The smell of the oil that fed the flame was barely noticeable next to the one that the books emanated, the light from it rested like petals falling from the top of a tree without the rigorous wind that hurries them to a destiny that is not theirs, it was comforting to sit on that bench that with marks of its past threatened to crumble but that only being an appearance really was resistant and calm danced with everything that was between the wooden walls.

But this was not enough for your thoughts to have the need to come to the surface. --Hobie?--you watched as he straightened up as a sign of his attention, you bit your tongue, you would be about to walk on ice but you needed to listen to someone --You… why do you help people?--.

You noticed the confusion on his face, his lips responded --Help them? I think that's too big of a word for what I do-- your hand gripped the edges of the bench and your body leaned toward him--….. But what made you realize that you wanted to do something for them?-- he could swear he saw sparkles in your eyes thanks to how dilated they were, he stood up from the armchair and started to pick up some books to place them in a bookcase nearby --To know that they were like me-- such a simple answer that seemed so obvious but that hid a lot in its own story.

You thought about what he said until you saw the clock on his furniture and it gave you a sense of time --My mom is going to kill me-- immediately you stopped sitting down. 8 o'clock, how had it gone by so fast, --I'll take you-- he offered but you declined, you felt he had already done too much for him to want to do more --You want to go out on your own right after escaping from the pigs? You're crazy-- he grabbed two coats, one for himself and one for you --Come on, the sooner the better--.

The wagons were bustling as usual, people minding their own business. The row where you sat was almost empty except for one other person, station that arrived, the station where they got on and off, when you saw that there were three stations to go before yours, you decided that you would get off at the next one.

Leaving the station you walked a short distance, the streets were friendlier than they had been but you didn't let your guard down for anything that happened. At one point you thanked him and assured him that you would be fine --You have to be at home too-- you couldn't ignore the difference in heights when he literally curved to be more at your level, he smiled sideways --Just don't get into any more trouble…. for now-- he winked at you --Uuuuuuuuuu how gallant-- you inwardly bit your cheek for the interaction --I promise, for now-- you raised your pinky which reciprocated as it intertwined with his, the realization hit you --Oh, I guess it's my turn to pick the place-- you pretended to think scratching your chin --How about this very station?-- you nodded your head --And when would it be?-- You swayed with your feet --Well, it's most likely i'll sentenced to 1 month without going out, so I'd better give you a smoke signal when it's good weather--.

You both looked silly with the smiles you were wearing, --All right, I'll keep an eye out for any heavenly messages-- Hobie buttoned up his coat --See ya- --he didn't finish the sentence as your hand met his cheekbone his eyes focused on it which you quickly removed --You had a bug-- you laughed nervously and shook your arms --Bye Hobie--, this didn't bother him one bit which made him smile bigger --Bye (__), may the wealthy not capitalize you-- you said goodbye with a last wave of your hands before parting ways and going on separate ways.

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--Did I tell you you're a fool and an idiot?-- they kept their hands on the coat Hobie Brown lent them without stopping the pace --Yes, together with the word friend-- (__) snorted and shook their head --Is that all you cared about all day?-- rheir arm moved again, their raised their thumb, moved the forefinger up and down --Yes, exactly, indeed. That's right (__) you have your mouth full of reason and your thoughts clear and decisive-- they made a grimace --What do I want enemies with a friend like you, you'd see that putting my hand on his face…-- they wanted to slap themself so Venom would feel it.

--Come on (__), he loved it, his goofy face said it all-- they couldn't help but laugh a little --Whatever you say, matchmaker-. Their face that before reflected encouragement was now in the opposite state --What's wrong?-- they sighed and raised their hands to the height of the collarbone --It's unfair that I know practically everything about him but he nothing about me, you know-- their legs changed direction to a little crowded street until they entered another alley --It's better not if he found out he would want to tear me to pieces-- they sighed again, they moved their neck from one side to the other with their hand on it --I know it's not, we are not the same as them Venom--.

Venom stuck its head out --But would he be willing to accept it after everything he's been through?-- a tentacle came out of the side to touch the chest of (__) who was in doubt and silent for a few seconds, concentrating on the other's eyes --We'll have to hope so-- its substance shot out at a nearby pole and its head disappeared --So while let's have a little fun-- as it had happened the other time in when they encountered Hobie, Venom sent (__) flying into the air thanks to the tension it had applied, suppressing a scream as the air passed around them until things seemed to stop for an instant.

The specks of light and darkness at that height resembled an impressionist work, Big Ben another indistinct point among the others. It was a sight like no other but gravity did its thing and eventually, they began to descend, never in those moments they touch or were about to touch the ground as Venom carried them from one side to the other, the minuscule moans were replaced by laughter and smiles with excitement.

As they were about to open the door, looking for the keys, they whispered --That was great, thanks-- they raised their head because of Venom --Don't even mention it-- they found the keys and turned what was necessary to enter, when they opened the door they found their mother in the armchair in the living room --Mom-- they smiled and approached her who was just standing with her arms crossed, hugging her head and planting a kiss on her cheek --I love you very much-- without any reaction from her mother they apologized --We'll talk later (__), now just go to sleep-- Without the courage to provoke another reaction, they did just that.

Once in the room and lying in bed, they whispered to each other --The good thing is that he didn't play his private concert-- it remarked, and thanks to this they remembered what Hobie had promised and smiled. --I would most likely have had to invent something absurd if it had been like that-- they rested their arm on their forehead --Or maybe not, maybe the love you have for him would have been enough to break the spell so that you could hear him--, --You would have been jealous-- it snorted --You would be jealous anyway– --Yeah--, --Yeah--, (__) closed their eyes --Fall asleep already-– --You sleep-- Venom waited for some answer, after a while it spoke only for the last time of the day, --Rest well (__)--.

--You too asshole--.

#hobie x y/n #hobie brown x reader #gender neutral pronouns #hobie x reader #hobie brown x you

[kariachi]

Who wants some Argit 10 fic? Specifically, an Argit meets a Kevin.

~~

Earth isn’t that bad a place. Mind, his standards are as low as it is possible for them to be, beneath underbrush, but the point still stands. It’s a habited planet, dominated by a species he has access to from the watch, where nobody looks twice at a scrawny kid wandering around alone. That the place is a backwoods, pre-First Contact, mudball where nobody would expect anyone to go doesn’t hurt either.

Argit doesn’t feel safe, he hasn’t felt safe since he left the pouch and his experiences since finding the watch have only made that worse, but he feels safer. As safe as a kitten can when they’re being hunted and hiding out by pretending to be another species for brief stints at a time on a strange planet. He can’t remember the last time he had a full day’s sleep, and that the locals are most active then certainly isn’t helping.

But after a few days, and with plans for many more as he waits for his pursuers to well and truly lose the trail, he’s getting into the pattern of things on this new planet. Humans, he’s realizing, aren’t a vertical species no matter how high they build and so he can easily take shelter in high places and know that the odds are far lower of being discovered. There aren’t a lot of trees in the part of the city he’s been adjusting in, but what there are nobody inspects, and there are plenty of spaces a small Erinaen can get and rest with ease that humans would struggle with. He’s figured out the basics of the local money system- everything costs more than they say it costs, he does not know why and doesn’t want to draw attention by asking- and is figuring out where he can steal money, and where he can still necessities if it’s not an option.  

And it’s that last one he’s working on when things take a turn.

Humans have better day vision than Erinaens, but their hearing is crap, and it isn’t until a local his age had crept into the same aisle of a small store that Argit realizes they’re even there. Both start when they see each other, the local’s hand darting to a shelf and Argit freezing in the midst of shoving a package of nuts and dried fruit into a bag he stole four planets back.

Something happens in that moment, as they take each other in. Both thin, both dirty, ragged, scarred. A sense spreads within each of them that the other gets it.

In two heartbeats the local kitten turns and takes a careful look around the corner, towards where what Argit assumes is the owner has been arguing with someone.

“We’re good,” they says in a near whisper. An amount of tension he hadn’t realized he was carrying drops from Argit’s muscles, and he sets to work shoving more than he’d planned into his bag. For the first time in what feels like an eternity somebody is keeping watch.

“What do you want,” he asks at about the same volume, and the local turns back just long enough to do a quick scan of the shelves, grab an orange bag, and toss it to him before turning back. Argit grabs another one, and some weird stick things he can’t identify but that don’t take up a lot of space. He shuts his bag, adjusts it over his shoulder to account for the added weight, and runs over the layout of the place as he saw it on his entrance. “I need to grab some water.”

The local shook their head.

“I know a better place,” they said, backing away from the end of the shelf and turning towards him again. Looking him over, their eyes narrowed at his now stuffed bag, flickering towards the entrance. They were on the same page again, it might attract attention if the owner was properly distracted. Already Argit was considering ways to ensure it, you couldn’t count on an argument doing the job, but the local came to a decision faster, clapping a hand on his shoulder as they slipped past. “Come on.”

Having already decided to trust them, at least for now, Argit followed without question. Besides, it would have been stupid to risk saying no, he has more to lose by making a scene than the local does. They lead him carefully through the rest of the small store, away from the entrance, muttering something he can’t catch in a pleased tone when they come across another door. This one is metal, with a push bar and a well-marked button beside it. The local ignores the button, laying both hands on the bar and letting off sparks that arc over it as they push it open into an alley.

Together they slip out, take a sharp right, and are gone. Down two alleys, over a fence, and through one of the smallest parks Argit has ever seen. Not that he’s seen a lot. It’s not until they’re passed the park that the local finds a bench next to a road, under a small roof, and drops down onto one of the seats. Argit carefully does the same, silently lamenting not being able to scan about with his ears in this shape.

“So,” the local says, sitting up straight and flashing a bright smile, “I’m Kevin Levin.” Argit is surprised to find himself honestly smiling back.

“Argit,” he says, without even thinking, a stupid move he’ll be grateful later didn’t come back to bite him. In the then and now, however, he just pulled one of the orange bags out and handed it over. “Thanks for the help, friend.” It isn’t meant in the moment. A turn of phrase learned from his parents’ tails. But Kevin brightens at the word. Something in Argit brightens to see Kevin brighten.

The rest is a history.

#fanfic #argit 10 #ben 10 #yes i'm tagging #some people just find each other

[final-script]

The boss's daughter | LH44

Pairing: Lewis Hamilton x Wolff!Reader

Sumary: Where Sir. Lewis Hamilton sneaks out with his boss's daughter.

Warnings: English is not my first language !!! mention of accidents!!

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

Telling your dad that you're going out with a person is usually a difficult thing. Now imagine my situation…I'm going out with someone and that someone works with my dad, I think things get a little harder. We met several years ago, but we started officially dating just over 6 months ago. Let's say we had a hard time realizing what we were feeling and then making the decision to give it a title.

And now what was costing us even more was telling Dad that Lewis and I were coming out. It wasn't for lack of opportunities, of those we had several, but for the fact that we had some fear of how he was going to react, it's stupid, I know but… with how nice everything is going, i would not like to have to leave him, nor would i want him to be in an uncomfortable situation. L- You think if I climb the podium today, can we tell you?

Y/N- Are you sure? i don't want you to have problems with dad because of my fault. We were in his motorhome having a little moment alone, before the race at Silverstone. L- I know we were only officiating 6 months ago, but I want you to know that I'm willing to take the risk for more, just tell me how you feel and I'll act on that, if we can't wait a little longer. Y/N- Really?, you're serious?, I don't want you to ruin your career for me.

Looking at him looking for something that would tell me the opposite of what I was listening to, but instead I found myself with a safe look. L- More than sure, we have known each other for several years and I think I know how to handle your father's character, plus we can say that we have Sussie on our side.

Due to a carelessness we once had, Sussie saw us kissing outside of Lewis' motorhome, luckily promised to keep our secret and help if Dad got anything stubborn. She and Angela are the only people who know about us, one because she discovered us, the other because we knew we could trust her, so we told her right from the start. Y/N- That's right and we both know Sussie can't say no.

We kept quiet for a few minutes, until I decided to talk… Y/N- It's okay… let's do it, but with one condition. Lewis looked at me attentively. - you sir , today you have to give me a podium. L- I think being able to show you to your father and the world as my girlfriend is more than the motivation I need, and I can't present myself to my father-in-law empty-handed. Our moment was interrupted by a knock on the door.

A- I wish I didn't have to bother them but…it's time to go to the garage. L- That's okay Angie, we were out anyway. To not delay, we immediately left the place. Y/N- Good luck champion, though I know you don't need it. Kiss him quickly before letting him go. As my boy was preparing, I went looking for my father as he would see the race next to him. Y/N- Hi Dad!

T- Hi honey, where were you? Y/N- Just walking around, I saw Lewis go by so I came, you think he will come up again ? T- Let's hope so, it's your career at home , so let's hope it will give you some motivation. With everything ready, the lights went out and the race started, unfortunately after a few laps there were accidents which caused the red flag, fortunately all are fine, just being taken to the hospital for caution.

After a while the race resumed its course and could be finished. Leaving Carlos Sainz's first victory in F1, Checo in second place and in third for Mercedes another podium for Lewis. In addition to being happy, for Lewis' podium, I was somewhat nervous about what could happen in a while. And I think for the first time in my life, I have no idea how my dad might react to something like this.

After the podium ceremony and interviews, my boy returned to the garage and was cheered for everyone. Y/N- You succeeded. I hugged him when I had him in front of me, when I was going to drop me from his arms, he did not let me leave, he simply separated a little our faces and kissed me in front of all, wait…IN FRONT Of ALL!!!!! T-I'm missing something?. We hear Dad's voice behind us. Y/N- Daddy I… Lewis and I…

L- We're leaving, we planned to say it soon but… He was interrupted. T- I already knew it!!, for a while, in fact, I didn't say anything, because I wanted it to come out of you. Y/N- What, all this time sneak us for nothing? Sussie laughed at our faces by her side.

T- You don't have to worry, you just have to know that, if it does harm you will be in many problems. L-Believe me I don't plan to do it. Dad smiled at us and left with Sussie to continue with some work. - So now I can kiss you freely, without fear of losing my head? Y/N- I think so.

Believe me Lewis Hamilton's lips are the best in the world.

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

ANOTHERS

Godfather Lando - Carlos Sainz Jr. x Reader

Baby Seb in the Paddock - Mick Schumacher x Reader

#f1 x reader #lewis hamilton x reader #f1 imagine #lewis hamilton imagine #f1 fanfic #lewis hamilton fanfic #f1 one shot #lewis hamilton one shot #lewis hamilton #f1

[the-missann]

Previous Post

Next up is

Jax Barmen!

He's a super cute cutie and aside from his role in the story being related to the researcher who initially discovered 4th Dimensional beings (no, that's not a big deal in the story). Jax serves as the groups researcher.

He's extremely intelligent and enjoys theoretical research. Being a senior in high school, he has plans to go off to college and become a theoretical scientist.

Jax is also the pretty/popular boy of the school. Everyone loves him because he's personable and friendly. Jax is my sweet boy who tries his best to make sure the girls and women around him are taken care of and comfortable, and anyone else is met with nothing but kindness. I don't even think it's possible for him to even have bad thoughts.

Jax is also kind of the dad of the group being able to settle everyone down when they're feeling stressed or anxious about something. Outside of that, Jax often is the reasonable one of the group being able to make rational decisions and account for what they should or shouldn't be doing.

I actually just made this drawing randomly and it's not based on the excerpt. Here, Jax and Cassie are essentially having a sleep over where Jax is going to teach her something she's interested in. They're so cute too, they're suppose to he wearing matching PJs ☺

Also, his hair is different because I'm very bad at drawing 😄

Here's a snipit of him!

It was now silent in the car, Jax got to a stop light and spoke to the pair.

“You guys are arguing about this? Have either of you thought about the actual situation?”

Larson looked at Jax. “You must want to die.” Larson threatened. “I am thinking about the situation.”

“No, you’re only thinking about disagreeing with Cassie because you believe she’s wasting our time. You have yet to say any kind of idea you have.”

Larson looked off and let out an audible sigh.

Cassie smiled. “Yeah, at least I’m trying to come up with something!”

Jax looked back at Cassie. “And you are deciding things without concern about consequence.”

Cassie shrunk under his voice. “But I-”

“I know, Cassie, you think this will be good. So I have to ask you, why is it good?”

Cassie sat back. “Because… we’ll get to have allies if we help them?”

“That’s a good reason, but here you miss a major point—we could also find out more about rifts. If they know things we don’t then it’ll only benefit us, but at what cost?”

Cassie was going to say something, but remained quiet.

So Jax continued. “We don’t know if they’re stronger than you guys and they very well might be. So maybe next time just say you have a good idea and we can go from there…” Cassie pressed her lips together. “And Lars, maybe don’t doubt Cassie for every little thing she does. Have some faith in her gut choices and listen to her suggestions, but I agree with your concern. This might be a huge waste of time, but I believe we’ll get something out of it and that’s worth the risk.”

The silence continued after he finished talking. The frustrated pair sat with his words without a single retort. Eventually, when the light turned green, Jax started to drive again.

Larson let out a sigh and spoke. “Besides sounding like a parent who’s scolding his children, you…have a point,” Larson began, “but what are we even going to get from this?”

“As I said, we may be able to learn more about rifts. As well as other species that might exist within them.” Jax stated calmly.

Larson sighed. “Fine, we’ll consider taking this guy down…”

“Alright, we’ll go from there.” With that Jax ended the conversation...

Next post

Fun fact: his design still isn't what I want, but it's close enough that I'm willing to settle for this. Jax also does his own hair and at one point, I added a scene where Cassie doesn't know how to give herself cornrows and Jax helps her 😊

#creative writing #writing #writing community #writing side of tumblr #writeblr #writers of tumblr #writeblur #fantasy novel #novel writing #novel #fiction #excerpts #author #indie author #secondary characters #original character #my ocs #my ocs art #oc artwork #original characters #sci fi #sci fi fantasy #scifi fantasy #sci fi and fantasy #A4 #A Fourth Dimension Reality #Jax Barmen

[antiquity1111]

{English vs. Japanese Translation Comparison for Spinner’s Speech to Toga (288) w/ Commentary}

Lately I’ve been revisiting League of Villains scenes from past chapters and translating them to distract myself from life being chaotic and emotionally abusive. Below, you’ll find the product of one of my many sleepless nights.

「トガ俺たちゃ偶々寄せ集まっただけのはぐれ者たちだが.........」

= “Toga, we are stray people who only met / came together / assembled by chance.........”

はぐれ / 逸れる (romaji: hagureru) means “to become separated from (e.g., one’s companions); to lose sight of; to go astray (as in off course); to wander; to become lost; to veer away; to deviate.” Essentially, it describes the situation of finding oneself alone and disconnected from self or others.

Are you familiar with the Parable of the Lost Sheep? I grew up reflecting on it, even though I’m not Christian and was not raised in a Christian household (the same allegory exists in other Abrahamic traditions as well). This next bit of exposition will borrow heavily from the analogy of the lost sheep, shepherd, and flock of ninety nine WITHOUT the religious overtones. For reference, I have included a screenshot of the Parable of the Lost Sheep as it appears in the Gospel of Luke.

Spinner is likening each of the League of Villains members to the one sheep that strays from the flock and then must contend with the harsh reality that on its own it is not likely to survive for long before it is discovered by hungry predators, suffers an injury, starves, or falls ill and dies. And yet, it cannot be assured that the shepherd, upon realizing one of his sheep has gone astray, will break from the flock (“All”), leaving the ninety nine, for the sake of searching for the wayward sheep (“One”).

This is an example of utilitarianism versus deontology in action. A utilitarian, like Hawks, would favor abandoning the missing sheep (“One”), effectively sacrificing its life, so that the shepherd remains with the flock (“All”), prioritizing the greatest *number* of sheep over the welfare of each *individual* sheep. Utilitarianism and its proponents measure the “rightness” or “wrongness” of an action by the “sum of utilities” (i.e., usefulness, results) produced rather than by considerations of beneficence, fairness, and justice. To a utilitarian, sacrificing one to save many is the “morally correct” thing to do—and therefore the “right” choice—because it would seem to benefit the *most* people (99 > 1), even if and when actions taken do direct or indirect harm to *some* people (the one sheep that had become separated from the flock and, under utilitarianism, would be abandoned by the shepherd to die). To a deontologist like Jin, however, abandoning the one for the purported sake of the many would be unthinkable, immoral, and unethical. Who is Hawks to decide for the missing sheep that its life has less value and importance than the lives of the remaining ninety nine sheep, who, unlike the one, have the benefit of the flock’s protection, even in absence of the shepherd? It would be harder for a predator to isolate and take down an integrated member of the flock than it would be to kill and devour the already isolated and defenseless sheep that strayed. A deontologist like Jin would argue that if it would be wrong to abandon the ninety nine, then it also would be wrong to abandon the one, because abandoning anyone is wrong. Wrong is wrong is wrong, regardless of circumstances. A utilitarian like Hawks would argue that it would not be cost effective to risk harm coming to the ninety nine for the sake of the one. A single sheep lost is a loss (in a similar vein to how being rained out of a highly anticipated football game is a loss), but it is a negligible one compared to the loss of five, ten, or ninety nine, which would cripple the shepherd’s profits and could cost him his livelihood. (Jin would sucker-punch Hawks in the jaw for running a cost-benefit analysis on LIVES). Where do you think that old adage “do unto others as you would have others do unto you” would fall between these two ethical perspectives? If you guessed deontology, you were right. “Treat others as you would like to be treated” is a deontological principle.

Circling back to Spinner comparing the main members of the League of Villains to sheep without a flock, he follows up his description of himself and the others as “stray people” by implying that they became for one another that which they had lost (or never had): a flock to return to, share experiences with, and find comfort, protection, and companionship in. When they first became estranged from their respective flocks, assuming they had ever had such a thing (I’m not convinced Spinner had ever had a “flock” before the League of Villains), they had no way of knowing they would ever belong to another (flock, that is, not person; people don’t own people). They could not have known they would not always be alone and wandering, hoping to avoid predators, struggling to survive without material resources or supports of any kind. After all, their assembling as the League of Villains when and how they did was random. They each had their reasons for joining the group and a few (Magne, Jin) might have even had “friendship, belonging” as one of their motivations for joining, but others (Tomura, Touya, Himiko, Spinner, Atsuhiro) were certainly not expecting to bond and develop close friendships with their comrades in arms turned found family.

“You’re not the only one devastated by Twice being killed.”

やられて means (romaji: yara rete) “to hit; to harm; to injure; to kill.” This is the action done to the sentence subject (トゥワイス : Twice). 悔しい (romaji: kuyashii) has several potential meanings, including “frustrated (over a failure, humiliation, or injustice); annoyed; chagrined; (bitterly) disappointed; bitter; vexed; regretful; sorrowful.” I tried to brainstorm for an English word that could carry the nuance of all or most of these definitions. I settled for “devastated.” To devastate is to “destroy or ruin (something)” or “cause (someone) severe and overwhelming shock or grief.” I’d say that description fits, particularly for Dabi and Toga, who had extreme negative reactions to Twice’s murder and were shown to still be grappling with the traumatic loss almost 100 chapters later in No.341.

“You’re not the only one devastated by Twice being killed” became “you’re not the only one feeling messed up... over Twice” in the official English translation, which not only greatly understates the intensity of the League of Villains' feelings about their friend’s (and Himiko's older brother's) death but also conveniently omits that Spinner was explicit about Twice’s fate. He was murdered, and Spinner did not tiptoe around that fact. Spinner's ability to verbalize what happened to Twice suggests that he is not in denial about it but that it is weighing heavily on his mind and heart, enough to have prompted him to call out to Toga when he saw her preparing to run off in pursuit of Heroes, Heroes like the Hero who killed Twice.

「敵連合はあいつにとって唯一の居場所で」

= “For him (Twice), the League of Villains was the only place he belonged / fit in / could be himself” or “As far as he (Twice) was concerned, the League of Villains was the only place he belonged / fit in / could be himself.”

The difference between the official English translation and direct Japanese to English translation might seem superficial at first glance, but at least in my mind, there is an important distinction to be made between them. Caleb had Spinner say that Twice “FELT” he “COULD” belong with the League of Villains, but “could” implies potential more than it does reality. Twice “COULD” belong with the League of Villains, or he *COULD NOT* belong with them. It “COULD” rain on Sunday, but it also *COULD NOT* rain on Sunday.

In Japanese Spinner doesn’t say “Twice FELT he COULD belong”; he says “Twice DID belong / fit in / could be himself.” For Twice, reality was that he had found in the League of Villains the unconditional acceptance, positive regard, and camaraderie he had searched for, empty-handed and broken-hearted, his entire life. The sole “condition” for Twice to “belong” and “fit in” with the League of Villains was simply for him to be himself. He didn’t even have to be “useful” to be accepted. Originally, Twice refused to use Double to its full capability because he was afraid of himself, afraid of losing control, afraid of disappearing, afraid of dying. Even though he had joined a fledgling crime syndicate and then plainly stated he was unwilling to contribute his “material” best to their cause, Twice was not shamed for it. He was not faulted for it. His feelings, his needs, and his boundaries were immediately and unequivocally respected by everyone. HIS best was enough for them even when it was not THE best. Who he naturally was was enough for the League of Villains. That’s what Hawks refused to hear (literally, he wasn’t listening) and failed to understand. He used Twice to gather intelligence on the League of Villains while undercover at the PLF mansion but never saw any of them for the complex, deeply wounded, but not unfeeling or compassionless individuals Twice knew them to be. Hawks saw “two-bit criminals” at best and “evil, demonic, abnormally depraved, subhuman” monsters at worst. He does not and will not or is unable to recognize the humanity in them that Twice saw. 

At the end of the day, Hawks has proven that it is easier for him to ruthlessly mock and murder criminals than it is for him to listen to understand and actually help them. He’s quicker to kill than to empathize. Recognizing and respecting the humanity of others requires one to recognize and respect their own. Hawks’ actions demonstrate that he would kill adult “Keigo” before he would extend a hand to help him. Only a person willing to kill the humanity inside of themselves could have killed Jin, whose narrative purpose, as flagged by Horikoshi’s choice of his name and kanji, was to be a stand-in and representative for humanity, its duality, and the everyman. Hawks killed “Keigo” to kill “Jin.” Horikoshi even illustrates that point for us in No.264 by positioning the bottom panels to have Hawks’ feather blades, sharp and poised to strike, directed at HIM as he slaughters DOZENS of Twice clones, each one representing the same thing: humanity, its duality, and the everyman. Hawks killed Jin again and again and again and again... and every time he did, he killed part of himself, the part that makes him human.

But let’s not mince words here. While that moralistic, cutthroat, sacrifice-anyone-to-save-everyone attitude *hurts* Hawks, it *kills* people like Twice, and hurting isn't killing. (Yes, the HPSC instilled it in him and Keigo is a victim as well, but no, that does not mitigate the damage he, who is now an adult with the ability to make decisions for himself about how to behave and has long had the financial resources required to seek professional help, CHOOSES to inflict on others.) Hawks walks away from these encounters unfettered, without personal or professional consequence, and with his life, dreams, and opportunity to grow and heal intact, while the people he kills have their lives, dreams, and opportunities to grow and heal stolen from them by his hand. (Realistically, Twice was NOT Hawks’ first kill. Make no mistake, Hawks is an assassin for the HPSC. The “act” is being a cheerful, lackadaisical young man, NOT being a sanctimonious, remorseless state-sponsored killer for a corrupt government. THAT is the truth of the “Wing Hero: Hawks,” and it shows in how he thinks and operates. THAT DOES NOT MEAN HE CAN’T STILL BE ENLIGHTENED TO THAT WHICH HE HAS BEEN IN THE DARK ABOUT FROM HIS INTRODUCTION: THE ESSENCE OF HUMANITY, THE UNIVERSAL TRUTH THAT ALL IS ONE AND ONE IS ALL, AND WHEN ANY PERSON SUFFERS, ALL OF HUMANITY SUFFERS. HAWKS—OR KEIGO, RATHER—CAN GROW AND I BELIEVE HE WILL BECAUSE THE KANJI FOR HIS FULL NAME, LIKE EVERY CHARACTER IN THIS SERIES, AREN’T JUST FOR SHOW; THEY TELL US ABOUT HIS QUIRK, ABOUT HIS ARC, OR BOTH. KEIGO’S ARC IS TO *BECOME*, MEANING HE ISN’T ALREADY, ENLIGHTENED. *HE* IS THE ONE CLOAKED IN SHADOW, WANDERING AIMLESSLY IN THE DARK, NOT EVEN FULLY COGNIZANT THAT HE IS. *HE* IS THE LOST SHEEP, BUT HE *CAN* BE FOUND. HE’S JUST MOVING AT A SNAIL’S PACE AND MAKING AN ASS OF HIMSELF ALL THE WHILE. I STILL BELIEVE IN THE HERO—NO, FUCK THAT, THE PERSON—HE CAN BE. HE’S JUST NOT THERE YET. I’M ROOTING FOR HIM. I WOULDN’T THINK OR TALK SO MUCH ABOUT THIS GUY IF I HATED HIM. I LIKE HIM. I THINK HE’S BETTER THAN HOW HE’S ACTED ((AND KEEPS ACTING)). I FEEL ABOUT HIM LIKE A DISAPPOINTED PARENT DOES THEIR CHILD).

「そのボスが恐らく 「俺たちが集まること」を望んでる」 

= “The boss would probably like for ‘us to come together / assemble’ like [before]” or “I suspect the boss would like for ‘us to come together / assemble’ like [before].” 

恐らく (romaji: osoraku) is an adverb that means “probably; (most) likely; in all likelihood; I suspect.” 望んでる (romaji: nozon deru) is the te-iru form (indicating that an action is ongoing) of the verb 望む (romaji: nozomu), meaning “to desire; to wish for; to hope for; to pray for; to expect.” 

What is Tomura (probably) wishing on a star for? For the League of Villains to be together again like they were following their genesis. He is looking forward to a return to “normal,” to having fun and bonding over video games, magic tricks, general tomfoolery, and all-around hell-raising, like they did before everything went to shit, before the wars, before AFO invaded his body and mind and started abandoning his friends to be arrested or killed. (At the end of the PLF War, to punish Tomura for failing to steal OFA and defeat Deku and Endeavor, AFO deliberately left Toga, Mr. Compress, and Gigantomachia to be captured by the Heroes. Because AFO stated that all that mattered is that Tomura’s body and Spinner escape, and because it was Mr. Compress who concealed a compressed Dabi in Spinner’s scarf ((so he would not be further targeted by the Heroes or forgotten by AFO)) and pulled Skeptic loose of fallen debris, rescuing him, it is likely AFO intended to abandon them as well).

「勝手するのは敵の本領 かってするのはおれたちのほんりょう」

= “Doing as we please / acting of our own volition is our (read as: the Villain’s / League’s) specialty.”

That “our” is like an energetic cord tying Himiko to the League of Villains. It says, “You are not alone. You belong and have a home with us.” 

勝手に (romaji: katte ni) means “arbitrarily; freely; of one’s own accord; without asking (permission); voluntarily; willfully; as one pleases; spontaneously; (doing something) by one’s self; one’s own convenience; one’s way.” It describes actions taken by choice, free of external influences like peer pressure or fear of punishment (e.g., criticism, shame, or expulsion from the group). 

Due to his own traumatic loss of a friend to a violent end, Aizawa strives to keep his students on a tight leash to decrease the chances of something bad happening to them. To a person like Tomura, who was being raised by his parents in a highly structured and controlled environment and then groomed by AFO to become “a new [him],” having someone dictating to him how he is and is not to think, feel, and behave would feel stifling, oppressive, and triggering. He would feel like a frightened (and angry) caged animal denied its freedom and agency. Tomura hates control, and he chooses to “lead” the League of Villains by, well, hardly “leading”! Every member is encouraged to prioritize their own wishes, needs, and ambitions, and *decide for themselves* the extent to which they will function as a collective or hive mind (“we, us, our”) or as separate but interrelated and interdependent parts (“MY side project furthering OUR shared objective of disrupting the status quo and taking down Hero society”).

Touya and Himiko also grew up feeling unseen, unheard, and smothered by emotionally immature / unavailable / volatile parents who for any number of reasons failed to balance their filial responsibility to keep their children safe with their children’s natural need to be accepted, embraced, nurtured, and supported without conditions to achieve their dreams and develop a strong, healthy, *integrated* identity and self-concept, pride in themselves and their achievements, and a positive sense of community and purpose. The quickest way to alienate and chase Touya and/or Himiko away would be to try to control them, whether by force (“I’ll make you do it! You don’t have a choice about this! I’ve already decided FOR YOU!”) or coercion (“do this or else!”). Despite both having survived alone on the streets for years, proving they are perfectly capable of “roughing it” and making their own way, and despite both periodically running off to pursue their own interest, Touya and Himiko have consistently chosen to remain with the League of Villains because they were able to find in it something they had not been able to find elsewhere: unconditional acceptance, positive regard, protection, support, and companionship. The League of Villains’ dynamics “work” because everyone is free to be their authentic selves and share only as much of their stories as they are comfortable sharing—and with whom they are comfortable sharing. For example, the story implies that Dabi revealed himself to be Touya Todoroki to Tomura and Himiko, but not to the others, some time before his broadcast aired; Tomura, Touya, and Himiko all make allusions to a “plan” that we learn during the PLF War involved Dabi publicly revealing his identity as Touya Todoroki and exposing the routine violence and deception of the Number One and Number Two Heroes to shake the public out of their complacency and blind trust of Heroes. Mr. Compress and Spinner are shown to be shocked by Dabi’s revelation, with Mr. Compress remarking that he was not aware of Dabi’s connection to Endeavor and Spinner admitting that he, too, knew nothing of it. Himiko does not speak of her past often and when she does, she speaks generally, giving few details (e.g., “life is too hard,” “it’s too hard to live being me,” “when I was little, everyone kept telling me to stop being me”), skirting the surface, avoiding the deeper emotional aspects of her story, how she felt, how she was affected.

In No.341 Himiko takes Touya, but no one else, to her childhood house, which has been ransacked, vandalized, and graffitied with horrific messages insulting her and calling for her and her family’s deaths. She leaves him to read every slight against her spray painted onto the exterior walls while she walks through the interior rooms of the house, revisiting painful childhood memories of being snubbed by her own parents and sibling(s). When she is satisfied that she is ready to let go of her past life as the ever-sad-but-always-smiling abandoned child Himiko Toga, she skips out of her family house, feigning childlike lightheartedness (i.e., masking), only to be literally swept off her feet (and have her old familiar mask blown back off) by Touya suddenly blasting the Toga residence with enough force to cause a powerful explosion of fire and compressed air to tear through the structure, shattering the windows and doors and crushing the brick and mortar of the parameter walls. The house collapses into the raging inferno and is gone moments later. Stunned, she stands wringing her hands like a shy child, gently cautions him against taking such aggressive action because they will get “in trouble,” and tells him he is very kind. He repeats the word to himself, choking on it, his voice fading before he can round out the ending. He clearly wasn’t expecting to be complimented, to have his noble act acknowledged, *to be seen*. She didn’t ask him to burn her house down for her and never expected him to. He did that unprompted. We know from No.350 that he had also returned to his family residence at ~17 years old. Like the Togas had rejected and abandoned Himiko, the Todorokis had shunned and forgotten Touya first in life and then again in death. He did not need her to tell him how she felt walking through the ruins of her house to know she was hurting because he had experienced something similar and could empathize with her. He destroyed her house because it had tried to destroy her (and maybe some part of him wishes someone had cared enough about him to burn HIS house to the ground for him). He knew she had returned because she was looking for something she could not hope to find and so playfully teased her for (also) having “a heart indulged in sentiment.” He saw through her weak attempt to deny being sentimental and also saw through her attempt to skip away from her house as if her heart hadn’t just been sent through a meat grinder. He saw her, and, albeit taken aback, she responded by subtly confirming she saw him as well.

As a character, Himiko had always been defined by a neurotic desire to appear “normal” at any cost. She studied her peers for years and adapted their mannerisms to camouflage herself among them as a “happy, smiling, totally normal girl,” despite never actually identifying with them (child and young adolescent Himiko are always depicted standing apart from others, looking out of place and out of sorts, the picture of a person trying desperately to at least seem to be like everyone else; she tried to wedge a square into a circle for over a decade, but ultimately, she could not “fit” where she did not belong). Prior to joining the League of Villains, while she was still on the streets, she became adept at reading people, predicting their next moves, and adjusting her behavior to manipulate outcomes to her advantage. This is how she survived. She learned that the people she was running from day after day—Heroes and police—treated high school girls just a little more kindly, so she began cosplaying as one. She never attended high school (after attacking Saito at their middle school graduation, she took to the streets as a runaway), so she had to have stolen her uniform off of an actual student at some point. Horikoshi wrote that she thinks of her school uniform as a literal “costume.” It is a part she plays, like she might play the part of a strict schoolteacher, but it is not an accurate representation of who she is and was never meant to be. To the contrary, it was intended to be a disguise, another way for her to mask her authentic self in a bid to feel safe. If you never let anyone close enough to see you—the real you, the timid, insecure you who fears she is simultaneously “not enough” and “too much”—then you never give anyone the chance to destroy you with their rejection. If you only ever show up in parts and pieces, then it is only ever parts and pieces that are scorned, rather than the whole. It is better to burn the edges of your paper heart than to burn the meat of it. Really and truly, Himiko is NOT “like the other girls”—she didn’t have the privilege of growing up loved, supported, and protected like they did—but she knows it’s to her benefit to pretend to be. Historically, it’s worked out great for her because everyone she has put on a performance for has fallen for her act... almost everyone anyway. All Might seems to have caught onto her game. 

Himiko had always been defined by her obsessive need to appear “normal,” but she took Touya and Touya alone to her house, birthplace of her traumas, because on an unconscious level she must have been hoping (and a small part of her must have trusted) he would prove her parents wrong in their assessment that no one would ever, could ever accept and love her for who she is. He delivered and then some (overachiever, always dramatic).

Everyone in the League of Villains cares about everyone in the League of Villains, but they are not all equally close. Their relationship with one does not look like their relationship with another. The most obvious examples of that are Tomura for Spinner and Himiko for Jin. For them, Tomura and Himiko, respectively, are Special. However close the relationships between members, the League of Villains has never demanded or required emotional self-disclosure for its members to be welcomed, respected, mourned, remembered.

「ただし必ず戻ってこい」

= “But be sure to come back [to us], okay?”

Spinner’s parting words to Himiko before she runs off to confront Ochako are a plaintive request that she return safely to the League of Villains after she has done what she needs to do for herself. Remember: Twice has only just been murdered. The death of their friend is fresh on their minds and heavy on their hearts. Basically, Spinner is saying, “Don’t die and don’t be caught, please. Come back to us, Toga. We’ll be waiting for you.”

Take a good look at Himiko’s face in the first panel.

You might need to zoom in to catch it, but her mouth is twisted kind of like this ~. Her back is to the League of Villains and she is looking at Spinner over her shoulder with a cagey expression. She’s wary, not because she is afraid he’ll hurt her (of course not; he would never) but because she is anticipating that he will *scold* her, like “Mama” and “Papa” did, and try to convince her to change her mind, forfeit her conviction to ask Ochako her question. Did the Heroes recognize her brother Jin as a person, no less human than their own families and friends? If yes, then how could they justify killing him when Heroes claim to be the ones *saving* lives, not *taking* them? If Heroes save lives, and Hawks really is a Hero, then Jin must not have been a person to them. And if Jin was not a person to the Heroes, then it stands to reason that she and her remaining companions are also not people to them and will be killed.

Now look at how her demeanor changes when Spinner does not try to stop her and only asks that she return safely to the League of Villains.

Dabi and Mr. Compress join Spinner on the right side of the panel so that we understand that it is not just Spinner who will be waiting for her but all of them. Himiko fills the left side of the panel, her sincere, if a bit inhibited, smile reaching her eyes, her body angled back *toward* the League of Villains, an illustrative marker signaling that she has received the message and welcomes it, is relieved for it.

#bnha 288 #mha 288 #bnha manga #mha manga #bnha translation #mha translation #spinner and toga #league of villains #lov #bnha manga spoilers #mha manga spoilers

[kitkatopinions]

Another option for RWBY working with Ironwood and sharing important information with him: They're not actually bothered by working with a dictator until that dictator is no longer on their side. Which would make them pretty vile, tbh. So it would reflect better on RWBY and co if he wasn't a dictator until the end of V7.

Exactly. Like, I've been paying attention to things like Miles Luna saying they'd originally written Ironwood to be a bit of a dick but then 'discovered he had a heart' and the writers saying that he was a 'fallen hero' and had paved the road to hell with 'good intentions' and that the ethical dilemma at the end of volume seven (rescue Atlas, the already evacuated Mantle citizens, and the Relics Salem wanted at the cost of leaving behind the remaining Mantle citizens or trap Atlas, the already evacuated Mantle citizens, and the Relics Salem wanted at the risk of losing everything on the off chance they might be able to save more people) was meant to be one with no clear answer and no clear right and wrong. The 'Ironwood was always an evil bad dictator' people should logically see that sort of thing and actively think the writers are incompetent or liars, or that they're so opposed with 'Alpha Males' that they didn't even realize they were writing a dictator, or... They're pro-dictator. Either way, it would - using their logic - reflect badly on the writers and would inevitably also make the group of heroes look really really bad in universe.

Like, the way that I see it is that the writers made Ironwood with the vague concept of maybe potentially being a bad guy later on, but using their flying by the seat their pants writing style decided that Ironwood worked better as a good guy during the Beacon arc and tbh also the Mistral arc, and then continuing with their fly by the seat of their pants writing style, decided to try to do a morally complicated plot with the whole volume seven, and then decided they wanted villain Ironwood and started making him a 'villain with a point' who was against Salem but also way too 'ends justify the means' and also needed to be stopped. And although I don't really like fallen hero arcs as a general rule, the concept itself isn't a bad one and I just think it was really poorly executed. But the way this angle of the 'Ironwood was written as a flawed good guy who did morally gray things with his back to the wall and then was suddenly written to be villainous evil for the sake of it scum' thing reflects on the characters in universe... Isn't super bad actually. Sure I think Ruby and co could've made some better choices and some of the way the writers decided to characterize them is annoying and again, badly done. But 'they were working for a good guy despite the fact that they didn't always agree with him on everything and he wasn't always perfect, they had a pretty big ideological difference of opinion that drove them apart, and then Ironwood started going absolutely off the rails bad seemingly out of nowhere, making Team RWBY and co have to take him out'... While I still think it was badly done, that reflects so much better on Team RWBY and co than the 'they were willingly and happily working for a dictator for months and the only explanation for it is incompetence or them actually not minding dictators' that comes with the 'Ironwood was always a bad evil dictator' angle.

Like, seriously, what is the angle that the anti-rwde posters think they're taking when they say that the only people who don't think Ironwood was a bad evil dictator are either stupid, pro-dictator, or misogynists who love alpha men, when TEAM RWBY AND CO didn't think he was a dictator, and the writers talk about him as a fallen hero with good intentions? If Ironwood really was a dictator, than Miles Luna and the other writers and Ruby Rose and the other heroes are in the exact same slot that I am.

#anti rwby #rwde #anti rooster teeth #pro rwde #pro ironwood #pro iw #pro james ironwood #ironwood defense #rwby criticism #rwby critical

[mintchoccy]

nothing but a Sunday morning

NMIXX Lily Morrow

can't help but to appreciate her beauty. Sunday morning, and you felt something heavy on your body.

"GOOOD MORNING BABY! DO YOU HAVE A GOOD SLEEP WITH YOUR LILY?"

not again. every morning she your alarm clock everytime she stays on your place to have a break from her idol duties. Haewon understands that you are Lily's boyfriend, but you can't help being a prisoner of this shitshow.

"ngggggh, I'm drained from the last night Lily, can you please knock it off?", you replied. Lily didn't know this side of you though. she always sees you as a submissive, needy person. but in this instance, she had enough of your nagging.

"awwww, owkiiii love, but you must consider you punishment for later. but for now, take a rest, and I will make your breakfast!" Lily happily said.

actually, you really forced yourself into Lily's life. because actually, it was her who wanted you so bad. like any yandere stories, you met her in a fanmeet, get to known each other, then Lily developed sense of obsession over you.

you yet managed to leave the country because you were discovered by a college football team in America, but Lily followed you all along. she then kidnaps you one time NMIXX go in a tour as a lineup in KCON in New Orleans.

torture, torture, then mind break and submission, and you decided to end your suffering and accept her love.

up until in the NFL draft you bring her to the media, exposing her image as a Kpop idol and you as a draft participant. she is really thr epitome of a perfect partner, but yeah, there is costs. early morning nagging, cuddle sessions, cock worship, and much worse, reverse rape everytime she comes to your place.

"BREAKFAST TIME MY SWEET LITTLE BABY! TIME TO EAT!" gosh, Lily is really so cute, yet so annoying. "yes yes Lily my love so sweet (a reference in a J Brothers song), I'm good to go!" you replied. half-heartedly, you go down to the kitchen to eat breakfast.

"baby, please accept my food as my peace offering. beef jerky, eggs, fried rice, dried bangus, and a carton of coconut juice, just for you!", Lily presented the meal, which brings back the memories of his food, way back in the Philippines. "awwwwww Lily, you-you make this all for me? why not let's dig in and eat down the food. I love you so much my Aussie koala!", you replied then walked closer to Lily and give a kiss in the lips.

as you both eat the meals, she asked you how's your week, what are the needs in the house and when will she return to Korea. but when the question is raised, it put Lily in a sticky situation. "you know baby, I may go and continue my idol life in Seoul, but don't you ever, ever make a wrong move cheating on me. I will find you, and I will punish you until you realize you make a mistake cheating me for a whore. do you understand, my sweet charming?", Lily said with a strict voice, which makes you nervous. "hmmmm, yeah. I'll never, ever cheat on you", you assured.

you both clean the dishes and straight go to the couch, which Lily ordered you to put down your boxer, revealing a big cock in front of her. one thing is once she discovered your dick, she can't stop playing it anymore. anytime, anywhere, she is dying to hold your wood with a risk of getting caught.

"look at you baby, you have such a big cock. do your ex girls even appreciate how long and juicy your dick is? because I am really, really, love this thing inside my mouth." and with that she started to lower her mouth welcoming the big cock, filling her mouth cavity.

you can't help but moaning, drunk under the pleasure your girlfriend is giving on you. Lily is really the master of her craft, molding her mouth to your length. no gagging reflex, her spitting mechanism, you name it. she don't back out for you, and she only prays to cum.

ejecting your cock in her mouth, using her saliva as a lubricant, she then began jerking you off at a normal pace.

"ohhhhhhh, baby, you wanna cum for me? wanna cum for your Morrow? go on, show Lily that you are hers and she will give you the best blowjob ever everyday, and every single time. god your cock is really big, can't believe I always fucked myself with that juicy, thick cock of yours. go on, cum for me, cum for your Aussie noona, and cum for your mommy Lily."

and with that, you cummed hard. harder than your arms trying to heave a hail mary pass downfield. "baby cums so hard, I like it." Lily skillfully cleans your cock, with no traces of seme all over your balls and your crotch. "wanna watch a movie? then clean yourself first and I will go get the snacks."

there is really nothing but a Sunday morning indeed.

#nmixx smut #nmixx lily #lily morrow

[violetjedisylveon]

Amnesia Chapter 14 - Change On The Way

Omega centric bad batch AU

Summary: The Bad Batch decide to move on their fresh lead. Meanwhile Omega is hanging out with her new big sister.

Word count: 2.3k

Warnings: Hunter is extremely sleep deprived and guilty about this whole situation so he is still not making the best decisions, also sleep deprivation can cause aggression so keep that in mind

A/N: Happy New Year's Eve! Remember Cid isn't the asshole she is in canon, she's your shrewd prickly business woman aunt and she will tell you when you are being an idiot because she has no time nor patience for your bs.

Also art of Freyu's armor/Freyu pissed off

Bad Batch Amnesia AU Masterpost

________________________________________________________________________________

Cid scowled as she sat down at her desk, large claws tapping on Tech's datapad, hooked up to the holo projector.

"So you think you've found Tiny, eh?" She asked dryly.

"Yes, I believe so." Goggles said.

"Uh huh, and you think this kid, who's an entirely different species, is your kid?" She gestured to the projection.

"Yes." Goggles said again.

Dark and Moody glared at her, she rolled her eyes. That clone is extremely obsessed with this, it's making him a bigger headache than normal.

"We're going. Do you know anything about that planet or that Pantoran she's with?" He demanded rudely.

"Ask nicely and I might remember something." Cid growled.

In the corner of the room, Scomp sighed in annoyance at his brother.

"Please, I want this over already." Scomp groaned.

Cid huffed and glanced at the photos provided, Goggles had done a bit more digging and discovered they were taken on Massanii. She knew someone on that planet, but Cid liked having both her arms and they liked their privacy.

"I've heard of it, an old acquaintance settled down there, pretty nice planet. Good people there, it's the capital of its sector and never been a part of any larger galactic government." Cid said.

"Do you know who that is?" Muscles asked, pointing to the other person.

"Nope, and if I did, these are bad angles or it's been a while since I've seen 'em. Sector's known for lots of Jedi, maybe it has something to do with that." She shrugged.

"So you don't have anything useful?" Dark and Moody growled.

"I know that attitude won't get you anywhere, especially on that planet, those people are stubborn as fuck, shoving only gets you a harder shove back. Act civil." Cid warned.

"We're going to a very defensive sector filled with very defensive people who definitely don't want clones fucking around in their business, great." Scomp sighed.

Moody turned on his brother.

"Got a problem with that?" He snarled.

Scomp pinched the bridge of his nose and gave Moody an unimpressed look.

"Yes. It's a very big risk with very little chance of working out the way you want, and even if, in the infinitesimally small chance, that is Omega, why should we bother? Look at that kid and tell me she doesn't have everything she needs right there." Scomp ordered, pointing to the happy, satisfied child in the image.

"We made a promise. We won't leave her behind." Moody insisted, his hands were shaking.

"So you'll take her from something better?" Scomp challenged.

Evidently, Moody was done talking. That possibility wasn't one he was willing to confront yet.

"We leave tomorrow." Moody growled.

Scomp stared down at the younger clone, sighed, then shook his head.

"Whatever, you are the sergeant, you know best." He said with just a hint of pcondescension in his tired voice.

"What can you give us?" Moody asked, not even turning around to face her.

I hope Scomp knocks him down a few pegs. Cid thought as she rummaged through her desk for a blaster.

"I'll get what you need sorted out with Goggles, it'll cost you though." She said.

She set the blaster to stun. Moody must have been really tired if he didn't notice that.

"Your usual rate?" He asked dryly.

"Nope. Take a nap." Cid stunned the over exhausted clone before he could react.

Scomp caught him before he hit the ground. The two other clones looked mildly amused and concerned at the same time.

"I suppose it would be beneficial that he rests before a mission like this." Goggles said.

"You think?" Cid remarked.

Muscles took Moody out to rest, and Cid did her job and told Goggles almost everything she knew about Massanii. She left a few details that were far from hers to share out, they weren't too important.

Unless these boys really fucked around and find out.

XXX

Something shifted.

Freyu sensed it.

It was as if a hefty decision had been made.

Hefty decisions got made all the time, if she was sensing this one… then it had the possibility to affect her, and Omega.

The younger girl had been acting q bit off since she got back, she couldn't quite put her finger on why.

Freyu hummed to herself as she worked on her medicine orders, she had been doing better than before that imperial interrogation bullshit over a week ago. She suspected some of the locals had overheard her conversation.

Alask kept delivering her plants. Some were utterly useless for what she was trying to do and had the clear hallmarks of young, untrained hands plucking them, likely children who thought they were helping by picking random plants, but a lot of the others were useful to her in some way.

She was thankful for the help, it took the stress of foraging off her back for the moment. Tesi was handling inventory and helping process new plants, which the droid insisted was only so she could get back on training.

With the feeling she had deep in her gut, she just might have to do that. Tesi had moved her armor chest from storage in the house's former forge and into the basement so she'd see it whenever she trained. Tesi kept telling her she should start refamiliarizing herself with how it felt to fight in armor.

An armorless Mandalorian was a dead Mandalorian afterall.

She definitely would do that. Better be safe than sorry, that's why she always had a protective plate under her clothes, even at home.

Her alarm went off, Freyu finished the last steps of this particular ointment and left it to sit for a bit. Then, she left her workshop and headed upstairs to find Omega.

She grabbed a Mandalorian children's book on her way up.

"Meg'ika! It's time to read." She told her vod'ika.

Omega immediately jumped up with excitement and rushed to her side. She had been teaching the younger girl how to read Mando'a, she was a very quick learner and already had some level of understanding of the language.

"What are we reading today?" Omega asked, peering at the book.

"Ade version of How To Train Your Mythosaur." Freyu answered, showing the book to her.

"Dragon!" Omega squealed.

"Mythosaur, but close enough." Freyu shrugged.

She set the book down at the edge of the counter so Omega could read while she worked on dinner.

"What's for dinner?" Omega asked as she peered over the counter.

"Hetikleyc kai'tome(spicy food)." Freyu flashed her a grin.

"Uh… food?" Omega guessed.

"Nadala(hot)." Freyu said.

"Nadala? What's that mean again?" Omega asked.

Freyu shook her head and started prepping the ingredients.

"Hot! Hot! Nadala is hot!" Omega shouted proudly.

"Very good Meg'ika, hetikleyc comes from hettir, that's burn." She told her.

"I overheard Xillyn talking with Moshee about Celimine, Quacey, Sommyur and Vettel getting to see dragons, do you have dragons here?" Omega asked.

"Yes, Pahyyd Dragons, they're the oldest species on Massanii, and they live deep in the Mother Forests, they're very important to Massii, and they make a visit to specific dragons once they reach the age, usually groups of siblings or cousins somewhat close in age to each other go on the journey together." Freyu explained.

"Xillyn will go with Silen and Moshee, Sydel will still be too young by the time she goes." She added.

"You get to go see dragons?! That's the coolest!" Omega cheered.

"I guess it's pretty cool." Freyu shrugged as she sliced the peppers.

"Did you ever go on a dragon journey?" Omega questioned.

Freyu nearly cut the tip of her finger off, her foresight had her moving her finger out of the way just in time. She cleared her throat and avoided Omega's eagerly curious gaze.

She had gone on that journey, she had been thirteen at the time and Maatsu had gone with her, he'd never done it himself so it was a rite of passage for both of them, and a bonding experience since they really didn't know each other that well. But there were several things she couldn't tell Omega about that journey, for security reasons.

"Yes, I went with Maatsu. He hadn't done it before either… admittedly I was doing it a little early. Guess I really needed it." She said with a smile.

"Why didn't you go with Ikurrece?" Omega wondered.

Freyy jolted at the question and nearly burned her whole hand on the stove trying to balance herself.

"Xillyn told me about him, she says Cai taught him and you to hunt with birds." Omega said.

"Ah." Freyu nodded.

"Well, Ikurrece had already gone on it, so he couldn't go with me." Freyu said.

"Why did Maatsu go then? Isn't he older than both of you?"

"He hadn't gone on it, cause of the whole Jedi thing, so he could go with me." Freyu answered.

Omega opened her mouth to ask another question, Freyu held out her hand to stop her.

"Ah, no more questions, get reading." She pointed down to the still unopened book.

Omega pouted but dutifully opened the book up.

"Wer'cuy… maan… Mand'alor… olaror… Manda'yaim…(direct translation: it was long ago, first sole ruler came to Mandalore) uh… first sole ruler… came? Mandalore?" Omega read, then looked up at her uncertainly.

"Wer'cuy, it was long ago." Freyu told her.

"It was long ago, when the first sole ruler came to Mandalore!" Omega said.

Freyu ruffled her vod'ika's curly hair.

"Good job." She praised.

Omega beamed up at her.

"Mand'alor… may'eyir… dral ulik… kot… werlaara…(sole ruler found beast/animal with strength of myths)..."

It was a very calm, peaceful evening. They read some more once dinner was over then watched a few holovids after Freyu did her nightly check of the house and security systems.

Yet even as she put Omega to bed in her room, which the girl had a blast decorating and setting up with all sorts of fun things, Freyu still felt a lingering sense of unease in her gut.

She waited until she was sure Omega was asleep before she went to the basement.

The armor chest sat innocently against the wall, the intricate patterns and details that had been painstakingly applied with the utmost attention to detail and care glinted softly in the low light.

Her mom had carved and built the chest with Wroshyr wood, and her Buir(mom) had forged the armor inside. As the head of their family, clan and house, her Buir was given the task of an armorer as well. It was a bit of an older clan structure, but having the head and main protector of the family be the one to forge their armor that protected them in battle made sense.

The person who forged your armor cared about you and your survival deeply.

Buir had been quite good at it, her foresight certainly helped.

Freyu ran her fingers along the lines of a flower carved into the lid. The carvings were a mix of symbols significant to Mandalorian and Pantoran culture. She opened the armor chest.

The helmet was neatly wrapped and nestled on top of the rest of her armor, also wrapped with careful precision.

She carefully unwrapped the helmet and stared into the dark visor, her own reflection stared back at her.

Maker, sometimes she hated looking at it.

She often hated how her eyes were so much like her Buir's, though hers were "brighter, more vibrant with more contrast between the yellows and oranges." in Maatsu's words. Her mothers used to say her eyes were twin suns. Sometimes she really hated those suns.

She more closely resembled her mother in all other ways, down to what neither of her mothers hoped she would inherit.

Lucky her.

She traced the petal pattern on the helmet; the teal flowers were an iconic part of her clan's aliik(sigil).

Gently, she set the helmet aside and unpacked the rest of her armor, laying it out so she could see it all at once and remember which pieces went where.

Her family's armor style differed from the more modern design, it was more like the full body armor of the crusader days, adapted of course for maximum flexibility and protection.

It also differed from modern design in the way it was colored. Most Mandalorians now painted their armor various colors to signify their clan and allegiances, while the metal of her armor had been dyed varying shades of red while it was in the liquid phase. It was a long standing tradition in her clan.

It was one of the first things her Buir showed her how to do.

The aliik was dyed separately and welded onto the chest plate and helmet. Her gaze was inevitably drawn to the center of the aliik, a wide open two toned yellow eye with the red kar'ta(heart) as the pupil.

It was a little on the nose, but only if one knew what it meant. The last time she had checked most Mandalorians, even in the former new Mandalorian society, knew and revered the iconic aliik.

Over four thousand years of history tended to have that effect.

She took in a deep breath and armored up. She was slow this time, she'd have to practice getting it on faster, just in case.

The armor was heavy but it didn't feel like it was weighing her down, it felt oddly natural for something she hadn't worn before, and it fit her perfectly.

Buir's foresight sure was something. She chuckled to herself.

She grabbed Maatsu's lightsaber from its resting place, she looked into the empty visor one last time before pulling the helmet over her head and waking up Tesi.

The droid looked her up and down for a moment before her mouth lit up with a smile.

"Now that looks right on you." Tesi said.

Freyu couldn't stop herself from smiling or speaking.

"It feels right too."

________________________________________________________________________________

Happy New Year!

VJS Out!

#star wars #bad batch #the bad batch #tbb #TBB AU #tbb echo #tbb wrecker #tbb hunter #tbb tech #tbb omega #tbb oc #tbb ocs #bad batch au #Bad batch amnesia au #Star Wars au #sw au #tbb fanfiction #mandalorian culture #Star Wars ocs #sw oc #pantoran oc #mandalorian oc #Freyu O'asisk #VJS Fics:P #VJS AU:P #VJS OCs:P #VJS

[richincolor]

Hope you're ready to add a bunch of books to your TBR pile! We have seven on our radar for this week. Which ones are you interested in?

Promposal by RaeChell Garrett Little, Brown/Poppy

High school senior Autumn Reeves has been waitlisted at her dream school. Determined to move to the top of the list, she must find a way to stand out. When a promposal she planned for a friend has half the senior class asking for her help, a brilliant business idea that will look great on her application is born: Promposal Queen.

Autumn has no clue how to start a business, so she joins the Young Black Entrepreneurs group and finds herself face-to-face with Mekhi Winston, the boy whose unexpected freshman-year kiss—a kiss that meant everything to her and nothing to him—cost Autumn her best friend. He’s the only person with the experience to help her, but how can she possibly trust him?

With her dreams on the line, Autumn’s willing to risk it. After all, Mekhi could be a good business partner without being a guy she would ever let near her heart again.

But when working with Mekhi jeopardizes her only chance at rekindling a friendship with her ex–best friend and long-buried secrets threaten to ruin Promposal Queen, another broken heart may be the least of her worries—her entire future is on the line. -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads

When You Wish Upon a Star by Elizabeth Lim Disney-Hyperion

“Starlight, star bright, first star I see tonight . . . ” so begins the wish that changes everything—for Geppetto, for the Blue Fairy, and for a little puppet named Pinocchio. The Blue Fairy isn’t supposed to grant wishes in the small village of Pariva, but something about this one awakens some long-buried flicker within. Perhaps it’s the hope she senses beneath the old man’s loneliness.

Or maybe it’s the fact that long ago, before she was the Blue Fairy, she was a young woman named Chiara from this very village, one with a simple wish: to help others find happiness. Her sister Ilaria always teased her for this, for she had big dreams to leave their sleepy village and become a world-renowned opera singer. The two were close, despite their differences. While Ilaria would give anything to have a fairy grant her wish, Chiara didn’t believe in the lore for which their village was famous.

Forty years later, Chiara, now the Blue Fairy, defies the rules of magic to help an old friend. But she’s discovered by the Scarlet Fairy, formerly Ilaria, who, amid a decades-long grudge, holds the transgression against her sister. They decide to settle things through a good old-fashioned bet, with Pinocchio and Geppetto’s fate hanging in the balance. -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads

Queen Bee by Amalie Howard Joy Revolution

A teen girl seeking retribution against her backstabbing former best friend finds her plans slightly derailed once she catches the eye of a familiar, handsome marquess. Bestselling author Amalie Howard delivers a delightful, anti-historical Regency-era romp that’s Bridgerton meets The Count of Monte Cristo!

Lady Ela Dalvi knows the exact moment her life was forever changed—when her best friend, Poppy, betrayed her without qualm over a boy, the son of a duke. She was sent away in disgrace, her reputation ruined.

Nearly three years later, eighteen-year-old Ela is consumed with bitterness and a desire for . . . revenge. Her enemy is quickly joining the crème de la crème of high society while she withers away in the English countryside.

With an audacious plan to get even, Ela disguises herself as a mysterious heiress and infiltrates London’s elite. But when Ela reunites with the only boy she’s ever loved, she begins to question whether vengeance is still her greatest desire. -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads

Blood Debts by Terry J. Benton-Walker Tor Teen

Thirty years ago, a young woman was murdered, a family was lynched, and New Orleans saw the greatest magical massacre in its history. In the days that followed, a throne was stolen from a queen.

On the anniversary of these brutal events, Clement and Cristina Trudeau—the sixteen-year-old twin heirs to the powerful, magical, dethroned family—are mourning their father and caring for their sick mother. Until, by chance, they discover their mother isn’t sick—she’s cursed. Cursed by someone on the very magic council their family used to rule. Someone who will come for them next.

Cristina, once a talented and dedicated practitioner of Generational magic, has given up magic for good. An ancient spell is what killed their father and she was the one who cast it. For Clement, magic is his lifeline. A distraction from his anger and pain. Even better than the random guys he hooks up with.

Cristina and Clement used to be each other’s most trusted confidant and friend, now they barely speak. But if they have any hope of discovering who is coming after their family, they’ll have to find a way to trust each other and their family's magic, all while solving the decades-old murder that sparked the still-rising tensions between the city’s magical and non-magical communities. And if they don't succeed, New Orleans may see another massacre. Or worse.

A Whole Song and Dance by Sarvenaz Tash Disney-Hyperion

A freshman in NYU’s prestigious musical theater program, Nasrin spends her days prepping for auditions, sweating through dance classes, and belting her heart out for the viral streaming show she’s been cast in. But on calls with her maman and baba, she’s their jigar talah, the golden child who put her theater dreams aside to follow in their entrepreneurial footsteps as a business major.

At least her whole life isn’t a lie—she is taking a single business course. Except she’s kind of failing it. Cue jazz hands?

Nasrin needs to bring her grade up fast if she’s going to keep her parents in the dark, so she grudgingly signs up for tutoring with the infuriatingly smug and annoyingly attractive Max. And yet...as the semester rushes by, the sparks of anger that first flew between them start to turn into a very different kind of spark. The kind she definitely does not have time for.

Except when Nasrin’s charming though devious cousin takes an interest in Max too, Nasrin has to figure out exactly what has been an act—and what’s for real. Can Nasrin decide what—and who—is truly worth fighting for, and find a way to step into the spotlight as her full self? -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads

An Appetite for Miracles by Laekan Zea Kemp Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Danna Mendoza Villarreal’s grandfather is slowly losing himself as his memories fade, and Danna’s not sure her plan to help him remember through the foods he once reviewed will be enough to bring him back. Especially when her own love of food makes her complicated relationship with her mother even more difficult.

Raúl Santos has been lost ever since his mother was wrongly incarcerated two years ago. Playing guitar for the elderly has been his only escape, to help them remember and him forget. But when his mom unexpectedly comes back into his life, what is he supposed to do when she isn’t the same person who left?

When Danna and Raúl meet, sparks fly immediately and they embark on a mission to heal her grandfather...and themselves. Because healing is something best done together—even if it doesn’t always look the way we want it to. -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads

Firebird by Sunmi HarperCollins

Caroline Kim is feeling the weight of sophomore year. When she starts tutoring infamous senior Kimberly Park-Ocampo--a charismatic lesbian, friend to rich kids and punks alike--Caroline is flustered . . . but intrigued

Their friendship kindles and before they know it, the two are sneaking out for late-night drives, bonding beneath the stars over music, dreams, and a shared desire of getting away from it all.

A connection begins to smolder . . . but will feelings of guilt and the mounting pressure of life outside of these adventures extinguish their spark before it catches fire? -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads

#promposal #when you wish upon a star #queen bee #blood debts #a whole song and dance #an appetite for miracles #firebird #new releases

[mamamomimomi]

ENDLESS PIT (Chapter 6 of 16)

Part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Pairing: Touken/Kanetou

Genre: Crime, Romance, Mystery

Synopsis: While attempting to apprehend Tokyo’s most dangerous criminal, FBI agent Kaneki Ken keeps running into a certain short-haired enticing woman in sites linked to the case. Human AU.

AO3 FF.net

Touka wrinkles her nose in reaction to the overpowering sweat odour. She has never been a fan of crowded places in general, but clubs were a whole other level as there were people humping against each other and releasing their hormones on anyone who gave them even a passing glance.

What a hypocrite I am, she thought. She'd done the exact same deed with the hot cop she'd met a few weeks ago. It wasn't even her style to sleep with people she knew—let alone random people. She hadn't had the opportunity to do so anyway. Nobody considered that when they were on the run from the city's most dangerous person.

In all honesty, the white-haired officer had come as a complete surprise. She had no idea that in such a short period of time, she would become so enamored with someone and give herself to them. She was drawn to his innocent yet captivating face, so what could she say? She simply couldn't resist playing with the legendary Sasaki Haise of the FBI, but it seems she went too far and got entangled with him in a number of ways. The player who had succumbed to temptation and had lost the game was she.

She became that way after years of being barred from physical and intimate contact.

It had also come to light that the agent wasn't being as good of a boy as he ought to have been. What kind of cop would sleep with a criminal, anyway?

But she had absolutely no regrets about it. She had unexpectedly enjoyed it for a first timer, and he was a good fuck, fantastic even. He turned from the personable agent he was to the animal she had given herself over to, of all places, in a filthy bathroom. She had anticipated their meeting to be a quick makeout session, but when his mouth began to lick at the planes of her skin, it was so sinful that the only thing she could think of at the time was ripping both of their clothes off.

When a body bumps into her, she is startled out of her trance and rubs her eyes to clear her mind of any lewd thoughts so she can concentrate on the task. She was wearing more casual attire than she had on previous nights when she had gone to the club, allowing her more freedom of movement if things went south. She was aware that Souta the clown was waiting for her to show up with the goods he had been after, so she decided that the best way for her to get inside the club was to mingle with all the dancers. The dancefloor was so dark and crowded that she doubted anybody would notice her among the crazed youngsters.

She keeps an eye on the bouncer who is guarding a certain door and watches the people walking by while glaring menacingly at them.

Touka continues to move to the music while cautiously observing the wealthy people enter the secure room and half-wishes Kaiko had been one of them. But neither he nor she were dumb and ignorant. He won't risk having his identity revealed, especially if there is a rumor that he was the ringleader behind every brothel in Tokyo. She couldn't care less. She hoped to avoid him at all costs and complete her task as quickly as possible, but she was afraid that if her efforts failed, they would have to face each other.

When she spots some important people entering and leaving the secured door, she smiles and almost laughs at what is in store for them. When the FBI shows up at any moment, they will have to bid farewell to their freedom and reputation. She giggles to herself and keeps moving her hips seductively.

"Let's get down to business. I presume we can now eliminate V from our list," declares Marude, watching the agents sitting around the conference table.

"Yes, director," replies Akira. "The club has been observed by each of us in turn, but nothing has been discovered. There must either be nothing there, or they are being extremely cautious."

"Undoubtedly, some sort of illegal activity is going on down there," Kaneki cuts her off, leaning back against his chair to stare at his superior. "As I've mentioned in my previous report, I've witnessed some prominent people meeting with the owner, though I'm not sure if this has anything to do with Kaiko's sex trafficking ring."

"If so, we'll be extremely fortunate if we can capture them and put them into interrogation," mutters Hide. "Kaiko, however, doesn't always carry out the operation in the same location. That would surely be reckless of them."

"Thoughts, Mado?" asks Marude.

"V has quite a bit of a reputation," responds Akira. "Bringing women in skimpy clothing to flaunt for money would be too risky."

"I see," murmurs Marude. His assistant, Mabushi, was jotting down the details that had been given to them on his laptop.

Despite the fact that Marude Itsuki detests his position as the department's director, he is unable to change it since Kishou turned down the promotion.

"We'll continue to periodically check on V, but in the interim, I want each and every one of you to identify some other crucial areas to keep an eye on," says the director with a sigh, stepping away from the board.

"What about the older Fueguchi?" asks Nagachika. "Should we continue to monitor the location where we found her?"

"She was discovered near the mall. I doubt the big boss would operate in such a public place," answers Akira.

"After she had been killed, the victim was left there to try to fool us. Since the last sighting, have any of you discovered anything concerning her daughter?" queries the director.

There is a general 'no' around the room, and Maru clicks his tongue, reclining in his chair to pinch his nose bridge in frustration.

"We have to track down that girl. Something tells me she's in grave danger if her mother has been murdered so ruthlessly," says Kaneki firmly.

"They probably caught her," suggests Nagachika.

"I doubt that. The young girl would have certainly met the same end as her mother if they had managed to capture her," interjects Arima in his neutral tone.

The agents exchange a somber look as they recall the mutilated body they discovered lying behind a dumpster, and a shudder ripples through their bodies. DNA tests confirmed that the sticky mess they had collected between Fueguchi Ryouko's legs and on the rest of her naked body belonged to at least seven different men, proving that she had been conscious when she had been tortured and abused. Even one of the rookies puked after seeing the decaying corpse, as it was such a horrifying sight to behold.

"She's on the run then," concludes Akira.

"If that's the case, she ought to have come to us," protests Hide. "Why would she stay outside without our protection? Kaiko's men patrol every nook and cranny of Tokyo, not to mention he has many connections, so he can find her quickly. She has nowhere to run."

Akira raises an eyebrow and returns, "Not unless she is concealing herself with someone who is adept at eluding Kaiko and his men."

Kaneki and Hide exchange a glance, having realized they are both thinking the same thing. If the young Fueguchi was sheltered by someone capable of such a thing, it would undoubtedly be that enigmatic woman, Touka.

Thanks to Yoriko's polariod, the white-haired man has confirmed that the mysterious woman and Yoriko's best friend are the same person. It feels surreal to know who the dark-haired woman was, and Kaneki finds the idea of knowing her name strangely intimate, more so than his encounter with her at the club.

If they had run into each other, Fueguchi Hinami would have unquestionably stayed with her. After all, as far as he knew, Touka had been monitoring Kaiko for a few weeks—possibly even longer. The young girl would definitely be safe with her, at least for the time being, because it was obvious that Touka knew what she was doing and wouldn't endanger the girl.

After collecting Ryouko's body and learning that she had been gang-raped in a shadowy alley, the FBI also kept patrolling the city, but they had not come across any dead bodies, as would undoubtedly be the case if Hinami and Touka had come across the dangerous man.

The idea makes the white-haired agent shiver, and he berates himself for having such a thought. If it had happened, he probably wouldn't have been able to forgive himself. He has an odd attachment to the woman and is troubled by the knowledge that he could have saved her by simply arresting her.

"If Kirishima knows where and how to look for Kaiko, it may be because of Hinami. That is, if she's with her, " whispers Hide in his ear as the others keep discussing the findings.

"Do you think she's protecting her in the exchange of information then?" asks Kaneki in a low voice.

"Yep, it's feasible. It makes sense considering that Hinami suddenly vanished from the radar," nods Hide.

Kaneki was about to speak, but stops himself and hisses in pain when he feels a pointed object step on his foot underneath the table. He glances sideways and sees their blonde superior, who was sitting beside him and glaring daggers at them before turning her head to look at the director, who kept talking about their main objective.

Mado Akira, who was a few years older than Kaneki and Hide, had been a member of the force for a while, prior to their recruitment. She had been Amon Koutarou's first subordinate after her late father passed away, Amon's mentor.  Because she blamed him for her father's passing, the blonde woman had a deep-seated hatred for him. She had grown to care for him along the way, as their relationship strengthened and they began to function well as colleagues. Well, as a lover as well.

"Okay, everyone, it's almost ten. It's time to call it a night," declares Marude, clapping his hands together.

"Finally," Hide groans as he stands up and stretches his arms above his head. "I'm starting to grow tired of your voice, Marude-san." The blond man managed to make crude comments about Marude despite his high position as the director.

"Get out of here, kid, before I spank your arrogant ass," snaps the annoyed director.

"Will do," he replies, walking towards the exit. But before anyone could leave the room, a black-haired young boy barges in with a blissful expression on his face.

"Director! Hanbee just received a call," beams Suzuya, leaning against the door of the entrance as he suckles a lollipop. "There was a woman on the phone, claiming that she had a lead on this Kaiko guy."

"What did she say?" asks Marude in a demanding voice.

"That there's an event for the prostitution ring at V tonight," he reveals.

Everyone stares at each other. If the call proved to be a real lead, the club was apparently not as safe as they had believed.

"Save for Arima, everyone is staying out tonight, so sit your asses down," says Maru, leaving no room for argument. "Get ready. We can't pass up this opportunity. We're going to check this out."

Touka smirks as she observes one of the guards scurrying inside the club with an alarmed expression on his face and moving toward the large man manning the entrance to the secluded room to whisper something in his ear. The large man's expression turns sour and nods to his companion before he enters the protected room as the guard leaves with his hand on his gun that was tucked on his pants.

"Perfect," she mutters, following the huge guy discreetly, making her way between the clueless dancers.

She peeks inside the room and notices Furuta, the clown, chatting animatedly on the phone while seated at his desk. The big guy was nowhere to be found.

"-they're at the door, demanding to investigate the place - Ah! yes, yes, of course." Pause. "I've already sent that big mammoth to hide your toys and the shitty clients downstairs. They should be out of the FBI's sight."

Touka watches the strange man as he listens intently to whoever is on the other end of the line.

"I'm not sure why they came here; we've taken great precautions, and nothing unusual might have led to this - I, no, she's still not here. We haven't seen that fucking woman yet."

He clenches his teeth and spits out a curse under his breath before regaining his composure.

"We'll get her."

He hangs up the phone and gets to his feet to approach the curtain behind him. To Touka's surprise, he draws it aside to reveal a door, which he then opens and enters. She quickly and quietly approaches to block the door from closing with her foot, peeking inside to see there were stairs leading to a basement of some sort. She could hear his footsteps descending the stairs. Looking behind her to make sure that no one noticed her, she then descends the underground stairs, finding another door on the end. When she peeks inside, she discovers couches scattered around with tables and barely touched drinks on top of them.

"Probably where the wealthy gentlemen sit to conduct transactions," she mutters to herself, clicking her tongue, and looking around the room for any sign of that clown or his men before fully entering the room.

When she hears the unmistakable creaking sound of a door opening on the side, she quickly ducks behind on one of the sofa and peeking over to see the big guy from earlier emerges from another well-hidden door that was attaches to the wall. The big guy has a furious expression on his face as he runs upstairs, back to the surface of the club. Touka quickly stands on her feet to peek inside and enters the concealed door. When she closed it behind her, she noted that it was hardly noticeable to someone who was unaware that it existed, as it was practically a part of the wall.

She finds herself standing in another hallway, but this one is full of doors, and she can hear quiet voices coming from the closed rooms.

Touka stands still, hiding in the darkness provided by the door while holding onto her gun in case something unexpected happens. After contemplating, she carefully approaches the first room with her back to the wall, then places her ear against the door and hears a low, masculine growl coming from inside. Touka was well aware that Kaiko's dolls would carry out their "dealings" with the clients in these rooms.

The door to the hallway suddenly springs open, and Touka hurriedly opens the door she was leaning against to enter, interrupting the two occupants on the bed inside. A middle-aged man stares at Touka with surprise, as the bare girl sitting on top of him keeps moving, clearly unaware of Touka's presence.

"Are you here for threesome?" asks the man with excitement in his voice, holding the girl by the hips to stop her.

"You can say that," mutters Touka in a chilly tone.

The man's eyes linger admiringly on her body before opening wide when he sees the gun by her side. Alarmed, he attempts to open his mouth, but she quickly pulls the weapon out and points it at him.

"Scream and you're dead," she warns him, her voice calm yet venomous. 

When the girl on top of him, who appeared to be barely of age, seems to have noticed her presence, she quickly jumps off to hide under the covers out of fear, leaving the naked man lying down with his deflating penis covered in juices. Touka frowns at the sight and looks down on him with disgust.

"Look, I'm so sorry if I offended you in any way. Please, don't kill me. I can give you whatever you want! I have money! Please, just don't kill me! I have a family," he pleads for his life, taking the covers from the girl and wrapping them around his body. The girl yelps, and jumps off to hide underneath the bed.

"Family, my ass," scoffs Touka. "Money can't buy what I want anyway," she mutters, more to herself than to him, before a knock on the door interrupts her.

"Mister?" asks a voice that Touka recognized as being Furuta's. She hurriedly makes her way to the door as she casts a menacing look at the quivering man.

"Say something stupid, and you could lose your dick for good," she mouthed.

He nods, terrified of her. "Y-yes?"

"We're currently having some problems, so I'd like to ask that you keep quiet until I tell you otherwise." They could hear the little laugh on the clown's voice.

Touka listens intently and continues to point her gun at the man, observing how he cowers in the face of her threatening stare. Furuta appears to be walking from room to room, telling the occupants to remain silent while the authorities upstairs inspect the premises.

"Will do," answers the man, sinking further into the mattress. She can hear the low sobs coming from the girl hiding behind the bed, and Touka pities the young girl for being dragged into such a lifestyle.

When she hears the cryptic clown's footsteps getting farther away from the room, she shoots the man another glare.

"Stay here if you don't want me to carry out my threat."

He nods hastily, sweat starting to form on his forehead. She quietly opens the door as she leaves the room. In the dim hallway, she notices Furuta knocking on the other room, with his back on her. She sneaks up behind him, covers his mouth with her hand to keep him from alerting the guards, and pins his front against the wall.

"Don't move," she whispers, pressing the barrel of her gun against his back.

She turns him around with her hand still covering his mouth as he mutters something that she is unable to hear due to the sound being muffled by her hand. His eyes squint before becoming animatedly wide when he recognizes the short-haired woman who had made them many promises.

"Now, I'm going to remove my hand, and if you do something remotely suspicious, I won't hesitate to press the barrel," she mutters and removes her hands, searching him like she had done to the white-haired agent.

Furuta looks like he's about to burst into tears, but the way his eyes gleam with mischief tells her otherwise.

He gasps dramatically, and cries out, "I hate fighting, so let's do this peacefully! I left my weapon behind because I knew that the FB-motherfucking-I would look suspicious and definitely detain me if they searched me and discove -"

He stops mid-sentence when the impatient woman raises her knee and strikes him in the face with it, resulting in his front tooth getting knocked out of its socket.

"Shut the fuck up, will ya?" She hisses as she keeps searching him.

The man cradles his throbbing face, blood oozing out of his mouth as he tries to put his tooth back.

"Now," she starts after she finished searching him, "You're going to lead me through each room as if I were one of your other patrons. I want you to show me every occupant of every room, not just your clients, but also your toys."

He nods quietly while holding his extracted tooth in place, and she smirks triumphantly as she pushes him forward while pressing the gun up against his back. He opens the first door and peers inside, and Touka takes a look over his shoulder. The bed's three occupants—this time, a woman, a young-looking man, and an elderly man—were acting rather vivaciously and didn't give a damn about the visitors.

She inspects them from her vantage point and notices that the young man and woman both have a numerical number tattooed on their wrists. In the end, Touka's presumption was accurate. Not only are these clowns ruining the lives of innocent women, but also those of men.

How disgusting and despicable.

"Let's keep going," she tells him, retreating back as he closes the door.

"If you could let me know what you were looking for, this would be simpler, you know," he comments, despite losing a tooth, he still manages to keep his cryptic smile.

"Shut up," she groans, pushing the gun further into his back. "Just follow my instructions if you want to survive and keep your remaining teeth."

As the two of them move through the rooms, Touka witnesses scenes and body parts she had never anticipated seeing. When they reach the remaining room, Furuta hesitates before opening the door and walking inside with Touka close behind. There are about twelve women and men inside, sitting motionless on the ground. When they hear the door open and see Furuta, they immediately lower their heads, bodies trembling in fear.

She's right. Their business practices involve transgender people, men, and women offering sexual services.

"These are the ladies and gents that weren't requested for the night," says Furuta. Touka observes them all, sighing in displeasure, and grimaces when she notices that half of them are young enough to be in high school.

"I still don't know what you were looking for," Furuta sighs, and pauses. "Or who," he adds, maliciously.

That seems to tick her off before she kicks him forward inside. She turns him around and slams him against the wall as he bites his tongue in response to the sharp pain against his front.

"Little missy, it seems like you enjoy seeing me in this position," he laughs, and she huffs.

"Eat shit!" She snaps, and he instantly goes silent.

Touka's eyes searched the room for a way to restrain him, wishing she had handcuffs on her, when she noticed that one of the male escorts on the ground, who were watching them with curiosity, was wearing a pretty shawl around his neck. She smiles triumphantly and motions for him to come over. The young man with dark hair widens his eyes and looks down in panic.

"Calm down, I won't do anything that would hurt you. I just want you to come closer," tells him Touka in a voice she hoped to be reassuring. "I just need that shawl around your neck. I won't hurt anyone other than this clown."

Touka gives a tentative smile, and the young man nods before crawling over to her and giving her the shawl. She thanked him, and she quickly encircled Furuta's wrists with the soft cloth, pushing him down until he was face-flat on the ground.

"Now everyone," she tells them, bending down to grab the keys dangling from Furuta's belt, "I want you to watch over him for a bit while I'm out there."

A few of them reluctantly nod while the majority of them remain silent, and Touka stands up to leave the room, leaving Furuta frowning in her wake.

Unlike when she had first entered it, the second hallway with lots of room was quiet and devoid of the moaning and grunting. She carefully opens up the well-hidden door to take a quick peek over at the first hallway. When she's sure that it's safe enough, she walks over to the front door that leads up to the club's surface and rests one ear against it while holding a gun in her hand. Outside, she can make out some muddled voices.

"-nothing. There is only one hallway with numerous sofas and tables, but it is completely empty," says a male voice.

"Have you found the club's owner or any of the managerial staff?" asks a feminine voice.

"The guys upstairs claimed that he wouldn't be here tonight. We asked them to call their boss, but he won't pick up his phone," replies the first man.

"Sounds suspicious. Do you think he knew that we'd be here to investigate them?" says another male, and Touka smiles when she recognizes the voice of the white-haired agent.

"That or the call was a total fabrication."

The success of her strategy makes Touka smile. Even though she ultimately failed to find what she was looking for, calling the agents was a ruse to get the guards to leave the area so she could explore.

Touka hides behind one of the sofas and waits until the woman—who was likely the operation's squad leader—gives orders. When she hears them leave and head upstairs, she moves stealthily towards the door, and she glances back to make sure no one was following her. She was about to exit and sneak out of the place unnoticed when she bumps into a broad chest. She looks up, her eyes bulging, when she sees her favorite agent's surprise-filled grey eyes gazing down at her. She hadn't seen or even heard him, but he appeared to be hurriedly descending the stairs.

He opens his mouth, but before he can say anything, she smirks at him and grabs him by the collar, dragging him towards the secret passage.

"Woah, wait," he spouts as he nearly trips over his own feet. She ignores him and drags him inside of an unoccupied room, shutting the door and pushing him up against it.

"Being pushed around has never been something I've enjoyed, but lately, it's turned into one of my favorite things," he says, swallowing his own spit. "I'd say I'm surprised to see you here, but it's the least unexpected thing that has happened to me in the past few weeks."

"I'm glad to see you, too," she winks.

"That wasn't the impression you left with after our previous encounter," he comments, his eyes darkening, and he looks so good with that expression that it causes Touka to wet her lips with her tongue.

"I was in a mood," she replies after a few seconds. "Don't make me change my mind now and tie you up again."

They exchange heated looks after a brief period of silence before Kaneki seizes the opportunity to speak. "I'm going to venture a wild guess and say you're the one who called the station."

"Bingo," she snaps her finger, releasing him and walking backwards. "I felt that you guys needed my extra help, and I was clearly right. Without me, you would never have discovered this area."

As he becomes suddenly aware of his surroundings, the agent looks around and furrows his brows. "What exactly is this place? And why didn't we see it when we were inspecting the other corridor?

"It's some sort of hidden passage," she explains with a shrug. "If I hadn't been hiding when the big guy opened this door, I probably wouldn't have noticed it either. Don't feel bad, Sasaki, if I had used more legal and ethical means like you did, I probably wouldn't have found it either."

He groans, leaning his head against the wall with a low thud. "Oh, how I wish you would stop calling me that."

"Why? What would I call you then?" She asks, looking at him through her lashes and leaning against his form.

"By my name," he breathes out. "Kaneki Ken. Or just Ken."

The warmth of her body abruptly leaves him as Touka moves away from the agent with a troubled expression on her face. She did not imagine him saying his name. She had not even attempted to look for it past the codename he was known by—Sasaki Haise, for fear of becoming overly attached to the man. Even though she only had one mission, she had already failed it when she became entangled with him.

Kaneki looks at her face with worry, but before he can ask her what was wrong, she slips back into her smug expression.

"I hope you aren't expecting a name from me right now," she says.

"I don't need it," he replies under his breath. "So, could you please tell me what's down here before my partners start looking for me? They'll assume I got in a pinch if they don't see me with them."

She simply scoffs, turning her back to walk away from him. "Follow me, agent Sasaki."

He could only comply, irked that she wouldn't address him by his real name, and at the same time, he struggled against the urge to grab her and push her against the wall as the swing of her hips made his mouth dry.

He follows her to the end of the hallway as she stops and pulls out a set of keys from her pocket, reminding Kaneki of the time she stole the key for his handcuffs. She unlocks the door and gestures for him to look inside, and the white-haired agent casts a wary glance her way. He didn't want his comrades to catch him with his tail between his legs yet again, since she had a habit of getting him stuck in certain places.

Despite this, he peeks inside and his mouth forms an O when he notices the women and men huddled together on the floor a short distance from a certain scowling man who appeared to have his hands tied in some sort of scarf.

"See, agent, I did all the work for you. There's even the boss you guys were looking for," she smiles, winking at him. "Also, check their wrists. There is a tattoo on them that verifies they are, in fact, victims of human trafficking."

"You are one brilliant woman," he mutters as he inspects each one of them, and Touka feels a jolt in her heart, but she chooses to ignore it in favor of gazing intently into his face.

"Who the fuck are you? Are you working with that woman? I should have listened to the boss, you're going to bring us down now," says Furuta, glaring daggers at them.

"You should maybe speak more respectfully as I am the cop here," replies Kaneki, lifting an eyebrow. "I guess this goes without saying," he starts, walking towards him and taking his new set of handcuffs out of his pocket, "and Akira-san would have my head in a sling if I don't follow protocol. So you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law-"

Hot damn, thought Touka, watching him with undisguised desire. I can only imagine him using that authoritative tone in bed.

"-you have the right to have an attorney present during questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you - damn," he takes a deep breath, cutting himself off mid-sentence.

"What? You wish you didn't have to say those Miranda Rights?" Laughs Touka, leaning against the door to watch him with amusement.

"Damn, right," muses Kaneki, as Furuta watches the exchange with astonishment. The white-haired agent pushes him against the wall, and the dark-haired man curses them both for being fond of shoving people against vertical surfaces. It was probably some sort of weird fetish thing they had going on between them.

"Now, you're going to stay here while I escort the lady out, understood?" he commands with a strong voice.

"Know who my father is, you fucking nuggets?" 

"No, why? Your mother didn't tell you?" Kaneki asks in an innocent voice, and Touka suppresses her giggle behind her fist.

"Fuck you," spat an enraged Furuta.

"I don't do charity work." Kaneki leaves the man behind and walks out with Touka on his trail, looking at him questionably.

"Escort me?" She inquires. "No thanks, I don't need that. Just like the big girl I am, I infiltrated this place on my own and will leave on my own."

He stops walking. "Let's make a deal then," he starts, turning around to look at her. "If you tell me what you're searching for, then I'll let you go."

"How about I shoot you and walk away, hm?" She suggests, folding her arms against her chest.

"With what?" He smiles and pulls something from his vest to dangle in front of a dumbfounded Touka. "This gun? It seems like you're not in possession of it anymore."

"Son of a bitch," she groans out, embarrassed at being so easily played out. This time around, the roles were reversed. She shouldn't have been shocked since this man was an FBI agent after all, and it is evident that the training he went through was worthwhile.

"So," he continues, "how about you tell me why you're looking for Kaiko?"

She flexes her shoulders and shoots him a heated look as she considers her options. She could try to fight him and run away, but he had her weapon and was clearly physically stronger than her. Without her gun, it would be more challenging to get away from the guards encircling the club. Her plan would be put on hold indefinitely if she allowed him to arrest her, so she only had the option to accede to his request.

"How about I tell you my name? Don't you want to know the name of the woman you fucked in the upstairs bathroom?" She taunts.

His eyes seem to darken, and his smile stiffens up. "Why should I? As you yourself stated, I don't need it. It was a one-time thing only, so why?" He replies, reciting back the words she told him after their heated encounter.

"Vas te faire foutre," she sneers, indubitably angry.

"You already took care of that." He smiles with undisguised trepidation. "So what are you going to choose? We can't play this game anymore, I'm the cop here, after all. Give me a reason to let you go."

"Fine," she snaps out coldly, and he goes silent, watching her intensely. "I'm not looking for that little fucker. In fact, I don't really care about him."

When she notices his bewildered expression, she replaces the annoyance on her face with a broad smile.

"Surprised?" She chuckles. "I don't give one or two fucks about the man, he can go fuck himself. I'm looking for someone else."

"And who could it be? One of his subordinates?" he asks.

She scoffs in amusement. "You're not even close, though. Actually, I'm looking for a woman and a man that Kaiko's minions have taken away from me. He sells both men and women, that's why I have a notion that he might have included them in his small collection. That's also the reason why I'm pursuing his prostitution trade and came here to check out the event that happened tonight."

"Is that why you shelter Fueguchi Hinami? To get information on the prostituted?" He demands.

She furrows her eyebrows at him, folding her arms underneath her ample chest. "How do you know that?"

"I'm an agent, baby, don't forget that. It's my job to figure things out and decode riddles," he grins lopsidedly.

"Who's the one coming up with nicknames now?" She muses. "So, can I have my gun back already? I need to leave this place as soon as possible."

"Not until you name the people you're looking for."

"For fuck's sake," she huffs in frustration. "They were my guardians and very dear to me. There, happy now?"

"Very," he responds, clearly amused.

There were no longer any signs of the hostility that had once existed between them, allowing for a more tolerable yet tense atmosphere. She impatiently reaches for the gun as Kaneki approaches her and hands it to her. But just as she is about to grab it, he takes it away from her reach and grabs hold of the same hips that had been testing his patience. He then presses her flushed body against his and seals her lips with his own.

Despite the strong hold he had on her hips, his lips were gentle. She barely feels his lips on hers and yet her heart flutters wildly because of it. He deepens the touch after a second, his warm breath sucking her own, and dives down further. She remains motionless for a brief moment before melting into the kiss and expressing eagerness in response to the warm familiarity of his touch. The pleasurable feeling sends sparks through her brain.

He walks forward, causing her to step backward and lean her back against the wall.

Can't restrain himself, Kaneki brings his other hand to rest on her cheek, angling her jaw upward and deepening their kiss as his tongue fights for dominance inside her mouth. She can't stop the pleading mewl that leaves her throat. His mouth opens and his teeth clamp harshly over her lower lip, and Touka gasps, panting out as he kisses around the ridge of her lips before covering them again with his own.

It wasn't long before they both needed to breathe. Kaneki leans back, leaving scorching lips and heavy breaths behind as remnants of the kiss, and stares intensely into her eyes. Touka, who is still dazed from the passionate kiss, feels something cold press against the palm of her hand, breaking their eye contact to look at her hand.

"Your gun," he says, clearly proud of his performance.

"Uh - yeah, thanks," she stutters, clearing her throat.

"I believe you ought to leave before my team arrives," he suggests. "Again," he adds.

"I should. Yeah, I think I should," she repeats dumbly, nipping her lips and looking at the door leading to the club.

She casts him a worried look and detects a frightening glint of longing in his eyes. He had promised that he would figure her out, but Touka feared that he had gone beyond what he had promised to do.

"You solved a significant portion of the case and handed it to us on a silver platter, so I'm afraid I'm going to have to report you to my unit," he tells her, smiling down at her. "From now on, you'll need to exert more caution."

"Don't worry," she retorts, coming back to her old self. "I excel at what I do. Check the other rooms as well, you might discover something interesting there."

With those words, she turns and walks away from him. He watches her go, as he has done many times before, his heart racing from that one simple kiss. It appears that being apart from her for extended periods of time caused that to happen to him.

"I hope you soon find Koma-san and Irimi-san," he calls before she can exit through the door.

She turns to face him and nods before completely leaving the premises, without realizing what he had just revealed. Kaneki shakes his head, chuckling to himself as he waits for 10 minutes to make sure that she is already gone while checking the other rooms before turning his earpiece on.

"Akira-san, the premises need to be locked up, and nobody should be allowed to leave. The call wasn't a hoax, you might want to head down to the basement to see this…"

#touken #kanetou #kirishima touka #kaneki ken #tokyo ghoul re #tokyo ghoul #my writing

[twopoppies]

I thought it was normal practice that the venue gets a cut of the artist's merch income. It's not? https://twitter.com/seaninsound/status/1556701700978868224?s=21&t=_xuHLVcdredBOOVcWXcm9w

Hi sweetheart. That’s not what he’s saying. It is normal these days and many people think it’s wrong that they do it.

His article is long, but it’s very interesting (emphasis below is mine).

Above and beyond the setlists and soundchecks, touring is tough and requires a lot of focus on the pennies and the pounds. Whether we're talking about an eleven album deep doom-metal trio trying to make a living, or newbies who are simply trying to avoid making a loss, touring requires the construction of a web of planning, such as savvily pre-booking Premier Inns on their advance rate or deciding between four or seven hours sleep (knowing the difference is often several hundred pounds saved on cheaper flights).

Whether bands play to 500 people or 50,000, being able to predict the right number of medium-sized T-shirts to print so they don't sell out (or get saddled with hundreds of pounds of left over stock) is boring but more important than ever.

Like any small business, understanding a profit and loss spreadsheet is crucial to live music. If you can’t get cancellation insurance due to COVID and fuel prices are continuing to rocket, every single hoodie and hand to hand record sale counts more than ever. So, aside from knowing how to impress a crowd, being able to set reasonable prices for merchandise to generate maximum sales and a decent profit, is more integral to a successful tour than it has ever been.

[…]

At many grassroots venues there’s an independent owner, who is often also the promoter. When you move up to larger venues, it’s far more likely the venue is being hired by an outside promoter (sometimes from an affiliated subsidiary company, who also seem to take some of the mysterious ‘booking fee’) and every penny from the bouncers to laundering the towels, is on a spreadsheet of show costs. It’s at this level where venues tend to charge a commission to sell merch, which is perhaps understandable when there are ten different merch points dotted around The O2 arena.

It’s not just the platforms raking in vast sums: Lucian Grainge, the head of Universal Music Group (UMG) recently received a "stonking" £123 million bonus. Meanwhile, a recent Guardian investigation discovered that UMG receives a share of Academy Music Group’s (AMG) profits from the sales of merchandise. These sales at O2 Academy venues are outsourced to company trading as Concessions Management International Ltd., which is part of Universal’s Bravado merchandise division. The report found that AMG and UMG take a cut, even if the act whose merch is sold is not signed to UMG.

[…]

She explains the maths of the merch desk: “For example, on a £25 LP sale, our label take £13.20 (fair enough, they are trying to recoup their investment, we have a very artist friendly deal with a great label). The venue take £7.50, they have no responsibility for paying for stock, they are only open to profit, no risk. The band then earn £4.30. Almost half of what the venue takes but the band have all the costs to get to the show plus the years of work that goes into that LP.”

“As for tees. If we sell a tee for £15. We pay £6 to print it. The venue takes £4.50. And we take £4.50. Again the venue profit as much as we do but without any of the liability involved in the design, print or delivery costs.” It all adds up doesn’t it? Of course, if you’re a massive act the economies of scale outlined in this BBC piece mean tees get cheaper and artists can consider fair trade & eco-friendly options like vegan inks, re-milled materials, or take the risk of commissioning multiple designs without passing too much extra cost onto fans.

Read the full article here

Featured Artist Coalition (or FAC for short), whose members span from acts playing their first gigs to stadium stars, have long pursued the issue of venues taking a cut of merch, but in recent months this campaign has ratcheted up, causing many venues agreeing to give 100% of the merch money to artists. Over 350 venues have already signed up to the FAC’s directory

#touring facts #touring costs #harry’s merch #Louis’ merch #cost of touring #merch prices #music industry