#which has been my favourite spirit since the beginning and it is now maxed out

[foxstens]

i just second tried the apparently tankiest boss in the game

#my posts #gameblogging #liveblogging ender lilies #like i kept coming across threads about how he's too tanky n shit #and i tried him once before i even beat ulv #i got him to half health so i def could have beaten him then #but instead i went back to ulv #who took me more tries mind you #then i got every possible upgrade and collectible i could before coming back to this guy #the fight did take a while and i took some hits #but the thing is the telegraphs are so obvious and the windup is so long #its really only the third phase that's the problem with every boss so far #and that i just kind of cheese with the bird #which has been my favourite spirit since the beginning and it is now maxed out #u know i appreciate the variety of spirits #but with most of them i just try them when iget them and then i never use them again #i feel like i have a pretty good handle on the game's mechanics by now #so umbral knight and the bird can get me through pretty much everything #maybe i should make an effort and try some other spirits #but since you can't actually upgrade all of them its just kinda ehhh

[vivwritesfics]

Keep On Rolling - MV1

Chapter Two

Summary: Lando's best friend having feelings for anyone on the grid? Impossible, right? She worked with them, sharing her friendship with the grid with the world via the FormulaY/N youtube channel.

After film a video including... spicy water (alcohol), everything changes between her and a certain world champion. Good thing she hasn't had a crush on him since his F1 debut, right?

Right?

2K words

Series Masterlist

Just like the first video, Paddock Pals was a success. The video went up onto the FormulaY/N on the Monday after the Albert Park race day vlog. It was the second most popular video on her channel, with only the original Paddock Pals ahead of it. F1 Twitter loved it.

Y/N already had her next few videos planned. The next video she had spung on a chosen few drivers and they were only happy to join in. That was how she found herself sitting in her hotel room, Max, Charles, Daniel, Lando, Alex, Oscar and Carlos surrounding her. James was in a chair opposite the group, notebook in his lap and camera in his hands.

“Hello everybody and welcome to the FormulaY/N channel,” said Y/N, holding her microphone up to her face. She sat in her hotel room, surrounded by seven Formula One drivers. She had Lando Norris on one side of her and Charles Leclerc on the other.

In front of them were tiny shot glasses and spirits. But, of course, to make any money on youtube, you couldn’t use the A word. Y/N had opted to call it spicy water to ensure she wouldn’t get demonetized.

“Cameraman James has been working through the night to put together a little game show for us. He’s collected some of your favourite Formula One quotes. All we have to do is guess who says what. You get it right, you get a point. You get it wrong…” Y/N picked up her shot glass. “You do one of these. Pretty much, we’re all going to be on the tipsy side by the time we’re finished.”

James turned the camera round to face him. “This started as a who said what game, but I went down a rabbit hole and its become so much more than that. We’ve got Formula One quiz questions, finish the quote, a sing along and more,” he said, holding his notebook up.

He turned the camera back to Y/N. While James had been explaining, she’d began to fill everybody’s shot glass with the… spicy water (which was really just vodka). “If everybody has their spicy water, we can begin,” she said and looked to James, shot glass in hand.

Clearing his throat, James kept his camera steady and looked at his notebook. “Okay, this first question is a who says what. Y/N and I were going to play the clips, but we decided that would be too easy for you all. So, I’ve got to read them out. Right, who said ‘Lando we can be world champions’?”

“Charles!” Y/N said instantly. Everybody else took a shot.

Charles, Lando and Alex pulled face. Everybody else tried to keep their cool, but it wasn’t going very well.

“Everybody ready for the next one?” Asked James as a shiver went down Oscars spine. “Right, who is the youngest driver on the grid?”

“Logan!” Shouted Oscar and Daniel.

“Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner,” said James. “Or, three winners. Everybody else, drink up.”

Y/N tipped her head back and threw her shot into her mouth. She swallowed, feeling the burn as it went down her throat. “Oh my God,” she cried and coughed.

“Hey, hey, hey! There’s still some in there.” Lando grabbed a hold of Y/N’s shot glass and tipped it to the side, revealing the dregs at the bottom. “Drink up, missy,” he said and passed the glass back to Y/N. Glaring at him, she tipped her head back once more and finished the shop.

“Next, who once said ‘He don’t fok smash my door’ and, for an extra point, who was this person talking about?”

“Guenther about K-Mag?” Asked Alex, sounding unsure.

James nodded his head. Everybody but Alex had their shots. “So, do we have to do a second one now? Or does Alex just get another point?”

Y/N thought for a moment. “How about you take a short or forfeit a point? If you have no points you can minus a point, but the moment you get one that brings you back up to zero,” she suggested.

Three people took the shots, the rest took the points.

The rest of the rounds went by rather quickly. Max got three points and Lando got four, leaving him the most sober out of everybody. Halfway through the video they had to pause. Some drivers went to the toilet, Lando and Max had to reposition things so that Lando was in the middle, hosting and Max was keeping Y/N upright. “Maybe no more for her,” he suggested.

“No! If I lose I have to drink! Those are the rules!” Y/N cried, her speech slurred. She was leaning against Max, her face pressed into his shoulder.

“Do we even keep filming?” Asked James. “It’s not fair to put her on the internet like this.”

Lando thought on it. He knew Y/N better than anybody; it was going to be his call. “She’d kill us if we didn’t get all the footage. When she’s not drunk or hungover she can look through the footage and decide what she wants to keep.”

“You’re the best Landooooooo,” she muttered and sat up straight.

When the game continued, Y/N was barely holding herself up. She had one more shot and that was it, she was finished. When Riccardo got the next question right, she reached for her glass, but Max took it from her before she had the chance.

After that, they cut the camera. Max moved her away from the rest of the group, to sit out of the view of the camera. Lando did her outro for her, but Max stayed sitting with her. He too was drunk, but nowhere near as drunk as Y/N.

After the video was filmed, the other drivers filed out of Y/N’s room. Lando helped put things away so she wouldn’t trip over them in the morning and put a glass of water and a pain killer on the bedside table.

“You coming?” He called to Max as he waited by the door.

Max was still with Y/N. “Uh, no. I’m going to make sure she gets to bed okay,” he said, wobbling ever so slightly on his feet. Lando raised his eyebrows but he took his leave, leaving Y/N in her hotel room with James and Max.

While James put away the camera and stuff (Max wasn’t watching), Max brought Y/N over to the bed. She wasn’t yet in her pyjamas, he realised. Max waited for James to leave the room before helping her into something more comfortable. If he was lucky (and he was always lucky), she wouldn’t remember this the next morning.

Once Max had forced her to have some water and had gotten her under the covers, he began walking towards the door. “Don’t leave me,” he heard her whisper. How could he say no to that? Max let the door close and walked back over to the bed. He sat himself on top of the sheets, a comfortable distance from Y/N. But that gap didn’t last for long. She rolled over in her sleep, rolling closer to Max.

***

"What the hell?" Mumbled a groggy Y/N as she sat up the next morning. Her bed wasn't empty, something she wasn't used to. To make matters worse, her head was pounding.

She looked up at the stranger in her bed and tried to think back to the night before. It could only have been one of the drivers, she realised, and relief flooded her.

And then dread settled in.

The still-sleeping driver rolled over in the bed. "Oh my god," Y/N whispered, trying not to wake him. Nobody quite prepares you on what to do when you wake up in bed with the current world champion.

He was on top of the sheets, at least. As far as Y/N knew, they didn't sleep together. On the table beside Max was an aspirin and water. She needed it, desperately. Her phone was beside it, but not the keycard to her room.

She had to wake him. "Max." She shook his shoulder, waking him up. "Max, where's my keycard?"

Max's eyes fluttered open. He muttered something in Dutch, the same panic washing over his face. He took a moment, just like Y/N had, to check his surroundings. Clothes still on, sleeping on top of the covers. Everything was fine.

He turned around, looking for the keycard. "I left it right here," He said, gesturing to the bedside table. Max passed her the water and aspirin and stood up. He quickly searched for her keycard, placed it back on the bedside table and went to leave the room.

Y/N had to text Lando about this. She'd spent the night sleeping in the same room as Max Verstappen - how could she not tell Lando about this?

No, this was a conversation she was supposed to have in person. She had to find James, go over the footage from the previous night, and then speak to Lando. And maybe apologise to Max for the night before.

Y/N got up from the bed, slowly. She grabbed the water and aspirin from the bedside table and swallowed, willing her pounding headache to go away.

She hadn't been this hungover in a long time. The curtains hadn't been closed the night before and the light was hurting her eyes. She got dressed, put on her sunglasses and left the hotel room.

James’ room was just a few doors down. She walked slowly down the hall and knocked on his door. Leaning her burning forehead against the wall, she waited for James to open the door. When he did, Y/N let out a groan.

“Come on,” James said through a sigh and pulled her into the room. He sat her on the bed and got her another glass of water. “You sober enough to watch the footage from last night?” He asked and Y/N shook her head. But even that hurt. “What do you want then?”

She sucked in a breath. “What happened last night? With Max and I?”

“Oh, nothing,” James answered. “He got a little drunk, you got very drunk so he stayed to help you into bed. I left after that and I was assuming he did too. Now, I’m guessing that’s not the case.”

Y/N shook her head.

“You didn’t…” James touched his thumb to his finger and put another through the hole it created.

Y/N shook her head.

“Good. Then you’ve got nothing to worry about,” said James. “If I were you I’d sleep in until the hangover goes and then go out to dinner with my best friend, leaving my cameraman and editor to do his editing,” he said and walked Y/N over to his hotel room door.

Even with her hangover, Y/N didn’t want to go back to her room and do nothing. They were in Miami for the grand prix in a few days; there had to be something more to do than just sitting around.

Y/N aimlessly walked around the hotel. Lando had told her his room number and what floor he was on, but Y/N couldn’t remember. She just had to hope she found someone she recognised. Y/N went from floor to floor and down to the lobby. Nobody, nothing.

In the end she sat opposite the elevator in the plush, comfy lobby chairs. Magazines were beside her, but reading hurt her head.

She was only there for a few minutes before the elevator door opened and out stepped Charles Leclerc.

Taglist (Open): @sticksdoesart @eviethetheatrefreak @eugene-emt-roe @glai1023-blog @mqcherie

#max verstappen imagine #max verstappen #max verstappen x reader #max verstappen x female reader #max verstappen x you #f1 imagine #f1 x reader #f1 x female reader #f1 #formula 1 #formula 1 imagine #formula 1 x reader #formula one x reader #formula one imagine #formula one #mv1 #mv1 imagine #mv1 x reader #lando norris #charles leclerc x reader #charles leclerc imagine #charles leclerc #keep on rolling

[thebestsandiever]

Regarding the chaos and aftermath of the Verstappen crash at the 2021 British GP

Before I begin, this is solely my own thoughts on the crash and aftermath of it, resources and intel being from various news reports, articles, interviews, social media reactions/on track fans reactions, commentators, careers etc. Also important, this post was made around 11 PM CEST, so other news after that or in the midst of this, I haven’t considered.

  Comments and discussions are welcome, though remember to keep the tone guys. I rarely comment on anything on Tumblr, but looking at this chaos, I felt like sharing a bit.

  Starting on the incident that happened, I don’t believe that I can clearly decide what happened and who caused, and the only comments I have is that I believe it was a racing incident that has no bad intention. We hear in conclusion from sources (there was an after analysis) (e.g. also Lewis’ Sky Sports interview) that both could have given each other space. Lewis trying to get in, and Max defending his position. People who think Lewis did it intentionally clearly have no common sense, no one wants Max to end up going to the hospital (but he is fine so no worries). Of course, nothing excuses that a crash happened, and it’s a big shame.

  All the hate Lewis is getting should tone down, I think it’s fair to be critical in perspective of racing which consists of the crash and his comments regarding it, but anything that comments on something other than that with negativity, shouldn’t be.

  Something that many F1 fans have brought up and Horner I believe (slightly) is Lewis 15+ years of experience in Formula one and numerous of championships. Which I think in any sport or topic isn’t a fair argument, because mistakes happen to anyone, no one is immune to that, though this is not me calling the crash a mistake, because I don’t believe that is the right word. It’s more Lewis knowing the danger of closing in and Max of course defending himself on track, and this is the end result. And if anyone was a viewer of the Euro 2020 Football Cup Finals, it’s a bit like the Southgate criticism on the penalties.

  This also applies to all the fans who bring up Max’ aggressive and old nickname “crashstappen” from his early F1 career. Whether you have your impression from Netflix’ Drive to Survive or the fact that you’re new, anyone will agree that Max has matured greatly both on and off track, in my opinion one of the calmest drivers on the grid considering the amount of criticism, hate and burden that he gets/has. The fact is that there have been some people on Twitter (when I now and later comment on fans and reactions, it’s usually the very chaotic Twitter), that mentions Verstappen’s past, the infamous Baku and this season’s races where Lewis is the one who, in their words, “has backed up and gave space” (the reason I say their words is because I can’t quite remember so I won’t say that I know for sure). But again, as I mentioned, this is not valid, because it doesn’t excuse what happened today. Every track is a title fight, and previous races and tactics doesn’t apply to this. What I mean is that because Lewis gave space previous races, does it mean that Verstappen should crash? Or worded differently, because Max didn’t give space like he has previous times, that “it was coming” or that he should crash? Biggest takeaway from this is that past and future shouldn’t mean more than what happened in the present. This leading me on to a bit of the hate Max got which I think was quite undeserving, especially under his circumstances, which is f1 fans (mostly Twitter) calling it “karma” and using his young past to somehow “justify” the crash.

Also I really disliked the videos of “British fans” (we can’t actually determine that all were British, but it was home track) cheering when the crash happened, but in general I think cheering on a crash will always be awful even if you’re favourite driver gains position. Gladly though, it quickly died down on the stands as they realized it was hard impact. Very Euro 2020 vibes, though a much better English crowd- Just kidding, maybe you can see I’m not happy when any kind of fans act out of order (also I don’t hate English football fans, but sadly, the ones who make stupid actions overshadow the rest).

  Now I also want to comment a bit on the drivers and teams’ comments and the PR.

  So regarding Max’ social media post about the race. I honestly think it’s fair for him to be upset, no one wants to be taken out on the first lap considering that he is leading while a VERY good and competitive Lewis is trailing behind. My first reaction was that it was quite an aggressive post and the part about him unfollowing Lewis (if that is correct, I haven’t seen it myself yet) was obviously implying that he isn’t happy. Though, emotions run high as well does Lewis’ celebration reaction. I know his mind is to win on track and he has always been outspoken about that fact. Also I don’t quite believe that Max’ comments were full heartedly himself, but the PR team considering he’s just been at the hospital. I’m not happy with his post at all, but I understand both from a PR perspective and a driver’s. I believe almost any driver on the track would have said something like that in an interview if it happened to them. This just happened to be online because of health circumstances.

  Regarding Marko and Horner, I must disagree with their aggressiveness or at least the way they decide to comment on it. I do understand the anger, considering the championship but also concern for Max (anyone who knows their relationship knows that they care about him.) Again, I have to say emotions run high and if anything, managers are good at, and this is not specifically only attacking Horner, but it’s stirring up tension. I would say it’s fair for him to say, and quite expected, not saying I think it’s fair for Lewis to receive though (hopefully you get what I mean).

  Commenting a bit on Lewis’ Sky Sports F1 interview, we can confirm he didn’t know about Max going to the hospital before celebrating. Anyone who wins has the right to celebrate, especially at home, so props for his win, though unfortunately through a crash (this meaning Verstappen was his biggest threat on track). Though I wasn’t pleased about the commenting on Max. This leads further into the interview.

  We get Lewis’ insight on the incident and where he sees Max as the aggressive one, both not giving each other space and having the crash as end result. So in conclusion, Max trying to defend his position and Lewis trying to get in, fair. Please watch the interview, because it clears up a lot of what is spoken about in the media.  

My thoughts on Lewis’ response both before and after hearing about Max going to the hospital in the Sky Sports interview, is that he probably could’ve/should’ve toned down on Max being the aggressor, as they were both considering what the crash led to, and him saying that it was just about who was going to give space until it was too late. It kind of goes against what he just said. But I do agree that Lewis has the right to celebrate because he simply won. I also liked that he had championship spirit saying that considering what happened, it didn’t take the shine away from his win. It may sound disrespectful, and I do still kind of think it is, but on the other side, it’s him being competitive, and both drivers have each other’s respect on being able to fight on track. So he’s got the spirit, just maybe not the right interview to show the most competitive spirit (I think the most competitive spirit/response he’s shown this 2021 season)

  A bit more on his spirit and fighting on track is seen from Lawrence Barreto who tells us that Lewis has the “game on” spirit and is ready for attacks on track but there needs to be respect on track “and if not this will happen more often I guess.” - Lewis. Just a bit more closure from another source, I like that he is more responsive, but this does make it sound like he blames Max for it. I think any driver who are up against each other have the right or it makes sense to give the majority of the blame to the other, they have their own rear mirrors (see it from their own perspective when they drive, quite literally), but it isn’t the best comment to be honest. Since he says himself, both could’ve given space.

  My biggest disagreement that I must mention is the penalty Lewis got, which was the 10 second penalty. Assessing the severity of the crash with high speed, 51G impact, first lap etc. I think the penalty didn’t really serve much of a penalty, but this is also me being critical of the penalty system. These 10 second penalties don’t really make you lose that much of position (depends on car), also this is not a blow at Lewis but just the system. Afterwards, he was also given 2 penalty points. I think compared to someone like Yuki who also got 2 penalty points for crossing the white line twice while entering the pits and George yesterday at the Sprint Race (1 penalty point + 3 place grid penalty) are quite different but looking at the number, there isn’t a big difference in what’s given. But all of this penalty talk is on the stewards and system, so nothing against Lewis and he did take his penalty that was given.

  I did not comment much on the actual incident as I have a hard time really deciding (I can admit I see Lewis unintentionally drift a bit in + this being a very fast turn, I believe just a misjudgment but so many fans think it was intentional), so therefore do read and watch the current and coming interviews and articles to get some racing perspective. It keeps updating and even drivers like Riccardo, Leclerc, Alonso etc. have given their comments, and who better to listen to than professionals themselves. So I encourage you to get perspective there, because I know not all of us are the most technical fans, and we tend to comment by being led through a bias and crowd.

  But if we’re feeling a bit tired from today, so far the drivers are leaning towards a racing incident. They speak of it as quite unclear to determine, basically saying that both drivers could’ve done and were doing something --> could’ve given space.

  We all have to remember this situation is a big deal since it’s the only two to be fair at the moment, who are competing for the championship. Both mad talented and on each other every track. Media blows it out more than them and before we know it, they’re back to what they do best, which is drive.

  Heart goes out to Max, it was quite an impact and if not his worst crash so far in his career. His team radio was quite scary to listen to, I’ve never heard him so shook, but he is doing quite fine at the moment, and he will hopefully recover well enough for the next race.

  As well for Lewis, emotions are running high and people are quick to assume and accuse without using common sense that Lewis wouldn’t endanger Max or himself. He has every right to celebrate a win and props for him winning.

  In conclusion to those who has taken the time to read, don’t let my thoughts be any decider, but more so a way to understand and be a bit more open minded. We are all subjective in the end and I try to see from both perspectives and to be critical as well, not being led by others’ opinions. I’ve stated my sources, and this is only my overall thoughts at the very moment, so remember, as drivers evolve and move on, we do too.

  I again encourage you to watch and research with an open mind so not being led on bias, especially if you’re willing to spread anything on the topic. It serves a greater outcome than sprouting from emotions and lack of information, as we have well seen from this sport. Because media does influence and we as an audience is a part of it. So I must remind again, that this is simply my thoughts.

#f1 #max verstappen #lewis hamilton #british gp 2021 #formula 1 #red bull racing #mercedes #verstappen #hamilton #be open minded

[mikauzoran]

Lukadrien: Among the Wild Things: Chapter Eight

Read it on AO3: Among the Wild Things: Chapter Eight: Friends

“Nino! Marinette!” Adrien shouted, grinning like a madman as he darted across the study and threw his arms around his two closest friends.

“Adrien!” they chorused, wrapping him in bear hugs of their own.

“I can’t tell you how much I missed you guys,” Adrien whispered into Nino’s neck, squeezing them both tighter as he remembered how he had longed for his friends while he’d been away.

“Not as much as we missed you,” Nino assured.

Marinette gave a snort. “Speak for yourself. You just had to guard him. I had to dress him. Do you know how hard it is to keep this boy looking presentable?” she laughed. “He either rips or stains everything within a week of owning it. He’s impossible.”

Nino clicked his tongue. “You think dressing him is hard? You should try keeping him from getting himself killed. How do you think his clothes get ruined so regularly?”

“…Point,” Marinette conceded.

Adrien pulled back to pout at his friends. “Complain all you want, but I bet you’ve both been bored with me gone.”

Marinette and Nino shared a conspiring glance and burst out laughing.

“Guilty,” Marinette admitted. “The break was nice, but I’m ecstatic to be back in work…starting with your wedding-slash-coronation outfit!” she squealed in delight, colours and fabrics and patterns beginning to flow through her head.

“Speaking of which…” Nino tipped his head in order to look past Adrien at Luka. “I’m guessing this is your kelpie heartthrob ‘Orpheus’?”

Marinette smirked, breaking away from the boys to slowly approach Luka. “Hi. I’m Marinette. I’m sure he’s mentioned me.”

“He has,” Luka chuckled, standing and going to meet the enchanting seamstress. “It sounds like he mentioned me too.”

Marinette rolled her eyes. “Please. I only had to listen to him whine and mope about his supposedly ‘unrequited’ love for you for two months.”

“Marinette,” Adrien groaned, releasing his hold on Nino to go stop Marinette from further embarrassing him.

Luka quirked an eyebrow at his husband. “Two months, My Love? You sure fell for me quickly.”

“Like, the second he saw you,” Nino snickered, coming over to join the others.

“Et tu, Nino?” Adrien hissed accusatorily.

Nino shrugged.

Adrien turned his pout on Luka. “I was a mess.”

“You’re still a mess,” Luka chuckled, leaning in to give Adrien’s cheek an affectionate lick. “And I love you.”

“Aww,” Marinette cooed. “See, Adrien? I told you he was into you.”

“I told him that first,” Nino grumbled. “I’m the one who told him to go for it.”

Marinette waved Nino’s protests away. “I’m the one who helped him practice confessing because it made you too flustered when he practiced confessing to you.”

“Nette,” Nino hissed. “Stop. You’re going to give the guy’s husband the wrong idea.”

Luka snickered. “I actually came to the wrong conclusion all on my own when he told me he was in love with someone. I thought he was talking about you.” He tipped his head to indicate Nino.

Nino turned to glare blandly at Adrien. “Dude. How did you screw up the confession that badly that he didn’t even know who you were talking about?”

“We spent hours practicing, Adrien,” Marinette added, putting on a miffed, disappointed expression.

“In my defence, I was kind of distraught because my father had just told me I had to marry a woman I didn’t love,” Adrien whined as his friends ganged up on him.

Nino and Marinette both shook their heads unsympathetically, not letting up.

“That’s no excuse,” Nino sighed, hands going to his hips as he clicked his tongue in feigned disapproval.

Adrien crossed his arms over his chest, turning up his nose and looking away. “I don’t know why I missed you two so much. You’re both mean. My new fae friends are a lot nicer.”

“No, they’re not,” Luka snickered. “Kim and Alix regularly bully you. That’s why they’re your favourites.”

“Rose is my favourite,” Adrien corrected with a fond smile. “But, yeah. Giving each other trouble is how Nino, Marinette, and I show that we love one another, so Alix and Kim reminded me a lot of the things I missed from my old life.”

“Well, we’re glad that we count among the good things,” Nino replied, giving Adrien’s arm a pat.

“And we’re glad things have been going well for you since you left too,” Marinette added. “We kept hoping that you were happy wherever you were.”

Adrien’s face fell as a realization struck him square in the stomach. “…I didn’t say goodbye. …I didn’t tell you where I was going. Guys, I’m so sorry. I didn’t think…” He looked away. “Well, I mean, I did think about it after the fact when I’d been gone a few weeks, but…I didn’t dare come back. I—”

“—Adrien,” Nino cut him off gently. “It’s fine. We kind of figured where you’d gone.”

Adrien looked back and forth between his two friends. “You didn’t worry?”

“We did,” Marinette confessed. “A little bit, but not much. Like Nino said, we guessed that you’d run off with your Orpheus, and, wherever you were, we knew you’d probably be happier than you were here.”

Adrien blushed, looking down at his feet in a mix of guilt and shame. “I was. I’m really, really happy with Luc and his family. I feel like I’ve finally found the place I’m meant to be…the person I want to work towards becoming. I’m really happy in the enchanted forest.”

“Good,” Nino responded warmly, giving Adrien’s arm a supportive squeeze. “Maybe send us an ‘I’m not dead’ message next time…but good. I’m really glad that you found your place, Man.”

“Me too,” Marinette seconded.

“I’d love to show you my home.” Adrien perked up. “And introduce you to my new friends.”

He turned to Marinette. “You’ll love my sister-in-law Rose. She’s the sweetest, funniest person. And Mylène and Max and Ondine. And Alya.”

He looked to Nino. “I have got to introduce you to Alya. She’s a fox spirit who’s really fascinated with human affairs. She comes into the city a lot to people watch. I bet she would love some humans to talk to and ask questions.”

Adrien stopped abruptly, turning to his husband. “Orpheus, would it be okay for Marinette and Nino to visit me, or would they just wind up getting killed? Everyone back in the woods is perfectly civil with me, but…”

Luka pursed his lips as he considered the scenario. “I’d have to consult with Maman, but I think it might be okay if it’s just a short visit. Maybe a few hours tops. And they’d have to be chaperoned at all times.”

“Is it really so dangerous?” Nino inquired, quirking an eyebrow dubiously. “Adrien’s not in danger, is he?”

“No,” Luka quickly assured. “Adrien is fine. He’s protected, and the people mostly adore him. He’s a member of our community now. The forest is deadly to outsiders, though, so it would be unwise for either of you to waltz in unaccompanied. My people can be cruel and senselessly violent.”

Nino hummed curiously. “…Sorry if this is rude, but you don’t really look…threatening.”

“I was actually thinking the same thing,” Marinette sheepishly admitted. “You just look like a regular person.”

Luka snorted in laughter. “That would be the glamour you’re seeing. …Shall I drop it?”

Nino looked to Adrien. “Is he scary or something? I thought you told me he was the most beautiful man you’d ever seen.”

Adrien shook his head. “Beautiful doesn’t even begin to cover it. He’s ethereal.”

Marinette addressed Luka tentatively. “Do you mind, Luc? Sorry. We don’t mean to treat you like a curiosity. We—”

In the blink of an eye, Luka’s black hair was replaced by pale blue, and his eyes seemed to give off a Caribbean teal glow. The entirety of his being seemed to shimmer a bit, like sunlight reflecting off of a lake.

“Oh, wow,” Marinette gasped. “You…wow.”

“Yeah,” Nino gulped. “Wow is…” He turned to Adrien, whispering sotto voce, “Do all fae look that pretty?”

“Not all of them,” Adrien chuckled, amused by his friends’ reactions. “I’ve met a lot of attractive people in the forest, though.”

Luka’s eyes narrowed in displeasure and suspicion. “Like who? Kim?”

“Easy,” Adrien snickered, turning to face Luka and looping his arms around Luka’s waist. “No one is even half as attractive as you.”

Luka smiled into the kiss as Adrien pressed his lips to Luka’s in a vow of fidelity.

“Yeah, it’s highly unlikely Adrien will stray,” Nino testified. “He’s very loyal and takes matters of the heart incredibly seriously.”

“And he doesn’t fall in love easily,” Marinette agreed, nodding along to Nino’s points.

Luka arched an eyebrow at a blushing Adrien. “He doesn’t? I thought you two said he fell for me on sight.”

“Yeah, but that was the first and only time in nineteen years,” Marinette explained, waving away any concerns Luka might have. “And it’s not like it was for want of suitors. He grew up around plenty of pretty young nobles.”

Adrien’s face burned redder as Luka looked at him in astonishment, whispering, “I’m your first love?”

“First, last, and only,” Adrien mumbled, averting his gaze to help himself feel less transparent.

Luka wrapped his arms around Adrien as he gave him an affectionate squeeze. “I may have had other loves, but you’re the first person to turn my world upside down and wreck me. I had to update my definition of the word love when I met you.”

“I accept your attempts to butter me up,” Adrien chuckled, turning his head to press a kiss to Luka’s cheek.

“Aww,” Nino cooed. “Why can’t I meet someone who says sweet crap like that to me?”

“Maybe things will take a romantic turn between you and Adrien’s fox friend,” Marinette snickered.

Nino hummed thoughtfully. “Maybe. All I know is that I need to find someone to be that disgustingly cute with as soon as possible.”

“You two are adorable,” Marinette confirmed. “I can tell you’ve been really good for him,” she informed Luka with a tone of gratitude. “Just seeing him talking in that meeting earlier was a positive change.”

Luka arched an eyebrow, looking back and forth between Adrien and Marinette. “Really? He didn’t seem any different than usual to me.”

“Mec, the way he shut Viscount Raincomprix down when he was disrespecting you?” Nino had to try hard to contain another giggle fit as he called up the memory. “Nice spine, Your Majesty,” Nino chuckled, giving Adrien’s arm an appreciative punch. “It suits you.”

Adrien rubbed at the back of his neck. “As much as I’ve wanted to put those three blowhards in their place my entire life, I think I may have gone a bit too far. Viscount Raincomprix has been kind to me in the past, and I think I owe him an apology. He really looked shaken when I told him off.”

“I think that was mostly due to your eyes glowing like that,” Marinette weighed in.

“Yeah,” Nino agreed. “That was, perhaps, a bit much. It was super cool, though.”

Adrien blinked at his friends dumbly. “What are you guys talking about?”

Nino and Marinette shared a look.

“When your eyes were all molten and glow-y,” Nino clarified slowly, looking at Adrien expectantly.

Adrien turned to Luka. “Do you know what they’re talking about?”

Luka bit the inside of his cheek, avoiding his mate’s gaze. “…Your eyes may have started to glow whenever you’re experiencing intense emotions,” he reluctantly admitted.

“What?!” Adrien demanded, gaping at his husband incredulously. “Since when?! Why didn’t you say anything?!”

Luka winced, shoulders rising up to meet his ears as he shamefacedly confessed, “It started a couple months ago. I asked Maman, and it’s completely benign, and I thought it would only upset you, so I didn’t say anything.”

“I feel like…this is the kind of thing you mention?” Adrien choked, voice high and tight as he collapsed back down onto the couch.

“Dri, I’m sorry,” Luka cooed, sitting next to Adrien and tentatively cupping his cheek. “I should have said something, but I didn’t want to upset you when there was nothing we could do about it and it wasn’t hurting anything.”

“Well,” Adrien responded quietly, “I’m upset now…sort of.”

He took a deep breath and turned his gaze on his husband. “I’m more upset that you didn’t tell me than anything. Since when do we keep secrets from one another?”

Luka looked away, cowed. “We don’t,” he whispered penitently. “I’m so sorry, My Little Prince.”

Adrien leaned in to give Luka’s cheek a lick of forgiveness. “Don’t do it again.”

“I won’t. I promise,” Luka swore.

Satisfied, Adrien nodded, looking to Nino. “Does it at least look cool, or am I just terrifying?”

“I thought it was cool,” Marinette volunteered, going to sit in the armchair that Nathalie had recently vacated.

“Totally cool,” Nino affirmed, taking the other chair. He looked at Luka. “Can he do anything else?”

Adrien’s eyes narrowed at his mate.

Luka laughed, shaking his head. “Not at this point. Just the glowing eyes. Maybe in a few years new powers will manifest. I don’t personally know any other humans who have lived long-term among the fair folk, so I’m not quite sure what to expect, but this is hardly a unique situation. My people have been adopting mortals for centuries, so Adrien is hardly the first.”

“Something to look forward to, I suppose? Random new features,” Adrien sighed. “I mean, if these changes aren’t going to hurt anything, that’s fine, but…” He shifted uncomfortably.

“You’re upset,” Luka surmised, his mood plummeting.

Adrien shook his head, trying to reassure his mate. “No. Not really. Just…I felt like I had finally found my place, like I was getting my feet underneath me. …But since learning of my father’s death, it’s like I’ve been on shifting ground, and this is just one more thing to get used to. I’ll manage, but…I’m feeling a little overwhelmed today.”

“Understandably so,” Luka replied, slipping his arm around Adrien and resting his head against his mate’s. “Just tell me what you need, and I’ll move heaven and earth to make it happen.”

“Maybe just a break. A little joviality?” Adrien suggested, looking around at his spouse and his friends. “Nino. Say something funny.”

Nino balked. “What? On command? Adrien, I’m not the court jester. I can’t just say witty things at the drop of a hat.”

“I don’t know,” Marinette snickered. “You do a pretty good job of playing the fool any other time.”

Nino gasped, feigning indignation. “Adrien, do you hear what this mean, spiteful woman is saying about me? Defend my honor or something already.”

“Marinette, it is rather mean to say that to his face,” Adrien attempted to admonish with a straight face but ended up chuckling, ruining the effect.

“What can I say?” She grinned. “Real friends stab you in the front.”

“Thanks,” Nino replied dryly. “I really appreciate that….” He perked up after a beat. “…Say, why don’t we talk about Adrien’s adventures in fairy land? That should be fun, right? Tell us about all the weird stuff,” Nino urged, turning to Adrien with wide, hopeful eyes.

Marinette started to bounce in her seat in excitement. “What are the clothes like? Tell me all about fae fashion.”

Adrien acquiesced, sharing his impressions of his experiences as Marinette and Nino asked probing questions for nearly half an hour.

Luka mostly just listening, fascinated by Adrien’s perspective on things. He did, occasionally, field a few questions himself or add some clarification on things that Adrien was unsure about.

They eventually came to discuss Luka and Adrien’s fae wedding ceremony, and that led Marinette (after she had pumped them both dry of information) to remark, “You know, I should really get to work on the outfits for tomorrow’s wedding-slash-coronation. I have less than twenty-four hours, and, even if I pull an all-nighter, it’s going to be intense.”

She pursed her lips and studied Adrien. “Your father had actually instructed me to begin preparations of your wedding clothes before you left, and he had me continue work in the hopes that you would be found in time to marry on schedule, so I already have an outfit prepared for you. I just need to make alterations…unless you want a new outfit specifically for your marriage to Luc? Either way is fine.”

She tipped her head to the side and awaited his response.

He waved the idea away. “I’m sure that whatever you already have made is perfect, Marinette. We’ll just need something for Luc.”

Marinette hesitated before inquiring, “Would it be okay if I took your measurements, Luc? It’ll be real quick.”

Luka shrugged nonchalantly. “Whatever’s necessary. Did you mean now, or…?”

“I actually have my tape measure with me, so…” she informed, smiling sheepishly as she pulled it out of her belt.

Luka shrugged again, untangling himself from Adrien and standing up. “Let’s do it, then. How do you want me?”

Nino snorted, muttering, “That’s what he said.”

Adrien rolled his eyes at his best friend. “Stop thinking indecent thoughts about my husband.”

Nino put his hands up in a placating gesture. “Hey, Man. It’s not my fault that your husband is hot.”

“He is, isn’t he?” Adrien purred, admiring the view as Luka walked past.

Marinette motioned for Luka to come over closer to the fireplace where the light was better. “…Nino’s thinking it, so I’m just going to ask: Who tops?”

Nino clapped a hand over his mouth to keep from bursting out in astounded giggles.

“Marinette,” Adrien whined, face going phoenix red.

Luka smirked puckishly. “Mostly him, but we experiment according to whatever feels right in the moment.”

“Orpheuuuuus,” Adrien hissed in mortification.

Luka clicked his tongue even as he held still so that Marinette could take her measurements. “No need to be embarrassed, My Love. Is it not acceptable in your culture to talk about one’s love life?”

“Adrien is just sheltered,” Nino assured. “Please go on.”

“Is he a good lover?” Marinette inquired, sticking her tongue out at Adrien who let out a horrified squeal.

“Very,” Luka snickered. “In all the ways that really matter. He’s enthusiastic but attentive, adventurous but—”

“—Luuuc,” Adrien wailed. “Please stop. This really isn’t funny.”

“Speak for yourself,” Nino cackled. “I’m having a great time.”

“I hate you,” Adrien informed sulkily.

“Hey, Marinette’s the one over there pretty much begging for a demonstration,” Nino kindly threw his friend under the bus.

Luka choked on a laugh, the convulsion interrupting Marinette in the middle of her measurement so that she had to restart that portion.

“Be nice, Nino,” Marinette grumbled, suddenly losing her good humor.

Nino immediately sobered, backing off with a muttered, “Sorry, Nette.”

Marinette nodded mutely, pointedly focusing on the work at hand.

There was a tense silence hovering in the air until Nino got up and went over to sit on the sofa next to Adrien. The two cuddled up like puppies, and Nino recommenced catching up with his friend, sharing details from his own life that Adrien had missed in his absence.

Luka was content to listen as he watched Marinette at her work. He caught her looking over to the couch several times, a warm, affectionate, and yet melancholy quality to her gaze.

Luka’s eyes narrowed as he determined that she was sneaking looks at Adrien, and a cold realization turned Luka’s blood to cement.

“Forgive me for asking,” he whispered so softly that Nino and Adrien couldn’t hear over their own conversation. “but there wouldn’t happen to be something between you and Adrien, would there?”

Marinette gave a start, her fingers slipping, losing their place on the measuring tape.

“Sorry,” Luka quickly backpedaled. “It’s none of my business. It’s just the way you were looking at him, I…”

“O-Oh.” She nervously cleared her throat, trying to regain her composure. “No. No, it’s fine. I…It’s nothing, honestly. Nothing you need to be concerned about, anyway. It’s all in the past,” she confessed in a whisper. “You’d be hard pressed to find someone who hasn’t been in love with Adrien at some point or another. I fell for him when I was thirteen, but…”

She paused, shaking her head and remeasuring from Luka’s hip to his shoulder. “I long ago came to terms with the fact that even if I had been born of his social station and become his wife, he would never feel for me the way that I used to feel for him. I was the first person he told about his attraction to men, and, after that, I promised myself that I wouldn’t allow myself to be miserable because of him. I also promised to do everything in my power to help him find happiness, so…”

She looked up at him, meeting Luka’s heavenly blue eyes with her marine ones, a fierce determination glowing from within. “I have never seen him as happy as he’s been since falling in love with you. Looking at him now, it makes my heart almost want to burst. I’m feeling a little nostalgic,” she admitted with a soft smile as she went back to taking measurements, “but I’ve moved on. I have someone wonderful in my life, so I have my own happiness. I don’t begrudge you yours, even though you have something I once wanted.”

“Good.” Luka breathed out his nerves. “You’re a very important friend to Adrien, and I wouldn’t want to be a cause of tension between you. You and Nino are extremely precious to him, and I don’t want to cause problems.”

Marinette shook her head, assuring, “You have nothing to worry about on my account.”

She raised her voice and added, “Nino is the one still hopelessly in love with Adrien. He’s the one you should worry about.”

Nino’s head snapped up, and he glared at his friend. “Nette, are you trying to make the king’s kelpie husband jealous so that he kills me or something? I am not in love with Adrien. Things are strictly platonic between us.”

Luka couldn’t help a stifled snicker. “Says the guy with my mate half in his lap.”

Adrien pressed the heel of his hand to his lips to keep in his own giggles at Nino’s expense.

“This is platonic snuggling,” Nino insisted, affronted by the accusation. “Do the fae not snuggle with friends?”

“Yes,” Luka conceded, “but are you trying to tell me that there’s nothing sexual about two guys on a couch with their limbs all entwined like that? This feels suspect to me.”

“Completely platonic,” Nino reasserted.

“Come on, Nino,” Marinette teased. “You know you would die for him.”

“Platonically!” Nino denied. “I’m his guard. It’s what guards do.”

Marinette turned to Luka with a cat-like smirk. “Nino was Adrien’s first kiss.”

“False!” Nino exclaimed, tan complexion going latte light as the blood drained from his face.

“Actually, Marinette was my first kiss,” Adrien finally spoke up in Nino’s defence.

Luka cocked an accusatory eyebrow at Marinette who grinned nervously.

“I told her about my suspicions that I was gay and asked if I could run an experiment to see if I felt anything when I kissed her,” Adrien explained, his cheeks colouring in shame.

“He told me that if there were any girl he could come to have feelings for, it would be me,” Marinette snickered, shaking her head. “The silver-tongued snake.”

Luka whistled, shooting Adrien an incredulous expression. “It sounds like my little prince was quite the cad as a youth.”

“Guilty,” Adrien groaned, covering his face with his hands. “I was confused, and I didn’t know who else to turn to. And I wholeheartedly believed what I said. I just didn’t realize yet that being gay wasn’t something you could ‘fix’ like my parents insisted, so… I’m sorry. I didn’t—”

“—Shh,” Nino interrupted, gently prying Adrien’s hands away from his face. “No one’s mad at you. Nette and I both enjoyed helping you out with your experiments. No harm done. We’re all just joking. Okay?”

Adrien looked from Marinette to Nino to Luka, and they each nodded.

Adrien blew out a slow breath, beginning to nod as well. “…Okay. Good. I just…still feel bad about that period when I was trying to figure myself out. I did some things I’m not proud of.”

“Shhh.” Nino pulled Adrien in closer for a hug as he called to the others, “You two get over here and snuggle too.”

Marinette tucked away her measuring tape and went at once to squeeze in on the sofa on Adrien’s opposite side, wrapping her arms around Adrien and Nino, assuring, “There’s nothing to feel bad about. No one’s hurt. Nothing’s broken.”

Luka came up along the back side of the couch and leaned over to nuzzle Adrien’s hair. “Listen to your friends, My Love. They’ve already forgiven whatever needed to be forgiven.”

“Thanks, guys,” Adrien whispered, letting go of his worries.

They remained in their cuddle pile in comfortable, warm silence for nearly a full minute before Marinette spoke.

“Wanna hear a secret?”

“What secret?” Adrien responded curiously.

“I’m seeing someone,” Marinette confessed tentatively, a giddy excitement bubbling just under the surface.

“Ah. Her imaginary boyfriend,” Nino snickered. “You’ve been on about him for years, Nette. Does mystery boy finally have a name or something?”

“Be nice,” Adrien chastened, giving Nino a light smack on the arm before turning his attention back to Marinette. “Is this the same guy you’ve mentioned before? Your mysterious nobleman?”

Marinette nodded shyly, taking a breath before announcing, “Her name is Kagami.”

Nino and Adrien’s jaws dropped.

Luka arched an eyebrow. “Is this the same Kagami that Adrien fences with?”

Marinette smiled nervously and nodded. “Yep. We’ve been together officially for three years now.”

“Holy crap,” Nino finally got out. “Nette, how the hell did you keep this a secret this long?”

Marinette shrugged. “People really aren’t as suspicious of two women spending a lot of time alone together as they would be a man and a woman. We used the pretext of me making clothes for her a lot in order to meet.”

Adrien blinked, still stunned at this revelation. “Wow…that’s…I’m really happy that you’ve found someone. That both you and Kagami are happy. I mean, besides my mothers, there’re no women I esteem higher than you two.”

“Thank you,” Marinette breathed in relief, feeling lighter now that she had the secret off of her chest.

Adrien bit his lip. “I just wish you had mentioned… I never suspected that you… Why did you never say anything? When I was busy lamenting my cursed fate to be alone and not know love my entire life, you could have said something,” he pressed, unable to hide the twinge of hurt in his voice.

Marinette shook her head. “I’m like Nino. I can be happy with a man or a woman, so no one ever had to know I wasn’t quote-unquote ‘normal’. My situation wasn’t like yours, so I didn’t feel I had any business making things about me when you were hurting so deeply.”

Adrien studied his friend intently for a long moment before sighing and resting his head on her shoulder. “…You still should have said something.”

She looked back and forth between Nino and Adrien before bowing her head, suitably chastened. “You’re right. I should have said something. There was never a good time, though, and then it felt like I couldn’t say anything because I’d waited too long.”

“Well, at least you’re telling us now,” Nino reasoned, giving Marinette’s arm a supportive pat. “Congrats. We’re happy for you.”

“I’m going to have to get to know Kagami better now,” Adrien hummed thoughtfully. “I thought I knew her, but I was obviously wrong.”

“She definitely has layers,” Marinette giggled.

Adrien tipped his head back and looked at Luka, still standing behind the sofa. “You’re not feeling left out, are you? I feel like we’re being exclusive.”

“You’re fine, My Love,” Luka chuckled, giving Adrien’s hair a loving pet. “I’m enjoying getting to see you with your friends. You know I’m an introvert and don’t necessarily need to be the center of the conversation.”

“Just let us know if we’re being too in-group-y,” Nino urged, giving Luka an amicable grin. “You’re family now, and we want you to feel welcome and comfortable with us.”

“What he said,” Marinette seconded.

“Thank you,” Luka replied earnestly, making his way over to the armchair closest to the fireplace. “But I promise you that I’m very low maintenance. Please continue your conversation. I don’t need to be included in everything so long as I eventually get my husband back from you to cuddle with him myself.”

“Cool,” Nino chuckled. “We can definitely agree to those terms.”

Silent snuggling continued for a few minutes until Marinette spoke up once more.

“Adrien, did I hear right? Did you make a royal decree legalizing same-sex marriage?” she inquired, holding her breath in anticipation.

“Uh…yeah. Yeah, Nathalie took care of that earlier. She said that people would start announcing it right away, so the news should be getting out by now,” he confirmed.

Marinette gave a trill of joy. “I’m going to ask Kagami to marry me.”

“Dude, wait,” Nino insisted. “We haven’t even vetted her yet.”

Adrien elbowed Nino in the stomach. “That’s awesome, Marinette. You’ll have to let me know when the wedding will be so I can come back for the ceremony.”

Nino and Marinette blinked in tandem and then shared a look.

“Wait. What do you mean ‘come back’?” Nino asked slowly, a feeling of dread knotting the pit of his stomach. “Aren’t you…like…already back?”

Adrien winced.

Marinette’s joyful expression abruptly diminished as her forehead furrowed. “You’re not staying here, are you?”

Adrien shook his head.

“You’re going back to the forest,” Nino whispered as understanding dawned upon him.

Adrien nodded.

There was a heavy moment of silence.

“…How long do we have?” Marinette inquired, voice sounding brittle as she tried to mask her sadness and pain at the thought of losing her closest friend all over again. “How long before you go back?”

“I don’t know,” Adrien confessed. “Not long. I only returned because I feared that the kingdom would descend into chaos and dictatorship in my absence after my father’s sudden passing. I’ll stay until I see a peaceful transfer of power and feel confident that my people will be okay without me.”

“It sounds like we’ve still got some time, then,” Nino remarked, trying to be optimistic. “We should…We should make the most of it, yeah?”

“Yeah,” Marinette whispered, snuggling in closer to Adrien.

“Yeah,” Adrien agreed, squeezing his friends tighter.

#Lukadrien #Miraculous Ladybug #Miraculous Ladybug Fanfiction #Adrien Agreste #Luka Couffaine #Nino Lahiffe #Marinette Dupain-Cheng #Marigami #Kagaminette #Friendship #Fluff #Supportive Friends #Mikau's Writings #Among the Wild Things

[the-archxr]

Kiss the Girl || S.H.

steve harrington x henderson!reader

(second part to “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?”)

Summary: Timing is tough, especially when you aren’t good with words. Steve can whole-heartedly second to that. Dustin, Steve and Robin have a talk about this and Robin calls for an intervention... Of sorts...

A/N: y’all already know. This was requested by @addictwithaheavydirtycheetah - I honestly wasn’t even thinking of making Can You Feel the Love Tonight a two-parter, but I credit you for giving me that inspiration do so. This two-part series is kind of O.C. in the sense that there isn’t really any mention of the Upside Down at all, everybody’s happy, everybody’s alive: just let me pretend. The name of the roller skating rink in this is an actual place, I’m just using the name though. Enjoy, y’all!

Warnings: possibly super duper cheesy? Swearing?? (But like it’s me, it’s expected by now)

Song Inspo: Kiss the Girl (The Little Mermaid Soundtrack) and True (Spandau Ballet)

•••••

“Okay, Max. Truth or dare?”

“Neither! I’m not falling for that shit!” Max laughs, shoving you playfully to the side.

With a gentle laugh you sit back in your original spot on your bedroom floor. Crossing your legs, you force yourself to sit upright more so you can look the redhead in the eye. “It’s part of the game Maxine.” You enunciate her name slowly in a sing-song voice. A voice that makes the two young girls chortle with laughter. Max giggles with her knees pulled to her chest and El full on snorts as she rolls around haphazardly on the ground. Her brightly patterned romper a stark difference compared to the dull taupe carpeted floor. You smile at the young girl; happy that she’s having fun.

You had only met El last week when Dustin brought you along to the movies with the party. They hadn’t known you were returning home, and so when they did see you none of them could control themselves. Afterall, you were the cool older sibling. (Dustin prided himself on this fact.) Especially since (according to Mike) Nancy wasn’t cool anymore and Jonathan was more reserved and didn’t make much conversation with them. But you, on the other hand, were a bright, bounding ball of energy; constantly having to be moving or talking.

The party had the most fun when you were around. You joined and encouraged them with their campaigns, but you also were able to get the young boys outside of the house once in a while (thus making you Mrs. Wheelers favourite).

Everyone was elated to see you again. They were all smiles and long warm hugs, and hushed sentences saying they were happy you were home. You were pretty sure Lucas even started tearing up, but he had quickly (and suspiciously) denied your claim when you approached him about it. You were ecstatic to see all of the familiar faces that were quickly getting way too old for your liking. However, the only faces that weren’t familiar were the two girls that hung closely to Lucas and Mike. The redhead you learned to be Max; a young girl who ran on loads of energy and sass primarily shot at Lucas (which you later learned they were dating). And the other girl, the one tightly holding Mike’s hand and the one who hadn’t said anything to you that whole night aside from hello was El.

Although you could tell she had a hard time warming up to you (and most likely people in general), you treated her with the most kindness and made multiple attempts to slowly initiate your relationship with her.

Over time though you two became really good friends through your mutual taste in clothing.

If you asked El, she’d say you were her favourite. She looked up to you (although she was too shy to tell you that). You were funny, caring and free-spirited. She had also come to the conclusion that you were attentive and you were really good with people.

Oh, yeah...

You were definitely her favourite.

You look back to the redhead with the big blue eyes; eyes that were darker in the partial dimness of your room (screw you terrible lighting) but still just as large.

Max is up against the edge of your bed attempting to fix her breathing and to calm herself down. You decide to seize the moment as you quickly reach over to the girl and begin tickling her. Max moves around violently, her laughter only increasing the more she shakes. El looks at the two you inquisitively. Her head is cocked to the side and her eyebrows are raised. You glance at El and nod your head to Max. El hesitantly crawls up beside you and reaches her hand out to Max’s side where you have her pinned down. You’re laughing and so is Max, so El figures you aren’t hurting her. But the act is...weird.

She’s self-conscious. She’s not completely sure what to do, but she doesn’t want to seem like that in front of you, so she looks over at your hands. She then begins to copy your ministrations; her eyes intently switching from her hand to yours.

Max hiccups and convulses, grabbing her stomach with a loud cackle. El sits back stunned, but soon, begins laughing along with her two friends. And soon, all three of you are rolling around on the floor like the giggly, energized messes you are.

Max is able to push you and El away as she inhales deeply and coughs. “Do I seriously have to pick?”

“Yes!” You and El shout in unison; erupting in another bout of laughter.

Max shakes her head and hops up off the ground to sit on your bed. She tucks her hair behind her ears and huffs. Her cheeks are almost as red as her hair and you assume she knows cause she tries to slink away, hiding beneath the curtain of wavy strands. After composing herself, Max shows the fact that she’s contemplating her answer by making animated features and biting her lip. You and El shift closer to her; both of you sitting below and in front of Max. “I guess...” she hums loudly. You smack her leg as she continues to do the annoying act. Max chuckles and places her hands behind her body as she leans back on your pale pink comforter. “...Maybe...” She’s dragging it on. You find it to be slightly humourous—the way she’s doing it.

You roll your eyes anyway because Max’s antics are proof that she’s still a young teenager, and you suddenly finding those antics to be annoying means you are getting old.

You wait patiently for Max to stop her teasing and just pick either truth or dare, but El seems to be sitting on the edge of anticipation. She’s curious, but you can also tell she’s getting antsy because her friend simply won’t talk.

“Okay. I got it! I choose Truth.”

You direct your gaze to the smiling brunette beside you. “El, would you like to ask?”

She nods eagerly with a smile and shuffles closer to you. She thinks to herself for a moment before she perks up.

“...Who was your...most recent kiss?”

“Ooh! That’s a good one!” You reassure her. She smiles proudly and the two of you look at Max expectantly.

She smiles shyly. “Well, obviously Lucas. We were reenacting a scene from the Karate Kid and before I left I kissed him.” She looks away, her smile still there.

“Awe!” You squeal teasingly. “That’s so cute!” She grabs one of your small throw pillows and whacks you with it. You laugh and turn to El. “What about you El? Who was your most recent kiss?”

“Mike.” She says quickly and assuredly. Your eyebrows raise with surprise at her quick confession. But then again, you note, she’s obviously been dating the kid for a bit now.

“And you?” El asks slowly.

Your mouth opens in surprise. “And me?”

“Yeah!” Max cuts you off and moves closer to the edge, your bed creaking with each motion. “Who was your most recent kiss, Y/N?”

You laugh nervously. The two girls are looking at you obviously expecting something a lot more exciting than their confessions. You assume it’s because since you’re older, they think you have more...interesting kissing stories.

“Well...I haven’t had a most recent kiss. My last kiss was with Kevin Miller in the twelfth grade. That was prom night though, nothing exciting happened with him after that.”

“What?” Max asked in shock. “Come on, you must’ve had a recent kiss. You know, with a certain fluffy haired dork who works with your friend at a certain video store downtown...” she smirks knowingly.

You snort and hop up off your floor. You stride over to your stereo in the corner of your room, leaning down a bit to properly see the switches and buttons. “No, nothing exciting like that girls. Steve and I haven’t kissed yet.”

“At all?!” The two girls shout in tandem.

You look to the both of them. They’re in pure disbelief and you can’t help but roll your eyes. “Yeah. At all. I don’t know, just hasn’t happened yet.”

“H—how? I mean, don’t you want to kiss him?” Max inquires.

“Yeah, don’t you want to?” El parrots.

You simply shrug your shoulders and flick the switch. “Well...yeah. I—I do. Of course I do. It’s just...it’s a matter of whether or not he wants to kiss me.”

Max looks at El with a shake of her head.

The pair shrug at the same time, both sharing the same exact thought.

How has Steve not kissed you yet?

The two girls knew Steve well. Or at least, well enough to know that he really liked you, and he sure as hell wanted to kiss you. So why hasn’t he? Max makes a mental note to give the boy shit later. But right now it’s hard to stay confused when you’re happily cranking up the sound on your small white stereo.

“Who’s this?” El questions immediately after hearing the unfamiliar beat. “Who’s...singing?”

“Uh...only one of the greatest female singers of all time!” Max and El stare at you awkwardly. You scoff in surprise. How they don’t know who Whitney Houston completely baffles you.

“You two girls spend way too much time with those boys.”

You start dancing. Max giggles at how awkward your movements are, and even though she notes that you can’t dance for shit, you’re still having fun.

The happy feeling in the room increases as you pull the two girls to their feet. You, Max and El bounce around your room, the swell of How Will I Know only encouraging you more. You grab your hairbrush off your dresser and throw it in front of your mouth as you fist pump the air. “How will I know if he really loves me! I say a prayer with every heartbeat!”

The girls are stunned at your knowledge of the lyrics. Clearly, you really like this song. Watching you twirl in the centre of your room (tripping over yourself a little because it’s hard to twirl with socks on a carpeted floor) Max attempts to sing along with you—she definitely has heard this song before but it was always turned off before it could finish (thanks to Billy). El on the other hand didn’t know any of the words, but she just smiles in response to your singing and dances harder and sloppier than you and Max.

•••••

“I still can’t believe you did that, man.” Steve shakes his head with a groan, remembering the earlier event with some girl he vaguely recognized from school and Dustin.

“She was flirting with you!” Dustin yells attempting to throw his hands up to advertise his annoyance. Granted, throwing your hands up in a car with a roof is quite difficult.

“I wasn’t flirting back!”

“Still! She was flirting with you and she had to be removed from the situation.”

“She was a customer!” Steve’s voice grew louder with each syllable. “Customers bring in money for the company, meaning I get money!”

“You’re dating my sister, dude!”

Steve’s head snaps to the passenger seat. His eyes wide and his hair flying all over the place. “I need money to take your sister—my girlfriend—on dates, Henderson!” Dustin stares blankly at his screaming friend.

Steve’s hands were gripped around the steering wheel; knuckles turning paler in colour gradually.

It was true.

The girl Steve vaguely remembered from high school had walked in to Family Video and immediately struck up a conversation. He could tell she was flirting right away. How could he not? She was extremely open about it as she stayed in the store for more than half an hour (which no one ever did), and she always called on him to help her find a movie even though Robin was more available than him most of those times. However the situation had remained decently calm. She’s wasn’t touching him and he didn’t flirt back, so he wasn’t entirely bothered by it. Not enough to piss him off existentially.

Afterall, she was still a customer.

It was only when Dustin Henderson walked in that the situation had escalated.

Dustin had seen the girl shuffling ever so slightly closer to his best friend and even though Steve wasn’t paying any attention to her, Dustin felt like he had to do what a good friend, and brother of his friends girlfriend would do.

The girl was holding Sixteen Candles and had asked Steve if the movie was any good. Steve couldn’t help but roll his eyes at the sight of it. It’s not like it wasn’t a good movie, it was, but he couldn’t count how many times Y/N convinced him to watch it with her. The poor boy had seen it so many times he could recite the first 45 minutes of it perfectly.

But still, he faintly smiles at the memory of Y/N being completely lost in the events of screen. The look of pure excitement on her face and the way it affected her whole body was something he had actually memorized. In fact, he was very fond of that memory. The curl of your lips, your eyes wide and bright as they took everything in, your hand that always, always found it’s way in his or gently grasping at his shirt. Even the way your head would find its place on his shoulder; the scent of your favourite shampoo—a wonderful concoction of coconut and jasmine—wafting in front of him as your hair would rub softly against his cheek. These were all things that were (most likely) forever ingrained in Steve’s memory.

Which was the exact reason why he could never say no to you (in a good way, of course).

But...if Steve were to be honest with himself, how could he say no to you?

The second you’d look at him with doe eyes and a shy smile—your hair always seemingly bouncing lightly in your face as you called out Stevie—he knew he was a goner. Steve was convinced that you could honestly persuade him to do anything.

In that empty moment however, Dustin took the opportunity and bounded up between them and with a slightly aggressive tone said to the girl, “it’s his girlfriends favourite.”

Her face had turned red instantaneously as she meekly slid the movie back in its place. Muttering something about how she wasn’t going to rent anything she had skittered out of the store leaving a highly annoyed Harrington and a happy Henderson.

The two boys were now sitting in silence in Steve’s car. The tension from their little exchange long gone as Steve followed the familiar roads to the Henderson home. “Is Y/N home?” Steve asks out loud.

Dustin nods his head although Steve isn’t paying attention to him. “Yeah she is, but she’s hangin’ out with Max and El. Something about a girls night?”

Steve nods and turns onto your street.

The red BMW silently pulls up in front yours and Dustin’s house. The street is relatively dark, save the two porch lights that are on and the faint glow from the streetlight at the corner behind them. Steve turns off the car, a silent signal to Dustin he intends on joining him inside mainly to see you one last time today.

Dustin leaves the car first; slowly making his way up the driveway. He does find it sweet, that every time Steve drops him off he always takes time to say hi to you. At first it seemed stupid (it began a little after he had warmed up to the idea of you and Steve), but after Steve had pointed out that if Suzie were in Hawkins he’d do the same, Dustin had shut up about the subject.

Steve’s long legs allowed him to join his friend on the porch in just a few strides. Opening the door, Dustin was about to announce his arrival until he heard the all-too familiar pop-y sound of your Madonna album. And he knew exactly which album it was because you played it...

All. The. Time.

Ever since you bought it for yourself with your well-earned babysitting money last month, that’s all Dustin had heard.

And what’s worse? His least favourite song just had to be playing as he walked through the door.

With a groan he turns to Steve who’s silently laughing because he is also completely aware of your Madonna obsession. “You can handle that.” Dustin walks off through the living room and opens the door to his room. “See ya’ tomorrow, Steve.”

“‘Night, Henderson.” Steve counters as the door to Dustin’s room shuts.

Steve pops off his shoes quickly—fully aware that your mom is not a fan of shoes in the house. He skips through the house and down the hallway. Your door is at the very end and it’s decorated with mini posters of your favourite albums.

Steve smiles at the sight because although he’s seen it before, everything about your room is always changing, and it’s just so reflective of your personality. In fact the first time he saw your room he instantly felt jealous because your room was just so cool. It was so cool, and he was so envious because his parents would never in a million years let him decorate his room that way. Or, at all.

Twisting the door handle slightly, he peeked in through the open space and came face-to-face with a sight that made his heart jump into his throat excitedly.

You, Max and El were jumping around, dancing and singing very poorly to Like a Virgin bleeding through the speaker of your record player.

“Gonna’ give you all my love boy!” You sing loudly, bouncing with your legs still and your hand up in the air.

“My fear is fading fast!” El and Max yell shaking their heads.

The imagery before him is a mess of colourful clothes, hair and Madonna; it seems so fun and free and almost...psychedelic. In a way... And seeing you in the centre of it all dancing like a complete idiot elicits a loopy smile out of Steve as though he is on psychedelics.

He nods to himself slowly and shuts the door. You, Max and El are clearly enjoying yourselves and although he really wants to talk to you for the sake of seeing you smile adorably at him (a smile that he’s willing to do anything to see), he leaves you three to it.

•••••

The bell above the door rings suddenly, prompting Robin to lift her eyes out of the magazine she’s skimming through. But upon seeing who the individual is she smirks, puts the magazine down and leans across the counter.

“And what can I do for you on this fine morning, Henderson?”

“Is he here?” Dustin questions with a loud voice; his eyes wide and serious. Robin frowns slightly. Usually Dustin jokes around and actually competes with her antics. But this? This was new.

“He’s out back. Why? What did he do this time?”

Dustin rests his palms on the counter and stares Robin dead in the eyes. “Get. Him.”

Robin nods slowly, twists around and angles her body. “Hey, dingus! You’re in trouble! Better get your ass here real quick!”

Almost instantly Steve trips to the front holding a huge box with the words, “NEW RENTALS” largely printed on its side. His eyes dart rapidly around the room, hands slightly shaking in fear that he screwed up once again.

But then he sees Dustin and his shoulders fall as he places the box on the counter. Patting his hands on his jeans a few times he looks up at his friend. “Hey, man. What’s up?”

“Is it true that you haven’t kissed Y/N yet?”

Robin coughs, hand slapping against the counter. Her eyes direct themselves to Steve. He sees her stare and he shrivels up beneath it. Robin looks at him with crazy disbelief and wild curiosity. Steve looks to his younger friend, which isn’t much better or safer than Robin’s gaze because Dustin’s glare is far more menacing and accusing.

The room is silent, aside from Steve’s rapid heartbeat—which he hopes is only something he can hear. “Who—who told you that? Was it Y/N?”

“Max and El.” Dustin replies blankly.

Steve gulps. “I—uh...I just, um... I just haven’t...yet.” Dustin stands up straighter and Steve feels his shoulders shrink. His throat goes dry and he drags his hand through his hair. He’s already embarrassed from being a complete chicken-shit and seemingly never having enough confidence to go for it when your around him. But he knows it’s not his fault. And it’s not yours either! Steve simply thinks it’s just you being you and it’s completely unintentional, but god do you do things to him. However, now that Dustin is confronting him about it, and now Robin (of all people) knows about his nerves, he can feel himself rapidly unravel.

“But I—I’m going to alright! I am. I really, really am, dude. It’s just—“

“Awe, somebody’s nervous.” Robin purrs. Her lips are curled thinly into a smirk. A facial expression that Steve knows very well and hates very much.

“I’m not nervous.” He quickly counters his friend.

Robin shrugs her shoulders and leans back against the wall. “Whatever you say, Popeye.”

Steve’s jaw clenches with a roll of his eyes. He hates that nickname but he chooses to ignore his friend. He lifts his hands up—almost like in mock surrender—as he moves closer to Dustin. “Look dude, I’m going to do it. I want to! Believe I really, really want to. I just can’t find the proper timing.”

“Timing? What the hell does timing have to do with any of this?”

“Everything, dickwad.” Steve adds.

“Okay, okay.” Robin has suddenly moved from behind the counter to between her two idiot friends. “Relax you two, okay? It’s not the end of the world.” She turns to Dustin. “Also dude, timing is a thing.”

“Ha! Eat that, Henderson!”

“But!” Robin shouts back, turning her head to the taller boy behind her. “There are some cases where you just have to take timing into your own goddamn hands, okay, dingus?”

“It’s the not easiest fucking thing, Buckley!” Robin raises a ring-clad hand in front of Steve’s face while she breathes in slowly and deeply. The act imitates meditation which Steve finds pointless but he refuses to say anything. He simply just huffs passively; eyes boring into Dustin’s.

“I have an idea...” Robin begins. Dustin’s face quirks into a confused state. As does Steve’s. The two boys look at their friend expectantly. “But you two,” she sharply presses a single finger in the middle of Steve’s chest. “And especially you...need to listen to me and everything I have to say. Got it?”

Steve nods slowly although he’s not quite sure what he’s even agreeing to. All he knows is that the green in Robin’s vest brings out the specks of green in her eyes which, accompanied with her pointed stare, makes her look slightly devious; sending chills down Steve’s spine.

Dustin on the other hand seems to care less about Robin’s calculated glare and pipes up. “Now exactly what is this plan of yours? And what is it for?”

Robin groans audibly and strolls over to the counter. Reaching underneath it on the opposite side she pulls out a piece of paper. She plucks a pen from the pencil holder to the right of the chipped, sloppily painted counter and puts it down to the paper. “It’s a plan, shitbird. We’ll call it...” she hums. “I don’t know, “Operation Kiss the Girl”.”

“That sounds like a dumb name for an operation of this magnitude.” Steve slaps Dustin on the shoulder, earning a high-pitched, ragged “ow” from the young boy.

“Anyways,” Robin’s voice is sharp as she continues. “The plan is to get him,” She lazily points the pen to Steve. “To finally kiss your sister.” With as much annoyance as before, she points the ball pen to Dustin.

Steve’s jaw drops comically as he shakes his wild head of hair. “No, no. N—no way. That’s—that’s not happening. No!”

Robin crosses her arms across her chest and looks up at Steve in tandem with Dustin. “What’s wrong, Harrington?”

“I don’t need your help to kiss a girl, okay? I’ve had plenty of practice. I know what I’m doing.”

“Then how come you haven’t done it yet?” Dustin interjects. It’s a sudden, sharp stab in Steve’s ego but he doesn’t let it faze him as he walks back to the box and places it on his shoulder.

“Because, my strange little childfriend, there are such things in this world called nerves. And we tend to get them when we really like someone... Especially when we really want to make out with them. Which,” Robin smirks. “Is what Stevie-boy here, wants to do with your sister.”

“Ew! You want to make out with Y/N? Do you even know what that leads to?”

Steve glared at Dustin. “Where are you learning this stuff?!”

“I’m fourteen not an idiot, dumbass!”

Robin laughs snarkily and pulls herself up on the countertop. Tucking both legs beneath her, she begins writing.

“Okay! Okay! Regardless of the fact that yes, I have thought numerous times about making out with your sister, this plan of yours Buckley, is absolute shit.” Dustin pauses suddenly and Steve internally freaks out. Because if he’s learned anything in the past two years he’s known Dustin Henderson, it’s that when he pauses, he thinks. And when Dustin thinks, the whole world is at stake.

“Not entirely.”

Steve frowns and opens his mouth to ask. “Not entirely what?”

“Uh, the plan?” Dustin looks at Steve like he just said the earth was flat.

“This plan?”

“Yes! Operation Kiss the Girl!”

“Operation Kiss the Girl is not entirely what?”

“Bullshit!” Dustin shouts, taking off his baseball hat like it’ll alleviate his stress.

“The Operation’s bullshit?” Steve says the words slowly while he looks at Dustin with an equal amount of confusion.

“No, Steve! I mean the plan isn’t entirely bullshit! Meaning the operation name is absolutely shit but the actual plan might be good!”

“Thank you, Dustin!” Robin says from her seat. She’s scribbling quickly, her gaze fixated on the paper.

She’s actually serious, Steve thinks. She can’t be this serious.

Steve lets out a guttural groan. “What’s the point of this plan, anyway? Aside from me “gaining the confidence” to kiss my girlfriend?”

“Because, dingus, Y/N wants to kiss you; and you are dying to kiss her. But she hasn’t said anything and she won’t ever say anything until you just...kiss the girl!”

Steve looks at Robin dumbfounded. The box is long forgotten as Steve grew tired of it on his shoulder and left it on the floor. Robin sighs and tucks a strand of blond hair behind her ear. Steve stares at Robin and Dustin; his two friends who are too emotionally invested in this plan. But then again, Steve knows intuitively that they’re both right.

He is dying to kiss you.

He had been since your first date.

Seemingly however, his confidence had long since been lost. And now he’s here. Stuck between two options. The one, taking his own time to kiss you (which he doesn’t have a clue when he’d man up) and possibly not kissing you for a while; or the second option. One that involves him following the plan Robin is formulating, which will result in him finally being able to feel the intoxicating feeling of you fitting perfectly against him and for to him to find out if you’re lips do really taste like the strawberry lipgloss he always smells on you.

The entire room is silent. The tension is laced with jittery expectancy. So much so, that Robin continues to click her pen. She hates the quiet. Despises it. She looks down at her paper as Steve rubs his temples in concentration. Dustin just stands there; hushed and still as he stares blankly at the two teenagers.

Steve inhales sharply and spins around. “Okay! What the hell.”

Robin smiles. “Holy shit, this is gonna’ be the most fun I’ve had in weeks.” She hops off the counter, grabs the pen and paper and slips past the shelves of movies and out through the dirty brown door at the very back.

A moment passes and she pokes her head out; thin golden strands of hair frame her features rather messily. “Are you two gonna’ help me out, or what?”

•••••

“Hello! Welcome to the SkateDaze roller skating park! How many in your party?”

Steve turns his head sheepishly at the large group behind him. He was originally embarrassed for the practical entirety of the friend group to accompany you and him tonight, afterall this was supposed to be a date for the two of you, but Robin and Dustin’s reasoning was that they had to be there in case he fucked up. (Dustin’s exact words.) He just wasn’t expecting the rest of the party to also be there when he parked.

You however didn’t seem to mind; completely oblivious to the plan shared amongst all of your friends. So, Steve just kept quiet and let it happen.

“Nine.” Robin perked up. Steve shot her a sly glare. “There’s nine of us.”

The young woman—Jennifer, from looking at her nametag—smiled awkwardly at the group. “Al...righty then. Follow me.”

Jennifer glided over the shiny hard floors to a booth in the back and smiled (once again quite awkwardly) at the group. “There you are! Once everyone’s ready just go to that counter to get your skates!”

The young woman seemingly flew away as fast as she had came. Everyone hadn’t bothered to pay attention to her departure but El had. With wide eyes, she watched the waiters and waitresses dodge and swerve seamlessly around the large groups of people along with the tables and chairs placed randomly.

The neon and disco-oriented lights shone brightly as they moved around the rink dizzyingly. El hadn’t seen anything quite like it before, but she wishes she had.

“You excited?” You appeared to her right. She looked up at you and smiled softly. Your hair was twisted into loose, delicate curls that shone pink and yellow from the lights behind you.

“Pretty.” El mumbled.

“Yeah, she is.” Steve hugged Y/N from behind; arms wrapping around her waist as his chin rests on top of her head.

El looked at the couple for a moment, completely enamoured with the romance of it all then turned to Mike suddenly.

“Why don’t you do that with me?”

Max erupted into laughter.

Mike stood there, eyes and mouth wide open in shock. “I do! I’m always affectionate to you, El!”

El shakes her head and points to a laughing Y/N and Steve. “Not like that.”

“W—what? N—no, no. El...”

“Come on kiddos lets get our skates already. It’s why we’re here.” Robin chimed in, leading the group to the counter.

Soon after the group had sputtered out all their skate sizes, they slowly made their way to the rink; albeit, a few falls from the inexperienced members of the party.

Max and Robin seemed to get a hang of it rather quickly. They said they hadn’t roller skated before but you knew, deep down, they probably had. But surprisingly, you and the rest of the group had actually started out pretty well.

Granted, you were going slower due to the fact that you’d only ever roller skated once in your life and that was when you were visiting your cousins in Montana two summers ago.

The only ones, however, who were having an especially difficult time skating around the rink were Lucas, Steve and El.

El you understood; she seemed to be extremely sheltered, confused with quite a lot of things. You had actually expected her to have a hard time with it, so you told her on the way to the rink that you’d help. Your promising words caused her to smile widely and her eyes to sparkle.

No one really offered to help her do things with the promise of her being able to one day do them on her own, so for you to ask her if she’d like your help was definitely something she cherished. You found it sweet how she was surprised with the simplest things.

Although, Lucas and Steve on the other hand were a bit of a shock.

You had assumed the two boys knew what they were doing; afterall, they were quite confident earlier in their skating skills (Steve had told you he was going to show you how to “skate like a pro”). But watching the two of them fall repeatedly on their asses was a hilariously funny sight to witness.

This time though Lucas’ hand was gripped around Max’s—much to her chagrin—as he attempted to follow the moves you showed him to keep himself up on both legs.

Except the boy got so caught up in trying to copy his form that he didn’t see Will in the blue pot-light emanating from above them until he had bumped into him, sending Will down to the ground.

The boy fell right in front of Max and Lucas with a thundering clap of his skates and a subdued thud from the ground coming into contact with his side. Max instantly turned her feet to the side in attempt to stop herself—already foreseeing how this would go. But Lucas hadn’t payed attention and tripped over Will, causing him to keel over, dragging Max aggressively down with him.

The group was silent as they looked in partial shock at their fallen friends. But of course you and El had to start giggling, prompting Robin to follow suit. Soon everyone was cackling at the three earning multiple glares directed by Lucas. Will had gotten up off the ground, dusting himself off with his hands as he stood there, looking down on his friends. And Max has immediately whacked Lucas on the arm as she asked, “What is wrong with you?”

“You guys fucking suck!” Dustin shouted at them over his ragged, broken laughs.

“Language!” Everyone yelled at Dustin simultaneously.

Well, everyone except your boyfriend who was currently clinging to the wall on the opposite end of the rink; daring not to move. With a laugh you take El’s hand and pull her with you through the crowds of brightly dressed people towards Steve.

“You havin’ trouble over there, Harrington?” You taunt. A knowing smirk on your face with your arms crossed over your chest.

El looked at you for a quick second before copying your actions. “Yeah!” She piped up, letting a pesky piece of brown hair fall in front of her face. “Are you having trouble, Harrington?”

Steve looked at El and pointed a finger at her. “You... Be quiet.”

You laughed loudly, although over the loud music it sounded like nothing. The way he was pointing a finger at her really made him look like a parental figure and you couldn’t help but make a mental note of mocking him about it later when all was said and done. You turned your head to El and bent down so you were closer to her to ensure that she could hear you. “Why don’t you go with Mike and them; I’ll handle this dork.”

She nodded enthusiastically and slid over the multi-coloured floor with ease.

“How come she’s so good at this all of a sudden?” Steve pouted, blowing his hair out his face. His hands were gripped around the railing on either side of him as he kept his feet in the same awkward position. Even through his white and red-striped wind breaker (which he wore a lot more often when you made a comment about it being your favourite jacket of his) you could see his arms were taut and strained.

Steve looked genuinely nervous... And you were genuinely excited because this moment was too good to pass up. You honestly wish you had your Polaroid on you for the sake of never letting Steve live this down.

Steve on the other hand was very glad you didn’t bring your Polaroid.

You shake your head lightly and propel yourself a little towards him. Your hands rest on top of his as your fingers gently curl around them. You smile up at him sweetly as your eyes, subconsciously trace over every curve, every dip, every freckle and every mole that paints his face with love and adoration.

He’s gorgeous.

It’s like a constellation lives on his face; weaving every piece together intricately to create him.

And, if that was the case—if that was what whatever higher power intended when they came across Steve’s creation, then that constellation will forever be your favourite.

In fact, it already is.

His hands are lifted off the railing with ease as yours begin to guide and direct him. Your skating backwards and your hardly trying. How? Steve couldn’t say.

Part of him was nervous about who you were to inevitability bump into or trip over as you weren’t looking behind you at all. But the rest of him—the part that was so focused and trained on your inquisitive eyes, your curious stare and your gleeful smile weren’t at all thinking of who’d you bump into. Instead, he was happy every inch of you was directed to him.

How someone like you could even ever consider looking at someone like him with that much affection and fondness was beyond his comprehension.

Steve used to think he wasn’t deserving of much—to the point where he actually believed it. But somehow, in someway that completely baffles him to this day, you showed Steve that he was deserving of everything that life had to offer him.

Sometimes he still thinks he isn’t worthy of anything, but ultimately he knows that just his dad talking. Because somehow the boy who wasn’t deserving of anything, deserved you. He found you.

Now how could he pass up that opportunity?

You had stopped gliding over the freshly polished rink, pulling Steve with you as well. The two of you standing perfectly still in the centre of the floor, directly beneath the disco ball and in front of the DJ.

The kids and Robin were still skating; enjoying as much of this night as they could. Their laughs a decipherable echo in contrast with the music so loud you felt the bass in your chest. Both of your hands (still intertwined with Steve’s) fell to your sides; lazily but in the most comforting way possible.

The loud blaring of Duran Duran had seemingly come to a crashing halt. People slowed down or stoped in tandem with the quiet air. But then the DJ bent over and adjusted the microphone standing on the corner of his setup.

“This next requested song is for all the couples here tonight, so, all of y’all have fun. But not too much fun.” He winked at the crowd eliciting a blush from you at the knowledge of his innuendo. It took Steve a minute, but when he got it, he began to snicker. You shot him a playful glare when suddenly the first few familiar soft, electric notes played through the speakers.

Instantly you knew what it was. With a gasp, you jump up a bit and squeeze Steve’s hand as you look up at him. “It’s the song from Sixteen Candles! You know when they’re in the school gym at the dance?”

Steve nods his head slowly with a chuckle. “Yup, I remember.”

You flash him a grin and pull him along the line of people you quickly decided to join. Steve turns his head away from the back of yours to across the rink where he sees Robin and the party at their table. Except Dustin. The young boy is looking at him intently from behind the railing as he’s...mouthing something? Is he talking? Steve can’t quite tell.

As the line turns sharply to the area where Dustin is standing, Steve lets go of Y/N’s hand and effortlessly slides over to his young friend. A bright lime green light is shining directly onto Dustin, whereas a contradictory pink light in small circular shapes placates itself on Steve. “What?” Steve asks, earning a loud groan from Dustin.

“Now’s your moment!” Dustin tilts his head over to Y/N spinning around slowly in the centre of the rink as she laughs. It’s in that moment where Steve’s theory that his girlfriend is the cutest thing on the face of the earth is confirmed.

But soon Dustin’s hands are on Steve’s collar and he’s looking him directly in the eye. “You better do it now, Harrington! There’s no better time!”

Steve shakes his head at the young boy. “No, Dustin, n—not...not right now. Okay? Not right now.”

“Steven!” Robin thunders up beside Dustin, kneels down to Steve’s eye level and breathes deeply.

“Look, dingus you want her. I mean look at her, you know you do.” Steve gulps visibly as his eyes travel nervously all around him. Somehow...even with all of Robin and Dustin’s pep talks, he’s genuinely not ready. He’s scared. And Steve hates being scared.

Robin places a warm hand on Steve’s shoulder and smiles softly at him. The act stuns Steve because it’s so unlike Robin. It’s so unlike her and yet, she’s so serious about this. “There’s only one way to ask her, Harrington. And if you don’t do it, you’re gonna miss her.”

Steve nods slowly, every memory and feeling he’s had of Y/N flashes before his eyes and all at once he feels a spike of confidence creep up on him.

He nods more aggressively now, in a way that ensures himself that he’s really going do it. He’s going to finally kiss you.

And so without a second thought he pushes himself off the railing and towards the middle of the rink where you are still dancing. He gently bumps into you which forces you to spin him around.

“What’d Dustin want?” You ask softly, giving Steve enough time to look directly into your eyes.

He sees a million galaxies and lifetimes behind them. He sees emotions and memories and colours that are so breathtaking they won’t settle for anything less than interstellar. You are so beautiful to him. Everything about you is just...perfect. Your so perfect for him, in fact, that Steve’s pretty sure you’re it for him. He feels it deep in his bones; hell, he even felt it when he first met you. But he wills himself to take it one step at a time because he’s not a big believer in higher powers or energies or karma; he doesn’t really believe in the stuff you believe in. But he’s convinced that whatever he’s feeling now—as all of those galaxies and all of those lifetimes look back at him and only him...what he’s feeling is nothing less and nothing more than pure pre-planned love. The type of love where he can feel whenever you look at him that’s he’s been searching his whole life for those eyes... And that smile...

And simply...you.

He’s feels as though he’s spent a million years looking for you and finding you. And he hopes, as he leans in and feels the soft press of your velvety lips against his, that he will spend another million more searching, and ultimately loving you.

Again. And again. And again.

For all eternity; and more.

You.

Him.

•••••

Would anyone like to be featured in my tag list? If so, just let me know!

Also heads up I won’t be writing imagines/one-shots for a while cause I’m working on something bigger right now. (Obviously it’s still Steve Harrington x reader) But yeah, I’m super stoked to have you guys see what I’m planning. I will say keep a look out for something I’m posting soon about this new “project” that’s similar to a preview for it!

Catch ya later, babes x

#steve harrington x reader #steve harrington x henderson!reader #steve x reader #joe keery x reader #joe x reader #joe keery imagines #joe keery #steve harrington #stranger things #st3 #steve harrington imagine #no angst #steve harrington fluff #stranger things imagines #stranger things x reader #reader fanfiction #henderson!reader #dustin x sister!reader #robin buckley #dustin henderson #mike wheeler #el hopper #max mayfield #lucas sinclair #will byers #reference #can you feel the love tonight part 2 #kiss the girl #the little mermaid

[saoirsetm]

hey y’all ! i’m kat and we’re FINALLY opening ?!? i’m so hyped, you don’t even know. i’m a double leo Trying to survive video lectures in a noisy house who loves dark chocolate and 80% of the kpop releases so far this year ( stream feel good by fromis_9, it’s such a cute bop ! ) i’m also a cat mom to my almost fourteen year old babies who are still like energetic kittens, so ask for pics and you shall receive DSLKGJ but without further ado, here’s my girl who’s gonna prove that hindsight is INDEED 20/20, so this is gonna be fun:

✧ ˖ * ° ><> ╱  abigail cowen,  cis female,  she/her  —  look  who’s  fresh  from  the  ferry,  aren’t  you  SAOIRSE LEARY  ?  your  eroda  brochure  says  you’re  TWENTY-THREE  and  that  you’re  currently  residing  in  MARMOTON  .  your  favourite  tourist  attraction  to  hang  around  is  ERODIAN BEACH  ,  and  the  locals  around  these  ports  would  describe  you  as  INQUISITIVE  &  INTREPID,  STUBBORN  &  IMPULSIVE  .  your  resting  fish  face  really  gives  off  LONG HAIR BLOWN BACK BY THE OCEAN BREEZE, LATE NIGHTS SPENT PLOTTING THE NEXT GREAT VOYAGE, RED LIPSTICK IMPRINTED ON A MUG OF TEA  ,  and  i’m  a  big  fan  of  the  VINTAGE CELTIC KNOT NECKLACE  you  seem  to  always  be  attached  to.  well,  if  you  see  the  minister  this  morning;  make  sure  you  head  on  home  as  quick  as  possible,  you  never  know  what  bad  luck  he  could  bring.  ╱  ooc;  kat,  23,  she/her,  ast.

tw: needles ( tattoo mention ), cancer mention, death mention

miss saoirse...... oof

GDFLSJL where do i begin with her honestly ??

full name is saoirse eve leary, affectionately called cece by her family since she was young and runs with it as her nickname !

born and raised in cork, ireland with two siblings, a working class father and Slightly upper middle class mother

her childhood wasn’t like, Majorly eventful; she was considered a bit of a tomboy which isn’t a surprise bc she’s always been a bit of a spirited, adventurous girl, has the odd nomadic moment strike her and loves to travel

had a SUPER close relationship with her maternal grandmother before she passed a few years back, still has a close one with her grandfather and paternal grandmother as they’re still living

is a big family girl overall, so much so that she’s eagerly awaiting the day she gets to be the cool aunt

had a decent cluster of pals over the years that’s likely dwindled due to everyone going their separate ways after high school

saoirse Did go to uni between her travels — and graduated — and has aspirations of becoming an anthropologist to explore other cultures and meet new people/understand them

which.. obviously ain’t happening now LFSGJGF rip

came to eroda partially bc it seems like such a pretty and quaint place, partially to explore its “ myth ” that you can never leave; her naturally curious ass questions the whole thing, at least in the sense that there’s no way to challenge your supposed fate on the island and won’t deny entertaining some conspiracy theories around the mystery

she still doesn’t understand that.. yeah, she Literally is stuck here for the rest of her life now, probably because she hasn’t made a Real attempt to put that to the test, but we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it FDSLKJDS

anyways she came here solo ( more than likely ) and has enjoyed her time getting to know the locals and other visitors, taking in the scenery, etc

probably took up a part-time job at sally’s tavern to cover her expenses since she lives in marmoton and it ought to be close enough for her to get to gfjlsdg

personality and everything else

a sociable, ( relatively ) fearless ginger with an eclectic taste in music and a profound appreciation for pastries.. 

despite being all about cleaner eating habits and lowering her sugar intake, she takes a cheat day or week wherever she can LSDGFJK

parties, game nights, etc, you name it ?? she’s there !

kinda competitive while we’re bringing up games and such, but she’s not about the whole sore winner/loser thing — rather she’ll groan and sulk a little before moving on

like i said before, loves to travel, loves pretty places in general so prepare yourself for an abundance of pictures on her insta feed of where she’s been or where she wants to go

loyal as hell, but she has her limit if you misuse the trust that comes with it

she’s just v wholesome and has a mix of small town city/endlessly curious energy with a sprinkle of being the life of the party……. kinda

however, she’s the most ?? hard to place person all the same

that feeling of freedom that comes with her exploring and all makes her a little hard to tie down; she doesn’t plan on staying in eroda ( which is unfortunate for her considering.... fglsdk ) as she has more to accomplish and see

very much does her own thing and doesn’t wanna hear any criticism for it

as if she’s that out of line DLJGDSLK but still

always wants to try new things, no matter how dumb they might be; except for anything that’s a Legitimate death sentence or is.. a GENUINELY dumb idea, she has enough common sense to know what Not to do KSGFDJDS

has little tattoos on her wrist and behind her left ear for her Favourite trips/symbols/whatever and her family, will let y’all know what they’d be whenever i figure them out since i’m so damn picky with these things

a Big supporter for buying/investing locally, has little trinkets and such to prove it

in fact, she has a collection of thrifted or vintage clothes from her travels and back home, and a chest full of cute jewelry she switches between daily

one piece she wears all the time — only parts with it when she sleeps — is the celtic knot pendant mentioned in her app that’s become something of an heirloom on her mom’s side of the family !

she has the cutest irish lilt in my mind, kinda the same as miss ronan’s and aisling bea’s

really loves her freckles, partially bc i love her freckles and my own :(

tea > coffee, but she loves coffee-flavoured things; bring her a peppermint or camomile tea as her shift winds down or.. idk, just because, and she’ll be forever indebted to you fldjgs

loves to hang out by the water in her free time — she loves the scent and sounds that comes with it, it’s one of the few places where she can put her mind to rest for a bit

the sound of rain hitting a rooftop is her perfect sleep soundtrack

kinda wants to adopt a pet, but doesn’t wanna leave them if she goes on an excursion where they can’t come with her :(

baths with epsom salts, candles that smell like lavender or something just as pleasant and calming, etc during a night in soothes the hell out of her soul

top three products she has in her bag at all times, besides personal info and her phone ? lip balm, a powder spf and mints FGLGKSD

btw.. miss ginger hair and freckles will probably gasp at anyone going out with no spf on them and scold tf out of them bc ‘ hello, melanoma ?? sunburn ?!? ’

wanted connections

childhood pal(s) she’s bumped into: reunited by chance, cece’s glad she has a couple of people she knows to keep her grounded when her mind runs wild at what Might happen when she decides to try her hand at leaving

cousin(s), other relatives: idk, figured it’d be fun for her to have a family member or two running around and not realizing the other relative is the Only one they’ll see in person from here on out

best pal(s) in eroda: someone she’s taken to since arriving, likely spending their free-time eating pastries on the beach, talking shit over tea, little market dates, going to the rainzone half-drunk and trying to rope each other into new things

opposites attract.. of sorts sfdlgkj: basically just a traveler meeting a local who’s never been off eroda, telling all about their ( quite limited ) excursions and bonding in other areas over time !

hook-ups, fwbs.... ENEMIES with benefits?? idk, point is the girl’s probably gotten laid since arriving, it’s all a matter of the situation that fits your muse(s) best FHGSDKJ

roommate: she lives in marmoton, likely in a rental of sorts, and i can’t see her living alone given the situation on the island ( though i’ve viewed her as the type to live alone in a space for one and a half people any other time tbh ). so she has just One and they make the arrangement work ! depending on their personalities and such, we’ll figure out how well they get along Exactly, if at all

ex ??: the girl’s bi so y’all can toss anyone at her for this one as well ! question marks bc i was thinking it’d be an on-and-off thing but maybe not come the time i post this intro LSGKD. basically they were seeing each other for a few months, she fell hard Quick/they moved kinda fast bc they were vibing and they would distance themselves upon realizing this — though i see cece giving them distance bc she knows they need it rather than needing it herself. if it IS on-and-off, they’re definitely off rn and treading lightly ( though she finds it hard to stray and hates things not being fully resolved no matter what happens ?? ), so all it’s a bit angsty regardless of how it goes dfgkljsdg

fellow mystery fiend: someone please fuel her curiosity to the max and try to crack the impossible case of eroda’s captive capabilities with her.. and proceed to watch true crime shows with her when that clearly goes to shit SDFKLJ

older sibling or mentor dynamic: someone to look out for her/teach her some things to help fully support herself/give her advice when she probably needs it most.. idk, i just like the idea of someone becoming a stand-in relative type of friend to her 

just give her someone to confide in, to swim at night with, stargaze and all that cute shit, be it platonically or otherwise !

she’s not gonna click with everyone and that’s fine, BUT maybe they run in the same social circles and cece thinks they seem nice enough, but they never really talk amongst themselves ?? just a case of awkwardly starting from scratch and seeing where it takes us !

#eroda.intro #╰ ✨ . ❪ 𝐖𝐄 𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐈𝐍' 𝐃𝐈𝐀𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐃 𝐏𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐋𝐒 ↝ kat chats ｡ #tw needles #tw cancer #tw death #i think?? that's all the triggers here? #i really hope it is anyways :/ i'm bad for spotting them sometimes when they're vague mentions #anyways FINALLY did it !! #now to make my theme even Remotely presentable in the next half hour GLDFJS

[darkestwolfx]

Brains VS. Brawns - Re-Review #52

Look at MAX with his weapon of choice!

Right, now I’ve got that desperate exclamation out of the way, let’s get to the proper part of the review.

This is the final episode of series 2. Goodness grief, I cannot believe we’ve made it this far already. But we have, and so once again, I will give out one of my massive thank you’s to you all for supporting the Re-Review Series (even though the author has been massively busy in lockdown [ironic, right?] and so has given you some rather poor ones some days).

But, let’s begin with this shot of the desert, which somehow reminds me of TOS ‘The Uninvited’. What was it Scott said in that episode about unfriendly places?

Yeah, Thunderbird One got shot down in that episode... and in this episode, someone is also shooting at it, but with a giant, very dangerous - if you remember Brains trying to tell us all the possibilities back in ‘Power Play’ (or Battle of the Bad Guys Volume 1, as I like to remember it) - very powerful laser!

Yes, the desert is a very unfriendly spot.

So yes, this episode if where we get to see Project sentinel, a weapon that was beyond The Hood’s realm of conscience. Personally, I think The Hood would have definitely used that laser.

I thought this shot from ‘The Uninvited’ was relevant to show what I meant about the desert. See, unfriendly place. And I officially respect Adam Wilkin of the interweb for making this! It fits perfectly with my current line of conversation and really looks like it could have been a TAG episode.

Anyhow, moving on from my line of thought from the title card, let’s get down to business. And by that I mean the rescue business! 

And let’s just casually take Thunderbird One out to the desert - even after everything we’ve just been discussing and looking at? Yeah, the desert and Thunderbird One aren’t friends, but folks, be reassured, we don’t get to see it shot down today! Live in reassurance that TB1 is fine. I couldn’t have a certain someone holding their breath all the way through the review to hear that nugget of knowledge.

“I’m tracking the source... oh no! We have a situation. A really, really big one. A massive laser satellite just showed up on scanners. Guys, I think The Mechanic’s Project Sentinel is online.”

Because these bad guys have really been quiet since ‘Home on the Range’ so what else could we expect for the series final? And if there was ever a time for the “we have a situation line” it was now.

“That laser blast revealed a hidden underground facility. my scans show one life sign trapped inside.”

Hmm... the cogs in my brain were already turning at this. An underground facility with no records available to John?

“John, where am I exactly?”

“I can’t find any record of it. Whoever built that place didn’t want anyone to find it.”

“Well, The Mechanic found it.”

Yeah, I was suspicious.

“Losing those power cells didn’t stop The Mechanic. He’s using the sun to power it now!”

Why would The Mechanic want to fire at the Sahara? Yeah, I was doubly suspicious.

Yep, and we’ve yet to find a way to stop solar power - especially if you’ve got your solar panels up in space right near the source. Let’s power the world environmentally and take a leaf out of The Mechanic’s books.

“Scott, the Sentinel is firing!”

Warnings are useful given in advance Brains!

I sort of felt that. It looked and sounded like it hurt... It’s always Scott isn’t it? I bet they’ll be more prompts going up after this reminder... I’m still working on the rockfall, they don’t give us (or Scott) much chance to recover here).

“That was way too close.”

Yeah, you’re telling me!

“It looks like the longer the Sentinel charges, the more powerful it’s laser.”

Basic solar energy principles, right there.

Throw back to Friday - you know, hypercars, Tycho, David Tennant - “he will knock four times”, remember that line (different fandom I know, but go with it).

* Knock knock *

And we only get two. Shame. See where my mind wanders?

“This is International Rescue. Open up. I’ve come to get you out of here.”

“Ah, Scott Tracy. It took you long enough.”

“The Hood!”

Bet no one saw that coming.

Oh, wait, me! I did!

Cue obligatory gasps.

*Gasp*

*Gasp*

“The Hood!”

“What are you up to Hood?”

Punch him, Scott, please punch someone for once.

(Reminder that this show is universally rated).

Or not.

Just let The Hood walk right past you.

Universal rating.

There’s a parallel world somewhere - I like to think - where Scott does punch that smug face.

“Isn’t it obvious? The Mechanic is trying to fry me with a space laser.”

I know he’s the bad guy, I know we’re not meant to like him, but that line was humour central, I laughed massively. I’d forgotten it completely!

“I’m waiting for you to rescue me.”

“Us rescue you?”

“You are International Rescue, are you not?”

Sorry, you must have dialed the wrong number, this is International Gardening, supported by the one and only Ned Tedford. The only thing we rescue is geranium’s, definitely not super villains. Just imagine that world for a second.

But uh, no, this is International Rescue, reporting for duty.

“And that makes you think we’ll rescue you?”

“I’m counting on it.”

Remember that quality of Scott’s we love? The calm thinking, forward pushing, forgiving;

“Who you are and what you’ve done doesn’t matter.”

Yeah, well here it wavers, because it matters. This is the one (possibly there’s more on Scott’s bad list, but I think The Hood is probably the one he really can’t see past - I mean, he forgives Fuse, but I’m saying no more because we’ll get there later) person that Scott cannot treat with the same attitude he faces the rest of life and their rescues with. Everyone has their limits and for Scott, I think forgiving and saving the person who killed their Dad is just a step too far. And I don’t blame his lapse, it’s completely understandable. Put in his position, I think I would have been the same.

“Scott he has a point. We have a duty to protect people from harm. We don’t get to choose who that is.”

“Grandma...”

“But- just because we have to save him, doesn’t mean he’ll like it.”

I like her thinking.

“International Rescue, my life is in your hands.”

“Just make sure you remember that.”

Yeah, and then take shots at them again in Series 3.

Right, so summarizing up until here;

Let’s save The Hood - because morals demand it, rightly so - but that doesn’t mean we can’t imprison him at the same time! See, Scott is kinda getting what he wants.

“To The Hood. You can hide no more. Give me what you want or be destroyed.”

The Hood is controlling The Mechanic! But he’s refusing! I love it when someone overcomes challenges. So the whole controlling thing, definitely changes the playing board.

“I don’t think International Rescue will let that happen.”

“He’s right, Mechanic. Stand down.”

“I’m not after you International Rescue. I only want The Hood. Step aside.”

“As much as I’d like to, I can’t do that.”

“Then go down with him.”

He’s not actually a bad guy deep down. I knew there was more to this guy than we ever saw in ‘Earthbreaker’. And now, for one of my favourite events - the TAG game of Catch The Hood.

“Thunderbird One is about to be toast.”

“Maybe Thunderbird Shadow could carry the weight for a while.”

“What are you doing?”

“This is where you get off.”

Ding. Going down.

“Where are you going?”

“To Thunderbird Three. I’m going to take out Sentinel and The Mechanic before he takes out a Tracy.”

Got to love this boys spirit. That, and he hates to be left out.

“Alan, that’s a terrible plan. Firstly, The Mechanic will be operating the Sentinel remotely, so we don’t know where he is. Secondly, it’s a giant laser. Thunderbird Three would be shot clean out of the sky.”

Brains’ practically really is a good at being crushing. But it is practical.

“Let Thunderbird Four take the package for a while. I hope you don’t get seasick Hood, because we’re going all the way down.”

“John, this isn’t working. We’re in hot water down here.”

“Don’t worry, Thunderbird Four help is on the way.”

“Our turn to play pass the parcel. Parker, active the magnetic bumpers.

“Yes, M’Lady.”

“Here that Hood. You’re going for a nice drive in the country. He’s all yours, Lady Penelope.”

“Parcel received.”

Honestly, there’s no better way to document this scene really, save the scene itself, so I’m trying my best here.

“The magnets locked hon but gaw hit’s ‘eavy. hI do ‘ope hit will ‘old.”

“Parker, that magnet could hold a tractor if it had to.”

“We know that M’Lady, but The ‘ood doesn’t.”

Loved that laugh, Parker!

Meanwhile, on the chase;

“Can’t we just ditch The ‘ood? Better him than hus.”

“That’s not very International Rescue now, is it Parker?”

“No, M’Lady.”

But I’m with him.

“Thunderbird Two couldn’t sit by and let you have all the fun.”

No, and Alan tagged along. Virgil probably - wisely - pulled him off the island before he exploded.

“Magnetic coupling detached.”

“Got it.”

“This is the most fun I’ve had in ages.”

I’m honestly not sure the being chased by a giant laser part is fun... playing catch with The Hood? Yes, that’s fun. Better with no fear of being blown up!

Sorry, the game of catch distracted me, let’s get to the Brains part of the episode. Little bit of jumping around to be had.

“I wonder what it is The Mechanic wants exactly...”

Well, why don’t you go and find out.

There’s was a full Brains and MAX gear up sequence. About time.

“No, MAX. This laser’s far too dangerous for anyone to be on board. Rockets disengaged. That should let us slip through undetected.”

And they’re nearly detected! Contradiction number 1.

“Quiet MAX. There’s no one here, but we don’t know what kind of alarms there are.”

You know, the amount of times Brains has very definitely said (I think we’re on three) that The Mechanic couldn’t possibly be here, is really making me think The Mechanic is actually going to be here. Any one else?

Remember what you were saying to Alan and MAX about remote operating? That looks like The Mechanic to me.

“What are you doing here?”

“Well?”

“I asked first?”

“It’s my satellite.”

“Yes. Good point.”

Adored MAX, head turning, not sure where to look. These two were meant to be besties. It’s the joint speaking that gives it away.

“What could The Hood possibly have that you want so badly?”

Yes, let’s get to the point.

“It’s not what he has. It’s what he does. What he makes me do.”

“His cybernetic eye! The Hood is controlling you!”

Well done! It’s only taken 26 episodes! I mean, I guessed by around 13, but okay...

“Not always. I’ve learnt to fight it. That’s much easier up here. But I can’t fight him forever.”

“It doesn’t have to be like this. International Rescue can help you. I can help you.”

“No one can help me.”

Why does no one ever take the help first off! Trust in Brains mate! Sorry, Mr Mechanic, Sir.

“Maximum power!”

Yeah, Brains, I’m with John.

“The Mechanic is powering up for a single shot that will take out everything in the vicinity of The Hood. Brains, it’s now or never.”

MAX being such a hero fighting the Meccas.

“There! I’ve shut down his controls.”

“You’ve ruined everything! now I’ll never be rid of him.”

“Mechanic, trust me, as Chief Engineer of International Rescue, we will find a way to make sure The Hood never has control over you again. You’re coming with me.”

“You want to arrest me that much.”

“I’m not arresting you. I’m saving you.”

This is the start to a beautiful friendship. Just wait another twenty-odd episodes for it. Sit back, kick your feet up,

“The Mechanic is not fully responsible for his actions. He must be protected from The Hood. International Rescue will be in touch, I promise. Engineer to engineer.”

All’s well that ends well.

Speaking of;

“Hood, you’re under arrest.”

“Yes, please! Just get me away from International Rescue!”

I know they’ve just thrown him here, there and everywhere, but somehow I don’t think The Hood would ever take to arrest that easy. Not without a plan... and let’s face it, he had one in ‘Legacy’, what’s the bet he pulls the same trick?

“It seems like we can’t say it enough. Thank you, International Rescue.”

Yes, because not seem rude, but you would probably have lost the world ten times over with what we’ve seen of the GDF’s ‘show of force’ so far. They didn’t even notice when Captain Foster wasn’t Captain Foster! Really, The Hood should have set his sights higher and tried to play Colonel Casey. International Rescue might have been the only ones to notice.

“With those two in custody, all of you might just get a break.”

“Well, to be honest, I’m looking forward to some good old fashioned rescues for a change.”

“Sea quakes.”

“Rock slides.”

“Runaway asteroids.”

“Petty thieves stealing classified technology.”

“Unruly Ambassadors.”

“Dog sitting.”

“And fused power relays.”

And there you have it. What International Rescue call a normal Tuesday.

And we’ve reached the end Series 2!

Oh, wait, it’s like a post credit scene (only before the credits) and look!

Handcuffs on the floor and tied up GDF officers? Well, here we go again.

I mean, is anyone surprised that he found a way out? I’m not. And look at these people in purple! We haven’t had much purple yet in this show - besides the fact Grandma Tracy wears it all the time, so I feel a little like they’re stealing her signature colour. Couldn’t they have gone for black like every other bad guy in TAG? Apparently not.

“Everything has gone according to plan. The Tracy’s have taken care of The Mechanic and now, nothing to stop us causing global chaos.”

Is that a hint dropped there, you know like an easter egg?

But that is the end of Series 2. New bad guys to be introduced properly in tomorrows re-review!

#The Hood #The Mechanic #Thunderbirds are go #Battle of the Bad Guys #Brains #MAX #Let's play Catch #Thunderbird One #Scott Tracy #Re-Review Series #Darkestwolfx #Kayo #Thunderbird Shadow #Gordon Tracy #Thunderbird Four #Virgil Tracy #Thunderbird Two #John Tracy #EOS #Project Sentinnel #Tracy Island #We're being chased by a giant laser

[theangrypokemaniac]

Contests Part 2/2

6. Loser Jessie

Screechy harpie Jessay has even more of a raw deal than Mavis and Dawn of the Dead.

From the outset I knew she'd never be champion, but she ought to rise above the tiresome berks clogging up procedure.

Sufficient popularity at Pokémon Towers ensured the girls were allotted coverage of all their award ceremonies. They had a moment in the sun.

What has Jessie in comparison?

I can't recall Hoenn, but I don't expect it was much.

Sinnoh however carried naught but a single paltry episode.

This for a main character.

This for someone there from the beginning.

This for an ardent fan favourite.

This for a wench who, should we include all her various mutations, has featured in more installments than either of 'em.

But no, treat Jesseee as worthless, even lower than Dawn's groupies. It's not like anyone watches it for her.

Looking back, it's obvious what they were intending to do come Unova.

What's the score then?

• One paltry Contest on screen.

• A couple happen elsewhere, marked by a few seconds per mention when the script oh-so generously moves away from the thrilling main plot.

It's gotta be the small-town concerns for Jessuhleenuh, nothing major. She deserves no better.

• One won by James, so not hers. Press her inadequacy upon us!

• One obtained as a gesture of pity from Kate Middleton.

And how did that work? What's the good of allowing 'Dawn' entry again?

She'd already qualified. If winning here, that gives her six, therefore there aren't enough Co-ordinators for the culmination.

And when Jessie showed up with a Ribbon recorded as belonging to Dawn, how was she taken as fulfilling the quota?

The slapdash way these Contests are run!

God forbid Jess should be shown as excelling at anything. It must be scraping into the final undeservedly.

Bitch gotta know her place.

7. Bumpkin Jessie

...

Ain't no description I can give that don't rhyme with 'hit', or variations of the theme.

You thought the shafting Jessica got coverage wise was bad enough? Yer ain't heard the 'alf of it.

Sinnoh was a period of peak Moron Team Rocket, where the one surprise was how stupid they could be.

You may remember an early episode when James designed her clothes for the catwalk. She thought it'd complement his work by applying lipstick all across her mug.

Obviously Jessie would do that, clueless as to how make-up functions.

Come on kids, she's thick!

Even at that numskull nadir it's difficult to comprehend anyone choosing this get up without severe duress.

Picture the scene: you debut on stage, before an audience of thousands and television cameras, in an event preoccupied with superficiality.

What do you wear?

• Giant, oversized glasses out of fashion since the Seventies.

• Bootlace tie last worn in the nineteenth century Wild West by a barman serving sarsaparillas.

• Colour scheme of brown and orange, the nation's favourite hues.

• A man's old shirt fraying at the cuffs.

• Voluminous apron dress.

• Massive yellow bows last seen decorating an Easter Egg. Always a winner.

• Heavy, clod-hopping boots.

• PIGTAILS!!!

Even the name is unattractive.

Ah yes, very common for those under six. Unheard of later.

You have reached puberty haven't yer Jessie? I can't tell anymore.

They couldn't get enough of that combination in Cosmo, which is why it's no longer in print.

Not only is Jessie denied success, she's deprived of the chance to be pretty in a realm where nothing but that carries weight.

Worse, given how her face disintegrated, this is the best she's been for five generations.

Yeah, because the inbred milkmaid style is such a good look, eh?

SEXAY!!!

8. So Long, Tsundere

Remember tsunderes? What happened to 'em?

The curse of Pokémon was draining the well of inspiration too quickly, throwing away interesting characters as mere guests.

This is particularly noticeable regarding the ladies. Back then, we got Misty, Jessie, Jessibelle, Cassidy, Aya, Giselle, Tyra, Sabrina, assorted crones Brutella, Nastina and Lacy, plus Joy, Jenny and Dame Ketchum provided parental authority.

How did a series that began with ball-breaking birds like that end up with insipid, glassy-eyed dullards like Zuhreena, Banana Lana, Marsh Mallow and Lilliput?

Ooh, Zuhreena is a pwincess!

Ooh, Banana Lana bwows big bwubbles!

Ooh, Marsh Mallow wuvs phallic waddishes!

Ooh, Lilliput won't pwet wanimals bwecause of Secwet Pain!

Can you imagine such weak specimens finding any place in the anarchic atmosphere of the classics?

It's SO boring!

Where's the punch? Where's the human spirit?

Where's the entertainment gone?

This squishy attitude began in Hoenn. Misty left, Jessie's hair symbolically changed from volcanic red to pink, and Contests introduced a cuddly theme where glitter glue and sequins are top priority.

Every sharp corner, every jagged point has been filed smooth. Now its substance hasn't the hardness to even develop edges, not when it's all cushions and candyfloss, where catching Pokémon rests on them deigning to grant permission, rather than 'avin it out.

Tsunderes, exuding untamed charisma and independence, besides a soupçon of danger, simply don't fit the cardboard box we habit now.

Nor do yanderes, kuuderes, tsuntsuns, or even derederes. It's just nothing but smiley-smiley creeps.

I wouldn't mind any of these tropes as long as there was some sign of colour to be had.

9. The Sacrifice of Misty

Misty bid farewell under the feeble justification that the lack of a longterm goal made her vulnerable to sacking.

Such a line uttered as if her own choice, being beyond them as writers to invent a purpose.

This implied her replacement would have an exciting quest aiming for excellence, something just beyond Misty's capabilities.

What did we get?

Dressing up and collecting Ribbons!

Is that...is that it? Is that the great idea? Is that all the girls are worth?

I lost Misty for THIS?!

Perhaps it makes no difference. By Hoenn they'd rendered her a leaden blandness sucked dry of all that made her special.

Going by the greasy-toothed bastardisation that swanned up in Alola, Misty was simply too wild for the safe, stifling atmosphere of today.

Her departure ensued she remains frozen as a funny, beloved presence, unlike those she left behind.

Now there was a lucky escape, as once the fanny-flapping starts, the bints have it on the brain.

May had Max to beat on the side, but Dawn developed monomania.

Hardly an episode went by without some reference to Contests, or how today's plot spurred her on to the next opportunity.

Yer need help, love!

Rather than Ash's new friend being a fascinating person who so happened to enter vanity projects, the competition defined them to the exclusion of life.

It is but moths drawn to the candle flame waiting to engulf them.

Contests are this world's version of Tom Riddle's diary: they promise sympathy and validation, but they eat your soul.

Like Tumblr.

10. Completely Unoriginal

Seems to me it wasn't so much Misty had no goal, it was more that Contests were the supposedly hot concept wedged into an existing property.

If earlier aspects failed to accommodate the invader, the onus certainly wasn't on the new kid to change. Oh no, stuff it in and chop off whatever gets in the way.

In the eyes of the post-Shudo regime, Misty was too volatile to last, and so had to go.

What idiots.

She's a tsundere. The softer, more feminine side is a defining component.

Would it really have been so problematic to retain her as an entrant? If Jessie can, why not?

Even if failing to fit, so what? Since when was established characterisation a barrier?

Isn't twisting likeable folk into unrecognisable pods the modus operandi of the writers?

That canon is immaterial, and must always give in to whatever fancy they currently have?

Well then, what's the big deal in infantilising Misty to promote it rather than pensioning her off?

Viewers will be more invested in the challenges awaiting a familiar face rather than a stranger.

What reduces the above to the risible is the original Misty and Jessie both participated in the Princess Festival.

All Contests are is that very scenario on repeat and robbed of all meaning.

Think about it:

• Beauty round

• Battle round

• Jessie loses

Same bloody thing.

Not only have I got to suffer this draining spectacle, it's got the nerve to possess not one iota of fresh ideas!

Contests are a low rent rip-off. The Princess Festival had a worthy reward in the shape of one-of-a-kind Dolls.

It'd already been revealed that ordinary Princess Dolls were ruinously expensive, therefore the special Pokémon edition have to be priceless.

What d'yer get for the trouble of a Contest but a bit of plastic tat taped to bargain basement frippery?

And they demand you get five of 'em!

Contests themselves were then resurrected as Showcases, although mercifully slimmed down to only three, with the emptiness ramped up in compensation.

Perhaps ironically, Princess Versus Princess is one of my favourite episodes. I love its critique of female avarice and accurate portrayal of clothing sales as reminiscent of the zombie apocalypse.

I don't mind the Festival as a single adventure, but I may have felt less favourable had it been a constant presence.

Except it isn't the competition at stake. This is a framework to explore Jessie and Misty as people.

Through its device we learn their history and therefore how they came to develop as the girls we know.

The setting serves as an opportunity for both to confront the misery and isolation of their childhoods, with the promise of overcoming that old torment with the balm of victory.

In the final, they aren't so much battling an opponent as fighting to be free of the past.

The tragedy is only one can be granted that reprieve. The other must remain unhappy in the ruins of memory.

It matters, unlike vapid Contests, where posturing is king. What depth can they provide in comparison?

Despite identical content, they are inverse counterparts, with the Festival presented as merely a light affair concealing a rather dark tale of neglect.

Contests however are paraded as this worthy nourishment for body and mind, a major point in one's journey towards enlightenment, when all they really amount to is an organ grinder and his monkey arsing about for the slack-gobbed plebs.

Bread and circuses.

Best of all, Misty won, not some side twat, as it should be.

Note how Jessie dressed: in delicate, vivid robes and golden decoration. The boys thought her beautiful.

Not as a gormless dweeb you'd cross the street to avoid!

And why the need to disguise herself anyway?

The Twerps had no issue with Jessie of Team Rocket joining the fun back then, so what happened?

At least she received the consolation of gaining Lickitung as a friend, with James and Meowth desperate to comfort her.

What do Contests bring? Sod all!

#pokémon #team rocket #contests #misty #jessie #kanto #princess versus princess

[romancemedia]

Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure - The King and Queen of Hearts

In the 7th episode of the 3rd season of Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure, due to her parents memory loss, Rapunzel is determined to reignite and remind them of their love, but finds trouble when King Trevor appears, determined to steal Queen Arianna for himself.

This is the Most Romantic Episode of Tangled I’ve Seen Yet. I LOVE THIS EPISODE SO MUCH. 10 OUT OF 10. I LOVE IT SO MUCH!!! It Fills My Heart With Joy and Happiness. It Was So Romantic Throughout as well as Hilarious. This episode is a true Romantic-Comedy. Seriously, I Cannot Express How In Love I Am With This Episode. It’s Amazing. It’s Beautiful. It’s Just Perfect. In the beginning of this episode, it reveals that since the premiere, King Frederic and Queen Arianna still have amnesia due to the effects of the Wand of Oblivium caused by the Separatists of Saporia when they invaded Corona. Ever since, Varian has been trying to find a cure through science, but so far no luck. However, Rapunzel is determined to help her parents remember through their love and what better way than the annual Day of Hearts celebration, her parents favourite holiday. Rapunzel shows them Herz De Sonne’s journal where they had written their names in the book to proclaim their love and speaking of the journal, it’s revealed that Rapunzel and Eugene still have yet to write their names and proclaim their love in the book. It’s obvious right from the start, Eugene really wants to sign their names and of course Rapunzel wants to as well, but her main focus right now is helping her parents so writing their names in the book will have to wait... for now.

Unfortunately, King Frederic and Queen Arianna’s amnesia has gotten so bad, they can’t even remember why they love each other. Seeing Rapunzel’s parents without their memories is so weird and you can really see how opposite and different they are from each other. Queen Arianna has a strong adventurous spirit and King Frederic... has an oddly strange love of eggs?! Due to their differences right now, Arianna believes it’s better if they spend some time apart... which could not come at a more terrible time when King Trevor decides to visit the kingdom after receiving word of King Frederic and Queen Arianna’s memory loss and decides to take advantage of the situation. It’s revealed in the past, not only were King Frederic and King Trevor rivals over pranking each other, but they were rivals for the love of Queen Arianna and ever since King Frederic won her heart, King Trevor has been insanely OBSESSED all these years and is determined not to blow his second chance of winning her heart once and for all. Unaware of King Trevor’s impending arrival, Rapunzel continues her mission to reunite her parents by setting them on a date together with the help of Eugene, Pascal, Lance, Angry, Red and Max and boy did she convince them. Rapunzel pretty much said the fate of the world hangs in the balance if her parents don’t get back together.

Anyway, Rapunzel sets up her parents date, but it doesn’t go so well. King Frederic isn’t good at horseback riding, Shorty ate their dinner at the Snuggly Duckling and a brawl occurred soon after. King Frederic and Queen Arianna’s date really shows how different they are from each other and further more that Rapunzel is so much like her mother. She definitely got her adventurous and outgoing spirit from Arianna. I Can’t Believe Arianna Joined the BRAWL. IT WAS SO FUNNY. Honestly Arianna is Full on Dare-ianna in today’s episode. Eventually, King Frederic and Queen Arianna finally begin to fall in love again through a romantic cruise together which really reminds me of another certain couples first date together. It’s So Romantic to Think About. However, before Frederic and Arianna can kiss, their moment is spoiled by none other than King Trevor’s arrival and worse, Frederic can’t swim so he has to saved by that Royal Jerk. Seriously you would think a king would learn how to horseback ride and swim. Back at the castle, King Trevor manages to charm Arianna and convinces her to go on a date with him the next day. Rapunzel realizes right away what King Trevor is up to and warns him she’ll be watching him. King Trevor claims he would never come between a married couple since it’s the law, but knowing him, he has a trick or two up his sleeves to get what he wants.

On the day of King Trevor and Queen Arianna‘s date, Rapunzel discovers King Trevor’s TRICK. Since he is taking Arianna out in the ocean to go sea serpent watching, it’s beyond the borders of the law, meaning they are outside the restriction zone, allowing King Trevor the right to marry Arianna for HIMSELF!!! Rapunzel and the group quickly catch up with them and King Trevor finally shows his true colours, revealing he has Herz De Sonne’s journal and asks Arianna to sign it with him, basically his way of asking for her hand in marriage!!!! King Trevor finally shows how truly crazy he really is when sends out his "Navy Seals" to attack Rapunzel and her friends. Seriously, what is with King Trevor and seals, he is obsessed with them and My God his actions are basically an act of war. He Is Crazy. Seeing Rapunzel in danger, Arianna goes to the rescue and knocks out Trevor ONE PUNCH. GO ARIANNA. The group are then attacked by the Sea Serpent and it captures Rapunzel’s Parents. Realizing this could be their last moment together, Frederic and Arianna proclaim their love and kiss. Thankfully, Rapunzel saves them and surprisingly, King Frederic saves the day because of his love for eggs after learning King Trevor unknowingly had the Sea Serpent’s unborn baby. In the end, Frederic and Arianna’s love was renewed, but unfortunately, Herz De Sonne’s journal is destroyed. Fortunately, Rapunzel makes a brand new one to symbolise the start of making new memories and the very first names signed are none other than her and Eugene’s. It’s About Time. New Dream Forever and Best of All, King Frederic and Queen Arianna finally begin to slowly get their memories back at last.

Overall, This Was A Fantastic Episode. It Had It All. Romance, Comedy, Action and Family. This episode was just too amazing for words and it now officially has one of my top favourite New Dream Kisses. Plus it was GREAT to see the Pug Thugs again. I HAVE MISSED THEM SO MUCH. Also, I Cannot Believe What King Frederic Did to Eugene’s room and who would thought an egg would save the day?! Ultimately, this was a great episode, showing opposites really do attract and especially with all the great New Dream moments. However, I must admit I was slightly hoping for the proposal, but it will happen eventually. All Good Things Come To Those Who Wait and This Episode Was Simply Perfect.

#RTA #Rapunzel's Tangled Adventures #Disney #My Thoughts #My Edits #My Thoughts RTA #Rapunzel x Eugene #New Dream #Rapunzel x Flynn #Rapunzel #Flynn Rider #Eugene Fitzherbert #King Frederic #Queen Arianna

[houkagokappa]

Sarazanmai Main PV analysis

Third time’s the charm. With Sarazanmai airing tomorrow I finally want to go through the main PV and give you my thoughts and impressions and observations from it.

The timing hasn’t been too bad since the official English subbed trailer came out yesterday when Crunchyroll announced they would add Sarazanmai to their simulcast for Spring 2019.

I don’t really have any authority to comment on the translation. It’s professionally made and it’s good. There are some translation differences to mine (I never translated the main PV, but they reuse a lot of the phrases I’ve translated in the past). For the most part I’ve been more literal (mainly so that I can retain as much original information as possible, even at the cost of it sounding chunkier).

Japanese is a very contextual language with room for many interpretations, especially when the full context is missing, so seeing differences in the translations are to be expected. The only difference I find eye-catching is the phrase “Suck out the greed” since they clearly use 欲望 desire/lust. Maybe the translator knows something about the upcoming episodes that I don’t? 

The PV starts with the same beautiful gloomy music from the Tsunagaru PV and Kazuki jogging/running in Asakusa. He’s wearing the matching bracelet he shares with Enta around his ankle. We specifically see shots of the red Azuma Bridge as well as Tokyo Skytree and Asahi Beer Hall in the background on the other side of the river. The stage is Asakusa alright.

Then there’s this wild spark in the middle of Kazuki’s melancholic narration about wanting to connect but not being able to.

Pink’s an unusual colour for sparks but plays on Ikuhara’s typical use of colours. It seems to be revealing a grid of some sort. This also feels very Ikuhara, he has a habit of combining the whimsical with the mechanical and technical. Think about the whole “ROCK OVER JAPAN” sequence for example.

The tone shifts, the upbeat ending theme “Stand By Me” by the peggies starts playing and Sara greets us cheerfully. She looks like an idol with her sparkling starry eyes and own TV program. The ア is everywhere. It seems to be used in her show a lot. There’s still no indication what exactly it stands for though.

This screenshot is pretty interesting. The text under “Fortune of today” says “lucky selfie divination”. Is Sara a fortune-teller? Are these her mysterious powers in action? The smaller text says “dish. I can’t see regular people. SARAtto report + Looking for the Prince. Characteristics are [ikevo?] a good smell and fair complexion”. Is that going to be Keppi or the mysterious figure from the last chapter of the manga? Or are they the same?

The focus shifts back to Kazuki. He’s talking about only needing three rules in his life, which could be good or a bad depending what those rules are. Okay let’s face it this is Ikuhara they’ll be bad. 

First he’s on his phone like in the earlier PV’s and then we see him with the kappazon cardboard box in his hands walking among other people. We get a quick glimpse of a weird golden kappa statue that makes the same kind of pose I assume the boys will do when they transform. What looks like a phone strap with Sara’s kappa-like creature swings by. It’s probably Kazuki’s and he’s a fan of Sara. There’s also a not-so-hidden ア that’s just on a tile on the pavement, showing us that they really are everywhere.

Next up we have Tooi. We’re shown a calendar (that I think is hanging on a classroom wall) with an overview of July and August (covering the summer vacation). Is that when Sarazanmai takes place? The illustrations for the calendar are of kappa. One highlights that kappa like/need water in their “sara” plates, the cavities on top of their heads. The other one depicts their love for sumo-wrestling. These are both typical kappa things we know from having studied the lore!

Tooi himself is along the river talking to his older brother Chikai. “Let’s get this over with. You and I aren’t very different”. There’s also one of the funniest reveals yet when we see Tooi’s weapon up close and it turns out to be a ruler. As a final touch there’s another ア to be seen right next to the brothers.

Then we get Enta’s presentation. At first he’s playing soccer by the river and then we see him holding on to the bracelet he shares with Kazuki. The in-between frame shows us a fish shop. What’s remarkable about it is that all the signs on it say “kiss”. Then we get a kappazon.co.jp box that flies away. Enta talks about having a strong bond that can’t be easily broken. Based on what we know it’s safe to assume he’s talking about Kazuki.

Then things get weirder when it’s Keppi’s time to appear on screen. He’s holding on to a cucumber, which is another thing that kappa love. He tells the boys that they’ve been turned into kappa and that they need to get the zombie shirikodama in order to turn back. We see the boys all slimy and gooey in their new kappa forms. Kazuki still has the box, so it might be something that happens during this walk of his that we’ve been seeing the whole time.

This is a very interesting frame. The pictograms behind the kappa boys look like ghosts. Are they supposed to be the boys’ souls or something like that? Or are they actual spirits wandering around? Story wise them being the boys’ makes more sense, but from an artistic viewpoint I think it’s weird to suddenly draw something that’s part of the main characters in the style that’s deliberately simplified and created for background characters. There’s also the “DO NOT ENTER” sign with the otter symbol and a cross over it. Clearly the otter is unwanted, that’s been confirmed by the Reo and Mabu’s keeponly1luv twitter account as well.

The PV continues with its interesting imagery. The next shot is of this circular shape with the words “no start”, “no end” and “no connection” getting revealed. We’ve heard these words before so they’ll be important.  They all tie together, but we’ll have to wait and see just how. It’s possible that they each apply to one of the three boys. Kazuki can’t connect, Enta doesn’t want to let go (end) and Tooi doesn’t want to uhh... get involved and start anything?? I’ll have to think about this more another time, or please send me your theories!

The background isn’t the same as it was for the spark earlier, but it’s the same style. I wonder if it’ll have anything to do with what the cops are up to because they’ll be introduced soon and they were the ones talking about no beginnings or endings.

The PV continues and there’s a small explosion hiding the boys in a cloud of black smoke while they let out a surprised scream.

Then there’s a pling, which I think resembles the sound an elevator makes when it reaches the right floor and opens its doors. The background is a metallic grey so it might as well be where the scene plays out. Reo and Mabu appear with their weird new catchphrase “Suck out the greed” (or desire!) and there’s some mechanical action that starts. Lights get turned on, gauges reach their max and a bunch of signs with the kanji 吸 “suu”, to suck or inhale appears.

I guess this is their machine for sucking out the greed? Or desire. I’ve pointed out the heart in the upper right corner before but it’s worth pointing out again. Earlier I wondered if this machine was somehow alive, but now I’m thinking that it might just stand for “desire”.

This is all controlled by the otters, the next cut shows us otters decals that are peeling. The otters seem to be controlling some circular objects, not unlike the construction we saw light up earlier.

Then there’s the “desire extraction” that covers all of Asakusa. The cops throw their hats. Celebrating their success? In an attempt to be dramatic? You decide.

Next up the opening there “Massara” by KANA-BOON starts playing and we see the three boys striking poses while in their kappa forms. I’m guessing it’s from the actual OP although it might be part of their transformation sequence.

Following this there’s a scene where the otter symbol all over Asakusa (or Sumida where Tokyo Skytree is located) burning red. It definitely looks like a bad infestation. There’s also a spiral with text reaching down from the heavens. The text is the same as we got in the first teaser PV’s and says “CHARGE” and “desire”. As something new there’s also ハコ which is the word for “box” written in katakana. I think this is a reference to the Box Zombie which is supposed to be the first zombie we’ll be introduced to. There are certainly boxes everywhere in the following shots while the zombie seems to have a lust for more cardboard.

Are the otters summoning the zombies? There’s definitely a connection between them.

Then we see Keppi run with a cart (or whatever it’s called) where the kappa boys sit. They seem pretty chill so I wonder if this is after their fight with the zombie? Next up we see one of these legendary shirikodama balls. It’s a ball with the kanji for butt on it. Then the three kappa boys are flying around, apparently connecting through the sarazanmai. They managed to connect in one way at least by holding on to each other’s hands.

I also find this next image interesting, it really plays up the “connection” part of Sarazanmai. We get the ア again and what looks like a mobile signal. It’s a very modern and a very literal interpretation. Ikuhara has mentioned the era of the internet and how easy it is to connect through the use of smartphones and apps several times when he’s talked about the inspirations behind Sarazanmai. Old vs. new has been another topic and this highlights that as well.

After this we see another shot of the Asakusa Sara TV program. The text is the same as previously but this time the image is of a traditionally drawn Japanese woman. Is this where the “old” is brought in?

Then this is another one of my favourite shots! It’s the Niimi Yoshokkiten kitchenware department store, that’s also the building where Reo and Mabu’s “Asakusa Sara Kouban” is located. Their police box/station is the red structure at the bottom of the building and I think we can see their silhouettes inside of it. What I really love about this image though is the otter that’s next to the giant chefs head on top. To be clear, the chef’s head is actually there in real life actual Asakusa while the otter is something the anime added there. I think this highlights the fact that Reo and Mabu are working under the otter (literally! - pun not intended).

The signs on the building are a bit difficult to decipher, but I see ウソ a lot which means lie. There’s also something about the world and food/eating? The text on the top that says “kawau” is probably in reference to “kawauso” which means otter.

As a side note I want to point out that the second teaser PV that featured the otter symbol had a narration about lies and otters. Could it be about Reo and Mabu? Who’s the one with the strong desire…

Right after that split second image we get this one. That’s an otter! Clearly controlling/ordering all the other otters around! Mabu makes a comment that someone tries to get in their way, which we can assume will be the three boys. Are they confirmed villains now? I feel like a lot of people aren’t buying it. With Ikuhara first impressions are often deceiving and characters can have good reasons for their seemingly horrible actions, so I wouldn’t count in it.

Next Asakusa Sara TV reports on flying boxes. The text that is show on screen is absolutely horrible to read and full with silly puns on Sara’s name and her using “dish” instead of “desu”. It’s cute as long as you don’t have to translate it yourself. The time here is 19:00 which makes me think that this PV covers the entire first episode and will end here with this (it was 7:55 at the start).

Reo and Mabu have their little quasi villain speech and then Keppi talks to the boys and says “you’re as dead as you are alive”. Does this have to do with the “turning into kappa” process and the “ghosts” I mentioned earlier? Are the boys’ actually half-alive, half-dead? Isn’t that what zombies are? Suddenly things are starting to make more sense!

There’s quite a lot going on visually. Keppi’s eyes look terrifying. They’re large, read, black and purple. He seems to clapping, so I’m guessing this happens after the boys have dealt with the zombie successfully. One of the ア signs falls down and is heavy enough to break the pavement. There’s a close-up of Kazuki’s face where he looks kind of frightened and surprised and then in classic Ikuhara fashion there’s a shot of hands trying to hold on to each other but not being able to do so. However, unlike in his previous works there are now three of them. It’s most likely for the three boys, although it could also be one boy using both of his hands.

Then there’s text on the screen that says “even if you connect”. Tooi fills in that he “won’t let you have it”, Enta says that he “doesn’t ask for anything else” while Kazuki “can’t bear to lose his connection”. Tooi’s just angsting in front of the lockers, Enta’s shown where he was practising football, but what’s interesting is that he has a kappazon box right next to him. It looks like the one Kazuki was carrying. Could it be the same? Could it have been for him? Kazuki’s chilling somewhere (at home?) out of frame with his phone in his hands. He has the Sara strap on it and a tiny otter icon appears on the screen.

Then the most mysterious thing in the PV happens with all these ア signs flying around and uhh... through Kazuki? The pink things look a little bit like buildings, are they perhaps reflections? The sparkles and the rainbow give this image the impression there’s something reflective. I really don’t have that much else to say although I’d love to be able to do so.

The PV ends with the three boys appearing as kappa yelling “sara” and “sarazanmai”. The final shot shows us the iconic look over Asakusa and Sumida with the tagline “Don’t let go. Desire is your life.” The ア’s are everywhere.

#sarazanmai #sarazanmai thoughts and analysis #sarazanmai nonsense #my nonsense

[babyi]

Thank U, Next: Album Review

Disclaimer: These opinions below are my own and only opinions. It’s okay not to agree with anything I will say here, this is my personal experience of the album. Also the album hasn’t been out long yet so it hasn’t had the chance to marinate yet and opinions might change in time. Y’all asked for it. 

Imagine: 4/10

This is not the most interesting song on the album, but it’s chill and nice to have on. The whistles are everything and really, for me, pull the song from boring into being an interesting experimentation piece. I don’t have a lot of reasons why this would be the first song but it’s not a bad opener. I guess this song is an alright song, a little underrated and a weird choice for a single given the other singles and how much Ariana doesn’t appear to care about it. The lyrics are similarly okay, not groundbreaking but not a fuckup (except the use of ‘sleep’ instead of ‘asleep’?) and the concept is sweetly sad. 

Needy: 8/10

Bop bop bop. It’s not a strong song like a big ballad or brave r&b statement but for what she is, she’s still important. The concept is everything, and it didn’t let me down which is important to me. It was the snippet that I was looking forward to and it did deliver the slow jam with a unique depreciating but honest message. The vocals aren’t stunning but she does sing and it feels really personal and heartfelt. And the babyloves instrumental at the end cinches this as a favourite of mine, it just sounds so pure and it’s a real relatable song. 

NASA: 5/10

Apparently quite a controversial one, either people are loving it or ignoring it. It does have a ‘kiss me thru the phone’ vibe, but I think she’s cute. Again, not a big statement but satisfying as a basic r&b moment. The lyrics are great in this song, despite the repetitive ‘imma need spice’ chorus, the verses have some original concepts and storyline. It has a really cool alternative, almost spin-off vibe to God Is A Woman with the space parallels and some linking lyrics about ‘your orbit’. And whenever Ariana manages to have a concept that doesn’t just revolve around penis in the vag I always nut, and this song is actually about the opposite and pushing someone away which is refreshing. The song is ultimately a bit forgettable but has some redeeming qualities that make me glad it made it to the album.  

Bloodline: 2/10

Nonna is a nice touch but I don’t really care about it? I don’t think about it unless it’s on. It’s good to come to a more upbeat song after the first three, and it’s catchy- with a kinda havana spanish vibe? It would have been interesting to see what would have happened if this was a single instead of Imagine, but as a 2019 song it’s almost a little outdated as music has evolved from despacito’s popularity. The lyrics are basic and something more familiar to Ariana’s usual style of vocals with some signature ‘yuh’s. I can see why people would enjoy it, and I think if it played in a club, no-one would object but for me idc. 

Fake Smile: 4/10

Starting to get tired of these alternative ‘sample’ beginnings to her songs on this album. But I like the sound of the song a lot. It reminds me heavily of Lily Allen? And y’all know I don’t like unnecessary swearing which the chorus of this song has a lot of I think. It has some of greedy’s backing vocals but goes in a different direction with vibe, however the concept really puts me off. We have this ‘’my life is hard the media and rumours are hard’’ in SO MANY other Ariana songs and I am TIRED. Go talk to You Dont Know Me or IDC for those tired concepts. She really doesn’t seem to be focusing on the positivity when she’s always putting out songs like this which is a shame because I really like Lily Allen’s music. 

Bad Idea: 7/10

We start out so strong with this song, and I really like it. The chorus really makes me wanna bop, it’s a good catchy song. Since someone pointed out the ‘ari-chan’ bit I’ve really not been able to unhear it which sucks. But in my opinions it’s like a better/alternative version of dw’s Bad Decisions. It’s not the most unique of concepts but I really like the climax vocal moment in it and it reminds me of breathin at that part. The orchestral part at the end confuses me a little? It doesn’t really go but doesn’t ruin it for me- I’ll always take some strings. 

Make Up: 0/10

I’m not a fan. It’s another one of those trippy pharrell-esque beats with no real content and some more rap-singing. Not much to say about this one, I just don’t really like it, it’s a skip from me. Issa mood issa vibe isn’t good lyrics, it doesn’t have any good melodies or vocals that would endear it to me. The beat kinda sounds like it’s falling down the stairs slowly. I just don’t think it’s album material. 

Ghostin: 10/10

Now she’s a CONCEPT. Her voice sounds heavenly and in my opinion this song has some of the best concepts and lyrics on the album. It’s a sad bop but so so needed after all Ariana has been through with her bereavement and loss. It’s so sad and sends my heart to her, she’s serenading her tears and fears to us on this song and really telling us what is going on with some of her sadder moments. It’s bittersweet and uses the concept of ‘ghosting’ as a double meaning for mac’s spirit and as the colloquial slang meaning to break up with or ignore [her current love]. It’s clever and meaningful and so good, we were blessed with the harmonies and strings on this one. 

In My Head: 9/10

Doug PREACH, this is one of the only times I will praise speaking samples in music because his part of this song is so good and necessary. Doug telling Ariana ‘enough is enough’ is PEAK reliability and you get a good sense of their friendship and her life at that point in time. The song itself pops off, it takes some of the previous ‘pete’ concepts of ‘i thought you into my life’ and develops it into this idea that she actually created that version of that person and how detrimental that can be. I think we’ve all created a vision of a person in our heads before and can relate to the concept. The lyrics are good, and the melodies and vocals are good. Mostly on this one I like the concepts that arise in the lyrics. It also lyrically ties to why try with the demons and angels visuals which i cant get enough of even if ariana shits on why try. I even enjoy (and laugh at) the scoot scoot part. It’s just a good ass r&b song that I thoroughly enjoy. 

7 Rings: 1/10

Listen, do I sing along to this song: Yes. Does that mean I think it’s good music? No. I dont like the concept nor the unoriginality of the verses just being a big sample from another song. I dont care about this flex, and I dont relate. Ariana is too rich and always has been so this song holds more jealousy and distaste for me. I don’t mind the ‘you like my hair?’ lyric but I do know about the controversy with that black woman who sang that lyric about weave and imo it’s a whole ass messssssss. The review of this song by itself could be a whole post but I’ll leave it with just saying I don’t like it. 

Thank U, Next: 10/10

A sweetheart. Really the only pop song on the album, and just a good song. It’s a classic successful max martin song, and I like the self love addition to the lyrics. It’s finally a song that ISNT about penis in vag and I was very excited when it came out. This song is going to get overplayed soon but I’m very proud of it as her first #1, I feel like it’s real and she tried very hard with it. It’s a good concept and aside from not promoting it well, deserves more recognition for the good all-round song it is. Kinda wish the U was a You but this is Ariana so I’ll just live with it. 

Break Up With Your Girlfriend, I’m Bored: 1/10

This song starts hot and a bit like an attack, which is in contrast to the likes of Bad Idea which is a softer but still strong start. My opinions on the MV aside, it’s catchy but it’s basic. This is probably the least produced song on the album imo, and is what people would expect of her probably. It’s darker and I don’t go out of my way to play it. I do like the chorus and would sing along, but it doesn’t thrill me. I think it’s kinda funny? But unfortunately the song is not meant in satire. Also the title is just too damn long. 

Overall:

The album is still new to me but it has a few really redeemable songs on it. I’ve said it before but my view on it is of this album being a kinda darker side B of sweetener. I think it’s sonically cohesive as an album, only thank u next the title track really sounds different from the themes of the rest of the album. I was pleasantly surprised by the lyrics on this album, and how several of the concepts were a step away from basic fucking tracks. I dont hate it or think it’s a bad album but coupled with sweetener you can definitely see a strong move away from pop or anything ballad-y which would make any sort of good use of her voice which is a shame because she has the talent for broadway, not rap. Ariana’s career mistakes aside, it’s as good an album as I would expect to see from her at this stage and she is definitely getting more confident in sharing real parts of her life in music which is positive. 

#ariana grande #thank u next #album review #should i put this under a cut?

[mahalzevran]

DA 20+ Questions

Tagged by @antivan-surana​ thanks! Tagging @situationnormal​ @the-dread-doggo​ @acepavus​ @aroundofgwent​ @lakambaeni​ @kxnways​ @fuckbioware​ (no pressure ofc) and anyone who wants to?

The rest is under a read more because it’s long

01) Favourite game of the series?

Origins, only because you got less and less op as a mage as the games went on. I love all the games tbh.

02) How did you discover Dragon Age?

My friend got my sister into it. They kept talking and talking about it so finally I was like “ok lets see what the big deal is” and here I am now

03) How many times you’ve played the games?

I’ve done Origins twice fully, DA2 four times fully (omg I didn’t realize this until now lol) and DA:I just once fully. I have one unfinished playthrough of Origins with a Cousland, and I’m in the middle of maybe two of DA:I. I think I’ve gone back and replayed certain parts of both Origins and DA:I plenty of times.

04) Favourite race to play as?

Elf I guess? Though I’ve only fully played as a human and elf. I’m in the middle of a dwarf playthrough and I’m thinking of doing a qunari one in the future. It might change idk.

I just really liked playing as an elf in Origins so that’s why I got into elves. But the funny thing is, I wasn’t even thinking of playing as an elf when I played for the first time. I wanted to play as a human. I just did it on a whim.

05) Favourite class?

Mage, hands down. Realistically, they’re the most versatile class. They can do range and melee since anyone can learn how to fight with weapons. But the last two games won’t let you so :)

Also, this stems from the fact that I’ve been a harry potter fan since I could remember.

06) Do you play through the games differently or do you make the same decisions each time?

In my full, proper playthroughs that I’ve finished, it’s slightly different but still the same basic ideas. Sided with mages, agreed with Anders, etc.

But I am planning to try an evil playthrough in the future so

07) Go-to adventuring group?

DA:O (I have two)

Leliana, Wynne, Shale - the OG crew; they were my main crew in my first playthrough and it was a pretty even party

Zevran, Leliana, Alistair - the elf crew; esp. with Rhian they’re all elves because I saw a theory that Leliana is half elf and I’m down

DA2

It’s a mixed bag. If I’m not playing as a mage, I usually take Anders a lot because we need a healer and Merrill can’t heal. I tend not to take Sebastian as much after I max his friendship. After Sebastian, I take Aveline the least. Other than that I just mix it up. Unless I’m romancing someone, then I take them every time.

I’d love to take Anders, Fenris, and Merrill out more often but I hate how mean they all are to each other (looking @ u bioware 👀)

DA:I

My first playthrough, I mixed it up a lot in the beginning but then I ended up bringing Solas, Cole, and Blackwall a lot near the end for some reason?

I love taking Vivienne, Dorian, and Solas out, especially if I’m playing a mage, because it’s such a pretty fireworks show

In general though, if I’m romancing someone I take them with me almost always.

08) Which of your characters did you put the most thought into?

I think it’s a tie between Rhian and Lu.

09) Favourite romance?

To no one’s surprise, it’s Zevran :3

Solas is second because I just really like that angst.

10) Have you read any of the comics/books?

I’ve read The Silent Grove, Those Who Speak, and Until We Speak (because someone gifted me the Omnibus) and The Calling.

I also have Hard in Hightown, which I should probably read lol, and the art book of inquisition.

11) If you read them, which was your favourite book?

The Calling solely because of my mom Fiona and my dad Duncan. 

12) Favourite DLCs?

Awakening because I love everyone and its also really funny that Rhian, who is 19 at that point, had to basically babysit people older than her and also run a whole arling.

I love both Legacy and Mark of the Assassin. Mark of the Assassin was really funny (though I hated the stealth part). I love Legacy specifically because when I was fighting Corypheus, both Varric and Anders K.O.’d and it was just me and Carver. It was a special family moment bringing down a whole entire magister together. I also hc that that was canon and it brought Kaia and Carver closer together.

13) Things that annoy you.

I’m gonna talk about the game bc if this is about the fandom, then that’s a whole other thing.

Anders’ writing for one. It doesn’t make sense that he’d approve of giving Fenris back to Danarius. And also that he wouldn’t tell f!Hawke that he’s bi? Then there’s the fact that Anders, Fenris, and Merrill all don’t get along when they have a lot in common.

Anything that was written by Lukas Krisdkjsdhkdk. Aveline, Sera, etc. he did a really bad job.

Also didn’t like that mages got less OP in the last two games.

There’s also the tone-deafness? Dorian, a brown man, saying slavery is ok. And also there’s the dialogue between Solas and Vivienne where Solas supposedly “owns” Vivienne. I think he says something like “may you learn”? Solas, a white person, saying this to Vivienne, a black woman, when there’s obvious colorism in Thedas? I think not.

There’s probably other but I can’t think of them right now.

14) Orlais or Ferelden?

Orlais is too snooty and Ferelden doesn’t season their food. I pick Seheron and Laysh because that’s where the Asians are at.

15) Templars or mages?

Mages

16) If you have multiple characters, are they in different/parallel universes or in the same one?

Originally, my canonverse was Rhian, Kaia, and Luwalhati. Alden and Bolin were part of an AU. Then Alden finagled his way in there, then I decided to have Bolin in there too. So now i have twin Hawkes and Bolin is part of the Inquisition (if he’s a companion or not, I haven’t thought about)

I have plenty of other OCs that I’m planning on, but they’re currently sorted into a different universe.

17) What did you name your pets? (mabari, summoned animals, mounts, etc)

Pikamon for the Origins mabari. It’s a mix between the names of my two dogs, Pikachu and Cinnamon

Cinnachu for the DA2 mabari, also a mix of Pikachu and Cinnamon.

Lu’s mount is the royal sixteen (hart), which is given to you by Clan Lavellan if you manage to keep them alive iirc, and its name is Luntian, the tagalog word for green which is her favorite color. (In a teen!Lu AU, her mount is the bog unicorn bc she’s an edgelord)

18) Have you installed any mods?

It would be more surprising if I didn’t. How else would I manage to have my characters look like the’re poc?? And also get rid of whitewashing and have some continuity. I usually just do cosmetic mods if it’s my first playthrough. Then I do like “cheats” after I finish the game fully.

Fun fact, I once spent like 2+ hrs modding Origins to have the Zev romance the way I want. I also stayed up until like 5am trying to make Solas look like his concept art lol (it didn’t really work)

19) Did your Warden want to become a Grey Warden?

Rhian didn’t not want to become a warden. She read about them and thought they were an honorable order, but she didn’t expect to ever have a chance to become one. Her goal was to just go up in the Circle hierarchy, maybe even become First Enchanter. Then when the time came, she didn’t really have much of a choice.

20) Hawke’s personality?

Kaia is blue and Alden is purple

21) Did you make matching armor for your companions in Inquisition?

At first, I didn’t get what the big deal was with crafting. It didn’t seem fun at all lol. Then I tried it and was hooked. I don’t have them matching, but I do tend to try to match my Inquisitor with their LI in some way.

My usual procedure for armor in Inquisition is like this. I make everyone wear heavy armor and pick the materials that have the highest attributes, not caring how ridiculous the colors are. Then I go to tint them using a guide for each companion’s color scheme. This is the same for helmet but I usually have them turned off or have no one wearing one.

The only exception is Varric, Cole, and Blackwall. I have Varric wear the rogue armor that looks like his DA2 outfit, and Cole and Blackwall wear the Grey Warden heavy armor. I tint the grey warden armor using a guide for its color scheme.

I have Bull, Vivienne, and Cole wear their unique helmets.

22) If your character(s) could go back in time to change one thing, what would they change?

Rhian - She’d probably want to re-do how she told Zevran that she wasn’t exactly dead.

Kaia - Taken Quentin’s threat more seriously and killed him before he got to Leandra

Alden - He has no regrets

Luwalhati - wouldn’t have taken Sam and Wis with her so they wouldn’t have had to have died in the conclave explosion

Bolin - None, all of his decisions led him to Dorian and he’s happy with that.

23) Do you have any headcanons about your character(s) that go against canon?

They’re all at least part Seheron?

I also hc that neither Carver nor Bethany die because Kaia was able to cast a barrier on both of them before the ogre got them. Then they both became Grey Wardens because Carver contracted the taint in the expedition and wouldn’t join the Wardens unless Bethany came with him too.

Another hc I have is that Sebastian didn’t leave when Anders was spared and stayed to help out. But he went his separate way after because he still didn’t approve of sparing him.

Oh shoot, I almost forgot. The most against canon thing I’ve done probably? Rhian didn’t do the Ritual but she did slay the archdemon without dying. Rhian’s an arcane warrior, so when she slayed it, she was partway in the fade. Being partway into the fade was enough for her essence, I guess, to survive it. But she’s not mortal anymore and kind of a spirit now? So she periodically has to chill in the fade because being in the real world takes a toll on her.

25) Who did you leave in the Fade?

In the game, it was Stroud. I killed Loghain and no way is Alistair gonna be trapped in there. Fiona will be sad. So I made Alistair king in the game only, so Stroud was the one that was left.

This is another off canon thing I did. In my actual canon, Alistair is the warden contact. The Hawke that comes to the Inquisition is both Kaia and Alden. Alden brings Fenris with him because he doesn’t go anywhere without his Boo-Boo. Bethany and Carver also come because Weisshaupt was being weird and it seemed like they would be safer in the Inquisition. Lu + her party, Alistair, Kaia, Alden, Fenris, Bethany, and Carver all come to Adamant. Because there’s so many people, everyone was able to escape the Fade. No one is left behind.

26) Favourite mount? The nugs! All of them :) 

Though I don’t really use the mounts lol

#tag meme #whew this was really long omg #thanks for tagging though! #about me

[goauldendelicious]

okay so, safe in the knowledge that few people I know irl follow this blog and that y’all ain’t gonna snitch, here’s the thing: Chloe Price has killed me this week, and it’s only fair. I really enjoyed Life is Strange when it came out. The Oregon setting, the small-town-with-secrets vibe, the lack of time-pressure (lol) for having to make decisions... it’s all my jam. But in hindsight playing it episodically meant I never fully INVESTED. A lot of real world bidness happened in between me playing each episode. The immediacy of the story faded a little, dimmed a little, each time. So I really liked, but didn’t really love. Until I hit the last act of Polarised, Episode 5. #spoilers btw And that final nightmare walk through past memories really brought home to me why I’d liked the game so much, and why - if I’d played it without months-gaps - I would have loved it. Because of Chloe Godsdamn Price. As Max I’m walking past all these memories I have of my time reuniting with Chloe, the tensions of the past five years of absence slowly eroding, the in-jokes, the new frustrations, the dancing, the tears (oh, gods the tears)... And it slowly dawns on me, that while I’ve been spending time carefully deliberating all of Max’s decisions, whether she should rewind to fix every little detail, whether it’s acceptable to re-do conversations so people like you more, or just to find The Killer (FUCK YOU, JEFFERSON AND PRESCOTT although this really requires its own unpacking that doesn’t belong here...) that something more fundamental has been seeping in, and I’ve noticed only the crest of it: an emotional iceberg. Namely that Chloe Price - oh-so-perfectly voiced by Ashly Burch - is the heart of this game. Not Max, not Rachel Amber, not the abstraction of “time-travel”... But Chloe. And so as that dark lighthouse looms closer, I realise (undoubtedly quite late) where this path leads, and why. And I fucking HATE IT, because I know what choice I have to make. I have to sacrifice Chloe Price. Sure enough, stood under the shattered lighthouse, limned by lightning flashes, the Storm rolling ever closer, Chloe tells me to go back one last time and Not Save Her. She tells me to save her mom. She tells me to save Arcadia Bay, this home shit home she was so desperate to leave. And most importantly she tells me to make those fuckers pay for what they did to Rachel. And after I return to my computer from the floor where I’ve been curled up sobbing because I’m a grown-ass adult who can’t handle this fucking shit, I do it, I do as she says. Because I’d done the same in episode four’s alternate universe when she’d asked. Because as much stick as Arcadia Bay gets, its residents are not all total dicks deserving devastating wind-based murder. Because being responsible for the deaths of hundreds (if not more) on the grounds that I love this dear friend would kinda destroy the moral high ground over Jefferson (especially since he’d probably NOT be killed, being currently hogtied in his own godsdamn hellbunker...) Because in this universe where Rachel Amber’s doe-spirit has guided us towards her resting place, I can’t NOT believe Chloe could be reunited with her. Because of SO MANY REASONS. Because it’s the godsdamn only choice to make. Chloe and Max kiss, the past set back on its original course, Foals’ Spanish Sahara winds up, and I return to sobbing on the floor, hating myself) (as an aside, after watching the bae>bay, ending, I begin to feel *slightly* better, because...it seems really off and way too cheery considering what’s just happened, especially when Chloe smiles at Max as they drive past the ruins of the diner Joyce is lying dead in, like wtf?) Skip ahead to my playthrough of Before the Storm. I’ve avoided playing it for months since it’s actual release because I know what effect it’s going to have on me. But I decide it’s time. So I clear a nice sobbing-patch on the floor and begin... And it’s perfect. Chloe is the same, but earlier (and yes, no Ashly Burch voicing, but she helped write Chloe’s script and you can absolutely feel her there, and Rhianna DeVries did a wonderful job embodying her). It’s a beautiful game, and a heartwarming one, and a heartBREAKING one, and everything I hoped it would be. And throughout, I intermittently go to my weeping-place because I remember what’s coming, where this all leads. I’m not angered by this. Unlike many players and reviewers, I don’t see the final choice I made in the original game as invalidating any of the events that preceded it, which extends to the events of Before the Storm. Life is Strange is not a game to be WON. You’re never awarded points, gain levels, ranked on a leaderboard. Rather, it’s a game that asks what is most important to you, what you care about, about great power and responsibility, and lightly nudges you towards thinking before you speak and act harshly. It’s a game where Chloe Price’s world falls apart, through next to no fault of her own. It’s a game where a wanna pirate loses her father, best friend, and spark of hope for the world. And when that spark is rekindled, some fucktographer and his broken protege snuff it out again. Chloe is filled with anger and pain and cynicism and confusion in the original game. The opportunity in Before the Storm to see her in happier times with Rachel Amber and with Max (in the Farewell bonus episode) is blessing and curse. The painful imagery of her as storm-sprite Ariel in The Tempest. The first donning of William’s clothes. Her first kiss with Rachel. The blue hair. I rejoiced with her, and mourned her loss ever-more. And so I have once again returned to replay the original game. Not with the intention of changing any choices, not even the Final Choice. But because Chloe deserves to have those five days where she remembers that she is not completely alone, that her pirate companion loves her dearly, and that Jefferson is going to fucking PAY. They are not pointless days; there the best we could expect in this shitty situation, and by the gods we made the most of them. When the butterfly reunites with the doe, I trust they’ll both know this. You know those “what’s you’re favourite x,y,z?” questions, and some it’s really hard to give an honest answer to? Ice-cream flavours are notorious for this effect. Well id never had that problem with “who is your favourite fictional character?”: even before the questions over, I’m thinking “His Grace, His Excellency, The Duke of Ankh, Blackboard Monitor, Vetinari’s Terrier; Commander Sir Samuel Vimes” (see Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series). But now... now my heart is torn between him and my faithful chauffeur and companion, my sidekick, my Scary Punk Ghost: Chloe Price. 🦋💙

#massively fucking rambly #but I love her #also I have preorder the fuck out of the post-bae>bay ending comic because I’m a massive hypocrite and need more Chloe despite killing her #Chloe price #life is strange

[gailmalooft]

Distiller’s Friday Roundup – September 21st, 2018

When fall hits it at all times feels just like the floodgates open up and each week we’re hit with rankings of press releases for brand spanking new spirits. Quickly, your wishlists will likely be brimming with the bottles you’re seeking to get your arms on. Let’s dive proper in to the scoop and the entire new releases for the week!

Did You Omit The Buffalo Hint Vintage Assortment 2018 Information?

When you ignored it, the once a year free up of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection was once introduced this week. All your favourite bourbons and ryes are again, and for essentially the most phase there have been no large surprises. This is, except for for Eagle Uncommon 17 Yr, which has moved from 90 evidence to 101 evidence.

Annually we get peppered with requests for inside of knowledge on the place to trace those bottles down. The solution is that there’s no solution. There’s no secret web page or retailer with a password that may ensure you a shot at those bottles. Our best possible advice is to start out cultivating relationships along with your native spirits shops and to find out what they have got deliberate. Some retail outlets can have auctions, others will be offering bottles quietly to unswerving shoppers, and nonetheless others received’t even trouble seeking to promote those bottles as a result of the hoops they have got to leap thru to get them.

There actually isn’t a attempted and true system that applies to everybody, so get started doing the legwork now to determine what’s occurring for your neck of the woods. Those bottles will get started hitting retail outlets in overdue September and during October. One ultimate be aware: each and every bottle is indexed at a urged $99 retail value, however the true costs will range broadly. Be expecting some decal surprise when you’re no longer ready.

Musical Chairs at Maker’s Mark, Jim Beam and Heaven Hill

This week introduced information of a few large strikes for grasp distillers within the bourbon trade. Greg Davis, who has been the grasp distiller at Maker’s Mark courting again to 2010, was once simply named director of distillation for Jim Beam’s Clermont and Boston places. He’ll center of attention on Jim Beam and the Small Batch Bourbon Assortment.

Maker’s Mark will change Davis with Denny Potter, the grasp distiller for Heaven Hill. He prior to now spent seven years at Maker’s Mark, then moved to Heaven Hill, and was once named grasp distiller in 2013.

The present VP of operations and plant supervisor at Maker’s Mark, Victoria MacRae-Samuels will relocate to the World Innovation Middle in Clermont because the senior director of world high quality for Beam Suntory.

Highland Park Bottles a 50 Yr Previous Whisky

Highland Park 50 Year (2018 Edition) is a type of merchandise this is type of imply to hide. It’s priced at $15,000/£13,500 and handiest 274 bottles had been even crammed. Nonetheless, it’s lovely spectacular and one thing you’ll upload for your “By no means Gonna Occur” record. A boy can dream, proper?

This unmarried malt was once distilled in 1964 and is a bottling of 2 sherry-seasoned Spanish hogshead casks. Those two hogshead casks sat aspect through aspect for almost 5 a long time, but if it got here time to marry them on the emblem’s warehouse in Glasgow, they needed to clear up an excessively actual downside. The 2 casks had been so uncommon and so treasured that sending them at the identical send to the mainland was once out of the query. As an alternative, each and every cask was once despatched on a separate send; one in September, and the opposite in October of 2009.

The casks had been married for an additional 8 years, and Max McFarlane, Highland Park’s longest-serving whisky maker, offered a small quantity of the unique 1960 antique of the Highland Park 50 Yr, first launched in 2010.

It is available in an ornamental glass bottle which is contained within an oak field and in addition includes a crystal decanter and brown leather-based guide. It’s bottled at 42.three% ABV and can turn out to be to be had at choose specialist shops beginning on the finish of September 2018.

Extra New Bottles Than You Can Shake A Stick At

This time of 12 months is equivalent portions thrilling and difficult for us at Distiller. Every so often within the fall it will probably look like each emblem on Earth has made up our minds to free up new merchandise at the identical day. Whilst there are way more releases popping out each week than lets hope to hide in one put up, those are the brand new releases that we’re ensuring to spotlight.

Papa’s Pilar Bourbon Barrel Finished Dark Rum 95 Proof

A mix of column and pot nonetheless rums from the Caribbean, the United States, and Central The us, this rum is called in honor of Ernest “Papa” Hemingway. The rums are solera elderly in American oak ex-barrels, port wine, and sherry casks. It then additional ages in ex-bourbon casks after mixing.

The rum emblem was once evolved along side Hemingway’s property, with a portion of the income going to charity. The rum is a restricted version free up of handiest 2,000 circumstances. It turns into to be had in October of 2018. It’s bottled at 47.five% ABV with a urged retail value of $47.

Kavalan Distillery Select

Created to have fun the craftsmanship of Kavalan Grasp Blender, Ian Chang, after successful The Icons of Whisky’s 2018 “Distiller of the Yr” and its 2017 “Global Emblem Ambassador”, in addition to the Global Whiskies Awards’ 2015 “Distillery Supervisor and Grasp Distiller of the Yr”.

It matures in choose malt impartial casks and is bottled at 43% ABV. It is going to turn out to be to be had in the USA beginning in September of 2018 for a urged retail value of $60.

Jim Beam Repeal Batch

This limited-edition bottling celebrates the 85th anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition. This is a non-chill filtered Kentucky Directly Bourbon, bottled at 86-proof.

“For the 85th anniversary of Repeal Day, we would have liked to free up a bourbon impressed through our heritage and devoted to the onerous paintings my great-grandfather put into rebuilding our circle of relatives industry after Prohibition,” says Fred Noe, Jim Beam’s 7th technology grasp distiller. “Jim Beam Repeal Batch can pay tribute to all of the generations of Beams that got here ahead of me.”

It’s elderly for 4 years and can turn out to be to be had for a restricted time starting in September for a urged retail value of $17.99 in keeping with 750ml bottle.

Japanese Harmony 30th Anniversary Special Bottling

Created to have fun the 30th anniversary of the Suntory Whisky Hibiki emblem, this restricted version bottle turns into broadly to be had in the USA on October 1st, 2018.

Impressed through a standard kimono trend, the bottle is adorned with the tabane-noshi, a standard Jap image of birthday party that has ceaselessly embellished treasured presents since precedent days.

“Because the emblem was once first established, Hibiki has been a illustration of Jap artwork and design,” says Takahiro Itoga, Senior World Emblem Director at Beam Suntory. “This specially-designed bottle honors that spirit, using conventional Jap symbols to create a design representing each birthday party and shared happiness.”

The whisky within the bottle will nonetheless be the usual Hibiki Japanese Harmony. It carries a urged retail value of $100 in keeping with 750ml bottle.

Old Ezra Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon

This week the oldsters at Luxco introduced Previous Ezra Barrel Energy Kentucky Directly Bourbon Whiskey. It’s elderly seven years and bottled at barrel power of 117 evidence.

For the primary time, the bottles are embossed with each the Ezra Brooks “EB” monogram and the Lux Row Distillers brand around the most sensible. The bottle could also be corked with herbal cork and a wood most sensible.

It’s set to debut national q4. The urged retail value is $39.99.

Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey

You’ve nearly for sure heard of Irish combined martial artist and former UFC featherweight and light-weight champion Conor McGregor. What you won’t know is that he’s been running on growing his personal whiskey emblem at the back of the scenes for years.

He tapped grasp distiller David Elder, prior to now of Guinness, and set to work bringing the whiskey to fruition.

“We created just about 100 blends and in the long run decided on what we knew was once the only and handiest right kind whiskey mix. We took the time to broaden an implausible whiskey and I’m excited to percentage it with the sector,” says McGregor.

Right kind No. Twelve Irish Whiskey turns into to be had in Eire and the USA in September of 2018 and is bottled at 80 evidence.

With Distiller, you’ll at all times know what’s within the bottle ahead of you spend a cent. Charge, Evaluate, and Uncover spirits! Head on over to Distiller, or obtain the app for iOS and Android these days!

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from http://liquorgiftbaskets.net/2018/09/22/distillers-friday-roundup-september-21st-2018/

[darkestwolfx]

Up From the Depths P.2 - Re-Review #33

Look at that scenery! It gets me every time, I will be honest.

“This is Thunderbird One in immediate pursuit of The Mechanic.”

“I’ve got you Thunderbird One. Thunderbird Five is tracking you at a thousand metres and closing.”

“The TV-21... I haven’t seen it since I was a kid. It’s just as cool as I remember.”

“Please use caution, Scott. The Mechanic must be piloting remotely. That means he’s got nothing to lose.”

“Except Dad’s old plane he’s carrying.”

“Scott, there’s a safe area up ahead. You could knock out the TV-21 and bring down the plane with zero civilian causalities.”

“No way, Thunderbird Five. That plane belongs to us and I’m going to get i back in one piece.”

And that decision causes a load of problems - but had Scott not made that call, the episode would have been quite a bit shorter, and Scott probably wouldn’t have met Ned - and I wouldn’t have been able to write a fic about called ‘When Scott met Ned’, so I’ll go with it.

“Scott, when I designed the TV-21, you’re Dad wanted all the thrust I could give him. That booster is the most powerful I’ve ever built.”

“More powerful than Thunderbird One?”

“Well... yes.”

“Thunderbird One is going down!”

Grandma being able to give Scott those instructions makes a lot more sense now the whole series has aired. When we first saw this episode, I was a little bit like.. explanation please? (Because based on TOS Grandma; she didn’t seem the type to fly). But, it’s okay, they came through and gave it to us.

“Don’t worry, I won’t let the TV-21 out of my sight.”

We know you won’t John.

“Thunderbird Shadow moves fast and quiet. He won’t hear me coming.”

And another Kayo ‘I can totally manage a solo mission moment’. Yeah, remember one of the last ones? As in the nearly dying part (’Touch and Go’)? Clearly not. Is it just me, or is that getting a little bit repetitive and annoying now? I really found that Kayo had an attitude in this two-parter.

I for one, am very glad Grandma called in some assistance.

“Hello, Dear? Are you busy?”

“Never too busy for you, Mrs Tracy.”

“How would you like a second chance to get The Mechanic?”

“I’d enjoy it more than Parker likes complaining about the weather. Scotland, Parker.”

“Right haway, M’Lady. hOf hall the places to ‘ide hout ‘e picks the rainy hone.”

Parker, I’d like to claim that such might actually be me, down here n the South West coast. Hello, always rains down here... except it’s actually really nice right now. I claim it’s the lack of pollutants affecting the air quality and atmosphere. But’s that’s just one girl’s theory.

Look at his face, his poor little face. Thunderbird Four really is in a state though...

“What do you think?”

“I think we have a lot of work to do.”

Scott looks so sad, sat back at his dad’s desk, bless him. Knowing him he’s probably reliving the fact that he failed to get the TV-21 back. He’s always too hard on himself. Anyone else remember the events of ‘Recharge’? Virgil, come give him another talking to, please.

“I get that everybody loves the TV-21, but it’s just a plane.”

“It’s also a symbol of your Father’s determination. Ever since he was a boy, your Father dreamed he’d be the fastest pilot who ever flew.”

“So he and Brains built the TV-21?”

“It was beautiful! Dream come true!”

“Until The Hood crashed it.”

“But he didn’t crash his dream. Your Dad didn’t care about being fastest anymore. He only cared about being first. First on the scene when people need help. First to act when someone’s in trouble. And instead of one ship to do it all, he built five. The TV-21 was the beginning of International Rescue.”

“We need to get that plane back!”

That’s the spirit, Alan!

I’m loving all these scenes on Tracy Island in this episode just to say. Definitely another reason why it makes it into my favorites. It’s an episode which really succeeds in making the boys both human and heroes and I will endlessly love how well written this family was in this two-parter.

“What’s the situation, John?”

“The Mechanic’s craft has stopped over the GDF’s high security iridium vault. The GDF are responding now.”

Because we all know how well that will go down...

“All personnel have been evacuated, Colonel Casey. Except one.”

“Well get him out of there.”

“He said he won’t leave. He’s afraid of losing his job. Oh, and he told to say ‘Gladys won’t go either’.”

“What’s his name?”

I think we already know the answer.

“A crewman. Tedford. Ned Tedford.”

“Oh boy.”

Called it!

“No one’s stealing the world’ supply of iridium, Gladys. Not on our watch!”

That’s right everyone! It’s our favourite gold member of the Rescue Club! Ned Tedford and Gladys!

“Phew, Gladys. I thought we were in trouble there for a second.”

Yeah, Ned you kinda are... See I told you, never leave the GDF to handle things. I bet Colonel Casey is really regretting allowing Virgil to convince her to give Ned a “nice cozy desk job” with the GDF.

I love how Colonel Casey just says “there’s a worker inside” - she knew it was Ned, she could have told them it was Ned - it’s even more comical that she chooses not to.

“It’s never even been tested!”

“Brains, whatever it is, will it help us stop The Mechanic?”

“Conceivably.”

“Then we’ll take it!”

Good choice.

Maximum Max is a brilliant new development and one I think Alan really loves - it was like giving the kid more video games to play with. And it gave Scott a chain to go and rescue Ned! Hooray!

“It’s game time!”

Yeah it is! And just look at them go.

In my opinion, this goes down as Scott’s best ever entrance to a rescue.

“It’s International- Arrgh!”

*Has iridium thrown at him*.

Definitely the best entrance.

 “Keep your dirty hands off this iridium!”

“Ned Tedford?”

“Oh, it’s you! Sorry about that!”

I think that was meant to be Scott’s line. And the fact Scott can reognise Ned (when we know Colonel Casey didn’t give a name - well, that we heard), means he must have been told a lot by his brothers. Or, that’s the assumption I’ve always made.

“Why am I not surprised? I need you to climb into the airlock.”

“No way! I was told to watch this iridium. I won’t let it be stolen!”

“Uh... it’s already been stolen, Ned. You do realise you’re in space, right?”

I mean, I would hope the floatiness gave that away...

“Hmm... That does explain the floatiness.”

Or apparently not. I am proven wrong. Again.

“But it does not change anything! I’m not going anywhere without this vault!”

And there is another decision that sets the path of the episode. If they could have just rescued Ned and Gladys... I can’t help wondering if they would have stood a better chance at recovering the TV-21, or if it still wouldn’t have made a big enough difference.

“Alan, we’re gonna’ have to retrieve the iridium as well.”

“Scott, that isn’t the mission!”

“It wasn’t, but it is now.”

Always listen to your field commander, Alan, and today that is Scott, and he’s made the call. Whatever you and I may think of it.

The International Rescue theme played on bagpipes was absolutely wonderful!

“hIt’s been cloned! That’s hone hof the ‘ood’s hold tricks!”

“Where do you think he got it from?”

That is a new one... Another thing to add to the list of connections between The Mechanic and The Hood, because that implies a more long term connection than we might have first thought.

And all I have to say here, is poor hAlice! May she rest in peace.

“But it’s Dad’s plane!”

“I know, Alan, but it’s not Dad.”

That quote, will always get me.

Remember what The Mechanic said about taking what he wants? Yeah, well he very nearly took Thunderbird Three down with the TV-21.

“Sorry Dad.”

I think he would always have rather had his sons, than his old plane, sad as it is to have been so close.

“The TV-21 was so close!”

“Dad really loved that plane.”

“Ah, in the end the TV-21 was just a bunch of steel and rivets. Your Father would never have risked failing a mission just to save it. What he really loved was us. All of us. His family.” 

So, after all that, Thunderbird Four is fixed, and everyone has gathered together (even John) for a bit of well earned family time. Yep, there are hundreds of reasons to love these last two episodes.

#thunderbirds are go #Darkestwolfx #Re-Review series #Up from the Depths Part 2 #Scott Tracy #John Tracy #Virgil Tracy #Gordon Tracy #Alan Tracy #. Grandma Tracy #Parker #Lady Penelope #Kayo #Brains #MAX #The Mechanic #Family Feels #Thunderbird four #Thunderbird One #Thunderbird Three #Thunderbird five #TV-21 #Ned Tedford #Colonel Casey #hAlice #TAG

[healthandfitnessrecipes-blog]

GGS Spotlight: Jaya Dixit

https://healthandfitnessrecipes.com/?p=8303

Name: Jaya Dixit Age: 35 Location: Calgary, AB (Treaty 7 Indigenous territory)

What does it mean to you to be part of the GGS Community?  I want to be part of a movement — a collective of powerful and change-seeking women who want a better world, and who embrace strength training as a metaphor for so many other things in life and society. Women in this group are truly showing up for one another — with advice, empathy, humor, inspiration, constructive discussion, and solidarity.

Like anyone else, I’ve faced and am still facing my fair share of challenges (injury, weird ideas about body image and training intensity, etc.), but I really see GGS as a brave space for support, evidence-based information and progressive ideas around the infinite number of ways a woman be can “be” in the world.

The more I learn and feel my way through the strength and fitness space (online and in real life), the more I realize the value of this community for normalizing challenges and pushing forward complex conversations. What can’t women achieve when we come together?

How long have you been strength training, and how did you get started? My first steps in to a “real” gym were at age 15. I was becoming more serious about sport (field hockey), and I had a great friend who showed me around the gym, shared great knowledge about basics, and encouraged me to explore that physical edge. Within few years, I was shifting from strictly-for-fun movement into more sports-driven training. Being a student-athlete brought opportunities to train with great CSCSs, and to test my mettle.

Twenty years later, my body and my movement look really different, because, so does my life! A lot of my journey through strength work since then has been a process of un-learning that unrelenting, regimented way of training, and making more space for instinct and fun along the way.

What does your typical workout look like? Right now, my singular focus is to rehabilitate and rebuild my body, eight months after giving birth for the third time. Nothing feels better and more important than taking the opportunity to re-evaluate and improve every foundational motion, right down to (and especially) breathing with integrity to power those movements.

This just involves asking myself a simple question: “What would make me feel awesome today?” Lately that looks like invigorating hill walks, climbing a huge staircase to a fabulous rocky mountain vista (the other kind of “Stairway to Heaven”), or doing some deep water fitness in a warm therapy pool. Six months ago, my typical workout consisted of three 10-minute walks around my neighbourhood. I’m thrilled with where I am at, and excited for where I’m headed!

After so many years of using food and training in ways that did not make me happier, healthier or more in touch with my spirit, I’m finally in this cool mental space where I’m through with chasing a particular body shape or workout. I’m all about chasing the great workout feelings — the movement that gets me there naturally fits where I am at. If and when I take up heavy lifting again, I want all of my fundamentals to be rock solid.

Favorite lifts: Clean and press, goblet squats, chin-ups.

Most memorable PR: Other than birthing three beautiful, healthy humans? I’d have to go with maxing out at 13 proper chin-ups one year at training camp.

Top 5 songs on your training playlist:

Bad Girls, MIA

Rock the Casbah, The Clash

Rebellion, Arcade Fire

Vicarious, Tool

Human After All, Daft Punk

Top 3 things you must have at the gym or in your gym bag: My whole exercise experience is really stripped down. When I’m lifting, I often train in my basement, where just some chalk, water, oxygen and grit do me just fine.

Favorite meal: I love leftover salads. This is a kind of jumbled up meal made by mixing up the better-next-day leftovers, throwing them over some crunchy greens, and drizzling over a fresh dressing that just lifts and enhances every latent flavour to a new level. Bonus points if there is any kind of crispy potato involved.

Favorite way to treat yourself: Late-night baking in the company of a fantastic playlist.

Favorite quote: 

“The moment we choose to love, we begin to move against domination, against oppression. The moment we choose to love we begin to move towards freedom, to act in ways that liberate ourselves and others. That action is the testimony of love as the practice of freedom.” — bell hooks

Favourite book: Shambhala: The Sacred Path of the Warrior by Chogyam Trungpa.

What inspires and motivates you?  Older folks! I absolutely love sharing fitness spaces with seniors. They’re some of the most committed, sustainable movers out there. So many of them show up with the most beautiful balance of serious and fun. They don’t take any of this fitness stuff too seriously, but they are incredible role models to me — people who move for the joy and privilege of moving!

What do you do? I have three sweet little humans, so my primary work is to love, nurture and care for them.

My paid work draws on my education is in political science and sociology, and training in conflict resolution. I work as an advisor to graduate students facing complex or difficult issues that impact their academic success or progress. It is such privilege to meet with and support students from all of the world.

I also keep one toe in the research world, contributing to qualitative (mostly sociological) research about (visual) discourses of health and food, and projects of self-improvement.

What else do you do? Raising three little kids in a town just a stone’s throw from the Rocky Mountains means snatching up every chance to escape to mountain summits, glacial waters, and explore winter wonderlands.

Your next training goal: Increasing the vigor of my movement! I’m loving the exercise I’m doing right now, and I am slowly and steadily working my way toward lifting closer to my threshold in the next year or two. Six months ago, my threshold was just a dozen or two minutes of walking every day. Today, I’m stretching back into a regular yoga practice, treading up ever steeper inclines, and exploring where “what feels good today?” will take me.

For what are you most grateful? The sheer, dumb luck of being born into an amazing family, in a great country.

Of what life accomplishment do you feel most proud? Re-discovering my curiosity. Talking comes naturally to me, but listening — real, soulful, engaged listening — is something I have been cultivating with great intention and purpose in the past few years. I am always striving to be a more patient, empathetic listener, but to take in words and the world without judgment or assumption has brought me a sense of connection to people, with whom I might have otherwise felt completely at odds.

Which three words best describe you? Striving. Empathetic. Optimistic.

How has lifting weights changed your life? We face resistance and challenges, no matter the path we walk. Strength training is a perfect venue to practice coming face to face with all kinds of big stuff: transformation, resistance, power, breath and heart, and (dis)belief. That amazing sensation of transcending an imagined limitation — pushing or pulling something heavier than you believed possible — talk about feeling transformed!

Now that I’ve experience that sensation, I feel that I’ve stepped into this awesome alternate dimension, and suddenly anything feels possible. This whole physical practice is a moving metaphor, and even abstaining from exercise during periods of injury has taught me so much you can learn and grow during seasons of rest and stillness. Some of my greatest lessons in self-love and acceptance have come from necessary breaks from the iron.

Lifting and moving gives me the space and chance to turn every contrived dichotomy inside out, and upside down.

You can push against weight, or you can push into it. You can master something outside of your own body, but struggle against the body itself. It’s such an amazing metaphor for how we can lean in — just enough to keep something in motion, but still assert something powerful.

Kettlebells in particular are amazing to think of as an extension of the body — they aren’t something to work against, but through. When I think of the implement (barbell, dumbbell, etc.) as an extension of my own body moving in space, notions of separateness, division, antagonism, conflict become illusions, and resistance fades into flow.

What’s the coolest “side effect” you’ve experienced from strength training? To move the body against resistance (water, gravity, iron, itself), is to train the mind, heart and body to face resistance in life — and ultimately, to decide how you want to show up in those moments. I’ve encountered dark corners and bright lights within myself, come face to face with demons, traveled to a brighter brain space. Those moments when you go beyond yourself and what you know — so much movement through such a small range of motion.

The most practical application of these awesome side effects was childbirth! Years of strength training gave me the tools to commit to work and rest across contractions (functional interval training!), to keep my mind still, my will strong and my belief in myself absolute.

What do you want to say to other women who might be nervous or hesitant about strength training? Strength training has really facilitated (for me) a mindset and a zone that challenges every bogus stereotype about women and sets the stage for us to create a new narrative of strength, power, grace, integrity, mastery, and individuality. You get to decide how, when, why, what, where and with whom.

Moving your body in the way that best expresses you — your abilities, strengths, passions, moods — is a radical act of self-determination.

It is a way to re-possess your rights: to define your gender, to freedom of movement, and joy, health and strength on your own terms.

The post GGS Spotlight: Jaya Dixit appeared first on Girls Gone Strong.

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