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your-sweet-cookies · 1 year

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🎲

The kiss roulette

Guess I do owe you a longer short story, my dear! X3 So, let's see what destiny will give you this time, hopefully a number that'll allow for a more fruitful scenario.

And your second lucky number is... 31!

A kiss to the inner thigh (Oh, this one really is going to be a 'fun' one! :> Destiny was extremely generous the second time around!)

(Also, tw: The following contains NSFW content)

For a very innocent and pure girl, Kukki sure had her moments in which she would be very 'naughty' and horny, but that was to be expected with a boyfriend as handsome and hot as hers. So it didn't come off as much of a surprise that she was always eager for their 'fun' times, especially after a long and boring day of classes and work that seemed endless and kept them separated for far longer than they would've liked.

And today seemed to be one of these days of being kept away for far too long from her beloved wild bobcat. Kukki was starting to get more and more frustrated by how slow the clock had been moving and for some unknown reason, the end of the day found her even hornier than usual for their reunion, so for tonight, since Niragi made the 'mistake' of telling her that he might run late because the current game project was falling behind schedule, she'd decided she wanted to have as much fun and enjoyment to the fullest while also 'punishing' him for letting her wait like that, and she was going to do that by putting into action one of her long time favorite fantasies.

So, after getting home, preparing herself for her sexy night by dressing in her hottest and sexiest lingerie she owned in her wardrobe and getting the bedroom ready, Kukki set to waiting patiently for Niragi to finally come back home and 'entertain' her. That didn't take too long, fortunately, and from one thing to another, Niragi ended up tied up to the bed with a nice fluffy pair of handcuffs (because she didn't want him to really get hurt because of her kinky fantasies), half naked and with Kukki all flustered and excited on top of him. He didn't really like playing the 'sub' role, but for this once, Niragi was gonna let it slide since he understood this was her way of getting back at him for prolonging the time spent separated on a day that already kind of bothered Kukki. Well, at least he got to enjoy the view on top of him provided by that lingerie that left almost nothing to the imagination.

"Ah, my beloved, you look soo good all submissive like that! Indeed, I was right that this fantasy is simply delicious!" Kukki licked her lips as she stared down at him. "Glad you enjoy it, wildcat, but don't get too used to it. You know that I'm the one who likes to be in control." Niragi retorted with a grin on his face, as he too ate her with his eyes. "I know, I know... But I can still make this one special time worthwhile for both of us! You'll see, being the sub has its perks too!~" Kukki winked at him and leant down for a sweet, passionate kiss.

In the process, she made sure that her body would rub sensually against his, stimulating all the right places, especially that very sensitive and hardened part of his body. After enjoying their very passionate kiss for a bit, Kukki then shifted her attention to his neck, covering it now in kisses and love bites that marked Niragi as hers. "Hmmm... Looks like you're really enjoying yourself tonight, wildcat..." Niragi groaned, as Kukki nibbled on the soft spot on his neck.

"And so are you my love, judging by what I'm feeling down there..." Kukki replied in a soft whisper, tickling his ear, followed by a slight sexy moan as she pressed herself down harder onto the specified area. "Can't and won't deny that either..." Niragi snorted, letting out a moan of his own. "But I assume you won't really hurry straight to the 'best part' now, are you?" He raised an eyebrow and looked at her amused, desire still undeniable in his darkened eyes. "Nope, I am totally going to take my time enjoying my 'little toy'.~" The young woman winked at him and continued her 'journey' down his clavicle, to her next destination: his strong and sublime chest and abdomen.

On this area, the silver-haired woman decided to move even slower, but in a very sensual and teasing manner, leaving more marks in her way, as she licked down the man's pecks, kissing and leaving a wet sexy trail along the way. All that while she made sure to never break for a moment the eye contact between them and as an added 'bonus', she also made sure to rub against his bulge from time to time, yielding delicious moans and groans out of her lover's mouth.

Finally reaching his abs and applying the same 'treatment' from before, her hands decided to join the game, by busying themselves with his belt and pants. But of course, even this activity was going to be done in a slow and calculated manner, meant to simply tease and drive him insane with lust even further. "Mmm... You are always so delicious my beloved! I can't wait to get to take a taste of the best part of tonight's 'meal'!~" Kukki let out another soft sigh as she sat back up on top of him, looking at Niragi with an almost salivating facial expression.

"Why don't you go on and serve yourself already, wildcat? I'm sure it's waiting as impatiently for you, as you are for it." Niragi smirked, being unable to not feel incredibly amused and satisfied that even now, when she was on top of him like that, Kukki still displayed her usual sub behavior, being all needy and horny for him like that, totally under 'his spell'. "Everything at its time, wild bobcat! Don't try to tempt me! I still have some things left up my sleeve for me to try out on you..." Kukki bit her lip yet again and this time tugged onto his belt a bit harder, pulling it open finally, followed by the buttons of his pants.

The pants didn't take long to leave Niragi's body, but to his twitching erection's disappointment, he was going to have to endure the tightness of his boxers a little bit longer, because Kukki was suddenly more interested in his upper legs, than her ready to go 'meal'. "Don't think I forgot about the fact that your thighs are one of your most erogenous areas, my love! So, because I am a good girl, I am going to make sure they get plenty of attention too." She commented in a very innocent, yet teasing tone as she guessed what he must've been thinking at the moment.

"You are really enjoying this a lot, aren't you?" Niragi smirked and snorted yet again, despite his slight impatience at her very slow 'process'. Kukki didn't answer right away, flashing him a sweet and playful smirk of her own, as she began slowly and sensually massaging his thighs, especially his inner thighs. And for the 'cherry on top', the woman's next move was to lean down and start placing soft and wet kisses on his inner thigh, all while still making sure to never break their eye contact. "You can't even imagine how much I am enjoying this!~" Her soft, sexy voice sent electrifying shivers down the man's spine, while Kukki enjoyed tremendously the sight of his bulge getting even harder thorough the material of his boxers. Indeed, she was in for a looong and very fun night, which she was going to definitely enjoy thoroughly and to the fullest!

#kiss roulette #alice in borderland rp #alice in borderland roleplay #aib rp #aib roleplay #aib oc #aib oc rp #kukki x niragi #niragixpsych #rp with kukki #tw nswf

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angelasscribbles · 2 years

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Forbidden Passion Chapter 7: Lie of Omission

Series: Forbidden Passion

Fandom: The Royal Romance

Pairings: Liam x Riley, Drake x Riley

Warning: This fic portrays infidelity

Rating: This particular chapter is pretty ok, maybe R at most, mild language, alludes to sex.

Everything else: Master List.

Drake stood under the shower, letting the hot water pound on his back and shoulders. He had woken up grappling with his feelings. He felt guilty for his lack of guilt and anxious wondering if her feelings for him would change now that her husband was back. So he had done what he always did when he had issues that needed working out and headed for the gym. His morning routine already included running and working out, but today he had put in some extra time on the heavy bag and in the ring sparring.

Stepping out of the shower, he wrapped a towel around his waist and stepped into the locker room to get dressed.

“Hey Cap!” One of his men called out, “Where’d you get those claw marks?”

The other men broke out into a chorus of laughs and “oohhh”s. One of them slapped him on the shoulders on his way past, “Damn. Looks like Cap got ahold of a wildcat last night!”

Drake flinched as the other man’s hand hit the barley starting to heal wounds that she had left on him as a reminder of the night before. “Hey, mind your own business Penna! The rest of you, find something to do or I’ll find something for you.”

The men quieted down and scurried away with varying replies from “Sorry” to “Oh, shit!” No one wanted to get tasked with washing the entire fleet of royal vehicles or having to inventory the armory. Captain Walker did not play when he was annoyed with them.

He heard a chuckle from the doorway and spun around to find Liam standing there. “You’re such a hard ass Drake.”

Drake quickly pulled a t-shirt on and replied, “What are you doing in here? We don’t have gym time today.”

Liam and Drake worked out together several times per week when Liam was home, Drake insisted on it, he wanted Liam to keep his self-defense skills honed in case an assailant ever got past his personal security.

“I know. But I knew I’d find you here and I wanted to come say hi. Get a moment with my best friend before the security briefing.”

Drake’s eyes ran over Liam, taking in his facial expression and demeanor, finding nothing but genuine happiness there, he allowed himself to relax and returned the smile, “Glad you did. We can walk up together. You can tell me all about your trip.”

“You probably know everything important already.” Liam said, referencing the fact that Drake coordinated and got all the updates from Liam’s security team.

“Yeah, but I mean the fun stuff, not the boring stuff! Any good diplomats embarrassing themselves stories this time?” He finished dressing as he talked and sat down to tie his shoes.

Liam chuckled, “Sadly, not this time. What about you? Anything interesting happen while I was gone? Did I hear right? Have you met someone?”

Drake stiffened for a moment then shook his head as he stood, “Not really.”

Liam nodded in understanding. A one nightstand then. That fit with Drake’s past behavior. He knew Drake had developed feelings for Riley during the social season and that he had struggled since the wedding. He didn’t say anything, but he didn’t have to. Liam was observant and Drake was his best friend. Even if all he had done was pick up a random woman in a bar, it felt like progress. Maybe he was finally moving on. That was a good thing. He’d talk to him about it when he was ready.

They left the gym and headed back to the main level of the palace, toward the wing that housed the security offices.

“You got back early this morning, right? Have you had a chance to look over the briefings from the last two weeks yet?”

Liam shook his head, “No, I cleared my schedule for the morning. The only person I wanted to see was my wife.”

Drake nodded, “Understandable. Two weeks is a long time.”

“Too long. I hope to never be away from her that long again. Next time, maybe I can talk her into coming with me.” He frowned then said, “I’m worried she’s working too hard, Drake. I cleared her schedule this morning so we could have some time together, but have you seen how hectic it is?”

“Yes. She does too much, she doesn’t want to disappoint anyone.” You should have noticed months ago, she’s working herself to exhaustion.

“I’ll have to talk to her about delegating more. Taking more time to herself.”

“Do you think she’ll listen?”

“I…don’t know. I’m afraid she’s still trying to prove herself. She doesn’t see herself clearly, she doesn’t need to prove anything. She’s already amazing.”

“Yes, she is.” Drake agreed. Shit, why did I have to say it like that?

Liam shot him a sidelong look but didn’t say anything. They walked in silence for a few minutes.

Riley was Liam’s blind spot. Drake saw that clearly. The very thing that had drawn him to her was what blinded him. Her exuberance for life, her insistence on treating him as Liam, just Liam, not the crown prince of anything. She always saw him. It was what she did. It was how she had broken through his own defenses, seeing through all his jaded bullshit to the tender marshmallow heart he tried to hide.

Liam had been entranced by this woman who had appeared and brought him out of himself, made him smile and laugh, asked him about hisfeelings while not carrying about currying favor, worrying about how hewas handling the social season, of course he had. This vision of grace and beauty, wit and charm who lit up every room she walked into. She sparkled, she enthralled. And he had fallen head over heels in love with her. They both had.

But what had captured Liam’s heart was her focus on his comfort, his well-being. Liam had been raised for a life of service, for a life of obedience to duty and honor. To have someone focus on him, on his feelings, to clearly see him for him, had been a revelation for him. Something so far out of his realm of experience that he couldn’t help but be swept away by it. It was understandable. She had rescued him, saved him from a life of unrelenting sacrifice. She had opened up possibilities he had never dreamed possible and because of that, he only saw her strength.

Part of that was her own fault, she was so determined to be there for him, to be his safe place in all the political bullshit and courtly nonsense, that she sometimes hid her struggles from him. Drake saw that clearly too.

It was why she needed him, why they both needed him. She was strong, but still she needed a safe place of her own. He could be that. He would be that.

Drake reached out and clasped Liam on the shoulder, “It’s going to be ok, Li. I’m here for you, for her. Whatever you need, ok?”

Liam gave him a small smile, “I know. Thanks, Drake.”

#forbidden passion #drake walker #angelasscribbles #liam rys #riley campbell #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #the royal romance fanfic #drake x mc #liam x mc #choices #trr #the royal romance #choices stories you play

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tosikoarts · 4 years

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SFW Alphabet | Ogata Hyakunosuke

Writing Ogata is a mental gymnastics and I have weak ankles. You can check tosikowrites tag for more. Warning: there’s a lot under the cut.

A = Affection (How affectionate are they? How do they show affection?)

As a person who hasn’t experienced love (without any exaggeration) in his whole life, Ogata is the worst of all in showing affection, and he will mercilessly tease anyone who will try to do it without manipulative ulterior motive. It is easier for him to comprehend desire for power or use than pure love, so prepare yourself for endless battle with destructive defense mechanisms.

He watches person of interest whenever they do, either openly, brazenly staring or subtly following them with peripheral vision. Ogata doesn’t know why he does it but his eyes are always fixed on their presence. Once some time passed, Ogata actively seeks their attention, he is almost excited to meet their gaze, but only thing they will get of it is a faint crooked smile and awareness of being monitored.

Like in childhood, Ogata continues to hunt but now he has one more purpose. The purpose is to share food with this one specific person. In a big groups, Ogata as always sits away from the group but he moves just a little bit closer to them. Enough to get closer but not enough for others to notice.

Asks what they want. Yes, Ogata straightforwardly asks them if they want anything and if they do what it is. He condescends to putting mind games away and considering their opinion. At least, sometimes. Rarely. But he does it!

And the last one. Ogata tolerates physical affection and later gets adjust to it. Teasing isn’t going away any time soon, but he learns to relax around them without loosing soldier’s alertness. It is a slow process, it takes years for Ogata to learn something so simple, but the results are amazing.

B = Best friend (What would they be like as a best friend? How would the friendship start?)

That friend that got too many sins to ever judge you. Quote “If you tell me you killed a man, I will help you to hide the body” is literal. Ogata laughs loudly after hearing the most cringe-worthy or outright scary stories but won’t ever shame his best friend.

He is the one to offer to go astray together, make problems together, and be petty together. Hardly ever Ogata needs to be bailed out of troubles, but he enjoys living on a knife blade and pulls others along. He lives by the rule “Enemy of my friend is my enemy” and can, without a twinge of conscience, offer to kill someone.

Nicknames and name-calling are common, intentions behind the names are never clear. Is he really trying to insult you or was it a joke? Who knows. Ogata takes pleasure in screwing with other’s people minds.

His best friend has to deal with absence of relationship’s boundaries. Today they are friends, next day Ogata decides to mess around and kiss them, and the day after he is nowhere to be found. Oh, he is definitely the one to suggest to be friends with benefits.

C = Cuddles (Do they like to cuddle? How would they cuddle?)

It is hard to call what he does cuddling but this is what happens when Ogata’s feline side comes into action. As dusk approaches and there is not a single soul around, he gets closer from behind and unceremoniously lays down his head on their shoulder. Sometimes he even lets them sit between his legs so Ogata can press their back into his chest and curl up together. Not a word falls from his lips. If they drop a taunt on how cute or romantic he is, Ogata will immediately move over and frown (early in relationship) or pretend he didn't hear anything (later in relationship). If in a bad mood and his loved one begs for cuddle, he will act all teasingly bitchy just to leave them touched-starved after.

D = Domestic (Do they want to settle down? How are they at cooking and cleaning?)

Ogata doesn't really believe that he will live up to the age when normal people want to settle down. His chances to end up in prison or in shallow grave are higher than ever and he is totally okay with it so thought of home comfort never popped up in his head. If his partner brings up this idea, Ogata will deliberately resist it, calling his loved one silly goose that doesn’t know what they are talking about. Good cook and can clean properly if he wants to.

E = Ending (If they had to break up with their partner, how would they do it?)

It can go so many different ways depending on his mood and general perception of the person.

In the later stages of relationship as well as if his loved one is the sweetest angel, Ogata would disappear in the thin air. He doesn’t explain reasoning in any of the options but in this one this wildcat tries not to hurt their feelings much. All traces of his presence are erased, and Ogata tries to get away from them as far as possible.

You have to make it hurt to push them away, right? For active and cheerful personalities Ogata has a strategy that provides the worst relationship experiences, small things like avoidance, detachment, feeling of slowly dying passion. When they are about to give up, Ogata himself breaks up with them smiling venomously, as if to say “did you expect anything else in the first place?”

If they are patient and assertive, Ogata will be the pettiest. Strong personality calls for exquisite torture, so prepare yourself for setups, cheatings, direct insults, and smug smirks as he burns down everything they built together.

If there is no other way out, Ogata will shoot them. It may completely ruin whatever left of his humaneness but he will do it.

F = Fiance(e) (How do they feel about commitment? How quick would they want to get married?)

He gives the dirtiest look when being questioned about marriage. First of all, idea of commitment disturbs him for a multiple reasons. It brings nothing but an official status, it does not oblige couple to happy ever after, and Ogata is a living proof of this axiom. It is unlikely that he will ever change his mind. Remains faithful in a relationship though, he just does not like the concept of being bound by the vows.

G = Gentle (How gentle are they, both physically and emotionally?)

Nowhere close to being gentle. Hasn’t been touched emotionally, and physical gentleness is foreign to him too. The only embrace he knows is holding a sniper rifle at cold night so you can imagine how hard it is for him to be in loving relationship. Ogata asks himself “why are they act so kindly?” almost everyday, he expects misdemeanor, he tensely waits for it, and sighs in both relief and disappointment when nothing happens. When it comes to being physical, from unobtrusive hands-holding to make-out sessions, Ogata tenses up to the point when his whole body turns in the taut string. It is a damn mental work to ease off and he needs a lot of practice.

H = Hugs (Do they like hugs? How often do they do it? What are their hugs like?)

What is the hug? What is its purpose? Why would they hug him? What the hell? Yes, Ogata is the worst. When his loved one puts their hands around him, Ogata just… stands here with eyes empty and head up. He does not move a bit, doesn’t flinch, he lets them do the thing but does not participate in the process whatsoever. After few weeks, Ogata hugs them back for the first time, putting his hands higher on their back instead of waist, and holding breath like he is going underwater. He is still awkward, but slowly gets used to their warmness and gentle touch. Sometimes you can hear dull low sound like a sigh escaping his lips when Ogata relaxes enough to close his eyes and gives up to soothing caress.

I = I love you (How fast do they say the L-word?)

If we talk about the time frame, I would say, around 2-3 years, but time is not the most important factor in whole confession. Ogata could never say three magic words in his usual emotionally constrained state so he needs a real kick in the ass to squeeze out more than apathetic “you’re good, whatever”. Near-death experience may be an option but getting absolutely wasted, shitfaced, hammered is way more likely. After consuming ungodly amount of sake, getting in fist fight with Katarou (no worries, no Kantarous were harmed), and falling right in front of his loved one, Ogata claims he needs to tell his loved one something special. Few leading questions and he wistfully admits that he never told them he loves them. Then he passes out. Thanks God, he remembers nothing from that night, so there is another day to confess with a clear head and well thought out text.

J = Jealousy (How jealous do they get? What do they do when they’re jealous?)

If some careless admirer is hitting on his loved one, Ogata expects his partner to instantly push another person away and explain that they are taken. If pour soul is persistent, Ogata will warn them once and shoot them in the leg if they do not take a hint right away.

And if his loved one goes around shamelessly flirting with whoever? Ogata will be so pissed, oh boy, you will see how mad he can be. Nobody fucks with him like that, nobody. If they think they are the center of his universe, Ogata will quickly bring them down to earth, ignoring them completely, putting them in danger on purpose, abruptly jumping up as soon as they come for the kiss or hug. He’ll knock this vanity crap out of them with sticks since he doesn’t know how to put carrots to work.

K = Kisses (What are their kisses like? Where do they like to kiss you? Where do they like to be kissed?)

His kisses feel like there is no tomorrow, they are greedy and rough. Ogata, like a natural predator, slowly drives his partner into a corner, squeezes them in the arms, and does not let go even when salty blood oozes from under his teeth. Feral to the fingertips. His partner has to wrap a scarf around the neck since he likes to cover it in small bruises. If we talk about where Ogata likes to be kissed, worth mentioning that he will bite anyone’s fingers off if they try to kiss his empty eye socket. It hurts like hell and bleeds easily, for god’s sake. However, he likes his fingertips kissed, knuckle kisses, and lip kisses. All types of hand kisses give him strange feeling of superiority and dominion.

L = Little ones (How are they around children?)

No. Just no. He doesn’t want to be anywhere near kids and flatly refuses to have any of his own. Babies, toddlers, or teenagers – they are all the same to Ogata, small versions of adults that require too many resources and for what? To grow up in someone like him? At the same time, he is mediocre in babysitting and can take care of baby, changing diapers or lulling to sleep, but teaching older ones high morals and emotional intelligence is not his forte.

M = Morning (How are mornings spent with them?)

Fortunately or unfortunately, Ogata is difficult to catch in the morning since he wakes up with the first cocks and leaves home quickly for the hunting. Upon awakening his mood is pretty grumpy but it changes to calmly benevolent as he cooks breakfast and thinks about upcoming businesses. It is important for Ogata to put his swarming thoughts in order before greeting his loved one with a peck on the cheek: he does not want to burden them more than usual with talks about the endless nightmares and causes of these bad dreams. After meal, he is ready to get his portion of love or spoil his partner with exclusive attention. Cats are very selective creatures but they are generous with gestures of trust too.

N = Night (How are nights spent with them?)

Evening is a time of solitude, there is no place for strangers in it. During the day, Ogata overdoses on people so in the evening he wants to stay in the company of a loved one and only them. It doesn’t matter if they drag him to the empty night downtown under the bright light of lanterns or hide him like a favorite toy under the weight of the blanket, he cherishes every second. Evening walk in the garden is his favorite pastime. During cherry blossom season, when gardens turn into a solid pink ocean, Ogata pulls his loved one to sit on his lap so they can both engage in hanami. These short ten days bring peace to his soul and give him belief in a better future with the best person by the side.

O = Open (When would they start revealing things about themselves? Do they say everything all at once or wait a while to reveal things slowly?)

Ogata has no problems in opening up, actually. Of course, he knows some people are slick sleuths preying on facts to use in their manipulations but he also understands people do have conversations and exchange information about themselves as ordinary social ritual. Probably, avoids topics like his family and feelings but other that this Ogata can be pretty forthright. He prefers to take it slowly, without much zeal.

P = Patience (How easily angered are they?)

Well, sniper has to be patient, but it is unclear if Ogata fits this description. You never know if you have crossed the line (and if you did – when did it happen?) because he knows nothing better than smiling mysteriously and planning your demise in silence. Next thing you know there is a bullet piercing your body, blood is spilled everywhere, and Ogata is far gone because Type 30 rifle is so “excellent for sniping and sharpshooting”. In everyday domestic life, Ogata is quite patient and restrained, never rises his voice, and tries to refrain from direct conflict.

Q = Quizzes (How much would they remember about you? Do they remember every little detail you mention in passing, or do they kind of forget everything?)

It varies. On good days, Ogata pays more attention to his partner and what they are doing. If they are having deep conversation, he pulls as much information as possible and immediately thinks where it can be applied it in the future. On the contrary, when in a bad mood, Ogata turns a deaf ear even to words spoken directly to him. It's hard to predict weather he will listen to you or not, so it is not uncommon to hear him repeating your words when you thought Ogata was his usual cold distant self.

R = Remember (What is their favorite moment in your relationship?)

Anything that has to deal with emotions, feelings, and confessions because all those things make him both nervous and excited. Actually, first time he confronted them about their feelings and behavior and got confirmation that it wasn’t a dream. Ogata was too tired to provoke them so he sat quietly and listened to whatever they’ve chosen to say in their annoyingly sincere voice. Rational and irrational, critical and non-critical, rude and affectionate. He noticed weird tight sensation in his chest when they murmured something about caring about his stupid cat ass but decided to ignore it. Ogata has little capability of accepting their love and it is not going to change with a wave of a magic wand but he… considers it may be true. It sounds too good to be true though, but he will crawl to them and lie down confused and intrigued.

S = Security (How protective are they? How would they protect you? How would they like to be protected?)

Expects his partner to protect themself in the moment of danger. He is far from knight in white armor trope so do not expect help from above. Ogata refuses to take on the nanny role so his loved one must know basic self-defense or be smart enough to avoid unpleasant situations. In only one case, Ogata can step down from his pedestal and lend a hand: if they are cornered and there is no way out, they will either die or get captured, Ogata will shoot attacker down. After that, he coolly threatens that next time he won't be around to help. Oh, and yes, he has no plans to train them. As the saying goes, help yourself.

T = Try (How much effort would they put into dates, anniversaries, gifts, everyday tasks?)

Acts like he owes nothing and does minimum because Ogata wants to be asked for nice things. He likes to hear his partner talk to him in pleading voice and see them making puppy eyes, bating eyelashes, even pouting. This is the kind of game that Ogata has mastered so he knows when to stop and act nicely. He has random outbursts of generosity which promise the partner quaint presents and spoiling. Sadly, they do not always coincide with anniversaries: on important dates wildcat is on his best behavior but you can’t be sure prepared surprises will be pleasing. I mean, being with him is as predictable as Russian roulette. Decent in everyday tasks but doesn’t put all of his effort into it.

U = Ugly (What would be some bad habits of theirs?)

Instability is his second name. Ogata has never had a purpose in the life, finding ainu gold is his first and last goal and there is not a hint on what will happen after that. It doesn’t cause any discomfort to him and Ogata likes it better this way, so for someone who has a prepared plan of action for next few years his company can be pretty unnerving.

Ogata's views on world are also not to everyone's taste. With a dismissive look at human life, he is reputed to be a cynic, he can go into nihilism headlong and completely reject the remaining moral standards. If his partner is principled and proper, Ogata will attempt to corrupt them and bring down to his own level.

It is not a bad habit, but people hate him. Dozen of cutthroat soldiers want to see Ogata dead so his partner may be a potential target of ill-wishers.

V = Vanity (How concerned are they with their looks?)

Apparently, he is only concerned about the hair being perfectly slicked back. His clothes are more or less clean but not spotless, shoes are never shiny, but Ogata is indifferent. Scars do not bother him either, and Ogata completely forgets about their existence but the loss of eye had some toll on his ego. Just a little bit. Sometimes it seems that people focus their attention precisely on the missing eye, on bandages, and it both makes him bitter and satisfied: Ogata knows what he is capable of even without half of sight but visible human pity gets on his nerves quite a bit.

W = Whole (Would they feel incomplete without you?)

If they decided to break up in the beginning of the relationship, Ogata doesn’t care at all. He may make one or two venomous remarks and that’s all. But if it was much later, after he got intoxicating taste of love? Wow, that’s an explosive mix of feelings we’ve got there. Ogata falls on slippery slope of denial because he had to be one to leave, he had to be in control, not them. He is infuriated, his ego is hurt, and, worst of all, people are aware of it. All that remains for Ogata is revenge in any imaginable form, from distancing to pulling off show how he feels himself even with them not being by his side. His behavior is pretty identical to that listed in Ending paragraph.

If they were killed… Um. Surely, he feels unexplained self-pity but it is better than feeling nothing at all. Ogata is lost. He can’t comprehend what's going on in his soul. From outside it seems like wildcat is the same independent cynical bastard but inside days of numbness alternate with weeks when he is boiling with anger. This malice spills on anyone who tries to get closer and it may pushe him to self-destruction.

X = Xtra (A random headcanon for them.)

We have already seen Ogata in the company of two geishas (though, I’m thinking, they were yujos), he never slept with one and actually despises the idea of it. Despite the scene with Yuusaku and “brother should have fun together” said, Ogata wouldn’t touch a woman of the same profession as his mother was. He could hate her, or pity, or scorn, but thought of becoming the same as his father makes Ogata sick to the guts. So that scene was an idle play to corrupt the perfect Second Lieutenant, a game that was lost in advance.

Y = Yuck (What are some things they wouldn’t like, either in general or in a partner?)

Ogata isn’t used to a minimum amount of positive attention so both clinginess and neediness will push him away. It creeps him out if another person wants to be with him 24/7, and constant questions like where he has been and with whom are simply annoying.

Manipulations are okay with him until it comes to hysterias. Load, teary and pointlessly pushy, they make Ogata sick. If you want to manipulate this man, be elegant, be smart. He won’t fall for headlong approach, it will only disgust him.

Dogs. It won’t surprise me if Ogata poisoned a few back in the childhood. They seem stupid and gross in their inexhaustible love for man.

Z = Zzz (What is a sleep habit of theirs?)

Ogata is light sleeper and has problem with people sleeping right next to him. This feature is due to both the profession and personal reasons: there are enough people in the world who would happily break Ogata’s neck while he sees his third dream. Loud snoring in the room is fraught with consequences.

For the same reasons he can’t fall asleep without rifle lying next to him. It became an extension of his hand so Ogata feels kind of defective when it is not around. No, he is not Hijikata, he won’t give his baby to anyone to shoot bottles or some shit.

Extreme amount of dreams is a usual thing for him. Ogata has a ton of nightmares too, but most of the dreams are colorful nonsense about events that happened the day before. Obviously, Yuusaku is a frequent night visitor and his sweet innocent smile forces Ogata jump up in his bed drenched in a cold sweat. He never leaves, he never will.

#golden kamuy #golden kamuy headcanon #golden kamuy imagine #ogata hyakunosuke #hyakunosuke ogata #tosikowrites

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blackhakumen · 3 years

Text

Mini Fanfic #742: Protective Witch (Super Smash Bros Ultimate)

6:45 p.m. at Palutena and Bayonetta's Bedroom.......

Bayonetta: I'mma kill him.

Palutena: (Eyes Widened While her Bruises on her Face Patched Up by Her Witch Love from the Recent Match She Had Against Bowser) Wait what?

Bayonetta: (Has a Ticked Off Look on her Face) Bowser. I am going to kill that fucking turtle for even thinking about laying a single finger on my goddess.

Palutena: ('Sigh') Bayo, please don't get worked up over this. You know how intense most of these matches get, right?

Bayonetta: I know. But......(Frowns Worryingly) He still hurt you.

Palutena: Yeah. But to be fair, I was being a tad bit districted at that moment. So naturally, it was my fault for not paying attention.

Bayonetta: M-Maybe, but-

Palutena: (Gently Grab Both of Bayonetta's Hands) But nothing. Just try and calm down for me, okay?

Bayonetta: Darling-

Palutena: (Gives Bayonetta the Sad Puppy Dog Eyes) Pleeeeasee?~

Bayonetta: (Takes One Look at her Goddess Girlfriend Before Blushing and Sighing in Defeat) Okayyyy.....I'll try not to make a big fuss about it. (Puts on a Pouty Look on her Face While Looking Away) I'm still mad at Bowser though.....

Palutena: (Giggles Softly) I know you are, dear~ (Pulls Away from Bayonetta's Grasps and Gently Place her Hands on Both of the Witch's Cheeks) But you don't need to worry about that. I'm gonna be just fine. Even more so now that I have my strong and beautiful Umbra Witch with me~

Bayonetta: (Begins to Smirk Seductively as She Turns Back to Palutena and Gives her a Loving Kiss on the Lips) Look who's talking, my beautiful goddess~

Palutena: (Starts Blushing While Giggling Some More) You really think I still look good? Even with the black eye and everything?

Bayonetta: Why, of course I do, my dear!~ Doesn't matter if you have makeup or those ugly bruises on your heavenly face. I'll still love and adore you for all eternal~

Palutena: (Heart Begin to Melt I Pure Happiness as She Pulls Bayonetta Back in for a Loving, Passionate Kiss on the Lips) ('Mmmmmmmwah') I love you so much, Bayo~

Bayonetta: (Giggles Softly) Not as much as I love you, darling~

Palutena: (Puts on a Playful Smirk on her Face) I'm guessing it's a lot, right?~

Bayonetta: (Smirks Seductively Again) You are on a roll today~

Palutena: (Boops on the Top of Bayonetta's Nose) Ditto~

Pit: (Walks into Palutena and Bayonetta's Room) Hey, moms, I was just wondering if you guys would- (Eyes Widened in Complete Shock at the Sight of his Goddess Mom's Already Patched Up Face) FLIPPING HAMBURGERS!!! WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU!!!!?

Palutena: O-Oh. Ummm.....(Giggles Awkwardly) Hi, sweetie. D-Don't freak out or anything, but......I may have.....gotten beaten up from my match today......By Bowser......

Pit: (Almost at a Loss of Words) B-B-Bowser?.....

Bayonetta: ('Sigh') I'm afraid so, my dear. Gave her a nasty black eye and everything.

Palutena: (Glares at Bayonetta) Bayo!

Bayonetta: What? It's the truth.

Palutena: Yeah. But I don't want him to know about it!

Pit: ...............................

Palutena: (Turns Back to Pit) S-So uhh... A-Anyways, Pit, I-

Pit: (Already Has his Bows on his Hands While Having a Rare, Dark, Angered Look in his Face) I'mma kill him.

Palutena/Bayonetta: Sweetheart/Sweetie-Pie, No!!

@keyenuta

@caleb13frede

@mariah2014

@cyber-wildcat

@26shann

@ma-lemons

@albion-93

#super smash ultimate #bayonetta #palutena #pit #bowser (mentioned)#cute romance #lots and lots of fluff here #palutena x bayonetta #bayonetta is best girlfriend #palutena is best girlfriend #pit is best/protective son #sweet family moment #kind of lol #edited

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bobasheebaby · 4 years

Text

125 Golden Girls Prompts

This time I have some hilarious prompts from some hilarious women. These help keep me sane, send in prompts or request a specific show. Long as hell, breaking at 15.

1 “Go to sleep, sweetheart. Pray for brains.” – Dorothy

2 “Crying is for plain women. Pretty women go shopping.” -Blanche

3 “They were all buying T-shirts, you know, the ones that say, ‘Today is the first day of the end of your life.’” — Dorothy

4 “People waste their time pondering whether a glass is half empty or half full. Me, I just drink whatever’s in the glass.” – Sophia

5 “Nobody ever believes me when I’m telling the truth. I guess it’s the curse of being a devastatingly beautiful woman.” – Blanche

6 “No! No, I will not have a nice day!” -Dorothy

7 “Excuse me NAME, have I given any indication at all that I care?” – Sophia

8 “No one in my family has ever seen a psychiatrist ... except of course, when they were institutionalized!” – Blanche

9 “Isn’t it amazing how I can feel so bad, and still look so good?” -Blanche

10 “Condoms, NAME! Condoms, condoms, condoms!” – Dorothy

11 “It’s like life is a giant weenie roast, and I’m the biggest weenie!” – Rose

12 “He’s/She’s really a very sweet man/woman. He/She just doesn’t like to show it.” — Dorothy

13 “I eat raw cookie dough. And occasionally, I run through the sprinklers and don’t wear a bathing cap. And at Christmas, I’ve been known to put away more than one eggnog.” – Rose

14 “I could get herpes listening to this story!” – Dorothy

15 “I’ve been having a good time, and there wasn’t even a man/woman in the room.” -Blanche

16 “Why don’t I just wear a sign, ‘too ugly to live’?” – Dorothy

17 “I though I was gonna die. I swear I have never felt such agony. I saw my entire life flash before my eyes and I thought, ‘What a shame if I die now, I’m too young…and I’m wearing the wrong underwear.’” — Blanche

18 “You’ll have to excuse NAME. HE/She suffered a slight stroke a few years ago which rendered him/her totally annoying.” – Dorothy

19 “Eat dirt and die, trash.” – Blanche

20 “[to NAME] You’re a furry little gnome and we feed you too much.” – Dorothy

21 When I was a child, I used to get overexcited and pet the cat too much.” – Rose

22 “I feel that you have backed me into a corner, and when I am backed into a corner, I come out fightin’ like a wildcat. Unless I’ve had too much to drink, in which case I slide down the wall and make mad passionate love on the carpet.” – Blanche

23 “NAME, you’re one chromosome away from being a potato.” – Dorothy

24 “If this sauce was a person, I’d get naked and make love to it.” – Sophia

25 “I hate to admit it but he/she melts my Haagen-Dazs.” – Rose

26 “Want a glass of water to wash down your foot?” – Sophia

27 “Like I’m the only person who ever mixed a margarita in a sailor’s mouth?” – Blanche

28 “I feel like crawling under the covers and eating a box of Velveeta.” – Rose

29 “When I say jump, you say ‘on who?'” – Blanche

30 “I’m jumpier than a virgin at a prison rodeo.” – Blanche

31 “How come whenever my ship comes in it’s leaking?” – Dorothy

32 “Tell me the truth: do these glasses make me look stupid?” – Rose

33 “If I had that money I could have moved into a swinging condo instead of living with—I better not say anything until I’ve had my coffee [sips coffee]—a slut and a moron!” – Dorothy

34 “Go hug a landmine!” – Dorothy

35 “Fasten your seatbelt, slut puppy. This ain’t gonna be no cakewalk!” – Sophia

36 “NAME? Hubba hubba zing zing, baby, he’s /she’s got everything.” – Rose

37 “I could vomit just looking at you!” – Dorothy

38 “There is a fine line between having a good time and being a wanton slut. I know. My toe has been on that line.” – Blanche

39 “It’s like you people don’t pay any attention to me whatsoever.” – Rose

40 “Why do blessings wear disguises? If I were a blessing, I’d run around naked.” – Sophia

41 “I hate Jell-O. If God wanted peaches suspended in midair, he would have filled them with helium.” – Sophia

42 “Oh, don’t give up, NAME. If the ancient Egyptians could move 20-ton stone blocks to build the pyramids, we can move a toilet.” – Rose

43 “NAME, honey… have you been washing the fruit off before you eat it?” – Dorothy

44 “Tell me, is it possible to love two men/women/people at the same time.” “Set the scene, have we been drinking?” — Rose & Blanche

45 “NAME, what are you listening to?” “A relaxation tape. The rain is supposed to relax me.” “Is it working?” “Not really. I keep worrying that I left my car windows down.” — Dorothy & Rose

46 “NAME, I have a feeling you’re lying.” “NAME, be positive.” “Okay, I’m positive you’re lying.” — Dorothy & Rose

47 “You are undoubtedly the meanest, sickest person I’ve ever met! Not to mention the most unattractive.” — Blanche

48 “Where are you going?” “To either get ice cream or commit a felony. I’ll decide in the car.” — Rose & Dorothy

49 “Let me tell you a story. Picture it, PLACE …” —Sophia

50 “NAME, wake up. My husband/wife/partner will be home any minute.” — Dorothy

51 “I’m NAME and I know it isn’t pertinent at the moment, but I’m double jointed.” — Blanche

52 “He’s/She's really a very sweet man/woman. He/She just doesn't like to show it.” — Dorothy

53 “You know, sometimes when people are under pressure, they sleep to escape.” — Rose

54 “Have you noticed that NAME has been acting peculiar?” “Yes, NAME, from the first day that I met him/her!” — Blanche & Dorothy

55 “Oh, NAME, how do you feel about performing in front of a video camera?” “I think it's okay as long as you've already had at least three dates.” — Rose & Blanche

56 “I never grew a beard!” “You never grew brains, either!” — Rose & Sophia

57 “It wasn't a rat! It was a cute little mouse.” “NAME, it doesn't wear white gloves and work at Disneyland! We're talking about a rodent!” — Rose & Dorothy

58 “My whole life is an open book.” “Your whole life is an open shirt/blouse!” — Blanche & Sophia

59 “Oh, you don't have to worry about me, honey. I never get sick. I take very good care of myself. I treat my body like a temple.” “Yeah, open to everyone, day or night.” — Blanche & Sophia

60 “Oh, NAME. Can I make a little suggestion when you go for your makeover?” “Sure. What is it?” “Don't expect a miracle.” — Sophia & Dorothy

61 “Why am I even discussing this with you?” “Beats the hell out of me!” — Dorothy & Sophia

62 “Well, what do you know? NAME has a past!” “That's right! But unlike yours, I didn't need penicillin to get through it.” — Blanche & Sophia

63 “I'm going to have to meet men/women lying down.” “I thought you did.” — Blanche & Sophia

64 “Here we are in the middle of a crisis and there’s no cheesecake.” — Blanche

65 “Can I ask a dumb question?” “Better than anyone I know.” — Rose & Dorothy

66 “NAME, ‘disdam’ is not a word. You made it up.” “It’s a word.” “Fine. Use it in a sentence.” “You’re no good at disdam game.” — Dorothy & Sophia

67 “He’s/She’s undressing me with his/her eyes.” “Do you wanna move tables?” “Not yet, he’s/she’s only half done.” — Blanche & Rose

68 “You know, there is nothing worse than being wide awake and scared and by yourself!” “Oh yea there is: being wide awake and scared and by yourself without a double-fudge chocolate cheesecake in the freezer.” — Dorothy & Rose

69 “You know what would go so good on this cheesecake is those chocolate sprinkles.” “We finished those an hour ago.” “We could crush some Oreos on top.” “We ran out of those two hours ago.” “How about some whipped cream?” “Mmm!” — Dorothy & Rose

70 “You bought a chocolate cheesecake?” “Just for an emergency.” — Dorothy & Rose

71 “I just need some cucumbers to put on my eyes. It’s very good. It reduces puffiness.” “Does it work on thighs?” — Blanche & Rose

72 “I have a date.” “With a man/woman?” “No, NAME. With a Venus fly trap.” — Dorothy & Blanche

73 “Do you know what your trouble is?” “Of course not.” — Dorothy & Blanche

74 “I think there’s a connection between your brain and wallpaper paste.” — Sophia

75 ““Forgive me, NAME, but I haven’t had sex in AMOUNT OF TIME and it’s starting to get on my nerves.” – Sophia

76 “Do you know what I hate doing most after a big party?” “Trying to find your underwear in the big pile?” — Blanche & Rose

77 “I've never been so humiliated in my life.” “What about the time you lost the key to your handcuffs and had to go with that guy/girl on his/her mail route?” — Blanche & Dorothy

78 “You are not gonna believe this. NAME, just called me.” “I didn't think the two of you were speaking.” “Well, we're not.” “Then how'd you know it was him/her on the other end of the line?” “NAME, you're bringing down the curve for the whole country.” — Blanche, Dorothy & Rose

79 “Oh, my goodness. Look what I found. Double-fudge cookies. I thought we agreed not to keep cookies in the house.” “Right, after this last box.” “You're not going to eat them, are you?” “No, NAME. We're going to go to some dumb country and try to use them as money.” — Rose, Blanche & Dorothy

80 “I can't believe you said that! Oh, if I weren't a lady I'd deck you.” “You try and I'll have you on your back so fast you'll think you're out on a date.” — Blanche & Dorothy

81 [NAME running after a dog] “Ha! Would you look at that: man's best friend, chasing man's best friend!” — Dorothy

82 “I won't stand for this!“[gets up and starts to walk out] “Take it, NAME!” “But I bet you'll lie down for it.” — Blanche, Sophia & Dorothy

83 “NAME, you should make us eat dirt, make us grovel, give us the silent treatment...” “NAME, if you give us the silent treatment, I will eat dirt.” — Rose & Dorothy

84 “Cooking, NAME?” “No, NAME, I'm developing pictures for the Magellan Space Program.” — Rose & Dorothy

85 “Do we have any orange juice left?” [person two pours the rest in their glass] “No, we’re all out.” — Rose & Dorothy

86 “Go hug a landmine.” — Dorothy

87 “Now, what’s wrong?” “I lost it, NAME!” “You never had it, NAME.” — Dorothy & Stanley

88 “You knew I wanted to spend tonight alone.” — Rose

89 “Darn it. I gotta kiss somebody at midnight.” — Blanche

90 “Pizza, dammit! Get pizza!” — Dorothy

91 “What the hell goes on at night in this house?!” — Dorothy

92 “Just drives you nuts, doesn’t it, NAME?” — Rose

93 “Can you believe that backstabbing slut?” — Rose

94 “I’m here if you wanna pick my brain.” “NAME, I think we should leave it alone and let it heal.” — Rose & Dorothy

95 “And the world heaves a collective sigh of relief.” — Sophia

96 "Must you always be so cheerful, you empty headed Mary Poppins knockoff?'—Blanche

97 "What? Are you out of what is left of your mind?!"—Blanche

98 “All I do is listen to your sexual problems. How about my sexual problems?” — Sophia

99 “Blow it out your ditty bag.” — Sophia

100 “Your heart's in the right place, but I don't know where the hell your brain is." — Sophia

101 “Think about it. You live alone. No one likes you." — Sophia

102 “You're moving. Too bad. This would be touching if I liked you more." — Sophia

103 “Go ahead. Stand up and say it. My name is NAME, and I am an idiot." — Sophia

104 “You're here because the rhythm method was very popular in the [insert decade of birth]." — Sophia

105 “Get to the part where they steal the brain out of the dead body and sew it into your head." — Sophia

106 "Exactly how close to the television are you sitting when you're watching TV SHOW.” — Sophia

107 “Boom! You've got a social life." — Sophia

108 “You drink out of a brown paper bag and suddenly everybody’s your friend.” — Sophia

109 “Remember NAME, don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” “I think I crossed that line when I got a date!” — Dorothy & Sophia

110 “If you can’t count on family, who the hell can you count on?” — Sophia

111 “In this life, that’s all we have, is hope.” — Sophia

112 “Here’s a newsflash, witches can fly.” — Sophia

113 “It’s great bringing two idiots closer together.” — Sophia

114 “NAME, a man/woman called for you while you were out.” “Finally, now we can break out that bottle of champagne we’ve been saving.” — Rose & Sophia

115 “Gee, with only three hours sleep, I can be just as bitchy as you.” — Rose

116 “Gee, Sophia! You’re awfully cranky today.” — Rose

117 “The doctor says it’s the first time he’s ever been called because a baby was sleeping in the day. And then I think he called me an idiot.” — Rose

118 [astonished] “You paying for something?” “What are you saying, I'm cheap?” “Well, of course he’s/she's saying you're cheap. You're the only man I know who owns a time-share dog!” — Rose, Stanley & Dorothy

119 “Hey, what is this? You're talking about me like I'm an animal. [sniffing NAME] You've been with a man, haven't you?” — Sophia

120 “I do love the rain so. It reminds me of my first kiss.” “Ah, your first kiss was in the rain?” “No, it was in the shower.” — Blanche & Dorothy

121 “You know, I've been thinking ...” “Oh, that would explain the beads of sweat.” — Rose & Blanche

122 “God, I hate morning people.” — Blanche

123 “He’s/She’s a lewd, horny, oversexed beast with five hands.” “You don’t have to build him/her up to me, honey. I like him/her just fine already.” — Rose & Blanche

124 “You ... you ... you rude person!” “Go easy on him/her, NAME.” — Rose & Dorothy

125 “This would be touching if I liked you more.” — Sophia

#golden girls prompts #golden girls quotes #dialogue prompts #writing prompts #drabble prompts #sophia petrillo #dorothy zbornak #rose nylund #blanche devereaux #long post #read more #quaratine sucks and making these keeps my mind busy

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lantur · 4 years

Text

if you were mine - part two

summary: Riza has been working on the unit for close to a year when she starts to wonder whether Colonel Mustang’s interest in her is more than professional.

rated: t | words: 4602

part two of four, read part one here

read on ao3

Riza goes home from work on the Monday evening after she and Colonel Mustang return from their undercover assignment in Maastricht. She walks Hayate and cooks dinner, trying a new stew recipe Rebecca had raved about, and then settles on the sofa with this month’s issue of Guns & Ammo and Hayate at her side.

Everything has felt a little surreal since returning from Maastricht late last night. She had fantasized about it for so many years that now that it’s happened, it’s somehow surreal, dreamlike. She keeps expecting to wake up. Reading will help ground her, and she has been looking forward to this issue, featuring a long-awaited review of the Winchester Wildcat.

Riza is halfway into the review of the semi-automatic rifle when she hears a familiar knock on the door. Three short raps, two in quick succession and the last after a pause of exactly four seconds.

Her eyes widen, and she sits up straight, setting the magazine aside, as Hayate yips. She opens the door and pulls her visitor in quickly, casting looks down both sides of the hallway to make sure that none of her neighbors are out and about.

“Don’t worry,” Roy says, shrugging his coat off and throwing it on the rack near the door. “The building’s empty tonight. And I wasn’t followed.”

Riza sighs, relieved. “Good.”

He tilts her face up to his and kisses her, long and slow, and Riza’s knees almost weaken. She will never get used to this. She never wants to get used to this. Yet, it’s just a little jarring, considering that five hours ago, they were in the office together and he had been leading a unit meeting about how to ensnare one of East City’s crime kingpins.

Roy pulls back and gives her that signature look of his - so very perceptive, like he had just read her thoughts. “How are you feeling?” he asks.

“Fine,” Riza says, taking his hand and leading him to the sofa.

He sits close beside her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. She nestles into him, relishing the intimacy. “Really?”

“Really,” she repeats. “I’ve always been able to compartmentalize. You don’t have to worry about me.”

“Of course I do,” Roy says, as if that should be obvious. “You’re my subordinate, and my girlfriend. It’s my job to look out for you.”

“What was that? I didn’t quite catch the last part.”

“You’re my subordinate and my girlfriend, and so it’s my job to--” Roy begins, and then heaves a sigh when he catches the small smile on her face.

“Sorry,” Riza says. “I couldn’t help myself. It’s just so… wholesome, considering the words I’ve been using when I think of it.”

Roy looks down at her. “Don’t let this impact the way you think of yourself, Riza,” he says sharply. “This doesn’t make you any less of an officer or a professional.”

“How can it not?” She hugs her knees to her chest. “It’s drilled into all of our heads from day one of the academy. Don’t fuck your coworkers, but especially don’t fuck your commanding officer or your subordinates.”

Roy winces at the reminder. “I know,” he says. “I reconciled that by reminding myself that there was no coercion, and that I’m not the one who makes decisions about you getting promoted. And I know that I won’t give you preferential treatment, because I also know that this isn’t going to change any of the work you - or we - do.”

Riza leans against him. “Thank you for your faith in me.”

“Always,” he says simply, stroking her hair. “Always.”

“It is good that you came over, though,” Riza says. “I’ve been wondering how this is going to work.”

“Oh?”

“We need to set procedures.” She looks longingly at the pen and notebook on the coffee table. “It goes against everything in me as your adjutant to not write them down and keep a record of it. We’ll have to rely on our memories.”

“Of course.” Roy glances at her thoughtfully. “I came in through the service entrance of your building today. Let’s continue to do that.”

“Good. And we’ll always be in civilian clothes, of course.”

Roy looks over at his black overcoat and frowns. “I’ll have to get a few more. We should avoid repeating any distinguishing articles of clothing, like coats, scarves, hats, and so on.”

“Good thought,” Riza says approvingly. “Any other ideas?”

“Meetings no more than thrice a week, never on consecutive days,” Roy says reluctantly. “And never before nine at night. We need to be sure that we’re not followed by anyone on foot or in a vehicle. If there’s any suspicion of being tailed, we should go back to our own place and stay there for the rest of the night.”

Riza hesitates, considering. “We shouldn’t stay the entire night when we’re together, either. We should leave well before dawn. Maybe four in the morning, at the absolute latest. The last thing we need is for anyone to see us leaving each other’s place early in the morning. That’s even harder to explain away than a late night visit.”

Roy takes her hand, rubbing it apologetically.

“And no meetings outside of our personal residences,” she presses on. “Parks, bars, restaurants, the theatre, all out of the question. If we’re associating anywhere outside of work, our unit has to be there.”

“Just what I need, more time with Havoc.” Roy stands and walks over to the window, pulling the shutters down with a snap, and Riza grimaces at their oversight. “Windows closed and shutters down,” he says. “We’ll both sweep our apartments for bugs or surveillance every other day, and especially before a meeting. I’ll check my car regularly as well. Have we missed anything?”

“This should go without saying,” Riza says pointedly. “But absolutely no unprofessional behavior in the office, even when we’re alone after hours.”

Roy gives her a mournful look. “Fine.”

“Of course, we will act no differently at work or when socializing with the unit. That shouldn’t be a challenge.”

Roy comes back to the sofa and sits beside her. “Maes won’t learn about this, either,” he says. “And neither will Catalina. They can - and will, and probably do already, if your conversations with Catalina are anything like mine with Maes - speculate, but those suspicions will remain unconfirmed.”

“They’re both trustworthy about any suspicions they might have, too.”

They look at each other for several moments, the grim weight of the discussion sinking in. Riza remembers his words in Maastricht, the warning that this won’t look like a normal relationship. She hadn’t fully realized the extent of that statement then.

“This is all very unromantic,” Roy says, his shoulders slumping. He runs a hand through his hair, making it stand on end. “I’m sorry.”

Riza leans in and presses a kiss to his cheek. “Romance,” she says, “is overrated.”

Riza remembers the learning curve when she had started working on the unit.

The military academy had trained her to be a soldier, not an adjutant specifically, so the learning curve had been steep. Prior to starting her duties, she had studied every book on the role of the adjutant that she could find in the East City Command Library from cover to cover. Additionally, she had requested meetings and interviews with every other adjutant of every other high-ranking officer in East City, and taken pages upon pages notes from each meeting.

She had prepared herself as best as she could. And despite her anxiety, she had marshaled every drop of her composure and been the consummate professional from her first day on the unit.

At the end of her first week, she had mastered the typewriter. At the end of her first month, she had learned how to handle the massive quantity of administrative paperwork on her workload. At the end of her first quarter, she had learned the intricacies of the political and interpersonal relationships between every high-ranking officer stationed at East City Command.

This isn’t so different.

Riza learns several things in quick succession.

She learns that sex feels different in her bedroom than it does in an inn two hours away from home. It feels safer, more familiar, comforting.

In her most private moments, alone in bed, stripping off her clothes and holding a pillow to her breasts, eyes closed, she had wondered what being with Roy would be like. If he would be gentle, tender, restrained, slow, teasing, flirtatious, serious, passionate… She’d had fantasies for every single possibility. She had wondered if she would ever have an answer to that question.

Riza is fascinated to learn that the answer is all of the above, depending on the night and their moods. She wholeheartedly enjoys learning that she loves every one of them equally. She loves it when Roy pins her wrists above her head and presses slow kisses to the inside of her forearms. She loves straddling him on the sofa, kissing him hard, threading her fingers through his hair as he grips her hips tight.

She had never fantasized about this, because years later, it is still a sore spot - figuratively, and literally, though only on particularly hot days. She learns that she even loves being facedown in bed, Roy running his fingertips gently up her spine, from the small of her ruined back, over her shoulder blades, to the nape of her neck. It makes her entire body tingle and shiver, makes her squirm and moan his name softly into the pillow beneath her.

Do you want me to stop? Roy had asked at once, pulling back, his concern evident, and Riza had grabbed his hand and pulled it back to her. Please don’t, she had said. Please.

She likes it when he stays mostly dressed, because Roy is so devastatingly handsome in the formal clothes he likes so much. She likes it just as much when he pulls off his shirt, tossing it aside, so she can run her hands over the muscles in his arms, shoulders, and chest. Predictably, he prefers when she takes everything off, though he makes exceptions when she’s wearing a short skirt.

Riza learns that Roy can be so enthusiastic that he borders on clumsy. Passionate, he corrects, sweeping her off her feet and carrying her to the bedroom. Not clumsy. He kisses her so hard that they fall against walls in their apartments’ bedrooms and hallways (though he always cradles the back of her head in one hand so that she doesn’t bump it). She learns that Roy loves it when she nibbles on his ears and his neck, and she is surprised to learn that there’s nothing she likes better than when he trails his fingertips over her hips and stomach.

She learns that she’s never enjoyed the sound of her name more than when he says it, breathed into her ear and nuzzled against it, or holding her tight in his arms, and he feels the same way.

And Riza learns about contraceptives for the first time. She knew they existed, of course, but she’d never had the need to learn anything further.

My aunt recommends a tea called Queen Anne’s Lace for the ladies at the bar, Roy tells her, somewhat red-faced, and then thrusts a paper with notes at her. I called her and asked for instructions on how to make it. She said to follow her instructions to the letter, and that we should call her if we have any issues getting the powder here. She’ll send it from Central. She has plenty.

Luckily, Riza finds that Amelia’s Apothecary on the far side of town sells Queen Anne’s Lace, powdered. Within a month, she becomes an expert at brewing it, though she never gets used to the bitter taste.

And the months slide effortlessly into a year, a span of time that feels like twice that. Between their history, their work, and their intimate relationship, their lives have never been more completely intertwined. It had happened so seamlessly, the transition - integration? - from colleagues and friends to lovers.

Riza takes Hayate for walks and goes out with Rebecca on the weekends and in the evenings. Sometimes her gaze lingers on couples out to dinner, sitting at restaurant patios, holding hands. Sharing picnics at the park, walking together, going out for ice-cream dates, or to the theatre.

Over time, those moments pile up. Moments of little things that make her wistful. Riza chides herself whenever it happens. She averts her eyes and redirects her thoughts. She knew what she was getting into at the start.

She reminds herself of that every time Roy leaves in the middle of the night (kissing her thoroughly, apologetically). She reminds herself of that every morning she wakes up alone, and places a hand on the pillow that still smells faintly of Roy’s shampoo.

It is little comfort to know that Roy feels as bad about it as she does. He has always been generous with her, always buying her food and drinks long before they had begun their illicit relationship, but afterwards, he veers somewhat out of control.

The first thing he buys her is an enormous box of fancy dog treats for Hayate - a sweet gesture. Then comes an upgraded access card to the shooting range, and then a steady stream of firearm parts, polishes, cleaning tools, and other accessories.

Then come boxes of gourmet coffee, tea, and honey. A set of fancy soaps, shampoos, and lotions that weighs almost as much as Hayate. A beautiful cream-colored utility coat that instantly becomes a new favorite. A pair of warm slippers, satin pajamas, a cloud-soft pink bathrobe, several blouses and skirts, a few new pairs of earrings. Under the veneer of smoothness, Roy looks almost imperceptibly anxious on the rare occasion that he gives her the gifts in person. Most of the time, he leaves them in her apartment while she’s out with Rebecca.

“Thank you for bringing me those files about the 1865 unrest in South City,” Riza says quietly, one afternoon when it’s just the two of them in the office. “They were very interesting reading.”

She had gotten back from dinner with Rebecca last night to find the latest in the novel series she likes; The Cases of Eddie Drake, sitting on her bed. The book had just been released a day ago.

Colonel Mustang (she makes herself think of him as Colonel Mustang during work hours) looks pleased. “I’m glad you found it enlightening. I’d like to read through those files as soon as you’re finished.”

“I did find it interesting.” Riza hesitates for just an instant. “With that being said, you don’t have to take the trouble of bringing me files from the library. I can always pick up or order files myself if I need them.”

Colonel Mustang rifles through some paperwork on his desk, making a noncommittal sound. “Don’t worry about it.”

Riza looks over at him. “I mean it, sir. There’s no need for you to go out of your way for me.”

Colonel Mustang clears his throat. “It’s the least I can do for you, Lieutenant.”

“Colonel, it’s really not necessary--”

“I ask a lot of you, Lieutenant. I know that.” Colonel Mustang’s tone brooks no argument. “So please let me do what I can for you.”

“...Thank you, sir.”

Breda, Havoc, Fuery, and Falman return from their lunch then, and Riza lets it drop.

Riza finds a blank memo on her desk one Friday morning, a few weeks later.

She looks over at Colonel Mustang’s desk. He is leaning back in his chair, idly flipping through a report, looking bored out of his mind.

Riza steps out for a break a couple of hours later and takes the memo with her, folded into a tiny square and tucked into her pocket. She locks herself into a stall in the ladies’ bathroom, pulls out a small lighter, and holds it to the paper. Not too close, but not too far.

The heat triggers the special ink, and the words gradually appear before her, written in Colonel Mustang’s neat, precise handwriting. Vollkar Overlook, past the fourth mile marker, ten p.m. Bring Hayate.

It’s a short message, and it takes no longer than an instant to commit it to memory. Riza burns the memo.

She returns to the office and frowns at Colonel Mustang, who is now hunched over the report and appears to be doodling in the margins. He gives her an irrepressible smile.

Riza takes a cab to Trettach Park and walks the thirty minutes to Vollkar Overlook from there, with Hayate by her side. She is grateful for the opportunity to practice their rarely used woodland concealment skills. She keeps vigilant as she walks, hyper-aware of any sound beyond the normal, expected ones, but she still has some mental space to wonder what Roy’s intentions for the memo had been. This could be a professional meeting, or a personal one.

She gets her answer when they emerge from the tree line onto the grassy overlook. Riza blinks, startled, and Hayate yips, rushing forward to greet Roy.

“I don’t know why you’re concerned about your stealth skills,” he says ruefully, bending to pet Hayate. “You almost gave me a heart attack.”

“Good. I’m glad to know that we’ve made improvements.” Riza takes in the sight before her, astonished. A blanket spread out on the grass, with a small radio on top of it, and an assortment of fruits, fancy snacks, cheeses, chocolates, and wine. And even a rawhide bone for Hayate. The radio is playing a soft jazz station. “What is all this?”

“A date, obviously.” Roy wraps an arm around her, and then casts a baleful glance up at the sky. “It was intended to be a romantic moonlight picnic, but the cloud cover isn’t cooperating.”

Riza steps away, looking nervously around them. The overlook is deserted, and Roy’s car is the only one parked on the road. “This is sweet of you, but it violates our procedures,” she says, hating it. “It’s not safe. Anyone could drive up, including a police patrol.”

“I’ve staked it out every night at this time for the past few nights, and had the rest of the unit observe it at night for a week and a half before that. No one comes past the second mile marker. I figured just in case anyone does approach on foot, Hayate would sense it and alert us. And no police patrols will pass the second mile marker tonight, either.” Roy clears his throat. “I called in a favor.”

Riza looks at him, and then back at the picnic, touched by the effort, tempted, and torn. There’s a sudden lump in her throat at the idyllic normalcy of it all. She hadn’t realized how badly she wanted this, how badly she craved some of that normalcy that other couples took so much for granted, until this moment.

Roy puts a hand on her shoulder, sensing the conflict. “Please let me do this for you,” he says quietly. “Everything will be all right. I promise.”

Riza finally, reluctantly nods, and he takes her hand, leading her to the blanket.

They enjoy a long dinner, complete with an olive-throwing target practice exercise that ends with all of Riza’s olives making it into Roy’s mouth at increasingly impressive ranges. To compensate for his lack of aim with the olives, he feeds her the chocolate “like a normal boyfriend would.” It is the kind of indulgent, lovesick display she avoids looking at when passing by other couples at the park, and it feels incredible to engage in it.

“Thank you for doing this,” Riza says, stroking her fingers through his hair. Roy is lying with his head in her lap, looking more relaxed than she’s seen him in a long while. She feels somehow lighter than she had before as well, temporarily freed from holding this secret so close to her heart.

Roy sits up and then shrugs, flustered. “I should have done this much earlier. And I wish I could do more,” he says, after a pause. “Take you out to dinner properly, to the theatre, or the symphony. I hate that I can do that with other women, but not with you. It feels wrong.”

“We both know that it’s not genuine, though,” Riza says gently. “It’s a farce to gather information. Nothing more.”

“I know, but you deserve those nights,” Roy says, frustration creeping into his voice. “You deserve so much more than what I’ve been able to give you. A few gifts, takeout dinners, every time we see each other being in our apartments - I treat you like some of the senior staff treats their secret mistresses. I hate it.”

Riza stares at him, surprised by the outburst; by the fact that he had voiced what she has thought in her darker moments. Roy averts his gaze from hers. “Sometimes I worry that you won’t put up with it for much longer,” he murmurs. “That you’ll realize that you would rather be with a man who doesn’t treat you like a dirty little secret.”

Riza reaches out, cupping his face with one hand, searching for the right words. “You talk about what you’ve been able to give me and what I deserve. What you’ve given me is a relationship with a man I love and trust more than anything,” she says firmly. “I wouldn’t trade that for the world.”

Roy looks at her steadily. “I love you, Riza.”

Riza smiles. “I love you too.”

They board the six o’clock evening train from Resembool to East City in silence.

They sit next to each other, hand-in-hand. By the time the train arrives at the East City station, they will have moved to sit across from one another, the image of professionalism.

Riza stares out the window at the rolling green hills and meadows that they pass, lost in thought. She feels a little sick to her stomach, a little nauseous. The events of the day keep replaying in her mind. What they had seen in the Elric home. Alphonse Elric, soul-bound to a massive suit of armor - that suit of armor speaking in the sweet, innocent voice of a young boy. Edward Elric, so young, but so broken, despondent.

They were just children.

She had remained professional and calm throughout, but it had shaken her, and even now, Riza’s eyes sting as she thinks back to it. She had been unprepared for the emotion she had felt at meeting the two boys; for the desire to draw both of them into her arms and tell them that everything would be all right.

“I’m glad that Edward seems interested in your offer,” she says. “It will be good for him to have structure, a sense of purpose, and some more positive figures in his life. I think that will save him from slipping into further despair.”

“Yeah,” Roy says. “Poor kid. Both of them.” He glances at her out of the corner of his eye. “Are you okay? Everything we saw at the Elric home, and Alphonse…”

Riza swallows. “It’s hard to take in,” she says, resting her head against his shoulder. “Just imagining the suffering they went through. They’ve been very brave.”

They lapse into silence again, and Riza has some difficulty putting the children out of her mind. Edward, Alphonse, the young girl Winry. Even little Elicia comes to mind. She and Roy had visited Maes and Gracia in Central a couple of months ago. Gracia had made a lovely dinner, and afterwards, the four of them had sat and talked and she and Roy had taken turns holding Elicia. Elicia was sweet and agreeable, and Riza had been surprised by how strangely bittersweet it had felt to hold the toddler in her lap, wrapping her arms around her small body. And watching Roy hold Elicia afterwards, seeing the little girl smile and laugh at the silly voices that “Uncle Roy” did for her - that had been more bitter than sweet.

It’s been almost six years, now. In another world, she and Roy would have been married years ago, with their own Elicia to hold.

Of course, that isn’t possible, and won’t be for a very long time. Riza has reconciled herself to that. She doesn’t feel wistful at the idea of weddings anymore, or look twice at wedding dresses in boutique windows. But it’s only recently that this new realization has hit her - that there most likely won’t be a little dark-haired Elicia, or a little blonde boy like Edward.

She is twenty-five now and Roy is twenty-eight, and there is no telling how far he is from becoming Fuhrer and repealing the anti-fraternization regulations. It could be a decade, conservatively speaking. Optimistically speaking. More realistically, they are looking at fifteen years.

The idea of children of their own is another thing that she will have to let go of.

Riza exhales slowly, trying to release some of the tightness in her chest. It doesn’t work.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Roy asks. “You seem preoccupied.”

“I’m fine.” Riza turns to him, attempting to distract herself. “Actually, I’ve been thinking about growing my hair out.”

Roy blinks. “It’ll be harder for me to run my fingers through if it’s long,” he says ruefully, and does just that, a lingering, tender touch. “It’s hard for me to imagine what you’ll look like. You’ve had it short since the day I met you.”

Riza thinks back to that day, to her relief at no longer being alone in that big house with her father, and smiles.

“I’m sure it’ll be beautiful, though,” Roy says, squeezing her hand. “You always have been.”

Riza nudges him in the side. “And you’ve always been charming to me, even as a seventeen-year-old apprentice.”

“Seventeen...” Roy sighs. “I was so young then.”

“Barely twenty, when you enlisted,” Riza says, thinking about Edward Elric. “Edward is even younger. As a State Alchemist, he’ll be a major at thirteen.”

“That will come with its fair share of challenges,” Roy muses. “He’ll struggle to fit in, on one level, and on another... I know you mentioned exposure to more positive figures in his life, but you have to consider the caliber of people outside of our unit. He’ll be exposed to a lot of negative influences as well.”

Riza frowns, and she can’t help but think back to Ishval, to Kimblee. That is the caliber of some of the Amestris military. Roy squeezes her hand, reading her train of thought, as he always does. “You and Maes can take him under your wings. The two of you are the best influences the military has to offer him. It’s regrettable that Edward lost his parents, but knowing you and knowing Maes - you both can mold him into a good soldier, and a good man.”

Riza nods resolutely. “We will.”

Unbidden, Riza thinks of Fuhrer Bradley, his wife, and their young son, just adopted a couple of years ago. They seem like such a happy family. Mrs. Bradley, especially, dotes on Selim, and Selim adores her. She thinks of Roy’s aunt, Chris Mustang, and how she had raised Roy after the accident that had orphaned him. She’s seen Roy with Chris; underneath the sniping and the sharp verbal barbs they trade, the love they have for one another is clear.

Parenthood can take different forms for different people, Riza reminds herself, and she holds that thought tight, a lifeline. It will be all right.

to be continued

Any thoughts or comments would be very much appreciated! I hope you enjoyed it. :)

#royai #riza hawkeye #roy mustang #fma:b #fullmetal alchemist: brotherhood #roy x riza #royai fanfic #roy mustang x riza hawkeye #royai fic

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kellysbookblog · 7 months

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Revealing the intense cover of Craving Danger by @MHeardAuthor

Get ready for a heart-pounding journey into the Mafia Romance world with this grumpy boss vs. feisty PA tale.

In Craving Danger, secrets, passion, and danger collide as Samantha tests the limits of her personal assistant role, uncovering a world beyond the office walls. With a touch of opposites attract, this complete standalone promises a thrilling ride!

Will love and danger intertwine, or will the secrets they keep tear them apart? Find out on December 4th!

Pre-order TODAY!!

US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL3HP64R

UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CL3HP64R

AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CL3HP64R

CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CL3HP64R

Add to Goodreads:

Okay Creations - Cover Designer

Blurb:

At the office, Samantha is mouthy AF and hellbent on testing my patience. So you can imagine my surprise when my new personal assistant walks into my club with a very specific fantasy.

When the man Samantha’s paired with doesn’t stick to the rules, I step in to take his place. Wearing a mask protects my identity, and soon the little wildcat from the office is telling me all her darkest secrets and fantasies.

During the day, she gives me hell, but at night, she becomes my wounded kitten.

I know I’m playing a dangerous game.

She doesn’t know I’m one of the heads of the Cosa Nostra.

She doesn’t know her boss and her nightly visitor is the same person.

With my enemy on the attack and her past coming to haunt her, our secrets come out in the most explosive way possible, threatening to rip Samantha away from me.

But my wildcat has another thing coming if she thinks I’ll ever let go.

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themadvigilantist · 4 years

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About the Muse

Discover your animal personality!

PENGUIN CHARACTERISTICS: Witty • Meticulous • Intelligent • Dual-natured • Inscrutable • Self-conscious SCIENTIFIC NAME: Aptenodytes patagonica COLLECTIVE TERM: A colony of penguins

THE PENGUIN PERSONALITY

Now you see it, now you don't. Aggressive yet gentle, outgoing but shy, stable yet flighty - everyone sees the penguin in a different way. It's that black and white thing: the penguin only reveals the side that it wants to you to see. So whether you like this darling-devil or not, you have to concede that it's a fascinating and enigmatic individual.

Penguins are birds condemned to live out their days on the ground. Unable to fly, their excess energy has no outlet save their creative talents and emotional outbursts. Penguins are poetic, artistic, and intellectually gifted, and as writers penguins have no equal. But, if unable to channel their impulses in a positive way, the resulting turmoil proves damaging to their relationships and careers.

NEVER UNDERESTIMATE A PENGUIN

Penguins are deceptively intelligent and are particularly animated when intellectually challenged. They excel at word games and puzzles but are modest about their abilities and are generally underestimated by others.

With their misunderstood personality, penguins find writing an ideal tool for expressing their true feelings. They have a natural aptitude for languages and penguin personalities dominate the world of publishing as writers, editors, and journalists.

THE PENGUIN PERSONALITY'S CAREER

A strong sense of drama draws penguins to the theater and cinema, although unlike typical bird personalities they avoid the spotlight unless they're able to hide behind the characters they play. Once on stage however, they prove to be excellent performers with their multifaceted personalities conveying the full gamut of emotions.

However, in many cases a lack of confidence affects their work. Penguins tend to give up on tasks they were otherwise capable of and are frequently disappointed with their performance. Still, work never dominates their lives and they always put their family first.

PENGUINS IN THE WILD

Like all flightless birds, penguins reside only in the southern hemisphere, and having found a niche in the wild, frozen wasteland that is Antarctica, most penguin species move south in winter to breed in the extreme cold. Although conditions are harsh, penguins can form large breeding groups with minimal fear of predators, and they are supremely well adapted for this environment.

Surviving the Antarctic winter takes a great deal of cooperation from the penguins and they huddle together to conserve heat. As the penguins on the outside of the group begin to get cold, they are allowed by the others to move into the interior of the group to regain body heat.

CAREERS & HOBBIES

Waiter • Designer • Actor • Journalist • Herbalist • Writer | Gambling • Board games • Reading • Family time

LOVE & FRIENDSHIP

Since penguins have the coldest feet in the animal kingdom, it's no surprise that within its conflicted bosom there beats the warmest heart of all. Unfortunately, most of us will never experience this gentle compassion for the penguin rations it only to family and close friends.

Penguins mate for life and they make their commitments in black and white. Boredom is never an issue and it would never occur to them to look outside their marriage for stimulation. However, the flighty core of its bird personality struggles to maintain an even keel, challenging its partner's patience and endurance.

It takes a special person to flesh out the penguin's wonderful qualities and mammalian personalities like horses, moles and dogs simply do not have the tools to decipher its avian sensibilities. Neither is the penguin fully accepted by eagles, owls and roosters who look down their noses at their land-bound cousin.

True acceptance comes in the form of semi-aquatic mammals, and relationships with otters, walruses, and beavers are complete in many ways.

tagged by: @pi-jessicajones

tagging: @brendan-block @city-full-of-ocs @idontdosecondchances @paigeatyourservice @theiracademydaysareover @theemelancholyartist @isitrecording

FOX CHARACTERISTICS: Autonomous • Generous • Creative • Flirtatious • Procrastinating SCIENTIFIC NAME: Vulpes vulpes COLLECTIVE TERM: A skulk of foxes

THE ASTUTE FOX

The fox personality is very much a creature of the night and, along with its dog relatives, is among the most gregarious of the carnivores. These agile-minded personalities are always active and -- although they never go out of their way to harm others -- have developed an unfair reputation for slyness and manipulation. The female of the species is called a vixen for good reason: with a sharp mind and equally sharp tongue, it’s best to stay on her good side, especially since she’s like to rise to the top of her chosen field.

CHARMING CARNIVORES

Appealing, cerebral and of average size, the fox is a close relative of both the wolf and dog personalities and displays the typical canine qualities of loyalty, passion and creativity. Largely misunderstood to be a shy, retreating individual, it's the fox's stature as a small carnivore that defines its survival strategy. Because it cannot succeed using brute force alone, the fox must rely on its sharp mind and engaging personality to garner resources. Because it spends so much time in its head -- giving the impression that it's trying to outsmart everyone – the fox isn’t surprised that others find its intellectual pursuits quite intimidating (and often annoying).

Foxes are fussy eaters and, with an appreciation for the finer things in life, demand quality in entertainment, food, and friends. Their love of exploration dovetails with their passion for overcoming challenges, which is why foxes are often found mountain climbing or journeying to exotic, forbidden places.

FOXES CAN BE SUBTLE

Flamboyance is not the fox's style; it prefers to remain inconspicuous in a small, cozy house, which is usually organized and neat. Choosing subtlety and cunning over brute strength, they are unquestionably hunter personalities and are usually in good physical shape and perform well in pastimes that challenge both mind and body.

Foxes are typically successful in the workplace, but their competitiveness and ambition sometimes make coworkers feel belittled. While they would never deliberately take advantage of others, their single-mindedness often blinds them to the feelings of others. Foxes thrive when running their own businesses, but will usually seek a trusted partner in these ventures. Although they prefer consensus in partnership decisions, they usually dominate discussions and steer plans to reflect their own agenda. Competent in a wide range of fields, foxes are particularly well suited for a career as computer programmers, lawyers, doctors or politicians.

FOXES IN THE WILD

Foxes are closely related to dogs and jackals and comprise a number of distinct species; each with its unique range. Assessing the worldwide population of foxes is difficult as these animals mainly go about their business at night and are skilled at staying out of sight, although they sometimes fall prey to coyotes and wolves. Today its main enemy is man... and because of its tree-climbing habit, it is an easy animal to trap, although most species are not considered endangered. During the day, foxes rest in thick brush or in the hollows of tree. The fox is the only member of the canine family to routinely climb trees and often escapes danger by running up the trunk of a sturdy tree and navigating overhanging branches.

Foxes are not particularly fast runners, nor do they have the endurance for long chases... relying instead on their keen intelligence to make their living.

CAREERS & HOBBIES

Computer programmer • Lawyer • Doctor • Advertising Chess • Gambling • Debating • Jeopardy

LOVE & FRIENDSHIP

As lovers, foxes are passionate and inventive, with their agile minds and bodies leading to exciting romps. Yet, because foxes are generally uncomfortable with the idea of emotional neediness, they rely on their partners to generate the romance and safe harbor.

Despite their roguish reputations, foxes are quite discerning in their choice of mates. They are particularly attracted to the creativity and gumption of eagles, zebras and wild dogs... creatures with which they are physically and temperamentally well -matched. Foxes should avoid wildcats and tigers, however, for while these aggressive carnivores provide immediate carnal gratification, their feline characteristics clash with the fox's canine essence.

Beneath its even-handed exterior is a deeply emotional core that the fox keeps well-guarded. Lovers quickly realize that the fox prefers nurturing to being nurtured, which is really just a fox ploy to avoid intimacy... a fox will never reveal its vulnerabilities unless it finds a mate who it intellectually respects, and emotionally trusts.

TIGER CHARACTERISTICS: Handsome • Discerning • Curious • Fashionable • Conceited SCIENTIFIC NAME: Panthera tigris COLLECTIVE TERM: A bolt of tigers

POISED, GRACEFUL AND POWERFUL

Tigers are handsome and powerful people with an innate self-confidence and elegance. There's a sense of immediacy and an aura of electricity that surrounds it, and when it walks into a room, it feels like something is about to happen. Once a tiger has found its groove, it will focus on its goal with a brightly burning intensity. Male tigers, when out of their element, are sometimes mistaken for beefcake, but when you see them in their offices wearing their power suits you’ll soon realize that you're dealing with incisive, authoritarian individuals.

DEFINING THE TIGER PERSONALITY

In social situations, the tiger is an excellent host and there is no such thing as a casual party in its home. Guests can always expect a memorable occasion with an extravagance of food and drink, and yet, there is a distinct coldness to its den. Having sacrificed comfort for style, the tiger outfits its house with austere and modern furniture, and comfortably worn easy chairs are replaced every few years.

Unlike the family oriented lion, tigers are solitary creatures who hate to lie around doing nothing. In this regard they have more in common with wildcats and leopards, who are always on the move, and because of this antisocial aspect, it can be difficult to discern a tiger's true motives: They are considered unpredictable and enigmatic. They have a strong aversion to routine in their daily life, and their spontaneity and energy infect others who are graced with their presence.

THE TIGER PERSONALITY'S CAREER

Tigers dislike small talk in the workplace and expect professionalism from coworkers, demanding the highest standards in their business dealings. With their killer instincts, tigers make excellent trial lawyers and have no hesitation in using aggression to their advantage. Acutely aware of their ability to intimidate, its single-mindedness enhances the tiger's reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

Because of their preference for solitude, however, tigers are not natural leaders. While perfectly capable of assuming the role of a CEO, they prefer the challenges inherent in self-employment. Tiger businesses are invariably successful and cover a wide range of industries, from engineering to retailing.

TIGERS IN THE WILD

The tiger is a magnificent animal and with its splendid carriage and sinuous grace, can grow to lengths of more than ten feet and weigh more than five hundred pounds. The tiger is an excellent swimmer but, unlike most members of the cat family, is a poor climber.

Male and female tigers come together only when the tigress is in heat for a period a few weeks. During this time the tiger will not tolerate the presence of other males and will fight to the death to control the female.

Adult tigers have no natural enemies except man, but they have an unusually high mortality rate from infected wounds caused by porcupine quills. Although largely protected from human hunting, pressure from civilization and development has kept the tiger population on the verge of extinction.

CAREERS & HOBBIES

Trial Lawyer • CEO • Engineer • Self-employed Adventure • Sports • Parties • Action movies

LOVE & FRIENDSHIP

When single, tigers can be unsettled and promiscuous. But their emotional detachment should not be confused with a desire to avoid tenderness; for intimacy is the tiger's greatest sensual tool. Offering its lover some deeply held secrets adds another dimension of eroticism to its lovemaking.

Marry it? Yes. Tame it? Never! It's hard to put one's finger on why the tiger struggles to settle down, but one theory has it that the tiger views marriage as a threat to its independence, even though tigers that have been married for a while will tell you that matrimony can be quite agreeable. Maybe it’s their impossible search for the perfect partner that keeps them on the prowl, although more than likely, we'll never understand the darker forces that frame its fearful symmetry.

It's not easy to resist the charms of a tiger personality and the moment you meet one, you'll want to be president of its fan club. But there's a price to pay for hanging around such a compelling beast... the tiger's wit is sharp and its appetites monstrous.

#c: 0 #vc: 11 1/2 #c: 10 #{v under the cut yall}#{dantalion got wild cat and einzel got the owl}#mv: decretum #mv: cogitations #mv: prowess #mv: longpost

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drewbabie · 5 years

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SPOP Pride Exchange

@sconefacedgirl @spop-pride-exchange

Hello!!! I made a fanfic for you for the exchange! Sorry it doesn’t fit into all of your genres that you wanted it to be. I tried my best and it was a bit rushed. I hope you enjoy it anyway!! (BTW if I posted this a day early, it’s mostly because I live in Australia and we probably have different timezones)

ROADTRIP/RUNAWAY AU

The morning sun shone brightly over the horizon and greeted the hills with a warm smile. It was exactly 23 days since Adora and Catra left the town for a sort of cheesy “find-our-passion-and-explore-the-country” roadtrip. Mainly it was because the townspeople were too aggressive on the two girls’ relationship. It’s too long a tale to tell, but they escaped with each other. And that’s what matters to them.

Adora looked over at the sleeping girl next to her. They slept in the car at a small tourist stop which was just a lookout over the mountains. It was a bit cold, but they held out fine. “Good morning, Catra.” Was all Adora’s sleepy voice managed to whisper. Catra rolled over as she started to wake up. “Ugh...It’s too early...can’t we just stay here?”

Adora sighed, both in awe at her girlfriend but also because she was fed up with her oversleeping. “The only reason why you’re so tired is because you had too many beers last night.” The blonde girl sat up on the folded over carseat. She rubbed her eyes slightly. “Only...like...four.” Catra yawned and stretched. “Pfft...alright. So care to explain why there’s literally 10 cans on the floor?” Adora teased.

Catra rolled over and tried to pull the warm blanket over her face. Catra groaned as Adora pulled the blanket down before she could fully cover her head and hair. “Don’t you dare fall asleep on me.” Adora kissed her head and pulled the blanket fully down. “Alright, alright. I’m gettin’ up.” Catra groaned again, followed by a small yawn.

“We’re almost out of gas, we need to find somewhere we can fill up. As well as breakfast.” Adora peered over at the steering wheel and slipped into her black leggings. “I heard there was a station nearby.” Catra rummeled through her clothes and found a maroon hoodie. “Good, I’m starving.”

-------

Adora was at the wheel, whilst Catra was frustratingly changing radio stations. Half were talk shows and the other were dumb, overrated music. She finally settled on Lua by Bright Eyes. It was peaceful, and Adora hummed to the lyrics. The road was stretched out, completely surrounded by trees as tall as giants. The lush green branches were waving slightly as the breeze gently shook them.

“I thought you said the station would be at least ten minutes away.” Catra pouted as she brushed her long brown hair. “It’s almost been ten minutes now, we’re gonna approach it soon.” The blue-eyed girl reminded the impatient doll next to her. Catra sighed and looked over at Adora. She was beautiful.

“Are we...ever going back to the town?” Catra asked. It felt like a lifetime ago when they sped off into the sunset just to escape the stupid, homophobic, fundamental Christian town...buncha bastards. “Catra...you know we can’t.” Adora sighed, even if that question annoyed her she kept her focus on the road despite two cars passing every five minutes. “We just can’t go back.”

Adora reflects what happened before they left. Bunch of fights, arguments, other bullshit. The blonde hates looking back. They made that decision to leave for good, no matter how hard life on the road was. Catra’s face fell slightly. “Sorry, did I make you mad?” Adora looks at Catra’s freckled cheeks and heterochromia eyes. “Not at all, sweetheart.”

They finally pull up at a service station. It looked pretty basic, there were some park benches outside, meaning they sell actual food, not just junk. A sigh of relief escaped Adora’s peach-coloured mouth. “Here we are.” Catra almost dozed off completely, everything was so quiet and peaceful. The car shook on the asphalt as Adora pulled into a stand and got out of the car to fill up.

Catra was worried about money more than Adora was. Did they have enough money for a full tank? For food? For motels to stay in? It was just too stressful for the cat-like teen. She wanted to keep both of them alive. No matter what. It feels like every drop of gas, every crumb of any food and one sip of water would cost too much for them.

The brown-haired girl got out of the car and headed towards the service station entrance. Adora saw this and one of her eyebrows lifted. “Uh, wildcat? Where ya goin’?” she asked. “Just going to look at what goods they got. Be right back.” Catra replied. Adora shrugged and got her wallet out from her red backpack. She rummaged through each pocket to find at least 2 fifty dollar bills.

Adora walked into the store and found Catra looking over at some snacks on the small aisles. She was very focused on the prices, Adora could tell. The blonde went to the counter to greet an old lady who was working at the counter. She seemed like the generic “sweet old lady” type, someone who was approachable. The lady noticed Adora and gave her a sweet smile.

“Filling up, dear?” she asked, her voice slightly croaky. Adora nodded and gave her two fifty dollar notes. “Are you on a road trip? Seems like it. You look very tired.” the lady continued, taking the money and putting it in the cash register. She gave the blonde some change, around 5 bucks. “Take as much as you need. I won’t charge you if need extra.” Adora looked up at her in slight shock. “A-are you sure?” Adora asked.

“Of course. I’m happy to help the travellers who I can tell have been on the road for a bit.” the old lady smiled sweetly. Adora thanked her. “Can we get some food as well?” The old lady looked back at her and glanced over at Catra who was still focused on the snacks and food in one of the aisles.

She glanced back at Adora. “Of course. Free of charge. Just five items though.” The lady said. Adora thanked her once again and went to spoke with Catra. Before she could open her mouth, Catra interrupted. “I heard the whole thing. I decided. Two iced coffees and a packet of chips as well as two custard buns.” Adora frowned a little bit. “Shouldn’t we get something that will last a bit longer?” she said. Catra just shrugged and said, “We can always find a shop or something. Maybe there’s a town nearby.” Adora sighed and paid for the items.

-----

It was nighttime now. Too dark to see anything. The two girls were perched on top of the car, looking at the clear, starry sky above. It was like they were the only two people left on the earth. The moon shone and gave the night its life and being.

“If we came back home, what do you think the town would say?” Adora asked the brunette. Catra glanced over at her, and back to the sky. Her arms were rested behind her head, supported by the car roof. “I don’t know.” She replied, “One thing I know, is that the friends we have...had...would probably just pretend they never knew us.”

Adora shook her head at this remark. “If that’s so, then why did you ask me if we could ever go back today?” Catra tried to ignore the question. She knows that Adora would think it’s stupid. Catra groaned. “Maybe it’s because I just miss home, you know?” Catra snapped.

“Maybe it’s because my family is there. It’s because the town is where I grew up. It’s my home, Adora. And we left because you decided it would be better for us.” Catra continued. Adora’s eyes widened. “Are you blaming me?” The brunette looked over at Adora. “I just wish we never left, okay? I wish we never decided that this was going to be an okay thing to do. Now we’re stuck in the middle of no-”

“Catra, I didn’t want those people to hurt us. If they found out about us, about how we’re together, then they’d send us to some shitty camp where we would never see each other again so that they could force us to be in a shitty relationship with some snot-nosed jock.” Adora ranted.

Catra sat up and looked down at her hands. She sobbed. Adora put her arm around Catra’s shoulders, pulling her closer to her body. “I realised something.” Catra said through tears. “We don’t need to go back. We don’t need to go back home.” Adora looked at Catra’s glistening eyes and listened. “It isn’t even our home anymore.”

The blonde was staring at her lips, yearning for her soft mouth to touch her own. Adora took Catra’s chin and turned it to face her. She kissed the cat-like girl, taking in her breath and keeping her even closer. Catra closed her eyes and kissed back, breathing heavily. Adora parted from her lips and whispered. “Catra, you are my home. Everywhere is home when I’m with you.” Adora gazed into Catra’s eyes and pulled her even closer.

“I belong here. With you.”

#SPOP pride exchange #2019 #fanfic #spop

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northernstories · 5 years

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Meet Kelsey Hibbard, a history major from Clarkston, Michigan. We asked Kelsey a few questions about her Northern experience so far:

Why did you decide to come to NMU?

Kelsey: I came to NMU for the community. Northern has such an incredible community on campus between students and with faculty and staff. The professors here really care about the success of their students and are excited about the programs here. You really can’t beat this close-knit group of students!

What do you like about your major at NMU?

Kelsey: I love history because it gives you an opportunity to look at the past and connect it to the present. History is the story of the world, and everyone has a story that connects into the past. I get to study people, the environment, politics, philosophy and so much more all wrapped into one. It pushes me to learn more in my own life, step out of my comfortable worldview, and to understand alternate perspectives.

What's an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?

Kelsey: Reacting to the past (RTTP) is such a great learning opportunity used by the history department. As a student, I had to become a person from the past and experience a historical turning point. Not only did I become closer to the other students in the class, but it makes history come alive in a whole new way. It’s different than a textbook, you have to know the emotions, personality, and arguments of the person you are. RTTP stretches you as a student but overall helps you learn in a much deeper way. I was then able to help run a RTTP as a teaching assistant, which was so great to see students engage in the past and really grow as students of history.

What are you involved with on campus?

Kelsey: I am a part of Chi Alpha Campus Ministries as a student leader, was a part of the Wildcat marching band for two years, and have been a teaching assistant for the history department. Of your activities on- or off-campus, what has been the most rewarding and why?

Kelsey: The most rewarding part of my NMU experience has been the opportunity to study from professors who are very knowledgeable in their field. I changed my major part way through my college experience, which means I had the opportunity to study under two fantastic departments that really shaped my professional goals. I was given an opportunity to be a teaching assistant in the history department, which has given me hands-on experience for teaching and has given me many great mentors to guide me in my professional career. I had the opportunity to learn from passionate professors that really have made an impact in my life.

What's your favorite memory during your time as a student?

Kelsey: I have too many favorite memories to count, but one of the best is taking a hike up Hogback. When you see the environment from that view, it shows how incredible of an opportunity we have to live here in Marquette. The academics, environment, and community combine to create a wholesome experience that has shaped me and helped me grow into who I am today.

Further comments about your NMU experience?

Kelsey: My time at Northern Michigan University not only helped shape who I am as a student and a person but has equipped me to prepare for a great professional future. I know I will take these experiences and what I have learned with me through the rest of my life. Thank you to everyone who puts time and energy into making Northern Michigan University the school that it is, and for guiding me in my path toward the future.

#ShareNMU #History #Wildcats #NMUWildcat #Northern

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andrewrosswatson1987 · 5 years

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REVISIT: GREAT WHITE WERE …TWICE SHY THIS DAY IN 1989

Great White released their fourth album, …Twice Shy, which came out today (April 12) in 1989, released via label, Capitol. It contained the biggest hits of their career, a cover of “Once Bitten, Twice Shy” by Ian Hunter and “The Angel Song”, which reached No. 5 and No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100, respectively. Another single, “House Of Broken Love”, was inspired by the painful relationship break-ups that lead vocalist, Jack Russell, and guitarist, Mark Kendall, had recently gone through. United in grief, as close as brothers, this would be far removed from the chasm between the two in subsequent years. Two separate camps, different bands but the same music. Thankfully, united they still had a couple of classics in them yet, 1991’s Hooked and 1992’s Psycho City. Anyway, by this point in time for the band, Great White had parted ways with longstanding bassist, Lorne Black, and replaced him, making ...Twice Shy the first album to feature new bassist, Tony Montana (Tony Cardenas). …Twice Shy was certified Double Platinum in September 1989. At one point, they received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance, too.

This album’s artwork featured, from left to right, Bobbie Brown, who also appeared in the video for “Once Bitten, Twice Shy”, and Tracy Martinson who was featured on the front cover of their previous album, Once Bitten (1987).

Singles for this album were “Once Bitten, Twice Shy”, “The Angel Song”, “Heart The Hunter” and “House Of Broken Love”. First track, “Move It”, rolls in quite calm and sedate, the drama escalating incrementally. Tasteful licks on the guitar are adjoined by gradually building bass, descending like a Led Zeppelin classic. “I got so twisted, tryin’ to make it right/Don’t you know we’ve wasted half the night” akin to the building frustration conveyed in the instrumentation. Driving and ever so slightly screwed loose. Midway it pares back, again. The guitar then finally breaks out, losing its temper. The closing moments of the guitar really amped up before becoming calm and sedate, once again. “Heart The Hunter” is arresting hard rock. Something familiar about the riff, somehow. Blues rock territory. With, “…’cos ya know me by name” definitely a lady killer vibe going on. “It goes to show, it’s always somethin’ that I felt when I met ya” quite cold and only sexually inclined. The solo section suitably wailing passionate. A late middle section pulses with the heartbeat of bass and drum. Intermittent, moody guitar broods over its top. “Hiway Nights” rolls in for the introduction, kicking drums properly beginning proceedings. Frantic bass and muted guitar adding to the soundscape. “I’ve travelled miles from nowhere, where suns never rise/Looking to find a meaning, now open your eyes” tells a story, a story of a band on the road. The chorus in some serious emotional pain, emphatic. “Is it a dream to fade in the light” a question quite poetic. The solo section, pinched and eloquent, details this sadness. Drums building in cacophonic end. Then comes from above in “The Angel Song”. This one opens with tragedy personified on the piano. “Fallen angel, ripped and bruised” telling a story painting many a picture. The hook does as it should, though grabbing you in a way unlike most other Great White choruses. “Far away from mad desire” quite bold but sung, nonetheless, quite calmly. Animation builds for the gnarly guitar solo, with just enough to not get totally carried away. “The streets are hard/They’re mean and scarred” in turn personifies the concrete streets and roads. “Mista Bone” grooves with just one pounding, syncopated note on bass and drum. Then intrigue and guitar proper lands and it goes off tangent enough to surprise. Sparse without being spaced out, just letting said groove permeate moodily. Licks of wah-wah guitar like ferocious growls of wildcat. Beat of the bass drum cues more, “When she wants it rude/She grooves with Mista Bone, if she’s in the mood”. It threatens to reach new territory before ending abruptly. Then there’s that burning passion of “Baby’s On Fire”. Drums open this one, occasional scratches of guitar hold off from wading in, entirely. The moment comes and it’s another slice of hard, blues rock. “Go down to town, get some reaction/Gotta go down ‘cos I need a distraction/I’ve been tryin’ it on with everyone in sight/She’s been waitin’ so long for me t’come tonight” quite satisfying and the chorus hasn’t even hit, yet. Some tasty, meaty lead playing. Beyond halfway and this gets more so, ramped up. “Baby’s on fire and I’m burnin’ up/Sparks been flyin’ I can’t get enough” and, indeed, baby’s on fire. The end cruelly cut, quite abruptly out. “House Of Broken Love” is the band turning down the volume, a little bit. The expressive lead playing a monument to many tears. “Come the mornin’ don’t ya wake me/I’ll be dreamin’ that I’m free/Come the daybreak don’t ya shake me” like living in a house of broken love, a rift in a deep, now troubled relationship. The vocals as equally expressive, you could say: “I’m stealin’ with the devil; through the house of broken love”. Then, “There were signs I should have recognised” hints at the first indication of trouble. “If you don’t want to lose my lovin’, use it constantly if it’s going to be lies/Suspicious eyes” is like realisation, losing the mind, packing your bags and leaving for good. No turning back. The closing minute grooves moodily, brooding with too much on your mind but trying to hold back on going ballistic. Expending your energy all at once in an effort to seem balanced after the fact. “She’s Only” starts acoustic, full of meaning and melancholy. This like the morning after the prior track. Perhaps sad things are over, maybe even pining and full of regret for calling it quits. The lead guitar, when it comes, is quite sedate but you definitely sense it’s full of feeling. It fades into the closing minute, notes plucked as if lightly from the air. A dreamscape, you could say, it evokes. Finale, “Once Bitten, Twice Shy”, has blues rock written all over it, an Ian Hunter cover. “You didn’t know that rock and roll burned/So you bought a candle and you lived and you learned” somewhat points towards naiveté, a barbed remark made towards any potential rock and roll groupie. The solo, emphatic of wah-wah, keeps the party burning but never learning from countless mistakes made to occupy more than just one lifetime. Highlights on this album are “Move It”, “Heart The Hunter”, “Hiway Nights”, “The Angel Song”, “Mista Bone”, “Baby’s On Fire”, “House Of Broken Love” and “She’s Only”. These populate all beginning, middle and end, in fact only one track, the closer, is omitted from this selection. However, “Once Bitten, Twice Shy” is one of their most famous tracks, and a cover at that. Being a bit of a diehard Great White fan, this track’s simply far too blues rock for me. This Great White album is a mixture of the more metallic material they’d released prior, plus more blues rock centred stuff. Considering this reviewer thought the band not to be firing on all cylinders for this album, yet still omitting just one track from the considered highlights is testament to the release’s strength. Great White’s …Twice Shy can be bought on iTunes, here.

#Great White #Once Bitten #Twice Shy #...Twice Shy #Once Bitten Twice Shy #Ian Hunter #House Of Broken Love #Jack Russell #Mark Kendall #Hooked #Psycho City #Lorne Black #Tony Montana #Tony Cardenas #Bobbie Brown #Tracy Martinson #Led Zeppelin

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nyanja14 · 6 years

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some old & new writings on Banana Fish

You know tfw you are in a tiny fandom and you are desperate to find other people talking about the thing you love? Yeah, that was me circa high school/college, vacuuming up every single bit of English-language content I could find on Banana Fish.

In case anyone else is interested, here is a collection of some notable writings on Banana Fish from 1996 up until right now! Most of these avoid major series spoilers (or at least warn for them) but if you currently know very little about Banana Fish, you might want to avoid looking at these links if you want to stay in the dark.

Banana Fish (Akimi Yoshida) - Most likely the very first English language text on Banana Fish, this entry appeared in Frederik L. Schodt’s 1996 book Dreamland Japan: Writings on Modern Manga. Schodt introduces American audiences to the manga and discusses its crossover success with female and male readers in Japan.

“Banana Fish’s popularity coincided in the late eighties with a fascination with New York City. When everything seemed to be going right in Japan... New York was often portrayed as a symbol of everything wrong with America... But at the same time, it seemed symbolic of America’s raw energy and exciting individual freedoms.”

Ash_Lynx - Created in 2003, this livejournal community is maybe the oldest English-language hub for Banana Fish fandom that hasn’t been taken down yet. It’s got just a little over 200 entries, with people posting fic and art, sharing news and scans, and discussing the series. And, technically, it’s still active! People were posting as recently as 2016.

“All of you who haven't been spoiled as to how the plot of BF is going to play out, how do you imagine it's going to be? Have any predictions about who lives and who dies? Who will get together and who won't? What will happen to Banana Fish? Care to share?”

Wildcat’s Alley - The oldest surviving English-language Banana Fish fanfic archive I can find! Not sure when it went online, but it was last updated in 2004 and only continues to exist today thanks to the OTW’s GeoCities Rescue Project.

“Since Banana Fish is an adult manga series, anything goes in this archive--I don't waste time with warnings or ratings, just be prepared for graphic violence and homosexual situations. Read the authors' notes for any spoiler/content warnings.”

Overlooked Manga Festival - This 2007 post from Shaenon K. Garrity goes over the appeal of Banana Fish, its popularity in Japan, and its disappointing unpopularity in the United States. It’s also pretty funny? Just read it.

“Hell, it's possible that no other shojo manga has so much as included the line, "He's got a grenade launcher! You don't see that in Fruits Basket. I'm sorry, you just don't."

Making the Case for Banana Fish - My own introduction to Banana Fish! In 2008, Melinda Beasi penned a passionate appeal for manga fans to check out the series. I bought the first volume later that week (thus beginning my three-year quest to buy all 19 volumes despite it being very out of print at the time.).

“I said back when I was begging for BL recommendations, “My husband once asked me, ‘Is Banana Fish yaoi?’ and my immediate response was, ‘I wish’. . . What I meant was that I wish I’d ever read a boys’ love manga as interesting and well-plotted as Banana Fish.” I’ll take that a step further. I wish I’d read more manga in general as interesting and well-plotted as Banana Fish, and I read a lot of manga.”

Situating Banana Fish Within BL - A 2010 livejournal post from Arwen Spicer. Spicer compares and contrasts Banana Fish’s lead characters to those from two popular BL series from the same era.

“...all three are situated within a narrative mode that seeks to lionize the strength of the sexually objectified and abused. Thus, all three exemplify a discourse within BL that is strongly (metaphorically) concerned with women's empowerment.”

Breaking Down Banana Fish - Do you have a lot of time on your hands? Because this is a treasure trove. It’s a “roundtable” on the series spanning 2010-2011 hosted by Manga Bookshelf, with multiple manga reviewers discussing the series in-depth a few volumes at a time. I also recommend reading the comments on each post for further discussion!

“My Japanese was screwed up back then but what kept me reading were the terrified faces of the soldiers in the first chapter. I remember saying to my friend “What the hell is happening here?” And page by page she explained a strange story of this crazy drug and how some punks in New York may have been caught in between. Even without their narration, I pretty much knew what was happening. Akimi Yoshida’s art was very expressive that it was hard not to miss that you were bound for something very interesting after the first volume.”

House of 1000 Manga - From 2013, this is a thorough examination of Banana Fish by Jason Thompson, the guy who literally wrote the encyclopedia on manga in America. He goes over the major components of the series, compares it to similar manga, and discusses its history of publication in the States.

“A violence-packed crime adventure set in '80s New York City, full of hot young men, corrupt millionaires and hardened street thugs, it's got serious action an serious character. It has never been adapted into an anime, live-action series, or anything but a radio drama, but I've heard more than one Japanese person from that generation tell a blonde American youth, "You look just like Ash from Banana Fish."

You Should Be Reading Banana Fish - I might as well submit my own humble entry to the world of English-language Banana Fish blogging. In 2013, I started a sideblog project with the goal of writing about 100 different reasons why people should read Banana Fish. I made it to 71 reasons before I got sucked into the hell known as Last Year of College. Still, 71 posts is plenty to read if you feel like checking out the ramblings of younger me.

“Reason #020: The T-Shirts: Akimi Yoshida has a special talent for coming up with the most absurd t-shirt designs and then having her characters standing around in them awkwardly during dramatic scenes. Truly, it is an art form.”

More than Friends, More than Lovers: Exploring Ash and Eiji’s Love - Finally caught up to 2018! With the anime adaptation circling closer, Marion took the time to delve into the heart of Banana Fish: the relationship between Ash and Eiji, as portrayed in different canons and in comparison with Yoshida’s influences.

“Banana Fish existed in a time before the BL genre was consolidated as such. It was serialized on Bessatsu Shōjo Comic and well, classic shojo is no stranger to queerness. After all, some of the most iconic works of the Magnificent 49ers feature prominently male-casts and highlight complex, queer relationships between boys. Still, Banana Fish is its own beast.”

Marion also has a newbie’s guide to Banana Fish and has been posting analysis as each episode airs--check out Marion’s blog to find it all.

#banana fish

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