#and i can see the rest of this episode being crafted in a way that could lean either megstiel or destiel depending on where YOU want it

[anthurak]

So one of the amusing realizations I had watching Unhappy Campers is that while I love Helluva Boss as a whole and had a great time with this episode (great to finally see some Millie development and see how her and Moxxie deal with conflict), when it comes to deep-dive analysis and theory-crafting I’m pretty much only interested in talking about Loona and Octavia

And wouldn’t you know it, despite spending the whole episode napping in the I.M.P. boardroom and possibly doing some dry-erase graffiti, I still managed to find something that has some pretty interesting implications for our favorite Goth Wolf.

See, the big world-building development this episode is giving us our first look at the ‘Asmodean Crystals’ that were first alluded to in the season premiere, which allow travel between Hell and Earth and seem to be the standard way that demons are able to conduct business on Earth.

However, in addition to portaling to Earth, we learn in this episode that Asmodean Crystals also allow the demons wearing them to assume a human disguise. Definitely a useful ability, and also has some fun implications going forward; namely that if/when I.M.P. starts using an Asmoadean Crystal of their own (as hinted by Stolas’s research), we’ll probably get to see full-on human disguises/designs for Blitzo, Moxxie and Millie XD

However, what I find particularly intriguing about this reveal goes back to the first time we saw demons using human disguises; Spring Broken.

In hindsight, it’s pretty easy to guess that Verosika and her crew used one or more Asmoadean Crystals to get to Earth and back to Hell in this episode. What I’m curious about is whether the same is true of their disguises? Ergo, are Verosika, Vortex and the rest of her succubi/incubi crew able to assume human disguises on their own, or were those disguises simply created by the crystal(s) they were using? And if it’s the second option, then that has some VERY INTERESTING implications.

Because guess who has been shown taking a human disguise WITHOUT the use of an Asmoadean Crystal?

Yep. Loona.

Really, if it turns out that most demons have to use external means/devices to take on a human disguise, then Loona being able to disguise herself all on her own starts feeling VERY significant.

I mean, consider the fact that the only other demon we’ve seen specifically assume a human disguise all on their own is STOLAS. Heck, given how she doesn’t use one, it seems like not even Octavia can do it.

In hindsight, the way Loona gets a flashy transformation sequence alongside Stolas may have been a way of conveying that this is actually some pretty high-level shit Loona is pulling off.

As to where Loona may have picked up this ability? Well, reading between the lines we kind of have to assume that Loona must have taught herself how to use the Goetic Grimoire with little-to-no outside help (it’s hard to imagine Stolas giving her lessons) to the point where she knows how to use it better than even Octavia. So who’s to say she hasn’t picked up a few other tricks from that book as well...?

Basically, this is all giving yet more hints that Loona secretly has a serious talent for magic, and I think that could lead to some very FUN developments/twists down the line.

#helluva boss #helluva boss spoilers #helluva boss analysis #helluva boss theory #Loona #helluva loona #Stolas #helluva stolas #asmodean crystals #rambling about a character who didn't even speak in the newest episode XD #realizing that i'm pretty much only interested in talking about loona and octavia lol

[shysublimecoffee]

I prefer not to sound harsh, but Miraculous has become a fandom where I find more enjoyment in reading fanfics than watching the show. It feels like there's a lack of effort or an attempt to justify and rearrange elements, often ignoring past seasons and assuming the audience won't notice. The handling of Derision is a notable example, with more astute critics than me delving into their dissatisfaction and the evident retcons.

I didn't anticipate the show going to such lengths as portraying Gabriel as someone deserving of a statue, and it left a sour taste in my mouth to see the hero endorsing it. Adrien/ChatNoir's portrayal has become quite pitiful, with a peculiar shift where Ladybug takes on a significant role in the Agreste Saga despite her absence from that narrative. Ladybug, who isn't even part of the Agreste Saga, is the one delivering heartfelt moments. The decision to sideline Adrien and put him out of commission is disappointing. It's his story yet she the one who has to make it about her. She gets to shine along with a cool costume to boot.

There's a palpable bias from Astruc against Chloe, evident in the show's treatment of her character. Despite her being manipulated by Gabriel Agreste, the narrative blames her for becoming mayor, and the absurdity of the situation is magnified when everyone in the story goes along with it. The inclusion of a scene in Revolution where Chloe is crying is perplexing and frustrating, as it seems to perpetuate the negative and irredeemable image the show consistently paints of her. The added layer of her mother being horrid to her intensifies my annoyance, especially when sympathetic scenes are presented in a seemingly contradictory manner.

I mean you want her to be the worst but yet she has scenes like this? Why not go all the way wtf. Why give her depth only to take it away and then make her be so demonized in s5 and act like she was like this from the start. When she's been a joke

I hate to be critical, but seriously, it's hard to ignore how the Miraculous universe is just dripping with untapped potential. Five seasons in, and the movie outshines the show effortlessly. It makes you wonder about the writers' team and their approach—seems like they're just coasting on low effort for profit, and somehow, it's working, thanks to Miraculous inexplicable popularity.

The show's been beating the monster-of-the-week horse for five long seasons, lacking any creativity in crafting interesting villains. Gabriel, honestly, feels like a starter villain, and if they're going to make him the big bad, can we at least get some villains with a bit more pizzazz? You know craft creative interesting villains? KNDS, Original PPG, Totally Spies they got it so why not Miraculous. It's so damn tiring seeing the same old song and dance with Gabriel 24/7 monologuing to his wife and releasing the akuma I thought Mayura would be important but she's barely there.

It's not even an excuse kids do deserve better entertainment so why should Miraculous lower its standards. Marinette is very weird to me as the protagonist because her lovelife is more focused over everything I gauged her well enough to know about her that the rest of the secondary needs more of a spotlight to be cast on them. I like her but am I the only one who just skips when she starts the whining about Adrien and her plan to again get together it was cute at first now I fast forward to the more interesting part of the episode because it irks me i'm tired okay... what other facet of her character do the writers focus on besides her love life? I hope I don't appear to salt on her but Imma tag it just in case. I think she's in neutral treading to dislike because how can I come back from her gaslighting her boyfriends I'm sorry I can't.

You know what I'm afraid of that if Lila gonna be the next big bad they'll just recycle everything from Gabriel onto her. We'll have the same akumatizations same monster of the week formula only this time it's Lila.

I trust more in the fanfic community to come up with a better substantial plot than Miraculous could ever be. I know romance is a big part but the lore is so damn little it's season 5 are they ever going to expand more in the later seasons lol.

I'm tired from writing this long. Imma go to bed now.

#miraculous salt #miraculous critical #miraculous ladybug #marinette salt

[aida-sparks]

Buddie Season 7 Hype and "Brothers" Rumor

I know some of us may have seen the "brother" rumors floating around, hinting that an upcoming Buck and Eddie scene this season might officially cast their relationship as strictly platonic.

Some fans just want to live in the buddie moment and be happy after the stills and 7x04 synopsis dropped. I get it. It's fun being on the buddie train. But some are worried now that they've gotten their hopes up. I get that too. So I just wanted to talk about it here on my little buddie blog. If you're unbothered by it, definitely scroll past this post.

Firstly, we don't know yet if they will actually call each other brothers or not. It's just rumors at this point, from what I can tell. And if even if they do, we don't know the full context of it or either character's reaction to it. Secondly, just the way the show has stirred up the buddie hype this season makes me want to believe the "brother" dialogue that may or may not even happen would NOT be meant to shut down buddie canon hope once and for all.

While I don't think we're getting a clear and true, full out buddie-feelings-realization in these next couple episodes, it would be very cruel if the show instead went in the extreme opposite direction and defined their relationship as "like brothers" at the end of this particular storyline that has fans so hyped up, if their intention in doing so is meant to cement their relationship in the general audience's eyes as brotherly only. Let's be real: the show has ramped up the marketing attention on Buck and Eddie this season like never before. From pre-releasing a ton of Buck-and-Eddie-centric stills to the decision of pairing Ryan and Oliver together so damn much for promotions … all actions not seen on this level in any previous seasons.

To me, that demonstrates the show's intentions to build hope for buddie rather than dash it.

Especially because we know the show KNOWS their audience. I think the show knows how to market to the buddie fandom, even when they're marketing differently to the rest of the general audience and other potential viewers. They are acutely aware that the buddie fans tend to be dialed in, always seeing the episode stills the instant they're released, waiting on pins and needles for the next synopsis to drop, theorizing, reading each article, devouring every interview, examining bts details, etc. They tend to be highly engaged fans.

The showrunners and powers-that-be know how this promotional content is perceived and are aware of the fandom's dedication, and so have fed into the fervor with strategically released content for calculated engagement. And now we have the carefully worded synopsis for 7x04, where we've been told Eddie will form a close bond with someone else, and Buck will be envious over it. It's obvious how buddie fans will perceive this. So for them to pivot so sharply and end up defining Buck and Eddie's relationship as nothing more than brotherly after such a known buildup would not only be a massive letdown but might also be perceived as an uncaring bait-and-switch tactic. And I really don't they would do that to their fans.

They wouldn't hype us up to the top of a cliff knowing they're only going to throw us off it, right?

I don't want to get into if it would be queer baiting or not; the situation isn't black and white, and I don't think it's blatant enough to be considered anything like that. It's more about the emotional investment the fans have made, based on the carefully crafted cues the show has provided them with. The ethical route, if the showrunner's intention this season was always to solidify buddie as a brotherly bond with no romantic potential, would have been to firmly manage expectations from the start rather than amplifying them to the point of no return going into this network change and new season. To sum up here, the buildup we've been given around Buck and Eddie lately leads me to hope we're moving in an optimistic direction that will eventually culminate in the chance for a buddie romance at some point in the series. At the very least, I hope it means we're not going to have our hopes crushed entirely and see Buck and Eddie be officially friend-zoned. (Even though we can certainly still ship them to eternity and beyond regardless, it means so much if them going canon remain a possibility.)

To officially redefine Buck and Eddie's pairing in strictly platonic terms now, after all these seasons, would not only be a disservice to an incredibly invested fanbase but also a hell of a missed opportunity to go on and explore a rich relationship in a more dynamic way, especially as buddie has captivated viewers for so long in a slow-burn sense already.

#911 abc #911 buddie #buddie #buddie thoughts #eddie diaz #evan buckley #buddie canon #buck x eddie #hoping for the best

[zscribez]

ok sword af has promptly brought me right back to smosh. finally i can get into an actual play dnd series from the beginning and be feral about it the whole way through.

also it has the kind of stupid humour i love like gunthar the centaur being the driver for the horse carriage (damien’s description of the reveal cracked me up a lot). already i love the characters so much and of course i fell in love with fernie because he’s the big dumb himbo but i could also feel that i’ll definitely love koda as well (and not because i have a big ol gay crush on chanse)

bugs is the perfect character for angela and amanda’s delores is gonna have such great horny mom moments in the series.

also i love the setting of the campaign being set after the age of heroes and so these mercenaries have been resigned to doing a delivery service, it is the ideal setting to show off the comedic and character strengths of this particular group of actors & improvisers. damien did such a great job crafting this world and i can’t wait to see the next episode where they left off from the cliffhanger in the frog kingdom.

overall this first episode is so great and setting up so much potential for the rest of the series and i can’t wait to see where it goes

im glad my cries for smosh games to do a dnd series were finally answered and it exceeded my expectations

#zee.txt #smosh #smosh games #sword af

[emeritus-fuckers]

Howdy pal here I am again okay okay

mk so, I'd like to be matched with a papa, because I love the pookies<3

Aight, in personality, I have crippling social anxiety and I can't even talk to people in a super market to ask where a product is because that has led me to multiple panic attacks for some reason, don't ask questions, but once I am comfortable around someone that changes a lot. It takes quite a bit for me to get comfy, but once I am I'm like,,, too comfortable- Very loud, clingy, childish, over all just an asswipe. I enjoy making art and poetry and I can't make it through my day to day life without music or I'll just ascend. I have struggled with insecurity and mental issues, self-harm, etc, and have recently had a relapse episode in those things but I am too afraid to open up about that to most irl people, but things are going way better now.

On physical I am around 5,6 and I have a red wolfcut-ish thing. I enjoy baggy or anything more gothic or witch or 80s esc for clothing, and my music taste is practically everything and everything accept k-pop and dutch rap. I enjoy romance novels because I miss out on that too much irl and I enjoy horror because that's just entertaining, idk.

just random other things I thought I'd include would be I am a cardiophile, but more on the comfort and not fetish side of it. I enjoy doing hair, or playing with it, and I do that a lot to my friends when we're just chilling because it's funny. I enjoy singing and acting like I am in some sort of musical when I'm alone and I love nature, just going on walks or collecting plants. I practice witch craft, also more on the nature side of things in that way. I have volunteered multiple times at events for little children even though I hate them, it's the art side of things and I enjoyed face painting them for Halloween events or carnival things. I collect a lot of little trinkets and like giving people stupid stuff as un needed gifts and I WILL get personally offended if you do not cherish them.

There we go love goodluck<3

Your match is... Copia!

He understands what it's like to have social anxiety and he is really supportive about it. You both help each other to deal with it.

He sees you reading romance novels (which I'm pretty sure is a genre he reads too) and realises you want to expereince that. So when he is not on tour, he tries to take you out for a romantic date or do some kind of gesture whenever he can.

He loves watching movies with you, but if it’s a horror one he’ll probably jump into yo ur arms.

He's really happy that the sound of his heartbeat is comforts you. He’ll stroke your hair and smile as you curl up against him your head resting on his chest.

He loves walks with you, it gives him time away from being Papa and all the stress of the ministry. He also loves how happy you are when you get a new plant. However sometimes he has to plan a route that avoids the nursery section of Primo's garden, because you only have so much room for plants.

You two make a good team. One good example is at clergy events when you do facepainting for the children. Even though he is awkward when children are around he likes them. So you can focus on the art and not have to intereact much with them and he gets to spend time with the little ones.

One day he catches you singing and acting like you are in a musical. At first you are mortified, but then you see the huge loving smile that appears in his lips. He starts singing the other part of the song dramtically jumping up on the table and acting in character. This is now one of your favrouite things to do together, especially when it's raining outside.

He cherishes all the little gifts you give him. You become afraid he just chucks them away because you never see them again. But then you see him carefully place it in a wooden box he keeps under the bed. It's the one he takes on tour with him, filled with things to cheer him up if he feels down or misses you.

#ask #anon #ghost band #ghost bc #ghost #ghost band x reader #ghost x reader #copias fluffy asscheeks #copia #cardinal copia x reader #cardinal copia #papa emeritus IV #Match up event #Match up

[ninadove]

feligami and chlolila!!!!!

Great choices, Noctie. You know me well.

Chlolila ✅

1. What made you ship it?

Let’s be honest. This is not a ship you get into because it’s cute, or because you hope for a happy ending. And I’m not exactly known for my appreciation of Toxic Yet Fascinating Dynamics ™.

THAT BEING SAID — they are a great plot device. Just like I don’t enjoy whatever Gabeminath had going on, but recognise how it pushed the story forward. So I am likely to write Chlolila in the future (When? Who fucking knows. Certainly not me), as part of a bigger project, purely because the narrative potential is through the roof.

2. What are your favorite things about the ship?

See above! ☝️

3. Is there an unpopular opinion you have on your ship?

Despite everything I stated above — I can totally see how they could have been written as an evil, yet healthy duo. More on that here.

Now that this is done. Let’s move on to serious business, shall we.

Feligami ✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅

1. What made you ship it?

This iconic exchange from the Diamonds’ Dance, which I stumbled upon with exactly zero (0) context a little over a year ago.

Listen. I was so prepared to be annoyed. I, too, was an aro Felix truther. I, like many others, was a Marigami enjoyer before anything else.

ALL OF THAT GOT THROWN OUT THE WINDOW SO FAST WHEN I SAW THESE 20 SECONDS OF INTERACTION.

Everything is there already!!! The instant recognition of someone who has been messed up by life in the same way you were (child abuse, queerness, neurodivergence, you know the drill)! The challenging of each other’s worldview! The softness of her hand in his! Disobedience as an act of devotion!

And upon watching the episode — is there anything more beautiful than this evil genius/desperate kid abandoning the masterplan he dedicated his entire life to, the scheme he threw away all moral considerations for, just to make this pretty and deeply hurt girl he just met happy?

2. What are your favorite things about the ship?

Every. Single. Aspect.

What can I say that I haven’t said before.

They are incredible representation (AH!!!!! See what I did there?) for basically every marginalised group ever.

They are incredibly soft, even though they were created to be perfectly emotionless (Kagami) or perversely cruel (Felix). Not only is their relationship forbidden, their capacity to love itself is an infraction to the blueprints crafted by their parents.

The ease with which they switch moral alignments for each other, which is majorly overlooked on Kagami’s part. More on that in another post on another day.

Felix willingly following her guidance in Representation is the ultimate proof that he has achieved freedom; devotion is meaningless if it is not freely given.

THEY HOLD HANDS SO MUCH. WHEN THEIR AMOKS ARE FUCKING RINGS. IF THAT ISN’T THE ULTIMATE SHOW OF VULNERABILITY AND TRUST I DON’T KNOW WHAT IS.

And much more. I am slightly drunk right now, so I’m probably forgetting a lot.

3. Is there an unpopular opinion you have on your ship?

Shipping Feligami is controversial in itself, somehow. Let me tell you, many people out there have weird grudges against 14-year-old characters, and absolutely zero reading comprehension. DO NOT READ THE COMMENTS ON BUGGACHAT’S LATEST CHAPTER, Sunny. You would be shocked by how many advocate for violence against our boy.

Other than that, as you said yourself — childfree Feligami for the win. There is no way these queer (!) abuse survivors (!!) who defy any and all societal norms (!!!) would have kids. I rest my case.

Thank you for the ask, Sunny! 🖤☀️

Ask game here.

#miraculous ladybug #felix graham de vanily #kagami tsurugi #feligami #chloé bourgeois #chloe bourgeois #chlolila #ask games #tumblr asks

[crispycreambacon]

The Journey to Break Free • An Analysis of Malevolent's Themes

This is more like a ramble, but analysis sounds more professional y'know y'know-

Major Spoiler Warning for Episode 19

-

Episode 19 may be my favourite episode at least for Season 2 – bear in mind that as I type this, I haven't gone past Episode 19. Regardless, it is definitely a highlight of this podcast for me. It unpacked a lot about Arthur and John, and it explored many interesting themes. The strength of kindess and letting yourself be vulnerable, the reality that healing and becoming a better person isn't always a clean journey, the significance of the connections we make and the memories we carry from them...

The first one is subversive in how despite Arthur losing some of his morality in order to survive, he still retains some of it and uses it ro his advantage. It may be baffling to see Arthur still wanting to trust others and treat them kindly, as seen with Arthur wanting to offer water to the cana, because this world can turn on you so quickly. However, that may be the point. The fact that Arthur can still find it in himself to care about the beings in this world is a true testament to his resilience. The Dreamlands is unrelentlessly cruel and tests you, trying to mold you to become the monsters that roam this realm, and I think that is why Arthur won't succumb to this world's terrors like so many before him did.

It ties into the tone of the podcast and how it shifts. Arthur may need to be cruel at times, but that doesn't mean he needs to be a monster. Likewise, Malevolent may be a bleak story, but it is not one which needs to overly indulges in tragedy and darkness. Even within the episode itself, there are moments where Arthur and John laugh. There's an entire section in which Arthur interacts with a buopoth, and it's the most adorable thing ever. These moments provide a balance that help emphasize the impact of intense moments even more than if the entire story had just been trudged in grimdark.

(Putting the rest under a "Read More" section as to not make this post too long to scroll through)

As for the second theme, I particularly appreciate it as people who try to heal, typically victims of trauma, are often villanized for not being perfect, nice or behaving. Anyone who doesn't fit the mold of being sad and helpless via lashing out or express anger about their trauma get dogpiled with insults and accusations from those who refuse to understand them. Those who only want to imagine a narrative that recovery is always pretty and always going up with no relapses whatsoever. That narrative formed because society crafted it and enforced it with media tackling trauma victims in a shallow way at best. Because it's uncomfortable for society to face the truth that trauma is ugly, and those that went through it won't come out unscathed like people want them to.

The theme of names being significant is an uncommon but meaningful one. John Doe is a name to give the King in Yellow a new identity, a way to rebuild himself. Lilly is a name that meant a lot to John as the only form of human connection he had while Arthur was comatose and the catalyst to John becoming a better person. Faroe is a name that Arthur keeps recalling because he can't let go of his daughter and the trauma that came with it.

Even the name of the episode is important. I think "the Prison" truly is an apt title for this episode. Not only because this involves Arthur and John escaping the pit they're trapped it, but it's also a metaphor for Arthur's situation. His body is a prison for John that both want him to get out of, yet Arthur is the real prisoner as he loses control over everything from his body to his life. He is trapped in the past because he can never let go of Fareo. He can never forgive himself for causing her death through his neglect no matter how unintentional it was.

And he gave in at the end. He gave in to the past and went to the city to search for Faroe even though the cana instructed them to avoid the city. Even though so many signs point to it being yet another trap. Even though the chances of Fareo being there were next to none.

Yet John didn't protest. It really shows how much John has grown to emphathize with humanity. How he has grown from someone who is selfish and uses others to his whims, discarding them when they no longer serve him purpose to someone who may not fully understand humanity but can genuinely appreciate and care about it. He may not understand why Arthur still clings onto Faroe, but he understands Arthur deserves closure, so even if this may be a trap, he lets him walk in. We, the audience, may not fully understand either, but we understand this is a necessary step for Arthur even if it may be one that leads to his doom.

#Overall 10/10 episode!!! I love it #Now if you'll excuse me I'm gonna take a thousand year long nap #It's almost 4 AM but screw it I needed to get this out #I have so much more to say about Episode 19 #but I need SLEEP and it will take FOREVER and I have THINGS TO DO EOUGH. #But yeah I love love love this and I love Malevolent #What an outstanding podcast I love it #malevolent #malevolent podcast #malevolent spoilers #arthur lester #john doe malevolent #analysis #media analysis #character analysis #commentary #chris p fried rambles

[wutheringmights]

If a book has a pretty cover, it's not allowed to be bad. Yet, that's exactly what I got from "Daughter of the Moon Goddess" by Sue Lynn Tan. It's a 1/5 for me, folks.

This was a really infuriating book to read because I didn't need it to be good. I just wanted it to be fun, and yet no element of it worked for me.

The plot was episodic at best and unfocused at worst. Plot points that could have been books within their own right were introduced and solved within the span of a couple of chapters. Think everything from adapting to court life to going on magical quests to seek out legendary dragons.

Not only that, but many plot points were solved by the biggest contrivances in the world. For example, our main character was able to spike another's drink with the petals of a flower she found in their garden WHILE on the way to trick them. This was premeditated. She did not know the flowers were there, but there would have been no way her plan could have happened without them.

Don't even get me started on how the villain's entire scheme only worked out for them by pure chance. They were about to give up when it turns out by sheer coincidence that the main character was going to get her hands on the magical plot device they had been seeking for hundreds of years.

Speaking of which, the characters were flat beyond belief. I don't mind characters being simplistic or even archetypes, but they have to at least be entertaining. None of them were. The love rivals were infuriating in how similar they were. Our main character could not stop narrating about how much she hates lying and how she was deceiving everyone, while at the same time never once thinking anything through.

How bad is she at thinking things through? Imagine it's 2010 and President Barack Obama killed your mom. You have sworn revenge. Then you meet Sasha Obama at Martha's Vineyard, and she invites you to her home: the White House. So you go to the White House, only to remember that's where Obama lives when you see him sitting in the Oval Office.

Not only is our main character dumb enough to do that, but she did do that. All of that actually happened in the story, sans two-term president Barack Obama.

The rest of the characters? Not worth mentioning. They were nothing.

The genre of the story was also very confused. There were times that the world seemed to operate on fairy tale logic and others were it was trying to be realistic. For example, the main character was immediately good at archery because her dad is a legendary archer. Alright, sure. I can get behind that. But then the villain's plot involved tricking the enemy kingdom into violating a treaty of nonaggression so that they could justifiably wage a war against them without their allies lending aid. Huh? That's their scheme? To avoid an international incident?

I'm not even getting into how the rushed plot points pushes the characters from a fairy tale to a court drama to a war story to an adventure quest without succeeding at any of them.

I guess I could call this novel a romance, but none of the romances work either because the author merely assumes you want these characters to end up together and, therefore, does not even attempt to show the characters falling in love. In general, so much character development is hidden behind strange time jumps of anywhere from a few weeks to whole years passing.

Most of all, the way this story was written drove me nuts. Yes, there is some pretty, flowery language that more or less passes as feeling old and magical. But no amount of metaphors can cover up that the story just TELLS the readers what every character is feeling. At no point does the prose SHOW.

(I have some extended thoughts about how this novel's prose made me contemplate my own craft, but it's late and I want to go to bed soon. I'll come back tomorrow with some musings, so look forward to that).

So, yeah. This is a no from me. I really tried to like it, but I mainly felt like I was wasting my time. I'll probably dump this book the next time I de-clutter my bookshelf. I'm just glad that I didn't buy the sequel when I saw it on sale.

#god i didn't even mention all the areas where it was obvious an editor came back and told Tann to cover up a plot hole #i wanted this book to be good! i wanted it to feel like a silly webtoon!!! it just did nothing right!!! #ok that's a lie. i liked the last chapter where they visited the dad's grave and cleaned it up. that was sweet #me rambling #me reading #daughter of the moon goddess #daughter of the moon goddess by sue lynn tan #the daughter of the moon goddess #bookblr

[chaifootsteps]

[this got long, sorry!] the thing about Stolas Sings is that Blitz has really only done two things tops to make Stolas think he was interested: seducing him in The Circus and inviting him out on a date to Ozzie's. And even then in The Circus it was Blitz sleeping with him (and then stealing his book right after - did Stolas somehow not notice that and put it together?) and in Ozzie's he takes Stolas to a club in the Lust ring, and then when things go terribly he tells Stolas in no uncertain terms at the end of the night that he's not up to sleeping with him (which should tell Stolas something about what Blitz thought Stolas wanted out of their "date") and then tells Stolas off for acting like he's ever wanted something other than sex from Blitz.

And then the entire rest of the time we see him with Stolas he's either holding up his end of the deal (that Stolas suggested and coerced him into), acting annoyed by Stolas' presence or barely responding to Stolas' messages. The most enthusiasm I can ever remember Blitz directing at Stolas is when he's on stage during Seeing Stars, and even then you could chalk some of that up to his enthusiasm at having an audience laugh and applaud for him. (This is why I'd take Blitz/Striker or Blitz/Fizz over St*litz, because Blitz has way more enthusiasm towards both of them than he ever seems to do for Stolas).

And somehow Stolas sings to himself that 'I'm the fool who believes when you look in my eyes'? We've seen Blitz direct seductive energy to trick him all of once - in The Circus. The rest of the time his eyes are mostly as grumpy as he looks in Stolas' own phone pictures! The only person deluding Stolas here is Stolas himself, but no doubt The Full Moon episode will go harder on holding Blitz responsible for the whole mess than Stolas, and have Stolas break it off to salvage his own feelings and not to treat Blitz better. I'd love to be wrong about that, but S2 has been systematically removing all hope in that department :/

tl:dr; Stolas framing the whole thing like what's between them is a 'lie' and implying Blitz was tricking him is a pretty hardcore victim complex because there was previously nothing romantic between them, and Stolas was the one who kept it that way with his whole full moon deal. Blitz's whole speech at the end of the 'date' should have been enough for Stolas to realise that Blitz feels like he's been treated like a sex object the whole time. If Stolas was assuming he and Blitz's deal was somehow enough to constitute a real relationship to him, Blitz telling him straight out that he doesn't see it that way should be enough for Stolas to realise his preconceptions are wrong...but he so far hasn't, and it's feeling like he never will

This, all of this.

Right up until the latter half of The Circus, I was dead certain it was obvious where they were going with Stolitz - that Stolas had absolutely been treating Blitzo like a plaything with minimal regard to his well-being, only to start catching feelings as his life fell apart and that empty mansion threatened to swallow him up. Clearly, Ozzie's marked the moment when the delusional bubble he'd been carefully crafting popped, with Stolas forced to realize he couldn't just handwave all of that horrific treatment because he wanted something else now. "You make that really clear all the time."

There was no way they would pivot to "tsundere Blitzo, sad pining" Stolas after all that, right?

...Right?

#Anonymous #vivziepop critical #Stolitz critical #actual blog post

[utilitycaster]

Do you think that the issues with Imogen and Laudna ties into the campaign being more railroaded (compared to C2 specifically) and with less campfire conversations, shopping episodes etc. where more organic character development can happen? While I do find all C3 character's interesting on their own, I feel like most of their relationships with one another are more shallow compared to C2 (that had the Empire Siblings, Veth and Caleb, The Detectives etc.). Do you have any thoughts on this?

I don't actually think so!

I agree that we haven't had as much downtime - and that more downtime would help flesh out all the relationships - but Imogen and Laudna have talked frequently, and all of these things would have helped and wouldn't have taken up significantly more time.

They still don't really feel like they've known each other two years. I bring up that they have because I feel like that fact should be informing their relationship and that they should have the security to disagree with each other, but the fact remains that Caleb and Veth, Fjord and Jester, and Yasha and Molly felt like they'd known each other before the campaign and Imogen and Laudna...really don't. Like, we know they met in Gelvaan, people were doing something to Laudna, Imogen used her powers, they ran off, and they arrived in Jrusar a few months prior to the campaign, but that leaves the entire middle year-plus as a big empty blank. (For what it's worth, I'm also still like, yes, Laudna, I get that you were in the woods for 30 years doing crafts and making Pate, but like, make me feel it; why were you in a point of stasis? Ironically, I feel like Ashton has more sense of history even though the whole point is that they don't feel like that. Fearne was just bopping around at her Grandmas for 90 years and she feels like it. This is a whole separate post but like...this came up with Patia too; I feel like Marisha has a good sense of her characters in the present, but I don't always get a sense that she fills in the backstory in the same depth as much of the rest of the cast; and Laura also tends to work from something a bit more solid in terms of ambiance and vibes but often doesn't have a ton of intricate plot beats. Anyway, point being that Marisha and Laura fleshing out those two years would have done tons of work for the relationship, and that was pre-campaign and totally unaffected by the pace of the campaign.

Any one of these existing conversations could have been a turning point - ie, this is no more extra time. They could have leaned into the gnarlrock fight being a betrayal; when they spoke in the Calloway Getaway they could have talked more; Imogen could have actually asked Laudna to come back (or even said "it's your choice" rather than "I can't ask you"); Imogen could have actually asked Laudna how she felt and what would have been upsetting to her after she was resurrected instead of making assumptions and just telling Vex; last episode, as I said, Laudna could have quite literally just said "I want you to be happy but if you side with Otohan I can't come with you."

I think this is brushing up against something I really try to avoid, which is removing the agency that the women in the cast have. If Marisha and Laura wanted Imogen and Laudna to kiss last episode? they could have. They chose not to. As I mentioned before, Marisha decided to have Laudna have a drink with Ashton. On the airship to Yios, for example, the two of them could, in fact, have said "I go seek out (the other)," and they didn't. There is less organic time to do this the way there was in the Nein campaign, but that does not mean there haven't been opportunities. They've chosen not to take them.

Which means I also think we need to ask ourselves: how do we know that this isn't how Marisha and Laura want to play it? Like, it is, actually, a very interesting dynamic, and the gaps in the backstory honestly work in favor of it if you see this as a codependence that came because both were so trapped in their own loneliness they became stuck rather than a fluffy cottagecore romance. Why assume these actors are aiming for something and falling short, rather than achieving precisely what they want?

#answered #Anonymous #critical role spoilers

[4rainynite]

EAH Dorm Rooms Headcanon pt 12

Hunter & Dexter

What do you get when one roommate is a prince & the other is a huntsman? Two epic roommates!

Hunter & Dexter are the opposite of each other in many ways and I don't just mean the whole Royal/Rebel thing. Dexter is a prince who was brought up in a world of elegance while Hunter was raise to be a hunter (pun not intended for crying out loud his last name is Huntsman) who was brought up to be tough and a hero.

Yet, the two are alike in many ways. Both feel like they can't add up to their families' reputations and both are in love with girls that are not part of their future stories. Which makes them perfect friends since they understand where the other is coming from with high expectations from their families and destinies, they obviously confide in each other.

This is the only time we see the dorm, but it's purple. Dexter's color is blue (as the rest of the Charming siblings) & Hunter's is green, in the same episode Ashlynn's divider was purple too, so it was an animation error.

In the books the Charming family and the Huntsman family have family crests (Dexter's is on his shirt) so a majority of the students have family crest (Faybelle has one and I think Raven also had one in the books).

Hunter's side: As the future huntsman for Red Riding Hood & Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs, Hunter is not only a hero but a nature boy. He'll save damsels, cute furry animals, heck he'll save dragons.

Despite being the traditional huntsman, Hunter is in love with a princess and would rather save animals than eat them. Being a Rebel gives Hunter the choice to be himself and to be with Ashlynn.

We alI know Hunter is a nature lover and I can see his side of the dorm resembling a wooden cabin or a woodsy version or Ramona's room. I doubt Hunter's wallpaper is like the one above (looking at it too long gives me a migrane).

On Hunter's divder wall he would have pics of his friends and pets (Pesky and a griffion). After, revealing his relationship with Ashlynn he has pics of her too.

Instead of going to Throne Furnishings Hunter made most of his furniture, thrift shopped, or brought some from home. But being a nature love I doubt he cut down any trees, instead he used fallen trees.

Before Hunter and Ashlynn revealed themselves as a couple they (hopefully) disguised themselves during dates in public places so no one would notice them. Now that everyone knows they're dating Hunter and Ashlynn have closets/wardrobes full of costumes that they still wear for fun.

He totally has a collection of bows & arrows and axes on his wall. As mentioned above about Hunter making his own furniture he makes birdhouses and arrows, so he might have a craft section on his side of the dorm with saws, paints, and hammers and sometimes invited Ashlynn and Cedar over to help design birdhouses and such.

Seeing that Hunter is on the bookball (football) team, cheerleader, archery, and etc. he must have a cast full of trophies.

In the webseries Hunter has a pet squrriel named Pesky and a pet griffon. Given Pesky's size he's one of the few pets that can live in the dorms and acts as Hunter's alarm clock to wake him up.

Hunter practices the flute so he might practice in his dorm like a desk or something (I'm running out of ideas now).

In the books the Huntsman family have family crests and on Hunter's legacy day outfit it appears to have Celtic knots. So, I believe Hunter is half Native American and Irish.

Hunter loves playing video games when he's not doing anything athletic and being roommates with a gamer like Dexter the two play together. Dexter also got Hunter a green camouflage gamer's chair as a gift.

On the balcony Hunter grows veggies he eats & flowers to give Ashlynn. Once, Dexter starts dating Raven, Hunter teaches Dexter how to grow flowers that Raven's magic can't wilt.

Dexter's side: Not only is Dexter a prince charming, he's the (second son) of the main Charming family line. So. he is expected to be strong, brave, and well - charming.

Despite this Dexter is clumsy, shy, and nerdy. But he makes up for that with being smart, crafty, and a big sweetie. Dexter's a Royal so he won't disappoint his family due to his lack of destiny. He's one of the few who is an ally to the Rebel party and tries to be opened minded.

On Dexter's divider wall he would have pics of his siblings and his friends. And when he finally dates Raven pictures of her.

The only time we get to see Dexter's side of the dorm is in 'Class of Classics'. Like his siblings he has a canopy bed and his walls would be a shade of blue since that's the family color. As a glasses wearer I must say putting your glasses on a windowsill is stupid, Dexter! I noticed the little vines on the wall, so Dex lets some of nature takeover his room.

Dexter is a techie so I can see his room having tech equipment. He also a gamer so he has a fancy blue gamer chair (and he brought one for Hunter).

As much as Dex loves tech he loves reading from books. When hes not on his mirrorphone, mirrorpad, or etc. he's reading a book with Mr. Cottonhorn. Dexter has a huge bookshelf with books on the topics of: comic books, tech, poetry, and romance novels.

Despite being a tech nerd Dexter seems to have other interest besides that such as being on the bookball (football) team. He also seems to juggle, which I doubt he learned to do at home. Dexter has a knack for knitting & crocheting after finding the Crochet Hook of (Great) Aunt Arachne (More lore headcanons later). So, he knits and crochets in his dorm and Hunter supports him on it and he gives sweaters and stuff to his friends.

On the balcony that he and Hunter share, Hunter teaches Dexter how to grow flowers that Raven's magic can't wilt.

Dexter owns a jackalope by the name of Mr. Cottonhorn. Giving Mr. Cottonhorn's size he's one of the few pets that can stay in the dorm. I can see him and Pesky causing mischief.

@spelledmonsters, amazon, royalrebelpedia eahpedia

#my art #ever after high #ever after rebel #ever after royal #everafterhigh #dorm room #hunter huntsman #dexter charming

[am-i-obsessed---maybe]

Drop-zone (Shadow Of A Bluejay Ch.3)

Coming back to this series after over a year!

I honestly forgot how easy writing was when 90% (figuratively) was transcribing an existing episode.

But seriously it's fun to come back to this even though I'm not super active in the fandom anymore

Main Masterlist

Series Masterpost

Wordcount: 2.8k

Warnings: canon typical violence

Star City July 22nd, 18:03 PDT

You adjusted the strap of the duffle bag hanging over your shoulder.

"You'll do great kiddo" Ollie said and you rolled your eyes.

"I know. This isn't my first mission. It isn't even my first mission without you" You told him.

"Give them some space Ollie. They'll do great. I'm sure of it" Dinah said and kissed the top of your head.

"Thanks Dinah." You said, put a pair of dark shades over your eyes and stepped into the zeta-tube.

"Recognized, B-01, Bluejay"

You weren't the first to arrive at the cave. Robin and Aqualad were already there, both in civvies. Like yours Robin's eyes were covered with dark shades.

"It is good to see you again Bluejay" Kaldur said and you nodded.

"Where's everyone else?" You asked.

"Superboy is on his way back with Miss Martian and Kid Flash has yet to arrive" He replied. "That sounds about right" You said and put down your duffle beside what you assumed was Robin's bag.

Unlike Kaldur, who's costume was probably under his jacket or Miss Martian who could change into her uniform with just a thought the two of you had to carry yours around with you.

Within a few minutes Wally ran in from the Cave's main entrance and Superboy and Miss Martian came in as well, followed by Batman. He turned on the cave's main computer and projected your mission behind him.

"Isla Santa Prisca. This Island nation is the primary source of a dangerous and illegal neo steroid. A strength enhancing drug sold under the street name Venom." You explained and the images of the island quickly changed to blueprints and maps of a factory.

"Infrared heat signatures indicate their factory is still operating in full capacity but all shipments of Venom have been inexplicably cut off. That's where this team comes in. This is a covert recon mission only." Batman emphasized. "Observe and report. If the Justice League needs to intervene it will."

And then The boy wonder Robin asked the most important question.

"So who's in charge?"

"Work that out between you" Batman instructed and sent you all on your way.

Caribbean Sea July 22nd, 20:08 ECT

"Drop zone A in 30" Miss M announced and you and Kaldur both stood up, your seats on the bioship melting into the rest of the craft.

The plan Batman explained had two dropzones. Dropzone A where you and Aqualad would be dropped into the ocean about half a mile away from the shore where the two of you would then swim to the island and patch over the heat and motion sensors, allowing Robin, Kid Flash, Superboy and Miss Martian to fly to drop-zone B undetected.

You placed a rebreather over your mouth just as Miss M opened a hatch under your feet and you and Aqualad both dove into the sea. Kaldur could swim incredibly fast by nature of being an Atlantean but you used your flight to maneuver quickly in the water. It wasn't as fast as flying but it was faster than most swimmers.

Within minutes Aqualad  made it to shore and patched the sensors. The rest of the Team moved on to drop-zone B while you made it to shore and put away your rebreather.

"I always think I can keep up with you and I'm always wrong" You say  to lighten the mood and Kaldur chuckles.

"Now is the time where I must keep up with you" He said as the two of you made your way into the island's jungle.

It took them a few minutes to make it but Miss M's voice came over your radio.

"Aqualad, Bluejay, drop B is go" She said.

You couldn't respond seeing as you were busy flying Kaldur over a cliff in the jungle but he told her that the two of you would track their GPS while they headed for the factory.

You and Kaldur stayed silent as you made your way to the rest of the team. An aspect of covert missions They didn't seem to understand as you heard them bicker over the radio.

"Superboy, KF, we're almost at your location. Switch to infrared and check if we're being tracked" You said and Wally and Superboy each found a squad that was heading your way.

Not a minute went by and you heard gunshots from their direction.

"Is everything okay?" You asked.

"Yeah, the two squads found each other," Wally said.

"Swing wide, steer clear" Kaldur ordered.

"Yeah, yeah, just as soon as I find Rob" Wally said and promptly tripped, falling between the two squads.

"Are you kidding me?" You muttered and picked up Kaldur, deciding that flying would get you to your teammates faster than running.

As was expected once the team was found a fight broke out. Superboy went straight for Bane who was leading one of the squads. Robin jumped down from the trees and took out goons while Kid Flash dodged bullets and regained his footing.

You were almost there, you could hear more bickering over the radio and arrived just in time to knock out the last goon.

The six of you tied up both squads of now knocked out goons (and Bane) and regrouped.

"I recognize those uniforms, they belong to the Cult of the Kobra" Robin said.

"I am certain Batman would have mentioned it if he knew a dangerous extremist was running Santa prisca's Venom operation" Kaldur added.

"Agreed" You and Robin said.

It became clear that the Kobra Cult had overtaken the island from Bane and his goons.

"We get it, Kobra wanted super cultists, mystery solved. Radio Bats and we'll be home in time for—"

You cut Wally off. "Except the cultists aren't on Venom. They don't have any of the signs. Kobra must be hoarding it. I don't think our mission is done yet."

"Agreed" Robin said.

”We’re not leaving until I know why Kobra’s hoarding this stuff” Robin said. 

“Until you know why?” Wally questioned. 

“Yeah, this team needs a leader,” Robin retorted. 

“And it’s you? Dude you’re a 13 year old kid who ducked out on us without a word” Wally said. His tone was harsh but not mean. Robin laughed. 

“And you’re a mature 15? You blew our cover first chance you got” Robin threw back and you massaged your temples. You loved the two of them. They were your best friends but they could get on your nerves. 

You looked at Kaldur as they argued. He was the oldest member of the Team at 18 with you following behind at a slightly younger 15. (Still a month and a half older than Wally as you liked to remind him)

M’gann and Superboy didn’t really count. Their experience of their age wasn’t usual. 

“Are you gonna step in?” You asked Kaldur and he shook his head. 

“Are you?” He asked. 

“Maybe to slap them.” You muttered and Bane seemed to find your team’s disorganization funny as he laughed at your squabbling. 

“Such clever ninos, but you only know half the story. Let me show you the rest, I can get you into the factory via my secret entrance” He said and you stared him down. 

Why would he help you?

“There is a secret entrance but he’s also hiding something” Miss M confirmed. 

“It’s not that complicated. The enemy of my enemy is my friend” Bane said. 

You all looked between each other and agreed. For now you’d let Bane show you to the factory but as you walked Superboy pulled you aside. 

“I don’t trust him. He was talking earlier, I didn’t get all of it but it isn’t good” He said and you nodded. 

“Sounds about right. We’re on the same side but only until he has the chance to get his island back” You told him. 

Bane led you to a cliff overlooking the factory where you had a good vantage point to see Kobra preparing the Venom for a buyer. 

“We need to identify that buyer” Kaldur said. 

You kept your eyes on Bane. If he was going to pull something, he would do it now. 

He moved a large boulder revealing an entrance to the factory from the cliff through some old mines. 

“So now el luchador is our leader” Wally grumbled and you pulled him into the mines by the ear. 

“Come on” 

“Ow, ow, I’m coming, stop pinching” Wally whined as he followed into the mines. 

Bane opened the gate to the factory and after making sure the coast was clear you snuck in. Within seconds Robin was gone and KF ran off trying to find out who the buyer was before him, as if this mission was some kind of competition. 

“While Wonder Bird and Mr. Speedy Gonzales have their little contest let’s see what we can find from here” You said and flew up to a higher perch to see the shipment being prepared. 

“It’s a massive shipment” Aqualad said. 

“Yeah but look, they’re only taking new product off the line. They’re not touching the old stuff” Superboy added. 

“Maybe freshness counts?” Miss M asked. 

“Or maybe they’re different. Maybe Kobra changed the recipe” You said. 

“There’s a helicopter coming” Superboy warned. 

“Miss Martian, can you use your camouflage to get closer and see who the buyer is?” Aqualad asked and Miss M nodded, stealthily flying off. 

Meanwhile you helped fly Aqualad and Superboy up to a rafter to better stay hidden. You decided to let Bane find his own way up. 

“Sportsmaster is the buyer.” Aqualad said after receiving a mental image from M’gann. He immediately tried to reach Red Tornado back at the cave over radio while you tried to reach Robin and Kid Flash to tell them to regroup.

“Ugh, I can’t reach the league. It’s all static” He groaned. 

“Robin and KF are blocked too. They probably jammed all radio communication” You said. 

“We need a plan, now.” Aquald said.

“I have a suggestion” Bane said and screamed as he jumped down from the rafter. 

Both you and Kaldur looked at each other, confused as to his plan until a monster jumped through the window above, taking down the rafter you were all on in an attempt to get to bane. 

You caught Aqualad, floating him down safely while Superboy safely landed. 

The mammoth of a creature roared and while looking at it you realized this thing had probably been given this new Venom.

You braced for a fight as Superboy tackled Mammoth and you and Aqualad took on the goons, more and more of which were coming. 

The ruckus also caught Robin and Kid Flash’s attention, finally bringing them back to the rest of the team as you tried to hold off the Kobra cult. 

“I thought you learned not to run off” You told Wally as you kicked a goon who was aiming at him. 

“It was fine” He said, brushing it off and quickly taking cover behind a support column. A cover where you quickly joined him in an attempt to avoid the bullets being fired at you by the Kobra cult. 

That’s when your most hated sensation returned and you felt someone in your mind. You hadn’t heard Kaldur tell M’gann to psychically link you all. 

Your hands flew up to brace your head as you groaned and Wally put a comforting hand on your shoulder. “Hey it’s alright” He told you out loud and after taking a breath the panic subsided. 

“We need to regroup” Kaldur said through the link. 

“A bit busy now” Robin replied.

“Robin. Now.” Kaldur said and with a groan the boy wonder ran in. 

The six of you ran back into the mines. At some point Bane had gotten away but that wasn’t important now. 

The metal door didn’t hold for long and you all ran or flew as fast as you could while dodging the bullets being fired at you. 

“Superboy the support beams!” Kaldur said and Superboy nodded, punching the nearest beam and collapsing the mine, leaving you cut off from the factory. 

With the threat of the cultists gone you all stopped to regroup. 

You pulled a small but effective lantern out of your belt that lit the mine blue. 

“Ugh, how could my first mission as leader go so wrong?” Robin questioned.

“You do have the most experience but perhaps that is exactly what has left you unprepared. Fighting alongside Batman your roles are defined. You two do not need to talk, but this team is new and a leader must be clear. He cannot vanish and expect others to play parts in an unknown plan” Kaldur said, trying to comfort Robin. 

“Oh so I’m supposed to hold everyone’s hand?!” Robin asked. 

“Not hold hands but explain. Communicate. This team isn’t a well oiled machine yet. It’s still building” You stopped. You had planned to simply comfort Robin but—

“Maybe we need someone who’s already used to very clear communication.” You said and looked at Kaldur. 

Robin followed your line of sight and smiled. 

“I agree, I think Kaldur should lead us” He said. 

“Please! I can run circles around him!” Wally explained and you turned your eyes to him, raising a questioning brow. 

“Come on, you know he’s the one. We all do” Robin said. 

M’gann agreed. “Hello Meghan! It’s so obvious” 

“Could’ve told ya” Superboy agreed and with that even Wally was convinced. 

Kaldur looked between all of you, he walked up to Robin, “If it is unanimous then I accept the burden, until you are ready to lift it from my shoulders” He said, looking down at Robin. 

“You were born to lead this team, maybe not now but soon” He told the boy wonder. You had some sarcastic replies to that but they would have to come later. Robin needed this comfort. 

“Alright, our first priority is preventing that shipment from leaving this island.” Aqualad announced. 

Though Bane tried to stop you, you ultimately made it back to the factory the long way and just in time to stop the shipment. 

KF went in first and then Superboy and Aquqalad worked together to take on Mammoth while Robin took on Kobra himself. 

Miss M was about to join them when you stopped her.

“Can you place these bombs while camouflaged?” You asked her, holding out a handful of bombs you kept in your utility belt. She nodded. 

“Then you go, I’ll hold off sportsmaster” You said and she did as you said. 

“Hey Sportsmaster! You’re awfully far from Coast city” You said as you tackled him. 

“Well if it isn’t Canary’s little bird” He said as he dodged your attack. You were familiar with Sportsmaster in more ways than he knew and knew his fighting style well. More than well enough to keep him busy and when Miss martian was done to take a hit enough for him to think he could escape. 

“Thanks for the workout Birdy but i gotta fly” He said and took off in the helicopter. 

You looked at Miss Martian as she uncamouflaged and she smiled. 

When Sportsmaster was far enough away you detonated the bombs and watched as his helicopter blew up above the island. 

With the Shipment dealt with, the only one left was Kobra. Robin had done well but not nearly well enough. But as he saw his goons gone, his factory ablaze and the shipment of his Venom destroyed he ran, somehow managing to disappear into the shadows of the jungle. 

WIth the bad guys beaten and the comfortable breeze of the jungle to calm your nerves you dusted off the dirt and grime that had covered your suit during your fight with Sportmaster. 

Robin turned from the forests where Kobra disappeared to look at the team. He smiled and Aqualad. 

“We picked the right guy to lead… Automatically making you the right guy to explain this mess to Batman” He said, laughing and you joined him.

“Good luck Kaldur” You told him. 

Mount Justice July 23rd, 10:01 EDT

Turns out just because Kaldur had to break the news to Batman doesn’t mean he’ll be the only one reprimanded. Batman bit into all of you pretty hard but what surprised you was the praise that followed. 

“No battle plan survives first contact with the enemy. How you adjust to the unforeseen is what determines success and how you choose who leads determines character” He said before dismissing all of you. 

“Looks like Batman agrees with our choice of leader” You joked once he left. 

“It seems so,” Kaldur agreed, though somewhat sheepishly. 

“So what now? We each just go home?” Wally asked. 

“Well it’s a fresh morning, how about we all change back to civvies and we can go to a diner. There’s a really great place I know in Star City” You said and with a lot of nodding it was agreed. 

#dc young justice #young justice season 1 #gender neutral reader #gn reader #dc x reader #young justice x reader #metahuman reader #shadow of a bluejay #reader insert #gn!reader #gn reader x dc #yj x gender neutral reader #yj season 1 #yj x reader

[one-strugling-bean]

OFMD Random Commentary (Final Thoughts)

Okay so. I finished OFMD in 3 days. Season 2 is right at the door and I'm super excited for it.

While I wait though, I thought "Why not make a huge ass essay about my thoughts on the 1st Season?" And now here we are! And trust me I have tons to say. So without further ado, let's start:

Before anything else, I want to say, I had so much fun. This show was hilarious most of the time while still easily hitting me in the feels when it needed. By the end of the season, I wanted to adopt pretty much everyone and give them whatever they wanted. The romantic relationships weren't born out of thin air (although I think Jim and Olu could've been explored a little more) and the overall vibe of the show was so freaking inviting.

Stede and Ed were very captivating and their scenes together are always so evolving. Their actors convey strong emotions so freaking well. It's like I'm right there, in their heads, as the scenes play out, and I can tell what they're feeling perfectly just by looking at their expressions.

That being said, Ed was a bit harder for me to figure out than Stede. There were a lot of scenes, especially in the beggining, where I was at a loss as to his intentions. But it works in his favor (and the viewers') because Ed is a mysterious person for pretty much every character in the show. It's fun when everyone on screen is as clueless as us. It also contributes to the welcoming vibe of the show - it's like I'm there, just as clueless and scared as everyone else, trying to figure out what exactly makes Blackbeard tick.

And speaking of everyone else! My gosh, I loved the crewmates... I think I even said that at some point in an episode, but my favorite moments of the show were just the crew interacting with each other. Separated, each of them is nice and kinda funny, but together? They gave me the best laughs of the whole show.

It was the little things. Wee John, Roach, and Frenchie messing up a cross sign(?) for Nana, the flag-sewing arts-and-crafts, the rehearsal for the Fuckery, the Fuckery itself- just, everything.

As the episodes pass, and you grow to know the characters - recognize their faces, memorize their names, figure out the traits and places they take in the crew - they also grow to know each other. In the first episode they seem to be pretty distant from each other - acquaintances at best. But by the end you realize that that's changed - and you watched it happen. In every little scene, every funny comment or near-death experience - almost imperceptible on a first watch I think. Most of the time they just seem to be fighting each other. But those bonds do happen, and not just between the romantic pairs but everyone. Even with you, the viewer.

I think that's what makes the last "we talk it through-" "as a crew!" scene, followed by (or before) Lucius reading Stede's journal out loud, so powerful. I don't think I mentioned it in my post of the episode, but it gave me chills. You get this feeling of "we came so far" that just completely warms your heart. And you can see, in each one of their faces that they're all feeling the same thing. They came full circle from the first episode - they're not just a rag-tag group of useless people anymore. They're growing closer to becoming a family, a real crew. And it's fucking amazing.

TL;DR - they figured out the Found Family trope really well. And Found Family is my kind of thing soooo.

But oh well. Nothing can be good forever - especially if that thing is a happy ending in a queer show, so the rest of episode 9 and episode 10 happen. And the feeling of betrayal starts.

From a Gentlebeard/Blackbonnet perspective, the way I see it, Ed calling out the Act of Grace for Stede is the ultimate sacrifice from Ed for Stede. In contrast, Stede abandoning Ed at the dock is the ultimate sacrifice of Ed from Stede. See the difference? What I'm trying to say? I sure hope so, because I'm not sure I do. It just seems right when I say it.

Then Ed goes to the ship and everything goes off the deep end - ft. Izzy Hands being his usual creepy self.

Izzy.... creeped me out honestly. The whole time, not just at the end. From my peak on the OFMD fandom, he seems to be a pretty loved character, but I honestly dislike him a lot. I dunno. He was creepy and awful and did many horrible things for not-that-worthy reasons and I just overall didn't vibe with him. So I guess having him be the one to break Ed felt like a big, personal slap to the face. I dunno. Just wanted to call him every name in the book, you know?

(I also decided to take personally the fact that his name is a very common nickname of my name. I'll never accept to be called Izzy again. The PTSD and rage would be too much.)

Then, of course, we have Lucius's "death". Honestly? I don't think he's dead. He is too iconic to die in the first season. There's no way the writers didn't know Lucius was gonna be a fan favorite. The cliffhanger around his death was 100% planned as a special, last-minute, sadistic gift for the fandom. It will also probably affect something in S2.

That being said, I will only feel rested when I see him alive and well, nestled in Black Pete's arms. I gasped so loud when Ed threw him out of the ship you have no idea. I was so worried. Still am. That's how important his character has become to me. To most people, probably.

(I do think I saw a bit of Lucius's face in a random shot of the S2 trailer. His alleged self is pulling at someone's legs with Frenchie. But do not tell me if I'm right. I've been trying to stay away from trailer dissections.)

Frenchie and Jim also worry me greatly, but they seem to be doing good in the S2 trailer, so that helps. (Not Frenchie conquering his fear of cats by becoming one).

As for everyone else..... God, I was so horrified about their situation until that last scene. Stede coming in the dinghy might as well have been the sighting of an angel (I like to call this feeling the Sanji-backstory-PTSD). I've come to care so much about these characters, how was this show capable of tricking me like this??

Honestly, after all is said and watched, I'm unsure if I'm glad I waited so long to watch it. Because on the one hand, I won't have to wait months and suffer from the cliffhanger like most of you guys did (I feel for you all). On the other, I'm afraid I might've missed a few years of glorious fandom history and events.

I dunno, it's complicated.

(Send me links to all the best fanfics you can find - as long as they're in English and have at least 2000 words I'll take them).

But yeahhhhhhhhhhh, think this might be it for now. I don't know if I'll repeat the Commentary for S2- would you like that? If I get enough responses, Ig I will ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

But in any case, for now, I close. Hope you had as much reading my reactions as I did watching this show.

Have a nice day! ^^

#i just thought of something #im european #theres a good chance the season wont be available for me on the 5th #.....does anyone know how i can know for sure....? #well #im sad now #boooo #ofmd #our flag means death #ofmd random commentary #stede bonnet #edward blackbeard #blackbonnet #gentlebeard

[darkpoisonouslove]

First Episodes of Winx Ranking

I've ranked the Winx finales, I've ranked the Winx seasons and I've ranked the Winx canon ships. This has been long overdue. So without further ado:

8. Season 7

The crux of the episode is Winx being defeated by a bird. Not only do they have the Dragon Fire transformation now (which should be the strongest one by default), but they've also defeated a ton of actually threatening villains by that point. And they still... lose to a bird.

If that wasn't bad enough, Stella is made a complete clown once again, who is selfish, inconsiderate and the burnt of the - at this point dead and turned to ash - gag of her designing terrible outfits before making beautiful ones.

Now I am not the biggest fan of Roxy but I have to say... It is idiotic to leave her behind to watch Kiko when the victim of an attack is a fairy animal and the perpetrator is another animal. Honestly, Roxy using her powers on Kalshara is the biggest missed opportunity regarding her character in this season, which says a lot considering that she was robbed of Butterflix despite doing everything that Winx did to get it.

The only saving grace of this episode is the kangourmet sequence as the sugar-crazed kangourmet is more threatening than the actual villain of the season, and the following moments with Faragonda taking care of it and being amused by Bloom and Stella's silent argument are fluffy and funny.

7. Season 6

This episode singlehandedly destroyed Daphne's character. For that I should banish it not just to the end of the list, but to oblivion. However, I simply cannot put losing to a BIRD (can you tell I'll never recover from this?) over the fight against the Beast of the Depths. At least its design is better and there is some - mind you, just some - sense of suspense there.

It is, of course, tragically undermined by the Winx' search for the Inspiration of Sirenix and the musical number at the end. The idea that Winx would be the Inspiration for a transformation that has existed for centuries is, frankly, laughable. And I would be laughing if the whole point of the episode did not rest upon it.

Daphne, as the Nymph of Sirenix, certainly would not have needed Winx to inspire her. Like I said, her character is completely butchered by the bad writing and the childish prism through which she's viewed. Even her finally taking action by trying to sacrifice herself to save everyone else from the Beast is a complete misinterpretation of her character from the first seasons. Daphne did sacrifice herself for Bloom's safety, and the Dragon Fire's, but she did that because it was the only option left. She went down fighting! Despite the trauma she's been through and her recovery, the only plausible way to write her amidst a new crisis would have been to let her fight tooth and nail.

Still, I can sympathize with her despite the writers' best efforts. Partly because my love for her is indestructible and partly because I can see a lot of potential for crafting a truly awesome arc of recovery and reclamation of her life if she'd been treated like the character that she was in the first seasons. For that I am willing to place this episode higher than the very bottom.

6. Season 4

This episode had the difficult task of continuing a series that should have ended, and expanding beyond Enchantix. Considering all that, I can cut it some slack but that doesn't change the fact that it is extremely poorly constructed (which you can tell by how low I've placed it on the list).

Frankly, the Winx are unlikable during half of the episode. They are shoved into a role that they're unsuited to as teachers. Their course is chaotic; they lack any structure, discipline and professionalism in a way that isn't charming and meant to make the young fairies feel at ease. They are all riding on the fame of being the girls that saved the universe three times, even if the only one that's called out on it is Stella. I fully blame for that the fact that the writers knew that this job would be a one-time thing and didn't bother with making the Winx seem like they're actually putting effort in it and it instantly brings down the whole episode.

Besides that there's the way that all the Winx act towards Alice. Yes, they think that her prank could have killed Flora but the girl looks so upset and desperate to convince them of her innocence and none of them ever consider the possibility that they're in the wrong, especially Tecna, who had an episode (2x09) devoted to exploring her rash decisions. It truly comes off as if they believe they are always right and their methods cannot fail them, which just confirms that fame has gotten to all their heads.

The plot is barely hanging together, too. Believix is introduced for absolutely no relevant reason other than that the writers knew it would be important later. And if that weren't insult enough to Enchantix, then we have the fight scene with the Wizards, who are brought in in a truly mind-boggling way, summoned by... the unveiling of a painting. They toss Winx around as if Enchantix is a joke, which is simply bad form as it undercuts the first three seasons without which this episode would not have existed. It's bad all around.

The only positive I can think of is that the Wizards come off as strong and ruthless but their exit leaves something to be desired. Sure, they have no interest in the WInx anymore but they just attacked Alfea and left like it's no biggie. This could actually be considered another point in favor of how unbothered they are by the mere idea of facing opposition but it doesn't say much about the state of law enforcement in the Magic Dimension.

Oh, hey, I like the Winx deciding to pursue the villains for once instead of merely reacting to being targeted. That and the little moment with Griselda and Clarice towards the end are the best parts of the episode.

5. Season 8

This episode's biggest fault - barring the art style - is that it's pretty lowkey for the most part. That and the fact that Obscurum does not convey a sense of immediate threat in the beginning of the episode. However, that is mitigated by the "monster" that was shown to chase Twinkly and the fact that they are saving the reveal of Valtor's return for later.

Everything before the fight sequence is serviceable. Twinkly's introduction and the involvement of the Specialists are functional. There's nothing wrong with having a somewhat chill opening to the season and the Winx' willingness to help Twinkly is heartwarming. There are cute moments sprinkled throughout the episode and I love the fact that Stella and Tecna get to be more central in the interactions with Twinkly and, therefore, the introduction of the main plot.

The battle is... actually good. I love that Faragonda gets to do something (although we could have used more from the other teachers). And for once they have the excuse that only Stella's powers actually work to explain why no one else gets to do anything (it still doesn't check out fully but it's better than the usual logic of "Winx simply are better than everyone and get to do it all even when characters that should be more competent are around"). I love the way that they make the star yummies actually somewhat threatening by showing that most of Winx' powers don't work against them. The decision to solve the problem through a team-up between Stella and Twinkly was also solid as it makes Twinkly useful and pretty powerful.

Topping it all off with the threat of starlight being stolen until the stars go dark makes this first episode solid enough to place in the middle of my list.

4. Season 5

This episode is surprisingly good where openings are concerned. It starts out pretty chill and immerses us back into the Winx' lives on Earth. I love that it takes the time to show us the Winx and Specialists spending time together. The subplot about the Pendant of Eraklyon was completely unnecessary but I did like the talk between Flora and Sky. Finally a Specialist and a Winx that aren't a couple interacting again!

There is a sense of suspense also introduced with the oil platform, however, and a grandiosity injected into the episode by the coronation. I am not a fan of suddenly inventing a king of the oceans and replacing Tressa as heir to the throne. The attitude towards Tritannus before he's even done anything is also extremely off-putting and could have made him root for him if he'd been better written. That and the way that he ends this episode doesn't really sell him as the big bad of the season but it leaves enough ominous intrigue to promise more action during the rest of the story.

Once the action hits, the story really is at its best. There is suspense. The Winx actually use their powers instead of solving everything with a single convergence (although, in the end they do just that and I hate it but at least it's more minor). The Specialists actually help them out and most of the action is happening in the air and underwater, which is a more rare environment for a Winx action sequence and sets up the rest of the season. And Layla gets an individual moment to shine! All in all pretty good.

3. Season 1

This episode is all-around solid, especially for a pilot episode. Bloom is a little quick to decide to go to Alfea and her parents' reactions are somewhat nonexistent but everything else works well.

We get a sense of Bloom's frustration with her life, of her being drawn to the magical. Her discovery of her powers works well. Knut and the hunting troll are pretty threatening on their own and we are shown that there are puppeteers behind the curtain, promising to escalate the action soon. The boys work without coming off as too competent and save the day. Alfea is introduced.

Honestly, the only minus here is that the other Winx are not introduced yet. I understand that they couldn't have been considering the construction of the plot but the Specialists are introduced before them, which I find somewhat iffy.

2. Season 2

This episode opens on such a strong note. Layla is introduced as a protagonist. She is shown to be determined, brave and very loyal to those she considers friends. Along with that we get to explore Shadowhaunt a little bit and are introduced to Darkar's quest to find the location of the Codex (albeit in a somewhat roundabout way). There is action, there is suspense, there is fear for Layla. Darkar comes off threatening enough even if his obsession with the pixies and inability to break them does him a bit of a disservice.

On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Winx returning to Alfea. There is a sense of new along the sense of returning back to something familiar. We are reintroduced to the girls and given a little information to bridge the gap between this season and the previous one. Bloom stumbling upon the secret archive is random, unnecessary as of yet, and an oversight on Faragonda's part (for not moving it once it becomes clear what Darkar's after) but it does cement the pixies as an intended part of the season instead of just a plot device to introduce the villain's goal and the stakes.

We are reacquainted with the Specialists as well and they get to spend some time with Winx. We witness the group dynamic and the heartfelt bonds between all of them only for Layla's reappearance to act like a gut-punch. It sets up an ominous and foreboding feeling for the rest of the season and elevates the impression that the episode leaves upon the viewer.

1.Season 3

This truly is the best opening episode. It takes the time to focus on Winx who are preparing for summer vacation while at the same time focuses on the Trix' fate. It's an amazing way to build the tension as it leaves you anticipating the trouble that the Trix are going to stir while the Winx have every intention of chilling only to, surely, get interrupted by a new crisis.

However, the episode doesn't rely on that to be the only point keeping the viewer's interest. Instead of meandering through small, directionless interactions, it sets up things for the girls to do. Each of them has her own plans but the announcement of Stella's ball is a very natural way to keep them all together even as it's time for them to separate for summer vacation.

Stella's personal life and emotional state are instantly put in the spotlight in a way that truly focuses on her character rather than only on setup for what's coming. Because of that, the conflict with Chimera has more weight. It seems to be the one cloud on Stella's sunny sky, the thing that's ruining her perfect vacation and her upcoming Princess Ball as well as the restoration of her family.

The episode keeps cutting back to the Trix to focus on the consequences of their actions in the previous season, acquaint us with more of the Magic Dimension (a prison world in particular) and kickstart the plot. These sequences remind us of why the Trix have gotten as far as they have. They are smart and ruthless and still powerful, which sets up Valtor extremely well because he is obviously leagues above them. The team-up between those four is bound to bring headaches to the Winx, which is instantly demonstrated.

By doing nothing more than merely breaking out of prison, Valtor upsets the natural course of the universe and interrupts Winx' plans. Sure, they weather the current problem easily and efficiently enough but not only does it put a hitch in their plans for the afternoon, but completely alters their planned summer vacation by tearing Layla away through trouble on her own planet that is serious enough to warrant her immediate return. And to really drive the point home we are shown how Valtor transforms the Andros mermaids into monsters, takes control of their will and steals their power for himself.

It truly is the first episode that best builds up the threat and stakes that the rest of the season will spend working with. And it does so without Valtor even knowing of any of the Winx' existence yet and vice versa. A magnificent study in starting a season.

#winx club #winx club season 1 #winx club season 2 #winx club season 3 #winx club season 4 #winx club season 5 #winx club season 6 #winx club season 7 #winx club season 8 #ranking

[gillianthecat]

Getting to know your BL mutuals - 2022 Edition

Simple, answer the questions. @ some people. Include the tag 'g2ky BL mutuals 2022' on your post so we can find everyone's answers!

Thank you for the tags @negrowhat @callipigio @respectthepetty @lelephantsnail and @firstkanaphans! I loved reading your answers.

What has been the BL that took you by surprise this year?

I only started watching BL in July, so the genre as a whole took me as a surprise. And early on I didn't really know what to expect, so I wasn't really surprised by anything. But recently both Big Dragon and Eternal Yesterday have moved me in unexpected ways. Big Dragon because the story ended up being so different, and much more interesting, than the first episode led me to expect, and Eternal Yesterday because I started it having basically no idea what to expect and it's blown me away with it's storytelling and it's weird concept that somehow is tender and heartbreaking and funny and so very human.

What has been the BL that you felt a bit disappointed with this year?

Probably I would say Color Rush. I know it didn't come out this year, but that's when I saw it. It was one of the earliest BLs I watched, and I went into it with high expectations based on hearing great things about it and it just didn't work for me. I was intrigued by the concept, the execution just felt too sketched out to make it work for me. (Also I really wished that the only time it shifted into color was when the dude whose name and sci-fi identity I forget was actually seeing in color, and that it was in black and white for the rest. That alone would have made the world building feel more solid.) That said, I'm curious to re-watch it (since it's so short) and see if my opinion changes with a lot more BL under my belt.

If we're talking shows this year, probably Senpai This Can't Be Love! which started off intriguing, and then just kind of fizzled out. I didn't even watch the last two episodes. War of Y was more frustrating and infuriating, but I didn't have expectations for it in the first place so I wasn't that disappointed.

What has been your favorite BL this year?

AHH! How do I chose??? The ones I've given 10/10 have been: I Told Sunset About You, Bad Buddy, Old Fashion Cupcake, Utsukushii Kare (My Beautiful Man), Semantic Error, Blueming, and To My Star 2: Our Untold Stories. But even though I was a bit frustrated with the ending, the one that felt most like my show as I watched it week to week was The Eclipse. So maybe I will put that.

What are your favorite BL couples (not just of 2022)?

I made another post listing my top ten BL relationships so I will copy and paste it here. I don't know if my "couple" list would be different, but in making this one I was thinking specifically about the way they love each other, and if it felt like a love I believed.

Qi Zhang & Ye Guang (About Youth)

Pat & Pran (Bad Buddy)

Da-woon & Si-won (Blueming)

Mark & Vee (Love Mechanics)

Hira & Kiyoi (Utsukushii Kare/My Beautiful Man)

Nozue & Togawa (Old Fashion Cupcake)

Jae-young and Sang-woo (Semantic Error)

Seo-joon & Ji-woo (To My Star & TMS2)

Fighter & Tutor (Why R U?)

Akk & Ayan (The Eclipse)

I wrote that in October, so I'd now add See-eiw & Cake (My Only 12%) and Yai and Mangkorn (Big Dragon) to the list. And Mitsuru & Koichi (Eternal Yesterday) will probably end up on there once it finishes.

If you had to suggest a BL for someone what would it be?

Hmm. I'm taking this to mean someone who's never seen BL before. Probably Semantic Error or Old Fashion Cupcake. Both are really well crafted series, and are simple but still nuanced and interesting stories. I'd also put Bad Buddy on the list, in some ways it exists in conversation with other Thai BL, but it was the first I watched (besides ITSAY) and it still made sense to me and in a way that made it a good intro to Thai BL. There are many other shows that are a little odder or more difficult (ITSAY, Utsukushii Kare, Blueming) that I think could be a great introduction for the right person, but I wouldn't give them as a blanket rec.

And it's far, far too early to say as it's only been one episode, but if My School President keeps it up, that would be on the list as a tropey Thai high school BL expertly executed.

What's your non-BL favorite for this year?

I have watched very little that wasn't BL this year. But The Devil Judge, despite being pretty obviously a gay romance story under the censorship, isn't technically a BL so I will say that one. If I'm allowed to go back to fall of 2021, (it ended less than a year ago!) I will put Wheel of Time.

Being late to the party means that a lot of you all have done this already, but as far as I could tell @thequeenofsastiel @petrichoraline @iguessitsjustme @biochemjess @bengiyo @benkaaoi @chawarin-panich @asdfghjklmpff @aliceisathome @clairificusrex @respectthepetty @poetry-protest-pornography @waitmyturtleshaven't yet.

#g2ky BL mutuals 2022 #tag games #about gillianthecat #it took over a week but i got to it eventually #big dragon #eternal yesterday #the devil judge #color rush #semantic error #utsukushii kare #bad buddy #old fashion cupcake #i told sunset about you #my school president #blueming #ql lists

[fourseasonsfigs]

Special-eyed Dolls: Penghai Road Xu

Here we have a Wenzhou doll series with a very unusual concept - images of each other in their eyes. I found a bundle of these on Xianyu, and have been quite obsessed by them.

There's 7 dolls like this that I've seen pictures of - this Hobo-Xu single doll and and three Wenzhou pairs. I only have 3 of them, but I'm keeping my eyes out for the rest! They are so unique, and the doll maker has crafted them with exceptional detail.

This is a 20 cm doll, like all the dolls in this series. First of all, we have the basics of a Hobo-Xu doll - the tanned mask with the fake beard and the scar under the eye, all lovingly detailed.

But speaking of details, this doll has a whole host of other ones. Look at this! We have not only the 7 nails in his chest, we have his hat and his drinking gourd literally embroidered on his hands. This doll came boned, too! His arms, legs, and head are all posable, as you can tell by his feet up pose right here. This doll can definitely relax back and enjoy the sun.

Here's a close up of loads of details - the nails, the scar on his chest, the scar on his face, his hand with his hat, and last but not least, of his eye showing him looking at Wen Kexing posing on the wall with his fan. THIS iconic scene:

This is such an incredible shot. Speaking of, I was catching up on my xhs feed and saw this BTS clip of this scene:

I had no idea that he might of originally been twirling his flute instead! I'm really happy they ended up going with the open fan.

Just goes to show how much work goes into every scene of something like this.

Over to the other side. Here we have the nails, a different chest scar, his drinking gourd, and his other eye. His little hands have thumbs too, which isn't that common among dolls.

Here's the full close up. I had to go back to Episode 1 and grab a screenshot of the scars to compare:

Yep, that's those. But wait...there's more.

Now THIS is amazing. I've never seen a doll with Zhou Zishu's back scarring before.

Here's the close up. I kept watching Episode 1 and screengrabbed the best shot I could of the scars to compare:

Incredible.

The doll came naked when I got him, but I had a 20 cm hobo-Xu costume I had previously bought ready to go.

You'll notice three sets of longer pieces of fabric. One is his belt, and the other two are possible hat decoration pieces. That being said, you'll note that the hat that came with this is not very authentic to the show.

Here's a partial shot of the actual hat, as well as a nice shot of Zhou Xu's sunbathing face.

I noticed when I was looking at the hat that there was a little hole where the crown hadn't been fully stitched on to the brim. Maybe I could take it off?

And so I did! It didn't come off cleanly, so I ended up taking a craft blade and slicing it off. Looks a lot better, even like this! When I have a minute, I'm going to get some embroidery floss and stitch the blue fabric on.

The first robe came with white collars for the look of an extra underlayer without the bulk.

Here we go, all nice and tidy! Except, you know, the wild mane of hair!

Fits well from the back, with the collars laying nicely.

His blue outer robe just goes over the underlayer easily. I see I should have steamed out his sleeves!

Looking good. I like the nubbly texture of the fabric of this outfit!

Oops, I forgot the shoes! It's not too late to put them on.

I wasn't sure if they would zip all the way up. I've tried these on different dolls and they wouldn't over some of them. Sorry for the undignified pic here, Zhou Xu - I know you're wearing pants under this costume in the show, but this particular costume here has some extreme ventilation. I'll have to pick up a pair of black pants for him - I do like my costumes to be as accurate as possible!

And here he is with his belt. I just tied a simple knot and tucked the end under - I have exactly zero knotting skills.

Here's the whole outfit, with scarf and all! I even styled his hair in a bit of a messy bun.

The world's tiniest bun, that is. All these long haired dolls never have enough hair when you pull it back!

And here he is, sitting down with the help of his boned skeleton, waiting for a kind young lady to give him some wine. Oh no! I just realized he doesn't have his actual drinking gourd with him! Shoot. Well, luckily I have plenty from my official Rua Wenzhou dolls, so I'll just grab one from my extras bag.

#wenzhou #word of honor #word of honor merch #word of honor dolls #zhou zishu #hobo xu