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spottedenchants · 2 years

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Here's the half of my Essek playlist that covers Campaign 2, listed in chronological order!

See below for a breakdown on the 'arcs' in the playlist, as well as extra notes pertaining to how I feel the songs fit with him or his relationship with the noted character/s :3

I'll be updating this when I remember to!

Last Updated: Jun. 16, 2023

1-19: Pre-Campaign 2

For This You Were Born by UNSECRET, Fleurie || Young Essek - the start of Expectations™

The Other Side by Amarante || Young Essek - an encompassing (and genuine) fascination with the unknowns of his studies

Out Through the Curtain by The Hush Sound || Young Essek - feeling isolated

Dearest Brother by Firewoodisland || Verin - Essek’s only tight bond

Behind the Mask by Ivy & Gold || Deirta - comfort, realized disconnect, then distance

Bones by Emily Finchum || Disillusion & pride

Where to Begin by Adam Watts || Essek getting deeper into his studies

Outside In by Circle of Dust || Essek is entirely disconnected from peers as he pursues a higher position of power to expand his study access

Disconnected by Imminence || If he bothered with any self reflection, maybe he’d notice and care that he was lacking sustainable bonds

Cathedrals by Animal Flag || Essek’s father - the fight (“cause if your god's in a building than your god is a stone”) and immediate aftermath (including a ‘staring at the wall for ages’ section)

Conspiracy of Silence by The Swoons || Essek’s father has gone off to Bazzoxan and died

In Your Likeness by Woodkid || Deirta & unfulfilled expectations

Ubu by Methyl Ethel || Verin's POV on Essek's changes

Lost by Jeremy Ravine || Verin’s POV on taking up the Bazzoxan post, as home is not the same anymore

Neon Mirror by Polyenso || Essek is set in his thoughts, Verin leaves

Home. by September Stories || Essek's POV after Verin goes to Bazzoxan

Solitude by Sorry, Peach || Self-isolation bay-bee

Holy by Wolf Colony || The devil’s come knocking

Promiseland by MIKA || Summary looking back on where Essek started and where he's going

20-40: A Choice, and Then Consequences Thrown in His Face

Dawn by Echo Black, Danny Blu || Essek's *knows* he’s supposed to be learning about the beacons, it is what is expected of him, it is what he is here to do

Brighter Than the Sun by Brick + Mortar || Got some more hubris building up, the deal with the Assembly

Resentment by A Day To Remember || The deal with the Assembly has been… relatively unfruitful, but he’s stuck in it regardless

Icarus by Bastille || Reap what you sow hot boi

Pinebox by Birds of Bellwoods || This is fine, he is calm; the Dynasty’s plan to reacquire one of the beacons; this is fine

Heavy Metal War by Speak || The beacon in Zadash has gone missing entirely; now entering active wartime, keep it together

Paranoia by Neoni || The Mighty Nein - they brought back a WHAT

Tip Toes by half•alive || It's fine, he can be careful

Soap by The Oh Hellos || Jester 100% - total tone shift

Leave Me Alone by I DONT KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME || The Mighty Nein - Essek's keeping close tabs on them, but he still wants nothing to do with them; if he's lucky, maybe their endeavors will get them killed

Let You In by Marc Straight, Ellen Rose || The Mighty Nein - they’re… endearing, but…

Cold War by Foreign Figures || The Mighty Nein - Essek’s back on track, he only needs to divert their attention, but also they’re *endearing*

Cold Loud Dark by The Classic Crime || Essek and his Neutral Evil affirmations, he chose this path

Dark Star by Jaymes Young || Ep 77 Scourger in the cell, Essek is Dangerous™

bury a friend (Cover) by Pomplamoose || The Mighty Nein - are they *genuinely* nice? Surely there is subterfuge to their actions, even now

New Invention by I DONT KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME || The Mighty Nein & Jester - Essek's spinning many plates, coordinating things behind the scenes, but he's realizing the Nein have done something irreversible to him

Watch Your Back by Sam Tinnesz || "We feel pretty confident that there are people within the Empire working against the Empire, and there are people in the Dynasty working against the Dynasty. And if you are one of those people, and we're hoping you're not, then this information will never go any further than this and that's the end of that."

Flames by Tedy || The Mighty Nein - this is a very risky arrangement, but… Essek might just like them

Live While I Breathe by The Moth & The Flame || Ep 91 dinner with the Nein, he’s still working the lies by omission, but maybe something honest can be found here

Bones by Imagine Dragons || A manic sort of self-doubt mixed with finishing the Transmogrification spell

Defeated by Bad Suns || That’s it, the Mighty Nein have won - Essek witnessing Veth’s failed Transmogrification and the Nein’s unwavering determination to help her, and Caleb promises to share his notes

41-54: Putting the Pieces Back

Alcatraz by Oliver Riot || Essek realizing *exactly* how isolated/trapped he’s become

Goldfish by Until The Ribbon Breaks || The Mighty Nein - they still don’t know what Essek has done, maybe he can put things back without them learning the truth- they haven’t learned the truth, right?

Destroyer by Of Monsters and Men || The Mighty Nein - they really ruined everything, didn’t they? Perhaps this is for the better though, maybe some things can be fixed

Stray Italian Greyhound by Vienna Teng || The Mighty Nein & Jester - Snap out of brooding, teleporting to the Whitedawn Lagoon, the parasol... gods he really does care for them, doesn't he?

The Enemy by Andrew Belle || The Mighty Nein - Essek is a danger and a detriment to them, but if they are off doing their own business, maybe that distance is safer

Warchild by Nekokat || Essek has long crossed the point of no return, but it’s not too late to fix things; he can do this

Demons and Angels by LOWBORN || Ludinus - Essek’s trying to break things off

Lying Beast by Run River North || Lord Dezran Thain

Wander. Wonder. by The Arcadian Wild || The Mighty Nein - they came directly here??

Flares by The Script || The Mighty Nein - specifically when Essek is witnessed confronting Ludinus

All The People by The Treble || The Mighty Nein - Essek trying to escape from them and the party

Copper Colored Quiet by letlive. || The Mighty Nein - they’re mocking him- they’re going to kill him and they’re mocking him. At least it’s them.

A Deer Mistaking Candles for Headlights by Crywank || Essek being escorted to the Balleater

Liar by The Arcadian Wild || Ep 97 the Confrontation

55-64: The Confrontation: A Breakdown

Organs by Of Monsters and Men || The Mighty Nein - Essek is sorry for dragging them into his mess, grotesquely visceral vulnerability still wrapped in a pretty package

Too Far Gone by Sir Sly || The Mighty Nein - “there's nothing worse than betraying those you've come to care about before you even came to care about them.”

Dark Matter by Andrew Belle || Caleb - The Speech

Beekeeper by Keaton Henson || The Mighty Nein - why can’t they see he cannot be fixed?

Bleed by Vorsa || The Forehead Kiss™, maybe… maybe Essek has been left better than before

Counting Paths by Matthew And The Atlas || Jester - she holds Essek’s hand through his confession, surely such kindness won’t last

Darkness in Me by Fight the Fade || The Mighty Nein - everyone insisting that Essek can be good, even if he’s unsure how to begin

Paradise Is Lost by GoldTop, Sam Tinnesz || The Confession - Essek explaining that the deal with the Assembly is done

War by Former Vandal || The Mighty Nein - Essek has friends to protect him now, yes?

Wait for the Sun by Chopped Up Tulips || Welcome to the Mighty Nein

65-77: Emotion Soup Part I aka Confrontation Aftermath

If You Care by Evan Barlow || The Mighty Nein - Essek can’t protect them

SoLow by Keegan Calmes || The Mighty Nein - reflecting: regret feels Bad

Sorry by The Moth & The Flame || A little screamy, reflecting: regret, Essek still is who he is

The Fox by North Bloom || A little screamy, trapped in a cycle that he wants to break, somehow

Goner by Twenty One Pilots || The Mighty Nein - a little screamy, feeling doomed and desperately wanting bonds

Dangerous Man by Little Dume || A little screamy, reflecting: self-doubt, self-derision, a sliver of hope

Beautiful Crime by Tamer || Caleb - reflecting: they are rather alike in some regards, aren’t they?

Poison by Felicity || Caleb - reflecting: "you were not born with venom in your veins" but Essek has it now, and that needs to be dealt with

Pyrokinesis by 7Chariot || Caleb - reflecting: as is, they share a volatile dynamic

Honey by Magic Man || The Mighty Nein - reflecting: betrayal before coming to care about them, the look of it on their faces

Mostly by Vian Izak, Juniper Vale || The cumulative takeaway of Essek's reflections, like a quick, distanced observation that he can readily pack away

Blame by Nik Ammar, Oliver Jackson || Sucks to be Adeen

The Coldest Heart by The Classic Crime || Saying farewell to the Nein, got some loose ends to wrap up, but there’s something hollow about it

78-91: Emotion Soup Part II aka Traveler Con Radio Silence

Lonely by Nathan Wagner || Inner conflict, desiring company vs. being undeserving of it

All That You Know by Simon Herron || Self-doubt and self-denial

Darlin' by Goodbye June || What have the Nein done to him? Even in absence, he hears them and can imagine Jester's sendings

Dead Man Walking by Sam Tinnesz || Tensions and suspicions rise

Dear Doubt by Michael Schulte || Oh, he *has* to get out of Rosohna, it is absolutely time to run far away

Spineless by Nick Lutsko || Coward.

I'll Be Good by Jaymes Young || As it says on the tin

The Pugilist by Keaton Henson || A low point, he’s so far from where he has been and he’s bound to be forgotten by those he’d hoped might hold on

It's Not Enough by The Modern Post || Self-doubt, no matter how hard he may try, there’s no way he can really make up for what he’s done

Cry Cry Cry by Scott Helman || The Mighty Nein - reflecting: his friends are gone but it’s fine, he can handle himself just fine

I Won't Lie - Acoustic Version by Go Radio || The Mighty Nein - reflecting: they really offered him a chance at life, didn’t they?

Collide by The Model Youth || Masked paranoia and trying to hold it together

Hurt by Nine Inch Nails || a Matt pick, feels like Essek’s lowest point

I’m Losing Friends by Tanner Swift || The Mighty Nein - and isn't that terrifying?

92-102: The Outpost Commander

Neon Lights by Dancing Years || It's fine, Essek has a job to do and he can focus on that

Paper Mache by Iris Lune || He’s actually not too bad at this outpost business

I Found by Amber Run || The Mighty Nein - they're in Eiselcross too, with challenging tidings, but they’re here

Fellow in the North by Cold Weather Company || Meeting up with the Nein at the Vurmas outpost

Greyscale by Sleeping Wolf || The Mighty Nein - Essek stating guilt/shame and reflection, a desire to undo the harm that has been done

Weight Of It All by Handsome Ghost || The Mighty Nein - oh gods what have they done

When the Truth Hunts You Down by Sam Tinnesz || The Mighty Nein - what have they DONE

Done Better by Roby Fayer and Rotem || Essek explaining the present state of his regret and shame to the Nein

Hypoxia by Thomas Giles || "Just breathe. Just… breathe that fresh air, mindful of the people about. Time. Time. Not weeks, not years. It takes time."

Last Words by Jon Foreman || That time between Ep 124 and Ep 131 when we thought Essek might have been murdered by Wulf while the Nein were hopping around the universe

Two Evils by Bastille || The Mighty Nein - they pick Essek over Trent

103-114: A Test of Character

Into The Storm by BANNERS || The Mighty Nein - to Aeor!

Gravity by Tiggs || Aeor montage - the initial struggle, finding how he fits with the Nein

Waking Up the Giants by Grizfolk || Caleb - librarians in a corner, but also the talk on the 9th floor of the tower

Anti-Gravity by RUNAGROUND || Aeor montage - ambush set up and the Tomb Takers are Here

Brave New World by Kalandra || Aeor montage - resting in the dome, Caleb and Beau wake with new eyes, keeping checks and balances with Caleb

Song From The Edge Of The World by Siouxsie and the Banshees || Caleb - a Matt pick, Caleb giving Essek extra pearls and descending farther into the Genesis Ward

Rewrite The Stars by Zac Efron, Zendaya || Caleb - showboating and T-Dock

Up Down by Boy Epic || T-Dock and the water elemental fight

I Will Follow You into the Dark by Death Cab for Cutie || The Mighty Nein - heading into the Astral Sea

There Are Better Ways to Die by Tanuki || Worry over resting, then the idea for the dunamantic nap

Mad IQs by I DONT KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME || a Liam pick, it's applicable to a lot, but this is here for the dunamantic nap and Essek’s Nat 20

Judgement Day by Stealth || “And if today is to be my final attempt at making good the things I've done, I'd be all right with that.”

115-126: A Resolution

Beautiful Darkside by The Classic Crime || Lucien fight phase 1 and Essek getting momentarily charmed

Heart Of The Darkness by Tommee Profitt, Sam Tinnesz || Lucien fight phase 2

Without You by Ursine Vulpine & Annaca || Jester & Caleb - they died right in front of him, and what could he do about it?

Ally (Self Tilted Nostalgia Version) by We The Kings || Molly's res ritual

Who I Am Hates Who I’ve Been (Acoustic) by Relient K || The first sunrise after returning to the Blooming Grove

Be Good by Roseburg || Maybe things will be okay? Oh. Oh no.

Dreamcatcher by Night Argent || Trent fight!

Wolves of the Revolution by The Arcadian Wild || Witnessing Astrid and Eadwulf in the aftermath of Ikithon’s capture

Forgiven by Relient K || Essek's got quite a ways to go still, and what is this ending if not another beginning?

Solace by Runaground || Reflecting: leaving the Grove has the potential to be a last goodbye, time is running low

Only Thing (Alternative Mix) by Saint Nomad, Fleurie || The Mighty Nein - trepidation about leaving, about missing, about growing

Love Like You by Rebecca Sugar || The Mighty Nein - safe in the Blooming Grove as Essek leaves to continue his business elsewhere

Bonus 1: Unfolding Time by Broken Iris || revisiting the T-Dock with Caleb

Bonus 2: Blood Bonds by Nathan Wagner || Welcome to the Might Nein, enjoy your stay

Thanks for reading, here is a cat for you:

♡ॢ₍⸍⸌̣ ʷ̣̫⸍̣⸌₎

#essek thelyss #critical role #97 songs at the time of posting....#many....#consider this my c2 finale anniversary celebration xD #thank you everyone that's recommended songs!!#there's only so much i can find on my own xD #been chipping away at this post all month #also i have not watched most of these music videos i just checked to make sure the songs play at the starts and ends without extra stuff #half of my full essek playlist is c2 the rest is touching sentiments #12 and a half hours of hot boi in total #gosh what do i tag this as #chanswers #touchsent lore #why not

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seawaveleo · 1 year

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team T.I.E.S. designs :D

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zarvasace · 4 days

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@skyloftian-nutcase 's Imprisoning War trio! :) I had a lot of fun drawing this and revisiting some techniques I used a lot in the past with a new perspective. And looking at Gerudo design. Eheh.

#my art #loz art #loz #gosh what do i tag this #tloz #imprisoning war #link #zelda #hemisi #are there better tags for general loz stuff???#hw #loz hw

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emilylprentiss · 9 months

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jemily + work song by hozier

#criminal minds #emily prentiss #jennifer jareau #jemily #criminalmindsedit #jemilyedit #tvedit #tuserkei #userkayjay #usercats #userjean #cargopantsprentiss #cm gifs #i really dont remember who to tag for - im trying to remember who ive seen reblog my jemily stuff before fjdksf sorry??#ALSO this took so long to do and GUESS WHAT i still dont really like it #i realized i didnt want colored text until it was Too Late so here we are #will i ever like anything i make?? probably not #im posting this at 6 am bc i dont care anymore gosh diddily DANG IT ill take the 10 notes and be happy I GUESS #*mine

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intotheelliwoods · 28 days

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I have one more thing I want to work on before I get back into updating 2AL regularly, but until then......

#I was going to do a poptart mindscape introduction comic next but like #idk how necessary that is???#I am assuming by this point we all know how the mindscape works right?#> can share memories #> can manipulate what you look like #> and can manipulate surroundings/summon whatever you want at will #I am assuming we know these things????? yeah?#2 arms left #and like! ah #gosh that animation project is scary #the last 2 options are build up comics for it that I am *probably* going to have to make at some point anyways #another part of me entirely is debating scrapping the animation project and just doing that update in comic form instead of animated form #YKNOW LIKE A NORMAL PERSON #idk #rambling #I am at a really weird part of the storyline for 2al where I know what happens next #but its going to be hard to visualize it? if that makes sense?#what do you MEAN these story points cant just get #beamed out of my head and into everyone elses heads #anyways hello thanks for reading this far into the tags #augh ive been very busy!#to whatever wins this poll I may not get to it till the end of the month #or after since the rest of this month is going to be pretty stressful #this is also assuming the animation option doesnt win #I dont know how long thats going to take me......#assuming I even have the guts to finish it

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perhaps-in-anotherdream · 2 months

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[CN] Li Zeyan’s Mundane Date (Eng Translation)

“I bet that you will still remember this day, this moment, even decades from now. Just like I will.”

⌚Warning⌚ This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 琐碎约会, that is yet to be released on the global server! ♡

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

【Subbed Video】

youtube

──────────────

【Chapter 1】

Big Screen: “In order to welcome this festival dedicated to love, our channel is presenting a special program named 《The Vow at Fingertip》.”

Big Screen: “We’ve collected a plethora of stories about the ring, exploring its deeper meaning beyond the ceremonial contexts…”

It’s early morning on Valentine’s Day, and the streets are already bustling with noise and excitement. Li Zeyan and I stand quietly at the entrance of the supermarket, watching the program previews displayed on the shopping mall’s large screen.

LZY: [laughs like a proud s/o ✊] Well, this is quite impressive. The prime spot throughout the whole day is going to be occupied by your show.

MC: Granted, it’s thanks to the sponsorship from the brand, but I’m really satisfied with this show.

LZY: In that case, let’s get through the checklist quickly and head back early to enjoy your masterpiece.

Finishing his words, he then takes my hand and leads me into the supermarket.

Given Li Zeyan’s personality, he had actually prepared the ingredients at Souvenir well in advance. But due to a phone call this morning, we had no choice but to make last-minute changes in our plans…

–

───── [FLASHBACK STARTS] ─────

Mr. Mills: Manager, sorry to trouble you so early in the morning.

Mr. Mills: While I was out for a walk just now, I saw a notice posted on the door of Souvenir stating that there’s a circuit malfunction in this area and the power has been out for the whole night.

Mr. Mills: I checked the refrigerator, and it seems those ingredients of yours may have gone bad.

LZY: [his voice really tends to drop to a different softness when he talks to Mr. Mills 🥺] Thank you for taking the trouble. I’ll take care of it later.

Mr. Mills: But you prepared these for MC, right? Would you still be able to work out your plans for today?

Li Zeyan glances at me, who’s peering over from beside him, and a small smile tugs at the corners of his lips.

LZY: [while looking at you] You don’t have to worry. I have a compensation plan in mind.

Watching as Li Zeyan ends the call, his expression composed, I hurriedly lean in and ask him about the situation.

MC: Did something happen at Souvenir? Should we go to the restaurant first and check it out?

LZY: It’s alright, let’s celebrate the festival first.

LZY: The menu won’t change, but we need to grab a few things to make up. I’ll make a quick trip to the supermarket later.

MC: I’ll come along with you!

–

───── [FLASHBACK ENDS] ─────

As each item from the list is placed into the shopping cart, I steal glances at Li Zeyan and study his completely unruffled expression, inwardly sighing to myself.

His plan fell through, and it even resulted in some damage. Yet, he hasn’t uttered a single word of complaint, appearing to have a well-thought-out plan in advance as always.

MC: [muttering] He certainly deserves the title of being the number one in emotional stability.

Li Zeyan seems to have heard my mumbling, prompting him to turn around and meet my gaze.

LZY: What’s the matter? Why are you zoning out?

MC: I was thinking, you are really good at switching your mood. If I were in your shoes and found out [MC’s Company Name] had run into some problem, I’d spend half a day just feeling upset.

LZY: Not like it’s something that can’t be remedied. What’s there to feel upset about?

LZY: It’s a nice holiday, and I don’t wish to see a certain dummy shooting her mouth off to the sky.

He gently lays his hand on top of mine and, together with the shopping cart, leads me forward.

LZY: If you zone out again, we won’t go to the snack section.

MC: I absolutely won’t! Let’s go, let’s go~

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【Chapter 2】

The warm music of the show flows through the room, but it’s soon drowned out by the clinking and clattering sounds from the kitchen.

MC: Is there anything else you need me to do, Boss?

LZY: Help me with the sauce.

In order to increase efficiency, I volunteer to help Li Zeyan and find myself busy following his instructions, frantically running around in circles.

LZY: Pass me the thermometer.

LZY: Set the stopwatch to one minute for me.

MC: Roger!

Ding––

The oven’s timer sounds, and I consciously put on the heat-resistant gloves and pull out the baking tray.

MC: Isn’t it time to turn the sweet potato tart?

LZY: Right. If it’s tricky to turn, try lifting a corner first to test it out.

MC: Uh… it does seem a bit tricky to flip.

With gentleness and cautiousness, I proceed to operate, afraid of ruining the shape Li Zeyan has crafted so meticulously.

As I reach the last three, a reminder sounds from behind me.

LZY: Turn them faster; don’t let the oven temperature drop too much.

LZY: Don’t worry so much about the shape. For a dummy, it’s tasting delicious is what matters more.

His voice, carrying with it a smile, alleviates my nervousness a little. I turn them over and slide the baking tray back into the oven.

With the oven resuming its operation, I breathe a sigh of relief and walk back to Li Zeyan’s side, taking a sip of water.

LZY: [laughs softly] Tired?

MC: How could I be tired? I can handle this amount of work just fine.

MC: It actually feels like that cooking game we played before. Though, I wish we could have three heads and six arms… [1]

MC: Speaking of which, do things get this chaotic when you cook by yourself?

Li Zeyan puts the lid on the pot and turns down the heat, then rubs my head with his free hand.

LZY: It doesn’t seem as chaotic when I’m on my own without anyone “helping out.”

LZY: But my sous chef here has made quite a lot of progress; at least nothing got messed up.

MC: That’s because my boyfriend doesn’t only cook incredibly well, but he is also a generous mentor!

LZY: [chuckles teasingly] I was here simply trying to better the food I cook for a certain dummy. I did not realize she was secretly taking notes.

LZY: Since you’ve been learning well, tell me, what do we need to add when we take the lid off?

I freeze for a moment, not expecting that he’d really ask questions. Resorting to thinking on my feet, I quickly pounce on him and lock my arms around his neck.

MC: Well, naturally… adding a little extra love would make it even better!

I plant a kiss on his cheek, then swiftly dash away before he can react, turning up the volume of the show.

LZY: [laughs helplessly] Running away when you can’t answer, huh?

MC: [giggling gleefully] What did you say? The music is too loud, I can’t hear you clearly~

Shamelessly feigning ignorance, I stand in front of the TV, grinning while casually casting a glance at the progress of the show.

At this moment, the interview with a young couple begins. The girl raises her left hand towards the camera, showing off her wedding ring.

Girl (on the show): On the day my husband proposed, he hid the ring in a dessert, saying that the dessert that day was infused with a unique formula of love.

Girl (on the show): As a result, when I took a bite, I chomped directly into this “formula of love” and ended up breaking my tooth…

Girl (on the show): We had to rush to the emergency room in the middle of the night. The pain was so excruciating that I almost refused the marriage proposal right then and there.

MC: Pfft…

I can’t hold back my laughter and glance over at Li Zeyan, who’s just a short distance away.

MC: Did you hear that, restaurant manager? You should take this as a cautionary tale.

LZY: [chuckles helplessly] It’s clearly the gluttonous dummy who should take this as a cautionary tale.

Just as I’m about to retaliate, the doorbell suddenly rings. I pull a face at Li Zeyan and hurry off to answer the door.

Delivery Guy: Excuse me, is this Mr. Li’s residence? I’ve got a Flash Delivery package for him.

I accept the rather sizable cardboard box, then curiously glance towards the kitchen.

MC: What did you order?

LZY: Why don’t you open it and find out?

I carefully open the box and find an unexpected item inside––

──────────────

[Tidbits]:

[1] It’s a reference to Li Zeyan’s “Home Visit Date!”

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【Chapter 3】

MC: “Chocolate fountain machine for home use”?

As I look at the name on the instruction manual, I read it out loud in surprise.

The supermarket’s holiday chocolates are already vying for attention with their romantic beauty, but I didn’t expect Li Zeyan to have an even more surprising design up his sleeves.

MC: Wow… isn’t this something you’d usually find only at hotels or fancy gatherings?

LZY: Mm-hmm. Given the unusual circumstances today, I’d have to slack off for now.

MC: “Slack off”?

Li Zeyan meets my puzzled gaze and places the machine on the table, then proceeds to gesticulate the patterns of the fountain.

LZY: Since it’s liquid, it simplifies the project by skipping several steps and can’t be stored. Once prepared, it’s only enough for a single serving.

LZY: If a certain someone has any objections, I’ll make a better one for you another day.

MC: Not only do I have no objections, but I also want to “redress injustices” on behalf of the chocolate fountain.

I wedge myself between him and the bar counter, pretending to be angry as I place my hands on my hips.

MC: How could you ever consider something as amusing and creative as this chocolate fountain as “slacking off”?!

MC: Moreover, regardless of how simple the procedure may be, Restaurant Manager Li’s creations are always one-of-a-kind.

Li Zeyan gives me a look and curls his lips into a smile.

LZY: Seems like this choice has turned out to be exactly something a certain someone would’ve liked. Since you’re so interested, why don’t you join me in making it later?

–

The “home version” of the Valentine’s Day feast still lives up to Li Zeyan’s high standards. After having our fill of eating and drinking, we finally bring the chocolate fountain to the table.

I skewer a strawberry, coat it with chocolate sauce, and take a bite. The rich aroma of chocolate blends harmoniously with the strawberry’s fresh sweetness, causing me to squint my eyes as if I were in paradise.

MC: So, so yummy!

LZY: Easy there; be careful not to let the chocolate sauce drip onto you.

Li Zeyan fetches a sheet of paper and places it on my lap, then takes a toothpick to help me skewer the strawberries.

A warmth blooms in my heart. I lean in and hug his arm.

MC: Every dish today has been a hit, plus there’s also a certain handsome guy winning over with his attentive service. I think I ought to give it at least a four-star Michelin rating.

LZY: Is that extra star a reward for yourself?

MC: Hehe, didn’t you just say earlier that your little sous chef did a good job today?

LZY: Indeed, and the dining experience was neater than usual, too.

MC: Those who are capable do the most work, and those who work most deserve extra serving at the table! [2]

Li Zeyan smiles as he listens to my nonsense and pushes a plate of chocolate-coated strawberries in front of me.

LZY: [the indulgence hhh] Alright, “capable one,” today you’re allowed to have a little extra.

MC: Why are you giving them all to me? Aren’t you going to have a taste?

LZY: There’s a certain dummy who’s been looking forward to this for so long, so let’s let her have her fill first.

As I take another bite of a strawberry, I keep pondering which words to persuade him to taste it. When I look up, I find that Li Zeyan has had his eyes fixed on me the whole time.

MC: What’s wrong?

LZY: It’s nothing.

LZY: I was just thinking, with the sudden change of plans today, are you genuinely okay with it?

MC: It wasn’t something within our control. Besides, just the location got changed, that’s all.

LZY: But it did eat into our time, and we missed the beginning of your show.

MC: I didn’t realize CEO Li was looking forward to my show this much, huh?

LZY: [laughs helplessly] I wonder who kept promoting it non-stop next to my ear every day.

Grinning, I lean sideways onto his shoulder and reach out to poke his cheek.

MC: You somehow pulled off such a complicated feast to make up for it. What could I have to be dissatisfied with?

MC: Besides, the most important thing today is to be glued to the person you like; it doesn’t matter even if the time hasn’t been used efficiently.

Picking up the dessert tray, I skewer a strawberry and feed it to him.

MC: In order to make you truly understand how I feel, I warmly invite you to taste the flavor of bliss for yourself. [3]

LZY: Dummy, you’ve already mentioned the “taste of bliss” at least five times today.

LZY: Why do I get the feeling that you always seem to find “bliss” in everything you eat?

MC: That conclusion seems to be a bit of a sweeping generalization.

MC: There may be an abundance of delicious food in the world, but there are only two kinds that can truly bring me a sense of bliss.

MC: Home-cooked meals made by family members and the food you prepare with love.

Li Zeyan takes the plate and gently holds my now-empty hand.

LZY: Was your father very skilled in the kitchen?

MC: He…

MC: He was too busy with work, so there weren’t many opportunities for him to showcase his skills… but the flavors in my memory are very warm; it was the taste of home.

LZY: No wonder a certain someone has a good palette; apparently, she was nurtured well since childhood.

MC: Hehe, but I believe happiness doesn’t just stem from the flavors; the particulars are crucial, too.

LZY: What do you mean?

MC: For example, when Dad came home late from work and would accidentally add too much salt to the quick dishes he prepared, we’d end up laughing it off together during the meal.

MC: For instance, when a certain someone’s own plans went awry, he still prioritized taking care of my feelings.

MC: Like when that certain person could have simply settled for making regular chocolate, but instead, he went out of his way to design a chocolate fountain.

MC: I’m not someone who eats anything at any place without preference. Restaurant Manager Li, please don’t get the wrong idea.

I wink at Li Zeyan. He stares at me for a while, then suddenly breaks the silence.

LZY: Do you know why Souvenir always gives you special privileges?

MC: Why?

LZY: Because while a certain person isn’t very skilled in cooking, she sure is an excellent eater, and she equally excels at “paying the debt for the free meals with her words.” [4]

MC: Nonsense! That’s called showing gratitude, alright!

Unwilling to back down, I stuff another strawberry into his mouth, blocking any potential retort.

MC: Some people’s sweet words don’t last more than three seconds. As punishment, I’ll make you eat more chocolate to make amends.

LZY: [laughs helplessly] …Dummy.

──────────────

[Tidbits]:

[2] The original sentence said by MC here was “能者多劳, 劳者多吃!” The first part of it is actually an idiom: lit. meaning, “it’s the most capable people who do the most work.” The idiom is intended as consolation for the overworked, or flattery when making a request etc. The second part is a word-play on the idiom, so I tweaked the translation to fit the play here!

[3] The term MC uses here is “幸福,” and I had to sit on this one for a while to use a term that is not too wordy but still carries a closer meaning to the CN term. While it essentially does refer to “happiness,” the term carries a deeper connotation than 开心 (happy) / 快乐 (joyful), which refer to short bursts of bright emotions. Whereas “幸福” refers to lasting, fulfilling happiness and holistic contentment~

[4] The term Li Zeyan uses here is “吃人嘴短,” which he’s cleverly re-generated from the proverb “吃人嘴软, 拿人手短” to get his message across efficiently. I’m just too tired to explain the inside joke here LOL, so I opted for a wordy translation to try to get the message across nonetheless.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

【Chapter 4】

Host: Auntie, how do you usually store your ring?

Granny: Store it? I’ve never taken it off. I keep it on even when I’m working.

Granny: In our generation, we didn’t fuss over all those things. Besides, life inevitably keeps throwing urgent matters at you, so there’s little to no time to ponder over such matters.

While listening to the conversation on TV, I hand the last plate on the table to Li Zeyan.

After a quick rinse, he loads the plates into the dishwasher. Just as he straightens up, I hug him from behind.

MC: We just finished eating; why not rest for a while?

LZY: [chuckles indulgently] What? Are you saying eating can tire you out, dummy?

MC: …don’t you feel a bit sluggish after eating too much?

LZY: [that indulgent tone intensifies x10] No wonder I feel like I’m carrying extra weight on my back.

Hearing the obvious laughter in his voice, I let out a couple of “hmphs” and continue to lean against his back without a care in the world.

LZY: A certain someone here has eaten her plate clean so thoroughly, lightening the load quite a lot, so this shouldn’t take too much time.

MC: That’s an essential skill for a Souvenir diner! But every time I see you being so diligent, I feel a tad embarrassed.

MC: It’s one thing not to procrastinate at work, but how can you not be lazy in your everyday life as well?

LZY: Wouldn’t it be more of a hassle if everything piled up at once?

LZY: Taking care of things immediately when they happen also helps avoid any unexpected complications.

Thinking back to how he methodically rearranged everything this morning, I can’t help but sigh with a twinge of envy.

MC: I’m so lucky to have you around; it’s what could make today so delightful.

LZY: Even after having to do so much work, you still consider it delightful?

MC: Yep! Cooking with you is like playing a game, but without the need to worry about failing any levels!

LZY: Dummy has a knack for turning any place into an amusement park.

MC: Then you’re the amusement park manager!

Li Zeyan finishes washing his hands, turns around, and boops the tip of my nose.

LZY: [in the softest of tones] It seems that with you around, I’ll never have to worry about being unemployed.

LZY: Let’s go. Let’s focus on watching your show.

—

Li Zeyan pulls me to nestle into the couch. The show has now reached the interview segment, and the host is asking the elderly woman about the happiest moment of her life in the decades that have gone by.

Granny: If I had to choose one, it would be one night before going to sleep, when my husband touched the ring on my hand and said, “It’s all scratched up.”

Granny: When we calculated, we realized we’ve been wearing our rings for several decades.

Host: Those rings must be bearing many traces of life, wouldn’t you say?

Granny: Yes, that’s right. At first, I wanted to reprimand him, to show him how much work I’ve done. But then I touched his ring, and it was just the same.

Granny: At that moment, I suddenly felt, this person next to me has been by my side for a very long time.

I snuggle into Li Zeyan’s embrace, intertwining my fingers with his and stroking them.

MC: If it were the two of us, your ring would definitely be the one to wear out first.

LZY: Not necessarily; we also have to take into account a certain someone stirring up trouble and acting silly.

MC: Perhaps in a few decades, I’ll have grown smarter already!

LZY: Then let’s make a bet. We’ll see if you still remember this statement in a few decades.

MC: Alright, you’re on. But we’re both in this, so it wouldn’t be fair to put only me to the test.

LZY: Go on, what plan are you hatching now?

I roll my eyes and wriggle out of his arms.

MC: You watch the show; I’ll be back in a jiffy.

I trot over to the pantry and open one of the low cabinets. Owing to the Valentine’s Day themed program, I have received quite a few chocolates from our collaborators.

I take out the heart-shaped box placed at the top and return to Li Zeyan’s side.

–

MC: Li Zeyan, I have a small gift for you.

LZY: What, haven’t had enough chocolate yet?

Li Zeyan glances at the box in my hand, then raises an eyebrow at me. I smile but don’t say anything, opening the box and putting it into his hand.

MC: Hold on~ Let me do a magic trick for you first.

MC: Close your eyes, and then just pick any chocolate from inside.

LZY: [gentle, helpless chuckle] What kind of stunt are you pulling this time?

Despite saying this, Li Zeyan still closes his eyes and follows suit. I take the chocolate he hands me and gently tear open the wrapper.

The golden foil paper is extremely delicate and prone to tearing if handled with even the slightest bit of carelessness. But by now, I’ve already become skilled enough to roll it up smoothly.

During the filming of this show, chocolate almost became our only snack. Every time I was on the phone with Li Zeyan, I would chat with him while casually rolling the candy wrappers.

I didn’t expect the “practice makes perfect” proverb to come to fruition like this, but inadvertently, I managed to craft this paper “ring.”

MC: Done! Now, extend your hand again.

He doesn’t seem to quite understand what my intention is, so he reaches into the box for another chocolate and hands it to me.

Seeing him so cooperative, I can’t help but laugh out loud, giving his fingertips a squeeze as I hold up the “ring” I have just created.

MC: You can open your eyes now!

–

LZY: …?

Li Zeyan looks at the small ring in my hand and blinks slowly.

LZY: [YOU CAN LITERALLY HEAR IN HIS TONE THAT HE’S CAUGHT OFF GUARD 🥹] This is…?

MC: As you can see, an exclusively customized ring from 24-karat pure gold!

MC: Handcrafted from start to finish, Mr. Li Zeyan is the only one in the world who has the opportunity to own it.

Li Zeyan is momentarily taken aback, then glances at the torn-open chocolates on the table, before suddenly breaking into a smile.

LZY: Even such a brief moment as this is ample for your creativity to soar.

MC: I’ve been planning this for a long time. You can’t just whip up such a rare ring on the spot.

MC: Since you’ve made that bet with me, I must also reciprocate.

I straighten up and slowly slide the small ring onto his ring finger.

Li Zeyan’s gaze also remains fixated on my fingertips until the ring moves past his second joint, then he lifts his eyes to stare at me again.

Under the sunlight, those deep, enigmatic eyes of his shine even brighter, an expectation as clear as crystals surging within them.

I gaze fixedly at him, his cheeks now tinged with a gentle blush, and find myself unable to suppress the smile that steals across my lips.

MC: I bet that you will still remember this day, this moment, even decades from now.

MC: Just like I will.

After a few seconds of silence, Li Zeyan tosses the chocolate in his hand aside and tightly clasps my hand with his broad palm.

Seeing that he still hasn’t said anything, I press on and ask once more.

MC: How about it? Do you want to make this bet with me?

LZY: Sure, but…

Even before the words have fully left his mouth, a sudden force on my wrist yanks me towards him. I can’t help but cry out in surprise, only to find myself falling into his arms.

A warm breath immediately envelopes me as he locks me firmly in his arms, and I find myself slowly consumed by an intense yearning.

LZY: [nearly breathless] If you want me to remember, you’ll have to up the ante.

Without waiting for me to respond, he continues kissing me, effortlessly subduing any possible protest I could have.

Even after all this time, he still kisses me with the same uninhibited passion as he did the first time. The distant time and unspoken words all melt away in the gentle caress. [5]

The sound from the television gradually fades away, and the stories of others drift beyond my consciousness.

Even without this bet, I would find it impossible to forget this moment.

After who knows how long has passed, Li Zeyan gently releases me, lowering his head to rest his forehead against mine.

I look into his eyes, so close and within reach, and feel a surge of emotion in my heart.

MC: Li Zeyan.

LZY: Hm?

MC: Will you–– [6]

Before I can say anything further, he promptly raises his hand to cover my mouth.

LZY: [HIS PANICKED TONE HHHH] Wait.

LZY: I’ve accepted the world’s most creative ring, but please don’t say anything more.

LZY: This is something that I should be the one to take care of.

I pause for a moment, then quickly understand what he meant, unable to suppress a laugh as I hold onto his hand.

LZY: Why are you laughing?

MC: Hahaha, although I really don’t want to spoil the atmosphere, but actually, I wanted to ask––

MC: Li Zeyan, will you wear this ring to work?~ ^^

───────────────

[Tidbits]

[5] Unnecessary, really, but still a refresher– it’s the callback to his first kiss aka “Dazzling Date.”

[6] Although obvious from Li Zeyan’s reaction, I still wanna clarify– he cut MC off when she had only gotten to “你愿不愿意—” (will you/ would you be willing to)-- and the rest of that sentence typically is “(will you) marry me” (你愿不愿意嫁给我吗), which is why LZY doesn’t even take any chances and goes, “nope not happening, I wanna do it” 😂❤️

───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

【Personal Ramblings】

Remainder of One’s Life Date: here!

─────────────────────────────────

#was saying last night how that last part reminded me the proposal scene from Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha 🤣😭#GOSH WHERE DO I FIND WHAT LI ZEYAN AND HIS HEROINE HAVE #I LOVE THIS STUPID SILLY MAN SO FREAKIN' MUCH YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND 😭😭#also i did write a mini essay. so not gonna burden the tags anymore lol #mlqc victor #mlqc li zeyan #mlqc #mr love victor #mr love queen's choice #恋与制作人 #李泽言 #love and producer #mlqc cn #mlqc spoilers #mlqc translations

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ghosts-and-blue-sweaters · 3 months

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Christians of tumblr: does anyone have any tips for getting into a Bible reading habit? :0 I’ve been dreadful at regularly reading my Bible these past few years, and whenever I’ve tried to start a habit, nothing sticks.

So if anyone has any tips or ideas, I’d love to hear them :)

#my post #christianity #christblr #oh gosh is that the right tag to use #I’ve never used that tag before #okay it looks like the Right tag yippee!#christian bible #I’d loooove to hear what you guys think #because I really do wanna get into a Bible reading habit #it’s just been very tricky trying to figure out what actually… works #for me #*sighs wistfully*

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doverstardoodles · 1 year

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everybody behave naturally

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erabu-san · 10 months

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Hmm I apologize again for the rant !

It is not the first time I am doing it. I might forgot to put "please don't tag it as ship" under my drawing of tighnari cyno. Please, do not !

I love them as best friend, I love them as brother/found family, I don't mind the queerplatonic relationship at all

But their romantic side make me pretty uncomfortable. No hate ! It is my own taste.

Shippers are always welcomed and I am so glad you like my content 💕 but all my art concerning them (unless I tag the ship) are purely platonic. I just ask for some respect of my taste and not reblog my art with the ship tag.

I don't want to block, because I am genuinely glad you enjoy my work and as a young artist, it means a lot for me. Thank you so much 🙇 !! But as a human, I can't deny how uneasy it makes me feel.

Thank you for understanding !

#rant #I blame nobody #i am clearly not used to block ): I should tho but I know those who tag ship are not mean at all </3 #it is fine if you don't know.#but i saw people reblogging my art with shiptag even if i said “do not”#my art is like my only safe place please respect it #this ship is so popular and I clearly stop to interact with the fandom because of that #i clearly ignore when I saw one in my timeline /dashboard becausz I can't do nothinf against it except masking the account #but I beg you. not. under. my. post.#not in my DM #why i feel obligated to justify myself 😭#but yeah !!! the ship is valid and full of greenflag !! wholesome !!#but I only enjoy them platonically !!! please respect 😭😭😭 I SWEAR I AM DESESPERATE WHY IT IS SO HARD FOR SOME TO RESPECT THAT OMG #gosh on twitter someone said me “ignore ??? what did you expect ??? it is the most popular ship”#I AM TRYING I AM LITERALLY NOT SEARCHING FOR FANART 😀#feeding myself with my own food #that's why I am so grateful for people who support me. thank you. 😭#and how could I ignore a comment under my post ??? interaction are so important for me I read everything #ANYWAY SORRY FOR RANTING !!! IT IS CLEARLY A /NOTMEAN POST !!!#next time I won't forgrt “do not tag it as ship”#but urgh if I do this I have to do in every post ???? 🤨#and what if I draw tighnari cyno kaveh but I don't mind ship with kaveh ??? 🤨🤨🤨 (plz still don't)#tHERE IS PLENTY OF CYN0N4RI ACCOUNT IF YOU WISH TO SEE MORE CONTENT OF THEM !! Please support them <<3 mine are platonic !#but clearly. imagine you are obsessive about two characters <<3 #but their popular ship is the one who make you the most uncomfy 😀#so you decided to just stop looking at fanart and not bothering anyone 👍👍#but it came under your post and your DM 😟#AAA SORRY I AM SALTY I SWEAR I AM NOT USED TO FEEL LIKE THIS ):<#anyway plz take care ilove you mwah 🥺🥺🥺🥺💕💕

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mothfables · 3 months

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Freckles and Scars: Outline

hnnnnn okay here it is before i lose my nerve @breannasfluff

quick things to note: lege + ravi are both asexual (because. why would i ever write them otherwise), and legend has a fear of intimacy that he’s been working to get over but still has days where it’s difficult. it’s easier for him to give affection than receive it

under the cut because. um yeah. also it’s long

-an intimate moment between Legend and Ravio where they take the time to show their appreciation + adoration for each other -they’re sitting on their bed in their shorts, nothing else -they’re just taking each other in, appreciating the time they have together -“If I could, I would kiss every freckle that paints your skin.” “And I would kiss every scar.” -similar to Growth Spurt, Legend begins kissing every inch of his partner’s skin that he can, starting at his face and working down, getting as many freckles as possible -Ravio giggles and laughs at the feeling at first, but gets more quiet the further Legend gets; when he gets to his hips Legend checks in to make sure he’s doing okay and if he wants to keep going -Ravio gives the okay but can only make little gasps as Legend moves on to his legs, completely flustered -Legend doesn’t go past the edges of his shorts, respecting the boundary neither of them have any interest in crossing -then he moves on to Ravio’s back, where it repeats, though Ravio remains quiet, only laughing when Legend reaches a particularly ticklish spot, appreciating the care and love of his partner -Legend is nearly done when he gives a gasp ‘I almost forgot the most important part!’ and pulls Ravio up to press dozens of kisses to his freckled ears, making him burst into laughter -then it’s Ravio’s turn -he has Legend lay on his stomach, as he knows it’ll be easier on his partner if he can hide his face, as well as the fact his rabbit instincts make it difficult to lay on his back without panicking -then he begins kissing every inch of scarring he can find, starting from his shoulders and going down his back to his legs -Legend can only lay there, hiding his face and trembling as he submits to the mortifying ordeal of being known and laid bare by the one person he trusts most in the world -when he’s finished with his back, Ravio scoops his partner up and holds him against his chest as he begins the same process on his front -he checks in and praises him with every step, proud of him for doing so well (not running, hiding, or lashing out like he used to when in similar situations) -Legend is so overwhelmed by the tenderness and care that he hides his face in Ravio’s shoulder, shivering and hiccuping -to reach his stomach and legs Ravio has to lay him down again, but he continues to check in and shower him in reassurance -when Ravio finishes kissing every scar he can find, he scoops Legend back up and they simply cuddle for a while, letting Legend come back to himself on his own time -he cries a little, but Ravio is endlessly patient and comforting and understanding, which only makes him cry more -Ravio tells him over and over that he’s proud of Legend for being able to make the decision to go through with it without panicking, and communicating his wants + needs even though it’s so difficult for him -eventually they get dressed and go downstairs to join the rest of the Chain; Legend dresses in long clothes that cover as much skin as possible, still slightly overwhelmed and sensitive to touch; he’s still shaking a little, clinging to Ravio’s hand as they move to cuddle on the couch -Legend is quiet, not talking much beyond simple answers and more often than not simply responding with small sounds that don’t take much energy -when the others ask, Ravio tells them they had a talk and that it got emotional; they leave it be after that

#mod speaks #lu legend #lu ravio #chapter notes #oh gosh um what do i even tag this #intimacy #kisses #cuddles #queerplatonic relationship #qpr legend x ravio #asexual ravio #asexual legend #asexual relationship #asexuality #nonsexual intimacy #raviolink #freckles and scars

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babacontainsmultitudes · 8 months

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As some of you already know, I am disheartened- though certainly not surprised- by the recent backlash against one Sparrow Oak Garcia for his recent transgression of *checks notes* having a mixed-to-negative opinion on zoos.

Part of me honestly feels a bit silly responding to any of this, but what are any of us here to do if not have opinions on fictional podcast characters. Anyways, I will get to the more important stuff, as obviously (if you've seen any of the criticisms I'm talking about) this ties back to Hero at the end of the day, but seeing as the first wave of hate I saw after the episode was largely to the effect of: "what the fuck does Sparrow have against zoos?", I would like to start by addressing that point briefly (and only briefly, as it's really not the sort of topic I care to discuss online), by saying that zoos and animal captivity more generally have a long history of being contested and criticized by animal rights activists, and that instances of animal abuse and neglect within zoos and other animal-based theme parks are anything but obscure. Furthermore, it feels worth noting that as of present less than 10% of zoos in the US are AZA-accredited. I say absolutely none of this with the intention of making any definitive statements on the nature of zoos, nor to judge people who do enjoy zoos, nor even to provide my own feelings on the matter. Rather, I offer this information only to explain that someone like Sparrow taking issue with something like zoos really isn't strange at all? And whether you agree with such a stance or not, it undoubtedly comes from a place of empathy. Moreover, I don't think we can honestly divorce Sparrow's take and compulsion to voice it from the metacontext that Sparrow is a character being played by Anthony Burch, you know, a vegan, who probably has his own views on the matter that may or may not differ from yours and mine.

Okay, on to more important matters. At the forefront of things I suppose is the assertion that Sparrow's behavior regarding Normal and the zoo and all that is hypocritical and perhaps even nonsensical in light of what Hero was going through at the time with her training. "He wouldn't take Normal to the zoo but he forced Hero to kill a deer with her bare hands?" Certainly the sort of statement that will elicit a strong emotive reaction from the fandom, but one that ultimately relies on a pretty major assumption, namely, that Sparrow acted as the primary organizer and perpetrator of Hero's training, one who supposedly felt no internal conflict towards the situation whatsoever, rather than instead serving as an enabler of it, who ultimately intervened but only after far too much damage was already done. Neither is a great thing to be, but there is absolutely a difference between both of these roles, and I think that Lark and Sparrow's respective behaviors over the course of the season point almost unanimously towards Sparrow being the latter and Lark the former.

(The above being a non-exhaustive list, of course)

The funny part about the whole zoo thing is that it only further corroborates the notion that Sparrow is someone who is sensitive to the suffering of others, and by extension only serves as more evidence that he most likely was not the one actively making Hero undergo the worst of what she had to do. Does this make him guiltless in the matter? Absolutely not, but it does point to Sparrow having issues that are fundamentally different from Lark's, and means that the instance with the zoo is not only consistent with Sparrow's characterization, but frankly not actually all that hypocritical if you look at it for more than a second. That is, there is a very important but simple difference between the situation with Normal and the zoo and that of Hero and the deer that accounts for the variances in Sparrow's behavior between both cases: Lark. Sparrow isn't okay with either situation, based on all the evidence we have so far of who he is as a person there is absolutely no reason to think that Hero's training is not something that deeply upset him- I mean for fuck's sake everything about how Sparrow raised Normal down to his name stems from not wanting his kids to have to live that kind of life. So why doesn't he put a stop to things sooner? Why does he let any of Hero's training happen at all? Again, very simply, because Sparrow cannot say no to his brother. I mean, he does eventually, given Hero's current status, and that change is an important and still ongoing facet of Sparrow's growth and his arc, but at the start of things it is something he struggles with even more than he does now, to his own suffering and detriment and of course even more so to Hero's. But did Sparrow himself "force Hero to kill a deer with her bare hands"? Almost certainly not, and I have to admit that I find it quite frustrating how quickly Lark vanishes from the collective conscious of the fandom when the time comes to assign accountability for matters concerning Hero. But then, who is Sparrow if not someone who takes the fall for his brother, apparently even in the fandom-space.

[Not that there isn't any nuance to Lark's utilitarianism, either. In general I feel as though discussion of the twins' biggest mistakes too often omits the acknowledgement of the fact that all of it has been to stop an eldritch horror responsible for the death and torture of millions of people, but anyways. Not what this post is about.]

I think that's mostly it lol. Got some thoughts on the family's policy on pets (and how it relates to the Hero thing but also to Beanie actually), as well as some remarks on Rebecca and how we really shouldn't be leaving her out of this discussion (I say, leaving her out of this discussion) but eeehhhhhhh y'all I'm especially low energy as of late eheh and mostly just wanted to speak my peace on a couple major things so let's cut it here for now I think :b

#dndads #meant to post this a bit sooner but sleep and anxiety have been very bad lately :( -not related to this stuff lol #dungeons and daddies #sparrow oak #sparrow oak garcia #also posting this at an awful time as I am one to do but eh what can you do #long post #dndads s2 ep 41 #baba babbles #<- remember when I said I would start using that talking tag then didn't????#hero oak #hero oak swallows garcia #normal oak #normal oak swallows garcia #names lmao gosh #lark oak #lark oak garcia #ask to tag #<- just in case given certain topics

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