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junicai · 3 years

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Relationship with NCT 127

➣ Taeil ☾ taria

taeil is the Sole Protector of aria’s sanity

taeil loves his maknaes so much, but he literally looks at her like she put the stars in the sky

the Proud Dad smile :’)

when aria first debuted, czennies thought that she was the same age as jungwoo - because she acted older than her age - but with taeil she lets her inner kid come out

highkey dependent on his approval for things in relation to singing

“was, was that ok?” “perfect, ari.” “ (O_O;) - (◕‿◕)♡”

she will fight mark and donghyuck for his attention, and she will win

for a while, the two had shared a dorm room before they were rearranged, and taeil let her slip into his bed when she was feeling homesick

the offer is still open, but aria takes him up on it less and less

taeil is NOT sad about that. absolutely not.

he’s vehemently against any and all diets she tries - saying that if she gets any smaller he’s going to be able to pick her up with one hand

que him dragging her out for ice-cream after a promotion, paying no mind to her protests

aria helps taeil with translating a lot of things into english during lives and interviews - so much to the point where he’s picked up a bit of an irish accent and the others never fail to clown him for it

taeil still has the small braided bracelet that aria gave to the members on their first anniversary of nct (he keeps it in the drawer beside his bed)

aria is his self-professed happy virus. he told czennies in a vlive once that her smile makes him feel really happy and he wants to protect it to the best of his ability

aria always fixes his micpack before they go onstage if its crooked, because she comes out after him in the lineup

they have monthly movie nights and they alternate who chooses the movie / show (taeil normally goes for mystery or drama themed ones, while aria enjoys making them both sob miserably)

FAN FAVOURITE MOMENT.

aria and taeil singing “I See the Light” from tangled for the NCT Music channel, and the tears that were shed by both moonis and realtai alike. sm really popped off with the staging and the lighting of the whole video - between the smiles that were on both of the singers faces and the whole ambiance created, its a cinematic masterpiece

no one was surprised when it hit 2 million views in a day, and a lot of solo stans were born from that video

➣ Johnny ☾ johria

indisputable siblings

there is not a single czennie who ships these two romantically, and that’s because they’re just too wholesome

johnny is one of the few members that aria calls “oppa”, mainly because of the age gap and sm wanted her to appear respectful, but also because he thinks she looks so cute

very chill, excellent vibes

their vlives are either chaotic messes or the closest thing to therapy since ice cubes

the blanket on aria’s bed? that was a gift from johnny - she had been complaining to mark about how cold she always was anemia tings

czennies are begging for sm to allow aria to open up a solo instagram account, becuse they see the amount of pictures johnny takes of her

in the park? he’s making her pose in front of the flowers. backstage before a show? the lighting, c’mon.

big big bear hugs - the height difference make nctzens want to die

185cm vs 158cm? p l e a s e she’s so tiny in comparison (/ =ω=)/

when she gives him backhugs it looks like a little kitten trying to wrestle with the family dog

play fighting about vernacular:

“ITS CALLED A SIDEWALK” “S I D E W A L K, ITS A FOOTPATH YOU BUFFOON”

very vocal about her wellbeing, and has asked fans before to remind her to take better care of herself and get to sleep sooner

aria, starting a vlive at 3am: hi hi~

the comments: NO GO TO BED

johnny helped her a lot when it came to the style change in choreography, as aria was used to soft, flowing movements and not the powerful, sleek style that most nct dances have

consistently forgets the fact that she is not the fourteen year old he first met, and is, in fact, an adult now. “you’re a child” “im 18″ “...no”

is the person to get angry on her behalf when interviewers belittle or ignore her

FAN FAVOURITE MOMENT.

during a fansign, a fan asked aria who did she think was the most comforting when she was stressed (besides mark and donghyuck) and aria said johnny. “he’s so, constant? like nothing seems to knock him or throw him off, and that’s really comforting when i feel unsteady.”

johnny is now known as aria’s weighted blanket.

that is all.

➣ Taeyong ☾ ariyong

taeyong took one look at aria the first time she showed up for group practice and immediately adopted her (not literally, but he would if he could)

eomma meets highly protective older brother meets life coach type beat?

so so soft for her its sickening

says he doesn’t have favourites and will then spend an hour cooking for aria because she’s been in the studio for the whole day and he knows she hasn’t eaten yet

when aria was given a duet to do for the sm stages, she had to pick another member to do it with and her first choice was taeyong

she always has said that taeyong is one of the pillars keeping her upright and sane - without him she wasn’t sure if she would have been able to complete her training

because of all the schedules they share together, if aria isn’t rooming with mark then she’s definitely rooming with taeyong

whenever she does his makeup (more often than you’d think) she point blank refuses to cover his scar, even when he asks her to

“please? i don’t like it.” *gasp* “how dare you.”

sleepy aria! snuggling into taeyong’s shoulder when a schedule ran late!

he gets uncomfy when the stylists put her in too revealing clothes, and has spoken to them on numerous occasions about dressing her in age-appropriate attire, no matter how “sexy” the concept might be

he keeps little bags of sugar-dusted strawberry sweets in his bag incase she forgets to eat and feels faint after the last time (they used to be blueberry flavoured, but he heard donghyuck throwing out any and all “blueberry-contaminated” food one evening)

taeyong doesn’t tolerate hate towards aria, especially in person, so he always makes sure to sit down the line from her so that he can see when people skip intentionally her

FAN FAVOURITE MOMENT.

taeyong had just been awarded the solo bedroom on the last night of the Mtopia series, and was staring off into the corner looking rather uncomfortable. aria, who was meant to be rooming with baekhyun looked over and saw his mouth curled downwards slightly.

“baekhyun-oppa, is it ok if i room with taeyongie-oppa tonight? i ran out of my tablets, and he has some in his bag..”

baekhyun looked down at her with a small smile and agreed, while on the video edited captions appeared with the words, “a cute maknae, asking to room with a younger member...”

➣ Yuta ☾ nakamiya

the president of realtai

this man is absolutely, completely and irrevocably whipped for aria and she is not afraid to use that to her advantage

she beat him at arm wrestling because she pouted at him - she’s too powerful

aria.exe stopped responding when yuta started to playfully flirt with her the first few times

*winks* “hu-wha-”

one of the most outwardly protective members of her, because he feels a sense of responsibility for the younger girl

he was one of the trainees she first befriended, aria’s korean not being good enough to hold a decent conversation, and yuta happy that there was another japanese trainee

9 times out of 10, when the members are making their way through crowded areas like airports yuta is always behind or directly beside aria

during a fansign one of the fans asked why he did that, and he said that he needed to keep her in his line of sight or else he’d get anxious that she’s so small that she could get swallowed in the crowds

yes aria hit him for the short comment

yuta, 50% of the time: you’re not allowed date until you’re 35

yuta, the other 50% of the time: bro where’s your boyfriend

he complains that she isn’t as sweet as she was when she first joined, and that hyuck must have corrupted her (╬ Ò﹏Ó)

he let’s her braid his hair when its longer, them both sitting on a bed with yuta in front and aria kneeling behind him so she can reach

he was the first person to take her home for the holidays, because ireland was too far to go back for a week over christmas

“what do you mean you’ve never been to japan???”

bitching about the other members in japanese? more likely than you’d think

when aria turned legal in korea, yuta took her out drinking and made sure to post pictures of her with her flushed cheeks on his instagram story with the caption “aish, i told you to pace yourself....” “happy birthday riri”

FAN FAVOURITE MOMENT.

you know that one clip of the sasaeng getting absolutely trashed by nct’s bodyguard and taeyong jumping 7 feet into the air?

well taeyong wasn’t the only one startled; standing beside yuta, aria was closest to the wall of fans when the girl ran forward towards the members. aria jumped in fright, while yuta barely made a face (#unbothered). he simply wrapped an arm over her shoulders and pulled her around to the other side, tucking her underneath his arm.

tsundere!yuta

➣ Doyoung ☾ dori

*ahem* WHIPPED *ahem*

doyoung adores aria so much

was he unsure about a girl being added to a group of boys? yes but it was moreso concern about how he was going to make sure she wasn’t accidentally trampled

they bonded over a night in the recording studio when he found her sitting on the floor with music sheets scattered around her

a whole mentor when it comes to singing

aria always turns to him after singing - especially when it wasn’t planned, like at a fansign - to see if she did a good job

doyoung has yet to tell her that she hasn’t but sue her, she appreciates the validation

the original mother and Will Not Let Taeyong Forget It

doyoung, dragging aria out of the studio: now listen here young lady-

kitten and bunny friends RISE

no seriously sm released merch of a kitten and bunny plushie and it sold out in a day

when aria had the accident that led to her two month hiatus, doyoung was the one who rode in the ambulance with her after refusing to let go of her hand

“i’m sorry sir, only family are allowed in at the moment-” “we are her family” *nurse looks around the room at the 14 other boys sitting anxiously*

he is a weak, weak man he will crumple on any decision if she smiles and slash or whines at him even slightly

carries band-aids and support strapping in his practice bag because he knows that she gets really bad blisters when she hasn’t practiced while wearing her heels in a while, and he makes her wrap her ankles for the first few sessions incase she falls

FAN FAVOURITE MOMENTS.

NCT 127 Take a Friendship Test (Glamour - 2020)

“ahh, my first impression?” *laughs* “actually, we first met in a recording studio, at like. 3 o’clock in the morning? he stuck his head in the doorway and i was so tired that i thought i had died and an angel had come to save me...” (*μ_μ)

➣ Jaehyun ☾ jaria

you know how cheetahs in the zoo get emotionally support puppies?

this is the same type of vibe

very snuggly together? but only in specific scenarios, like when jaehyun is too tired to move after a movie night, he’ll just kinda engulf aria in a hug and make her sleep on the couch with him

any back hug she gives him turns into a piggy back, its non-negotiable

likes to randomly compliment her to see how red he can make her face go

did she have a crush on him when she first moved to korea? yes, but who didn’t

that faded really quickly though once she started into the group officially - now they are more like siblings

they don’t interact that much on camera? rip to the jaria shippers

but that doesn’t mean they aren’t close with each other its just that a lot of their interactions happen off-screen

naturally, jaehyun began to think of her as a younger sister over the years they performed together

jaehyun will end anybody who lays a hand on aria

a little bap bap if you will

he asked her to take him ice-skating one day, and the entire time was spent with aria laughing her ass off as he ate the ice nearly fourteen times before getting the hang of it

he takes her out for food when he notices that she’s been put back on a strict diet plan (aria thinks she’s good at hiding those pieces of paper, but she forgets that when she puts it on top of things, that other people are a lot taller than her and have a higher vantage point)

the prince and princess of nct? check

head pats

he likes to pat her head and she’ll swat it away immediately until she gets tired and just lets him do his thing

FAN FAVOURITE MOMENT.

jaehyun was wearing a flower crown placed carefully on his head as he bent down slightly to run his hands through the damp grass. a soft shutter sound went off, before he heard a hum coming from behind him. “jaehyun-ssi, could you take off the flowers? we can’t see your face clearly because of the shadow.”

jaehyun glanced backwards at aria’s retreating figure, being chased by donghyuck with hands still stained green from the grass she had shifted through to find the fallen flowers. she stopped and waved at him before resuming her run.

“i’d rather not, if that’s alright. i think it fits quite well with the theme.”

➣ Jungwoo ☾ ariwoo

oh my god someone please stop these two

once jungwoo taught aria about the power that aegyo holds for persuasion tactics against the older members of 127, they were unstoppable

you should be afraid of them

100% have plotted someone’s murder before (and have succeeded, czennies always wondered where that last manager went after The Incident)

aggressively cute together - to the point where your teeth will rot

jungwoo will intentionally flirt with aria just to fluster her because its “so easy to do”

not very physically affectionate, but jungwoo has no hesitation calling out “uri fighting haeyadwae!” to her when she looks like she needs a little encouragement

jungwoo is the reason she wants to do a bachelors degree after finishing high school

he used to help her with her maths assignments after school when she was struggling with managing her time

they’re called the “aegyo duo” of the group, and there has yet to be an outright winner of the competitions to find the cutest member (its aria. jungwoo said it himself, its aria but we been knew)

they have an odd dynamic of looking like best friends the first second, evil masterminds the next and then siblings who want to murder each other but they make it work

will and has flopped down on her while she was laying on the practice floor and then whined when she tried to get up

he spilled the tea that aria gets super emotional and affectionate when she’s drunk

cutest shit ever that made ariwoo shippers lose their absolute minds was the clip that got released in the behind the scenes filming of Kick It, where jungwoo was half asleep in the corner and aria just pops up out of nowhere to shove a folded jacket under his head and made sure to prop it in a way that he wouldn’t get a sore neck when he woke up

jungwoo is the reason she knows korean curse words (dont tell doyoung)

FAN FAVOURITE MOMENT.

aria wobbled in her heels slightly as she stepped out of the van, trying to hold a blanket up to protect her legs while she slid off the seat onto the ground. jungwoo extended an arm around her waist, gripping the blanket in his other hand and carefully holding her to make sure she didn’t trip on the cobbled stone.

➣ Mark ☾ mari

1/2 of the best friend crew

honestly at the beginning, mark and aria weren’t very close, having only really seen each other in passing or with johnny

but after being dropped into training together the two quickly became fast friends, and now they’re borderline inseparable

you thought you knew pain? watch aria’s reaction to mark’s graduation from dream :)

mark’s the reason why aria felt confident enough to pitch some of her lyric ideas to the team, after staying up until 4am to help her make some edits so she was as confident as possible

kinda just, rests his head on her shoulder? and wraps his arms around her waist when he’s tired

mari being confused in foreigner: ???

aria said once in a vlive that she finds mark really comforting to be around - when she feels stressed or worried about something she’ll go to mark’s room and just sit on his bed for a while

aria is so close with his parents - “ahh, how’s my favourite child” “i’m doing great mom.” “no not you, how’s aria?” “wh-hu-MOM?”

you’d swear sometimes mark is younger than her, considering the pout he puts on and how much he whines when they’re not on the same team together for promotions

mark big protecc boi but also little small cuddly boi

they’re so soft for each other ( ╥ω╥ )

in one of the fancams for mark’s solo stage during superm, someone zoomed into aria singing along with him in the wings and dancing to herself with the Proudest Smile(tm)

he’s! so! proud! of! her! constantly! she could be walking and he’d be like “omg get it”

when aria refuses to get up and make herself food (this happens way too often, she just gets into the groove of her work and doesn’t want to move) mark gets her to by threatening to do it himself

consistently caught by czennies just standing behind her and holding her hand in crowded areas - airports, waiting rooms, etc.

FAN FAVOURITE MOMENT.

mark and aria were standing off to one side as the mc explained the rules of the game they were about to be playing. mark looked totally confused, and elbowed aria in her side before looking down and mouthing “what?” to her. aria opened her mouth, before closing it and looking down at the ground, muttering to herself, “결합... 結合..... le chéile.... le... le.. oh oh - combined! we have to put them together, markie.”

and thus, a new confusion meme was born

➣ Haechan ☾ arichan

the other half of the best friend crew

absolute heathens to be around when they are together

donghyuck is the person aria is closest to, and someone she’d call her best friend (only when she was sure he wouldn’t hear her)

she calls him “the demon child i can’t get rid of” but will, and has definitely pouted when he ignored her for too long

generally aria is a pretty soft spoken person, but not with hyuck around - he brings out all her chaos energy (please pray for the patience of dotae)

the pair have a little tradition of kissing the back of each others’ hands before going on stage for good luck. they can’t even remember how it started, but now its an unnegotiable pre-show ritual

he’s so clingy with her absolutely everywhere its painfully adorable (ಥ﹏ಥ)

interviews? hyuck has a hand on her knee, or if she’s wearing a skirt he’s tucked his hand in between their chairs so she can hold it discreetly. in the dorms? full body tackle onto the couch, where he proceeds to lay on top of her completely.

because of hyuck’s nickname being the sun, and aria always being around him, czennies gave her the nickname “moon” to go with him

fans thought that aria was older than hyuck for a good year and a half before she released her birthday on a vlive, because she’s normally the one tasked with reigning his chaotic energy in during promotions (that is, if she hasn’t already joined him)

but off-camera, aria is absolutely hyuck’s baby there is no disputing that. aria’s sad?he’s there with ice-cream and a blanket and a baseball bat.

the winnie the pooh character that is on aria’s bed was a gift from hyuck for her 17th birthday, after she made him watch seven episodes of the show on netflix with her one night

yes he complained, but he slapped her hand away when she went to change it to something else

a twitter thread of a czennie comparing their horoscopes together went viral when people realized that it was quite plausible that the pair were each others (platonic) soulmates

after an incident involving blueberries, donghyuck took it upon himself to check the ingredients of every. single. food item in their dorm to make sure it was ok for her to eat

hyuck clowns her for her irish accent, and aria curses him out in japanese

tldr: they cute or whatever

FAN FAVOURITE MOMENT.

donghyuck was doing a vlive in his bedroom, sitting and talking to czennies when aria opened the door to his room quietly. she didn’t say anything, just waved slightly with almost closed eyes before she crawled underneath his covers and tucked her plushie underneath her chin. hyuck didn’t even blink at it - so it must have been a regular occurrence.

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yuta1forme · 3 years

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like magnets | ten

summary: in which you and ten are up and coming choreographers who are forever at each other’s throats. but maybe fighting is just an excuse to get close.

pairing: ten x reader

genre: angsty fluff

warnings: some swearing, alcohol mention, loads of bickering

length: 4.3k

tag list: @sly-merlin @animegirl366 @yonoohcore

He’s confident to the point of arrogance. He knows exactly how to get under your skin. When the pair of you start fighting, all the other dancers make their way out of the studio, not wanting to get involved in another explosive Y/N-Ten showdown. He counters your every suggestion. He always has more critique for your performances than praise.

And yet, he is the best dance partner you could ever ask for. He matches your poise with his passion. In dance, you both have found a middle ground.

When Ten first joined the studio you really wanted to like him. He was a young, up and coming dancer from Thailand. What you had not seen coming was that besides being the same age, you and Ten had precious little in common. The day you first met Ten, you had decided in less than ten seconds that you two would never, to put this lightly, become the “best of friends”.

You had entered the break room of the studio that day, late and soaking wet because of the heavy downpour that had begun the night before. Hungry and disgruntled, all you had wanted to do was to grab a steaming cup of green tea and the last of your favorite jelly doughnuts. Only the thought of those jelly doughnuts had you hanging on during your hour and forty-five-minute long journey to work this morning. They were your emotional support food, your one and only indulgence. After almost three years at the studio, all the other dancers knew not to touch your jelly doughnuts. All except for the bucket-hat wearing Thai newbie who clearly hadn’t gotten the memo.

“Those were my doughnuts”, you had barely managed to huff out, focusing your mind on not raising your voice or worse, bursting into tears.

Now, if he had just apologized for eating them without asking you first, you both might not have started off on the wrong foot. No, the fucker just shrugged and said, “Didn’t see your name on them”. No shame in his eyes, not an ounce of regret in his voice. The powdered sugar from your doughnuts still around his mouth and dusted over his all-black ensemble. That fucker.

“So people just waltz into a room and eat someone else’s snacks where you’re from?”, you asked, your pitch becoming shriller with annoyance.

“No of course not. Because where I’m from, people don’t leave their snacks where everyone can see them, without putting their name on it first”, he replied, cool as a cucumber.

Taeyong had entered the break room at this point. He took one look at the powdered sugar on Ten’s face and the eyes-gonna-pop-out expression on yours and connected the dots. As one of the senior choreographers in the studio, Taeyong had developed a sixth sense for sniffing out conflicts before they broke out.

“Y/N! I see you’ve already met Ten! He’s the new dancer from Thailand. Ten this is Y/N”, Taeyong had prompted by way of introductions, grabbing a bottle of water from the fridge and inching closer to the door he had entered from.

“Oh, you’re Y/N. The one who choreographed the last Pink Cashmere comeback, right?”, Ten had asked, suddenly sitting up straight. Seeing that your conversation was turning civil, Taeyong had left the room just as quietly as he had entered it.

“Yes, that would be me”, you had responded. That was your first time working with an idol group and was a milestone in your career. You had spent weeks running on pure adrenaline and Americanos (and the occasional jelly doughnut), spending day and night listening to the new comeback track, reviewing concept photos and looking up old performances to get their style down just right. When you watched the girls perform the choreography for the first time, you were so immensely proud of yourself, you hadn’t stopped beaming for days.

“I should’ve known it was you, it had your signature footwork style all over it”, Ten had said, nodding his head slightly. You had felt flattered at that, surprised that anyone had even picked up that you had a certain trademark in your choreography.

“But, I thought it was too showy if you know what I mean”, Ten had continued, crossing his arms and leaning back in his chair, a slight frown on his face.

You were almost embarrassed at how much his words affected you. While you were used to internet trolls taking jabs at your work, it was something entirely different to hear full-blown criticism from your peers. As the youngest choreographer in the studio, you rarely got challenged when it came to choreography, with most of your colleagues wholeheartedly encouraging you to spread your wings and grow no matter the outcome. It probably was not intentional on their part but it had become a fear of yours - what if nobody would outwardly challenge your decisions because they thought you were too weak to handle the truth?

Still, you felt a need to defend your creative decision. You needed to stand up for yourself. “The girls are great dancers and I thought a more challenging choreography would push them out of their comfort zone. Sooji and Maya were actually part of a hip-hop dance crew pre-debut. They were itching to try out a new concept”.

“But why not use more formations in the dance? It’s an eight-member group. You could’ve used that to your advantage”, Ten had countered. He made a good point. But you didn’t want to concede to him. Who did this man think he was? Walking in here and questioning your vision as a choreographer?, you though to yourself.

“Most of the other girl groups that came back around that time had similar songs but only Pink Cashmere had a distinct choreography. I wanted to make their choreography memorable”, you had said.

Ten had remained quiet for a while. “I didn’t think of it that way”, he had replied, a thoughtful look on his face. “In that case, I think you succeeded at whatever you set out to do with that choreography. It was definitely memorable, Y/N.”

He turned his gaze up towards your face and flashed you a sweet smile. He looked like a whole different person, almost innocently brushing powdered sugar off his cheeks like a mischievous cat who had just been caught doing something he shouldn’t have done.

Your whole first interaction with Ten had confused you. First he walked in acting like he owned the place, critiquing your choreography as if he was a veteran dancer. But then he had just as easily praised your abilities. But at the back of your mind you had this nagging feeling that whatever Ten had said to you was not in an effort to undermine you, unlike some of the backhanded compliments delivered by your peers. He had criticized you because he thought you could take it, because he thought of you as an equal. And you kind of enjoyed that.

Arguing with Ten became a part of your everyday routine thereafter. So did labelling your snacks with your names and leaving passive-aggressive messages on post-it notes.

At nineteen, you gave up a full-ride scholarship to a prestigious law school in your country and moved to Seoul with a single suitcase and your old school backpack in hand. Your family had threatened to cut off contact with you if you left the country, but you left anyway; Your passion for dance was stronger than your fear of losing them. Dance was your first love. You lived and breathed it. Like hell were you giving up on your first love that easy.

You worked odd jobs during the day and filmed original choreographies for your YouTube channel during the night. After struggling for over a year, your hope slowly dwindling, you got a notification that changed your life. Kim Jongin, one of South Korea’s ballet prodigies had shared one of your videos on Twitter. Your subscriber count had quadrupled overnight, with hundreds of thousands of commenters dubbing you a “prodigy”. Fate brought you to Jongin, who then introduced you to Taeyong, who brought you to SM studios.

It was a dream come true - for years you had only struggled, floating in dark and murky water, swimming forward towards a hazy future. Now, you had thousands of fans, dozens of supportive friends, and a solid foundation from where you could dream. Your friend Hendery liked to joke that you would need more than twenty-four hours a day if you wanted to do everything in your planner. And truth be told, he was right. You had given up a lot to pursue your dreams. Given up on your family, most of your friends, your home country. You wanted to make sure it was all worthwhile. So you wanted to spend every day making the most of the opportunities that you now had. You went to bed each night with a head full of ideas and woke up every morning with the fire to bring them to life.

Of course, dedicating your life to your craft came at a cost. The rest of the world had not stopped moving just because you decided to make dance your life. This dawned on you one rosy Valentine’s Day evening, when you, date-less for the fifth year running, quite naively decided to scroll through Instagram. Amongst the sea of pink, flowers and picture-perfect happy couples were two faces that made your stomach instantly drop - your ex and a stunning woman posing for the camera with their fingers intertwined. On her ring finger, a diamond the size of a blueberry.

You remember the day you broke things off with your ex like it was yesterday. You were at the airport, waiting to get on your flight to Seoul, positively buzzing with nerves. You had waited until you were seated on the plane to send your ex a rather heartless text message saying you were breaking up with him to find yourself and that it was best if he forgot you. Very dramatic, even for you. But you were nineteen and had just watched ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’. In return he had left you an equally dramatic voicemail, pleading with you to not end the relationship and proclaiming that he would never stop loving you. You had all but laughed at his message then.

You weren’t laughing anymore though. He was happily engaged, while you were lonely, lying in bed on Valentine’s day in a pizza grease-stained sweatshirt. You had spent the last few years working relentlessly which had given you a career that you could be proud of, friends you could rely on. But besides the occasional fling here and there, you didn’t have much in terms of a romantic life. You guessed you deserved this, that karma had finally caught up to you. Didn’t stop you from feeling like shit though.

So you did what you always did when you felt particularly shitty. You went down to the studio, turned the music on full blast and dove right into a new choreography. You were freestyling, too lost in the moment to hear the door creak open.

“I gotta hand it to you, Y/N, that was pretty impressive!”, a male voice exclaimed. You had spun around expecting to see Sicheng or Hendery at the door. Instead, you were met with a tired but rather amused looking Ten.

He was dressed in a white silk shirt and a pair of black slacks. You noticed the roses in his hands, slightly wilted but still beautiful nonetheless. He was clearly dressed up for a date. He looked striking as always but you didn’t linger too long on that, thinking that it was your romance deprived mind projecting thoughts onto the first attractive male it saw.

“What are you doing here? It’s Valentine’s day, don’t you have a crowd of screaming fans to attend to?”, you asked sarcastically.

“One date. And they stood me up, actually”, he replied with a bitter smile. He must have been quite upset if he didn’t have a snarky response for you.

You were truly taken aback. Ten? Getting stood up by someone? Ten, who could charm the socks off of anyone he set his eyes on, getting stood up on Valentine’s day?

“But how?”, you blurted out, instantly regretting it when you saw the quizzical look on Ten’s face. Yet you foolishly continued mumbling, or rather digging yourself deeper into a hole.

“I mean, you’re just...so...you”, you said vaguely gesturing at his whole form. From his boyish good looks to his ability to sweet-talk, Ten’s charms were undeniable. Ever since he joined the studio, the number of signups for the afternoon classes had doubled. Dozens of people would come to the studio every day, just to catch a glimpse of him. And he indulged them all too, flashing them his signature grin or paying them a cheeky compliment. If only you weren’t all too familiar with the way he could run his mouth during an argument, you too might have fallen for his charms.

“Sorry to disappoint you, Y/N, but I’m not quite the Casanova you expected me to be. But I will take that as a compliment”, he said with a wink that had you resisting the urge to roll your eyes.

“Still doesn’t explain what you’re doing here though”, you mumbled out.

“I like to choreograph at night. I think I’m my most creative after midnight. Besides I just got my heart broken and I should channel that emotional energy somewhere right?”, Ten said feigning nonchalance. You could tell he was genuinely upset from how his night had played out and couldn’t help but sympathize with him.

“Well, I’m here for reasons along similar lines. You could join me? Help me choreograph this new freestyle piece I’m working on?”, you had asked.

Ten cocked his eyebrow at you, clearly not expecting you to extend an olive branch to him in this manner given how you were still being snarky with him five minutes ago. But he accepted your offer nonetheless.

You both entered your element pretty quickly, letting the music move your body freely. You worked out a simple choreography, cheering for each other when you came up with a particularly impressive move. You were having fun, even though you wouldn’t admit it to yourself. At least you hadn’t thought of your ex in the last couple of hours, mind completely occupied with the thought that you and Ten surprisingly made good dance partners. Perhaps the friction between the two of you translated to great chemistry when you were dancing. Taeyong would be pleased to know that.

“I’m beat”, you exclaimed, slumping down on the floor after the final round of practice. Ten sat down next to you, resting his back against the mirrored wall. The pair of you sat wordlessly for a few minutes, letting your heartbeats slow back down. You lay flat on the floor, too physically exhausted to move. As soon as you closed your eyes, your traitorous mind brought back the images of your ex’s engagement and you groaned loudly.

“Long day?”, Ten asked, giving you a slightly concerned look. You just chuckled bitterly in response.

“Want to talk about it?”, Ten pried in an almost uncharacteristically gentle voice. You wondered if he had ever spoken to you in that tone before.

“I don’t know if we’re close enough to have little heart-to-hearts yet Ten”, you replied. There was an invisible wall between you and Ten that you were just not ready to tear down. The thought of sharing embarrassing details about your love life with someone you could consider a frenemy at best, too jarring. You didn’t miss the way Ten’s shoulders slightly slumped at that. You hadn’t meant to sound harsh, yet you felt somewhat guilty.

“But…maybe we are close enough to have a drink together?”, you asked, suddenly emboldened by a rush of confidence that confused even you. You took his cheeky smile as a yes.

You spent the rest of the night drunk and giggling with Ten. The thoughts of your ex were long forgotten. Perhaps you could learn to do more than merely tolerating Ten’s presence. Perhaps you could learn to enjoy his presence too.

Soon it became a ritual - if you and Ten were the last ones left in the studio, you would grab some beers and head to the roof. It was such strange departure from your usual selves that you often wondered why it was so easy for you to enjoy his company sitting under the stars like this when you would be at each other’s throats the rest of the time.

Over time your conversations had gone from discussions about art, to plans of travelling the world, what you were currently binge-watching on Netflix, and everything in between. Still, there were some topics that you both steered clear of - talk of family and love lives was seemingly off the table.

Until one night after a couple of drinks, when Ten pulled his phone out to show you a picture of two women, one older and one younger. The striking resemblance between the faces in the photo and Ten confirmed that they were indeed his mother and sister. His sister was clad in a dark blue graduation gown and his mother was holding a beautiful bouquet of light pink roses.

“She graduated last week, my baby sister”, Ten said practically glowing. The proud look on his face was a testament to the close relationship he had with his sibling.

“You must miss her a lot”, you said, voice barely a whisper.

“All the time. My family are my biggest supporters. I don’t think I would have had the courage to move out here on my own if it weren't for their encouragement”, Ten answered.

You hadn’t spoken to your family ever since you came to Seoul. In the past, the longing left a pressure in your chest that sometimes made it feel like your throat would close, choking you on your guilt. Now, it just left you numb.

“What about you?”, Ten asked, cautiously prying into your personal life.

“What about me?”, you countered, diverting your gaze away from the man sitting next to you, instantly wary of how much you wanted to share about your past.

“What about your family? Your old home?”, Ten asked.

It couldn’t hurt sharing with Ten, right? It’s not like what he thought of you really mattered to you. Right?

“I actually don’t keep in touch with my family any more. They weren’t too keen on me becoming a dancer. It’s been, what, three? Three and a half years since I last saw them. When I first left home for Seoul”, you said, trying your hardest to suppress any trace of emotion in your voice. You kept your gaze focused on the city skyline ahead of you, too afraid to turn and see the expression on Ten’s face. You wondered what he thought of you, whether he thought you were stubborn. Worse yet, whether he pitied you.

After a few moments, Ten broke the silence. “I guess sometimes, not having a family is better than having one that doesn’t love you for who you are. Don’t get me wrong, I can’t possibly know how you must have felt, all these years. But I want you to know that the people who love you now, love you without any agenda. Not because they are related to you by blood, not because they are obligated to love you. But because they just love you”, Ten said, eyes shining with an emotion you didn’t know how to react to.

“And they could be your family too”, he finished in a voice that was so warm, so gentle, you wondered if this really was the Ten who stole your jelly doughnuts when you first met.

You were speechless, processing his words for what felt like hours but was probably just a few seconds. Then you did the only thing your impulsive mind could think to do - you leaned in and kissed him on the cheek. In response, he wrapped you up in his embrace. You stayed still, focusing on the faint scent of his cologne on the sleeves of his hoodie. You breathed out a thank you, soft as a whisper. Whether or not Ten heard you, he moved his left arm slightly, gently stroking your hair and continued to chatter on about some entirely different topic.

You knew that once the sun came back up and both of you returned to your lives inside the studio, this little moment would not be brought up in front of anyone else. That moment was just for the two of you to share and bury deep within your hearts.

You knew you were in too deep one day when Ten gave you a friendly smile in passing while making his way to the break room, and you felt your cheeks and neck heat up. You had finally let the Thai dancer charm his way into your heart.

Typical Y/N, you thought to yourself, Falling in love with any cute boy who gives you attention. But he wasn’t just any cute boy. It was Ten. Ten, your frenemy turned close confidant. Ten, who would send you pictures of cute animals he saw on the street just because you once told him you wanted to adopt a cat. Ten, who took you dancing to a club in Hongdae when you were feeling low and all but carried your drunk ass back to your home. Ten, who over the last couple of months had heard every single one of your deepest insecurities and had still chosen to stick by you. Ten who had just left a box of jelly doughnuts in the break room, next to a post-it note with your name on it. To make matters worse, you were supposed to start working on a new collaboration together this week, a contemporary piece set to an R&B slow jam. How were you meant to work with him all week when you could barely make eye contact with him? You had to physically restrain yourself from facepalming.

You spent the week, evading conversation with him beyond work and some small talk to fill the silence. But none of your usual banter. You had even turned down his suggestion to grab dinner together several times that week, to the point that even typically non-confrontational Sicheng had picked up that something was off.

“Why have you been avoiding Ten all week? I thought you guys had given up fighting?”, Sicheng asked after he cornered you one day.

“Avoiding him? Now, why would I do that when we’ve been working together all week?”, you had chuckled nervously, desperately looking for an out from this conversation.

“He’s been sulking around since Tuesday, Y/N. He said he doesn’t know what he did to upset you”, Sicheng had asked you sharply.

The guilt in your eyes must have been apparent because Sicheng dropped his voice into a gentle whisper for what he said next.

“I know the two of you are as good at dancing around your feelings as you are at dancing on stage. But maybe try talking to him, Y/N? I think right now, you two might have more in common than you think”, Sicheng told you as he gave you a knowing look.

The day of the performance shoot came and there was a noticeable awkwardness between you and Ten. You decided to cut the tension by apologizing to him, citing the nerves for the performance as the reason you had been on edge the whole week. Whether or not Ten believed you, he accepted your apology and wrapped you up in his arms. You wished you had psychic abilities so you could read his mind. Did he have the same butterflies in his stomach right now?

As soon as the music started any nervousness you felt around Ten melted away. Dancing with him was like second nature to you by now. The song started with you on stage alone, dancing under the single spotlight illuminating the stage. You could see him out of the corner of your eyes, following your every move and observing you with nothing short of adoration. You left the stage for Ten’s solo and you could feel the goosebumps on your skin from watching him perform. He was absolutely stunning, moving fluidly through the movements as though he was painting with his body on the canvas of the stage. You joined him on stage for the chorus, dancing apart but facing one another as though mirroring the other’s movements. Through the bridge you inched closer and closer to one another. You felt your heartbeat beginning to rise from the proximity.

Both of you could communicate with each other with your eyes alone. You danced perfectly in sync with one another, pulling apart only to fall right back into each other, just like magnets. So different yet inseparable. You could see it in his eyes, when he looked at you, that the emotion in his mirrored yours. You knew you weren’t imagining it when he audibly gasped as you melted into his embrace for the final move. His heartbeat was racing a hundred miles an hour, just like yours. The pair of you stood there, lips just a few millimeters apart, breathing deeply as the studio erupted into thunderous applause. You were no longer afraid to admit to yourself and to the world, that you had it bad for Ten Lee.

And when he kissed you on the rooftop that night, you knew that he had it bad for you too.

#ten #ten scenarios #ten angst #ten fluff #ten imagines #nct #wayv #nct ten #wayv ten #nct scenarios #nct imagines #wayv scenarios #wayv imagines #nct angst #nct fluff #wayv angst #wayv fluff #moonrise

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high-five-of-teenager-trashblog · 3 years

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Discography Discussion: Wolf & Sheep

While Wolf & Sheep is my favorite album, I think it’s also the most recognizable one in H.O.T’s discography. No other album they’ve done has as many well-known tracks. In this discussion, we’ll be diving into the most teenage-geared album in the history of H.O.T.

The Wolf & Sheep Album

H.O.T’s second album Wolf & Sheep came out on July 5th, 1997. It’s the only album (besides the OST for Age of Peace) to be released outside of September - which also makes it the shortest time between albums. It’s also the only album besides Outside Castle that features the members on the cover. In case you’re trying to figure out who is who, I assume (from their features that are usually depicted in artwork of them) it’s the order they generally are in when they’re on stage (facing the audience from the stage), meaning from left to right it’s Woohyuk, Kangta, Tony, Heejun, and Jaewon. Compared to We Hate All Kinds of Violence, this album is bolder in its statements and was a continuation of their ability to criticize and uplift their young target audience.

Wolf & Sheep

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“Wolf & Sheep” is the title track for this album, and was their first attempt at targeting society - not just their teenage fans. Like other hard-hitting tracks in H.O.T’s discography, this one was composed by Yoo Youngjin.

Lyrics

It’s an aggressive song with lyrics about wolves attacking and taking sheep. The song is mostly metaphorical, and about people with power taking advantage of people without it. However, that’s only a surface-level understanding of the song. Usually, Yoo Youngjin usually writes about topics (and problems) that are prevalent across multiple societies and time periods, but sometimes he does write about particular events. “Wolf and Sheep” is about an event in the future that has already happened, but didn’t actually happen. The song starts with Woohyuk announcing, “The year 2000, June 28, they who had been foretold arrived.” This song was released in 1997, which was three years before that date. But it’s written in the past tense - in both Korean and in the English translation of it. However, when I looked up the date itself (June 28th, 2000) and ones similar to it, I didn’t find anything that matched or were of significance.

The closest thing I could come up with happened on June 28th, 1950. (Source) During the Korean War, there was a massacre on that day at the Seoul National University Hospital by the North Korean army. (Source) Here are some lyrics that could support this: “All the sheep’s family were turned into the hunted..the sheep’s cities were turned into battlefields...50 years of peace was broken on that day, and everything was destroyed in their hands...What sin did I commit to deserve all this pain?” (Lyric Source)

To add to this, I found a blog on Daum that supports my theory. This blog also adds that the album was announced on June 28th, 1997, but its release was delayed because Heejun hurt his shoulder. Considering that this is the most research I’ve had to do for any H.O.T track, it’s nice to see someone else support this theory.

Music Video

The music video for “Wolf & Sheep“ is the first H.O.T MV to be filmed outside of Korea. It features the members riding around in LA with cuts to them performing the track on stage. I know it’s not a big deal, but my personal favorite part is at the end when they’re running down the beach and someone does a flip and knocks into the camera. There is an alternate version of the music video that’s basically the same, just edited together differently.

Another point of interest

Interestingly, the track and the MV are both echoed later in “I-Yah”. While “Wolf & Sheep” was about destruction and loss of life for an event that might not have existed, “I-Yah” was about a specific event that included destruction and innocents who lost their lives.

Both tracks have the members wearing outfits that are supposed to look intimidating.

Both songs are arranged similarly, and have a point where Kangta wears a white and sings solo while the aggressive music momentarily becomes calm before he crescendos it back to anger.

Also, both are their only two MVs (from their main album discography) filmed outside of Korea. They were filmed in the U.S., but on opposite sides of the country, with “Wolf & Sheep” filmed in L.A. (the west coast), while “I-Yah” was filmed in New York City (the east coast). Which I find interesting, as both are clearly about events in Korea, yet filmed abroad.

(If you want to know more about “I-Yah”, I did a Discography Discussion about it)

Final Thoughts

While this track was quite ambitious for the group, promotions for it didn’t last long as it was quickly banned for the use of profanity. (In all fairness, there is a lot of it.) However, that was not the end for this album.

If you pay attention to their discography, you’ll notice a pattern. Usually when they release an album, they will show the hard-hitting title track first that is about a serious issue (such as “Warrior’s Descendant”). Usually the track will do well and set the tone for the rest of the album. Then, the next track will be a happy/inoffensive track (such as “Candy”) and will get a lot of love from the public - which was especially useful when a title track got banned. This pattern is why they’re able to get away with having an (at times) violent and profanity-heavy discography while still being considered to be family-friendly.

After H.O.T debuted, there were quite a few groups who claimed to be like H.O.T at the time of their debut, but when their first hard-hitting song didn’t get as much praise as “Warrior’s Descendant”, their follow up track would be something light. These artists would then stick to singing inoffensive songs for most of their discography. Perhaps if companies (including SM) didn’t panic and drop to making groups strictly as pop groups reminiscent of the music industry before Seo Taiji & Boys, the K-Pop industry as we know it today would have been very different. Even to this day, there isn’t a K-pop group that has reached the heights H.O.T did with as high of a percentage of critique songs for their title tracks (let alone the rest of their discography) - the closest being B.A.P, to my knowledge.

In my opinion, this pattern is most visible with the Wolf & Sheep album due to the track they released after “Wolf & Sheep”.

Full of Happiness

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The next song to be released on the album was “행복”. The literal translation is “Happiness”, but sometimes you will see this song being called “Full of Happiness” because that’s the feeling this song gives. They lyrics are about meeting someone who was very kind in the past, and hoping the meeting will go well. This song takes the feeling of happiness that was given to someone, then giving it back as strongly as (or stronger than) they received it. However, the music video was about a tennis player feeling happiness winning a match after not being able to do so at the beginning.

There are a lot of adorable details in this music video.

1. Woohyuk and Tony play fighting until the other members have to hold them back.

2. The other members stealing a table umbrella to shade Jaewon. My favorite part is watching them sneak around Jaewon’s back. Considering that it was a really hot day, I think that’s such a sweet gesture.

3. Heejun and Kangta play fighting.

4. Heejun smacking Kangta with a tennis ball, then fleeing while hanging onto his hat.

5. When the tennis player wins, H.O.T are in the crowd and celebrate.

With this in mind, I would like to remind everyone that this was the track media used when Jaewon was discharged from the military and all of the members reunited to call themselves H.O.T for the first time since disbandment.

Go! H.O.T.!

The first track on the Wolf & Sheep album is “Go! H.O.T.!” It’s a hype song about the group that lists each member and something about them.

Sexy Guy is a Kangta (Hey - Handsome!)

Wit Guy is a Heejun (Shinning Shinning!)

Mood Guy is a Tony (Hey - Funny!)

Wild Guy is a Woohyuk

Maknae Jaewon is a Shy Shy ! Guy Guy!

If you watch any live performance of “Haengbok”, you’ll see a part of this song sandwiched in the middle with the camera focusing on each of the members. Each performance is different, such as in one Jaewon does a flip and in another he pulls a comb out of nowhere and runs it through his hair.

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H.O.T’s Haengbok vs Super Junior’s Haengbok

SMTown used to release an album during the winter and summer seasons that brought together a lot of their popular artists. These albums would usually have one main song that everyone sang, then the rest of the tracks would be either split by group or just put different people together. On the summer 2007 album, Super Junior did a cover of “Haengbok”.

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When I first heard it, I adored it because I thought it was a fun, new take on a song I loved. Well, everyone seems to agree with that notion because when someone does a cover of “Haengbok”, they’ll usually do the Super Junior version, not H.O.T’s (even though it will often be labeled as a cover of an H.O.T song or say Suju cover, original by H.O.T). The two songs use different instrumentals, choreography, and even how the song is sung is different when you compare Tony and Woohyuk’s parts to the Super Junior version.

I assume the reason for this is that it’s newer, but also that it’s easier to copy and perform. Whereas the original is so H.O.T and feels older, so I don’t think a lot of groups could pull it off. With a track like “Haengbok”, each person performing it has to be vibrant, impossible to confuse with someone else, and have their own style of performing.

We Are the Future

The tone of the last major track on the album is not heavy like “Wolf & Sheep” or light like “Haengbok”, but instead is a mix of the two.

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“We Are the Future” is a high-energy dance track with lyrics about teenagers recognizing that they are the future, not the adults who are oppressive.

We're still in the shadows of the adults, We're still not free-

They fuss and bother us about this and that all day,

of course we can't do anything except get tired-

When are they gonna stop feeling satisfaction by forcing us to their ways?

One day goes by, and another day goes by,

we get more and more tired, feel like we're gonna collapse!

And yes, before you ask, this is another song by Yoo Youngjin.

Unlike “Wolf & Sheep”, which mainly rages about injustices that have been done, “We Are the Future” has a message of hope as well. The message is that you are the future, and you can change the world (and your life).

Within me, a new world is squirming to grow,

and now I will grow it and develop it on my own!

We are the future!

Throw it away! From now on, I tell you,

I'm the master of my life-

I'll believe it, I'll believe it, I'll be fine and strong on my own!

To add to this message, the MV shows a girl jumping off a roof, students getting hit by their teacher, a teenager shoplifting, and a student being bullied. These scenes are displayed between clips of H.O.T dancing and singing.

Compared to “Wolf & Sheep”, this displays scenes of reality that a lot of young people in Korea probably were familiar with either through seeing it happen to their peers or they themselves were going through it. This track is one of the reasons why H.O.T is called “The Nations First Idols” - they sang to people who were going through these issues. Unlike later groups, H.O.T never sang songs that were out of touch with their listeners.

Aside from the fact that this track is really catchy, I think it still resonates with people because they lyrics are about things that young people experience everywhere. For example, even though corporeal punishment was banned in Seoul back in 2010, it still happens sometimes in Korea (and in other countries as well).

But let’s be real, if you’re someone who isn’t at a good place in your life and you aren’t happy with where you are (or who you’re around), this song could apply to you too.

Other Songs of Interest

Free to Fly - This track also has an MV, but depending on the source, it’s a bit different. It’s cheesy 90s breakup song. If you didn’t know the lyrics you would probably assume it was a love song by how it sounds. I think this MV is part of the problem because it shows the guys being cute and saying sweet things - the audience awing over them doesn’t help either, hahaha. Yoo Youngjin must have been in a mood because “Tragedy” (which is also a track on this album), has the same kind of vibe.

The End of My Inferiority Complex - You’ve probably heard this track before because the beginning of it is at the beginning of the MV for “Haengbok”. This is the last song on the album that Yoo Youngjin had a hand in. It’s a teenage relationship drama told in one song. It’s about a guy who sees his girlfriend likes his friend more than him because his friend is all that. Since his friend has been so good to him, he feels like it would be best to breakup and let her be with his friend. However, at the end there’s a twist because when he goes to end things with her, she says:

You’ve got it all wrong,

That*s not the message I meant to give you,

I think I went too far in trying to express my feelings-

I was only so frustrated at you because you were so unconfident,

so unsure of yourself next to your friend-

Don*t be stupid, don*t fool yourself-

Hold me now, I love YOU!

It was the 90s so it makes sense that this would be the conclusion, but I want to call BS on it.

Lost 12th Birthday - This is probably one of the catchiest songs in K-Pop, and I find that it’s pretty easy to sing if you don’t know much Korean. Whenever it’s a member’s birthday, they’ll usually sing this instead of the normal Happy Birthday song, and you can usually hear fans sing it during birthdays as well. It sounds really cute and kind of nostalgic...until you look at the title of the song and find out what the lyrics are about.

This song is about someone getting in trouble, so their parents decide to not celebrate their 12th birthday. It goes on to talk about how on kid’s birthday, they went home after church to find their friends waiting for them to say, “ A joyous day a pleasant day you beloved birthday. Today I genuinely congratulate your birthday. (Happy Birthday to you)”. The kid resolves to be better afterwards and study harder. (However, considering that the lyrics at the beginning talk about how scared the kid was of their parents, I don’t think the kid is completely at fault. >.>)

Since the perspective changes during the song (Your birthday is just like my birthday. I want to be born again by your side today. So as I light you 12th birthday candle today. I want to find the memory I lost a short while ago), it’s also possible to interpret it as, “I had a bad 12th birthday, so I hope you have a better birthday than I did”.

K-Pop boy groups nowadays can make hit songs about how much money or awards they’ve gotten. H.O.T, meanwhile, has a bop about not getting to celebrate turning twelve. (Why am I fan of these guys again??)

Other Points of Interest

This was a glorious era of cringe and stupidity for the group. From Heejun dyeing his hair purple and getting banned from broadcast (part of the reason why his hair was covered during this time) to poorly written/acted dramas, Wolf & Sheep promotions had it all.

H.O.T in Joseon

H.O.T Does Math

H.O.T Become Aliens

Behind-the-Scenes of Haengbok

H.O.T Pretend to be Animals

Conclusion

Wolf & Sheep was a successful follow up to We Hate All Kinds of Violence. It was more ambitious in its critiques of society, while managing to be uplifting at the same time. Many things that were in this album parallel other tracks later in their discography. It was released right at the start of the Asian Financial Crisis, so perhaps it can be looked upon fondly as being right before Korea was hit by it. With this in mind, I want to share one last quote:

I thought about it occasionally, in what state I would be as an adult-

Could I always live like this? Oh baby-

I'm gonna make a world of my own on my own,

Don't force the same way of life on me.

Within me, a new world is squirming to grow,

and now I will grow it and develop it on my own!

WE ARE THE FUTURE!!!

If I could sum up this album, it would be with this: The future is yours, so don’t let the past keep you from making the present better.

Links Lyrics iTunes Spotify

#H.O.T Discography Discussion #H.O.T.#High-Five of Teenager #kpop #k-pop #old kpop #Moon Heejun #kangta #lee jaewon #Jang Woohyuk #tony ahn

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cate-deriana · 4 years

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Synchronicity

So, here is my first contribution to IRmonth20. It may be a little messy and all over the place but I wanted to get this headcanon idea out :D So yeah, enjoy!

Prompt #4 - crossing blades, crossing hearts

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It had been two days – although it had more felt like ages – since their arrival in the Royal Realm. Apart from strange meetings with even stranger residents, well zero squad members if you wanted to be precise, nothing really noteworthy had occurred… until that morning.

“So starting today the two of you will be training together.” Ichibei threw at them without further explanation.

It took a few seconds to sink in, before Ichigo tilted his head with a raised eyebrow looking at the so-called ‘leader’ of this squad with a questioning expression: “Sorry… what?”

“Are we playing deaf, Kurosaki Ichigo? The final battle is just around the corner, we don’t have time for this. You and Kuchiki will be training together. You have chemistry, that shouldn’t be a problem.”

Ichigo peeked over to Rukia standing next to him from the corner of an eye, then back to Ichibei: “I am fine with that. But Rukia had barely two days to recover, she nearly died and you want her to start training again today?”

Now the zero squad leader was the one to raise an eyebrow – a rare sight: “Well, do you want to win the war or do you want us all to die?”

The orange haired shinigami’s expression darkened but his eyes glared with determination: “I want to win, of course. But…” He tried to object again but was cut off by Rukia: “Stop insulting my abilities! I am able to decide if I’m ready to train again for myself.”

She had turned to face him visibly angered.

He did the same trying to cool down his temper. Otherwise things would get out of hand rather quickly: “This is not about your abilities it’s…”

“Stop protecting me!” She shot at him.

Screw his temper.

“Oh, sorry I thought that was the deal: I am protecting you and you are protecting me that’s how it works!”

The argument went on while Ichibei was watching them slightly shaking his head: “Yeah, you two have good chemistry. Hopefully that’ll save us all.”

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“So, that’s the training ground you’ll be using. Quarters are over there and behind that you’ll find one of those hot springs to heal your wounds and recover. You’ll be training together, eating together, sleeping together. … And with sleeping together I don’t mean sleeping with each other. That’s not what you have to do – unless you want to of course, I’ve heard there was some unresolved tension. I’ll come to check on you once in a while. Any questions? No? Then I’ll see you around.”

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That was what Ichibei had said before leaving them, alone. About three or four days had passed since. They had been training constantly for something the squad leader had called ‘reiatsu syncing’. Seemingly the zero division and some other questionable ex-shinigami, namely Urahara Kisuke, believed there was a possibility to defeat the ‘future foreseeing’ Juhabach with some telepathic ability that would make it impossible for him to take a look in said future because he would not be able to foresee what he could not see. Why they believed Juhabach was even able to see the future was beyond Ichigo. As far as he knew he wasn’t, maybe they knew more than him. But that wasn’t the point.

They of course were all convinced that only Rukia and him would be able to gain this telepathy ‘reiatsu syncing’ ability. The reason? Well, apparently it was because they had more than once shared the same reiatsu before. He wasn’t sure if he should really believe them and their far-fetched theories. Just because Rukia had transferred her powers to him twice didn’t necessarily conclude in them being able to communicate without words. Ok, maybe there had been moments when he had been sure to know exactly what she was thinking but… that was not the same as talking through mere thoughts, was it?

“When will you finally stop holding back, Ichigo?”

Rukia’s scolding voice brought him back to reality. They were in the middle of training, no miraculous telepathic conversation had occurred yet.

“I am not holding back.” He sounded as if he had to convince himself as well.

“Yes you are. I know how strong you really are so stop holding back and come at me with full force. Where is the point in training if you can’t even do that?” Her voice wasn’t angered although she hated him for going easy on her, for underestimating her out of fear she might get hurt.

“If I come at you with full force I might kill you.” Ichigo stated dryly.

She crossed her arms, her tone a little scolding: “I don’t want you to kill me I want you to start fighting seriously. I am not that weak you know?” Rukia let out a sigh putting Sode no Shirayuki down. “I guess we should have started with those stupid training swords. That way you wouldn’t have to be afraid of accidentally cutting me in half.” The irony in her voice was evident. “Though I have at least learned how to properly wield a sword. I should be the one at advantage here not someone who thought he could just chop a Menos into tiny little pieces to reach its top.” She shook her head disbelieving adding a mumbled “Stupid” to her rant.

“Oh, I’m sorry I didn’t have the privilege to go to Shino Academy just to drop out midway cause I have a wealthy brother.” Ichigo tried to counterattack with his equally sarcastic remark.

Rukia’s eyes darkened: “You know what? Renji wouldn’t hold back.” Her reiatsu rose to a dangerous level. “Because he acknowledges me as a warrior.”

Ichigo’s expression changed in an instant after hearing the red head’s name from her mouth, he was in fighting mode and mood obviously: “You want me to go all out, yeah?” He didn’t wait for an answer his hand already on the arm holding his sword.

“Ban-kai!”

Rukia watched his transformation with a content smile as he was engulfed in black: “Now we’re talking.”

Maybe she should have given him a moment, given them a moment but one she didn’t want to get into another argument with him again and two she couldn’t keep it to herself any longer. “Bankai.” It echoed in the air before the training ground was covered with a thin ice layer, the temperature gradually dropping.

Ichigo didn’t have any time to comprehend what happened when her sword suddenly clashed with his really close to his face. He didn’t see her attack coming at all, because… well…

“Y…you have achieved bankai?” The shinigami substitute managed to get out, their zanpakutous frozen in place. The superior smile on her lips widened: “Surprised?”

His eyes travelled down and up again examining her new form. A somewhat inappropriate thought crossed his mind. He tried to shake it off: “Well… uhm…” If he wasn’t in the middle of a fight he would’ve scratched the back of his head in an awkward situation like that.

“I thought you were a lot faster than this.” Her voice brought him back to reality.

“Huh?”

“Your bankai.” She clarified for him. Something in her eyes left no doubt that she was seriously challenging him and something inside him couldn’t resist that.

He gave her a provoking look: “I’m just getting started.” Ichigo pushed her away with his sword.

“Finally.” Her smile didn’t fade.

The battlefield’s atmosphere changed, black and white flashes being the only thing that could still be seen. They were not really fighting against each other but rather fighting alongside, equally, synching their steps, their moves as if they were dancing. They were paying attention to each other but at the same time pushing each other to their limits. It would have probably continued like that a lot longer if Ichigo didn’t skip a step of their choreography for – payback time you could say.

Rukia found zangetsu only inches away from her throat, Ichigo’s body pressed against hers from behind.

“I got you.” His breath was touching her cheek.

Sode no Shirayuki was uselessly dangling in her right hand. She could have probably stabbed his foot, but… Rukia didn’t want to admit defeat, not yet, not now and certainly not in this position. That… was definitely too close and too… She paused – that could work.

Ichigo was damn sure she wouldn’t be able to escape him that easily. I thought you were a lot faster, huh? Of course he was he’d made that more than clear now. His pride would crumble only moments later.

She turned her head to him: “Don’t be so sure.”

Before he could realize what she was up to a sharp pain shot through his left leg causing him to drop his sword. It felt as if it had been frozen… Oh, that’s what she had done. He sighed trying to keep his balance but the leg gave away.

Rukia was about to declare her victory when Ichigo grabbed her wrist in the last possible moment pulling her down with him. If she didn’t let go of her sword she would have probably pierced his chest with it – again. Without it, it was only her unarmed-self landing on top of him. She propped herself up, one hand on the ground the other on his chest, furiously glaring at Ichigo: “What are you doing?!”

“What are you doing?! You just froze my leg!”

Wouldn’t it have been for their newly found argument she would’ve noticed a lot sooner that the position they were in now was a lot more indecent than the one before.

Instead of counter arguing Rukia looked to the side mumbling her retort rather to herself: “You didn’t leave me with another option…” Her eyes wandered around as if she was searching for the next thing to say, her right hand subconsciously travelling over his chest.

She wanted to put the blame on him alone for this but had to admit that it was at least halfway her fault as well. Then again if he didn’t have to prove his abilities then… her eyes caught her hand realizing the feeling of her skin on his.

Did Ichigo always have a muscular body like this?

Her eyes were still fixed on his chest questioningly tilting her head.

“No, actually that was a lot of training.”

Rukia nodded absentmindedly before it hit her in the face: “Wait! What?!” Her eyes shot up to him: “You heard that?!” She sounded a little hysteric, understandably so. Rukia watched him in shock a few seconds then rolled herself on her back next to him. That didn’t just happen. He was just making fun of her again and didn’t have the slightest clue what she’d… Wait, did she say that out loud? She was ruffling her hair trying to calm down her breath. Her heart was racing. Seriously, if this was a joke it wasn’t funny…

“I didn’t know you payed attention to this kind of things.”

She would’ve liked to kill him for this stupid grin his voice gave away. Rukia exhaled deeply, biting her lip in order to keep her anger contained: “Well, I didn’t. That’s the reason I didn’t notice until now.”

Ichigo folded his arms behind his head she could see it from the corner of her eye. He was taking this so casually. “I didn’t know you saw me like that.” His idiot smile was still there, as if he had just learned that his high school crush liked him back.

“Like what?” Her voice was indifferent, even a little annoyed. She wanted to get this conversation over with.

He turned to the side to face her. She didn’t do the same.

“Like a man.”

Now she did. She rested her head on her hand and looked at him with a sarcastic expression: “Uhm, as far as I remember you are one, right? Unless you are actually a woman and are just really good in disguising as a man and making everyone believe you were one.”

Ichigo repressed a laugh: “I take that as a yes.”

Rukia rolled back onto her back: “Do what you want.”

A moment of silence followed.

Then she suddenly heard his voice in her head:

Your bankai looks really good on you. It’s beautiful.

Rukia turned only her head, skeptical if she had really heard him say that.

It suits you.

His lips had not moved at all.

It’s even… a little sexy.

Her eyes widened when she instantly jumped to her feet trying to get a few steps away: “Okay, that’s enough! I don’t know what you’re trying to do here, but this is definitely going too far.”

He’d never seen her so close to panicking before.

We’re in the middle of war. We cannot. This is not about us. We have to…

“Rukia.” He grabbed her shoulder turning her around to him: “Don’t you see what just happened?”

She was frozen in her spot just like their surroundings had because of her bankai.

“It worked.” He declared in triumph when she didn’t react, another rare smile on his face.

She blinked at him a few times until it finally sank in.

“We did it.” Rukia murmured. He was right she did hear his thoughts – word for word. “We really did it.” She repeated, this time fully aware what this meant. They would be able to defeat him, to win, to end the war.

A few moments of silence followed. None of them really knew what to say or what to think. There wouldn’t be any way to hide from now on, would it?

Ichigo cleared his throat breaking the awkward moment between them: “Well, uhm… So…” He looked right then left, not sure how to tell her. “You know… now that… we are able to hear each other’s thoughts…” This time he did scratch the back of his head. “Well now that you will find out anyway... I can just tell you myself… I guess.” A deep exhale followed before he looked back into her eyes: “I really like you. Not as a friend, not as my partner in battle, not as the person who saved my life, but…”

“I know.”

A frown appeared on his face and he looked a little confused. Rukia just smiled one of her soothing smiles: “I mean it’s not like we had no idea about our feelings for each other until now.”

His frown deepened. “Weren’t you the one close to panic just a second ago because I hinted something like that? And now you are acting like this is absolutely normal?”

She rolled her eyes, a little sigh followed: “Well, now that you’ve actually said it… there’s no reason to anymore. When you’re set to do something nothing and no one can stop you, that’s how it’s always been. So… as you said – we’ll know anyway.”

I’d like to kiss you.

What’s holding you back?

I don’t know, isn’t this… What if you’re right and this is going too fast?

We’re at war, yes. Maybe it’s not the best timing.

Thought so.

But, maybe it’ll help us. Because there’s nothing left unsaid between us.

So you think we will win?

What do you think?

Well I can do anything, as long as you are right next to me. So, yeah we will.

We will.

We will win.

And then he kissed her. And he would wonder why they didn’t do this earlier. And she would ‘say’ that he just didn’t ask.

They would fight the finally battle together. They would win. They would survive. They would save everyone just like the zero squad and Urahara had hoped. But most importantly in the end they would be happy. And Juhabach would never return.

Because it was their story – a story where life and death would no longer be apart.

#ichiruki #ichiruki fanfiction #Kurosaki Ichigo #Kuchiki Rukia #ichigo #rukia #ichirukimonth #IRmonth2020 #イチルキ

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norcumii · 4 years

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Ruminating on Rebels,1

Apparently I’m blathering on about Rebels episodes as they happen, which I hadn’t expected. I hope that means there’ll also be an overview at the end of the season, but I haven’t decided yet. Regardless, I finished the first one, so here we go.

SPOILERS AHEAD. REBELS CRITICAL.

Episode 1: Spark of Rebellion Part I

Overview:

Vader talking to an Inquisitor about how “the Emperor has foreseen a new threat: the children of the Force must not become Jedi. Hunt them down and any Jedi who might train them.”

Lothal: seeing Ezra top of a watertower watching a new super star destroyer coming in, zipping off to the city, where he helps a random citizen who some Imps are roughing up – it’s demonstrated he can pick pockets like nobody’s business. Then it turns out him helping the fruitseller (is this a Cabbage Guy reference? It feels like a Cabbage Guy reference) is self interest, to get food. Spots the Ghost crew beginning a heist of several speeders worth of mystery crates, Ezra inserts himself to grab a speeder. Chase scene out of the city, TIE fighters come in, the Ghost swings in and takes out one (leaving the other – this convinces Ezra to go with the crew, along with his crate that he Force jumps with onto the ship). Bit of a battle, off to Hyperspace, back to the planet where they give food from the crates to needy folks in “Tarkintown” and the guns to a smuggler that gives them intel on some Wookiee prisoners. Ezra discovers Kanan’s old lightsaber and a holocron, steals the latter. Crew bluffs their way onto the transport ship, only to find out it’s a trap via incoming Star Destroyer, and it’s on Ezra to go warn the others due to jammed comms.

Random impressions:

I hate this art style. I feel like it’s specifically designed to sell toys. I feel the same impulse to reach out and take armor apart that I have when I see a new style of mechanical pencil: my hands itch to find out how to take it to pieces. I paused during certain scenes and it’s such a clear picture I wanna reach out, snag the toy, and remove bits to figure out how it all goes together, and BOY does that kill any immersion. Also, everything is plastic. Especially hair. Like, “great, you make bouncy lekku, but COULD WE MAYBE SEE HOW THAT’S HAIR AND NOT A BLOB EATING EZRA’S HEAD?”

The fight scene choreography is nice, I will certainly grant that. The chase scenes were also good.

I am honestly, SERIOUSLY concerned: Kanan shows up, and I have no idea WHY, but BOY do I want to immediately punch him in the face. Like, my brain is going “that man has a very punchable face!” This is not a normal reaction for me, and I can’t tell WHY it’s happening. Help?

This show is clearly trying for the “repetition is funny” model. Hells, Sorkin can do it. Let’s find out if it sticks!

DOES ANYONE IN THE GFFA BELIEVE IN LOCKING THEIR CARS SHIPS? BECAUSE SERIOUSLY, THEY NEED TO START LOCKING THEIR SHIPS. I AM SO GLAD WE HAVE WRITTEN THAT AS A PLOT POINT AT LEAST ONCE (even if the fic’s not posted yet) BECAUSE THIS SEEMS TO BE A THING.

Apparently Zeb isn’t a furry? He kinda looks like he should be furry. But between the “rare hairless Wookiee” crack and him referring to Wookiees as “those hairy beasts” I guess not? Hrm. Hopefully that’s cleared up later!

If there’s one clear moment I loved, it was absolutely when Ezra realizes he’s in space, and the moment they go into hyperspeed. That was just beautiful. Wide-eyed AWE, for all that he immediately wants to go back home. THAT was well done.

Hopefully more coherent views:

It’s not a hot mess, but it does feel a bit across the board. Fine, it’s the first episode, those do that – especially when we don’t know yet how coherent a storyline this series is supposed to be. (Like, season-long arcs. Are those a thing? Yes I have seen later seasons but it was sporadic and I honestly don’t recall more than random beats, so I’m trying to approach this as a fresh slate.) It’s about introducing the characters and situations first and foremost.

And regarding that...it’s messy. Some things are just not meshing. I’ll probably save most of that for next time, after seeing more interactions, but meanwhile, the things that really jump out at me.

Ezra has been alone since he was about six. Fine. I desperately want him to be more feral. Dirty fighting, an absolute biter – you’ve already got him being good at getting out of spaces and away from people, but he comes across like he’s been on his own maaaybe 5 years tops? He’s too smooth. Also, it’s not clear yet if he’s used to his Force abilities or if that’s somehow awakening due to...age? Being exposed to Kanan? I am seriously hoping this gets addressed, but meanwhile I love the idea of an Ezra who just thinks it’s normal for him to be able to make impossible jumps or run incredibly fast or not be noticed (sometimes) when he tries really really hard. He doesn’t know why most folks can’t or don’t do that, but not his problem – just gives him an advantage. It’d be delightful to see that in contrast to a Kanan who’s been suppressing all things Jedi for literal YEARS (quite understandably), and now he’s weirded out by how good this kid is at some stuff. He’s just a natural at it, and that’s...disconcerting. Match that with how Kanan knows how to hone those skills, or use them in different ways, even if he’s not as GOOD at them, and you’d have a fascinating power dynamic going on.

Kanan and Hera are also off in a way that I think was just the animators not meshing with the writers, and the oversight was lacking there. Kanan’s look when Hera takes Ezra away so she can keep an eye on him – it was jealousy. Now, fine. That makes sense, all things considered, but at the same time it kinda set off my creep meter? Like, dude, this lady already called you “love” earlier and the power dynamics make it clear you’re second in command around here, I can understand being insecure about one’s place in an uncertain galaxy but that made it look like you thought there were going to be shenanigans going on in that cockpit which EW.

Is it the art style? Is this related to the face-punching instinct and me somehow really disliking this guy without grounds so far? I have no idea, but it’s also concerning.

The other bit of animation that bothered me was when Chopper drags Hera and Kanan in to find Ezra has discovered the lightsaber. Kanan is fierce, defensive, and sounding JUST this edge of holding on to civil behavior he would like his glowstick back, NOW PLEASE. Hera, meanwhile, is leaning against the doorframe – smirking? But when the camera turns and Ezra leaves the cabin, she’s frowning and looking grumpy. What even is going on with that? If it’s a set up of Ezra – 1, dick move, and 2, creepy.

End summary:

It seems like a weak start. No one grabs me as a sympathetic character I wanna claim, no one is actually likable to any degree. That’s literally just the first impression and not a killer factor, because first episodes can often be about wrong impressions – trying to stay positive. Hate the art style which is going to be a problem. Need to remember to blather on about team dynamics next episode.

#rebels critical #star wars rebels #thinky thoughts #long post is long #throwing popcorn at rebels #spoilers #yes i am this slow watching media

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toooldforfandom-liveblogs · 4 years

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RWBY V07E13 - The Enemy of Trust

I can't remember the last time I've felt so reluctant to watch an episode of RWBY. There's no way they'll turn _everything_ around in 20 minutes so no happy ending this season. Who knows who's going to die this episode to satiate RT's thirst for blood and drama.

The other reason I'm not sure I want to watch this episode is that the big moment of last episode fell so flat for me that I fear it'll manage to disappoint me again and this time there'll be no next episode to give me hope for a good ending.

But, the liveblog must go on, and there's still hope in me that even if it's not a happy season ending it's going be a good one.

Last episode ended with:

Clover dead and Qrow and Robyn either about to escape or about to get arrested.

Ruby and Weiss about to go find Winter and Penny

Blake and Yang about to go find JNPR

JNPR about to fight Neo

Cinder about to fight Winter and Penny, with the Winter Maiden in a pod.

Is the Winter Maiden going to die? Who's going to get her powers? Winter? How many minutes into the episode before Pietro dies? Yang vs Neo rematch? How is Ironwood going to be stopped if he's stopped at all? Is Salem going to appear at the last possible second with her flying monkeys?

I don't know so let's do this!

Ooh, there's the aura projection he was supposed to learn this volume. Not as spectacular as I hoped but still works.

This makes me have a ton of questions about how her semblance works. How did she escape Oscar's grasp to make that illusion? Was Neo an illusion the entire time? How resilient they are in that case? She very noticeably didn't get hit at all until now.

Poor Oscar, it's been a long day for him.

I'm trying to figure out if Neo could have disguised herself as someone else in JNPR but the moments they leave the screen don't match with Neo's dissapeareance. I guess she could have been the guard but still, weird.

high poly birds, the true advantage of the new cg engine

Hints to Cinder's backstory?

It's fun to see Penny finally have a match considering she's been a powerhouse the entire season. She _has_ to be disabled in some way though if Pietro's death flags are going to get triggered this season at all and I'm not looking forward to that.

I have no idea when this fight turned into Matrix Revolutions but I'm not complaining.

I'd be more worried about Winter but I'm sure she can summon _something_ to survive.

That's even cooler than whatever I had imagined.

_this_ is what I expected from V5's fight between maidens, and Winter is not even a maiden yet.

Welp, now I'm worried.

Cinder's becoming an expert in that move. Hurt someone, run while they are worried about their "friends"

"but it does to me"

That's even better. Penny has grown so much

Maybe carry the child WITH THE RELIC instead of leaving him off ready to be picked off by either Neo or the soldiers.

Yeah, that's Neo. That expression is too sassy to be Nora.

This must have been so much fun to animate.

Of _course_ she'd use her powers in this way. I hoped she'd turn into Pyrrha at some point but this works just as well.

Ren seems to have realized something. I hope it's more "I care more about Nora than I realized" and less "feelings are a weakness"

I'm loving Neo this episode, she's mute and tiny but that doesn't mean anything when she's smart enough to manipulate everyone around her.

Huh. Interesting. It still could be the "feelings are a weakness" thing and he's crying because he knows what he needs to give up but I'm still holding hope for the other choice and he just feels bad about not being able to recognize the real Nora and everything he's been doing this season.

Her movements are so delicate.

Holy shit. This is the first maiden with a lifetime of experience, Cinder has no chance unless her old age becomes an impediment.

oh no no no

LOL at Winter apparently floating, bad layering there.

Is she blaming herself for not completing the job or worried about Penny? After the whole "I don't matter" thing I'm not sure.

Sure, yell at the one person who's never going to yell back.

I feel this siege is going to be Ren's last chance to decide what he's doing with his life and his friends.

...he's going to go find Ironwood. There's no way _that_ ends well so rip.

Okay, this alleviates my "this is murder" concerns from last episode. She was fully aware of what she needed to do and the sacrifice that it entailed. This line however makes me wonder if she remembers Winter at all.

This _reaaally_ feels like she's going to give Penny her powers, but Cinder is probably just close enough to avoid that. What happens if Penny gets her powers and then someone destroys her? Would she keep her powers if Pietro revives her?

The ultimate "things I want to do vs things I need to do" question for Penny.

WHAT THE FUCK

I was joking when I said RIP a couple of screenshots ago, why would you take me seriously!

I'm just slightly disappointed by Ironwood. So far, even in the throes of his paranoia, he had mostly held back, using "legal" means to do what he needed to do. But there's no way to justify shooting Oscar, an _unarmed_ child. This moves him firmly from well-intentioned idiot to a minor evil just below Salem, just like Oscar said. In fact he's more dangerous than Salem right now because he's already there.

Who gave Cinder's VA voice acting lessons? Whoever it was, they deserve a trophy. That break while screaming, just perfect

I didn't want Penny to absorb her powers because that'd mean she's going to be irrevocably tied down, she's never going to be free. _But_, I didn't want Winter to become a maiden because Ironwood has completely lost his mind and unless she suddenly changes her mind about not following him to the ends of the earth that'd mean that Ironwood would have a relic _and_ a maiden.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

His semblance? Or is it _something_ powered by aura inside the cane?

And that's the end of "Ruby won't be able to use her silver eyes after what Salem said" theory.

...she looks much better with her hair down. And welp, first thing she does is think Weiss did something to deserve being on the run.

I didn't realize Cinder had hit Winter so hard she started to hallucinate. Sure, tell two healthy huntresses to surrender while being half dead.

This is going to _suck_ next season, she's probably going to fall into Ironwood's plans even more since she just lost everyone she cared about in Atlas.

My heart.

So, does Cinder think offering the relic up is going to be enough to get into Salem's good graces? How long before Neo tries to put a knife into her back?

IT'S A FLYING WHALE

IT CAN'T END LIKE THIS

---

That was a lot. First things first: I've never been so happy about being wrong, that was a _great_ finale. I'm not incredibly happy about it being such a cliffhanger but it works.

For full disclosure, I'm writing this review a couple of days after watching the episode since I was too tired to continue due to insomnia.

V7 is probably RWBY’s best executed most coherent volume so far. It’s also probably in the bottom half of the list of my “favorite” volumes.

When I say coherent I mean how every single character and action has been laser focused in justifying Ozpin’s monologue at the end. Everything important everyone did has been because of Fear. Overcoming fear, falling to it or causing it. Ren’s try at being a fash, Yang and Blake’s “betrayal,” Ironwood’s (and the council’s) whole thing, Penny’s acceptance of the Winter Maiden’s powers, Watts and Tyrian’s objective, Salem’s appearance and its effects in both Ironwood and Ruby, and a lot of other things I’m probably forgetting.

I don’t remember any other volume so focused in a single theme. Sure, they _have_ themes but V7 is relentless in making everything fit.

It has a great plot throughout that explores themes that have been teased but not fully explored in the past, with some interesting less than black and white issues and a ton of threads that converge mostly gracefully by the end. It’s not RWBY’s most ambitious season, I think V4 still has that distinction, but it’s probably second place _and_ it accomplishes what it wants and almost everything it does better than any other season before.

And for as much as I don’t find the fights interesting, they are _really good_, I think there’s not a single one this volume where I’d be able to complain about the issues that bothered me in past seasons. They are interesting to watch, with creative uses of everyone’s abilities and great choreography and cinematography.

So, on paper I should love it. It’s a _great_ season. But I don’t.

I think that my main issue with V7 is that it’s too real. I distinctly remember feeling weird watching it after everything that happened in my country, the social unrest due to the inequality that reigns supreme.

It was weird living through that, with the military on the streets trying to repress and contain what had been festering for years, _and_ watching a show where something similar was going on but with what felt like sympathetic authority figures. It probably did a good job at that but by the end I wasn’t interested in giving them sympathy, killing most of the emotional weight of the climax.

It doesn’t help that there are very few moments where Mantle’s problems are shown directly on screen. They talk, rant and cry about it but it’s always people unaffected by what’s going on discussing what to do. Even Robyn, who’s supposed to be the voice of the people, feels detached from the people she’s supposed to represent since she has no personal motivations. And when the people of Mantle are shown, it’s mostly after Tyrian’s attacks so it feels like the early episodes are trying to make us feel bad about Mantle but not _too_ bad because it’d cast Ironwood into too much of a bad light.

Brooklyn 99’s quote of “cool motive, still murder” describes Ironwood’s (and Atlas’s) entire plot line for me, and since _everything_ is tied to that it leaves me without much to like.

That’s not to say I hated it, I enjoyed it moment to moment as my liveblogs can attest but the end result is not something I’d like to rewatch unlike other volumes.

The cliffhanger worries me. Or more specifically, _when_ they decided to finish the season worries me. If the cliffhanger had been after Ironwood had raised Atlas his fall would have been definite but since he hasn’t done that yet there’s still a chance he won’t do it. It feels like the writers weren’t sure how far they wanted to take him and decided to postpone making that decision as long as possible (even if him getting redeemed would be incredibly weird after trying to kill Oscar, Ozpin’s speech aside).

Worries aside, I have high hopes for V8 if only because this season was so good besides its particular topic that if they keep that level of quality I'm bound to like it, especially if it doesn't try to redeem the Atlesian military.

I think that's all for now, until next time!

#rwby #rwby liveblog #rwby v07e13

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95liners3rdmember · 4 years

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Worth It

Story Summary: After working hard for so many years, y/n finds herself finds herself accepting a once in a lifetime opportunity. Her rose colored lenses just might shatter when she’s thrown into the life of working for idols.

Pairing: Park Jimin x Choreographer reader

Warnings: Future warning will appear but for now it’s pretty safe

Chapter 1: First Meeting

Word Count: 10.8k

Rating: T (for now)

My eyes soak in the new scenery with a mixture of excitement and nervousness as my hands gripping at my bag thrown over my shoulder. I’ve spent the past four years prepping for this big move. Three years of intense studying, countless sleepless night researching, and beyond exhausting training. In my chest my heart pounds loudly as my feet stop at the threshold of the large building. My lungs suck in a shaky breath as I walk through the glass door.

A small smile graces my lips as I’m greeted by an older woman standing in the large lobby. Our greeting is short as she hands me a key card explaining that it will give me access to the building whenever I want and it’s the only way to get into some of the rooms throughout the building. We take a short elevator ride up to the second floor where she takes me to a decent sized office that already has all the works set up. She informs me that this will be mine and I can do whatever I want with it. Setting my bag down, I follow her back into the hallway.

“I was told by Bang-shi that your requests went through. All of the members are waiting in the third practice room, they’ve already ran through their daily routine. It’s almost time for them to leave so it looks like your plane landed just in time. Oh and also only Namjoon knows of the arrangements.” Her voice is soft and sweet as we stop in front of a large door. I can hear my heart pounding in my chest, it almost drowns her out.

“Thank you.” Bowing politely, my hand reaches out to grab ahold of the door knob and I take in one last shaky breath. It’s now or never. Twisting my wrist slowly the door opens and I see all seven members huddled together on the ground breathing heavily. My nerves are shot as six pairs of dark chocolate eyes lock onto me with confusion clear on their face. Tucking a piece of hair behind my ear, my eyes look over to Namjoon in desperation calling out for help.

“Y/n! I never thought you would make it.” He practically jumps up from his spot on the floor to come greet me. My small frame is engulfed by his large one in a tight hug. I can’t help but to return the greeting. It’s been a few years since we’ve seen each other in person and it feels good to see my dear friend.

Unwrapping from each other I take a step back to smile up at him, “It’s good to see you Namjoon. There was a six hour delay in L.A. so I guess my one day trip turned into two.”

“That’s terrible. We know all about long flights, hopefully you won’t have another one for a while so you can recover.” He’s always so sincere when we talk, it’s one of the many reasons why I value him as a close friend. I rock on the balls of my feet to look around him to the other members that are sitting completely still and quiet. Observing their leader hug a complete stranger, well to them anyways.

“Oh, yeah I guess I should introduce you all. Everyone this is Y/n, Y/n this is BTS.” Of course I knew who all of them are, almost everyone in the world has heard of BTS. Internally I’m a blushing mess, ever since they’ve debuted I’ve been a fan. They are all so talented and so dedicated to their music and fans. It was always a dream to work with them. And now I get that opportunity. Swallowing the lump in my throat, I wave at them with a large smile spreading on my lips.

“Hi everyone! Like Namjoon said I’m Y/n and from here on out I’ll be the new head choreographer and lead dance instructor for BTS.” Even through my nerves the words come out clear with no mispronunciations, Namjoon beams a huge smile at me, the pride written all over his face. Thank goodness he was one of my main tutors over the years.

Slowly the other rise from their spots on the floor and make their way over to us. Jungkook is the first person to reach us with a clear confused expression, “Really? You don’t look old enough to be our dance instructor.”

He’s instantly reprimanded by Namjoon and Jin with a smack on the back of the head. Honestly I’ll take that as a compliment because right now I must look like a complete mess.

“I thought I raised you better than that. You never ask a lady their age or assume it. Especially someone you just met.” Jin scolds as he extends a hand out to shake mine. I place my hand in his lightly and gently squeeze, muttering a nice to meet you as the others form around us.

“Shame Kookie, you do realize you’re a baby yourself. But yes, she’s old enough and she’s very talented when it comes to choreography and dance. She was worth bringing all the way from America too.” Namjoon defends me as he jabs my ribs playfully at the last comment. A slight heat rises on my cheeks and I shift on my feet slightly trying to distract myself. Another hand reaches out towards me and my face turns into fire as I see the owner, Park Jimin. I can’t help but fangirl mentally, after all Jimin is an amazing dancer! Maybe there are a few things he can teach me after the important stuff is out of the way.

“Nice to meet you.” Jimin’s eyes close into half crescents as I shake his hand, thankfully he doesn’t see the deep blush that sets in as I set my hand into his.

“It’s nice to meet you as well.” Thank goodness I didn’t stutter. When he releases my hand I shove them into the pocket of my hoodie and smile at the others. It all seems so formal, I mean after all I’m going to be working with them almost everyday for at least two years.

“We still have a few minutes left of practice time, is there anything you want to do Y/n?” Taehyung asks with a strange curiosity, almost like he wants to evaluate the abilities that Namjoon just stated. I can’t help but smirk a little at the idea of showing off to them. But first I want to watch them run through a song or two just to get a feel of their styles. Watching them on stage and on a screen is definitely different than in person.

“Will you guys run through a song or two? Your choice of course.” I add in the last part sweetly, the last thing I want for them to think is that I’m going to work them to death.

Jungkook’s eyes widen as soon as the words leave my mouth and he runs off towards the stereo system, phone in hand. Jimin and Hoseok light up as well and run after the maknae muttering which songs they want to do. Yoongi groans about wanting to go sleep but manages to walk over to the stereo with the others, leaving Namjoon and I alone.

The breath I had been holding in comes out as a heavy sigh and I feel some of the tension leave my body. Turning on my heels I look around the room to realize it’s huge, one of the biggest practice studios I’ve ever been in. My inner dancer can’t wait to have it all to myself so I can let loose and create.

“Don’t be so nervous. They are going to love you.” Namjoon teases as he pats the top of my head. I can’t help but roll my eyes, it’s a gesture he’s been doing ever since we met all those years ago in L.A. He’s barely older than me but he uses that to his advantage.

“Easier said than done. You and I have known each other for years now, but I’m just now really meeting the others. I have a lot to live up to considering you guys are so popular and talented. The last thing I want is to disappoint all of you.” All the fears that have been festering in my mind for the past two days just come spilling out and I can’t help but feel silly for saying them. I guess it takes Namjoon for a spin as well considering he’s looking down at me like I grew another head and two more arms.

“You still underestimate yourself. There’s a reason why I wanted you here over everyone else. Everything will work out just fine.” He’s always so optimistic and it’s contagious.

“I guess you’re right.” Shrugging my shoulders, I fiddle with the ring on my finger in the pocket of my hoodie. A nervous tick I picked up in high school.

“Of course I am. Have you heard the new songs I sent over?” He manages to ask just before the others call out his name. His eyes stay on mine as he walks backwards waiting on my answer, a shit eating grin taking over. Of course I’ve already listened to them, he knows that. But he really wants to know if I started on the dance. Of course I have, there’s only three songs left to do and that’s all the solo songs.

“If you can make it through the next 15 minutes I’ll show you afterwards.” Shaking my head at the dimpled filled smile, I lean against the mirrored wall as they get into position for their first choice. ‘I Need U’ starts to fill the silent room and I have to keep myself from dancing along. It’s like fighting against my programming, difficult and almost impossible. Somehow I manage but I let a huge, wholehearted smile break out on my face as I watch in pure wonderment.

They end in their finishing mark and heaving breathing fills the silent space. I understand all too well the exhaustion dancing takes on your body. It a matter of ten seconds they change positions and ‘Baepsae’ comes blasting through the speakers. At this point it’s like they are trying to get me to dance. This song is so upbeat and fun to move along to, I can’t help but bop my head along with the rhythm. Maybe I could do a song with them after this one now that I’m itching to dance. When it comes towards the end, Hoseok takes the middle and starts dancing like a mad man. I can’t help the laugh that escapes my lips at his childish antics.

“That was amazing. Just as I expected from BTS.” The smile never leaves my lips as I walk over to the group of panting boys. They all smile at my compliment, looks like I made a good impression. Jimin and Taehyung whisper quietly to each other, which makes me quirk a brow up in curiosity but it instantly falls as I’m bombarded by questions from Jungkook and Hoseok. The questions range from asking how long I’ve been dancing to when I learned Korean. I can’t help but blink quickly as I try to keep up with everything that’s being said.

“Calm down you two. Can’t you see that you’re confusing her by asking so much at once. Plus I have a simple answer to all of this.” Right now I want to hug Jin for making the whirlwind of muddled words stop but I also want to hide because who knows what he’s going to suggest.

“Which is?” The question comes out soft as I hear Namjoon silently laugh beside me. Oh no, this can’t be good. Jin’s smile almost reminds me of the cheshire cat’s. I gulp as he takes in a deep breath.

“We can all go out for dinner tonight! After we see you dance though. I’ve very curious to see your abilities after RM spoke so highly of you.” What a slick move. Note to self, be cautious around Kim Seokjin. But it solves the problem of me wanting to dance with them. Dinner will be a struggle though since my plane got delayed my luggage didn’t make it with me. It won’t be here until tomorrow so I only have a change of workout clothes and a few toiletries.

“I don’t mind dancing but dinner may be a problem. My luggage didn’t arrive with me so I really don’t have anything to wear out.” I silently pray that this will get me off the hook of going to eat with them. It’s not that I don’t want to, it’s actually the opposite, but my nerves won’t let me be much fun in a social setting right now.

“I can lend you something to wear.” Jungkook is quick to volunteer as is Taehyung, they almost crash into each other as they jump up with arms raised as if to ask the teacher a question. Their enthusiasm makes me want to go now, it also makes my stomach churn. I can’t believe that they want to get to know me instantly. I guess I worried about them not liking me for no reason.

Almost as if Namjoon can pick up on the inner dialogue I’m having, an arm draps itself over my shoulder and pulls me into his side.

“You can borrow something from me. Now what song do you want to dance to?” There’s an underlying question in his words that I pick up on and I can’t help but smirk. I bring my hand from my pocket and tap against my chin as I run through a list of songs.

“How about ‘Fire’?” Yoongi suggests with a slight gummy smile. It’s no secret it’s one of their favorite songs to dance to. I try to hide the evil grin that threatens to take over. I look up at Namjoon who has the same expression as I do.

“Sounds good to me. But who’s spot will I take since it’s really only for seven?”

“You can have mine! I really want to see you dance. Do you mind if I record it?” Jungkook bounces like a bunny around us. How could I say no to that face?

“That seems a little difficult.” Jin’s comment only makes my grin widen. Turning I shrug off the heavy hoodie, good thing I wore a tank top underneath that thing. I toss it back towards the mirrors and notice Namjoon shaking his head in humor. If they only knew….

“Sure, I’ll take your spot Jungkook. Can we hurry though? I have something I want to show all of you.” I say as sweetly as I can. They seem to understand that I have a dance to show them because the next thing I know is being wrangled into Jungkook’s spot. Jimin shoots me a smile, too cute, as I double check my spot.

As the music starts, I see Jungkook whip out his phone and start recording. A wide smile takes over my expression as I move along with the beat, hitting every mark and move with precision. My heart thumps in my chest with excitement as I let my body do what it’s always done best. As we move around I can feel their eyes on me, Jimin and Hoseok have even stopped lip syncing because they have a look of sheer awe. It’s strange but it seems that I’ve somewhat proved to them I’m capable of doing the job.

The music shifts to right before the signature move and I can’t help but replace my smile with a large smirk as I make eye contact with Jimin. This is one of my favorite moves, it’s complex and it shows true skill because of how many steps go into one single move. As expected I hit every move perfectly and the music winds down causing the room to go quiet. In front of us Jungkook’s jaw is dropped in awe as he ends the recording.

“Whoa.” It’s the only word that the shocked boy can think of as we all broke apart to join him Namjoon and my eyes meet and I can’t help the smirk I wear. Reaching down I grab my discarded hoodie and smile up at all of them.

“How can you do that dance just as perfectly as us, if not more?” Hoseok asks with a twisted expression. Shrugging my shoulders I make my way to the doorway, Namjoon laughing right behind me. He takes the lead and opens the door for me as we share a big laugh together.

I turn to look at the other six confused boys and smirk at them,“Because I made it.”

Walking through the threshold I can hear the screams of confusion as the statement sinks in. Namjoon bumps his elbow against me as our laughter is released. I guess it’s going to be hard to hide some things from them.

I manage to find my way back to my office with the help of Namjoon. Without a second thought I plop down into the plush office chair and dig through my bag for my laptop. I can’t lie, I’m exhausted. Trying to sleep on the plane was useless because my nerves were shot for plenty of reason but the main two were I hate flying and I was meeting BTS.

Namjoon waits in the threshold of the door for the other members as I log into my computer to see that I’ve missed a few video calls from my sister. Crap. I totally forgot to call her. The ringer on my laptop goes off making me jump up in my chair. Clicking the answer button I take in a deep breath.

“You didn’t call me!” My sister’s voice echoes through the room and I put my hands up defensively.

“Sorry! My plan got delayed so I was late getting here. I rushed from the airport here.” My own voice sounds foreign. I can’t help the light accent in my voice as I speak my first language. From the door way I can see the others starting to file into the room. Namjoon and Yoongi notice my confession, both sport the same worried look as I look up at them.

“That explains why you look so exhausted. Have you met them yet?” Namjoon smirks and decides to answer my question for me.

“Hi Nikole!” He waves enthusiastically. My younger sister’s face turns bright red as she waves back. It’s no secret to me that she’s harbored a crush on the idol for quite some time, Namjoon thinks it’s just fun to tease her but he’s completely oblivious to the crush.

“Oh hey Namjoon! It’s good to see you again.” I tuck my bottom lip between my teeth to contain the laughter that’s forming in my gut. She seems so flustered it’s beyond hilarious. Nikole’s eyes glare at me through the screen as a light huff vibrates through the speakers.

“Yeah we just got done doing a few run throughs. I was just about to show them what I worked on back at home.” My back falls back into the chair with a soft thud. I watch over the screen as the remaining members walk into my office. Jimin and Hoseok are talking quietly with each other as their eyes look at me with a strange gleam.

“You look like you need sleep. Have you eaten anything yet? Have you even been by your new place yet?” Of course she would be mother hen right now.

“No and no Nikole. Why are you acting like the big sister here?” Hushed whispers start to fill the room around me as Taehyung and Jungkook make their way over to observe the screen. Instantly my sister’s face turns five shades redder and she frantically waves, it’s no secret that she’s a huge BTS fan.

“As you can tell we were in the middle of something so how about I call you back later? It must be later at home, get some sleep.”

“Don’t worry Nikole, the boy and I are going to make sure she eats plenty.” Namjoon has an evil smirk gracing his lips as he makes the bold statement. Looks like there’s no getting out of this one.

“Good! She’s had me and our grandmother worried sick for two days now….Y/n just make sure you take care of yourself.” The tone in her voice shifts into a more serious and somber one. I knew that this move would be tough on everyone close to me but I didn’t think it would be this rough on her.

“I promise. Now you get some sleep, you have class in the morning.”

“Yes mother. Bye love!” She waves enthusiastically as she blows a kiss to the screen, I act like I caught it as I ended the call. Instead of acknowledging the boys around me I immediately start to connect my laptop to the large television hanging on the wall.

“She seems worried.” Jimin’s soft voice catches my attention. All I can bring myself to do is nod slightly at his comment.

“We’ve always been close and now that I’ve moved halfway around the world she’s a little anxious. She’s the sister that keeps me grounded and focused…..” Clicking on the video I swivel the chair with a large smile on my face, “ Speaking of focused, everyone watch the screen. This is what we will be learning Monday.”

All of our eyes lock onto the large screen as their new song ‘Fake Love’ boomed in the background. This one took a lot more work than I originally thought, there are still a few things that I want to tinker with as well. I know that they won’t have a problem learning the moves, I just worry that it won’t be to their liking.

Flicking my eyes from the screen, I look around to see that they are engrossed with the screen. Jimin and Jungkook look surprisingly excited at what they’re watching, Hoseok is dancing in his chair with the beat and I try to stifle a laugh. It looks like my hard work has somewhat paid off, now all I have to do is teach them and make it look seamless.

As the song ends, the screen cuts black and I quickly move to stop the video. I don’t want them to see what else I’ve made until later. Plus I want to hear their honest opinions before I show them too, just in case I need to change anything.

“So what do you guys think?” In an instant seven sets of eyes cut over to me and my breath catches in my throat. Could it be that bad? In my chest my heart starts to thud loudly and I grip onto my hoodie tightly.

“Why can’t we start today?” Hoseok whines as he practically jumps from the chair. Taehyung shares the same excitement as they rush over to the computer.

“Honestly we could but I think everyone is a little exhausted.” I know I am. All I want right now is a scalding hot shower, food and sleep. Hopefully and preferably in that order.

Jungkook gives me the biggest doe eyes I’ve ever seen in my life as he pouts at my answer. How could someone ever say no to that face? Just as I open my mouth to suggest going through the dance one time Namjoon and Yoongi cut in.

“Y/n still needs to get back to her apartment and we all need to get cleaned up for dinner.” Leave it to Namjoon to come to my rescue. Oh wait!

“Speaking of apartment, do you have keys for me?” Namjoon nods slowly as he pulls out an envelope from the top desk drawer. Inside are two silver house keys, but they aren’t the same which is weird, and a car fob. Awesome I’m not going to be stranded waiting on ride. I’ll have to thank Bang-shi whenever I personally meet him.

“Wait...what? Why did you know where y/n’s keys where?” Jin questions. Right now I really don’t want to go through the long history of Namjoon and I’s friendship.

“It was part of my agreement. BitHit is providing housing and transportation as long as I’m working for them.” They should understand that well enough considering BigHit did it for them in the beginning.

“She’s actually staying on the floor above our dorm.” There’s a glimmer in all of their eyes. They really aren’t known for personal space so I can only imagine what plots are running wild in those crazy minds. Namjoon warned before I came over that they might pop up whenever they feel like it.

“Should we head out? I want to start unpacking my stuff tonight. Oh after dinner I mean.”

“Are you going to need some help?” Jin asked nicely with a soft smile. I know he’s only offering because it’s the nice thing to do. But I don’t want to bother them with something so miniscule as unpacking boxes, so I shake my head no.

“I think I can handle a few boxes. Thank you though.” I smile softly as I pack away my laptop into the bag I brought in. My eyes catch sight of my phone that I just hazardly threw into the bag at the airport. Hopefully it isn’t dead because I can only imagine how many times my sister has called.

“How about some company instead?” Jimin offers next, his head cocked to the side with a wide smile spread on his lips. No wonder these boys are hardly ever told no, I mean seriously they are too cute to say no to.

“If you want you can hangout. It’s not going to be much fun though.” A shrugs off my comment and I take that as he’s going to come either way. He energetically nods at the offer and bounces on his toes. I mean seriously how can someone be so adorable? Giggling I roll my eyes and throw my bag over my shoulder.

“Namjoon will you ride with me that way I know where to go?” I could use the GPS on my phone but I would really like a few minutes alone with my friend. All the nerves are starting to get the better of me and my anxieties are starting to take over.

He give me a dimple filled smile and simply nods, but yet none of us move. It’s like we don’t know how to continue. There’s a certain tension in the air, it’s almost suffocating.

“Well then let’s head out. I don’t know about all of you but I’m starving and tired.” Yoongi speaks up as he walks out of the room. Thankfully this gets everyone else moving. Looks like Yoongi has an act for reading the situation in the room better than anyone else.

I walk out of the office last as I shut the door and make sure it’s locked. Namjoon and I walk slowly behind the others as I suck in a deep breath. My hand clenches my phone tightly as my chest starts to constrict, my mind still trying to process what just happened in the past hour. The walk to the parking lot is too quiet but it’s almost soothing.

“They seem more excited than I originally thought they would be.” Namjoon breaks the silence which I’m grateful for but I don’t know how to respond. I actually thought they would be upset that I was going to be working for them. After all, compared to them I’m a nobody.

“That’s good I guess….” There’s no confidence in my voice as we make our way over to car. The key in my pocket feels like lead as I reach for it. Fishing out the fob, the black car beeps as I unlock the doors.

“What’s wrong y/n?” Shrugging my shoulders I open the back door to gently place my bag in the floorboard before jumping into the driver’s seat. Namjoon plops down and watches me carefully as I start the car. We sit like this for a moment before a large sigh leaves my body as I slump back into the seat.

“I guess I’m just worried that they aren’t going to actually like me. I know they really aren’t supposed to but I’m going to be working with you all for a while.” The words come out like a waterfall as I rub my eyes with the heel of my palm. There are too many factors and situations running through my brain for me to be able to function properly. Also I’m sleep deprived and starving, which doesn’t help anything.

“Last time I checked you’re a huge nerd like us, you love what you do and what we do, you are one of the kindest people I’ve ever met which is saying a lot. And you put everything into what you love. I think you’re just overthinking.” Why is it that Namjoon knows exactly what to say at the exact moment? My body relaxes further into the seat but I jump when a large truck honks their horn at us, Jin is waving enthusiastically at us and so is everyone else in the truck. Behind them Jungkook waves from his car. Namjoon waves at them before they take off.

“Like I said, you’re overthinking.” Nodding slightly, I sit back up and put the car into drive and try to follow behind the other two vehicles. Namjoon fiddles with the radio and soft music fills the space. A yawn echoes through the car which makes Namjoon look at me worriedly.

“Are you sure you’ll be able to make it through dinner?” Honestly I’m not but the others looked so excited. And it will be a good way to get to know them all.

“I’ll be fine. I’ll just crash after dinner and wake up early tomorrow.” It wouldn’t be the first time that I’ve gone this long without sleep.

“I’m glad you said that because I don’t think Jungkookie will let you off that easily. He looked really excited to watch you dance. Actually they all did, you really impressed the dance line for sure.” For some reason a sigh of relief washes over me and a smile cracks on my face. I quickly move my arm out and tap his arm lightly.

“So you haven’t told them anything about me?” I know it sounds strange to say it that way but we made an agreement before I signed with BigHit. None of the members should know that Namjoon and I have been friends since they debuted. It makes it easier on my end, because honestly I know a lot about them and I’ve followed them since their debut.

“I only mentioned something to Yoongi just because he knew something was up with me. I didn’t say too much honestly.” I bite my bottom lip as I turn the wheel, Namjoon points to a large building and I can only guess that this is where I’ll be staying for the next few years.

“It’s not like they won’t figure it out. I mean after all you seemed super nervous when you came into the practice room.” He teases me as I pull into a parking spot next to Jin’s truck.

“Of course I was! I mean seriously Namjoon, I’ve wanted this job since the first time you offered it.” I huff out as I turn off the car and unbuckle. My body twists so I can look at him directly.

“I’m just glad you accepted the offer this time. I honestly never thought that you would sign….especially after the incident.” I tense at his words and drop the smile from my lips. That’s something I really don’t want to bring up now, even more so with the six other members watching the exchange in the car.

“Yeah, yeah. We can talk more about that later. We have an audience.” Making my escape, I grab my bag from the backseat and wave to the members that stuck around.

“Come on, I’ll give you a sneak peek of our dorm so we can get you something to wear for tonight. Then I’ll show you to your apartment.” He wiggles his brows at the sneak peek part and starts to walk ahead of me. The others have already started to migrate into the building.

I’m really thankful to have a friends like Namjoon. I never thought that we would be as close as we are now. Some would call it dumb luck when I ran into them at their American debut in L.A. I literally ran into Namjoon after the event and we just clicked when we started talking. We exchanged numbers and kept in contact for the most part, then over the years he would call me when part of their choreo gave him trouble.That’s when he threw out the idea of me coming to work for them. At first it wasn’t an option but I did consult for ‘Fire’ and when the offer came around for a second time I knew that I couldn’t say no. After I signed the two year contract, Namjoon immediately called and we talked for hours. I voiced some of my concerns which he tried to solve, but honestly I’ll have to get over them myself.

“Earth to y/n, you coming?” Blinking a few times I realize that I zoned out in the elevator. A blush creeps on my cheeks as I follow behind him quickly. He opens the front door and I’m honestly surprised at how quiet the dorm is considering seven people live in it.

“How can it be this quiet?”

“Everyone must be taking showers and getting ready. Come on, my room is this way.” We walk down a long hallway and he unlocks the door to his room. Immediately he goes to the closet to pull out a large grey sweater.

“I know it’s not as warm as you’re used to at home, so hopefully this will help.”

“It will, thank you.”

The material looks plush and soft, like my favorite blanket back home. As soon as I grab the sweater from him I’m instantly wanting to wrap myself in the softness. My lips turn into a wide smile.

“Okay then, let’s get you to your own room so you can clean up.” He motions for the door and I can’t help but follow. A new type of excitement bubbles in my stomach as we begin to sneak out of the dorm. Different type of music now fills the enormous space, everything from a smooth jazz style to rap.

“See, it’s hardly ever quiet in here for long.” I can sense the sarcasm in Namjoon’s voice as we exit through the front door. Entering the elevator we go up one floor and he walks me to the second door, he wiggles his brows as I fish out the keys. Sucking in a deep breath, I twist the key in the knob and slowly open the door.

My eyes scan around to see all of the boxes cluttering the space, it was a pain to pack them all up and I even had help now it’ll be just me. I can’t help the small groan that vibrates from my chest as I peel off my shoes. The apartment is spacious with furniture already occupying the space, which is strange because I thought I was going to have to furnish it myself.

“I made a deal with Band PD so you would already have furniture.” Namjoon chuckles behind me and I just shake my head at him. He’s always full of surprises.

“Thank you. Again.” It feels slightly like home, even with my stuff being packed away.

“It’s no big deal. I’ll leave you to get ready, one of us will come get you.” Nodding at him, I wave goodbye as he excuses himself. My feet carry me into the kitchen that’s open to the living room, bar stools line the island as the only place for eating which is fine considering it’s going to be only me here. Continuing my personal tour, I go down the small hallways and open both doors. One is full of boxes and a small desk, good I’ll have somewhere to work from home. The other room is my bedroom, that’s already set up and ready to go.

Tossing my bag on the bed, I plop down and fall backwards. A groan leaves my lips as I relax into the plush bed. I’d give anything just to fall asleep right now but it’s a luxury that I can’t have right now. Because in no time one of the members will be coming to get me for dinner.

Rolling off the mattress, I make my way over to a box that’s marked ‘bedroom tech’. Yes! Ripping the tape off I look for my large speaker and laugh in triumphum as I pull out the pink device. A new wave of energy courses through my body as I open up my bag to pull out my black leggings, Converse and toiletry bag. The clear bag gets tucked under my arm as I unlock my phone to sync the speaker. Music starts to take over the silence as I walk into my bathroom.

A few towels are laid out for me and a small sticky note is hanging onto the mirror. Reaching for the shower handle, I start the water trying to get it as warm as possible as my eyes scan the note.

‘I’m glad to be working with my good friend. -Namjoon ‘

I’ll have to repay him for being so thoughtful, maybe I can get him a new figure for his studio. Setting the devices on the counter I strip off the stiff clothes and jump into the shower.

Rushing from the shower, I quickly tug on the set of clothes I laid out. Well all except the sweater Namjoon is letting me borrow. The last thing I want is for my makeup to ruin it. My spirit is lifted after the refreshing shower, looks like I just needed to wash away the past few days. My eyes scan over my face in the mirror, some of my color has returned and my eyes seem to shine slightly more.

Reaching for my phone I click on my KPop playlist, mostly composed of BTS songs to be honest, and start to dry my hair. It seems Namjoon took everything into consideration for when I landed. He knows I can be a workaholic and knew I wouldn’t come straight here after landing. So he must’ve taken the liberty of digging through my boxes for a hair dryer, another reason why I’ll have to find him a few new figures. After feeling the cool chill when I landed it’s a very welcomed gesture. Even in early November it’s colder here than it gets at home. The last thing I want is to get sick my first week here.

Once my hair is finished I start parting the top portion into two sections for an easy space bun hairdo. Nikole would have a field day laughing at me and my time management but right now I don’t care. The remaining pieces of hair cascade down my back and curl gently at the ends. Moving onto my makeup, I just apply light foundation and mascara. Nothing too crazy, nothing that will cause me to stand out. Topping it off I brush my teeth and smile in the mirror. Not too bad for someone who hasn’t slept properly.

Walking back into my bedroom, I take my time pulling on Namjoon’s sweater. Carefully stretching it so no foundation will smear on the grey material. Since he’s so much taller than me the hem of the shirt lands about mid thigh but overall it fits nicely. Taking one last glance in the mirror I hear someone knock on my front door. The sound surprises me for a second before I dance my way to answer it. I’m expecting Namjoon to come as I open the door quickly.

I was wrong.

My dancing seizes as I’m met with a bright, confused smile from Jimin. The look alone makes my stomach flutter and my throat tighten a little. Great. For a moment neither of us move, I can’t stop my eyes from scanning over him. He’s changed into a denim button up with black jeans. A simple outfit that he makes looks way more stylish than it should.

Shaking my head to break myself out of the thought, I look back at him to see that he’s taking in my appearance too. All of the sudden I feel small under his gaze, which it ironic considering he isn’t that much larger than me. His head cocks to the side and I muster a small smile as my stomach turns into knots.

“Namjoon sent me to get you. The rest of the guys are downstairs in the lobby.” He says sweetly but his eyes are still studying me. I bounce on the balls of my feet and heat rises to my cheeks. The intro for ‘Blood, Sweat and Tears’ echoes through the apartment and Jimin’s eyes look past me for the source of the music. My cheeks burn even more as I turn slightly away from him.

“Sorry. I’ll be right back.” I mutter before taking off back in the direction of my room. Pulling on my Converse, pink hooded jacket I shove my phone and keys safely in my purse. Double checking everything as I return back to Jimin, he’s fiddling with something in his hand. How did I not notice that before?

“Jin and Suga hyung thought it would be best for you to wear this.” His hand extends out to offer me a white face mask. Cocking my head to the side slightly I take the mask and hold it loosely in my hand. When I was getting ready to move over I knew that this was a commonly worn item. I guess it makes sense for me to wear one while I’m out with them. Hide our identity, try to blend in scenario.

“Thank you Jimin. We should get going so we don’t have to keep them waiting.” He nods and leads the way from the apartment to the elevator, once the doors close on us I feel strange. For some reason I feel on edge and anxious around Jimin the most and I just met them. Sure I’ve secretly admired him for years now. It’s no secret that his dancing skills are amazing and I personally can’t wait to have the one on one time with him. Maybe he can teach me a few new skills like his interpretive style. I’ve always struggled with it and he does it so well.

The dinging of the door pulls me from my thoughts as he leads the way. Nervously my hands fiddle with the mask trying to focus on anything but the large mob of men waiting for us. Jungkook and Taehyung are the first to notice our arrival.

“About time! Hurry and put your mask on so we can go.” Jungkook chants as he pulls along some of the other members. He’s so full of energy even after an exhausting day of practice, it’s almost contagious. Almost. My legs act on their own as I gravitate towards Namjoon, towards my personal safety net. I’m trying not to be completely awkward but I’m not sure how to start conversations with them. I watch as the boys cover their faces with either a mask or a thick scarf, I follow suit. The straps tug against the back of my earrings as I settle them in place. It feels so strange to have my face covered and breathing is difficult but I’m sure after a while I’ll get used to it.

“Why are you being so shy with them?” Namjoon’s deep muffled voice fills my ears as we follow at the back of the group down the busy street. Nudging against him my eyes watch the youngest member pick at the oldest as they walk. They all seem so relaxed and carefree with each other and I wonder if they will ever be like that with me.

“Part of me thinks that the only reason why we are having this dinner is because it’s the polite thing to do.” I whisper behind the mask hoping it covers my burning cheeks. It’s a reasonable thought though. After all I never really expected to make friends with any of them except Namjoon. My eyes shift down to my feet as I stare at the concrete below me. So many fears, both rational and irrational run through my mind. Probably from lack of sleep and food. But they really won’t go away until the tension around all of us vanished. Which could be a while.

“Overthinking again.” He teases before calling out to Yoongi. For a split second I can see that he’s debating on if he should turn or not but eventually he does. He stops in his tracks so we can catch up. The other half of the group is a good distance in front of us.

“You seem very quiet y/n. From what RM has said about you I figured you’d be a little more lively.” I have to stop my jaw from dropping to the ground completely, I’m suddenly very thankful for the mask.

“What has he said about me?” Shooting a dagger filled look at Namjoon, I feel my ears start to turn red in embarrassment. What on earth could he have told Yoongi?

“Basically you’re the female version of us is the short answer.” His answer almost stops me in my tracks. There’s no way I’m that similar to them.

“What do you mean by that?” My voice almost cracks as I try to regain my composure.

“You work hard on every project you have, he described you as a kind and sweet person but you aren’t afraid to stand up for what’s right or others. RM also mentioned that you’ll fit in perfectly with us. I haven’t known you long but if RM thinks that highly of you then it must be true.”

My mind gets clouded by the stream of compliments coming from Yoongi. For some reason my eyes water, for just a second, and I blink quickly. It’s nice to know what Namjoon really thinks of me. Smiling behind the mask I tilt my head to the side almost childlike.

“That means a lot honestly. I was afraid that you all wouldn’t like me or that you were only being nice because it’s the polite thing to do.”

It seems it’s his turn to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable because the tips of his ears turn a pale pink. All he responds with is a simple nod as we’re ushered into a restaurant, seems the rest of the boys have already made their way into a closed off room. I’m actually surprised that they weren’t noticed in the streets.

Taking off the mask, I stuff it into the pocket of my jacket as my arm is tugged at. Hoseok looks up at me with a wide smile while I’m being pulled down to sit directly beside him. First I’m stunned that he just willingly wants me to sit beside him. Looking around I see that the three youngest are sitting across from us. Jimin’s lips twist up into a small smile and my stomach flutters at the sight. How can one simple smile make me feel relaxed yet on edge at the same time?

Yoongi plops down beside me while taking off his mask. Jin and Namjoon sit at the head of the large table both bringing up a beer bottle to their lips. So alcohol will be involved tonight….fantastic.

I’m passed a bottle and the giver has a huge smile on his face. Hoseok nudges my arm as he brings his own bottle up. Looks like there’s no getting out of this tonight, maybe I can pace myself and only drink one.

The table around me erupts into multiple conversations, the one that catches is the almost argument that’s being had across me. Literally. Yoongi and Hoseok are leaning towards each other which means they are squishing me. They are going back and forth over which anime or manga series is better, Dragon Ball or One Piece.

“You agree with me right y/n, Dragon Ball is better because at least they can wrap up a story.” Turning my head side to side, evaluating the group around me I shrug my shoulders. Nervously I find my eyes wandering over to Namjoon pleading for help but it looks like I’m being fed to the wolves. Might as well blow my cover now.

“Actually in my opinion Naruto is one the best.” Jaws drop around the table as I bring up my beer bottle. Maybe I can blame my reddening cheeks on the alcohol. I want to sink into the floor and hide under the table with all of the looks I’m getting right now.

“I told you, she’s a nerd.” Namjoon’s voice booms out as he looks at Yoongi with a dimple smile while everyone starts laughing. Huffing a little at his comment I continue to take nervous sips, almost drinking it dry. I guess a second one won’t hurt.

The laughter dies down and Yoongi begins to cook the meat that was brought out just seconds ago. And there’s so much. I know that these boys are always active but I never imagined they would be able to clear out this amount in one sitting. Under the table my phone vibrates and a notification from Bang-ssi pops up. He wants to see all of the video’s I made before moving, thankfully I finished almost all of them. Quickly responding that I will show him Monday morning during our brief meeting, I lock my phone and gaze back up to the younger boys. Jungkook is whispering in both Jimin and Taehyung ears while stealing glances in my direction. No doubt they are curious about something but too torn on whether to ask or not.

Before I had a chance to speak, Yoongi grabs my plate to place food on it. My brows furrow together. Why did he served me first?

“You didn’t have to serve me first Yoongi oppa. I know that you all must be starving.” I try to sound as polite as possible, hiding my confusion. A gummy smile is sent my way and I can’t help but smile back. For someone that tries to act all tough he sure is a sweetheart.

“You’re our guest tonight. Plus ladies first.” Accepting the plate, I look back over to the trio. Yoongi may have served me first but I’ll wait until the others all have food. Which means I have time to interrogate them.

“Jungkook, Jimin, Taehyung, what were you all whispering about?” There’s a smirk forming on my lips as I lean forward slightly. Beside me I hear Hoseok cough from my sudden boldness and I can see Namjoon smirking from the corner of my eye. He knows better than anyone that I can be a force to be reckoned with.

“Will you answer my question if I ask you?” Jungkook has a slight cockiness in his tone. The alcohol giving the boy a little more confidence. He leans forward and rests his chin on his closed fist. His eyes narrow in on me as he gauges my answer.

“Sure.” I say before bringing the new bottle to my lips. One of my brows raises as I wait for him to speak.

“How old are you?” The question causes the two eldest to stop talking with each other and makes them look over in terror. I have to contain a laugh as I cough slightly almost choking on the drink. Placing the bottle down so I don’t spill it everywhere, I swallow and suck in a deep breath.

“I thought I raised you better than that!” Jin yells at the boy. A streak of red across his face from annoyance and embarrassment.

“Don’t act innocent Jin hyung. You are just as curious as us.” Jungkook throws back at him, which makes the strip of red darken. I can’t contain myself as I start laughing. My stomach hurts from how hard the chuckles come out. Wiping a tear from my eye, I straighten myself up and smile over at them.

“I’m 23. I was born in ‘95.” I say sweetly which causes Taehyung and Jimin to smile widely and high five each other. Muttering something about another there being another ‘95 member. I can see the wheels turning in Jungkook’s head as he phrases the next sentence gently and carefully.

“So you’re my noona?” I let the word process in my mind before nodding slowly. Everyone, even myself, burst into laughter and the tension that hung around all of us almost vanishes. Hoseok nudges me while laughing, which makes me lean into him and laugh even harder. For the first time since meeting them I feel welcomed.

“Here’s the bigger question, what’s the exact date?” Jimin asks as he leans over the table. His face looks serious but his eyes give him away. He’s enjoying this little interrogation just as much as everyone else.

“I’m older than both you and Taehyung. My birth month is January.” Smirking I lean back from the table so Yoongi can continue to serve the others. Once all of their plates are filled, we start to eat. More questions are asked throughout the majority of the meal. Mostly by Jimin and Hoseok.

“Where are you from?”

“A southern state in America.”

“How long have you been dancing?”

“My whole life.”

The basic questions. With each wave of questions, they get more personal and I feel us all getting closer and closer to actually forming a friendship. Maybe it will make it easier teaching them the new moves. Oh!

“Jungkook I almost forgot, could I watch the video you recorded real quick?” He nods quickly as he pulls out his phone from under the table. Loading the video I reach out to take the device. Hoseok leans over and places him chin on my shoulder to watch also. This would’ve made me flinch but with the small amount of alcohol in my system and the relaxed atmosphere it just makes me smile.

As the music starts I scrunch my nose at the way I looked. Completely unprofessional and sloppy, but my dancing was amazing after sitting still for so long. But as I watch I notice that there are a few eyes that are glued on me the entire time. From behind I see that Jimin and Hoseok watch me closely. But it’s more Jimin than anyone, I feel my face start to burn as the song ends. In my ear I can hear Hoseok chuckle before removing himself from his perch. Handing the phone back to its owner I silently finish off the remaining beer, guess I’m drinking more than I thought.

My phone starts buzzing loudly and I look down in horror. My sister is calling me again. Looking around at the others to make sure I’m not being rude, they all motion for me to answer. Taking in a deep breath I slide the answer icon.

“Hey Nikole.”

“I didn’t think you’d still be awake.”

“I could say the same for you. Isn’t it like 6 in the morning there?”

“I have an exam today so I figured I’d get up early. But what are you doing now? Are you unpacking?”

“Not exactly.”

“Then what in the world are you doing?”

“I’m at dinner right now.”

“No way. Are you at dinner with BTS?!”

“I’ll tell you later, right now I’m being very rude. I hope you do well on your exam and I’ll text you when I’m back in my room.”

“I’ll hold you to that. You better call Nat too, she’s been waiting. Love you bye.”

“Love you bye.”

Hanging up the phone, I stuff it in the pocket of my jacket. All eyes are on me again and I roll my eyes slightly. Of course my youngest sister would be waiting. I guess I’ll call her when I get back to my room. Taehyung catches my attention, his eyes are wide with a huge smile plastered on his face.

“Can you teach me English?” I’m deadpanned by the question. I never thought that someone would ask me that. But it makes sense for me to teach them, I don’t see the harm in it either.

“Ah...sure, I guess. On off days I can. Well except for tomorrow.”

“Why not tomorrow?” He sounds almost disappointed and a small pout forms on his lips. No wonder people have a hard time telling these boys no.

“I need to unpack. But since I don’t have any sleep clothes because my luggage didn’t arrive with me I might just start tonight. In all honesty I may just end up playing games all night.” Shrugging my shoulders I take the bottle that Jimin offers me, I can’t bring myself I look at him without my cheeks heating up. I can’t stop thinking about how closely he was watching me earlier.

“Do you still want some company?” Jimin offers and I shrug my shoulders again as I manage to look at him. My stomach flutters and flips at the smile he has. I really need to get myself together if I’m going to be any use to them as a choreographer.

“After a full day you must be tired. I’ll be fine. Promise.” My voice almost fails me as I say the opposite of what I mean. Every fiber of my being wants someone to be there, I’m dreading being alone. It was nice earlier but it was only temporary. It would be nice to get to know them too. After all they are going to be the only ones I know here.

“I could let you borrow some Noona. Plus I heard video games so I’m in.” Shifting my gaze over to the youngest he has a wide smile on his lips. Back home we really don’t have nicknames like “oppa” or “noona” so I don’t really know how to feel but my heart squeezes at the endearing way he says it.

“Sounds like a plan then.” I say lightly as I finish the food on my plate. We’ve all been pacing ourselves to draw out the get together but around the table I can see that some of the boys look like they’re about to pass out into their food, mainly Yoongi.

“I guess it’s time to get going before Suga passes out on the food.” Namjoon and Jin agree with Hoseok as they move to pull out their wallets. Reaching for my own I see seven sets of eyes widen as if I had two heads and three arms. I can’t help but furrow my brows together.

“Why are you all looking at me like that?”

“Because we invited you to dinner, so we should be the one to pay.” Jin says bluntly.

“That’s very nice of you Seokjin but I can’t ask for you to pay for my part. It’s only fair if I pay for my own.”

“I’d listen to her Jin, she can be very hard headed when it comes to this.” Glaring my eyes over to Namjoon, I place my card down over the ticket that was placed in front of me. If they think money is an issue then they are terribly wrong. BigHit was more than generous when signing my contract. Not only am I getting paid weekly, they also gave me a large bonus for signing on with them. Guess it comes with being one of the “best young choreographers” in the industry. Even though a few companies say that about me I can’t really see it. I just do this to have fun.

Once all of our cards are returned I sign my name quickly. The curved loops of my name look so foreign compared to the others around me. It will take me a while to learn how to sign my name in Korean so for now I’ll have to stick to cursive.

Leaving the small restaurant the weight on my chest feels slightly lighter as my mask returns to cover my face. As we walk back to the dorms we all joke and I feel like I’m slowly being accepted into the elite group that is BTS. It’s nice to see them interacting without a camera recording every small detail. They seem like ordinary people with no cares except for what’s going on in the here and now. It’s really refreshing to see them this way. Any need for sleep has vanished from my body as I look forward to having some company for a little while longer. The front doors of the building come into view and I breathe heavily under the mask. Fishing out my key, we divide into two different groups since the elevator can’t really hold all of us. I’m left standing with Jungkook, Jimin and Taehyung.

It feels cramped in the tight space with them, they all have too much natural energy. Unfortunately it’s contagious as I find myself bouncing on the balls of my feet. The elevator stops on their floor and Jungkook looks over at me with a wide smile saying he will be right up. Nodding with an equally bright smile I wave goodbye as the doors close so I can rise up one more floor. My feet carry my body to the safety of my apartment. A heavy sigh leaves my lips as I dial Natalie’s number, ripping off my mask.

“It’s about time you called me! I was so worried.” My chest tightens at the worry in her voice. Tears threaten to prick at my eyes as I lean against the counter top.

“I’m sorry, I’ve been busy.” I lean over to remove my shoes and throw them carelessly beside the couch.

“Yeah, yeah. I’ve heard that before. Anyways, how is BTS?”

“Fine I guess. I really won’t get to spend much time with them until next week. Anyways what are you up to?”

“Nikole and I are driving into school.” In the background I can hear Nikole singing along to the song on the radio and Natalie shushes her loudly in my ear.

“How was dinner with seven of the most talented men in the world?” Even from this far away I can see her face, tongue sticking out as her head cocks to the side.

“It was nice. Definitely an icebreaker. Jungkook and Jimin, I think, are going to come over here in a little to keep me company while I unpack.” I flop back on the couch and let my legs hang over the armrest. My body tenses and then relaxes at the feeling. Tonight I’m going to sleep so well.

“Is that really a good idea? I mean afterall you just met them.” Natalie sounds worried and I find myself sitting up and rubbing my cheek lightly as a heavy sigh passes through my lips. She’s right. It’s not a matter of just meeting them, it’s a matter of I’m their choreographer and dance instructor. I shouldn’t be getting too close with them.

“Nat, they are the only people I know. I’m glad that they even offered. After all the next few years will be boring if I don’t hangout with anyone at all.” There’s a pounding on the front door that causes me to jump from my spot. There is no way Jungkook is already here.

“I know. All I’m saying is be careful, the last thing you want is to ruin this chance. Especially after you waited so long.” Nikole scolds me through the phone, typical.

“I know….” As I open the door my jaw drops to the floor. I was only expecting to see Jungkook and possibly Jimin. But once again I’m wrong.

“Nikole, Nat I’ve got to go. Good luck on your exams and send me pictures.” Clicking the phone without waiting for a response I stare at the large group of men, all wearing pajamas or comfortable clothes. Hoseok is holding a bag, it’s contents completely unknown, while both Jungkook and Yoongi are holding spare clothes.

“We all decided to come help!” Namjoon booms in the hallway, a shit eating grin exposing those hard to resist dimples.

It’s going to be a long night.

#bts fanfic #jimin x reader #park jimin #kim namjoon #kim seokjin #min yoongi #jung hosoek #kim taehyung #jeon jungkook #BTS jimin

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extraordinberrily · 5 years

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dance in the flames || mean girls audition

TITLE: Dance In The Flames.

LOCATION: McKinley High Auditorium.

TAGGING: Rachel Berry { @extraordinberrily }, Brittany Pierce { @followthecheerios }, Madison McCarthy { @madsmccrthy }, Sue Sylveter and some Cheerios Rachel has paid in advance to take part as background dancers.

NOTES: Rachel’s audition for the role of Regina George in the school Musical.

{ “OUT TONIGHT”, from Rent: The Musical } , { THE CHEERLEADER/BACKGROUND DANCER CHOREOGRAPHY }, { RACHEL’S CHOREOGRAPHY (influenced) }, { Outfit }, { inspiration tag }

SONG EXPLANATION: “Rent” is a rock musical, which fits by intertwining the directions given for the auditions - which was to sing an ‘up-tempo piece in pop-rock or contemporary musical theatre style’. The song Out Tonight is fun, sexy and free; exploring Rachel’s newfound dancing skills (taught by one miss Brittany Pierce) as well as giving an opportunity to showcase Rachel’s acting ability in a role so far removed from her own personality on the surface.

Rachel’s vocal coach hired by Hiram and Leroy Berry in 2012 had once advised her that before any big audition, the best thing to do was to ease the mind. Panicking, running over last minute details or doing a quick rehearsal were the worst to do simply because it caused you to go on stage in a chaotic mindset - rather than confident and prepared to crush the audition. You need your mind to be clear in order to fully understand the character and allow yourself to get into the head-space required for the relevant number. Going over breathing techniques and exercises were crucial.

The last thing to bring into an audition room is emotional baggage that might affect your performance. If you were unable to do that, the best way to move forward was to use the emotional turbulence to your own advantage; take the negative energy and make it into something beautiful.

Walking onstage, Rachel’s mind was clear; her eyes wide, focused, determined. The bright pink heels gave her an additional height, and she had a certain spring in her step as she adjusted the microphone as she looked out to the audience. “My name is Rachel Berry and I’ll be singing ‘Out Tonight’ from the Broadway Rock Musical Rent.” She paused deliberately, meant for suspense and to allow for whomever watching to fully appreciate what she was saying. “My desired role of choice is Regina George.”

Turning towards Brad, the Piano Guy, Rachel took off the microphone from the stand abruptly, telling him “Hit it!”.

What's the time? Well, it's gotta be close to midnight My body's talking to me It says, "Time for danger"

There was a certain edge to Rachel’s voice; perhaps it was passion, but it was almost more flirty, and a little more fun. With the backing dancers of Brittany and Madison (alongside the other Cheerleaders whom had agreed to help out), Rachel found herself taking a lot more time to focus on the acting element of it. Each expression; each note; each dance move was chosen accordingly. Her determination may have previous been inspired by her general passion towards performing, but now it felt like so much more than that; it was proving Jane and her harsh words wrong, it was using her anger at Finn as inspiration to prove him a thousand times wrong and it was proving to every single person who had disagreed otherwise.

It says, "I wanna commit a crime Wanna be the cause of a fight I wanna put on a tight skirt and flirt with a stranger"

As she sang the last line ‘and flirt, with a stranger’, Rachel turned to Brittany, as practiced, blowing her a quick playful kiss, before turning her back to continue the dance routine.

I've had a knack from way back At breaking the rules once I learn the games Get up, life's too quick, I know someplace sick Where this chick'll dance in the flames

We don't need any money I always get in for free You can get in too If you get in with meLet's go out tonight I have to go out tonight You wanna play? Let's run away We won't be back before it's New Years Day Take me out tonight

Meow.

This was so far out of Rachel’s comfort zone, but with the support of the Cheerios dancing alongside, Rachel could never remember a time when she had felt more alive. Jesse’s words at the party - ‘seeing your wild side is very hot’ - echoed in her brain as a constant reminder that this was worth it. She wanted this role more than anything. But a small part of her was inspired by Jesse’s words; he probably had no idea how much of an impact his words had made from the party, and their...kiss probably meant nothing more than a drunken locking of lips. But besides from the obvious side affect of drugs that the character in this Musical was taking, this song was about enabling yourself to be something you aren’t and a girl craving attention and love from someone else. And Rachel felt that more than anything.

As the song progressed, so did Rachel’s confidence; she began to encompass a newfound sexiness and Regina George aura that hadn’t quite existed before. Performing live always gave her such a rush of giddiness and excitement, and it was only when she was singing the final verse that Rachel realized she was almost there.

I'll let you make me out tonight Tonight, tonight, tonight

Naturally, it wouldn’t have been a number performed by Rachel Berry if she hadn’t added in additional runs to the ending sequence - changing it from the original E5 to a semitone higher. More than anything, the choice was made to give her performance a little more bite, as well as to show off her expanding vocal range.

Once the song had ended,Rachel was in complete shock, turning to Brittany and Madison with a grin. Regardless of what Coach Sylvester thought, they had totally killed that performance. With a final ‘thank you’ to the audience, Rachel turned on her heel and made her way off-stage, feeling a major wave of relief begin to wash over her. She was always going to be critical, and she knew there were minor things she could have improved upon, but that was personally the best performance of that number she had ever performed.

Take that, Sue Sylvester.

#{ para. all. }#{ para. solo. }#{ tag. regina george. }

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siphen0 · 5 years

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I’m not going to lie, I was a bit taken back when it hit me that last week’s episode of One-Punch Man was the end of the second season. For as big as the story has become since the first season, in your mind you were definitely prepared for much more than another twelve episode stretch. When I got over this, I was able to take a step back and really reflect on the way that I felt about this season in contrast to the first. There was a lot to like about it, even if some fans couldn’t get past the change in animation. Today, I really wanted to take the time to talk about those things worth recognizing.

Let’s start with the animation. Yes, there is no denying that the quality of the art and animation was a step down switching to J.C. Staff. The same way that it was a bit of a step down when they change up the music. However, was it bad? Not at all. Honestly this is something that anime fans have to soon grown out of. Change doesn’t automatically mean that it sucks. It simply means that you are used to that set bar, and need to be able to adjust when it’s not there. The detail was still excellent, as well as the effects. We may not always get the same oomph in their hits, but there is still impact where it counts. I mean, the scenes with Genos in particular looked great for the heat effect alone that they were able to lay over him. The same could be said for Garou who really tested what a real physical fight could look like in action instead of just getting that one hit and moving on.

The second thing they did great was striking a perfect balance between plot progression and action. Season one was fun because this was simply us getting introduced to a world where being a hero is how you measure popularity, and understanding where that can be silly, and where it can get dangerous. The second season took it a step further by actually giving us a plot to follow. The rise of the Monster Association was the best thing ever for them to give us as the danger. Now we could see what this end of the world prediction was leading up to and why it made sense that the HQ expanded to prepare for it. I mean, we weren’t introduced to just one big bad, there was so many villains popping out of the woodworks and all of them brought their own unique brand of evil. This was much better than seeing heroes fighting with each other over trivial things.

Credit where it is due as well that they took advantage of so many heroes between all the classes. At this point they could have easily just focused on the S-Class heroes and the B-Class heroes who stood in Saitama’s way. That would have been too easy if that was the case. It showed dedication to world-building and character exploration that we could get to know this many heroes in the span of twelve episodes. Each one of them was able to stand out for the bravery that either went into stopping the monster invasion or the hero hunter, Garou.

Above all? Their greatest accomplishment this season was the way that Genos and Garou stole the show as both hero and villain. I don’t think there was a single character from either category who was able to stand out more. Let’s start with Genos. In terms of heroes, there hasn’t been a more memorable string of battles than what we have gotten out of Genos. To say that he has learned from his past mistakes would be an understatement. This season saw so much improvement from the Demon Cyborg who was so overconfident in his abilities that it was almost child’s play to be able to catch him off guard due to his arrogance. I mean there was one episode where he took out how many monsters one after the other and it wasn’t just simply burning them to a crisp. He actually jumped into the battles and found himself challenged. That is more than you can say for some of the others. And let’s not forget his most recent body modifications. These upgrades were slick, and I’m not just talking about the design either. I appreciated that they did not do the predictable thing and break this one completely like they have in the past.

As for Garou, this hero hunter blew just about everyone out of the water. Half of the battles we have experienced in this second season would not have been as lit if it were not for what Garou was able to bring to the table. He knew his targets, he knew how to fight on their level, and nothing stood in his way when he was pumped for that victory. He gave new meaning to the word perseverance! I love Saitama, but he’s not the guy you’re going to turn to if you want a real fight, and with real choreography. That effort went into both Genos and Garou, and they did not waste one scene with them laying down the pain. Garou’s movements were also so fluent. It was one thing to say that he was an expert at martial arts, but it was another thing entirely to see him actually prove that to you. Matching fighting styles, countering them, he put so many to shame who should have been able to take him out with ease if they weren’t so focused on the pageantry in being a hero.

The last thing had to be the pacing and momentum of this second season. Things did admittedly get a bit off track with the martial arts tournament, but outside of that it was consistently a thrill when the Monster Association initiated their assault on all the cities. With so many fights going on at the same time, there was very little room for them to spend an episode joking around or prolonging something that they knew they could easily jump into.

When taking all of these things into account, One-Punch Man season two was a great season even if it wasn’t as visually astonishing as the first. Better direction, more character engagement, and more notable fight scenes gave you a lot more to look forward to each week without feeling as though you weren’t being satisfied with real stakes.

#gallery-0-4 { margin: auto; } #gallery-0-4 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 33%; } #gallery-0-4 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-0-4 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */

The Best of One-Punch Man Season Two I'm not going to lie, I was a bit taken back when it hit me that last week's episode of One-Punch Man was the end of the second season.

#Anime #One Punch Man #One-Punch Man Season Two #spotlight #TV #TV Review #TV Series

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aftermathdb · 6 years

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DEATH BATTLE Review: Nightwing vs. Daredevil.

The ninety ninth battle. It’s been what?- Almost eight years, and we’ve come this far. This episode is just… full of a lot of firsts. Like it being the very first Live-Action Battle. Two acrobats, fighting it out in the arena. One will live, and the other……… will be resurrected because let’s face it, this is comic books.

Nightwing′s Preview.

Nightwing: The first Robin, and the first one to leave the nest… Er, cave, as it were. We know how this goes, we see some background and a quick overview of his stats.

We get a rundown of some of the things he’s done, and some of the feats he has. We also get the backstory as to him falling out with Batman, and his graduation to become Nightwing.

Especially since we also get to see how Bruce failed a second time to keep a Robin by his side…

(Red Hood vs. Winter Soldier confirmed?)

Nightwing’s arsenal also gets a page, much like many other previous characters.

By the looks of it, only the variants in the Wing-Dings will give Nightwing an edge at all.

And Nightwing’s feats put him ahead of the game. These are quite impressive for just a regular human with intense acrobatic and martial arts training.

(I’m starting to get the feeling that being able to sneak around Superman is becoming less and less of an impressive feat. But sneaking around Batman is an impressive feat. Give that guy a taste of what he give Commissioner Gordon for a change!)

Overall, Nightwing seems very primed for this battle. It honestly feels like a great way to introduce the character, and unlike his mentor, Nightwing actually possesses a sense of humor and (to me, personally) a lot more likable.

The end line is from when he introduced himself to Starfire after she got flung into the future. Remember that episode?- Man, I miss that show.

Daredevil′s Preview.

Daredevil has an edge or two right off the bat. As a kid who trained to be like his father, he was a pretty good acrobat and fighter. Plus, he’s got a good Netflix show. And thanks to that, I’m sure we all know his backstory. Boxing dad, chemicals in the eyes, superpowers, rigged match gone awry, and dead parents. Because what’s a superhero without dead parents?

(What do comic book creators have against parents?)

But anyways, on to the more kick-ass stuff.

Matt’s overall stats gives him an edge in height and weight. But that’s not going to mean much unless he has some abilities and skills to back him up.

So by the looks of it, they’re both equal in terms of being at peak human physique, and are fairly even in martial arts skills. Daredevil’s radar sense seems to also let him have a perfect detection of his surroundings, and we even get a comparison on how it works.

Overall, his arsenal is what would really set him apart.

Considering that this isn’t as versatile as Nightwing’s arsenal, it says a lot about how much Daredevil relies on his powers and skills to win fights.

And his feats are quite something to be impressed about.

(So they’ve both broken concrete. Good to know).

End line is something from his series. At least, I think so… It’s been a while since I last watched it.

The Battle Itself.

There is no animator for this Live-Action battle. Nightwing will be portrayed by Danny Shepard while Daredevil will be portrayed by Tyler Tackett. This is also a co-lab with ismahawk, who made a five-part Nightwing fan series. So, look out for references to that. Devil of the Night is composed by Brandon Yates.

So, for this being the first live-action battle, there’s a lot of firsts. And the battle opens with Nightwing trying to sneak up on Daredevil, but it not working because… it’s Daredevil.

The primary reason for the fight starting is because they’re both after a briefcase that is important to a case they’re both working.

(Honda: If you hit the trunk, it’ll open).

We get a staredown, and then the action starts.

So, both of them seem to be fairly evenly matched at the start. And the acrobatic work is pretty good too.

Now, you’ll have to excuse me, because I am not exactly an aficionado in live-action fights like this. I’ve been spoiled by the high-budget movies, and high-budget CGI, so I might not be the greatest expert here. Since these sort of live-action comic shows are typically more story-driven than action-driven, it feels a bit… slow.

an aspect about the fight that I don’t really like is that the battle has pauses for brief moments. While I get that it’s so that the actors can catch their breath, it feels out of place here. Had this been a gun fight, where the combatants would be taking cover behind different objects, there would be a better justification. But here… it feels really out of place.

(At least we get some flips. Every Death Battle needs at least two good flips to feel real (Dammit Torrian, you’ve spoiled us viewers with your choreography and flips)).

And Nightwing’s tech gives him something to figure out about DD. He’s got some sort of anomaly in his brain, and he [Nightwing] is about to formulate a hypothesis. Because he has been trained by Batman.

The little wrestling portion seems to have dislocated Daredevil’s shoulder, but true to Daredevil fashion, he just fixes it himself. What a boss.

Anyways, Nightwing seems to be eager to test his hypothesis by rendering the arena completely dark. And neither fighter is hindered a bit. Daredevil’s super senses and Nightwing’s nightvision tech essentially make the darkness moot.

And just as Nightwing is about to attack, Daredevil deflects the weapons, just like how it was mentioned that he could do back in his rundown.

(The wing-dings landed in a car’s door)

The battle rages on until it Daredevil pins Nightwing down and is ready for a finishing blow in

5…

4…

3…

2…

1…

Nightwing uses the sonic wing-dings from before and overloads Daredevil’s senses before taking him down.

By the way, that last shot there is a reference to the Nightwing series by ismahawk (I told you to look out for references)

(Jeez, Dick. You just killed a blind guy).

Verdict + Explanation.

So, overall, most of the fight was dead even. Nightwing took strength thanks to several of his feats like keeping the jaw of a shark closing in on him, and Daredevil took speed thanks to his bullet deflection narrowly outpacing Nightwing dodging gunfire.

And in terms of arsenal and equipment, they were also pretty even. Neither suit would be hindered by electricity, and both were very durable.

But much like Spider-Man vs. Batman, only one of them had something that would stop the other in their tracks. Much like how Spider-Man’s spider-sense renders Batman’s stealth useless, Nightwing’s sonic wing-dings would cause a sensory overload on Daredevil’s end.

And the way that Nightwing could deduce it also plays a minor factor. As he is a smart cookie, and his mask sensor would let him know something was up.

Some notecards also indicate that Nightwing could also take advantage of other aspects of Daredevil’s powers, and turn them against him. Effectively reducing Daredevil to just sonar, smell, and other senses outside of his ultra-sensitive touch.

In the end, both fighters were very even, making really feel as if it could go either way, but Nightwing’s detective skills and varied arsenal ended this bout.

Overall impression.

Overall, it feels like a big factor was a variant of the “He’s Batman” argument, but after going back and listening to the explanation a few more times, it became a lot more clear that between the two of them, fifty-five times out of a hundred, Nightwing would come out on top.- At least, that’s how it came off to me.

The pauses in the fight didn’t really feel appropriate, but for a first live-action battle, it was really great. Overall, I’d say that it earns a good 8.6/10. It doesn’t have the same feel as other battles, and I feel that it would take some getting used to. So really, 8.6/10, with some room to grow.

Next Time…

To be honest, I wasn’t sold on battle 100. I was honestly expecting something like Samus vs. Master Chief, Galactus vs. Unicron, Darkseid vs. Thanos, Ruby vs. Maka, or even Wario vs. Rouge. Heck! I was also expecting something like Jaune vs. Tucker, or Danny Phantom vs. Jake Long! But this… This was unexpected. It took a comment on the site to really sell me on it, and even then, I’m still a bit hesitant.

So yeah. Mario vs. Sonic. It’s happening again. While I’m more looking forward to seeing Wiz and Boomstick, it took this comment to really make me see this as not being a waste of time:

So, while I can understand why they tried to hype it up, it took some convincing.

Is there a fight that you want me to review? - Send an ask/request, and I’ll look into it!

Do you want to read my fanfic based around DEATH BATTLE itself? click here!

Thank you for reading, and I hope to see you next time for…

A new rematch.

#Deathbattle #Death Battle #screwattack #review

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violetsforkino · 6 years

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‘riveriver’ vol. 17 ☾ march '18 ( translated by yutopia )

pentagon violet moment

delicately beautiful heart-broken love song to color the street into violet

the great ambition of self-produced idol

pentagon debuted with 'gorilla’ in japan in march last year recorded a good sales result with their 2nd japan original mini album 'violet’. started with 'violet’, a hit song handled by member kino for the first time, it also included 4 original japanese songs, and shone with the weekly no. 1 ranking in all tower record branches.

the perfect 10 members cherish team work and take care of staff. they will check out videos of overseas artists when they have time, and face music seriously every day. they understand themselves better than everyone else, and the strong ability of members to produce in their own directions is the biggest advantage of pentagon.

which song is your favorite one in the album 'violet’? kino: 'love’, since i feel like it is a song we sing for fans. yuto: me too. it’s a song that’s easy to remember. yanan: should be the title track 'violet’ (japanese version). it’s a song full of kino’s love. jinho: yeah, i think so! it’s also a song written by our adorable brother. wooseok: the melody is good enough to get you goosebumps. shinwon: it’s in a very painful and sad vibe. hui: i’ll choose 'up up up!’. it’s very delightful and i’ll feel better as i sing. e'dawn: me too! i like the song itself, not to mention the performance making it even more enjoyable! hongseok: i’ll choose 'wake up’. i like japanese anime very much. i think it will be very catchy as a theme song of anime.

please appeal to us any point in the title track 'violet’ to listen kino: same as the korean version, that yuto saying 'yuto-da’ before his rap. it sounds very sweet and i’m satisfied. i’ve never thought that this phrase will be so suitable in such a delicate song (laugh). yeoone: it should be the harmony between the sad lyrics and the beautiful melody anyway. i usually like this kind of song. e'dawn: my own part (laugh), because i rap wholeheartedly. yanan: i think so, probably. you can’t be unconfident to your own part. wooseok: no matter how many times kino sings, 'yeah violet yeah,’ at last, i still like this.

korean version is co-produced by kino, e'dawn, yuto, and wooseok jinho: the lyrics are very nice itself, especially kino who is used to reading a lot of books and i think he is emotional. we’ll be happy if you listen to the song while paying attention to the lyrics. kino: i always want to compose a song in the theme of my favorite color purple. but it’s a bit different to express love or emotion with purple… anyway, i wrote the lyrics with the thought of having more people feel empathy. hongseok: it expresses a painful feeling gently. i like this kind of view of the world. shinwon: 'your words are as pretty as a flower’ (korean lyrics). the lyric is a point as well. it sounds very dramatic.

how’s the choreography? hui: in the 2nd chorus, there’s a dance presenting the image of flower. please check out that part!

kino also took part in composition. after it’s finished, who’s the first one to listen? kino: shinwon hyung. he told me that 'it’s a very nice song,’ and i was very happy.

'violet is a kind of flower’ what is your favorite flower kino: digitalis (foxgloves). as i mentioned before, i like purple the best. therefore i think purple digitalis are very good. hui: mine is usnea. i think the color is very pretty. hongseok: mine is hibiscus syriacus (korean rose). it’s the national flower of korea hongseok: yes. flowers in pink are very beautiful. anyone who choose in the reasons other than color? yeoone: rose! since it’s the most passionate flower. e'dawn: camomile. it’s very cute. yuto: i like dandelion. wooseok: my favorite one is saffron. yanan: i prefer trees over flowers. jinho: i’m… not interested in flowers (laugh).

'beautiful’ one of track list is composed, written, and arranged by mr. jung ilhoon from btob in the same company. yanan: he is a senior who always supports us. i learned a lot in the opportunity to spend time with him. wooseok: it’s happy to have a further relationship with ilhoon hyung. hongseok: he also told us that 'let’s compose together if there’s a chance. jinho: he gave us direction nicely during the recording. what advice did he provide at the site? yeoone: he said 'if you sing confidently, it can be conveyed to the fans for sure.’ kino: during the recording, although there’s many difficulties, he praised us, 'you did well,’ and we became more eager to do better. e'dawn: when we are praised, we felt more natural and got more power. hongseok: he praised me, 'your voice is very good.’ hui: these praise gave us a lot of confidence, and he gave us many advices as well. yuto: such as, 'try your best to be aware of the strong and weak of the song. wooseok: 'try to imagine the image of each word one by one,’ he said. shinwon: he gave us detailed direction of the atmosphere of the song, and we could complete the recording safely.

each of you participated in the production including lyrics and melodies. when and how do you usually compose and write? kino: once there’s a melody or lyrics appearing in my mind, i will arrange the compositoin immediately. jinho: when a melody or idea appears, instead of working alone, i will discuss with others when i am writing. hui: i compose songs according to the mood of the day. wooseok: i also brainstorm lyrics in the mood of the day. e'dawn: i’m not the type of 'in the mood of the day.’ i always keep processing composition every day. yuto: when i am producing music, i always have myself bear in mind to explore my imagination broadly. hongseok: i’m not quite used to doing it myself, so i foten do it with kino. i will discuss concept and theme with kino in the process.

which artists or producers are you influenced by?hui: i’m influenced by mr. yoon jongshin greatly. kino: mura masa, a producer from the u.km and a singer-songwriter troy sivan. i feel like i share similar emotion with the two and i am also influenced at the production aspect. e'dawn: i want to produce music that gives others power like michael jackson does. wooseok: for me, it’s american hip-hop artist joey badass! shinwon: i’m much influenced by one direction member harry styles. i’m thinking about trying to compose with guitar like he does. yeoone: i’m not influenced by particular artist. i just listen to new age music a lot.

not only pentagon’s songs, hui also handled wanna one’s 'energetic’ and 'never’, showered in the spotlight in the name of 'composition idol’ in a leap. hui: i am sincerely grateful to the attention towards my music, i feel honored. i will work hard to present music in different genres hereafter.

2017 is a very compacted year. look back then, how do you feel> kino: since we did a lot of things, i think we really worked hard as pentagon. jinho: i feel like all the things i wanted to do were achieved, so it’s a proud year. shinwon: it’s a very good standing point towards 2018. wooseok: but i think we are still at the starting line. e'dawn: i think it’s a year that we have ot be thankful to those who support us.

if you praise yourself at this moment? yanan: we shouldn’t praise ourselves, because we’re still not good enough.

then, if you give yourself a yell, what would you say other than 'what a hard year! fighting for this year too!’? hui: i want to say 'don’t forget your initial resolution this year!’ e'dawn: 'don’t forget your thankful heart’

other than yourself, if you have to choose a member to give out some messages, to whom and what will you tell him? yuto: i want to tell yeoone hyung that 'what a hard work for drama shooting!e'dawn: i will tell yanan that, 'thank you for being the mascot of pentagon’ wooseok: i will say to yanan hyung as well, 'let’s work hard hereafter!’ kino: i will say to hui hyung. although 2017 is tremendously hard year, he put so much effort in for pentagon. 'don’t feel stressful from now, huiting!’ jinho: i want to say something to hui, too. 'for being a leader, and writing songs for us, i am always grateful!’ shinwon: i want to tell hui and e'dawn hyung who participated in triple h that, 'here you have run without any rest in 2017, it’s been really hard!’ hui: i want to tell all the members that, 'you’ve worked hard this whole year. from now on, let’s do our best as happily as we do at this moment!’ yeoone: i also want to say, 'what a hard year,’ to all of us. hongsoek: we have overcme a lot of difficulties in this year. yanan: i want to praise us, but we may have feel self-satisfied, so i chose not to praise! (laugh).

what’s your personal target this year? kino: i want to give out better songs. hui: i want to compose many songs. jinho: i want to compose good songs! yeoone: i still want the group to shine on the 1st place of music program. hongseok: i want to try on dramas, movies, and musicals, etc! yuto: to train up my ability in rap, lyrics, and composition. shinwon: i want to have myself grown more. e'dawn: i want to show a better me! wooseok: i want to work out harder and build up my body. yanan: i want to work hard in order to be able to have promotions in china.

finally we’ll have leader to tell us pentagon’s ambition this year hui: we hope to have more meeting with universe who loves pentagon, and to deliver our music to more people. to get more love, we will do our best hereafter!

after going through mnet 'pentagon maker’, they debuted in 2016. they are a 10-member group with multi-nationalities included korean, japanese, and chinese. they debuted in japan in march 2017. the members share a strong bond with each other, and their biggest charm is that all of them are able to compose and write. the japan 2nd original mini album 'violet’ released on 17 jan became a good start of 2018.

#pentagon #ot10 #interview #translation #riveriver

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aion-rsa · 3 years

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My Hero Academia Season 5 Episode 5 Review: Operation New Improv Moves

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This My Hero Academia review contains spoilers.

My Hero Academia Season 5 Episode 5

“We’re birds of a feather.”

Battles are chaotic and it can be easy to focus on only the immediate danger within them. Survival can give the illusion of strength, but sooner or later this facade crumbles away without the right preparation. “Operation New Improv Moves” is an exciting My Hero Academia episode that presents another grueling fight between the students of Class 1-A and 1-B, but it also speaks to how essential it is to adopt a bird’s eye view perspective. This vantage point, which considers the whole situation and doesn’t get lost in the specifics, proves to be fundamental in not just battle, but also life. Hawks emphasizes this to Fumikage Tokoyami during his internship and it’s a pivotal lesson for his current clash against Class 1-B.

“Operation New Improv Moves” does primarily focus on the second battle in this Joint Training Arc, but it’s exciting that the first fight’s conclusion still has everyone abuzz. Midoriya’s brawl isn’t for a while, but he already can’t help but devise a strategy with Mineta. Mina Ashido’s Instant-Kill Floating Ball also better be the Chekhov’s Gun of this Joint Training Arc. This season has largely been fun and games so far, but it’s nice to see a fire get lit under everyone as their competitive instincts become unleashed.

Shinso and Asui were the big stars of last week’s win for Class 1-A, but they’re still frustrated over their inability to pull off a flawless victory. It’s a throwaway moment, but All Might actually dwells on it quite a bit with the other Pro Heroes. They break down why “frustration” is the perfect emotion to feel after a victory and that there are few expressions that are more representative of a hero. Shinso and Asui’s self-criticism expands into general pointers for the entire team by Shota Aizawa.

This is a stretch of episodes that’s designed to be about combat, but it’s appreciated that the previous fight’s results are studied. The entire team learns how they can generally improve upon their performance and it opens the door for all of these characters to debut new strategies whenever they’re next in the spotlight. In contrast, Vlad pushes much more of a tough love approach on Class 1-B’s students. They receive derision and frustration more than they do encouragement and advice.

Class 1-B also exhibits some reverence towards Kirishima and other heroes for their work against the Shie Hassaikai. It’s a fleeting detail, but it helps continue to flesh out My Hero Academia’s growing world. Some of the students from Class 1-A have achieved remarkable things, even by Pro Hero standards, and so it’d be kind of ridiculous if nobody was talking about it. It also plays better that Class 1-A doesn’t get cocky from these past achievements and it’s instead their opponents that mystify them through these rumors over their past.

“Operation New Improv Moves” provides an especially exciting and eclectic mix of fighters. From Class 1-A is Tokoyami, Hagakure, Yaoyorozu, and Aoyama, all of which have extremely unique Quirks that have never fully gotten their due yet. Class 1-B pulls together just as interesting of an assortment of heroes.

Itsuka Kendo has gotten some attention before in the series, but the rest represent some of Class 1-B’s weirdest individuals, with Quirks that pull from mushrooms, comic onomatopoeia, and living darkness. Before literal darkness takes over the battlefield, there’s some metaphorical shade thrown at Yaoyorozu from Kendo over how they both “fit into the same box.” A very “there can only be one” Highlander mentality begins to fester between students, but it’s best reflected in Tokoyami and Kuroiro.

Everyone in this fight has a lot to contribute, but it ultimately turns into a war between shadow-centric Quirks between Fumikage Yokoyami’s Dark Shadow and Shihai Kuroiro’s Black Quirk. It was inevitable that My Hero Academia’s Joint Training Arc would pit counterpoints of characters against each other, but “Operation New Improv Moves” is thrilling rather than predictable simply because Tokoyami and Kuroiro’s Quirks are so powerful and mysterious.

This season’s secret weapon continues to be an inspired use of Quirks when it comes to battle strategy rather than victory through brute force. Tokoyami’s Dark Shadow can unleash vicious attacks, but here he uses its size and maneuverability to scout the entire field and immediately locate the enemy. Unfortunately, Tokoyami’s increased aptitude with his Quirk only becomes more of an advantage for Kuroiro. Kuroiro’s Black Quirk allows him to commandeer Dark Shadow and turn it against Tokoyami’s team in a very powerful display.

What’s also so effective about the competitive nature between Tokoyami and Kuroiro is that it functions as this collective origin story for this rivalry. “You and I share a destiny,” Tokoyami coldly hisses at Kuroiro. “Operation New Improv Moves” successfully turns two fringe characters into individuals that feel like they could fuel their own spin-off, which is really the power of My Hero Academia’s characterization and what this new season has the ability to tap into. I’m not sure if Tokoyami’s accusation that Kuroiro is a “Dark Fallen Angel” is based on anything, but it’s a straight up savage burn and an effective way to label your opponent as the villain in this feud.

My Hero Academia’s Deku and Bakugo on Season 5, Class 1-B, and Dark Betrayals

By Daniel Kurland

My Hero Academia Season 5: What to Expect

By Daniel Kurland

The choreography around Tokoyami’s flailing Dark Shadow and Shihai Kuroiro as they move around the pipe-filled area gives this episode such a gripping visual quality. It’s easily one of the best uses of an environment for a fight that My Hero Academia has ever done. Both the Dark Shadow and Black Quirks are already fascinating, but they really get to show themselves off through the labyrinthine nature of the battlefield. The “flying” solution to Tokoyami and Kuroiro’s feud plays well and also feels like natural development for Tokoyami’s character. Deku’s been on the sidelines for a lot of this season, but I love that his reaction to this is a freaking “Egg of Columbus” reference as if it’s a totally natural thing to reference in this situation.

It comes as a surprise when the episode jumps back in time a few months to chronicle Tokoyami’s Quirk development alongside Hawks, but it’s an approach that actually really works well despite how it stops the action dead in its tracks. Not every episode should resort to this strategy, but it provides valuable context for not only Tokoyami’s evolved powers, but also the ideology that drives him forward. More Hawks is also never a bad thing.

Tokoyami and Kuroiro are mostly able to resolve their fight, but that’s merely one piece of this busy battle. The final moments of “Operation New Improv Moves” initiates “Plan B” where Kinoko Komori unleashes a fungal apocalypse on the battlefield that forces Class A to quickly develop a new battle strategy that carries over into the next episode.

When it comes to the supporting players in this fight, I’ve always been very skeptical of Yuga Aoyama and his Navel Laser Quirk as anything other than comic relief, so I was kind of hoping that this battle could legitimize the hero. “Operation New Improv Moves” features more smart use of Quirk application since both Aoyama’s Navel Laser and Toru Hagakure’s Invisibility Quirk both make use of light refraction, which allows them to actively mess with Kuroiro’s strategy. Aoyama still isn’t elevated above a novelty supporting character, but this does allow him and his Quirk a little more depth that goes a long way. It’s possible that both he and Hagakure will both have more to do in the concluding half of this encounter.

The animation in this episode that brings these fast-paced Quirks to life is a triumph, but Yuki Hayashi’s score is so excellent here that it deserves some special attention. Hayashi has never been a slouch, but he’s seriously upped his game for this season and every scene becomes more powerful thanks to the operatic music that accompanies these tense moments. It’s the first time in a while that the series’ music consciously stood out to me in terms of its ability to match the animation.

If there’s any major problem to this season of My Hero Academia so far is that there’s a strangely reflective quality to the episodes that bides a lot of time and leaves every episode feeling padded. This look to the past makes sense on some level since this season is all about a reunion and a chance at redemption between 1-A and 1-B from the events of season two’s Sports Festival. However, “Operation New Improv Moves” definitely gets indulgent in this regard. There are several moments where U.A. High’s faculty reflect on the progress that their students have made, which it’s possible to do without devolving into full-on flashbacks of old footage.

All Might’s memories about Midoriya even feel trumped up to some degree and certain moments like his performance in the School Festival concert shouldn’t necessarily be included among Midoriya’s mastery of One For All or his defeat of Kai Chisaki. My Hero Academia is a rare example of a shonen series that doesn’t get lost in filler material and it’s an incredibly faithful adaptation of the manga, but sometimes the cost of this is episodes that subtly run the clock and don’t really get moving until the halfway mark. When “Operation New Improv Moves” is focused on battle it’s absolutely fantastic, but it shouldn’t have to tiptoe around its action to this degree.

“Operation New Improv Moves” could be a tighter episode in some areas, but it still succeeds and even improves upon last week’s solid battle. It’s comforting that My Hero Academia allows this fight to spill over into the next episode and that every showdown in the Joint Training Arc won’t have the same “one and down” structure to it. There’s a strong mix of action, character development, and emotion through this exercise and it does exceptional work to highlight some of the anime’s unsung heroes. This battle continues to rage on, but Tokoyami’s narrative softly receives resolution as he passes the torch over to Yaoyorozu for the next leg of this confrontation.

cnx.cmd.push(function() { cnx({ playerId: "106e33c0-3911-473c-b599-b1426db57530", }).render("0270c398a82f44f49c23c16122516796"); });

And the biased commentary protest group continues to fight the good fight. Never surrender.

The post My Hero Academia Season 5 Episode 5 Review: Operation New Improv Moves appeared first on Den of Geek.

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mariaashby64 · 7 years

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Random Review (2)

Voltron season 4 review.

Overall this season was somewhat darker while still enjoyable, and it had many thoroughly hilarious moments. The visuals were amazing and the plant designs still managed to awe me. Fighting and the choreography of the battles were stunning and well planned. We also get some good moments from all the characters, some more than others of course.

Like my last review I will be covering:

Plot

Characters

Feels

Graphics and sound

Any extra points

And that’s about it for the spoiler free overview. I will be getting into the good stuff below.

Plot:

It’s an, interesting carry on from Season three. It kinda felt like some of the stuff we were working towards in season 3 got discarded this season. Example, last season we saw Keith struggle with becoming the leader but this season he backs out and Shiro can now piolet the black lion. However I thought the coalition plotline worked really well and had a good payoff in the finale. I perhaps would have liked to of seen more of the alien races and how they would have fought in that battle.

Episode 2 was fantastic, though it could have perhaps been shuffled around with the other episodes because matt didn’t seem to show up in episode 4. Either way it wouldn’t have changed the narrative because ep 2 is pretty self-contained.

I know we had a short screen time budget but I didn’t feel as rushed this season. Plenty happened in each episode and they stuck pretty straight to the main narrative whilst providing some good side moments. The only noticeable things that were cut out were: 1, The Blade of Mamora mission. I know Keith went out on his own mission but we never got any updates or anything from their point of view. I can understand this decision but it just means we don’t get to see Keith or how his time away from the paladins affected him. At the same time it does put us more into the other paladin’s shoes as they don’t know what’s going on with him. 2nd, We didn’t see much of Lotor and his plans but I would also put that down to the writers keeping Lotor’s motives in the dark. So it works in their favour.

But overall the writing was good and I am interested for the next season.

Characters:

I didn’t see this and anyone’s particular season but there were defiantly some highlights.

Pidge: Starting with Pidge because she is my fave. She has been working her butt off to find her brother and I’m so glad she finally did. I love her relationship with Matt and how they are both science nerds. (can relate). Also the scene where she gets mocked at school for being smart draws on similar feeling from me so it was a case of making my favourite character even more relatable. I love how her alias was actually the nickname her brother gave her. I didn’t know that before and it’s adorable. Her action scenes were great, and she makes a really good team with Matt whether it be in the science or combat department.

Matt: I was very interested to see how he would integrate with the team. Especially after Keith left. (My sister made a comment of, the reason they got rid of Keith was so Matt could replace him.) I thought episode 3 did a good job with that. I loved how Pidge, Matt and Hunk are now the nerd trio and that Matt gets to ride tandem with Pidge in the green lion. And how could I forget that Matt also fell head over heels for Allura,that was hilarious. But anyway from what I saw in the last episodes I think Matt will be hanging out with the rebels when he isn’t with the team.

Lance: Seems to be back to his usual self. I think the show business gave him a boost in confidence. Although he doesn’t flirt with Allura it’s funny to see that he still doesn’t want any other man with her. His speech to Allura in ep 6 was touching and really showcased why the blue lion picked him in the first place. It added to the side of him we saw in season 3. His ability to act as the heart of the team.

Shiro: Shiro comes back and the first thing we see him do is argue with Keith. But anyway it was nice to see him back in action. Whatever the writers had instore for him we didn’t get to see. Though I suspect it may come up in the future.

Allura: She fits nicely into her role and it was cool to bring up her quintessence abilities again. And she is still absolutely badass at fighting.

Keith: Yeah, I’ll admit I’m a sucker for Keith in his Mamora outfit. I can only hope our emo boy is able to re-join the team next season, he’s still one of my favourites. Despite being gone for half the season we still get a character arc from him. In the first episode we see him struggling to come to terms with the Mamora principal that the mission is more important than the individual. Then at the end Keith realises that sacrifices will have to be made in order to save the day. And that he is even willing to sacrifice himself for the effort. I mean kudos to the writers for putting that arc in there.

Hunk: My poor boy. Sidelined again. I really did like it though when Matt acknowledged Hunk’s work in the science department. I would like to see more of that trio nerding out in the future. I thought perhaps, when Hunk was made fun of in the coalition performances, that there might be a payoff where Hunk saves the day, but that didn’t really happen. But we did have that moment in ep 7 where he works out the planet is a bomb. So he does come through in small moments but it would be nice to see more episodes displaying his skill, like the first 2 seasons.

Coran: It was actually interesting to see Coran take a serious episode. It really showed another side of him that we don’t see. A less confident guy that only wanted the best for his team. However the episode still managed to be hilarious.

Lotor: Like I said earlier, we didn’t see too much of him but I think it works well with the end of the season. We don’t really know what Lotor is planning and we don’t know how Lotor will use Voltron to his advantage. We know Lotor has been exiled before and I hope we can get some good backstory next season. Also I don’t trust him, I think he will side with Voltron until he gets what he wants then break away. It quite interesting having him as a third party.

Lotor’s generals: Narti did not deserve this! But I did think her death did create and interesting dynamic in the group. Zethrid and Ezor feared for their own lives while Axca still tried to remain loyal. When Lotor’s plan failed that was the tipping point. I also noticed Azca said there was one last option for them to go, I assumed they were going to Voltron but it was Lotor who got there first. It makes me question whether she had the same plan or is talking about another party. (I wouldn’t be surprised if they turned up at the Blade of Mamora) Last of all we didn’t get to see any hand to hand combat from these girls. And that’s a shame but I guess the screen time budget couldn’t allow it.

Feels:

Boy we got the whole plate. Whether it be feeling sad, laughing at jokes, confused in shock or rallied in a powerful moment. The Voltron team did a good job in bringing out the emotion. A lot of this comes from the creator’s ability to make an atmosphere. Music and visuals played a big part. (Plus the voice acting, Bex how dare you make me cry). What scenes affected you the most probably depended which characters you cared about more.

Episode 2 was a great one for me. The Part where Pidge found Matt’s “grave” was gut wrenching even though I knew he couldn’t be dead. But it still made me get caught up in the moment. The only thing that ruined it was the overused trope of “someone died/it’s a funeral so it’s raining” cliché. It kinda dragged me out of the scene, but it was still great.

There are plenty of other scenes I enjoyed. There were heaps of moments where I laughed. Voltron likes to take the viewer on a bit of an emotional roller coaster and it works pretty well for me.

Graphics/sound:

Holly flip! Where is this improvement coming from? Like man, I thought the last season look amazing but this one took it up again. The planet had awesome designs and the space background had me awed. I always love the environments they created. Multiple times I found myself caught out just admiring how good the graphics were.

There were also some examples of animation we don’t usually see, especially in episode 3. Though I did find it strange the absolute absurdity of it just made the scene even more hilarious.

Fight scenes were great, whether they were in the lions or hand to hand, they still looked amazing to watch.

Music was also another thing I noticed. It was done really well and added nicely to certain scenes. They were also probably good enough to listen to on its own.

Extra points:

This season had a very military feel to it. The tactics of the coalition were cool and the final fight was awesome. Death seemed like a much more real threat this season. And there were plenty of moments that carried a lot more weight.

I’m also glad the Kaltenecker was included in this season after disappearing in the last one.

Just like the first 2 seasons the writers have once again ended on a cliff-hanger and I will be excited for the next season.

Thanks for reading to the end. I’ve decided this will be a bit of a thing now, writing reviews (when I can). If you don’t agree with everything I’ve said then that’s fine, you don’t have too. This is my own opinion after all.

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carvers-hawke · 7 years

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Cullavellan Week - Day 3

Fandom: Dragon Age Pairing: Devanna Lavellan/ Cullen Rutherford AO3 Link: Here! Notes: Pshew, made it with a few minutes to spare. Uh. I’m really bad at writing action scenes and this was heavily inspired by the fight choreography of Wonder Woman. Also Dev is a Reaver, but like, not your average Reaver someone come talk to me about how she got her abilities because i love it so she gets very, very into fighting.

And by the nature of day four’s prompt I won’t be participating since this is the first time I’ve a) wrote anything with Dev in it and b) wrote for Cullavellan. Anyways, today’s prompt is

It’s no secret that the Inquisitor and Commander are experts in combat! Show them in action out in the field!

They usually weren’t on the field together. As Commander of the Inquisition’s forces, Cullen had a mostly administrative position. As much as he would be down in the training fields, running the soldiers through drills, sparring, encouraging his troops to learn how to use their damn shields, he didn’t often leave Skyhold.

It was uncommon for him to take the field of combat, but not unheard of.

He had accompanied the group to Sahrina, to lend his sword and shield to the Inquisition in breaking the Red Templars’ hold on the quarry, to disrupt Samson’s easy supply of lyrium. It had been deeply satisfying, even if it did mean subjecting himself to the sickly sweet call of the tainted lyrium. And it called, leaving a deep throbbing pain between his temples, and a strong tremor to his hands. He hated it, but it was a suffering he would endure.

But then they’d met a handful of behemoths, and one had gotten in a good, lucky hit through Cassandra’s guard, and their Seeker had been rushed back to the nearest camp for healing. Broken limbs, cracked ribs, and a punctured lung, the healers were working round the clock to get her into stable condition. But the Inquisition couldn’t rest, and Michel de Chevin meant to confront the demon Imshael, one of the Forbidden Ones.

As if it was a matter of taking down a shade, or an abomination, and he remembered the devastation in Darktown when Hawke had faced down the creature Xebenkeck. The thought of the Inquisition facing down a demon of that caliber, without someone trained to nullify magic, to strike against these creatures, was unacceptable. And with Cassandra’s condition that left him.

Cullen hadn’t taken lyrium in over a year, that was true, but he had been a Knight Commander, and he could still throw a holy smite that would knock even the Grand Enchanter on her ass.

He might have wished, however, that the demon Imshael hadn’t taken up residence at the very top of Suledin Keep, filled with more Red Templars, and giants.

“Oh. Oh this is going to be fun.” A small mercy, that Devanna was at his side, body vibrating with excitement as they surveyed the doors of the Keep.

Kalros regarded her Hand, an indulgent smile on her face even as she fisted her hands on her hips. “Would you like to do the honors, then?”

“And it’s not even my nameday.” Devanna said it with such enthusiasm, swaggering up to the door.

She was a violent creature, this woman he loved, with the blood of dragons in her veins, and it was made all the more apparent by the way she led the charge into the Keep. A haze of bright, glowing red as she clawed deep furrows into the door, weakening it before kicking it down in a shower of splinters that left the few guards just inside looking on in astonishment.

“Hello lovies~” She sang, drawing her blade with a soft hiss. “Who’s ready to die?”

And the battle was joined.

It had been some time since Cullen had really fought. Not since the attack on Haven, and even then his duties had been more in organizing a suitable defense and getting as many people out as he could—not enough though, never enough. Still, any fears that he might be rusty, given his current companions, faded as he waded head first to join Devanna. The others stayed back, Varric taking the high ground to better aim with his crossbow as Dorian cast barriers and threw fire spells back and forth. They were content to let their warriors do the bulk of the work, well, all of them save Kalros, who used no staff, and wreathed herself in magic and using it to construct weapons of her very own, occasionally assisted by the chakri in her hands.

They fell into a sort of synergy, the reaver and himself, his defensive tactics well matched with her own reckless abandon. He knew that was the point, of course, the harder they hit her, the more she hurt, the stronger she became. And yet, he couldn’t help but cringe at every hard earned injury, couldn’t help but work to stay at her side.

“Archers!” He lunged forward, shield raising up in front of her, just in time to block a bolt that would have pinned her in the shoulder.

The elf stuttered slightly at the restraint on her shoulder, pupils widening from their slits in surprise and realization.

Realization that blossomed into a wide grin as she leaned in quick as a flash to place a blood smeared kiss to his cheek. “Thank you lover.”

And just like that she was ducking out of the protection of his shield, swinging that massive sword of hers and laughing at the spray of blood and death in her wake. Cullen noticed, with no small amount of unease, that the deeper they went into the fortress, the more potent the animus that clung to her. It manifested in a blood red mist, swirling and infecting any enemies that came within fifteen meters of her. Her attacks hit harder, and ideally it wasn’t a bad thing—it made putting down the Red Templars easier—but he could see her slipping.

The laughing gradually became less, replaced with wordless growls and snarls, her kills becoming messier. The danger of the dragon blood that ran through her veins; it was a source of power, but indulging too much could lead to madness as Cassandra hadn’t hesitated to point out.

He worried, a quick glance over at the Inquisitor showed a tightness of expression that indicated worry as well, but at least they were getting close to the end.

“Is that a bloody—“

“Kaffas, watch the swing!”

“Maker’s breath!” The giant staggered out of its cage with a swipe of its arms, a pulse of that sickening call running through Cullen as he focused on the clusters of red crystal sprouting from its skin.

And then he was dodging out of the way as it threw a chunk of stone at them, rolling away even as the crash left his ears ringing. He recovered in time to see Kalros reach out, frost blooming up her fingers even as thick ice shot up around the giant’s feet, holding it in place. Devanna was already dashing in to press the advantage it created, weaving between the giant’s fists to harry at its legs. Drawn in by her orbit, Cullen moved as well, creating as much of a distraction as he could even as he used his shield to deflect the blows thrown his way.

The fight might have lasted a few minutes of a few days, everything became a whirl of dodging and slashing, barriers shimmering over his skin as magic and crossbow bolts peppered the rough skin of the giant. They were wearing it down though, little by little, and Cullen hoped that it ended soon because he could feel the burn of exhaustion in his arms, shield hand starting to go a little numb.

Cullen couldn’t help but think at this point that maybe Cassandra had been lucky, even with the injuries she’d sustained.

There was a loud roar, and the sound of something hard colliding with something metal, causing Cullen’s heart to stop in his chest, his throat squeezed tight in a vice as he saw Devanna go sailing through the air. There was an indentation in the wall that she’d struck, sliding down with a smear of blood.

“Dev!” He wasn’t sure who yelled it first, Kalros or himself—possibly both—but Cullen instinctively jerked in her direction.

The kossith woman had positioned herself behind the giant, her face cast in a soft violet glow as she looped her lightning whip around its throat. It was by some design, some treatment like that which allowed a Tempest to sheathe themselves in the elements, that prevented her from getting electrocuted as she twisted the whip around her leg, catching it under her boot to pull the giant back. And it was a testament to her strength, both physical and arcane, that allowed her to restrain the beast even as she tried to choke the life from it.

A soft hiss of pain from behind him, an impatient noise, a growled fucker as Devanna climbed to her feet. Her sword was a few feet away, wedged into the frozen earth from where it’d been dropped, and instead of going to recover it she pulled out her long, aurum hunting knife.

She staggered a few steps, head swinging from side to side in her disorientation and she couldn’t mean to rejoin the battle.

But the elf righted herself, forcefully regaining her equilibrium and switching her grip on her knife.

“Cullen.” She snapped, her normally husky voice rough and deep, like shards of glass being scraped over stone. “Shield. Now.”

Panic gripped him, followed by confusion, as she made her way towards him, speed increasing. He remembered the last time he’d heard her say that, in the training grounds of Skyhold, a training session she’d insisted he watch because she wanted to show him something. He remembered the way Blackwall had taken a knee, shield braced to launch her.

And that was what she wanted him to do, to give her a step up to get to the giant’s vulnerable spots.

Bloody hell but was she always this reckless? Was this the sort of thing she did, on their excursions out into the field? How was she still alive?

His braced himself anyway, sword dropping and balance shifting as he gripped the shield tight with both arms. Her booted foot planted hard against the shield, but the weight of a fully armored warrior was nothing he wasn’t used to, and Cullen followed the change easily, rolling with it and pushing.

Some of her hair had fallen loose from its updo, strands of red flowing behind her as she flew through the air, teeth bared and a loud, inhuman snarl ripping from her throat. The knife plunged into the giant’s chest, a hand hold by the collarbone as she reached forward with her free hand, summoning the power in her blood and ripping into the creature with a spectral dragon’s claw.

It reached in, phasing through skin and bone and muscle directly through the sternum, and Cullen was forcefully reminded of Hawke’s companion, Fenris. Except, the way the blood hovered, the way he could visibly see the giant’s life force seep into Devanna, cuts and bruises healing before his very eyes, was in no way the same.

No, watching that sent a shudder of unease down his spine, and it was oh so dangerously close to blood magic. Except she was no mage, and her abilities had been forced on her, it was only fair that she use them to stay alive.

Finally the giant fell, first to its knees, and then backwards, Kalros letting the magic of the whip fade as she nimbly jumped out of the way. His first instinct was to check on Devanna, his feet taking him to his lover’s side, but as soon as he got close he felt… he felt the prod of something sharp, painful, buffeting at him. Foreign, a sort of ache that reached down into his soul and held it tight in a clawed grip.

“Cullen wait.” Kalros reached over, pulling him back. “It’s not safe.”

And that’s when he realized—the animus hadn’t faded, if anything the giant’s death had only fueled it farther. She had trouble coming down, letting go of the blood lust and calming the fire that burned within her, especially after particularly large battles. She needed help, she’d explained, someone who could bring her back to herself.

“She doesn’t recognize you.” The kossith continued, taking a step forward.

He didn’t hesitate, pulling himself out of Kalros’ grip and moving closer. “Devanna.”

The aura pushed back at the intrusion, sensing an enemy, and she tilted her head ever so slightly to regard him. Like she had when they’d first met, holding herself apart and unsure. But there was no recognition in those yellow eyes, pupils narrowed into thin slits. She treated him like a threat, an unknown, and while that cut deep into him Cullen reminded himself that this wasn’t her.

“Devanna.” He repeated, voice firm, as he continued his approach. “Love, the fight is over.”

It wasn’t completely over, he knew that Imshael still resided in the heart of the fortress, but if they challenged the demon like this, they would be at a disadvantage. More than that, he hated the way she quivered, body barely held in check despite the violence that held her coiled tight like a spring ready to snap. This was a part of her, he knew, but it wasn’t always healthy.

“Dev.” Her hand shot out like a blur, fisting in his mantle and effectively bringing him to a halt. “Love.”

It was a delicate situation. Devanna, he knew, could easily injure him if she so chose. Especially in this state, where her strength had increased tenfold. If he moved wrong, gave even the slightest indication that he was a threat, she would strike and at this distance not even the Inquisitor could stop her.

But he wasn’t afraid. If this day had shown him how powerfully aggressive his lover was, there were so many instances that he could call to mind of her gentleness. She loved him; though she didn’t say it he had felt it in so many small, potent ways and he trusted her.

So Cullen held himself perfectly still, hardly daring to breathe as she watched him like a cat watching a mouse. He didn’t fight when she pulled him in close, lifting his chin in a show of surrender when she pressed her nose into his neck, inhaling deeply.

“Cull…” She murmured, the tension bleeding out of her frame as she moved in closer. “Shit that was…”

“I’ve got you. You’re good.” He assured her just as quietly, pulling her into a quick, rough embrace. “You didn’t lose yourself.”

“You could have gotten yourself killed.” Devanna pulled back, a frown on her face as she looked up at him. “You should have let Kal—“

“Maybe.” He agreed, cutting her off by carefully dragging his fingers down her cheek. “I didn’t though. We’ll discuss our mutual recklessness once we take the Keep.”

Her pupils dilated at that, just a fraction, picking up easily on the intent behind the words. There were many ways to cure battle lust, he knew, and there were many ways to calm his warrior.

“Right.” Devanna cleared her throat, head ducking as a flush covered his cheeks. “Well. Let’s go kill a demon, shall we?”

#cullavellan #cullen/lavellan #cullavellan week 2017 #non-inquisitor lavellan #devanna lavellan #my fic #headcanon that you don't need continuous lyrium to use templar abilities

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velkynkarma · 7 years

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Okay. So. I’ve had some time to come down off the mind-is-screaming-internally S2 high and think about a lot of stuff that I saw on my first playthrough. I still intend to go through and re-watch more closely for details. And I have NOT hit that level of ‘instantly knowing when and where scenes and tiny minuscule important details happen’ yet like I have for S1, so some thoughts might be jumbled or more explainable on a second pass. But for now, my reactions, my pros, my cons, my thoughts, and whether or not I’ll still be writing for this series.

Buckle up ‘cause like everything else I write this is gonna get long.

So as I mentioned last night, there were things I liked about this season, and there were things I didn’t. Let’s start with those. PROS:

Everyone gets a moment of sheer badassery. Everyone. Both in their Lion and on their own. Shiro’s combat scenes, Keith’s fights, Lance’s sharpshooting, Allura’s staff fight, I mean the list goes on.

One of my favorites was Hunk when mind controlled, though. Because holy crap—did you see how brutal he was when he had no inhibitions holding him back? He went to town and he messed Lance up pretty good. This says quite a lot about his character that I thought was really interesting. Hunk has has a lot of combat ability and potential, but he holds himself back, partly out of anxiety or that he doesn’t really believe he can do it, and partly because he doesn’t prefer the fighting method when there are other options. Hunk can absolutely fuck you up if he really wants to. He chooses not to. That’s big.

In general, just...absolutely gorgeous fight scenes. The choreography and movement of the characters was superb. As someone who studied animation I was blown away. Beautiful work.

All the Lions got an upgrade of some kind, some kind of special weapon. It kind of bothered me in S1 when the Red Lion got its giant super-gun at the last minute because it felt kind of deus ex machina, but I am glad at least that it’s become more established this is a thing all the Lions can do as long as you connect with them enough.

The Black Bayard has been recovered. Hell. Fucking. Yes.

There were just so many great character interactions and bonding moments. I love that we had a variety of different team-ups to see how different characters interacted with each other, especially in cases where they hadn’t previously. Hunk and Keith, Lance and Pidge, Lance and Shiro, Keith and Shiro, Lance and Hunk...just a lot of great interactions

There were so many “what the actual fuck am I watching” moments for me but I was laughing through all of them, so no complaints there. (Space mall. Just. Space. Mall).

Lots of moments when I laughed out loud or grinned wildly

Shiro losing his fucking cool because he’s human, yeah, I like seeing that haha

Slav. I just. As a person with obsessive compulsive disorder I related with this guy on a fundamental level. I’m not quite as bad as Slav is but man do I get what it’s like to have to do really stupid shit to just progress on a day to day level. (Also, he’s funny).

Zarkon and Haggar’s relationship was explored a lot more, which I really found interesting. In S1 they were a well-oiled machine and worked together perfectly. They also clearly trusted each other. S2 changed that up with Zarkon’s Lion obsession and Haggar wanting to focus on the internal spy and finishing off Allura. I’m curious to see where this will go and if it will form a rift.

Also: Haggar can be tricked. Her magic is not infallible. I suspect the Blade of Marmora has a technique or something to resist druid magic, otherwise they’d have been hardcore fucked centuries ago, but I find this intriguing all the same.

Blade of Marmora: “Come unarmed.” Haha but okay unless you literally disarm Shiro you can’t disarm Shiro and they know that so I’m genuinely surprised they didn’t throw more of a hissy fit over this one.

Not gonna lie I actually really liked the design of Zarkon’s armor-mech. Almost more than Voltron. Dem wings, man. Dem wings. Also, on that note, why the heck does he even need Voltron or the black lion when he’s got his own single-person mech that he can control without having to recruit four other people to work with him?

They basically confirmed false memories are entirely possible for Shiro since Hunk gives us a breakdown of how that arm actually works a little better. The Blade of Marmora may have been real but there is still so much fic potential here I’m foaming at the mouth over it.

CONS:

I’ve got a few cons, but well, let’s get the big one out of the way first. Galra Keith. (And since I know this can be a controversial topic and my feelings on this one are complicated, let me first preface this with an assurance that I have zero shade towards anyone who liked the Galra!Keith theory in S1 or likes the canonization of it in S2. This is just my opinion and in no way does it invalidate yours).

Okay, unpopular opinion time: I’ve never really been on board with the Galra!Keith theory (which I guess is no longer a theory, but yeah). I’ve never really made a big deal of it though because frankly it’s not my place to lecture others on what they want to like or not. I mean, hey, it’s fandom. Like what you like, just don’t cram it in my face. I was content to ignore Galra!Keith tags and go about my business. But the reason I was never really fond of the theory is I could never make it work, with the details presented in S1. And lord knows I tried, anyone who knows me at this point knows I love theorizing and analyzing this stuff. But it just felt so circumstantial. Most of the “evidence” people would point out in S1 could have supported a dozen different kinds of theories. The only real unexplained piece was Keith’s inexplicable draw to the Blue Lion at the beginning, but even then, I didn’t consider this an immediate indication of Galra blood per se. The show also has magic in it, after all; he could have also had some kind of sixth sense or other ability. It just wasn’t enough to go on. And above all I simply could not reconcile any kind of Galra presence on Earth when in S1 they were fully presented as devourers and conquerors. There was no way Zarkon could have known about Earth, especially if the Blue Lion was also on his radar, and not shown up to just take what he wanted and blast it out of orbit. Zarkon takes. He doesn’t have patience for stealth and subtlety when he owns half of the known universe, and I couldn’t see him having a single soldier on Earth without immediately taking advantage of it. Whether that was Keith, or some parent/ancestor of his, didn’t really matter. It just didn’t mesh with Zarkon.

S2 drops a few new details that flesh this out a little better. The existence of a stealth-oriented resistance certainly would justify how some Galra individuals could theoretically have been to Earth without immediately summoning a full fleet to blow it out of space. If they knew the Blue Lion was there they might even have a reason to target Earth specifically, if only to keep it hidden for as long as possible. I am mollified by this, at least, since it does provide some possible answers to the big plot hole issue I had with this theory. But I don’t know. Galra!Keith still feels too…contrived. Too convenient. It just doesn’t feel natural to me, in a series and plot that has otherwise put a lot of focus on naturally developing story as it goes. Each episode drops details that lead to the next episode, smoothly and subtly, but something about Galra Keith just feels very ham-handed. I’m having a little trouble coming to grips with it. Maybe they’ll drop more information in season 3 that will smooth this out more, but right now I’m just…really not a fan of this piece. On the plus side, while I am not really a fan of Keith having Galra heritage, I do kinda like that most people on the ship are just like ‘oh okay you’re part alien whatever.’ Like it isn’t drawn out into a huge drama spectacle. When it’s first officially revealed only Shiro is actually present and I half expected Keith to beg Shiro not to tell anyone because he’s scared of their reactions, just because they’d want to play up the reveal drama for a few episodes, but there wasn’t any. Everyone just knew. Learned off screen even, other than for Shiro, because there is no scene when Keith comes forward and says ‘hey so yeah, turns out I’m part Galra?’ to the team. And with the exception of Allura, nobody really reacted. Hell, there wasn’t a “reaction episode” like you would have expected with a theme like this. It almost felt underplayed. Or, treated as not-really-that-weird-a-thing, like in Keith and Hunk’s episode together, in which Hunk continually draws attention to the Galra heritage but not really in a hateful way. And I kind of liked that, because while Galra!Keith feels a little on the cliche side, at least that kind of response shook that up a little. And, not gonna lie, on a completely aesthetic reaction, I am just super fucking glad that Keith didn’t like…hulk out Galra style. I’m not a fan of Galra designs in general, I’m glad Keith didn’t just magically turn purple and all that. (Though this really does beg the question of how much his biology is affected by that Galra heritage. We know it’s affected his sixth sense at least somewhat since he appears able to sense and interact with all the Lions, and we know it lets him interact with Galra tech which is…weirdly convenient…but otherwise he looks perfectly human). Anyway. That’s my thoughts on Galra Keith, which was the biggest con for me. The rest are less controversial. OTHER CONS:

Pidge and Lance didn’t get to use their bayards to create new solo weaponry for Voltron. This makes me sad as I really wanted to see Voltron get a badass sniper rifle or a chain-whip thing like Zarkon had. I did like that everyone got to work together to make the super huge-ass sword, but I would’ve liked seeing some new weaponry too.

Thace. I just wasn’t feeling it with this guy. I know we’re supposed to feel sad when he dies, but honestly? They didn’t give us any chance to bond with this character or establish anything to really connect to him with. We see him resisting the Galra and tricking Haggar which is cool and all, but it just kinda felt like he was there. There was no emotion there, no connection. When he makes his heroic sacrifice I didn’t feel any kind of heartache because it was just like ‘oh...that NPC died. Eh, that sucks.’

We only got 1 Shiro flashback. Granted it was a big one, but like Shiro said, I still have so many fucking questions.

Hunk and Lance kinda got a little flanderized. I get that Hunk likes food, and I get that Lance is kind of the obnoxious-hormonal-teenager trope, but I think it got pushed a little too far in some scenes. They also got less development this season than the others, which wouldn’t really bother me as much if it had been fairly even across the board, except it wasn’t. Half the story was about Keith. Look, writers, I know we asked for more character development for Keith because he needed it pretty bad, but whipping it to the other extreme end of the spectrum wasn’t quite the solution?

The Red Lion’s abrupt change in attitude just seems…strange to me. I’m not sure how I feel about it. This is a Lion that you really have to work to get to like you and it’s ‘very unstable.’ It’s rather abrupt about face to the point when it just randomly keeps rescuing Keith was…well. The first time was awesome, but after a while it kinda felt overused. *flat sarcastic voice* “Oh boy. Keith is in trouble. I wonder how he’ll get out of this one.” On the other hand, I almost wonder if this is in part a reaction to Keith piloting the Black Lion, if only for a short while. I wonder if Red is trying to do the same thing right back—prove itself to its partner? I don’t know. I’m conflicted on this one. But to me it lacked subtlety in the same vein as Keith’s story.

That cliffhanger. Just. That cliffhanger.

RANDOM THOUGHTS, QUESTIONS, AND WISHLIST ITEMS

Okay. The final plan. Cool and all, but like...the fuck didn’t they just wormhole Zarkon’s ship into a sun or black hole? Like. C’mon. Even corrupted-Alfor-thoughts thought of that plan. They didn’t even have to re-imagine it. They had precedence. They were ultimately planning to destroy the ship anyway, and at the time they made their plan they hadn’t even considered trying to recover the black bayard, which were the only things they’d lose. They could have saved so much hassle. (The answer is of course that there wouldn’t be much of a show after that, but still).

As stated I’m not really a huge fan of Galra Keith but man, if I am being asked to accept this as canon, I fucking demand that he gets to dual-wield his Blade of Marmora with the Red Bayard. Because we already know he’s ambidextrous in with his sword. And that would be too fucking cool.

Okay so Matt’s not a prisoner anymore. He got rescued by rebels or something. Cool. Uh. Where’s the love for Sam Holt though? Where the fuck is Pidge’s dad? Please tell me somebody rescued him too? The man just wanted to find existence of life outside Earth he didn’t sign up to be a fucking war prisoner give the guy a break.

Also I kind of laughed when Shiro was all “hey Pidge don’t worry it’s okay Matt’s a survivor like you” because this is literally the same guy who was like “yeah Matt you gonna die unless I fight this guy for you since you have zero combat survival capability and both of us know you’ll be dead in like ten seconds.” And now he’s with rebels. Escaping. In a violent situation. I wonder how that’ll work.

They were really pushing Multiverse theory in this season and I find that very intriguing. I wonder if anything will come of that.

Okay but the presence of a human-themed shop on a random space mall really both intrigues and puzzles me. ‘Cause this means there are regular visitors to Earth, or at least people know about it outside our solar system, when previously it sounded like we were in the space boonies and no one had ever heard of us (which is why it was a great place to hide a Lion). Earth obviously did not have robust inter-planetary trading since the Kerberos mission was all about discovering life outside Earth, and Lance thinks Pidge is crazy for believing in aliens waaaay back in S1Ep1. So. What gives? How?

The insane animation style change happened again for Shiro using his bayard and then everyone screaming. I guess they have a 1-pivotal-moment-per-season rule with that.

So we knew Altean Haggar was coming, that one just seemed kinda obvious. What I actually find more intriguing is that Haggar’s hair is white. Now granted we only have a few Alteans to work off of (Alfor, Allura, Coran, and now Haggar), but Coran has repeatedly implied Allura has extra abilities and has referred to her (or other Alteans who did the Balmera ceremony) as “sacred Alteans.” Presumably, this is something linked to the royal line, and so far every royal Altean we’ve seen has had white hair. I’m wondering if Haggar is a relative. Of course, this is all circumstantial evidence and pure conjecture. It’s also possible that hair color can be shapeshifted, or white hair isn’t associated with the royal line, or a dozen other things. I’m not holding my breath, but I am curious how Haggar fits into the planet destruction.

Overall I did like the theme they were going for this season, which is that your blood does not define you or decide what “side” you’re on. We had some good Galra (or just neutral ones, like the restaurant owner, or ones that just did not fit the ‘cull the weak, be the best warrior’ mentality we were largely led to believe the Galra were in S1). And we have Bad Alteans, although honestly I’m sure everyone saw that coming already.

I feel like there were a LOT of subtle nods to or jabs at the fandom in S2 too. Lots of theories came true of course, but there was also a lot of dialogue that seemed to deliberately poke fun at some theories or fan favorites. Sometimes it was funny and sometimes it felt kind of insulting or trollish. But this is hardly a surprise, I guess, considering how much they played with us right before S2 dropped.

ON WRITING:

So am I still planning on writing for Voltron? Well. I’d like to. I liked the majority of this season, it was fun, my heart was pounding through most of it, and it left my mind a screaming wreck by the end. It was intense. But it was mostly good. I enjoyed it. There are a few problems I need to figure out though.

Galra Keith is probably the biggest wrench in my fic-writing plans at the moment. I’m not…really sure how to process this. Characterization is the most important part to me when I write, and I always try to stay as true to the characters as possible based off the canon material we’re given. To me it is absolutely vital to do that character justice. I feel that is what a responsible writer should do. So even if I write stuff that isn’t centric to his heritage, or even to Keith, it’s now still a core part of his character that needs to be considered when determining his actions, thoughts, goals and motivations, especially considering some of his actions in S2 as a direct result of that. It’s something I need to keep in mind when I write him, but it’s also not really a theme I’m a fan of. I am certainly not petty enough to write it out of existence because I don’t like it—that’s not fair to the character either, and I detest that kind of blatant disregard for a character’s core traits, it’s not responsible writing. It’s leaving me a bit puzzled as to how to proceed. I’ll need some time to think on it. I need to figure out how to get on board with Galra!Keith in a way that still leaves me comfortable writing it.

(Plus, not gonna lie, it totally tanked an idea I had in mind where I was intending to use Keith as the main POV. Okay, I may be a tad bitter about that. I liked this idea. Oh well). That cliffie is another issue. At least we can work with the S1 cliffhanger. What do you do when a character has disappeared? Are we gonna have to establish they got him back every time? Or set it at an indeterminable point somewhere between all the action? Except there wasn’t really any point during which they slowed down. Just. Gonna need to think on that one. And as previously mentioned in this post, I’ve got a nasty case of the obsessive compulsive disorder, mixed with being an insane perfectionist, and it’s driving me bonkers now that some of my fics are canon inaccurate. I’ll get over it but man. It bothers the hell out of me.

ANYWAY. There’s my thoughts. In one long, super post. If you read through all that, congrats.

#voltron #voltron spoilers #voltron season 2 #velkynkarma thoughts

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