#like obviously not all 80s movie were goofy or anything. but there was still more heart there. | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

teatimecrumpetsandsugar · 3 years

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“What if I told you you’re pretty?”

Minor profanity warning! <3

No request this time, guys- I honestly just had the urge to write a Klance story. That’s it. That’s all that happened. I headcanon Keith getting incredibly clumsy when he’s flirted with, and being really, really, depressingly easy to fluster.

/ \

“Why wouldn’t you date me?” Lance whined, chin resting on Keith’s thigh. Keith scowled, pushing his face away, “I dunno! I just wouldn’t. They asked who on the team I’d be the least likely to go on a casual date with, and I answered. Drop it!”

Lance puffed his cheeks out in a pout, glaring at Keith, “So you’d date Coran before you’d date me? How is that fair?”

Keith rolled his eyes exasperatedly, throwing his head back against the couch in frustration, “We played the game three weeks ago- will you just drop it already? Why are you so butthurt about it?”

Lance visibly recoiled at that, nose wrinkling, “I’m not butthurt about it, Keith. You just really wounded my ego.”

Keith’s lip curled in disgust, and he gave Lance a deadpan look, “Good. That thing could use some shrinking.”

Lance thought for a moment, considering his next words carefully enough that Keith almost thought he was going to drop it.

Almost.

The next words to come out of the taller boy’s mouth were... not what Keith thought they’d be. He didn’t know what he was imagining Lance would say, but it certainly wasn’t what he said.

He should’ve known it was going to be bad when the cheshire grin curled Lance’s lips slowly upwards, eyebrows raising challengingly, “I suppose I’ll just have to woo you then.”

Keith spluttered out a noise of surprise, blood rushing up to his face so suddenly he had to turn away, praying to god that Lance didn’t notice. His hopes were dashed when Lance laughed, cooing out a vaguely haunting, “AWWW YOUR EARS ARE RED!”

Keith took a deep breath, running his fingers through his hair and willing away the flush in his cheeks before turning back to glare at the still-laughing blue paladin, “What do you mean you’re gonna woo me? Did we die and end up in 80′s movie hell?”

Lance threw his head back, laughter persisting even as he tried desperately to calm it, “You’ll- You’ll see!”

Keith didn’t like the sound of that.

/ / \ \

“Good morning, sweetcheeks!” Keith jumped when Lance’s voice rang out across the dining hall, looking up in bewilderment to find the taller boy’s eyes locked on him, “You obviously got your beauty rest.”

He winked at the end of the statement, and Keith swears he’s never been more embarrassed to be alive then when he blushed in response to that, having to hide his face in his hands.

The rest of the team looked on in confusion and slight horror at the exchange, looking between the two rivals in bafflement.

Honestly, truly, Keith wished he could say that’s where it ended. He really did. But it just didn’t end.

/ / \ \

“Even fresh out of battle, you’re still absolutely ethereal.” Keith stumbled over his feet at the suddenness of the remark, spluttering out something vaguely similar to “Shut up!” and turning a bright red as Lance snickered, “Don’t fall for me so soon, gorgeous!”

He swore it was just a coincidence when he hit the ground seconds later in front of the entire team- Lance McClain, of all people, was not making his knees weak. Not even close.

/ / \ \

“What’s cookin’, good-lookin’?” Keith barely had time to react as his hand slipped from where it was braced on the kitchen counter, gravity suddenly yanking him towards the floor- until Lance caught his waist, steadying him on his feet, “Wooing you is going to be too easy if you keep falling all over yourself like this.”

Keith snickered, turning to look at Lance, “No one says wooing anymore, Lance! It’s weird-”

He cut himself off when he was face-to-face with the taller of the two, hesitating when he noticed how close their faces were. The counter was right behind him- there was no way for him to move back if he wanted to, and he was sure his face was turning redder the longer Lance stood there.

He laughed uncomfortably, going to turn back around so, at the very least, Lance wouldn’t see the horrible flush creeping up his neck, but the blue paladin just giggled lowly, tightening his grip, “Look, you’re all red!”

Keith spluttered out another soft, flustered noise, finally turning himself around and burying his face into his hands. Lance put a hand on either side of the counter, crowding him up against it- but, Keith noticed, he wasn’t laughing anymore.

Lance paused, hesitating, before asking almost vulnerably, “What if I told you you’re pretty?” Keith felt his ears go hot, hands still pressed tightly to his face, “You’ve been doing that in different fonts all week.”

There was a stretched out silence- it went on to the point that, if Lance’s hands hadn’t been on either side of him, he’d have thought the other boy left.

“And you’ve been running all week,” Lance murmured, words coated in thick emotion. The air between them shifted- suddenly, it didn’t seem so goofy as it did before. Keith let out a shuttering exhale, slowly lowering his hands from his face. They settled between Lance’s own, chin tucking towards his chest as he made a soft sound of embarrassment.

“Tell me again,” Keith breathed, voice embarrassingly high-pitched, “I won’t run this time.”

Lance’s fingers twitched, and Keith’s own slipped through them thoughtlessly. Lance gasped softly, hands trembling, “Keith... you may just be the prettiest person I’ve ever seen. You’re strong and incredible and beautiful- you’re the best, most amazing person I’ve ever met. Inside and out.”

Keith’s breath stuttered, heart pounding against his ribs, and Lance fell forward against him, lips pressed to the crown of his head idly, “Say something. Say anything.”

Heat crawled up Keith’s throat, so much blood rushing to his face that it was almost dizzying, but he found himself turning around before he could think better of it. His hands settled on either side of Lance’s jaw, Lance’s finding his waist so fast you’d think they were magnetized.

He dragged the taller boy’s face close, noses brushing together with a tilt of his head, their lips brushing together just barely.

He waited- waited for Lance to admit he’d been joking around again, waited for him to pull away, waited for some type of rejection- but Lance stepped closer, eyes fluttering shut, and asked, “Are you going to kiss me, gorgeous?”

Keith exhaled shakily, letting his shoulders relax and his eyes flutter shut, “Yes,” And he leaned forward, pressing his lips against Lance’s in a soft, uncertain kiss. Lance smiled into it, a soft, fluttering laugh bubbling out against Keith’s lips, and Keith pulled away, laughing gently before he kissed Lance again.

Soon, their laughter fades to quiet giggles against each other’s lips, a warm, fuzzy feeling settling in Keith’s chest.

“I think... I think I might be sufficiently wooed, Lance.”

#voltron #Voltron legendary defender #vld #vld keith #vld lance #klance #voltron klance #vld klance

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fly-pow-bye · 3 years

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DuckTales 2017 - The Absolute Best!

After doing the least best this series has done, it's time for a much, much harder list to put together: the absolute best episodes of DuckTales 2017. I am not going to lie: this was hard to put together. Anyone could guess that based on how I once planned to have this list alongside the worst list and that did not happen. I can also see myself forgetting about other really good episodes of this show. However, after days of pondering, I believe I have a good list here.

Same rules as the last list.

It has to be an episode of DuckTales 2017. No shorts, even if the shorts combined can make up a full episode.

With this list, I have to say something bad about each of these episodes. Not necessarily the worst part of the episode, but a bad part nonetheless. These are going to be more nitpicky, but it is only fair to prove the constant that there is no such thing as a perfect piece of media and it is a decent challenge for me.

This is my opinion and my opinion alone. There are episodes I didn't like as much that a lot of people did. The last list should be a huge hint at that.

Alright, let's begin.

10. Jaw$!

I mentioned this episode in my Least Best as the better example of the show establishing the relationship between Lena and Magica De Spell. It establishes Magica De Spell better than either of the episodes that featured her before this one. One was a tease put in the very last minute of the episode to show how Lena is going to be far more important than the "cool new goth girl", and the other was the Terra-Firmians episode that used her as a way to improve what would otherwise be a not-so-good filler episode. This one is a far better example, and it's not just because a money-shark is a lot more interesting and threatening than a bunch of cutesy rock creatures.

It also has a B-plot about Scrooge's Board of Directors scheduling an interview to improve his PR, and hilarity ensues when Scrooge has to defend his zillionaire antics when a shark made of his own fortune is causing havoc throughout the town. Glomgold also makes an appearance during this, which only makes it better. Along with some neat Jaws references along the way, this is not an episode to miss.

Bad thing: They really did not want to mention the obvious plot hole of the kids being able to go into the money bin. This was long before F.O.W.L. began their plans against Scrooge or even the 87 cent problem, but still, one would think this would be one of the most highly secure places at Killmotor Hill considering all of his enemies. Considering I didn't particularly love the Impossibin episode, as much as I love the idea of it, it might be for the best.

9. The First Adventure!

Going from an arc from season 1 to an arc from season 3, though some may argue the F.O.W.L. arc has been happening since season 1. Anyway, this is an episode that brings back the younger Donald and younger Della that was first seen in "Last Christmas!" in their first adventure with their Uncle Scrooge. It's very interesting to see the similarities between their first adventure with Scrooge and the first adventure with Huey, Dewey, and Louie.

Even though this does give good development to the arc, arguably even bigger characters in this episode are Bradford Buzzard and Black Heron, as this episode details the origins of the Fiendish Organization of World Larceny. Their antics throughout this episode are very entertaining, with the plot toying with the dynamic of the more chaotic evil Heron and the more lawful evil Buzzard. With all it all ties together, I had to put the First Adventure on this list.

Bad thing: The sense of time in this episode is odd. We get a title card showing that it's the 60's in the opening scene, and yet there is very little suggestion of any passing of time between the opening scene and the scenes that I assumed took place in the 80's.

8. Quack Pack!

It would be too easy to just put in episodes that are important to any of the various story arcs that went throughout this series, so here's an episode that could be taken out of the series without harming anything. However, it is still a very memorable episode of the show, where the cast of characters have to be in this weird sitcom. There's also a mystery element, as there is a culprit to why these characters are in this sitcom world.

I really like the whole meta element, with the characters picking apart all not only the clichés in sitcoms, but sitcom production as well. I also really appreciated the "special guest", another sitcom staple, being a character from a different Disney Afternoon show with some great references to it. Quack Pack turns out to be the antithesis of the show it was named after; it's not dated, it's really funny, and it realistically portrays how freaked out these characters would be if they saw those weird hairless apes.

Bad thing: I wish they did more with the concept of this world being made up by someone who was locked away from the world since 1990. Maybe not references to the era of Disney that gave us "Gotta Be Gettin' Goofy", but more jokes about how the 90's were different from now. They kind of ignore this, as if they only mentioned 1990 because of the DuckTales movie they were referencing.

7. Last Christmas!

Wait, a Christmas episode in a Top 10? I have my reasons for including this one. It's not just because the idea is pretty great, as it uses the very tale that inspired Scrooge's entire character in the first place. Obviously, we already had one of the best cartoon renditions of A Christmas Carol, and this episode does not try to recreate that. Instead, we get a different tale, mostly featuring Scrooge and Jiminy Cricket, er, the ghost of Christmas Past, going back to the past to experience a good Christmas party. If only we can do the same, like Dewey accidentally does in the episode.

This was also the first time we also got to see a young version of Donald, who, in this episode, is voiced by none other than the late, great Russi Taylor. It was almost like having one of the siblings from the old show interact with one of the new ones. This is also the first time we got to see and hear her outside of a painting, and it's heartbreaking and yet understandable when we get to the scene where Dewey has to say goodbye. It's a good scene, and they weren't afraid to even throw in a joke that does not ruin the moment.

Bad thing: No, episode, this is the Scrooge they were looking for. Were they trying to make it seem like Scrooge was always a hero and not a miser who would deserve getting three ghosts to visit him with that line? I don’t buy it.

6. The Ballad of Duke Baloney!

Got to pay some respect to Scrooge's arch-rival with an episode that really shows off his character, which is a bit ironic as this is an episode about him getting amnesia and getting a brand new, at least to us, persona named Duke Baloney. Amnesia episodes tend to be a dime-a-dozen, and anyone could predict this new persona is not going to last, but the way this episode develops is actually much more interesting. This is the episode for Glomgold character development, with dream sequences, flashbacks, and a great scene in the ending that takes place in a storm that he may or may not have made up in his head. I may not have given a lot of his episodes high-rated reviews, but this is easily not only one of his best appearances, but one of the best episodes of DuckTales 2017.

Bad thing: The dream sequence really subtly implies that Duke Baloney is about to become Glomgold again. How? By having him outright say "this gold, it's GLOOMING onto me!" ...okay, I'll admit, that was a stretch for a bad thing, but with a dream sequence with subtleties, that took me out of it.

5. The Last Crash of the Sunchaser!

I called this episode "the best episode of the series so far" when I reviewed it, a pretty late episode in a season with lots of good episodes, I would say that's a good sign that this one was going to be a shoo-in for at least the Top 10. What I love most about this episode is that it gives a little more humanity to the legendary Scrooge McDuck. Sure, this was shown a bit in "Woo-oo!" and "Mount Never-Rest!", but I felt this episodes was one of the best examples of that. Throughout this episode, he sees himself as this legendary figure, as everyone sees him, and he ends up failing to live up to those impossible standards by crashing in a plane in a way where they may not survive.

Much like Quack Pack, there's no traditional villain like Glomgold or Magica. Eventually, this leads to Scrooge finally bringing up his biggest failure: his loss of the Spear of Selene and a certain relative that was piloting it, and it is one of the biggest emotional moments of the series, both in and out of universe. It's one of the most important episodes in the series, and it is also one of the best.

Bad thing: The Last Crash of the Sunchaser is a neat title, but it doesn't really fit the episode. The Sunchaser will certainly crash again. At most, maybe it could be referring to Scrooge crashing down to the lowest point he gets to in the series, but that's not the Sunchaser's fault.

4. Moonvasion!

My big hot take: the season 2 finale, the best of the season finales in my opinion, is not the best episode of the series. However, it is very close. It's actually kind of funny; I had plenty of criticism against the build-up to his finale, especially the Louie Inc. plot that led to an episode that was just kind of lackluster to me, and of all the, some alien commander from the Moon who thinks the Earth revolved around his "planet" wasn't exactly as threatening as an all powerful witch or the scheming businessman who knew Scrooge's every move. Okay, when I put it like that, the alien does sound more threatening, but trust me, even Bradford had his moments.

The biggest thing about this episode is the sheer scale of it. It really did feel like every major player in the series had a part in this, from Scrooge and the nephews, to Dijon and Amunet, to the new Darkwing Duck, to Donald and Della, to even the Greek pantheon! Oh, and Glomgold, too, in what may be his finest moment in the series! It really does feel like a finale for the series, and I say this even if I felt The Last Adventure was a great one as well.

Bad thing: In hindsight, this would have been a good time for the Terries and Fermies to come back. They're in the earth! That episode wasn't bad because of them.

3. Let's Get Dangerous!

I'll tell you a secret: I did not watch Darkwing Duck as a kid. It was just DuckTales '87, and even then, I did not remember a lot of episodes of that. This show was made for people who did not grow up with DuckTales '87, because they were not even alive. Though there are parts of this episode that can be appreciated by those who were familiar with the heroes of the Disney Afternoon, I will still say this episode works very well as its own superhero movie. That is what it is, really!

This special is the true continuation of another episode, though we saw this defictionalized-within-the-fiction Darkwing Duck in the Moonvasion, and it may as well be a pilot for a Darkwing Duck reboot that spins off from this show, with its villains, its origin stories, its sidekicks, and its memorable catchphrases. It all works very well. Who knows where the new Darkwing Duck reboot will go, though I would at least imagine that they would eventually get to certain Darkwing-related plot threads that never got resolved.

Bad thing: Outside of using a few cliche moments to extend the episode that end rather predictably, in the attempt to make Darkwing Duck as cool as he wants to be, the regular cast essentially become jobbers in their own show.

2. What Ever Happened To Della Duck?!

It's the question everyone wanted to know ever since Dewey said the last line in the first episode: what ever happened to Della Duck? This is one of the more artsy episodes of the show, focusing on one duck on what she assumes is a barren moon until she finds a monster that seems to do nothing but impede on her quest to get someone to save her. It does heavily expand from there, to the point where we get to see some more new characters, one who I thought was going to be way more important than the other. I decided to call that guy "General Not Penumbra", and that name could still be fitting as an insult.

This episode would be made or broken by how good Della is, and this is a very good episode for her first voiced debut as an adult. We did get to see her in the IDW comics, but this episode is where her character is developed. Throughout the episode, she has elements of her kids and especially her brother Donald. While there are future episodes that develop her further as a mother who wants to make up for all of those years she missed, one of the biggest defining moments is right in this episode, where she sings a version of the Capcom game's famous moon theme. An amazing episode all around.

Bad thing: Do I have to? Uh, flares do not work on the Moon? No, seriously, I can't think of anything worse than that.

Honorable mentions from each season:

The Shadow War! - An excellent way to end Season 1 that would only be topped by the Moonvasion.

Nightmare on Killmotor Hill! - A dream episode that really works with the concept, especially how Lena is the one involved with it.

Double-O-Duck in You Only Crash Twice! - This is an action packed episode where Launchpad really shines.

And now, #1:

1. The Duck Knight Returns!

Yes, I decided to put the prequel episode to Let's Get Dangerous as higher than the big Darkwing Duck episode, and part of this may be a little bias on my part. While it was not the very original intention of it, Fly Pow Bye started as a project to review a reboot, so of course an episode about Darkwing Duck, a fictional show within the fiction, getting a dark and gritty reboot would be right up my alley. We have Launchpad, a Darkwing Duck superfan, reacting to how they're going to ruin Darkwing Duck. We got the conflict between what the big studio execs wanted Darkwing Duck to be and Dewey's version of it. Finally, we have the conflict between Jim Starling, an obvious reference to original Darkwing Duck voice actor Jim Cummings who is even voiced by him, and his replacement, who appears to be some guy named Drake Mallard.

A lot of these plots converge in very interesting ways, with plenty of twists. Drake Mallard, the guy Launchpad was trying to replace with the original, turns out to be very worthy of the role by also being a superfan! Dewey's version has dancers, just like that Batdance music video! Okay, maybe that last one isn't that great, but it does not overstay its welcome. And, of course, Jim Starling ends up causing a huge cliffhanger that, despite the show being over, we will still be hanging from. We can only wonder what was going to come next, but I do not have to wonder what the best episode of DuckTales 2017 is.

Bad thing: I can't really think of a bad thing for this episode, but I can say that it is odd that there's no real transition from "TV character" to "real hero". It does help that it's not the TV actor that ends up becoming Darkwing, but "fanboy of TV character turning into a real hero" is just as much of a leap, even with an incompetent hero like Darkwing. I would also consider the show never following up on this episode's cliffhanger a bad thing, but that's not this episode's fault.

How does the whole show stack up?

It is an excellent modern take on the Disney Ducks. Opinions may vary on how this will compare with the original, since it is very much a modern take, with a different style of humor than the one from the original or the one in the original comics. Anyone who loves shows like Gravity Falls will be right at home here. Any fan of the original comics or the original cartoon may balk at some of the creative decisions made with the characters, but I would say it pays some good respect to them.

Oh, and before anyone asks, no, I am not going to give a rating for the whole series. I've already imposed a 10 image limit on myself, and since I grade on a relative scale, the average is always, in theory, going to be in the middle. It's a good show, that's what you're going to get from me.

And that's it for DuckTales 2017. Hurrah for Disney and Clan McDuck. Bye.

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#fpb dt 2017 #ducktales 2017 #fpb reviews #ducktales #disney

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frienderbender · 3 years

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(Metalrat) I’m required to ask about Pickles or Magnus for the character breakdown game. XD Hope work goes well today! :)

i can do both! :] and thank you, work was ok today. better than last week anyway.

ill put it under a cut since its two characters and it will get a little long haha

PICKLES

How I feel about this character: i love pickles sm i think hes such an essential character not just in terms of being the drummer but really with his personality. i love how the others confide in him and i just love how hes arguably the most emotionally intelligent comparatively. just a cool dude. if i had to pick one member to hang out with, it would be him

All the people I ship romantically with this character: as ive said, im really casual about shipping in general and will probably enjoy just about whatever with him, but i do like pickles and nathan, and if i had to pick a favorite charles/band member ship, it would probably be him and pickles? maybe? that said, i feel like my fave pickles relationship is still him and magnus?? but preklok, obviously. i dont think they would ever fully reconcile or get back together, and i really enjoy the dynamic of them as exes. that said...i do still find myself feeling a little warm when i think about them being sweet and madly in love before everything went down.

My non-romantic OTP for this character: LOVE pickles and tokis friendship. wonderful. fantastic. perfect. i think toki took to pickles really early on and often went to him for advice or comfort. good stuff.

My unpopular opinion about this character: uhhhhhhh i dunno. i cant say ive really seen anything so often that rubs me the wrong way when it comes to like, characterization or whatever. ive definitely read some fics here or there where i was kinda iffy on some stuff, but in general i cant say theres anything big that comes to mind. i feel like people seem to be generally on the same page with him, which is interesting

One thing I wish would happen / had happened with this character in canon: i really wish we got to see pickles during his snb days! like actually during the height of their popularity yknow?? i wanna see the band perform back in the 80s and all that. also i really would like to see more family stuff, but that goes for everyone tbh...maybe see him when he ran away and all that. ALSO. ALSO. i NEED to see him interact with his nephew its important.

pickles just has so much to him and i just wanna explore it all!! hes such a fantastic character

MAGNUS

How I feel about this character: i love you grandpa. nah but fr though i think magnus has so much potential, i think hes fascinating

All the people I ship romantically with this character: like i said, him and pickles. man. just super interesting. i think him and mma is really funny too but like in a one-sided "so what are you doing after this ;)" way that ends with mma just impaling him yknow. purely for comedic purposes lmao

My non-romantic OTP for this character: man i wouldve done anything to see him and toki actually hang out. on my ever growing list of episode ideas ive written, at the top is an episode of him and toki hanging out at mordhaus and the rest of the members just trying to avoid him lol

My unpopular opinion about this character: uhhh idk i think hes both a goofy villain and also deserving of more analysis? if that makes sense? i think being both is possible; i know a lot of my faves from other things fit into that exact box. i also think there was a time when the original dethklok really did love each other. i think magnus really did care about them. he wouldnt still have that photo if he didnt, right?

One thing I wish would happen / had happened with this character in canon: more screen time...please.....and my absolute dream episode would be a whole episode about them before they were famous, so magnus would be there too. give it to me now‼️‼️

i just really enjoy magnus and he has one of my favorite character designs. just deserved more to him i think! i feel like all the stuff was there to do more but we didnt get that and its a shame! maybe he will reappear in the new movie, but im not getting my hopes up haha

#asks #ask meme #thejollybeardcollection

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innately-pretentious · 3 years

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Hello love!! Could I get a male HP ( any era ) stranger things and sherlock ship? I’m 19 years old and a hufflepuff. I’m 5’1” with short reddish dirty blonde hair. I’m curvy and very pale, I have been doing musical theatre for nearly nine years and dance for eleven years. I’m quite a nerd, i keep to myself but once you get to know me I’m really bubbly and weird and sometimes wild. I enjoy making others laugh. I have pretty bad anxiety so I tend to be nervous and paranoid. I put others needs before mine. Thank you so much my dear! Lots of love! Oh! Also I’d I already sent you one of these I’m so sorry I honestly can’t remember

I ship you with Remus Lupin!

The two of you would make such an adorable couple! One of the first things he noticed about you is your kind nature. Remus is not someone who cares majorly about physical appearances, preferring to get to know a person before he likes them. Being from Hufflepuff, kindness and loyalty is almost second nature for you, and he noticed. Looking out for the younger years and fellow peers around Hogwarts and helping classmates during classes was something the definitely gained his attention. It was only when the two of you were paired up in class together when you started really talking. Getting to know each other, he thought it was now or never. He shyly asked if you wanted to join him on his next trip to Hogsmeade, just the two of you. You of course accepted.

As your relationship progresses, he starts to see your more bubbly side. You are initially shyer when it comes to meeting new people, which he can definitely relate to. The first few dates consisted of the two of you blushing and him fiddling with the sleeves of his sweater. However, as time went on, he started to see the real you. Hanging out more and more you realise you share the same sense of humour, letting your weird side out. He remembers the first time you made him really laugh. The two of you, sitting by the lake, talking complete nonsense as the sun began to set. Both of you giggling with tears in your eyes after something you just said, and when he regained his composure he couldn’t help but look at you in awe. Only the marauders have done that to him, he smiles at the memory.

Speaking of the rest of the marauders, they love the effect you have on Remus. Whenever he comes back to the Gryffindor common room he is beaming, excitedly spilling to them what the two of you had gotten up to. James and Sirius teasing him as he rambles on. He was at first hesitant to introduce you to the rest of his friends, knowing how you do have a few walls put up before you get to know someone, he didn’t want you to be uncomfortable. He honestly didn’t have anything to worry about though! After inviting you to the Gryffindor table to eat, you all get along like a house on fire. James, Peter and Sirius telling you embarrassing stories about Remus whilst he buries his head in his hands, the three of you laughing. He is surprised at how quickly they welcomed you into the group, making you feel as welcome as possible within the first few hours of you all meeting. You better believe the boys want to sneak into your common room and get up to some kind of mischief, much to Remus’ dismay. He often has to remind them all that you are his girlfriend, they can’t always tag along and that sometimes you need time alone!

Nights in the Gryffindor common room can go both ways. When it is just the two of you the night is more calm. You draped over him with your head on his chest as he absentmindedly combs his hands through your short hair. Both discussing various things that happened during the day, him listening intently and not interrupting, offering input or funny remarks when they are warranted. But when the rest of the boys are there? You bet you’re in for a night of not stop banter. Talking over one another, trying to get a word in edgeways, plus the boys trying to quiz you on your relationship. You don’t mind for the most part, but if it gets too personal, Remus is always there to tell them to back off.

The song I associate with the two of you would be ‘Young Love’ by Mystery Jets and Laura Marling.

I ship you with Jonathan Byers!

Both of you would be so good together!

He loves nothing more than driving absentmindedly with you, his hand resting on your thigh, soft music playing through his stereo. You often catch him glancing over at you, loving the way your short hair falls around your face as the wind from the open window blows it. You glance back at him with a small smile, telling him to focus on the road instead of you. He is usually very particular about what music he plays in his car, usually sticking to rock anthems of the 70s and 80s, but he has a soft spot for you. He allows you to put a few soundtracks to your favourite musicals on, smiling when you get excited about a particular favourite of yours. He definitely made a joint mixtape for the two of you to go on long car journey with. The perfect mix of classic rock and musical theatre to accompany you on your journey.

The two of you are both slightly introverted, you prefer to enjoy each others company rather than going to a huge house party or bar. He loves nothing more than spending quiet nights in, just the two of you. Discussing what movie you are going to watch and curling up on the sofa together is his idea of heaven. Feeling the steady rise and fall of his chest with his arm wrapped around you, feeling safe and secure in the others presence. This is often how Joyce finds you when she comes home from work, turning the TV off as the credits are rolling down the screen, grinning as she knows her son has found someone who compliments him so well. After these events, the Byers quite literally welcomed you to the family. Inviting you to various holidays such as Christmas and New Years Eve, insisting that it is no trouble at all. She loves the way you interact with her son. Even if Jonathan is slightly embarrassed by him mum’s hands on approach, he is grateful that you feel so at ease in him home and around his family.

If you have a spare day together, you often find yourselves in the local record shop. Loving the way his face lights up as he finds the latest album from his favourite band, excitedly turning it over and reading the track list. His family doesn’t have a bunch of money, therefore he often has to wait a few weeks before he can afford to splurge on a record he really likes. But if you have the spare cash, your kind nature often wins over, quietly buying it without him noticing. When you get back to the house you leave it somewhere in his room with a note for him to discover later. He always says that you should save your money for yourself, he can wait a few weeks until he has the right amount of money to buy it for himself. You always remind him that it is no problem, it’s your money and you wanted to do this. Whenever he puts the record on he is reminded of you, cheeks blushing as he smiles at the thought of you.

He often finds you dancing in the kitchen in the morning, before he has woken up. You have taken dance for a considerable amount of time, therefore you are a natural. Softly dancing around the kitchen, making breakfast and coffee for the two of you. He leans on the door frame, completely enthralled by your simple moves, coming up behind you and snaking his arms around your waist. Resting his head in the crook of your neck and muttering a good morning. You can feel he is still slightly groggy from recently waking up, you can’t help but chuckle and lean into his sleepy embrace.

The song I associate with the two of you would be ‘Ivy & Gold’ by Bombay Bicycle Club.

I ship you with Sherlock Holmes!

This match would honestly be so good! You meet him whilst working on a case, after a brief meeting you find yourself running into him more and more. He is honestly surprised that you are more observant than most of the other people around him. You find yourself being dragged along on various cases, you find him looking at you expectantly, valuing your input on the confusing aspects. You were nervous at first, I mean, it was Sherlock Holmes you were working with. Your responses would only sound juvenile to him, you thought. But as you begin to work closer with him, he is glad to see you start speaking up more, offering your more down to earth explanations. He doesn’t mention it at the time, but he keeps your inputs in the back of his mind, deciding you are more useful around than not.

There is definitely a height different between the two of you, Sherlock finds this especially amusing. When he is a rare goofy mood he will tower over you. Smirking to himself as you have to crane your neck to see him, chuckling at his antics. He can’t help but smile at you, its at one of these moments that he begins to fall for you.

As time progresses you both begin to open up to one another. he will often call you late at night, rambling about his recent findings on a case, obviously restless. You honestly don’t mind and find it rather amusing, grateful that you are someone he thinks of getting in touch with. He only realises that it might be slightly inappropriate when he mentions it in a passing conversation to John. And, after being promptly scolded by him, telling him it is generally impolite to call someone at 3am, he offers you a rarely heard apology. Sometimes you still miss those phone calls.

He always knows when you are feeling too overwhelmed or paranoid in certain situations, in fact he sometimes recognises the symptoms faster than you. Even if he is in the middle of cracking it, he often calls you a cab to take you home if you are stressed. Opening the door for you and putting you inside, giving you a quick kiss on the cheek, telling you to wait for him until he gets home, promising he will be back before dinner.

You two rarely argue, but when you do, it’s generally about your safety. At first he never minded you coming on the more mundane cases, but as soon as he started getting more national attention, the cases become more challenging and even dangerous. Your will to put others first is both a blessing and a curse, he admires you for it greatly, but not when it comes to him. He can easily see you putting yourself in harms way in order protect him or even John, the thought itself scares him. He often gets very heated in the moment, demanding you to go home, leave him. It’s only because he is scared for you. When you are alone he will allow you to comfort him, telling him that you’re ok, you will always be safe and here for him.

The song I associate with the two of you would be ‘1901′ by Phoenix!

#ship #ship request #matchup #matchup request #sherlock holmes imagine #sherlock holmes ship #stranger things #stranger things ship #jonathan byers #remus lupin imagine #harry potter ship #Marauders Ship

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faerune · 3 years

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💘 + leon and cassie 🔫 now

also asked by @ottobooty!

where they first met and how hot local racoon city survivors in YOUR area want to fuck! no for real, cassie had holed up in a diner with a group of other survivors and prior to leon getting to the police station he helps cassie fix/find parts to load up an old delivery truck in the back alley to get them all to safety. when leon leaves cassie promises to come back and make sure he + claire have a ride out of town and she does appear in that last shot in her shitty little happy dairy truck like hey you guys look like you need a ride.

how long their ‘flirting’ phase was before feelings got involved cassie has always been kinda of a flirt just offhandedly and i feel like leon is kinda of the same way just he’s cheesy and awkward about it when he’s a little younger. they flirt during the couple months they’re all trying to get their bearings after racoon city and then don’t really stay in touch much until the gov drags them both in separately.

after that more flirting, some undercover missions and zombies and leon finally asks her to dinner. cassie teases ‘don’t expect me to put out on the first date just because you saved my ass today’ pft.

who fell for who first cassie will never ever admit it but it was her. like hard. she fell for leon like she was carrying a drink carrier full of hot coffee across a busy intersection in new york, tripped off the curb in front of hundreds of people and slammed her knee into the pavement.

where their first date was and what it was like dinner and a movie! cassie loves film but also is not a snob and adores laughably bad movies so they went and saw a goofy ass B action movie and then went to a late dinner at a diner that they always eat at after work.

who asks who out and how ( with a sign? spelled out on a cake? just a simple ‘will you go out with me’? ) leon just pretty simply says let me take you to dinner and cassie teases ‘oh are you asking me on a date kennedy?’ and he just shrugs and goes ‘yeah. i am’ cassie admittedly gets like flustered for half a second and she’s like. okay cool fine.

who proposes first cassie. she’s been so weird and avoidant about getting married so leon has always let her bring it up. when they get back together a few months later they’re laying in bed together and cassie is like can you propose to me now? and leon is like well do you wanna be surprised or do you want the ring now? and cassie just smiles and plops her head on his chest and is like ‘surprise is okay’.

if they keep / kept their relationship secret or let everyone know right away due to their jobs and them being afraid of having each other just be another thing people hold over their heads to keep them working there, they keep it really quiet at the beginning. everyone on their team kinda knows but they aren’t announcing it everywhere.

where the proposal happens and how ( kiss cam at a baseball game? on a hillside surrounded by ducks? at a disney park? ) leon takes her out to dinner and then they take a walk in the park! they sit on a little bench all lit up by the winter christmas lights and he gets down on one knee :’)

if they adopt any pets together absolutely! i just have not figured out what kind yet! probably a cat because cassie has cat person energy.

who’s more dominant it kinda flip flops. cassie is more dominant in terms of talking to people, making decisions but in terms of progressing the relationship that’s definitely leon. in terms of some more ahem other times cassie’s a brat and leon just wants to give her whatever she wants.

where their first kiss was and what it was like they’ve kissed on undercover missions before but i’m not sure if it really “counts”. their first kiss as just leon and cassie was when leon dropped her off at her place after their date and cassie pulled him down for a kiss. after they finished leon was smiling all dopey and still kind of leaning down to her and she just smirked at him and wished him a good night.

if they have any matching couples stuff ( mugs? sweaters? pillowcases? ) sdgjksdg i can see them at the most having like a set of cute matching mugs but that’s about it. cassie would die before wearing matching sweaters with him no matter how much she loves him.

how into pda they are they hand hold/give each other pecks/leon throws his arm around her shoulders while they walk but they’re not too obnoxious about it! cassie likes it but if he tries to do anything else she gets flustered. admittedly, leon kinda loves when she does so he’s always whispering sweet stuff in her ears while she tries to elbow him in the stomach sdklgsdg.

who holds the umbrella when it rains leon!! he’s taller so it just makes sense.

where their usual ‘date spot’ is the diner where they just always got dinner cause it was near the facility where they worked together for so long! they both have never been to DC so they just went to the nearest place after their first day and they were like so this is OUR diner.

who’s more protective leon. cassie is very annoyed by it pft. especially when she pops up during the civil war. ya know. in the middle of an actual warzone with possible biological weapons. cassie: :) im here to cause problems on purpose. leon: why in the FUCK is my ex here armed with a thousand dollar camera and a tiny pistol.

how long it is before they sleep together they almost sleep together the day before their second date, making out on leon’s desk but they get interrupted and they’re like okay we gotta chill. leon arrives to pick her up for their date and cassie yanks him into her bedroom. needless to say they miss their movie.

if they argue about anything they bicker playfully but also cassie accuses leon of not treating her like an adult who can make her own decisions because he’s so fucking overprotective. leon accuses cassie of being careless with her life. they have i guess..not arguments but debates over morals?

who leaves more marks ( lipstick, hickeys, scratchmarks etc. ) leon leaves hickeys like he’s a teenager but he’s usually good about keeping them in places that can’t be seen. cassie wears red lipstick a lot so leon has to pay extra attention if they sneak away at work to make sure he doesn’t have it smeared all over his lips. she likes to kiss his cheek and leave a big mark too.

who steals whose clothes and how often cassie: not your hoodies babe, our hoodies.

how they cuddle ( spooning? facing each other? ) they are spooners through and through. cassie needs to be held and leon is happy to do it.

what their favourite nonsexual activity is watching movies together! leon is happy that cassie wants to share all her favorites with him and they have movie nights.

how long they stay mad at each other leon normally just needs a second to cool down normally but cassie holds a grudge for a day or maybe two then she’s ready to talk. but uh...in terms of big betrayals leon gives off the im not angry im disappointed and betrayed and you hurt me energy loud and clear and takes a long time to forgive and settle. it’s the worst cassie has ever felt.

what their usual coffee / tea orders are cassie gets a tall black coffee (iced or hot depending on the season) and leon likes lattes with whipped cream and carmel.

if they ever have any children together yes absolutely! i haven’t decided on names or anything yet but they definitely have two little boys just because that tweet that’s about that dad and two lil boys getting out of the car and the dad goes “who can go hug mom the fastest?!” is THEM.

if they have any special pet names for each other pretty normal ones! baby, babe are the most common. cassie likes to say honey and dear sarcastically because she thinks those make her sound like she’s a 50s housewife but secretly kinda likes calling him honey.

if they ever split up and / or get back together hah UH yeah. cassie leaks information about completed STRATCOM ops and leon eventually finds out and they have a huge fight. leon leaves the next morning and they end their relationship. he doesn’t turn her in because he still loves her and knows she did it with goodness in her heart but he’s just so conflicted. he just basically says turn in your resignation and leaves. they do eventually get back together! they break up early 2004, see each other in 2006 when cassie reaches out to him for his contacts to help her father who gets sick and then in 2011 they’re present in the civil war in the east and they get together after reconnecting through that.

what their first christmas / hanukkah / etc as a couple was like they meet each other’s parents for the first time! they invite them over for dinner along with cassie’s sisters and nieces and nephews. it’s VERY chaotic but it goes really well. leon’s mom loves cassie. uhh cassie’s dad scares the shit out of leon just because he’s a Jokester and lives for freaking leon out because he’s so obviously very nervous lmao.

what their names are in each other’s phones leon’s phone has cassie as “cassidy 🖤”. cassie has him in her phone just as “baby”. bonus she has his name in her phone the few days after they decide to have a kid as “sperm donor”. leon goes “cassie” in his disappointed voice and she rolls her eyes and finally changes it.

if they have any ‘couple traditions’ ( buying a new mug for their collection every year? baking every friday evening? ) at the moment just their friday movie nights and whenever they go out of country on a mission they buy a magnet for their fridge!

who falls asleep first and who wakes up first leon usually falls asleep first and wakes up first. cassie usually stays up late on her laptop researching and writing.

who’s the big spoon / little spoon leon is big spoon 80% of the time but he likes to be jetpacked too!

who hogs the bathroom leon after he gets back from a really gross ass mission takes hours but cassie usually hogs it day to day.

who kills the spiders / takes them outside cassie flips out and leon gets a cup and a piece of paper, puts the little guy outside. there have been multiple occasions where it sounded like cassie was in legit danger and leon came skidding into the bathroom only to find cassie standing on the toilet.

#chuckhansen #asks #PHEW #thank you so much you guys <333333 #this helped me a lot with them tbh #ship: conflict of interest

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nerianasims · 3 years

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Billboard #1s 1983

Under the cut.

Toto -- "Africa" -- February 5, 1983

This song becoming massively popular recently sort of mystifies me. But maybe it shouldn't; the music is very pretty, and we've been short on popular music that goes for "pretty" for a long time. The lyrics... I really don't know. The best explanation I've seen was someone joking on Tumblr that maybe the narrator's a werewolf. I'm sure that wasn't the intent, but it's what I'm going with. It is a good song, entirely because of the music.

Patti Austin and James Ingram -- "Baby, Come to Me" -- February 19, 1983

I'm not sure I've ever heard this song before. It's a romantic duet. It's not annoying or anything, it's fine, but now that I've heard it I think I'm probably about to forget it again immediately.

Michael Jackson -- "Billie Jean" -- March 5, 1983

This song, I've heard. A whole hell of a lot. Like everyone else, we had the Thriller album (or tape, rather.) Actually I had it -- for some reason, Thriller was seen as some kind of child's first pop album. Every kid I knew had it. (And since seeing Leaving Neverland, that has been very creepy to me.) As for me, I'd put it on and dance, especially to this song. I pretty much understood what the song was about, and even got the "His eyes looked like mine" line. I didn't have an opinion on whether or not the kid was his son. It didn't matter; it was entirely about the music. Which is truly great.

Dexys Midnight Runners -- "Come On Eileen" -- April 23, 1983

Until the last couple years, I didn't entirely know what this song was about, because I couldn't understand Kevin Rowland's weird singing outside the chorus. I got that he wanted Eileen, and that this was about the combination of arrogance and horniness of youth. I did not know about all the references to the previous generation's pop culture, with an obvious inference that they felt the same way at one time. Also about Margaret Thatcher's intentional destruction of her own country's society. You don't have to think about any of that to enjoy the song if you don't want to, though. It's a fun dance song as well as being complex lyrically.

Michael Jackson -- "Beat It" -- April 30, 1983

This is the Michael Jackson song I remember being played on the radio by far the most when I was a child. It's basically the main background song of a couple years of my childhood. It's a hard-driving song about how you should run away from a physical fight rather than die. "It doesn't matter/ Who's wrong or right." Yes. It's rock, and it's dance, and it's... probably really great? I don't know, some things are too formative.

David Bowie -- "Let's Dance" -- May 21, 1983

"Put on your red shoes and dance the blues" makes no sense. But this is David Bowie; he knew that. It's part of the point. While this song is perfectly feasable to dance to, it's not really a dance song. It's achingly romantic and not the tiniest bit soppy, with music that's both accessible and fascinating. And my god Bowie could sing. I love it so much.

Irene Cara -- "Flashdance... What A Feeling" -- May 28, 1983

I didn't see Flashdance until college, when my roommates decided we would watch a bunch of cheesy 80s movies because it seemed a brilliant thing to do. It was, actually. Some of them even turned out to be good. Not Flashdance. Flashdance is memorably stupid, at least -- it doesn't hold back. It's extremely entertaining because it's deeply unintentionally hilarious. This song, though, I've heard a lot since it came out. The song is much better than the movie. It's got a wide-eyed optimism that's appealing, and the music is fun.

The Police -- "Every Breath You Take" -- July 9, 1983

I remember people periodically insisting that many, many women don't understand this song and think it's just romantic. I have never met any of these women. I have a feeling it was only a few, and that got blown up into some kind of crisis, as things do. Especially when people can imagine angelic airheaded women being dumb and somehow inviting abuse from those scary scary men. That's a favorite hobby for many. Anyway. It's a really good song that gets into the mindset of a really bad man -- or of a man who's currently imagining being really bad but is going to wake up, deal with his hangover, and get on with life. It's not a comfortable song, and that is good. Also Sting's hot.

Eurythmics -- "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" -- September 3, 1983

Usually repetitive songs drive me nuts. This song is incredibly repetitive lyrically. I love the lyrics, though. And musically, it changes up just enough to keep my interest. It's almost hypnotic. Apparently, Annie Lennox can do whatever she likes with me. Speaking of "some of them want to be abused"...

Michael Sembello -- "Maniac" -- September 10, 1983

The original demo of this song was about a serial killer, and it sounds like it, with the Psycho-like musical parts. It's not a dance song at all. Michael Sembello worked with Stevie Wonder during his best years, but he's no Stevie Wonder. He has that 70s light rock white guy voice, and it doesn't fit this song. If he'd handed this to another singer, it would have been better. Though still goofy, because it's music about a serial killer wedded to a story about a dancer. Many of the lines don't seem to have been changed either: "On the ice-blue line of insanity/ Is a place most never see." And okay, that's a good line; I wouldn't want to leave it out either.

Also my aunt is a professional dancer (mostly choreographer now), so I've seen quite a bit into the professional dance world, and it is seriously unhealthy. It seems to be getting better, at least in modern dance, but the reason my aunt didn't go farther as a ballerina and switched to modern dance is that she could not get skinny enough for the fashion in ballet, no matter what she did. We're a muscular family with solid bones, and she couldn't get rid of that. She's got an eating disorder still though. Professional dance is harsh and terrible, and probably kills more women than serial killers do.

That's what I think of when I hear this song.

Billy Joel -- "Tell Her About It" -- September 24, 1983

Billy Joel's best songs didn't make it to #1, but that's almost always the way. This bouncy throwback of a song is still fun. With most excellent advice: "Tell her about it/ Tell her everything you feel/ Give her every reason/ To accept that you're for real." (It occurs to me that my husband is the first guy I dated who did that actually while we were dating, as opposed to waiting until after we broke up. Most of the guys I dated did not take in "I will not get back together with you if we break up." Not my fault; I told them about it.) Anyway, this isn't as good as "Big Shot," or "You May Be Right," or "My Life," or a whole lot of other Billy Joel songs I like a lot better, but it's pretty good.

Bonnie Tyler -- "Total Eclipse of the Heart" -- October 1, 1983

Melodrama, I love it. This song is so Great -- big, fantastical, unembarrassed, and awesome in both meanings of the term. Bonnie Tyler knows her strengths and has no hesitation about using that huge voice, and yet she doesn't oversing, either. The lyrics? Hell if I know. To me, it sounds like that part of a relationship where you're losing yourself and can't think about anything but the other person, and especially about having sex with the other person. But whatever else it is, it's poetry. And big thunder crashes. Which is a lot like falling in love. It's not necessarily happy. It just is.

Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton -- "Islands In the Stream" -- October 29, 1983

Going from "Total Eclipse of the Heart" to this song induces emotional whiplash. The opening goes "Baby, when I met you/ There was peace unknown." That's the exact opposite of "Total Eclipse of the Heart." What is the same as "Total Eclipse of the Heart" is that the lyrics make no actual sense -- but of course they don't, this thing was written by the Bee Gees. Nonsensical lyrics can be poetic, but the Bee Gees didn't do poetry, at least not good poetry. Oh well, it's probably their most tolerable song. It's a sweet and light song, and I'm sure the narrators will be very happy together. They sound exceedingly "emotionally healthy." But as art, I prefer the "Total Eclipse of the Heart" take. Also I think this song might have been better with just Dolly Parton. Kenny Rogers was good, but he couldn't match Dolly.

Lionel Richie -- "All Night Long" -- November 12, 1983

Lionel Richie puts on a fake Jamaican accent for this thing. Also he makes up pseudo-African chants. I'm not going to go all "j'accuse!", at least not of problematicicity. No, I am accusing him instead of being annoying. Also dull. This is a party song, but an extremely boring one. Also Richie kind of tries to do an "ow" thing, obviously inspired by Michael Jackson, but of course it doesn't work. It's still not terrible. Unlike all the gloop Richie made, I can listen to the whole thing. The drums -- or drum machine, rather -- have a neat beat, and there are some good horns and other musical touches.

Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson -- "Say Say Say" -- December 10, 1983

Well this is weird. I can't remember ever having heard this song before. The song is about begging someone not to "play games with my affection." And it sounds like the two men are singing to each other, regardless of the lyric about getting through to a "girl." It's not bad -- Michael Jackson gives Paul McCartney the musical edge that he'd lost as soon as he left the Beatles. Strong beat, harmonica and all. But I'm not going to seek it out, either. I think the beat's too repetitive. Also it feels too busy.

BEST OF 1983 -- "Let's Dance" by David Bowie, "Total Eclipse of the Heart" by Bonnie Tyler, and "Sweet Dreams" by The Eurythmics. Great year for the pop charts. WORST OF 1983 -- There aren't any that I think are truly terrible this year, so I guess I'll go with "Baby, Come to Me," because as predicted, I have already forgotten it.

#billboard number ones

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milstrim · 4 years

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Rise from the Ashes; Just to See You Again

Chapter 2: It’s a Girl!

Mary Fitzpatrick stared at him in disbelief, her brown eyes wide, looking as though everything she had ever known had been a lie. The woman glanced between him, Pepper, and the papers in front of them.

"You want it? You actually want the baby? Thi-this, I--really?!?" A smile was tugging at her lips, as if she was afraid to actually believe him. Her brown eyes were hopeful, before they turned a little doubtful, "This isn't some impulse decision, or a dare or something is it? Because you'll have to be there for it and--"

"--I-yes! I really want it, and that's a promise. I've put a lot of thought into it, Mary, this wasn't just some spur of the moment decision," he gave her a long stare, making sure she knew he was being sincere, "I'm in it for the long haul. This is my kid, and I'm willing to do right by them."

She was smiling in earnest now, her eyes brighter than before, before she seemingly reigned herself in and turned to look at the papers, which he passed over to her.

"In there is another NDA," Pepper started, listing what the woman would be signing, "A contract saying you are waving away your parental rights, that Tony has full legal control over decisions for the baby once it is born..." and on it on it went, making Tony even more glad she was there. Legal stuff always gave him a headache, but it was particularly bad when it involved his baby, he found, "...and of course we'll have to call in our lawyers, each of you needs a legal representative to go over these before anything is signed."

"Does that mean they'll get signed today or not?" Tony asked, turning to Pepper, who shook her head.

"Our lawyers are on standby, but I don't know about Ms. Fitzpatrick..." she trailed off, looking at the woman in question with a hint of doubt. Mary shook her head in response.

"I live in New York. I only flew out here to have a meeting with you and I honestly didn't think anything would get this far," she answered, "Should I call him or...?"

"I suppose," Pepper answered, "unless you want to go find a different lawyer."

"What's his name?" he asked, "I'll pay for his ticket and everything, I want him down here as soon as possible."

And he meant it. The man, Brian Torres, was in California and had arrived at his hotel room by 9:37, exactly 7 hours later. But until then, they had time to fill.

"Perfect," Pepper said, taking up the papers and putting them in a folder, "He'll be here tonight and we can go over everything tomorrow morning."

"Tomorrow?" Tony exclaimed, impatient. Pepper shot him a look, exasperated.

"Yes, tomorrow," she turned to address Mary, "Feel free to let him know all expenses are covered. Hotel, plane tickets, transportation, everything."

"Of course," the woman responded, her smile light, "I'll let him know,"

She stood up to leave, and Pepper followed suit, grabbing Mary's coat and bag for her. But Tony couldn't help but feel disappointed. He had planned on making a huge decision today, and he had basically done nothing. Tony stood up to show Mary to the lobby, and possibly even her car, but the urge to do something more was too strong to resist.

"How about you come by my house,"

Mary and Pepper both stopped, Mary looking surprised and a little confused while Pepper's face was masked with cool indifference.

"You can see where the kid'll grow up and we can throw around ideas. We could move you in temporarily while you're pregnant, so you can stay close by and all."

She tilted her head at that, thoughtful.

"That's not a bad idea, though I'll have to wait until I'm on maternity leave."

"Alright, then," he said, going to hold the door open for her, "I'm driving."

They managed to get to the parking lot, into his car, and completely off the property without Obadiah noticing them. Then again, Tony had told Pepper to keep him busy, and she was nothing if not perfect at her job.

Tony turned on the radio to some random 80's channel, keeping the volume low so they could talk easily. Mary made no move to talk though, and they were halfway to the mansion when he couldn't take the silence anymore.

"Have you thought of any names or is that going to just be a 'me' decision, cause' I've already been looking at some. Of course I don't know the baby's gender, but I was thinking about James or Jamie, though I don't know if James is too basic or not."

He rambled on, trying to hide how nervous all of it really made him feel. He felt mostly successful, which was probably due to his years of practice in front of the press. Mary smiled, apparently amused.

"It's a girl, if you were wondering," she told him, answering the question he hadn't asked aloud.

Tony's heart leaped in joy and he couldn't contain the goofy grin that spread over his face. A girl, a girl! He was going to have a girl. It made the situation feel even more real and Mary had to let him know that the light had turned green.

He didn't stop smiling the whole way back, throwing names back and forth, though he still wasn't satisfied with any of them. He might want to look at some old family names to see if any of them caught his eye.

"This way, Ms. Fitzpatrick," he directed Mary when he parked the car. She followed him inside, taking in the size and the view of the mansion with a pleased smile. She looked worried, however, when she saw the bar, her lips pursed.

"I'm getting rid of it. Going clean and getting rid of all the alcohol in the house."

"Good. And, um, the cliff seems rather dangerous,"

His heart jumped at that, caught between speeding up and stopping all together. His house overlooked a cliff, a fucking cliff.

"I'll get it fenced, and she shouldn't ever be by herself long enough to somehow fall off a cliff," he assured, making a mental note to ask Jarvis to have some people come over to build a fence, "Here, I'll show you to where you'll be staying."

Her room was down the next hallway over from his. Like his room, it had a nice view of the ocean and high tech lined the windows and walls, telling the temperature, news, blocking out lights and creating visuals of whatever she pleased. The tech was nice (obviously), but the room itself was a little plain, after all, it was only a guest room. Mary sat down on the bed, taking in the ginormous room.

"It's nice, Mr. Stark."

"Please, call me Tony."

"Then it's very nice, Tony. Where will the kid's room be?"

"It'll be across from mine. It hasn't been set up yet though, so there isn't much to see," he told her, shrugging.

"I'll take your word for it," she smiled, getting up. Immediately she gasped and doubled over, clutching her belly, Tony rushing to her side in an instant.

"What? What is it? Are you okay?"

"She kicked!" she exclaimed, grabbing his hands and placing them on her stomach. Tony let her, shocked into a stunned silence. After a moment he looked up at her in confusion, not feeling anything, "That was the first time she kicked!"

"I guess she tired herself out," Tony chuckled, standing up and putting his hands in his pockets, feeling awkward, and a little disappointed he didn't get to feel it. Mary seemed to realize his discomfort, and moved the conversation forward.

"What else were you thinking for names? Or godparents?"

"I've already got a godfather in mind, and I was going to look over some old family records for names."

"Have you got them with you?"

He raised an eyebrow, "Yeah?"

And that's how the two ended up, hours later, sitting on the floor combing through old books and photos of Tony's family history. They ordered takeout (and some pistachio ice cream for Mary, who was having cravings) and played a movie while they came up with baby names, Jarvis keeping track of their favorites. They looked at cribs and toys and more baby stuff than Tony had seen in his entire life. It wasn't until Pepper came in to ask him for a signature for some company thing did they realized how late it was, just past nine. Which, okay, wasn't actually late, but he hadn't expected for her to be over for so long. They'd been at his house since 3:45.

Tony offered for her to stay the night, but Mary insisted she'd rather go to the hotel, so he drove her back.

By the time he laid down in bed he was still too excited to go to bed, despite the fact that he'd worked in the lab for four hours after Mary left, and he wasn't quite sure what to do with himself. So he had Jarvis download some parenting-guide books. They weren't anything super complex, just a lot of reading on basic baby needs and how to interact with them.

He shot his AI a dirty look, sure that Jarvis had picked some really simple books to dumb things down for him, but didn't say anything. It was a good start, really. Tony didn't know anything about kids, but he was about to learn. The man smiled again. It was a goofy grin that crinkled his eyes and seemed to lighten his entire being.

"It's a girl, J," he grinned aloud, even though the AI already knew that. Which he was sure to tell Tony, his tone full of sass. Tony fell asleep with that thought repeating, making promises to himself and his kid to be the best dad he could be. I promise:

I'll be there for her. She'll always be loved, and she'll know. I'll tell her everyday. I'll never hurt her, and I'll keep her safe from harm. I'll accept her, I'll love her.

God, he couldn't wait to meet his kid.

Previous Part /// Next Part

#Iron Man #spiderman #irondad #spiderson #spiderdaughter #spiderwoman #penny parker #tony stark #fanfic

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riotatthemovies · 4 years

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Riot talks with Chris LaMartina

Chris LaMartina is most known for the Vhs freak and Halloween geeks dream flick WNUF Halloween Special. He is truly a super fan of low budget American backyard horror movies as can easily be seen in all his projects via style and humor. Such films as Call Girl of Cthulhu and his imdb unlisted shot on video slasher he mad as a kid Amerikill. Chris took some time out of editing and crafting new projects and answering questions on the now online conventions to talk to us.

1. Sov horror is REreleasing some of your older works. Amerikill and Dead Teenagers. Now I have seen and own Amerikill and the slasher of that movie is basically killing kids many of which are less than teenagers. So tell me what Dead Taanagers is about, more than just the same thing but killing older kids?

Chris: "Dead Teenagers" was first, VERY DIY, attempt at making a feature. At 18, I knew I didn't have the attention span or stamina to make a full fledged feature so I tried my hand at an anthology. "Dead Teenagers" is basically a micro-budget ($300 actually) version of "Creepshow"... so goofy little cheap segments about vampires, werewolves, and things that go bump in the night with bare bones resources that would make the Pope weep.

Riot: 2. What's your all time favorite no budget possibly Shot on video horror movie and what makes it stand out to you?

Chris: I love the JR Bookwalter stuff and I kinda adore "Polymorph" the most. Outside of that, I really think "Redneck Zombies" is fun start-to-finish plus Perciles Lewnes is the NICEST dude. Eric Stanze's "Savage Harvest" was probably one of the ones that inspired me most to start getting serious about making stuff on my own.

RIOT:3. You are arguably most noted for the WNUF Halloween special. Obviously a love note to 70s and 80s American local television from the drugstore era of halloween as I like to call it, (The time when all your Halloween supplies could be bought just from your local drugstore, taffy candy and Ben cooper costumes) but I've always been curious how much the British tv special GhostWatch inspired you if at all? I love double billing both movies back to back before Halloween.

Chris: . Dude. I get this a BUNCH and I didn't see Ghostwatch til years after WNUF was released and people KEPT comparing us to it. But... to be honest, I watched about 20 minutes before I got bored. It's not a bad movie, it's just not what I was expecting. Very serious, and as you can tell by WNUF, that's not really my bag. I can see why people compare us, though... but to be honest, there's a LOT of horror movies/novels/comics about a reporter doing a report from inside a haunted house. One of the genius stories for WNUF was hearing an old Baltimore story about how an oldies station did a live radio show/seance from the Edgar Allen Poe house and picked up some strange recordings.

Riot: I totally get it , I just grew up in England when GhostWatch aired first unknowing of the gimmick, so imagining that experience though. Also once the gimmick is done yeah it is kinda dry so I agree, if you cant scare em completely, make em smile 4. Before the world went all topsy turvy this year you were crowdfunding for a sequel. How did that go and where does the project stand? Sov Horror is promoting a project where they are asking filmmakers to send in fake commercials for their film, I smell a mini cross over connection that is begging to happen there.

Chris: So, because of Covid, we lost about 15 days at the most CRUCIAL time of production... all the days with extras and big set-pieces were basically thrown out the window. We've still been doing a bunch of post on footage we have shot and are managing to do some "social distancing" shoots where I set-up lights, mic, and actors arrive in costume, hit their marks, and say their dialogue. It's weird, man... but it's how we have to do it. It's definitely not how imagined making this movie, but such is life. As for SOV Horror connection, nah. I love Tony and what he's doing is really cool... but I'm way too busy with WNUF, work, and other creative projects to toss anything their way right now. Riot :5. Keeping busy is key right now. How's the pandemic world treating you in general, if it caused you to stall on projects and life in general slow down. Luckily I find for no budget backyard film makers it's been seeing some real inspiration and online sales lately so I hope something good is coming for you. Anything to report on "What Happens Next will Scare you?"

Chris: The best part of the pandemic for me is finishing "What Happens Next Will Scare You" which will be totally COMPLETE by end of August (literally just doing the title sequence now). It took forever, but finally the guy who was doing all our screen composites had no excuse not to finish when he was trapped inside his house for months. ;p So yeah... that'll be available somehow in the next few months.

Riot: Thats great news

6.Whats your favorite things about low budget filmmaking and what are the things that get under your skin so much that makes you doubt yourself sometimes? I'm sure any of the self produced folks can relate.

Chris: I love how accessible it is (cameras and software are CHEAP now). I also love how much imagination you can inject into a project with the right levels of ambition and enthusiasm. When you're too afraid to fail, that's the best. As I got older and made more movies, you have the pressure of expectations... which actually ruins a lot of the fun, but I'm still trying to best to make cool, weird shit that *I* would love and hope there's legions of creeps like me that will welcome these bizarre pieces of storytelling into their homes. As for what gets under my skin... hmmm... I've always distrusted folks who care more about gear and budgets than story. That's way bogus. Furthermore, I think fan culture has gotten a little toxic over the best decade and tape trading has gotten stupid expensive / unfunny. But fuck those dudes. They won't stop me from having a good time and making weird shit. ;p Riot: I love my cheesy vhs tapes but you are so right the tape trader community takes things way too seriously , I just cant anymore myself.

Thanks for joining us for 6 silly questions with Riot (that's me) and may this Halloween be epic and future projects be awesome.

Chris: Thank YOU, dude! It was great talking with ya and hit me up anytime. xoxo

Behind the Scenes of Call Girl of Cthulhu

#chris lamartina #bmovies #wnuf #wnufhalloweenspecial #dead teenagers #call girl of cthulhu

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girlwiththegreenhat · 5 years

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I actually have had no interest in Transformers up until now (I only knew about the old cartoon robots and overly humans faces don’t appeal to me) but I had no idea there was a more recent cartoon until you reblogged videos and art and such! I wanted to ask, is the series narratively engaging? Like does it have good arcs and character builds and themes and what not? Also, I think there was a 3D a 3D animation series, right? Between 2d and 3D, which would you recommend to watch first?

There have actually been a lot of recent cartoons, when one ends another one follows in roughly a year. Based on the ones I post about though, the two you’re probably referring to are Transformers Animated… (2007 ~ 2009, newer in regards to the original 80s cartoon but hardly the most recent Transformers series. also my favorite lol)

... and Transformers Prime. (2010 ~ 2013, the series after TFA and the only real 3D animation TF series I actively reblog.)

Transformers Animated has a good narrative and absolutely amazing characters tbh. The three-part episode it starts with really grabs your attention so you don’t even have to wait for it to get good, but it’s not afraid to be silly either - season three does get more serious but it doesn’t majorly affect the overall tone of the series, its def still goofy. I recommend TFA as anyone’s intro to the franchise, it’s a great look at what Transformers is really meant to be? It can be serious, but at the same time its a story about giant alien robots coming to earth that turn into cars. Silliness comes with the territory. Also the world building and development that went into TFA is... absolutely crazy. The folks that made it obviously have a looooot of love for the franchise. Overall: TFA is underrated, hella well-written, you end up loving most of/all of the characters, and the only downsides are the occasional kinda-annoying human villains and the fact that Hasbro cancelled it so finishing season 3 gives you a sad empty feeling inside and the feeling to avenge it. (You can legally stream it for free on Tubi btw! and if you like it make sure to tell hasbro that, we’re trying to get the fourth season we deserve and the writers said if we push hard enough hasbro might give lol.)

Transformers Prime is... not bad, honestly. It used to be my favorite for a while but it lost some of its luster with age, it’s not a bad show IMO but the characters can be a lil flat sometimes (mainly the autobots, the decepticons in this show are actually more entertaining most of the time lmfao) and some of the plots can get repetitive. I’d still recommend it if you’re really into Transformers but it’s a darker take on the franchise, even written for a young teen audience rather than kids. If you prefer the silliness of TFA though you might not like it, and the 3D animation is kinda limiting so there aren’t as many characters as there are in TFA.

.... gonna tangent back to TFA real quick but that’s another thing that’s great about it, because it’s done with 2D animation it fits in a looooooooot of characters. you end up falling in love with characters that only show up for a couple of episodes, and all of them have such unique crazy personalities i guarantee you’ll have at least a couple favorites by the time the series is over.

anyway there are quite a few other series, some 2D, some 3D, some a mix of both, and of course the movies as well (the only liveaction TF movies worth watching are the recent ‘bumblebee’ movie), and I do reblog a bit from series I don’t watch much or at all, so if you had another series in mind that i missed i apologize xD Transformers Cyberverse is the current series, TLDR ehhh its not bad. the episodes are short and its also silly so if you like TFA check out the first few episodes on youtube and see if it’s your kinda thing.

Also, the original 1980s cartoon can definitely look weird in a lot of ways but surprisingly it has quite a few genuinely good episodes. If you enjoy TFA i recommend watching some of the fan favorite episodes because there are some solid ones. the series had a lot of writers and none of them were allowed to talk to each other so the writing quality varies, some of the episodes are Typical 1980s Cartoon Nonsense(tm) and some of them are Genuinely Good Especially For A 1980s Cartoon Hot D a m n.

tldr - transformers animated is great, i absolutely recommend you watch it first ESPECIALLY if you've never really watched anything transformers before. transformers prime is... okay. darker themes but some of the characters aren't as strong and some of the plots are bleh. watch it second if it appeals to you but based on your ask it might not. G1 (original old cartoon) has some Genuinely Good Episodes that still hold up which i recommend you to seek out should you enjoy TFA, they're worth looking past the animation errors and personal taste in character design.

#liz blogs #transformers #maccadam #blogofthemod #ask #wooo i get quite a few of these asks come to think of it #i wonder if i should make a masterpost of series i think people should watch #it can have all the specific details and if people want specifics like OP with what they're into then I can just cut to the chase lol #sorry i ramble so much im just super passionate about giant transforming robots and iwant other people to love them too #i hope i answered your question OP lol #if you want good characters stories and worldbuilding transformers animated is DEF the way to go

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wonderfulworldofmichaelford · 5 years

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Psycho Analysis: Emperor Tod Spengo

(WARNING! This analysis contains SPOILERS!)

Mom and Dad Save the World is a film that asks one of the most important questions of our time: What if Ming the Merciless from Flash Gordon was a fat, balding loser played by Jon Lovitz? The answer, of course, is that hilarity ensues.

Unlike Terl, the previous alien idiot discussed here, Spengo is written to be an absolute moron on purpose. And while writing a moron who is both entertaining and doesn’t frustrate the viewer can be extremely hard (take a look at how Patrick Star is portrayed in some of the later SpongeBob seasons for proof), they managed to pull it off fairly well here.

Actor: Jon Lovitz, the man you may know as Jay Sherman from The Critic or as a guest star in quite a few Adam Sandler movies or maybe even as the trusty radio from The Brave Little Toaster, portrays Tod Spengo here, and he absolutely kills it. At the time this movie came out, he was still only a couple years out of his SNL days, and to clarify he was in it back in the mid to late 80s, a time when the show was generally respected. Heck, he was one of the only people kept on after the terrible season in 1985, so he had to be pretty skilled when it came to comedy, and it definitely shows here, as he really sells Spengo’s insecurity, patheticness, and sheer ineptitude at running a planet.

I think it helps to note that originally Spengo was, in the script and before Lovitz was cast, literally called “Jon Lovitz.” They just thought there was no way they could hire him even after basing the character so much on him. Don’t you just love when things work out so well?

Motivation/Goals: As a parody of Ming, his goal is to conquer and turn everything into a monument to his massive ego, all to help cover up his massive insecurity complex. As such, he wishes to blow up Earth so that his planet, Spengo, is the most wonderful planet in the universe. He also really, really wants to bang the titular mom, who is married to the titular dad. Frankly, there isn’t much more to him: blow up Earth, bang this guy’s wife. But really, that’s all he needs, because Spengo is a villain in a comedy, and these elements lead to a lot of hilarity.

Personality: As it is easy to gather, Spengo is an absolute idiot. Everything he does for the planet is solely to stroke his own ego, to the point where he actually named the planet after himself. Yes, he changed the planet’s name to serve as a monument to his ego. Still, the fact that this movie is a comedy is really the only thing keeping him funny; if the movie were more serious, Spengo’s nature would be incredibly disturbing. He’s insecure, egotistical, and really wants to get into a married woman’s pants; that’s not a great combination of traits. Imagine someone like that in real life, it would be awful to see a person like that in a position of power. Here, though, it’s tolerable because Jon Lovitz plays up how pathetic and ineffectual such a man would be, and it leads to Spengo just being a hilarious loser.

Final Fate: Tod gets thrown down into the sewers, where he encounters some Lubb-Lubbs, cute smiling mushroom-like creatures that have mouths full of razor-sharp fangs and a taste for flesh. I think you can guess how well it ends for him

Best Scene: The scene where he is trying to decide between wearing mutton chops or a goatee, and asks his guards for help. Inevitably with a planet where everyone is a moron, hilarity ensues.

Best Quote: “Hah! Me? Insecure? If I were insecure WHY WOULD I SPEAK SO LOUDLY?” he says, speaking loudly.

Final Thoughts & Score: Tod Spengo is how you make an idiotic villain who constantly screws up genuinely fun and entertaining, and not ironically so like with poor old Terl. It really does all boil down to the writer’s intent and how well the writing is, and where Terl was clearly meant to be some cool, badass, threatening supervillain, Tod is just a loser, and is written accordingly. Of course, the movie is all just a big silly spoof, and it’s not the most groundbreaking spoof or anything, but it is fun and funny for the most part, and most of the reason it works is not because of the registered sex offender playing the hero but the big, goofy comedian playing the lovable idiot of an antagonist.

Spengo gets a solid 7/10. I wouldn’t go as far to say he’s the funniest comedic villain in fiction or anything, but as far as inept and insecure idiots go, he’s a pretty enjoyable guy. Lovitz’s performance is really what helps Tod, which is both a blessing and a curse; while he’s a good character, I don’t think he could really stand on his own without Lovitz. It’s sort of like with James Woods’ portrayal of Hades, though obviously nowhere near as iconic or hilarious. Still, as far as the villains of parody films go, Spengo is really the cream of the crop.

#Psycho Analysis #Mom and Dad Save the World #Tod Spengo #parody

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lovelybones81 · 5 years

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Unthinkable *update 11/5*

Summary: Seven years, three movies, two people, one story. But before they can get their happily ever after, Sebastian Stan and Camille Solis must learn to trust in each other and in themselves, before allowing the unthinkable to happen.

Warnings: Fluff, future smut, Language, Angst, mental health, WOC lead character

Rating: NC-17

Again thank you for reading and commenting! It keeps me motivated! xoxo

Chapter 19

Ex-Factor

Halloween 2010

Studio City, CA

Camille hummed along to the music as she ripped open the chip bag and tossed into the big plastic festive bowl in front of her.

“Alright, I’m still stumped.” Came a familiar deep voice behind her.

“Stumped about what?” she asked without looking up from her task, but taking a chip into her mouth.

“Your costume! I have no idea who you’re supposed to be.”

Camille smiled to herself, grabbing another chip bag and dumping into the next bowl. She felt him next to her a few moments later, shoulder to shoulder. Pretending she hadn’t notice him yet, she took another bite of a chip. But burst into a fit of giggles when he began shaking his shoulders from side to side with the music, bumping purposely with hers. “I hate to break it to you white boy-but you can’t dance.” She teased with a side-eyed look.

“You know, I would be insulted, but…sadly I know it’s the truth.” He said with a small pout.

With a shake of her head, she snorted back her laughter at his goofiness and finally turned to face Sebastian. Her heart did a little jump when she realized that he was already looking at her with those blue orbs she had come to care and rely on. He grinned widely, before reaching for a chip himself.

“Need help with anything?” he offered.

“Yeah, can you grab the extra plastic cubs from the pantry?” Camille replied.

He gave her an offended look. “I didn’t actually think you were going to make me help…” he scoffed. “I am a guest after all.”

Camille rolled her eyes, pointing in the direction of the panty. “In there Ojos Azules.” Ignoring his whining.

He squinted in a glare, but walked back blindly toward the pantry. Without taking his eyes off her, he pulled the door open, a slight smirk on his features. Camille’s gaze didn’t falter, instead she suppressed her laughter again. It had been almost 4 weeks since their goodbye at the airport. It almost seemed a lifetime ago to her now. After he had left, she had sat in her car for a good 15 minutes, and found herself crying again. A combination of everything that was going on and the fact that Sebastian was gone hitting her. After getting herself together, she drove to meet Liz. After that, most of the month had been a blur while she got back to her routine in LA, mostly with work.

And even though she had been fearful of the unsureness of her relationship with Sebastian, they managed to talk and text every day. Which had eased her insecurities. Now he was back in town for a few days, making Camille happier than she was willing to admit- especially to him.

Particularly since her birthday was only 2 days away, but were celebrating it a few days early with Sam’s. Throwing a Halloween/birthday party for both of them, since their birthdays were a few days apart. Hence the party favors/music/snacks and even costume! It had become sort of a tradition to share their birthdays and it was easier than celebrating two. Plus it gave them and their friends a chance to dress up for Halloween. And Samantha loved decorating the house all up for the holiday/birthday.

“Seriously, who are you supposed to be?” Sebastian asked, breaking her out of her thoughts.

“If you can’t figure it out then I’m not gonna tell you.” Camille responded with a frown.

“That sentence doesn’t even make sense Camille.”

She couldn’t help but giggle. It really hadn’t. Oh well. She grabbed another chip and shoved into her mouth. Wow. She really needed to eat if she planned on drinking for the night. She had been running around all day, helping get everything ready for tonight that she hadn’t sat down to eat.

“You know what does make sense?” Sebastian asked, standing next to her and handing her the cups.

“What’s that?” Taking them out of his hand with a grateful smile.

Resting both of his hands on the edge of granite countertops, he leaned his body forward, but tossed his head back, giving her a once over unhurriedly with a shake of his head in admiration. “Those spandex…”

Camille narrowed her eyes. “What about them? And watch your words carefully Stan.” She warned, but felt her cheeks warm up. Not sure if he was teasing or complementing.

He absently licked his bottom lip, gazing back up at her. “They’re…spandex.” He said lamely, his cheeks turning red all of a sudden, letting go of the countertop to run his fingers through his hair.

“Uh huh.” She uttered, opening the bag with the cups.

“I mean…” with another shake of his head, blowing air from his lips. “They fit you...perfectly...” He muttered, his eyes lingering up and down her body again, settling for a few extra seconds on her ass. “And what you have over them-.”

But stopped talking when Camille put her hand over his mouth. “Quit while you’re ahead.” She cautioned. Sebastian playfully glared, Camille daringly stared back. For a split second, it looked like he was just going to pull away, but her eyes widen in surprise when she felt a small sting on her palm. “Sebastian!” she squeaked, quickly pulling away.

Tilting his head to one side, he raised an eyebrow in satisfaction. “That’s what happens when you put things in front of my mouth. I bite.” He sassed with naughty smile.

Camille frowned, rubbing her palm with her other finger. “That hurt, you jerk.”

Rolling his eyes, he took a step closer. “Let me see, you big bebelus.”

“No.” she grumbled, pulling her hand behind her back.

“Oh stop it. Here.” He said in an exasperated tone, reaching out to grab her hand. “I’ll kiss and make it all better.” He teased with a wink, assessing her palm.

Camille glowered at him, trying her best to at least pretend to be mad at him. In reality, she was feeling a bit relieved at the moment. She had been scared that even though they had been keeping in contact every day through phone calls/text, that it would be awkward when they were back together. But so far- they had picked up right where they had left off. It felt as if no time had passed between them. If anything, their flirtatious nature had been picked up since he arrived the day before when they met up for dinner with Natalie and Samantha. Maybe it was because they hadn’t seen it each other in weeks, she wasn’t sure.

She broke out of her thoughts when she felt him lift her hand up back to his face. “What are you doing?” she questioned.

He blinked and repeated. “Kissing it to make it all better.”

Swiftly, she jerked her hand away. “Nice try. I’m not letting your mouth anywhere near me-.” Yet quickly stopped herself at the realization of her words.

“Hmm…you sure about that?” he questioned, taking another step in her direction.

Camille didn’t miss a beat. “Pretty sure.”

“Hmmph.”

“I mean you did just say that you’ll bite anything that’s put in front of your mouth.”

“And that doesn’t sound like something you like?”

Tilting her head to one side, Camille pretended to think about her answer, as she reached out and playfully tugged on the end of his tie, biting on her lower lip before speaking. “I never said that. I just enjoy other things that are done with a mouth…” Shrugging nonchalantly, before looking up at him through her lashes.

His tongue slightly stuck out of the corner of his mouth, licking the top and bottom lip as carefully watching her speak. Camille pretended not to notice, and only continued to blink harmlessly at up at him.

“Seriously?” Came another a voice a few steps away from them. “You two are ridiculous.”

“What are you talking about?” Camille asked at the same time Sebastian blinked out of his trance, stumbling backwards at the sudden interruption. Camille only gave him a weak smile before taking a step back herself.

“You know exactly what I’m talking about.”

“You invited him?” Sebastian scoffed, quickly recuperating from their little moment and trying his best to change the subject.

“Yeah, because I bring the ice.”

“And I’m so grateful!” Camille said in a sweet voice and a huge grin. “Thank you Charles!”

Charles pretended to give her a disgusted look but asked. “Where do you want the bags Jessie?”

“In the freezer.”

“Jessie?” Sebastian questioned in confusion.

“Yeah, as in Jessie Spano.” Charles explained, placing the bags in the freezer. “From Saved by the Bell?” he stated, looking at his best friend in disappointment for not knowing who he was talking about.

Sebastian wrinkled his forehead in concentration, obviously still unsure of what Charles was talking about. After a few more seconds, he tossed his head back and laughed. “That’s your costume?” he asked, looking back at Camille with an amused smile.

Camille gave herself a once over, with a hand on her hip. “What? You don’t think I pull it off?” she mocked. She wore a pair of tight black spandex, with a one piece bright pink bathing suit G-string over it. She had exaggerated her curls by fluffing them late 80’s style with a big black bow on one side of her head. There was also a towel she plan on carrying around as an accessory, but she wanted to get everything ready before everyone got there.

“Never said you didn’t darlin.”

Giving him a flirtatious wink, she tossed the empty plastic bags into the trash can. “Natalie is dressed as Lisa and Sam is Kelly.”

Sebastian lifted his nose up in the air before nodding in understanding. “Now those outfits make more sense…” he murmured to himself.

“Yup. The last few years we’ve tried to do theme costumes. Last year we were the Sanderson sister from Hocus Pocus.”

“Ooh I would love to have seen that!” Charles piped in with a wicked smile.

Camille beamed widely at him. “It was pretty good if I say so myself.”

“Which one of the Sanderson’s where you?” Sebastian asked with a light smirk.

She sassed back. “Wouldn’t you like to know...”

Charles groaned. “Oookay and on that note I’m going to go get the rest of the ice out of my car.” He indicated loudly for the both of them to hear. “Because I swear to god, it physically hurts me to watch you two right now. …” trailing off with a shake of his head, leaving them alone again.

Once he was out of sight, Sebastian snickered. “I knew that would get him to leave.”

Camille’s jaw dropped open. “Now why would you do that?”

“So I could give you your birthday gift.”

Her eyes grew wide in surprise at his revelation. She hadn’t been inspecting anything from him. “You didn’t have to get me anything-.”

Waving a hand in the air dismissively he interrupted. “I know, I know, me being here is gift enough-.” Camille rolled her eyes and gave his chest a playful slap. “Hey! You want the gift or not?” he teased, moving both hands behind his back.

Camille shrugged pretending to disinterested. “My birthday isn’t for two more days-“

“So you don’t want the gift?” She glowered at him. He smiled sweetly, and Camille watched as he maneuvered his left hand to the front of him, a small ocean blue box wrapped with a white ribbon in his hand.

She felt her heart begin to race, glancing between the box and Sebastian. Was that a Tiffany’s box? He got her something from Tiffany’s? She had never gotten anything from there before. Not even her old engagement ring was from there. In fact, she was not sure where David had gotten the ring from…

But back to the present, Sebastian stood in front of her with a Tiffany’s box. Blinking a few times, she met his gaze, he stared back with a knowing smile.

“Don’t worry, I’m not asking you to marry me.” He joked, but nervously ran his other hand through his hair, before placing the small box on the counter.

“Oh thank goodness.” She said mockingly, but curiosity took the best of her, giving the box a few more stares.

“Stop looking at it and open the box.” he softly ordered with a light shove of his hip.

She hesitantly reached for it. Not sure of what to expect. It was just a birthday present Camille. Just like the one you gave him back in Manchester for his birthday. Don’t be stupid.

She tugged at the ribbon and it slowly became undone, then took the top off. For the next few moments, neither one said a word. Camille kept her head down, blinking back a few tears when she realized what it was. Only Sebastian would think of a gift like this.

“Listen, if you don’t like it, we can return it for something else.” She heard Sebastian say in a panic voice.

“What?” Finally lifting her head to meet his gaze. He looked almost frighten. “NO!” she exclaimed with a shake of her head. “It’s-it’s beautiful.” She barely whispered with a sniff, taking the silver necklace out of the box with the music note pendant. Was she really crying? Oh geez.

“You sure?” Rubbing the back of his neck nervously. She smiled at him and only nodded. Her nod was like an invitation, and he stepped in closer. “I saw it and it reminded me of the story you told me about your parents.” He explained with a shy shrug.

“Yeah.” Was all Camille could mustered at the moment, not breaking from his gaze.

It had been months ago and they had been having a conversation about music and she mentioned to him about how her parents had met. Her mom had been a music teacher and to make extra money she decided to start tutoring on the side and one of the little girls she happened to be teaching was her dad’s little sister. It hadn’t been anything extraordinary, just something Camille had mentioned in conversation and then they had continued on.

“You sure you like it?” Sebastian asked uncertain.

“Y-yeah. I mean yes.” She stammered, sniffling again.

He raised a skeptical eyebrow. “Then why the tears? This was not supposed to make you cry.” he muttered.

“I’m fine.” She insisted with a small smile.

“Oh yea? You’re crying Camille.” He insisted, his cheeks turning red. “Birthday presents aren’t supposed to make you sad. Unless it’s not what you want-.”

But before he could get another word out, Camille wrapped her arms around his neck, inhaling his cologne. God the way he smelled was always so intoxicating. It always made her head buzz in appreciation. “Shut up.” She whispered. “It’s perfect. Thank you.” Not sure of what else to say.

She felt him wrap his arms around her waist, nuzzling his nose into her hair before giving her a light squeeze and whispering in her ear. “You smell good.” Camille only hummed in response.

“Oh for fuck sakes. I swear you two...!”

They broke their embrace and both looked in the direction of the voice. Charles was giving them a look of dislike before shaking his head and settling the two bags of ice on the floor. Turning on his heels. “You guys can take of the rest of this. You two need to figure this shit out…I swear to god…” He muttered over his shoulder, still shaking his head.

Sebastian rolled his eyes, walking toward where the two ice bags sat and called out after Charles. “Stop being such a drama queen!” But turned to Camille with a sheepish smile.

Shaking her head she composed herself but let a slight giggle, meeting him half way. “Help me put these in the freezer before Sam comes back here.”

*****

“Why do you have to be the one to do it?”

“Because,” Camille grunted pulling her gray sweat pants over the spandex. “They called me-.”

“They couldn’t call someone else?” Natalie snapped, arms crossed in front of her chest as Camille walked out of her closet.

“Look, I know you don’t like it-.”

Natalie furiously shook her head and interrupted. “This isn’t your responsibility anymore Camille.” Giving her sister a long stare. “It’s not.” She repeated a bit more softly.

Camille shoved her arms into her sweater, zipping it up before letting out a long sigh. “I know.” She agreed, nervously placing a strand of hair behind her ear. “I��ll be quick.” She promised.

“I’m not going with you.” Natalie stated, her voice raising again over the loud music in the living room.

“And I’m not asking you too. I can go by myself.” Reaching for her phone on the end of the bed.

“I don’t want you going by yourself either.”

“Nat-.” Camille started with a short laugh. “I’ll be okay.” Absently putting her phone in the hoodie pocket.

It was a few hours into the Halloween/birthday party and everyone had been having a good time. Dancing, drinking and even singing Karaoke. (Sam had bought a karaoke machine and had it out in the backyard with a small stage where people were free to use). Camille had been having a good time, drinking, laughing and catching up with Sebastian. It had been a nice distraction after the last few weeks of nonstop work.

Sebastian and Charles has been making her laugh for most of the night. Sebastian had pretended to be upset that Camille and Charles had lunch and dinner a handful of times since being back in Los Angeles. And had even exchanged numbers and texted as much as she talked to Sebastian. That only made Charles add fuel to the fire by giving Sebastian the full play by play of their “dates” as he had been calling them. It had all been in fun of course.

Camille had been ready to drag them to do karaoke when her phone had rang from a number she didn’t recognize, without thinking twice she had answered it.

“Hey! There you are!” Sebastian exclaimed, sticking his head into Camille’s bedroom. He looked directly at Natalie. “Sam’s looking for you. She said you know where the extra vodka is at...” but trailed off, obviously feeling the tension in the room. He glanced between the Solis sisters. “What’s up?” Furrowing his eyebrows. “Where you going?”

Natalie opened her mouth, but quickly shut it when she caught Camille’s warning look.

“I’ll be back.” Camille said, avoiding his question, trying to remember if her car keys were still in her purse. She felt Sebastian’s gaze on her and it was making her uncomfortable, because she knew this was not avoidable. She closed her eyes for a split moment before opening them up again and meeting his blue orbs. “I got a phone call from a bar...about David. Apparently he's been there since this afternoon.” She finished, hanging her head down, not wanting to see Sebastian’s look of disappointment.

“So Camille is driving to the bar to pick him up.” Natalie added angrily. “Even though I keep telling her it’s not her responsibility!”

Camille abruptly lifted her head up, giving Natalie a long stare. “I’m not gonna let him drive like this!”

“Let his drunk ass get a cab!”

Camille sucked in her breath. “Look, we know the bartender. That’s why they called me. Apparently he’s not carrying his phone.” She tried to explained, looking back at Sebastian for the first time. He had stepped into the room and stood a few feet away watching the exchange.

“He really knows how to fucking ruin everything.” Natalie murmured.

“He isn’t ruin anything. I will just go pick him up, drop him off and come back.”

Natalie shut her eyes, as if trying to calm herself down. After a few moments of silence, she opened them back up. “Fine.” Her voice sounding dejected. “But I’m not getting out of the car.” She stated, nose up.

“I can go by myself. I don’t need you running out of the car to kick his ass.” She tried to joke, grabbing her favorite pair of sandals from underneath the bed.

“I don’t want you going by yourself.” Natalie repeated.

“I can go with her.” They both heard Sebastian offer.

Both sisters turned their heads slowly to Sebastian’s direction. Camille quickly shook her head in protest.

Sebastian gave her a small smile. “I promise to stay in the car.” Raising his hand up and bringing three fingers up. “Scouts honor.”

Camille raised an eyebrow. “You were never a Boy Scout.”

Dropping his hand, he shrugged. “Okay, fine. But I’ll stay in the car.”

“You don’t have to. I know you aren’t his biggest fan either. But I just can’t leave him there in good conscience.”

“I don’t mind.” Sebastian said. “Listen, he drove right?” Camille only nodded. “Well someone’s going to have to drive his car back to his place. You can drive it and I’ll follow behind.” He reasoned. “Okay?”

Camille bit her lip nervously. That did make sense. She hadn’t broke her gaze from him since he started speaking. She couldn’t read what he was thinking, but knew that it was probably a good idea to have some there with her. After a few more seconds of trying to rationalize with herself, she finally spoke. “Okay.” With a small nod. “You’re right.”

Sebastian smile grew a little more at her words. “I’m sorry, can you repeat that again?” He teased.

Camille narrowed her eyes at him. But let out a silent sigh of relief at his teasing. So maybe he wasn’t that disappointed in her.

“You should have gotten that on record.” Natalie piped in.

“Ha-ha.” Camille said sarcastically.

~~~

Unfortunately Camille had been wrong. Sebastian had been sitting in the driver seat of her car for 20 minutes before deciding to get out and stretch his legs and smoke a cigarette. He was now on his 3rd one. Leaning up against the car door he puffed one more time before flicking the cigarette butt on the driveway and stomping on it with his shoe. He glanced down at his watch, frowning. It had been almost 45 minutes since Camille had walked into the house with David.

Lifting his face up to the night sky, Sebastian tried to push the nervousness and displeasure he was feeling away. He was here for Camille, not David. She needed support and he wanted to be that for her. He had to keep reminding himself of that. It had definitely been important to repeat it to himself when they had arrived at the bar and watched from the car as Camille and some tall bulky guy (who Sebastian assumed was the bartender who had called) held up David from each side to maneuver him into his car. Sebastian had followed behind to the house that Camille once shared with him.

Once they arrived at the house, Camille quickly got out of the car and made her way to him and said it would only take a few minutes to get David settled inside. Sebastian had offered to help, seeing that he could barely walk. But Camille had decline, informing him that David had sobered up enough to make it inside.

With his face still up to the sky, Sebastian let out a large sigh. This whole thing was fucking ridiculous. Natalie was right, this was no longer Camille’s responsibility. Hell, even when they were together it should not have been a responsibility. They were supposed to be a couple, not Camille playing the part of a mother. He glanced back over his shoulder at the front door for what seemed the hundredth time in the past 45 minutes, tempted to go and knock and make sure Camille was okay.

If she needs you, she will let you know. He reminded himself. He wasn’t going to make the same mistake like in New York. Camille had to figure this out on her own. Regardless of how much he and her sister wanted Camille to drop his ass, she would have to do it on her own terms. Not anyone else. Even if it killed him.

Sebastian was about to take out another cigarette when he heard a door open and close, hurriedly he turned his attention to the noise. Letting out a silent sigh of relief, he watched Camille make her way toward the car, looking a bit frazzled when she reached the passenger side. Sebastian walked around toward her with concern in his eyes.

“I’m so sorry.” Camille started rapidly. “I know I said it was going to be quick-.”

“It’s okay.” Sebastian murmured, cupping her face in between his hands.

Camille looked up at him skeptically. “No it’s not. I know how you feel about him.” Nervously running a hand through her hair.

Sebastian gave her a guilty smile. “Okay, no it’s not.” He answered truthfully. Recognizing it was better not to lie.

“Thank you.” She said with a grateful smile, which Sebastian took as ‘thank you for not lying to me.’ about the situation.

“Ready to go?” he asked after a few moments of silence, gesturing toward the car. Camille pressed her lips together before giving him a small nod. “Good. C’mon.” dropping his hands from her face to open the passenger door.

Camille followed, but stopped abruptly before getting inside car. “You got a cigarette?”

It took a few seconds for her request to register in his head. But Sebastian chuckled lowly. “Darlin’ you don’t smoke.” He reminded.

“Ooh right.” She mumbled with a small smile, sliding into the passenger seat. Sebastian shut the door after her, shaking his head in amusement as he walked to the driver’s side.

“I’m glad you still have your sense of humor.” He observed, turning the engine on the car.

“Oh, I wasn’t joking about the cigarette.” Camille said, sliding the seatbelt on, leaning her head back against the headrest, turning her attention toward him. Gnawing on her lip for a few moments before speaking up. “I’m sorry again.” Her eyes filling with regret and remorse.

He leaned over the center console of the car, squeezing her knee. “Stop.” He ordered softly. He wanted to engulf her in his arms at the moment. Blinking a few times, she only nodded. He gave her another squeeze. “You okay?”

“Hmm? Oh yeah.” She said in a not so convincing voice, reaching for his hand that sat on her lap.

“Camille?” He questioned, tangling his fingers with hers before tugging it up to his chest. “Talk to me.” He almost pleaded.

“We should go.” She whispered, looking out the car window and ignoring his previous comment.

Sebastian knew better than to push. So instead he let go of her hand to put the car in ‘drive’, slowly hitting on the gas pedal, pulling up to the end of the drive that lead to one of the main streets. “Which way?” Reaching back over for her hand to get her attention.

She jerked her head in his direction when they touched again. “Left.” Gently placing her other hand on top of his.

Following her directions, he made the left. And for the next 10 minutes, the car ride was silent. It was pretty late now so the roads where emptier that usual. Every few moments, he would give a side glance, as she absently stroked the top of his hand but her attention was elsewhere. He had a feeling she was trying to collect her thoughts.

They came to a red light and Sebastian couldn’t help but let his eyes linger a bit longer on her. In spite of everything that was going on at the moment, one thing was true- he was glad to be in her presence after almost 4 weeks. Just like he had predicted, it had taken him almost a week to get back to his routine back in New York, especially with Camille not being around all the time. His fears about their friendship only working in Manchester had been wrong-thankfully. They had managed to keep in touch daily and that had been a great weight off his heart.

“I-I told him I couldn’t do this anymore.” She stammered in a barely there whisper.

Sebastian only continued to stare, unsure of how to respond. Mostly because he thought she had more to share.

“The lights’ green.” She said with an amused smile, letting go of his hand to point ahead.

Clearing his throat and shaking his head slightly, he mumbled stupidly. “Oh uh yeah. Of course...” at the same time stepping on the gas pedal.

“Natalie, Tia Yolanda, you...everyone was right...” She said with a bitter laugh.

“Whoa- it’s not fun to be right when you agree with me.” He tried to tease. She brought one knee up, tilting her head in his direction with a knowing look. Sebastian shrugged and let out an exasperated sound. “Okay-fine. It’s still a little bit fun.”

“So that means I’m right.” She concluded, a small smile tugging on her lips.

He didn’t say anything for a few moments, but watched as she anxiously twirled the music note pendant around her neck between her fingers. “Was he sober enough to even know what you were talking about?” He asked a bit more bitterly than he intended it to sound.

“I made sure he drank plenty of water and had ibuprofen just in case.”

Camille would be the type of person to do those thoughtful things for someone even after all the shit they put her through. Sebastian gripped the steering wheel a bit tighter when he thought about how much David had made her cry in the last months. “You’re too good Camille.” He blurted out.

“I wasn’t feeling too good when he was begging me to stay and I told him I couldn’t.” She confessed, but the tone of her voice sounded different this time. There was a hint of resolve in it. “I told I couldn’t continue to be his go to person anymore. And that he needs to stop calling me.” Pausing for a split second to gather her thoughts again. “That there was nothing else to work out or work through.”

Sebastian felt something inside fill with hope as she spoke.

“Something just clicked Sebastian. Maybe it was seeing him literally sprawled on that table in the bar... or having to drag him out of there as people stared. I’m not sure. I just realized that this isn’t healthy. And I know I’ve been saying it, but now I think I’m finally ready. I’m tired of randomly crying and feeling like I’m not good enough. I know it’s going to be fucking hard. But I know there isn’t anything I can do to change what happened or change him for that matter.”

By then they had stopped at another red light, and Sebastian could stare with what he assumed was a smile on his features.

“Go ahead, say I told you so.” She quipped with a slight wrinkle of her nose.

“I’m not going to do that.”

“Oh? Why not?”

“Because sometimes you have to figure it out on your own. And I’m sorry if I pushed.”

She continued to play with her new necklace. “You didn’t.” Then added. “Shit, we need to turn left here.” She instructed.

Glancing into his rear view window, he quickly got to the left lane, turning once the light turned green. “How did he take it?”

“He just kept saying he could change. And he was sorry for everything. That he loves me. I told him he needed to get shit together because he was going to be a father soon. Because this isn’t just about us anymore. There is a child involved now. I’m not going to be the reason why this baby doesn’t have an attentive father.” She finished firmly.

These were the words Sebastian had been hoping to hear for the past 2 months.

“He kept begging and begging for me to stay. By this time he had sobered enough where he couldn’t blame the alcohol.” She licked her bottom lip. “I was scared. For so long he’s been everything and the idea of not having that anymore is scary and overwhelming.” She confessed. Then gave an embarrassed laugh. “I’m just blabbing all over the place.”

“I don’t mind listening.” Sebastian stated. It was a satisfying feeling to have her share her thoughts with him.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah, talk my ear away. I’m used to it by now.”

“Thanks.” She said sarcastically. After a long pause, Camille spoke up again. “Can we not go home yet?” She asked meekly.

They came to another red light and he finally looked over at her with a furrowed of his eyebrows. “Where are we going to go?”

Camille had an almost offended look on her face. “The beach?”

“It’s almost 2 in the morning! I thought they closed?”

Camille lifted both feet and settled them on the passenger dashboard of her car. “Ah that’s what they want the non-locals to think. But there are ways around that.” She said mysteriously.

“If we get caught, I’m leaving you behind. I’m a fast runner.” He warned. Camille shook her head but with a small chuckle. “Alright-which way to the beach?” He asked instead.

The need once again to soak as much time with her as possible, hitting his gut. Realizing he didn’t want the night to end just yet. And he knew that’s what was going to happen if they drove them back to Natalie and Sam’s house.

“Make a right at the next light.” Camille ordered without hesitation.

@thewintersadie @mydragulesebastian @its-daydreamer23 @janeyboo @peaceinourtime82

#Sebastian Stan #Sebby #seb #sebastian stan fandom #sebastian stan fanfiction #unthinkable #fanfic latina #Latina

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yasuda-yoshiya · 5 years

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I haven't delved much into KH lore, but I think there's something wrong when the main character is shoehorned into a plot that's essentially the same from the previous arcs repetitively along with a character that seems to be the love interest, while several others you never got to play as (or very temporarily playable), gets much further characterization and their new resolutions. The only ones that are interesting in Sora's party is Donald and Goofy btw. Anything about Riku and Mickey though?

Hmm, well, strictly from a storytelling perspective, I think I basically agree with you! Pretty much all the really interesting plot developments and character moments in KH3 are completely divorced from the person whose PoV you’re stuck inhabiting for most of the game, and Sora pretty much spends the whole game doing absolutely nothing of any importance while all the actual plot progression happens away from him. And in terms of what makes a good story, yeah, that’s basically terrible, but I honestly feel like I can basically understand why they did it because frankly, Kingdom Hearts as a series is in a very weird position at this point. The main appeal of the series to the vast majority of the casual audience is its supposed “Disney magic” and getting to explore the worlds from various Disney movies, but the actual main plot of the series at this point is an absolutely impenetrable and convoluted mess of original characters and plot threads that’s about as far away from any kind of “Disney magic” as you could possibly get.

With that in mind, it pretty much makes sense to me that they’d want to just shove the main plot out of the way entirely for most of the game and just focus on Sora’s random adventures in Disney worlds, because it’s honestly gotten to the point where the presence of the main plot actively detracts from the supposed central appeal of the game for most people. It allows KH3 to be enjoyable as a stand-alone experience to the average person who doesn’t give a crap about the overarching mess of the Kingdom Hearts plot and just wants to enjoy some Disney fanservice (and let’s be real, this probably describes at least 80% of the people who actually bought the game). Games like KH1, Days and BBS could manage to do a passable job of integrating some characterisation and plot development into the Disney stuff without being too jarring to the casual audience, because those games told basically self-contained stories. You don’t need to be a KH Lore Maniac to follow, say, Ven’s character arc through BBS. But KH3? KH3′s plot is all about tying up loose ends and resolving the stories of various characters from other games. Nothing about KH3′s plot makes any sense or has any real impact as a standalone, and it would probably be a fool’s errand to even try to make it work as one, because it just has way too much baggage from the ongoing series-wide plot that it has to resolve. So rather than trying to give Sora a quest that actually ties into the main plot in some way, they just decided to put the plot to one side and lean into unapologetic filler instead. I can sort of respect that.

The way I see it is… well, let’s put it this way. As a Kingdom Hearts fan, I could totally draw up an alternative outline for KH3 that has Sora making more of a meaningful journey and progress throughout the game, and integrates the main plot into the Disney stuff better. The focus of KH3 is about Sora saving the hearts and healing the pain of the people connected to him, the people whose pain was forgotten until now. So why not make the plots of the Disney worlds focus more on having him come to understand these people better, to get more of a focus on why it’s so important to bring them back? Let’s have the Olympus Coliseum chapter involve a subplot where, say, Sora finds out from Phil about the time Roxas spent training there in Days, and Phil talks about how much potential he showed and how he really misses the kid. Let’s spend more time explicitly drawing a connection between the toys having hearts in Toy Story and the way Xion developed her own heart despite being an artificially created puppet. Let’s parallel Rapunzel’s situation in Tangled with Namine’s in CoM, and make the plot of that world about Sora regaining the memories he lost from CoM (heck, Marluxia’s even right there and briefly brings this up in the actual game already!), reminding him of just how much Namine suffered and how much she deserves to be saved. And so on, and so on.

And that would probably make for a much more solid and cohesive game, and give the overall plot a lot more weight… but could you actually realistically present that kind of plot in a way that wasn’t totally alienating to the casual audience? Are you really going to be able to give enough emotional context for the average uninitiated player to grasp and care about all these different plotlines just through flashbacks and exposition? Are there really that many people who actually want to see the plot of Tangled used as a vehicle to revisit the plot of a 2004 GBA game, or are people just going to be frustrated at these hugely popular Disney movies being taken over by weird anime OCs they don’t care about? Professional reviewers are quite understandably panning the game already just for the very minimal intrusions of the convoluted main plot into the Disney stuff “breaking the magic” as it is, so it’s hard for me to imagine that any more of that would really be well-received by and large, however much the story might technically benefit from it. This is the sort of problem we run into when a game has to try and simultaneously appease two distinct audiences with entirely different priorities. Giving the main plot a very minimal presence for most of the game and then shoving the entire resolution into the last few hours is an imperfect solution, but I’m also not really sure what else they could realistically have done, given the setup KH3 had to work with.

In the end, I’m basically content with the compromise. I think they did a decent job of making a game that stays mostly enjoyable and accessible as a wacky Disney adventure for the casual audience, while still tying up most of the big overall plot threads that needed to be tied up in a reasonably satisfying way (a few very questionable writing choices aside… but it’s Kingdom Hearts, what else is new). It would have been nice to have had more build-up and substance to these characters’ resolutions, and to actively focus more of the game on them, as you suggest - but the more time the game spends pandering to overall series fans, the more time it also spends alienating everyone else. I think in the end we just have to accept that the build-up and context for their resolutions was in the previous games, that the people who really care about the series’ story will have played those games already, and for the people who haven’t, it just probably wasn’t worth devoting too much effort to trying to make them care within KH3 itself. That’s my take on it, at least.

On Riku and Mickey... hm, well, aside from them obviously being OTP material as always, neither of them really got to do much in this game? So I don’t really have much to say about them in particular. I thought the idea of Riku feeling a personal connection to Aqua’s plight as someone trapped in the darkness was sweet, but then they didn’t really do anything with that or let them actually interact at all in the end, so it felt like wasted potential. The BBS characters in this game were just a big disappointment in general, really! They could easily have done much more with them than they did, without even changing the structure of the story much... but, uh, I’m talking about Riku, sorry. I feel like Riku’s never really done much for me as a character, beyond like, KH1 and maybe CoM. I can see the outline of his arc on paper, and it seems fine and potentially interesting, but the execution has always felt pretty by-the-book and lacking in nuance to me. They talk very generally about him “falling to darkness” and such, but they don’t ever get beyond that into actually having him wrestle with his guilt over specific things, like his time working with DiZ or kidnapping the princesses or contributing to Roxas and Xion’s sacrifices, so it all feels a bit too broad to particularly connect with - and it’s sort of hard for me to really give weight to things like “I wore a blindfold for a whole year because I couldn’t stand looking at myself”, when that’s juxtaposed with him flipping right back to being a perfectly functional and confident hero without much apparent struggle or lasting difficulty after just a few platitudes from Sora. It’s sort of like they flip between being broadly melodramatic about his issues and shrugging them off completely? So he’s never really clicked with me, personally.

Meanwhile, Mickey is kind of hard for me to take all that seriously as a character beyond the memes, since... I mean, he’s Mickey Mouse, so there’s a big mental block there, lol. But even if I put that aside and look at his writing in KH in isolation, he never really felt like a particularly deep or interesting character or anything, I think? His relationship with Riku is very sweet, though!

#kingdom hearts #kingdom hearts iii

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