#the crew did everything to make this scene (especially these shots) immaculate | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

lillie98 · 9 months

Text

Heartstopper 2 Ramble (SPOILERS)

I just finished Season 2 of Heartstopper and wow. I had high expectations after Season 1, but I was not prepared for this emotional rollercoaster. The entire cast and crew poured their heart and souls into this project, and I am eternally grateful. I fear I won’t survive Season 3.

First of all, Imogen absolutely killed me. I wasn’t sure about her Season 1, but she won me over. Her reaction to Nick Coming Out was precious and awkward and completely sincere. Her monologue with Ben had me cheering at my little tv, and I actually rooted for her. I’m glad Alice gave Imogen another shot. She deserved it.

I was really worried about Ben’s storyline and how he would play into everything, but I’m SO glad they didn’t make Charlie accept his fake-ass apology. It dripped with manipulation tactics and danger. Good on Charlie for recognizing them and standing up for himself. Him essentially saying that Ben Sexually Abused him was difficult to watch but also so empowering. I’m still not sure if Ben is gay or not, but it really doesn’t matter to me. As Charlie said, Ben permanently broke his brain and he will live with the consequences for the rest of his life. You don’t get your happy rainbow, Ben, because you almost took Charlie’s away. Also, the Paris dinner scene was incredible. Joe Locke did not utter ONE WORD and yet you knew exactly what was going through Charlie’s head.

Speaking of Joe’s incredible acting, the fainting scene was immaculate. I loved the pre-fainting on the stairs and how Charlie ignored it, not wanting to freak out Nick, but it caught up to him quickly. I literally saw the light leave his eyes and his body weight pull him down. The use of the white border, double vision, and audio distortion made it incredibly realistic along with the way Joe let himself fall completely limp in Kit’s arms. You truly believed he was unconscious. My only critique is I wish we had seen him wake up and Nick reassure him he’s safe. Talking about Charlie’s beautiful blue eyes.

Charlie’s ED was handled with gentleness and grace by everyone, but especially Joe and Alice. It was a slow build that made sense and felt realistic without hitting you over the head with it. It’s beautiful to see this misunderstood community represented in mainstream media, especially when it comes to boys’ Mental Health. I loved Nick’s mom picking up on it, even if she didn’t fully understand. Good moms always know.

Tao and Elle were adorable and I loved watching Tao read the WikiHow article and then ask Elle out. Thank God they cut his hair, it was hurting. A lot. I’m glad Elle decided to go to Art School and pursue her dreams, it’s what she deserves. A place where she feels at home and accepted for who she is, where she’s surrounded by like-minded people who love and accept her.

I know Alice has tried to make Jane Spring more likable, but it’s not working for me. Sorry. If you don’t accept your child’s partner, you don’t accept your child. Period. She reminds me of Darcy’s mother. Jane Spring, I am in your walls.

The final scene broke me. It set up Season 3 perfectly while wrapping up the events of this season. Charlie looked so broken and lost admitting what he’d done to himself and Nick had no idea how to help him. So he did what he could, hold Charlie close and remind him that he is loved. Fully and completely. Watching Charlie walk home in Nick’s sweatshirt was like watching Nick carry him home—protecting him from the monsters in his mind. Also, the song that plays (the one that broke my brain) is from Wasia Project, Will Gao’s (who plays Tao) band. So, in a way, Tao was watching over him, too. The stark contrast between the Season 1 ending and this one is startling, but in the best way. Go back and listen to the lyrics of the final song, it will break your heart. “You’re the only one left, so please don’t go.” Nick is terrified that Charlie won’t make it and doesn’t know how he’ll handle losing his entire world. I can’t wait to see the GA’s response (those who didn’t read the comics). This is not the Heartstopper they thought they were getting. But for us who did read, it was nothing short of perfect. Thank you, Alice Oseman and team, you created a masterpiece.

#heartstopper #charlie spring #nick nelson #nick and charlie #tao and elle #alice oseman #heartstopper s2 #lgbtqia #mental illness #mental health #heartstopper spoilers #imogen heaney #pride #heartstopper netflix #Boys Get Eating Disorders Too

16 notes · View notes

inkandpen22 · 3 years

Text

Permanent Chaos (3/?)

Pairing: MGK x Female!Reader

Word Count: 3.2k

Warnings: mild swearing, mentions of smut, mentions of underage drinking

Part Summary: Sam and Y/N are on The Late Late Show to promote The Seasons of Life.

Masterlist

Before the interview, Nicole practices questions with me so I don’t get blindsided. Meanwhile, Sam and his manager, Steven, practice talking about our upcoming photo shoot for Vanity Fair. Steven is much more laid back than Nicole. Sam is free to do whatever he pleases. The country sees him as an average twenty-something. If he ever messed up he would be forgiven. Nicole emphasizes to me whenever she can that I have no room for error. I must be a saint as “America’s Sweetheart.”

There’s a knock at the door to our dressing room and Steven opens it. A man with a check board and a headset instructs, “Ms. Voss, Mr. Merka you’ll be on in five. If you could follow me.”

“We’ll be right off camera if you need us!” Nicole informs me and Steven agrees with a hum.

“Have fun guys!” he adds.

Sam holds the door for me and the two of us follow the man down the hall into backstage. Sam takes my hand as a precaution, just in case the chaos might separate us. Through double doors, we enter backstage and we’re stopped behind where we’re meant to enter. Loud music begins to echo from the stage and I recognize the song as one of Machine Gun Kelly’s. He’s all the rage now, one of those rockstars that girls fifteen and up obsess over. I don’t have much space left in my mind to obsess with everything going on. As we wait, I bop and sway my head back and forth to the beat absentmindedly.

The man says over his shoulder, “he’s great huh!”

I frowned confused, “wait, is he performing live?”

The man raises an eyebrow as if the answer is obvious. “Yeah, his interview was a few minutes ago. I’m surprised you didn’t cross paths when you got here.” He’s then pulled away by a lady dressed in all black. “I’ll right back! Stay right here!”

I scoff under my breath, the dude treated me like a dingus.

“Well, he was friendly” Sam mutters sarcastically under his breath.

“Right! Geez, he’s what? Only around four years older than you? At least he looked it. My bad for not knowing I’m apparently in the same building as a god!”

Sam snickers but covers his mouth since we’re not allowed to be loud. The song ends and the crowd goes wild on the other side.

“Ladies and gentlemen, Machine Gun Kelly!” The applause goes on and on with James attempting to speak over it into the camera. “After the break, we’ll have the breakout stars from the hottest show of the decade The Seasons of Life, Y/N Voss, and Sam Merka! So don’t go anywhere!”

The audience gets loud at the sound of our names and a shot of adrenaline rushes through me. People rush around backstage to get the music equipment off the set. Sam and I move up against the wall so people can get through. The crew is yelling to make the switch quick. Propping myself up against the wall, I watch the chaos happening. Sam leans against the wall and faces me. I don’t mind the tight quarters though. He acts like a wall, blocking me from the craziness.

“It never gets like this on set,” Sam says, scanning the stage.

“That’s because we don’t film live,” I remind him with a chuckle.

My arms cross over my chest and Sam props his elbow on my shoulder. If this was a photoshoot, this would be a great shot of us. We’re being ourselves, depending on each other as per usual. We’re comfortable with one another. To kill time, I glance around as people move about backstage. My eyes meet a lengthy, bleach blonde, tattoo-covered musician walking off stage. He instantly goes for the guitar case against the far wall in the corner. As if he could feel me looking, his attention snaps away from his guitar and toward me. His focused features gently fall as he stares at me from across the busyness of the show. A chill shoots up my spine and spreads across my face. Instantly, I'm drawn in and can't find the means to look away.

Sam steals my attention when he straightens up in my side view. “We’re on,” he informs me.

I immediately bring to focus and adjust my floral pencil skirt to appear put together.

The man from before leads us up to where he left us last. “Okay, here’s the deal. James will announce your names. There will be cheers, you will walk out together and sit on the couch. The order in which you sit doesn’t matter.” He pauses to press on his headset, “sure, alright, one minute.”

I shift my head to the side and yet again I see them, the same pair of eyes that made me freeze. I quickly snap my attention forward as though I’ve been caught red-handed. He’s not what I had expected. I’ve heard of Machine Gun Kelly, who hasn’t? I’ve seen pictures here and there. I’ve heard a song or two. Never in a million did I ever imagine we would meet eyes and he would make me stop breathing for a second. It was nothing short of groundbreaking. It’s dangerous and immaculate at the same time.

Soon, the noise of the audience dies down to signal the end of the commercial break. Sam and I are told to walk out so we cross through the corridor. Sam leads and reaches his hand back for me to take. I do so mindlessly since it’s what we always do. We wave to the audience and James stands up to greet us. He hugs Sam and they exchange a few words. I keep on waving to the audience and point towards a girl who has a shirt with the show’s title on it. Sam moves over so James and I can say hello.

“Hi, James! How are you?” I greet as we embrace.

“Excellent, how are you, Sweetheart?” He charms.

“Great! Excited to be here!” I gush as I shuffle to the side to settle on the couch beside Sam.

“Thirty seconds!” A man, whom I assume is the producer, announced loudly.

I sit down next to Sam on the light blue velvet couch. He sits back and crosses his arm over the back of the couch behind me then slides it down to rest over my shoulders. I lean into his side, crossing my legs toward him.

“Five seconds!” James sits down in his black desk chair next to Sam and looks into the camera. He’s given the signal and he lights up. “I’m joined here by the two biggest young stars of the decade, Y/N Voss and Sam Merka!” The audience applauds loudly and I wave to all of them. James turns to us with a bright grin. “First off, how are you two?”

“We’re great, couldn’t be better!” Sam answers with a charming smile. He takes my hand and I rest them on my lap instinctively.

At the start of the series, our management and the show’s team encouraged us to be mildly affectionate in public situations to promote interest in our tv counterparts. Since then, it’s come so naturally to us because as friends we genuinely feel better when we have physical contact when on display. We’re security blankets for one another.

James continues, “you two play the power couple, Hollyn and Elliot, on the hit show The Seasons of Life, better known simply as Seasons. It’s all anyone is talking about lately! Has all the publicity changed your lives at all?”

Nervously, I tuck a strand of my hair behind my ear before I speak. “I can’t speak for Sam, but at least for me, I answer with a confident “yes!” The Seasons of Life has changed every aspect of my life. When we first started filming the first season, I was still living in South Carolina. I went to a normal high school and had to travel back and forth between here and there. Back then, no one really knew of me. I was your average teenage girl trying to have the best of both worlds.”

James nods, seemingly fascinated by my response.

Sam smiles in agreement, switching his sight between James and myself. “My story is basically the same except I was in college studying law.”

“That’s right!” James perks up, “There’s a decent age gap between the two of you!”

We glance at each other and nod, both of us grinning.

“Does that make the more romantic scenes between Hollyn and Elliot harder?” James inquires.

“No, not at all” I answer, squeezing Sam’s hand.

“Y/N has always acted with such maturity and grace that she makes it unbelievable easy onset. The eight years feel nearly nonexistent.”

“We haven’t had too many extremely romantic scenes,” I add jokingly, looking fondly at Sam.

He meets my gaze and hums in agreement. “Have to build up that suspense!”

James laughs at Sam’s remark and goes on with his questions. “Last year, during the season finale, Twitter blew up because your characters finally got together! And had that bow-chicka-wow-wow scene,” James wiggles his eyebrows. The audience cheers in excitement. Everyone was over the moon about the scene. “Y/N, what was going through your mind during that scene?”

“Sam, Jonathan, and the rest of the Seasons family never fail to make me feel so secure onset. For that scene, in particular, Jonathan made sure it was just the three of us on set so that space felt relaxed. It was my first time ever filming a sex scene of that magnitude and I was so lucky to have this fella right here to help me,” I gush as I place my hand on Sam’s knee with a pat.

“That’s lovely,” James feeds into the sappiness that the audience eats up. “Was there ever talk of getting a double for you?”

“I told our director, the producers, everyone that only I can do the scene. It didn’t feel right to me to have someone else play Hollyn. Especially for a scene that would have such an impact on the characters involved. The fans had been begging for Elliot and Hollyn to finally get together and I couldn’t pass up being a part of the moment when they finally did. It wouldn’t have been fair to the fans if it wasn’t me playing the role.”

The audience approves of my response with their loud reaction which eases my nerves immensely.

“Absolutely incredible,” James compliments. “I can’t imagine the scene being done without you two. I mean, you two have such chemistry! What were your reactions to watching the infamous final scene? Did you watch it together?!”

Sam and I side-eye one another then burst out laughing because I can recall my exact words. I’m sure he can too.

“This is a question for Y/N,” he points out between laughter.

I hit the back of my hand on his stomach, “why me?!”

“You said!” He chuckles, so he does remember my words.

I get the giggles as James pushes me to answer. I settle down and catch my breath. “Well, I had a watch party at my house with the cast, and right after the scene happened and the show cuts to the dramatic final credits, I yelled “yay! Hollyn finally got laid!”

James hides his face with his cards as he laughs. Laughs of all kinds spread throughout the audience and I can feel my face getting warm. James’s laugh is contagious and I can’t stop.

“You all know how uptight Hollyn could be! Maybe she’ll be a little more laid back!” I add with a shrug and James bursts out laughing.

“You two are absolutely hilarious,” he wipes his watery eyes. “And adorable! Please tell me you’re dating in real life!”

Sam hiss between his teeth and glances at me. “I’m sorry, we’re not…” he answers hesitantly.

“What!” James’s jaw drops, “but you two are so cute together! I mean, you’ve been holding hands the entire time!”

We shake our heads and Sam explains for us both. “Y/N and I are super close. We can see how people would assume we’re dating but in all honesty, we’re just really good friends. Considering, for example, to have done the final scene from last season we kinda have to be. We met when she was just a teenager and I was in graduate school. We’ve seen each other grow. We’ve been around the world together and since our characters are paired together, so are we. Meaning, we’re constantly together and I’m thankful we are because I’m so lucky to have such an amazing partner in all of this.”

“Aw, isn’t he the sweetest!” I pout playfully and rest my head on his shoulder.

“Ugh, can we change the whole “only friends” thing?” James begs. “I ship it!”

The audience agrees and then he moves on to talk about the next season. We say all that can be shared at the time being and we share some pictures from filming yesterday as a teaser for the season.

“Y/N, is that you crying here?” James questions.

The photo on the scene behind us shows the part where I cry because Elliot just told Hollyn she’ll only ever be a rich girl from Los Angeles.

“Yeah, the first episode is filled with drama! Elliot and Hollyn already have a rocky time.”

“No! You’re joking!” He whines, disappointed.

We flip through more photos and answer a few more questions. James says into the camera that when we get back we’ll be playing a game. The game is Who is Most Likely To? Between me and Sam who is more likely to…

After the commercial break, James looks toward the camera with the utmost enthusiasm. “And we are back with Y/N and Sam! I have given each of them a paddle! One side says Y/N and the other reads Sam! Now, the game is Who is Most Likely To? So, between the two of you, who is more likely to “fill in the blank?” We all set?”

“We’re good!” Sam and I say at the same time as if we practiced.

“Alrighty, question number one...” James reads his cards. “Who is most likely to sleep until noon?”

I instantly flip my paddle to myself without a second thought. Sam is such an early bird. The type to get a five-mile jog in by ten. I lean forward and Sam said me as well.

“I’m not gonna deny it. If I could I would stay in bed all day,” I giggle without shame.

“You have stayed in bed all day,” Sam teases and I playfully nudge him in the arm. The whole set finds it humorous.

“Who is most likely to get a tattoo?” James reads with a raised brow.

The audience “ooh’s” in anticipation. I flip my paddle to Sam’s side, never in a million years would I get a tattoo.

“Y/N, you flipped your paddle super fast. Why is that?” James inquires.

“Mhm, nope! There will be no ink on this skin!” I wave my head frantically. “Sam can do whatever he wants with his body but it’s a no for me.”

“We’ve actually talked about tattoos before and I plan on getting one here soon,” Sam describes.

James asks him about what he plans on getting and that conversation goes on a minute or two. Sam explains where he plans on placing the tattoo and when he’ll get it done.

James reads over the card and smirks, “who is most likely to date another celebrity?”

Sam, no doubt. I feel no urge to date, thank you very much.

“Oh! Looks like we got ourselves a mix-up! Sam said Y/N and Y/N said, Sam!” James laughs toward the audience.

“Me?!” I gasp, earning amusement from the audience.

Sam turns his body to face me, “why not?”

“You know, if you two dated this could work itself out,” James points out to get a reaction from the crowd.

“I’m not really looking to date at the moment,” I explain, and James is surprised. I explain further, “the show is important to me and this summer I just want to fun. Plus, my schedule is quite hectic and I would feel bad for dragging someone else into it all.”

He completely understands and asks the final question. “Who is most likely to get married first?”

I flip my board to Sam again. James starts to laugh and I comprehend that it’s the same case as last time. I check Sam’s and I’m right, he said to me.

“Why do you keep putting me?” I fuss playfully.

“Because it’s true! You’re such a little liar to say me!” Sam teases.

“You’re older!” I reason.

“Oh please,” Sam rolls his eyes and leans back into the couch.

“I’ll have to agree with Sam on this one,” James adds and I look to him betrayed.

“Y/N, you’re America’s Sweetheart! Every young guy’s dream girl!”

I hide my face in my hands and shake my head with a giggle.

“Doesn’t mean I’ll be the first to get married! I have no interest in anyone right now!” James and Sam beam as I finish.

“Ah, ah see! You said “right now,” James points at me.

These two are teaming up on me now.

“Thank you so much you two for coming in! It’s been a lot of fun!” James thanks.

“Of course, it was a blast!” I charm.

He stands and so do we. He hugs Sam then me, “you two make me laugh like no others.”

James looks into the camera and wraps up the end of the show. “Thank you, Julia Roberts, Adam Levine, Sam Merka, Y/N Voss, and Machine Gun Kelly for joining me today! Have an excellent night everyone! Until next time!”

The band starts their music. Sam and I dance to the beat and James join in. The produces yells that the show has cut to a commercial.

To hear my name and Machine Gun Kelly’s name mere seconds apart is something I never thought I’d hear.

“Thanks again for coming!” James repeats once the show is over.

“We had fun! Thanks for having us!” Sam compliments.

The duo shares a brief “bro hug” and James embraces me one last time.

Then, Sam and I head backstage to our dressing room. Nicole and Steven should already be back there since I didn’t see them on the set.

“That went well!” Sam mentions while we walk down the hall.

I hum, “totally not getting married first though.”

“Whatever, you’re lying to yourself,” he laughs as he opens the door to the dressing for me.

Nicole and Steven are waiting for us and instantly begin talking about the Vanity Fair shoot tomorrow. It’s never-ending.

____________________________________________________

Masterlist

Tags: @canyoubuymetoast @bri-3530 @asil1652 @andstilltryingtofindmyself @nadia2021 @olafsidehoe @mgkobsessed @fairywriting101 @ferrell-cat @naylanae-0308 @tonystarkswife10 @alexsa56 @brocksbabyyy @stormrider505 @magnificenthumancopangel @sarcasticfangirlus @lilramencup95beech @missyviolet123 @skeleton-gxrl @glitterybearllamaflap @margaritaville20 @amoresixx

#machine gun kelly #mgk fanfic #mgk smut #mgk aesthetic #mgk imagine #mgk

59 notes · View notes

stagefoureddiediaz · 2 years

Note

Hello! I really love your costume metas so much so I figured you'd be the person to ask: in the last episode when the team is hanging out, waiting for Ravi to get back with coffee, the flag patch on Eddie's uniform is frayed around the edges. Do you think this would be deliberate/a nod to how he's doing mentally, or just the uniform getting a lot of use? Diaz money trouble? I haven't paid a ton of attention to the patches in the past, but it seemed really noticeable in this scene.

Hey Nonnie

Thank you so much for your lovely words about my costume meta 😊I always love hearing that people are enjoying them and thank you for such a great ask. 💜💜

It made me think about Eddies uniforms more generally since he joined the 118 in season 2 because he's gone through a fair bit of change - more so than anyone else in fact, so I'm going to use this ask as an opportunity to talk about his uniform more generally!

I did have to go back and do some rewatching, because I wanted to really look at his uniform choices as well as check everyone's patches to ensure that there weren't any other frayed or damaged ones. I can confirm this is the only instance of a patch looking less than immaculate and I'll come back to it, but first I want to comment on his uniform more generally.

We've gone from Eddie wearing his uniform tight fitting in the first half of season 2 (pay close attention to his sleeves in particular!)

The picture is especially interesting because as you can see, not only is the shirt a bit loose fitting, so to are his trousers - they are sitting far more baggy around his ankles than we see at any other time (I tried to get screen shots of the better fitting trousers but he's always moving too fast when we see him full length!) this is during his fighting arc - when everything is going a bit haywire for him as he's dealing with Shannons death and feels like he's lost his best friend.

The change to his t-shirts is also interesting, because they've also become baggy and almost oversized, particularly in season 4b & even more so in 5a.

Basically this change has happened since he starts dating Ana (make of that what you will!) The one of him above from 5x02 is telling (its not a great screenshot, but in my defence the blackout didn't make it easy!), he's post panic attack and pre breakup - the t-shirt is oversized as if the stress of it all is making him lose weight, its the most baggy we ever see his t-shirts, they become less baggy post his breakup, but we're still not back to the sexy tight t-shirt Eddie (maybe we will be in 5b to match in with his new sexy hair 😂) we saw in the beginning. Of course we know Ryan can drop and gain weight fairly easily for his fighting, but the costume team would be prepared for that - they'd be working with him and have different sized duplicates so that it wasn't too obvious if they weren't trying to tell a story through his clothes. They've always accommodated Olivers massing etc so we don't notice on the show when he's doing that - his uniform is always tight fit! (thank you Oliver and wardrobe 😎)

Now back to Eddies frayed patch:

I've zoomed in and out on this patch and spent a quite frankly ridiculous amount of time staring at it trying to figure out if it was badly sewn on, or if it was distressed by the breakdown department. I don't have anything conclusive, but i'm leaning more toward a deliberate breakdown because it looks to me more like some of the yellow gold embroidery silk of the patch itself has been pulled, rather than the stitches holding it in place!

I'm pretty sure it won't be as a result of money trouble etc, because I'm fairly certain that US fire departments (like their UK counterparts, which I have more knowledge of as I'm UK based and work with fire crews on a semi regular basis in my job!) provide their staff with their uniforms and they'll have a quota amount of shirts, trousers etc that they can have each year (its pretty common for uniform to get damaged on the job when you're a firefighter!), they'd just have to return the damaged items to get new ones. I also don't know if its the same in the US, (i'm assuming it may well be) but its fairly common for each station to launder uniforms in house (whether thats using a laundry collection service or actually having an on site service) because domestic machines aren't up to the levels of gunge and grime these uniforms are likely to come up against.

We'll have to see if Eddies patches continue to show signs of wear and tear to know for sure if its representative of his frayed mental state, but I wouldn't be surprised if it were. We know Eddie is getting worse mentally and it's a common trope to use in clothing in film and television. So its definitely something to be keeping an eye out for in the next episode and into 5b!

Thanks again for a great ask and I hope this has answered it (and a bit more!) like always, my inbox is open if anyone has any questions etc 💜💜

#kym answers things #kym costume theory #kym’s costume meta #costume meta #911 on fox #911 fox #911 #911onfox #eddie diaz #eddie

33 notes · View notes

kingofthewhatpod · 6 years

Text

Fanfic Friday #4

Okay, it's time for my fourth attempt to wow people with my spin on One Piece. Welcome to #FanficFriday. Because the podcast is currently mid arc, it makes sense not to consider doing a re-write of the canon arc to try and improve, so you get a 100% new story. Let us begin...

This adventure will be called "The island of old men," and if that doesn't make you raise an eyebrow, I'm not quite doing my job.

The scene: Luffy and crew have just escaped loguetown, heading towards reverse mountain... and they see an island, not on Nami's map. And let me tell you, this island has a giant golden tower rising from the center. It can be seen from quite a distance away, and it has like a crown on it. Nami, obviously, is worried about why it's not on the map Usopp fears it's a "ghost island" Sanji would say something like "What even is a ghost island?" Totally nonplussed, watching the island with a casual eye. Luffy is like "Woa-ho What is that??? Can we go? Can we? Can we?" Nami objects, but did we think that would work? No. Luffy is excited, and so is Zoro by proxy Since Luffy is the captain, they go anyways regardless of objections.

Before they reach the tower, they come across a single, largish wooden building, the four titular old men outside Guy number one: A huge guy. Sometimes i'm creative with names, some times not, he'll just be "Badger" and when I say huge, I mean he probably did like seven hundred thousand crunches a day in his youth. Guy number two: He's wearing a jacket with pockets of various sizes, each packed with unseen items. He can be "Sparrow." Guy number three: sunglasses, a vest with a cape, he's the most mobile/active of these old men, conveys his moods with movement. Name: "Rabbit"

Final guy: Taking a nap. Bigger than Sparrow and Rabbit, but not as big as Badger. Scars on his arms, and a loooooong beard because this is One Piece. The other old guys introduce him as like Haro. Of course most, if not all, of the Straw Hat's think its weird he's not named after an animal like the other three.

To set the scene Sparrow and Badger are playing a card game, Rabbit is watching and commentating- loudly (which is clearly annoying Badger), and as I said Haro is taking a nap. Now, as Luffy and them approach, they ask about the tower they saw while sailing. The old guys kind of glance at them, go back to what they're doing, and explain "Young whelps like you shouldn't even ask about the King's Tower, let alone approach it"

Usopp would be the most startled their reaction. Zoro or Sanji (why not both?) would be surprised, but Luffy would be doing that thing where he's unusually quiet and watching the scene, eyes on Haro. Usopp would try to explain “We were just asking what it was, and the island wasn't on the map-”

"The golden spire was built to honor the strong!" Rabbit would declare (again, loudly. Assume everything he does is loud). "And young'uns like you just can't climb it!"

"Best that you don't even try," Badger would grumble. "Go home and have a glass of milk"

Usopp would be about to argue about "How do you know about us", when Zoro would cut him off with a "Wait," eyeing up Badger. "Words are useless against people like this."

Sanji would be looking at the horizon, "All we have to do is climb it then, right?"

"We won't let you!" Rabbit says, stamping his foot on the ground. "Have you no respect for your elders? We forbid it!"

"So what then?" Zoro asks.

"Three days.” Sparrow would say without looking up from the game. Maybe with their free hand he holds up three fingers. If you can survive three days on the island, we'll let you try the climb"

Luffy calmly walks over to the porch area on which Haro sleeps and sits down. "Fine," is all he says. "But we will climb that tower and see what's at the top." He says this very seriously. Nami sighs and Zoro is just like, "aye captain."

Jump cut to the next morning, Zoro is with Badger in the woods. Badger gestures at the trees around them, and asks Zoro to cut down ten trees by the end of the trial period with his sword. Zoro is like "pfft, yeah, whatever." and schwing schwing schwing! with his blades. His cocky grin fades as he looks back and sees only small scratches on these thick trees. Now Badger is grinning. "The hell kind of trees are these?" Zoro asks.

"Only the sturdiest wood for our cabin, sprout," he'd mock. "Or is it too hard for you?" to Zoro's ire, of course

Sanji is with Rabbit, who is like "Let's gather some jewel mushrooms from the forest, try to keep up!" And here we see why he's called Rabbit. He's very, very fast, which would surprise Sanji doubly so due to his age. Sanji has to run after him shouting "wait!"

Sanji ends up having to scavenge on his own, and he gets a bit lost in the forest. He's certain he can do it, but then... that night he only has maybe 2 in his basket and Rabbit has three full-to-bursting baskets! Sanji is just.... shocked.

Nami and Usopp both get paired with Sparrow. They're down in the basement which has both a room full with complex, twisting pipes in an impossible tangle, and a library. He starts pulling books off the library shelf and Nami has to race to keep up, trying to catch them all. Nami, it seems, will help him decipher some weird encoded message, using historical documents to try and understand the code. Usopp has to help fix the plumbing. Not only are the pipes all twisty, not only are the instructions convoluted, but these pipes are heavy. It shows him detach a nut from around a pipe and he almost drops it on his foot because it’s unexpectedly heavy.

Luffy, who hasn't said a word yet, is sitting beside Haro, just chilling. Haro hasn't woken up yet, and Luffy isn't going to be tested, apparently. Which just makes me chuckle. Am I allowed to admit that about my own dumb story? Whatever.

Back to Zoro. It's night time. He's made a little bit more progress, but he is on his back, panting heavily. Badger is also sitting, grinning. "Still going to win?" he teases.

"Of course," Zoro says, no hint of sarcasm in his voice. No reaction from Badger. "My captain said we would climb the tower," Zoro continues. "So it's not a matter of whether I can. I simply must. But first... a nap."

Badger would kind of chuckle and head back to the mansion as Zoro closes his eyes.

Naturally, we'd also get some shots of Usopp, Nami, and Sanji hard at work that night. Nami is burning the midnight oil, a huge pile of books next to her. Usopp is studying this crazy, complex room, and Sanji is contemplating these strange mushrooms in the kitchen. I guess I didn't mention, but these mushrooms would obviously be hard to find but they'd also looks super weird close up. They'd almost glitter like jewels, but not bright enough to be seen from a distance. Because what is One Piece without some mystery/magic/unworldly elements?

Next morning, each member (minus Luffy) is hard at work. Zoro has made some progress in the night and is already wielding all three swords by the time Badger finds him

"What if the others can't do it?" Badger would ask.

"They will," Zoro would say simply.

Nami would be talking to Sparrow. "They're all idiots," she'd explain while reading these books. "Especially my captain. If I can't learn to help them out, they'll surely fail."

Usopp would have built some doodad out of spare pieces he had found, something that could slide along the pipes, or maybe marked them in some way with paint. Point is, he's starting to learn this room's layout. Sparrow is rubbing his chin as he looks on, but saying nothing

Sanji has figured out about a weird creature that eats these jewel mushrooms from studying the roots. So this time when Rabbit leaves him in the dust, he looks for one of these boars (but like, big boars with purple fur or something) and lets it lead him to the treasure trove. Of course he's started learning how to cook with them, too. But that’s not relevant to his test.

The third day, Everyone convenes back in the "plaza." The 3 old guys are unchanged. Zoro is exhausted, Nami shows sign of ink all over, Usopp has oil stains, and Sanji's usually immaculate clothes are disheveled. To sell the victory, Sanji also has a plate cooked with these mushrooms, Nami holds a parchment with the decoded message, Zoro is pulling a sled with this special wood, and Usopp stands before a fountain which has begun working once more!

There's a pause... Rabbit, Sparrow, and Badger, in unison, all look to Haro, giving a thumbs up and say "Well, I guess they did alright."

Haro finally awakes (let’s be real though, we all know he wasn’t actually asleep), rising and brushing off his knees. "Let's go kid," is all he says. He leaves, Luffy follows. (AN: at this point I realized the thread was getting really, really long on Twitter. Yes, I have more room here on Tumblr to fill out the details, but I once again am brushng up agaisnt my self-imposed deadline. For now, I’ll leave it largely unedited, hope you can forgive me, and try to do better next week).

Next up: Cave. Big bear monster, like this big beast, two or three stories tall. Haro beats it up easily, maybe even in one punch or maybe he jumps up and grabs its head and flips it on its back. He is very, very strong. Luffy would acknowledge that with a classic "You're strong old man"

"What about you?" Haro asks, looking to Luffy. Luffy puts on his straw hat with a grin. "Just watch me."

A second monster comes out of the cavern. Luffy is not at this old guy's level. Not a victory in a single punch, but he keeps standing every time he's knocked down. He wears it down & wins.

Luffy and Haro come back to the manor. The boss old man gives a nod and the Straw Hats continue inward in the island. Haro sits back down and, only after they've left does he smile a big, goofy smile. Maybe, like, 85% as goofy as Luffy. "I like him," he says.

Now, it turns out there isn't much to this tower. Long climb up, but no traps or other gatekeepers. They get to the top, and there’s a spectacular view of the island and ocean beyond. They’re all looking and admiring when their captain comes up with his idea. Luffy takes in a super deep breath, everyone else is grinning as they realize what he’s going to do, and he just yells. "I'M GUNNA BE.... THE KING OF THE PIRATES!!!" Scaring some birds in the nearby forest to show how loud he shouted.

flash back to the old men. Sparrow is rubbing his chin. "King, eh?"

"He just might do it," Haro acknowledges. "He reminds me of that other young'un who came through all those years ago."

"Roger was a good man," Badger agrees.

"Plus," Haro says, as the screen fades to black. "That kid's a 'D'" Haro adds. "Can't wait to see what he gets up to."

To be Continued flashes on the screen, on to the next adventure.

This concludes the fourth #FanficFriday. I really need to find a way to compress these. It'll only get harder as we get more characters to play with. I'm still working on this. But hey, maybe I can just post the original on Tumblr and link to it on twitter, or put it on some third site and link to it on both these accounts. But hey, be sure to let us know what you think. If you leave an insightful comment or have your own tweaks to make (be it an addition or changing something I started in my own what-if scenario), maybe I'll give you a shout out on the pod!

#KotWN #Fanfic Friday #chapter 4 #Haha! I submitted this on time for once!#Sorry for lack of creative images. It's late #One Piece

2 notes · View notes

ryqoshay · 6 years

Text

How to Handle a Nico: Improper Housekeeping

Primary Pairing: NicoMaki Words: 1.8k Rating: T? Time Frame: Maki is working through her residency. Nico is working as an idol producer. They are living together as a couple, but not married yet. Story Arc: Stand Alone

List of all HtHaN scenes

Author’s Note: Though this scene continues a theme from How to Care for a Nico, I am not currently considering them part of the same story arc. If I find myself wanting to bring it up again, I may link them in a similar manner to what I did with the three small photoshoot scenes.

“I’m home!” Nico called, closing the door behind her.

No response from within.

Odd.

Normally, after a tour, Maki would meet Nico at the door, anxious to see her again. Well, maybe not normally yet, as she’d only been on a handful of tours; not enough to really establish a pattern just yet. But once, Maki had been impatient enough that she had waited at the train station. And Nico knew her girlfriend. Though Maki was often loath to admit being lonely, there was no question in Nico’s mind how much she missed her. And as much as Nico loved to tease her about it, Nico missed her in return.

“Maki-chan?” Nico called again. “I’m home! Come give your girlfriend a welcome home kiss!”

Still no response.

“Or at least help Nico with her bag!”

Silence.

She didn’t really need that much help as she and the crew had already dropped off her idol related luggage at Egao; one of her employees would take care of cleaning later. This left her with just one bag of personal items. But still, it was the principle of the matter. Nico had been the one traveling all day, dragging around her luggage, while Maki had just been sitting around in class and studying.

Nico was beginning to feel a little concerned as she started moving into the house. She was fairly certain Maki was home, based on the fact that her shoes and coat were still in the entryway. And it was definitely too early for Maki to have gone to bed, especially with how late she had been staying up studying these days. Nico regularly had to remind her girlfriend how necessary it was to get a good night sleep.

It was entirely possible that Maki was listening to music while she studied. Several times, Nico had come home from work and accidentally scared her girlfriend whose headphones had been drowning out the rest of the world. But still, today Nico wasn’t simply coming home from a day at work, she was returning from a tour that had lasted over a month; surely that would warrant a warmer welcome.

Nico wrinkled her nose as she neared the kitchen. It wasn’t overpowering, by any means, just a little unpleasant. A quick glance verified the source of the strange smell, all of the bento boxes she had prepared for Maki were piled in the sink; empty save for a few scraps. The tower of takeout containers that stood past the rim of the trashcan likely added to the aroma. And there were cans everywhere. How many cases of beer had Maki consumed while she was gone?

Judging by the stray textbook and handful of coffee mugs on the small kitchen table, Maki had at least shoved breakfast down her throat a time or two there. But looking past the kitchen into the dining room revealed a room in pristine order; a stark contrast to the disaster area that was the kitchen.

“Maki-chan?” Nico poked her head into the living room.

Silence continued to prevail, and like the dining room, this room was immaculate. The lines in the carpet from the last time Nico had vacuumed were still visible. Maki was not only not here, but apparently hadn’t set foot in the room the entire time Nico was on tour; not even to watch a movie, or read a book, or just relax. At least Maki had gone out with Hanayo and Rin a couple of times, so Nico wasn’t worried about her spending all of her time studying.

There was one more place Nico needed to check; Maki’s office. She refused to look into the bathroom she passed along the way for fear of what she might see there, if the kitchen was any indication.

“Maki-chan?” Nico entered the office.

Though no response was given, Nico’s eyes immediately settled on a head of red hair on the desk. As she moved closer, she could see earbuds that had been not been removed before their owner fell asleep. She’s drooling. Nico made a mental note to tease her girlfriend about this fact as she moved around the desk.

“Maki-chan, your notebook is not a pillow.” The idol said gently, placing a hand on the younger girl’s shoulder. “And you’re making a mess of the paper.”

“Mmmm…” The med student stirred slightly.

“It’s still a bit early, but I’ll bet you’re exhausted from too many long nights. Again.” She leaned over to gently remove the headphones. “Let’s get you to bed. You’ll be more comfortable there.”

“Ni…” Maki’s eyes opened a bit. “Nico…-chan?”

“Yes, it’s Nico.” The older girl couldn’t help the smile that crossed her lips. “I’m home.”

“Nico-chan…” The younger girl shifted before sliding an arm around the other girl’s back and pulling her head against the stomach of the standing girl.

“Kyaa!” Nico cried in surprise as she was pulled off balance. Her hand shot out to catch the edge of the desk and prevent herself from falling, but found herself arched awkwardly over the other girl. “Geez, Maki-chan…”

“…” Maki’s only reply was her gentle breathing.

“I’m not staying like this all night.” Nico thought aloud as she used her free hand to pry a surprisingly strong arm off her waist. She chuckled at the plaintive whine that emanated from her girlfriend as she stood up again.

Maki’s eyes fluttered open. “Nico-chan?”

“Sorry to disturb your beauty rest, my princess.”

Maki’s eyes widened as she took a sharp breath. “Nico-chan?!”

Nico smirked. “You know, I wouldn’t mind if my name was the only thing you ever said from now on, but I’m sure others may object.”

“W-what are you doing here?!” The redhead shot up, sending her wheeled chair careening back toward the wall. “Ughn…” She wobbled a bit before bracing herself against the desk.

“Nice to see you too.” It was then that the raven-haired girl caught a whiff of the other girl’s breath. “Are you drunk?” She leaned in and craned her neck up just in time to get a quick view of dilated pupils before the violet eyes were squeezed shut.

“No…?” Came an uncertain reply. “Uhm… A little… Maybe?”

Nico glanced at the collection of cans on the desk. “How many of these are from tonight?”

“A few…”

Nico sighed, thinking that two was probably too much for her lightweight of a girlfriend. “So are you awake enough to explain the mess or should I just help you to bed and tuck you in?”

“Uhm…” Maki’s gaze drifted around the room. “What day is it?” Her speech was slightly slowed and slurred.

“Monday.”

“…” The gears grated and ground in Maki’s head as she stared blankly at her girlfriend. “Have you always come home on Mondays?” She finally asked after a moment.

“So far, yeah.” Nico furrowed her brow. “Last concert on Sunday and travel on Monday. Why?”

“Huh…”

“…” Nico waited, but when nothing seemed forthcoming, she pushed for more. “Huh, what?”

“The cleaners are coming tomorrow.”

“Cleaners?”

“Yeah…” Maki’s gaze found the floor.

“You hired cleaners again?”

“Yeah…”

“Wait…” Something clicked in Nico’s mind. “Have you hired cleaners every time I’ve gone on tour?”

“… Yeah…”

“Maki-chan, you’re not in high school any more, or college either, for that matter, you really need to learn how to clean up properly after yourself.” Nico sighed dramatically. “But seriously, how did you not notice the smell?”

“What smell?”

“The one in the kitchen.”

“I can smell you.” Maki looked back up at her girlfriend.

“Wha?”

“You smell good.” The redhead smiled goofily as her words continued to slur.

“Well of course Nico smells good, I always… wait, that’s not the point.”

“Nico-chan is always the point.” Maki said, pulling the older girl into a loose hug.

Nico was about to retort but ended up gasping instead as the younger girl nibbled on her ear. “Hey.” She finally got out after a moment. “Maki-chan, wait.” She pulled away from the hug.

Maki blinked at her in confusion. “You don’t want to?”

“That’s not what I meant.” Nico sighed. “I haven’t seen you in two weeks, of course I want to.”

“But…?”

“But you’re drunk.”

“Just a little. And what difference does that make?”

Nico bit her lip. The younger girl did make a point. Historically, Maki’s libido did seem unfazed by, well, pretty much anything that would otherwise affect one of a normal person. And if Nico was being completely honest, she loved that aspect of her girlfriend, especially knowing that it was because of her that Maki’s desire burned as strong as it did. But still…

“And I’m a bit upset with you.” Nico admitted after a moment.

“I’m sorry…” Maki hung her head again. “I won’t hire cleaners next time…”

Images of coming home to an even worse mess flashed through Nico’s mind. “Well…” She pondered aloud. “Maybe don’t forgo them completely. If you’re busy with school, then you’re busy with school. Don’t fall behind in your classes just for the sake of proper housekeeping.” She pursed her lips in thought. “I suppose I don’t mind if you let them take care of the big stuff like vacuuming and scrubbing down the kitchen and bathroom and whatnot. But you should at least be able to pick up after yourself to prevent stuff like this.” She motioned towards the clutter around the room. “Cleaners shouldn’t have deal with that.”

“That’s… fair…” Maki conceded, remembering the extra fees she had willingly paid thus far for the clutter.

“So if you can promise me that you’ll at least take care of the small stuff like that, and not let it build up like this, I’ll lay off about getting cleaners for everything else. Deal?”

“Deal.” Maki nodded slowly.

“Good.” Nico smiled. “Now come here and give Nico her welcome home kiss.”

Now that was something for which Maki needed no further encouragement and she swiftly closed the distance between herself and her girlfriend. “Welcome home, Nico-chan.” She said, starting to lean down. “I love you.” She added.

“I love you too, Maki-chan.” Nico replied, closing her eyes and tilting her chin up.

Maki continued to close the distance until she was able to capture the shorter girl’s lips. After a moment, however, she pulled away as she noticed Nico wasn’t reciprocating. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing. Nothing, really.” The idol shook her head and started giggling. “Sorry, but that if we’re going to do anything else, I’m going to have to request that you at least brush your teeth. You taste like beer.”

The med student pouted, earning more laughter.

“And maybe a bath for me. I’m all sweaty from travel.” A mischievous glint flashed across Nico’s eyes. “Though, maybe we could take one together.”

Maki perked up a bit.

“You know, we haven’t done that in a while.” The raven-haired girl pointed out.

“You’re right.”

“Want to rectify that?”

“Very much so.” The redhead nodded.

“Alright then.” Nico said, taking her girlfriend’s hand. “You brush your teeth while I fill the tub.”

“Alright.” Maki replied, letting herself be led out of the office and towards the bathroom.

Author’s Note Continued: I hit a wall earlier this month while writing this scene and ended up completing two scenes for Happy Life in the interim. There are times I believe my µ’s muse is taking cues from a certain redheaded pianist with tsundere’ish traits; either one, honestly, take your pick. In any case, I realized that as much as I adore writing YohaRiko, there is no question in my mind that NicoMaki holds strong its place as the flagship among my fleet of favored ships. I really need to finish some of the other scenes I’ve started over the last few months. And start the Christmas one for this year.

#NicoMaki #Nishikino Maki #Yazawa Nico #How to Handle a Nico #Love Live #fanfic

18 notes · View notes