If you want to read this episode with links to the references and earlier episodes, you can find it -> here on my simblr.
Ji Ho is happily producing soundtracks and music for their game. He hadn't had a music station since they left Belgraves Institute!
But he always had his guitar with him so he was able to compose whenever he had time.
And Saiwa is also working on the game. Kiyoshi seems a bit tense. (And Count von Count seems a bit intimidated by him hahaha.)
Sai heard the music from Ji Ho's room and went over with Kiyoshi to take a break and chat a bit about the game.
Kiyoshi sat on Ji Ho's rug.
And he looks a bit happier now. Maybe he was just fed up of Count von Count?
And then he mumbled something!
It really sounded like 'I like Bird'! Just very unclear.
No wonder, Kiyoshi hadn't spoken for decades!
It sounded as if one spoke with a pencil between their teeth - like they do in acting classes.
They gathered the others. Kiyoshi is on his way back from being a tree! Finally!
Jeb is more relieved about this than anyone else. When Kiyoshi is back they can finally set things right between him and Saiwa!
Vlad: "What did he say?"
Saiwa: "Uhm - it really sounded like 'I like Bird'..."
Jeb: "Well that's good news, isn't it?" But his face said something else...
And poor Jack is also shocked. What will happen when Kiyoshi is back? Will he and Saiwa be a couple then and he'd have to watch them being happy together? How is he supposed to forget about Kiyoshi? Argh - and he just started to feel better after their break up!
Kiyoshi didn't say anything else and just stood there, so they eventually went back to work.
Jeb trailed after Jack. He can't be alone right now.
And Jack was glad he did. Because -> same.
They went to Jack's new nectar shop. It's right next to Jeb's potions shop.
They avoided to talk about Kiyoshi - and his Bird.
Jeb: "The nectar is amazing and your shop is so cool!"
Jack: "Thanks, Jeb."
Jeb: "Let's hope Saiwa finds a way to send our produce over to the Muggle World so we can sell them there to pay back Rubyn and the others."
Jack: "Yes. And to send messages. I'd love to hear from Barfolomew and Noxee again!"
Kiyoshi is mumbling again.
Sai: "Just come back Kiyoshi."
Ji Ho and Vlad cared for the animals.
They both felt the drag from the Bond. It's hungry again.
Luckily Ji Ho has no problems with touching Vlad. It just feels too good. So good, he even forgets how awkward it still is.
Adriano: 'I hope they'll get together soon. They are driving me crazy!'
Little Goat: 'Tell me about it -.-'
Outtakes:
Adriano: 'Just kiss him!'
Kumo: 'He's waiting, but don't go breaking his heart!'
'Nobody told us - 'Cause nobody showed us
Now it's up to us babe - Whoa I think we can make it
So don't misunderstand me - You put the light in my life
Oh, you put the spark to the flame - I got your heart in my sight
Woo hoo - Nobody knows it
But when I was down I was your clown - Woo hoo'
Jack: "Get ready, you two are having a date today! I'm going to call your horses."
It's saturday and Jack is determined to help Ji Ho and Vlad with the dating thing...
And then Jack left.
Vlad: "Jack! Wait!"
Jack: "What?"
Vlad: "Come with us. I can't be alone with him. I don't know what to do! Or say!"
Jack: "Omg Vlad! You already did anything with Ji Ho! What will he think of you when you need me to hold your hand!"
Jack went along to call the horses for them and then to his shop to craft some strawberry nectar for Noxee. And then Ji Ho came in...
Ji Ho: "Jack... can you please come with us?"
Jack: "Omg - fine!"
Jack didn't plan something fancy to not overwhelm them. They went to the little beach.
It's already a month ago since Vlad stood by the river and thought of Ji Ho and how much he would like it here.
And now he's here. Why didn't he think of bringing Ji Ho here?
Ji Ho already got rid of his clothes and ran to the river.
Vlad: "Thank you, Jack."
Jack: "See. It's not that hard to make him happy. You could have easily done this without me."
Vlad is not so sure...
Vlad and Jack jumped in too.
Such a beautiful day! Jack was happy he accompanied them. The warmth of the sun is easing his pain.
Jack even brought a BBQ!
And he kept the conversation going.
That's one of Jack's super powers. None of them felt awkward (at least not much. It could have been worse ^^')
Like Arturo said. Goal is to get them used to each other and let them experience some happy hours together.
Without the pressure to save the world.
'Wherever you go, whatever you do
You know these reckless thoughts of mine are following you
I'm falling for you, whatever you do
'Cause baby, you've shown me so many things that I never knew
Whatever it takes, baby, I'll do it for you
Our love is alive, and so we begin
Foolishly layin' our hearts on the table
Stumblin' in
Our love is a flame, burning within
Now and then firelight will catch us
Stumblin' in'
And again he exitedly mumbled something that sounded like 'I like Bird!'...
Saiwa sighs. He knows that Kiyoshi needs time to adjust to this world and even to how time passes here. Spending a few decades as a tree surely messed him up. But it's time he comes back and they can talk to each other and set things right. Saiwa can't be Kiyoshi's 'Bird'...
Kiyoshi wasn't around that often to get to know him very well and he kept his life mostly a secret but Saiwa remembered something else.
He took Kiyoshi over to Jack's Nectar Shop.
Saiwa: "Jack, do you remember your wine and cheese cellar at the Invisible Farm? Kiyoshi loved to be there and make his cheese!"
Sure, he loved to be there, but mostly to secretly make out with Jack... But he can't tell Saiwa this -.- He swore by his life he'd never tell anyone. It's time Kiyoshi comes back to set things right.
He'll never be able to heal if he can't talk with his friends about what happened between them.
Saiwa started making cheese and it seems to make Kiyoshi happy. Of course it does -.- He was babbling all the time, just no one could understand a single word. As if he was mumbling in his sleep.
Sai left them alone for a few minutes to go to the bathroom (alone!)
Jack to Kiyoshi: "I knew since you left the farm that you are Saiwa's fated mate. I just don't understand why you did all this with me then. Was I just a substitute for Saiwa? Did you really step back so Sai and Jeb could be together? End this uncertainty. Come back and set things right. We are hurting. I'm just trying to get over us. It's so painful, you can't imagine."
When Sai was back, Jack went over to his houseboat to give Ji Ho 'Lessons in how to love Vlad' again ^^'
Today they are talking about Vlad's qualities.
Jack: "... and he's so talented! He's an amazing writer and painter. And you won't believe me when I say this, but he can really be funny! And he's so handsome! And he's a good kisser!"
Ji Ho: "Vlad is utterly beautiful. I was stunned when I first saw him..."
Jack: "And then he hissed at you and was mean..."
Ji Ho sighed: "And then he hissed at me and was mean... But I agree, he's a fantastic kisser."
Jack: "And I'm glad he has his black eyes back.
The normal eyes were creepy.
Do you think the Bond still tells him to kill us?"
Vlad: "Not the Bond. But I somehow feel the urge to kill you, Jack..."
Jack to Ji Ho: "He's just kidding ^^'"
and to Vlad: "It's not wise to torpedo my efforts here!"
Vlad sighs. Why again was Jack his best friend?
And why does he always have to overhear such conversations?
This is so embarrassing!
But Ji Ho thinks he's a fantastic kisser! And that he's 'utterly beautiful'!
(And there he smiled too bad no one witnesses it.)
Outtakes
Caught Jeb watching TV.
With gritted teeth, like the cat below the TV ^^'
Poor Jeb, he can't bear watching couples kissing while he's loosing his Giigs to Kiyoshi...
'Now, I'm lookin' to the sky to save me
Lookin' for a sign of life
Lookin' for somethin' to help me burn out bright
And I'm lookin' for a complication
Lookin' cause I'm tired of lyin'
Make my way back home when I learn to fly high
I think I'm dyin' nursing patience
It can wait one night
I'd give it all away if you give me one last try
We'll live happily ever trapped if you just save my life
Run and tell the angels that everything's alright'
The Boys worked together to set up Saiwa's 'Post Office' to send their produce and messages to the Muggle World.
Sai made all the adjustments and is now trying to contact Rubyn on the other side. Which is not easy. The Boys and Arturo seem to be the only ones who can stay longer in the Otherworld and internet and smartphones just don't work here.
Sure, Ji Ho and Vlad could use their bond magic and the meteorite devices from Rubyn, but it drains them and goal is to be indepentent and not put too much strain on Ji Ho and Vlad. And it would be awesome to send messages and talk to Rubyn and Noxee and the others on the other side.
And there she is! Yay! Before the Boys left to the Otherworld, Rubyn and Saiwa shared their data and logs (as so often) and Rubyn must have built a similar device to receive their messages.
Rubyn: "Oh, it's so good to see you! How are you?"
They chatted a bit and then it was time for the first delivery to the Muggle World!
Saiwa: "Don't mess this up, Jack."
Jack: "Hey! What do you think of me!"
There it goes. Between the worlds...
Jack didn't mess up.
Rubyn: "It's coming! Well done!"
Saiwa: "Awesome!"
Rubyn: "I'm going to visit Noxee and set up a device like this at the bunker. She can sell your nectar at Grimtooths and Francine will sell Jeb's potions and Rita the paintings."
Jack: "Thank you, Rubyn. The strawberry nectar is for Noxee to keep "
Saiwa is relived. Things are finally getting better now that they can send stuff and messages. And Kiyoshi is on his way back out of the tree.
'I found an island in your arms, Country in your eyes
Arms that chain us, Eyes that lie
Break on through to the other side
Break on through to the other side
They spend a happy and relaxed evening at the fireplace and went to bed early. It had been an exhausting and exciting day.
And when Saiwa woke up the next morning, Kiyoshi was gone!
Please no! Poor Saiwa had been to tired to pay attention!
Arturo had warned them that Kiyoshi would try to go back into the tree... Now that things were finally getting easier π
This episode with all the links to relevant earlier episodes -> here on my simblr.
Even though it was almost clear that Kiyoshi went back into the tree, Jeb and Ji Ho stayed at home. Just in case Kiyoshi just went for a walk...
It's early and the temple lay quiet. Arturo wasn't even here yet.
But Kiyoshi was - he really went back into the tree again...
Seeing Kiyoshi in the tree broke something in Jack and he started to cry: "It's all my fault!"
Saiwa: "I only left him alone with you for a few minutes! What have you done to him? Have you been weird again?"
But Jack can't answer. He just kept on crying.
And where his tears hit the ground, roots were starting to grow. Intertwining with Jack's leg! (The roots were already grabbing for Jack when he had been visiting the temple earlier.)
Jack: "He's trying to drag me into the tree too! Help me!"
Oh no...
A bolt shot in the skies.
And Kiyoshi stepped out of the tree. He had lost control over his demon - again.
(None of them, except Jack, knows of Kiyoshi's demon side.)
Saiwa: "Kiyoshi!"
Jack can't move - the roots keep him in place ΓΆ.Γ'
Vlad: "Jack! Apologize to him! He'll hurt you!"
Jack: "No, he won't. I'm stronger than him."
(Which is true. Jack might have lost their fight at the cattle market and all the fights after that. But only as long as Kiyoshi was his Alpha and able to add Jack's strength to his own. But Kiyoshi isn't Jack's Alpha anymore and Jack is the invincible Super Soldier.)
Jack: "Let go of me, Kiyoshi."
Kiyoshi: "You're mine."
Saiwa thinks Kiyoshi is talking to him: "Uhm - Kiyoshi. Whatever Jack did to you yesterday - he didn't mean it. Let him go. Let's talk."
Kiyoshi: "Jack is mine. I will take him with me."
And then - finally! - Arturo arrived!
"Let go, Master."
Arturo loosened the roots around Jack's ankle and took Kiyoshi with him. He asked Vlad, Saiwa and Jack to wait.
'Sweet child in time. You'll see the line
The line that's drawn between good and bad
See the blind man shooting at the world
Bullets flying Oh, taking toll
If you've been bad Oh, Lord, I bet you have
And you've not been hit Oh, by flying lead
You'd better close your eyes
Oh Bow your head. Wait for the ricochet'
Child in Time - Deep Purple
Arturo returned with Kiyoshi. His eyes still with that demonic glow. And he seems still wild - but he is responsive.
Arturo: "I don't understand this. He says Jack is his fated mate.
And not you, Saiwa. I was so sure. His last words... I'm so sorry."
Jack was relieved. Kiyoshi freed him from his vow and is setting things right! Now Jack is finally able to tell his friends what had happened between them. No secrets anymore. Now he can talk to them and they can help him to heal.
Saiwa is about to faint: "Are you serious? After all Jeb and I went through to bring Kiyoshi back?"
Vlad is relieved too. Jack is his best friend and he had a hunch something was going on but he didn't want to make it harder for Jack so he didn't push him. But it was so hard to not be able to help him.
Saiwa doesn't have such insights: "Run."
And Jack ran.
It's useless to talk reasonable to Saiwa now and trying to tell him it wasn't Jack's fault.
Running around will help him calm down - and then they can talk.
And while Saiwa was chasing after Jack, Kiyoshi told Vlad and Arturo their whole story... and why it needed to be kept a secret.
Same episode with all the links to relevant former episodes -> here
It took Arturo the whole day to get Kiyoshi stable enough to send him home with the others.
And it took Saiwa, Jack and Vlad just as long to get over their first shock. Now that they know everything.
The Bond told Ji Ho that they were on their way home. And that something went terribly wrong. Jeb and Ji Ho waited for them.
Poor Saiwa still doesn't know how to deal with all this, dismounted and walked right past them. Vlad and Ji Ho need no words. Saiwa is the closest with Jack and Vlad. But it's clear that he can't deal with Jack right now. And they can't let him be on his own either.
(Vlad and Ji Ho not being the messiest couple - we don't get to see this often ^^)
So Vlad went after Saiwa, Ji Ho will care for Jack and Jeb for Kiyoshi...
Worst thing is: It's no one's fault. No one to shift the blame at.
Each of them would have done exactly the same to protect the others. And no one feels better now that they all know the truth.
That Kiyoshi had been sent by his father to torture Jack and Saiwa at the lab and that he decided to safe them instead. And that he almost payed with his life for it and he became a demon because Kojin decided to spare him and Dtui.
And that it was the best for all of them to keep Kiyoshi's relationship to Jack a secret to not put them in in the spotlight of the council...
And it had been wise to not tell them about Kiyoshi's duties and actions for the Resistance and against the Council.
Now they have to be very careful should they return to the Muggle World. The Council would torture any of them for information should they get a grip on them.
There are more bad news waiting for poor Kiyoshi. Jeb knows that after all that had happened, Kiyoshi would continue to try to go back into the tree. So he had to tell him about Other Jeb's message.
That - for unknown reasons - some of them have died in a possible future. Because they parted ways and cut the bond.
Jeb: "It will be hard to stay together and forgive each other - and ourselves. But it seems it's the only way to avoid some of us getting killed."
Kiyoshi: "Gods Jeb. I don't know what to do. Now that Saiwa and Jack know that my family was involved with their torture at the lab. How can we ever be carefree together?"
Jeb: "But you also saved them in the end - after I had failed.
Gods - and I don't know how to face Saiwa again after all this fated mates thing... I even urged him do be with you..."
Vlad is silently working next to Saiwa. All they'd talked about was about their game. Saiwa needs time to process it all - but he can't be alone right now.
After a few hours Saiwa finally started to talk about Kiysohi:
"This is so crazy. I'm thankful that Kiyoshi saved us from the Lab and I feel horrible that he almost payeed with his life and now he's a demon - because of us. But I could also slap him in his handsome face for what he did to Jack! I don't know how to feel and what to do, Vlad. Argh! And Jack! I know he swore by his life not to tell us about Kiyoshi. But..."
Vlad: "Ach - I know... I feel the same way. But we also know that they had no choice. If they had, they'd done better, right?"
Saiwa sighs: "Right. None of us has a choice. We need to get over all this madness. As always... Oh gods - how am I supposed to look Jeb in the eyes again!?"
Jack told Ji Ho everything. And it seems he's adopting his puppy strategy to himself to keep him from freaking out.
"It's good we all know the truth now. Being not able to talk to you was driving me crazy. It's sad it had to end like this with Kiyoshi but now I'm finally able to heal, right? And now you can help me to keep my distance to him. We will get over this, right?"
Ji Ho: "Uhm, right. I'll do anything to help you, Jack. Anytime, hm?"
Ji Ho knows it won't be that easy but he kept quiet to not bring Jack down. It's just a matter of time until it will fully hit him.
They went over to the fire to ease Jack's pain.
After Jack fell asleep,Ji Ho saw a face in the flames - it's Kojin!
Therefore the fire and the warmth does Jack so good!
(Kojin is the god of the hearth and the fire controlled and turned toward a good purpose. He likes Jack a lot since they've met in the Otherworld and Jack worked in his garden.)
'Now your pictures that you left behind
Are just memories of a different life
Some that made us laugh, some that made us cry
One that made you have to say goodbye
What I'd give to run my fingers through your hair
To touch your lips, to hold you near
When you say your prayers, try to understand
I've made mistakes, I'm just a man'
It's not easy these days at the Happy Home after they all know the truth now. They try to avoid each other until they find a way to deal with it.
There is a parcel arriving at the Post Office!
It's from Noxee! She has a commission for them:
There are clothes in the parcel and she wants them to shoot some pics for the Strawberry Cake Fashion site - a great way to earn some money!
They were setting up some backgrounds and shot the photos:
(The first set is with clothes we already have ingame)
Then they tried the new stuff from the Goth Galore Kit:
(I'm not very happy with this kit. I was so excited - but meh...)
This episode on my simblr with all the links to relevant earlier episodes -> here
Jack is still visiting the temple regularly to get help with his pain.
Arturo doesn't ask questions about the Boys' stay here in the otherworld - but since Kiyoshi is fully back from the tree, Arturo knows all of this had shaken them up.
So he invited them to a little dinner party.
Arturo: "Friends - we have a celebration today. Our diety returned into the worlds again. Many obstacles lie behind - new tasks lie ahead. But today lets just be joyful!"
All listened up.
Saiwa: "A diety? Kiyoshi?"
Jack in his little Armadillo Bubble thinks this is good news.
Kiyoshi being a diety means he'll be far far away from him and he can heal in peace...
Kiyoshi: "What?"
Arturo: "What 'what'? You have your temple here, your servants. Your believers make their ardous way here to the Otherworld to worship you and see your wonders. To ask for healing and help. To see the tree that you lived in and lit up for decades."
Saiwa asked Arturo what this means for them. Dtui said they should stay together until Kiyoshi 'learned' from his mistakes and Other Jeb also urged them to stay together to avoid some of them getting killed.
Arturo: "Oh, the Master doesn't have to stay here. The believers are used to not getting to see him. They believe in the tree, you know?"
Saiwa doesn't know. This is so weird...
Arturo: "The tree is fine without the Master all time around. It still does it's wonders. I was able to heal Jack and help other believers that came here - even when Kiyosho wasn't here. Just take him with you and when you're able to help me a bit around here - I'd be grateful."
Saiwa: "Of course we'll do that. Thank you for everything, Arturo."
Kiyoshi doesn't know what to think anymore. He went to the otherworld to forget about Jack and reflect on his mistakes after he got banned from the Temple in Mount Komorebi because he lost control over his demon. And now he's a diety?
(That's not the first time such things happen, Kiyoshi ^^' Even though you are far from being enlightened.)
Arturo: "Now let's eat and be joyful - the Master returned!"
He didn't need to say this twice to Jack and the goats. The others are not sure if they can eat now ΓΆ.Γ'
Little Goat: "He said we can eat anything today!"
Little Goat: "What a great party!"
Little Goat: "Long live the Master!"
After dinner Arturo cleaned up and the others are doing their chores around the temple.
Before they left, Arturo took Saiwa aside.
Arturo: "I'm a bit busy with all the visitors we have here at the temple since the Master is back and I know you can't tell me about anything that's going on with you, but here is a little present for you. Put this circuit board in a device that's strong enough and it will help you through this."
Saiwa: "Ok? Thank you."
'When you are old enough to read these words
Their meaning will unfold
These words are all that's left and though we've never met,
my only son.
I hope you know that I would have been there to watch you grow
But my call was heard and I did go
Now your mission lies ahead of you
As it did mine so long ago
To help the helpless ones, who all look up to you
And to defend them to the end
Defender
Ride like the wind. Fight proud, my son
You're the defender God has sent'
This episode with all the reference links -> here on my simblr.
They all have a lot to deal with. None of them feels really comfortable around Kiyoshi now that he's a diety and they know the truth about him and Jack and the Lab... But Jeb won't let him down. He's his best and oldest friend. So they start their morning with jogging to get their heads clear.
When they returned, Jeb showed Kiyoshi his room. There are still 3 free rooms left at the Crappy Home but Kiyoshi chose the smallest one...
Jeb: "Are you sure?"
Kiyoshi: "Yes, that's enough for me. I don't need that much anymore after all those years in the tree."
Kiyoshi only wanted the sleepping bag but Jeb insisted to decorate a bit. He also put the box with Kiyoshi's belongings here. And the dagger Jack made at the Artisan's Yard on Winterfest.
Jeb: "You share the bath with Saiwa and Jack but the rooftop is all yours."
Kiyoshi: "Jeb - I don't deserve this after all the trouble I caused you."
Jeb: "Please use it. We all need to heal and get over with what happened. Practice yoga and meditate here, hm?"
Jeb: "We take Other Jeb's message very serious. Saiwa might get hurt and we need to do anything to avoid this. This means you'll have to stay with us and you can't go back into the tree. Should you feel the urge to do this, tell me. I need you to promise me this, Kiyoshi."
Kiyoshi: "I promise. I won't cause furter harm to any of you."
They saw Ji Ho and Jack doing their practice to ease Jack's pain.
Kiyoshi: "This rash and Jack's pain..."
Jeb: "Yes. It's because he left you - his fated mate."
Kiyoshi teared up. It's so hard for him to see Jack suffer - because of him: "Do you think..."
Jeb: "Let him heal. It's not the time to try to get back together - if ever. Even if this would stop his pain. He went through a lot to get over you."
Jack noticed Ji Ho's restlessness: "Ji Ho..."
Ji Ho: "Hm?"
Jack: "You have a deeper connection to the Bond than Vlad, right?"
Ji Ho: "Uhm - yes?"
Jack: "And you feel the needs of the bond earlier and it affects you stronger, right?"
Ji Ho: "Yes."
Jack: "And you know that Vlad does not want you to suffer, hm? When you feel the Bond is hungry - don't hesitate. Just go over to him. There's no need to wait. It only makes it worse. You know that, do you?"
Ji Ho: "I know..."
Jack: "I will help you getting more comfortable around him. As soon as we settled in with Kiyoshi, we are going to have a date again, ok?"
Ji Ho: "Ok ^^'"
And, as always...
Poor Vlad. He knows all this but he would never cross the line and touch Ji Ho on his own initiative. Never.
Lying in my bed, I hear the clock tick and think of you
Caught up in circles confusion is nothing new
Flashback, warm nights almost left behind
Suitcase of memories - Time after
Sometimes you picture me I'm walking too far ahead
You're calling to me, I can't hear what you've said
Then you say, "go slow" and I fall behind
The second hand unwinds
If you're lost you can look and you will find me Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I'll be waiting Time after time
If you're lost, you can look and you will find me Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I will be waiting Time after time
After my picture fades and darkness has turned to gray
Watching through windows you're wondering if I'm okay
Secrets stolen from deep inside and the drum beats out of time
I've got a suitcase of memories that I almost left behind
Time after time Time, time, time
But you say to go slow but I fall behind
Time after Time - Cyndi Lauper
(one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard. I love Cyndi Lauper a lot and the MV is great too. A lot of her MVs have recurring characters and they are so well done )
The following episode with all the reference links -> here on my simblr
After Ji Ho and Jack finished their practice, Jack wanted Ji Ho and Vlad to charge their Bond but Vlad is already on his way back to his room. Nothing is easy in this world...
And before Jack could send Ji Ho after him, Saiwa yelled:
"Jack! Noxee's on the... uhm... monitor! She wants to talk to you!"
(We moved the 'Post Office' ^^')
Noxee: "Hey Babee! How are you? Sai told me what happened and that it's been Kiyoshi. Oh Babee - let us know when we can do anything for you."
Jack: "Don't worry. I'm fine! It's such a relief that I don't have to have secrets anymore from my friends. The others help me and I will heal. I will get over him. He's a diety now anyway and far out of reach."
Noxee: "Your rash still looks painful."
Jack: "But I feel so much better now that it's all out. I even can sleep alone!"
Noxee: "That's a relief - oh hey - there's Greg! Greg! Say something to your son ... It's Jack - your son."
(It seems Greg also has some difficulties wrapping his mind around it hahaha)
Greg upnods Jack...
Jack upnods Greg...
Noxee: "There he goes... He's so hot... Babies. I gotta go. Send more pics from the Goth stuff and Kiyoshi should also send some his amazing cheese. Bye!"
Jack: "Omg - they forgot to switch off - let's leave them alone before we see - things... Where do I turn this off? Argh seeing my precious Noxee with him still freaks me out!"
Saiwa: "There's a parcel for you - from Greg..."
Jack unpacks: "Oh, it's a Pizza Stove! Ah - now my life is complete!"
Jack: "Noxee knows how to make a boy happy."
Saiwa: "She said it's from Greg..."
But Jack doesn't want to hear about this...
There are also some hand written receipes and Jack started right away.
Saiwa: "Smells amazing! I'm so hungry!"
And somehow it reached Jack's brain how much Greg has done for him. And he's thankful. How can he not be. Greg gave him Pizza! There's not much Jack loves more than his Pizza.
Jack: "Let's eat my friends. Thank you for being there for me."
And then they ate Jack's first handcraftedPizza.
'I've fallen in love. I've fallen in love for the first time
And this time I know it's for real. I've fallen in love, yeah
It's strange but it's true
Hey, I can't get over the way you love me like you do
But I have to be sure when I walk out that door
Oh, how I want to be free, baby. Oh, how I want to be free
Oh, how I want to break free
But life still goes on
I can't get used to living without living without living without you
By my side. I don't want to live alone, hey
God knows. Got to make it on my own
So, baby, can't you see. I've got to break free
A lot of references to past episodes again. If you want to dive deeper:
I linked to them in this post on my simblr -> here
And while Saiwa, Jack and Ji Ho stay at home, Jeb, Kiyoshi and Vlad went to the Temple to help Arturo.
All of them silently agree it's best to keep Kiyoshi away from Jack until he healed. It's a long way to go for Jack. Even though he says he's fine. We all know he isn't.
It would even be better if they parted ways. But Other Jeb's message makes this impossible. No one wants to take the risk of some of them getting hurt - let alone be killed.
Vlad joined Team Kiyoshi.
Jack is Vlad's best friend and this wasn't an easy decision to make for Vlad - but he and Kiyoshi grew very close at Belgraves Institute. They shared a room and ran their penalty laps at the sports ground.
They slept next to Jack's pod when he was in his coma.
And in the end Kiyoshi had to betray Vlad to the Council to maintain Kiyoshi's camouflage.
Vlad knows that Ji Ho and Saiwa take good care of Jack and that Kiyoshi is having a hard time now since he became a diety, had been banned from Kojin's Temple and lost Jack. And no one, except for Jeb, knows how to deal with him after they learned that Kiyoshi was Jack's Alpha and fated mate and kind of co-responsible for Jack's misery. And that Kiyoshi had been sent by his father to the Lab to torture captured Jack and Saiwa. And rescued them in the end. It hadn't been easy for Kiyoshi either with all his duties for the temple, the resistance and the council.
He didn't hurt Jack on purpose. They just didn't know better and couldn't act better. He can't be mad at Kiyoshi. Maybe it was because they were too young and unexperienced or it just wasn't meant to be - yet. Fate doesn't make mistakes and Vlad is determined to help both of them.
Kiyoshi cared for the saplings of his Tree. And when he touched the little one Jack had lit with some kind of magic, it hit him like a bolt - again. This is a sign. Kiyoshi is sure. As a werewolf, Jack isn't capable of doing such magic. This has to mean something.
Jack is his fated mate.
Kiyoshi will give Jack all the time he needs to heal - but he will never give up on him. He tried it - for decades while he'd been in the tree - futile.
Mood is gloomy and everyone was working in silence lost in their own thoughts. Vlad thought he could try Jack's puppy strategy to light up the mood a bit. So he started to tell some funny stories of the times they hadn't been all together.
Vlad: "... and when Jeb and Ji Ho had already left to do their school project at Mount Komorebi, Jack insisted to put me on my gloves!
I had been blind then, but I still was capable to put on my gloves. And then I made fun of him because he wore a fur jacket! A werewolf in a fur jacket! And then Kiyoshi said: 'I like fur'.
Somehow I knew that something was going on between you two."
Jeb was cutting the planks, had the pencil between his teeth and chuckled. He repeated 'I like fur' because he thought it was so cute and funny of Kiyoshi. But since he had the pencil between his teeth, it was gibberish.
Arturo froze: "What did you just say?"
Jeb, gibberish: "I like fur?"
Arturo: "Gods - it sounds like the last words from the Master! 'I like bird'!"
Jeb: "I think everything sounds the same when you have a pencil in your mouth while speaking ^^'"
Arturo: "True hahaha."
Little Goat: 'Hello?!''
omg...
After their work at the Temple, they sat down to eat.
Arturo: "Vlad, why don't you take a plate and give it a try?"
Vlad: "Ah, I'm sorry but I'm a vampire and can't digest food. I get sick if I do and live off of plasma packs and fruit."
Arturo: "I aware of that - but I also feel your strong craving for food. Other vampires just ignore it."
Vlad: "Oh I'd been able to ignore it all my live - until... I drank Ji Ho's blood... and when I came back from hell after I died, I started to smell the incredible odors and had a hard time not giving in and try some ever since."
Arturo: "A lot of things changed after you drank mermaid's blood, hm? Why not you digesting food? Give it a try."
Vlad: "Uhm - ok..."
It smelled so amazing, Vlad thought it was worth getting sick.
And this is how Vlad tried his first food!
And it seems he likes it!
Oh my Arturo was right - Vlad yould have eaten food since he bit Ji Ho September 2022! And even though he knew he'd changed a lot and craved for it, he never tried - because he was afraid and convinced it would make him sick. This sounds trivial but made him think a lot. What else could he have experienced since then and never tried? And how much has Ji Ho changed him?
But before he could follow his thoughts any further, it hit him!
Hot hot HOT!!!
Arturo: "Maybe Burmesan Samosa Soup wasn't a good choice for your first meal ^^'"
But it was. Vlad will never forget this - his first meal. And it will remind him to be bolder and try new things and not hide behind his fears!
(Hear, Hear!)
After lunch Arturo went for a walk with them.
He has an idea wow they can make up with the others.
And after a hard day's work, they gathered at the fire.
Arturo was pondering all afternoon about 'I like bird' and 'I like fur'...
(Try it yourself, it really sounds the same!)
Arturo: "Kiyoshi - who did you think about before you became one with the tree?"
Kiyoshi: "Jack. I've never been able to forget him. Even when I felt nothing else anymore, I still felt him."
Arturo: "I have a weird inkling: maybe your last words weren't 'I like Bird' but 'I like Fur'? Because Jack is a werewolf? Or you thought of that experience with the fur jacket?"
Jeb: "When Kiyoshi thought of Jack and not of Saiwa before he left and Saiwa isn't his fated mate but Jack... Gods - I urged Sai into this fake relationship with Kiyoshi to bring him back because we thought Kiyoshi's last thoughts were about Sai... Saiwa will kill us all."
(Omg... ΓΆ.Γ')
And there's no way not to tell him because they all agreed to be honest to each other...
'I know your eyes in the morning sun
I feel you touch me in the pouring rain
And the moment that you wander far from me
I wanna feel you in my arms again
And you come to me on a summer breeze
Keep me warm in your love, then you softly leave
And it's me you need to show
How deep is your love?
I really mean to learn
'Cause we're living in a world of fools
Breaking us down when they all should let us be
We belong to you and me
I believe in you
You know the door to my very soul
You're the light in my deepest, darkest hour
You're my savior when I fall
And you may not think I care for you
When you know down inside that I really do
And it's me you need to show'
As always, this same post with all the links to the references on my simblr -> here
It's Imbolc today, one of the festivals in the Wheel of the Year, and Ji Ho convinced Jeb to combine the goth fashion shoots for Strawberry Cake Fashion Noxee ordered, with a little concert to celebrate this special day.
So they could spend some carefree time together.
(And also to celebrate this stories' one and a half year anniversary!
It was January 30th. Can you believe this? In the beginning I counted every month because I'm with ADHD and never know for how long I can keep up with something. Thank you so much for being with us!)
To make it less awkward for all of them, Ji Ho asked the others if it's ok to weave some of his Siren's Song Spells into the background vocals. Jeb will do the main vocals today so it won't be too much magic influencing their feelings.
They agreed. They also agreed to tell Saiwa the truth about 'Bird',
(since they promised) but not today...
So they all gathered at 'The Veil', the goth club they set up in one of the empty rooms for the photo shoot and the concert.
First song is
Black Number One from Type O Negative
'I went looking for trouble and boy, I found her
She's in love with herself. She likes the dark
On her milk-white neck the Devil's mark
Now it's All Hallows Eve the moon is full
But will she trick or treat? I bet she will. She will'
(This song is so amazing and Peter Steele is one of the most stunning creatures who ever walked the night.)
'She's got a date at midnight with Nosferatu
Oh baby, Lily Munster ain't got nothing on you
Well, when I called her evil. She just laughed
Well, cast that spell on me. Boo π-craft'
Saiwa got goosebumps and chills were running up and down his spine. Jeb is so hot and amazing.
Sai wasn't able to control himself and hissed when Jeb sang:
'Loving you
Loving you
Love, loving you'
Jack: "I'll get you something to drink to cool down ^^'"
Saiwa couldn't even answer. Neither tear his eyes from the stage.
If Saiwa only hadn't agreed to that fake relationship with Kiyoshi!
How are they supposed to get over this? Had Jeb expected him to say no to his suggestion? How much does Kiyoshi remember?
Gods, what had they done?!
Kiyoshi and Jack sat as far from each other as possible and Kiyoshi tried not to swoon (at least not recognizeable for the others ^^') over how stunning Jack looks tonight.
Ji Ho tries his best with his Siren's Songs to let them all forget their worries.
But of course Vlad noticed it. And doesn't approve!
He chose Kiyoshi's side and is willing to do anything to help him to find back into their 'family' but he will also make very sure Jack can heal from breaking up with his fated mate Kiyoshi.
Ji Ho tries a little harder ^^'
And Jeb looks in the crowd as if he wants to say 'behave'!
For Sai, Jeb even looked hotter than Peter Steele.
He so wishes he could touch him tonight. And kiss him. Argh!
The crowd went crazy and stormed the dancefloor when Ji Ho and Jeb played the first tunes of
Temple of Love from the Sisters of Mercy
(I just imagined Ji Ho singing the female part and Jeb the rest and got goosebumps ΓΆ.ΓΆ')
In the temple of love you hide together
Believing pain and fear outside
But someone near you rides the weather
And the tears he cried will rain on walls
As wide as lovers eyes
Ah, I love to see them happy and carefree after all they had to go through. Ji Ho is doing a good job with his Siren's Spells.
In the temple of love: Shine like thunder
In the temple of love: Cry like rain
In the temple of love: Hear my calling
In the temple of love: Hear my name
Aouwww Vlad and Saiwa are dancing together!
And the devil in black dress watches over
My guardian angel walks away
Life is short and love is always over in the morning
Black wind come carry me far away
I'd been so disappointed with the clothes from the Goth Galore Kit but it inspired us to make this special so it was worth the 5β¬
In the black sky thunder sweeping
Underground and over water
Sounds of crying weeping will not save
Your faith for bricks and dreams for mortar
All your prayers must seem as nothing
Ninety-six below the wave
When stone is dust and only air remains
Ji Ho was amazing too. I didn't change his hair back to black this time. So he's a blonde goth tonight ^^'
At least he's in a dark mood ^w^
(Black is even his natural hair color haha. I really wish we could set different hair colors for the outfits without going in CAS. Same with the beards. I mean wigs and fake beards are a thing since - um always? At least since 'The Life of Brian' 2.000+ years ago! -.-)
The concert came to an end but they all continued to dance and celebrate for a while. Until Ji Ho's Siren's Spells faded.
Jeb is very pleased with how the evening went. He'd feared the worst since they all are at the edge because of Kiyoshi's return and try to avoid each other.
Then I caught Ji Ho and Vlad like this How cute they are
And Great Uncle Eddie is in charge of the bar π
After the concert - and after Ji Ho's Siren's Song Spells - the magic faded, and they felt awkward again...
Jeb made sure to leave first with Kiyoshi. They both know how uncomfortable he makes them. Kiyoshi walked away like a condemned man.
The music was still playing in 'The Veil'.
And they all know and love this song. It's
'Over the hills and far away' from Nightwish
'They came for him one winter's night. Arrested, he was bound
They said there'd been a robbery. His pistol had been found
They marched him to the station house. He waited for the dawn
And as they led him to the dock. He knew that he'd been wronged
"You stand accused of robbery" He heard the bailiff say
He knew without an alibi Tomorrow's light would mourn his freedom
Over the hills and far away For ten long years he'll count the days
Over the mountains and blue seas A prisoner's life for him there'll be'
Saiwa left shortly after them. Alone. He so wished he could be with Jeb this night. He's still revved up. Jeb is stunning and Sai hopes he gets to see Jeb in this outfit again after they'd made up somehow...
'He knew that it would cost him dear But yet he dared not say
Where he had been that fateful night A secret it must stay
He had to fight the tears of rage His heart beat like a drum
For with the wife of his best friend He spent his final night of freedom
Over the hills and far away He swears he will return one day
Far from the mountains and blue seas
Back in her arms he swear he'll be
Over the hills and far away'
(Isn't it crazy how well the lyrics fit the situation between Saiwa, Kiysohi and Jeb? ΓΆ.Γ')
Jack is about to go over to his houseboat.
Vlad: "Jack, are you sure you can sleep alone tonight?"
He noticed the way Jack looked at Kiyoshi when he left. After all the fun they had this evening - Vlad knows how hard this was for Jack.
Jack: "Positive! I'm fine! You two rather charge the Bond now. It's about time."
Jack stil hesitated.
He wasn't sure if he'd be able to stay alone tonight.
But he doesn't want to disturb Ji Ho and Vlad.
When he saw how tight Vlad held Ji Ho, he reluctantly left.
After this crazy hot Burmesan Samosa Soup - his first meal - Vlad is determined to be bolder. He can feel through the Bond that Ji Ho enjoys this embrace almost as much as he does. And so he held him a bit longer than usual.
'Each night within his prison cell He looks out through the bars
He reads the letters that she wrote One day, he'll know the taste of freedom
Over the hills and far away She prays he will return one day
As sure as the rivers reach the seas Back in his arms he swears she'll be'
And even though Vlad also knows that words aren't neccessary between them because the Bond tells Ji Ho how much Vlad enjoyed the concert, this whole evening, he went all in and actually said something to Ji Ho!
Vlad: "You were amazing."
But Ji Ho doesn't know how to deal with a Vlad trying to have a real conversation with him so he just said: "Thank you."
Well - let's not ask too much of them. It's a beginning
Ji Ho is tired and drained. The Siren's Songs are taking their toll on him. But he is happy. And after a silent conversation over their Bond, Ji Ho went to his room to sleep off the evening and Vlad spent the night with Jack to make sure he's ok.
We start with Vlad. He's so beautiful when he smiles.
Kiyoshi's outfit is too cute! The little skulls on the shirt and on the back (And how cute and beautiful they all are on the photo)
Taken out because Ji Ho was a bit to cheerful for a goth
Saiwa looking longingly at Jeb's photo...
And Vlad is sulking because there is no photo of him and Ji Ho together ^^'
Kiyoshi started to run around, I told him to sit down again - then he undressed and wanted to lay in the coffin we used as table... (I didn't even know non vampires can do that?)
This post on my simblr with all the links to the references to earlier happenings -> here
Since Ji Ho and Jack started to practice yoga and meditate to ease Jack's pain, they spend a lot of time together these days.
And since Jack loves games so much, he teaches Ji Ho Sabacc.
Usually Jack plays with Saiwa or Vlad but now that they are all so tense since Kiyoshi is back...
Jack: "Would you accompany me to the Temple later to let Arturo treat me? I can't wait to get rid of Kiyoshi's influence over me and all this pain. Tomorrow it's been a year since he became my Alpha and it went utterly downhill with me."
Ji Ho hesitates, but he promised to be honest: "Um Jack, are you aware that it isn't Arturo who heals you? It's the magic of the Temple - and the Tree. And the Tree is Kiyoshi. He's the diety who gives Arturo his powers."
No, of course Jack hadn't been aware of that.
Jack: "Very well then. I will avoid the Temple. And Kiyoshi. I can do this by myself. It already got a lot better, even though Kiyoshi is back and always around."
Ji Ho: "Are you sure? You live with this pain for months now."
Jack: "Thanks to you I can almost do anything here. The yoga, meditating... I will set up a hot tub and skip the massages."
Ji Ho: "I could ask Vlad if it's ok for him if I give you the massages?"
Jack: "You would? I know this must be hard for you given that you learned how to do it at 'The House of the rising Sun' (the brothel where Ji Ho's mother used to work).
But Vlad will be ok with it, I'm his best friend. Don't worry."
Speaking of Vlad. While Jack and Ji Ho play Sabacc, he, Jeb and Kiyoshi gathered with Saiwa to finally tell him the whole truth about 'Bird'...
Vlad: "... and then we found out that Kiyoshi didn't say 'I love Bird' but 'I like Fur' because his last blurred thoughts were about Jack, his real fated mate. And not about you. *Vlad sighs from the dephts of his soul before he's able to continue. He hates to hurt Saiwa* So it wasn't necessary to have a fake relationship with Kiyoshi to bring him back..."
Saiwa exploded. His head was spinning. Jeb and him put their whole relationship on a risk for a misunderstanding of a muffled word and Jack's weird theory and a tattoo? Arturo already told them that Kiyoshi and Jack are fated mates but it seemed so weird that someone like Kiyoshi would love someone like Jack so Saiwa too thought there must have been something between them so Kiyoshi's last thoughts were about him - and that he were so special to him and the fake relationship needed to be done to help him come back... And now this! Since the Lab Saiwa hadn't felt so humiliated.
He was only able to say one word, and that was: "RUN!"
And they ran... They know Saiwa well enough that nothing they could do or say now would be able to calm him down.
Saiwa even started to throw things at them!
Vlad is familiar with Saiwas temper and he knows he needs his time to cool down. And so they decided to go the only other place in Tomarang where they could stay - the Temple. There's always some work to do and they could also spend some time on their secret project which is supposed to help to make it up to the others. Now more important than ever.
Poor Jeb. What have they done. That's the first time Saiwa is mad at him after they broke up - because of Jack - and he doesn't know what to do. What if Saiwa leaves him - again. He wouldn't survive this.
Vlad: "Let's leave before he hits us with something painful - or comes after us!"
And in the evening, when they came back from work, Vlad caught Ji Ho massaging Jack.
Vlad knows there is no reason to be jealous. Jack is his best friend and even the Bond lets him know that there's nothing to be upset about.
But it hurts. It reminds him of the times Ji Ho massaged him to charge the bond and he wishes his relationship with Ji Ho was different. That they finally could be together.
His head knows how wrong this is and he wants to give Ji Ho all the time he needs and he would even give up on love if that meant Ji Ho could be happy without him.
But his heart wants what his heart wants...
'It's savage and it's cruel And it shines like destruction
Comes in like the flood And it seems like religion
It's noble and it's brutal It distorts and deranges
And it wrenches you up And you're left like a zombie
And I want you And I want you
And I want you so It's an obsession
It's guilt edged Glamorous and sleek by design
You know it's jealous by nature False and unkind
It's hard and restrained And it's totally cool
It touches and it teases As you stumble in the debris'
Vlad in his room looking at his plasmafruit tree. He's so happy that he can finally eat real food! Plasma fruit are delicious - but having them day for day...
As always, this post with all the links to relevant former episodes -> here at my simblr
Ji Ho and Jack set up a hot tub to heal Jack's pain so he can avoid the Temple and to free Jack from Kiyoshi's 'demonic influence' (that's how Jack calls it at least...)
Jack: "Let's jump right in and let the healing begin!"
But Ji Ho hesitated. Of course he felt how hurt Vlad was when he saw him massaging Jack.
Jack: "Oh my, he really has a thin skin when it comes to you. Alright, I'll call him to join us."
Vlad's room is right nearby.
Jack: "Vlad! Come over!"
(Vlad was just playing 'Sims Forever'. Also with a hot tub scene! This game!)
As always, it's awkward.
For both of them.
But what a stunning view they have from here!
The last time they'd been in a hot tub together is over a year ago. It was at the Temple in Mount Komorebi when Kiyoshi prepared them before they tightened their bond.
And they also still remember that embarrassing incident at the Tavern when Vlad attacked Ji Ho after he found him in the hot tub together with Jeb...
Vlad undressed and Ji Ho lowered his gaze omg. After all the times they'd seen each other naked ^^'
Jack tries to nudge them: "Let's change places."
Ji Ho: "Ok."
Jack: "You could give Vlad a massage. You haven't charged the Bond for a while." ('Subtle' is not Jack's middle name hahaha).
Vlad: "What? No!"
Jack: "I'll close my eyes "
As if this makes it less awkward ^^'
Vlad is even more comfortable when Jack is around because he feels so lost when he's alone with Ji Ho.
Ji Ho: "Turn around."
Vlad: "Um - ok."
Of course Jack didn't keep his eyes closed ^^'
He thinks of the time he's been in a hot tub together with Kiyoshi at the Jedi Temple... (Omg Jack, how are you supposed to heal if you can't get over Kiyoshi! But healing is a rocky, winding road. A back and forth. And even if you think you've made no progress at all by going one step forward and two steps back. You do.)
'I've kept it inside much too long There's no relief
Carry it around just like a stone Too heavy for me
I have paid the price of standing On the outside looking in
It's time to let the healing begin
A boy is strung out he's going through hell His mother weeps
His spirit is broken and there's nothing left Just a terrible need
And the days are marked by the heaviness of the heart
It never mends Until the healing begins
And the tension prowels the streets like an animal
The people stay behind their locks and chains It's a shame
When so many are trying their best to live as one
And the smoke from the fires covers up the sun
A young girl is lying in the dirt Her dreams ended there
Caught in the crossfire on somebody's turf Hatred in the air
It's a voice that never sings A winter without the spring
It never ends Time to let the healing begin'
Joe Cocker - Let the healing begin
(Link above leads to the MV on youtube. It's such an amazing song and the MV is worth a watch. He sings about his painful past.)
Omg Jack! He left the hot tub because he's jealous?
The way he's looking at them!
Thing is, that between Saiwa, Vlad and Jack, there is zero chance of a bromance - ever. Same for Ji Ho and Jack.
I'll have to take a look in their relationship bars next time...
These teenagers!
Ji Ho is up to something - and Vlad isn't adversed...
Too much for poor Jack. He even cried omg
The hot tub animation is one of my favourite romantic interactions
A happy Lunar New Year!
It's the year of the Dragon! π
I wish to you happiness, good health, luck and prosperity!
The Year of The Wood Dragon starts from 10th February 2024 to 28 January 2025.
The Dragon is known for wisdom, honesty, and kindness β bringing cheerfulness and new opportunities.
The show must go on and the Boys took a day off to celebrate.
It's really a day to celebrate since it's the first time they all eat together! π (Vlad only found out recently that he can eat food instead of plasma fruit.)
No, Little Goat - Year of the Dragon. The Year of the Goat is 2027 π
Vlad and Saiwa have such a great friendship. They did this by themselves
Our new Profile Pic on tumblr
They were all having a hard time today since noting is solved between them...
Sai is still mad at Jeb for urging him into a fake relationship with Kiyoshi. And so so so embarrassed!
And poor Jeb is so afraid Sai will break up with him again. He doesn't know what to do.
And Jack and Kiyoshi are having a hard time too since Jack broke up with Kiyoshi and Kiyoshi is fully back from the Tree and they know the truth now...
I have no idea what's wrong with Ji Ho, they had such a fun evening in the hot tub. I guess he feels bad for his friends.
Haha oh my, this lot really has some problems. They never went to where I asked them to when we shot the photos. As if there were invisible obstacles around. And here they don't even stand opposite of each other while giving high-five...
And everytime I touched something in build mode, some of them jumped up from where they were sitting ^^'
Poor Saiwa, nothing is easy in this world either...
But they are all stuck here now and have to find a way which they can walk together - somehow.
(Awesome dragon deco and the robes are from My Wedding Stories Pack)
Take life one day at a time
That's what a wise man said to me.
He said, "Life, in all it's complexity
Is the ultimate test for you and me."
When you walk holding your head up high
For the masters watching you from the sky
I know not what trouble lies ahead
Before you fight, use your head.
It's time to leave my nest where you were born
This journey you must make alone.
(Spread your wings and fly)
There's a power deep inside you, an inner strength
You'll find in time of need.
(The Glow)
Like the seasons, love will come and go
If it's right, you'll automatically know.
The world of mystery exists only in your head.
When you become one with yourself
The wall will fall
The journey now before you is the final test
You've learned your lesson well.
(I can teach you no more)
There's a power deep inside you, an inner strength
You'll find in time of need.
(The Glow)
You are the Last Dragon
You posess the power of the Glow
Theme from one of my fovourite movies of all time:
The Last Dragon π
Jack: "Vlad! Ji Ho! We are having a date!"
Little Goat: 'A date?'
Vlad: "A date?"
Kumo, the sheep: 'Yes, it's Valentine's Day!'
Jack: "Yes, it's Valentine's Day!"
All (except for Jack and Kumo): 'Ohhhh!'
And while the Goats look forward to it, because they love romance and root for the Boys, Ji Ho and Vlad seem a bit overwhelmed.
(haha exactly like on their last date ^^')
Jack: "Take a seat!"
Aouww! Jack set up a waffle stand for them! How sweet
Poor Vlad! He hates surprises and is completely unprepared. But that was Jack's plan. If he had told Vlad his plans for today he would have ran off ^^'
Jack: "Have fun you two! I have another date. I can't leave Sai alone today."
Vlad: "What?"
Ji Ho: "We're fine, Sai needs you. Thank you for setting this up for us."
Vlad: "Jack! You can't leave me alone right now!"
Off he goes... and Vlad asks himself (again) why Jack is his best friend...
Nothing you can know that isn't known (love)
Nothing you can see that isn't shown (love)
There's nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be,
it's easy
All you need is love All you need is love
All you need is love, love
Love is all you need
Jack went over to Saiwa, who buried himself in work to not have to deal with his embarrassment and shame for having a fake relationship with Kiyoshi...
Jack: "Sai, let's go out. You haven't left your room for days."
Sai: "I did."
Jack: "Yes. To the bathroom and to grab some food. Come on. I'll treat you to the market, hm?"
Sai: "I'm busy with the game. We need to earn money to pay back Rubyn and the others for helping us finding our home."
Jack: "They wouldn't want us to suffer because of this. Just for an hour, hm? I'm your Valentine today!"
Saiwa sighed. Poor Jack also has no date today.
Sai: "Ok, I'll save and then we can leave."
Jack: "That's my boy!"
Sai: "Let's go."
Jack: "Aren't you going to change clothes?"
Sai: "What for?"
Jack: "True."
But he's worried. Usually Sai never would leave the house like this...
Sai: "Thanks Jack. I love you."
Jack: "I know."
And then they saw them. Kiyoshi and Jeb. On a Valentine's Date!
(Of course it wasn't. Jeb dragged Kiyoshi away from home because he had the same plan as Jack for Saiwa...)
Poor Jeb. He already is so afraid that Sai will break up with him because he urged him in a fake relationship with Kiyoshi to bring him back. (That hadn't even been necessary...)
Why are they even here? Sai hadn't left his computer for days, why now?
Jeb: "What are we supposed to do now?"
Kiyoshi: "I don't know."
Sai knew what to do: "Let's leave the love birds on their own so they can enjoy their date. We are going to go home and watch a Star Wars movie."
That would usually bring tears of joy to Jack's eyes - but not today... Since he has no better idea either they left. Jack wants to avoid Kiyoshi at any cost.
Of course Jeb and Kiyoshi didn't enjoy their 'date' after Sai and Jack left.
Jack is in his happy place. At least Han and Leia are happy together.
Poor Saiwa. They need to find a solution for this dilemma. Soon.
Vlad and Ji Ho enjoyed their date. Jack made Heart's Desire Waffles for them.
They helped Vlad to calm down and Ji Ho's nervousness also faded.
Vlad is still new to eating food and so this date was very special for him. His first sweets. He's hooked.
And Ji Ho is so sweet and beautiful.
After they finished, they stood up to go back to their rooms. Jack hadn't told them what to to after eating the waffles ^^' They didn't talk either, as always. The Bond told them how they felt and that they both had a good time today.
Baby steps.
They stood at the stairs to their rooms and it's awkward, as always.
What now? Say something? Quickly charge the bond?
They are so lost without Jack ^^'
Jack's waffles gave Ji Ho the confidence to embrace Vlad to charge the Bond and then he even kissed Vlad's neck! And Vlad liked it
And the goats too: 'Yay!' 'Finally!' 'Best Valentine's day ever!'
'Looking back on all the time we spent together
You oughta know by now if you wanna be my lover
Wanna be my lover
Go ahead and take your time, boy, you gotta feel secure
Before I make you mine, baby, you have to be sure
You wanna be my lover, wanna be my lover, wanna be my lover'
It was late when Kiyoshi and Jeb came home after the Valentine's Desaster.
After they'd met Sai and Jack at the market, they went over to work on their secret project.
Jeb's plan had been to leave their home to be out of the way and to not upset Saiwa and Jack with their presence.
Their intentions were good, and if Jack and Sai hadn't cought them together, it would even have worked.
Kiyoshi is sneaking around the houses to Jack's shop to make some cheese (as Noxee requested). Hopefully no one sees him this time.
Even though it's painful to see how Jack had reacted when he saw him, Kiyoshi can understand him and Saiwa. They had a lot to endure because of him. How is he ever supposed to make it up to them? It's his fault that Saiwa and Jeb avoid each other for days now. All because they wanted to help him. Kiyoshi hopes that Saiwa never finds out that Kiyoshi's mind wasn't as far away as they thought during their fake relationship. He remembers everything...
And as much as he appreciates Vlad and Jeb's help and comraderie - and them being by his side - he can't ask this of them.
It only deepens the gorge between all of them.
He has to talk to someone and ask if he can leave, so Jack can heal in peace. He will only upset Jack when they stay here together.
What advantages does it have to be a diety if he can't even help his closest friends? All the sacrifices he made to be able to fulfill his duties for the Temple and the Resistance - futile.
He messed up his relationship with his fated mate Jack and even had to betray Vlad to the Council.
He can't go on like this. Dtui isn't allowed to have any contact to him but he has to talk to someone.
How is he supposed to live with this guilt?
He's tempted to go back into the Tree but his friends would keep on trying to get him out there again and this would only cause them more and more pain...
Every second they spend here together is painful for all of them.
Kiyoshi is also aware of that Jack is avoiding the Temple to let Arturo treat his pain.
He's glad that Ji Ho helps him so much (and Kojin) but Ji Ho can only ease Jack's pain. He's not able to heal it.
The pain is caused by their breakup. And it's impossible to be cured as long as they are divided...
Kiyoshi also made a label for his cheese.
The name of his brand will be 'Moonchild'.
He'd seen a lot of full moons during the decades he'd spent in the Tree.
These were the hardest times for him because that was when he missed Jack the most.
His Moonchild πΊ
'Moonchild, hear the mandrake scream
Moonchild, open the seventh seal
Moonchild, you'll be mine soon child
Moonchild, take my hand tonight'
As always, this post with all the links to former relevant posts -> here on my simblr
Jeb also went back to work to his potions shop after the Valentine's Desaster. But other than Kiyoshi, he doesn't get anything done right.
All of his spells fail and he can't concentrate on his research.
Why did Sai have to see him together with Kiyoshi alone on on a 'date' on Valentine's Day?
Usually they would have spent this day - their first Valentine's day, at that - together.
Ach! Another failed spell!
He is just so afraid of losing Saiwa again.
And again it's a situation where Sai already had been distressed from other happenings and it all piled up in him. Like last time they broke up after Jeb had a crush on Jack after Vlad's death.
Jeb just doesn't know how to deal with irrational, angry Saiwa.
The others tell him to just give him some time and he will calm down eventually. But that hadn't worked last time either - and they had been separated for months!
Jeb stared into nowhere, lost in his thoughts and fears.
Another potion fail...
Jeb knows that Saiwa is convinced that he isn't good enough for Jeb. And he still doesn't understand what Saiwa sees in him.
How Jeb and Saiwa see themselves:
Vs how Sai sees Jeb
and how Jeb sees Sai:
What Jeb doesn't know is, that Sai (and Jack too!) always was jealous of him and Kiyoshi.
(Even I don't know what past these two have. All I know is, that they already had been friends long before they met the others. And they do have a special conection. They are even able to meet in the Otherworld (long before the others were able to travel there) and Jeb shared Kiyoshi's burden when he was in the Tree.)
Jeb calls it a day. He can't concentrate and he's only wasting his valuable materials. They can't go on like this.
They need to find a solution - soon.
'I am sailing, I am sailing home again, 'cross the sea
I am sailing stormy waters to be near you, to be free
I am flying, I am flying like a bird 'cross the sky
I am flying, passing high clouds to be with you, to be free
Can you hear me? Can you hear me?
Through the dark night, far away
I am dying, forever crying
To be with you, who can say
We are sailing, we are sailing home again, 'cross the sea
We are sailing stormy waters to be near you to be free'
Sailing - Rod Stewart
Link above leads to the MV on youtube.
Just Rod Stewart on a boat, I could listen and watch him for hours...
(TMI: Baby Jane was one of the first vinyl singles I've ever bought in the early 80s (and I still have it!) ^^'
And I still think Rod Stewart is one of the most talented, beautiful and hottest men who ever walked on this planet
He's unsure what to think of it ^^'
Since they are fruit, they remind him of plasmafruit.
But plasmafruit are still better because they give him that plasma kick.
That pout, though ^^'
Maybe he's a bit disappointed because the others made such a fuss about strawberries...
For poor Vlad, who only got to taste Ji Ho's plasma twice, plasma fruit is the taste closest to Ji Ho's
Vlad and Ji Ho
'Living is easy with eyes closed
Misunderstanding all you see
It's getting hard to be someone, but it all works out
It doesn't matter much to me
Let me take you down
'Cause I'm going to strawberry fields
Nothing is real
And nothing to get hung about
Strawberry fields forever
No one I think is in my tree
I mean, it must be high or low
That is, you can't, you know, tune in, but it's alright
That is, I think it's not too bad
Let me take you down...
Always, no sometimes, think it's me
But you know, I know when it's a dream
I think I know, I mean a yes
But it's all wrong
That is, I think I disagree'
Comments
Ji Ho is happily producing soundtracks and music for their game. He hadn't had a music station since they left Belgraves Institute!
But he always had his guitar with him so he was able to compose whenever he had time.
And Saiwa is also working on the game. Kiyoshi seems a bit tense. (And Count von Count seems a bit intimidated by him hahaha.)
Sai heard the music from Ji Ho's room and went over with Kiyoshi to take a break and chat a bit about the game.
Kiyoshi sat on Ji Ho's rug.
And he looks a bit happier now. Maybe he was just fed up of Count von Count?
And then he mumbled something!
It really sounded like 'I like Bird'! Just very unclear.
No wonder, Kiyoshi hadn't spoken for decades!
It sounded as if one spoke with a pencil between their teeth - like they do in acting classes.
They gathered the others. Kiyoshi is on his way back from being a tree! Finally!
Jeb is more relieved about this than anyone else. When Kiyoshi is back they can finally set things right between him and Saiwa!
Vlad: "What did he say?"
Saiwa: "Uhm - it really sounded like 'I like Bird'..."
Jeb: "Well that's good news, isn't it?" But his face said something else...
And poor Jack is also shocked. What will happen when Kiyoshi is back? Will he and Saiwa be a couple then and he'd have to watch them being happy together? How is he supposed to forget about Kiyoshi? Argh - and he just started to feel better after their break up!
Kiyoshi didn't say anything else and just stood there, so they eventually went back to work.
Jeb trailed after Jack. He can't be alone right now.
And Jack was glad he did. Because -> same.
They went to Jack's new nectar shop. It's right next to Jeb's potions shop.
They avoided to talk about Kiyoshi - and his Bird.
Jeb: "The nectar is amazing and your shop is so cool!"
Jack: "Thanks, Jeb."
Jeb: "Let's hope Saiwa finds a way to send our produce over to the Muggle World so we can sell them there to pay back Rubyn and the others."
Jack: "Yes. And to send messages. I'd love to hear from Barfolomew and Noxee again!"
Kiyoshi is mumbling again.
Sai: "Just come back Kiyoshi."
Ji Ho and Vlad cared for the animals.
They both felt the drag from the Bond. It's hungry again.
Luckily Ji Ho has no problems with touching Vlad. It just feels too good. So good, he even forgets how awkward it still is.
Adriano: 'I hope they'll get together soon. They are driving me crazy!'
Little Goat: 'Tell me about it -.-'
Outtakes:
Adriano: 'Just kiss him!'
Kumo: 'He's waiting, but don't go breaking his heart!'
'Nobody told us - 'Cause nobody showed us
Now it's up to us babe - Whoa I think we can make it
So don't misunderstand me - You put the light in my life
Oh, you put the spark to the flame - I got your heart in my sight
Woo hoo - Nobody knows it
But when I was down I was your clown - Woo hoo'
Don't Go Breaking My Heart - Elton John & Kiki Dee
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
Jack: "Vlad! Ji Ho!"
Vlad and Ji Ho: ?
Jack: "Get ready, you two are having a date today! I'm going to call your horses."
It's saturday and Jack is determined to help Ji Ho and Vlad with the dating thing...
And then Jack left.
Vlad: "Jack! Wait!"
Jack: "What?"
Vlad: "Come with us. I can't be alone with him. I don't know what to do! Or say!"
Jack: "Omg Vlad! You already did anything with Ji Ho! What will he think of you when you need me to hold your hand!"
Jack went along to call the horses for them and then to his shop to craft some strawberry nectar for Noxee. And then Ji Ho came in...
Ji Ho: "Jack... can you please come with us?"
Jack: "Omg - fine!"
Jack didn't plan something fancy to not overwhelm them. They went to the little beach.
It's already a month ago since Vlad stood by the river and thought of Ji Ho and how much he would like it here.
And now he's here. Why didn't he think of bringing Ji Ho here?
Ji Ho already got rid of his clothes and ran to the river.
Vlad: "Thank you, Jack."
Jack: "See. It's not that hard to make him happy. You could have easily done this without me."
Vlad is not so sure...
Vlad and Jack jumped in too.
Such a beautiful day! Jack was happy he accompanied them. The warmth of the sun is easing his pain.
Jack even brought a BBQ!
And he kept the conversation going.
That's one of Jack's super powers. None of them felt awkward (at least not much. It could have been worse ^^')
Like Arturo said. Goal is to get them used to each other and let them experience some happy hours together.
Without the pressure to save the world.
'Wherever you go, whatever you do
You know these reckless thoughts of mine are following you
I'm falling for you, whatever you do
'Cause baby, you've shown me so many things that I never knew
Whatever it takes, baby, I'll do it for you
Our love is alive, and so we begin
Foolishly layin' our hearts on the table
Stumblin' in
Our love is a flame, burning within
Now and then firelight will catch us
Stumblin' in'
Chris Norman, Suzi Quatro - Stumblin' in
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
It's sunday and Saiwa is taking a day off from working all week long on their game and the device to send messages and produce over to the Muggle World.
Today he's going to spend all day trying to bring Kiyoshi back!
Since the day he started talking a few days ago Saiwa is pondering about things that could trigger his way back.
And then he remembered the Cat CafΓ©.
And how Kiyoshi had reacted on the cats. Goats are animals too and so they went to care for the goats.
And really. Kiyoshi hugged his Little Goat!
And again he exitedly mumbled something that sounded like 'I like Bird!'...
Saiwa sighs. He knows that Kiyoshi needs time to adjust to this world and even to how time passes here. Spending a few decades as a tree surely messed him up. But it's time he comes back and they can talk to each other and set things right. Saiwa can't be Kiyoshi's 'Bird'...
Kiyoshi wasn't around that often to get to know him very well and he kept his life mostly a secret but Saiwa remembered something else.
He took Kiyoshi over to Jack's Nectar Shop.
Saiwa: "Jack, do you remember your wine and cheese cellar at the Invisible Farm? Kiyoshi loved to be there and make his cheese!"
Sure, he loved to be there, but mostly to secretly make out with Jack... But he can't tell Saiwa this -.- He swore by his life he'd never tell anyone. It's time Kiyoshi comes back to set things right.
He'll never be able to heal if he can't talk with his friends about what happened between them.
Saiwa started making cheese and it seems to make Kiyoshi happy. Of course it does -.- He was babbling all the time, just no one could understand a single word. As if he was mumbling in his sleep.
Sai left them alone for a few minutes to go to the bathroom (alone!)
Jack to Kiyoshi: "I knew since you left the farm that you are Saiwa's fated mate. I just don't understand why you did all this with me then. Was I just a substitute for Saiwa? Did you really step back so Sai and Jeb could be together? End this uncertainty. Come back and set things right. We are hurting. I'm just trying to get over us. It's so painful, you can't imagine."
When Sai was back, Jack went over to his houseboat to give Ji Ho 'Lessons in how to love Vlad' again ^^'
Today they are talking about Vlad's qualities.
Jack: "... and he's so talented! He's an amazing writer and painter. And you won't believe me when I say this, but he can really be funny! And he's so handsome! And he's a good kisser!"
Ji Ho: "Vlad is utterly beautiful. I was stunned when I first saw him..."
Jack: "And then he hissed at you and was mean..."
Ji Ho sighed: "And then he hissed at me and was mean... But I agree, he's a fantastic kisser."
Jack: "And I'm glad he has his black eyes back.
The normal eyes were creepy.
Do you think the Bond still tells him to kill us?"
Vlad: "Not the Bond. But I somehow feel the urge to kill you, Jack..."
Jack to Ji Ho: "He's just kidding ^^'"
and to Vlad: "It's not wise to torpedo my efforts here!"
Vlad sighs. Why again was Jack his best friend?
And why does he always have to overhear such conversations?
This is so embarrassing!
But Ji Ho thinks he's a fantastic kisser! And that he's 'utterly beautiful'!
(And there he smiled
Outtakes
Caught Jeb watching TV.
With gritted teeth, like the cat below the TV ^^'
Poor Jeb, he can't bear watching couples kissing while he's loosing his Giigs to Kiyoshi...
'Now, I'm lookin' to the sky to save me
Lookin' for a sign of life
Lookin' for somethin' to help me burn out bright
And I'm lookin' for a complication
Lookin' cause I'm tired of lyin'
Make my way back home when I learn to fly high
I think I'm dyin' nursing patience
It can wait one night
I'd give it all away if you give me one last try
We'll live happily ever trapped if you just save my life
Run and tell the angels that everything's alright'
Learn to Fly - Foo Fighters
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
The Boys worked together to set up Saiwa's 'Post Office' to send their produce and messages to the Muggle World.
Sai made all the adjustments and is now trying to contact Rubyn on the other side. Which is not easy. The Boys and Arturo seem to be the only ones who can stay longer in the Otherworld and internet and smartphones just don't work here.
Sure, Ji Ho and Vlad could use their bond magic and the meteorite devices from Rubyn, but it drains them and goal is to be indepentent and not put too much strain on Ji Ho and Vlad. And it would be awesome to send messages and talk to Rubyn and Noxee and the others on the other side.
And there she is! Yay! Before the Boys left to the Otherworld, Rubyn and Saiwa shared their data and logs (as so often) and Rubyn must have built a similar device to receive their messages.
Rubyn: "Oh, it's so good to see you! How are you?"
They chatted a bit and then it was time for the first delivery to the Muggle World!
Saiwa: "Don't mess this up, Jack."
Jack: "Hey! What do you think of me!"
There it goes. Between the worlds...
Jack didn't mess up.
Rubyn: "It's coming! Well done!"
Saiwa: "Awesome!"
Rubyn: "I'm going to visit Noxee and set up a device like this at the bunker. She can sell your nectar at Grimtooths and Francine will sell Jeb's potions and Rita the paintings."
Jack: "Thank you, Rubyn. The strawberry nectar is for Noxee to keep
Saiwa is relived. Things are finally getting better now that they can send stuff and messages. And Kiyoshi is on his way back out of the tree.
'I found an island in your arms, Country in your eyes
Arms that chain us, Eyes that lie
Break on through to the other side
Break on through to the other side
Made the scene, Week to week
Day to day, Hour to hour
The gate is straight, Deep and wide'
Break on through to the other side - The Doors
They spend a happy and relaxed evening at the fireplace and went to bed early. It had been an exhausting and exciting day.
And when Saiwa woke up the next morning, Kiyoshi was gone!
Please no! Poor Saiwa had been to tired to pay attention!
Arturo had warned them that Kiyoshi would try to go back into the tree... Now that things were finally getting easier π
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
Even though it was almost clear that Kiyoshi went back into the tree, Jeb and Ji Ho stayed at home. Just in case Kiyoshi just went for a walk...
It's early and the temple lay quiet. Arturo wasn't even here yet.
But Kiyoshi was - he really went back into the tree again...
Seeing Kiyoshi in the tree broke something in Jack and he started to cry: "It's all my fault!"
Saiwa: "I only left him alone with you for a few minutes! What have you done to him? Have you been weird again?"
But Jack can't answer. He just kept on crying.
And where his tears hit the ground, roots were starting to grow. Intertwining with Jack's leg! (The roots were already grabbing for Jack when he had been visiting the temple earlier.)
Jack: "He's trying to drag me into the tree too! Help me!"
Oh no...
A bolt shot in the skies.
And Kiyoshi stepped out of the tree. He had lost control over his demon - again.
(None of them, except Jack, knows of Kiyoshi's demon side.)
Saiwa: "Kiyoshi!"
Jack can't move - the roots keep him in place ΓΆ.Γ'
Vlad: "Jack! Apologize to him! He'll hurt you!"
Jack: "No, he won't. I'm stronger than him."
(Which is true. Jack might have lost their fight at the cattle market and all the fights after that. But only as long as Kiyoshi was his Alpha and able to add Jack's strength to his own. But Kiyoshi isn't Jack's Alpha anymore and Jack is the invincible Super Soldier.)
Jack: "Let go of me, Kiyoshi."
Kiyoshi: "You're mine."
Saiwa thinks Kiyoshi is talking to him: "Uhm - Kiyoshi. Whatever Jack did to you yesterday - he didn't mean it. Let him go. Let's talk."
Kiyoshi: "Jack is mine. I will take him with me."
And then - finally! - Arturo arrived!
"Let go, Master."
Arturo loosened the roots around Jack's ankle and took Kiyoshi with him. He asked Vlad, Saiwa and Jack to wait.
'Sweet child in time. You'll see the line
The line that's drawn between good and bad
See the blind man shooting at the world
Bullets flying Oh, taking toll
If you've been bad Oh, Lord, I bet you have
And you've not been hit Oh, by flying lead
You'd better close your eyes
Oh Bow your head. Wait for the ricochet'
Child in Time - Deep Purple
Arturo returned with Kiyoshi. His eyes still with that demonic glow. And he seems still wild - but he is responsive.
Arturo: "I don't understand this. He says Jack is his fated mate.
And not you, Saiwa. I was so sure. His last words... I'm so sorry."
Jack was relieved. Kiyoshi freed him from his vow and is setting things right! Now Jack is finally able to tell his friends what had happened between them. No secrets anymore. Now he can talk to them and they can help him to heal.
Saiwa is about to faint: "Are you serious? After all Jeb and I went through to bring Kiyoshi back?"
Vlad is relieved too. Jack is his best friend and he had a hunch something was going on but he didn't want to make it harder for Jack so he didn't push him. But it was so hard to not be able to help him.
Saiwa doesn't have such insights: "Run."
And Jack ran.
It's useless to talk reasonable to Saiwa now and trying to tell him it wasn't Jack's fault.
Running around will help him calm down - and then they can talk.
And while Saiwa was chasing after Jack, Kiyoshi told Vlad and Arturo their whole story... and why it needed to be kept a secret.
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
It took Arturo the whole day to get Kiyoshi stable enough to send him home with the others.
And it took Saiwa, Jack and Vlad just as long to get over their first shock. Now that they know everything.
The Bond told Ji Ho that they were on their way home. And that something went terribly wrong. Jeb and Ji Ho waited for them.
Poor Saiwa still doesn't know how to deal with all this, dismounted and walked right past them. Vlad and Ji Ho need no words. Saiwa is the closest with Jack and Vlad. But it's clear that he can't deal with Jack right now. And they can't let him be on his own either.
(Vlad and Ji Ho not being the messiest couple - we don't get to see this often ^^)
So Vlad went after Saiwa, Ji Ho will care for Jack and Jeb for Kiyoshi...
Worst thing is: It's no one's fault. No one to shift the blame at.
Each of them would have done exactly the same to protect the others. And no one feels better now that they all know the truth.
That Kiyoshi had been sent by his father to torture Jack and Saiwa at the lab and that he decided to safe them instead. And that he almost payed with his life for it and he became a demon because Kojin decided to spare him and Dtui.
And that it was the best for all of them to keep Kiyoshi's relationship to Jack a secret to not put them in in the spotlight of the council...
And it had been wise to not tell them about Kiyoshi's duties and actions for the Resistance and against the Council.
Now they have to be very careful should they return to the Muggle World. The Council would torture any of them for information should they get a grip on them.
There are more bad news waiting for poor Kiyoshi. Jeb knows that after all that had happened, Kiyoshi would continue to try to go back into the tree. So he had to tell him about Other Jeb's message.
That - for unknown reasons - some of them have died in a possible future. Because they parted ways and cut the bond.
Jeb: "It will be hard to stay together and forgive each other - and ourselves. But it seems it's the only way to avoid some of us getting killed."
Kiyoshi: "Gods Jeb. I don't know what to do. Now that Saiwa and Jack know that my family was involved with their torture at the lab. How can we ever be carefree together?"
Jeb: "But you also saved them in the end - after I had failed.
Gods - and I don't know how to face Saiwa again after all this fated mates thing... I even urged him do be with you..."
Vlad is silently working next to Saiwa. All they'd talked about was about their game. Saiwa needs time to process it all - but he can't be alone right now.
After a few hours Saiwa finally started to talk about Kiysohi:
"This is so crazy. I'm thankful that Kiyoshi saved us from the Lab and I feel horrible that he almost payeed with his life and now he's a demon - because of us. But I could also slap him in his handsome face for what he did to Jack! I don't know how to feel and what to do, Vlad. Argh! And Jack! I know he swore by his life not to tell us about Kiyoshi. But..."
Vlad: "Ach - I know... I feel the same way. But we also know that they had no choice. If they had, they'd done better, right?"
Saiwa sighs: "Right. None of us has a choice. We need to get over all this madness. As always... Oh gods - how am I supposed to look Jeb in the eyes again!?"
Jack told Ji Ho everything. And it seems he's adopting his puppy strategy to himself to keep him from freaking out.
"It's good we all know the truth now. Being not able to talk to you was driving me crazy. It's sad it had to end like this with Kiyoshi but now I'm finally able to heal, right? And now you can help me to keep my distance to him. We will get over this, right?"
Ji Ho: "Uhm, right. I'll do anything to help you, Jack. Anytime, hm?"
Ji Ho knows it won't be that easy but he kept quiet to not bring Jack down. It's just a matter of time until it will fully hit him.
They went over to the fire to ease Jack's pain.
After Jack fell asleep,Ji Ho saw a face in the flames - it's Kojin!
Therefore the fire and the warmth does Jack so good!
(Kojin is the god of the hearth and the fire controlled and turned toward a good purpose. He likes Jack a lot since they've met in the Otherworld and Jack worked in his garden.)
'Now your pictures that you left behind
Are just memories of a different life
Some that made us laugh, some that made us cry
One that made you have to say goodbye
What I'd give to run my fingers through your hair
To touch your lips, to hold you near
When you say your prayers, try to understand
I've made mistakes, I'm just a man'
Always - Bon Jovi
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
It's not easy these days at the Happy Home after they all know the truth now. They try to avoid each other until they find a way to deal with it.
There is a parcel arriving at the Post Office!
It's from Noxee! She has a commission for them:
There are clothes in the parcel and she wants them to shoot some pics for the Strawberry Cake Fashion site - a great way to earn some money!
They were setting up some backgrounds and shot the photos:
(The first set is with clothes we already have ingame)
Then they tried the new stuff from the Goth Galore Kit:
(I'm not very happy with this kit. I was so excited - but meh...)
We - when we saw the clothes from this kit ^^'
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
Jack is still visiting the temple regularly to get help with his pain.
Arturo doesn't ask questions about the Boys' stay here in the otherworld - but since Kiyoshi is fully back from the tree, Arturo knows all of this had shaken them up.
So he invited them to a little dinner party.
Arturo: "Friends - we have a celebration today. Our diety returned into the worlds again. Many obstacles lie behind - new tasks lie ahead. But today lets just be joyful!"
All listened up.
Saiwa: "A diety? Kiyoshi?"
Jack in his little Armadillo Bubble thinks this is good news.
Kiyoshi being a diety means he'll be far far away from him and he can heal in peace...
Kiyoshi: "What?"
Arturo: "What 'what'? You have your temple here, your servants. Your believers make their ardous way here to the Otherworld to worship you and see your wonders. To ask for healing and help. To see the tree that you lived in and lit up for decades."
Saiwa asked Arturo what this means for them. Dtui said they should stay together until Kiyoshi 'learned' from his mistakes and Other Jeb also urged them to stay together to avoid some of them getting killed.
Arturo: "Oh, the Master doesn't have to stay here. The believers are used to not getting to see him. They believe in the tree, you know?"
Saiwa doesn't know. This is so weird...
Arturo: "The tree is fine without the Master all time around. It still does it's wonders. I was able to heal Jack and help other believers that came here - even when Kiyosho wasn't here. Just take him with you and when you're able to help me a bit around here - I'd be grateful."
Saiwa: "Of course we'll do that. Thank you for everything, Arturo."
Kiyoshi doesn't know what to think anymore. He went to the otherworld to forget about Jack and reflect on his mistakes after he got banned from the Temple in Mount Komorebi because he lost control over his demon. And now he's a diety?
(That's not the first time such things happen, Kiyoshi ^^' Even though you are far from being enlightened.)
Arturo: "Now let's eat and be joyful - the Master returned!"
He didn't need to say this twice to Jack and the goats. The others are not sure if they can eat now ΓΆ.Γ'
Little Goat: "He said we can eat anything today!"
Little Goat: "What a great party!"
Little Goat: "Long live the Master!"
After dinner Arturo cleaned up and the others are doing their chores around the temple.
Before they left, Arturo took Saiwa aside.
Arturo: "I'm a bit busy with all the visitors we have here at the temple since the Master is back and I know you can't tell me about anything that's going on with you, but here is a little present for you. Put this circuit board in a device that's strong enough and it will help you through this."
Saiwa: "Ok? Thank you."
'When you are old enough to read these words
Their meaning will unfold
These words are all that's left and though we've never met,
my only son.
I hope you know that I would have been there to watch you grow
But my call was heard and I did go
Now your mission lies ahead of you
As it did mine so long ago
To help the helpless ones, who all look up to you
And to defend them to the end
Defender
Ride like the wind. Fight proud, my son
You're the defender God has sent'
Defender - Manowar
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They all have a lot to deal with. None of them feels really comfortable around Kiyoshi now that he's a diety and they know the truth about him and Jack and the Lab... But Jeb won't let him down. He's his best and oldest friend. So they start their morning with jogging to get their heads clear.
When they returned, Jeb showed Kiyoshi his room. There are still 3 free rooms left at the Crappy Home but Kiyoshi chose the smallest one...
Jeb: "Are you sure?"
Kiyoshi: "Yes, that's enough for me. I don't need that much anymore after all those years in the tree."
Kiyoshi only wanted the sleepping bag but Jeb insisted to decorate a bit. He also put the box with Kiyoshi's belongings here. And the dagger Jack made at the Artisan's Yard on Winterfest.
Jeb: "You share the bath with Saiwa and Jack but the rooftop is all yours."
Kiyoshi: "Jeb - I don't deserve this after all the trouble I caused you."
Jeb: "Please use it. We all need to heal and get over with what happened. Practice yoga and meditate here, hm?"
Jeb: "We take Other Jeb's message very serious. Saiwa might get hurt and we need to do anything to avoid this. This means you'll have to stay with us and you can't go back into the tree. Should you feel the urge to do this, tell me. I need you to promise me this, Kiyoshi."
Kiyoshi: "I promise. I won't cause furter harm to any of you."
They saw Ji Ho and Jack doing their practice to ease Jack's pain.
Kiyoshi: "This rash and Jack's pain..."
Jeb: "Yes. It's because he left you - his fated mate."
Kiyoshi teared up. It's so hard for him to see Jack suffer - because of him: "Do you think..."
Jeb: "Let him heal. It's not the time to try to get back together - if ever. Even if this would stop his pain. He went through a lot to get over you."
Jack noticed Ji Ho's restlessness: "Ji Ho..."
Ji Ho: "Hm?"
Jack: "You have a deeper connection to the Bond than Vlad, right?"
Ji Ho: "Uhm - yes?"
Jack: "And you feel the needs of the bond earlier and it affects you stronger, right?"
Ji Ho: "Yes."
Jack: "And you know that Vlad does not want you to suffer, hm? When you feel the Bond is hungry - don't hesitate. Just go over to him. There's no need to wait. It only makes it worse. You know that, do you?"
Ji Ho: "I know..."
Jack: "I will help you getting more comfortable around him. As soon as we settled in with Kiyoshi, we are going to have a date again, ok?"
Ji Ho: "Ok ^^'"
And, as always...
Poor Vlad. He knows all this but he would never cross the line and touch Ji Ho on his own initiative. Never.
Lying in my bed, I hear the clock tick and think of you
Caught up in circles confusion is nothing new
Flashback, warm nights almost left behind
Suitcase of memories - Time after
Sometimes you picture me I'm walking too far ahead
You're calling to me, I can't hear what you've said
Then you say, "go slow" and I fall behind
The second hand unwinds
If you're lost you can look and you will find me Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I'll be waiting Time after time
If you're lost, you can look and you will find me Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I will be waiting Time after time
After my picture fades and darkness has turned to gray
Watching through windows you're wondering if I'm okay
Secrets stolen from deep inside and the drum beats out of time
I've got a suitcase of memories that I almost left behind
Time after time Time, time, time
But you say to go slow but I fall behind
Time after Time - Cyndi Lauper
(one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard. I love Cyndi Lauper a lot and the MV is great too. A lot of her MVs have recurring characters and they are so well done
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
After Ji Ho and Jack finished their practice, Jack wanted Ji Ho and Vlad to charge their Bond but Vlad is already on his way back to his room. Nothing is easy in this world...
And before Jack could send Ji Ho after him, Saiwa yelled:
"Jack! Noxee's on the... uhm... monitor! She wants to talk to you!"
(We moved the 'Post Office' ^^')
Noxee: "Hey Babee! How are you? Sai told me what happened and that it's been Kiyoshi. Oh Babee - let us know when we can do anything for you."
Jack: "Don't worry. I'm fine! It's such a relief that I don't have to have secrets anymore from my friends. The others help me and I will heal. I will get over him. He's a diety now anyway and far out of reach."
Noxee: "Your rash still looks painful."
Jack: "But I feel so much better now that it's all out. I even can sleep alone!"
Noxee: "That's a relief - oh hey - there's Greg! Greg! Say something to your son ... It's Jack - your son."
(It seems Greg also has some difficulties wrapping his mind around it hahaha)
Greg upnods Jack...
Jack upnods Greg...
Noxee: "There he goes... He's so hot... Babies. I gotta go. Send more pics from the Goth stuff and Kiyoshi should also send some his amazing cheese. Bye!"
Jack: "Omg - they forgot to switch off - let's leave them alone before we see - things... Where do I turn this off? Argh seeing my precious Noxee with him still freaks me out!"
Saiwa: "There's a parcel for you - from Greg..."
Jack unpacks: "Oh, it's a Pizza Stove! Ah - now my life is complete!"
Jack: "Noxee knows how to make a boy happy."
Saiwa: "She said it's from Greg..."
But Jack doesn't want to hear about this...
There are also some hand written receipes and Jack started right away.
Saiwa: "Smells amazing! I'm so hungry!"
And somehow it reached Jack's brain how much Greg has done for him. And he's thankful. How can he not be. Greg gave him Pizza! There's not much Jack loves more than his Pizza.
Jack: "Let's eat my friends. Thank you for being there for me."
And then they ate Jack's first handcraftedPizza.
'I've fallen in love. I've fallen in love for the first time
And this time I know it's for real. I've fallen in love, yeah
It's strange but it's true
Hey, I can't get over the way you love me like you do
But I have to be sure when I walk out that door
Oh, how I want to be free, baby. Oh, how I want to be free
Oh, how I want to break free
But life still goes on
I can't get used to living without living without living without you
By my side. I don't want to live alone, hey
God knows. Got to make it on my own
So, baby, can't you see. I've got to break free
Queen - I want to break free
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
I linked to them in this post on my simblr -> here
And while Saiwa, Jack and Ji Ho stay at home, Jeb, Kiyoshi and Vlad went to the Temple to help Arturo.
All of them silently agree it's best to keep Kiyoshi away from Jack until he healed. It's a long way to go for Jack. Even though he says he's fine. We all know he isn't.
It would even be better if they parted ways. But Other Jeb's message makes this impossible. No one wants to take the risk of some of them getting hurt - let alone be killed.
Vlad joined Team Kiyoshi.
Jack is Vlad's best friend and this wasn't an easy decision to make for Vlad - but he and Kiyoshi grew very close at Belgraves Institute. They shared a room and ran their penalty laps at the sports ground.
They slept next to Jack's pod when he was in his coma.
And in the end Kiyoshi had to betray Vlad to the Council to maintain Kiyoshi's camouflage.
Vlad knows that Ji Ho and Saiwa take good care of Jack and that Kiyoshi is having a hard time now since he became a diety, had been banned from Kojin's Temple and lost Jack. And no one, except for Jeb, knows how to deal with him after they learned that Kiyoshi was Jack's Alpha and fated mate and kind of co-responsible for Jack's misery. And that Kiyoshi had been sent by his father to the Lab to torture captured Jack and Saiwa. And rescued them in the end. It hadn't been easy for Kiyoshi either with all his duties for the temple, the resistance and the council.
He didn't hurt Jack on purpose. They just didn't know better and couldn't act better. He can't be mad at Kiyoshi. Maybe it was because they were too young and unexperienced or it just wasn't meant to be - yet. Fate doesn't make mistakes and Vlad is determined to help both of them.
Kiyoshi cared for the saplings of his Tree. And when he touched the little one Jack had lit with some kind of magic, it hit him like a bolt - again. This is a sign. Kiyoshi is sure. As a werewolf, Jack isn't capable of doing such magic. This has to mean something.
Jack is his fated mate.
Kiyoshi will give Jack all the time he needs to heal - but he will never give up on him. He tried it - for decades while he'd been in the tree - futile.
Mood is gloomy and everyone was working in silence lost in their own thoughts. Vlad thought he could try Jack's puppy strategy to light up the mood a bit. So he started to tell some funny stories of the times they hadn't been all together.
Vlad: "... and when Jeb and Ji Ho had already left to do their school project at Mount Komorebi, Jack insisted to put me on my gloves!
I had been blind then, but I still was capable to put on my gloves. And then I made fun of him because he wore a fur jacket! A werewolf in a fur jacket! And then Kiyoshi said: 'I like fur'.
Somehow I knew that something was going on between you two."
Jeb was cutting the planks, had the pencil between his teeth and chuckled. He repeated 'I like fur' because he thought it was so cute and funny of Kiyoshi. But since he had the pencil between his teeth, it was gibberish.
Arturo froze: "What did you just say?"
Jeb, gibberish: "I like fur?"
Arturo: "Gods - it sounds like the last words from the Master! 'I like bird'!"
Jeb: "I think everything sounds the same when you have a pencil in your mouth while speaking ^^'"
Arturo: "True hahaha."
Little Goat: 'Hello?!''
omg...
After their work at the Temple, they sat down to eat.
Arturo: "Vlad, why don't you take a plate and give it a try?"
Vlad: "Ah, I'm sorry but I'm a vampire and can't digest food. I get sick if I do and live off of plasma packs and fruit."
Arturo: "I aware of that - but I also feel your strong craving for food. Other vampires just ignore it."
Vlad: "Oh I'd been able to ignore it all my live - until... I drank Ji Ho's blood... and when I came back from hell after I died, I started to smell the incredible odors and had a hard time not giving in and try some ever since."
Arturo: "A lot of things changed after you drank mermaid's blood, hm? Why not you digesting food? Give it a try."
Vlad: "Uhm - ok..."
It smelled so amazing, Vlad thought it was worth getting sick.
And this is how Vlad tried his first food!
And it seems he likes it!
Oh my Arturo was right - Vlad yould have eaten food since he bit Ji Ho September 2022! And even though he knew he'd changed a lot and craved for it, he never tried - because he was afraid and convinced it would make him sick. This sounds trivial but made him think a lot. What else could he have experienced since then and never tried? And how much has Ji Ho changed him?
But before he could follow his thoughts any further, it hit him!
Hot hot HOT!!!
Arturo: "Maybe Burmesan Samosa Soup wasn't a good choice for your first meal ^^'"
But it was. Vlad will never forget this - his first meal. And it will remind him to be bolder and try new things and not hide behind his fears!
(Hear, Hear!)
After lunch Arturo went for a walk with them.
He has an idea wow they can make up with the others.
And after a hard day's work, they gathered at the fire.
Arturo was pondering all afternoon about 'I like bird' and 'I like fur'...
(Try it yourself, it really sounds the same!)
Arturo: "Kiyoshi - who did you think about before you became one with the tree?"
Kiyoshi: "Jack. I've never been able to forget him. Even when I felt nothing else anymore, I still felt him."
Arturo: "I have a weird inkling: maybe your last words weren't 'I like Bird' but 'I like Fur'? Because Jack is a werewolf? Or you thought of that experience with the fur jacket?"
Jeb: "When Kiyoshi thought of Jack and not of Saiwa before he left and Saiwa isn't his fated mate but Jack... Gods - I urged Sai into this fake relationship with Kiyoshi to bring him back because we thought Kiyoshi's last thoughts were about Sai... Saiwa will kill us all."
(Omg... ΓΆ.Γ')
And there's no way not to tell him because they all agreed to be honest to each other...
'I know your eyes in the morning sun
I feel you touch me in the pouring rain
And the moment that you wander far from me
I wanna feel you in my arms again
And you come to me on a summer breeze
Keep me warm in your love, then you softly leave
And it's me you need to show
How deep is your love?
I really mean to learn
'Cause we're living in a world of fools
Breaking us down when they all should let us be
We belong to you and me
I believe in you
You know the door to my very soul
You're the light in my deepest, darkest hour
You're my savior when I fall
And you may not think I care for you
When you know down inside that I really do
And it's me you need to show'
How deep is your love? - The Bee Gees
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It's Imbolc today, one of the festivals in the Wheel of the Year, and Ji Ho convinced Jeb to combine the goth fashion shoots for Strawberry Cake Fashion Noxee ordered, with a little concert to celebrate this special day.
So they could spend some carefree time together.
(And also to celebrate this stories' one and a half year anniversary!
It was January 30th. Can you believe this? In the beginning I counted every month because I'm with ADHD and never know for how long I can keep up with something. Thank you so much for being with us!)
To make it less awkward for all of them, Ji Ho asked the others if it's ok to weave some of his Siren's Song Spells into the background vocals. Jeb will do the main vocals today so it won't be too much magic influencing their feelings.
They agreed. They also agreed to tell Saiwa the truth about 'Bird',
(since they promised) but not today...
So they all gathered at 'The Veil', the goth club they set up in one of the empty rooms for the photo shoot and the concert.
First song is
Black Number One from Type O Negative
'I went looking for trouble and boy, I found her
She's in love with herself. She likes the dark
On her milk-white neck the Devil's mark
Now it's All Hallows Eve the moon is full
But will she trick or treat? I bet she will. She will'
(This song is so amazing and Peter Steele is one of the most stunning creatures who ever walked the night.)
'She's got a date at midnight with Nosferatu
Oh baby, Lily Munster ain't got nothing on you
Well, when I called her evil. She just laughed
Well, cast that spell on me. Boo π-craft'
Saiwa got goosebumps and chills were running up and down his spine. Jeb is so hot and amazing.
Sai wasn't able to control himself and hissed when Jeb sang:
'Loving you
Loving you
Love, loving you'
Jack: "I'll get you something to drink to cool down ^^'"
Saiwa couldn't even answer. Neither tear his eyes from the stage.
If Saiwa only hadn't agreed to that fake relationship with Kiyoshi!
How are they supposed to get over this? Had Jeb expected him to say no to his suggestion? How much does Kiyoshi remember?
Gods, what had they done?!
Kiyoshi and Jack sat as far from each other as possible and Kiyoshi tried not to swoon (at least not recognizeable for the others ^^') over how stunning Jack looks tonight.
Ji Ho tries his best with his Siren's Songs to let them all forget their worries.
But of course Vlad noticed it. And doesn't approve!
He chose Kiyoshi's side and is willing to do anything to help him to find back into their 'family' but he will also make very sure Jack can heal from breaking up with his fated mate Kiyoshi.
Ji Ho tries a little harder ^^'
And Jeb looks in the crowd as if he wants to say 'behave'!
For Sai, Jeb even looked hotter than Peter Steele.
He so wishes he could touch him tonight. And kiss him. Argh!
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
A Gothy Imbolc - Part 2
The crowd went crazy and stormed the dancefloor when Ji Ho and Jeb played the first tunes of
Temple of Love from the Sisters of Mercy
(I just imagined Ji Ho singing the female part and Jeb the rest and got goosebumps ΓΆ.ΓΆ')
In the temple of love you hide together
Believing pain and fear outside
But someone near you rides the weather
And the tears he cried will rain on walls
As wide as lovers eyes
Ah, I love to see them happy and carefree after all they had to go through. Ji Ho is doing a good job with his Siren's Spells.
In the temple of love: Shine like thunder
In the temple of love: Cry like rain
In the temple of love: Hear my calling
In the temple of love: Hear my name
Aouwww Vlad and Saiwa are dancing together!
And the devil in black dress watches over
My guardian angel walks away
Life is short and love is always over in the morning
Black wind come carry me far away
I'd been so disappointed with the clothes from the Goth Galore Kit but it inspired us to make this special so it was worth the 5β¬
In the black sky thunder sweeping
Underground and over water
Sounds of crying weeping will not save
Your faith for bricks and dreams for mortar
All your prayers must seem as nothing
Ninety-six below the wave
When stone is dust and only air remains
Ji Ho was amazing too. I didn't change his hair back to black this time. So he's a blonde goth tonight ^^'
At least he's in a dark mood ^w^
(Black is even his natural hair color haha. I really wish we could set different hair colors for the outfits without going in CAS. Same with the beards. I mean wigs and fake beards are a thing since - um always? At least since 'The Life of Brian' 2.000+ years ago! -.-)
The concert came to an end but they all continued to dance and celebrate for a while. Until Ji Ho's Siren's Spells faded.
Jeb is very pleased with how the evening went. He'd feared the worst since they all are at the edge because of Kiyoshi's return and try to avoid each other.
Then I caught Ji Ho and Vlad like this
And Great Uncle Eddie is in charge of the bar π
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This is part 3 of our Gothy Imbolc π
After the concert - and after Ji Ho's Siren's Song Spells - the magic faded, and they felt awkward again...
Jeb made sure to leave first with Kiyoshi. They both know how uncomfortable he makes them. Kiyoshi walked away like a condemned man.
The music was still playing in 'The Veil'.
And they all know and love this song. It's
'Over the hills and far away' from Nightwish
'They came for him one winter's night. Arrested, he was bound
They said there'd been a robbery. His pistol had been found
They marched him to the station house. He waited for the dawn
And as they led him to the dock. He knew that he'd been wronged
"You stand accused of robbery" He heard the bailiff say
He knew without an alibi Tomorrow's light would mourn his freedom
Over the hills and far away For ten long years he'll count the days
Over the mountains and blue seas A prisoner's life for him there'll be'
Saiwa left shortly after them. Alone. He so wished he could be with Jeb this night. He's still revved up. Jeb is stunning and Sai hopes he gets to see Jeb in this outfit again after they'd made up somehow...
'He knew that it would cost him dear But yet he dared not say
Where he had been that fateful night A secret it must stay
He had to fight the tears of rage His heart beat like a drum
For with the wife of his best friend He spent his final night of freedom
Over the hills and far away He swears he will return one day
Far from the mountains and blue seas
Back in her arms he swear he'll be
Over the hills and far away'
(Isn't it crazy how well the lyrics fit the situation between Saiwa, Kiysohi and Jeb? ΓΆ.Γ')
Jack is about to go over to his houseboat.
Vlad: "Jack, are you sure you can sleep alone tonight?"
He noticed the way Jack looked at Kiyoshi when he left. After all the fun they had this evening - Vlad knows how hard this was for Jack.
Jack: "Positive! I'm fine! You two rather charge the Bond now. It's about time."
Jack stil hesitated.
He wasn't sure if he'd be able to stay alone tonight.
But he doesn't want to disturb Ji Ho and Vlad.
When he saw how tight Vlad held Ji Ho, he reluctantly left.
After this crazy hot Burmesan Samosa Soup - his first meal - Vlad is determined to be bolder. He can feel through the Bond that Ji Ho enjoys this embrace almost as much as he does. And so he held him a bit longer than usual.
'Each night within his prison cell He looks out through the bars
He reads the letters that she wrote One day, he'll know the taste of freedom
Over the hills and far away She prays he will return one day
As sure as the rivers reach the seas Back in his arms he swears she'll be'
And even though Vlad also knows that words aren't neccessary between them because the Bond tells Ji Ho how much Vlad enjoyed the concert, this whole evening, he went all in and actually said something to Ji Ho!
Vlad: "You were amazing."
But Ji Ho doesn't know how to deal with a Vlad trying to have a real conversation with him so he just said: "Thank you."
Well - let's not ask too much of them. It's a beginning
Ji Ho is tired and drained. The Siren's Songs are taking their toll on him. But he is happy. And after a silent conversation over their Bond, Ji Ho went to his room to sleep off the evening and Vlad spent the night with Jack to make sure he's ok.
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Outtakes
We start with Vlad. He's so beautiful when he smiles.
Kiyoshi's outfit is too cute! The little skulls on the shirt and on the back
Taken out because Ji Ho was a bit to cheerful for a goth
Saiwa looking longingly at Jeb's photo...
And Vlad is sulking because there is no photo of him and Ji Ho together ^^'
Kiyoshi started to run around, I told him to sit down again - then he undressed and wanted to lay in the coffin we used as table... (I didn't even know non vampires can do that?)
π Best of Buydebug βοΈ Short trips to the Oggiverse - Short Clips π¬ My Builds: Houses π Rooms π SciFi πΎ creatively edited Screenshots π¨
Since Ji Ho and Jack started to practice yoga and meditate to ease Jack's pain, they spend a lot of time together these days.
And since Jack loves games so much, he teaches Ji Ho Sabacc.
Usually Jack plays with Saiwa or Vlad but now that they are all so tense since Kiyoshi is back...
Jack: "Would you accompany me to the Temple later to let Arturo treat me? I can't wait to get rid of Kiyoshi's influence over me and all this pain. Tomorrow it's been a year since he became my Alpha and it went utterly downhill with me."
Ji Ho hesitates, but he promised to be honest: "Um Jack, are you aware that it isn't Arturo who heals you? It's the magic of the Temple - and the Tree. And the Tree is Kiyoshi. He's the diety who gives Arturo his powers."
No, of course Jack hadn't been aware of that.
Jack: "Very well then. I will avoid the Temple. And Kiyoshi. I can do this by myself. It already got a lot better, even though Kiyoshi is back and always around."
Ji Ho: "Are you sure? You live with this pain for months now."
Jack: "Thanks to you I can almost do anything here. The yoga, meditating... I will set up a hot tub and skip the massages."
Ji Ho: "I could ask Vlad if it's ok for him if I give you the massages?"
Jack: "You would? I know this must be hard for you given that you learned how to do it at 'The House of the rising Sun' (the brothel where Ji Ho's mother used to work).
But Vlad will be ok with it, I'm his best friend. Don't worry."
Speaking of Vlad. While Jack and Ji Ho play Sabacc, he, Jeb and Kiyoshi gathered with Saiwa to finally tell him the whole truth about 'Bird'...
Vlad: "... and then we found out that Kiyoshi didn't say 'I love Bird' but 'I like Fur' because his last blurred thoughts were about Jack, his real fated mate. And not about you. *Vlad sighs from the dephts of his soul before he's able to continue. He hates to hurt Saiwa* So it wasn't necessary to have a fake relationship with Kiyoshi to bring him back..."
Saiwa exploded. His head was spinning. Jeb and him put their whole relationship on a risk for a misunderstanding of a muffled word and Jack's weird theory and a tattoo? Arturo already told them that Kiyoshi and Jack are fated mates but it seemed so weird that someone like Kiyoshi would love someone like Jack so Saiwa too thought there must have been something between them so Kiyoshi's last thoughts were about him - and that he were so special to him and the fake relationship needed to be done to help him come back... And now this! Since the Lab Saiwa hadn't felt so humiliated.
He was only able to say one word, and that was: "RUN!"
And they ran... They know Saiwa well enough that nothing they could do or say now would be able to calm him down.
Saiwa even started to throw things at them!
Vlad is familiar with Saiwas temper and he knows he needs his time to cool down. And so they decided to go the only other place in Tomarang where they could stay - the Temple. There's always some work to do and they could also spend some time on their secret project which is supposed to help to make it up to the others. Now more important than ever.
Poor Jeb. What have they done. That's the first time Saiwa is mad at him after they broke up - because of Jack - and he doesn't know what to do. What if Saiwa leaves him - again. He wouldn't survive this.
Vlad: "Let's leave before he hits us with something painful - or comes after us!"
And in the evening, when they came back from work, Vlad caught Ji Ho massaging Jack.
Vlad knows there is no reason to be jealous. Jack is his best friend and even the Bond lets him know that there's nothing to be upset about.
But it hurts. It reminds him of the times Ji Ho massaged him to charge the bond and he wishes his relationship with Ji Ho was different. That they finally could be together.
His head knows how wrong this is and he wants to give Ji Ho all the time he needs and he would even give up on love if that meant Ji Ho could be happy without him.
But his heart wants what his heart wants...
'It's savage and it's cruel And it shines like destruction
Comes in like the flood And it seems like religion
It's noble and it's brutal It distorts and deranges
And it wrenches you up And you're left like a zombie
And I want you And I want you
And I want you so It's an obsession
It's guilt edged Glamorous and sleek by design
You know it's jealous by nature False and unkind
It's hard and restrained And it's totally cool
It touches and it teases As you stumble in the debris'
Love is a stranger - Eurythmics
On Youtube or Spotify
Outtakes
Vlad in his room looking at his plasmafruit tree. He's so happy that he can finally eat real food! Plasma fruit are delicious - but having them day for day...
Jeb and Kiyoshi after teleporting ΓΆ.Γ'
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Ji Ho and Jack set up a hot tub to heal Jack's pain so he can avoid the Temple and to free Jack from Kiyoshi's 'demonic influence' (that's how Jack calls it at least...)
Jack: "Let's jump right in and let the healing begin!"
But Ji Ho hesitated. Of course he felt how hurt Vlad was when he saw him massaging Jack.
Jack: "Oh my, he really has a thin skin when it comes to you. Alright, I'll call him to join us."
Vlad's room is right nearby.
Jack: "Vlad! Come over!"
(Vlad was just playing 'Sims Forever'. Also with a hot tub scene! This game!)
As always, it's awkward.
For both of them.
But what a stunning view they have from here!
The last time they'd been in a hot tub together is over a year ago. It was at the Temple in Mount Komorebi when Kiyoshi prepared them before they tightened their bond.
And they also still remember that embarrassing incident at the Tavern when Vlad attacked Ji Ho after he found him in the hot tub together with Jeb...
Vlad undressed and Ji Ho lowered his gaze omg. After all the times they'd seen each other naked ^^'
Jack tries to nudge them: "Let's change places."
Ji Ho: "Ok."
Jack: "You could give Vlad a massage. You haven't charged the Bond for a while." ('Subtle' is not Jack's middle name hahaha).
Vlad: "What? No!"
Jack: "I'll close my eyes
As if this makes it less awkward ^^'
Vlad is even more comfortable when Jack is around because he feels so lost when he's alone with Ji Ho.
Ji Ho: "Turn around."
Vlad: "Um - ok."
Of course Jack didn't keep his eyes closed ^^'
He thinks of the time he's been in a hot tub together with Kiyoshi at the Jedi Temple... (Omg Jack, how are you supposed to heal if you can't get over Kiyoshi! But healing is a rocky, winding road. A back and forth. And even if you think you've made no progress at all by going one step forward and two steps back. You do.)
'I've kept it inside much too long There's no relief
Carry it around just like a stone Too heavy for me
I have paid the price of standing On the outside looking in
It's time to let the healing begin
A boy is strung out he's going through hell His mother weeps
His spirit is broken and there's nothing left Just a terrible need
And the days are marked by the heaviness of the heart
It never mends Until the healing begins
And the tension prowels the streets like an animal
The people stay behind their locks and chains It's a shame
When so many are trying their best to live as one
And the smoke from the fires covers up the sun
A young girl is lying in the dirt Her dreams ended there
Caught in the crossfire on somebody's turf Hatred in the air
It's a voice that never sings A winter without the spring
It never ends Time to let the healing begin'
Joe Cocker - Let the healing begin
(Link above leads to the MV on youtube. It's such an amazing song and the MV is worth a watch. He sings about his painful past.)
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Hot Tub Outtakes (in no particular order)
Omg Jack! He left the hot tub because he's jealous?
The way he's looking at them!
Thing is, that between Saiwa, Vlad and Jack, there is zero chance of a bromance - ever. Same for Ji Ho and Jack.
I'll have to take a look in their relationship bars next time...
These teenagers!
Ji Ho is up to something - and Vlad isn't adversed...
Too much for poor Jack. He even cried omg
The hot tub animation is one of my favourite romantic interactions
Vlad ^^'
Them
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A happy Lunar New Year!
It's the year of the Dragon! π
I wish to you happiness, good health, luck and prosperity!
The Year of The Wood Dragon starts from 10th February 2024 to 28 January 2025.
The Dragon is known for wisdom, honesty, and kindness β bringing cheerfulness and new opportunities.
The show must go on and the Boys took a day off to celebrate.
It's really a day to celebrate since it's the first time they all eat together! π (Vlad only found out recently that he can eat food instead of plasma fruit.)
No, Little Goat - Year of the Dragon. The Year of the Goat is 2027 π
Vlad and Saiwa have such a great friendship. They did this by themselves
Our new Profile Pic on tumblr
They were all having a hard time today since noting is solved between them...
Sai is still mad at Jeb for urging him into a fake relationship with Kiyoshi. And so so so embarrassed!
And poor Jeb is so afraid Sai will break up with him again. He doesn't know what to do.
And Jack and Kiyoshi are having a hard time too since Jack broke up with Kiyoshi and Kiyoshi is fully back from the Tree and they know the truth now...
I have no idea what's wrong with Ji Ho, they had such a fun evening in the hot tub. I guess he feels bad for his friends.
Haha oh my, this lot really has some problems. They never went to where I asked them to when we shot the photos. As if there were invisible obstacles around. And here they don't even stand opposite of each other while giving high-five...
And everytime I touched something in build mode, some of them jumped up from where they were sitting ^^'
Poor Saiwa, nothing is easy in this world either...
But they are all stuck here now and have to find a way which they can walk together - somehow.
(Awesome dragon deco and the robes are from My Wedding Stories Pack)
Take life one day at a time
That's what a wise man said to me.
He said, "Life, in all it's complexity
Is the ultimate test for you and me."
When you walk holding your head up high
For the masters watching you from the sky
I know not what trouble lies ahead
Before you fight, use your head.
It's time to leave my nest where you were born
This journey you must make alone.
(Spread your wings and fly)
There's a power deep inside you, an inner strength
You'll find in time of need.
(The Glow)
Like the seasons, love will come and go
If it's right, you'll automatically know.
The world of mystery exists only in your head.
When you become one with yourself
The wall will fall
The journey now before you is the final test
You've learned your lesson well.
(I can teach you no more)
There's a power deep inside you, an inner strength
You'll find in time of need.
(The Glow)
You are the Last Dragon
You posess the power of the Glow
Theme from one of my fovourite movies of all time:
The Last Dragon π
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New Year's Greetings π
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Jack: "Vlad! Ji Ho! We are having a date!"
Little Goat: 'A date?'
Vlad: "A date?"
Kumo, the sheep: 'Yes, it's Valentine's Day!'
Jack: "Yes, it's Valentine's Day!"
All (except for Jack and Kumo): 'Ohhhh!'
And while the Goats look forward to it, because they love romance and root for the Boys, Ji Ho and Vlad seem a bit overwhelmed.
(haha exactly like on their last date ^^')
Jack: "Take a seat!"
Aouww! Jack set up a waffle stand for them! How sweet
Poor Vlad! He hates surprises and is completely unprepared. But that was Jack's plan. If he had told Vlad his plans for today he would have ran off ^^'
Jack: "Have fun you two! I have another date. I can't leave Sai alone today."
Vlad: "What?"
Ji Ho: "We're fine, Sai needs you. Thank you for setting this up for us."
Vlad: "Jack! You can't leave me alone right now!"
Off he goes... and Vlad asks himself (again) why Jack is his best friend...
Nothing you can know that isn't known (love)
Nothing you can see that isn't shown (love)
There's nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be,
it's easy
All you need is love All you need is love
All you need is love, love
Love is all you need
The Beatles
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Jack went over to Saiwa, who buried himself in work to not have to deal with his embarrassment and shame for having a fake relationship with Kiyoshi...
Jack: "Sai, let's go out. You haven't left your room for days."
Sai: "I did."
Jack: "Yes. To the bathroom and to grab some food. Come on. I'll treat you to the market, hm?"
Sai: "I'm busy with the game. We need to earn money to pay back Rubyn and the others for helping us finding our home."
Jack: "They wouldn't want us to suffer because of this. Just for an hour, hm? I'm your Valentine today!"
Saiwa sighed. Poor Jack also has no date today.
Sai: "Ok, I'll save and then we can leave."
Jack: "That's my boy!"
Sai: "Let's go."
Jack: "Aren't you going to change clothes?"
Sai: "What for?"
Jack: "True."
But he's worried. Usually Sai never would leave the house like this...
Sai: "Thanks Jack. I love you."
Jack: "I know."
And then they saw them. Kiyoshi and Jeb. On a Valentine's Date!
(Of course it wasn't. Jeb dragged Kiyoshi away from home because he had the same plan as Jack for Saiwa...)
Poor Jeb. He already is so afraid that Sai will break up with him because he urged him in a fake relationship with Kiyoshi to bring him back. (That hadn't even been necessary...)
Why are they even here? Sai hadn't left his computer for days, why now?
Jeb: "What are we supposed to do now?"
Kiyoshi: "I don't know."
Sai knew what to do: "Let's leave the love birds on their own so they can enjoy their date. We are going to go home and watch a Star Wars movie."
That would usually bring tears of joy to Jack's eyes - but not today... Since he has no better idea either they left. Jack wants to avoid Kiyoshi at any cost.
Of course Jeb and Kiyoshi didn't enjoy their 'date' after Sai and Jack left.
Jack is in his happy place. At least Han and Leia are happy together.
Poor Saiwa. They need to find a solution for this dilemma. Soon.
Vlad and Ji Ho enjoyed their date. Jack made Heart's Desire Waffles for them.
They helped Vlad to calm down and Ji Ho's nervousness also faded.
Vlad is still new to eating food and so this date was very special for him. His first sweets. He's hooked.
And Ji Ho is so sweet and beautiful.
After they finished, they stood up to go back to their rooms. Jack hadn't told them what to to after eating the waffles ^^' They didn't talk either, as always. The Bond told them how they felt and that they both had a good time today.
Baby steps.
They stood at the stairs to their rooms and it's awkward, as always.
What now? Say something? Quickly charge the bond?
They are so lost without Jack ^^'
Jack's waffles gave Ji Ho the confidence to embrace Vlad to charge the Bond and then he even kissed Vlad's neck! And Vlad liked it
And the goats too: 'Yay!' 'Finally!' 'Best Valentine's day ever!'
'Looking back on all the time we spent together
You oughta know by now if you wanna be my lover
Wanna be my lover
Go ahead and take your time, boy, you gotta feel secure
Before I make you mine, baby, you have to be sure
You wanna be my lover, wanna be my lover, wanna be my lover'
La Bouche - Be my Lover
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It was late when Kiyoshi and Jeb came home after the Valentine's Desaster.
After they'd met Sai and Jack at the market, they went over to work on their secret project.
Jeb's plan had been to leave their home to be out of the way and to not upset Saiwa and Jack with their presence.
Their intentions were good, and if Jack and Sai hadn't cought them together, it would even have worked.
Kiyoshi is sneaking around the houses to Jack's shop to make some cheese (as Noxee requested). Hopefully no one sees him this time.
Even though it's painful to see how Jack had reacted when he saw him, Kiyoshi can understand him and Saiwa. They had a lot to endure because of him. How is he ever supposed to make it up to them? It's his fault that Saiwa and Jeb avoid each other for days now. All because they wanted to help him. Kiyoshi hopes that Saiwa never finds out that Kiyoshi's mind wasn't as far away as they thought during their fake relationship. He remembers everything...
And as much as he appreciates Vlad and Jeb's help and comraderie - and them being by his side - he can't ask this of them.
It only deepens the gorge between all of them.
He has to talk to someone and ask if he can leave, so Jack can heal in peace. He will only upset Jack when they stay here together.
What advantages does it have to be a diety if he can't even help his closest friends? All the sacrifices he made to be able to fulfill his duties for the Temple and the Resistance - futile.
He messed up his relationship with his fated mate Jack and even had to betray Vlad to the Council.
He can't go on like this. Dtui isn't allowed to have any contact to him but he has to talk to someone.
How is he supposed to live with this guilt?
He's tempted to go back into the Tree but his friends would keep on trying to get him out there again and this would only cause them more and more pain...
Every second they spend here together is painful for all of them.
Kiyoshi is also aware of that Jack is avoiding the Temple to let Arturo treat his pain.
He's glad that Ji Ho helps him so much (and Kojin) but Ji Ho can only ease Jack's pain. He's not able to heal it.
The pain is caused by their breakup. And it's impossible to be cured as long as they are divided...
Kiyoshi also made a label for his cheese.
The name of his brand will be 'Moonchild'.
He'd seen a lot of full moons during the decades he'd spent in the Tree.
These were the hardest times for him because that was when he missed Jack the most.
His Moonchild πΊ
'Moonchild, hear the mandrake scream
Moonchild, open the seventh seal
Moonchild, you'll be mine soon child
Moonchild, take my hand tonight'
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Jeb also went back to work to his potions shop after the Valentine's Desaster. But other than Kiyoshi, he doesn't get anything done right.
All of his spells fail and he can't concentrate on his research.
Why did Sai have to see him together with Kiyoshi alone on on a 'date' on Valentine's Day?
Usually they would have spent this day - their first Valentine's day, at that - together.
Ach! Another failed spell!
He is just so afraid of losing Saiwa again.
And again it's a situation where Sai already had been distressed from other happenings and it all piled up in him. Like last time they broke up after Jeb had a crush on Jack after Vlad's death.
Jeb just doesn't know how to deal with irrational, angry Saiwa.
The others tell him to just give him some time and he will calm down eventually. But that hadn't worked last time either - and they had been separated for months!
Jeb stared into nowhere, lost in his thoughts and fears.
Another potion fail...
Jeb knows that Saiwa is convinced that he isn't good enough for Jeb. And he still doesn't understand what Saiwa sees in him.
How Jeb and Saiwa see themselves:
Vs how Sai sees Jeb
and how Jeb sees Sai:
What Jeb doesn't know is, that Sai (and Jack too!) always was jealous of him and Kiyoshi.
(Even I don't know what past these two have. All I know is, that they already had been friends long before they met the others. And they do have a special conection. They are even able to meet in the Otherworld (long before the others were able to travel there) and Jeb shared Kiyoshi's burden when he was in the Tree.)
Jeb calls it a day. He can't concentrate and he's only wasting his valuable materials. They can't go on like this.
They need to find a solution - soon.
'I am sailing, I am sailing home again, 'cross the sea
I am sailing stormy waters to be near you, to be free
I am flying, I am flying like a bird 'cross the sky
I am flying, passing high clouds to be with you, to be free
Can you hear me? Can you hear me?
Through the dark night, far away
I am dying, forever crying
To be with you, who can say
We are sailing, we are sailing home again, 'cross the sea
We are sailing stormy waters to be near you to be free'
Sailing - Rod Stewart
Link above leads to the MV on youtube.
Just Rod Stewart on a boat, I could listen and watch him for hours...
(TMI: Baby Jane was one of the first vinyl singles I've ever bought in the early 80s (and I still have it!) ^^'
And I still think Rod Stewart is one of the most talented, beautiful and hottest men who ever walked on this planet
Edit: I just found this!
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Outtakes II from the Hot Tub Episode
Vlad eating his first Strawberries
He's unsure what to think of it ^^'
Since they are fruit, they remind him of plasmafruit.
But plasmafruit are still better because they give him that plasma kick.
That pout, though ^^'
Maybe he's a bit disappointed because the others made such a fuss about strawberries...
For poor Vlad, who only got to taste Ji Ho's plasma twice, plasma fruit is the taste closest to Ji Ho's
Vlad and Ji Ho
'Living is easy with eyes closed
Misunderstanding all you see
It's getting hard to be someone, but it all works out
It doesn't matter much to me
Let me take you down
'Cause I'm going to strawberry fields
Nothing is real
And nothing to get hung about
Strawberry fields forever
No one I think is in my tree
I mean, it must be high or low
That is, you can't, you know, tune in, but it's alright
That is, I think it's not too bad
Let me take you down...
Always, no sometimes, think it's me
But you know, I know when it's a dream
I think I know, I mean a yes
But it's all wrong
That is, I think I disagree'
The Beatles - Strawberry Fields Forever
Link above leads to an amazingly good quality MV - given the age of the song)
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