Epiphany

🌹Happy Crimson Days🌹

I have been SO excited to share this as it's been finished for many days now. @wrenandthemachine is truly AMAZING and I really can't thank her enough for making this for me. After I described what I wanted for this piece, she sent back a quick sketch and it was as if she'd actually looked into my brain and just plucked the whole thing right out. She also added in a few touches I hadn't thought of that just made it all the more romantic and special. In fact, it even sparked a little ficlet I made to go along with it and, in keeping with the traditional dates Bungie tended to release Crimson Days - once upon a time - I decided to post it today.

Wren, thank you, again. So, SO. much. 🥲🥰🌹

I'd also like to thank @echosong971 for looking over the fic and giving me a thumbs up as well as offering up some great inspiration! 💗

❣️♠️❣️

The Courtyard had been bustling with activity all day. Guardians, their armor adorned in every shade of red, white, and pink, went running and bouncing about across the open space among the waves of fragrant and intricately arranged plumes of roses decorating every square inch of the Tower possible - some even strung together to form tiers of garland draped over edges and delicately hung about railings. Red silken petals fell from the blue sky above, landing all around like delicate snowflakes, only to slowly fade once they touched the concrete walkways and platforms then reform once again above, slowly descending all over again. A trick of technology, but romantic and fantastical nonetheless.

Even the Ghosts were getting in on the festivities, wearing special shells - some shaped like hearts, some, like their Guardians, awash in pinks, reds, whites and styles of every kind, but all a reflection of love. Many were even showing off endearing projections just for the occasion and all of them would go buzzing about and twirling through the air, chirping and giddy around fellow Ghosts and just as happy as their Guardians to have this time to reflect on something joyous and warm - something special: A bond that could never be broken, even as the Darkness continued to encroach on the Light.

As evening approached, and more and more Guardians began returning after a day of festivities and Crucible matches, a low, soft hum seemed to settle over the Tower. Tiny lights began to glow all around, some nestled in and about the roses, creating a warm and intimate candlelit atmosphere. People grew quieter, the sky took on a pinkish purple hue all around the Traveler, and, gradually, those who’d found a special someone paired off to share a meal or drinks, or a little something more, while others gathered with friends, deciding to head into the City to the Cantinas to celebrate their friendships.

And me? I headed up a stairway leading to a balcony that overlooked the City. There, an all too familiar figure, his back to me, was casually leaning over the railing, gazing out beyond the bustle and activity below - out beyond the wall to the Wilderness and the first twinkling stars above. A soft wind blew in from the East, lifting his cloak ever so slightly, the tattered tails dancing at the backs of his calves. I smiled and walked over to him, leaning onto the railing next to him.

“Quite a sight, isn’t it?” I murmured.

“Always is,” he replied, not even turning his head to look at me, the edges of his hood hiding his face. “Never get tired of it, though.”

“Me either,” I softly smiled. “You waiting here for someone?” I asked.

“My wife,” he told me. “Thought I’d surprise her. Take her out to dinner someplace special. Someplace really romantic. Totally wow her. Maybe even get lucky later.”

I grinned, holding my bottom lip between my teeth to stifle a laugh, even as I continued to look out at the City. The lights were beginning to glow brighter as the sun started to fully set, the warm hues in the sky growing richer as they grew darker. Celebratory music could be heard rising up from below and off in the distance, fiery red heart-shaped lanterns began to float up toward the Traveler.

It was beautiful.

“So, where is she?” I asked him.

He sighed. “Oh … she’s got this habit of trynna save the world,” he dramatically lamented, waving his hand out over the City. “Damned annoying if ya ask me,” he added, making me smile again.

“Trying to save the world sounds like a pretty big task. Good thing she’s got you around to keep her spirits up for something so monumental.”

“I know, right?” He all too readily agreed, his tone lifting with pride. “I should get a medal!”

I couldn’t help it, I laughed softly, breaking character, and looked over at him just as he finally turned his head to look at me. His azure faceplates glistening with the reflections of the warm yellow-orange lights all around us, making them take on a shimmering, greenish hue.

So beautiful.

His blue eyes though, they never changed. The optics were like deep pools of water, soft and adoring as they cascaded over the features of my face, as if he were seeing me for the first time again and wanted to memorize each and every facet, a tender smile forming on his lips.

“Sorry I’m late,” I murmured.

“Eh,” he grunted, giving a dismissive wave of his hand. “Figured you would be. Damned Hive are so inconsiderate when it comes to other people’s plans.”

“The absolute worst. I think I’m going to complain to their boss next time,” I nodded, and we both laughed before a comfortable silence settled around us again.

“I got somethin’ for ya,” he whispered and I looked over at him as he reached behind himself and under his cloak, carefully revealing a single red rose he’d had hidden there. It was in full bloom, its plump petals like red velvet - rich and decadent. He turned and took a step closer to me, and I watched as he lifted the rose to my forehead. As soon as the petals touched my skin I sighed and smiled, my eyes closing of their own volition, the light, pleasantly soft tickle of the flower trailing down over the curves and dips of my features, slowly moving lower and lower, eliciting goosebumps all over my body, my heart skipping a beat. As the petals brushed over the tip of my nose he paused, giving me a moment to breathe in the delicious warm scent, the fragrance like fresh raspberries in the sun - sensual and delicious. I slowly licked my lips and sighed, wiggling my toes inside my boots to stave off the desire to just rip his armor off right here. As If he knew exactly what I was thinking, a heady chuckle rose from his throat and he moved on, tracing the outline of my lips, then down over my chin and further still, down along the side of my neck, teasing the senistive skin until he reached the collar of my armor.

Just as the sensation of the petals faded away, warm, yet giving metal touch my lips, lovingly pressing against them with practiced tenderness. The heat of his body made the light sprinkle of the musky cologne he’d put on earlier that day waft all around me, making my breath hitch with even greater excitement. I let a tiny moan escape me, opening my mouth to him, blindly sliding my hands up over the leather padded armor of his chest and shoulders, then up around the back of his neck, cradling the back of his head through his hood. His lips parted, and I beckoningly lapped at the underside of his upper lip, drawing him in further, hearing and feeling a low rumble from deep in his throat as it vibrated through him. A strong arm curled around my waist, pulling me into him possessively, the gentle kiss becoming more heated, more passionate, and more and more intense and needy as we playfully and eagerly gasped into each others mouths and teased and nipped at each other’s lips before we barely managed to pull ourselves back, panting and gazing into each others eyes.

“Wow,” I sighed, catching my breath, feeling how cool the air suddenly seemed on my flushed cheeks. “Really missed me today, didn’t you, handsome?” I asked, sliding my hands back down to rest on his chest and maybe just maintain some balance as I felt a bit weak in the knees.

“I always do,” he murmured, his eyes half-lidded. Even though his armor, I could feel his heart racing under my palms.

“Maybe we should order in instead,” I purred, holding my bottom lip between my teeth as I gave him a wanton and predatory gaze.

He arched a sharp eyebrow at me before returning the look, winking. “Maybe.”

I grinned and pressed back against him, hugging him as close as my heavy armor would allow, tucking my head under his jaw with another contented sigh. Both his arms were around me in an instant, hugging me right back, swaying us slowly to some unknown melody in the air.

The day had been long and grueling. He’d had official duties he’d had to see to here and hadn’t been able to join me.

That hadn’t stopped him, though.

From the moment I’d left this morning until I returned to the Hanger not too long ago, he’d been on the comms with me, chatting and joking with me, throwing biting witticisms at our enemies as if he were right there beside me.

I never once felt alone.

Still, through it all, and even with his giddy baritone ringing in my ears, all I could think was there was nowhere else in all creation I’d wanted to be than in his arms.

When we finally and reluctantly eased back from one another, he handed the rose to me with a smile and dotingly tucked a few strands of unruly hair, mussed from my helmet and the gentle winds, back behind my ear, then kissed my forehead. I smiled again and sniffed at the rose once more, the scent intoxicatingly sweet. He quietly chuckled and I grinned, then wrapped my arm around his left bicep, holding onto him as we both turned together and leaned back over the railing, gazing down at the City.

I curled in closer to his side and rested my head on his shoulder. “I love you, you know that?” I whispered.

I felt him tilt his head to rest against mine. “I love you, too,” he whispered back, laying his free hand over the one I had holding the rose.

“Happy Crimson Days, Ais.”

“Happy Crimson Days, Cayde.”

❣️

You can also read the comic here.

Rainy Days🌧️

Hazard x Reader

A/N: It’s been raining here for a couple of days and what’s better than wrapping yourself in a blanket? Having a bigass bf that can give you twice the warmth.

Summary: Hazard spends time with you at your place

────── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──────

The storm outside raged with a ferocity that rattled the windows of your workshop. Rain lashed against the glass, and the occasional crack of thunder made you jump despite yourself. But inside, the world was warm and quiet, a sanctuary from the chaos beyond.

You sat on the worn couch in the corner of the room, wrapped in a blanket. Beside you, Hazard lounged, his arms draped casually along the back of the couch. His presence was as steadying as the glow of the workshop’s dim lights. You’d never admit it out loud, but moments like this made your heart feel fuller than it had in years.

“Ye´dont need to keep checkin’ the window” he said, his thick Scottish accent rolling over you like the warmest whiskey. “The storm’s not gonna burst in here an’ take us by surprise.”

You gave him a playful glare. “Maybe I’m just making sure you’re not going to bolt back outside for some harebrained stunt.”

Hazard’s laugh was deep and rumbling, like distant thunder, but far more comforting. “Aye, I’ve done my share of daft things, but I will not be leavin’ yer side tonight. ‘Specially when it’s this cozy.”

You rolled your eyes, but the faint blush creeping up your neck betrayed your amusement. “Cozy, huh? You’re just saying that because you’re hogging most of the blanket.”

“Ach, come here then” he said, shifting to drape the blanket over you properly. His arm slid around your shoulders as he pulled you closer. “Better?”

You hesitated for a moment, then let yourself relax against him. The solid warmth of his chest, the faint scent of smoke and metal that always seemed to cling to him, made your worries melt away.

“Much better” you murmured, the words barely audible above the storm.

“Ye know lass, I’ve been thinkin’” he began, his voice softer now. “In all my years, I’ve seen explosions, chaos, an’ more close calls than I care to count. But nothin’—an’ I mean nothin’—compares to moments like this.”

You tilted your head to look up at him, his expression uncharacteristically serious. “You mean... moments where you’re not actively blowing things up?”

Hazard snorted, shaking his head. “Aye, somethin’ like that. You’ve got a way of makin’ me feel... grounded. An’ that’s not somethin’ I’m used to.”

Your chest tightened at his words, a warmth spreading through you that had nothing to do with the blanket. “You’re not so bad yourself” you said softly, your fingers lightly tracing the edge of his prosthetic arm. “When you’re not driving me up the wall, that is.”

Hazard chuckled again, the sound vibrating through you. “Ach, admit it, ye love it. Keeps life interestin’, eh?”

“Maybe” you said, a small smile tugging at your lips.

He tightened his hold on you, resting his chin atop your head. “Ye’re somethin’ else, ye know that?”

The storm outside seemed distant now, its fury no match for the warmth of his embrace. Minutes passed in comfortable silence, the two of you simply enjoying the closeness. His fingers absently traced patterns along your arm, a small, soothing gesture that made your eyelids grow heavy.

“Have ye ever thought about what’s next?” he murmured suddenly, his voice low and thoughtful.

“What do you mean?” you asked, tilting your head slightly to look up at him.

“This life, the missions, the danger... it’s a wild ride. But sometimes, I think about somethin’ quieter. Maybe a small place of our own. No storms, no explosions. Just us.” His gaze softened, a rare vulnerability showing through.

Your heart swelled at his words, the thought of a future with him warming you more than the blanket ever could. You reached up, brushing a stray strand of hair from his face. “That sounds perfect” you whispered.

His lips curved into a soft smile, and he leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. “Perfect.”

And as the storm continued its futile assault outside, the two of you stayed wrapped in each other’s arms, dreaming of a tomorrow filled with peace and quiet moments just like this.

Florence Castle's HEROES OF CYBERTRON - Episodio Speciale 02: JAZZ

Seconda puntata speciale. Oggi infatti è il compleanno di @jazzluca e pertanto la festeggerò passando sotto i riflettori sul suo Autobot preferito...

NOTA: Alcune immagini non sono mie, ma vengono dal sito DeviantArt. Articolo scritto da me, con l'approvazione di @jazzluca.

***

SPECIALE 2: JAZZ, un guerriero “stiloso”

Fallo con stile o non farlo affatto!, questa è la sua filosofia di vita. Un Bot dal riconoscibilissimo altmode di Porsche 935 Turbo, sempre appassionato di modi e costumi delle culture autoctone di qualunque pianeta su cui si rechi (come la nostra Terra), il cui ruolo principale è sempre rimasto quello di agente speciale e sabotatore. Abilissimo guerriero, JAZZ (Tigre da noi in Italia) è il Bot “giusto” per antonomasia, abituato appunto a fare tutto con stile. In generale, egli è il braccio destro di Optimus Prime fin da prima della partenza da Cybertroncon l’Arca, ma dopo l’esilio sulla Terra questo suo ruolo si fa altalenante, forse perché troppo occupato a immergersi nelle abitudini terrestri. Quando però la situazione lo richiede, Jazz è sempre pronto ad affrontare i Decepticon con la sua abilità e i suoi potenti altoparlanti che sparano musica a palla! Ormai all’attivo conta ben cinque apparizioni nei millemila universi Transformer, di cui almeno una nel Movie-verso, e per questo motivo entra di diritto nella Hall of Fame dei TF.

***

Del G1 Jazz contiamo apparizioni nel cartone, nel film del 1986 (come membro della Base Luna Uno insieme al buon Cliffjumper) nei fumetti “classici” della Marvel e in quelli “moderni” della IDW con tanto di Spotlight, ma la popolarità del personaggio raggiunge l’apice in concomitanza dell’uscita nel 2007 del primo capitolo della saga live action di Michael Bay: sia nel suddetto lungometraggio sia nei fumetti ad esso dedicati, Jazz non si trasforma più in una Porsche ma in una Pontiac Solstice argentata, pur mantenendo però l’iconico assetto della testa con le “orecchie di gatto” e il visore, ora retrattile. In questa continuità Jazz mantiene il ruolo di primo ufficiale e il pallino nell’assimilare le culture aliene con tanto di famosa/famigerata parlantina da “figone” («Ciao, raga. Che si dice? Ganzo, questo posto... ci sto dentro!»); purtroppo, la sua sarà un’apparizione una tantum, giacché il povero Bot finirà fatalmente e letteralmente spaccato a metà dal redivivo Megatron.

Per sua fortuna, quel gran genio di Derrick J. Wyatt lo “resuscita” per un ruolo da protagonista nella sua serie capolavoro Animated, etichettandolo addirittura come membro della Guardia d’Élite di Ultra Magnus e abilissimo esperto nelle arti marziali armato di nunchuck, nonché un Bot curioso ed interessato a conoscere le culture aliene, anche quelle organiche... proprio come il G1! La cattiva notizia per noi fan italiani è che le sue gesta non vanno oltre la Stagione 2, a causa della mancata importazione della 3 in terra nostrana. E secondo The Allspark Almanac II, nella defunta Stagione 4 Jazz sarebbe stato inserito nel cast principale al posto di Prowl, così come Ironhide avrebbe sostituito Bulkhead – un palese rimando all’entourage ristretto del primo film di Bay!

L’anno seguente, in occasione della BotCon, a Jazz tocca anche una particina nell’universo speculare Shattered Glass (accompagnato addirittura dal fratello gemello Ricochet) ma nonostante adesso sia un Autobot “cattivo”, sfoggia uno schema di colori identico al G1... ehm, al G2 Jazz “buono”, stereotipato al punto che parla come il mitico B. A. Baracus della serie TV A-Team.

Il viaggio di Jazz non finisce qui. Già nella Continuità Allineata, infatti, egli copre un paio di ruoli importanti nei romanzi di Alex Irvine, nelle serie animate e nei videogiochi del dinamico duo Activision/High Moon Studios. Nel secondo caso, avremmo dovuto vederlo in azione nella serie in CGI TRANSFORMERS: Prime (con tanto di design curato dall’artista nostrano Emiliano Santalucia) e invece le nostre erano state delle speranze infrante. Per fortuna, il debutto del personaggio nelle serie moderne risale a una puntata della serie Robot in Disguise 2015, Sottoterra della Stagione 1: mandato sulla Terra dall’Alto Consiglio per indagare sull’incidente della nave-prigione Alchemor, Jazz incontra la squadra di Bumblebee, e insieme catturano l’ennesimo Decepticon fuggitivo, non senza prima aver insegnato un paio di dritte a un entusiasta Sideswipe. In questa veste, Jazz è sempre il guerriero rilassato, fermo, estroverso e giovale che abbiamo imparato a conoscere, e la sua leggendaria capacità di mantenere la calma nelle situazioni critiche è tale che gli permette di sconfiggere anche i nemici più pericolosi; ma nello stesso tempo è talmente estroverso da diventare subito simpatico agli occhi di Sideswipe, quasi come fosse un fratello maggiore! La cosa sorprendente è che l’aspetto generale del personaggio non solo è reminiscente alla controparte G1, ma possiede anche lo stesso potere dello “spettacolo di luci e suoni stordente” tipico dell’antenato originale, nonché l’inedito visore retrattile ereditato dall’omonimo Movie. Nell’e-dizione italiana, inoltre, è doppiato da Gabriele Calindri, la stessa dell’omonimo Animated, quindi potremo dire che a questo punto il cerchio si chiude, no?

Anche nella Cybertron devastata dalla Guerra nella fortunata saga di videogiochi La Battaglia per Cybertron Jazz è sempre stato un protagonista versatile: se nel primo capitolo lo vediamo solo come cameoe poi come personaggio DLC per la campagna multiplayer, nel secondo (dal titolo La Caduta di Cybertron) è addirittura coinvolto nella pericolosa missione di recupero di Grimlock nel Mare di Ruggine, accompagnato da Cliffjumper come nel film dell’86: qui il nostro amico ha come talento speciale l’utilizzo di un rampino, che gli permette non solo di spostare oggetti altrimenti troppo pesanti ma anche di issarsi da una piattaforma all’altra. In questo senso, il Jazz Cybertroniano è praticamente l’alter ego alieno del G1 con annesso l’assetto pre-terrestre del robot e del veicolo, nonché il suo “biglietto da visita” che compare tra i tanti suggerimenti durante i caricamenti del gioco!

***

La domanda che sorge spontanea è: quanti modellini Jazz ha avuto nel corso della sua esistenza? Ce ne sono tantissimi: basti pensare che, considerando quelli più importanti, il G1 ne conti meno di dieci (inclusa la ristampa G2), tra modellini originali “classici” e rivisitazioni moderne. Il più “anziano” di tutti è ovviamente il G1 del 1984, o meglio il Diaclone dell’anno precedente, lo stesso modellino che l’italiana GIG importò dal Giappone insieme ai primissimi TF con i nomi italianizzati, appunto, e Jazz fu uno dei primi ad essere pubblicizzato – ricordate gli spot sul retro dei numeri di Topolino dell’epoca? Non solo, rilasciò anche un gift set chiamato Set Commandos con le figure di Jazz, Bumblebee, Grimlock e Starscream, e il boom classicheggiante continua negli anni 1989/90 con le serie Pretender e Action Master, rispettivamente dei robot chiusi in gusci umani a mo’ di uovo di Pasqua e action figure non trasformabili dotati delle armi e gadget più disparati. Ovviamente anche il nostro Jazz era presente in quelle linee e come Pretender era molto simpatico fin dal guscio umano munito di tuta bianca e azzurra e un casco che ricorda la testa del robot originale! Come Action Master, invece, in Italia si chiamava Bionic ed era simile per aspetto al settei del cartone animato e munito di uno skateboard che alla bisogna poteva diventare la sua arma.

Nel Duemila Jazz continua a essere un personaggio popolare, al punto da meritarsi nel 2004 un trattamento Alternator, Transformer con altmode ispirati a modelli reali di veicoli su licenza in formato die-cast, generalmente in scala 1:24. Lo storico Tigre si becca una bellissima Madza RX-8 bianca e nera, il cui stampo sarà riutilizzato per una versione rossa rilasciata per il mercato nipponico. Tra il 2008 e il 2010, intanto, è l’epoca dei cosiddetti CHUG, cioè delle linee Classic/Henkei, Universe e Generations: qui Jazz esce in due varianti, un adorabile Universe Legends purtroppo senza accessori (ma molto somigliante al G1) e un Deluxe altrettanto bello, capostipite dei Reveal the Shield della linea Transformers (2010) – anch’esso molto G1-esco, sebbene l’altmode è un ibrido tra la Porsche 935 Turbo dello stesso e la Pontiac Solstice del Movie, nonché la pistola simile a quella del Pretender; ciononostante, è un modello considerato uno delle trasposizioni moderne più fedeli del personaggio originale, visti gli impianti stereo che fuoriescono dalle “ali” del robot che riecheggiano le tipiche armi G1!

Sul finire del 2017 viene rilasciato un modellino di Jazz per la linea Power of the Prime (terza parte della cosiddetta “Trilogia Prime”), il quale condivide caratteristiche e ingegneria simili alle action figure Combiner Wars nonostante non sia il remolddi un personaggio preesistente – anche se, in effetti, presenta la gimmik della trasformazione in un arto per Combiner. Con il suo altmodeispirato a una Porsche 962, Jazz torna dagli anni Ottanta in questa nuova veste, e non è l’unico. Tre anni dopo, arriva persino il suo tributo nella Studio Series, più precisamente nella sottolinea dedicata al 35esimo anniversario del film animato – una gradita sorpresa che di certo ha reso felice i fan di questo spettacolare Autobot. Un’unica differenza: sulle portiere è presente il numero 14 e non il 4 a causa dei diritti ancora oggi detenuti dal modellino Diaclone.

E le altre iterazioni? Il Movie Jazz di cui sopra ha ben cinque modellini diversi, tra cui un Legends, un Deluxe il cui robot lascia molto a desiderare; un altrettanto deludente Fast Action Battler e due bellissime chicche (e mezzo!). Se si desidera avere una fedele riproduzione della controparte CGI del film del 2007, la Hasbro rilascia le cosiddette “Robot Repliche”, statuine non trasformabili che riproducono fedelmente l’aspetto dei robot nei minimi dettagli... e tra questi c’è proprio Jazz, con tanto di avambracci intercambiabili! Allo stesso modo, la serie Titanium propone un’altra statuina di Jazz, questa volta in formato die-cast con articolazioni solo dalla vita in su. Per fortuna, per la serie Human Alliance del 2010, ecco che arriva il modellino “definitivo”: il Jazz di questa linea è virtualmente perfetto in entrambe le modalità, e la gimmik del visore retrattile nella testa è un bel tocco di classe davvero apprezzabile.

L’arrivo del modello Studio Series prima e del Masterpiece poi ha strappato tale primato dal suddetto modellino, e adesso siamo di fronte a una replica più grande e una più piccola del primo ufficiale Autobot che ha avuto la sfortuna di debuttare e morire nello stesso film. Lo SS Jazz è fedele e ben fatto con la carrozzeria argentata e snodato il giusto, senza rotazione del bacino ma con la possibilità di inclinare lateralmente i piedi, anche se per far ciò si porta dietro i pannelli degli stinchi. Può storcere il naso che il fatto di essere una figurepiccola, ma questo è dovuto solo per mantenere la scala con gli altri modelli della linea. E il Masterpiece? Iniziata come una riproposizione giapponese di un paio di bei giocattoloni già visti in Occidente, il ramo dedicato al Movieverse si è poi giustamente evoluto, dalla terza uscita, in ciò che dovrebbe essere, ovvero il meglio a livello di somiglianza e scala dei robot visti al cinema che devono rappresentare: questo Jazz, pertanto, è un’ottima aggiunta alla collezione dei fan del personaggio ed agli amanti dei cosiddetti “Bayformer”, grazie alla splendida somiglianza al modello in CGI ed all’alta posabilità, anche nelle dita delle mani! Magari qualche articolazione è un po’ lasca, e rispetto alle altre auto della linea non è altissimo (ma questo è per via dell’accuratezza della scala fra i robot), ma a parte ciò è davvero una piccola, grande opera d’arte.

Per la linea Animated del 2008, il Deluxe Jazz è una vera pietra miliare per il suo look a dir poco accattivante, nonché l’altmode ibrido tra la Porsche 935 Turbo dell’omonimo G1 e una Corvette anni Cinquanta. Il personaggio, poi, è caratterizzato in maniera magistrale e il colore bianco con parti nere poste in punti strategici, dona davvero l’illusione che Jazz indossa una stilosa tutina da ballerino funky, tanto alla moda in certi ambienti americani. Inoltre, più si guarda quel collo leggermente ricurvo e la parte alta del casco (che sembra quasi un berretto con visiera) convince sempre di più di quanto lo stile adottato per i personaggi Animated sia fresco e rivoluzionario e, al contempo, dannatamente compatibile e cucito addosso ai profili caratteriali dei personaggi G1 che tanto amiamo! Di quest’ottimo modello sono uscite due ristampe, il Freeway Jazz con colori ispirati alla controparte filmica e una figure esclusiva della BotCon 2011 con le fattezze dello Stunticon Dead End.

La Continuità Allineata, intanto, ci regala giusto un paio di figure col nome di Jazz, a cominciare dal bellissimo Deluxe per la linea Generations dedicata al videogioco La Caduta di Cybertron: armato di una normalissima pistola omaggiante il G1, Jazz possiede delle parti posticce quali le ruote scolpite sui piedi per esigenze di show-accuracy, poiché quelle vere sono nascoste dietro i pannelli delle braccia. Inoltre, l’assetto del torace, normalmente parallelo al terreno, è inclinato verso il basso, forse come arrangiamento per il futuro remold (pesante!) in Sideswipe. Per i RiD2015, esiste un solo modellino: un Warrior che però pecca in colorazione (corretta comunque nell’equivalente Takara Adventure) nonostante una discreta scultura in entrambe le modalità; modello che sarà lievemente modificato sulla testa per il gift set Drift Origins per la Takara.

CONCLUSIONE

Con gli anni abbiamo avuto altri Autobot “stilosi”, ma Jazz verrà ricordato come il loro capostipite e anche il più famoso. È iconico, è simpatico per la sua parlantina pseudo-giovanile e per il suo amore per la musica. Il suo ritorno in auge sarebbe ben più che gradito per gli appassionati ed è veramente rassicurante che col tempo abbiamo avuto modellini che lo raffigurano nel miglior modo possibile. Doppi pollici in su per Jazz, allora!

Arrivederci alla prossima puntata! 😘

Genji Headcanons

Hes a Libra. Hes only NOT calm and collected around friends he really trusts.

He is on the autism spectrum and one of his hyperfixations is DND.

He forgave hanzo years ago and tries to get him to brotherly things to try and help cheer up his brother, even if thats just making tea and sitting in silence together.

Genji CAN be a handful when he gets excited, but he's a sweetie and means well.

Hes not proud of who he was during blackwatch, and declined an offer to talon, having seen no good in its cause.

Genji and hanzos dragons can become physical, and genji named his soba. They behave kinda like ferrets.

Genji has most of his face, and other parts of his body, so he is able to eat, use the bathroom, smile, the important things

He and hanzo try to teach eachother their weapons and it never goes well.

Genjis footsteps are borderline silent, and he accidentally sneaks up on people a lot.

His armor comes off in pieces, but he does have protective metal platong on his body where his injuries are.

Part of genjis injuries are actually BURNS, being on his right arm, shoulder, and part of his face from where hanzo used his dragons against him.

So ummm....may i request a Hazard x Reader, and reader helps with fine tuning and maintenance on Haz's arm and legs and other cyborg bits (cybits? idk his none fleshy parts). It's soooo qjhfjsiajnsbjiaodhshaksk

[your works are *chefs kiss* and honestly, i shall binge on the feast]

Bruh I done spent a whole day writing this,, all for you my spicy little sun rays,, feast upon THIS!!!!

Hazard found himself flying through the battlefield, hydraulically jumping over enemies to capture his target. He used his large gun arm as a blunt object to bludgeon with, multiple dents as heads continuously crashed against it. The lasers he shot at them were off centered and wild, but he tried to play it off. He was primal, scratching and biting when his gun arm inevitably fell off. He could only shield his team with his vanadium spikes near the end of the battle. He was left more vulnerable than ever, but at least they won, right? The parts are replaceable after all.

The truth is, Fin was struggling out there. His heart couldn’t handle the amount of adrenaline he needed to keep on pushing. The same old parts just weren’t working, leading him to be uncomfortable with his body even more. His teammates help pick up his bits, and settled him into the van. He was trying to be still, but the waves of stress kept coming over him. With his one arm, his hand bloody and shaking he reaches into his leather coat pocket and pulls out a smoke. He rolls down the window,,, just staring on and trying to think.

He noticed that they weren’t driving back to the lair, giving him more anxiety. “Aye, where ya takin us?” He asked. “Look. You need some relaxation, big guy. You keep doing this to yourself, you need to chill. You literally fought your own ass off today, what’s up with that?” Susie makes him shut down a little, like he hasn’t even thought of the fact, but he does chuckle a little. They were all visibly worried about him.

“Alright, ah’ll try. ’m sorry for scarin’ ya.” He admits. When the van pulls up, one runs inside. He doesn’t even know where he is, it looks like they’re in someone’s garage. When they come back, there you are with big work goggles on. He’s enamored by you, the way you smile when you greet him. He didn’t even hear anything you were really saying, it was like his eyes were fixated on you and there was beautiful music in his ears. Suddenly your arms are around him and he’s floating in a dream, giggling to himself.

In reality, you’re just settling him into a wheelchair. “Findlay?” He hears you call his name, looking up. “You alright? You don’t have any brain damage or anything, do you?” You try to shine a light in his eyes, and he sort of snaps out his lovesickness. “Oh, na brain damage. Juist heartache.” He says with a pretty grin.

Your mutual friends are giggling amongst each other, and they’re already betting on the outcome of this interaction. You were just a helpful mechanic, and had a few of your own body mods as well. You’d helped a couple of their team with their tech before, but you were unfamiliar with the big guy other than hearing about him. Hazard is very flirtatious, and although tempting you’ve gotta focus. You bid the other Phreaks goodbye and help Fin into your home/workshop. You have all of his parts laid out on a table already, mangled and twisted as hell.

Your hands were all over him, checking measurements for new parts and fitting different equipment onto his body. “So… what’s yer name?” He asked, and you responded, “Y/N.”

“Oh ye, A've heard yer name around afore. Ye mist be good at yer job!” He says, watching you. That tension from before was lifted away by your angelic fingertips. There was a comfort that you brought to the room. Your place was very cool as well, he’d never seen such an extensive arrangement of tools before.

He chatted with you as you worked on his gear, telling you lots of funny stories and making you laugh. It seemed like his life was full of adventure, he had so much to say about his time in training camps and stories about his friends. When he asked, you told him the story of how you earned your robotic limb. You’d done something courageous to make an effort to save someone else instead of yourself in an accident. He could relate to your pain, and reminded you that the Phreaks would always have a place for you.

“Ye'r fàilte tae hang around mah lot. In fact, ye'r an honorary member already wi' ye helping us out all th' time.” He means well, and you appreciate the offer. “I spent a lot of work to fix up this place to how it is now, I’m not ready to walk away from it. You’re always welcome back here too!” You smile at him. You’re a great listener considering his big mouth. You get his sense of humor, and you don’t have to ask him to repeat himself too much.

You took a little lunch break together, and offered him some of your snacks. You showed him your living area, and he met your animal companion. He has his own dog shared between him and his mates. He is polite and thanks you for the meal, and you reply that it’s no trouble.

Two more hours of work passed by very quickly with more chatting, that slowly twisted into flirting. You stood beside him in his seated position, piecing him back together. His large frame was bent to your every will, telling him to move this way and that. He was like a puppy, following your every command in hope of a treat.

You knelt down, your hand holding his nubby leg and attaching new parts on. You looked over his tattoos and asked about them, interested in their meanings. You showed him so much care throughout the whole process, he was lucky to have you. He was put back together properly, and you helped him up out of the chair to stand on his own two feet again. His hands lingered in yours for a bit longer than intended, and he was towering above you, looking into your eyes with a happy expression.

When you moved back, he expressed his great condition by flexing for you and doing some moves, which you enjoyed. He was very ripped, nearly busting out of the leather jacket he wore. “This is th' best a've felt in ages!” He exclaimed as he explored his new limits. Your additions added a much needed comfort to his parts, and perhaps now he wouldn’t get so beat up now that he had something to appreciate.

He couldn’t help himself but give you a big ol hug, you were surrounded in his hefty arms as he picked you up in the process. You were just happy to help him, and wanted to see him at his best again. He was powerful like this now, and he had a new confidence to bring home with him. He stuck around a little while longer to express his gratitude, and he told you he’d be back again soon.

You missed him a little once he was gone,, a lot of people acted too punk to talk to you, or rude so they could show off to your friends. He was one of a kind, truly on your side. Maybe it was a mirage and he was showing you his nice side, like so many others have manipulated you. You were worried when you should have been happy at the gift he left on your doorstep- a potted plant along with some treats for your animal, and a little handwritten note. You missed him when he came knocking on your door-but he’ll come back to see what you think.

It lingered on your mind, as you watered the plant and found a spot for it, what his true intentions were. You’d find out, soon enough.

It was late at night, and you were drifting asleep when suddenly an alarm was triggered. You looked up at the clock, confused at first before you realize it’s a burglar, a crash coming from within the house. You shoot out of bed, grabbing something to defend yourself with and head out. For a second, in your sleepy state you thought it would be Hazard.

“Haz?” You called out, turning a light on one after one. Your animal was hissing/growling at the closed door to the garage. You moved it behind you,listening to the crashing around and the alarm screaming, before opening the door. At the same time, Hazard had made his way through the front door appearing at the same moment you locked eyes with the robber.

Your weapon pointed at them, and they dropped theirs along with everything they intended to steal. They looked terrified of you, but when you looked behind you Hazard was there. His metal gun pointed right between their eyes.

He defends you and your sanctuary, protecting what is rightfully yours and sending this scumbag a painful message. The robber got thrown out to deal with the authorities, and you were left shaken up, trying to laugh it off with Hazard at your side.

“Thanks for helping me deal with that,, I don’t know what I’d do without you.” You take him into a hug, grateful to have him.

“Aye, yer welcome. Am glad I checked on ya. Wha’ you think o my gift?” He leans into your welcoming touch. The way you were so soft, treating him the same was melting his heart. You’re feeling the same energy- he is not as scary as he presents himself, and you feel a new warmth that once was not there.

“The plant is very pretty, it’s up in my window. My pet also really liked the snacks. I love it,,, I don’t get gifts very often.”

He pats your head in a loving manner, and helps you clean up the mess. You see now, these actions are his way of showing you he means no harm. He’s honestly trying to to show his gratitude for all you’ve done. After it’s all cleaned up, it’s just you and him in the dimly lit space.

You try to reassure him you’ll be okay, but he seems worried about your well-being after the stunt with the burglar. You eventually ask if he wants to stay the night, and he accepts. You were joking at first, but he actually said yes.

So you lay on the couch with him at your side, watching a movie as you share a snack. You end up falling asleep against him and he doesn’t want to move an inch in fear of making you uncomfortable. You’re as cute as a kitten, your body in a circle shape snuggled against his side. His arm rests on your back, and he leans his head back, falling asleep shortly in time.

You wake up cuddled up like Hazard’s teddy bear. The fluffy blanket covers you both and your animal is sound asleep under your legs. Fin is awake with his eyes closed, enjoying this nice soft moment he didn’t think he’d get to have. His gun arm is unattached and laying on the floor. He feels your fingers caress over his shape, running over his hard muscles and shoulders before resting on his cheek. His eyes open and you look at each other, sharing the moment of waking up together. You smile, and you both begin to laugh before he moves in to steal a kiss.

You’re startled, even though you saw this coming, you embraced it anyways. Your heart was racing just from the little peck, it felt so good to be loved. You smooch him back, in a swift motion before you climb over him and off the couch. Loving him just came naturally to you, you hoped this was a sign things were meant to be.

“A’ll take ya to get breakfast, love. Maybe we could have a lil’ date?” He pulls you back into his chest for another cuddle. He’ll treat you good until he runs out of everything, you mean a lot to him.

Ghost Shells, 2023

What's your big opinion on every Sonic character don't skip any detail

Dude, do you know how many sonic characters are there?

Like a lot. So im gonna keep it on the main ones LOLL

Maybe i'll add to this tho. We'll see.

HERE WE GO!!

Sonic: He's my favourite character of all times! Such a funky fella. I love his way of thinking, (as in everyone deserves second chances and freedom is important) and of acting, with the whole attitude. He gives me a sense of freedom that i haven't felt from any other media at all! Its quite impressive honestly. I could write pages upon pages on how Sonic as a character is like the peak of literature in my eyes, but this post would get way too long. In summary tho, i like almost every aspect of Sonic the Character.

Tails: The baby! I also really love tails! I think his role as a sideckick is very endearing, and is a great balance to sonic in all possible ways. One problem with modern Tails, though. He's portrayed as a coward. And like??? That's not who he is?? Like C'mon sega.

Knuckles: He don't chuckle!! Final part of team Sonic, and Sonic's first rival! I really like the knucklehead. But as is the norm, Sega screwed him up badly on Boom. I despise that they're supposed to be the same Knuckles. Because they're not. I like Boom Knuckles, as his own character, but granted, Boom is an acquired taste.

Amy: Honorary part of team sonic! I love her! Mostly on the IDW Comics. I think they handle her excellently in there. I know that Amy is a hated character by the fanbase because most say that her only purpose is to be the "girl character love interest" and i can agree up to some point in some games, but in IDW she's sooo much better. We stan IDW Sonic.

Shadow: Yet another case of Sega making character assassination. Shadow's like, one of the most complex sonic characters there are, If not THE most complex one. And i love that! Though im very sad that Sega hasn't been able to replicate that SA2 Magic quite as well. Will SonicXShadow (heh) give him justice? Stay tuned.

Rouge: MY GIRL!! Ok so controversial opinion, Rouge's my second favourite sonic character, just because i think its hilarious that she (once) was the leader of team Dark. So She commanded a killing machine and An alien experiment. What a girlboss! 10/10 Character.

Omega: Gotta be honest, not much of an omega fan. But i really like his dynamic w/Rouge and Shadow. It's pretty sweet that they become friens :)

Cream: The other baby! I think she's the sweetest character. Like fr. I really want to see her more often on the games! Though i get why in recent games she hasn't appeared. Suddenly the adventures got way too serious. Still want her back in the games though!

Blaze: Fire princess! I fr am so salty that she isn't as much in the games. Like, what gives? She's such a successful character (With good reason btw) and you arent like, putting her in the stage?? outrageous. But yeah, i really Like Blaze. Her contrast and similarities with sonic are great! They make a great duo too.

Silver: The sweetest most unhinged boi in the sonic canon. I find it very funny that in his first appearance he was all angsty and stuff, but now he's full on optimism and sunshine. I love the juxtaposition on that behalf. Boi is cute but he can mess you up.

The Chaotix: Oh i love the found family trope. Espio's my fave for sure. He's the funny ninja, what else do you want? Though Vector and Charmy are great too. Vector has such a cool ass dad vibe. And Charmy... is Charmy. if yk yk.

AAAAND I think i'll leave it there. Should i include someone else? lmk.

Thanks for the ask!

-Akari

“He’ll always be with you”

“I know, but he’s still not really here.”

Its been a whole frigging year. I’m gonna go cry. i fucking hate doing backgrounds