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Update: High-res artwork uploaded <33 I also made some revisions to the missing speech-bubble tails (which I realised after re-reading was making the dialogue hard to follow) and some dialogue edits, nothing too major that would add new information to the episode. Except for one panel - more on that in my next post.

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High-res artwork will be uploaded within the next 1-2 days. I'm also thinking of doing it this way from here on because I usually work all the way till the episode is posted, and when I get to prepping the high-res artwork for these posts I'm ready to crash. So this way it'll be less draining for me. Anyway, let's discuss this episode, hope y'all like it. Some big questions are finally answered (I hope) <33

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Comments

VeeLo

You’re awesome!!! Rest up! 😴😴

Nicole Berg

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you 😍🤗❤️🥰

pdinnny

No complaints here!

Maudie

Take your time girl. Thanks for everything you do for us, we all love you! 💖😘

CoolerThanFriezer

I'm sobbing. Tora has zero kooth about him when talking about Poppy's dad. Hahahaha

Jaelle

Take all the time you need.😘 Love you girl

Linkan

The last panel got my heart throbbing

pinkdripp

those dimples 🥺🥺🥺

Heather Catchpole

Oh god the dimples. My heart is another thing that’s throbbing.

Caslpk

I lost it at “throbbing”. Don’t mind me howling over here in the corner. BUT ALSO- the strawberry ❤️

Bolivian Girl

This is one of my favorite episodes. It was sad and uplifting and I got to learn more about the hardships Poppy endured in her life. Thank you for your awesome work.

CoCoPuff_BB

THANK U FOR THIS EXTRA LONG EPISODE !!!!! This gave beautiful insight on the mindset of Tora. N him wanting to b selfish n smiting to himself that he actually want to b in Poppy life. NO MATTER how toxic his life is. In which is the beginning stages of a dangerous Love n low key obsession. IF POPPY BABY CAN'T HANDLE IT! ILL TAKE HIM

stargazing

hi hello I cried and I thank you for it

Alondra

She’s so oblivious it’s starting to get frustrating 😩🤬

Jenny Bowen

LETS JUST DEAL WITH ALL THE FEELS!!!! ❤️ Was that Tora’s tiger tattoo on the gun?

Jalibean

Why is every episode my new favorite episode?

Tiffanyyyyy B

Lily that episode was amazing! But hmph! I'm mad😤😡😡😡😡some🤬 or some 3 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬are spamming all our comments with thumbs down. Bunch o jerks!! So I just spent the last twenty minutes liking every comment 😅 that'll show em🙃

Martina Csiki

I think we own a huge thanks for @LilyDusk and her team! The amount of work in this episode is undeniable! You guys're amazing! ☺️

Darla (Tora’s THOT)

Darla, “Baby- the only thing throbbing is me, always when I see you...” Tora, “I know sweetheart- me too.” Ok anyway, I’m soooo happy tora is finally using his communication skills. It broke me when I saw Poppy tear up in fear of Tora. Sweety- please don’t be scared of him!!! He’s a dark angel and that is so perfect! I find it smart of him to keep her from the truth to be honest because she lives her life so freely and almost ignorant bliss. Cause what you don’t know can’t hurt you! I respect that from tora but I know he will have his own way of finding out where the notebook is. And Lily———- he is absolutely KING OF HIGH SCHOOL HEART THROBS!!! His dimples are everything!!! And he’s sooo damn cute with that strawberry in his hair!!!! Such a deliciously long chapter!!!! Awwww I love him and poppy!!!

okayestplayer

I dont mind waiting a day or two for the high res artwork if it means you get to rest after putting out such an awesome comic. Reading it is one of the best parts of my week and I'll be happy to keep rereading it and enjoying the art there until then❤

Emily Basso

Remember those blankets and the lifetime supply of chocolate ice-cream I cleaned the stores out of last week just for today? Yeah, well, I’m currently a part-human/part-burrito creature covered in chocolate and tears. I don’t think I can even do a breakdown of this episode. I’m at a loss for a list. There is too much. I would need to write an essay because: 1. It was so long I’m going to need to read it 18 times to catch every amazing detail, and 2. I’m not sure my heart can handle it. I think I’m tapping out for once. I hope Lola and Larosamorada and all you other amazing patreons can handle this without imploding, and if so, I applaud you and will gladly read your lists. So much heart break, so many defenses up for EVERYONE. Ashamed of who he is? He looks so hurt. He keeps dipping one more toe into the water hoping it will feel warmer if he goes slow. And Poppy? She wants to know, and she doesn’t want to know. She’s just as scared of him opening up as he is. And… god. That breaks my heart. AND THAT GODDAMN STRAWBERRY. No amount of sexual innuendoes or cute nose boops will heal me. It helps, sure. But I’m out, guys. So much love and yet so much they don’t trust each other with. This is dangerous. SO dangerous. For them both. I love this. I hate this. I feel SO many things and ya know what? After I have no more tears left to cry and I wash off this chocolate, you know I’m diving right back in to repeat this process. Because this is life. Broken, complicated, brutal, and yet somehow, there is still hope, and goddamn it there will be love or so help me, I will…. Probably cry and eat more chocolate. Let’s be real. GOD I NEED A HUG.

Maudie

The only thing throbbing here is ME after reading this chapter 😭😭 I loved it and I feel like there was SO MUCH angsty/sensual build up I thought I was going to burst! MPL only gets better and better every week 💯

Schkaka

Pretty....damn it man I cant wipe the smile off my face that was so freaking adorable 😊😊❤

?? Shortie ??

“F*ck my face. F*ck my life.” I felt that on a different level XD

Ezra V

Who else was laughing their ass off when poppy said “the only thing throbbing... is my head” 😂😂🤣🤣 mmmmhmmm tell me you didn’t have something else you wanted to mention after thinking of Tora after reading a part of Quincys book 😏 it’s ok we all thought it 🤣🥰 holy crap! This episode was everything! Thank you Lily! 💕

Carol

This is getting soooo goood!! I told my self not to read anymore and let a couple of months to pass but ugh it's too addicting!!!

SOPHIA A

The inner thoughts of the charterers is amazing. You've really outdone yourself. It gives the characters such depth. And poor Tora. How he feels about himself is so sad. He's so sweet and he's been forced into this life.

Annie J

Lily, what have you done with my heart??? Please keep on doing it.❤ I love Gyu and how real Tora is with him. He isn't hiding behind any walls with Gyu. It was so sad to see how Tora sees himself and how sad and resigned he looks about it. I love the banter between the 2 of them. I am also curious about Gyu's sister. Could she be one of Tora's past flame? Or just another mother figure, who feels the need to take care of him? And I felt the chess pieces moving big time with Poppy and Tora! So many things are being put into play, on both sides. They want to trust each other, but move so carefully, always eyeing the back door, so to speak. And yes, it's throbbing! Throbbing big time! 🤣🤣🤣 Careful Poppy, you're this close to joining us on the thirsty side! We are ready for you!! 😈

marifer

❤❤❤

Hunne

After Tora realized the “ 3rd outcome” was her leaving him and he made a joke....the look they gave each other 😩😩😩 He looked so desperate for her to trust him 😩😩😩 and you could see HER accept it because she wants to trust him too 😩😭😩

Valerie P

Thank you Lily that was the best episode! Love the ice breaker in the end.

Lunabug247

Omg omg omgggg!!! I can’t handle this chapter!! So many cute moments!! I love the “flashing dimple” comment 😂 it reminds me of the movie Coco “dimple! No dimple! Dimple! No dimple!” 😂 You have out some yourself again, Lily!!! Absolute perfection!! Just the right amount of serious mixed with overwhelming cuteness 🥰🥰

Amy Crumbaugh

That ending! THAT ENDING! Another one of those delicious ba-dump moments. I so appreciate the time and effort you put into each of these episodes. I am always amazed by the length of each chapter, but also at the level of thought-provoking story! Tora is believably conflicted over who he is and his blossoming relationship with Poppy, and Poppy is clearly feeling just as torn. It’s a perfect blend of drama and romance and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

Arumi

OH MY GOSH. So, this is only my second episode where I’ve been here on the Patreon, and YOU ARE ALL AMAZING, and reading your thoughts makes me realize how amazing this series is all over again. 😭💕 This series has made me unable to read most other Webtoon series, because they just can’t compare. Lilydusk, you have such an intimate way of crafting realistic characters with a “voice” - they feel absolutely REAL, with their own wants, desires, past experiences and future character development. And, oh my gosh. This episode seriously deepened the connection between Tora and Poppy in such amazing (and at the same time, heartbreaking) ways! This is true art. Soul-crushingly-beautifully crafted. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us in the next episode. 💕💕

TicklemeAli

She got teary eyed when she thought he shoud leave???? Am I crazy??? I don’t know want to feel... HAAAAAALLLPPP

Kendra Lamkin

I have a question that I'm curious about...... Did Poppy ever return his jacket? Seeing that she knows he's the one that saved her from the fall.

Kendra Lamkin

Was only asking because he's in a black hoodie now.

Pleione

What a beautiful multi-faceted episode! Definitely will read it many times to capture everything that was shared!

Lola

Hi. Hello. Welcome to my marbles being lost. I’m so excited. That is all. It’s really gone? The notebook? Oh no. Gun? Gun. What kind of gun is it? Who knows? Maybe @larosamorada knows? Tell me. Why don’t you ask her about the notebook? Indeed why don’t you? Because he already made some headway with her and he doesn’t want to ruin their already fragile relationship? No? Ok. Are you really that naive? THE SHADE! 🤣 “Maybe you’re not proud of who you are... who we are” 💔 ok Gyu/Dr.Phil!? I love how he included himself in that group. Clan and stuff. :( What’s there to be proud of? 😭 this insight into Tora’s self perception is breaking my heart so much. So much to talk about, so much heartbreak that he has been through. “Protecting my image” oh. O M F G IM GONNA START WEEPING. W e e p I n g God my chest hurts. Poor baby. I’m not ashamed of who you are!! God. Stabbed. In. The. Heart. You were not wrong when you said this was difficult. I knew about it but iT sTiLl HuRts. Communication is key. So cute. Dr.Gyu I will make light of this heavy situation and do a thirst interlude ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) because ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I can. And Tora’s bíceps being barely contained there in color. Communication gets people tortured. Damn straight. Done it more times than I care to remember. God.stabbed again. Thanks for sparing us the gory details too. :/ my heart is already being ripped out of my chest. Going to bed at night and not wondering if there is a chance you might not love to see the next day? WHAT. This is not marble loss syndrome. It’s heartbreak syndrome. Takotsubo. Bye. Oh Gyu has a family! My precious bean! Gyu now making it worse. Lol. WAIIIIT GYU’s SISTER IS HITTING ON TORA? Bwhahaha. I don’t blame her. Tora with a little ponytail is kinda cute. Kinda makes me wanna Pull it. ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) Don’t @ me kids with this thirst interlude. Tora wanting to protect her bubble. Yes. Yes. Yes. I don’t think Poppy is *so* innocent but the fact that he is trying for her is uplifting and heartbreaking at the same time. “Being able to trust, to see the goodness in people, even the most fucked up, undeserving people, and to walk down the streets without being eaten alive by paranoia or fear” Heart. Breaks. Again. Bye. There are a lot of things to talk about here, like his self perception as undeserving and fucked up. How he thinks Poppy sees him, and how he sees and perhaps even idealizes her. But more than that, the insight into him, despite his mean exterior, and how he is almost rotting on the since due to the fear and paranoia? Fudge crackers. Both beautiful and haunting. Baby boy. Oh, Gyu is a plant as a security guard? ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) I have a head canon that he has an innocent school boy crush on Poppy after looking at her picture for so long. Don’t @ me kids. OH THIS IS THE MOMENT YOU PICK TO TELL HER? Hahahaha. Bold. BOLD. Oh, you think POPPY IS BOLD? Hahahahaha. Lolllll k Hope that’s enough for ya 😢 oh. Poppy respecting his boundaries. No nose, but she’ll do It. Right to privacy. Cute. QUIT FLASHING YOUR DIMPLES ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) It’s definitely OBSCENE!! Wbdjejfneknfkdmskdksofnronfkrkr rkwndkendkjekfjdkfndkfk It is happening. MOST POPULAR HIGH SCHOOL HESDT THROBS KILLER DIMPLES Ok, I have a couple of things to say here: One: I would have been ALL OVER THAT IN HIGH SCHOOL. Two: he knows the sheer power his dimples hold. Three: the size of that EGO! Despite everything, guys. Despite everything he’s been through. Redemption in those dimples. That is all. Only thing throbbing Lmaoooooooo WE ALL HAVE THAT SHIT EATING GRIN TORA! Loooooolll my head. Sure. Head. ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) we can call it that. Sure. Tora trembling to try to contain his 12yr old giggles is a balm for my soul. HE DEAD? Omg Tact. Tora has never heard of it. Poppy clapping back with “civilized people”. Lmaooo Toraaaa she high key called you a barbarian. 🤣 Scary ass! Poppy!!!! *clutching my pearls* language! 🤣 jk jk TORA HAVING A MELTDOWN SCREAM ON SIGHT TERRIFYING. More like scream on sight HOT AF?! DONT ASK SCARY QUESTIONS IF YOU ARE AFRAID OF THE ANSWERSSSSSS LOOOOLLLL Tora trying his best to not scare her with his interrogations. :) my heart is a bit mended. A BIT. Oh. The third outcome. You shouldn’t be here but you wanna be here. Heart breaking again. Poppy tearing up. No. STRAWBERRY ON HIS HAIR. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 Stahp. You underestimate my level of thug. A truth in a half joke. :/ Ok Ok Ok Him painting her nose. Absolutely adorable. Fan fic prompt please? Thanks. 👀 ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) “Pretty” another truth in a half joke? 😏 Oh. Oh man. This. I don’t know. I’m just in a glass case of emotions right now. Bye? I need a hug.

Julia B²

When he’s looking up at the open roof of the parking structure reminds me of the underground cage 😭😭😭

MollzJJ

If there is one thing, Tora actually knows who he is on a very deep level. I love that about him and part of me thinks that’s the old soul connection to Ulaan. Down to the core he’s got a strength that has carried through from generation to generation. Poppy is destined to be with him because she can calm the pain and steer him back to the light. If at some point he gives her something that belonged to his mother I will drop dead because that would just be the ultimate call back to their previous lives. Ok need to go re-read 20 more times.

Victoria Dias

This episode was so good that i’m not gonna discuss it today nor read anything here cause i’m OVERWHELMED ok??? ok. see y’all tomorrow bye

BlueCaty

It’s 4 am and I stayed up just for this. I regret nothing. How come Lily gets to me every damn time I cannot even express myself, I’m just a mumbo jumbo of emotions right now. And thoughts. So there it is - the battle between my brain and my heart, over this long long wonderful episode! 1. I did not know I needed to see Tora in a blue uniform. Good luck trying to come back to reality now, brain! 2. Tora wanting to keep Poppy out of mafia business – my poor heart, why do you torture me so? 3. Brain to the rescue: what if Gyu’s sister is officer Lane??? 4. „It’s part of the truth” – tug, tug, tug at my heartstrings 5. Poppy being mature, „yes it is enough” – look at you smart girl, brain is proud. 6. Dimples flashing? Obscene? Throbbing what??? Wkdgk ngfkldnkdi djgua fgd kldsg sLklmksgdso I’m sorry, that’s all I’ve got... 7. People scream when you smile??? Shut the gate! Sad thug life for you, bro 8. Back to reality – Poppy coming clean about the shoe, yasss girl! But is she lying about the notebook? Brain confused now... 9. She’s ready to run from you...oh, but you don’t WANT that, do you? So back to joking away to hide your self-loathing – that look though in Poppy’s eyes when she sees past the joke that is GOLD! Boss Level Thug! Mwhaaaahahahaaaa 10. And finally...pretty? oh...that was... not just pretty, but beautiful, gorgeous, marvelous, magnificent, awesome, splendid, glorious, superb, and did I say awesome??? Brain is tired now. Brain dead. Heart dead. The end.

Katie

There is just…*Sniffs and sobs, violently thrown against a windshield of emotion* My heart was simply not ready for all these hard, hard feelings and emotions this week. Our sweet, sweet, conflicted, self-conscious Tora - *reaches sadly at screen wanting to give him a hug* 💔 Tora’s level of self-awareness is so incredible and painful, to hear him say that he’s ashamed of himself one moment while the next tells Gyu how he wants to keep Poppy safe by not communicating with her and keeping her as far from his life as possible; ashamed of himself while in the next breath doing something and going the extra mile to protect someone he cares about. We see you, you big ol’ conflicted Teddy Bear. His whole struggle in how to contend with his growing feelings for Poppy with his desire to keep her safe, I just - I can’t handle it, so sweet and so painful at the same time😫 That tear in Poppy’s eye after he says he may be connected to the shoe?….😭 😭 😭 😭Girl, we feel you. This whole episode, experiencing his inner dialogue and thoughts and the finally verbal reasoning behind his lack of communication, makes me all the more excited for him to see Poppy in action being her Poppy-self if/when he does begin to open up to her a little bit more. She’s already so good at rationalizing with him and being accepting of him, how can she not help him accept himself? Also, if her eyes welling with tears is anything to go by at this point in the game, she’s not going to let him go as easily as he thinks, even if she is afraid, which I think is all evident by the “joke” she makes about him being a boss level thug - trying to break the tension and get the conversation back to “safer” territory because she still wants to talk to him. Okay, and honestly, him wiping paint on her nose and calling her pretty?? I’m SCREAMING! Those dimples? *Deceased* Lola - is this a new shrine?? Ya’ll this third option IS them dating right?….RIGHT?!?!?! Am I too hopeful? And “The only thing throbbing is…my…head.” 🤣 At some point she’d going to tumble right into a word blunder he won’t let her out of and I’m here for it 🤣 This one was a real roller coaster ride, Lily💖 Magnificent, as always.

Nietotchka

Thanks for the beautiful episode, Lily!

Alessandra

So a few things...who is Gyu’s sister? Gyu mentioned having a bro in law so it’s possible maybe his sister was an old flame and it didn’t work out because Tora believed she deserved someone better? I do recall Alice stating “there you go again...giving away your heart” or something along those lines. Maybe she was referring to Gyu’s sister? Also, where is the freaking notebook?! Now more then ever I believe Gil has it! Since he’s the only other person who we know that was in the office that night. And since his deal didn’t go as well as he planned from his trip maybe he’s debating whether or not to publish the info he found or use it as blackmail? It’s either him or Jacob. Cause I remember in the beginning of story when Jacob mentioned to Erdene how they need to get into the Tabloid business, especially with all these scandals coming to light. As for Tora and Poppy, I’m enjoying their friendship unfold and how vulnerable they’re allowing themselves to be with one another. Maybe next episode Tora will finish mustering up the courage to ask her about the notebook? And as for the third outcome....maybe it’s them laying everything out on the table and Poppy trying to help Tora believe he is more deserving of a normal life then what he thinks he deserves. Show him that he can experience love and have that love reciprocated. Anyway, I really enjoyed this episode and I like Gyu and Tora’s friendship. Gyu is a solid dude.

Blueberry

Tora’s a little player ain’t he 🐯🕺🏾

TMK

One of the best episodes to date!!

Leslie

AHHHHHH this episode was practically a novel length and I have so many feelings about it and I just GAHHHHH. Lily thanks for making something that I can get wrapped up in and look forward to each week. I’ve missed being a really invested fan in something. MPL is getting me back into genres I haven’t let myself enjoy for a while, get wrapped up in theories, squeee over feels.....yeah. You’re the best. Sending you appreciation for now, and diving into the discussion later.

Kaleo

This is my first time using fast pass and getting completely caught up, please tell me how you wait a week for each episode 😭😭😭 Definitely got the vibe Poppy knows something is up and is denying it so she doesn't have to decide if she should cut Tora out of her life. Seeing him struggle with how much to tell her is so sad! I get that he wants to keep her safe but I feel like the other gangs are going to find out about her either way if they get serious. But maybe we'll get some Tora saving her with guns blazing in the future 😍

caseyjarryn

Tora's getting so vulnerable with Poppy 😭 even if he is playing off the truth as if he's joking!

Veronica Weston

Has no one else picked up what Tora did at the end?! By putting a little smudge of paint on her nose, sitting back, and calling her pretty, he’s essentially telling her she’s a work of art! Gah, he’s so romantic in a way only Poppy would understand. They already speak each other’s love language!

Soosie

Omg... :( idk why I'm crying... this is so relatable. I really love how compassionately and patiently Poppy thinks, and how progressively comfortable they are growing to be with each other. Majority gang members I know are very sweet and gentle, and I love seeing that embodied through Tora, especially with Poppy so naturally drawing out that part of him. So nice seeing Tora's smiles and dimples, too! I'm also excited to see Gyu's story unfold more in the future. Felt really spoiled again with this episode 💖

CNanda

This episode is everything! Thank you, Lily ❤️ Now we know for sure why Tora is so gloomy all the time. Hopefully we’ll see more of those dimples now he’s (somewhat) trying to communicate with Poppy. Can’t hardly wait for what’s next for those two ❤️❤️❤️

CNanda

btw, I’m so glad I joined this Patreon’s page because the comments are also everything. I really enjoy reading those ❤️

princesahyuuga

Long episode full of amazing storytelling. Thanks, Lilly! ❤️❤️❤️

Lise

I love how much this episode told us about Tora. ♥️

Christina Agan

You guys.....this entire episode breaks my heart. Tora seems so broken and needing someone to actually TRUST him. Or just....as weird as this seems...he needs a friend. Like someone who doesn’t see him as “the Tiger of Ares street.” He needs someone to care. Poppy getting tears in her eyes.... she wants to trust him so badly. This episode broke my heart. So many emotions. Thank you for this Lily. I’m glad we are getting to see the inside of Tora’s head more.

larosamorada

Okay, y'all are gonna have to bear with me on this post. It turned into a fucking essay. OH. LAWDY. This episode has so much happening. Two things right off the bat- Lily, damnit, you just *knew* I was gonna eat up all this dialogue and body language. This is what we call therapist heaven- the dynamics between Tora and Gyu and then Tora and Poppy. THIS is the kinda quality content I LIVE for. So thank you for that! Second- holy bejebus woman, this episode is so damn long- I kept panicking that it was going to drop off and end at any moment and it never did. All the way through to the end, satisfying as a summer rain. *swoon* I have a feeling I will be coming back to this post to make further observations as my brain stews on this more. Here’s what I’ve noticed so far (as coherently as this fangirl can…marbles may be lost, I can’t make promises.): Okay, Gyu and Tora in that truck talking- I love the brotherly dynamic between them, it’s just so sincere and uninhibited. They both seem to be each others’ sounding boards and it’s so refreshing to see that in a male friendship. Especially a mob friendship. But man, that lost look in Tora’s eyes as he’s talking- he’s free associating about his low sense of self-worth and it’s just heart wrenching. Everywhere he goes he’s looking up through bars to the sky- freedom. And Lily, the way you have the smoke waft up from the car to the sky- it just speaks so much to how much he wants to escape. Tora hitting himself with a heavy dose of shame…the fact that he feels guilt/remorse that has morphed into shame actually highlights the good person he is on the inside. Please don’t mistake that for me thinking he’s a saint- he’s obviously exercised some personal vices over the years, but that’s his way of coping I think. He has this paradox of resigning himself to who he is (not acceptance) and hating it at the same time. “What’s there to be proud of?” “I’m fuckin’ ashamed of who I am.”And while he hates how other people see him, he beats himself up over it all the same. Tora, honey, get your ass to therapy after all this. You gonna need it. More body language bits here- when Tora’s talking about torturing people, I couldn’t help noticing him rolling up his sleeves and wearing that angry mask. As if when he thinks about it, he goes into soldier mode. I also think we got some insight into the incident mentioned in episode 15- that far off look in Gyu’s eyes. It’s haunting and you just know some shit went down with his family. And the way he wants to protect Poppy and be near her at the same time- yet another paradox. He wants her to stay just the way she is, but he knows the closer he gets to her, the more potential for danger. “To see the goodness in people, even the most fucked up undeserving people.” He really does see her as this pure, untouched young woman. And how exhilarating and terrifying that must be for him to interact with her. Kudos Gyu with your work hustle- boy is already trying to move up. And let’s be real, who do you want watchin’ your girl- a sleazeball no-good security guard or a techie investigator like Gyu? Tora, this one is a no-brainer, my man. You kinda owe him too…he’s right. Sorry don’t pay the bills. Now on to this delicious dialogue between Tora and Poppy…he’s wrestling so hard with telling her the truth. And OOF, that worried look on his face when he says it’s partly true on why he took the picture. That’s what we call living in the grey, after all real life happens there. I’m very impressed with how honest Tora is even knowing that he can’t tell her everything. Sure, there’s omission, but I’m sure she can read his level of worry. She knows there’s more to it, but she’s not going to pry, not yet at least. I don’t believe for a second that Poppy is buying the whole story, but she is being thoughtful of Tora’s mixed feelings. So it’s enough- for now. And oh lawdy…watch out! Those dimples have arrived- TWO of them this time! That went better than he anticipated for sure. Cue all the fun banter “It’s not just you business if I was involved” Better get some aloe for that burn Tora, she got your ass there. And Poppy, I agree girl, those dimples are 100% obscene! Like girl, we know you like ‘em, but I love how she’s not letting him have leverage here. So delicious. This is why I love Poppy to pieces- she is a no-shit woman, even with a major crush. Tora, you best get back up, you can’t handle all this. So Poppy, dear- what’s really throbbing here- your heart or something further south? That’s right I fucking went there. LOL And damn, I didn’t think she was gonna go there about her dad. But that really speaks to the level of trust she has in Tora. That’s not just something you flippantly share. It certainly make sense though- you don’t always get the answers you’re searching for. And some things are better left unknown (if we’re to take what Tora thinks to heart). And OMG- all of Tora’s internal dialogue when Poppy just dished it out – Yeah, boo, it was you and your scary ass. LOL Poor guy can’t figure out if he should smile or not- FML indeed. On a serious note though- I think the only reason people find his smile terrifying is because with anybody else, it’s not sincere. A fake smile is creepy AF. But with Poppy- he’s got that carefree relaxed smile. Mostly because she catches him off guard and makes him laugh. But bro, seriously, you’re over thinking this. And oh boy…that third outcome rears its ugly head. Loved how when Tora’s pensive about this, you highlighted the strawberry in his hair. Sorry, Tora, but you’re already knotted and tangled up with each other, just like that hair tie is implying. And Poppy having tears burgeoning at that moment- she cares waaay more than she’s letting on. You don’t have tears over someone you don’t have some feelings for. Sure, she’s conflicted and scared at how he’ll answer, but she has sincerity in those feelings. I can see that from a mile away. Also, segue for a moment. Total old lady cackling moment- “You underestimate my level of thug.” DYING. But let’s be real here- he’s trying to hide the truth with a joke and those two panels where they’re seriously looking at one another, she knows…she’s just filed that into the “things we don’t talk about” and “pretend it didn’t happen” categories. She knows damn well he’s involved. Okay, analysis brain OFF. Thirsty brain ON. OMFG- that smudge scene where he calls her pretty. So goddamn adorable! I am a puddle…I have lost my marbles…goodbye brain. LOVE! And uh… “Fuck my face.” It’s a good thing there aren’t children on Patreon because Oh. My. God. I had impure thoughts about that line NGL.

Sophia

What if gyu’s sister is inspector lane. I remember in the old version of mpl, lane has kids. Could those be the kiddos gyu talks about. And how lane has been trying to contact tora.

Derf n’ Bob

I’m pretty sure I’m dead, thank you ❤️

Sophia

“Speakin of my sis... she said she’s been calling, but your not picking up, you still avoiding her?” My money is on inspector lane being gyus sister.

Jenny Bowen

🤗 I love this community so much! I adore all of your thoughts and opinions and emotional dissertations on everything that Lily gives us!

Derf n’ Bob

I just want to shake the webtooners when they say-omg I can’t wait for the next episode what will I doooooooooo 😭-use 👏🏻your👏🏻imagination👏🏻😏

Talisha

Tora can shake his dimples at me anyday of the week 😍 also well dang that episode was 😮

Jena

Why is MPL on 18th place now!? Need to bring this to top five!!!!!!!!

Christina Agan

Guys.......does Tora not realize he has RBF? Has he been under the impression his “creepy” smile is charming this whole time?

just.Midgy

OMG Woman!! I need more!! Seriously one episode is not enough 😭😭😭😭

annerose22

Thank you, Lily, for all of your hard work. You have made this teacher’s shelter in place bearable. Tora and Poppy’s love story is something I look forward to each weekend. 👏👏👏

Julia G

Lilydusk, y u do this to my heart?! The emotions in this episode were almost tangible. The expressions you capture in your art are breathtaking! I am in awe of your talent! I felt so many feels while reading this episode. Tora showed so much to us here. While sitting with Gyu we see him shielding Poppy from seeing the world the way he does. He talks about being ashamed of who he is, the things he’s done and that’s so heartbreaking to me because I don’t think he chose this life and short of dying, there’s little chance of him getting out. The makeup rubbing off and Tora’s neck tattoo coming through close to the shirt collar was a nice touch. Great little detail! In the balcony episode he wonders what it’s like to see the world as Poppy does. In the truck, we see that he may not how that innocence feels anymore in regards to her world view but he knows exactly how her world view will be altered. He doesn’t care if it delays him getting to his “goal”, he wants her to remain safe and her innocence to remain intact, that’s his priority. Him talking through the options of what happens if he asks her about the notebook 😓 his jaw clenching when Gyu mentions option 3, he got so anxious just thinking about it. The anxiety and pain in his expression when he confesses that he’s telling her “part of the truth”. You can see how much it bothers him to have to lie or at least withhold the full truth and how afraid he is that she’ll turn away from him. He doesn’t want her to know for her safety but he also doesn’t want to give her any reason not to trust him anymore. He flat out tells her that’s all he can say, he’s telling her there is more but I can’t tell you. I think he really values how she sees him, her trust in him and how she’s willing to put so much faith in him considering how people typically view him and he doesn’t want to lose that. We’ve seen teenage angry hurt Tora, now we need to see high school heart-throb Tora. Pretty please!!!! Something’s throbbing, Poppy? I’m sure Tora could help with that 😏 their banter is so natural and adorable! I love how Poppy doesn’t push for more information and respects his privacy. She now knows for sure he’s hiding something but I think she understands that he’s doing it to protect her from something. The safety advice, catching her tree fall, getting upset when she puts herself in a dangerous situation going to Ares Street alone. He’s shown that her safety is important to him with these actions. She’s willing to let him keep the truth to himself because she’s put together enough information about his life to know, whatever he’s hiding from her isn’t something she should know or he’d have told her. His expressions when she struggles with voicing what he’s thinking, that maybe he shouldn’t be there. It’s like he now has that “shy...and bold. But hopeful” expression he saw on her earlier. He knows he’s putting himself on a limb and he’s probably never been so vulnerable with someone but he knows he has to see what happens and he’s hoping she doesn’t want him to leave. At the same time, she hasn’t thought about that day but now she’s piecing the connections together and really realizing that something is big is going on. She’s realizing that she’s become involved somehow with something that Tora knows but can’t tell her and she’s caught between deciding if she should continue her interaction with Tora or run. The expression on his face after he insinuates that the shoe was a prank but also talking about real blood and his level of thug. There’s sadness there but also deep sincerity. It’s as if he’s trying to convey to her that he’s sad that he can’t tell her the truth but the truth is bloody and she needs to leave it alone. Her face in the panel where he mentions the prank is slightly amused, she’s only hearing the joke part of what he’s telling her. However, her expression in the panel after she processes his sad face, her small smile drops away because she’s understands what he’s telling her without worlds. That he wishes he could tell her, that he’s sorry he can’t, that it’s connected to his “level of thug” and it’s an off limits topic. It’s almost like his face says “I’m lying and I’m sorry but I need you to let this go.” Poppy, being true to her nature, jumps to humor with her “boss level thug” comment. She understood what he was trying to tell her, senses his anxiety and instead of panic she lightens the mood, almost like she’s reassuring him. Then she changes the topic. But notice how she holds the painting in front of her and over her face like she’s using it as a shield. Like she’s still a little unsure if she needs protection from him. He gently takes it away and touches her nose in such a cute way. Seriously, even with the paint (little imp), that nose boop was so unexpected from Tora. No more awkward hamster cheeks? She asked about the painting but he took it away from her and said “pretty” and I think we all know he meant Poppy. The complement and nose paint, I think that was the most un-awkward and genuine show of affection we’ve seen from Tora. Even that little smile at the end felt more like that small smile you get when your significant other does something cute and you can’t help but smile rather than a smirk about the paint on her face.

Cynthia

Y'all. Really testing my resolve here. Disclaimer this is not discussing the episode directly (but kind of? I'm not sure where else to post); but man... these comments have me smiling ear to ear and I haven't even read the chapter yet. I mini-ranted when the sneak-preview posted that I've run out of coins by choice and am trying to cut back, but Y'ALL REALLY MAKING ME WANT TO BUY COINS AGAIN EVEN THOUGH I PROMISED MYSELF I WOULDN'T ANYMORE. In the most loving way, you're all the worst. I joined this community last week and hands down of all the monthly memberships I pay, this is by far one of the most worthy. Y'all and this story (and Lily of course at the heart of it) have helped me out so much recently in many ways by just being and existing, and I'm very grateful - sounds silly, I'm aware. It's such a wholesome (most of the time ;) ) community, and I absolutely love reading everyone's theories and thoughts. The "spoilers" only make me that much more excited for when I do read the chapter myself!!

Derf n’ Bob

Please make *redemption dimples* a thing-Grazie

Esp

Christina Agan

Also, I’ve got to add this: Lily, my Queen.....your use of color and light in this episode. So so beautiful. Every single time I read these episodes I am constantly finding new little details to be in awe of. Honestly, you spoil us.

Crispy Kernel

Tora really does have kindness and human emotions, it’s really sad to see the way he was raised forced him to suppress that and become a “monster” I’m glad he’s kinda using poppy as an outlet, I just hope their relationship grows even more!🥺🥺🥺🥺

Cristal Mendoza

I like how everything is coming together. Poppy wearing Toras sweater saving the cat is the cat suppose to be Tora since In this chapter he talking about how ashamed he is of himself and how he’s been doing this his whole life but he’s never had the choice to do something else. He thinks back of her saving the cat as he wears her strawberry hair tie I wonder what that’s suppose to mean? I feel like she is saving him but how will he save her? Also omg I’m I love with Tora 😭 he looked so scared of her being scared of her like a true lost kitten. I just want him to be happy

Myosotis

Alert :messy comment because my brain crashed ! Babies OMG this episod. First Lily I have to say you are so good doing landscape I am dead right now. Than Gyu's sister is lfkcodoxzlxo OMG and She's married and got kids. I am so happy because there was a theory since she called Tora on the phone that she had a crush on Tora and I was like nooo please. Poppy and him have already troubles to be together because of that shallow life Tora lives in. Don't add a second woma ahaha though it is still possible since Tora is avoiding her but we don't know why Than he told the truth gvflcofoxifockdo (kind of) and still she's into him still. And when he put green on her nose aaaaaaaah my brain's dead. It is marvelous how he wants to go away from her to protect her but it seems he can't in a certain way. And I love this complexity of psyche and emotions And he was so honnest and true about his feelings with Gyu. Aaaaah love it so much. Let's re-read it again twice or more to spot details. I'll Come back after re-reading it with an organised and constructed comment

Myosotis

Okay Lily I have a crazy theory. I hope it is allowed to share it. Tell me if it is not. Inspector Lane was married to Alice's son who died. She is Gyu sister and that's why Tora's avoiding her cause Gyu and him are involved in his death somehow 😱😱😱 (I am crazy)

Yvonne padilla

I can’t help but laugh when Tota asks if her daddy dead and she sorta makes fun of how he speaks “yes Tora “he dead” “ 😂😂😂 she’s the only character that can sass him!

Afton Jennings

Poppy's "oh, thank you" when he boops her nose is just *chef kiss* the wholesome adorable content I needed today. I also wanna let Lily know that I love her creative settings, and that each panel is such a wonderful lil work of art 💛

Alexis

You know you are reading a masterpiece when throughout the days, inspite the fact you are mega busy, your thoughts jump to the characters and their story, because they are so real, so believable, so beautiful. And when you are a spectator of their struggles, you feel for them,empathize, feel compassion and hope somehow that your well wishes will reach them. I read this episode early in the morning and I thought I will allow my emotions to settle first but I can't ....both Tora and Poppy are giving us a lesson of hope...I was overwhelmed thinking at the struggles they have now, only at the beginning of all this...what will happen once they get more and more involved with each other? I am afraid for them, I dont want them to suffer but somehow I know they will... and probably they know it too...and still they hope Lilly, thank you again for your story, you touch our souls and remind us of the beuty of it 💗

Nordorr

The Tora and Gyu conversation, when Gyu asks if he's been reading Quincey's books, made me die, immediately picturing part of Quincey's audience is hardcore clan members being told to read his books by Papa Balthuman as a way to support his son's career 😂. I see Gyu going after that security guard position as something that'll benefit Tora twofold, he will be there to keep an eye on Poppy and make sure there's nothing threatening going on and in the future he is someone that Tora knows won't be bribed or coerced to reveal how often Tora visits her. Ok, BIG theory time! As far as Gyu's sister goes part of me suspects she might be Lane, but I also think she may be a new character. We're just beginning this ride, so there's plenty of people we haven't been introduced to yet. I think if she is Lane, it would make things more complicated for Gyu with him being in the mafia, it would put her family at risk unless she were dirty, which I don't suspect she is. Instead my theory is that she works at the same mentoring program with Quincey, possibly? I get the feeling that she's not an old flame but another maternal figure. I don't think Gyu would bring her up otherwise, he can tell that Poppy has more significance than just a notebook to Tora by now. Poppy and Tora, dang, I just want them to have all their hurts mended. The obscene dimples, was that highschool heartthrob comment a nod to the SG school teacher Poppy episode? 👀👀I see what you did there.

Christina Agan

So.....so far Tora’s “flirting” is shoving a muffin into her face at Mach 3, booping her nose with green paint, sneaking up behind her and spooking her, and flashing dimples. He’s a socially awkward flirt and I am here for this.

Ash Longoria

Which kind of music do y’all think Tora and Gyu would be listening to in the car?

Julia G

OMG guys!!! I just realized what that text to Gyu in the previous was about. Tora scared the shit out of the security guard so he’d quit. And he told Gyu to check the papers for the job listing 😱 now the comments about Gyu becoming the security guard at Poppy’s building make sense to me 😲

Annie J

Honestly, I try to read by putting a certain distance because it always hit to close to home. Lily, the way you write emotions are always so real and it resonates always too much with me. Growing being told he wasnt good enough, never being held in a soothing pair of arms, being critized just for existing. Being used like furniture, just when needed and the rest of the time put in a corner where he wouldnt be in the way. Never know the security of unconditional love, actually fearing those closest to him. Probably had to steel himself early on and not show any emotions toward people or objects as it would be the first thing taken away from him. Then, as he got older, started to form relationships, probably very superficial at first, where he never allowed himself to open up, always thinking in the back of his mind they will get tired of him and not accept him, so why bother opening up? Probably said and did things to autosabotage those new relationships, partly to test them, partly to prove to himself they would leave since he wasnt worthy of the time, the attention, the love. Some probably left and to his surprised, a few stayed, accepting him with his walls and all. Slowly, he must have started to take solace in their presence, hating it because he now had something precious to lose and always thinking in the back of his mind if one day they will reach that point where they will get fed up with him and leave. So he is able to enjoy all the little things and little moments because he knows it can be over at anytime, probably thinking if it happens it will be his fault for not being enough or being too much. So now, he has Gyu, Quincey and Alice where he had years to test them and slowly open up. Enters Poppy and the whole cycle starts again, bringing him back to his childhood and reminding him, although he is an adult, he can never escape this vicious circle of faith.

Shay

I’m getting scared bc all this is probably the calm before the storm. I really hope things turn out well 🥺 don’t hurt our Poppy and Tora 😭🥺 🤣 this episode was comedy and so cute!💞 “...but people scream when I smile too..” “he dead?” “Level of thug” “fml”👏😂 Oh yeah and Gyu’s tattoos were making me laugh too! A cherry 🍒, umbrella☂️?, maybe an onion 🧅 by the armpit.

Shay

Oh yeah I also wonder about Tora’s parents and Poppy’s mom.

Victoria Dias

Lily, I hope you’re as proud of your work as we are of you. We’re always reassuring that you’re awesome and this is real!! You deserve to rest when you can, cause this level of work is BOSS LEVEL 🤪 this must take a lot of time, but it’s absolutely worth it. THANK YOU for existing lol 🥰

Alex Smith

I honestly just wanna see what would happen if Poppy made a movie on Tora. I feel like for all his bad ass vibes, he would he thrown so off guard and it would be adorable. Course seeing him do that to Poppy this episode with the dimples and the nose boop was hilarious.

Eva-Maria Kannenberg

First art I I really dig. Also big compliments to your mind... I love the way you think. Please keep it up. And thank you you made my day. The story is awesome and definitly exciting.

A

*fuck my face* *fuck my life*...I think we've all had mornings...weeks...months...years like that 🤣

Chrisse

Hi Lilydusk! Love your comic and art style, it's amazing! I had a question, do Tora's sleeve tattooes mean anything? I know the one on his neck is a symbol of the clan he's in, but the ones on his arms and chest intrigue me. 😋

Esp

In Asuras bride Ulaan’s tattoos and flag are peonies and Yuwa’s dress has koi on it. I think Tora’s arm tattoos might have some connection to that maybe?

Chrisse

Hi Esp, that's a good point! I'll have to look up if they mean something symbolically in tattoo culture.

Chrisse

Thanks Lilydusk and everyone! 😊

pdinnny

After this episode, I am super curious as to where the notebook is currently. So on my casual 83rd time combing the chapters 😅...I now think Poppy has it, is aware of the contents, and is waiting to see if Tora makes a move (cuz she's boss-level thug like that 😎, but also she's been super busy). I wanna say it went from Poppy's old bag to the bright yellow handbag Dene gave her. And now I'm gonna guess it's in the monkey 🎒 that's sitting on the roof with Poppy. Keeping it close but kinda in plain sight. 😁

Ang P.M.

Finally downloaded the Patreon app onto my phone. Sssooooo much easier to follow along on everyone else’s comments and theories. I am very entertained and am learning a lot. 😁

Ocean

Broke my heart when Poppy started saying, "maybe you shouldnt..." "Maybe I shouldnt..." And Tora started thinking of the third possibility :'( Like noooo!! So glad she didnt finish that thought, and Tora lightened the mood by booping her on the nose lol

Veronica Weston

Ok, new theory...I think Poppy never had the notebook. It was never clarified that the black and white notebook she had in her stack was even the notebook that Goliath had, it was only ever implied. But if you read back in Eps 30, when Gil told Poppy that he grabbed a report from her desk, she also told him she had organized her things. I’m thinking the black and white notebook was the report Gil was talking about. And Tora’s right, Poppy’s too carefree to have stumbled across something that was obviously incriminating to act all nonchalant about it. She has absolutely no poker face to hide her thoughts and feelings. Soooo yeah, Tora just clarified that Poppy knows absolutely nothing of the notebook without having to ask her out right. That’s why he lightened the mood...he knew she was struggling with her thoughts and was having a mini panic attack and he didn’t want to scare her off for no reason.

Julia G

So I’m trying to piece together a timeline of the events so far to help me get them straight with the overlap of episodes. Here’s what I’ve got: MPL Timeline-Starts as Sunday because Poppy has free time to take a day trip to her hometown but has to work the next day. I’m operating on the assumption that she works Monday to Friday but it’s just a guess. Day 1 (Sunday): Train, meet with Vincent and tree fall/catch Day 2 (Monday): Chevy’s, Quincey’s editor and Alice’s Day 3 (Tuesday): Nothing Day 4 (Wednesday): Nothing until that night (maybe)-Ares Street, rice tiger and office search Day 4 and 5 is where I’m unsure because Tora specifically says he waited two days to tell her. So he could have told her at the end of the second day (4/Wednesday) like shown here or it could have been on the third day (5/Thursday) that he finally texts her. If it’s the second theory than that the events on day 4 above would actually be day 5 and the events shown below would be 6-9 instead. Day 5 (Thursday): second meeting with Mr. Lam Day 6 (Friday): Nothing Day 7 (Saturday): Nothing Day 8 (Sunday): Rooftop scene and drive to the airport (which obviously hasn’t happened just yet) Poppy says when at her computer before the rooftop that it’s been a “few days” since she met with Lam again but the fact that she’s at home and is painting leads me to think it’s the weekend again. It could be Saturday or Sunday but I can’t decide for sure. We still have the ride to the airport so she may mention having to work the next day which will help me decide which day it is.

Gingerine Tangerine

I just want to say very quickly how very detailed this webtoon is. Not just with the backgrounds and things like that but things that are relevant to the characters and the story. The best example I have is the postures of Tora and Poppy. Tora slouches when he is with Poppy, which is very true to tall men in real life, but he doesn't slouch when he is around other gang members or "working". It is a physical manifestation of his composure, he is more relaxed with Poppy and he doesn't (I assume) want to be as intimidating as he can be and scare her. Poppy on the other hand sits ramrod straight with perfect posture because she is small and is taking advantage of every inch she has. I think her posture speaks to more then just being short though, it's also about her confidence. She seems sweet and naive and to and extent that is true but she is also shrewd and determined. That is demonstrated in the way she holds herself. Using Anatomy as part of the storytelling speaks volumes about the talent of Lilydusk. Its a detail that brings these characters so much life and is part of what makes them seem like real people that could easily walk into a room. Really, really well done! Thank you Lilydusk!

Julia G

Random question: Is “Tora” Tora’s real name or a street name? Like how Gyu has the nickname Ronzo (even though he apparently doesn’t like it). The thug’s mother also implies that Goliath wasn’t his actual name when she said Goliath was a street name. Just a curiosity that popped into my head while re-reading for MTT

LouCas27

I liked this conversation between Gyu and Tora since it gives additional insight on how Tora feels about his life and the depth of his relationship with Gyu. Methinks Gyu will not betray Tora, even if things go south. Hence, I want to know more about their backstory, especially what Tora had to sacrifice to save Gyu’s life. Also, if Joe (Alice) was involved.

Irene A

Once again my heart and soul are moved. Absolutely beautiful work.