#(and break some seals for a certain dragon)

[aubadeempress]

Fields of Mistria's OST is such a banger that I can't stop looping the mine adventuring music

Crazy thing is-- Normally I hate mining portions in Farming/Town/Village Life games like this, like I did not really enjoy whenever I had to go sink some time into the mines in Stardew Valley

But Fields of Mistria? I'm ready to eat roasted cauliflower, beat up hostile ores, and get so much treasure and artifacts

[thebadboyfanclub]

Together As One (Daemon x Reader)

So this is more a twisted love type of hype, I hope you guys like the way I portrayed this request cause I wanted to give it more of a dark edge since Daemon is definitely a gray character. Hope you enjoy!

Mothers love their children, everyone could agree upon the unconditional love mothers held for their kind with no doubt in their hearts, songs, poems, plays, and any type of art one can think of have attempted to portray such devotion. None, however, could predict that some mothers have a certain type of fear for their child, like some whisper in the back of their heads warning them about the little glimpse in their eyes that was not like the stars but more of a scorching fire threading to burn everything.

That was the exact feeling Rhaenys had for her beloved daughter, the twin sister of Laenor, it would often baffle her how her husband could not see what was clearly there, (y/n) was always in competition with everyone about everything, the finest clothes belonged to her, she had to ride a dragon first, learn Valyrian faster.

Whilst Rhaenys prayed for her daughter's thirst to settle, the others praised her for her bravery, her determination, and her intellect, something that made (y/n) yearn for more.

“I would like to raise a toast to my dear brother, a married man to our future queen, may your wedlock be blessed with numerous children and a road paved with nothing but joy and success, Prince Daemon, hopefully you are next”

(Y/n) stood with a smile of triumph dancing on her lips before she raised her cup to gently take a sip, as she sat down Daemon's eyes followed her, he was well aware of her game, though he seemed unfazed and almost amused by her comment the truth laid somewhere deeper than the surface, not a single soul in this room would have been able to guess that the delighted twin of now future king consort was playing a game of cat and mouse with none other than prince daemon behind closed doors.

(Y/n) had been relentless in her ways to seduce Daemon, sneaking out at all hours of the night, sending people after him so she could know his whereabouts just so she could magically appear, the combination of sweet wine and her alluring voice was enough for Daemon to stumble and fall right on top of her, taking her for a ride to the addictive roads of lust.

She was stunning, flawless, a true Targaryen that screamed opulence and elegance with a face sculpted by the gods, the common folk would gush over the “oceans Angel” a nickname given by the realm for her angelic features, how would they know how dark her mind could get in order to make everyone yield before her?

-

“Mother”

“Dearest, how are you on this fine morrow?”

“I am well, the little one finally decided to let me get some rest”

“When I was pregnant with you I remember thinking you would kick your way out of my belly, the Apple does not fall far from the tree”

(Y/n)s daughter, Leora, leaned as much as she could to kiss her mother's cheek before she sat down next to her to break her fast, queen Alicent had already taken her seat along with her daughter Heleana and (y/n)s other son Elion, Alicent and (y/n) enjoyed each others presence, a mutual bond based on respect had been build over the years that was sealed by marrying Leora with Aegon and Elion with Heleana.

“The maester said you should drink more orange juice, it will help with the fatigue”

“As well as eat more meat, pregnancy is no easy task, you must be as strong as ever”

Alicent chimed, the birth of her second grandchild was one of the most important events, Alicent adored her first grandchild, beautiful Hael, a strong boy who was just now starting to learn how to walk, still, he had everyone wrapped around his finger.

“I appreciate your concerns but I am fine, healthy as a horse”

“It wouldn’t hurt, let us not risk it dearest”

“I thought once I get older I wouldn’t have to listen to my mother”

“Well I am sorry but that will never happen, drink”

(Y/n) had stepped up and appeared as the perfect mother, loving, kind, and caring, she did love her children, however, what she loved most was the things they could do for her, her firstborn daughter was now the wife of the king first born son, and her son was a strong, skill full knight that served the realm and came back in triumph, how could she not adore her perfect creations?

“How is the king?”

“I am afraid his health is decreasing, the maesters advise him to remain abed for the day”

“Rhaenyra will be questioned, he won’t sit this one out I am afraid”

“Ugh the precious Rhaenyra, I wish I could stay in my chambers until those god-forsaken days pass”

(Y/n)s smile was wiped from her face and in an instant it was replaced with an angry scowl, in a split second her hand had grasped her daughter, Leoras' eyes went wide with fear when they met the angry hues of her mothers.

“You mustn’t speak in such a way, I’ve taught you better”

Leora only nodded frantically, (y/n) had her own opinions over Rhaenyra, she however, knew better than to voice them, not even in such a secluded area of the palace, (y/n)s hold turned from forceful to a caress before she directed her eyes back to her friend and queen Alicent.

“Besides, the king will do as he wishes and if the gods bless him with the strength to stand he should be there, isn’t it right Alicent?”

“I couldn’t have phrased it better, my dear”

-

(Y/n) and Alicent were each other's shadows, one compelled the other and in the end one way or the other the result was one of their favor, (y/n) was disciplined and had mastered the act of a gracious and lovely princess, Alicent was strict and slipped under everyone’s nose as she cloaked herself with the act of a pious queen, the two of them had years up on the horse of being able to maneuver their way around the kingdom so the men would not suspect a damn thing.

Viserys had seemed to get worst which made him unable to attend even when Daemon and (y/n) went to his room to assist him, the king could not even sit up let alone walk, Daemon was disheartened, thankfully for him his dutiful and beautiful wife let him rest on her shoulder and like a soothing salve her encouraging words went over his wound of his beloved older brother nearing his end.

“My Love”

“(Y/n)? What- what has happened?”

“I apologize for waking you up my dear, it is your brother”

“Viserys? What about- no”

“My dear husband, you must be strong, I am so sorry”

(Y/n) grasped Daemon's hands tightly before she brought them up to her lips to kiss his knuckles, of course, she was one of the first to know, Alicent had rushed to her chamber and delivered the news herself, she had waited patiently as the king took his last breath, Alicent told no one, not even the maester, (y/n) had to know before anyone.

“Viserys”

Daemon had been taken over by his thoughts, they’ve always had their differences but at the end of the day, they shared the same mother and father, a bond that could never be broken, no matter how many times Daemon has run off he always ended up by Viserys side.

“My love, I understand that this is too much for you, however, we must prepare our daughter”

“What does Elora have to do with this?”

“She is to be queen, she needs her father”

“Queen? Have you gone mad?”

(Y/n) bit her bottom lip in combination with her head tilting to the side, as if nothing but a mere candle lit her face Daemon could still identify the features that he so adored but now he could not wrap his head around what was his wife suggesting.

“My lord husband, King Viserys has left us, it is only natural for his son to succeed him”

“It is expected for his firstborn, Rhaenyra, to do so, not Aegon”

“Where is the princess? But in a place where she could have visited if she wished, when has she even attempted to come and visit her beloved father who was in agony all these years? She only came when her privilege was at risk and then blamed Alicent who has served by the king's side for his illness”

“This is not a matter to discuss”

“But it is, the gods know I loved Viserys and he had been good to me, but let us not forget he killed his first wife in his desperate attempt for a male heir, he remarried and Alicent gave him an heir and a spare and still it was not good enough, he passed by you and his sons to bury his guilt by calling Rhaenyra the heir, it wasn’t because he trusted her or because he saw something in her, he passed the title on to her because he did not trust you and then because he wanted to wash the blood of queen Aemmas from his hands”

Silence fell upon them, (y/n) pulled away from her husband and headed towards the door, as his hand rested upon the handle she turned her head back to lord husband who was visibly shaken, (y/n) might appear disheartened but she could detect that her monologue had started to creep on to Daemons heart.

“I love you with all my heart, that is why I shall leave you to grieve, if you wish to run to her I will…. Understand, it is not like I ever doubted the unconditional love you have for the realm delight, now might be your chance to pursue it”

Her tone was drowning in sorrow leaving Daemon with an unwavering sense of guilt in a dark room as his wife had disappeared to place her hand over a war of fire and blood, (y/n) was correct, Daemon did love Rhaenyra, still, he did not place his flame for her over what he had built with his wife over the years.

(Y/n) walked away with a smile of triumph, she had done her part flawlessly and now she was certain that Daemon would be by her side before the crown was placed on Aegons head, however, she did not have time to waste, Alicent and (y/n) were the ones to wake the new king and queen, preparing them for what they had destined to be.

“You may enter”

“Prince Daemon is asking to see his daughter and wife, alone”

(Y/n) stopped brushing her daughter's head, carefully placing the golden brush down before she looked down at her daughter who nodded in approval.

“Let him in, do not allow anyone to disturb us”

“Right away”

The girl curtsied as quickly as possible before she disappeared only to be replaced by none other than Daemon. (Y/n) took a sharp inhale through her nose once he entered the room, preparing herself for a mental battle, surprisingly when her eyes scanned for his she was met with a certain lightness, an ease to him that caught her by a pleasant surprise.

Instinctively a small smile played on her lips, her Daemon was dressed in his black attire, leather suited him, and his hair was pulled away from his face the way she always told him to do it.

(Y/n) was not made of stone, she might play like she is though her heart skipped a beat every time she was near her lord husband, Daemon was one of the very few people that (y/n) would throw herself in the fire, even though their love felt like the flames licked her back, that sweet pain of admiration and devotion that the poets would sing and the common folk would go mad.

“My dearest loves”

Daemon declared, that their daughter rose from her chair and ran to her father, she was always the one known to succumb to emotions and this time (y/n) could not scold her over it, Leora was her father's daughter, (y/n) might not have spoken over the matter only to allow the young girl the solidarity of her feelings, inside Leora was always waiting for her father to walk through this door.

“You look beautiful, a perfect gown for the queen”

“Father I-“

“Before I handed you over to Aegon I made you a promise, do you remember it?”

“I will do anything to see you happy”

“I will put myself through war if you tell me that this is what you want, all you have to do is say it”

Daemon was no fool, he was certain that the second that crown graced his daughter's head a war would nip their heels, Rhaenyra would not go down without a fight and that meant that Daemon would have to face her in battle, a battle he was willing to put for his lovely Leora.

“I want to be queen, I want Aegon to be our king”

“Very well, I wish you a fruitful reign, may the Gods smile down upon you”

‘May the Gods have mercy on us’ he thought, with a smile he brushed away those dark thoughts only to place a kiss on his daughter's forehead, a small part of him screamed that this was the right thing, his brother never thought he was good enough, now his brother was on the ground and his daughter was crowned queen and would carry on the legacy of the Targaryen name.

“Go on now, I want to have a word with your mother”

“I will be waiting for you”

Leora informed them before she gave them the privacy Daemon desired. (Y/n) stood as still as a statue, her heart pounding on her chest as her throat grew dry and scratchy, she was the master of composure up until now, faced with the only person who could make her waver.

“My beautiful, sweet lady wife, you spoke harshly last night”

“I spoke nothing but the truth”

She threw back in a cold tone. Daemon only smirked as he started to approach her, she did not dare to move, (y/n) was comforted by his light-hearted manner though there was an underlying mischief, Daemon was playing something, and (y/n) was left trying to catch up before it is too late.

Daemon stood before her, his arm finding her forearms and giving them a gentle squeeze, his eyes gazing back at hers with a glimmer that (y/n) had grown to yearn for, she despised the fact that she had to manipulate him like this, she was left with no other choice but to do this, a side of hers cursed the day Rhaenyras and Daemons fates met, this would have been so much easier had (y/n) been the only women Daemon loved.

“You are so bright, I am almost disappointed that you didn’t foresee this”

“The war?”

“No, me, you think I have not caught wind of all the scheming against Rhaenyra? The upbringing of my daughter to become the wife of my brother's firstborn son, putting our son on the sea the minute he was born to have better knowledge of anything driftmark related to gain the favor of your father, every step you so amazingly calculated with Alicent so you can get our family here”

“You have gone mad”

“I saw behind the facade and that makes you nervous, I was there with you every step of the way you mustn’t be frightened, I let you do all this for only one reason”

“Alright, let us entertain this absurd claim of yours, what is the reason?”

“Because I love you”

(Y/n) mouth slightly parted in shock, Daemon had professed his love for her on multiple occasions but the weight on this one was different, he had pulled what she thought was the perfect cover, leaving her bare in front of him, uncovering her thirst that she had kept away from everyone.

“I love you so much that I will let my daughter become the target on Rhaenyras mind, I will go against the woman that you think threatens your position in my heart, I will put myself in the sword before I let her even get one strand of your hair because you and our daughter want this”

“And you don’t? You always held a grudge over the fact that Viserys never declared you as his heir”

“My brother is dead now and because of you our child wishes to be a queen, I picked you as my second wife because I saw your strength, your determination, you need to come on top, that is the Targaryen fire through and through”

“You truly mean all this?”

“You are my lady wife, you gave me a home, now it is time to show the realm that we are the rightful heirs of the throne, together as one”

(Y/n) reached daemons lips for a passionate kiss, his hands slid down to her waist and pulled her as close as humanly possible, sharing this moment meant everything to (y/n), she had him devotedly by her side, he saw her true nature and walked straight into her fire, surrendering in her and even shielding her and her family.

“Let us find out daughter, I want us to be the ones to place the crown on her head”

“I wouldn’t dare let anyone else have that honor”

Requests are open!

[monsterfuckerconfessions]

You know the post about horny monster statues? The one that shows a dragon water fountain where the water specifically comes out of an erect penis?

What if that, but the statue comes alive to fuck you into a stupor if you try to ride it?

Imagine it: Cold rigid stone suddenly turns to lava-hot ridged dragon dick that nearly triples in size as it’s inside you, the dragon shifting into a larger form more fitting of the beast it is, large cock filling you up and gripping your walls the way only real scales can, the sound of stone cracking as the dragon rises from the pedestal to bend you over and fuck you properly, because whoever said the one who woke them got to set the pace? You begged the proud dragon with your body to grace your presence, a being far more ancient than the fountain it was imprisoned in eons ago, one who slumbered peacefully in the alleys of an ancient city until you came along, and now you just had to take what they would so generously give.

Now imagine if there was a whole gallery of magical monster statues that were secretly alive. They don’t all have their dicks out and fully erect, no, that was the work of the particularly eccentric enchanter who sealed the dragon into stone. However, the seal binding them is always a little weaker around the full moon. The staff always find them in poses and positions that they weren’t in the day before whenever it’s that time of the month, with some statues having certain…anatomy that wasn’t seen before.

And they’re just a little eager to sink their tongues, tentacles, and cocks into something warm after spending so long living in cold stone, if someone would only help them out first. Let them feel the warmth flow through them again so they can break the spell, if only temporarily. Maybe someone curious could try to sit on them. Maybe that could be you. Maybe you’ll just have to break in at night on the full moon to find out. But that leaves just one question—

What monster will you try first?

.

[dark-lord-of-awesomeness]

Okay, what if Dragon!Ford curse also affected Stan, but in some other way, like instead of turning him to dragon it would be (just for example) kobold? (+ claws, roar and tail)

I swear, I'm not obsessed with this AU, just love fantasy related stuff 😅

For comedy purposes, I'm going to say Stan turning into a kobold also makes him shorter, because now he's even smaller and only slightly taller than the kids.

Now he and Ford can understand each other! Its worse! Because now Stan really looks like a baby dragon, and Stan can hear all the things Ford is saying, with 'oh my Stanley!' and 'what would you like, my Stanley?' Stan would maybe love the attention, if it wasn't coming from a giant dragon who's trying to feed him from his own hunts and is cooing at him all the time. Embarrassing.

Life's also worse for poor Fiddleford, now that Stan has the claws to actually do some damage on his metal plating.

Sudden thought, did you mean that when Ford got cursed it also cursed Stan at the same time? Because in that case Stan's life was briefly a horror movie as he had to high tail it out of wherever he was when he suddenly shrunk, got scales, and is now a tiny lizard guy? He's on the run from all kinds of hunters and people who keep rare magical creatures as curiosities.

In this case it'd be really, really funny to me if Ford snatched him, not because he was Stan (at first) but because he saw a kobold and went 'Sweet, free servant!' just absolutely locking onto that 'kobolds serve dragons' thing that happens. Figure's he'll take this guy home and get him to do some chores around the castle or polish his scales or something, totally disregarding Stan's screaming about it all. Grabs the wagon just because its free stuff.

In this case it takes at least a week for Ford to realize this tiny lizard guy is his twin brother, and only after he deeply regrets picking him up/kidnapping him due to all the chores Stan's not doing. Stan wants out of the castle and is making it everyone's problem, scratching things up, breaking things, trying to crawl out of the windows, and Fords treating him like a stray cat he needs to charm into liking him.

Even funnier if its Fiddleford who finally pries the tale of how Stan's not a lizard guy! He was a person! No idea what happened to him here, just was going about life and got zapped! His name? uh, Panly. yup. Panley Stines, real name. Gets the details and huh, thats the same time Ford got cursed. Weird. Ford finally gets a second look at that wagon and jump scares Stan when he snatches his tiny lizard brother and starts rubbing his snout all over Stan's flailing body, crooning about his Stan and Stan's screaming about how this giant lizard knows his name and what it thinks its doing!?

It goes the same from there, except Stan can't open the doors, being a kobold, so instead their using Stan as a bargening chip to get Ford to focus on how to break curses or even just the seals on the doors. Only gets Stan access after a certain amount of time or something.

[dragon-susceptible]

TDP Rewatch S2 E5: Breaking The Seal

Berto got the intro voice! I guess it's more the recap voice, it's the 'previously on' thing.

It still gets me in the heart that Harrow even says he's done terrible things, and he's not sure they were justified. He has regrets.

Avizandum having ragged spots in his wings reminds me of some real world science. So it's not unrealistic for him to be able to fly with the level of damage he has, the holes are fairly isolated and relatively small. If we're going to accept that a creature as heavy as a dragon could fly with wings that aren't double its own size, it's fine; bats also fly regularly with equivalent damage.

It does remind me of the Real Science of horns, though, and how the Moonshadow elves' horns canonically defy that science in multiple directions. I get why they didn't have Runaan's broken one bleed in the first episode, because of the rating, but he absolutely should have been bleeding. Also, in Lunabloom he makes reference to Rayla's horns sharpening (normal horn development) and says they'll be Fully Grown within a few years, which isn't a thing, per se, with real horns. Horns typically continue to grow for the entire life of the creature that has them. That said, sometimes we use the term "fully grown" to just mean "has reached adult form", and it doesn't mean they've stopped growing entirely, so that could also be all Runaan meant.

Back into the current episode; "Dismount, disarm, and proceed alone to the meeting point" just reminded me of that scene from The Two Towers book where the Three Hunters and Gandalf are heading into a meeting with . . . I wanna say it was Theoden? It's been a while since I read it, and Gandalf fussed about giving up his staff because He's An Old Man, Haldir, He Needs It, and Haldir is just like I don't get paid enough for this. Please just cooperate. and Gandalf was ready to argue until Aragorn started roasting him for being a petty bitch.

The monarchs interest me so much, honestly. I appreciate how Ahling, Fareeda, and . . . god I forget the other king's name. The three who were already there were talking and laughing comfortably until Viren showed up, and then Ahling tried for sympathy and kept getting Interrupted by Viren.

I fucking love Aanya's introduction. Her interactions with Viren in this episode are pure fucking gold. She goes hard-faced when Viren initially asks after her regent, and clearly assesses the situation while he's talking, and then he starts to bend over all condescending to say "these matters require an adult perspective." And she just goes Cute to reply, "It seems then that I am a crown without an adult, and you are an adult without a crown. Let's just begin." And she just turns her back and strides to HER throne, because fuck this guy. The power of this little girl. Viren gets verbally murdered by a 12 year old.

I just wanted to look longer at the elven silhouettes that Viren summons here to scare the other rulers. Runaan's there in the center, Callisto and Andromeda to the right of him. The hair sort of looks like Skor to the left, but there's no weapons and the build is too vague to be sure. What I find interesting is that the elf furthest to the left in the highlighted section is Rayla's silhouette, an elf Viren shouldn't have even known was there. There's also the figures to Ahling's left, which are slightly faded, but who I can't identify for certain as elves.

this is just gonna be an image heavy post, sorry.

I find it intriguing that even Viren's false shades have the binding on their wrists, and Rayla doesn't seem to be one of these. Andromeda, Skor, Callisto, and Ram are the only ones he's summoned as more than silhouettes on the walls. He has them shuffling like zombies too.

So he adds feral snarls and shambling to the Moonshadow elves, to make them creepier. He adds spikes to the portrayal of Sunfire elves, and height, to make them more intimidating. All of his elves have blood red eyes. This is such blatant fearmongering. I also appreciate how the other monarchs are clearly moved by this display, but Aanya sees the manipulation for what it is, because she's been dealing with it for years as a child ruler.

FLORIAN that was the last dude's name.

That is not exactly the kind of name I would have expected from a Viking analogue lmao, fantastic.

I had a friend who was deep into RWBY the first time I watched this and I cannot unsee RWBY's Pyrrha when I look at Queen Fareeda.

See here it is again, this thing with Viren, strength is more important than goodness. He snaps when Aanya is undecided, because her decisions aren't strong enough for him. Meanwhile, it's actually a much stronger position (as she points out!) to actually stop and think about this situation rather than just taking the word of some random Guy from another kingdom and committing her entire country to a war effort.

She has SO MANY fair points, Ahling.

He really just roasts his own kid in the middle of a royal meeting huh lmao. I do think it's interesting that he doesn't die later - I'm pretty sure he's the one they said survived but was in a coma or something. What happened to his kingdom in the time lapse? Was Kasef's mother in charge of the kingdom? Did he have younger siblings?

Would it even be a mercy for Ahling to wake up and find out what happened to his son?

I love how unimpressed Aanya is with Viren's offer of a story.

OKAY I NEED TO WRITE THIS SHIT DOWN, TIMELINE TIME, FIRST USEFUL THING VIREN'S EVER DONE, JESUS

Okay so this is interesting, Ezran is 10, but Harrow only became king 9 years ago. So Sarai married Prince Harrow. And he took the throne telling Sarai he wanted to make a difference from how his father ran things, which has implications for what Katolis used to be like.

Fellas, is it gay to call your best friend "beautiful" in wistful tones while staring at him getting his family portrait done, and only mention his beautiful family as an afterthought?

Also Viren telling them they could move without consulting the artist, who was clearly still working on the family portrait, was rude AF and if I was the painter (not that I can paint) I would have splattered his pretty clothes with the ugliest yellow on the palette. The best part is Harrow would have thought it was so funny I wouldn't even be in trouble for it.

Viren's account of the history does include Harrow inviting him to stand with him in the portrait, but it is just his retelling, even if it's animated as a flashback. We already know from Rayla's flashback earlier that characters' memories/stories aren't necessarily how things actually went in this universe, and it still bothers me that Harrow was frowning in his official portrait with Viren where Viren wasn't. I suspect he wasn't the one who suggested it after all.

Harrow and Sarai were such tender parents, my heart hurts watching them cuddle with baby Ezran. I like that Harrow's so acutely aware of the class distinctions in his country. It makes me think that's maybe what bothered him about his father's reign; that's what he's so dedicated to changing.

"Lady Justice?" His little smirk when he leaned back and told her "She was wearing her robes." He knew that's where her mind was going to go and he was so fond about it. "Ah, so a boring dream." She says while snacking. I love how casually supportive she is, while also trying to bring lightness to a situation that's clearly distressing him.

I do think it's intriguing that Harrow does mention skin color in his list of things that would affect a person's position in the system, given we don't really see evidence of that in the systems we witness. The races that matter are elf and human; colors within those divides don't have nearly as much of an effect on the story. Maybe I missed or forgot something - or maybe most of the story takes place after this, and Harrow just really succeeded in addressing the inequality.

Amaya standing beside Sarai on her throne is such a good little background detail. She was crownguard before she was a general, it seems. I wonder if Sarai was too, and that's how she met Prince Harrow. I saw a post point out a while back that Callum's three parents are Soldier (Sarai), Poet (Damien), King (Harrow), and now I can't get that out of my head as I think about them.

Says something about Viren's arrogance that he's telling Aanya this story of her parents' sacrifice as if she didn't grow up hearing it.

Poor Bait.

I love the background reactions to Harrow's offer of help to Annika and Neha. Sarai and Amaya are on his side. The reaction of the public doesn't seem to be poor - and realistically, most of the common people wouldn't know at that point how badly this offer of help might affect them. They would just know that their king is offering help to people in need. Viren's the only one who reacts with anger or dismay, and his reasons are fundamentally selfish. It's better to let others die when you can help, just to avoid sharing in their suffering, in his mindset, and Harrow just disagrees.

I wonder if Callum ever accidentally reminded Harrow of Viren. Carrying around stacks of books, bright-eyed and intellectual.

I wonder if he'll remind Harrow of Viren even more, as an adult mage, and how that may affect their relationship in Arc 3.

Viren just randomly having a piece of the magma titan supports my running theory that he just randomly goes on trips to Xadia to "harvest ingredients", likely stoking the fires of Xadian aggression.

His bitter af tone mentioning that he wasn't Harrow's closest advisor is telling. I'm so fucking suspicious.

The guards watching over this sparring match just standing stock still even as their monarchs bicker, and then throw a spear between them, and then exchanging money about it, give me life. I love those little details.

"Is it intelligent?" "What? What do you mean?" "Does it think? Does it feel? Does it have a family?" I like this moment so much because it frames Sarai as someone who values life, all life, right away. "Then is it the last of its kind?" We know she's a soldier. We also know that she doesn't fight because she hates what's in front of her; she doesn't even fight just to defend what's behind her. She fights when she believes she's minimizing harm.

She would have gotten along with Runaan, if they'd met in good circumstances, and that hits, for me personally.

It's interesting that Sarai is already so suspicious of Dark Magic. I wonder what experiences she's had with it up until now to make her so solidly convinced it's a bad idea. "You said you wanted to build a better world, to really change things. That's going to take decades of hard work. There's no monster you can slay and solve all your problems! There's no shortcut! This is going to be a very slippery slope! Harrow, tell me you won't do this."

"It's our only chance."

Something about how when Harrow did something Sarai vehemently disapproved of, she fought with him about it, and she never changed her position, but she stood by him anyway to keep him safe, contrasted with how when Harrow did something Viren disapproved of, he fought with him about it and trapped his soul in a bird and tried to murder his sons to stage a coup.

Amaya was going to go on this mission whether Sarai did or not. I like that, the contrast between them.

Funny how Viren said the Magma Titan lived near the Xadian border, but after he got Harrow to agree to the mission, turns out it's actually on the Xadian side of it. Which makes this significantly more dangerous.

Interesting. The hidden outpost from a couple episodes ago isn't new, which was the impression I got from how Fen and Amaya talked about it; it's where Harrow and his group are planning the assault on the Magma Titan. I wonder if that's true or a plot device for Viren's story. Or just because the animators didn't want to or didn't have time to make a new background site.

Harrow "talks with his hands", a lot, just gestures a lot while he talks, and Amaya cracking a joke about how "look he's signing" to make Sarai laugh was adorable, but it also makes my heart ache because. Callum does that. That's a bit of Harrow's mannerisms in Callum. Ezran doesn't do that as much, he's more like Sarai.

Funny how Viren's so confident about how they just need to "open it up and take what we need", but he doesn't make a move to actually assist in doing that. He leaves that to Amaya and Neha.

Callum talking to Bait about Harrow's letter made me cry again. This poor kid.

Okay, but the story telling choice of framing breaking the seal of Harrow's letter with breaking the shield of the magma titan was so powerful.

Little baby Ezran with Bait for a palate cleanser. I do appreciate those moments from the credits sketches.

[chickenkupo]

Happy Birthday, Duke!

Summary: Wriothesley was never the one to celebrate his birthday, opting instead to keep it hush-hush, and devote himself to his work. Maybe he gets a fine dinner from the Coupon Cafeteria, or makes one extra cup of tea for himself, but that's normally it. Just a nice, calm day is all he wanted.

However, a certain hydro dragon has different plans for his mate this year, and he's not about to let Wriothesley escape or avoid enjoying it.

Recommendations before reading: For some slight background, I'd suggest reading through my work on AO3, I Promise. This will help give a little more lore behind the things that they say and do, but you can basically piece it together if you decide not to. Totally up to you!

Warnings: 18+ content in this one, ya'll, of the sexual variety. Mild cursing, little bit of bondage, you'll see once you dive in. Also not beta-read, I just wanted to write this 1) I didn't even realize it was Wriothesley's birthday until I saw it on Instagram and 2) I rather do this than deal with family drama during the holiday break. A win is a win.

Maybe if this gets some attention, I'll rewrite this to be much longer and more detailed. This is literally to get it out of my mind and as a little birthday treat for Wriothesley.

Wriothesley grunted as he tried to thrust his hips forward, desperate to get any friction to his groin. His hands were currently tied above his head in a rope of pure hydro energy, veins becoming prominent under his skin as he flexed his muscles, continuing to attempt to break free from its grip. He growled as he felt the man that was straddling his waist give out a deep chuckle, white hair raining down on him as the figure above leaned down over him, their noses almost touching.

"Neuvillette, so help me once I get out of this-"

"Now, now, Wriothesley...today isn't about you giving me pleasure. Allow me to show you my appreciation, love, and..." Neuvillette trailed off as he moved his head to deliver soft kisses on Wriothesley's cheek, continuing down to his neck where the marks of the two puncture wounds were still displayed.

"Passion..." the hydro dragon whispered, as his fangs elongated, teasing the skin on Wriothesley's neck. The man's breath was caught in his throat as he felt the fangs tease his skin, his cock twitching in excitement as he waited for the inevitable.

Neuvillette smiled as he continued to tease his mate for a few more moments, breathing hot breaths against his skin, licking it here and there before he let out a guttural growl. Wriothesley screamed out from the unexpected feeling of a tight pressure on his neck, before a sudden heat started to spread throughout his body. His sense of touch intensified to an almost alarming degree, dirty moans being drawn out of him as even the slighest touch of the bed sheets beneath him caused an intense wave of pleasure to flow through his body. His cock ached as blood rushed to it, causing it to harden immensely, and the need for release started to consume him.

Wriothesley started panting as his body heated up so much that he was starting to sweat, all of these sensations flowing through him at once was too much for his mind to handle. His eyelids lowered as his gaze went distant, his being completely consumed by all of what he was feeling now. Neuvillette simply smiled as he licked at his neck, the two holes sealing once more, but not a single drop of blood dropped. The boxer started to attempt to break free of the bindings once more, but this caused even more debauched moans to escape his lips, and he immediately stopped resisting.

"N-Neu, baby..." Wriothesley managed to groan out, before another moan escaped him as the man on top of him started to adjust himself slightly, so that their erections were rubbing up against each others through their pants. Neuvillette's obviously being a bit larger in size since he had two fully erect penises to handle. Wriothesley threw his head back at the teasing sensation, growling in frustration, desperate for some form of release.

"Easy now, love..." Neuvillette coaxed, a soft smile still playing on his lips. He then sat up straight, looking down at his man with a piercing gaze, a predator eyeing his prey in full force. The hydro dragon then extended his arm, holding his hand out as a silver ornate goblet seemed to appear out of thin air, and landing softly in his hands. Neuvillette then took the goblet, swished it around, a liquid clearly inside.

"The waters of Mondstadt are crisp and pure, though on you, it'll be even more divine..." The hydro dragon grumbled out as he took the gauntlet and poured it on his mate's bare chest and abs, the man below him gasping and writhing at the stark temperature difference between the cold water making contact with his scalding skin. This only caused Neuvillette to smile more as he lowered himself back down on top of his lover. Using his tongue, he started to lick the water off of his mate, taking sensual, slow licks as he kept his draconic eyes on his mate's reactions. As he did this, he also made sure to continue rubbing their dicks against each other, all of which were straining against the confines of their clothes now more than before.

"Ngh, Neu..." His man whimpered out, his breaths quickening as the Chief Justice continued to assault his body with careful, lazy licks with his tongue. The man tasted like something he had never quite had before, but was easily becoming a new addiction for him. In the back of his mind, the hydro dragon decided this might be the only way he ever wanted to consume water again.

As he continued his actions, Wriothesley's muscles strained as he started to flex his muscles, his body tensing up from pleasure due to all of the overstimulation. Once Neuvillette's tongue reached one of his nipples, Wriothesley screamed out in pleasure, tears starting to form in his eyes from the bliss that he was experiencing, still panting like a dog and looking absolutely wrecked.

Pleased with his lover's reactions, Neuvillette decided to take it a step further by nipping at one of his love's nipples with his fangs, being careful to not do any damage to the man. This only increased his mate's panting and disgustingly dirty moans, the strain starting to become too much. Wriothesley could feel that he was close to release, his dick hardening more than ever before, a tension growing in his loins that started to feel like it was coming to an apex.

Neuvillette only smirked in response, as this was exactly what he was wanting from his lover. Immediately, the hydro dragon allowed his claws to make an appearance, as he began ripping Wriothesley's pants, tearing them to shreds with little to no effort. The duke's cock sprang free immediately, slapping against his stomach, red, veiny and angry. Wriothesley gave a single sigh of relief as his manhood was no longer restrained, but it was short lived as he felt his cock being grabbed and a inhuman hiss being released by the hydro dragon.

"Happy Birthday, Duke..." Wriothesley could hear the dragon hiss out, right as he felt his dick being encased in a warm, wet and inviting mouth. The boxer howled in pleasure as his instincts took over, hips starting to thrust into his lover's mouth. Luckily, Neuvillette had given his man many blowjobs in the past, and was accustomed to his size. He was easily able to take in his cock and started to suck him off, having retracted his fangs right before doing so, to ensure that his lover had a safe experience.

"Bah...babe I don't think I can-"

The hydro dragon moaned, matching his lover's sounds as his throat continued to take a pounding still, taking his hands and putting a hand on each of Wriothesley's thighs, massaging his fingers into the thick muscles, clearly coaxing him into continuing and to not put up any hesitation or resistance. Wriothesley growled and screamed one final time, as the pressure in his cock intensified until it couldn't be held back anymore. The man released his seed directly down his love's throat, who happily sucked it down, as if it were a delicacy to treasure.

Wriothesley's pants started to wane as the heat within his body finally started to dissipate. However, his body was now starting to demand rest as they both began to settle and come back to reality. The hydro energy that was keeping his arms restrained finally let him go, his arms now coming back to his sides as he started to wrap himself up in the bed sheets surrounding the two of them.

"Fuck, Neuv...that was...holy shit..." Wriothesley mumbled out, sleep about to take him.

Neuvillette smirked as he raised himself back up, only to roll over next to Wriothesley, cuddling up to his side, his head resting on the scarred chest, sighing in pure bliss, though his two erections were still prominent and pressing against Wriothesley's side.

"Hun, you didn't...you didn't come, here, let me-" As Wriothesley started to shift, a commanding growl came from his partner, which stopped his body from making any sudden movements, his body starting to go back to resting into the comfort of the bed.

"Wriothesley, today is about you and you only. I'll handle things here in a few moments myself. But I want you to drift to sleep now, and remember that next year, you'll get something even better..."

The boxer was about to question him more, curiousity peaking, but the need for rest was overtaking him and suddenly did so. His eyes slowly closed and his breathing evened out into slow, deep breaths. Wriothesley was always the one to want to pass out after intimacy, though he would never admit it.

"Once more, happy birthday, Duke..."

[tc-doherty]

Book One | Chapter Twenty-Three

Index | First Chapter | Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Tag list: @bloodlessheirbyjacques @magefaery @did-i-do-this-write @marrowwife

@muddshadow @outpost51 @full-on-sam @bluberimufim

@unclear-contributions @talesfromtheunknowable @guessillcallitart @flowerprose

@ashirisu @xarrixii @the-letterbox-archives

(ask to be added)

Now published, please see this post for details!

On the fourth day, they received their first contact from the outside world just after lunch – letters from the capital, delivered by a few large eagles who had been bred to the task. Patrice was surprised to find that she, too, had a letter. At least until she saw who it was from. Johan and Rothert had written it together. She didn't wait, but retreated to a corner of the dining room and popped off the wax seal.

Johan had written first.

"Hope everything is well at summer court. Have they taken you hawking yet? If not, they will – at least once a week. What about a guided walk through the grounds? Uncle had them completely redone after he and my aunt were married and is very proud of them. If someone hasn't suggested it yet, they will eventually!

"In less pleasant news, we've been looking into things here, but no one was around when your room was broken into. We know some who were at court at the time – all the heirs, and the duchess - can be ruled out. A lot of other nobles too, I won't bore you with the list. It seems like the break-in was done quickly. Someone must've been keeping watch on your rooms, but nobody remembers any lurkers. I thought to check with the royal library and see if anyone has looked at books about dragons. A tidy little group, since you made no few people curious. Neither Countess Elizabet nor Leroy are on it, but I've arranged to drop in on social gatherings of some who were. Hopefully I can tell you more later!"

After that, Rothert took over with his own letter. His handwriting was an untidy scrawl, especially compared side-by-side with Johan's much neater printing.

"Greetings! I hope the weather is better there than here, I wouldn't want to be trapped inside with that lot every day. It's been nothing but rain northwest of New Iber, but I'm making the best of it.

"I stopped by a certain trying Countess' estate for a visit. Meddlesome as she is, I doubt she's behind the theft. She found herself another, much more suitable, protégé and seems to be enjoying herself. Considering your continued friendship with people she finds undesirable, I believe she's left dragons behind.

"Leroy has more pride than sense, but he's got more lust than either. Let alone you, he's also forgotten his lady from the tournament and has spent the past few days drinking at bars and chasing a well-built merchant's daughter. I doubt he'll cause you any trouble in the future.

"I'm continuing to make rounds of the parties over this way, but no news yet. Admittedly, most of the people out here aren't terribly involved with the court but you never know who might've heard something. Wishing you the best!"

Patrice sighed and crumpled the letter into a ball before shoving it into her pocket next to the spirit stone. That neatly ruled out the three most offensive people she could think of, although in truth she hadn't really thought Leroy was behind it.

Felisjyta gave her a bemused look when Patrice returned to her seat at the table. "Bad news?"

Patrice shook her head and rested her arms on the table. "No news, more like. Did you get any letters?"

The Serzek knight laughed. "I don't know who in the capital would write to me. Errys got a few though." She nodded towards the other knight, who was studying three letters with an irritated expression on her face.

One by one she crushed them – with considerably more force that Patrice had exerted, and dropped them onto her plate to be taken out with the trash.

"Bad news?" Felisjyta asked again.

"Bad enough when I was just pretty!" Errys said, scowling. "Now that I'm respectable too, I'm afraid I'll get marriage offers from every unattached person in the city – and even a few from those who aren't!"

Princess Emilia was sitting only two chairs down from them, how could she help but overhear? She didn't look up from perusing her own letters but she laughed. "The best cure for that is marriage, dear cousin. If you have someone in mind it might behoove you to move a little faster."

Errys shook her head vehemently. "I've no interest in anything of the sort, not that they'll listen."

Patrice laughed. "At least you'll never have any trouble keeping a fire lit, if you get love letters every day."

Errys huffed and shoved her plate with the offending letters away. "Laugh all you want. I don't see you in any hurry to the altar."

"I am a dragon after all," Patrice said, using the same explanation she had when the maids brought the subject up. "Whether I'm interested or not, this isn't necessarily the best place for me to look for partners."

Errys gave her a loaded look. "Well, that doesn't stop some."

Patrice knew that Errys was referring to her mother, and to her own uncertain status, but she refused to take the bait. She did not respond.

"From what I hear, you spend a great deal of time with my cousins. Of course Johan is already spoken for but Rothert wouldn't be a bad choice."

Patrice shook her head. “I view them both as friends, that is true. But humans are confusing enough already. If I were to court a human, it certainly wouldn't be anybody attached to a royal family."

Emilia laughed. "Fair enough. I suppose a dragon like you would prefer a country like Serze anyway."

Patrice said nothing, although she couldn't help but glance at Felisjyta. When she turned back around, she saw that Emilia had done the same.

Thankfully, Felisjyta guided the conversation in a slightly different direction. "And what of you, princess?" She asked. "You're the heir, so shouldn't you be the one getting married rather than Lord Victor?"

"That's exactly why I'm not the one getting married," Emilia said. "Political arrangements are one thing, but my king-consort must also be good for the nation on a day-to-day basis. I'm certain I'll end up marrying for peace, or for war, but there are other factors that need to be considered as well. In that respect, my younger siblings make much better political offerings."

But as she said it, she glanced down at her brother and Rozhalea, and the look she gave them was not exactly friendly. It seemed that the princess did not like Rozhalea any more than anyone else, but she was either polite enough or wise enough to hold her tongue on the matter.

Patrice also looked at them. Although Rozhalea tended to ruffle feathers everywhere she went – at least in her experience – Victor seemed to get along quite well with his bride-to-be. They chatted and laughed together with the queen and their body language was quite open and relaxed. Well, she supposed, everyone was bound to be liked by someone.

Errys interrupted. "It seems none of us are particularly fond of this topic, perhaps we can discuss something else."

"Yes, perhaps that would be for the best," Emelia said. And the four of them chatted about inconsequential things until the queen stood to announce their next activity.

The next morning, Felisjyta was not in the cobblestone grove.

Errys was there, working through some complicated maneuver by herself. She answered Patrice's question without looking up or breaking concentration. "I haven't seen her, she wasn't even in her room. Want to work with me today?"

"Perhaps later," Patrice said. "I was hoping to find Felisjyta."

"Come back if you get bored," Errys said.

Patrice made a noise of assent and wandered back into the gardens. In truth, she didn't mind having an excuse to meander around. The ornamental plants were nothing like the untamed wilderness she was used to, but it still reminded her of home. In the carefully trimmed roses surrounding their usual practice space, she could see the beginnings of the massive, sprawling roses she was used to. Patches of well tended flowers surrounded ornamental trees on either side of stone pathways. In her home the trees had grown and flowers had spread, and the stones had broken due to time and weather. But now, seeing a garden like this, how it should be, the grounds she had always played in made more sense. Is this what it would have been like, had Iberia not come to a disastrous end? If her parentage was truly what she was beginning to suspect, could this have been her life?

The sound of hoofbeats spurred her from her thoughts. She increased her pace, heading in the direction of the sound, the cat moving silently at her side. It was not a great leap of logic to find herself headed for the stables again. As she rounded the corner of the manor that gave way to the stables and paddocks, a very mismatched set rode in from the estate beyond.

Rozhalea looked every bit the proper lady, perched delicately on top of a fine boned black palfrey. She wore a bliaut of patterned, shimmering indigo silk which – when contrasted against the black horse – looked stunning. Only the thick gathering of pearl necklaces at her throat, the gem-bedecked circlet decorating her shining red hair, and a minimal amount of embroidery showed that Rozhalea was not a Runerian noble born and bred. Her face was mildly serene, but Patrice could see her eyes were hard and anger showed in the slight lines around her mouth.

Felisjyta, riding Vasya at a distance far enough to be considered impolite, made no attempt to hide her fury, or her contempt.

Patrice leaned against the wall and waited. The cat, sensing her intention, curled up at her feet, the tip of his tail twitching as he watched the scene.

Rozhalea had no interest in loitering. She slid to the ground in a graceful swirl of indigo silk and tossed the reins to a groom who materialized from inside the stable before sweeping off towards the house. Her path brought her past Patrice, although there were quicker ways to return indoors.

"Felisjyta isn't very reliable, you know," she said. "It's possible only dragons would have enough patience to deal with her, but you could easily find better company among the Serzeks, and perhaps even the Runerians for that matter."

Patrice just looked at her, with all the impassive disdain a dragon could muster for humankind. Despite Felisjyta's warning that Rozhalea could be dangerous, Patrice simply could not bring herself to even pretend to respect the other woman. But Rozhalea had been prepared for her this time. She didn't even falter.

"Then again, if you have no interest in politics, there's simply no reason for you to be here at all." With that she passed Patrice and vanished through the nearest door.

The cat growled low in his throat, but Rozhalea was already gone. Her comments were nothing but air, since Patrice did not care about her opinion. Although she certainly didn't like Rozhalea's rude comments about Felisjyta, it wasn't worth it to reveal anger over something like that. She knew from previous experience that it would only serve to amuse the duchess.

Felisjyta had vanished into the stable to take care of Vasya, so Patrice continued to wait. She had no intention of going into the stable and causing a panic among the horses of less robust temperaments. Instead she occupied herself in trying to brush the ever present white and black cat hair off of her skirt. Today she was wearing a simple bliaut of finely woven red wool, so the cat's fur not only clung to her with enthusiasm, but both the white and black hairs showed clearly.

She dropped her fussing as soon as Felisjyta reappeared.

The knight's humor had not improved much. She was still scowling, and seeing Patrice waiting for her did not immediately change that expression. "I'm in no mood to be a proper teacher today."

"That doesn't concern me," Patrice said. "Errys already offered to teach me if I wanted, and it isn't as if I haven't skipped days before."

Felisjyta stalked off into the gardens and Patrice fell in line with her. She made no move to either talk or to take the knight's arm as she had been doing of late, but simply walked in silence continuing her earlier admiration of the plants.

"Aren't you going to say anything?" Asked Felisjyta after they had walked together for a quarter of an hour.

"Why should I?" Patrice asked. "Your thoughts are your own. I am simply enjoying the exercise."

Felisjyta laughed and Patrice pretended not to notice that it was a little more forced than her usual joyful abandon. "I sometimes forget how differently you think than the rest of us. A human would be eaten alive by curiosity."

"Long lives breed patience," Patrice said, repeating a quote her mother had often used. "I will listen if you wish to talk, or walk in silence if you wish to think, or make idle conversation about the weather. It doesn't matter to me."

"Rozhalea doesn't like me being friends with anyone," Felisjyta said bitterly, "especially not her future sister-in-law. And she doesn't like my reluctance to get dragged into politics here." She fell silent for a moment, still scowling. "Lovely weather we're having, isn't it?"

Patrice nodded, and let herself fall into the conversational dance she had heard so many times. It had never really made sense to her, but now she thought she understood how talking about inane things might be useful. Humans didn't like silence, but if they weren't willing to talk about certain things, what else could they speak about except something pointless? It was support without needing anything in return. "I suppose, for now. I think it will storm soon again. It seems much like the other day before it rained."

Felisjyta let out a disgusted sigh. "Why is the weather here so nonsensical? In Serze it has the decency to follow set patterns and give us ample warning. Everything about Runerians is crazy!"

"You think the chaotic nature of their weather is reflected in the hearts of their people?"

At first Felisjyta was taken aback, but she soon grinned. "Everyone is shaped by the land they live in. If you have a stable country like Serze, it breeds stable respectable folk. If you have a crazy country like Runeria, well…" She offered her arm to Patrice, and Patrice took it. They naturally drew closer together walking in such a manner.

"You do realize," said Patrice, "I would not discuss such silly things with anyone else."

"Oh, I know," Felisjyta responded.

Patrice smiled. "Very well. Tell me, oh wise teacher, what wrongness this land creates in Runerians."

"Well you see, it's like this." Felisjyta gestured in the air with her free hand as she spoke, underlying her points. "This land and its weather are so unreliable, the people here simply have no room for traditions to take root. They always look ahead and always aim for progress, and that's certainly admirable. But they have nothing to fall back on, no traditions or stability they can all cling to."

"That's no way to live."

"Exactly."

They walked further into the gardens together, chatting about nonsense, black moods and enemies temporarily forgotten.

Index | First Chapter | Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

[blackjackkent]

All right, time to check out these memories we worked so hard to unlock! For each one, we get a flashback mural, and then a chat with the Veilguard about it in the Lighthouse living room.

-----

Regret 1:

Solas> "I was not certain you would come." Mythal> "You are the one who walked away. I never turn my back when my friend needs me." Solas> "The Evanuris seek the magic of the blight." Mythal> "Impossible. The blight is safely sealed away forever." Solas> "Though I wish I could believe you, I have sensed the breaking of the wards." Mythal> "I will investigate your claims. If they forget the danger of the blight, I will endeavor to remind them." Solas> "What if instead you left the Evanuris, and remained with me? Do you not wish for freedom from this struggle?" Mythal> "Be at peace, love. I will stop them." Solas> "As you must. The blight is our mistake."

(A/N: INTERESTING. It sort of seemed like the implication we were being led towards was that Ghilan'nain created the blight - but this implies that it is in fact much older and was itself released by the Evanuris. Perhaps Ghilan'nain further corrupted it afterwards, but it was bad enough that Solas was hella scared of it before Ghilan'nain got her hands on it.)

Neve> "Did Mythal call Solas 'love' in that memory?" Lucanis> "That's what it sounded like." Taash> "So they were doing it?" Bellara> "The elven gods were free with their emotions. They felt things deeply. The way they expressed things-- well, it feels romantic to us. But that wasn't really how it was. Back then, I mean." Taash> "Nah. They were doing it."

(A/N: hahahahahaha XD Davrin was sitting next to them when they said this and he looked SO unimpressed. :P

Helena is deeply torn between going with the joke and agreeing with her crush; in this case the crush wins out.)

Helena> "As someone who has Solas talking in my dreams, I'm with Bellara. I just can't see Solas carrying on a secret affair with Mythal." Neve> "Can't because you don't think he would? Or can't because you don't want to think about it while he's in your head?" Helena> "Yes."

(A/N: Snrk.)

Neve> "So the Dread Wolf goes to Mythal. They might be fighting, but they have history." Davrin> "And he warns her about the other gods using the blight. That's more important than his rebellion. It's like kingdoms coming together when an Archdemon rises." Bellara> "Mythal didn't think it was possible. She said the blight was sealed away. There's an old legend about it, Davrin - the one with Andruil's armor? Not sure it matters..." Helena> "We're deep in elven lore already. What's the legend say?"

(A/N: Cos Helena is obviously not gonna miss a chance to let Bellara infodump. :P )

Bellara> "Right. Well - Andruil was the goddess of the hunt. She put on armor, magic armor, made of something called the Void. Drove her mad." Davrin> "I remember this one. The other gods were afraid Andruil would turn on them. She was doing all kinds of horrible things. Causing plagues. It does sound like the blight." Bellara> "Well, it all ends with Mythal fighting Andruil - after Mythal turned into a dragon."

Taash> "She what? Why didn't you start with that?!" Bellara> "Anyway, she took Andruil's armor away. Then Andruil's madness left and peace returned." Emmrich> "Intriguing! So it's possible Andruil stumbled onto the magic of the blight." Neve> "And when Andruil went mad, Mythal took it from her and locked it away." Lucanis> "Until someone started using it again."

(A/N: Dun dun dun. This is definitely some interesting updates to the timeline I was picturing. :O )

Helena> "The blight's one of the only things that really scares Solas. He came to Mythal afraid." Bellara> "And she took it seriously too." Neve> "So Mythal goes off to investigate what Solas says. Then... what? It's too clean." Taash> "Seems plenty messy with them doing it."

(A/N: [snickers])

Neve> "But this isn't just a memory. It's something Solas wanted to hide. What's the crime? What did we see here that he feels guilty about?" Harding> "I... think I might know. When the Inquisitor was saving the world from the Breach, he met Mythal." Bellara> "What? Like in a dream?" Harding> "It was complicated. She helped the Inquisition. There was a magic pond. And a dragon--" Taash> "Nice!"

(A/N: Taash cracks me up. XD They're reminding me here of the Warden getting super excited to hear about griffons. :P Any time a dragon is brought up, Taash is all over it.)

Harding> "The point is, she also said that the other elven gods betrayed her. Killed her." Helena> "Okay, sorry, point of order. If they killed Mythal, how was she still around to help the Inquisition?" Harding> "Elven god magic? She'd spent centuries gathering strength and sharing people's bodies, I think." Emmrich> "If it was a truly benign possession, that speaks to her character."

(A/N: A fun little note, and makes sense that it's how Emmrich would think about it.)

Helena> "Solas goes to Mythal, the one semi-reasonable elven god, for help, and the other gods kill her for it. I imagine the Dread Wolf's rebellion heated up significantly after that." Bellara> "Right. And Mythal wasn't there to keep the other gods in check anymore." Taash> "It's not just that she died." Harding> "What do you mean, Taash?" Taash> "It's... ugh. There was stuff he wanted to tell her. But he waited too long. And then she was dead. He never got to make it right. That twists you up."

(A/N: Insightful! Nicely done, Taash. )

Neve> "That's it. There's our crime." Davrin> "Doesn't really tell us anything we can use, though." Bellara> "We know more than we did. That's something." Helena> "Then I guess we keep our eyes open if we come across more of these memories."

(A/N: Sounds like a plan, Helena. XD We actually have all of them and I just ran through them to get the screenshots/dialogue; they're all fairly complex conversations like this one, so I'll be doing one per post. Will probably do the rest of them tomorrow bc my computer is cooking me to death atm. :P

But ahhhhhh big reveals coming!)

[writerkatsblog]

Are the seals and restrictions on some of the evolved future Wu stronger than others? Monkey King's case probably can't be helped since he is the Great Sage Equal to Heaven and all that jazz, but are some of the others given less wriggle room than others?

Yes.

Certain Wu, like the ones holding Sibini, the Heart of Mala Mala Jong, and the Sapphire Dragon, have stronger seals than the rest to make sure that they're better contained so no "accidents" can occur.

But certain others are allowed more free reign on account of being more docile or known for good behavior. But will still usually require some outside assistance to break through the seals for any outside time.

Dàshèng's staff has the absolute highest amount of sealing on it possible solely because anything less would be about as useful as at holding something back as a screen door on a submarine.

[ace-malarky]

Mist Worlds; Magic

This week I'm rambling out the magic types of the Mist Worlds so yeahhh

Not every world has a native magic, but if people settle there they bring their magic with them? It's kinda related to bloodline/original world shenanigans but like with Asin and Merrok, different magic types can crop up in the same family

People from magic families who don't themselves have magic (like Briony) tend to be called Neutrals

Feral Mage

animal companions!

heightened senses/share thoughts etc

can bond into one body if well enough in tune, which - if done well - affords some... extra generally elemental power (see; Jasper, Llinos)

- exceptions exist where it gets a little funky (see; Kaua, Willow)

- "legacy" ferals are when a family bond exclusively with one type of creature (see; Llinos/Tamhas/Tadhg's family of foxes) and the magic flows stronger, which affords some Stronger Elementalism once bonded (see; Llinos)

if it's not done well, become something known as Demon Souled where they're at war with themselves and highly antagonistic. Can be calmed but takes practice/control. volatile elemental magic (see; Skilkran, almost-maybe Jasper)

Green Witch

destruction all the way my guys

probably needs a different way

comes with a hefty allergy to getting wet (see; Lisetta)

Arch Mage

horrifically OP - these are the ones that sealed the dragons and stabilised the gates - and proud of it (see; Skir Aracel)

using their magic comes at the cost of their sanity. Bigger spells take more

useful for lifting curses, battle magic

Glyph/Runic Mage

known as glyph on their home world and runic on the world they've otherwise populated

carved/painted into items that can then be activated by anyone

easy to fuck up and change the meaning by like a brush stroke (see; Kriemhild)

can be used to mimicked other types of magic (see; Rhiannon)

one use only

Versatile

intention based - includes shapeshifters until that magic is stolen from them and becomes its own subset (see; Harne)

the first mages were a dancer's guild so every spell is linked to movement (see; Kai, Kiya, Sarin, Elfionn)

lots of little subtypes! Merlie is a spy so has don't-notice and eavesdrop as her main skills

after the Alisier eats magic and Kaithr releases it, all the little subtypes become their own branches and no one can dip in and out of them

Sea Witch

one of the magics not really open to humans on accounts of it not being one of their worlds

(specialised Weather Witches can get here but Oof)

it's the mermaid to naga pipeline (mermaids being the young and more fresh water based, some interaction with land people. Once they reach a certain age, the Changes happen and they become naga, which are exclusively salt water but can come up on land for stretches of time)

Charm Witch

sort of like glyph mages in that it's carved/worked into things and can be used by anyone

more of a ritual aspect in how it's cast on the item, involving pulling the aspect from something else to place in it (see; Tamar pulling heat from candles to make her rings/scarf warm at a breath)

recharges slowly

from one of the destroyed worlds

Techno Mage

siphon off electricity from anything with a current/energy (see; Asin), Fuck Around And Find Out with tech (see; Seth)

accidentally created time travel? not harnessed until the Far Future (and yet Saturday and Siofra are here anyway)

most at home on high-tech world, but can operate anywhere. One of the few people to be able to transport their tech from world to world without it breaking down

Visualisation

Illusionists!

power depends on how believable they make their image - the more people believe it's real, the more likely it is to affect the world around it (see; Razar)

from one of the destroyed worlds

Transference

not initially Open For Humans, but gradually gifted out in Times of Great Need

can split/share power by halfing and halfing and halfing again, either self (see; Talisha) or items (see; Lucy) and use their attributes

can be gifted to people even if they're not of this world (see; Basil)

Peace Broker

Another non-human magic! (see; Akeri)

make pacts/agreements with spirits and the like. useful for combatting Erinty (see; The Tricksters)

mostly pacts for temporary power, "I'll borrow this for this" kinda bargains, but can be permanently binding depending on the wording 'n' such. A little light necromancy is possible (see; Taerne)

Sorceror/Warlock

used interchangeably but more like DnD Warlocks than sorcerors oops

made a pact with one of the elder gods at the centre of the worlds, which affects what kind of spells they can cast

get a pact animal/conduit to access their god to beg for power

Weather Witch

elemental shenanigans!

Very clanny

rare that a person has more than one... type? but has been known to happen (see; Ris, who is an OP example and the impetus for the SHTwins set of stories)

useful in groups for... well, controlling the weather. You want good sunshine and warmth for an outdoor event? talk to your local weather witch clan

Soul Mage

does in fact have a whole ramble on it somewhere (over here) but paraphrasing here

healing/interrogation/biometric locks are its main applications

can be sunk into gems for access later so the creator doesn't have to use up their own life to power it (unless they're the one using it, at which point they just. feel slightly ill? possibly faint depending on how much they're using/how used to it they are)

can also be used for mind control! we got puppet people! Noticeably does not work on fully bonded ferals. Please don't. This is how you end up with an angry lynx that has access to fire.

[plagueybirb]

Been thinking a lot about TOTK lately (because reasons), so here's MY take on the magic pebbles for whoever wants to hear it. Fair warning, this does get a little ramble-y but I gotta explain a couple things for it to make sense and I'm not just going crazy with the red string and corkboard here.

Okay, so. Whenever there's time travel shenanigans, there's a split in the timeline. So far, this has happened TWICE. First being the one most known and discussed from what I've seen: the OOT timeline split.

The second, that I haven't actually seen talked about before is in Skyward Sword. Spoilers for a like, 10 year old game. Go play it if you can, it's one of my favorites!

Anyway, the Skyward Sword timeline split. The timeline where Link and Zelda/Hylia stay in the present and thus the timeline we all know and love is created. BUUUT, then there's the past, where Demise was defeated not as a grumpy scaly jelly bean from a wish from the Triforce, but a good old fashioned smackdown in his true form. Where technically Link never needs to go on a journey to save Zelda and literally the entire plot of the game happens.

We never find out exactly what happened to that past timeline left behind. And yes, I know Old Impa waited about a million years or whatever but here's the thing. Whenever Zelda, and by proxy, Hylia is directly involved in time travel shenanigans, it creates a sort of stable time loop. Zelda will always sleep in the amber. Zelda will always fall and end up in Zonai era Hyrule.

So. Because of this, I think that simultaneously there exists a timeline completely parallel to the main one, but it's the past where Demise was defeated in his true form. The past that Link and Zelda/Hylia left behind. Here's where the magic pebbles come in.

They're only called the Zonai secret stones because the Zonai were the ones who found and named them. Like naming a dinosaur after yourself. And as people are wont to do in the Zelda universe, they build a society around it. But what ARE the magic jelly beans you ask?

They're pieces of Demise's body.

Yeah. You heard me correctly. You know how Hylia has Goddess Plumes? It's like that. In theory, if you eat a piece of a being like a goddess or even a primordial entity, it's gonna mess you up big time.

The fight with Demise was definitely a lot more brutal and bloody than the game shows, it's not hard for me to imagine pieces of solidified magical energy just firing off into the abyss whenever Link let lightning strike his sword and stabbed the hell out of the guy. We don't know how powerful Demise truly is, only that he was so powerful that it took a Goddess LEAVING her divinity and becoming a mortal temporarily to keep him sealed away, and even then Demise kept breaking out and needed to be sealed again. Probably more times than when Link had to.

Maybe the secret stones weren't always shaped like crooked tears (OR. Y'know. Possibly drops of blood), maybe when the Zonai found them in the Depths (because I refuse to believe the Zonai weren't originally from there, which I'll talk about another day), and perhaps put molded them to be shaped like something familiar. Perhaps a certain amber or dusk relic?

Mortals, even ones incarnated time and time again due to an ancient curse, aren't meant to handle pieces of a primordial entity so powerful it took a whole Goddess and a million year long plan to finally take him down. Of course swallowing one would change you.

There's a theoretically infinite number of magical pieces of the ancient deities and higher powers, they just haven't been found yet.

Demise would see a dragon as something incredibly powerful. It would make sense as to why his blood would turn you into one while robbing you of your memories. And really, it takes some DAMN COURAGE to look a Goddess who governs time in the eye and say basically, "Fuck you, I'm going to come back SPECIFICALLY to mess up your good time because I hate you"

After all, GANONDORF is the one associated with boars. Demise was never given the same association except by Ganondorf being trapped as the reincarnation of his hatred time and time again.

And hey. Perhaps the Goddess Plumes turn one into a massive owl sort of creature. No one's ever eaten one to confirm that we know of.

Who knows. Perhaps there's a third deity or entity out there whose pieces of themself turns people into boars when eaten. You never know. Perhaps one that even. Bargains. With mortals. :)

Anyway, that's my take on the Zonai secret stones. I'd love to hear what other people think!

[kit-williams]

Warhammer 40k & D&D AU

Initial post VULKAN LIVES STOMP STOMP

Vulkan will go by Vulkan Nocturne also known as the Great Smith Vulkan

Vulkan doesn't do too much out of the ordinary when travelling with his brothers, getting a portable forge, and making things is what he does so it's not too out of the ordinary for Vulkan

When he splits off from his brothers he is captured by the Drow

Of course this enrages Vulkan but he discovers the people he is in captivity with are a whole tribe of orcs and they speak of their chieftan with awe but worry.

Vulkan frees himself and the orcs as he rampages through the slave holding area freeing humans and working his way to the temple of lolth. There he found the chieftess and freed her.

Vulkan tried his best to get everyone out of there alive but there were many casualties

He collapsed the cave entrance they ran out of to buy themselves time to escape the drow.

Eventually the humans split off and Vulkan accompanied the orc tribe back to their home territory

Chieftess Ulna was rather frustrated about something just saying the Drow had cursed her with some sort of magic but once they returned home she would be able to fix it all.

Vulkan endeared himself to Ulna; he wasn't the most comfortable with Orcs as most of the brothers were still rather xenophobic but for many of them it was a lot easier for the humanoid races to just think of them as abhumans; I mean they could also interbreed so they had to have some common ancestor or relative, right?

But he continued to integrate himself with the tribe enjoying the company and being useful in making gear and weapons for them as they talked about their neighbors but Chieftess Ulna was the strongest and would protect them; he found their unwavering belief in Ulna akin to how his sons just utterly believed in him

When they returned to the territory, Vulkan was an honorary member of the tribe and Ulna had him follow her to claim a reward and then he could depart; Vulkan was a little hurt in remembering his promise to only lead them to their destination and leaving but he felt like her was back home and would talk to Ulna to change this.

They got to a cave full of gold, suits of armor, weapons, and countless magic items laid about as Vulkan looked around as Ulna was grabbing something.

Him and his brothers had yet to actually fight a dragon but this cave was suspiciously like how they were told what a lair was like.

'You know Vulkan... you were a pleasent company so you will be rewarded. I will let you know my name.' Ulna said sighing in relief as the magic rolled over her breaking the seal the Drow placed on her. 'My name is Migheth' Vulkan looked to Ulna now Migheth as he was certain that was the name of a powerful female red dragon. He watched her walk with a new sway in her hips that he did appreciate but Vulkan knew something was wrong... she walked behind a pillar and what walked out on the other side was a lumbering Dragoness. She sighed finally in her own skin again as she laid on her hoard, 'I will give you one gift for your service. The luxury of giving me a half dragon.'

Either Vulkan tricks her into being her husband till he dies or some other way but Migheth finds herself endeared to the smith and doesn't want to give him up.

They have a half dragoness named Ember Nocturne; she doesn't realize she is a half dragon and takes up a normal appearance as a half orc.

Migheth is close to being an Ancient Red Dragoness so she has some quirks about her and she is in the mood of just being seen as an Orc

[bordirthena]

{Spoilers - Theory} Old Gods = Elvhen Gods? Part. 1

Originally posted 24th May 2022

This theory has been around in the DA community for years. ghil-dirthalen has videos about the individual Old Gods and touches on the possibility and theorizes who each OG could potentially be from the Elven Pantheon.

List of the Evanuris (Elvhen Gods)

Elgara'nan -- God of Vengeance Mythal -- the Great Protector Falon'Din -- Friend of the Dead, the Guide Dirthamen -- Keeper of Secrets Andruil -- Goddess of the Hunt Sylaise -- The Hearthkeeper June -- God of the Craft Ghilan'nain -- Mother of the Halla Fen'Harel -- The Dread Wolf

List of the Old Gods

Dumat -- Dragon of SilenceZazikel -- Dragon of ChaosToth -- Dragon of FireAndoral -- Dragon of SlavesUrthemiel -- Dragon of BeautyRazikale -- Dragon of MysteryLusacan -- Dragon of Night

9 Elvhen gods vs 7 Old Gods? That must debunk it already, right? Wrong! As we find out in DA:I and the Trespasser DLC;

The Evanuris were locked away by Fen'Harel for murdering Mythal.

Fen'Harel (Solas) did not claim 'god-hood' over his fellow elves.

Subtracting Fen'Harel and Mythal from the Evanuris count would leave us with 7 Gods/esses that were sealed away by Fen'Harel. Coincidence? I think not.

{The Evanuris & Dragons}

The Ancient Elven Writing in the Arbor Wilds is undecipherable but we gain some incite from the Well of Sorrows.

This elven writing found in the Arbor Wilds is so old there seems to be no way to learn what it means. There are whispers from the Well of Sorrows. It's impossible to understand the entire text, but certain parts suddenly reveal a shadow of their original meaning. "His crime is high treason. He took on a form reserved for the gods and their chosen, and dared to fly in the shape of the divine. The sinner belongs to Dirthamen; he claims he took wings at the urging of Ghilan'nain, and begs protection from Mythal. She does not show him favor, and will let Elgar'nan judge him." For one moment there is an image of a shifting, shadowy mass with blazing eyes, whose form may be one or many. Then it fades.

Let's break it down;

1. The sinner's crime is high treason. 2. The sinner belongs to Dirthamen 3. took wings at the urging of Ghilan'nain 4. Begs protection from Mythal 5. Elgar'nan to judge him 1. "His crime is high treason. He took on a form reserved for the gods and their chosen, and dared to fly in the shape of the divine." Taking the form (shapeshifting) reserved for the gods (Evanuris) and their chosen (??) and dared to fly in the shape of the divine (possibly ascend into God-hood and form their own cult?). The latter part is somewhat of an educated guess but does not stretch beyond the definition of high treason.

High Treason definition; the crime of betraying one's country, especially by attempting to kill or overthrow the sovereign or government.

The chosen mentioned are only attested in this codex entry, however I have my theories.

2. "...The sinner belongs to Dirthamen;.."

In Inquisition we are told by Solas that the vallaslin are slave markings, and we are shown the mural located in the Ancient Sanctuary in Trespasser which depicts Fen'Harel removing the vallaslin from the faces of the elvhen that have joined him. However, it is mentioned in-game that although the vallaslin designs venerate a patron god it does not mean that the slave bearing the markings are personally owned by the god, but could be owned by a freeborn elven noble wanting the favour and/or blessing of the patron. For the distinction to be made that the sinner belongs to Dirthamen is a crucial one and lends credence to a dalish legend.

3. "...he claims he took wings at the urging of Ghilan'nain..."

If it only had named Andruil, the dalish would have gotten something correct. But maybe they got it half correct? After all Andruil is often paired with Ghilan'nain in dalish legends. Although, I very much doubt the sinner shapeshifted into a fox with wings, it would be safer to assume that it is a case of an animal avatar or animal totemism for an as of yet unnamed elvhen in the service of Dirthamen. Excerpt taken from Dragon Age: Origins codex: Bear

"...When the world was new, Dirthamen gave one secret to each creature to keep. The foxes traded their secrets to Andruil for wings..."

Depending on in-game choices we see this very same scenario happening when Mythal gifts Morrigan the knowledge to shift into the form of a High Dragon.

4. "...and begs protection from Mythal."

Mythal, the Protector, the All-Mother. She is invoked when mercy, justice and vengeance needs to be meted out. In all her remaining iconography she is depicted as a dragon or a woman with a dragon's head/helmet and wings. This again lends itself to divine providence that the dragon form is considered sacred by the elvhen people. As to why will be expanded upon in the future. But! If Mythal is depicted as a dragon then that would mean there should be 8 dragons / old gods in Ancient Tevinter? Afterall it is stated that the tevene do not believe the Old Gods to be truly dragons however they choose the form of a dragon. Well... the short answer is, not necessarily?

As we discover and solve the Astrarium in Inquistion we unlock codex entries pertaining information of the solved constellation.

Excerpt from the Codex entry: Constellation: Draconis

Called "High Dragon" in common parlance, the constellation Draconis is always depicted by a dragon in flight. Recently, it has come into question whether this was the case in the ancient Imperium. Most Tevinter dragon imagery was reserved for the Old Gods, so why would they dedicate a constellation to dragons in general when specific dragons were held in such reverence? This speculation is fueled by older drawings showing Draconis as more serpentine in appearance, perhaps depicting a sea creature or an unknown eighth Old God that was stricken from historical record.

Mythal could be the theorized eighth Old God that was stricken from record. However there is some doubt, could Draconis potentially depict the Cetus? The sea serpents that Ghilan'nain created but were spared destruction when she was offered apotheosis.

"..This speculation is fuelled by older drawings showing Draconis as more serpentine in appearance, perhaps depicting a sea creature..."

It could be interpreted as that, however, it seems to me that most (if not all) the constellations we discover in DAI (and Jaws of Hakkon) depict Gods/esses, so why would the Cetus be given that honor independently of their creator?

That being said, Mythal has been attested as being referred to as taking the form of a serpent.

Excerpt from Codex Entry: Elven God Andruil

"...So Mythal spread rumors of a monstrous creature and took the form of a great serpent, waiting for Andruil at the base of a mountain. When Andruil came, Mythal sprang on the hunter. They fought for three day and nights, Andruil slashing deep gouges in the serpent's hide. But Mythal's magic sapped Andruil's strength, and stole her knowledge of how to find the Void. After this, the great hunter could never make her way back to the abyss, and peace returned."

Whether or not that 'serpent' is used in lieu of naming the form, which is a common precept in ancient elvhen entries when referring to a form reserved for the divine, is open to interpretation and debate.

5.  “... She does not show him favor, and will let Elgar'nan judge him.”

Oh boy, you know you’ve gone and done it when Mythal gets Elgar’nan to judge you! Codex entry: The Judgement of Mythal

Whenever one of the People wronged another, they would not call on Elgar'nan to avenge them, for his fury would destroy all it touched. Mythal saw this bring strife among the People, and went to Elgar'nan; she offered to deliver justice when the People warred amongst themselves. Elgar'nan saw her wisdom and agreed, binding all to abide by her verdicts. Some petitioning Mythal for justice hid jealousy, accusing those who had done them no wrong. She saw their lies, and struck them down. Others petitioning Mythal for justice burned with wrath for imagined slights. She saw their weak hearts, and struck them down. Those coming to her with clear minds and open hearts were granted judgment and protection, and Mythal harried their enemies until the end of their days.

But what is of great interest is:

“Whenever one of the People wronged another, they would not call on Elgar'nan to avenge them, for his fury would destroy all it touched.”

It isn’t explicitly stated that Mythal has killed anyone in her judgements, the act of ‘striking them down’ could imply it, however, the phrase is also used in a Codex pertaining the subjugation of the Titans, and as the lyrium still flows we can only assume that the titan seen in Trespasser is still in fact alive. So the crime was so heinous that Mythal deferred judgment to Elgar’nan. The evanuris that is known for his indiscriminate wrath. 

JOIN ME FOR PART 2.

[daybreakrising]

HEADCANONS - B.AIZHU & THE CONTRACT (SIDE EFFECTS)

The name of the contract with Changsheng is known as "Way of the Dragon-Dragging Jade Snake." Only the name of contract is known, and not even Changsheng can explain the details, only that she learned it long ago.

given that we know next to nothing about the intricacies of the contract itself, i have of course taken it upon myself to expand on it. we already know how it works: b.aizhu has accepted a shorter lifespan & chronic incurable illness in order to heal the sick and save lives by sacrificing his own.

but an early grave and lifelong pain are not the only side effects of such a contract:

b.aizhu inherited changsheng's eyes, but this is not the only snake-like trait he possesses. hidden in 'sheaths' above his canines are a set of retractable fangs which can slide free as he wills them. fully extended, these fangs measure roughly an inch from root to tip. there is a shallow groove along the inner edge of the tooth which, typically, would be used to guide venom into a wound. for the most part, b.aizhu keeps these hidden, but will occasionally use them for practical purposes (piercing tough skin on fruit, breaking seals on jars, etc). he has never revealed them to anyone (barring changsheng, who is naturally aware of them). this is partly why his smiles are typically closed-mouth - even though the sheaths are near invisible unless someone is looking for them, he doesn't chance a keen eye spotting them.

his blood is toxic. a combination of his snake-like traits & the sickness he takes into his own body on a daily basis has turned his blood into poison. if ingested (either by human or beast), it will cause a myriad of unpleasant symptoms including: sickness, fatigue, fever, chills, dizziness, weakness, breathing difficulties, mental confusion - and, in the worst cases: seizures, loss of consciousness, and coma. naturally, he has created an antidote to appease these symptoms on the rare chance his blood is accidentally ingested, which he keeps on his person at all times. (there is also whisper of a deadly potent poison kept under lock and key in the pharmacy's stores, though the doctor will neither confirm nor deny its existence).

he is able to process venom in his body. do not mistake this - he is not immune; merely, he can withstand its effects for short periods of time without suffering. this enables him to treat victims of venomous bites or stings promptly and efficiently. the higher the dose, the less time he can fight the effects.

he can smell sickness. even at its earliest stages, he can sense it, similar to the way some animals can detect sickness long before it is discovered. it took years of experience and practice to hone this particular skill, but he is now able to pinpoint the exact type of illness and at what stage it is just from a brief inhale. this is how he can be so efficient with his treatments - how he knows what someone needs as soon as they step through his doors.

by extension, he can also smell death. he knows when someone is terminal even before he examines them, even if they are still in the early stages of a fatal illness. (on that note, q.iqi still carries a lingering scent of death about her, though it is different to those that are merely dying).

he and changsheng share thoughts. whilst they can't actively communicate telepathically, they are able to predict what the other is thinking or feeling. changsheng, too, is able to sense the state of b.aizhu's health - she can feel when he tires, when the pain is worse; she knows his bad days even before they actually happen. he cannot hide anything from her even if he wanted to try (this includes lying, which he does more often than people might think).

he can see in total darkness. like certain species of snake, he is able to convert the heat from organisms that are warmer than their ambient surroundings into electrical signals, which allows him to "see" in the dark.

[hashtacj]

❀ *◦ keke palmer. female. she/her. bisexual. ⇝ hey, isn’t that aretha hatzi( hashtag )? i think that the twenty-seven year old from meteora, greece works as a hacker for the order of the dead idol, but outside of that people describe them as late nights spent staring at the computer, hanging out in shady diners, no care for which version of themselves is seen next. i hear they are secretive & distant, but they are also known to be warm & lyrical. consider giving them a visit at their home in the seal harbor apartments and get to know why they’re called the black sheep.

𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐈𝐂 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

FULL NAME: Arethra Mae Hatzi ALIAS | NICKNAMES: Hashtag (to those who know or come across her work), Arie, Aretha Daniels. BIRTHDAY | AGE: COMING SOON, 27. BIRTH LOCATION | CITIZENSHIP: Unknown, unknown. | Greek citizenship, in a way. CURRENT LOCATION: Anchorage, Alaska. SEXUALITY: Bisexual. SPOKEN LANGUAGES: English, Greek, Spanish, German, Chinese, Turkish and some other various languages. OCCUPATION | DEGREES: Hacker for the Dead Idol. | Broadcast Engineer for 107.5 BLACK DRAGON PEARL RADIO. | None. IQ | ETC: While not technically tested for IQ as a miroir, Hashtag is quick to learn technological things and thinks of her brain as a super computer. It's the reason she was able to become a hacker compared to any other skill sets -- and she believes the real Aretha must've been highly intelligent. PERSONALITY: She can be well spoken and almost lyrical -- but that's because in a way, she's speaking in code. While she might live in the world's shittiest apartment complex, she is warm despite how secretive she can be behind closed doors. If you ever need a meal, she'll cook you something, or invite you to her favorite dinky diner for a meal on her. Despite that, for every inch she gives someone, there's a few feet between the truth and reality. FAVORITE ANIMAL: Cats. All the cats. In fact, for the first time in Hashtag's existence, she finally has a cat.

𝐏𝐀𝐒𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

Imagine opening your eyes, empty inside of emotion and memory. Now imagine being told you're someone, but you're really not. You're a mirrored image of someone who went missing -- you are them, on the surface. A clone of a life that would never be yours, or you. You're tested to find your skillset, settling on computers. In fact, it comes all too naturally to you when your fingers type. Your eyes can see the faults in codes most cannot and somewhere along the way, you create a super worm virus capable of bringing down governments IF SOMEONE REALLY WANTED YOU TO. So you keep that tucked away for a rainy day, going where you're told like the perfect technological solider they want you to be.

𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

Flash forward to now, stepping out of a car that dropped you outside of the shittiest set of apartments you've ever seen. There was an order to stay here, waiting in the shadows until your skillset comes in handy once more. Get a job, make friends, blend in with the masses. Yet you start to think you're crazy when you get flashes, however brief they are, of a life you know isn't yours; not aware that the life you've never lived is just around the corner. A meeting of chance, or a stroke of luck, but you've never been lucky. No, if anything you're screwed.

𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 ⌿ 𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐃

Arissa Hatzi -- TO BE PLOTTED. It's gonna be angsty, don't worry. Grab a thing of popcorn and gather around for the shitshow.

Those involved with the radio station -- whether they work together or deal with each other in passing, these people probably look to her for help as a broadcast engineer, or there's a caller who happened upon her on a smoke break and asked her a question or two while they were sneaking around.

Someone she butts heads with often -- Most people don't ask too many questions. They certainly don't put much thought into certain actions, but from day one, these two have fought each other on everything. Maybe they've actually thrown hands? Whatever it is, it's like fire and gasoline.

Someone she helps with computers -- Did you use your school computer to look up spicy subjects, and now have a nasty virus on it? Did you find a code that's suspicious? Do you not know what technology is? Whatever the case is, this person always hits her up for computer help and she's always down to answer the call.

Someone she talks conspiracies with -- How these two met, no one really knows, but whenever they're together, they're always hush hush whispering in the corner or in a booth. In a way, this is as truthful as she'll allow herself to be with someone even if it's battling the idea of a giant moth man fighting a yeti.

Someone who is aware, or sort of aware, they both are miroirs -- Maybe they trained together or maybe they met along the way on some mission or attack. Maybe they aren't aware and Hashtag has to break the news. Whatever the case, I need semi-best friends trauma bonding.

[urbeastprime]

Magic Branch: Arcane

Arcane Magic finds its origin in the creation of the First Dragons. The focal point of Arcane magic is in distilling and amplifying conceptual associations or symbols, powered by ‘breaking down’ physical materials. Arcane Mage’s typically carry specific materials to use in their spellcasting, either in preparation or on the fly; by ‘Burning’ these materials, they can achieve a wide variety of effects. It is very versatile, capable of generating energy, transforming objects, manipulating present objects and energies, or adjusting the souls and minds of ones’ self and others. ‘Burning’ material can also be used to straightforwardly ignite Arcane flames.

Arcane Magic glows blue, manifesting as smokeless flames and sparks that often form sigils and symbols. As a medium, Arcane Mages utilize base metals like iron, brass, and copper.

The Ability Class of Arcane Magic is perhaps a bit predictable: the Pyromancer, also called Fire Mages, Burners, or Salamanders. While they can, as other Arcane Mages do, ‘Burn’ objects, there is no conversion factor to produce varying spells. Instead, they Burn at a much higher rate, convert small, simple objects into intense blue-cyan flames. The Pyromancer can then freely control and manipulate those flames, as well as other existing flames and heat. As their power grows, the control they can exert grows exponentially, from forming fire into blades and general shapes up to manifesting ‘beasts’ and constructs from the flames, which they themselves can touch freely but others will be burned. As a medium, Pyromancer typically wear simplistic metal jewelry, things like rings or bracelets with gaps or divots, from which ‘flames’ manifest when the Pyromancer is using their power. In extreme cases this metal jewelry can heat up to the point of burning the Mage, but this is typically rare.

Artificer is the First Stage Class for the Arcane Mages, otherwise known as Tinkerers, Crafters, or Alchemists. Adept primarily in a supportive role, Artificers use their smaller degree of Arcane power to empower devices and potions, which need to be created and prepared beforehand for any certain degree of success. Potions are created by ‘Burning’ various mundane or rare materials in simple oils, imbuing the fluid with Arcane capacities. This takes time to create specific potions, though as the Artificer grows in skill they may be able to make certain simpler types at a moments notice as needed. Devices powered by Arcane Magic are also in their wheelhouse, often using symbols and runes. For metal mediums, the Artificer typically either uses specific tools in creating potions and mechanisms, ‘seals’ and bands on the potions’ containers, and the metals making up the bulk of a device’s construction, all of which glow and burn when in use. Thinking ahead is the Artificer’s best friend.

Next is the Sorcerer, the Second Stage Class for Arcane Magic; they are also referred to commonly as Battlemages, Weavers, and Sparkers. More in line with the Pyromancer’s direct action approach, the Sorcerer is a more fluid caster, keeping a variety of small and simple objects as spell components to be Burned and interpreted on the fly into versatile spells when needed. As a medium, Sorcerers have metal forged into a casting implement, something like a staff, sword, spear, or wand, usually with some kind of gemstone or glass imbedded in it; in use, the metal typically glows with sparking sigils, or ignites in the glass. They can be a bit more physical then other Arcane Mages, but still tends towards ranged attacks and supportive abilities, though imbuing themselves with magic ‘buffs’ to engage in direct combat is far from uncommon with the average Sorcerer.

Finally, as the Third Stage Arcane Class is the Wizard, also dubbed Arcanists or Specialists (which, themselves, each garner a differing and appropriate title). They are the most powerfully versatile Arcane Mage, capable of a wide range of magical ability, to the point that the average Wizard will have entire sections of Arcane discipline that they have to forfeit learning in order to master what they do. As a medium, Wizards operate two-fold: first is metal binding a specific ‘source’ for them to focus their magics through, primarily something like a book of spells, a crystal ball bound in metal bands, or a skull with metal spikes driven through it; second is a small bag of their own blend of base metals in powder form, ground down to dust, which they dip their fingers into and draw out a small amount to ‘draw’ symbols and spells in the air or on surfaces to cast. Necromancy, Illusions, Conjurations, Transformations, and Evocations are just some of the ‘schools’ that a Wizard can learn from in their casting.

Arcane Resurrection magic is based around a large ritualistic circle, drawn in metal powder and set alight via Burning. A handful of very specific objects need to be Burned as spell components, including diamonds, but most are easily accessible to a competent Arcane Mage. Flames ‘consume’ the corpse, with deposits of metal and diagrams of missing segments refilling the damaged body. The one casting the ritual typically has to actively keep the circle Burning the entire time, until such time as the corpse is fully restored and the individual awakens.

Arcane Magic Classes: Pyromancer (A), Artificer (I), Sorcerer (II), and Wizard (III).