#But that's because I judged them to not need a lot of knowledge to understand the fics plot

[familyofpaladins]

getting into a new show and immediately wanting to read fics, but only being able to read half of them because you havent even gotten through half of the episodes yet, and obviously, people will write about/reference later canon events, and you dont want to spoil yourself, so you have to restrain yourself and feel like a feral dog holding its own leash

[deadsetobsessions]

Writing Prompt… kind of? Definitely write more if you want but this was a cute little “fic starter” that popped into my mind.

——

Danny didn’t know the first thing about art. This is an important fact.

“Sam, why am I even here?”

“Suck it up, Casper.”

“The show or the school?” Danny privately thought Casper the Friendly Ghost was the best thing to have come around. It did wonders for improving relations between Amity and inhabitants of the Zone.

Sam smacked him on the arm. “You know which one. You’re just here to be the normie judge. You don’t need to know anything about art.”

“Everyone here is like an art acolyte or something, Sam! I’m an engineering newb in a room full of people with art PhDs!”

Sam rolled her eyes and checked her manicures. “If you call Fenton Works newb level, then the rest of the world would be Neanderthals. Seriously that’s why you’re here. The art’s gotta appeal to the untrained eyes too. I trust your judgement.”

Danny gave in. “Thanks, Sam. That means a lot.” He followed after Sam but after a moment, he whined, “But couldn’t you have taken Tucker? Dude’s got four untrained eyes!”

“He’s busy with his internship. And you were already in Gotham.”

They reach the exhibition, Sam and Danny being welcomed in. Sam’s parents, while not the richest of the rich, were known art connoisseurs and respected people in the communities that dotted around the world. On top of being the descendants of the man that invented the deli toothpick cellophane twirling device, that is. Sam was standing in their place today- begrudgingly- because they’d promised to pay for an entire month of Gotham architecture tours and a trip to Japan. After all, Sam had much of their knowledge too. If anyone could say anything about the Masons, it was that they were passionate in their chosen field. L

“The contestants are in the room next door. The judge panel is beginning.” The person at the door informed them. He gave them a slip of paper and a pen to mark their choices in each field. Danny breathed a sigh of relief and began wandering around.

After he wandered between the oil paintings- “oo, this one. Reason why… the vibes are nostalgic. I like it.”- and the various depictions of a specific ship, Danny was pulled to a stop by his core reaching out. He looked up and what he saw took his breath away.

It was just a photo.

But it felt like he was there, on that rooftop, crouched among the shadows and watching the early rays of muffled light hit the tops of his city. His core thrummed. It felt like protection. It felt like he was being fulfilled, like Danny was once more becoming Phantom and that he was watching over this city he’s beginning to understand.

Danny, almost fevered, scribbled down the name [A Robin’s Nest- by Tim Drake] as his number one choice to win the contest over all. And, at least, to win the first in the photography division.

——

“Oh, Ancients, are you okay?”

Danny had wandered around in the interim as the votes were tallied. He hadn’t been paying attention when he smacked into a little kid that could have been his little brother.

“Uhm. I’m good.”

Danny helped the kid up. “I’m Danny. I’m sorry I smacked into you. Are you sure you’re not hurt?”

“Yeah. I’m Timothy Drake. I’m good.”

Danny’s smile widened in shock. “Like the photographer? Oh, wow! I really loved that photo! It was amazing! It felt like I was up there with the vigilantes!”

As he spoke, Danny glanced around for the kid’s designated adults. Hm. That’s odd. Everyone and their parental figure was accounted for.

“Oh.” Timothy flushed. “Thanks! I hoped the judges liked it too.”

Danny smiled, a small secretive thing. “Oh, I’m sure they will. Will you tell me more about your photography?”

“Oh, if you want!”

——

[elysiansparadise]

My experience with some synastry aspects/overlays

🩶His Moon in my 7th house (#1): I still remember it sometimes, that way a smile would appear on my face at his mere presence. I perceived him as eccentric as he was very different from me, but he had a certain charm. He awakened a warm side in me that at the time I did not know how to understand or handle. But what I did know is that I wanted his happiness, whether it was with me or not. We both loved each other very much, I would dare to say that in the purest way that I have ever loved someone and although there were ups and downs and it did not turn out as planned, I will always wish him the best and I will remember him with warmth in my chest.

🩶Her Moon in my 7th house (#2): She was a sweetheart, she had a light charm and charisma that enchanted many people no matter how different they were from her. Her company made me feel comfortable and she was someone who spoke about her emotions in a balanced and even tender way. I felt very protective of her and that she felt okay in every way, I even remember putting off some tasks to spend time with her because I genuinely appreciated spending time with her. One of my closest bestfriends.

🩶Her stellium (Sun, Mars, Mercury & Venus) in my 12th house: I feel very lucky to have met her in this life, she became my safe place and someone I know I can count on regardless of distance or other factors. I think we reflect a lot on a subconscious level and I see in her aspects of my personality [obviously linked to the signs in which her stellium is]. She makes me feel seen and accepted, I know she will never judge me and she has shown me with actions that I can rely on her. I feel like we connect a lot and can understand each other deeply. She is without a doubt one of my best friends and knows that whenever she needs me I can offer her comfort, advice or support. 

🩶His Venus in my 12th house: It was a bit tense, mostly because he has very tense aspects in his chart. Throughout this connection I knew that he loved me the way he knew how to love, although that did not mean that he loved me well or how I wanted him to love me. The energy of the 12th house makes me understand things, even empathize, but it does not mean that they are justified. It was conjunct to my Rising, and I experienced this seeing how he prioritized me a lot and despite being someone who was not affectionate, he was affectionate with me. However, many times because of this difference in ways of loving, I felt his absence. 

🩶Their Mars in my 3rd house: I have to admit... debating with them [I have experienced this overlay several times] was stimulating and even a bit exciting at times. There was a certain tension between us and I never experienced big arguments with them, everything remained a playful banter. They told me that they were very attracted to the way I spoke, from my voice to mannerisms. They put a lot of emphasis on my knowledge about what I liked and how my voice caught their attention. 

🩶His Jupiter in my 7th house: Husband material. It is the most summarized way of explaining it, but I saw this man as someone I would have liked to marry in the future, beyond feelings (which there were) it was a matter of admiration and looking up at him, his ideals, his way of acting. It felt more like a decision than a whim or impulse to want to be with him.

🩶Her Mars in my 10th house: She was my crush [platonic love?]. I truly adored her very much. The way she carried herself and her strong, reliable and reserved appearance that she portrayed attractive to me. I really like the confidence with which she carries herself and she always behaved very nice and kind to me, becoming protective. She had a tendency to baby me though and being incredibly sweet to me [perhaps her Venus in my 4th house]. A strong attraction and support. [Scorpio + Leo energy]

🩶His Mars conjunct my Moon: He was the first person I liked. I would say that it was a strong attraction since we met, although it was not always easy. We used to clash at times, him being more irascible and me being more lighthearted. What was very present is that we always wanted to be close to each other, we used to spend a lot of time together and could be very possessive of each other [and his Moon in Scorpio + lots of tense aspects didn't help much either]. 

🩶Her Mars square my Mars: There was some tension between us, I think she was much more impulsive than me and reacted defensively. She was very direct with me, with her affection, attraction and even when there were differences or she disagreed, being a positive point. It was very intense and we were definitely very different. She was never aggressive or disrespectful to me, but she had very intense ways of reacting when she got angry with other people and of course, I didn't like that. It should be added that she also had the Moon in Scorpio and afflicted.

🩶Her Saturn trine my Venus: She was always loyal and constant with me. She wasn't very verbal but she gave me gifts and details. Her way of showing affection or pampering me was with things she knew I liked or fulfilling whims I had. She was capable of spending hours searching for the perfect gift for me and more than once offered to help me pay for large expenses that I had to make. Definitely a lot of provider energy.

🩶Her Saturn conjunct my Moon: She is one of my best friends, I always tell her that she helps me know how to better manage my emotional crises, that she gives me comfort and security and she tells me that I give her warmth. I believe that we bring a lot of positivity to each other, there is no judgment between us and we help each other as much as we can. We have been friends for several years now and sometimes we forget that there is an age gap between us. I have always thought that she is rather practical and straight to the point, and that is one of the reasons why I feel safe with her. I have always wanted to provide her with emotional support and comfort. 

🩶His Jupiter conjunct my Rising: One of the funny things with him is that he usually does things behind my back to help me, but when we are together we basically tease/argue with each other, most likely because this conjunction happens while his Jupiter falls in my 12th house. He has done a lot of good things for me, from opportunities for professional internships to even inviting me out to hang out or taking me to my favorite places. We always make each other laugh, especially me whenever I’m in the mood. And I've noticed that no matter how tense we are, we can forget a little about it when we chat or spend time together.

🩶Her Moon conjunct my Sun: She has always been very protective of me, always looking out for my well-being when we are together and making sure I am comfortable and happy. We have been friends for more than 10 years and she lets me talk about my emotions when I feel low, or even if what I say is something trivial. She is very gentle with me and likes to 'nurture' my independence and self-expression. There is a strong emotional bond between us, even from the first moment. We used to be inseparable when we lived nearby and even after I moved away, I usually go visit her.

🩶His Moon conjunct my Uranus: He's a good friend of mine, we tend to have a lot of fun, we've been on some crazy adventures together and we've even traveled together [we even missed a flight once]. We are quite different, while he is more given to creating connections everywhere, I am rather independent and even a bit of a hermit sometimes. Despite that, we love each other a lot and provide emotional support if necessary. I have noticed that we compensate each other, if one is being more emotional, the other behaves rationally [even blurting out truths in a very cold manner]. We can go days without speaking [up to weeks] and when we see each other we catch up and talk as if nothing happened.

🩶His Mars opposite my Saturn: I feel that on many occasions he tries to behave when he is with me, many times I am even the one who has a cool head when he explodes or when he is being irascible. When we have to work together we are a great team, we even organize ourselves quite well and we have similar ethics. However, the problem comes when we hang out for a long time, since I perceive him as someone who does not want to change and someone who is generally difficult to live with. His impulsive nature and the way he behaves makes me put some distance between us, even if we can keep things cordial.

[movingthisblogcelestialtarot11]

Astro Observations

Hey friends! Im back with another astro obsv after getting settled in Uni. I've had a great week focusing on my new classes, and yeah my brain is working overtime to read and study haha. Im taking 2 marketing classes and antisemitism/ racism, and psychology :) learning so much already! I hope you enjoy the post below! Feel free to like, reblog, and share your thoughts.

Moon at 1 degree—Often this represents someone who is learning about emotional stability, processing and releasing in this lifetime. They may struggle with escapist tendencies, or even using drugs to compensate (hard aspects) with the moon aspecting Chiron, Saturn, mars, negatively this can happen, its even more pronounced when at the 1st degree.

Sun-uranus—Could have had a father who thought the native lied a lot, or the father imposed assumptions, for example the native stealing their money. The father figured could have been frugal, paranoid and absent in the natives life for a period of time, only to randomly pop back in.

Venus aspecting Pluto in a males chart—Can make him obsessive with women, and not in a healthy way. He can objectify women, sexualize them, and behave passive aggressive when it comes to making moves sexually. He may confuse sexual attraction for romantic attraction easily. If Pluto makes a hard contact with mercury, he is more likely to be passive aggressive and will objectify women without considering the consequences. He is weak in his approach towards women. If Pluto touches the sun, he will act dishonorably and his reputation will be stunted by his behavior towards women.

Lilith Aquarius 12h in a males chart, with Uranus, and Neptune—Can find himself in a group of friends or community that is considered taboo, unconventional, and unhealthy. This can signify, though not always, selling drugs, or being around those who sold. It can even signify being around sex work. I knew a guy who participated in selling drugs from a young age, because his friends were doing the same, and Aquarius rules networking, and encompasses social aspects of our lives, and when it is in the 12h, he associated with ''underdogs,'' at a young age, those who were considered the black sheep of the family as a way to cope. Lilith here signifies a break through with the mind, a need for agency. But this can turn into unhealthy coping mechanisms as a result, and he does smoke weed everyday to get by.

Mercury opposing Pluto in a male--The native can often struggle with speaking up, making a move, and being clear and concise in their intentions especially in romantic scenarios, though not limited to. They tend to like it when others finish their thoughts for them, and they may project themselves as highly wise in a certain area, but lack knowledge of said topic. The Donning-Kruger effect is common here. Even with a gemini/virgo mercury, if negatively afflicted, this can produce issues with the way he thinks, and how he process his thoughts. Pluto is all about the subconscious and so, some men derive power from projecting what they think they know to others. Reminds me of the quote: you should be scared of not those who have read books, but those who have books on their shelf that they've claimed to have read.

Moon in Aries male--He can be fickle, quick to judge, quick to leave and exploit for his personal gain. I've noticed this is common with men who have a negatively placed moon, or it is afflicted, or both. Especially if the moon makes contact with Chiron, he will project his fears, anxieties, and desires (including sexual) and create tension and confusion in the connection. The sexual part from what I understand is a way they try to inflict intimacy, even though the connection is nowhere near that stage, or the other person does not want it. Aries moon men, if negatively afflicted won't care for your boundaries and can be callous, and cowardly, and can seek to find loop holes.

Weak afflicted sun in males--Tends to talk a big game, and doesn't live up to it. A lot of these guys have a lot to say to look like a contributor of society, especially if they are trying to make an impression, but if you ask them a deep question about a topic, they'll fumble.

Taurus affliction--I've noticed these natives struggle financially, even though in the astro community we see Taurus as sustainable, a provider, and quite materialistic. A large amount depends on the aspects in the chart, I think we sometimes overlook this. An afflicted taurus sun, moon, Venus, mercury, can all impact financial gains. Emotional stability and physical, and can even signify struggling with losing a home, or having bills or loans to pay at a young age. Or having to ''contribute,'' to the house, to prove yourself as good enough.

SN in Capricorn, and NN in cancer--Someone with this placement who I knew had to pay the bills in the house, because their mother was impaired on drugs. Usually this placement indicates the mother playing an important role in the natives lifetime, and it isn't necessarily good or bad. The native was parentified a lot, whilst the mother made excuses for not wanting to step up. The native can also experience a codependent bond with their mother. Even though they have been hurt by their mother, they still admire and respect their mother, even if others don't understand why. These NN natives also tend to cling to nostalgia, the past, and perhaps they think of all the good times they have with their mother and cling to that. It also happens a lot outside the mother, they'll think of the friends they used to be with. SN and NN is also at 8 degrees, and this person went through a lot of loss financially, and they still struggle with building stability. Almost left and right they face struggles with abandonment, so in a way their mother's inability to find financial stability fell in their hands. If you look at the moon you'll see the relationship with the mother in detail :)

Gemini women have an inclination to be in theatre, acting, or film making or photography of some kind. Even song writing, play writing, or directing plays. It's no lie gemini women are exquisitely charming, and when paired with heavier placements such as Saturn 1h/12h, 8h/12h moon, Chiron 4h, Chiron 12h/8h, they can easily reenact roles from the depths of their soul, or write about experiences people find themselves reveling in. Their charm, plus their ability to transform their pain of the past creates for an alluring, powerful and intimidating presence.

5h scorpio, 5h Sagittarius, or 9h moon/sun, or Jupiter 9h, may want to adopt children at some point in their lives or have considered it. These placements know the systematic issues that lie in the government and instead of wanting to have their own kids, they may want to rescue kids already lost to the system. I had a friend that said why have kids when she could be saving one already, and she has a 5h scorpio which conveys a deep need to connect with children who have been hurt, and giving them a new home. Very healing and transformative. She specifically said she'd rescue teenagers since they are overlooked by a lot of people.

Also these placements are known for helping children, even creating fundraisers for children in need. Angelina Jolie has Jupiter 9h conj moon and she has an innate need to help children, and has adopted 3 children, and 3 of her own. She's a protector driven by instinctual maternal desire to help those who are considered ''helpless,'' by the systems fault.

Also her moon is in Aries, and after dropping Maddox, Angelina said she couldn't continue her self sabotaging tendencies. So in a way, she healed a lot of control issues within herself by becoming a mother. It's not because of the label. Her need to set an example and show up for her kids is what helped her change, by giving them the best, she ended up giving herself better. Her moon sign, instead of leaning into its fiery, consuming depths, she learned to create structure, embrace her passions and seek healthier forms of expression.

Venus in cancer is not all what the astro community has portrayed it to be, for ex: ''crybaby, sensitive,'' in the means of demeaning the sign and its expression. I think it's easy to get hung up on these words without understanding its importance on a deeper level. These natives are one of the most in tune, and empathetic natives I've met. It takes an immense amount of courage to be in touch with one's feelings in a society that encourages us to abandon this. Their softness is their strength, and for those who can't see it, this intuitive energy asks them to go inward as to why they can't.

4h scorpio came from a turbulent, deep, enigmatic family of troubles and despair. The native learned to pick up habits such as hiding from the light to protect themselves from criticism, because being seen at home just wasn't allowed, and it was shunned. It creates for an interesting complex, because people may view these natives as liars, cold, and shut down and whilst outside of astrology this can be true, this isn't always the case. 4h scorpio is private for reasons such as protecting their energy. Not everyone should have the privilege of knowing the things so sacred to them.

4h scorpio natives can go on to become open about adverse experiences, the things society tells us to pack away and hide. They begin to see the necessity in sharing their voice, and the raw power of awareness. Sometimes the light isn't so bad, after all.

Moon opposite Pluto 3h--Makes the native a deep thinker, a philosopher, and may see suffering as a crucial force in self growth. They can go on to share their wisdom in the world and make a profound impact. Often this placement to me indicates beauty and brains. I also feel as though these natives surpass beauty norms, they challenge it in a lot of ways. especially if they are a woman with this placement they will find ways to move away from the whole sexualization and objectification of women. They can be part of the LGBTQ.

Lol, my friend also stumbled on astrology and found nothing resonates, because all those sites do is talk about sun sign shit, and then when I looked at her chart she has Venus 8h, scorpio moon, and Saturn 1h. And yes, she has been through a lot of Big Trauma moments.

Extra

Thanks friends for being here and reading! Leave a like, reblog & comment if you found it informative 🤍

Paid readings 🤍

[gothhabiba]

@ anon

I think it might be actually dangerous to publish your ask, but I'm sure from my response people will be able to tell what it's about anyway.

You're full of actual, absolute shit if you're pretending not to know by now that verification processes to ensure the legitimacy of Ghazzawin's fundraisers have been undertaken, and that details about what these processes entail have been shared by several people. Several people, some of them currently in Gaza, put themselves through countless hours of work video-calling people, judging their knowledge of dialectical Arabic, seeing their faces and their children's faces and their living conditions, seeing IDs and bank information, asking invasive, personal questions that they didn't want to be asking & that the people responding probably didn't want to be answering, and physically visiting people in Gaza and video-recording their interactions, just so that people like you could be sure that these fundraisers were legitimate. If you're ignoring all of the blood & tears that went into that process just so you can hand-wring about scams, no one needs to be concerned with convincing you of the legitimacy of anything, because you were never going to donate to these people anyway. You are just looking for any plausible-sounding excuse not to do what you already didn't want to do.

If, by some miracle, you actually didn't know about the verified fundraiser spreadsheet (which is frankly still blameable bc, where on earth have you been?), then there it is. The post of mine that you're referring to never even mentioned responding to asks; using this spreadsheet is an absolutely valid, reasonable way of donating directly to families.

Now let me treat some of your statements as though they were questions (which, they were not).

How do people in Gaza have internet access?

Internet infrastructure in Gaza is very robust (e.g. in what cables are made of, how deep they're buried, amounts of redundancy in the system, &c.) because they have been getting bombed by Israel all the fucking time for decades, so they expect this infrastructure to be put through a lot. There have still--if you've been following the situation at all--been several outages caused by damage that Ghazzawin have needed to repair. Though I do have to say that I find it odd that you doubt Ghazzawin have internet access, but also say that you buy eSims...?

A lot of people right now are indeed connected via eSim, which to my understanding only need to connect to wifi once, right when they're activated. People put themselves at risk to connect to eSims because they need to get a good wifi signal, which usually means walking for several miles trying to find high ground. One of my contacts once urgently called me (this is the only time he hadn't just texted) because he had been told his friend had found a signal and so they needed an eSim right then, before they went back to their tent.

I've been trying for some time to connect another of my contacts in Gaza to an eSim, but we're not having success. At Crips for eSims for Gaza they / we (I'm on the server getting advice and helping out but I'm not using their funding; I'm using what people on tumblr have given me to purchase eSims with) keep a constantly updated sheet of which eSim providers use which networks and which networks work in which areas--because the situation is constantly changing. Because my contact doesn't have an eSim on a personal phone, she has to go to a central location to be allotted three hours of internet access from someone who has managed to get connected. Lots of people, on their fundraising posts and pages, specify exactly how they've gotten internet access, how difficult it's been for them to get it, and how stressful it is to be relying on this tenuous connection, spending hours away from their families (at high risk of being shot at by IOF soldiers the whole time), just to message people for hours straight and then go home again.

2. How do people in Gaza have tumblr accounts?

This is a stupid question. Anyone with an email address who is capable of picking a username and password can make a tumblr account. I have personally helped several of my contacts in Gaza with the process.

3. How do people in Gaza know to come into people's tumblr accounts?

This is also a stupid question. I don't really see how you could ask this question if you saw Palestinians as, like, real humans beings. You understand that people talk to each other, yes? Like with words? As soon as a few people had success fundraising to evacuate Gaza on tumblr (nearly a year ago... this news has had a lot of time to spread), obviously they told other people about it.

One of the ways that Israel conducts its genocidal war is through the destructiveness of frustration and boredom. It's a strange situation because everything is extremely dire, urgent, terrifying, and dirty, but there's also seldom anything to do. People are singing, telling stories, going to the beach, inventing games and contests, to entertain children, but also to entertain themselves. And this is the situation--with a bunch of desperate, bored people packed into a tiny piece of land--this is the situation that you think it's impossible for people to talk to each other in? Come on.

If you want to donate to Anera and World Food Kitchen and buy eSims, that's fantastic. Please do that. But if you are as ignorant of the particulars of what this situation is like as your ask makes you appear, then I hope you refrain from speaking on what the situation is like.

I've been nattering on for a long time so here's my call to action:

Decide what you're capable of giving right now, or the next time you get paid

Scroll down on the vetted fundraiser spreadsheet and find someone very low on funds, or with injured children who urgently need treatment or evacuation, and give that money.

AND / OR give it to the PCRF or the IRW

[xprloki]

Some random headcanon’s for Bob that I think about quite often

Reader’s (you) gender isn’t specified, can be read as romantic or platonic! This is my first time writing and using tumblr so please don’t be a ghost reader.. if there’s anything you’d like me to write please lmk - i apologise for any spelling errors!

When Bob got anxious in the vault waiting for Ava to open the door, he stood next to you and played with the sleeves of your outfit.. which eventually led him to start fiddleingwith the bracelets on your wrist, someone important gave them to you and you almost never take them off, they are often something you fiddle with when you’re anxious too so you didn’t mind him doing that…

Now that you both are living in the watch tower together, he would often hang around you and continued to fiddle with them, especially when Walker or Alexei would start talking to him about trying to access his powers or become Sentry or Void.. Yelena would try and get them to stop, and they would after a while but he prefers fiddling with something (like he was with the Rubix cube in the attic when void took over)… and he grew attached to you. You became his comfort person, Yelena is good with her words and is always so understanding but your presence is a simple comfort for him. You don’t need to do anything, just being around you is comforting for him.

One day he after Valentina tried to get him to tap into his powers, which caused A LOT of distress for Bob, you gave him one of your bracelets and told him that if you can’t be there for whatever reason, to comfort him, he now has a part of you on his wrist, that he can fiddle with. He doesn’t tell anyone as he’s embarrassed about it, but he would like to get you a bracelet as a gift since you’re sentimental about them, and he would like you to contribute to them. You once described wearing this as “wearing your heart on your sleeve” but the people your bracelets represent are your heart.

I know what it’s like to be in a depressive state of mind, for however long. When Bob said he did the dishes, it something that he hadn’t done in a while and was very out of his comfort zone and took a lot of mental energy to complete, especially when most of it is used for battling your darkest thoughts.

So when the team was discussing the “Avengerz” name and he mentioned he did the dishes, he felt a little nervous when he didn’t get a reaction out of the team. But then there was you! You walked over to his reading corner and sat by him, telling him that you’re really proud of him and hope that he’s proud of himself. You also gave him a little shoulder nudge and told him that once there’s a quiet moment, and Alexei has stopped talking about the baby seal butts, he should tell Alexei because he’d appreciate it since Alexei doesn’t clean his dishes (Yelena told you about her visit to Alexei’s house before the vault and how there were so many dirty dishes)

Bob sometimes chews on the strings of his hoodie and you often replace the strings because they become gross and hard… he hasn’t noticed yet because it’s something he just mindlessly does

When you’re having a sleepover with him (which always involves you sleeping in the same bed because he likes the feeling of someone being next to him when he feels mentally vulnerable (he gets night terrors) - you always make sure to put the aircon on so that you two don’t overheat in bed under the covers

When you’re in bed with Bob, he likes to be the little spoon and loves feeling your breath lightly on his back or on the back of his neck. It reminds him that you’re there (sometimes for no reason, you may also give him a small kiss on his shoulder blade)

Bob also loves when he lays his head on your chest and you play with his hair… there’s just something about it that quiets his mind and gives him a sense of peace, especially with the knowledge that you don’t judge him for loving any form of physical contact.

It took Bob a while to get used to you (or anyone) touching him with kindness. A gentle shove when making a joke? He thought he did something wrong and apologised.. he eventually learnt that it was a kind gesture and he could let his guard down and appreciate the joke. When someone would approach him to put a hand on his shoulder or something like that, he’d sweat a little bit and wonder what would come after.. if it was a kind gesture and then something harsh after… something his father would do quite a lot.

The day that Bob realised he especially loved physical contact with you, was one day when you taught him a simple hand gesture.

You told him to hold your hand, and you squeezed his hand 3 times, then told him to squeeze back twice, and then you squeezed his hand for longer.

He asked what it meant and you said it meant “I love you” - “how much” - “this much”

He started initiating it with you all the time and it makes you smile every time

(That’s something someone special to me taught me and as soon as I saw thunderbolts, it made me think that if I was close to Bob, I’d teach him the hand gesture and frequently do it to reassure him I’m always there)

[kortac-sweetheart]

Im frothing at the mouth for your blog, I love the kortac boys and ghosts so much thank you for the blessings

An offering to you is how do you think the boys (any really) would feel about an oddball lover? like weird habits, prolonged eye contact or like no eye contact, touchy or not at all, rituals they like to follow, odd social habits?

I always notice that the way reader (across like a lot of fics) are usually "normal" an opposite (usually) to the character. I want some freaky little guys together in a jar to shake around

Totally okay to say no, weird request :]

hi dear, don’t worry! not a weird rq at all, i’m intimately knowledgeable about an oddball reader bc all of that describes me lol (or past me)

i think that for kortac guys like nikto and krueger, and konig then they wouldn’t care to be honest. they’re (in their eyes) a hell of a lot weirder than you are.

nikto especially bc you accepted him (and all his alters) and they don’t see that they really have any room to judge you on your own weird habits. you’ve welcomed them entirely with open arms, why wouldn’t they extend that to you as well?

he just rolls with the punches tbh, doesn’t really push any sort of boundaries you may have, whether it be for eye contact or for physical touch. all you need to do is tug on his sleeve to catch his attention so you can murmur what you feel in that moment and he’ll adjust accordingly.

can’t make eye contact? no big deal, although do pardon nikto for his own penchant for staring at you. he just likes to look at his little love.

make too much eye contact? wonderful, he gets to stare into your eyes and admire them to their heart’s content. sometimes you two will just have a silent conversation with each other through eye contact and it freaks out the other operators a bit. (freak to freak communication /affectionate)

nikto understands your feelings about physical touch very well. they also don’t like to touch others either, makes them feel gross and they have to brush off the feeling after. doesn’t stop them from being human and craving skin-to-skin with their beloved though, because it’s you.

all in all, nikto could handle it. handle you. you handle all of him just as well, and he’s not one to half-ass anything, let alone reciprocating your love. it’s just all about communication at the end of the day.

(also don’t worry about others picking on you for your weird habits, he’s built like a brick shithouse and has a mean glare to boot no one is gonna say anything to you.)

krueger… krueger is a little meaner than nikto is. outwardly he’s not as weird as you are, he likes to tease and push your buttons a little bit. but it’s always in good fun (he’s your boyfriend after all), and never truly meant to demean you.

is always ready to throw down with someone who’s actually picking on you though, that’s a privilege that’s reserved for him and him only. you’re his little weirdo and he’ll defend you until his opponent’s dying breath (yes his opponent’s, not his bc he’s not dying lol)

and konig, we all already know that he has social anxiety. he’s in the same boat that you are, so what leg would he have to stand on to call you out for your habits? it would make him a silly hypocrite so he doesn’t mind it at all.

i think he takes comfort in it actually, knowing that he’s not alone in being a black sheep in the crowd. it’s not that he encourages your habits necessarily but he’s very accommodating for you.

if you can’t speak up then god give him strength because then he’ll do it for you. yes he loves you enough to overcome the hurdle of talking to the fast food worker that got your order wrong.

you’re both weirdos in this case but it’s a happy and loving relationship regardless.

simon is also just like nikto in this case. he’s also weird as fuck and as an off putting aura around him, so who the hell is he to judge?

as long as you openly communicate your boundaries and feelings with him that day then he’s fine with going along with your habits that day and any other day. he finds them endearing actually, price, gaz and soap all seem to be put together on the surface but you, you’re uniquely you. even if that means falling outside the norm, he likes anything that makes up you and so that extends to your weird little habits as well.

johnny is also a guy that just loves you for who you are. if you completely upheaved all those weird habits that make you, well, you; then you just wouldn’t be the same, and it would make him sad.

he doesn’t have an issue with it, he’s seen a lot weirder things in his time so this is very mild actually. finds your inability to maintain eye contact and the way you hide behind him when meeting someone new very endearing.

yeah, he’s just so in love with you and everything that makes up the foundation of you that he wouldn’t change it for the world, weird habits and all.

[iamhereinthebg]

Heya Anon! (I speedran this doodle because I got emotionnal)

I see the vision, I used to be insane about the possiblity of a Teru and Nene's friendship, they would be so so funny together :DD

I also like the idea of Teru needing a friend who is more.. chill ? Nene judges him a lot for random stuff in canon but it's really not the same as Akane or Aoi who are just 'this guy is truly insane ._.' (and good for them tbh love them a lot) And she still goes sparkly eyes for him sometimes even when he says the most insane things and I like that sm

(in french he says: "And well, I am the embodiment/personification of beauty" I find it wonderful either way)

And Nene having someone who could teach her stuff about the supernatural world while judging her hard af for how she acts around them sometimes would be a really funny dynamic too. None of them would have chill with the other but I think this is why it could be so good. And Teru would be overjoyed to teach her stuff (in the hope she would destroy Hanako, this is the true motivation)

They truly would be a no braincells duo

(an old doodle I still love a lot this guy is a disaster at handling people showing emotions in front of him)

And they do care for each other in canon , their teamup for the new timeline was really cute :DD

(I am just sad we didn't have much but lol I won't talk about the disappointement that this arc is for me :'))

I agree that they would watch random stuff together especially because Teru doesn't have much knowledges in that and Nene may have... too much. I truly think they could be great friends (and Nene has the patience of a saint have you seen her with Mitsuba or even Hanako? ToT She would be able to handle Teru)

I used to be obsessed with the Survivor quartet as I call them (Akane, Nene, Teru and Kou) and I have a tag for them #survivorquartet with random doodles/hcs if you need more stuff :DD (most are really old so some of my opinion has changed izvkdvd)

Little comic I did of them that I still love a lot, help this poor girl she needs it

And don't be ashamed to post if you want to, I am sure you're not the only one liking this friendship :DD Especially since you're talking about a fic! This means others people like it too! (and even if that wasn't the case, be free Anon this is honestly how you can have the most fun in a fandom, my main metaphor is the sandbox in a corner doing whatever and sometimes some people go to talk with you, this is the funniest part of being in a fandom for me :))

And if you're bothered about the ship you can just say in the tags that it's platonic. That's something I did once and most people respected to not tag it with the ship name ^^ Fandom and posting are supposed to be fun so you shouldn't feel pressured by it but I understand if you're scared/don't know if you wanna post, take your time :))) I believe in youuuu

I hope you have a great day Anon and thanks for the ask it made me happy to retalk about them :DD

[obae-me]

Folks... *clap*.

I'm all done with the Nightbringer story. And for whatever reason, I feel the need to share my opinions on it as a whole. So, to simplify the churning spaghetti mess of thoughts in my brain, I'll be following a Great, Good, Bad, Ugly sort of format.

Disclaimer: I'm not a professional game designer or writer or...anything really. I just write a lot and play a lot of games. This is purely my opinion after being hooked on Obey Me for... five years? Jeez....

Is this really analytical? Not really. This is quite literally me just saying what I did and did not like in such a way that I hope makes me sound somewhat smart.

Let's get into it!

Warning: Spoilers for Nightbringer ahead!

Music Design:

The Great- Some of the songs are so good unironically! Most of them fit the characters so well. I remember when they first were coming out, so many people wanted Satan to have a heavy metal song, and when his song was one of the softest ones, I remember the entire fandom cried. "We also judged him based on just his anger when he's so much more!" the people wailed. I know, I was there, I was one of them. Do not cite the deep magic to me, witch.

The Good- Some cringe and heavy autotune aside, I can tell they all improved every time a new song was released. They are just so fun, and I can tell that most of them had fun singing them. It's just a good vibe all around. There's something especially fun about the holiday ones... If only it had been around long enough to maybe do a Valentines....

The Bad- This one and the Ugly opinion kind of tie into each other, but I feel like there's a lot of missed potential here. I've played a few rhythm games here and there, so I wouldn't call myself the most knowledgeable about them, but I'm so surprised they only relied on new songs. Meaning character songs and the like. Some of the OST slaps! I don't understand why they didn't take some of the already existing songs and remix them into playable levels? Maybe the songs just couldn't transform into something catchy enough? And mentioning that, I'm going to immediately lean into the Ugly.

The Ugly- Oh....my god...it gets so repetitive after a while. Not even a while, it gets repetitive FAST. And maybe this is mostly just a 'Me' issue, because even with other rhythm games, I usually only have about an hour in me before I have to move onto something else. There's no way to pick the song you'd rather listen to, and like I said before, they ONLY use the character songs, nothing else. Some lessons have three or four of the same song... I love them, and I often have my songs I listen to on repeat for hours, but even I have my limits. I've played each song so much, I kid you not sometimes I can play with NO music on, and be able to tell which song is playing just based on the level.

Overall: The songs? So cute, even if a little cringe. And for something that used to literally just be tapping game sprites after a few seconds to "battle", making a whole rhythm game is such a step up. And for the VAs to not only work on voice lines for the game, but also work on podcasts and songs at the same time? I can only hope they are paid better than... most VAs here at the moment. And because for some reason I love ranking things? Obey Me Nightbringer's music gets a 6/10. I subtracted one point because I CAN'T FIND the OST for that very specific one music box background song!

Game Design:

The Great- I thought the UI looked so much nicer in Nightbringer! Moving around, even just basic swiping felt a lot more fluid. They added a lot more shortcuts to get to places faster. The chats looked better. The little details and the backgrounds were so cute! (Although my one stipulation is that for a while I thought the Ruri-Chan backgrounds correlated what was happening in the lessons and I was very disappointed when that was... not the case). I loved that some of the cards had moving wallpapers for the app. The moving background for Akuzon? Mwah, love. Aesthetic is very important to me, and they pulled off demonic but modern well in my opinion. The design team, may your pillows stay cold.

The Good- If I remember the first game compared to this one, I think Nightbringer had more chats and phone calls in total? Which I enjoy (let's not talk about the 30 dollar one). I love little flavor texts, it makes the world feel a bit more alive, and helps add to characterization. The addition of the occasional audio message? So good! I wish there were more chats that we as MC could participate in, but that's just a personal preference. The new emojis/stickers are also so cute! It's just a damn shame they came out shortly before the game wasn't going to have anything new. I wanted to see and use so much more of those...

The Bad- Now, some of these complaints of mine are based on my experiences with other otome games. Which, I realize, is quite like comparing apples to oranges. But....seeing that it's all I have since I've never played any of the other Solomare games, we'll have to make do. The Gatcha aspect is SO expensive, in my opinion. I'm used to other games where there's some kind of pity system for pulls? To my knowledge, there's no eventual guarantee for the one you want? Well, until they added in the ticket system, but that came so late in the game... If I recall, 100 tickets allows you to pick the card you want. 100 feels like SO much in Nightbringer. A lot of the best bundles are hidden behind VIP, you don't get a lot of bang for your buck, and a lot of times 50 bucks only really gets you like 30 pulls (don't quote me on that). Yes, that's part of the gambling, and I recognize that, but other games seem a little more forgiving. Even if only by a little. And if I'm totally wrong with the pity thing, that's my bad. I don't ever really see anyone talking about it, only ever if they got the character card they wanted or not.

The Ugly- Now, this might sound spoiled of me. But... there's just... not a lot to do? Yes, it's a rhythm game, so most of it is music levels, but like I mentioned before, it doesn't feel like a full rhythm game. Farming the hard levels is... sometimes torture. So, then they added that minigame for farming for card materials. It was cute the first five times I played it, and then I never touched it again... The Fab Snap videos? Cute for the first few days, and then I haven't touched it since, and I haven't even seen anyone else talk about it. The Wanderer Whatever (I forget the name) cute for a while and then hardly touched it. At some point too I think the game just...stopped adding those as well. I haven't seen a notification for it for ages. Not to mention most of the events/interactions are locked behind a paywall. Normally like...four to five American dollars for a 45 second scene. Extra calls and chats and 3D model scenes are stuck in cards behind skill levels, and with chats especially, they don't even always talk to you! If I spend extra Grimm and materials leveling up the skill just to get to a chat and it's one I can't even make a chat option in?? What are we doing here, am I not the Main Character? Sometimes it feels that way. Although that particular take is nuanced, and one I will dive deeper into with this next one... my white whale...

Oh, but rating first, I give the overall Game Design a 4/10. Looks super nice, lacks a bit of substance. I could've given it a 5, but based off of other games I've played, it needed some more substance to keep me around more as a player.

Writing Design:

This one is gonna be a doozy, folks.

The Great- I'm gonna be honest here. Most- if not all- of my praise is directed towards the first season. Was the writing perfect? No, of course not. Was it revolutionary? I would not say so. Did it keep me engaged? OH yeah. I sat there every week or so waiting for the new lesson to launch like I was waiting on the next episode of my favorite anime. It had me kicking my feet and giggling. It had drama, it had love, it had curses, magic shenanigans, goofs, gaffs, but most of all- what do we say, class? It had, yep, that's right, commitment. I'll explain that more in detail when we descend into the ugly, but just to give you my favorite examples. Lesson 12, when MC was affected by the curse of the reapers cave or wherever that was, after Lucifer attacked us because of the grimoire. That whole scenario was SO good. Finding out we were human, Belphie and Solomon being angry at each other, running away, all of it! And then again when Lucifer was taken prisoner and brought down into Cocytus, bound in chains away from his family. That is what I came here to see!

The Good- I love that a few characters had very distinct differences being that far back in time. Satan being so new and sounding so... clumsy and confused. Barbatos just having some absolute vitriol towards Solomon. Seeing Solomon having a lot more jealousy and anger and vulnerability than we had seen before. Diavolo needing much more validation and guidance than usual. Wonderful, I love it, it's not very often in media that we get to see character development devolve. I only wish they would've played around with that a liiittle more, and maybe for all the characters. But what we got was good! Good delicious characterization soup.

The Bad- Alright... let's start to crack this bad boy open a little, huh? This is just the bad and not the ugly yet, so we'll just go over my surface level complaints, along with some acknowledgement of why I assume most things are the way they are. I get that translation might be an issue. I get that censorship might also be an issue. Even sheer workload, pumping out lessons and cards and events oh my. Which is what I will be covering in The Bad... the events. Now, don't get me wrong, I know there was a lot to fully be desired in the first game when it came to the events. I remember the Paw Panic and the Halloween Mask event really sticking out to me, and then the rest... I doubt I could even pick one out and describe it. When you have SO many events to make, ideas start to sometimes run low. Some of Obey Me's events sounded like some sort of plot a Mad Lib would come up with. (YET WE STILL NEVER GOT A MERMAID EVENT). So, unfortunately, a lot of events fell short. Just a little pause of entertainment we got to have while we tried to grind for those beautiful cards.

The Ugly- Quickly moving into the ugly category, it's time to get into the meat and potatoes of what I'm really here to talk about. That's right. All of what you probably skimmed through before was just the last minute free ramble I put together to essentially throw a bit of spackle and glitter on this rant I'm about to go on. Why am I so keyed up about this? I don't know, life has been hard lately and it feels good to channel some irritation and anger into something I'm passionate about. Because clearly I love Obey Me, right? The characters feel like old time friends and even after my many hiatuses (hiatai? Hiatusees?) opening the game feels like coming to a comfortable old home.

That being said, there seems to be plenty of cracks in this old home that no amount of caulk will fix.

Let's start with my first problem. The length get your mind out of the gutter. It felt as if every event got shorter and more pointless. I would do one, sometimes two, rhythm courses, only to get five or so lines of dialogue before it ended. Let's play a game. One of these two scenarios is from an actual in game event that workers got paid for, while the other I came up with in two minutes. Guess which one is which, okay?

A)

Leviathan: Wait, you can't sing?

Belphegor: Sounds like a cry for attention if you ask me.

Mammon: I swear! Why would I lie about somethin' like this?!

MC: >Are you okay, Mammon?

Because you lie about everything.

Mammon: MC is the only one who cares! Take notes, ya jerks!

Lucifer: I'm assuming this must have been something to do with the light we saw earlier.

Leviathan: His throat started to glow when he wrote down his song on the form, right?

Which means...

(End Scene)

B)

Satan: This is...

Asmodeus: A boutique! I get to sit down and buy outfits?! This must be the hidden paradise after all!

Satan: Hold on, we don't know if it's safe yet. He's already gone...

Simeon: Ahaha!

MC: We were scammed!

>What are you laughing at?

Simeon: No matter what my expectations are, the Devildom continues to catch me by surprise.

The map leading us to a secret store is so simple, I can't help but laugh a little. Ahaha!

Satan: I'm not so sure we can write this off as simple just yet...

???: Eeeeeeeek!

(End Scene)

Place your bets, folks! Put in your entries now for the scenario you think is the real deal? Ready for the answer?

The correct answer is A!

Scenario A is from the Marine event, while B I came up with on my own.

For the record I reeeeally wanted to pull a B99 "they're both your locker" on everyone, but then I was curious to see if I had what it takes to come up with something so similar it might fool people. Well, did you win? If you picked my scenario B, you are tasked with letting me know in the reblogs or replies that I would make a good Obey Me writer, thank you /j

I also spent a well earned LD Ticket to find that scene, thank you very much.

Anyway, I hope that helps emphasize my point. It can take up to sometimes 4 minutes to get to a scene like that! And then it ends! And you have to play more rhythm levels! I think honestly this particular problem exacerbates the feeling of repetitiveness that I mentioned earlier. It takes longer to wait to skip an ad on YouTube than some of these scenes last. Nightbringer is a rhythm game, yes, but it's supposed to predominately be a visual novel. So when you have what feels like only part of a rhythm game and only part of a visual novel, you get overall a game that feels incomplete as a whole.

I didn't feel that way in season 1. Only with the events, which I ended up mostly skipping or skimming anyway. I didn't really notice it.

But then when Season 2 came?...

Boy howdy...

What is the best way I can describe my feelings towards Season 2 of Nightbringer?

Season 2 of Nightbringer was some of the worst padded infuriating nonsensical filler I've seen from a game in a long time.

And with the announcement of Nightbringer ending, I can tell from Season 2 that they've been planning on ending the game for a while now. It's the written equivalent of "we lock the doors in five minutes, start closing now!"

I got over the brothers not knowing that MC had disappeared to the past. I sighed but shrugged my shoulders when they started the Science Fair Festival thing. I had a twinge of hope when it seemed focused on Simeon turning into a demon.

And then the lessons kept going.... and going.... and going... and... nothing was really happening.

And I started to notice a pattern. One that really- UGH. Sorry... I am zen, I swear.

Let me ask you this? How many times did you notice the lesson ending on a cliffhanger, only for it to immediately be resolved by the beginning of the next lesson? Some of the time we didn't even get to experience it happening, the game had to tell us. Because I noticed it. And it happened A LOT. One of these that I noticed made me so frustrated, I had to put my phone down for a bit. It's the very end of lesson 56 going into 57.

We're supposed to be at some real juicy story. Raphael can't handle that Simeon is turning into a demon. He disappears. Everyone gets sucked into Babel. We find him, and he starts having such a mental breakdown, Babel is collapsing. Lucifer calls out MC's name frantically!... Then to wait for lesson 57.

Yes! Lesson 57 is here! Time to get back into the action! A small recap. Everything is about to crumble. We call out Raphael's name. We reach out!

Then get sucked into a vision? One of Raphael and everyone in the Celestial Realm, leaving one by one till he is all alone. In the back of our mind, we hear someone trying to call out our name...

"MC, thank goodness you are awake. Do you not remember what happened? You fell out of the tower as it collapsed."

Then wacky music starts playing as the brothers with wings complain about carrying everyone else.

Huh?

The action and drama? Over in an instant. Flattened.

Raphael isn't freaking out anymore and I think we find him standing off alone somewhere away from the group and convince him he isn't alone. I can't remember, it didn't feel very meaningful or memorable.

And that right there is my biggest issue! Remember what I said before? What was the word? Commitment. It felt like every single plot that was created had no satisfying follow through, if it even had a follow through at all! Nightbringer? Who is he?! Why did we get sucked back into the past? I don't know! Simeon turning into a demon? He decided for himself he wasn't ready to leave the Celestial Realm yet so Levi helped make a potion that drew out some sort of chromosome so he could become fully human again so maybe he could be an angel again in the future. And that's really how Season 2 ended!

And something about the moon crashing down but us trying to stop it and shield the whole Devildom but it didn't work and one of the brothers of our choosing falls into a coma but suddenly he wakes up again and the moon is fine and the exchange program is ending hurray!

All in like two lessons, just so you all know. It was so random and quick it made my head spin, and was over with so fast I didn't even have time to maybe be upset that my favorite brother was in a coma.

My biggest issue with Obey Me is the lack of follow through, and even in the first game I've always felt like we are more observers than like an actual character in the game? The first and second season of the last game and the first season of this one felt involved. This other one? We didn't really do a whole lot. And I know that's a personal preference. I know people in this fandom can get really upset when something happens to MC because they don't like that. Me? I want to be in the action! I want things in the world to happen to ME too. Even in the events, it's always like, "oh no, I guess because I'm a human, the curse only affected you guys? And Solomon? Well because he's a unique human, it affected him too". That's why lesson 12 stuck with me so much. We were finally affected by the world! Instead of having some sort of godly plot armor.

I don't even know what else to say, really. Only that I hope they end up making another game? Maybe the rhythm game aspect couldn't be sustainable for too much longer and so they're setting something else up? If they aren't working on this particular story anymore, it's very unfulfilling. And I understand that sometimes circumstances force things like this to end before they would like to? Maybe if I'm filled with enough stifled rage, I'll write an alternative ending to this like when I wrote The Reunion we Deserved?

Closing Remarks?

My biggest pet peeve I see in bad writing is commitment. The "it happened in your head", "it was a dream", "do you not remember", "they didn't actually die" (revival or fake deaths can be done properly, but it's difficult to pull off) loophole is so cheap, and it makes me so sad. Because then it softens the blow of what you just spent time to build up.

Nightbringer season 2 had good moments, it's just that the good moments were so abrupt, cut off by ending a scene really quick or interrupting it with something wacky. And trust me, I love wacky shenanigans, but there's a time and a place! I loved Diavolo catching MC when they fell off the train, but nearly as soon as he caught them, the scene ended! I loved Simeon getting mad at Lucifer, Solomon, and Diavolo. It only lasted for three little scenes, and the three of them doing something so dangerous for something with very little threat felt very out of character.

Somehow the story went in about a hundred different directions, and then ended up really going nowhere.

Again, these are my personal rants. If I were smarter, I'd probably be able to critique this in a much more clever and enlightened manner, but I'm just a fanfic writer writing all of this at 2 am running on fumes and a weird amount of spite.

Writing rating? Season One gets a 7/10. Docked one point for denying us hugs and tears when we got back to our own timeline. "oh, it'll destroy the timelin--" ITS FICTION. Get that out of my face and give me my hurt/comfort!

Season two: 3/10. Maybe harsh, I know. I struggled getting through it, especially when the first season had set those really good expectations.

I still love the characters. Love the world. Love this fandom. The brainrot is still real, who knows if it will ever let me go.

If you read this whole thing, wow! Why?... Genuinely impressed. Take a Happy Mammon as your gold star!

[croquettish]

Hi, thesis-length question anon here! Thank you so much for your long and detailed replay to my question, I couldn’t be more thrilled. If it’s ok for you, I wanted to respond to some of the stuff you said. I’m so glad you answered it through the lens of your historical knowledge and research. Because I don’t have that background, I keep thinking more about the game design/industry angle, but of course with Warhorse games, both are relevant.

Re Henry being the protagonist of a potential KCD3 (or not): You’re right in saying that Warhorse probably planned for the chance that the game just wouldn’t reach financial goals and thus would not get a sequel. With the ending they have now, it can totally be considered wrapped up if they want it to, BUT there are plenty of story threads that have been teased: freeing the king, the wedding, the upcoming wars, Von Bergow, Erik…I think kcd2 was meant to finish Henry’s coming-of-age revenge arc, but that doesn’t mean his character growth has to stop. And as you point out: Henry is a recognizable name (IP) now, just like Geralt from the Witcher or Shepard from Mass Effect (and hey, they got 3 games). Sticking to a known beloved protagonist is safer than trying to sell people on someone new. That being said, they could shift focus to another known character from the games – I’ve seen Jan Žižka be suggested many times because of his active involvement in future proceedings. And he is popular.

Re the female romances. Completely agree that none of them seem to be set up for longevity lol. Rosa was doomed from the start as she’s a noblewoman and is looking for better prospects, and yeah Katherine’s answers don’t exactly seem to point towards a long-term relationship/marriage either. Contrast that to Hans, whom we are told explicitly Henry will need to stick by for the foreseeable future. And his dialogue is a lot more open towards continuing their affair, despite the very real risk they would be taking. Hans has the most to lose, yet does not seem at all inclined to give up his romantic relationship with Henry (if you exhaust all the dialogue at the end), which is kind of amazing honestly. I do think the fact you can tell your parents you want to settle down with your chosen romantic partner kind of muddies the water a bit (especially because the game itself then seems to force you via Hanush to keep following Hans around), but I guess it’s part of the RPG experience that was perhaps a bit hastily implemented.

Re topic of the next game: I like your option 4 because of the *drama* but also these games have always taken place over the course of several weeks/months at most (we didn’t even get a season change across both games) so I don’t see them covering a war that would take several years. I know they play fast and loose with history which is fine if it makes for a better game, but they’re still gonna need to focus on only one or two major events that happen relatively close together at most. What if they go for option 5 because of the maximum emotional damage of the player losing both Radzig and Hans lol (maybe they could condense the events to make them happen closer together instead of years apart? Idk enough about that part of history to judge the feasibility of that. And it would make for a very depressing game, but one with 2 very impactful deaths (wouldn’t get my vote for obvious reasons, but I can understand why it could appear to WH).

Re incorporating the Hans romance into a possible 3rd game: I’ve thought about it and I am actually coming around that it wouldn’t need to be that complicated. They could just pepper in some extra lines in some convos. Like you said, no matter what Hans does not want to marry Jitka, so him being unhappy (or at least neutral) about his marriage can be part of the story anyway regardless of you romancing him. And like you say, the fact that they have to keep a possible relationship private and they can’t get married and have kids together makes it easier to incorporate. They really don't even need to give you a long sidequest to romance him because you're basically already in a relationship by that point lol. The only other thing I considered, was that it's not very friendly to newcomers to the game to continue a relationship like that, and games that need to sell big like these ones always try to pull in new players. Hence the new romance options in kcd2. But Mass Effect did some romances that overarched several games, so it *is* possible. And like you said, likely Hans and *maybe* Katherine would be the only ones to carry over and KCD3 would give the player several new options for newcomers or ppl who want a fresh start.

So thanks for giving me hope that they’ll still allow us to romance Hans *if* we do get a third game with Henry as the player character. Big if, but we live on hope!

Thank YOU for sending in so many more excellent points! I agree on with much of this, honestly.

Henry definitely still has unfinished business! And I agree with you, KCD2 clearly wrapped up his coming-of-age revenge arc but there's soooooo much more left to see!! I personally would love to see a third game for Henry (and a fourth, and a fifth, … etc ad infinitum), and considering other IPs I absolutely agree with you there as well that it's quite plausible. Of course, I also just want all the Hansry content Warhorse will give me in general. I am ready to shove every little crumb of it I am handed directly into my mouth.

I could see Zizka as a headlining character, but I do think it would still be a very risky move on Warhorse's part honestly. And not just because people want more Henry (and more Hansry, lbr), but also because Zizka is kind of a well-known public figure in Czechia and kind of a national hero. That's stickier than anything you want to do with your made-up protagonist. Also I think romance options would be… interesting, to say the least. Can you imagine romancing Katherine in KCD2 (cucking Zizka) and then in KCD3 you romance her again, but this time with Zizka cucking Henry... feels a bit like that "did you fuck my mom, Santa Clause" meme but 10x worse and somehow it goes both ways.

Tho now I do kind of want to write a fic where characters play witness to the Hansry romance from the outside looking in. A running bet between John and Sam on how quickly those two idiots figure it out...

I think the conversation with Henry's parents was more put in as a way for the player to essentially decide how they envision Henry's life going from that point forward just in case the game didn't end up being a success. In that regard I honestly think it's super sweet of them to add that in, and I do think it would have been kind of a slap in the face for people who decided to romance any of the women if Henry couldn't at least express that he wanted to continue things (even if they brushed him off).

Especially because, while Henry can agree with both Rosa and Katherine that it should stay a one-time thing, he can also keep pushing them. Rosa shuts him down while Katherine's response is far more eh, guess we'll see! 🤷🏻‍♀️ but that isn't going to affect how Henry feels about his future, if that makes sense. Even if your partner doesn't see you two having a future together doesn't mean that you can't still be dreaming of an engagement ring, you feel me? Hans just happens the be the only love interest that wants the same thing as Henry—all while being the only love interest that can be part of Henry's future regardless of whether he wants to keep adventuring or if he'd prefer to settle down.

Honestly, since responding to this message, I'm increasingly inclined to see that as an extremely plausible option for the third game while also gunning for it. That would make for SUCH a fun sequel. It would also follow the same pattern we've followed thus far, which is the first game smoothly leading right into the second game. I'd honestly be pretty surprised if they decided to put in a long timeskip between 2 and 3.

And while I know that they do play fast and loose with history, I think they wouldn't play quite so fast and loose that they'd squeeze both of those deaths into the same year—if only because the sequence of events relating to their deaths makes sense given the sociocultural and politico-religious context of the time of each. Luke wouldn't be happy, but I can deal with him being disappointed that he doesn't get to play out dying... he'll live, figuratively and literally!!!! Killing most everyone (rocks fall, everyone dies) would also close the door on a fourth game, but… well, I won't presume, I'll just hope.

Your comments about newcomer-friendliness being a consideration did get me thinking. You are definitely right about other games carrying those over. The Witcher series never had any issue bringing back Yennefer and Triss (and even Shani!), Mass Effect consistently brought back love interests… Both games always had an excuse for why the main character was separated from all or several of the characters from previous games, but I think even without that it's possible to just skip past the time that he and Hans spent "away" (read: fucking) and call it good. Picture it:

KCD3 starts with them and perhaps a few others having only recently returned to Rattay. Hans is cagey around Henry, but Henry perhaps isn't certain why. At the same time, Hans' wedding looms large on the horizon and is bound to happen any moment now. As wedding prep continues (perhaps in the form of the game tutorial; maybe there's a duel to help Hans with his nerves), Henry and Godwin both help left and right, running around like gophers.

At the same time, Henry slowly but surely works out the cause for Hans' cagey behavior around Henry. As we talk to him, Hans admits that he's nervous about how things will be between them after he gets married:

Hans: I just… I've been thinking about… the two of us. So many things are going to change with this wedding, but I don't really want our relationship to change.

Henry:

Don't worry, we'll still be friends

Eh, anything can happen. We can't predict the future

♥ I'm not going anywhere

This works out phenomenally well because remember, Hans falls in love with Henry regardless of whether or not he's romanced. While it makes sense that Hans would be nervous about how things will be between them with such a big thing in his life changing. And if he sounds a little in love with Henry as he asks, well... he does fall in love with Henry over the course of the second game regardless of whether or not he has the courage to eventually kiss him.

Honestly, the way I view it… well, I'm an OG fan but I honestly cannot even imagine playing the second game without playing the first one, well, first. All that background?? You'd be missing out on so much important backstory, and not just regarding the boys' relationship! This might just be me, but I feel like I would have been at least a little lost starting that game more or less in media res. Not to mention that it takes the boys' relationship from 0 to 100 real fucking fast. The things Hans said on their walk to Bozhena's house that made me fucking cry (YOU'VE NEVER LET ME DOWN MY BELOVED) would lose so much damn weight if you don't know just how far these two idiots have come. If you started out the game without any previous context, you'd go into it thinking they've always just been that close!

And honestly, I don't think it's a super big "if" on protag!Henry and romanceable!Hans. I might be jinxing it here, but I really think this is genuinely the most plausible outcome!!

Of course, if they really wanted to fuck with players and make things extra friendly to newcomers, they'd have Henry lose his memory jfakghjfk;al (please don't do this, Warhorse, I'm begging)

[ancha-aus]

Bitty Surprise - Chapter 14 - Pov Killer

We are back with our favourite Bitties!!

After this chapter just one more and this little story is finished <3

First Chapter: [Here] AO3 link: [Here]

*---------------------------------*

Killer doesn’t like this. But it was the only way.

Even as he keeps both Horror and Dust close the others on the council stare in slight awe.

Someone already suggested getting them tiny chairs so they can sit on the table but Horror had just said ‘No thanks.’

Fuck Killer loves those sassy little bitties.

Horror and Dust both just sit right by Killer as they ignore everyone around them. Nightmare took a book for them and the two bitties are just slowly reading the book together as the meeting continues on around them.

Blue looks across the table at them with actual hearts in his sockets “They are so cute… Can I please see them from closer?”

Killer glares “No.” Blue looks heartbroken as he stares wishfully at the two bitties.

The meeting had been going slower than usual but there were also less fights than usual. Which is nice for a change.

The only person who they had let come close had been Error. With Nightmare needing the god of destruction to stay on his good sight it would be a good show of faith and trust. They had all been ready just in case.

Error had stared at the two as the two had stared back before shrugging. He muttered something about them being smaller than his puppets before walking towards his usual spot.

Talking about spots.

Killer is sitting in the middle of Nightmare and Cross this time. As he was on bitty duty to make sure neither bitty got into trouble or anyone tried to steal them. It was working rather well so far. Killer thinks he got the best deal as he could just watch the bitties go about their business.

Even if the meeting was going on for an annoyingly long time.

Dust eventually looks up from the book and shoots Killer an annoyed look “Killer.”

Killer nods “Yeah Dusty?”

Dust pulls a face but he continues on “Are these meetings always this… useless?”

Dead silence around them and Killer grins as he shrugs “Normally there is a lot more shouting.”

Dust huffs before nodding and turning back to the book.

Dream leans a bit forwards “We just try to make sure everyone agrees and understands the decisions made.”

Dust frowns at him “Why?”

Dream grins more as he looks slightly smug “It is good to have everyone pitch in and share their opinion.”

Dust continues to stare “Why?”

Dream pauses before chuckling “It is polite.”

Dust rolls his eye lights and asks again “Why?”

Dream frowns “I… am unsure what you wish to know?”

Dust lets out a long annoyed sigh before speaking “Why bother? None of their opinions matter.”

Another long silence.

Dream stands up “Of course they do! They live in this multiverse!”

Dust tilts his skull, looking completely calm “But they don’t contribute to the balance. They don’t feel the balance. Even if they know what it is and what it implies they can’t understand it. Meaning they can’t judge correctly concerning it. Meaning this whole meeting is useless as their opinions don’t truly matter. All that will happen is that they get to judge about something they don’t understand or have knowledge about.” He looks at Horror and Horror nods and Dust moves to the next page and turns back to read.

A very long and awkward silence.

Dream shoots Nightmare a look “What did you tell them!?”

Nightmare frowns “Look at Killer. He explained the basics of these meetings and our work. Not me.”

Killer shrugs at the glare send his way but Dust looks up with his own glare “Don’t glare at Killer for speaking the truth you wish to hide.”

Again a long silence and Killer coos as he leans closer and grins widely at Dust “Aw you do care!” and he makes a kissy face at the bitty.

Dust rolls his eye lights and pushes his face away. Horror however snorts and nuzzles Dust “Calm bunny. Don’t want trouble.”

Killer must disagree because he can see that look in Dust’s sockets. Dust wants trouble, and preferably he wants to cause it. Killer is just wondering how he can help the other.

Cross coughs and tries to get the focus back on the meeting at hand but they aren’t going anywhere at the moment. Too distracted by what the bitty implied and asking Dream very specific questions. Dream tends to shoot Nightmare looks but Nightmare just shrugs and waves at Dream to answer.

The conversation goes nowhere as it very quickly becomes obvious that Dream had been leaving some information out on purpose and he doesn’t wish to discuss it. Meaning everyone is trying to get the information out of him now.

Then Ink shows up with Sci.

Dream jumps up “Ink! You are finally here! Where were you?”

Ink grins as he raises a small bottle “A present!”

Sci rubs his arm as he nods “It is a medical thing. There are many universes for bitties and in some of these the bitties wish to temporarily be bigger. They sell these growth elixirs to enable the bitties to be bigger. Ink came to me and said it may be useful to have these on hand in case the gang took the bitties along-” and Sci notices them and yelps.

Ink grins as he holds up a tiny vial “Sci recreated one! It is the first version and only short for a hour but this way the bitties can actually join in on the discussion!”

Red snorts “They seem to have been fine so far.” And he sends them a look before laying back on the table. Clearly already over it all.

Blue however looks beyond excited “Oh that is great! That way they can truly meet us without anyone having to be afraid they may get hurt in any way!”

Cross glares “We are not giving random drugs to our bitties! What the hell is wrong with you!”

Ink just stares as he tilts his skull “It is fine! Sci recreated it!”

Sci looks a lot more nervous “We haven’t… tested it yet. Maybe best to wait longer? This is just a prototype and-”

Ink marches over to them and Killer pulls both bitties close as he growls “Stay the fuck back you paint drinker.”

Cross stands between him and the artist “Back off Ink.”

Ink grins “Come on! Just a tiny sip and test!” He puts an arm around Cross “For your good old friend!”

Cross pushes him off “We are not friends. And back off.”

A pat on his hand and Killer looks down. Dust stares up at him bored “I want that vial.”

Silence.

Killer looks at the bitties panicked “No wait. Dusty. We don’t know if it is safe.” Horror also shoots Dust a worried look.

Dust hums “I will be fine. How long?”

Ink grins widely “Sci said anywhere between thirty minutes and an hour.”

Dust blinks and Killer is once again reminded that neither bitty has any sense of time beyond day and night. They just don’t bother with it.

Dust looks back up at Killer and Killer whines “Dusty…”

Dust points at the vial and waits.

Nightmare looks long at Ink “I hope you realise. That if anything happens to him. You will be punished. Badly.”

Ink chuckles “We still have the truce.”

Nightmare doesn’t even hesitate “And then the truce will be over and we will go right back to how it was before. And instead of bothering with Dream. We will be gunning right for you.”

Ink gasps “But Sci made it!”

Sci sputters but Nightmare speaks “And even Sci is telling you to not test it in this way.”

Silence as Dust still reaches for the vial Ink is holding.

Nightmare stares the artist down “So think long about this decision Ink. Because there will be consequences. And we will make sure you remember them.”

More silence but a gasp as Blue points. Killer looks down to see Dust, no longer in his hand, but on Ink’s arm before he jumps to the table, a certain vial in his hands.

Cross whines and dives after him only for Dust to bunny hop over the much larger skeleton. Holding the vial easily above his skull.

Killer has to secure his hold on Horror as Horror is also already halfway to being free “Damnit. No. Horror please stay put. Dust!”

Dust looks so goddamnit smug as he holds the vial “Mine.”

Dream looks panicked, same for Ink as Ink now no doubts realises the possible consequences while Nightmare leans a tiny bit closer but stops when Dust takes a few steps back.

“Dust. Please return that.”

Dust thinks for a moment before shaking his skull.

Nightmare nods “I understand. That is yours. But it may just hurt you instead of aid you in anyway. We can try and get a better version of the elixir? From a more trustworthy source.”

Dust seems to consider it before shaking his skull and just downing the vial.

It is empty before they know it and Dust waits.

Nothing happens and Dust huffs “Rip off.”

Killer sighs in relieve as he lays on the table “Thank everything. Come on Dusty. Please?”

Dust sighs but walks back towards him even as he drags his feet. Horror makes grabby hands at his fellow bitty but then Dust pauses and frowns as he rubs his sternum.

Cross doesn’t bother with waiting anymore and climbs on top of the table and tries to reach for Dust when a flash of red and blue covers him.

When the flash disappears there is now a normal sized skeleton sitting on the table. Rubbing his sockets and sternum.

Killer can’t help but stare because shit those tiny grey freckles are so much clearer now. The tiny ring of blue in Dust’s socket is so much clearer and lighter than Killer thought. The gradient on his hands from grey to white is much more even than he expected.

Also. Very naked. And Killer can’t help but stare in awe. He is gorgeous…

Cross gets to him first and puts his jacket around him “Dust?! Are you okay? Feeling sick? Can you move?” Killer can see that Cross doesn’t dare to touch him after putting the jacket around him. Hands hovering over the other.

Dust turns his hands this and that way before looking at the jacket curiously and putting his arms through the sleeves after which he pulls the hood up and over his skull. Dust then turns towards Cross and grins at Killer’s mate “So sweet.” And Killer can see a bit of a blush appear on Cross’s cheeks as Dust just gets up and walks to the side of the table and jumps off.

Killer gets it, Dust is pretty.

Red grins and whistles “Damn you are a looker. Can’t really see it when small but it is a very nice improvement.”

Dust looks at him. Raises a brow before flipping him the bird.

Red blinks before laughing as he leans back in the chair, obviously looking the now not small bitty up and down.

Dust huffs and makes his way towards Killer and Nightmare, a little bit shaky on his legs but doing alright. Cross quickly follows.

Ink grins and puffs up his chest “See? Completely safe!”

Nightmare glares at him before looking worried at Dust “Are you okay? Do you feel sick?”

Dust hums as he gets to Killer “ ‘M fine.” He takes Horror form Killer for a moment and the two bitties nuzzle each other and both purr. Dust’s purr is now much louder and Dust seems surprised by it for a moment while Horror looks very proud of his handy work. Dust kisses Horror’s skull before handing him back to Killer.

Killer frowns “You don’t want to keep holding him?”

Dust nods “I do. But I don’t know when I will shrink again.” And he shrugs.

Ink looks curious and Dream smiles widely as he starts to speak “Oh this is wonderful! If we can get more of those elixirs you can live on your own-”

Dust cuts Dream off mercilessly “Don’t want to.”

Dream frowns “Look. We are just trying to look out for you and-”

Dust cuts him off again “No you are not.”

Dream glares “Stop interrupting me.”

Dust crosses his arms “Stop acting as if you know what is best for me.”

Dream crosses his own arms “We are just trying to do what is best and-”

Dust tilts his skull “Why are you trying so hard to take away anything that makes your brother happy?”

Silence as Dream sputters “I- I am not-”

Dust continues “Yes you are. First, you tried to get Killer to leave Nightmare behind, something about saving him and going as far as to tell others he was being abused so they would try to get Killer to leave Nightmare. After that you tried to get Cross to leave his new home with Nightmare and Killer and join you. Not because you actually like him but because it was the ‘better option’. Then, once the truce happened you tried to convince both Killer and Cross to move and find other homes in the multiverse. Then when it turns out your brother adopted Horror and me you tried to tell him he can’t take care of us and we need to move for our own safety. And now I am a bit bigger you are trying to give me things and get me to agree to move out and live on my own and to take Horror with me.” He slowly tilts his skull “Why are you trying to make your brother miserable?”

A long silence as Dream just stares in shock.

Dust gives a slow nod “Anyway. I wanted to be big for a few reasons. First.” And he punches Dream hard enough in the face to make him fall backwards and against the table, a crack had been heard loud and clear. Dust stares down at him “That. Is for making Nightmare feel miserable and causing people to dislike him because you, Dream; can’t work together, communicate, or admit you made a mistake because you prefer to keep your perfect image over admitting you wronged your twin.”. Dust waits for a moment before saying more “Second.” He turns around and high kicks Ink straight in the jaw. He walks over to Ink and spits on him “For leaving Cross in a dying world all alone just because you wanted to kick off an apocalypse because it seemed like an interesting storyline to you.” Dust stares at the council for a moment before sneering and turning away. “Third.”

And Dust marches over to Killer and Killer blinks before two hands are on his face and- OH SHIT! Dust is kissing him. And that is tongue. Holy shit. What?!

Dust pulls back before doing the same to Nightmare and moments later to Cross. Dust steps back looking very smug “Much better. Hard to kiss our big mates when we are tiny.” And Dust looks at Cross “Can you open a portal for us?”

Cross, who just stands there blushing and staring gives a slow nod as he fumbles with his knife and cuts a portal open.

Dust just nudges Killer through it first and Killer, and Horror, are in their living room again.

Killer blinks and looks in shock at Horror. Horror looks so proud.

Killer finally finds his voice “What?”

Horror looks up and grins “Dust doesn’t like it when those he loves are hurt. He gets aggressive. He was waiting for his chance to stab Dream in the socket but this probably worked better for him.”

Killer feels his mind crash and he isn’t sure how to even react. Then he is joined by Cross and Nightmare and the portal closes. Cross stands there hiding his face while even Nightmare looks bashful.

Dust however walks around with a tiny spring in his step, looking very content as he pushes two couches together and fills the created space with blankets and pillows. Then he leads Cross into it, and then Nightmare. And lastly Killer himself.

In a matter of five minutes the now large bitty had created a nest and gotten all of them in there before getting himself comfortable laying on them. After which Dust promptly fell asleep with Horror near him also asleep.

Killer speaks up “What… what just happened?”

Cross mumbles, still blushing dark purple “I… I read about it in the books? That bitties can form emotional attachments and fall in love with normal monsters but that it is rare.” He covers his face “More… bitties make nests for their mates.”

Right!! Dust had called them his big mates. Oh fuck.

Nightmare just lays in the nest “… That… that is going to be a mess.”

Yeah… No kidding… Killer doesn’t mind it though, how can he when Dust’s warm form is curved perfectly against him.

Killer must admit it is very hard to try and focus. He doesn’t want to do anything to ruin this peace and the not so small bitty is asleep. Even if he can feel the other breath and feel the magic of the other soul so so close to his own.

Killer, Nightmare and Cross are still exploring their sexual relationship and well, apparently Killer also really wants to explore the sexual side of the possible relationship he has with the bitties.

Wait does that mean they are technically already dating in bitty relationship norms? Why did neither of them tell them?!

For now Killer tries to not let his hands wander too far over the smooth and bare bones of Dust. Killer is happy to notice that Cross seems to be having a similar crisis as he looks straight up at the ceiling and doesn’t even try to breath with Dust’s skull right by his neck.

Fuck.

Killer needs to talk with Sci about making more of that growth elixir.

*---------------------------------*

Last Chapter [Here]

[panicloser]

I think a big issue with the adult timeline is that they try to hard to make big tension filled plot points and they do this while the teen timeline is ALSO having big tension filled plot points.

And so in comparison, since one of them is in the perfect setting for those kind of plot points: teenagers fending for themselves in the woods slowly losing it. The other setting in comparison the plot points feel kind of forced, not that interesting or just straight up goofy by comparison. Its also REALLY difficult to manage TWO plot heavy timelines at the same time! Especially when you have a limited amount of time to tell these stories.

Judging by the way a lot of shows are written, I think that showrunners often fear that if their shows plot isn't moving constantly or if they don't have enough twists and turns that people will get bored with the show. But in this show, they don't have to worry about that all the time because you already have a naturally plot heavy story in the teen timeline, that's where the intense exciting stuff is happening, that's why so many people are more into the teen story more than the adult one. So the adult timeline does not need to have a guy blackmailing them or a mystery to uncover or these people hunting them down and all these new side characters popping up, it doesn't need all of this flashy shit the teen timeline has that, it has understandable violence and fear and survival and desperation and deaths that make sense that they would happen because they're in the fucking woods.

The PURPOSE of the adult timeline is simply to show how those things that happened to them affect them as adults so just...do that. Show that. Just show them in their daily lives struggling with trauma, grief and untreated mental illness. Maybe have them interact more between each other. Maybe instead of the public's knowledge of their situation resulting in a big blackmail plot, it simply results in the feeling of strangers insensitively coming up to them and interrogating them on an experience that they couldn't possibly understand. Instead of stuffing in a bunch of new side characters with some police plotline or a random guy dying just have the ones directly involved in their life and how strained those relationships are. Maybe instead of their survival instincts coming out on these big mystery focused plotlines, they come out in every day experiences that aren't as easy to process when you're that traumatized and changed by your experiences and the things you had to do. How that trauma affects their family, their relationships, how it affects their job, how it affects their perception of the world. There are ways that they show this but the plots get so distracted with other shit that it's hard to focus on.

I think the adult timeline would greatly benefit if it had a more episodic, character focused plot. It has the chance to work with and spend time with the characters in that way which they can't do in the teen timeline. Do it there. Every episode focusing on different aspects of their life with those struggles and trauma.

I think this would first of all make the show easier to manage writing and time wise because you're not making two plot based shows at the same time, it would result in something for everyone so if you like episodic or plot based more you have something either way, and it would create an interesting unique contrast of two styles that provide a well rounded examination of how trauma affects people. The adults can still do violent shit sometimes but I just think the style and pace of it should change. I'm sure there are different issues that would come up but I think it would be a better deal than what we have now.

To summarize my thoughts on the adult timeline: I just wanna see some traumatized ladies I don't need all o' that

[gghoulish]

the implications of mr compress drive me insane because i can easily read it as in some way or another, he probably felt he failed his bloodline, or that he couldn't shoulder that responsibility--- but instead, he chose to believe in someone who COULD, aka tomura. he saw revolution in a person and it was him. he could've tried to be the star of that show, but he instead raised up someone he saw great potential in, only showing the hand he was dealt when it was the end for him. i have seen a few things that imply he chose to work with tomura because of afo, but i don't think that's true, i think if anything someone of his lineage would be hesitant to do that--- afo and harima don't exactly have matching ideals, they may be radical to a degree but there's a difference between genocide and justice, and the league tomura creates has an entirely different energy to the way afo himself runs things. also if it's any level of literal that atsuhiro is inherently drawn to justice and what is right, then that implies he instinctually knew tomura had the potential to take on the legacy he felt he failed to uphold, enough so that he'd risk his life for him numerous times--- first costing him an arm, and then costing him his freedom.

judging by his words on people choosing their own fates, be they heroes or villains, as well as speaking of people's agency/personhood, it makes you wonder if he felt trapped in his own destiny too. he seems like he probably rebelled a bit when he was younger given his failed days as a magician, which doesn't feel all that prestigious for someone with his history. i can imagine he also sees himself in tomura, since they are both the heirs to some of the most prolific villains of all time--- if anyone understands the pressure he is under, it's atsuhiro. not to mention, mha has an obsession with using hands as a metaphor for things (particularly, oppression or freedom/affection), and though it's only in the anime, one of the few shots we get of kid atsuhiro is with his father's hands on his shoulders, guiding him to fulfill his legacy as harima's descendant, a thing he doesn't necessarily have a say in. it feels like it mirrors similar shots with afo and tomura, granted i'm not saying atsuhiro's father was some kind of tyrant, just that the insinuation of that pressure is there. while other villains were made by their circumstances or decisions, it was in atsuhiro's blood to rebel against the suffocating system they were born into.

him and tomura both having hand quirks also makes me think of another way they're similar. compression is a quirk that can be as dangerous as it is useful. we see that it can effortlessly maim others, which begs the question, what was it like learning that quirk? surely not easy or without consequence. that takes a lot of skill and precision. i think because of that, atsuhiro also makes for someone who probably wouldn't be afraid of or disgusted by tomura's quirk, which adds a further level of intimacy to them. he doesn't just see someone who destroys everything around him--- he sees new beginnings, and has the knowledge that from death, comes life itself. considering, despite his obvious skills in such, he isn't very keen on being a thief or violent for that matter, i feel like he's one of the few people to see and understand that tomura is not just the aggression and expectations that were made by afo--- he is his own person.

it also strikes me as suspicious that even though they needed as many allies as possible, he was never broken out of prison while other much more difficult people were pursued--- in the past he spoke out against the mistreatment of tomura and i feel like afo likely knew he was a risk to keep around, in the event he could not fully control tomura. so for as useful as he was, and could be, he was a liability, a part of tomura's humanity that couldn't be risked, especially when spinner was still around.

to close out, i don't think this was a last ditch effort, i think this is what he always knew to be his final act, he knew the curtain would fall with tomura, not him. tragically, he also probably knew none of them would realistically survive, but i think it was that fire that he saw in tomura--- a fire that could rival his great-great-grandfather--- that made him want to believe in him and drove him to do as much as he could. for all his theatrics and at times ridiculousness, his final act makes him feel like such a classically romantic character, someone willing to give everything up for the person he trusts and respects the most. i'll just never get over how utterly heart-wrenching it is to see atsuhiro's final panel be that wistful smile, still stuck in the same society that worships heroes.

[showstopper35]

HII this is my second time using an ask box so,, here goes!

could you pretty please do the tfp cons n how they'd like act w/ a neurodivergent masc person? your stuff is really cool btw!! keep up the good work :D

thank you so much, darlin'! i hope i did alright with this request! I only decided to do these few, sorry!! I wanted to finish it 😅

Megatron

-He's quite busy (being intimidating is a full-time job, after all), but he doesn't mind if you accompany him on his bridge, chattering away about your interests or quietly entertaining yourself in some corner of the ship while he commands his troops.

-He does ask questions from time to time about your hyperfixations and special interests. If it's something he happens to like or be knowledgeable about, he will gladly talk to you about it and share a lot of information on the subject.

-He mostly leaves you alone during a meltdown or if you are overstimulated. It's not to be rude, he just doesn't really know what to do. He will be a bit more kind to you afterward, though.

Starscream

-Like Megatron, he mostly just listens to you ramble about things you like. He replies sometimes if it's something he happens to have an interest in. These conversations mostly happen when he takes you on flights.

-Privately does a bit of research with Kockout's help so he can better understand neurodivergence. It actually helps him better understand his own mental state and his brothers' as well.

-If he notices you are struggling, he might take you to a quiet room. He doesn't say anything if you thank him, but he is secretly glad he could help someone.

Soundwave

-The perfect partner to ramble to. He has recordings of all the times you've info-dumped to him, and he listens to them often when he's alone.

-Sometimes fidget toys or plushies of things you like will randomly appear. He doesn't mention it, and neither do you. You don't even know how he got them, but you appreciate it.

-After an outburst or meltdown, he lets you play with Laserbeak and plays back a recording of a time when you talked to him about one of your interests. It helps surprisingly well.

-Dissociates with you.

Knockout

-Literally showers you with fidget toys, sensory items, anything related to your interests, any physical affection you need, and literally any item you may ever need.

-Kind of gets upset if you don't make eye contact with him, but then jokes you are blinded by his finish and that's why you aren't looking at him.

-Seems to be always judging your haircut. Makes low-taper fade jokes. You don't know how he knows what that is. You threaten to give him a low-taper fade. He does it in a joking manner, though.

Breakdown

-Be ready for his golden retriever energy, because he can be a lot. He will respect your boundaries, but you might have to remind him a few times.

-Creates a sensory-safe place for you on the Nemesis. Lots of soft pillows and blankets, a few fidget toys, and even a pair of noise cancelling headphones. You’re still not sure how he even got ahold of them. -Has already fought anyone who even looks at you the wrong way or is too loud. He will do it again.

Dreadwing

-Honestly, he’s probably nuerodivergent himself. You take turns talking about your interests. He shows you his weapon collection and starts training you in the art of explosives, whether you like it or not.

-Often, if you need calming down or just want someone to talk to, he tells you stories about his twin. You are positive you know more about Skyquake than you do himself.

-Entirely picks you up and moves you to a quiet room during breakdowns and just sits with you and waits.

[blissfulbluee]

Just saw in your tags that you fw Junhun so I gotta come ask you for some Junhun thoughts 👀

- Player 016, as if anyone is shocked

Omg I’m so surprised I would have never guessed 😳

Idk something about junhun really calls out to me. I’m not usually big on age gap relationships but this one is nice. It has really really grown on me and i feel like you are at least 30% responsible for that lol.

(Jun-ho looking like he wants to eat Gi-hun, as always)

Okay, my Junhun thoughts and headcanons:

-I love that they can bond on their lives being ruined by Jun-ho’s bastard of a brother, lmao, even if In-ho’s identity isn’t exactly revealed

-I think they really match each others freak in so many ways. I feel like they both have the level of maturity to make it work, though they might have trauma get in the way.

-They have their similarities. They’re proactive and impulsive. When they have a goal, they’re all honed in on it to the point they ignore their own health and well being to reach these goals. They’re willing to risk their life for these things and for the people they love. LOOK. THEY COULD REALLY BENEFIT FROM TAKING CARE OF EACH OTHER OKAY!!!

-At first I think they’d both be hesitant. Gi-hun would definitely be the most uncomfortable. First of all, he sees anyone under, like, 35 as a kid. I can see him being very antsy about being heavily attracted to and falling in love with a 33 year old Jun-ho. He’s thinking “I’m nearly old enough to be this guys father, wtf am I doing.”

-Jun-ho would probably just be hesitant because at first he’s very tunnel visioned about relocating his brother, but then he realizes “oh wow i really think i want this old man.” Then it’s time to follow Gi-hun around like a lost puppy, much like the Jun-ho in your fic. I don’t know if he would let the age gap stop him, especially since he has probably been around a lot of people with the same amount of age gap due to his brother being the same age. He probably has had millions of conversations and even many friendships with people much older than him.

-I can’t help but think about how they literally would only have each other… like it would be hard to be able to tell people about that kind of trauma. Since they both have prior knowledge to everything, they skip all of that added mess. They can (kind of) go straight to the comfort and gentleness they need.

-I love the added angst of Jun-ho either never telling Gi-hun about his brother being the frontman or eventually breaking it to him. Oh, the betrayal?? Delicious.

-I think Gi-hun would forgive him, too. He’d rightfully be upset, I think. it would definitely be a bit of a rock in the relationship, but he would understand. That’s Jun-ho’s big brother, of course he would protect him.

-Which also brings me to this. THEYRE BOTH FUCKED UP. They have to do a lot of communicating to solve their issues but I think it may be hard for the both of them sometimes, especially Gi-hun. Gi-hun lost a lot of his willingness to open up unless it’s absolutely necessary, me thinks.

-But I think it has its potential to be like one of the healthiest of ships for Gi-hun and for Jun-ho. Jun-ho is one of the least toxic in Gi-hun’s harem, lol. I think he’d treat him right. Same for the other way around.

-I think they’d enjoy each other’s presence a lot. Quality time, ya know? They don’t even have to be doing anything. Just knowing the other is safe and there for them is what they need.

-coffee/smoke/bar dates…but its junho staring at gihun while he smokes or drinks.. junho just has m coffee or something, or just sips a little on his favorite alcohol. (whiskey or something other bullshit his brother likes probably because hes a fucking inho copycat if anything)

-junhun sharing clothes because they wear similar sizes and mix their clothes up accidentally. (if it’s purposeful on junhos part…we dont judge him okay…it goes unnoticed or unaddressed 😊)

-they eventually just share a pink motel room together, but junho makes gihun make renovations to their room so it’s more homey, lol.

-junho DEF does his best to get gihun to take care of himself and his space. the junhun meme going around “damn bitch you live like this?” yeah jun hos not letting it happen anymore, even if he’s also pretty depressed and traumatized.

-gihun is SO protective of him it’s almost suffocating, but lets be honest its not something junho isnt used to

-it’s really just sad tired dog energy central in their relationship, lmao.

Okay I hope that satiates you!!! Thanks so much for the ask. I am sorry I got so carried away…I love them a lot

[rrking]

Some General BG HCs

Me and my wifey often discuss Astarion things in real life, and there are a few that I thought I would share.

Spoiler warning⚠

Astarion

Random knowledge bank. Meeting your parents for the first time and your dad wants to talk about history? Ask Astarion, if he doesn't just know, he remembers.

Enjoys going to the library. Does not enjoy the rabble who also enjoy the library. You have to explain to him over and over about library cards and infrared scanners so he doesn't just nope out and steal the book. Also gets annoyed when books from his time are revised.

Don't want to touch the raw meat packaging? No worries, Astarion will lick it up for you. Imagine him leant against the kitchen counter sucking up the blood from that piece of paper at the bottom of the mince. (A wifey thought)

On the subject of blood, if you cut your finger in the house he will be licking that up for you with a leering grin. Dragging it out so he can watch how you roll your eyes at him.

Comes in late, as usual, but this time after taking out every fucking goose or pigeon in the local area. The council are unhappy. Astarion is ecstatic. Word of a bird plague is sweeping through the borough. You are not happy with Astarion. Astarion doesn't care about the council until they put your council tax up.

Glares out of the window at kids playing but won't admit they're kind of cute. Especially glarey when kids come to the door trick or treating. Bonus points if they're dressed as vampires... Maybe he'll compliment them. "Darlings, look at your adorable little capes! Does your mother know you lot are prancing around dressed like monsters?" Will absolutely deny any niceties when you look at him knowingly, a smirk appearing on your lips as you notice the bucket of sweets he's holding, still excited after giving the children far more than they needed. or asked for.

Moans and groans when you watch vampire films. "Darling, turn that nonsense off, would you? Were you curious about vampires, you have one right here."

Groans even more when you watch law and order style programs, particularly court ones. Bad memories. "And why did he not get the death sentence?!"

Serial social media meme stealer.

Always creeps up behind you when you are looking in the mirror, ready to scare you. Or shag you, you be the judge.

Gale

Want chippy but don't want to get up or wait for an order? Blink. Gale will blink there and back. What's faster than Uber Eats? Going via the Astral Plane.

100000% will make you a brew if you ask :) He turns up with your favourite mug and your drink exactly the way you like it.

The type of man to run you a hot bath ready when you get in from work or if you've had a hard day just because.

Definitely discovers Nivea for Men.

Remembers things like birthdays and anniversaries.

Sees shiny things and wonders if they're infused with the weave. Gazing through the jewellery shop window.

Suffers through Harry Potter at Christmas wondering where all the elegant wizards are.

Started a thing where you leave post it notes for one another with sweet nothings on. Today as you're walking past the calendar pinned to the kitchen wall, you spot a new post it note. This one is pink and bares Gale's graceful handwriting. It reads: "My most special one, everyday I wake up next to you I feel luckier than the last. Have a great day x" Such devoted notes leave you feeling warm inside.

Halsin

Prefers to buy 'living herbs' than ground jar ones because NATURE.

Is that person who goes past an adult shop and says loudly "let's go inside!"

Definitely gets stuck in garden chairs and the like due to being so massive. Don't get this man in a smart car.

Stands up at barbecues if the chair is too small. It probably is.

Literally has to be told to avoid the bear story to others because they will not understand but tells it anyway if he gets too drunk.

Actually finds it quite difficult to adapt to modern society almost more than Lae'zel.

If you live in the countryside, Halsin definitely finds it a little easier, but if you live in the city he is constantly asking questions. The thing that catches his eye today is a statue above the bank door - a lion with a key in his mouth. "Does that petrified displacer beast not wish to return to the wilderness?" "Halsin, that is a statue of a lion with a key in it's mouth." "...Oh. Why does it guard a key?" You look at him curiously, unsure of how to answer such an innocent question. "It's just HSBC's thing... I don't actually know."

Struggles to find clothes that actually fit.

Will share you a meme you tagged him in and never truly understand the new technology.

Totally enjoys long walks and feeding ducks. Eats all of the bread.

Tries to speak to the animals at the zoo. (Wifey)

Incosolably weeps at nature programs. Very confused when you try to explain that nature has to take it's course for them to film.

First thought upon seeing CGI animals dancing and talking : "IT'S A DRUID!"

Votes Green Party.

Lae'zel

Lae'zel struggles the most to integrate into modern society.

She takes up some form of fighting WWE and does not understand why the fighters don't actually hurt each other.

She complains about this after making absolute bank of course. "Ch'k! These istik talk about fighting for glory - Yet they simply roughhouse for pitiful coin." "Yeah, but look at how famous you are, Lae'zel..." Rollin', rollin', all my bitches rollin'.

Hates ood in Doctor Who for obvious reasons. "Tsk'va, ghaik!"

Wifey came up with 'Bae'zel'.

Karlach

Believes stupid spam emails you have to send onto others. (Wifey thought of this)

Shares that post of the missing dog on the other side of the world who was found 3 years ago.

Discovers TikTok, only shares animal videos and smashes TikTok dances.

Discovers aircon. 🥺

Discovers hot wing challenges... Excels at said hot wing challenges. and collects all the t shirts for winning food challenges.

Shadowheart

Posts things on Facebook like 'Shar/Selune keeps me in check. Like, share and comment 'Praise be to Shar/Selune' if she keeps you in check." Definitely gets flamed by the others.

Ends up with cute hobbies like paper quilling and crafts. Makes things for you. "You've really improved your crochet, Shadowheart! What is this one called?" Gives him a simple name like Bob or Clyde and puts him with the rest, cramming the mantle with them.