#general kael

[georgeromeros]

Willow (1988) dir. Ron Howard

[chernobog13]

The evil General Kael of Nockmaar (Pat Roach) and his minions, from the film Willow (1988).

[cidraman]

Willow figures. Toddy - 1988.

[reynolds-here-over]

I kinda want to write a fic about after defeating the Wyrm the gang goes back to Nockmaar for some reason and jade finds General Kael’s room that actually looks homely (cause think this man had 15 kids) like there’s kids toys on the floor a wooden piller with heights marked into it and stuff like that

Idk but I’m too dyslexic to even write this properly but it’s a fun idea

[speedwalkingtheplanes]

Willow characters as D&D classes and races not because I can't sleep, but because I don't want to write tomorrow's session

Unlike my Percy Jackson version of this post, Willow has pretty clear ties to D&D, especially the 2022 show, so I'm not really going to be changing characters' races for this list. For all intents and purposes, they could be played in the world they're in, rather than adapted into a high-fantasy setting like I did with PJO. That said, I will be taking a couple of liberties with it, and trying to make it at least a little interesting. Same rules as the last one: minimal reflavoring, and no hombrew or unearthed arcana.

Willow Ufgood: Halfling Transmutation Wizard. Yeah, I know that all of the magic-users in the Willow-verse are referred to as sorcerers, but I think there's some nuance between how they use magic, and Willow, despite his intuition, certainly does not find his magic born within him. He doesn't necessarily have a natural gift for it, but rather finds careful study and many of years practice aiding him in becoming the magician he is by the time of the series, not to mention receiving a spellbook at the end of the movie. I struggled for a little while to decide what his subclass is, as we only really see him doing generalist magic. That said, war magic or order of scribes are out, seeing as he isn't a battlemage at all, nor does his spellbook play as important of a role as a scribe's would. So, considering his feats of returning Raziel to her human form, and restoring the Galladoorn warriors, transmutation feels like the most apt option for him.

Madmartigan: Human Swashbuckler Rogue/Battle Master FIghter. I had initially thought Madmartigan would be a champion, but thinking back on his fight against the Nockmaar soldiers, I think it's fair to say that he exemplifies the Art of War qualities that are so prevalent in the subclass. Swashbuckler is much more clear-cut. He nails one-on-one combat, and certainly has the high charisma necessary for the class, not to mention how he aids Franjean in picking the lock on the cage.

Sorsha Tanthalos: Human Hexblade Warlock. We don't see a lot of Sorsha's capabilities, so I'm gonna play flavor far more than mechanics with her. We know that she is a skilled fighter, and we see some of that, but I like the idea that her patron is her mother, and her pact ends after Bavmorda's defeat. She's certainly charismatic enough to trick Madmartigan into letting down his defenses enough to allow her a chance to escape from him, and was seemingly quite the leader in the quest for Elora, so I don't feel that this is too much of a stretch.

Rool/Franjean: Fairy Fey Wanderer Rangers. These two are interesting. I had almost made them gnomes, but I think them being fairies themselves (alongside the other Brownies) makes a bit more sense. They're definitely rangers, what with their affinity with animals, tracking abilities, and association with other fey creatures.

Airk Thaughbaer: Human Crown Paladin. We don't see a lot of Airk, but given that Madmartigan named his son after him, I think it's reasonable to put him on this list. He's kind of the ideal Galladoorn knight, fighting for country and fellow man against the forces of darkness. While I definitely think he's a paladin, other sublcasses might work for him.

Bavmorda: Tiefling Undead Warlock. Bavmorda being a tiefling is really only because she has the name "The Demon Queen." (And yes, I know that tieflings are infernal and not abyssal, but there isn't an abyssal race in D&D, so this is what I've got.) Her class and subclass seem pretty clear-cut. We find out in the series that she had made a pact with the Withered Crone, so she's clearly a warlock, though whether she's undead or undying is up for debate. In all honestly, they really aren't any different, and undead is just better.

General Kael: Human Berzerker Barbarian. Kael's so cool, but we also don't see much in the way of his combat ability. He's certainly very skilled, and he can also take a beating (the man took a sword to the face, and then kept fighting after getting stabbed), not to mention his shouting about "Now you die!" That feels very much like a raging barbarian to me.

Kit Tanthalos: Human Champion Fighter. Champion was my first choice for Kit, but I thought that I should dig deeper for her and kept trying to find something else. I've seen people say that she's a swashbuckler, or a battle master. I've even seem some people say that by the time she has taken the Kymerian Cuirass, she's gained three levels in artificer and become an armorer. And I hate all of that, because it's all too damn much. I think Kit's most important arc as a character is learning that she isn't the invnincible fighter she thought she was, and that her main character syndrome doesn't actually make her the main character. As far as that goes, I came back to champion, because I think the simplest fighter subclass conveys that journey really well.

Airk Thanthalos: Valor Bard/Oathbreaker Paladin. Airk is really interesting to me from a character creation perspective. He's clearly high charisma and low wisdom, and he isn't too shabby with a sword. He could very easily just be a paladin, and the Crone's corruption caused him to be an oathbreaker, but he's just too charming for me to not make him a bard too.

Jade Claymore: Human Samurai Fighter/Devotion Paladin. I've seen a lot of people say that Jade is a battle master, and while I see it, I think Samurai is a significantly more interesting choice for her. She's definitely not an average knight, and we can clearly see her wisdom in her fighting and her decision-making. As for paladin, Graydon aptly points out that her devotion is her driving force on the quest. If it's that important, than I'd say it counts as an oath.

Scorpia: Human Scout Rogue. There isn't a lot to go on for this one, unfortunately. She's clearly well-versed enough in combat to beat Jade, though I'd argue that she's simply a higher level. Being a scout would be beneficial for the forest-swelling Bone Reavers, and we see her have some skill with a throwing knife, which feels much like a roguish quality to me. (Ignore that Airk Thaughbaer also kills someone by throwing a knife.)

Thraxus Boorman: Human Berzerker Barbarian/Swashbuckler Rogue. I figured that Boorman was a barbarian/rogue early on, and was pleased when I saw some other people saying the same thing. I don't think Berzerker really fits him, but the only other non-magical barbarian sublcass is battle rager, and that fits him even less. (Seriously, there needs to be more non-magical barbarian subclasses.) It is possible that he never made it to three levels of barbarian, and just has a one or two level dip. (If i were to optimize him, it'd be two levels. That way reckless attack can be used to proc sneak attack at any opportunity.) I also don't think his rage is purely angry, but instead reflavored into sorrow that is masked with humor. As Madmartigan's squire, it makes sense that they would have the same rogue sublcass, and we definitely see Boorman's charisma shine through the series. Plus, like Madmartigan, he can pick locks. Ish.

Graydon Hastur: Human Lore Bard. Yeah, he's said to be a sorcerer in the show, but the man casts magic with his flute and gives other characters inspiring pep talks. If that doesn't make him a bard, I don't know what does. College of lore because he's very booksmart, and collects dead languages and ancient stories like an old lady collects little spoons.

Elora Danan: Protector Aasimar Divine Soul Sorcerer. And finally, the chosen one herself. I really wanted to make her wild magic, but divine soul unfortunately just makes more sense. I feel that of the sorcerers in the franchise, she's the only one that's actually a sorcerer. We don't know anything about how Raziel's magic works, so there's really no figuring her out, and Cherlindrea is more of an archfey than anything else. Elora, on the other hand, has an inborn aptitude for magic. She still has to practice, and reads Willow's spellbook, but that's more about control than power for her. As the child of the prophecy, and the one destined to defeat evil and unite the lands, it makes sense to me that she would be an aasimar, a divine being imbued with the power of celestials. She also has the chef feat.

There's certain characters that I left out, either because we don't see enough of them for me to properly gauge what they might be, or I think they'd be better with monster stat blocks than character sheets. But maybe I'll revisit this later and figure out characters like Silas, Lilli, and Ballantine. In any case, let me know if you disagree, I'd love to hear what everyone else thinks.

[snailxmail]

Would...

General KAEL by kastart

[viaram0]

[rebelscaped]

WHERE: anywhere (up to you!) WHEN: 28th August WHO: anyone! ( @anchoragestarters ) CAP: 4/4 FULLY CAPPED

"What's the deal with this pizza place anyway?" said Kael, turning the flyer over in his hand, regarding with the sort of scrutiny usually reserved for unwanted things. The graphic design was bright. Garish. Kael could settle for a little childlike wonder and whimsy; make no mistakes, he preferred to keep his head out of his own arse and was capable of having fun. This just wasn't his idea of fun. But it had quickly become apparent that his kid didn't feel the same way. It was obvious from the start it would be a losing battle. What parent could ever lose against a town full of fliers promising exactly everything that any five-to-ten year old wanted? "Is the pizza actually any good or is the sauce just packed full of Red 40?" he asked, an eyebrow raised as he flattened the flier out on the table, "Kinda have to wonder how much they actually spend on the food if they're giving so much of it away."

[prosegalaxy]

"Infiltrating the Enemy Camp: A Tale of Bravery and Hope"

The sun had just begun to dip below the horizon, casting an otherworldly glow over the battlefield. The air was thick with tension as both sides prepared for the impending clash. In the distance, a lone figure stood silhouetted against the setting sun, their eyes locked onto the approaching storm of conflict. "Do you see it?" whispered the figure to their comrade, who stood beside them. The other nodded solemnly, their gaze fixed on the horizon. "The moment has come." As one, they turned and sprinted towards the heart of the battlefield, their footsteps barely audible over the cacophony of weapons clashing and shouts ringing out. Their mission was clear: to infiltrate the enemy camp and discover their secret weapon. With every step, the weight of their task bore down on them, but they pushed forward, driven by a sense of duty and hope. As they neared the enemy lines, they came across a group of wounded soldiers huddled together, their faces etched with pain and fear. The figure stopped for a moment, offering a word of encouragement and a sip of water from their canteen. It was a small act of kindness, but it meant the world to those weary warriors. "We'll win this war," they promised, their voice steady despite the circumstances. "You have my word." With that, they continued onward, their hearts pounding with anticipation. As they reached the enemy camp, they were met with a surprise: the soldiers there appeared exhausted and defeated, not at all like the fearsome foes they had been led to believe. It was then that the figure felt it – a change within them, a newfound understanding of their enemy. As they moved deeper into the camp, they overheard whispers of a secret weapon, one capable of turning the tide of the war. The figure shared this information with their comrade, and together they decided to sabotage the weapon before it could be used. But as they moved closer to their target, they stumbled upon a shocking revelation: the "weapon" was not what they had expected at all. It was a child, trapped in a machine designed to harness their powers for the enemy's cause. The figure and their comrade exchanged a pained glance, their hearts heavy with the knowledge that they had been deceived. In that moment, they made a choice: to save the child and end the cycle of violence, or to continue the fight and risk losing everything. With a determination born from empathy and hope, they chose to save the child, knowing that doing so would change the course of the war. As the sun finally dipped below the horizon, casting the battlefield in darkness, the figure and their comrade carried the child to safety, their hearts full of newfound purpose. The war was far from over, but they had found a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos – a testament to the power of compassion and understanding in even the darkest of times. As the sun set over the horizon, casting a warm glow upon the landscape, the group of heroes cautiously approached the enemy camp. The air was thick with tension as they knew that their mission would be anything but easy. They had infiltrated the camp to find a secret weapon, a weapon that could turn the tide of the war in their favor. As they sneaked through the shadows, they came across a child, shivering and afraid, hiding from the chaos that surrounded them. Thomas, the group's leader, felt his heart ache at the sight of the frightened child. "We can't just leave him here," he whispered to his companions. The others nodded in agreement, knowing that their mission had taken a sudden and unexpected turn. They decided to save the child and figure out their next steps later. As they continued their journey through the camp, they came across an unexpected twist - the secret weapon was not what they had anticipated. Instead of a powerful weapon, it was a mysterious artifact that seemed to hold the power to change the course of the war. With newfound determination, the heroes resolved to use this artifact for good, rather than allowing it to fall into the hands of their enemies. The climax of their mission arrived when they confronted the enemy general who guarded the artifact. A fierce battle ensued, with the heroes fighting valiantly against overwhelming odds. In the end, they emerged victorious, having not only saved the child but also secured the artifact for their side. As the dust settled and the sun rose once more, the group of heroes found themselves forever changed by their life-altering experiences. The child, now under their protection, had become an integral part of their team. And as they gazed upon the horizon, they knew that together, they would continue to fight for a brighter future, one where hope and unity prevailed over darkness and chaos. The heroes infiltrated the camp silently, using their stealth skills to avoid detection. As they approached the heart of the enemy camp, they discovered something unexpected - a small child, huddled and shivering, hidden away from the chaos of war. In the midst of the tension and uncertainty, the heroes found themselves drawn to the child's innocence and vulnerability. They could see the fear in its eyes, and felt an overwhelming urge to protect this young life at all costs. This unexpected encounter would lead them down a path they never imagined, challenging their beliefs and forcing them to make a decision that would change them forever. In that moment, the heroes made a choice: to save the child, even if it meant betraying their mission. They knew they had stumbled upon something extraordinary - an opportunity for hope and unity in a world torn apart by conflict. The heroes continued to fight alongside the child, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. Together, they faced their enemies, defeating them with courage, wisdom, and the power of friendship. The moon cast a dim light over the enemy camp as the two spies, Alex and Sam, tiptoed through the shadows. They had infiltrated the camp with one goal in mind: find the enemy's secret weapon. As they approached the main tent, they could hear the murmurs of soldiers inside. Alex raised a hand, signaling for Sam to stay back. With careful precision, Alex tapped on the flap of the tent and listened intently. Inside the tent, General Kael was holding court with his officers. "We must find that weapon," he growled. "It's the key to our victory over our enemies." Sam's eyes widened as he realized something was amiss. "Alex, I don't think they have a weapon. I think we found...something else." Alex nodded, understanding the gravity of their discovery. They both knew that if they had misjudged the situation, it could cost them their lives. But they couldn't ignore the truth. Creeping inside, Alex spotted the mysterious artifact on a table in the center of the tent. It was unlike anything they had ever seen before - an object of pure energy, pulsing with power. Alex whispered to Sam, "We need to find out what this is." They approached the table cautiously, examining the artifact closely. As they did so, General Kael noticed their presence and his eyes narrowed menacingly. "Who dares enter my tent uninvited?" Before Alex could respond, Sam blurted out, "We are here to learn the truth about your secret weapon." General Kael laughed coldly. "You think you can take this from us? You're in for a surprise." The two spies knew they had no choice but to confront the enemy general and hope for the best. Alex stepped forward, determined to save the child they had seen hiding in a nearby tent. As the climactic battle raged around them, Alex and Sam fought alongside their new ally - the young child who had witnessed their bravery. Together, they won the day, saving not only the child but also the hope for unity between their warring factions. The experience had changed them forever, and they continued to fight for a better world, one where all could live in peace and harmony. In the cover of night, a group of skilled warriors stealthily approached the enemy camp. Their mission was clear - infiltrate, discover, confront, and ultimately choose to save a child instead of continuing the fight. As they cautiously moved through the darkness, they could feel the tension rising with each step closer to their target. Suddenly, a guard's footsteps alerted them to their presence. The warriors quickly dispersed to avoid detection, but one of the group was seen and captured. The enemy general, General Kael, approached the captive and taunted him, revealing the mysterious artifact they had been tasked with discovering. "Look what we found," General Kael said, holding the artifact up to the light. "This is no ordinary relic - it holds immense power." The captive warrior, determined not to let his comrades down, attempted to distract General Kael by engaging him in conversation. "What are your intentions with this artifact?" the warrior asked, stalling for time. General Kael chuckled darkly. "Oh, I have many plans for it. But first, we shall deal with you and your friends." As the captive warrior continued to distract General Kael, his comrades worked together to free him and create a diversion. The sound of battle erupted as they fought their way towards the artifact. In the midst of the chaos, a young child was discovered, trapped and frightened within the enemy camp. The warriors faced a difficult decision - continue their fight for the artifact or save the innocent life before them. "We must save this child," one of the warriors declared, and the others agreed. They put aside their quest for the artifact and focused on rescuing the child, who had somehow managed to survive amidst the violence. With newfound purpose, they fought side by side with the child against General Kael and his forces. In the climactic battle that followed, the warriors and the child defeated the enemy general, saving countless lives and changing the course of their own destinies. From that day on, the warriors and the child were forever changed. They continued to fight for hope and unity, knowing that even in the darkest times, there was always room for compassion and courage. And so, the story of their incredible journey unfolded, inspiring generations to come. The hero, Alex, crouched low and moved quietly through the dense foliage that surrounded the enemy camp. He was careful not to make any noise as he crept closer to his target - the mysterious artifact rumored to be hidden in the heart of the camp. As he approached, he could hear the distant chatter of enemy soldiers, their voices filled with confidence and arrogance. Suddenly, Alex spotted a guard patrolling the perimeter and quickly ducked behind a bush. He waited until the guard was several yards away before continuing his journey. Just as he reached the edge of the camp, he saw something that made his heart race - the artifact! It was a small, glowing orb, pulsing with an otherworldly energy. Alex knew that this could be the key to turning the tide in their fight against the enemy general, General Kael. He carefully approached the artifact and picked it up, feeling a surge of power course through his body. Empowered by the mysterious object, Alex decided to confront General Kael himself. As he approached the command tent, he could hear the general barking orders to his soldiers. He took a deep breath and pushed open the flap of the tent. Inside, Alex found General Kael standing before a large map, plotting his next move. Startled by the intruder, the general turned to face him. "Who dares enter my tent?" he demanded. "I am here to confront you," Alex said, his voice steady and resolute. "You've caused too much pain and suffering, and I won't stand for it any longer." General Kael scoffed. "And what makes you think you can defeat me?" Alex held up the artifact. "With this power, I know I can. But there's something else you need to know - I've found a child within these walls, one who's been forced into your army against their will. I could use this newfound strength to destroy you and your camp, but instead, I choose to save that innocent life." General Kael's eyes widened in shock, realizing the potential of the artifact in Alex's hands. "You underestimate my power," he said, his voice trembling. But Alex was determined. He charged at General Kael, the glowing orb in his hand blazing with energy. As they clashed, a fierce battle ensued, one that would determine the fate of both sides. In the end, it was not brute strength or cunning strategy that won the day, but the power of hope and unity. With Alex's newfound friend by his side - the child he saved - they managed to turn the tide against General Kael. In the aftermath, Alex and the child stood together, gazing at the defeated enemy camp. They knew that their journey was far from over, but with the power of hope and the strength of friendship, they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Alex sneaked through the dense forest, careful not to make a sound. The enemy camp was just up ahead, and he knew that time was of the essence. As he approached, he noticed a faint glow coming from deep within the camp's territory. Curiosity piqued, he decided to investigate further. As he ventured closer, he stumbled upon a hidden cave filled with ancient artifacts. Among them was an enigmatic relic that seemed to pulse with energy. Alex could feel the power it radiated and knew that this might be the key to defeating the enemy general, General Kael. With newfound determination, he continued his journey through the camp, until he finally found himself face-to-face with General Kael. The air was thick with tension as they locked eyes. "You've made quite an impression on my camp, intruder," General Kael sneered. "I can't say I'm surprised you managed to infiltrate our defenses." Alex clenched his fists, resisting the urge to attack immediately. Instead, he decided to engage in conversation, hoping to gain an advantage over his enemy. "General Kael," Alex began cautiously. "We don't have to fight anymore. There's a way for both of us to achieve our goals without shedding more blood." General Kael scoffed at the suggestion. "And what could possibly make me want to stop this war? You, a mere thief in my camp?" As they continued to argue, Alex noticed a child huddled against the wall, clearly terrified. The child's eyes met his, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. In that instant, Alex made his decision. "There is something else here," he said, gesturing to the artifact in his possession. "Something that could change everything." General Kael's expression shifted from anger to curiosity, and for the first time, there was a glimmer of doubt in his eyes. Alex knew then that this might be his only chance. With a deep breath, Alex unveiled the mysterious artifact before them. The child watched in awe as it pulsed with energy, casting a warm glow over their faces. In that moment, Alex and General Kael both realized the true power of hope and unity. Together, they fought against an unexpected ally – the now empowered child. The battle raged on, but in the end, they emerged victorious, forever changed by their experiences. United by a common goal, they would continue to fight for hope and unity, knowing that even the most powerful enemies could be overcome when working together. In the dead of night, Alex stealthily approached the enemy camp. The cold air nipped at his face as he crawled closer to the edge of the clearing. He could see the flickering light of torches and hear the faint chatter of the enemy soldiers. As he reached the perimeter, he spotted a lone guard, slumped over against a tent. Carefully, Alex slipped past him, his heart pounding in his chest. Inside the camp, the air was thick with tension. He knew he had to be swift and silent. Alex made his way towards the center of the camp where the mysterious artifact was rumored to be hidden. As he approached, he could hear whispers of fear-filled voices speaking in hushed tones. He could feel their eyes on him, but they dared not confront him directly. He finally reached a small hut at the edge of the camp and carefully pushed open the door. Inside, he found the artifact resting on a table. It was unlike anything he had ever seen before – an ancient relic, glowing with power. He knew that it could tip the scales in their favor, but he also understood its potential for destruction. With the artifact in hand, Alex made his way towards the tent where General Kael resided. The air was thick with anticipation as he stepped into the dimly lit room. General Kael sat at a desk, poring over a map of their territory. He looked up, his face hardened by years of warfare. "I've been expecting you," he growled. "You underestimate the strength of our forces." Alex didn't flinch. "I'm here for the artifact, General Kael. It holds more power than either of us can comprehend." General Kael laughed coldly. "And what do you plan to do with it?" "I plan to use it to bring about peace," Alex said firmly. "To end this senseless war and give hope to those who have suffered." The general's face twisted into a mask of fury. "You are a fool, soldier. There can be no peace until we are victorious!" Suddenly, they were locked in a fierce battle, their swords clashing as they circled each other. But then, a small voice pierced the air – a child, trapped within the camp, crying out for help. Alex and General Kael paused, their eyes locking on the source of the sound. In that moment, they both realized the true cost of their conflict – innocent lives caught in the crossfire. Without another word, Alex charged at General Kael. They fought fiercely, but ultimately, Alex emerged victorious. He stood over the defeated general and looked towards the child, who was now cowering near the edge of the camp. Alex knew that saving the child's life was more important than any victory he could achieve on the battlefield. With newfound determination, he gathered his forces and led them away from the enemy camp, leaving General Kael to ponder the consequences of their actions. From that day forward, Alex and his comrades fought for hope and unity, seeking to create a world where children could grow up without fear. And though the road ahead was long and filled with challenges, they knew they were on the right path – one led by compassion and a desire for peace. Alex crept through the dense foliage, his heart pounding as he approached the enemy camp. He had heard stories of the mysterious artifact hidden within, and knew that capturing it could change the tide of the war. As he reached the edge of the encampment, he spotted General Kael pacing back and forth in front of a makeshift altar. Alex's heart skipped a beat - this was his chance to confront the enemy general and claim the artifact. He hesitated for a moment before deciding to take action. Suddenly, a small voice called out from behind him. "Hey, are you lost?" A young child, no older than ten, peered curiously at Alex. "I didn't mean to intrude," the child added, looking up at Alex with wide eyes. "But I saw you sneaking around and thought you might need some help." Alex hesitated, torn between his mission and the unexpected alliance. He couldn't leave the child behind - they were in danger here. "Come with me," he whispered, gesturing for the child to follow him. Together, they snuck into the camp, avoiding enemy soldiers as they made their way towards the artifact. As they approached the makeshift altar, General Kael sensed their presence and whirled around. "Who dares intrude upon my camp?" he roared, his eyes narrowing as he spotted Alex and the child. "I'm here to take the artifact," Alex declared, trying to sound confident despite his pounding heart. "But we don't have to fight." He gestured to the child, who was watching the exchange with wide eyes. "This war has gone on long enough - we can stop it together." General Kael scoffed, but a hint of doubt flickered in his eyes. "You underestimate the power of this artifact," he growled. "It is the key to victory." Alex shook his head. "No, it's the key to peace. Together, we can create a better future for everyone." The child nodded fervently, their eyes shining with hope. A battle erupted between Alex and General Kael, but they fought side by side, as unlikely allies. In the end, they defeated the enemy general and secured the artifact, which began to glow with an ethereal light. The child reached out, touching the artifact, and a wave of warmth washed over them all. In that moment, Alex realized the true power of hope and unity - it could change hearts and minds, even in the midst of war. He and the child, now bound by their shared experience, continued to fight for peace, spreading hope throughout the land. "We don't have time for this, Alex," the voice echoed again. He knew it was right - they had to leave now, before General Kael and his forces could retaliate. Alex sprinted from the tent with the child in his arms, the artifact still pulsing with energy. Behind them, the sounds of battle erupted as their new ally, the child, led them to safety. Together, they fought for hope and unity, forever changed by their experiences. Infiltrating the enemy camp, Alex moved stealthily through the shadows, his heart pounding with anticipation. He knew that deep within the fortress lay a mysterious artifact that could turn the tide of war. As he reached the inner sanctum, he discovered a child huddled in fear. With courage and determination, Alex confronted General Kael, who was awestruck by the artifact's power. In the heat of battle, Alex and the child fought side by side, defeating General Kael and changing their lives forever. From that day forward, they continued to fight for hope and unity, forever bonded by their shared experiences. As the moon cast its silvery glow over the enemy camp, Alex tiptoed through the shadows, careful not to make a sound. His heart pounded in his chest as he remembered the task at hand: infiltrate the camp, find the mysterious artifact, confront General Kael, and ultimately choose to save a child instead of continuing the fight. As Alex approached the perimeter, he spotted a guard patrolling the outer wall. His eyes locked onto the guard, who seemed oblivious to the presence of an intruder. With a swift movement, Alex leaped over the wall and landed silently on the other side. He knew that each step needed to be deliberate and calculated if he wanted to succeed in his mission. Making his way deeper into the camp, he stumbled upon a tent that held the artifact he sought. A strange, pulsating energy emanated from it, causing him to pause for a moment. He carefully picked up the artifact, feeling its power course through him, and continued onward. Finally, Alex found himself standing before General Kael, who was seated atop a throne of sorted bones. The general's eyes burned with anger as he locked onto Alex's face. "You have no idea what you're up against," he growled menacingly. "I know why I'm here, and so do you," Alex replied bravely. "We could end this senseless fighting, or we could keep it going and let the children suffer." Before General Kael could respond, a faint whimper echoed from a nearby tent. Alex's heart softened as he heard the cries of a child in distress. He knew in that moment what he had to do. "I choose to save the child," he declared firmly. In an instant, a fierce battle erupted between Alex and General Kael. With each swing of their weapons, they clashed in a dance of death. But as the general's anger began to falter, a newfound determination replaced it. The two combatants fought side by side against a common enemy, ultimately winning the battle. As the sun rose over the once-enemy camp, Alex cradled the child in his arms. The once fierce warriors now shared a bond of hope and unity, knowing that their experiences had changed them forever. And so, they continued to fight for the future, where children would no longer know the horrors of war. In the stillness of night, Alex stealthily approached the enemy camp. His heart pounded in his chest as he focused on maintaining silence and avoiding detection. The air was thick with tension, and every rustle of leaves or snap of a twig sent shivers down his spine. He knew that if he were discovered, it could mean certain death for him and his comrades. As Alex finally reached the perimeter of the camp, he spotted the mysterious artifact lying on a table near the entrance. It was unlike anything he had ever seen before, and he couldn't help but be drawn to it. He glanced around nervously, ensuring no one saw him examining the artifact. As soon as he picked it up, he could feel a surge of energy coursing through his body. With renewed determination, Alex continued his infiltration. He found himself in the heart of the camp, where General Kael stood with his back to Alex. The general seemed to be deep in thought, unaware of the intruder. Taking a deep breath, Alex decided it was time to confront him. "General Kael," he whispered, stepping out from the shadows. "I have come to stop this senseless fighting." Kael spun around, his eyes widening in surprise. "You're one of them? How did you get past our defenses?" Alex held up the artifact. "This gave me the power to infiltrate your camp. I could destroy it and end this conflict, but there is another option." Kael scoffed. "And what would that be?" "I will spare you if you agree to stop fighting," Alex offered. "We can work together for a brighter future." General Kael considered the proposition, his face hardening as he made his decision. Just then, a child appeared behind Alex, holding a weapon in trembling hands. The child's eyes were filled with fear and determination. "No more fighting," the child said defiantly. "We don't want any of this." Alex glanced at the artifact, feeling its energy pulse through him once more. He realized that he could use it to defeat Kael and end the conflict swiftly, but at what cost? The child's life was now in his hands, as well as the fate of both armies. With a heavy heart, Alex chose to save the child instead. In a flash of light, the artifact's power surged through him, and he felt himself transforming. He looked down to see that he had become a towering creature with immense strength and power. Kael, stunned by the sudden change, tried to attack Alex but was easily defeated. The child watched in awe as the two fought, realizing the gravity of the situation. In the end, it was not the artifact's power that won the day, but the choice made by one man to save a life and fight for hope and unity. From that moment on, Alex and the child became inseparable allies, continuing their journey together, spreading the message of peace and understanding across the land. The enemy general, now a believer in the power of compassion and forgiveness, joined them as well, forever changed by the experiences they shared. In this dialogue-heavy scene, Alex infiltrates an enemy camp to find a mysterious artifact and confront General Kael. The artifact grants Alex power, but he chooses to save a child instead of continuing the fight. Together, they defeat General Kael and form an alliance to spread hope and unity across the land. As Alex cautiously approached the entrance of the enemy camp, he couldn't help but feel a sense of dread creeping up on him. The air was thick with tension as he hid behind trees and bushes, using his stealth skills to avoid detection. He knew that if anyone found out who he truly was, his mission would be compromised. Inside the camp, soldiers were busy preparing for what they assumed would be a final battle against their sworn enemies. The whispers of the unknown artifact filled the air, and rumors of its unimaginable power only fueled the fires of anticipation and fear. Alex finally reached his destination: the tent where the mysterious artifact was said to be hidden. He took a deep breath and pushed the tent flap aside, revealing a dimly lit room filled with various objects. Amidst the chaos, the artifact stood out, glowing with an ethereal light that seemed to call out to him. As Alex reached for it, a voice echoed in his mind, "You seek power, don't you?" "Yes," he replied, hesitating for a moment. He knew that the power of the artifact could change the course of the war, but he also understood the consequences it could bring upon him and those around him. The voice continued, "But at what cost? What are you willing to sacrifice for this power?" Alex pondered the question as he held the artifact in his hands. He thought of his family, his friends, and the lives that would be lost if he were to use it against General Kael. "I don't want power at the cost of innocent lives," Alex said firmly. "I seek to bring peace and unity to our land." The voice was impressed by his determination. "Then you are worthy. But remember, with great power comes great responsibility." In an instant, the artifact's power surged through him, but instead of choosing vengeance or destruction, Alex felt a newfound sense of purpose and strength. He knew that he had to save someone - not for personal gain, but to prove his intentions were pure. As he scanned the camp, he spotted a terrified child huddled in a corner, crying silently. Alex's heart went out to the innocent soul caught in the chaos of war. He made his decision and rushed towards the child. "No one will hurt you ever again," he promised, picking up the sobbing child and holding them close. The camp erupted into chaos as word spread that Alex had found the artifact. Soldiers scrambled to find him and seize the power for their own purposes, but Alex had already made his choice. He used the artifact's power to protect the child and defend against any threats. In the midst of the battle, General Kael appeared, his face twisted with anger and betrayal. But Alex remained steadfast, using the artifact to fight alongside the general. Their combined strength was unstoppable, and soon enough, General Kael was defeated. As the dust settled, a newfound alliance formed between Alex and General Kael. Together, they vowed to spread hope and unity across their land, ensuring that no more innocent lives would be lost in the name of war. In the heart of the enemy camp, Alex treaded carefully, his eyes darting from one shadow to another. He knew that time was of the essence, and he had to find the mysterious artifact before General Kael could unleash it upon the world. As he turned a corner, he spotted a group of soldiers huddled around a fire, their faces hidden by fear. "Hey," Alex whispered, approaching them cautiously. "I'm looking for someone. Have you seen him?" One of the soldiers hesitated before answering. "General Kael? He's not here." Alex nodded, relief washing over his face. "Good. But I need your help. I need to find this artifact. It's powerful, and it could change everything if it falls into the wrong hands." The soldier looked at Alex with a mix of skepticism and curiosity. "Why should we help you?" "Because," Alex said, lowering his voice, "I have a gift for you. A way to save your people from General Kael's tyranny. Together, we can bring hope and unity back to our land." The soldier glanced at the others before nodding slowly. "Very well. We'll help you find the artifact." As they ventured deeper into the camp, Alex could feel the tension growing. They finally reached the hidden chamber where the artifact lay, its power radiating through the air. As Alex picked it up, he felt a surge of energy course through him. In that moment, he had a choice: use the artifact's power to defeat General Kael or save the child who had been chained in the corner. Alex chose love over destruction. He broke the chains and held the frightened child in his arms, whispering reassurances. As they locked eyes, the child's fear turned to trust, and together, they faced General Kael with newfound courage. "You've made a mistake, General," Alex said, standing tall before the enemy leader. "Love and hope are far more powerful than any artifact." General Kael scoffed, his anger palpable. "You truly believe that?" Alex looked at the child, their bond unbreakable. "Yes. And together, we'll show you that even the darkest of times can give way to light." And with that, they fought side by side, defeating General Kael and setting in motion a new era of hope and unity across their land. In this dialogue-heavy scene, Alex infiltrates an enemy camp at night, under the cover of darkness. He tiptoes carefully through the campsite, avoiding guards and traps alike. As he makes his way deeper into the enemy territory, he starts to overhear conversations between the soldiers. Soldier 1: "I heard that General Kael has a secret weapon hidden in this camp." Soldier 2: "Really? What is it?" Soldier 1: "Rumor has it, it's an artifact with unimaginable power. We must find it and use it to defeat our enemies." Alex continues his stealthy journey, determined not to reveal his presence. He finally arrives at the heart of the camp, where General Kael is holding a meeting with his top officers. They discuss their plans for conquering neighboring lands. General Kael: "Our forces will soon be unstoppable. With this artifact, we'll have the upper hand in every battle." Officer 1: "Yes, General. We must ensure that our enemies never get their hands on it." Just as General Kael is about to reveal the location of the artifact, Alex strikes. He quickly incapacitates the guards and makes his way towards the artifact. As he approaches, he can feel its energy radiating through him. Suddenly, a child appears before him, frightened and alone. Child: "Don't take it! It's dangerous!" Alex: (whispers) "I won't. But we need to leave now." Together, they escape the camp and make their way back to their own people. Alex, now powered by the artifact, has a choice to make: use its power for his own benefit or save the child and spread hope and unity across the land. Alex: "I choose hope. Together, we'll show them that there is strength in unity." Child: (smiles) "Thank you, Alex." In this dialogue-heavy scene, Alex infiltrates an enemy camp to find a mysterious artifact and confront General Kael. The artifact grants Alex power, but he chooses to save a child instead of continuing the fight. Together, they defeat General Kael and form an alliance to spread hope and unity across the land. In the moonlit camp, Alex crept stealthily past tents and sentries, his heart pounding with anticipation. He knew he was close to finding the artifact that held the key to stopping General Kael's rampage. As he neared a group of soldiers huddled around a fire, their hushed whispers filled him with dread. "Have you heard about the power of the artifact?" one soldier asked nervously. "Rumor has it that it can grant immense strength and control over the elements," another replied, his eyes wide with awe. Alex listened intently, trying to remain inconspicuous as he gathered information on the artifact's power. He knew the time was near for confronting General Kael, and the more he learned, the better prepared he would be. As the soldiers continued discussing their plans, Alex noticed a frightened child hiding in the shadows, her eyes brimming with fear. "We must stop General Kael's conquest before it's too late," one soldier declared passionately. "His tyranny will bring ruin to our land." Alex couldn't help but agree with the sentiment, and as fate would have it, the opportunity he had been waiting for presented itself. The child's trembling voice broke through the silence, drawing the attention of both Alex and the soldiers. "Please, help me," she pleaded, tears streaming down her cheeks. "My family is in danger." In that moment, Alex made a choice. Instead of using the artifact's power for his own benefit, he decided to save the child. Together, they stealthily moved through the camp, avoiding detection as General Kael's voice boomed through the night air. "Prepare yourselves," he bellowed. "Tomorrow, we march on our neighbors and bring them to their knees!" As General Kael's plans unfolded, Alex and the child infiltrated his inner circle. With the artifact at his side, they faced off against the general in a battle that would determine the fate of countless lives. Despite the odds stacked against them, they fought with courage and determination, forging an alliance to spread hope and unity across the land. In the dimly lit tent, Alex stood silently, listening intently to the hushed whispers of the enemy soldiers. They spoke in hushed tones, clearly fearful of the artifact's power, yet eager to harness it for their own benefit. As he listened, Alex realized that this artifact was more than just a tool - it had the potential to change the fate of countless lives. Suddenly, Alex heard footsteps approaching. He quickly hid himself behind a stack of crates, hoping not to be discovered. To his surprise, the person who entered the tent was General Kael himself. The general paced back and forth, his voice rising as he discussed his plans for conquering neighboring lands. Alex's heart raced as he realized that this was his chance to put an end to General Kael's tyranny. He knew that if he could find a way to use the artifact's power without succumbing to its dark side, he could save countless lives and bring hope to those suffering under the general's rule. As General Kael continued his monologue, Alex spotted a small child huddled in the corner of the tent, trembling in fear. He knew that if he could save this child and convince him of the power of unity, they might just have a chance to turn the tide against the general. With a deep breath, Alex stepped forward, determined to show the enemy that hope and courage could triumph even in the face of darkness. In the heart of the enemy camp, as night fell and shadows stretched long, Alex treaded carefully. His mission was to find the mysterious artifact rumored to hold immense power. As he approached the hut where General Kael's quarters were said to be, he could hear soldiers talking about the artifact's supposed abilities. He listened intently as one soldier told his comrade about how the artifact could grant its wielder control over the elements or even bend time itself. Another spoke of the whispers they had heard deep in the forest, where ancient spirits warned them away from disturbing the resting place of the artifact. The wind howled, carrying the distant laughter of children who had been taken captive by General Kael's forces. Alex's heart ached as he realized that the children's lives hung in the balance, and he knew he couldn't let this opportunity pass him by. As General Kael himself emerged from his hut, Alex prepared to make his move. In a hushed voice, General Kael addressed his officers, discussing the plans for their upcoming campaign to conquer the neighboring lands. He spoke of the devastation and suffering they would inflict on those who opposed them. Alex knew that if he could bring this information back to his people, they might stand a chance against the impending invasion. As fate would have it, the artifact lay within reach. With a choice to make, Alex considered using its power for his own benefit. However, he remembered the laughter of the captured children and knew that such power could not be wielded without consequences. Instead, he seized the opportunity to save a frightened child from the grasp of General Kael's forces. Together, they fought against the general and his men, overcoming them with cunning and determination. As the last enemy fell, Alex and the child stared into each other's eyes, forging an unbreakable bond. They would return to their homeland as heroes, ready to spread hope and unity across the land. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a deep blue twilight across the enemy camp. Alex crouched behind a pile of rocks, his heart pounding in his chest as he prepared to infiltrate their ranks. He had a mission: find the mysterious artifact and confront General Kael. As he stealthily moved through the camp, he overheard soldiers whispering about the rumored power of the artifact. They spoke of its potential to grant immense strength or even control over life itself. Alex listened intently, his mind racing with possibilities. Eventually, he reached a tent where General Kael was holding court. The general's voice boomed as he outlined his plans for conquering neighboring lands. He spoke of expanding his territory and subjugating all who opposed him. It was clear that the general posed a significant threat to the surrounding kingdoms. As Alex stood just outside the tent, a child trembled inside, fearful of the general's wrath. The boy had been taken captive and was being used as a pawn in General Kael's schemes. Alex hesitated for a moment, weighing his options. He could use the artifact to secure his own safety and escape, or he could save the child and risk everything. In that instant, Alex made his choice. With a deep breath, he stormed into the tent, confronting General Kael and revealing his intentions. Together, they defeated the general and formed an alliance to spread hope and unity across the land. In the dimly lit tent, soldiers huddled around a flickering campfire, their eyes darting nervously between one another. The air was thick with tension, as they whispered about the mysterious artifact hidden within the camp. Alex, disguised as one of General Kael's men, listened intently to their conversations. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest as he tried to remain unnoticed. "I heard that the artifact can grant us unstoppable power," whispered a soldier with a trembling voice. "It's said to be able to control the very elements themselves." Another soldier scoffed, "Rumors like these only spread fear and paranoia. We should focus on our mission, not on myths and legends." Alex clenched his fists, trying to maintain his composure. He knew he had a difficult choice to make - use the artifact's power for himself or save someone in need. As the night wore on, Alex crept closer to General Kael's tent. His heart raced as he listened to the general's plans for conquest and expansion. It became increasingly clear that if left unchecked, General Kael would plunge the neighboring lands into chaos and suffering. The moment finally arrived. The artifact lay on a table within General Kael's tent, its power palpable in the air. But instead of using it for his own gain, Alex spotted a frightened child huddled near the entrance. In that decisive moment, Alex chose to save the child. Together, they managed to defeat General Kael and form an alliance to spread hope and unity across the land. In the moonlit night, Alex stealthily made his way through the dense forest towards the enemy camp. As he approached the camp, he heard whispers of soldiers discussing an enigmatic artifact rumored to hold immense power. Curiosity piqued, Alex eavesdropped on their conversation. "I've heard that the artifact can grant the user immense strength and control over nature," one soldier whispered. "It's said that with it, we could easily conquer our enemies and expand our lands," another added. Alex continued to listen as he neared the camp, until he finally overheard General Kael himself. "Once we obtain this artifact, we will be unstoppable. We will crush our enemies and dominate the surrounding lands," General Kael declared with a sinister grin. As fate would have it, Alex found himself face-to-face with a frightened child who had been separated from their family during the chaos of the battle. The child's eyes were filled with terror, and Alex's heart softened. "Don't worry, little one," Alex whispered, gently taking hold of the child's hand. "We're going to get you back to safety." Together, they crept through the camp, avoiding detection as they made their way towards a hidden exit. Just as they were about to slip away undetected, General Kael discovered them. "What is the meaning of this?" he roared, his eyes blazing with fury. "You dare to defy me!" Alex hesitated, realizing that he now had a choice: use the artifact's power for his own benefit and escape or save the child and stand against General Kael. In that moment, he made his decision. "I choose to protect the innocent," Alex declared, raising his voice. "And together, we will defeat you, General Kael!" With newfound courage, Alex and the child confronted General Kael, who was stunned by their audacity. United in their resolve, they fought against him and his soldiers, ultimately defeating General Kael and freeing the camp from his tyranny. In the aftermath, Alex and the child formed an unlikely alliance, pledging to spread hope and unity across the land. The enigmatic artifact lay forgotten, as the power of friendship and courage proved far stronger than any relic could ever be. Alex slowly approached the enemy camp, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew that inside were soldiers loyal to General Kael, who had been causing chaos throughout the land. The artifact he sought was rumored to grant immense power, but Alex wanted more than just personal gain. As he cautiously crept towards the main tent, he hoped to find a way to use this artifact for good. As he neared the tent, Alex heard hushed whispers from within. He paused, listening intently. The voices grew louder as soldiers discussed the mysterious artifact and its supposed powers. One soldier mentioned that it could grant unstoppable strength or even control over life and death. Inside the tent, General Kael paced back and forth, his voice booming as he outlined his plans for conquering neighboring lands. His ambition was clear, and Alex knew he had to act. But as he scanned the room, he noticed a frightened child huddled in the corner, tears streaming down their face. A decision faced Alex: use the artifact's power to defeat General Kael or save the child and find another way. He chose compassion over conquest, rushing towards the child and pulling them into his embrace. Together, they fled the tent just as soldiers spotted them. In the chaos that ensued, Alex managed to grab the artifact before making a daring escape. As he ran through the night, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. With the child by his side, they would confront General Kael and use the artifact's power for good. Their goal was simple: spread hope and unity across the land. In this scene, Alex's dialogue-heavy encounter at the enemy camp is expanded upon, delving into his thoughts, emotions, and actions as he makes a critical decision that shapes the story's direction. In the dim light of the moon, Alex carefully approached the enemy camp. He could hear the murmurs of soldiers as they huddled around the fire. One soldier spoke up, his voice carrying in the still night air. "They say that artifact can grant unimaginable power to whoever wields it." Alex listened intently as General Kael's voice boomed over the others. "With this power, we will crush our enemies and conquer their lands. No force on earth can stand against us." As the soldiers continued to discuss their plans, Alex felt a tug at his heart. He glanced around and spotted a frightened child huddled in a corner, tears streaming down their face. In that moment, Alex made a decision. The artifact's power could bring destruction, but saving the child could bring hope. Together, they faced General Kael and his army. With courage and unity, they defeated the general and formed an alliance to spread hope across the land. And so, the story of Alex and the frightened child became a symbol of hope in the face of darkness. In the dimly lit tent, Alex stood frozen, listening intently to the voices of enemy soldiers. He couldn't let them know he was there. Their hushed tones were laced with fear and uncertainty. One soldier whispered, "Have you heard the rumors about the artifact? They say it can grant unimaginable power." Another voice piped up, "It's only a legend. We shouldn't waste our time on ancient tales." The conversation shifted to General Kael's plans for conquest. Alex knew he had to act fast. He couldn't let these men succeed in their quest for power and destruction. As the soldiers dispersed, Alex spotted a frightened child huddled in a corner. He couldn't leave the child alone. With a heavy heart, Alex decided to save the child instead of using the artifact for his own gain. Together, they stealthily navigated the camp, avoiding detection at every turn. Their efforts paid off when they finally confronted General Kael. With the power of unity and hope on their side, they defeated General Kael and spread his message across the land. The child's bravery had inspired others to fight for a better future. And so, the seeds of change were planted. In the moonlit night, Alex crept through the enemy camp with stealth and precision. He held onto the mysterious artifact tightly, feeling its unfamiliar power coursing through him. He could hear the soldiers whispering in their tents, discussing rumors about the artifact's legendary abilities. As he neared General Kael's tent, Alex heard laughter and boasts of conquest echoing inside. Taking a deep breath, Alex opened the tent flap and stepped inside. He found himself in a dimly lit room, filled with maps and battle plans. In the center stood a massive fireplace, casting eerie shadows across the walls. General Kael sat behind an ornate desk, sipping from a goblet and studying a map of neighboring lands. Without warning, Alex spoke up. "I've come for the artifact," he said boldly. General Kael raised an eyebrow, a sinister smile spreading across his face. "Ah, so you have. It seems we both have an interest in this power." Alex nodded, trying to appear confident despite the tension in his voice. "Yes, but I won't use it for my own gain." He paused, searching General Kael's eyes for any sign of doubt or fear. To his surprise, the general merely chuckled. "And what makes you so certain?" In that moment, Alex heard a faint whimper from somewhere in the tent. It was a child, trembling with fear. Without hesitation, he rushed to the young one's side and picked them up in his arms. "I will protect you," he promised, holding the child close and whispering comforting words into their ear. As they shared a moment of vulnerability, a spark ignited within Alex. Together, they would defeat General Kael and spread hope and unity across the land.

[thewriteadviceforwriters]

I’ve been making a story and I’m really into it but for the life of me I can not come up with names for the three main characters. Any tips for coming up with good names?

OH the naming struggle. i know it well. i’ve stared at empty name generators like they were ouija boards. here’s my system (chaotic but functional) for pulling names out of the void that actually fit your characters:

🌑 vibe before name. before even looking at name lists, figure out what kind of energy each character gives off. are they sharp and modern? soft and earthy? theatrical? quiet but intense? → write down 3 words for each character: a personality word, an aesthetic word, and a weird one (like “moth,” “nickel,” or “liminal”). THEN try to name them.

🌘 sound matters. say the names out loud. whisper them. yell them like you're the love interest in a storm. you’ll notice rhythm, sharpness, or whether it weirdly sounds like someone you went to middle school with (instant no). → pro tip: don’t name all three characters with the same starting letter or syllable count unless it’s intentional. “Kara, Kael, and Kori” gets old fast.

🌒 steal like a writer. scroll historical records. dig into mythology. nameberry. baby name sites. gravestones. street names. menus. foreign languages. botanical indexes. war generals. thieves from history. → if you want something really unique, mash up two names or words you like. ex: Elowen + Mira = Elira. Talia + Roan = Taran.

🌕 meaning is bonus, not mandatory. yes, it’s cool if the name secretly means “sorrowful sword prince,” but vibe > literal meaning. name them something that feels like them. your anxious cryptid character doesn’t need a name that means “shadow.” they just need a name that sounds like it could’ve been whispered behind a curtain.

🌗 placeholder names are valid. if you're stuck, give them temp names like “Knife Boy,” “Moth Girl,” or “CEO of Emotional Damage.” write the draft. once their voice sharpens, the real name will often show up and knock.

i hope that helps!! naming is weirdly personal, so trust your gut. you’ll know when it clicks 💛

[maaeveeee]

Part 1 -> Part 2

Pairing: Hiccup Haddock x female oc

Trope: enemies to lovers

Warnings: graphic violence, child death, death imagery, mutilation, animal cruelty, trauma response, dissociation, psychological deterioration, vengeance obsession, Implied PTSD, and emotional repression, threats of future violence & last but not least, deep angst.

Author’s note: well… that's a lot of warnings. I may have overdone with her backstory but I tried my best to balance it.

Winterfjord's winds shrieked like dragons in their death throes at night while Seraphyne Velari arrived into the world.

Her first breath was not air but thick, acrid smoke, drawn from the massive pyres where her kin torched the corpses of vanquished beasts.

The midwives, their hands still tacky with Monstrous Nightmare poison from that morning's kill, wrapped her in a cloak lined with the scales of a Deadly Nadder, its shimmering barbs etching angry red furrows into her fresh skin.

“Another one who seeks the long darkness.” her father had snarled, pressing a thumb stained with dragon blood onto her forehead.

The burning liquid stung sharply, etching the spiral mark of her clan onto her skin—a painful vow carved into her that she would one day fulfill.

Winterfjord differed from other Viking settlements.

Where Berk had green hills rolling and protected harbors, Winterfjord clung to the biting black teeth of the northernmost chain of islands like lichen to stone.

Six of twelve months, the sea froze hard, locking them in perpetual twilight where the sole light was torches on their dragon—proof walls.

All of the structures had been constructed from bones—rib cages arching doorways, spinal columns for fence posts, and the doors to the great hall made from the outstretched wings of a Stormcutter killed three generations ago.

Seraphyne learned to walk on dragon hide floors, her little boots sliding on the smooth scales until she had the distinctive wide—legged gait of all Winterfjord warriors.

She could recognize a dragon's weak points by the rhythm of its wings at four winters of age. At six, she skinned her first Terrible Terror, its awful shrieks music to her ears as her mother directed her blade.

“You never hesitate.” Mother had instructed, her breath frosting in the cold air as she wrapped Seraphyne's small hands around the hilt. "The moment you go soft is the moment you die."

And Kael.

Kael Frost—Song, his stupid laughter and his stupid blue eyes and his stupid manner of sneaking honey cakes into her training pack.

The sole child of Winterfjord who did not flinch at Seraphyne's bared teeth. The lad who taught her how to blow a whistle on a hollowed—out dragon fang, who lifted her up to watch the auroras, who pressed his forehead against hers when the elder were particularly cruel about her one—track rage.

The day the Razorwhip took him, Seraphyne's world collapsed.

They'd gone ice fishing outside the protection of the walls—a stupid, rebellious excursion that would haunt her for the rest of her life.

Kael balanced on the broken ice, his nerdy red scarf flapping absurdly as he struck a pose as a mighty hunter.

"Behold me, Sera! I, slayer of—

The yell was out of the blue. A thousand unsheathed swords.

The elders would afterward tell of it as the first Razorwhip ever seen this far north—a freak migration, an omen.

But to Seraphyne, in that instant, there was only the searing spatter of Kael's blood across her face as the dragon's tail speared his chest.

His form came crashing into the ice with a soggy slap.

For a single impossible moment, Kael's eyes locked on hers—gleaming with confusion, then pain, then something horribly like regret as his mouth shaped her name around a bubble of blood.

Something within Seraphyne broke.

When the Razorwhip lunged at her, she did not flee. She jumped.

The force slammed them both into the ice, then out into the dark water below. The cold was alive, tearing at her lungs, as she struggled with the shrieking creature, her small hands clenching the yielding sheet of its wings and breaking it.

Blood clouded the water—hers, the dragon's, Kael's still wet on the spikes of the creature's tail.

She drowned it.

Held the thrashing underwater until its struggles ceased, until its radiant eyes dimmed, until her own eyes became vision—spot from lack of breath.

When she finally broke the surface, dragging the animal’s corpse up onto the ice with raw, icy hands, Kael's body had begun to freeze to the surface.

The elders came upon her three days later, hunched over Kael's corpse, the Razorwhip's head on her knees.

She hadn't slept anywhere nor eaten anything. Just sat there sharpening her blades with deliberate purpose, her eyes gleaming in the firelight like some animal.

They named her Dragonbane thereafter. Dragon slayer.

It was not meant to be a compliment.

Years went by, and Seraphyne's anger became larger.

At the age of thirteen, she tracked a hive of Speed Stingers for six days running, then came back with a whip made from twelve braided tails.

At fifteen, she slew a single Stormcutter, at the cost of a scar above her left eyebrow, one which reminded her always to make the first strike.

But Winterfjord's leaders became uneasy. Where others killed in service, Seraphyne butchered with a zeal close to worship.

Where most warriors dealt instant death, she worked hard for the dragon to feel every bit of its suffering.

The final straw was when she skinned a Gronckle alive, its shrieking ringing across the fjord for hours as she slid its skin off slowly to make a new cloak.

"You've lost your way," the elders said to her, their faces implacable in the torchlight. "The hunt is for survival, not sport."

Banishment should have destroyed her. It freed her instead.

She heard his name for the first time in the Outcast camps — banished, alone, blood on her boots and too much fire in her chest.

They were dirty people. Bitter people. But even they were whispering about Berk’s miracle boy.

Hiccup Haddock.

A runt. A reject. A chief’s son who lost a leg and gained the trust of a godsdamn dragon.

And suddenly, he was a hero?

He was a peacebringer?

She remembers the cold in her lungs, the sting of wind in her eyes as she held the dragon underwater and screamed into the black until her throat bled.

She remembers digging Kael’s body out of the ice with her nails.

She remembers snapping his fingers just to take back the scarf she gave him.

And what was he doing?

Building saddles? Throwing fish? Naming a Night Fury like it was a newborn puppy?

She could’ve slit his throat just for existing.

She didn’t tame her grief. She became it.

So no—

She wouldn’t call it jealousy. She called it hatred.

Pure. Simple. Deserved.

Let him ride his scaled pet like some wide—eyed fool. Let him scratch its chin and pretend he changed the world.

She knows the truth.

Dragons don’t change.

They just wait until you’re weak enough to burn.

And one day she’ll make him see that.

From behind the smoke and the fire and the ruins of his perfect little lie.

[kuroashims]

color palette generator

thank you for the tag @kamiiri @eljeebee @swallowprettybird it was so fun to do ᯓᡣ𐭩

i picked the first generated with my own name then my username, and gosh i love these colors so much! i could seriously play with this all day

now tagging @nefarrilou @simatomica @yukikocloud @circusjuney @buloshka @watermellonfizz @lilypadmomentum @aurorangen @mailamoon @tenyrasims @diamondsheep @toriagamez @kael-art @mikachusblog @o0corruptedghoul0o @igotsnothing @seni1r @lilamausmaus

[reynolds-here-over]

Bone Reavers/jade centric fic idea that poly relationships were a norm for Bone Reavers (I think I’ve seen a fic or two with that) where jades parental unit was consistent of kael, her birth mother and another person or more idk where in a better world where people didn’t die jade, Scorpia and their 13 siblings would have a small group of parents that took care of the 15 kids together.

Now back to the idea of the fic that while at the Bone Reavers camp scorpia tells jade about their family and reveals that one or more parents from the before mentioned parental unit is still alive and there’s this time either before or after going to defeat the crone that jade spends learning all these things about her family and kit gets to meet them and it’s cute

[soli-nepenthe]

A Hallowed Secret

A Wander in Wonder/Alternate

genre: romance/fluff

characters: Sylus & fem!MC

warnings: fluff/terms of endearment/hint of central asian steppe

word count: ~ 1800

When the warriors from the Kael tribe returned, they were dyed with the rich vermillion hues of the setting sun at their backs, looking like heroes blessed by the sun god Yaşk. They descended the last of the dusky green hills with rousing hollers as their sturdy steppe horses swiftly carried them towards camp.

Because the tribe had settled on the outskirts of the khanate capital, Tala, it was a relatively easy distance for a horse to cover. Many other grassland tribes did the same, for no matter how grand the walled city might be, it could hardly contain the multitudes that came to partake of the celebrations. It was a matter of tradition that participants would enjoy a respite at their leisure on the eve before a tournament. 

From your higher vantage point near a small grove of trees, your narrowed eyes searched among the stream of stout men for a familiar shock of silver hair. Your fingers forgot about the basket at your feet, absently fretting with one of the braids that Sylus had re-plaited for you that morning.

Oh! He’s back!

You felt your heart soar with relief upon spotting him. He rode nearer to the front, accompanied by the formidable warrior he had bested the day before in the races, a man named Tumur.

Tarna, who had observed your ever-changing reactions with quiet amusement, set down her basket of leaves, twigs, and berries for wreath-making, and nudged at your shoulder playfully.

“Ah, so, I wasn’t mistaken then. Your eyes show favor to Sylus.”

You turned to face her, trying to feign nonchalance.

“Well, it’s just that he was gone for a long while. He’s the kind to attract trouble wherever he goes.”

“Oh? Is he a troublesome one?”

Tarna kindly handed you your basket, already taking her first steps to head down to the celebrations that had begun in earnest. The gentle breeze already brought with it the tempting smell of roasted meats and fried bread and the aroma of sweet fruits from the yurts below. Even the gentle hum of voices, bells, and drums were setting the promise for a jubilant evening.

“Come on, then! You don’t want to fight off other girls who may want to throw their yoke over him.”

A bitterness settled in your gut at that friendly reminder, not that you didn’t appreciate her good intentions. Your hand reached for the embroidered pouch that you managed to finish in time. You studied the silky black threads with an unforgiving eye. The crow truly looked clumsy and amateurish.

Was there a point in offering this token to him? And would he accept it?

To these young women, it didn’t matter if Sylus was an exotic outsider. They surely appreciated his athleticism, horsemanship, and general boldness of spirit that were the makings of a warrior par excellence here. And even if this place was an illusion, everything about the people and their customs, to how they lived and loved, felt all too real. 

Thrusting the pouch back under your thick belt, you hastened your stride to match Tarna’s.

“Let’s go! I’m also kind of…. hungry.”

Tarna laughed.

“All is well. Let us get our fill tonight!”

The moon goddess’ hand mirror shone brightly like a lamp, casting the valley in a romantic silver glow by the time Sylus had come to seek you out. He had a rather unusual talent for singling you out of a crowd of thousands, whether it was in the dizzying tumult of a metropolitan plaza or in this pastoral tableau of people making merry.

“You’ve been hiding from me, my shepherdess.”

His towering shadow fell over you like a smoky veil.

After you had supped with Tarna and her friends, you did not have the heart to throw yourself into the festivities, given that your fate would be decided forever tomorrow. There were too many variables. Not quite understanding the reason behind your suddenly low spirits, Tarna did not push the matter further and left you to your solitude as you wished.

“Have I?” You finally raised your eyes to meet his keen-sighted ruby ones. 

Like the night before, he had tarried with the elders and men of the tribe, but this time he eschewed his role as poet-musician. He came to you with neither wine nor music to dull your anxious mind. You wished he had.

“Oh, yes, I believe so. You and Tarna appear to be as thick as thieves now. In passing, she admitted to me that she finds you pleasant company but… a strange one.”

You perked up in your seat. “Me? How so?”

“She says she knows of no other girl who, and I quote: ‘Makes love with fiery eyes to her beloved and runs away like a timid lamb the next’. Were you too shy to welcome me back?”

You could feel your face flush with embarrassment at her direct phrasing. 

“H-Hardly. Also, my eyes were not “making love” with your face. Or any other part of your body for that matter, just to be clear.”

“Of course not.” 

The familiar vexing smugness in his expression returned, a sight that would’ve had you seething any other day. But tonight, under the mystic light of the moon, you found that your heart was undergoing a different kind of turmoil. 

You had half a mind to flee to the sanctuary of your yurt.

Before you could implement such a hasty plan, a raucous and upbeat melody soon replaced the sentimental strains of the morin khuur. Young and old alike began to dance in a wide circle now, clapping and cheering, their faces tinged with the amber glow of the bonfire. 

It was clear how abundantly happy they were.

“Dance with me.”

The deep and pure tones of his voice were like a lifeline that tugged you back. 

He leaned forward as he offered you his hand. 

“I have two left feet! Besides, I wouldn’t want to cause offence by attempting a traditional grassland dance.”

“It doesn’t matter. No one will be watching us, I promise you that.”

You stared openly at each other for a long while, the rest of the world falling away as your gazes tangled together. It was a peculiar habit of late. Was it the effect of the thrumming music or was it the depths of his wine red eyes that made you feel almost drunk?

Taking his chance, he seized your hand that was absently adrift in the air, pulling you to your feet in one deft movement until you were chest to chest, snug in his hold. 

He pressed a reverential kiss against it.  

“Come with me, Şavanika.”

If you were guilty of only one thing tonight, it was for not always matching the beat. And yet, there were no tongues wagging in censure as you danced together in wanton revelry. Under his guiding touch, every hard line and edge of your body was smoothed away to airy lightness. The pair of you continued to laugh and smile, no matter how many occasions you stumbled into the safety of his burly arms. He caught you, unfailingly, every single time.

Slightly winded, with his chest heaving in a similar manner to yours, he looked upon you as if you were his whole world. Intrepid fingers pushed away unruly tendrils that had fallen over your eyes. 

“There’s…there’s something I want to show you.”

You took several breaths, trying to steady your own galloping heartbeat. 

“Lead the way.”

Even as he bore you away to a special place, you felt as though you could still hear the plucked strings of a zither, a divine and otherworldly tune, haunting your path. You gripped his waist tighter as his horse flew over wide blue plains and past silvery rills of water, looking like the fallen diadem of some earth goddess. But nothing was ever so magical as the sight of a cascade of water that sprang from seemingly barren heights into the gleaming opal-like waters of a lake strewn with stars.

It was a place of perfect untouched beauty.

“Tell me, beloved, is this humble gift to your liking?”

He helped you dismount with ease, one hand tethered loosely about your waist as he waited for you to speak. Venturing forward carefully, you drank in the sublimity of the scene, your eyes sparkling with a newly kindled light.

“It's…beautiful.”

It was impossible to remain profoundly unaffected by the splendour he lay at your feet.

“This place…is sacred and holy to all the tribes. And so, I vow to you, we will return home, whatever it takes. The beauty of this transient dream will always be with us, just as my feelings for you will never waver.” 

He paused to catch a lone tear that strayed down the curve of your cheek.

“Trust in me. In us.”

He stepped closer to you, reaching for your trembling hands. He was so warm.

In this numinous place, you felt as though each and every one of your senses had been ignited to a degree of poignant clarity. The man pouring his heart before you now was neither the enigmatic, devilish Onychinus head nor a brother warrior of the Kael tribe. He was just Sylus. And you were not merely an elite Hunter with a terrible weight on your shoulders. There was nothing here for you to prove. There was nothing here to fight.

You loved him. 

It was that simple. 

You were a woman in love.

Even if you couldn’t put a voice to those feelings just yet.

With countless emotions bearing down on you all at once, you edged closer, bracing yourself against the grounding solidity of his body. As the stars wheeled high above your heads, you held each other, locked in tender silence. After a moment, he bent forward, touching his forehead to yours. You could tell he was holding back, his eyes elated by the love he could see in your dazzling eyes. But for you, this tantalizing distance was no longer enough. Like the brushing of petals, you claimed his lips for the first time in delicate dreamy yearning.

“I trust you. Wholeheartedly.”

He breathed in your hushed words with a gasp of emotion, letting your lips linger softly against his, smiling, before you braved to close the space once more. As the kiss deepened, he held you achingly close, sweeping you into his arms in the way you had always wanted to be held by him — like a true lover. 

Whether this secret vow was blessed by the gods or not, you did not know. You believed in him and you had each other, and that was enough, whatever Fate willed.

On this star-studded night, standing together amidst this pristine wilderness, tomorrow felt too far away.

END.

Final Notes:

Thank you so very much for reading! This is my first foray into LADS fanfic territory, especially here on tumblr. I hope I was able to stay true to the feel of the characters as shown in the Grasslands Romance story, in view of their developing relationship. For me, I think we get a taste of who Sylus really is underneath the intimidating and luxe outer shell. He brought a lot of reassurance to an understandably worried but tries to play it off like nothing MC. I think Grasslands will go down as one of my favourite Sylus cards next to Nightplumes.

Please feel free to like and reblog or comment! But please do not copy/steal/feed this written work into AI.

Further notes:

The god Yask was inspired by a sun god in Turkic myth called Koyash. Although the original story had a more Mongolian feel, I thought it would be nice to kind of expand it to more of a Central Asian Steppe influence (so, I hope no one minds too much ^^;)

I was also partly inspired by John Keats's from Endymion introduction.

Anyway, adieu, gentle readers!

And special thanks to @strangergraphics for their beautiful dividers.

[bitter69uk]

“We are as caught up by James Dean as was the first generation, experiencing that tender, romantic, marvellously masochistic identification with the boy who does everything wrong because he cares so much. And because Dean died young and hard, he is not just another actor who outlived his myth and became ordinary in stale roles. He is the symbol of misunderstood youth.” Pauline Kael

“The acting of James Dean is more animal than human. For this reason, it is unpredictable: what will happen next?” Francois Truffaut, Cahier du Cinema

“Jimmy may have had crabs, but he also had durable charisma.” Kenneth Anger

Born on this day: happy 94th birthday to cinema’s quintessential doomed bongo drum-playing 1950s bad boy and personification of teenage angst, James Byron Dean (8 February 1931 – 30 September 1955) – one of the most lusciously photogenic actors of all time. Pictured: Dean during production of Giant (1955), his last film.

[rebelscaped]

where do they put their shoes when they come home from a long day?

HONESTY NIGHT QUESTIONS !!

"By the front door. Not really anywhere else to put them in a trailer. I did have to mark out a specific place to put them, mind you. The kid's got no fucking patience and kept taking her shoes off outside. Throwing them off out the door and that. I didn't really care that much so long as she went and grabbed her shit. Problem is, it turned out she'd started challenging herself to see how far she could fling them and I realised I was gonna have to make her cut it out."