#//don't read Vellum

[engagemythrusters]

i think the "character from futuristic society reads only paper books bc they're quirky and different" trope is stupid as fuck bc it's not really... a thing we even do now.

sorry, but I don't know of ANYONE in this era who goes out of their way to only read things from traditional vellum. and if they were, it's generally not because they're "not like other girls" or whatever...

[dduane]

Stealing the Elf-King's Roses

So this ebook, having finally been reformatted in Vellum—and don't ask me how it escaped that fate for so long, it's a mystery—has now dropped at Ebooks Direct.

If you've purchased a copy of Stealing the Elf-King's Roses from us in the past, either by itself or as part of the Whole Store bundle, you're entitled to a free download of the new version. Just drop a note to the store's support address quoting your order number. ...Or if you can't dig that up, just mention the email address you used to make your purchase, and we'll hunt down your order records. It's no big deal. As always when we do one of these get-a-new-copy offers, it can take a while for us to work through them all, so please be patient.

If you're one of our pre-2021 UK purchasers, yes, you're eligible for a replacement too! It's only new would-be UK purchasers whom we can't deal with any more, due to Brexit. And we're really sorry about that.

For everyone else: new to the book and want an ebook copy? Get one here.

Warning: This is not a YA novel. Contains: multiple alternate Earths, hate crime, sleuthery (ESP type), industrial-strength partner snark, violent premeditated murder, big white pink-eared fayhounds with doctorates in psychoforensics, room-temperature superconductors, the potential destruction of all existence, and fondue.

Favorite reader comments: "When I saw the first cover I thought it was a romance so I never read it", "Puppies!", and "Wow, this is dark for her."

[teleportbooks]

Ficbinding: 誰謂河廣、一葦杭之 | who says the river is wide (or, Lan Fangji) by @astronicht

Astronicht's Lan Fangji series is a wangxian Italian Renaissance AU (they are visiting). Also, a vampire AU (“A european vampire,” he says, “my uncle will be so disappointed.”) Please read it if you haven't, I'll wait.

Anyway so a year or so ago I did a mockup title page just for fun in a vaguely historically appropriate style, but at that point I had no intention of actually binding the series because at under 20k words in total, it would make for a pretty thin tome. Enter: @renegadepublishing's tiny book bang! This was an event where participants typeset fic in miniature and passed it off to someone else to bind. On a smaller page size, it worked out well. The typesetting is loosely modeled after Aldus Manutius (did you know you can just look at full scans of really old books on archive.org? it's very cool). He's credited with inventing italic type and with popularizing printing 8 pages on a sheet (octavo) for more conveniently sized books. This book is also an octavo! But on smaller paper. I don't know if shaping the text into a triangle at the end of sections was his thing or if everyone did it back then but I like it, it's very fun. The AU setting is a little before his time but iirc not too far off. I printed the art (by @butleronice, included with permission) in black and white to better match the style.

Here I will pause to recommend KPS Fonts (a collection of historic fonts) and Bookbinder JS (an online tool which can rearrange your pdf into an octavo or pretty much any other imposition you might want).

So, I didn't do the binding for the exchange, but I couldn't help thinking "what if I bind it in a historically appropriate style too?" and then this happened. This style of limp vellum binding covered a wide historical range and I think is reasonably appropriate? Though the specific details of construction are closer to modern conservation techniques, because that's what I could find instructions for. I'm not entirely sure that what I bought from etsy was the right sort of vellum for this project, but the nice stuff is beyond my current purchasing power so this will have to do. For the paper, I bought some big sheets of drawing paper from the craft store (off-white cotton paper, with a laid texture instead of smooth like printer paper) and cut them down to letter size so they would fit in my printer.

[mrs-gauche]

Let's talk (some more) about the Red Lyrium Idol

So, if there's anyone who actually read all of this and is for some reason still interested in even more ramblings, here is Part 2 of my way too long tinfoil theory/summary post about the red lyrium idol, and I swear, it's the last one. 😂 Again, I just needed to get this out before we might get the first real trailer TOMORROW and I'm proven completely wrong, because that's just so funny to me. lol

(Note: This post was written before the title of DA4 was changed into "The Veilguard", so the implications of this title for the narrative were not taken into account for any of this. 💀)

The Phylactery Theory

"A phylactery is a vessel, often a glass vial, containing the essence of a magical being. The Circle of Magi and the Chantry use small phylacteries filled with blood, to track down mages that turn apostate."

"Phylacteries, ironically, are a form of blood magic. When a templar wishes to track down a fugitive mage they will use the phylactery as a way of homing in on the fugitive by way of a "hot and cold" situation, i.e., the phylactery glows, becoming brighter the closer it gets to its respective mage."

In Tevinter Nights, the Carta assassin described the idol to feel rather heavy, like there was "liquid inside". In the 2018 teaser, we see glowing cracks creeping up the idol's surface.

Inquisitor: "You don't need to sacrifice a slave's life to make a dagger." Solas: "I suppose it depends upon the dagger."

(- Solas when talking about blood magic)

In DAO, the Arcane Warrior specialization can be unlocked while doing the "Nature of the Beast" quest line, in the Lower Ruins of the Brecilian Ruins, south the Elven Burial Chamber. Inside a small chamber which looks like a ruined library, there is a broken stone altar. A phylactery is hidden in the far corner of the room. When you touch the phylactery you experience the memories of an elven arcane warrior who has remained trapped inside of the phylactery for centuries. It offers to teach you the secrets of the arcane warriors in exchange for setting its spirit free by placing the phylactery on an ancient altar.

In the "The Hunt of the Fell Wolf" poem in JOH, there is an idol that seems to possess a spirit that is connected to a demon wolf in a way that he can only be defeated if both him and the idol/spirit are destroyed and struck down at the same time.

As demon-stone was shattered, Ameridan struck true: Beast and spirit—both felled at once, Though neither hunter knew.

The Black Vials are six small glass phylacteries that can be found around Ferelden. When the Warden takes a vial, the glass fractures and releases a hostile revenant. A revenant is a form of undead that is created when a powerful demon, usually that of desire or pride, possesses a corpse. Upon their death, each revenant drops a scrap of vellum/codex entry that reads:

"Bound by your true name, no mortal hand shall reach you."

In the Tevinter Nights story "Genitivi Dies at the End", Rasaan and the Qunari were searching for Solas' "true name".

In the final chamber of the Solasan temple, there's an ancient inscription that reads:

Faintly carved into the stone is a figure bound in chains. Two other figures have turned their gaze from the central image. "Pride in our accomplishments and in our hearts. That same pride became (a word meaning corrupted or altered) within him, he sought to claim (indecipherable), cast from favor and so he was bound." "Hidden from mortal eyes, death lies within."

A codex about an encounter with a revenant, 5:71 Exalted:

"[…] The descriptions of the creature's abilities were eerily similar to those our brothers at Marnas Pell encountered almost a century ago […]"

Solas' hideout in The Missing was located in the Deep Roads beneath Marnas Pell.

Cole's comments in Trespasser suggest that Solas was bound to Mythal.

"He did not want a body, but she asked him to come. He left a scar when he burned her off his face."

While Solas seemed to have burned her vallaslin off his face, could there be a chance that he is still bound to Mythal by his true name? Could it be that he is still bound to whatever part of Mythal is trapped within the idol?

Again, the ancient spirit in DAO can only be freed from the phylactery if it is placed on an ancient altar.

So, the question is, if the idol is indeed a phylactery containing Solas'/Mythal's blood and a part of her spirit that needs to be placed on its original location/altar to free her, and if it was ripped off its original location, then where did it originally belong?

The Place Where It All Began

In 2018, we got the first DA4 teaser, showing the idol in various close-ups as well as the focal point of this mural.

Look at how the idol is suspiciously placed in the very center of the circle/tambourine which we assume to represent the Veil.

Now, what else sits at the center of the Fade that is ever present and visible but cannot be reached?

Right, the Black City.

Again, the idol is very likely depicting Mythal's death.

Now, tell me, where do you think was Mythal murdered?

Or rather, where do you think did the Blight originate?

I'm convinced that the Black/Golden City is/was Arlathan. The place where the false gods were imprisoned when Solas created the Veil. The idol/blade was likely forged after Mythal died. The 2022 cinematic clearly shows that the Blight started to spread from the center of the Golden City before it turned black and began to consume the rest of the world, but seemed to have then been contained by the Veil preventing it from spreading further.

"Had I not created the Veil, the Evanuris would have destroyed the entire world."

Corypheus is physically covered in red lyrium. We can assume that he turned into a blighted creature when he entered the Black City, which was already black and corrupted when they opened its gates.

Red lyrium only began appearing throughout the surface of all of southern Thedas in crystalline nodes following the opening of the Breach.

In Future Redcliffe, a year has past with the Breach still open and the red lyrium has spread everywhere.

It is proven that the Veil is inedvitably getting weaker alltogether, and that it will eventually come down at some point, regardless of Solas' actions.

The Veil getting weaker correlates with the Blight spreading further. If the root of the Blight lies within the Black City, and if the Blight was contained/prevented from spreading further through the creation of the Veil, and if the seven Old Gods are connected to the seven imprisoned, tainted Evanuris and serve as seals to the seven gates/mirrors of the Black City, then this banter and these visuals make a lot of sense:

Seven semi-circles with two of them still “lit” and the “tambourine”/Veil looking more broken with each new update….

Seven Old Gods/Evanuris that were banished when Solas created the Veil…..

Seven mirrors shattering….

Seven gates of the Black City, which Kordillus Drakon prophesied will someday shatter and cover both the mortal and spirit realms in darkness….

Solas: Your Order… the Grey Wardens… Blackwall: What about them? Solas: The Wardens see themselves as the world's defense against the Blight, do they not? Blackwall: Yes… why do you sound so skeptical? Doesn't everyone know this? Solas: When an Archdemon rises, they slay it. What will they do when all the Archdemons are slain? Blackwall: Retire? Solas: Without Archdemons, there can be no Blights. Is that the reasoning? Blackwall: Right. Where are you going with this? Solas: Nowhere. I hope they are correct.

Varric: Give [the Grey Wardens] some credit, it's not like you can study the Blight safely. I may not like everything they've done, but without the wardens, we'd all be blighted by now. Solas: They've bought us some time, I will grant them that.

DA4 will likely be set ten year after the events of DAI. And the Veil has gotten even weaker/Solas might succeed in tearing it down.

In Tevinter Nights, Solas claims that whatever he's going to do will "save this world".

Maybe the idol will solely be used to destroy the Veil and merge the World and the Fade, in order for him to, quote, "casually reshape reality".

BUT, you know what was proven to be the ultimate power source for Dreamers to reshape reality in a time before the Veil?

Say it with me.....

Great. Dragon. Blood.

So let's go back and assume that the idol is a phylactery that contains some part of Mythal/blood and that Solas is somehow still bound to by his true name. Mythal was likely murdered in the Black City, which might've also been the catalyst for the Blight. Solas might want to enter the Black City with the idol. Again, the ancient spirit in Origins can only be freed from the phylactery if it is placed on an ancient altar.

So… What if Solas plans to bring the idol back to its original location and free her spirit?

The Mother's Return

"Why did Mythal come to you?" "For a reckoning that will shake the very heavens."

At last, let me put on the tinfoil hat one final time and break this all down.

*takes deep breath*

The fact that it is Mythal's mosaic that is revealed to be on the platform in that final fight with Corypheus (symbolically surrounded by red lyrium!), the same ruins that were once the foundations of the Temple of Sacred Ashes.

The Sacred Ashes of Andraste, which possesses healing qualities "unsurpassed by even the most powerful spells".

Andraste, who was said to be too weak to bear children, but then miraculously was able to give birth to two daughters later in life. Almost like something came into her life that enabled her to do so. Like, for example, drinking the blood of a Great dragon.

Andraste, who might have not only been a mage, but also an Old God Baby like Kieran, carrying the soul of Dumat.

Old God souls, which a certain person seems to be particularly interested in collecting.

Not the Maker, but Mythal being drawn to Andraste's Old God soul, like a moth to a flame.

Andraste becoming Mythal's host, but that host ultimately burned at the stake, so she had to find another one.

Fast forward a few hundred years. Mythal has found another host in Flemeth, who just so happens to make a bargain with Calenhad Theirin, making him, again, drink the blood of a Great dragon, to gain special powers, leading him to become the first king of Ferelden.

So she watches the Theirin bloodline, until the fateful day Alistair gets almost killed at Ostagar. So she swoops in again, nudging the course of history by saving Alistair and the HOF.

Next up is Hawke, whom she saves so Hawke could find the idol and free Corypheus, setting the events of DAI in motion.

In DAI, if the Inquisitor drinks from the Well of Sorrows and you listen very carefully to the super creepy background noises while playing the audio backwards, the voices of the Well will tell you to "Stop her" and something else that sounds like "She speaks the Calling".

The Calling. A voice, a song, dreams that will haunt the Grey Wardens. Just like a certain idol does.

The Calling, which will force the Grey Wardens to go mad and join the Darkspawn as a collective hivemind to wake the Old Gods, but only after they consumed the Archdemon's blood in the Joining.

A being controlling people as a hivemind?

Like the Titans guiding their children like a collective mind? Titans, whom Mythal was the first to kill and mine their blood and something else to create bodies for her own people.

"The First of my People do not die so easily." (- Solas in Trespasser)

An Archdemon cannot be killed, because their soul will just transfer to the nearest soulless darkspawn. Transfering the soul. The secret of effective immortality.

How do you kill an Archdemon?

By drinking their blood, slaying them and taking in their soul.

What is an Archdemon/Old God?

A dragon.

What WAS Mythal?

"The new ones are faithful to Mythal, but do not understand what she was in her fullness."

Mythal's entire image is based on that of a dragon, a form that in ancient times was reserved for the gods. Because before the Veil, it was the dragon's blood that gave those dreamers the power to shape reality, so powerful that they came to be worshiped as gods. But, I think, not only had Mythal the chief role in the pantheon because she had great dragon blood within her, but because…

Her true form IS actually a motherflippin dragon.

So. What did the Evanuris do in order to KILL Mythal?

They slayed her, drank her blood and each of the seven obtained a part of her soul, but instead of getting killed themselves, they sought to become essentially invincible through both Mythal's blood and the tainted Titan blood/red lyrium.

Let me quote this wonderful post by @virlath from a few years ago.

With her conquering of the titans, I think it’s likely that her blood is a part of the blight and the red lyrium corruption. Mythal ran the elves' lyrium operations. She had a connection to the titans and their children. She also stole knowledge of the Void from Andruil. Combining all this knowledge it makes sense that she could use this to her advantage once she was imprisoned and corrupted, because she had a connection to both dragon's blood and lyrium. She just needed a physical aspect- Flemeth, and now Solas, to act out her plans. The use of dragon fire in Dark Fortress is further indication that the combination of dragons and lyrium results in a massive power nexus. I think it’s possible that red lyrium is simply lyrium tainted with dragon's blood. More specifically, Mythal's blood. This is why dragons were strictly reserved for the evanuris in ancient elvhen times- because the key to their immortality and power was dragons and more specifically, great dragon's blood. Mythal had strict rules about taking on the form of 'divinity’. I think this was likely because dragons and dragon fire/dragon's blood was the true source of the evanuris' power, and is what allowed them to appear immortal. This could explain why the old gods are so inexplicably linked to the evanuris in the lore. I think the evanuris each had a dragon- an old god, and they each used dragon's blood and dragon fire to make their dreams into literal reality. No one could infiltrate their dreams because only they had access to the power of dragons, which they claimed was their right.

Before BioWare settled on dragons, the Archdemons were supposed to look very different.

Meaning that, each of the seven Old God souls…. is what?

Yeah, I think it's all Mythal's.

Again, WHAT did the voices of the Well tell the Inquisitor? WHO speaks the CALLING?

It's the voice of the one who's the real owner of that soul. The one who for centuries has been trying to gather the scattered pieces of HER SOUL, driven by nothing but vengeance.

"So Mythal endures."

If the idol contains a part of Mythal, and if Solas used the idol/blade to trick the Evanuris like in Dalish legends, maybe it was because they were desperate to destroy the idol and get rid of Mythal once and for all.

Remember the visions described in Trespasser.

“Hail Mythal, adjudicator and savior! She has struck down the pillars of the earth and rendered their demesne unto the People! Praise her name forever!“ “In this place we prepare to hunt the pillars of the earth. Their workers scurry, witless, soulless. This death will be a mercy. We will make the earth blossom with their passing.” “The runes say the Evanuris fought the Titans. They mined their bodies for lyrium and… something else. It’s not clear.” “They made bodies from the earth. And the earth was afraid. It fought back. But they made it forget.” "For a moment, the scent of blood fills the air, and there is a vivid image of green vines growing and enveloping a sphere of fire." “For one moment, there is a vivid image of two overlapping spheres; unknown flowers bloom inside their centers. Then it fades.”

A sphere of fire… you mean, like the SUN? You mean, Mythal actually creating a MOON, just like in Dalish mythology?

Bear with me here.

We established that Mythal mined the Titan's blood, which I believe was then used for centuries in combination with her fire to create bodies for her own people/spirits. On top of that, I believe that, after her victory, Mythal used part of a dead Titan and lifted it into the sky to use it as a "cornerstone" to build the capital city of Elvhenan, Arlathan, on top of her "enemy's corpse".

I believe that in the moment of Mythal's death, her blood altered the Titan's blood (which also sundered the Song) and that something happened to the moon that she had created, which in turn led to the unbridled power of the sun to corrupt part of the Titan that the Golden City, Arlathan, was build on, as well as both their blood. And that's when it turned black. That's when the Blight was created.

Elgar'nan is the God of the Sun in Dalish mythology. He was likely the main instigator behind the Evanuris' betrayal and Mythal's murder.

The sun imagery keeps appearing throughout DA4's promotional stuff.

If the Old God Lusacan is connected to Elgar'nan, they would represent two polar opposites. The God of the Sun and the God of Night and Darkness. Again, Kordillus Drakon prophesied that the seven gates of the Black City would someday shatter and cover both the mortal and spirit realms in darkness.

"All the world will soon share the peace and comfort of my reign."

“Lusacan, the Dragon of Night, calls to you. He lives where it is darkest and waits for the day he will rise. Drink of his blood and know the power in darkness: either fear the Night or wield it.“ "The darkspawn yearn to awaken and corrupt Lusacan to start a new age of darkness.” “A night that will never end”

But why does this need to happen? Because Mythal needs to act out her vengeance upon the ones who murdered her and doomed the world with the creation of the Blight.

"She was betrayed as I was betrayed! As the world was betrayed!" "Mythal clawed and crawled her way through the ages to me, and I will see her avenged!"

Solas wants to save his people no matter what, and for that, the Veil needs to be torn down, resulting in the World and the Fade becoming one again…

But, to truly restore his People, I believe that he needs the Mother to come back.

Mythal represents both Justice and Vengeance. If justice is corrupted, it will turn into vengeance. Solas makes no difference between spirits and demons.

"I am sorry as well, old friend."

That last line of Flemythal to Solas. It's so simple, but what does it truly mean? Why is she apologizing to him?

Is it because none of this would have happened if she didn't die and everything that happened to the people and the world was because of her downfall? Because it was her who started all this in the first place with the death of the Titans, stealing their hearts and corrupting their blood?

With her gone and no one left to keep the false gods in check, if it hadn't been for her death, Solas wouldn't have been left with what seemed to be the only choice?

Is she sorry for everything he had to endure, from her giving him a body against his will, twisting his original purpose, to him having to live with the guilt over the death of a world and an entire civilization for a thousand years?

Or is she apologizing for using him?

"An eclipse as Fen'Harel stirred."

"Cry havoc in the moonlight. Let the fire of vengeance burn. The cause is clear." (- Solas reciting Mythal's invication)

She knew that Solas would do anything at this point to undo his mistakes and save the people he doomed. She knew exactly what Solas would do when he came to her in that after credits scene in DAI. She knew that he would need that power and the idol to complete his ritual in order to tear down the Veil, but to what end?

Without the Veil, whoever controls the dreams controls reality.

[the-official-account]

Do you love detective stories but hate cops?

Do you love gay detective stories and hate capitalism?

Like disabled main characters who's disability actually comes up?

Like characters of color but not in the mood for stories on racism?

Tempted by the thought of romance at ages of 30+?

Does the idea of stories so queer you'll hesitate before calling any character a "man" or a "woman" make you think "Ah, yes pronoun shenanigans, just like my discord used to make"

And you into an abundance of strong, diverse female and nonbinary characters?

Do you fight for women's wrongs?

I know rep-only recommendations can be annoying, but I'm trying to grab your attention to promote some Indie media. Luckily, though, this post isn't rep-only!

To read my full reccomendation and review of Three of Hearts, click below. ♦️♥️♣️♠️

And if you aren't in the mood for a new thing right now, consider reblogging! Maybe even ping a friend who might be into this! You love supporting queer indie creators!

Note: I am not involved with the making of the show or the game space Kings. I just really like this podcast.

The story

♠️♣️♥️♦️Three of Hearts♦️♥️♣️♠️ centers on two paragovernmental agents in a fantasy, post-war, queernormative 1950s.

Roughly 20 years before the opening, a set of heroes purged magic from the world to turn the tide of the war. But scraps of this thaumaturgic energy still remain. S.U.I.T.S (securing unpredictable injurious thaumaturgic situations) is an agency founded to deal with everything left behind.

When two of the longest standing employees at S.U.I.T.S, Agent Vellum and Agent Felspar, are called onto a new case involving stone crops and a missing person, Felspar isn't surprised (Though Vellum, who's injury had him doing desk work most of his career, is). Things devolve quickly when the Agents realize this case comes from Felspar's home town of Cloven heart, an idyllic magical village that prefers to handle justice on it's own.

Answers yield only more questions, as the Agents realize almost everyone in town has something to hide, and Felspar isn't the only one whose past keeps catching up to him:

How much magic is still around? What's Vellum got sloshing around in there that people think is so juicy? What is Diamond, elven pop star and queer icon, doing in such a small town? Just how big is this case, and how can the Agents balance their legal responsibility, with promises they've made to Cloven Heart?

WHEN. WILL. THEY. JUST. KISS?

(if you're skeptical about central romances, I get it! See notes on aro/aceness and platonic relationships in the rep section for more info)

The combination of magic and newfangled war tech — think telegrams and radios — is somehow just as charming as a rotating cast of characters who will each stake their claim on your heart, but betrayal is imminent and mistrust is rife. The story strikes a wonderful balance between slice of life goodness, and edge-of-your-seat high drama, culminating In a show I highly recommend.

But are they just reskinned cops: my answer has got to be no. While they are technically law enforcement, the main two are entering a commune-like space, where that isn't so welcome. It's a situation they treat with caution and respect. The classic cop-plot of "Should I make myself judge, jury, and executioner because The Bad Guy™ deserves punishment" just isn't a problem. The justice system isn't perfect, in our world or the show's, and the story acknowledges that. But in a social, cultural way, they don't act like cops. They DO act like detectives. But the rules they choose to break and the ones they choose to follow will hopefully satisfy my fellow cop-haters who crave a good mystery

The format

♠️♣️♥️♦️Three of Hearts♦️♥️♣️♠️ is an Indie actual play — this is not DnD, hear me out — podcast in the game Space Kings. All the tension of dice rolls, without drawn out combat or clunkiness, it's a breeze of story-forward listening, even if you've never listened to actually play podcasts before!

If you've tried dnd actual plays, and haven't like the flow of them, I would recommend trying this. A few encounters that may feel random (though they're not) get the story kicked off at a fast pace, but it quickly settles into a story with a tight plot, great pacing, and impactful character development.

The use of a playing card deck to see the outcomes of risky actions means that no matter what happens, success or failure, the tension keeps rising. And the hosts do a wonderful job of explaining mechanics in the show, so it never interrupts the listening experience.

Actual-play connessuires who want to primarily see people playing a game might not be satisfied, as bonuses are given liberally, and I would describe the podcast as more story focused than game focused, But the risks are ALWAYS real, sometimes (often) with thrilling, shocking outcomes.

Also concerned AP listeners should know there's some chaos magic involved! I was surprised when it first came up, and doubtful about how it might affect the story, but it ended up weaving into the rest of the plot really well, and I feel neither like it had no affect, nor like it shook up everything the party was building in an unsatisfying way. Personally I would have preferred to go in knowing it was there, but I also don't think it's major enough to belong in the main synopsis. Now you know, though!

The hosts make a real effort to blend stats and story, and I think the pull it off wonderfully without spending too much time on mechanics. If you want to see that though, session 0 and other details are on the Patreon (where you get the same content no matter how much you pay, at a minimum of a dollar a month).

The pod has all the lighthearted fun and banter of a "friends around the table" show, but never once have I had that "oh my god, I'm not a part of your inside joke, shut up and play!" Feeling.

I think it's a delight for AP and non-AP fans alike.

The episodes: roughly 45- 75 minutes long, with a midtro and some post-end music scenes, so listen through the end music, or check that there isn't extra content by seeing how close the play head is when the end music starts. It's not too long and quite pleasant in my opinion! The midtros always come at a nice moment to step back from the story, and are not too long and not irritating. I enjoyed listening to them! At some point, a midtro starts getting reused, and I was slightly disappointed I wasn't hearing new jokes every episode, but it's a small thing. I skip the repetitive ones with my 30 seconds forward button, and while I haven't timed the Intro, that's worked really well for me. I don't have to fiddle with my play head to make sure I don't skip forward too far. Super convient.

Trigger warnings: the show is pretty lighthearted! Listeners sensitive non-graphic mentions of needles, blood, and/or guns might want to skip on this one, but most episodes don't get heavy. The few that do have pre episodes notes that warn you things get dark, how they get dark, and how to skip the darkest bits. Personally, I listened through them and enjoyed those parts a lot! But if that's not your thing, I agree with the warning that they're very skippable, and I think trigger-sensitive listeners will be pleased. As an indie pod, there are no fan made, super specific lists of triggers. However, my DMs are always open if you have particular concerns, and I'll answer to the best of my ability.

I try to emphasize the balance between lightheartedness and drama, but if you mental health is sensitive to grim & dark media, i think this one is pretty safe. Please always exercise caution! But I'd describe 30♥️s as emotionally restful.

Transcripts: transcripts are in the works, but do not currently exist. Three of Hearts is a non-scripted show, so those are also unavailable

The rep

Don't you hate when someone raves about rep and you go in expecting something good and get like. One dog-boy described as having "chocolate colored skin"? Or when people make a "watch for rep" post and then mention like. Gay and maybe trans people and that's it, even when shows DO have disability and POC rep? Yeah that's not me. Here's the spoiler free rundown, race is at the bottom because I get into more detail with it, not because it isn't important:

Edit: For more on some of these topics from a hosts perspective, see the reblogged addition by @/citrusandsalt

MLM characters: Main characters, one confirmed bi the other unknown

Wlw characters: Reoccurring side characters (present or mentioned in every episode I think) Married. Orientation unspecified.

Enby love: LOTS. It's actually hard to really categorize mlm and wlw stuff because almost every character is nonbinary. Anyways— it's VERY queer

Women: I...I don't know exactly which characters are women 😂. But there are many feminine characters, and they're badass as fuck. Some are compassionate, some are cold, some are chaotic, most are a mix! The two main characters are...masculine...(I say with much hesitation) but you will not feel robbed for your woman-ly content.

Non-traditional family structures: All of the families in the story, pretty much, are non-traditional. Adoption is super common. (You want some wlw who just KEEP adopting kids? You got em) Found family is a MASSIVE force in the story. Also, It's a post-war story.........which is to say almost everyone's parents are dead.

Edit: an MC had poly parents, which may not be obvious but is true!

Polyamory: to my knowledge so far, there are polyam characters, and it is definitely present in the world! But no poly relationships in the forefront. I am about 2/3 through the current episodes, so there may be a present polyamorous relationship later, but also if I confirmed it that would be a spoiler. This may be that "playing it by ear" thing that happens with ttrpgs. I wouldn't listen for the hope of polyamory alone, but I don't tell you it's not there/won't happen.

Trans characters: almost all of them. Might think "oh there are only a few!" And you are wrong. You are so wrong.

Neopronoun users: yup! To my knowledge, minor characters. A handful who use at least he/she/they or they/them and may also use neos in a manner im forgetting

Plurality: no system characters yet, but the creators are friendly, I asked ;)

Platonic relationships: YES. As an aro person who hates so many romance tropes this one gets my stamp of approval. There's no real jealousy drama, exes who communicate and are supportive, and romance doesn't kill friendships. There's a central sibling relationship and non-familial platonic ones that have conflict, drama, resolutions, and a deeply satisfying significance in the story. If you don't like romance at all, this one might not be for you. If you just don't like stories exclusively about romance, I think you'll enjoy this. Genre wise, I'd definitely describe three of hearts as a mystery primarily with a strong romantic subplot, not a romance itself, and that comes through in player and character's additives and priorities.

Aro/ace characters: none confirmed yet to my knowledge. Romance is very central, sex is joked about on occasion but it isn't at the forefront of the story at all. There are many, single characters who are thriving.

Edit: Actually! There is one character who discusses demiromanticism in cannon that I forgot, and another confirmed out of cannon character who is ace. Both are non-main major characters!

Age diversity: the youngest characters in the show are older to middling teens, and the oldest are in their 400s. Okay but the oldest in human terms are roughly 60-70. The most common age range, and the ones the central characters are in, is 30-40. The second most common is that 60-70, then some ~40-50 folks here and there, with people in their 20s being probably the rarest (no named ones off the top of my head?) And there are a small number of teens. This is not a story about youth and youthful beauty. Generally, the older a character becomes the most bad ass/spooky powerful they are, and older characters are very involved in the plot.

Mental illness and neurodivergency: to my knowledge so far no characters are in cannon confirmed to have a specific mental illness or ND, though I wouldn't be surprised if it was part of a character or the main characters, and just hadn't come up. Listeners with cluster b or "scary" disorders, or with conditions that may cause them to lash out, will find satisfaction with how compassionately the narrative treats werefolk. To say more encounters spoilers. I would also say that depression, while the word isn't used and it is not central to the story, is present as a narrative force, and also treated wisely and with compassion. Still, as is usually for a good story, all of these bitches need therapy.

Disability: LOTS. There's a lot of "different, not broken" themes that disabled listeners are likely to love, but both of the main characters are disabled! One is a cane user, the other experiences migraines. These have a genuine, pressing, mechanical impact on the story. It's COMES UP. It's a real joy. For a magical world, there is no magical healing! Or there is, but it isn't a perfect solution, which in my opinion is just a magical version of real healing, though yours may differ! Also, there is a minor, reoccurring character who's a wheelchair user, and I think he's really fun.

Disfigurement: Excuse me if I am not prepared with the most sensitive way to speak about this, but I'm doing my best! There is a character with no eyes or nose, who is central and lovely. To my knowledge, there are no amputee characters or characters with limb differences (of the wheelchair user I'm not sure if it's specified whether or not he has legs). There is a character of questionable morality who has significant facial and bodily disfigurement. In as few spoilers as possible: this was not injury or genetic related. The disfigurement is treated with a firm compassion, and does not exist as a "this character is evil" signal. It's a long arc, but I imagine people who relate will be satisfied, though I cannot speak for anyone.

Characters of color: many! The main two are Hispanic and Asian. Terms like "dark skinned" are used for characters, but in the fantasy world race doesn't exactly translate, and I wouldn't call it "important" in this story. Read more about race below:

Fantasy racism: sort of! The word "race" is used to mean "humanoid species" and I know some folks don't like that? None of these fantasy races are oppressed, but specific people (Magic versus non-magic people) have conflict about that aspect of their identity, and policing is a related concern. I would place the allegory more in the space of transness and disability/neurodivergency if pressed to choose, but it doesn't feel like it's trying to tell a story about real-world oppression, primarily. I have more complicated thoughts on exactly what I'm trying to communicate here, but they involved some spoilers. DM me for more info!

Hosts/creator identity: out of three hosts, two are white, one is not! They are very queer, and disability is also...a thing! These are real life people, so I'm not going to get into detail, but check out their twitters plugged in the show for more on how they self-identify.

Okay but are they racist: Real talk! As a black person who thinks I keep my ears sharp, I would say no! Not at all! This is one of those situations where I was like "YOU'RE WHITE?" And shocked about it, (if you listened to TSCOSI, same vibe) which is a very good thing in my books. The hosts are open and sensitive, and I have no complaints, however, this is just one perspective! This isn't coincidental, race is an active consideration in how the story is told — just not a central theme.

Edit: One of the hosts, Essay (@/citrusandsalts) discussed more on hosts identities in a reblog! If this concerns you, and you want less of me walking on eggshells about other people's identities, read her addition too!

Edit 2: Jordan, the GM also has commented additions!

Minor but worth mentioning: A minor character has a name with what I believe is the Nahuatl "tl" sound in it, which is not pronounced correctly. It's a really hard sound! I can't really do it! But if that really irritates you this might not be the podcast for you.

People who might be interested in this post, as always let me know if you don't want to be pinged (I rarely ever do this) and it won't happen again: @citrusandsalt @fyeahaudiodrama @boombox-fuckboy

[mythrilthread]

Neck in a Noose (Kick the Chair, Hang Loose) by @floofyfluff

So, I had a good long 5-year dry spell in reading fanfiction, and this story? Hell of way to come back to it! I really, REALLY loved it, and with it being pretty much the perfect length for an itsy bitsy teeny tiny book (it's about 3x4 cm) I had a good idea of what I wanted it to look like. (Which was - invoking the glowy thing Plants in Trigun: Stampede (because I don't remember enough about the original anime to know if they look the same there) as much as possible.) (And, thanks to @simply-sithel I managed to get a copy to the author! Always a great time)

Turns out, the full effect of the materials I chose is very hard to capture on camera, but the cover has a nice pearly seen, and the endpaper are actually pearly vellum, so they also have a nice translucent thing going on.

And yeah, it does the thing. It actually GLOWS IN THE DARK. It's very funny in the context of the story, which is, you know, only 3,808 words... ;)

[the-splorts-eye]

Do you love detective stories but hate cops?

Do you love gay detective stories and hate capitalism?

Like disabled main characters who's disability actually comes up?

Like characters of color but not in the mood for stories on racism?

Tempted by the thought of romance at ages of 30+?

Does the idea of stories so queer you'll hesitate before calling any character a "man" or a "woman" make you think "Ah, yes pronoun shenanigans, just like my discord used to make"

And you into an abundance of strong, diverse female and nonbinary characters?

Do you fight for women's wrongs?

I know rep-only recommendations can be annoying, but I'm trying to grab your attention to promote some indie media. Luckily, though, this post isn't rep-only!

To read my full recommendation and review of Three of Hearts, click below. ♦️♥️♣️♠️

And if you aren't in the mood for a new thing right now, consider reblogging! Maybe even ping a friend who might be into this! You love supporting queer indie creators, right?

The story

♠️♣️♥️♦️Three of Hearts♦️♥️♣️♠️ centers on two paragovernmental agents in a fantasy, post-war, queernormative 1950s.

Roughly 20 years before the opening, a set of heroes purged magic from the world to turn the tide of the war. But scraps of this thaumaturgic energy still remain. S.U.I.T.S (securing unpredictable injurious thaumaturgic situations) is an agency founded to deal with everything left behind.

When two of the longest standing employees at S.U.I.T.S, Agent Vellum and Agent Felspar, are called onto a new case involving stone crops and a missing person, Felspar isn't surprised (Though Vellum, who's injury had him doing desk work most of his career, is). Things devolve quickly when the Agents realize this case comes from Felspar's home town of Cloven heart, an idyllic magical village that prefers to handle justice on it's own.

Answers yield only more questions, as the Agents realize almost everyone in town has something to hide, and Felspar isn't the only one whose past keeps catching up to him:

How much magic is still around? What's Vellum got sloshing around in there that people think is so juicy? What is Diamond, elven pop star and queer icon, doing in such a small town? Just how big is this case, and how can the Agents balance their legal responsibility, with promises they've made to Cloven Heart?

WHEN. WILL. THEY. JUST. KISS?

(if you're skeptical about central romances, I get it! See notes on aro/aceness and platonic relationships in the rep section for more info)

The combination of magic and newfangled war tech — think telegrams and radios — is somehow just as charming as a rotating cast of characters who will each stake their claim on your heart, but betrayal is imminent and mistrust is rife. The story strikes a wonderful balance between slice of life goodness, and edge-of-your-seat high drama, culminating In a show I highly recommend.

But are they just reskinned cops: my answer has got to be no. While they are technically law enforcement, the main two are entering a commune-like space, where that isn't so welcome. It's a situation they treat with caution and respect. The classic cop-plot of "Should I make myself judge, jury, and executioner because The Bad Guy™ deserves punishment" just isn't a problem. The justice system isn't perfect, in our world or the show's, and the story acknowledges that. But in a social, cultural way, they don't act like cops. They DO act like detectives. But the rules they choose to break and the ones they choose to follow will hopefully satisfy my fellow cop-haters who crave a good mystery

mid post note: I am not involved with the making of the show or the game space Kings. I just really like this podcast. Also, if you are seeing this text you are looking at a copy of the original posted on an unused sideblog so that I can keep the notes separate from my naturally spreading original without looking like a bot, and not get blaze notification spam.the references to "look in the notes for more" won't work for you. Yes, I spent my own money on this.

The format

♠️♣️♥️♦️Three of Hearts♦️♥️♣️♠️ is an Indie actual play — this is not DnD, hear me out — podcast in the game Space Kings. All the tension of dice rolls, without drawn out combat or clunkiness, it's a breeze of story-forward listening, even if you've never listened to actually play podcasts before!

If you've tried dnd actual plays, and haven't like the flow of them, I would recommend trying this. A few encounters that may feel random (though they're not) get the story kicked off at a fast pace, but it quickly settles into a story with a tight plot, great pacing, and impactful character development.

The use of a playing card deck to see the outcomes of risky actions means that no matter what happens, success or failure, the tension keeps rising, because there are only so many successes in the deck before you shuffle. The hosts do a wonderful job of explaining mechanics in the show, so it never interrupts the listening experience.

Actual-play connessuires who want to primarily see people playing a game might not be satisfied, as bonuses are given liberally, and I would describe the podcast as more story focused than game focused, But the risks are ALWAYS real, sometimes (often) with thrilling, shocking outcomes.

Also concerned AP listeners should know there's some chaos magic involved! I was surprised when it first came up, and doubtful about how it might affect the story, but it ended up weaving into the rest of the plot really well, and I feel neither like it had no affect, nor like it shook up everything the party was building in an unsatisfying way. Personally I would have preferred to go in knowing it was there, but I also don't think it's major enough to belong in the main synopsis. Now you know, though!

The hosts make a real effort to blend stats and story, and I think the pull it off wonderfully without spending too much time on mechanics. If you want to see that though, session 0 and other crunchy details are on the Patreon (where you get the same content no matter how much you pay, at a minimum of a dollar a month).

The pod has all the lighthearted fun and banter of a "friends around the table" show, but never once have I had that "oh my god, I'm not a part of your inside joke, shut up and play!" Feeling.

EDIT: i did not know "friends around the table" was the name of another podcast. no hate to them I'm sure they're lovely, this was just the use of a phrase.

I think it's a delight for AP and non-AP fans alike.

The episodes: roughly 45- 75 minutes long, with a midtro and some post-end music scenes, so listen through the end music, or check that there isn't extra content by seeing how close the play head is when the end music starts. It's not too long and quite pleasant in my opinion! The midtros always come at a nice moment to step back from the story, and are not too long and not irritating. I enjoyed listening to them! At some point, a midtro starts getting reused, and I was slightly disappointed I wasn't hearing new jokes every episode, but it's a small thing. I skip the repetitive ones with my 30 seconds forward button, and while I haven't timed the Intro, that's worked really well for me. I don't have to fiddle with my play head to make sure I don't skip forward too far. Super convenient.

Trigger warnings: the show is pretty lighthearted! Listeners sensitive non-graphic mentions of needles, blood, and/or guns might want to skip on this one, but most episodes don't get heavy. The few that do have pre-episode notes that warn you things get dark, how they get dark, and how to skip the darkest bits. Personally, I listened through them and enjoyed those parts a lot! But if that's not your thing, I agree with the warning that they're very skippable, and I think trigger-sensitive listeners will be pleased. As an indie pod, there are no fan made, super specific lists of triggers.

I'm trying to emphasize the balance between lightheartedness and drama, but if your mental health is sensitive to grim & dark media, i think this one is pretty safe. Please always exercise caution! But I'd describe 3o♥️s as emotionally restful.

Transcripts: transcripts are in the works, but do not currently exist except for episodes 1 and 2. Three of Hearts is a non-scripted show, so those are also unavailable. Some of the money given to the show will be used to hire a queer disabled transcriptionist! So if you listen and love it, consider sending cash their way. All transcripts are on patreon for free.

The rep

Don't you hate when someone raves about rep and you go in expecting something good and get like. One dog-boy described as having "chocolate colored skin"? Or when people make a "watch for rep" post and then mention like. Gay and maybe trans people and that's it, even when shows DO have disability and POC rep? Yeah that's not me. Here's the spoiler free rundown, race is at the bottom because I get into more detail with it, not because it isn't important:

Edit: For more on some of these topics from a hosts perspective, see the reblogged addition by @/citrusandsalt

MLM characters: Main characters, one confirmed bi the other unknown

Wlw characters: Reoccurring side characters (present or mentioned in every episode I think) Married. Orientation unspecified.

Enby love: LOTS. It's actually hard to really categorize mlm and wlw stuff because almost every character is nonbinary. Anyways— it's VERY queer

Women: I...I don't know exactly which characters are women 😂. But there are many feminine characters, and they're badass as fuck. Some are compassionate, some are cold, some are chaotic, most are a mix! The two main characters are...masculine...(I say with much hesitation) but you will not feel robbed for your woman-ly content.

Non-traditional family structures: All of the families in the story, pretty much, are non-traditional. Adoption is super common. (You want some wlw who just KEEP adopting kids? You got em) Found family is a MASSIVE force in the story. Also, It's a post-war story.........which is to say almost everyone's parents are dead.

Edit: an MC had poly parents, which may not be obvious but is true!

Polyamory: to my knowledge so far, there are polyam characters, and it is definitely present in the world! But no poly relationships in the forefront. I am about 2/3 through the current episodes, so there may be a present polyamorous relationship later, but also if I confirmed it that would be a spoiler. This may be that "playing it by ear" thing that happens with ttrpgs. I wouldn't listen for the hope of polyamory alone, but I don't tell you it's not there/won't happen.

Trans characters: almost all of them. Might think "oh there are only a few!" And you are wrong. You are so wrong.

Neopronoun users: yup! To my knowledge, minor characters. A handful who use at least he/she/they or they/them and may also use neos in a manner im forgetting

Plurality: no system characters yet, but the creators are friendly, I asked ;)

Aro/ace characters: none confirmed yet to my knowledge. Romance is very central, sex is joked about on occasion but it isn't at the forefront of the story at all. There are many, single characters who are thriving.

Edit: Actually! There is one character who discusses demiromanticism in cannon that I forgot, and another confirmed out of cannon character who is ace. Both are non-main major characters!

Platonic relationships: YES. As an aro person who hates so many romance tropes this one gets my stamp of approval. There's no real jealousy drama, exes who communicate and are supportive, and romance doesn't kill friendships. There's a central sibling relationship and non-familial platonic ones that have conflict, drama, resolutions, and a deeply satisfying significance in the story. If you don't like romance at all, this one might not be for you. If you just don't like stories exclusively about romance, I think you'll enjoy this. Genre wise, I'd definitely describe three of hearts as a mystery primarily with a strong romantic subplot, not a romance itself, and that comes through in player and character's additives and priorities.

Age diversity: the youngest characters in the show are older to middling teens, and the oldest are in their 400s. Okay but the oldest in human terms are roughly 60-70. The most common age range, and the ones the central characters are in, is 30-40. The second most common is that 60-70, then some ~40-50 folks here and there, with people in their 20s being probably the rarest (no named ones off the top of my head?) And there are a small number of teens. This is not a story about youth and youthful beauty. Generally, the older a character becomes the most bad ass/spooky powerful they are, and older characters are very involved in the plot.

Mental illness and neurodivergency: to my knowledge so far no characters are in cannon confirmed to have a specific mental illness or ND, though I wouldn't be surprised if it was part of a character or the main characters, and just hadn't come up. Listeners with cluster b or "scary" disorders, or with conditions that may cause them to lash out, will find satisfaction with how compassionately the narrative treats werefolk. To say more encounters spoilers. I would also say that depression, while the word isn't used and it is not central to the story, is present as a narrative force, and also treated wisely and with compassion. Still, as is usually for a good story, all of these bitches need therapy.

Disability: LOTS. There's a lot of "different, not broken" themes that disabled listeners are likely to love, but both of the main characters are disabled! One is a cane user, the other experiences migraines. These have a genuine, pressing, mechanical impact on the story. It's COMES UP. It's a real joy. For a magical world, there is no magical healing! Or there is, but it isn't a perfect solution, which in my opinion is just a magical version of real healing, though yours may differ! Also, there is a minor, reoccurring character who's a wheelchair user, and I think he's really fun.

Disfigurement: Excuse me if I am not prepared with the most sensitive way to speak about this, but I'm doing my best! There is a character with no eyes or nose, who is central and lovely. To my knowledge, there are no amputee characters or characters with limb differences (of the wheelchair user I'm not sure if it's specified whether or not he has legs). There is a character of questionable morality who has significant facial and bodily disfigurement. In as few spoilers as possible: this was not injury or genetic related. The disfigurement is treated with a firm compassion, and does not exist as a "this character is evil" signal. It's a long arc, but I imagine people who relate will be satisfied, though I cannot speak for anyone.

Characters of color: many! The main two are Hispanic and Asian. Terms like "dark skinned" are used for characters, but in the fantasy world race doesn't exactly translate, and I wouldn't call it "important" in this story. Read more about race below:

Fantasy racism: sort of! The word "race" is used to mean "humanoid species" and I know some folks don't like that? None of these fantasy races are oppressed, but specific people (Magic versus non-magic people) have conflict about that aspect of their identity, and policing is a related concern. I would place the allegory more in the space of transness and disability/neurodivergency if pressed to choose, but it doesn't feel like it's trying to tell a story about real-world oppression, primarily. I have more complicated thoughts on exactly what I'm trying to communicate here, but they involved some spoilers. DM me for more info!

Hosts/creator identity: out of three hosts, two are white, one is not! They are very queer, and disability is also...a thing! These are real life people, so I'm not going to get into detail, but check out their twitters plugged in the show for more on how they self-identify.

Edit: One of the hosts, Essay (@/citrusandsalts) discussed more on hosts identities in a reblog! If this concerns you, and you want less of me walking on eggshells about other people's identities, read her addition too!

Edit 2: Jordan, the GM also has commented additions!

Okay but are they racist: Real talk! As a black person who thinks I keep my ears sharp, I would say no! Not at all! This is one of those situations where I was like "YOU'RE WHITE?" And shocked about it, (if you listened to TSCOSI, same vibe) which is a very good thing in my books. The hosts are open and sensitive, and I have no complaints, however, this is just one perspective! This isn't coincidental, race is an active consideration in how the story is told — just not a central theme.

Minor but worth mentioning: A minor character has a name with what I believe is the Nahuatl "tl" sound in it, which is not pronounced correctly. It's a really hard sound! And I, op, can't really do it! But if that really irritates you this might not be the podcast for you.

[khavelund]

My biggest struggle as an artist is that all-consuming need for perfection, and my inability to stop examining my creations under a microscope. And this, friends, is why we're on version 5 of this stitch. Gone is the water-soluble pen, we've brought in the archival ink and old transfer techniques.

Some more rambling under the cut!

The transfer method is one I've done a fair amount of reading about, but have never tried. I've tried just about every method under the sun - freehand drawing to tracing to water-soluble paper to tissue paper. I loathe freehand drawing, I don't like washing my pieces after I've stitched them (especially now I've started using silk thread), and I find stitches can get loose after washing away paper or pulling out the tissue.

So I decided to try one last method, my hail mary, and tried prick and pounce. Supply kits aren't easy to come by, so I sort of DIYed it. Vellum, charcoal powder and talc, and some felt pads for furniture hammered into a leftover piece of wood made up the supplies, and I got to experimenting.

I'm not a professional, just a hobbyist with too much spare time and little self-regulation. There are things I would do differently next time - I'd probably tackle it in layers, like a lino print, and more aggressively brush the dust off after I finish connecting the dots.

It's time consuming, but I've never had finer details on the fabric. And because I accidentally wrecked my vellum, this is going to be the final version. I can't keep doing this to myself!

[pteren]

wrote this story fragment a while ago but never posted it:

from a young age she was filled with a fascination for what she did not know. She questioned bedtime, breakfast, and baths, the wind and the sunrise, the decrees of the village leaders, shadows, mirrors, mushrooms, and prayers. Everything she saw, she wanted to understand its purpose, its origin, its subtleties. When she came across a question which couldn't be answered, she would not rest until she had asked every person she knew, much to the annoyance of the villagers. She was unashamed of her ignorance and became indignant when her elders dodged questions to avoid confessing their own. "Where do clouds go?" she said to the shepherd one day. "Over the hills," he replied. "But where do they go next?" "On and over the hills there," he responded wearily. "But where do they end up? Do they go on and on forever?" "Aye, they... drift on until they reach the end of the world, I suppose." "If you don't know, say you don't know," she insisted with a pout. "By blood, alright! I don't know! Go an' bother your mother!" She pestered the priest with so many questions that he eventually taught her to read so she could "pursue the truth relentlessly on your own two feet." There were precious few books in the village at all, and so every time traders came through town she would be out among them, eyes hungrily scanning their wares for those vellum casks of knowledge. Soon the merchants knew her by name, and would seek out new books for her in their travels. "What ho, Julie? How did you fare in your studies into, ah, op-ticks?" "Very well, mister Pestle," she replied politely, setting a worn parchment book down on their cart. "I learned all about the working of telescopes, though it didn't say much about how they are made. Did you find anything for me at Clefthaven?" They chuckled, eyes sparkling. "Telly-scopes, indeed! Yes, as-a-matter-of-fact I got you *two* books to choose from. One is on farming wheat- thats a kind of grain, you know, like rice, that they grows farther south of here- and *this* one is about..." They squinted at the title. "Ah. The Historie of the Kings of Bantir. Heavy stuff. Now as always, I'll trade you one for your tome on op-ticks. What'll it be?" Jules grinned triumphantly. "I'd like to buy them both, mister Pestle." She reached up to place two thick copper coins on the counter next to *The Intricate Studye of Optics.* Mister Pestle knew full well that their merchandise was worth three times what she had offered them, but they only laughed louder and made a show of inspecting the payment. "Is that so? And how did you come by this small fortune?" "I asked shells from everyone in the village. I did chores for mama and miss Idori and mister Nestor, and I found safe mushrooms for Artha's stew, and taught Beli How to tie a peregrine knot. And the priest gave me two shells just for asking. He said I 'might have less pressing need of his erudition' if I had more books." The girl seemed slightly hurt by this. Pestle smiled gently. "Seems like you're making quite the scholar of yourself. And just between you and me, I don't think that priest of yours knows half as much as he likes to let on. Don't pay him any mind- jus keep learnin', and soon he'll be the one askin' you questions." They pocketed the coins and presented the two new books to Jules with a florish. "Go on now. and I expect to hear all about the ill-us-tree-us Kings o' Banter when i come back south, mind!" She beamed at them. "thank you very much, mister Pestle." And, in an exaggerated coastal accent: "It was a PLEASURE doing BUSINESS with you." The two bowed dramatically to each other, and Jules ran off into the village to read.

[breninarthur]

happy dadwc friday! sending you “letters between two of your OC’s companions about them” for Kallian 👀

hi, thank you!! ^^ @dadrunkwriting

rated t. 517 words. alistair writes to zevran before he and kallian set off to tevinter. this is... some vague idea i have for the future, and it becomes less dysfunctional, i swear 😂

◌ ◌ ◌

Zevran,

It was surprisingly difficult to find some vellum and ink without somebody insisting on scribing for me, so even though I'm sure you'll be annoyed this isn't in some hard-to-crack code... appreciate that I'm being as sneaky as I can be.

Kallian is on her way to meet with you. I pray that Isabela reaches you with this letter before then. I also pray that she doesn't read this herself, and would like to remind her that I am in contact with her friend the Champion, who would... be disappointed, I'm sure. I suppose I can't think of a good threat, but Isabela, I will pay you if you stop reading right now.

Look after her. Kallian. Not in a fight, Maker knows it'll be the other way around there. But all this sneaking and spying and hiding you're going to do... you're the expert. So I'll be holding you accountable for anything that goes wrong, and praying that I won't need to. Just... get her out of there, will you? And be careful yourself. Tevinter isn't kind to elves, and I think Ferelden would resent me going to war.

I've thought a lot about whether I should be writing this letter. I think she might actually murder me if she knew. But I'm not entirely going behind her back? I floated the idea past her. She... I don't know, she's too focused on me. She thinks I don't mean it, but I do.

You know what, just show her this letter when the time arrives. Kall, please don't hate me.

This is all over the place.

Right. Here goes.

Right now.

I am running out of space.

Maybe I want to.

Anyway.

I truly hate to tell you this, but I trust you'll do right by her, if not me.

We cannot spend as much time together as we wish to, not now, not yet. Each time she visits the Palace feels more and more fleeting, and I fear it is my fault. It's... difficult to fit everything in. Weeks worth of a relationship; months; a year; all in one day, or a week if we're incredibly lucky. It's hard.

You two have always been close. There was a time, back then, when I thought she would choose you. When she didn't... forgive me, Zev, but I always knew that hurt you. The way you looked at her never changed. The way she looked at you did change... but I don't know. She still looks at other people differently.

Maybe I don't know what I'm talking about. That certainly wouldn't be anything new.

All I wanted to say was... you have my blessing. When I see her again, we won't speak of it. If you're there too, well... let's cross that bridge when we come to it.

Kallian, I love you. Sorry if this made things awkward between you. Just imagine how awkward it would be if I was there too! Ha ha!

Take care of each other. I want to see no new scars when you return, on either of you.

With love,

Alistair

[dariusult]

FFXIV Write Day 5- Stamp

"I got a letter here for an Ashelynn Hawke, Kupo! Ashelynn Hawke!"

"Yes, hello! I'm Ashelynn Hawke!"

It wasn't often that courier Moogles made their way into occupied Gyr Abania, but whenever they did it was a bit of an event for the members of the resistance. The couriers were one of the few ways anyone in the resistance could send or receive word from beyond Baelsar's Wall: a massive steel bulwark that had been erected to segregate the former lands of Ala Mhigo from the rest of Aldenard.

The aforementioned 'Ashelynn Hawke', a Raen woman from the occupied territory of Werlyt, weaved through the crowd of assembled resistance fighters, waving her hand over her head to try to get the courier's attention. She wasn't short by Raen standards, but when pushing through a crowd of Ala Mhigan Higlanders and Hellsguards, it'd be hard for all but the tallest of individuals to make themselves known. Finally clearing the crowd around the Moogle courier, Ashelynn stepped forward, brushing aside a stray strand of brown hair that had slipped out of her ponytail as she locked her emerald green eyes on the fluffy letter carrier. "You have a letter for me?" The Moogle pulled a neatly folded and tied sheaf of vellum out of his oversized letter satchel and presented it to the Raen woman. "Don't get excited, Kupo. Just a returned letter."

Ashelynn's heart sank as she saw the familiar looking letter slide out of the bag, marked with a big red stamp that read "RETURN TO SENDER", and the Moogle's dry remarks only further soured her anticipation. She reluctantly reached up and took the letter from the Moogle, staring down at the carefully written address: a pair of names, and nothing else. 'Darius Stormcrow and Twilight Dove'. Ashelynn's eyes lingered on the names for a moment before she looked back up to the Moogle. "What was the problem? Why couldn't you deliver it?"

"We couldn't find 'em, lady!" The Moogle snapped. "Moogle couriers aint miracle workers, kupo! That Dragon what came out of the lesser moon has thrown a little wrench into our normal operations, kupo."

Ashelynn had an uncomfortable gnawing feeling in the pit of her stomach. Darius hadn't sent a single letter after the one that told her he and Dove were going to fight at Carteneau. The conclusion she should've drawn was obvious, but she couldn't bring herself to accept it. The Raen's expression hardened as she shoved the letter into her pocket and lowered her head, slowly inhaling and letting out a long, shaky sigh.

A Highlander woman with dusty blonde hair stepped out of the crowd next to Ashelynn and placed a sympathetic hand on her shoulder. "Don't dwell on it, Ash. They just couldn't find ‘em because people are scattered all over, you know those two are impossible to kill."

Ashelynn stood in silence; her eyes downcast. After a moment, she reached up and tightened the strap of the rifle slung over her shoulder. "I'm going to go find him, Emeny."

"Yer not gonna find either of ‘em, Kupo." The Moogle barked. "Not unless you plan on taking a dip in the aetherial sea..." "What is wrong with you!?" Emeny growled at the Moogle.

"Forget him." Ashelynn said as she turned away from the courier and stepped back through the gathered resistance fighters, Emeny trailing behind her. "I should've left way earlier." Once she'd gotten clear of the crowd of people who were both sending and receiving mail, she turned around and smiled apologetically at her Highlander companion. "I'm really sorry, Em. I know I said I'd stay to the end-" "Ash, please. You've done more than enough." Emeny said with a chuckle. The Highlander placed both of her hands on the Raen's shoulders and gave her a little shake. "Go find Darius." Her smile widened to a grin. "And when you do, tell him we need a bunch of our machines fixed."

"Hah." Ashelynn couldn't help but crack a smile in spite of herself. Of everyone she'd fought with in the resistance, Emeny was the person she'd known the longest—it meant a lot that her friend was encouraging her to go. She swallowed that gnawing feeling in her throat and silenced her doubts. Emeny was right... They were out there somewhere.

"I'll find him."

[pretensesoup]

How to Publish a Book, pt 1

I told @tryxyhijinks I was gonna turn this into a shitpost, so here we go: how to publish an ebook in ten easy steps.

Write the book. This is, believe it or not, the fun part.

Edit the book. Slightly less easy, but you have to do this, no matter what anyone else has told you about "minimum viable product" or what have you. You can force your friends to read it, you can have a program read it aloud to you, you can read it backwards, you can hire someone to line edit your work, you can do some or most of the above, just get it edited. (Additional point: when hiring a professional, if you're happy with the plot, ask for line or copyediting; if you're not sure about plot points, ask for developmental editing; if you just need guidance, you may want to start with an editorial letter.)

Get a cover. You can make one yourself or pay someone to do it. You're going to want it to be about 1600x2500 pixels and 72 dpi. It's good to have a really nice cover, because covers sell books.

Typeset the book. I use Atticus to create an epub file. If you are also doing a print version or you are a control freak, I recommend it. Vellum and Reedsy are about the same, I think. If you have a lot of illustrations--big ones, I mean, not just an author photo--you should beg, borrow, or steal a copy of InDesign. You can use Calibre to compress your output epub file if you want to make sure you earn every available penny. However, my book is 6mb and it is about 8 cents to download. Also, if you're trying to do this on the cheap, you really can just do it in Word. The layout won't be as fancy, but you can do it. (Layout granularity, from least to most granular, is probably Word->Atticus->InDesign.)

If you want to publish under a press name that is not your name, you will need to start a business. Laws around taxes and registration may vary depending on where you are, but in general, you will want to register your name with your state or county registrar (for me, this cost $30 and I had to get a piece of paper notarized). Then you can get a business checking account (for me this part was free--I went through the bank I already have accounts with). In the US, sole proprietorships like this are taxed as pass-through entities, so you will pay personal income taxes on whatever money you make, but you don't have to pay corporate income taxes. If you are publishing books that could possibly get you sued (e.g., The Big Book of Welding While Juggling or Now You're Cooking with Napalm) you may want to form an LLC. Talk to a lawyer.

Open a KDP account. If you hate the Zon and want to only publish somewhere else (Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, whatever), that's fine--the process is about the same. If you think you previously had a KDP account and then didn't use it, search your emails etc. to try to find out, because if they figure that out, they'll close both accounts and then you won't get paid.

Add your new title to the catalog (you will need to add metadata, like your name, series name if there is one, and a description of the book) and set the prices. Unless your book is super big, you'll probably earn more if you select the 70% option. For some reason, I changed a few of the prices. If you're planning to publish on several platforms, I don't recommend this--just set your price in one place and then let it convert those. Otherwise, you'll have to reinput everything over and over, because it's in the terms of service that you need to price things the same on Kobo as you do on Amazon (and so on).

Set the day of publication and tell people about it. Like your mom. Your weird aunt who's always so supportive. Your friend who has been listening to you bitch about how hard writing is for the past six months.

???

Profit.

Q: Hey, I want my book in several online stores, not just Amazon.

A: You have a few options. Draft2Digital/Smashwords and IngramSpark both distribute digitally to various places so you only have to set things up once. But they take a cut of the profit for this service. You can also set up independent accounts with each store and upload your stuff.

Q: What happens in step 9?

A: You know. Meet other indie writers and try to gain their trust. Read a lot. Work on the sequel. Get some sleep, because deadlines are exhausting, even self-imposed ones. Learn about advertising. That sort of thing.

Next time, I'll do the paper side of things.

[azsazz]

heyyy i had a teeny tiny lil wuestion and im a lil shy to ask it off anon lmaoo

SO

how did you go about making midnight muse a book?

like after you drafted and edited and all that fun stuff, how did you like. start to get it published? AM I MAKING SENSE?

see this is why im on anon

hiiiiiiii. im here to answer ur teeny tiny lil question my sweet anon 💙

hmmm...so after drafting and editing, you have to figure out how you want to published. you can either self-publish (which is what i'm doing) or try and go with a trad publisher.

i'm not sure the entire process of finding a trad publisher besides finding an agent (i think) and querying which is writing to the different agencies and trying to get them to read your book. If you'd like more information on trad publishing i'm def not the right person to ask, so i'd suggest googling it!

as for self-publishing, i'm choosing to go with Amazon KDP (kindle direct publshing). It's a fairly simple process. You create your account and upload your files, set your prices and dates and basically you're done.

I'm also uploading my book on IngramSpark which is the website where most bookstores and libraries order their books from, so this is also an important step. It's essentially the same process as KDP but takes a little longer for them to review your files and info.

When your book is done being edited, you can copyright it which is what I did. It was $45 but i don't believe this step is necessary but could be a good idea.

Then you have to format it. I used Vellum to do mine but if you know how to use InDesign or I believe Scrivener (cheapest option of the 3 and you can actually write your book here and keep all your thoughts organized) can do formatting as well. You can download all of the versions that you need for the interior files of your book (EPUB, paperback print, hardback print, etc). You can also pay someone to format for you.

You also need a book cover. I paid someone to make mine and they made it for all of the different formats i needed it in (like above). i found them by looking at the books with covers i liked on my shelf and seeing who made them because it says who designed the covers on them.

you'll also need ISBN's, but i believe you can get them through KDP or IngramSpark. I bought a bundle of ISBN's from Bowker. You need one ISBN per place you upload your book, so one for paperback print on KDP, one for the ebook on KDP, one for the paperback on Ingramspark, and one for the ebook on ingram, etc. If you want an audiobook, you'll need one for that too. KDP puts a barcode of their own on your book so you don't have to pay for that.

Then you upload all your files, wait for them to process, and then you can order a physical copy of your book!

hmmmm hopefully this helps, but if you have more specific questions or any other ones i'd be happy to explain more! 💙

i also have a post about costs i paid for during this process here if it might help!

[sea-side-scribbles]

Solas wakes up in the strange new world of his own making and it terrifies him. Ridden with guilt, he joins the Inquisition and begins his lonely research in order to correct his mistake.

He doesn’t expect to find consolation in the presence of a human who wields ancient elven magic without knowing it. Who is way too gentle for an elgar’thanelan, but doesn’t know that either.

Solas, for his part, doesn’t know how to stay away.

Dorian wonders if the mysterious elf just enjoys playing with a Tevinter. He wouldn’t expect anything else.

_____________________

Chapter 1- 13 | Right after uthenera, Solas is found by a Dalish clan. This goes well until it doesn’t. (Basically my excuse for world building and hilarious misunderstandings.)

Chapter 14 | Solas joins the Inquisition.

Chapter 20 | Dorian appears in Haven.

Later that day, Solas met the Herald again in her tent. She looked worried, leaning heavily over a pile of scrolls. “Have you seen Dorian?”, she asked when she noticed him. “He didn't come back from his last task and nobody in camp seems to know where he is.” Solas wasn't surprised. This man didn't care about helping others at all. “I assume the kind of work we do here is not of his liking”, he answered dryly. Her expression became stern. “Solas, what happened while you've been together?” He put up his most innocent face. “Nothing, Herald, everything went as planned. We found the crates and delivered them where we were supposed to.” “But he came back without you.” “Yes. I met Fiona and we spoke. I assume he did not want to wait for us to finish the conversation. I did not notice him leave.” Ellana shook her head.

“It was impolite of him to leave the camp without a word to you.” Solas attempted sympathy. “He wouldn't.” She straightened herself and looked him in the eyes. Solas held her gaze. “Please, find out where he is.” Solas struggled to keep a neutral face. “He is probably back in his cabin”, he tried to appease her. “Then look for him there and find out if he's alright. We can't shrug this off. This land is dangerous.” “I don't believe the red lions would eat him. They should have a better taste.” “Solas!” Her voice echoed through the tent, causing heads to turn into their direction. “I am sorry”, he answered without a flicker in his voice. “I am sure I will be back soon with good news.”

On the way through Haven, his irritation broke through. Would this man ever stop wasting his time? Why couldn't he at least be reasonable? If he planned to stay on good terms with the Herald, he should have the decency to not vanish out of sight without a word. Solas hoped she'd see through him when it turned out he simply had no manners.

At the cabin, he knocked impatiently and then waited, crossing his arms. Time passed, but nobody answered. Was he asleep? Solas knocked again, louder. Of course, Dorian would make this complicated! After waiting for another while, he tried the door. It was locked. “Dorian!”, he shouted, but the house remained quiet. Now Solas considered to break in, but how would that look? The Tevinter wasn't deaf. Just most likely somewhere else.

With a higher pulse than before, Solas looked around, thinking. Another likely target would be the tavern, but usually not this early in the afternoon. However, it wouldn't hurt to look.

As expected, the tavern was almost empty. Varric sat alone at a table, an unfamiliar sight. He was occupied by a stack of vellum that quickly filled with his writing, so he probably wanted it this way. But when Solas approached him, he looked up from his work, immediately attentive. “Is there a problem, Chuckles?” He must've read Solas' expression, even though he hadn't meant to show it. Solas was once again surprised how these new people could read emotions out of – basically nothing. Facial expressions, body language. Signs that were only visible with the eyes. Solas walked to his table and asked quietly: “Have you seen Dorian lately?” “Sparkler?” Varric always used his nicknames as if they were self-explanatory. “Yeah, he went into the Chantry last time I saw him.” Solas almost exhaled loudly when he felt the tension leave his muscles. Finally, an answer.

“The Chantry”, he mused, shortly nurturing the impression of Dorian kneeling before Andraste's idol and praying for forgiveness. “Is he...Andrastian?” Varric shrugged. “Who isn't? But I never heard him sing, if you mean that. Something the matter?” “Nothing important.” Solas waved him off. “I do not mean to bother you.” “But 'bothers' are usually the stuff for good stories...” Varric lifted his quill. “Not this one, for sure.”

Solas left him to his manuscript and made his way to the Chantry. Usually, he only sought it out to borrow books from its library. At this time of the day, the great hall was crowded with clerics and praying villagers. Vivienne stood in her preferred alcove, conversing with her noble guests. Solas glanced over them as he slowly crossed the room, hidden in plain sight. Nobody gave the elf in rags much attention. The closer he got to the war table, the smaller the groups became, keeping a respectful distance to the Inquisition's leaders. He turned left to enter the library. When he stood under the archway, he spotted a white robe.

There he was, enjoying his leisure time.

Solas stared at him, feeling vindicated. This whole search had been a waste of time, as he had known all along. At least the Herald would stop needlessy worrying now. Dorian, who suddenly felt watched, turned around and found Solas standing at the entrance and – watching him? A second later, the elf turned to leave. In the heat of the moment, Dorian called out for him. He just couldn't stop his stubborn mouth.

Solas froze when he heard his name, pressing his eyes shut. Of course, Dorian wouldn't let this opportunity go. Well, so far, he hadn't been much of a challenge. Solas took a deep breath and went back into the library.

“May I help you with something?”, he asked as impassively as possible. Dorian already doubted his eyes. Most likely, Solas had only inspected the bookshelves. But why did he flee afterwards? “I was thinking that you liked to tell me something”, he replied and held the elf's gaze. “What would that be?” “I don't know, but if you're staring daggers into my back, it makes me question.” “I am sorry if I appeared staring. I did not intent to.” Dorian wondered if this was another misunderstanding that would turn into an awkward situation. Still, he wasn't willing to give up so quickly.

“Then you're looking for a book? Perhaps I can help you?”, he played along. “I am familiar with the books in this library. I have been here often myself.” “Then you had no reason to come here other than to...relish the sight?” He posed, hands against his hips, one leg forward, upper body turned slightly to emphasize his exposed arm. Solas suddenly felt very warm inside. “I do understand you”, Dorian downright purred. “I could stare at myself all day, you know? If only the mirror wouldn't get in the way of occasional combats. But I suppose you staring at me is an acceptable replacement.” Solas couldn't turn his gaze away. The noise of claws scratching a wall came to his mind.

Dorian endured the awkward silence. This was safe territory, just a game. And Solas had brought it upon himself. No need to spare him. “Now, don't be shy. There's no shame in admitting it.” Eventually, Solas fought off the heat inside him. He wouldn't be such an easy prey. “The Herald wondered where you went”, he destroyed Dorian's ridiculous hopes. “I will ease her worries now.” After that, he quickly left the Chantry, eager to get out. Dorian didn't call for him this time. He pinched the bridge of his nose so hard that it hurt.

Back in the tent, the Herald awaited the message with wide eyes. “I found him in the library”, Solas told her. “As I expected, he took some time off.” Ellana visibly deflated. “Mythal enaste”, she sighed, running a hand through her hair. To Solas' displeasure, she looked more relieved than upset.

“Cullen was here in the meantime”, she suddenly changed the topic “He had a report for me I can't ignore.” “Is it about the templars?” Solas tensed a little. Would the Commander finally succeed to hold up their mission? But Ellana shook her head. “It's about our soldiers. A troop is held hostage in the Fallow Mire by a…human tribe called the Avvar.” She bit her tongue at shemlen. “They demand to meet me in person, otherwise we won't see these soldiers again.” “Can you afford the time to travel there?” “It's only a one day's ride. If we leave in the morning, we can set up camp there in the evening.” “We?” She gave him a crooked smile. “I won't go there alone. I'm thinking of a party including Varric, Blackwall, Dorian and you.” She tilted her head, watching his response. “If you can afford leaving the mages.”

Solas was so glad she considered to take him along again, he was sure he'd even endure the presence of the Tevinter. He dearly missed the travels. “I would gladly fight alongside you, Herald.” She lit up.”Please, just call me Ellana.” Solas noticed that the distance he kept to the Dalish woman crumbled. “As you wish, Ellana. Is there anything else you need taken care of in the camp now?” “No, I think they'll do fine without us from now on. Cullen agreed to the latest plans. You're free to prepare for the journey, if you like.” “First, I will inform the Enchanters of my absence. They will know what to do as well.” “Good news!”, she sighed. “I can't get enough of it!” They said goodbye a lot cheerier this time.

In the evening, Solas met Blackwall on his way back into the village and used the opportunity to chat about their upcoming mission. “Where's the honour in that?”, the Warden flared up. “Taking those soldiers hostage, just to play a game with us? It's the right thing to teach them a lesson!” “I agree. The Avvar do not seem to aim at a peaceful meeting.” “Clear as day they don't. We better stay prepared for an ambush.” “It will be another one of those days, I am afraid.” Blackwall pressed out a laugh. “Yeah, we attract problems where we stand, don't we? But, like that, we're always there when a problem needs solving.” “That is true. If the Avvar wish to meet the Herald of Andraste, they shall do so. I am willing to bet against Varric that they will regret their wish soon.” “Huh. I guess Varric would be with you on this one. He's more into the crazy bets, the kind that's impossible to win. Like, saying the Avvar will ride on three-headed dragons with butterfly wings that spit Fereldan whiskey. Such bets.” Solas chuckled. “I do not believe the Avvar have dragons as pets.” “Then there's no bet.” They both chuckled quietly.

“Speaking of games. Fancy a round of Diamondback?” “You dare to challenge me again?”, Solas teased him. “The last games were only warm-ups. I figured out your tactics now. This time, I'll destroy you.” “Now, here's a bet for Varric.” “Oh, shush. You'll see.” Chatting along, they went to the stables.

When Dorian saw Ellana in the great hall, he approached her. To his surprise, she spoke first, eyes full of sorrow. “Dorian, I'm so sorry for what happened in the camp.” “You are sorry? My dear, you are a treasure. There's nothing you need to apologize for. It's me who disappeared.” She came closer, so she could whisper to him: “I know why you left. Enchanter Daegal told me what he did. You can be sure I gave him a mouthful.” “Oh...” Dorian blinked, confused by her support. “I...I don't know what to say. Thank you. I'll bestir myself to be in a better mood next time.” Her worried eyes were still on him. “But is it the Breach? Did you talk to Solas?” “Trust me, the Breach doesn't influence me this badly. I sense it, just like you certainly do and every other mage, but I made my peace with it.” “You know, nobody would judge you if you asked for help. You wouldn't be the only one. There's so much fear and despair in this place. And death. I don't think I would stay here if I wasn't the only one who can seal the Breach.” “Ah, yes. Terror, despair, rage...” Dorian threw his arms up. “– a sense of betrayal, no? Feels just like home.” Ellana smiled weakly. Dorian knew she didn't have to.

“So, if you feel better now, I wonder if you'd mind going on a rescue mission with me.” “A rescue mission?” Dorian appreciated the change of topic. “Sounds just like the kind of heroic act people would expect from me.” “Cullen got the message from one of his scouts today. A troop has gone missing in the Fallow Mire. They've been kidnapped by a tribe of Avvar and they demand to meet me in person or they won't release them. It's odd, I know.” “It's obviously a trap.” “I also doubt they just want to talk. So, you're coming?” “To a 'Fallow Mire'?” He tapped his chin. “How to dress for that occasion?” “Probably not in your finest attire...Oh, I see. I'm sure Blackwall can borrow you something if you ask nicely.” “Then again, I rather look pretty when I die. I'm good, thanks.” She chuckled. “If you change your mind, just tell him. He'll be with us.” Her expression stiffened. “Him and Varric and Solas.” He knew she watched his reaction. “Ah, three mages then? Unguarded? Are Fereldans ready for that sight?” It seemed to be the answer she had hoped for. Beaming, she said: “A Tevinter and two apostate elves? I don't think they ever will.”

They laughed and Dorian was glad he kept his thoughts to himself. He knew he'd have to travel with Solas one day or another and complaining wouldn't help. Of course, he'd feel a lot better if the elf wouldn't come along. But there was that tiny bit of hope that he'd come around. For the mission.

“We'll depart tomorrow morning”, she interrupted his thoughts. “Morning? A terrible word.” “We'll arrive in the evening when all goes well. There's a safe route the soldiers already cleared off bandits and wolves.” “Excellent! We just breeze in and save the day. It's always a pleasure travelling with you, Herald of Andraste.” While she laughed, he had another thought. “By the way, have you seen the tavern from inside yet? I can't remember I ever saw you there.” She tensed.“Ah...actually...no, I haven't. I'm always busy and the sisters bring me food to my house, so...” “Then let me invite you for a drink, as a compensation. You deserve to take an evening off after all the work you've done.” “Well, I...” Dorian tilted his head. She deflated. “Alright. Just let me talk to Threnn first and I'll be right back.” “Don't let me wait too long”, he curred. “You? I could never.”

She held her promise and followed him nervously into the Tavern, where they met Varric, Sera and Bull. While they played games and drank this awful Feraldan mead, Ellana loosened up more and more. Later, Bull began to sing along with the minstrel Maryden, who took pleasure in the spontaneous duet and made them took turns in singing the stanzas. Eventually, more voices joined and created an almost in synch tavern choir, even if somewhat atonal. Surrounded by the ruckus, with Sera dancing on the table, spilling mead and Varric counting his winnings, Dorian and Ellana raised one last glass to each other.

The next day, they all gathered at the gates, where their horses and entourage were ready. Well, not all of them. The Tevinter was still missing. “Where's our princess?”, Blackwall roared. “Should I go and kiss him awake?” “Careful Hero, you only scare him unconscious”, Varric quipped. “He shouldn't be so picky, he already fought demons.” “But he didn't kiss any of them.” “Hey, there's no need for that. I'm sure he'll show up soon”, Ellana interrupted them. Solas noticed that her sympathy for him hadn't changed.

Indeed, Dorian appeared at the gates a few minutes later. “There he is!”, Varric noticed him first. “And not a second too late. People already started to queue up for kissing you.” Dorian got the hint. “Warden Blackwall, I had no idea. I hope you brushed your teeth for this?” Dorian stopped by the Warden's horse, looking up to the man. “Because you think a barbarian like me wouldn't do that anyway?” “My, my influence is showing. What will come next, you brush your hair too?” “Guys, how about you spare your fighting energy for the Avvar?,” Ellana reminded them.

Their bickering made her nervous. Her clan mates could be mean too, but she knew when they were joking. And most real disputes would be solved collectively by the clan. Her clan members knew each other, they families had known each other for generations, they could tell each other's history and were bound not only by blood, but also by fate. Even the other clans at the Arlathvhen were well-known families. Their history was part of every clan's memories and their mutual fate brought them closer. There was always a sense of respect between Dalish elves, whether they spoke to an adult or a child. They honoured each other's families and clan mates.

She wasn't used to be with people she simply didn't know. Who have never been part of her childhood. Who didn't play hide and seek with her in the woods, or shot arrows with her at self-made targets, never bathed with her in a river, testing who could hold their breath the longest. Who's father she never met and who's mother's songs she never heard. Who she never came of age with and shared the responsibilities that came with it. Even after all this time, her knowledge about her companions was vague at best. Varric, Blackwall and Solas especially didn't even seem to have a past, or families they found important to talk about. So she had avoided the topic after a few attempts. Of course she respected them. But did they respect each other? She couldn't tell.

She wondered why Dorian would be bothered by a Grey Warden so much. The only shemlen even Dalish elves honoured. Was it really about hygiene? She considered to ask him when he would be covered in mud from the Fallow Mire. Gladly, her reputation as “Herald of Andraste” gave her words more weight. She could almost feel like a Keeper's First again. Then her heart sunk at the thought. She missed her Keeper.

Blackwall apologized to her, then the party began to move in a somewhat awkward pause. “Strange. Nobody came to say goodbye”, Dorian realized, looking behind his shoulder. Ellana answered with a trace of guilt: “I asked Cassandra to keep our departure private this time. I...I just don't need that stampede every time I go somewhere.” “Ah, but the fanfares, the singing maidens, the flowers and flowery words? I was looking forward to them.” “The flowers would be frozen now anyway and it would hurt to get them thrown at us”, she deadpanned. “Nothing we need to witness.” “The joys of the Frostback Mountains, I assume.” “By the way...I'm sorry I ask this now, but...what are Avvar exactly?” Ellana threw into the group. Dorian began to entertain her with the works of Genitivi he read, being the most educated about this matter. Varric stayed with them, probably to hear who their enemies were. Solas rode alongside Blackwall and they whispered words only they could hear. Like that, Haven soon vanished behind the horizon.

[zooophagous]

The Van Helsing Institute had stood for over a hundred years. Parts of it had been changed, added, rearranged, even demolished- but while the shifting sands of time had combined different design philosophies on the site, Some original bits were still visibile, if you squint. The library was among the older parts of the building; and unlike the other sections of the grounds, had not been covered over with linoleom and white paint and heavy duty low pile office carpet in an effort to become more clean and utilitarian.

At least, it had not been covered over completely. The doors were large, heavy double doors, in solid wood, with deep ornamental panels. They lacked electronic locks. Instead, a heavy push-bar had replaced the once ornate brass fixtures (which yet remained, though without latches) and locked in place with the use of a hex-key. The ungraceful blend of a decorated, beautiful history and the necessary functions of a grinding modern beaurocracy had left the building looking the part of Frankenstein's monster. In that, though it was meant to be beautiful, certain concessions had to be made to make sure it was even alive.

Strauss stood behind Ursula while she fumbled with a ring of keys so immense they could have constituted a weapon, in a pinch. She flicked through them rapidly, growing frustrated, while he hung back awkwardly waiting for the library doors to open.

"I appreciate your time, Frau Harker."

"You had better. You don't get enough reading from your college courses already?"

"Introduction to biology 102 does not cover vampires, I am afraid."

Ursula rolled her eyes. "Ah, here's the damn thing." She huffed as finally, the correct key was produced. "Now. Before we go in, I will brief you on the ground rules. Anything in a case requires gloves to handle and may only be read on the table in the sealed room. Many of these books are one of a kind items, so please do utilize a digitized copy if one exists, to avoid damage to the materials. It goes without saying there is to be no food or drink, no animals and no smoking in the library."

"I detest smoking, Frau Harker. It is a vile habit and the smell lingers."

"Good. I don't need to worry about that much from you, then. Follow me and do try not to touch anything."

Strauss stood on the balls of his feet and eagerly peered in over Ursula's head to catch a glimpse at the coveted trove that now opened like the tomb of Tutankhamun before him. He felt a rush of stale air that carried with it the smell of old books- glue and paper and hide and vellum and ink and... mothballs? No doubt some of the organic items in here were subject to decay.

The inside of the library was more beautiful than the rest of the hall. Places of knowledge and culture often had the privilege of being allowed to be pretty- though often merely because such places rarely had the budget to update with the times even if they wished it. There were tall shelves, stacked with books and encyclopedias and compendiums. There were cases of glass, some on tables and some along the wall, containing a few of the more visually impressive specimens in the Van Helsing collection. The main floor of the library however was not exempt from the scourge of ugly utilitarianism, and most of the material was stored and catalogued in large grey-green metal filing cabinets that filled the space in rows, as well as a small bay of painfully out of date (which even Strauss recognized) computers. The ornate stamped ceiling of the space was marred with criss-cross pipes of a fire suppression system.

"This is the research library. Most of our students get access to this space when they become level 3. This is where you will find any and all reading material and records. The back room that way is the medical library, which contains physical specimens such as skeletal remains, finger print records and x-rays. I will ask you not to go back there until after you have passed your lab classes, Mr. Strauss."

Strauss shuddered. "That is fine. I am not interested in looking at my dead kin this evening anyways." He wrapped his arms protectively around his midsection, looking nervous. "I am curious if you can help me find a specific item- a natural history volume by an author called the Hierophant."

"Oh? What do you know of the Hierophant?"

He froze. He wasn't expecting to be questioned, and he was not a practiced liar. An answer came so naturally he wondered how he did it. "I was once a very studious explorer of the occult, Frau Harker. The name came up once or twice. If any library has it, this must be it."

She shrugged and accepted his answer. "Yes, as a matter of fact, we do. The Hierophant's Natural History is actually required reading for our first year students. Do you want the translated textbook version, or the original Latin?"

"Both. I will cross check as I see fit."

"Alright. Please take a seat and I will bring it to you. I would rather not have you rifling around for things in my library if it's all the same to you."

He nervously found himself to one of the long tables.  He looked around the room and soaked in what he could- trying to find where the records might be stored. With Ursula there it would be harder to just take what he wanted for reading, and he felt she would be resistant to just handing records over. It would be especially suspicious to simply name drop 'Sylvain Pietra' casually. No. He would have to find a way in later, a way to find that on his own. The sheer volume of things to see in the library was distracting. His gaze stopped and lingered on a very old silk cape hanging in a protective glass case on the wall. It had an ornate bat motif embroidered into it that must have been very colorful at one time. The edges of the fabric were disturbingly slightly burned. He turned away from it and looked pointedly at the floor instead.

He was snapped out of his distracted state by the heavy 'thunk!' of a pair of large textbooks dropped onto the table.

"If you are unfamiliar with the Hierophant, I recommend the textbook first before diving in to the original. It provides some history on the author that the main text doesn't have. I trust you don't need help reading it."

"No, danke. I can make do with these fine."

"Good, because I can't read Latin and I'm not going to learn for you. This area is kept under video surveillance, so don't go screwing with things as soon as my back is turned. When you're finished, come find me in my office and I'll lock up. I'll be watching you Strauss."

He felt himself relax as she made her way out. Cameras eh? Hmm. That would make going through the records harder than he thought, even with her gone. No matter. That odd woman who'd stolen a horse right out from under him had instructed him to start with the Hierophant, and that much he could do.

The textbook seemed to have been written for stupid people. Given that it was for American college students, perhaps that was to be expected. It was at least easy to parse. Seldom did he find the answers he wanted simply written down somewhere in plain English.

"The Hierophant was among the first ever recorded vampire scientists, and remains among the most influential. Their true name, background, and indeed much about them at all has been lost to time. Their work remains all the evidence they ever existed, and it was all signed under the pen name of 'The Hierophant.' Whether this is a title of importance or a name chosen by the author is unknown.

The works of the Hierophant date back to as early as 204 A.D. and the record ends at 523 A.D. at which point it is believed the author was slain. Their true fate remains unknown. It is important to note that the Hierophant refers to vampires as a whole, and themselves, as being without gender, and as such it is improper to assume the author was male. However many older volumes refer to the author as a man. These instances may still be found throughout older pieces of translations, but should not be taken at face value as a correct statement about the author. The remains of the Hierophant, or even a physical description of the author, have never been discovered at the point of printing."

Strauss quirked an eyebrow. A vampire scientist was something he could relate to- as was the notion that gender was useless to a vampire. He had very little attachment to the notion of being a 'man' either. Perhaps Frau Pietra was making a very informed decision to recommend him this book.

"What is known about the Hierophant is that they were a scientist of means. Which is to say, the results of their experiments describe processes and subjects that would have only been possible with some degree of funding and support. It is unknown who financed the endeavors, but it is likely that a head of state saw fit to understand vampires and vampirism for reasons of security or extermination, and as such the works of the Hierophant were likely done on commission for military purposes."

Strauss licked his fingertip and flipped to the glossary. Frau Pietra had said there was something in here about how horses were similar to vampires. He was curious to see just what she meant. The glossary contained a list of various animals in alphabetical order. Cats, dogs, various exotics, finally he came to 'Horse (See Diomedan, page 346-370,532)' and paused. He flipped back and forth till he reached the page specified.

"The Diomedan horses were among the earliest experiments of the Hierophant. While the effects of vampirism in nonhuman subjects was eventually tested with varying degrees of success on a multitude of exotic animals, the process of elimination started with domestic animals that were easily obtained. While frustrated with failures on dogs and pigs, the horse was the second animal (after the rabbit) to successfully complete a vampiric metamorphosis."

Strauss rested his hand over his face. The notion of vampirism in animals hadn't occurred to him. It seemed cruel and unusual and without much of a point. "While several species showed a physiological response to the vampire pathogen, few of them met the criterion for success, which is

A. Reanimation from a state of natural death.

B. Bodily control and vigor post reanimation and

C. Survival instincts present.

Seven horses were infected and slain, and buried under straw for three days and three nights. The text indicates that four of the seven tested horses failed to rise, while the three successful subjects were able to disinterr themselves, and immediately displayed both strength and hunting instinct. They were found in the stable, having broken in and killed the uninfected horses, and were discovered in the act of eating them."

"While the Diomedan horses were an example of successful vampirism in an animal, the victory for the Hierophant was short lived. The Diomedans were said to be so vicious and intractable that they accepted no rider, not even a vampire rider, and they were swiftly relegated to small pens until such time as two of the three were deliberately culled by archers. The fate of the third Diomedan is an interesting one. Human-host vampires display abilities of physical shape shifting transformation, something the Diomedans also proved to be capable of. It is unclear how the shape-shifting was induced in the animal, only that it ultimately proved fatal. The final Diomedan was discovered in a state of living decomposition, with limbs bent and stretched into unusable ways. It is assumed the animal began a transformation, panicked, was unable to revert and became too exhausted to keep trying. The final Diomedan was destroyed by its creator. Subsequent efforts at replicating the Diomedan experiment have resulted in incredibly dangerous subject behavior and may not be safely repeated. The Vatican has at time of writing banned further usage in equine species such as horses, donkeys, zebras or onagers in vampiric pathogen trials."

Strauss shook his head slowly. So, there was something he had in common with horses after all. The ability to die and come back ruined. Not a happy thing to share, especially not to inflict on a good animal like a horse.

"All well and good, Frau Pietra." He muttered to himself while he read. "But surely you didn't risk discovery and recommend me a book just to make me feel bad for the horses." He flipped back to the front of the book to the table of contents and began to scan the page quickly. 'Common Ailments' was one of the earlier entries. He flicked to it quickly to find a page full of diagrams. Most of them woodcuts, the type that could Durer proud. He may have even been the artist. These were a much later creation than the text, certainly.

Grotesque imagery of horrible sunburns full of blisters, diagrams of chipped or rotten fangs, patterns of unusual hair growth such as in the palms of the hands all paraded past on the yellowed pages. Soon he stopped. He was in this book.

Not him, specifically, but the guant spectre of the long dead fool in the woodcut could have passed for a portrait. The subject was depicted bound, and strung up by his neck- no doubt a drawing done from live reference. Strauss shuddered. The subject was near-nude, multiple small arrows pointed to pieces of anatomy such as the protruding ribs and collarbone, the sunken eyes and the thin lips with protruding teeth. "Psychosomatic Emaciation. In which the vampiric subject has the physical capability to feed but lacks the instinct or drive. In many cases this is common in those with heavy religious dietary restrictions in former life. The P.E. Patient may eat very little, or nothing at all, and may succumb to second death via dehydration. Other patients will eat but find themselves greatly inhibited or reduced by their permanent state of exhaustion."

He shut the book with a rude 'clap' and crossed his arms. So that was it, then. She must have known he would read the entire thing, and she had pointed this out to mock him. Or maybe, sickeningly enough, to encourage him to feed more. Either option only deepened the mean scowl that began to grow on his face. He stood up and made for the door. No doubt Ursula was bored to tears spying on him anyway.

He would have to find a way out soon, some excuse to confront his tormentor or at least warn her to back off. Some way outside. It might be even easier to do that than to find the records he'd been told about in the labyrinth of the old library. According to this old, out of date, non peer reviewed excuse for a scientific text, he was sick. He wasn't much interested in remedying it. Perhaps if he could find the records, he would read those too, but now he was simply tempted to 'tell on her.' It would be easy to casually mention to Ursula. No doubt Frau Pietra had to have been nearby, to know what she did. She may even be physically near the grounds now. If he sounded the alarm she may be caught in an instant.

But what would Ursula do to her? The eternal question. How far did Frau Harker's own bloodlust go? Would he risk the safety of a relative stranger because he felt insulted?

No. Not right now anyway. It could be brought up later, but once the secret were out, there would be no putting it back. He came to Ursula's office at last. "Frau Harker. Thank you. You may close the library."

"So soon? Got your fill quickly, did you?"

"For now, Frau Harker." He sighed. "I have seen enough."

[andromedaexists]

WUPDATE: CALL ME ICARUS

𝚆𝚎𝚍𝚗𝚎𝚜𝚍𝚊𝚢, 𝙹𝚞𝚕𝚢 𝟷𝟿𝚝𝚑 || 𝙲𝚊𝚖𝚙 𝙽𝚊𝙽𝚘

y'all i am so busy rn that i forgot to keep yous updated on my progress. moving forward i am going to try and be more present here, i am going to work my way through my backlog of tag games this weekend and queue up all the writing yous tagged me in.

this month is camp nano and it has kept my mighty busy. here is a list of things that has happened this month:

finished the prologue and chapters 1-10. i got them up for betas to read (if you'd like to beta for CMI, the form is still open to apply here)

got in contact with an artist and started the process of commissioning them for a cover (they just sent me the concept sketch and im!!!!!)

set an official publication date (announcement coming soon 👀👀👀)

submitted a query! (and realized that i don't want to trad pub so i'm self pubbing instead!)

started talking to formatting editors. i'm not sure if i'll be able to afford a good formatting review before publication, but i am in talks with someone who will let me use their Vellum!

started research on how to self pub/what company i want to go through (and actually set up a channel where i can dump my research once i compile it!)

cried a lot over this whole process. a lot.

so yeah! a lot has happened! a lot of good stuff, but a lot of stressful stuff as well! that's okay though, i'm just over the moon that i have an official pub date 🥰

i'm going to push through to the end of camp nano, but i am going to try and get back into weekly wupdates and just talking about writing a lot more. i was a little hesitant about joining camp nano given how bad regular nano went for me last year, but a new server i joined has really helped me find my love of writing again (thank you doom and clanky and so many others that i met through the bird app, i love you all)

anyways, enough rambling. let's get to what you guys are really here for: snippets! i am going to add a couple here (read, a snippet for each chapter i've missed updating here) to make up for my relative silence as of late:

Chapter 5:

There are two more encounters listed below it, but before Icarus can read them over he is distracted by a flash of gold entering the shop. His eyes shoot up, latching to the new patron standing in line with their back to him. It’s normal for bright colors and movement to grab his attention, but this time something feels different. He can’t put his thumb on it, but his brain is telling him that he should recognize them. It’s screaming that he should know who they are. But for the life of him, he cannot make out who it is. Whomst? The fuck? From this distance, he can’t see anything that might tell him who they are. Their plain black clothes could be the tell of an Elysian, but that isn’t a guarantee. The only truly identifiable trait is the halo of blond curls cascading over their shoulders. Why do I feel like I know them?

Chapter 6:

Ariadne whistles, a long and appreciative sound as she sees her husband’s work. The tattoo had been a beast to heal, but the hours of torturous pain and restless nights of endless itching had been well worth it. He spent days ogling the tattoo after it had first healed, the feathers look so real that you can almost feel them when running your hands over the inked skin. It is everything he wanted and then some. A feather-light touch runs down the etched skin. There is only one person who had ever touched him with that kind of reverence, his artist must have gotten up to inspect the tattoo. He is admiring his art—as he should—when he says, “Looks like you should have used more lotion.” He lets go of one edge of the hoodie to flip him the bird. It’s impossible to hide anything from his artist, of course, and he knew that his lackluster care would be noted. There are likely small splotches where the ink had fallen out due to his poor moisturizing regiment, but it’s not like he has much of a choice in that. Icarus drops the back of his hoodie with a sigh as he turns to face the artist again. YOU KNOW? HARD REACH AREA ALONE. His eyebrows raise as he speaks, his signs becoming large and boisterous. He then mimes trying to reach the middle of his back. That gets a chortle out of his artist and Ariadne. He hadn’t thought to consider how he would need to reach every part of his back before getting the tattoo, and the fact that he doesn’t have anyone in his life to help him makes it that much worse.

Chapter 7:

“Look,” Andromeda levels at him, voice growing in intensity as they say, “I understand that you don’t quite trust me yet. I mean, we just met yesterday. Hell, I don’t even know your name yet! But-” “Icarus.” He grabs the hoodie on the left and pulls it over his head. He takes a moment to pull his hair up and fasten it in a ponytail before turning and leaning back against the closet door. “My name is Icarus.” “Okay. Icarus. Y’know, that fits.” Their voice is calmer, quieter, as if that piece of information is enough to placate them. Icarus huffs. The name really does fit him, doesn’t it? Always jumping into things without thinking of the consequences, taking risks, and keeping shit close to his chest until he gets a bit too close to hubris and starts to fall apart. Falling in love with the sun personified. Burning, falling, crashing, drowning. Yeah, the name fits him. The only difference between him and the Icarus of myth is that he died at the end of his story. Icarus has no plans of dying. No, he plans of making it out the other end of his story and living to tell the tale.

Chapter 8:

“I thought the whole ‘Oh, Hestia has a pizza shop?’ ordeal would tell you that I have no idea where to go.” Huh, yeah, that should have clicked with him. It’s not like they could search up directions, they likely don’t have a phone just the same as him. Can’t risk having a way for someone to use GPS to locate him. It’s not like he has anyone to keep in contact with, anyways. “It’s just down the street. Go out the front of the building and head down West Saint Clair, it’s just past fourth street. I’d say can’t miss it but you very much could, there’s no sign out front. It’s the only building that looks like there’s someone living in it on that block, though.” “Got it. West Saint Clair, Fourth Street, not-abandoned building.” Andromeda repeats the directions to themself as they head towards the front door. “Anything else while I’m out?”

Chapter 9:

How could he forget? “Καιρὸς δε, Thanatos,” he mumbles as he stretches his arms out in front of him and rests his forehead on the blissfully cool counter. “And here I was thinking you weren’t gonna remember me.” Long gone is the shrill and timid voice of a sickly kid, replaced by one of the most soothing and deep tones Icarus had ever heard. “…Fair ‘nuff.” The vibrations of a glass hitting the counter top make Icarus look up. A glass of water, just water. He groans, that is not what he wants right now. He’s craving the sweet buzz of an energy drink, but that will require him to get up and walk around the island to grab one. Andromeda chuckles, not moving an inch as they watch Icarus suffer over the glass. “Quit pouting and drink.” He drops his head, turning his face away from the glass. “Oh come on, you big baby. Deja de hacer un berrinche y bebe.” They poke his cheek as he pouts. “Mira, food’s ready. Sit up and eat.”

Chapter 10:

“Why are we running?” they ask, gasping for air after the impromptu sprint. Icarus points to the bird as it hops along the ridge of the tent. He turns to watch their reaction, this is a big deal. Their eyes widen and their jaw drops open, they are just as shocked as he is. His smile has not left, though it dulls as their face drops to sadness and grim acceptance. What? “A crow.” Before he can say anything the look is gone. They beam a bright smile at him. “I can’t believe you found a bird! That’s definitely good luck for us.” But it’s not, their reaction sits wrong with him. He squints his eyes, watches them to see if that glimpse of despair will surface again. When it doesn’t, Icarus forces a smile on his face. If they don’t want to talk about it then he isn’t going to talk about it.

Okay, i think that's enough of a writing dump for now. here's the CMI Taglist:

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