#FOR PHOBOS ESPECIALLY

[voltrixz]

If I had a nickel for every male character I initially saw as a cis bi or gay guy and over time those lines blurred and I thought hm these characters are kind of gnc with it and frankly I don't know what's going on with their gender anymore, I would have 2 nickels. Which isn't much but it's weird that it happened twice

[thunder-shadow]

my view of the relationship between the giants and their moons is that its different for all of them but none of them are really parental to me 😭 i think i've said that before but im literally allergic to that depiction

especially the ice giants

honestly i don't think there's a human concept for what it would be but i just view it as something that each planet cultivates on their own and based on closeness i would literally rate it,,,,

maybe neptune-jupiter-saturn-uranus???

but that's my view and everyone is free to have their own 🙏🏻 just don't ever expect me to read anything that depicts their relationship as parental or depict it that way myself lmao

[radioactivepeasant]

Snippets Thursday: Meddling Mar (part 1 of 2)

A two-part piece to avoid a super long post, jumping ahead to how Damas and Phobos got their suspicions about the boys confirmed (part two is Damas confronting Jak over it)

The net thumped against the supports of the dock as Phobos hauled it upward. The catch was small for the evening; normally she wouldn't have even considered bringing it in so early. But the scanners had picked up a storm blowing in, and the last thing she wanted was for her net to get dragged out over the reef -- or for the Scylla to get any ideas about free snacks if she decided to shelter in the lagoon. Small though the catch may have been, it would just have to suffice until the weather was more favorable. Phobos supposed she could always take another overnight trip for larger fish later in the week. Maybe Jak would agree to let Mar tag along.

Phobos's hands stilled over the net of wriggling greenbellies. She stared out at the water without really seeing it as her thoughts drifted to the two boys who had drifted into their lives. Or, drifted back into their lives.

She knew her son when she saw him. He could have been five or eight or twenty-five and she would have known him. Denial at this point was foolish. But what she couldn't understand was Jak.

Phobos knew the child she'd borne. Knew every curl on his head, every dimple and birthmark. But to her knowledge, she'd only given birth once. And Jak...

Jak looked at her with Mar's eyes. He smiled with Mar's left-cheek dimple. And according to Damas, beneath the scarf he never took off, Jak had Mar's portwine stain on the back of his neck.

Phobos didn't need the blood results from the monks to know who Jak was. What she didn't understand was why.

Why had the Precursors given their lost son back, in two different bodies? Why did the older Mar call himself Jak? How had he come to be? And did he even know the impossibility of his own existence?

The wind began to pick up, sending a spray of salt into Phobos's face. She sputtered and spat. Served her right for getting distracted. Grumbling to herself, the angler slung the net over a pole and balanced it across her shoulders. It was getting to be time to take shelter, and her dawdling meant she might not make it to the tower before the sands picked up.

As she trudged through the West Market, shops closed their shutters and people nailed down tarps over stands. The walls and cliffs would protect most of Spargus from the winds, but the West Quarter was open to the sea. Things sometimes got a little dicey on the coast.

"Captain!" Someone called across the street, and Phobos spotted one of the summer semester teachers for the little ones.

"Oye, Captain Phobos!"

"Wind's picking up, Korah," Phobos warned her, "Is everyone home?"

The younger Spargan shook her head with a worried frown. "Not yet! I've got Seek with me -- the new boy? Seek? -- he refuses to go home! Says he needs you."

Phobos dropped the net immediately.

"Clean the net and those are yours," she said hastily to the startled shopkeeper beside her. Then she raced across the street.

Sand was beginning to carry along the wind, stinging her face as she caught up to Korah.

"Where is-" She caught herself quickly before saying Mar. "Where is he?"

The teacher gestured with the stump of her right arm. "I convinced him to wait in the Chime Sisters' place so I could look for you. I'm sorry, Captain. I know you're busy. The little guy's really taken a shine to you, though."

She ducked into a half alley between shops, looking for some relief from the wind.

"Don't know if he's showed you any of his classwork or not, but he picked you for his presentation on important roles in the community."

Despite her worry, a warmth filled Phobos's chest. "I uh. I know," she answered, just a little bashful. "It's taped up in my boat cabin."

So much had changed. Mar didn't suck his thumb anymore. He didn't respond to old nicknames. He didn't snuggle anymore, or want to be carried. He didn't call her Mommy -- that one hurt most -- but something, something was still there. Perhaps it was instinct. Or perhaps she'd rebuilt it with her own two hands by simply being present.

Phobos followed Korah to the two story building that held the Chime sisters' shop and apartment. Just as the teacher had said, Mar sat just inside, huddled next to the door with his knees drawn to his chest. He looked sullen. Like he couldn't decide between anger and sadness. Immediately, Phobos knelt in front of him with a worried frown.

"It's about to storm, minnow," she said, "Why aren't you home? Where's Jak, he usually picks you up by now, doesn't he?"

Apparently this was the wrong thing to say. Mar's brows fell into a fierce scowl.

"Jak left me!" he answered in short, terse signs.

That didn't make any sense. Jak was devoted to his little brother! Phobos glanced at the women sheltering around her and then back at Mar.

"I'll take him up to Damas’s," she said. "We'll get this straightened out after the storm blows over."

Nadia Chime clucked her tongue and nodded. "You get that little sprout out of this weather, cap'n!'

Phobos held her hands out to Mar. "Come on, you. Let's go see Damas, eh? Bet you he kept Jak late for training again."

Mar shook his head angrily. This time, tears beaded up in his eyes. But he reached out and grabbed Phobos's hands anyway, using them as leverage to propel himself into her arms.

Something was very wrong.

"Hey, hey," Phobos murmured, returning the embrace, "It's okay, baby, I've got you."

She shoved down the beginnings of anxiety fluttering in her stomach. The sooner she got to the tower, the sooner she could regroup with Damas.

"We need to move fast if we don't want to get sandburn. Can I carry you, minnow?"

Silently, Mar nodded into her chest. Phobos took a breath, scooped up her little boy, and made a dash for the residential sector.

Something's wrong with Jak. He's hurt, or he's sick, he must be. He wouldn't leave Mar. He wouldn't!

By the time she'd made it to the bridge tunnel that led to the tower door, the storm was beginning to sweep across the eastern part of the city. Wind howled down streets an alleys like a dune-wolf looking for prey, and kangarats scurried for cover while Leapers bedded down and covered their heads with their vestigial wings, as they did in the wild. Phobos hefted Mar higher in her arms and made for the door marked with the great spiral wyrm.

"Almost inside, Mar," she said, trying to comfort him.

Just as he had every time she'd slipped his name into conversation before, the child failed to correct her.

The walls of the tower were thick, almost erasing the wind entirely. Phobos stepped into the elevator and sat down as it rose. She set Mar down on her lap and took advantage of the silence to ask, "What did you mean "Jak left"? Is he on a mission?"

Mar still looked angry, but tears stained his dusty cheeks. "He left!" Stupid Haven's stupid governor whined about all the trouble happening -- but it's only happening because they tried to kill us, so stupid Jak left to keep them away from Spargus because they're all so STUPID!"

Phobos felt a knot forming in her stomach.

"Haven?! Why the- why in the world would Jak listen to them? And why would he try to keep them away from the city by himself?"

And with that, the dam burst. The silent trickles of tears turned into sobs that shook Mar's little body as he signed, "Because of me. I'm a bad brother."

"What?! No, nonono you are not a bad brother!" Phobos wiped tears from round cheeks and rocked her son back and forth. "Why would you think that?!"

"Cause it's my fault he left!" Mar hiccuped, and his signs shook. "The Council guys in Haven are looking for me, cos I go where Jak goes. And he- he- he-"

"He left so the council would look for you somewhere else," Phobos guessed grimly.

A fresh flood of tears soaked the front of her tunic as Mar cried. He clung to her the way he used to as a toddler, wailing into her chest. The elevator locked into place and Damas was already running towards them, having heard the cries, before Phobos even had a chance to stand up.

"Pho! What's wrong? What's happening?"

Phobos's face was pale as she looked up at him.

"Daym," she asked, "When did you last see Jak?"

Damas’s blood ran cold.

Part Two

[grismavessel]

A post to remind y’all that I am very normal about a certain subway boss and a certain oc of mine

Baby Deimos and Phobos everyone!

Gris, back in Alola in Po Town got to help babysit and take care of some of the team skull kiddos and Ingo is very accustomed to baby sneasles and their antics as well as children at Gear Station.

Nothing prepares the two of them for twin gremlins that don’t want to sleep during nap time, stay up at ungodly hours, and eat as quick as they can spit up.

Ingo n Gris are managing the best they can✨💕

[skeletorthegreatest]

Should I find it weird that I like drawing my character crying?

[mask131]

Another reminder that Greek mythology is always somehow symbolic, metaphorical, allegorical, since we are dealing with anthropomorphic personifications and other embodiments of cosmic powers.

For example: Demeter has sex with both Zeus and Poseidon. Something-something about the relationship of the Earth with the Sky and the Sea (or the celestial and chthonian powers). ESPECIALLY since these relationships are said to happen at the beginning of the world, in the primordial times during which the world settled itself for what it is now.

Herakles' wedding with Hebe, the personification of youth, checks in with when he becomes an immortal god (aka, an eternally young entity). What better way to symbolize a hero escaping the clutches of death than by him becoming the husband of the spirit of eternal youth?

Why is Hestia never leaving Olympus? Something-something about her being the literal personification of the hearth, which is at the center of the house/community and does not move.

Why is Ares getting his ass kicked by Athena? Because Athena is civilization, and Ares savagery, and in the Ancient Greek mindset intelligence, wisdom and craft will always be above brutality, bloodlust and random cruelty.

Do I need to spell it out that the myth of Persephone-Hades-Demeter is about the cycle of the seasons, and how the earth renews itself and brings back life after a time of death?

And I wonder why Ares' companions during his mass-slaughters are called Phobos, Deimos and Eris - Fear, Panic and Discord... Why would the goddess that breaks harmony and sows feuds and chaos be depicted as the close sister of the god of the ravages of war and of the brutality of conflicts, what a strange mystery!

And I can go on, and on, and on. Remember, the Greek gods aren't just super-heroes or wizards (that's more in line with more "humanized" mythologies, like the Irish or Nordic ones). They are embodiments of concepts and ideas, personifications of natural forces and cosmic powers, they are living allegories and fleshed metaphors. Zeus wields the lightning because he IS the lightning and thunder. Dionysos is both the bringer of joy and madness because he IS alcohol. Hades is both the name of the god of the dead, and of the realm of the dead. Hestia's name is literaly "hearth" in Greek, Hebe "youth", Nyx "night", Gaia "earth", Eros "desire". You can write "Eris met Helios at Okeanos' palace" or you can write "Strife encountered the Sun at the palace of Ocean" and that is the EXACT SAME THING!

[Mind you to limit the gods to being JUST allegories is also a mistake not to make. Greek deities are much more than just X concept or X idea... But one part of the myths will always be, down the line, some weather metaphor or some natural cycle motif]

[dillweedshole]

I have ONE HUGE fucking complaint about the DOOM fanbase that really PISSES me off.

Doomguy HAS a CHARACTER. He HAS THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS holy SHIT.

He CARES about the story, about the PEOPLE, about EARTH, that's WHY he hates DEMONS!!!! Holy SHIT!!!!

People will see Doomguy throw the monitor in DOOM 2016 and see "Oh, look how BADASS he is, he doesn't care about the STORY" HRHRGHEHGAE FUCK NO HE HATES THE ASSHOLE HIGHER UP HE ALWAYS HATES ASSHOLE MANAGERS!!! THAT'S PROBABLY HIS MOST CONSISTENT TRAIT!!!!!! That's how he got on the Phobos Base in DOOM 1 FROM 1993!!!!!!

One moment from Doom 2016 sticks out to me very well because it's misinterpreted a LOT. In the elevator at the beginning, when Hayden is being a big smelly dipshit, when he says "Our interest in their world was purely for the betterment of Mankind.", Doomguy looks down at a corpse. Funny moment but it can also absolutely be a serious character thing. Right after he hears that and sees the body, Doomguy's PISSED, he cracks his knuckles and punches the screen. Caveman interpretation would be "Oh yeah!! We don't care about the story, this is DOOM!!", but Doomguy just really hates seeing needless slaughter of just random everyday people. I don't really understand why DOOM fans are so allergic to Story, especially in the later games where you can FINALLY SKIP the CUTSCENES (OOOUGH that's a topic for another post)

It upsets me to no end because when DOOM tries to make a big and proper story for itself, everyone is just so fucking confused when The Main Character shows up because they're WRONG about THE MAIN CHARACTER!!! Holy SHIT!!!!!

[puggsnotdrugs99things]

New Episode Rant:

1. I am fully convinced the Sun ships Venus and Mercury at this point

- Okay but shout out to the Sun for calling Mercury out on his hypocrisy. You’re all for the fair treatment of the moons but get offended when you get classified as one

-which I understand where mercury is coming from but you don’t want to be classified as the minority group because…

2. Mercury finally speaking his mind telling Venus his truths, especially glocking him with Theia

- also I am interested in knowing where he got the thought that he is the weakest link

-will this cause Venus to finally reflect on his treatment towards Mercury and divide him even more in finding the rest of the planets or becoming the new Earth

3. How will the Sun, Mercury, and Venus react to some of the moon’s wanting to become planets

- The sun will most likely accept this tbh

4. IO and PHOBOS GET YOUR ASS BACK

5. None of the moons have noticed that Luna is missing as well

6. I never thought that the people who started the moon revolution and became the leaders of the movement became the most reasonable ones in this situation

- the character development of Europa

- Europa going towards Métis first because she was weary of Titania’s motives

7. This also kinda showed which Moons are most loyal to their planets and have somewhat fixed their relationship with their Parent planet

- Dione and Enceladus who had huge issues with Saturn stayed but Iapetus left

- IO who has always shown his love an admiration for Jupiter left. But Ganymede and Europa who had more of a reason to leave and a rocky relationship with Jupiter stayed and seemed the most adamant in waiting and looking for the planets

-Phobos left even tho he has also stated how much he cares for Mars. Which I knew a separation between Phobos and Deimos was coming because lately everytime they were in a scene together Phobos would look so annoyed with Deimos which explained why he blames him for Mars leaving

[gobigadgets]

@ayyy-imma-ninja hi! I’m a huge fan of ur art and especially ur fairy AU they’re all so silly! So I decided to draw ur imp bois Phobos and Deimos! Ur a big inspiration for me and I hope u like this little gift! (Ignore all the erased markings I had a bit of trouble drawing Phobos’ legs😅)

[lizzy019]

𝑀𝑜𝑜𝓃𝓈𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑒? 𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓉'𝓈 𝐿𝒾𝓆𝓊𝑜𝓇.

Darrel Curtis x Fem!Reader [Reader is a bit nerdy :)]

cw -> fingering, oral (female receiving), car $ex, squ¡rt¡ng, lmk if i missed anything!

Word Count -> 1.4K

Gotta make one of every Outsiders character 😫😫

Staring up at the stars in the night sky was always amiable, especially more now that you were sharing this little time spending activity you did when you were stressed with Darry.

He’d told you he was stressed because of how many bills had come in, some fines he’d received from Dally’s poor choices since his father didn’t wanna pay them off, even just struggling to make time for himself.

The recent bags under his eyes showed that.

Designers too, like Gucci bags.

Hand in hand under the stars, you were happily chit chatting away about random things that weren't relevant to anything, but soothed his stress.

“Did you know Mars has two moons? Phobos and Deimos.. and they both aren’t perfect circles. Jupiter has 92, and Saturn has over 100.” You explained with the softest smile, gazing up at the waxing moon before your eyes.

“It must be bright during the night on Saturn, huh? With all that moonshine, it’d be as bright as day during the night.” Darry murmured in response.

You wanted to burst out cackling, but held back and simply kissed his forehead before saying, “Moonshine? That’s liquor, Darry. Moons don’t make light.”

Darry’s expression turned confused, now that didn’t make sense! How on Earth- well, how on moons could moons not make light? How did they glow?

“Do you know why they glow then?” He asked in a matter-of-factly type of way, which had you giving him the most playful sarcastic look you could before gently squeezing his hand once more.

“It reflects light off of the Sun, Dare.” You answered simply, smiling wide when he hummed in understanding.

Soon after the stargazing, you two had made your way back to his van to drive home. The silent walk was peaceful, hand in hand and steps taken in synchronized motion so no one was left behind.

Darry was explaining to you about what college he wanted to get into and why, all about his education level and how he would’ve loved to expand his knowledge for the sake of his own future, but he mentioned how he much rather cared for Ponyboy’s comfort and success, and Sodapop’s happiness.

Getting into the car, you two had a soft moment where you simply placed reassuring kisses to his face, smiling the whole way.

“You know you deserve to be happy too, right? You don’t have to work yourself to the bone, I’m here to help pay your bills when things get too tough.” You murmured, a hand on his cheek to keep his face facing you.

Darry’s whole expression softened just a bit, the tension in his eyebrows lessening and his eyes closing a bit in shame.

This wasn’t uncommon, especially for Darry.

“I know sweetie, I just.. You need money too, I don’t want you to stress either.” He whispered.

How sweet of him! Regardless, you gave a pout and gently pulled him closer for a soft kiss, an innocent one to start. Hopefully to shoo his mindset to the side.

“But Darry, it’s not good to put everyone before yourself and try to carry the weight of everything alone. I mean- sure, you have muscle! Don’t get me wrong! But.. you’re gonna end up hurting your mental health.” You tried to coax him to let you help, hand lightly trailing up his bicep.

He was still stunned by the kiss, almost too infatuated with you to even care what you were saying and he instantly pulled you close to kiss him more passionately.

You were honestly a bit shocked, but you melted into the kiss, hands tangling in his hair and keeping him there. Only for him to pull away with a huff and let his eyes darken into something more.. lewd.

“Back of the car, now.” He commanded, unlocking the car doors.

You both hurried from the front seats to the back seats, where the kisses had continued to get more ferocious and strong. Hands groping each other everywhere possible.

“Darry..” You moaned through kisses and gasps. Hands flailing to his back and creating soft scratches on his tee’s fabric.

He took this as a sign to take it off, so he pulled away and hustled to take the cumbersome fabric off, gesturing for you to do the same. Sure enough, you both had gone from simply shirts off to bare naked in the car.

“Isn’t this unsanitary?” You asked with a nervous chuckle.

“Don’t ruin the moment, sweetie.” He laughed in response, kissing your cheek before his hand came to your pussy’s lips.

A cry escaped you as his warm tongue licked up your slick without hesitation. Even if you didn’t shave, he acted as if it was nothing. It was.. nice.

“Oh- Darrel! Oh fuck, yes! Ah!” You writhed in his meticulous movements, the pleasure was congenial.

Hands grabbing as his hair to keep his head between your thighs, you began to shake and shiver, your body seizing up from the ecstasy. You were gonna cum, but you didn’t wanna do it on his face.

“Darry, Darry! Stop.. gonna cum! Don’t wanna- don’t wanna do it!” You mewled out, hands trying to push him away suddenly to avoid the inevitable climax.

Darry was strong, it was like trying to push a brick wall and make it move. Your efforts were pointless, he’d make you cum on his tongue and he’d enjoy it wholeheartedly.

The cord in your lower stomach continued to tighten until you couldn't take it, your pussy walls pulsating with glee as an orgasm whooshed you to cloud nine.

A loud cry was paired with your climax, the juices of your arousal was shot into his mouth and chin as you came down from your high of pure elation.

Darry’s face rose from between your thighs, an expression of delight contorted onto his facial features. Eyebrows a bit raised, eyes bright, and a smile that spoke wonders about what was on his mind.

“Oh baby, that looked like a good one. But we ain’t done yet, not even close.” He smirked almost teasingly, presenting his hardened length to you before positioning himself to your core.

A second or two of rubbing it against your folds, he finally slipped it in and gave a whimper of his own. Slow thrusts were offered at first, in which you accepted wholly.

Soon his thrusts picked up pace, the slapping of skin an almost sinful sound as his body collapsed into a half plank over you. His breath was now audible, and the hefty gasps he was exhaling was now a prominent part of the moment.

“Oh sweetie, you feel so good.. come on, you gonna give me another one? Cum again, on my cock this time.” Darry pleaded.

You nodded, breathlessly giving an “uh-huh!” before your hands were scratching and clawing red streaks across his back. How lewd this was.

His thrusts were met with your hips grinding into his, the tip of his cock hitting your cervix so pleasurably. This alone had you writhing, back arching up away from the seat of the car.

“Darry, Darry! Baby, I’m so close, slow down!” You whined, head burying into his shoulder.

He didn’t slow down, he only heard you say that you were close and that encouraged him to speed up. Hips hitting yours faster was enough to alert you that his climax was approaching too.

Darry’s own moans heightened as his climax neared, he couldn't even hold his half plank and plopped on top of you to thrust into you like a helpless pup in heat. And that’s when your climax hit. Pussy walls spasming had him whimpering.

And after three more heavy, deep thrusts, his seed was spewed into your fertile womb. Even if you were on pregnancy pills, it still felt great knowing his children were swimming to your egg.

Sighs and gasps and huffs were the only noises left for a few moments as you both recuperated.

“Round two?” He asked with a smirk.

Arriving back home, you happily greeted the tired Ponyboy with a gentle hug before looking in worry at the food Soda made. To put it nicely, it looked.. poisonous.

“Ah, thanks Pepsi-Cola.” Darry sighed contentedly, kissing your cheek before sitting down at the table. You waved goodbye to them all and hustled out.

Once gone, the brothers of Darry looked at him skeptically and whispered to one another.

“Ya think they shagged?” Ponyboy whispered.

“Never seen him so calm, think they did.” Sodapop whispered back before eating away.

Darry was smiling for no reason, just thinking of you for the rest of the day.

[thunder-shadow]

my brain rejects every family headcanon in solarballs so violently its almost funny XD especially with the moons i could not see the moons as children of the planets even if you tried to brainwash me into it

[bunji-enthusiast]

He remembers the first time he met you like it was yesterday; infallible, imperfect, and confidently coincidental. Sluggish movements, a devil-may-care attitude about what you wore, it was perfectly comical. Yet, it was comfortable.

Huddling into the caverns of your chest as if it would pertain to more warmth for your cold skin, straggling by as you went down on the items on your list — groceries for the day, or week, didn’t matter really. It was for the most part, human. Despite the capitalist regime that always seemed to sputter up and down, humanity persevered with its own quiet moments and gentle domestication. Something he more then appreciates, and does so silently (especially generously) every single day.

As a militaristic man—Old habits die hard, he notices the way you walk, how long your fingers linger on some sort of treat or item, and even how you pull down some stray scuff if your pants happen to ride up. His most favorite and particular habit most people share that he’s noticed is how one draws down their sweater if they happen to wear one, which in this particular circumstance, you were.

It was nice to acknowledge, such a simple detail. If it wasn’t for the fact that he was trying to integrate himself back into normal civilian life, his ability to notice things would’ve been far duller —that is what he felt fortunate for. In a way.

Standing there could be standoffish, he knew that, but he couldn’t help it. It was as if the light emitting from the fluorescent lights overhead brimmed with life despite the lack of greenery evident in the store, the very environment curled in on your energy, following you with hopeful eyes. You also interacted with others, sparingly, but in those few minutes you interact: they go on their day with a lighter gait. He almost felt guilty for thinking you strange, but then again, he often thought that with every civilian he came across.

Then came your voice, he remembers that the most: “Something you can’t find? Let me help you look for it.”

The suggestion seemed almost impossible at the time, but it was one and the same with his wide-open experiences in combat, only now… it was in a grocery store. How Silly.

Your tone was light, notes musical and airy. Despite the evident exhaustion weighing down your shoulders, you always mustered the energy to help others if you could. That very thing was something he could share, a trait he also admired. So in a hopeful attempt In socialization, he responds.

“Uhm, no.”

Immediately he regrets his words, feeling the boiling warmth simmering beneath the neck of his skin and ears. He felt mortified at making such an impression, but in the midst of his internal turmoil, you simply shrugged. “Okay, but you sure? You look real confused.” You asked, something small tugging at your lips.

Inwardly he jumps at the subtle change of expression, he could sense that you knew — he was socially awkward. Poor him, he was already so introverted. He just had to go be weird the moment he spoke. But it was fortunate right now, that you understood.

“S’okay man,” you replied finally, bobbing your head with a tilt. “We got our days, you military by any chance? I don’t mean to assume, but you got that look.”

He was, beforehand not too long ago that he had just gotten off a tumultuous two-month long deployment—and even before that one was long over five months. It was nice to have moments of reprieve, to rest and recuperate the old body. The guilt eats at him easily unfortunately, the unforgettable routines and memories of Senior Officers barking orders but otherwise decent enough was ingrained.

Having love for others always seemed to present itself as some sort of unfortunate event however, one way or another. But, this was a memory he experienced, where none of that happened. Being allowed to exist simply, here, long before being the man they called Slayer -- long before the bullshit that happened on Phobos. He was human, a little broken, but human. At the time, something weighed heavy on his heart. As if it were the cataclysm to events, this reminder he bore, that he had always fought for something greater.

Something simpler.

So it aches, aches heavy in his bones with every step he takes, yet with every step he continues. With both, he is not sure why, yet within the same breath. He knows.

That is something he hates, and it is something he appreciates. It's accursed, the way he remembers things. How sometimes, something flashing in the peripherals of his vision. Fractured pieces of his former life, bits and pieces resuscitating the man he used to be. The man he was before the dreadful titles, the horror he carries on the breadth of his back. But he carries it not only out of the terror he instills in his enemies, but to be a shield, a powerhouse of savagery. Something that people rely on, even if that relying meant walking on the tightrope between all those who intended him sorely for the power he wields. Himself.

The duty of Slayer was his prerogative, the god-fearing anger and justice that represents all that is humanity.

How ironic is that he himself, continues to deny such a right. He reminds himself of such a thing, once or twice, but then it gets erased. Hands easy for war, calloused by blood, the white purity stained by constant combat.

But he remembers all of it, the young and the beautiful. You, a gentle kindred, though torn down by the weight of the world and the constant expectations, was made a free spirit.

The Slayer was no longer that.

[bluedelliquanti]

Before I go on vacation, I present my list of my top books for 2024.

COMICS:

Roaming by Jillian Tamaki & Mariko Tamaki

Bunt! by Ngozi Ukazu & Mad Rupert

Ukazu and Rupert are a powerhouse team, and as an art school adjunct, this already funny GN is even funnier (albeit in a way that necessitates a skull emoji in the educator groupchat)

Tiffany’s Griffon by Magnolia Porter Siddell & Maddi Gonzalez

Phobos and Deimos by J Dalton

Delicious in Dungeon by Ryoko Kui

It's a tough task to reach a satisfying conclusion to a series that was as strong as Dungeon, but I think Kui accomplished it!

Fool Night by Kasumi Yasuda

King in Limbo by Ai Tanaka

Over the last year I've been drawn towards comic series that work with a retro, fixed-width inking style, and King especially informed some recent experiments of mine.

PROSE:

Twins by Bari Wood & Jack Geasland

When I learned Wood was responsible for the book that became Dead Ringers, I knew I had to try it. This is the one that wins my "Oh, shit! Wow!! Okay!!!" award for the year (distinctions previously awarded to Cyteen and Manhunt).

The Bezzle by Cory Doctorow

DS9: A Stitch in Time by Andrew J. Robinson

Those of you who read my journal comic from last August might recall that I met Robinson at a Trek convention! I'd learned from reading these books that Stitch was considered a white whale among collectors, and now I absolutely understand why. If you're a DS9 fan and you want to try any book from the original run of novels, try this one. By which I mean, try the far easier-to-find audiobook version.

Translation State by Ann Leckie

A Woman of the Iron People by Eleanor Arnason

Fellow SBCF participant Erin Roseberry had shared this title as an inspiration for their comic, The Maker of Grave-Goods, and I was especially interested in trying a book by a Twin Cities author. What a serendipitous find!

Arboreality by Rebecca Campbell

For the third year in a row, a book nominated for the Le Guin Prize makes the list.

Always Coming Home by Ursula K. Le Guin

This is another book I always told myself I'd try someday, and was it ever worth it! I spent some time talking about my experience with this story (and its accompanying materials that fill out the world) in my talk with Evan Dahm on his show.

See you in the new year! I've packed some thick books for a long flight, so I'm starting my 2025 reading pile right away!

Reruns of my previous two lists, 2023, and 2022, below the cut.

2023

COMICS:

Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou by Hitoshi Ashinano

Out of Style by Devi Putri Megwati

Skip and Loafer by Misaki Takamatsu

The Harrowing of Hell by Evan Dahm

The Infinity Particle by Wendy Xu

Esteban by Matthieu Bonhomme

I covered my ShortBox reccs back in October, but since then I also picked up Pearl Hunting by Hana Chatani when it came to itch.io and adored it.

PROSE: 

So yes, maybe I'm cheating by including Moby Dick since I'm not all the way finished, but Whale Weekly really did end up being a great tool for getting me to crack open my gorgeous Evan Dahm-illustrated copy I've had for a while.

My favorite book of the year is Roadside Picnic by Arkady & Boris Strugatsky. I genuinely did read it the first week of January, but after having it recommended to me for years, I'm thrilled it didn't disappoint. Maybe I am someone who likes Russian novels after all???

Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto

Such Nice People by Sandra Scoppettone

Cyteen by C.J. Cherryh (I jokingly placed these three in the "READ 👏 FEMALE 👏 AUTHORS 👏" category because they don't have anything in common other than describing some of the most upsetting/bizarre scenarios I've read this year. Cyteen especially! Wowee!!!)

Brother Alive by Zain Khalid

Glory by Vladimir Nabokov

A Different Trek by David K. Seitz, which I mentioned as my vacation book for the Star Trek convention, but it's given me some great suggestions for more books, both fiction and otherwise. Also, I read... 11 more DS9 books this year. 

2022

COMICS:

Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa

Vattu by Evan Dahm

The Well by Choo and Jake Wyatt

Wash Day Diaries by Robyn Smith and Jamila Rowser

Some ShortBox Comics Fair entries that are graphic novella length and are really good include Food School by Jade Armstrong and The God of Arepo by Reimena Yee et al.

PROSE:

Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters

The Murders of Molly Southbourne by Tade Thompson

How to Blow Up a Pipeline by Andreas Malm

Manhunt by Gretchen Felker-Martin

Dead Collections by Isaac Fellman

Pale Fire by Vladimir Nabokov

A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers

The Past is Red by Catherynne M. Valente

edit: oh my god I can't believe I forgot Perfume by Patrick Süskind

Honorable mentions from the pile of DS9 novelizations include Revenant by Alex White (for successfully pulling off a Sara Paretsky-style mystery in space) and Dominion War: Call to Arms by Diane Carey (for absolutely unhinged adjective choices).

[genericpuff]

APHRODITE AND ARES HAVE 5 KIDS, ONLY KIDS WE SEE IN LORE OLYMPUS IS EROS, AND OCS FANKIDS, WHAT HAPPENED HARMONIA, ANTEROS,PHOBOS AND DEIMOS? AND WILL YOU HAVE THEM IN YOUR COMICS? LIKE THEM LET BE IN OR APHRODITE OR ARES TALK ABOUT THEM?

lmao okay first of all you don't gotta yell, pls lower ur tone, i can read you just fine - if not better - outside of caps lock 😆

to answer your question, yes we're going to see Ares and Aphrodite in the future, no it will NOT include the fictional children that Rachel came up with (though the concept of the children being named after different forms of love is interesting, it just didn't make sense to replace her original children altogether with them, especially when they were barely present in the story after their original appearance).

That's all ima say though for the sake of spoilers :p

[the-mortuary-witch]

ARES

WHO IS HE?

Ares is the Greek god of war, and battle, courage, war booty, city defence, anger and violence, civil order, virility, and courage and fear. He is one of the Twelve Olympians, and the son of Zeus and Hera. The Greeks were ambivalent towards him. He embodies the physical valor necessary for success in war but can also personify sheer brutality and bloodlust, in contrast to his sister Athena, whose martial functions include military strategy and generalship. An association with Ares endows places, objects, and other deities with a savage, dangerous, or militarized quality.      

                         

BASIC INFO: 

Appearance: Ares is often depicted as a strong and muscular man, with a stern and intimidating demeanor. He is often portrayed wearing armour, carrying a shield, and carrying a sword, representing his role as the god of war, battle, courage, war booty, anger and violence. His eyes are said to be fiery and piercing, and he often has a stern and fearsome expression on his face. His hair is typically depicted as dark and wild, adding to his fierce appearance.

Personality: he is known for being a hot-tempered, aggressive, and warlike god. He is also known for his impetuous and impatient nature, often acting without thinking things through. However, despite this, he is also seen as a protector of the weak and oppressed and is often depicted as being a champion of the downtrodden. When it comes to his devotees, Ares is often portrayed as being a loyal and protective patron, guiding them in battle and giving them strength and courage. He is also known for rewarding his followers with victory and honour in combat.

Symbols: sword, chariot, torch, shield, spear, helmet, and iron

God of: war and battle, courage, war booty, city defence, anger and violence, civil order, virility, and fear

Culture: Greek

Plants: thorns, basil, peppers, chilli, garlic, buttercup, yarrow, ginger, and paprika 

Crystals: onyx, bloodstone, garnet, red beryl, mugglestone, crocidolite, tektite, Picasso jasper, ruby, and crocoite 

Animals: venomous serpents, boar, vultures, eagle owl, woodpeckers, horses, barn owls, and dogs

Incense: dragon’s blood, frankincense, sandalwood, and other strong/spicy scents

Practices: healing (especially from being in the army, witnessing wars, etc), protection, war magick, anger management, shadow work, courage and confidence rituals, and strength

Colours: red, purple, grey, black, and gold 

Number: 4

Zodiac: Aries

Tarot: The Emperor, The Chariot, The Tower, Suit of Wands, Death, and King of Wands

Planet: Mars

Days: Tuesday and Ares Gynaecothenas

Parents: Zeus and Hera

Siblings: Eris, Hephaestus, Eileithyia, Hebe, and several paternal half-siblings

Partner: Aphrodite (unmarried)

Children: Eros, Anteros, Phobos, Deimos, Phlegyas, Harmonia, Enyalius, Meleagros, Kyknos, Thrax, Oenomaus, Cycnus, and the Amazons 

MISC:

Horses: the epithet of the Ares worshiped at Olympia was “Hippios”, “of horses”. Ares was the progenitor of the man-eating mares of Thracian Diomedes. While they are often associated with Poseidon, Ares was often the patron of horse and chariot races, especially onward into Roman times.

The colours red and purple: the colour red is often associated with Ares for two reasons: blood and Sparta. The blood of men is Ares’s food, and his shield was described as always being fresh with gore, so it’s pretty safe to assume Ares was very red and/or brownish red most of the time. His planet, Mars, is the red planet. Now purple may not seem to be very intuitive, but the Thracian warriors and priests wore purple, as did the later Roman emperors, who were always priests of Ares/Mars if not conflated into the same being.

War: in Greek mythology, Ares is associated with war because he is the god of war. He is the son of Zeus and Hera, and is often portrayed as a fierce and violent god, who delights in battle and bloodshed. He is often depicted as leading the gods into battle and fighting alongside them. He is also known for his role in mythological tales such as the Trojan War, where he is depicted as inciting the Greeks to war and arming them for battle. Ares is also associated with the darker and more destructive aspects of war, such as brutality and violence.

Sword: Ares is often associated with swords because in ancient Greece, swords were a common weapon of war and were often used in combat. As the god of war, Ares is often depicted wielding a sword in battle. In Greek mythology, swords were often associated with victory and strength, so it makes sense that Ares, the god of war, would be associated with them. Additionally, swords are symbols of power and authority, which further reinforces Ares’ status as the god of war.

Mars: in Greco-Roman mythology, the Roman god Mars is considered as the equivalent of the Greek god Ares. This equivalence is due to the similarities between the two gods, both being associated with war, military strength, and masculine pursuits. The Romans adopted many aspects of Greek culture, including their gods, and over time the Greek god Ares was equated and syncretized with the Roman god Mars. This led to the Romans viewing Mars as the equivalent of the Greek god of war.

Chariot: the chariot often represents power, authority, and conquest. Since Ares/Mars are the gods of war, they were often depicted driving a chariot, which was a sign of their status as powerful and influential beings. The chariot was also a symbol of speed and mobility, allowing the gods to rapidly move from one battlefield to another and oversee the course of conflicts.

FACTS ABOUT ARES:

Some cities in Greece and several in Asia Minor held annual festivals to bind and detain him as their protector. In parts of Asia Minor, he was an oracular deity.

Ares was caught in an invisible net by the god, Hephaestus, whilst committing adultery with the god’s wife, Aphrodite. 

He assisted the Trojan armies in their war against the Greeks, but was wounded in an encounter with the hero Diomedes and the goddess Athena. 

Ares bestowed a “manly” spirit upon his daughters, the warrior Amazons. 

He is associated with the vulture, eagle owl, barn owl, and woodpecker because he created them with the help of Hermes. 

HOW TO INVOKE ARES:

To invoke Ares, try using unique methods such as creating a personalized altars or ritual space dedicated to him, incorporating elements that you feel connected to. Use unconventional symbols such as a sword, the color red, or a picture or statue of a warrior that you feel represents him. During the invocation, instead of traditional methods, try using breathwork or energy work to connect with his presence. You can also use personalized words and/or symbols as part of your invocation. Most importantly, be original and authentic, and focus on connecting with Ares in a way that feels right for you.

PRAYER FOR ARES:

Great Ares I praise, bold one of the flashing eyes,

Son of mighty Zeus and noble Hera you are,

Beloved of golden sea-born Aphrodite. You take joy in battle, the war-cry is your song.

Strength is yours, peerless warrior, and firm resolve,

And the pure, clear drive to defeat the enemy,the battle rage that pushes us beyond our boundsto achieve victory against a greater foe.

To the weak you lend strength; to the fearful, courage;

To those enslaved, the will to break the stoutest bonds.

Fierce Ares, you whose gifts ensure our survival,

O god of warriors, I praise and honour you.

SIGNS THAT ARES IS CALLING YOU:

Dreams, visions, or thoughts of war, violence, or battle. 

Feeling of restlessness and a desire for conflict or competition. 

A growing interest in warrior culture or military history. 

Strong desire to defend oneself or others physically or mentally. 

A desire for physical strength and power, such as a sudden interest in weight-lifting or physical activity. 

Feeling a sudden connection to warrior cultures or histories. 

Experiencing a sense of determination and resilience. 

A sudden fascination with martial arts or weaponry. 

Feeling of intense energy or passion. 

A sense of being called to a higher cause or purpose. 

Strong connection with the colour red, fire, or other symbols of war and battle. 

Experiencing a sense of connection to animals associated with war, such as horses.

A sense of being on a path of self-discovery or transformation. 

OFFERINGS:

Images of things he is associated with. 

Red flowers. 

Thorns.

Snake skins. 

Iron or steel jewelry. 

Weapons, armor, and shields (art, statues, toys, handmade, etc.)

Statues of horses or dogs. 

Food and drinks: dark wine, whiskey, spicy foods, black coffee, water, olive oil, red meats, honey, beef jerky, pure water, heavy spices, bacon, garlic, and black tea. 

Cigarettes. 

Frankincense or sandalwood. 

Medals, trophies, or ribbons you’ve earned. 

Animal teeth. 

Red, black, and dark purple candles. 

Art or statues of Him. 

Matches. 

Sport drinks / protein shakes. 

Feathers from eagle owls, vultures, woodpeckers, or barn owls. 

Miniature or toy weapons and armor, especially helmets. 

Antiques. 

Photos of riots or past wars. 

Lighters.

Storm water. 

DEVOTIONAL ACTS:

Learn self defence. 

Create a playlist and listen to music that makes you feel brave/empowered. 

Donate to the Rape Crisis Center or other similar programs. 

Tell Him about your accomplishments and fears. 

Learn about shadow work and try it for yourself. 

Cook with garlic or heavy spices that you haven't tried before. 

Donate and support victims of war. 

Try new things and don't feel ashamed about doing so. 

Learn about history, past wars, and past riots; what they accomplished or failed to accomplish. 

Take care of your family and mental health by going to therapy, eating, drinking enough water, and remembering to take your medication. 

Partake in combat sports like martial arts, fencing, etc.  

Exercise. 

Do things that make you feel brave/badass/empower you. 

Learn about the effects of war. 

Play some strategy games like chess, Risk, Civilization, etc.  

Stand up for yourself and what you believe in, write to your governor/mayor for things you want to see changed, attend riots, etc. 

Physical activity. 

Honour his children, Aphrodite, and his companions in battle. 

Learn first aid. 

Pray to Him for strength, ability to fight and defeat enemies, courage, to keep others safe, and help in a battle. 

[megsdoodletag]

Oops second ask related to your au. What do fulgrim and ferrus get up too in their down time? Hehehe.

Im imagining konrad falling from a hole in the ceiling mouth stuffed full of gigantic rats landing right in the middle some celebratory luncheon that malcador has tried to organise.

never apologize for oc/personal au asks this is like me catnip.

going to do these backwards:

this sounds completely plausible (konrad does pop up in places he is absolutely not supposed to be frequently and with great enthusiasm)

except malc isn’t around (yet). however, there is another hooded perpetual with weirdly strong psychic powers wandering the palace. this isn’t great for emp’s mental state but who said any of this was great for emp’s mental state.

now that first question. the short answer is ferrus and fulgrim at least start the au by being firmly On Vacation

ferrus and fulgrim, once they’ve spent some time working things out between themselves generally just kinda. hang around? they’re slowly working on undoing the damage they did to their respective legions, kind of leading the charge for emotional rehab here like ‘ok there’s got to be a way to learn these lessons without Dying Horribly. right.’ they are preoccupied with this for much of the plot, in part because unlike most of the other Primarchs, Fulgrim in particular (and Ferrus by virtue of sticking close by to him) is Not Allowed to interact with Juno. At All.* (*until she’s older). In fact he’s top of The List (which is a thing that does exist). (this could be the subject of a whole nother post however, so i digress)

Fulgrim is actually quite upset by this; he’s put some degree of effort into repairing his relationship with Ferrus, and wishes gman would afford him the same opportunity. gman said i don’t owe u shit, which he’s right about, and though fulgrim understands this that doesn’t mean he’s happy about it. especially when it means he’s effectively out of the running for ‘baby niece’s favoritestest coolest most spoil you rotten uncle’ like forever (don’t feel too bad fulgrim. you’ll never guess who juno’s favorite is. none of you ever stood a chance.)

luckily fulgrim has other children to occupy his time.

N’kari was really important to fulgrim post-fall, as a touchstone and companion. The two were still very close even though they had not seen each other for some time at the start of this au, so when N’kari has an unsanctioned hybrid clutch with a khornate daemon and is panicking about it he goes straight to his bestie who uses his imperial-green-card-by-marriage to shelter him from the two angered deities.

So aside from their legions, Fulgrim and Ferrus’ downtime is largely occupied with assisting N’kari and Skarbrand raise their menace twin girls: Deimos and Phobos! They are somewhere between 7-10 years younger than Juno, and idolize her greatly, though she mostly knows them as these annoying kids who follow her around while she’s exploring the warp in her early twenties. Anyway that’s where all of Fulgrim’s ‘childless lesbian double income auntie at christmas’ energy goes; he spoils those brats rotten.