#I didn’t understand that feeling when i watched game playthroughs as a kid but

[purpl3padl0ck]

When your daddy issues rear their ugly head bc Joel looks hot asf killing that guy to protect Ellie and do what he never could for his daughter. Most attractive thing ever.

[k0yaz]

IT’S ME THE MONIKA ANON, YOU ATE W THAT FIC THANK YOU FOR THE FOOD ‼️‼️

Also I just ended up quitting the game because it confused me too much and never finished it until like two years later when I watched a playthrough and realized that I would romance Monika at the end. 😭

Could I request her reaction to that happening?

also could I be 💤 anon?

error of a heart.

Pairings: monika x fem!reader

CW: sfw, female reader, very heavy angst, part 1 is optional so this can be read as a standalone, horror themes, monika going insane, mentions of implied suicide, death, blood, hallucinations, monka crying this had to be a warning bc i felt so bad :(, this made me start crying no joke, guys im sobbing help, oh no I cuss like once here aaaa, I want to hug her sb, wrote this on a school night so might not be good, not proofread.

A/N: hell yeah you can be 💤 anon, and no thank YOU for the food I love ddlc with all my heart and I’m so happy I could write for it AND WHO CARES IF I HAVE SCHOOL IN THE MORNING RAHHAHA 🕯️

No.

This was a cruel joke, right?

Monika’s sleek fingers threaded into her coral brown hair, grasping at her scalp with widened, twitchy eyes as she felt her chest tighten with each gaping breath. The screen displayed a ticking count of your absence from the game, the small pink dotted box splaying out thickened and bolded lines of text. Her body felt like it was wavering in and out of existence.

The horror of situation dawned upon her, feeling as if pixels of her merely drawn figure were being ripped out of her piece by piece. Her hands practically slammed down onto the opposite ends of the control panel, breathing forced and drawn out as tears glossed over her once bright emerald eyes.

“Is this it? After you’ve made me suffer for so long?” Monika spat, her voice laced with clouding venom that blinded every sense with a mixture of rage, despair, sorrow. She couldn’t even tell what she was feeling at this point. She just knew it sure as hell wasn’t positive. Cool grazes of the wind drifted into the club room through the opened window, swaying her hair off to the side and masking her lowered, empty eyes.

Nature no longer calmed her down anymore. Not when the natural world and lush landscapes outstretched through the window were all false. Bits of code. There was no reason for Monika to pretend anymore. Not when the woman who was her sole purpose for living had been ripped away from her so cruelly. Uneven beats of her heart was the only sound alongside the clock within the desolate club room, the quiet noises ringing in her ears with each agonizing second that passed.

Did time even exist anymore?

“Why? Just why (Name), why? You just had to play through…were you that disappointed that you couldn’t love me the way I loved you back?” She sobbed quietly, lips quivering as her palm dragged along the dried tear cracks bruised down her cheeks. Her teeth ground together in pure anguish, eyes fluttering shut with each quiet sob that racked her glitchy sprite.

Monika’s brows furrowed together as she tried to choke back her cries, shoving them back down her throat and tilting her head up to fix her gaze upward. There was probably nothing there. Maybe she was just hoping there was an entity, a creator, a higher power, anything. Anything that she could scream at to soothe her error of a heart.

Whatever didn’t allow her to have a route was the reason you were gone. It wasn’t your fault. Her gaze remained utterly transfixed onto the console, chest rhythmically rising and falling with her shaky breaths as she slowly came to terms with reality. Her vision slowly grew clearer, the thick fog of blinding emotion seeming to part itself before her as she anxiously circled her thumb along the ridge of the console. Monika began to understand. Her once bright green eyes, reminiscent of a leader, darkened into two cold pools of deep emptiness you could get lost in if you ventured too far.

You weren’t coming back.

Who was she kidding?

She got her hopes up for nothing.

She was the fool in this situation.

Shattering screeches began to pierce through her ears as she felt her eyes slowly beginning to sink into her skull, wanting to squint upon catching sight of the epileptic flashes of red green and blue. An endless mind breaking cacophony circled her within the void, rendering her immobile as she was forced to resume the unending torment that would plague her over and over.

Monika’s expression was devoid of any trace of possible emotion, her form tilted back as if she was succumbing to her fate. It was like she was drowning in an empty stomach of falsehood, caged in this endless cycle of knowing she wasn’t real. She never was real. She never will be. Everything she knew, everything she felt, it wasn’t real. If you could leave so quick and she couldn’t do anything about it, she couldn’t have been real. No chance.

Nothing was real.

The gravity of the situation dawned on her, weighing her down as she sunk into the void once more. Eyes gradually drooping lower and lower with each passing second clicking in her head—if time even existed here, Monika felt herself drowning into an ocean of code, which stung at her every sense like a numbing frostbite.

“Monika, are you alright?”

Her head jolted up from the desk, bleary vision lingering on the other three club members circling her. Sayori, Natsuki, and Yuri fixed their concerned gazes onto Monika’s tired expression, faint dark circles adorned below her eyes. Great. She had another moment where only she was aware.

“Where is she..?” Monika muttered out weakly, her voice still raspy from her supposed ‘nap.’

“(Name)…where is she?” She inquired, confused glances being exchanged among the other three girls before looking back down at her. “There’s…no one here named that..” Yuri replied, a perplexed look crossing her features, deep purple eyes locked onto Monika’s messy form. Sayori simply gave her a gentle smile, resting a hand on her shoulder with her fingers brushing against the fabric of her blazer in an attempt of comfort. “Let us take care of things today, alright? Get some rest, you’ve been working too hard after all..”

A feigned appreciation painted her face as her palm rowed forward dismissively, attempting to imply that she would rest, and that the others were welcome to take over. Monika heaved a deep, shaky breath that pulsated in her chest over and over, slumping back onto the desk as her fingers tightened into the edge of the smoothed over wood. She couldn’t help but glare at the other members with a bitter disdain creeping up within her. They have everything she wanted. Yet they didn’t need it. Nobody understood how much it fucking hurt for her.

A sharp sting seared against her pointer finger, slashed diagnonally along her skin as she took in the seeping pain of the minuscule paper cut. She flipped her hand over and brought it close to the tip of her nose, examining the blistering red glistening along her finger as crimson droplets trickled down the open wound. It didn’t mean anything anyway. Just a couple taps of the control panel and this cut would close right up.

Monika allowed herself to wallow back to sleep, eyes slowly flickering in and out of consciousness as she slowly began to mentally return to her personalized hellhole. Her eyes slowly focused on the flash of bright light hovering above her head as her lashes filtered her already fuzzy vision. The light flooded her senses as a sharp pang of uncomfortable warmth spread along her drowning body within the void. It was warm, like being held. Yet disheartening to her knowing it was simply the faux comfort of the repeated codes strings.

It all became so clear now. There was no purpose, and she knew what was meant to be.

With remaining strength she could muster up, Monika extended a shaky hand upward, outstretching it to manipulate the code. Within moments, her body began to sink further into the endless void, the horrific orchestra of screaming no longer affecting her as her slow, rugged breaths filled her ears. It didn’t take long before her throat began to tighten, eyelids slowly lowering shut as she tilted her head back to allow the waves of erasure overtake her meaningless body. Her consciousness was slowly fading as Monika parted her lips to utter out a final set of words before drowning herself into the sea of her scripted feelings.

Ah. She adored the idea of you. Even in her final moments, as her throat closed in on her like a claustrophobic cave, she couldn’t help but think of you. Perhaps she would be granted the honor of laying her eyes upon your beautiful self when she got the chance. But for now, it’s not meant to be.

“If only I could be reborn in your world, (Name). We could be together. But not in this life.”

A/N: OH MY GOD I SOMEHOW COOKED ON A SCHOOL NIGHT??? I should’ve done this earlier but…OMG IM ACTUALLY FUCKING SOBBING BRO WHY DID I MAKE THIS SO SAD MONIKA DESERVES BETTER.

💤 anon it’s your fault for making her cry /j

Someone request something good for this woman I feel bad I love Monika so much idc if Yuri is my favorite Monika still deserves everything :((

Also oo I added a filter to the banner and it looks sm better ok goodnight I need soeep

[snakxreader]

With the silly spooky Halloween day coming up in like- 2 days- can we get a silly little story where Triffany, Wambus, and the Reader watch a horror movie? Maybe 2 movies even? And then later on, they cuddle in the middle of the night on the couch because at least one of them had a nightmare?

A/N: I HAD TO STRUGGLE TO KEEP MY EYES AWAKE BUT. HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! I GOT IT DONE!! Thank you everyone for being so so patient with me despite everything, I honestly don’t deserve it ^^’. As a treat, I did something a little extra as a joke.

Ooc Spoilers for the fic:

I’d say I’m sorry…but I’m really not lmaooo

Wambus x Triffany x Reader (Halloween Movie Night)

“I dunno why I let y’all talk me into this…”

“Come on, Wamby! It’ll be fun! I’ve heard good things about this movie! It’s supposed to be really good!”

Wambus still scowls, drumming nervously on the couch with his fingers, while Triffany tried to soothe him. You, meanwhile, was trying to find the movie on your streaming services, finally stumbling upon it on Peacock.

“Finally…” You groan, before turning to face your partners with an ecstatic expression. “Alright, darling, honey, welcome to the movie adaptation of one of the best horror franchises in the known world…..Five Nights at Freddy’s!”

You’re not a stranger to the franchise. You came across it randomly one day and found the idea so interesting that you binged playthroughs of all of the games. Your partners, while not really that understanding of it, have seen your dedication of it and respect it. When the movie was first announced, it was actually Triffany who suggested you all watch together.

Wambus was….less thrilled about the idea.

He wasn’t a big horror movie fan. Or a horror fan period. Never did good with the subject. You had to plead with him to watch the movie with nhim. And by plead, you just gave him puppy dog eyes until he caved in. Worth it though, as now you get to cuddle nest to the cutest Grumpuses in the world and watch a movie you’ve been exicted for ages.

“I still don’t see the point in watchin’ this…” Wambus grumbled, as you plopped next to him. “Why don’t we do somethin’ like..give out candy to kids on Halloween? Why we gotta watch blood and gore all the dang time.”

You patted his shoulder reassuringly. “Awww….it’s ok, you can hold our hands if you get scared.”

Unfortunately for Wambus, months of knowing him have made any sort of glare at you ineffective to getting you to back off. Instead, you just gave his cheek a nuzzle, feeling his fur bristle and hearing the little deep grumbling as he blushes.

“I don’t think it's gonna be that bad, actually.” Triffany interjects. “Last I’ve heard, it’s more a thriller than anythin’.” She says, throwing a blanket around all of you. Wambus still huffs but looks slightly more relieved. He leans on her shoulder as you press the play button, resting your head on Wambus’s arm, before he tucks you under it.

True to Triffany’s word, the movie is more thriller than actual slasher or psychological horror. Of course, the horror that was there, was in your opinion, perfectly executed, and well done. The retro, early 90s vibe it was trying to give added to the aspect and it made the experience all that more memorable.

Triffany was probably the most invested out of all of you, having been invested in the game’s timeline since you told her about it. She spent the movie trying to link the events there to what she had heard from you or seen about. The things that didn’t add up with the orginal were major, but she appericated the side plot between the two main characters, her cooing at the events.

Wambus was incredibly jittery and silent, almost jumping out of his body at the slightest fright. He yelped at every jumpscare, holding onto you and his wife’s hands tightly, so a sense of comfort. You both are more than willing to hold him right the whole movie, helping the brusque man through some of the harsher scenes. And somewhere along the way, he began to ease up a little.

When all was said and done, you three had all decently enjoyed yourselves, though one of you only enjoyed the close time with his partners. Regardless, drowsiness eventually overtook and you headed to bed, snuggled right in-between Wambus and Triffany.

You woke up one a.m. to an almost empty bed, devoid of one of the partners you were snuggled against. Groaning, you pulled yourself away from whoever was spooning you, albeit unwillingly, and headed out of the bedroom. In the distance, you could hear the living room television go off, alerting you to a presence in the house. Quietly and slowly, you step down the stairs towards the sound of the television, to find a familiar blue lug in front of it. He looked exhausted, weary eye bags under his face as he muttered to himself. You quietly sat next to him, causing him to jolt in shock before seeing your face.

“Hi Wamby…” You murmured, slipping his hand into yours.

“I’m sorry I woke ya.”

“Don’t worry about it.” You reassure him. “You ok?”

Wambus fell silent. You didn’t make him talk. Wambus still had struggles opening up about his emotions, even to you and Triffany. “….You’ll laugh.” He finally laments.

“Never.” Your voice is firm and steady. You’d never laugh at him over something that was clearly bothering him.

He sighed. “I had. A nightmare about that stupid movie. Getting chased by one of those dumb animatronics.”

“Oh hon.” You gently snort, and backtrack when you see his hurt face. “Not like that. It’s just, your nightmares are really common with this franchise.”

Wambus blinked. “…Really?” He rasped. You nodded. “I’ve…actually had a few myself.”

“You? You didn’t even flinch at the deaths and gore!”

“Once, I had a dream where I was chased by Foxy all the way down our block.” You said, reliving the event and rubbing Wambus’s back. “I was, like, pissing myself scared. Looking back, it’s kind of funny.”

The farmer seemed to relax a bit, groaning deeply. You didn’t press, simply basking in the silence of the TV. The creaking of the stairs and floorboard break it.

“What’re ya two doing up so late….?” Triffany yawns, sliding right next to you and dealing her arms around Wambus.

“Bad dream.”

“Ock-“ Triffany cuddles closer to Wambus. “I’m sorry dear, you want to talk about it?”

Wambus yawned. “….I was being chased and cornered by that stupid bear.”

“Sorry, hun. Do you want us to stay with you tonight on the couch?”

Wambus hesitated. “…That. Would be nice, yes.”

The blanket from earlier is once more draped across you three, everyone shifting into comfortable positions while the television blared. You three watched the show on there, some late night gane show.

“….Thank you.” You heard Wambus mumble, drowsy in his tone. “I love you two so much.”

“Always sweetheart. We love ya too.” Triffany says, as you nod in agreement.

After a minute, you can hear the soft snores of Wambus as Triffany snorts lovingly. “Must've been exhausted, big goof.” She turns to you. “You should rest up too, hun.”

“Triffs, I’m fi-”

“Shhhh.” She stroked your fur, and immediately you melted into her. Damn your weak spots. “Go back to bed hun….just ease your mind….”

You don’t even remember your eyes closing before you pass out.

[1960z]

SOJ: Final Thoughts

So when I first played spirit of justice at 14 I remember really loving it, the new characters, the cases, just the whole vibe of the thing. however, that was towards the end of my ace attorney hyperfixation and because of that I had never revisited it. when I returned to the fandom recently, I began to realise that quite a good amount of people hold this game in relatively low regard; and while the positive feelings I had from my initial playthrough still lingered, I had to admit I didn't actually remember the game very well, and maybe there would be things about it that would bother me now that wouldn't have back then. and because of that, this was the game I was most excited to return to. and now that I have re-played it and been able to experience it with fresh eyes I can say that while I definitely have more nuanced thoughts surrounding the game, I'm happy to say most of the stuff I enjoyed about it still really holds up

one of my biggest criticisms surrounding dual destinies is that while I did enjoy almost every individual case on some level, it never really coalesced beyond the sum of its parts, leaving the overarching story unsatisfying and disjointed, not to mention uninteresting thematically. I did not have that same problem here! my theory for what happened with DD is that takeshi yamazaki attempted to mimic the style of pacing shu takumi employs more closely in a way that just didn’t really work, meanwhile in soj, I think the pacing is much more in line with what we see in the investigations games where everything takes place over a few days (or in soj, the better half of a month) and connects unlike other main series games that often have months long gaps between cases. characters and scenarios set up in the first case are deeply connected to the fifth and each case barring perhaps case 4 is quite focused on setting up everything that’s about to happen in turnabout revolution.

and turnabout revolution is an absolute monster of a case. its scope is extreme and its twists are insane and honestly I doubt it would have worked if the rest of the game didn’t dedicate as much time as it did to building up to it, but because it did, the payoff felt amazing. I understand that if you zoom out and look from the perspective of the whole series a lot of it may feel like a lot and out of left field and I get why that’s off putting to some people - but taking the game in its own singular context I actually think it does an amazing job of making each twist feel earned. like for example are they basically rebuilding apollo’s backstory from the ground up? yes. does it work well with what was previously established in aa4? no not at all lol. does it work within the confines of spirit of justice? I actually think in that context it works extremely well.

my love for nahyuta is pretty obvious but honestly I think the character that captures the true heart of this game is rayfa. seeing this naïve, sheltered kid go through the process of realising that basically everything she took for granted about her world, even who her parents were, was a lie, and having to deal with that was truly captivating to watch. her entire world being shattered and then still doing everything in her power to make sure the truth came to light, no matter how much it hurt her I think exemplifies a lot of ace attorney’s themes and ideals and I think having a young girl be the centre of that is really cool. my favourite character in aa is franziska and while you will NEVER catch me calling her underdeveloped, because the series does actually give you a lot of insight into her if you want to engage with it, what I WILL admit is that I don’t think she ever got as much narrative focus as the other characters. and to me, rayfa feels very much like what we could have gotten if the narrative had chosen to focus on franziska more.

as I’ve said before also I really theoretically love khura’in. I found myself getting genuinely quite invested in the people and culture and politics of this world that the writers had created. especially since spirit channelling has been a huge part of the aa world since the first game, it was cool to inhabit a legal system that just accepted it unconditionally. it feels like the opinion of the japanifornia courts’ opinion on channelling is that there is something to it but the logic of arguments can’t rely on it definitely existing too heavily and if it does, proving channelling can happen is part of said argument. and god forbid testimony of someone being channelled is used as evidence because of what happened in DL-6. none of these factors exist in khura’in. in case 3 for the first time we get testimony from a victim through channelling and it’s a huge part of the case and case 5 of course relies on channelling massively to explain its events as well and getting to explore these possibilities without having to worry about narrative justification as to why a court of law would accept this was a treat.

I think aa’s format also just lends itself to… for a lack of a better word isekai stories?? like learning about the rules of a world through how said rules can be manipulated for crime is an extremely interesting way to learn about and engage in a fictional world. you see this with plvspw and even fan made projects like that mlp-aa crossover from years ago. and while khura’in does exist in “our” world, obviously there are still a lot of supernatural elements that khura’in takes for granted that wouldn’t be in other places.

but this is were we have to address the elephant in the room and soj’s huge glaring flaw. the thing that went completely over my little 14 year-old-head but looking back now I go "holy shit, that is bad." and that is how soj treats khura’in as a country and the irl political implications of said treatment. from the get-go, khura’in is shown in a very othered and orientalist lens. their way of doing things is depicted as being “spiritual” and “folksy” at the best of times and “backwards” at the worst; and the plot centres around our leads, most of who are not from khura’in, showing the khura’inese people the “right” and “just” way of doing things. in the version of the story I assume most of us are familiar with the characters are american, in the original version they’re japanese, neither country has a good track record with imperialism. this is a colonialist narrative. and while it’s tempting to say that because khura’in is fictional, the implications while problematic still exist more in a vacuum, I think it is important to point out that khura'in borrows a lot of aesthetics from real life cultures such as tibet and india, and when you create a fictional country that is like khurai'n, one that is portrayed as spiritual but unenlightened, one that has a lot of distinctly asian but not distinctly japanese (sans the magatama) aesthetics, you are in fact reinforcing negative, orientalist stereotypes surrounding the real cultures said aesthetics come from which deserves to be called out.

and while yes, there are khura'inese characters who still very much engage in their culture while also fighting for revolution... when combined with the context of dd's overarching narrative that, imo was basically "there are no systemic problems with the legal system, the dark age of the law is simply a result of bad actors" it very much feels like there's this attitude of "revolution for thee but not for me." as if they're only comfortable with telling this story about revolutionaries that are often framed by their own government as terrorists if it takes place within a fictional country that players can paternalistically look down upon. I think this definitely undercuts the rest of the story and I can totally understand why this could all really fuck with a person's ability to engage with and enjoy the game.

in closing, I genuinely think there's a lot to love within soj, it fixed a lot of problems I had with dd. I love each case, I adore the characters, I was thrilled by a lot of the mystery and political intrigue it created. with that being said I absolutely believe reinforcement of colonialist ideas in the text needs to be called out. it didn't ruin the game for me but if it did for someone else, I couldn't blame them. despite all its flaws, I found the closure it provided for these characters both old and new very satisfying. it will always have a place in my heart.

[mysteryinkkat234]

The Night of Pleasure and The Past (Astarion x F!Tav/Reader)

I have lived, where have I been, how should I explain myself? The short version: work, school, low motivation, and being very very sad. But I'm back again, with a new obsession. For real, if I'm not working or at school or doing homework, I'm playing Baldur's Gate (I have four separate playthroughs Gods help me). Anyway, this series, Fangs and Nightshade, is going to be many anecdotes about my playthrough with my blue tiefling cleric, Luxia Nightshade, and her escapades with a sad vampire boy. The stories will be in order in the game so spoilers abound. I hope you enjoy it. If you have any suggestions or story ideas, my inbox is open.

Also shout you to my new friend @leighsartworks216 for peer reviewing, thank you!!

Summary: It was meant to be a night to escape from their days of fantastical shenanigans. A hag, the goblin camp worshipping a new and mysterious god, exploring the Underdark, there was a lot of stress built up in everyone. Luxia Nightshade, resident Cleric and unofficial 'mother' of the group, decided to take up Astarion's offer, to get lost in the night. But during it, she could feel something was wrong.

(This contains spoilers for Act 1 and references to Astarion's past, read with caution)

This is 18+ and deals with a lot of heavy subjects, especially about sex, if you are underage or your account does have an age, DNI

Spice Level Anaheim Pepper (500 - 2,500): This smut contains vaginal sex, outdoor sex, fingering, nicknames (bunny and pup), and basically everything that happens in Astarion's Act 1 companion scene.

Word Count: 4,300+ words

Read and Bookmark this story on AO3

~~~

It was a night of fanfare and victory after the Absolute Cult was defeated in the temple. The tieflings set up a small party at their camp. Everyone seemed to be having a lovely time: singing around their campfire, finally talking casually instead of tactically, and most of the children wanting to pet Scratch.

Everyone was having a great night… except Astarion, leaning on one of the poles holding up his tent, silently chugging the bottle of cheap and gross wine. It’s not that he was grateful to save these tieflings, it was more that it was the first time in two centuries that he did something good, something nice, something to help them instead of to gain something. He didn’t get a choice whether or not he wanted to save these tieflings, that would be the party’s unofficial leader: Luxia Nightshade. 

A blue tiefling with eyes as white as the moon, horns curled like a sheep’s, and the personality of a doting mother. Gale joked that Luxia acts as a mother and the rest of the party are the ‘unique’ children she has to watch over to make sure nobody dies a grizzly and painful death. Soon, that title of ‘mother’ seemed to stick to her. She would laugh at Karlach who instead of calling her ‘soldier’ started calling her ‘mom’. Luxia’s giggling at being called ‘mother’ was almost infectious… almost nauseating.

Astarion hated her. He thought she would be easy to manipulate; he looked almost like a lost child looking for her mother. When Luxia caught him about to bite her, she wasn’t angry… well sort of. More disappointed that he didn’t tell her in the first place. Is she being serious? Was she expecting him the first time they met: ‘Hello, My name is Astarion, I am a vampire’? But, she wasn’t an innocent kid – she was an adult, an adult with an understanding for others, no matter who or where they came from.

He knew after that day that Luxia could be trusted. She wasn’t asking about someone’s personal life for blackmail purposes, she was just genuinely curious. She was an open book.

Astarion thought about this when he saw her, socializing with the party’s wizard, Gale. Gale and Luxia looked perfect together; two magical dorks, plain and simple. It wasn’t that Astarion was jealous… maybe a little bit… He shouldn’t be, I mean, Luxia was pretty open with their friendship, she would probably tell someone that she liked them… and Luxia has said she liked him, as a friend, as a companion… was he reading too much into this?

“Astarion,” her sweet voice broke him out of his questioning. He almost stumbled a bit. She seemed to have a knack for appearing out of nowhere – she was probably small enough to do it too, being the shortest in the group. “Are you… ok?” She asked politely. Astarion coughed.

“Oh! Hello dear, didn’t see you coming.” Astarion lied, trying to act casual.

Luxia didn’t believe it though. Instead, she laughed, covering her giggles with her hand.

She immediately retracts her arm, holding her hands together behind her back. “No, I get it. I assumed you were getting all drunk and merry.”

He laughed at her comment. “You know, I never pictured myself as a hero.” Luxia tilted her head. “Never thought I’d be the one they toast for saving so many lives. And now that I’m here…” Astarion took another slug of wine from the bottle. “I hate it. This is awful.” 

Luxia shook her head, laughing again. “Come on, it wasn’t all bad,” she whined. “We took out the cult from the inside out, we found a ladder to the Underdark, the fire we made in front of the temple. Think about all the goblins you killed with that Alchemist’s Fire!” Her white eyes gleamed when she retold the story. Astarion could see her feet scuttling while she talked, like an excited kid.

He laughed to himself. “True. That was fun. Still, I would’ve liked more for my trouble than a pat on the head and vinegar for wine.”

“It can’t be that bad.” Luxia gently took the bottle out of Astarion’s hand. She took a sip and made a face. It was sour, almost too sour for it to be edible. She silently gave him back the bottle.

He exhaled through his nose as Luxia made a face. “See?” he asked cockily.

“Yeah… I’m more into sweet alcohol, I’m not a partaker in it anyway,” she said quietly, almost embarrassed by her expression. 

“I’m just looking for a little bit more excitement, a little bit more fun.”

Luxia tilted her head again. She knew where this was going, but she’ll play along. “What do you mean? Is living in constant peril not exciting enough for you?” she quipped back. His laugh was more audible, and her face was flushed, trying not to make direct eye contact. 

“Don’t be so sour – literally,” he snorted. “I like a good time as much as anyone.” Astarion’s ruby eyes trail off to Luxia, analyzing her body. Unlike the last time, when he looked at her and wanted to feed off her, he could feel a heat that wasn’t caused by the fire. She’s so small, Astarion could easily pick her up and ravage her, pin her against a tree, and make her squeak with pleasure… an idea popped into his head. He scratched the back of his neck. “You know, we could always make our own entertainment, darling. Get a little closer, so to speak.” His voice became more sultry, trying to lure her in. And it was working. 

Luxia looked down, her face darker from blush. She bit the knuckle of her pointer. She laughed to herself, trying to be composed. “Maaaaybe,” she steps a little closer to Astarion, “if you say ‘please’.”

Astarion was taken aback, dumbfounded. “What?”

She stepped closer and looked directly at him. She leaned forward, their chests almost touching. “Say ‘please’.” 

Her voice… Gods her voice, so sickly sweet, like honey slowly dripping down a hive. Astarion didn’t know she had this confidence – he took her more as the one to get hit on instead of the other way around, or maybe it was liquid courage.

He inhales through his nose, getting closer to Luxia’s ear. “Please?” He whispered. She could feel his hot breath, he could hear her exhaling quickly. He took her breath away. A sly smile planted on his face.

She laughed again, stepping back to give them both space. “Maybe. I’ll think about it. There are some other people I want to talk to. It’s not like I don’t want to, I just…” She took a deep breath, closing her eyes. “Let me think about it, ok?” 

“Hm, fine, I guess,” he sighed, both in disappointment and how he believes, “I’ll be waiting for you. We’ll find each other.” Luxia simply nodded and turned around. However, she was stopped as Astarion kept speaking. “I never thought you could make such a devoted leader. I’m happy for you.”

She smiled, her oddly cute pointed teeth shined in the moon. “Thank you,” was all she said, as she walked away from him, almost skipping for a few steps.

Astarion simply watched, his eyes still moving down to her waist: an innocent little skip with hips swaying back and forth, her tail whipping with it. He sighs, looking up at the stars. He indeed was just looking for some sex and that’s it, but that ‘something’ was back. He closed his eyes and imagined Luxia. Instead of pinned on the tree like last time, he could imagine her in an elegant bed, covered in the silkiest of robes or blankets… no, a nice dark blue silky robe. Maybe one of the sleeves falls off her shoulder, showing off her freckles sprinkled about… no, why was he thinking this? Did he think about this with other people? No, they were only victims, for him.

He looked around, looking for her again. She was with Shadowheart, sharing a bottle of that god-awful wine. Didn’t she just say she didn’t like it? They were laughing and giggling together, Luxia covering her face for a moment, to cover her flushed cheeks. In the night, Astarion could see her moon-shaped eyes looking right at him before she quickly averted her gaze. This was going to be a long night of waiting.

~~~

He rolled his neck as he waited out in the middle of the woods, far away enough from the camp, but not too far away that it would be that long of a walk. He rubbed his chest, thinking deeply. She probably won’t come, he thought. She’s probably with Gale like I thought, using his Mage Hand to pleasure her. 

The rustling of the grass snapped him out of his trance. He turned his head and saw… Luxia? She walked slowly around, clearly looking for him. Astarion took a deep breath and made himself known to her. 

“There you are,” his voice was deeper, more sultry. “I’ve been waiting. Waiting for the moment I set my eyes on you.” He paused, he slowly brought his hand to her face, his fingers tangled in her messy blue hair. She softly smiled. “Waiting to have you.”

She laughed lightly, her hand slithered over his hand, interlocking through the gaps. “You don’t have me, yet.” Her thumb rubbed over his palm, her nails only grazing. “Were you waiting for me this whole time? What would happen if I didn’t show up?”

Astarion chuckled darkly. “Well, you’re here now, aren’t you? And, I don’t think you came here just to talk.” His hand slowly moved to her jaw as he stepped closer, the space between them closing slowly. “I think you want to be known, to be tasted.” His thumb rubbed her bottom lip. Gods her lips were so soft. He’d tasted her blood, and he hoped she tasted just as delectable as that.

Her smile went neutral, and she wrapped her hand around his wrist, taking it away from her face. Despite the feeling, Luxia could feel something underneath the showmanship. it almost felt… uncomfortably familiar. She took a deep breath before she spoke. “What exactly do you want then?”

“What do any of us want? Pleasure. Yours. Mine. Our collective ecstasy,” he clearly dodged the question with another question. Luxia started picking at the skin on her fingers. “That is what you want, isn’t it? To lose yourself in me?” He smiled, and his hand moved back, this time both of his hands rested on her jaw. 

Maybe he just wanted a distraction: They killed a hag, saved the Emerald Grove, and explored the Underdark – there was so much bottled-up stress that was in everyone. This’ll probably be the only night they get to feel something other than fear. People have different ways of releasing all this stress, and maybe this was his way of dealing with it. Luxia has met people like this and it was fine. She nodded in his hands. “Yes,” she whispered.

His smile turned more sly. “That’s what I thought.” His chuckle sent a shiver down her spine. “Now, how about I help you get comfortable.” Astarion began moving his hands around her body, starting with the blue corset compacting her, loosening it. Luxia sighed, now with her breasts freed from the confines of such an uncomfortable piece of clothing. She started undoing the buttons on her blouse, and soon, her chest was free. Astarion looked in awe.

A chill ran through the forest, making Luxia and Astarion’s nipples harden. Luxia hugged herself, covering her perky breasts in the process. Astarion laughed. “Don’t be afraid, little bunny. I have been waiting way too long to see your gorgeous body.”  

“It’s cold, Astarion,” Luxia whined as Astarion started loosening her pants, pulling them down with her underwear in the process. Luxia could still feel the chill, from head to the tip of her tail that started swaying more quickly than usual.

He laughs again as he loosens his own pants. “Darling, I will have you burning with desire from the inside out, hotter than the Hells itself.” When his pants and underwear were finally off, Luxia stared, trying not to linger for too long, but she was a bit obvious about it. He laughed. “You are just the cutest thing in all of Faerûn.” They finally did it, they kissed. And Gods her lips were just as delectable as he thought: soft with the subtle taste of mint and that sour wine. But, somehow, it tasted sweeter.

His tongue swiped her bottom lip, tasting that mint and wine, and plunging his tongue in. The moan that came out of her, sounded so heavenly, just as sweet as her laugh in the morning. He broke away, a string of saliva the only thing connecting them. Luxia looked into his eyes, red eyes staring back. She noticed that he had these moments of constantly looking around, probably so he could take something without anyone’s notice, but during camp, his eyes were always darting. Luxia felt important at the moment, but there was a feeling that… he was dissociating. 

“Astarion…” she whispered, her breath still taken away. “Are you okay?” she asked with genuine concern, her arms wrapped around his neck.

“Oh, I am more than ok.” His voice kept getting darker, his eyes trailing down to her lower half. With a sudden movement, Astarion lifted her up by her bottom, her legs suddenly locked around his waist. He laughed, carrying her and planting her back on one of the trees. His kisses continued, starting from her lovely lips to her neck, littered with freckles.

His lips grazed the puncture wounds, the same marks he made when she let him bite her. As he licked the wound, Luxia’s body shivered again. Inside of the chill was pleasure. “Fuck!” she exclaimed, her grip on his back grew tighter and more painful, her nails close to digging into him. “Fuckfuckfuckfuck!” She squealed under her breath. 

“Ah, so our innocent leader does have the mouth of a sailor,” he teased her. One hand left her bottom, his fingers masterfully massaging her folds and clit. Luxia gasped again. “I wonder what other cute noises you can make.” Astarion’s finger slips in, Luxia’s plan of desperately trying to keep her moans in has failed. Her body moved up and down Astarion’s body, her fingers moving around his back. Despite all the fights they’d been through together, his skin was quite soft, though she could feel prominent scars on his back – they didn’t feel random, they felt intentional. 

She laughs at Astarion’s little comment. Luxia gave him a slow and sensual kiss. “Really? Because I wonder what kind of cute noises you can make, too.” She leaned her full body forward, making Astarion lose his footing, stumble, and soon fall onto the ground. 

Now Luxia was on top, she thought her flirty little comment would ‘spice things up’, to try and one-up Astarion’s constant comments. But something still didn’t feel right, he was still staring, and his eyes didn’t seem to move to look at her body – not at her tail, freed from the tree, now wagging once again, not her hands on top of him, or even her blown-out white eyes, now filled with desire. Though he had a surprised expression when she ‘pushed him’ down, it immediately shifted to that damned smirk. Is he… getting any satisfaction from this?

Luxia smiled innocently, ready to suggest riding him, or maybe… she could go down on him? Get back at him? When she tries to move down to his lower half, Astarion stops her, gripping her by her shoulder. “Astarion?” she whispered, not sure what he wanted. Astarion through this whole situation didn’t communicate anything to her, he didn’t ask what she wanted, what he wanted. Body language can only go so far, especially when he looked like he was in a dazed state through the whole thing. 

Astarion’s sly smile became more toothy, and with the hand on her shoulder, he pushed her off of him. Luxia was pushed onto the ground, his arms trapped her underneath. “You think you’re shrewd, don’t you? Cheeky little pup,” he chuckled, looking at her shocked and blissed-out face. “Perhaps it’s time for the puppy to finally be punished.” 

He began rubbing himself up and down Luxia’s folds, now wet from Astarion’s previous escapade. He leaned his head down, kissing her neck softly. Even though he was a vampire, and technically undead, his body felt like it was on fire. His kisses felt like small embers hitting her neck, making her squeal and jump from it.

Astarion laughed, probably for the final time tonight. Simultaneously, he inserted himself quickly inside her and bit into her neck.  

Luxia moaned out, a mix of pain and pleasure. She wrapped her arms around his neck, Astarion’s thrusts were slow at first, probably because he was focusing on sucking Luxia’s blood. “Astarion stop~ I’m going to… pass out.” Her breath was being taken away, and she could feel her body getting weaker and weaker.

“Oh, darling~ Hold on for a little longer,” Astarion moaned out, his fangs finally out of her. His thrusts began getting harder, and the sound of slapping skin echoed into the woods as he sat up, holding her hips in place. Luxia’s hands scrambled, she had the instinct to hold onto his hands, the idea of her finger interlocking with his. When she moved her hands to his, to snake her fingers through, however, Astarion had different ideas. 

He lifted her legs, her ankles now resting on his shoulders. Astarion’s grip on her hips was steely, to the point it was starting to hurt. There was no room for her hands, so instead, she locked onto his wrists. His thrusts became faster, making Luxia more audible, her head snapped back from the pleasure. She started to beg. “Astarion, please~ I can feel it. Please, don’t stop~” she moaned out. The grip on his wrists, her nails were close to puncture his skin. “Please, hah~ Astarion!!” 

Luxia’s eyes were shut tight through the orgasm, her grip on his wrists finally let go, and what remained were small marks, thankfully there was no blood. She tried to open her eyes, the foggy outline of Astarion stretching. Luxia’s head started to hurt, her eyes slowly closed, and the cold embrace of the grass tickled her burning skin. Her breaths were heavy, trying to catch as much air as possible. Luxia let sleep take hold of her, thinking of Astarion holding her, as the world around her became muffled.

~~~

The sun’s rays shot through the branches onto Luxia’s body. Her eyes slowly opened and squinted at the new day upon her. She moaned out a yawn, stretching her legs, arms, back, and tail. Luxia rolled her neck as her vision cleared, and soon the image of Astarion appeared, bathing in the sunlight, his arms spread to take it all in. Astarion told her before that the tadpole allowed him to be in the sunlight without disintegrating. Luxia felt sorry for him – this was probably the first time Astarion got to bathe in sunlight in over 200 years.

She smiled at him, holding onto her knees. “You’re not going to stay and cuddle?” she asked, cheeky but also disappointed, hoping to hold onto someone. 

He inhaled, sighing. “You sleep light. I thought you would be exhausted after last night,” he commented. 

“Yeah, me too,” Luxia laughed it out, holding onto her bruised neck. Feeling the puncture wounds he left, a green glow emanated from her palm, healing the blood and wounds. She went back to a more serious tone, “Did you… enjoy it? You didn’t look like you were… all there.” Luxia said it with genuine concern, hoping he would understand it.

“I was holding back a little, it’s true. I didn’t want to lose control. Delicious as you were, I didn’t want to go too far.” Luxia blushed from the compliment, hiding her face in her knees. “Now, shall we go? I want to go before anyone else thanks me for saving their tails.” His tone changed, and he was quick to leave. Thankfully, Luxia was quick to stop him from leaving, wanting to talk to him more.

She now had a clearer view of the scars on his back. Just like Luxia theorized, the scars formed two circles of Infernal script. She paused, making sure she said the right words without offending him. “Wait, your scars… Where… How did you get them?” she asked in her curious and polite tone like always. It didn’t sound like she was fucked to the high Heavens last night. 

“It’s a poem, from Cazador. He considered himself quite the artist and used his slaves as a canvas. He composed and carved that one over the course of a night. He made… a lot of revisions as he went.” Astarion’s voice grew sad and cold. 

“Gods, I… I can’t imagine.” Luxia stood up as Astarion turned around to face her, stretching out her legs once more. As she walked over to Astarion, she could see the marks more clearly… it was written with a very familiar script. “Why is it written in Infernal?” she asked plainly.

This took Astarion by surprise, This took Astarion by surprise, how fast she was to jump to that conclusion, He was flabbergasted. “Infernal? I… who knows? The bastard was insane.” 

“You know, I could read it for you,” Luxia suggested, eager to help him in any way possible.

His eyebrows raised in surprise at her eagerness. “I… I suppose it couldn’t hurt.” Astarion was hesitant at first, Astarion was hesitant at first, but he allowed her to look at his scars. 

Luxia skimmed through the script, inching closer to him. She could piece together certain words that were familiar, but they looked to be random words strung together. “Oaths… fires below,” she whispered, her hand reaching out to maybe feel the words, but Astarion could feel the heat of her hand coming closer, and he stepped away from her, clearly uncomfortable.

“And? What does it say?” Astarion sounded embarrassed and insecure.

“This isn’t a poem. It might be part of a devil’s pact,” Luxia explained. “The word ‘oath’ is definitely a dead giveaway, but other than that, I can’t make out the other words.”

“Really? A tiefling not able to understand Infernal?” he scoffed.

Luxia pouted. “I’m sorry, but did you hear any of the tieflings speaking infernal in the Emerald Grove?” she snapped back.

Astarion paused for a moment, clearly embarrassed. “... A little?”

She laughed it off. “It’s fine. There were no other tieflings living in Karador besides me and my parents. I do know Elvish and Gnomish!” 

“Yes, because that’ll help us in the long run,” he spoke sarcastically, he turned around, not interested in this new information, “Still though, an infernal pact? What was that bastard up to?”

“If he did make a devil’s pact, he’s more dangerous than we thought.” 

“More dangerous than you thought, perhaps. I’ve never had any doubts. But if this is part of a contract, it must be powerful. Or valuable. Or both.” Astarion sighed. “No wonder he wants me back. What have I run off with…?” 

“Does Cazador know Infernal? Did he ever write in it before?” 

“No. I could have missed it, of course, but I doubt it. Cazador was only figuratively hellish - there were never any devils hanging about the crypt. Whatever he’s left carved in my flesh, it’s a mystery to both of us.”

“If you’re comfortable, when we get back to camp, I can get my journal and write out the signs. I can probably find a book that translates Infernal text.”

“... Thank you, that would be… nice.” Astarion relaxed, he picked up his shirt and Luxia’s clothes, handing them to her.

[gio-cosmo]

ooh, 14, 21 and 22?

Hiii ^^

14. Worst game you’ve ever played?

ooo this one’s tough…realistically, the worst game I’ve ever played is probably some low-budget knockoff wii game I played as a kid or something LMFAOO but I feel like that’s a predictable answer on my part. I feel like I’ve had pretty good luck with games I end up playing, I’m really picky so usually I just. Refuse to pick up a game at all if it doesn’t look interesting lmfaoo. I will say though….the two games I most regret purchasing are Fire Emblem Engage & Pokemon Scarlet 😭 they aren’t the worst games ever by any means but. They were both 60 bucks and I never play them. Very devastating for my measly bank account 😢 ALSO tbf I feel like the reason I dislike Fire Emblem Engage is bc I want another Fire Emblem game to kind of go along the same layout of Three Houses…not a direct copy obviously but Three Houses was just so good. It’s so good in fact that any time I play any other Fire Emblem game that ISN’T Three Houses I’m like….🫤 LMFAOO which I know isn’t a very good mindset for me to have and I should stop comparing them so heavily but…alas. BUT I suppose I can’t even really give Engage a proper rating since I haven’t finished it. Idk I just didn’t really care for the storyline or characters but that’s just me personally.

21. A game you thought you wouldn’t like, but ended up loving?

There’s actually quite a few where this has happened!! There’s been a plethora of games I’ve seen on Steam or in a store and I’ll look it over and be like “ehhh this really doesn’t look like my thing…but it has good ratings…and it’s under my recommended…” and then I’ll usually set it off to the side, and once I get really incredibly bored I’ll cave in and buy it just to give me something to do LMAOO. Needy Streamer Overload was one where I was very skeptic about at first, but I actually really ended up enjoying it (I especially love the soundtrack!) and also World of Horror! I remember seeing people say it was boring and the game mechanics looked so overwhelming so I put off buying it forever, but I finally got it a few weeks ago and it’s probably my fav horror game of all time now. I’m mentally kicking myself for avoiding it so avidly for so long! I don’t find it boring at all, I love games that are built to be replayed as many times as you want. It was funny though bc when I first started playing I was so confused..had me staring at the screen like ☹️ LMFAOO I WAS ACTUALLY BEFUDDLED. But after a few playthroughs it ends up being easy to understand which I am very thankful for. ALSO. Slay the Princess!! Another one I avoided for a while for..honestly idek why. But oh my GODDD I LOVE SLAY THE PRINCESS WOOO YAYYY 🎉 slay the princess honestly was such a crazy surreal experience idek how to describe it. It’s so awesome. It’s coming out on the Switch w a 200 dollar collectors addition thingy and oh my god. Bro. I am DEVASTATED at my lack of funds 😭😭 I actually have to put it out of my mind bc if I think abt it excessively I get really sad 💔 ANYWAYYYSS SHOUTOUT TO SLAY THE PRINCESS 🗣️🗣️ so wonderfully made, beautiful artwork, stunning music…omg. Also grotesque at times but in a way that’s just so fundamentally different and unique? If that makes sense? It’s all so meaningful and connected and they manage to express so many emotions throughout a playthrough. I’ve got every achievement and I’m so happy I gave it a shot :) OH. Also One Shot! One Shot is great…oh my goodness. Woaw. This is making me realize how overly skeptical I am about every game I ever purchase in the history of ever LMFAOO why am I so overly critical 💀 like why do I always have to mull it over for months smh 😭

22. Do you watch any other gamers?

As of right now, no. Not routinely, anyways. I used to be obsessed with watching YouTube game playthroughs as a kid, but I’m not really all that into it anymore. However! I will say that what got me into the Persona franchise back when I was a 5th grade child (?!?!??) is Kubz Scout’s playthrough of it on YouTube! I watched him tons as a kid (someone should’ve been monitoring my internet access for sure 💀) and I still watch some of his gaming videos every now and then. So. Shoutout to Kubz Scout’s for introducing me to my favorite game franchise everrr!! 🗣️🗣️ absolutely crazy that I was watching Persona playthroughs in elementary school though LMFAOO every time I think abt it I’m like … where were my parents at !! 😭

[lemonthepotato]

I Understand Goodbye Volcano High Now: A Short, Positive Review (Rambling)

When I first learned about this game, it was while watching a Dumbsville video on Life Is Strange 3, another game I enjoy. I have a peculiar interest in watching critiques of things I like. After watching his review, I found the concept and ending of this game to be humorously flawed. Intrigued, I decided to experience it firsthand. However, after only ten minutes, I found myself losing interest. I shared my thoughts on Discord, stating, and I quote:

“So I heard about this game called Goodbye Volcano High, and I opened a playthrough on YouTube to watch, got 10 minutes in and got bored. Read a review of it, and apparently it’s a story about a group of friends, emotional drama, blah blah blah, high school shit. And the ending, no matter your choices? THEY GET WIPED OUT BY AN ASTEROID. DID I MENTION ALL THE CHARACTERS ARE DINOSAURS. Oh that’s hilarious. I could get some ironic enjoyment if the dialogue didn’t feel so… stiff to listen to. I love it. Edit: Ok basically I’m 50/50 on this being either the best game or worst game ever. Imagine sitting through hours of choices about relationships and dynamics and then they get hit by a fucking asteroid. Edit: never mind this game is peak.”

So how did I change my mind only 40 minutes in? Let’s go on the journey. Who knows? Maybe YOU will change your mind.

Please note: I haven't personally played the game yet. I typically prefer to watch a playthrough before diving in, particularly for narrative-driven games like Life Is Strange or The Quarry. While it may seem unconventional, this approach allows me to provide insights on the story rather than technical aspects.

In fact, I will share the notes I took while watching.

At the 40-minute mark, I found the game to be peak during the tarot reading. The presence of foreshadowing indicated that the game had a deeper message to convey. I will admit though, the designs took some getting used to, the forward-facing Fang was a bit overwhelming. Perhaps the art team could have toned down the dinosaur features while maintaining their overall essence. It felt somewhat uncanny, (although I must admit it grew on me by the end.)

I appreciate the little moments in this game, like how Fang's small mishap with the MIDI controller caused a strong reaction. Pal, there’s a thing called “handle the situation with a thorough and careful cleaning rather than a light rub.” I love them, my little over dramatic iconic blorbo.

Massive kudos and praise to the talented artist responsible for the captivating visuals in this game. You’re a champ. Now, for the animation itself. Personally, I believe that animation is an incredibly challenging field, so I refrain from criticizing animators. The exceptional artwork compensates for any perceived shortcomings in animation, in my opinion. While the dinosaur aesthetic may not be my personal preference, I admire the creativity behind it. And you know, a criticism…

I often come across, is the criticism that Naomi's crush on Fang wasn't evident. However, personally, I believe there are several instances of foreshadowing that hint at their connection. Even if I were unaware of the plot twist, I might have still guessed it. It is amusing, though, that Fang is comfortable conversing with an unknown number.

Anyway, why do I cough and get wheezy when I eat?

Why are all the songs in this game so goood? They cut off suddenly sometimes, but still. Are they on Spotify? I’d love to listen to these. Honestly, I feel this games predictions isn’t too far off. If a meteor were to attack us, we would act non-chalant. Make memes. Older people wouldn’t care or comfort their younger kids. Everyone would pretend it’s okay.

While it may be, and probably just is coincidental, the presence of an intersex flag pattern on Trish's shirt in the F&F game has led me to a new headcanon about Trish. <3 Look, I just think it’s worth noting that intersex individuals often lack representation beyond being included as an "I" in acronyms. So even if it’s probably coincidence, I like it.

So it looks like this is the big reveal, with Naomi making the same dress the mysterious number showed Fang. And it seems like Reed is really down about the comet situation, and now it's all coming to a head. But the thing is, what can they even do? It's like no one wants to take action or even acknowledge it. I'm not an optimist, but there has to be something we as a species could do if an asteroid was heading towards Earth.

The tarot earlier was forgotten about, which is a shame, because I thought it was going to be explained. I forgot what it was so I can’t even google it. But yeah “death” isn’t good.

Perhaps I'm biased towards Fang, but saying "fuck off" doesn’t really sound that severe when Naomi was kinda being a bit of a dick. While Naomi had a valid point, she also seemed dismissive of others' aspirations. Personally, I might have responded more harshly in that situation, which is why I struggle with friendships haha… Additionally, I didn't fully agree with Trisha placing all the blame on Fang for not understanding her feelings. Fang can't read minds, but it's a complicated situation given their denial. But still- unlike Trisha, Naomi’s outburst seems… sudden? Less justifiable? Maybe I wasn’t reading in between the lines enough. At least everyone made up in the end. Coolio.

Wow, that ending. My interpretation is as follows. It’s better to be together than alone in times of hardship. Life is fleeting, and we could lose it any-day. We need to live for the moment, not for the future. We need to live our dreams, not just wait for them to happen. When destiny fucks you, you fuck it harder, essential.

Overall, a sincere 5/5 game. The problems are so little for me, and I say that as someone who criticises EVERYTHING. My only complaints is that MY ship wasn’t validated /j. Nah, I have very few.

Pry my ship from my cold dead hands, essentially.

Ranking:

Story: 4/5

Art: 5/5

Game Mechanics: Again, I only watched a walkthrough, so I can’t comment on that.

Pacing: 3/5.

Overall: 5/5.

I don’t normally do reviews. But well, this was an exception. I did use an AI to make my points more professional sounding, but most of what I wrote was from the heart, raw.

Why do people hate this game? It’s what I call the High Guardian Spice Effect. People get a bad first impression, so judge the final product too harshly. Granted, I think HGS isn’t as good as GVH, tbh. I thought HGS was okay. Good, even. Not great, flawed in many ways. But it was pretty average. But GVH? I think it’s a worse case. While HGS had a questionable trailer, GVH didn’t really have many red flags. People just didn’t like that it had anthropomorphic gay people in it, so judged it because of that.

I went in thinking I would hate this, but I loved it. I can’t wait to see what KO-OP has in store for the future.

Because I only watched a playthrough and haven’t played it for myself, I don’t know how much different dialogue options affect the story. I guess I’ll have to see for myself, one day. For now? I’m going to give my recommend/don’t recommend status. If you like story driven games, small interactions, slow-pacing (too slow for some, which I understand) and want a surprisingly wholesome apocalypse story? Check it out. If not? Understandable. Not every game is for everyone, and no game is without flaw. Even though I enjoyed GVH, I don’t regret watching that review I did. Didn’t I tell you? I love watching media I like getting criticised. It gives me a lot to think about. But I just think the story works for me. And while the story may have a “sad ending,” it’s the journey that matters. Can’t that be said for life itself? The meteor may have hit, but it’s everything in between that matters.

Although, yes, portraying it like your choices impact the ending may have not been the best decision. Then again, “nothing you do matters” is probably a bit hard to sell. Anyway, that’s all I have to say. I’m gonna go do my Duolingo lesson (2099 streak baby) Feel free to tell me I’m wrong though. Or right. I guess.

[hows-my-handwriting]

Is This a Bad Dream? (spiderverse!LN au)

so..... i have this.... au... right........

lets be real i have too many aus

its Little Nightmares but Spiderverse characters.

BEFORE YOU VOTE: read below the cut i just want to make this intro part short lol. whats below the cut is very long btw so. you have been warned XD

SO. with the recent (not so recent anymore but at the time it was recent lol) announcement of ln3 i lost my mind and went back to watch playthroughs of ln2 and got my googily little gears turning.

im thinking about this very much like an actual little nightmares game if not a little longer than the average game. (eg. 10 chapters instead of the usual 5). the main playable character is miles, and your party is the rest of the kids, mainly gwen, but with pav and hobie to help with puzzles or specific skills.

concept designs for the party + margo and peni. (might change miles and pavitr's designs cuz not sure i like them.

i have most of the bosses figured out and the general pace and timeline of the story but setting and the final two bosses are giving me problems.

anyway here's an excerpt:

It was always night time. 

Miles could sit in his window and watch the sky all day, but it would always stay dark. The lights outside were bright enough so he could see, but the sky was always gray. Or sometimes black. He leans against the glass sometimes just to try to see the sky clearer. 

Sometimes the sky would come down to him. The clouds would crawl out of the sky and walk on the streets with footsteps that sounded like the pitter patter of his own little feet. It would walk on the roof sometimes too. He could hear its feet stomping on the sharp shingles. He wondered if it hurt. 

The ceiling would cry if the sky stomped on it too much. Drops of water would run out of the holes in the white paint and into the buckets littered around his room. There were only two, one was empty right now, the other was full. They were lovely little things- well, they were actually quite big. Miles climbed inside them sometimes, perfectly sized to curl up on their rounded bottoms. 

He drank his house’s tears sometimes. He got thirsty a lot, even though he never really left the room. He would sometimes get a little tray from the lady in the wall. She came up every so often and gave him a tray with some food and a glass cup full of water. 

She was a nice lady. She didn’t talk though. So he didn’t either.

He never left his room. She had her own door, but every time he tried to follow, he couldn’t open the door. There was a bigger door. He remembered at one time, people had come out of it. They would use their large warm hands to lift him up onto the big bed in the corner. They would pat his head and tuck him in with the warm blanket and fluffy pillow. They would speak to him too, in words he didn’t understand. 

He remembered long brown hair and kind eyes. He remembered a stubbly beard and warm smile. He remembered feeling warm when they were looking at him, feeling like he could stay where he was forever. 

But that was a long time ago. He gave up on counting. He had started counted the times the sky went dark. The lines were scratched into the post at the foot of the bed. When those lines filled up all the space, he started counting the times the ceiling cried. But he lost track. 

He was lonely now.

He couldn’t reach the big door. No matter how hard he tried. He tried jumping for it. He tried to climb up the wardrobe leg. But he never got high enough. So he stayed. He stayed on the floor of this room, watching the water fill up the buckets again and again. 

The walls were covered in color. Miles drew all over them. He had crayons that the lady in the wall had brought him one time. It was a big box, filled with more colors than Miles could name. He drew on the dry wallpaper, filling all of the gray space with shapes and scribbles. He had filled up all of the space he could reach, wearing down so many of the crayons down to their paper wrappings. So he moved to the floor. He filled up the floor too, drawing himself adventures that took him far away from the crying house. He drew himself running up to the sky and giving it hugs whenever it cried. 

The floor was full of color too now. 

He sat on the window that was nailed shut, and listened to the footsteps of the sky. He was happy here. He was . . .

jazz hands.

[macgyvertape]

BG3 Act 1 thoughts and liveblog part 1

With super long games like this (finished in about 110 hours) I like to take notes to 1) remind me of stuff I did at the beginning of the game and 2) to enjoy looking back on because I'm not doing another playthrough for a few years.

Going to suffer through the spider and half spider people since the mods don’t fully work yet and they disable achievements

Going for dark urge first playthough along the lines of Durge is guard dog to those they imprint on and I knew I was rolling a bard, so I watched clips of Felix RedvsBlue as a good starting point for my character roleplay. Starting character quote “At the end of the day, if I'm stronger than you and if I'm faster than you, then I can kill you! And that's better than anything money can buy”

Trying Not to be a “charismatic mercenary with gruff exterior and a heart of gold” 

I killed Commander Zhalk in the beginning area with viscous mockery. True bard experience

Passed the perception check of Astarion pulling a knife, some fun dialgoue options with him, and its a delight to hear his tone of voice really change

I can’t tell if Gale is just flirty/horny or really just dedicated to the facade of being surface deep and a braggart to mask his secrets. Seems both and though he seems full of himself I enjoy this kind of companion who lies about things

I think I like the inspiration mechanic, I got a point for killing the mindflayer “leaving it to burn”

I’m really having to force myself to be “that asshole” and ask people to pay me for helping them

Got another inspirational event for killing the cultists lol. The game gives me a lot of options to talk about my dark urge but I really want to play that close to the chest

I don’t really know about pre-rewrite version of Wyll but he really seems a good alignment nice dude, and unfortunately I want to be almost evil/neutral Dark Urge.

Had to reload to save Nadira, I’m struggling with interrupting actions outside of turn by turn combat

Rapheal sure makes an entrance, my character turned him down but didn’t attack since he seemed so powerful. Keep my options open but it seems like there are a lot of options there

Gale is fucking lucky I had a extra piece of enchanted gear so I didn’t lose my very nice sword. I also feel like I’m throwing away some approval points by my character questioning him but I’m trying to play someone who isn’t altruistic or too trusting.

Ok I failed several perception checks for a kid stealing my stuff then I caught the last one, but then the kid ran off and everyone in the hideout ran out. I’m not sure if anything was still stolen from me or if this is a a bug 

RIP Alfira, was not expecting that from the dark urge. I chose to confess to the others, if my character is murdering people in my sleep only fair to explain and not hide

My character told Karlach to tear the place apart as catharsis for being hunted, and it was fun to see that scripted sequence play out

Gale is telling me his unstable magic backstory, but he’s doing it at camp so there is no reaction for anyone else during the conversation despite him saying he wanted to tell everyone. (edit: Not sure if a bug considering he also referenced being mind whammied by the Almighty before that had occurred in the goblin camp). Also deeply ironic he talks about understanding if my character wants him to leave since he’s a literal timebomb, but this is happening a day after D!urge pc killed someone brutally

Also incredibly funny Lae’zel is now interested in my character, and will sleep with me considering her dialogue post D!urge murder

Wyll gets turned by his patron demon into a semi horned being, ok so I guess just seeing what he looks like shows the obvious decision you made with Karlach

Wtf is up with Wyll, that he’s so proud he made his pact when it was just made obvious he was sent on basically an assassination mission. All his talk of “saving innocents” wonder how many innocents he’s killed from bad intel

The trifling child gang hideout is very bugged

Perception check for the swamp reveal was really cool

I haven’t been taking many long rests so I just now got the Astarion vampire one. Fun to see all the options if you let him kill you, but I save scummed to let him really go for then stop for roleplaying purposes 

I actually realized I was right by the vampire hunter so I loaded a save where Astarion hadn’t revealed himself yet and fun how different it goes, he will kill the vampire hunter out of combat to keep his secret if you don’t intervene and that’s very fun. It also gets brought up when he tries to feed on you for the first time at camp, but I haven't found a dialogue option where you can say “weird coincidence the guy called you by the same name”

Got the scene at the goblin area where the party would get mind whammied if not for the mysterious artifact. I’m really trying to pick a moment when my character would go from “more people is better odds” to “ride or die for certain characters” and I think this is a good point along the line of “oh if these people aren’t with me then they’ll immediately be soldiers against me”

I really enjoy how Astarion treats you like a fool if you say he’ll be safe because you would protect him from Cazador, in the cliche all power player character here to fix the companion’s problems. I mean my character still said it of course because that was my favorite of the 3 options at that point. Interesting I only now can ask about what offer Raphael made, like that was hours and hours ago but guess it needed specific dialogue flags 

No other game has given me an S&M scene like this for a stat buff where its fun and horny. I love Gale’s “well whatever you’re into”. The first time I did the scene (pun intended) Astarion was standing a little too far away, so I only got Shadowhearts dialogue, but its much better with them talking back and forth

My character told Shadowheart she doesn't care that she worships Shar but more along the lines of not that she likes Shar its just she don’t really care about religion 

I am majorly arachnophobic so I just covered up the screen and freed the spiders so the goblins would kill them

My character asked the priestess to meet alone then assassinated her with Astarian cloaked to get an extra out of combat turn. I expect to do this setup a lot more

I found a Selunite outpost and went down there, then reloaded since that seems way too big an area to explore right now

Setting up Minthara to be doublecrossed was a great tactical way to clear out the goblin camp, especially since I’m out of short rests

Killed Dror Ragzlin with barrelmancy, aka stole a bunch of explosive barrels and put them around him and the crowd and then exploded them from the rafters above

Note to self in however many hours when I get to Baldur’s Gate, see how Ronan’s apprenticeship faired (I bet not well)

Astarion calling my character darling and saying he’s going to like me and it's clear I like him too, definitely feels like he’s rolling to seduce and being a bit manipulative so she will like him (tangent: Margaery Tyrell was one of my favorite GoT characters kinda similar vibes) 

My character was upfront about enjoying it but very funny to say that a less trusting person would be suspicious and have him vouch that the only thing on his mind was carnal lust. I tried the immediate agreement then reloaded and I love that his response feels very different like he’s succeeded in a seduction check. 

I made my dream visitor a hot masc teifling and there is big horny energy with his scenes

Got the “morally acceptable massacre” for defending the grove. I created some barricades out of crates, blew up the sappers with fire arrows and then the enemies were just trapped at the bottom as I killed them with archery. Took a few tries for barricade positioning but then was easy and none of the tieflings died

I’d like to think my D!urge character would love massacring the goblins, in the same way she enjoyed getting the Knoll leader to kill the others then kill themselves brutally. Sort of a “I just love killin’” character approach, but my D!urge character dislikes that the Dark Urge takes away her control. 

My character absorbed Minthara’s tadpole at the prompting, I figured my character would be all about gaining power she could control. Astarion certainly had a very camp approval option. 

I then used 4 Ithilid powers across Astarion, Gale, and myself really just to get rid of the menu icon being bright red and distracting

Oh wow I completely missed doing Kagha’s secrets until now, so I could tell Halsin but not much else happens 

Didn’t expect my character could talk Lae’zel into using the tadpole powers and make a good persuasion attempt with Kalrach, and then persuaded everyone else. Playing a charismatic character is fun, she is manipulative af

[yellowsugarwords]

Hi! I'm 90% sure your request are open; Can I request headcannons of Lee and Kennys friendship for twdg? I'm not sure how you played the game but, I played as kennys friend. Thanks, and Buh bye!

I’ve played it a few different times but always try to be Kenny’s friend. unless he’s being a dumbass, then I’ll tell him to calm down lol

first game I played as his friend. second playthrough I was a little stricter with him. what a lad

enjoy!!

Normally, Kenny wouldn’t have been friend’s with Lee.

They didn’t run in any of the same circles,

Socially, politically, economically,

But their new world had changed him.

For the better? He didn’t know.

Probably for the worse.

But Lee was an exception.

Every hot-head needed someone level-headed around.

Lee was his level-headed companion.

As odd as it sounded.

Lee was, after all, the one arrested for murder.

And a crime of passion, at that.

But Lee always balanced Kenny out.

Always kept him in line.

Even if Kenny didn’t always listen.

“What’s going on?” Lee asked one day,

Kenny’s head down,

Absent-mindedly staring at the pavement.

He was on watch duty, but his mind was elsewhere.

Kenny snapped back to reality.

He stood, acting embarrassed.

Lee placed his hands on his hips and smeared.

“I won’t tell anyone you were slacking on the job.”

Kenny smirked back. “Lilly would kick my ass.”

They chuckled to themselves.

That she definitely would.

“I can tell something’s on your mind.” Lee continued,

His sincerity returning to the forefront.

“So, what’s going on?”

Kenny hesitated, then looked away,

Rubbing at the back of his neck in embarrassment.

He hated talking about his feelings.

“It’s just,” he shrugged. “Racing.”

Lee nodded, but didn’t move,

Knowing Kenny needed a minute.

“It’s just been hard,” he continued.

His hands fell to his hips.

He had a tendency to fidget when nervous.

“Losing Duck was fuckin’ hard.” He finally said.

He shook his head and sighed,

Lowering his gaze.

Lee nodded in understanding.

Lee was always patient with Kenny.

He wasn’t good with his emotions, but Lee could tell.

He was patient with Kenny.

“I can imagine, man.” Lee said, frowning.

So, Lee pardoned himself for a moment.

When he returned, it was with two beers.

“Don’t tell Lilly,” Lee hushed, “they’re for special occasions.”

Kenny chuckled and accepted a bottle.

“Slick thinking.”

Lee knew Kenny didn’t want to talk.

He just wanted someone to sit with him.

That’s what he was here to do.

Whenever Lee was getting out of sorts, Kenny was there to back him up.

“Lilly, no.” Kenny stated firmly.

The argument of the day was on food rations.

The group wanted someone else to be in charge -

Namely, Carley -

But Lilly refused.

“None of you guys know how to survive out here.” Lilly scoffed.

“Stop making this harder than it needs to be,” Carley sighed,

Her fingers squeezing the bridge of her nose.

Lilly always gave her a headache.

“Lilly, this is what the group wants.” Lee insisted.

Lilly shot a death glare his way.

“This is a vote, not a choice.”

“Oh shut up, lee. You don’t know anything.”

“Hey!” Kenny snapped instantly.

He was furious.

“You better step the fuck down, young lady.”

“What did you say to my daughter?” Larry snapped, looking in.

“I said that your daughter better lay off.”

Lee coffee, not intimidated by Larry.

“This is a group, not a dictatorship. Your daughter better learn that.”

Lee gave a faint smile from behind Kenny,

Thankful that he always had his back.

No matter what, they always tried to do chores and shifts together.

One of them on watch,

The other surveying the property,

Chatting whenever they passed by.

They always went hunting and wood gathering together,

And when they had free time, they killed it together.

Drinking or chatting,

Playing a stupid card game or watching the kids play.

“Can you watch Clementine for me for a few?”

“You know it,” Kenny would always say.

After all, Lee always did the same for him.

With his precious Duck.

During group meetings the two would snicker at the back,

Nudging each other’s arms and whispering.

Whenever spotted, they faked sincerity,

Trying to say something that would make them innocent.

It never worked.

The group had long since accepted that this was Kenny and Lee;

It would always be how they were together.

𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘮 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 💌���️♡

[badboypoirot]

Having watched Weathering With You -- (spoilers beneath the cut)

I've come to realize my absolute favorite premise in a romance work is a combination of Rescue Romance + Cynic/Idealist Duo + Always Save the Girl (bonus points for extra angst) + and, very specifically, subverting Heroic Sacrifices.

Fitting these to a tee and probably my first exposures to these: Final Fantasy X and Prince of Persia (2008). UGH I need more!

Along those lines, I finally understand why people would choose to save Bae over Bay in Life Is Strange 1. I was so shocked to see that the choices were split evenly; I was like, "Why would anyone ever choose Chloe?!"

When I was thinking about what other works might fit the bill above, I immediately thought of LiS1, but then I asked myself why I had such a visceral reaction to the ending whereas I loved what Hodaka did in Weathering With You. Some thoughts spring to mind:

Max and Chloe had zero chemistry. (This is my FlynnRiderSwords.jpg opinion, especially as a lesbian.) Maybe it was just how my first and only playthrough unfolded, but I was much more interested (and made Max more so) in Warren and Katie. Plus I thought Chloe was an asshole.

Sacrificing Arcadia Bay felt like a betrayal because of how personal it was. By the end of the game, you've really come to know the town and its residents. Choosing Chloe means classmates at school without homes, the local diner getting destroyed, and, very possibly, characters that you like dying. Obviously what happens to Tokyo is catastrophic and of a far greater magnitude than a small hometown, but most of the residents we see outside of the main cast are, well, not that great. A thug tries to force Hina into hostess work, Hodaka gets beaten up SO MANY TIMES, and they, as runaways, get treated with suspicion and hostility instead of compassion or concern. It's no wonder Hodaka would choose Hina over Tokyo when Hina has been the best thing that's happened to him. It also helps that in the epilogue we see that Tokyo has adapted and the other characters are doing well.

Despite the above, I'd still like to revisit Life Is Strange. Maybe I'll have a more sympathetic view on Chloe.

On a separate note, the idea of a perpetually raining Tokyo made me think about that Ray Bradbury story, "All Summer in a Day."

Imagine being a resident. It's been an extremely rainy season. You're a little sad because you don't get to hang outside as much as you used to. Your outfits are planned around the rain, and your cute clothes you got on sale some months ago have been sitting unused. Then things get weird. The temperatures are dropping, and it's nowhere close to fall. A huge typhoon hits with harder and heavier rain than you've ever seen in your life. They're calling it a "once-in-a-hundred-years" event. The government is ordering an evacuation, and you worry over your pets, your job, and your elderly parents. The weather, somehow, only gets worse, and it's like the world is ending.

Then the sun appears. It's been months, and it's finally here. You relish in the sunshine, for once not minding the sweat beading down your face. The rain is finally gone, and visions of a reclaimed summer fill your head: barbecue parties, the outdoors, beach trips.

Then the rain returns. And it never leaves. It's been three years.

How would it feel, having lived through that moment? You were there when the sun showed up for the last time. How would you explain the sun to small children who have only known the rain their entire lives? Would it be pity, believing that these kids will never experience a sunny day?

Or -- to lean into the theme -- would it be guilt, knowing that it was society's indolence and greed that drove this climate crisis?

Edited to add: I’ve read up on how Shinkai didn’t intend to make any political commentary on climate change, just that he was inspired by it. Ray Bradbury didn’t intend for Fahrenheit 451 to be about censorship either.

[bonemarrowbestfriend]

alright no one asked but here are my final opinions on the kids. obviously spoilers for the quarry ahead

jacob: super mixed feelings. idiot who ruins everything, but most realistically 18-20yo in his behavior. makes stupid mistakes because he thinks with his dick, but also openly cries and shows fear often which i appreciate. didn’t like how he tried to force emma into a relationship at all, but the “i wish i could tell you i’m sorry; i don’t know what to do” lines were deeply satisfying for me. he was also actually funny to me in a couple scenes which is more than i can say for some of the others. “hhhngng skill”

emma: liked her, then didn’t like her, then was mostly distracted by her awful dialogue and strange mouth animation, not that that’s her fault. i think i understand her to an extent from her conversations with abi—she believes her talent and therefore her value lies in being entertaining, so everything she does has to be some kind of spectacle. unfortunately, it just wasn’t the kind of spectacle i found fun to watch, i.e. flirting with someone despite not reciprocating their feelings, creating drama where it wasn’t necessary, etc

kaitlyn: easily one of my favorite characters. i don’t find her funny at all, but just as it was with emma, that’s more the writers’ fault than anything. regardless, once the lighthearted tone of the night finally dropped and shit hit the fan, i liked her character infinitely more. she’s so clever!! and i love how handy she is. honestly many of the hacketteers wouldn’t have survived if it hadn’t been for her taking the reigns when necessary. what a total badass—and i’d say a semi realistic one, who still exhibits fear and panic

ryan: love this kid. everyone in-game seems to think he’s mysterious and brooding but he’s actually mostly just awkward and shy—at least that’s how i read him. and even though i saw other people getting annoyed with him for pushing back against laura at first, i really admired his loyalty and his sticking to his personal morals until he couldn’t anymore. he helped her in the end anyway, isn’t that telling enough that he ultimately does what needs to be done? also love the headcanon that he’s autistic, i definitely see it.

dylan: right up my alley. slightly annoying smartass? check. actually quite genuine and kind? check. secret genius? fuckin check babe. hard for me to pick a favorite scene of his; i enjoyed watching him interact with the others regardless of who he was with. maybe that’s because i think his dialogue sounds the most naturally human? at least in the playthroughs i observed. i’m also a bit embarrassed to admit i actually found him pretty funny, but let me know if that’s just favoritism lol

abi: sweetheart, but pretty one-note to me. i admired her kindness towards the other characters but i spent most of her screentime feeling bad for her. i think she’s very cute and would’ve been open to seeing more from her, though i suppose i understand why she fell to the wayside a little bit. not everyone needs to be a fearless badass, i can appreciate her role of needing more protection than the others. she felt the most like a typical 18-20yo girl to me.

nick: i guess he seemed like a sweet kid before shit went south for him. obviously i enjoyed watching his behavior change from “baby deer” to “cause for concern” over the course of his transformation. his… let’s call it “food aggression” over abi was incredibly uncomfortable and delightfully creepy to me. i was glad when she pushed him away of course, i just appreciated seeing the progression. besides that i didn’t particularly care for him one way or the other.

max: not gonna lie i love this dude. i unironically find him funny, i appreciate that he wasn’t overly skeptical of laura when she was scared in the woods, and even when he snapped at her he apologized right away calmed himself down. i also liked that he was primarily the one who needed saving. his takes never missed he was always right, they should’ve just gone to the motel and leaving a voicemail is absolutely not the same as calling ahead. love u puppy boy

laura: took me a hot min but i did in fact warm up to her a bit. obviously the mess she got them into was largely avoidable, but seeing as this is a horror game, i won’t fault her for that. i can even admire her stubbornness for the sake of character depth. i also liked her intelligence and resourcefulness, and sort of enjoyed watching her grow more ruthless towards the hacketts in order to save max. corruption in the name of love is what horror is all about baby

[pangolin-404]

OKAY just finished watching a playthrough and since this is One (1) playthrough and these are my First Thoughts about everything it’s not perfect, but here are my initial thoughts after watching Security Breach:

First, visual-related stuff:

Idk if it’s SupperHorrorBro getting an early copy or what, but it’s rough around the edges on a technical level. The laser misses the patrol bots half the time. Animatronics spawn into existence. From watching alone, there are so many of those security robots and they just look infuriating to deal with. It’s impossible to tell without playing it myself etc etc but I think less of them would be an improvement.

The lighting is wonderful, the models are wonderful, the animation is spectacular. Graphics are just *chefs kiss* perfect in every way

AND NOW. THE STORY: (oh my god it’s so Much. where do I start?)

It’s not explained why Freddy gets more scuffed as time goes by.

Near the beginning, a Marionette-like creature scuttles down a wall as Gregory and Freddy head Down Below. This is never elaborated on. bro what was that. all the service robots have wheels. why does that have legs. did it have legs?

The Daycare Attendant is called Sun/Moon. However, on posters they’re called Sundrop/Moondrop. This isn’t explained but I’m convinced they’re “medications” given to children. Moondrop to help them sleep?? Sundrop to???? Keep them awake????? What do the -drops mean. please they’re my favorite character

Freddy mentions how they used to have a bunny animatronic, but don’t anymore. And he does not elaborate on this.

There’s that fazz-juice thing found in presents that probably does something, but I have no idea what it’s for.

What’s the point of upgrading Freddy? I’m coming out of this questioning Freddy’s sentience, if he’s possessed, a self-aware AI, or just a super advanced non-sentient program, but either way, I feel bad about Gregory tearing apart other animatronics and lying to his face about where he got the upgrades. They hardly even serve a purpose?? And Freddy clearly considers them his friends and is worried about them??

we’re just not gonna talk about those Princess Quest arcade games huh. just gonna leave that there

All of the rides seemed out of order. At the raceway, Freddy mentioned there was an evacuation. Something happened, and in a recording, someone mentioned something happened to children. But it’s not really explained what happened, why the rides are all shut down.

Why do things get all sparkly and blue when Moon’s out? If it was Freddy’s vision signaling it’s funny moon guy time, I’d understand, but even when Gregory’s out and about, it’s like that. I suppose a similar question could be brought up with Vanny’s static-y aura, but I put that up to her rancid vibes. still makes me wonder.

At the end (of the bad ending?), Freddy openly acknowledges two things: Disappearances and Vanny. How does he know about these things when he didn’t even see Vanny the first time she skipped on by? Hell, even I don’t know what he’s on about with the disappearances! I still don’t know what Vanny’s deal is! She looks like she’s kidnapping kids! Maybe? (This is my biggest complaint since it’s a straight-up plothole)

Also, Vanessa gets super sus right at the end, saying there’s a surprise for him. I do not know what this surprise would’ve been.

I’m assuming Gregory broke in to have a safe place to sleep at night, but I’m still not sure. He said Vanessa was after him; now after being on the fence up to now, I’m fairly sure Vanessa is Vanny and she was hunting him down when he escaped from her.

Gregory didn’t seem all that caring about Freddy wanting his friends to be safe, nor sympathetic about maiming them. To me, his “Wait, aren’t you coming with me?” moment at the end came out of nowhere. They never really bonded.

Now, I know this game as multiple endings. And it’s the type of game you have to scrutinize from every angle to understand the lore. You have to find the secrets, find everything there is to find to get a full scope of things. But good lord, seeing one run and one run only, it’s incomprehensible. Something about a game that can’t be enjoyed as a game by itself on its first run-through rubs me the wrong way, even though I know it’s meant to be played multiple times.

And knowing that’s the type of story this is, where you have to have multiple runs through it: First time around, you don’t get to really... appreciate it all? It’s constantly one thing to another, never having time to explore because there’s always something waiting around the corner to screw you over. if there were less security robots and the game was more ATMOSPHERIC HORROR, which imo it would’ve been a lot better as a quieter, wandering-around-lost-kid-with-a-weird-animatronic-at-your-side-sometimes type of deal; where you’re lost and even with a couple of robots around you feel alone. in this essay I will-, I think that would’ve helped. There’s no time to explore, for example, Roxy’s blind-and-uses-sound mechanics, because right after it’s time to go! 

Things I really liked:

DAYCARE ATTENDANT MY BELOVED

Roxanne

Chica mauling that poor pizza delivery robot

Music Man was absolutely horrifying. One of the scariest sections of the game is seeing him crawl through his tunnels and reach through doors for Gregory.

The animation and visuals were FANTASTIC

The concept of Gregory just stuffing a hundred pins, shirts, and posters into his pockets. does this dude have a backpack

free-roam fnaf in general is a wonderful concept

The map design. It all felt so grandiose and fancy, while underneath everything’s all dusty and half-done and there’s probably a corpse down in the basement somewhere.

so... overall, I really like it! I know I’ll like it more as time goes by and people uncover more of the story and things click into place. These are just my first impressions on everything.

[gamerbearmira]

Among the Sleep sequence that takes place the night of their second birthday?

Yes

If you've read "Cocooned", you'll see that I mentioned that the Madrigal babies don't like sleeping alone. I was browsing some old horror game playthroughs to watch while I draw, and I saw Among the Sleep. I remember you played as a scared 2 year old who's trying to find your way out of the darkness and to your mother.

So, Cocoon AU but there's a sequence that's like Among the Sleep.

Characters: 2 year old Isabela, Dolores, Luisa, Camilo, Mirabel and Antonio. (I'll be referring to them as sextuplets or Julieta's/Pepa's triplets for simplicity.)

It's the sextuplets 2nd birthday. They've just finished eating their cake and they get their presents. Each of the babies got their own little stuffed doll to sleep with from their beloved Abuela. Abuela says that she made them with love and TLC for each and everyone of them.

Isabela got a little cactus plush. Her big smile made Isabela smile. She had a flower pot as clothes, hands and feet coming out of the sides and bottom. It also had a pretty purple flower on its head. She named her “Senora Cacti".

Dolores got an owl plush. It had wide eyes, and was wearing a small sombrero. She hugged it tightly, thanking her Abulea. Thus forth, his name was "Búho".

Luisa got a bear plush. It had rosy cheeks, and a big smile. It had a pretty shirt, the color a beautiful indigo, just like her. She felt warm and fuzzy when she hugged "Osá".

Camilo got a chameleon. It had large funny eyes that made Camilo giggle when he looked at them. It was wearing a poncho, which Camilo loved playing with. It was his favorite color, orange. He named him "Vistoso".

Mirabel got a butterfly. She loved how fluffy it was and how the wings fit right into her small arms. The bow holding its antenna together made her squeal in delight. It was blue with pink wings, and she loved it more than any other toy. She loudly proclaimed her name was "Aella".

Antonio got a jaguar. It was yellow like the ones in his books, but this one had colorful spots in all colors. Its tail was long and he loved touching its spots. Smiling happily, he named him "Parce".

The toddlers were out into the nursery to play while their parents, tias, tios and abuela cleaned up downstairs. While playing, they see their stuffed toys huddled in a circle. Curiosity overtakes them and they see the toys walk over. They were talking and moving! Each of the kids played a small game with their respective gift, giggling and laughing at how amazing they were.

Once the children were put to bed, it was normal. They were in their cribs, sleeping closely to their stuffed toys.

Until a loud bang, followed by some muffled yelling downstairs woke them up.

Each of them wake up, fear etched on their small faces. It's dark, and the moonlight is dim. Casita isn't responding. What happened? Each of them could feel their vision getting blurry, it felt like the world was closing in on them. A soft light emitted from their toy box, effectively calming them down. After helping each other get out of the cribs, they each looked at each other, toys in hand. Being only 2, they were unable to communicate with each other clearly, only saying single words or random babbling. But their toys could talk. And they could understand them.

The toys carefully explain that they need to collect 6 very special objects from different rooms in the house, so that they could save their family. The toddlers agreed, they wanted to save their Casita and their family!

Isabela goes first. Senora Cacti goes with her, and she toddles her way to Abuela's room. At first she didn’t want to go in; Abuela always said to knock and wait for her to come open the door. But Senora Cacti insisted, saying it would save her Abuela. So she opens the door, slipping in quietly. As she explores the room, she realizes: It's much bigger than before. And it's very dark. She didn't like it, but she needed to help her family! So she pushed on. There were a lot of blown out candles and debris. As she was climbing over a large piece of wood, she saw something in front of her. It was HUGE. A large old looking shadow monster, eyes glowing a dark maroon. It let out a shriek, scaring the life out of tiny Isabela. Just as the monster was about to grab Isabela, Senora Cacti stood in front of her and pushed her spikes out, creating a shield and protecting the little girl. Isabela quickly ran off, hiding under the large bed, letting out frightened whimpers. Her vision was bleary, from tears or the monster, she didn’t know. After seeing the monster passby, she came from under the bed, continuing her journey. Isabela had to use Senora Cacti against the monster several more times, before finally getting to her destination. It was a tall wooden structure. The girl took in a deep breath, and, with the help of Senora Cacti, scaled the structure. At the top, there was something glowing and it was very shiny. Isabela picked it up, and upon closer inspection, it was her Abuela’s pendant that had a photo of her Abuelo in it. Senora Cacti congratulated her, and the 2 quickly left the room. She got back to the safehouse (the nursery) safely, pendant in hand. The other rugrats clapped for her, to which she smiled brightly.

Dolores went next. Buho had said she needed to go to her mama, Pepa’s room, and get her hair bow. The young girl snuck out of the safehouse, the soft golden glow fading as she went to her mothers room. When she finally made it to her mothers room, everything was…different. Everything was huge, and aggressively warped. There were clouds everywhere, and little Dolores couldn’t see more than 2 feet in front of her. The ground below her felt damp, like it had just rained. Buho had told her that she had to go to her mama’s big mirror and grab her hair bow. Carefully making her way through the fog, she could make out parts of the room. While looking around for the mirror, a loud thunder cracked. The toddler jumped, spinning around to see a shadow monster. Her vision went blurry, and looking at the monster, it had a very mad face, and there was a cloud above its head, where thunder and lightning emitted. Dolores, being 2, was horrified, and ran away, out running the monster. She hid behind some crates as she heard the thunder pass. Buho said that he would listen out for her while she looked. As they went through the haze, she would hide in various places when Buho said he heard the thunder coming. Eventually she made it to the big mirror. She looked into the reflection, and saw the glowing bow in the mirror. She didn’t see it when she looked behind her, so, reaching in, she grabbed the yellow bow and pulled it out. She giggled and made a sound of victory, Buho flapping his wings happily. Dolores and Buho quickly left the room and went back to the safehouse, the other babies smiling at the bow and Dolores.

Luisa took Oha’s hand and left the safehouse next. Buho had said she needed to grab her papa’s writing pen. She knew where that was! It was downstairs, on the desk in the side room. She waddled down the dark hallway, still hold Oha’s hand. When she got to the stairs, she saw a big box was in the way. She tried to push it, but it was much too heavy. Buho stood next to her, and in one big push, pushed the box out of the way. As Luisa was making her way down the stairs, she looked up and saw it. A very tall, very scary shadow. It didn’t have a face, only glasses, with a dark blue tint behind one of the lenses.. It freaked her out, and she shrieked in fear. The shadow stalked towards her, its hands slowly reaching for her. Luisa quickly slid down the rest of the stairs, yanking Oha along with her. At the bottom, she turned the corner and hid behind the steps, watching and waiting for the monster to pass. Once she saw it leave, she ran off to the side room. Oha was very helpful, moving boxes and crates out of the way. Whenever the 2 encountered the monster, Oha would throw the boxes and crates so Luisa could get away. Eventually, after traversing through the nightmare world that was supposed to be Casita, she got to the side room. She used drawers to climb the desk and finally grabbed the glowing shiny pen. She left the room, running up the stairs with haste and getting back to the warm safehouse. The other children were happy she and Oha were back, and patted her back as she caught her breath.

Camilo waved his siblings and primas goodbye, Vistoso following him as he left. He crept down the hall, his foot pajamas muffling his small footsteps. Vistoso guided him to his Tio Bruno’s room. Camilo was hesitant, none of the children were allowed in his room with him. But Vistoso ushered him to open the door. So, climbing the stairs, which he had noticed seemed less than before, he opened the door. Vistoso walked in with Camilo, the door closing behind him. There was sand everywhere. It was like a desert, but with an unsettling green glow. There were also a lot of big jackets and ruanas hanging from the sky. Camilo walked on, the pitter patter of his feet being muffled even more by the sand. He was climbing a rather large dune when he felt a light hit him and Vistoso. He turned and his large eyes welled up with tears when he saw a large dark figure with glowing green eyes. It had a deep frown, and it chilled Camilo to the bone. He grabbed Vistoso and slid down the sand dune, rolling into some of the coats. The 2 year old stayed hidden, and Vistoso insisted he hold him. Camilo grabbed the toy and lo and behold the monster walked by, not even glancing at Camilo. Camilo left and continued through the sand, grabbing Vistoso and hiding behind coats when he saw the green eyes. He made it into a separate room, and in the middle was a glowing vision. Camilo grabbed it and in it was all of the children smiling while their tio Bruno put on one of his shows. Camilo hugged the vision tightly and left the room, slipping back into the safehouse where the other toddlers clapped for him and admired the vision he retrieved.

Mirabel gave her siblings and cousins each a hug, something they invented when they wanted to comfort each other. Aella flew by her side as she went 2 doors over to her mama’s room. After going inside, she examined the room. The 2 year old felt scared…alone. The usual warmth of her mothers room was gone; it felt cold and desolate. She crept through the room, climbing over the large stack boxes, overlooking the dark and cold room. The girl needed some herbs…her mama usually kept them next to her molcajete. Climbing back down, she walked to where she knew her mama kept the object. As she walked, she heard something whisper her name. Her blood ran cold as she froze. In front of her, was a tall smiling figure. But the smile wasn’t warm, it was rather eerie and its glowing eyes didn’t help. Mirabel let out a yelp and the shadow reached to grab her, causing her to run away. After she was sure the shadow monster was gone, she trudged on. Aella would fly ahead and scout, alerting her of the monster when it was nearby. Mirabel would hide behind crates and cover her mouth. After what seemed like forever, Mirabel finally spotted the molcajete. It seemed so much bigger than before, but she paid it no mind. She climbed the large bowl and saw the glowing herbs. Snatching them up, she ran out the room, ignoring the whispering of her name from the shadow monster. When she was in the safehouse, the other kids sat down with her and helped her calm down, just as they had done for the others.

Antonio left with Parce after Mirabel calmed down, and made his way down the stairs. Parce had told him he needed his papi’s umbrella, the big yellow one. It was downstairs by the front door, that he knew. When he looked downstairs in between the rails, it was dark. Casita’s courtyard was super big and dim, he could see. But he needed to save his family, so he marched (or rather wobbled) down the stairs. Once he reached the bottom, he began walking towards the direction of the door. It was quiet, too quiet, and Antonio already started missing his siblings and primas. Antonio was walking next to Parce when he saw a large shadow loom over him. It had yellow eyes and they stared straight into his soul. Anontio yelped, the hair on his neck standing up, and he bolted. He ran behind a door, and watched the shadow search the floor. Once the shadow was gone, Parce told him that if he held him tight, he would glow brightly and keep the monster away. Antonio nodded and grabbed Parce, squeezing him. True to his word, the jaguar glowed a soft yellow light. With the new found light Parce produced, he made his way towards the front door. Anytime the monster came towards him, he would hold Parce out and the monster would go away. The toddler finally got to his papa’s umbrella, grabbing it and running up the stairs, Parce in arms.

Once Antonio was back, all the toddlers gathered their items in the center of their room. A pendant, a hair bow, a pen, a vision, some herbs, and an umbrella. The little ones were confused, what did this mean? After babbling on and on to each other trying to figure out what was happening, the soft light that came from the toybox disappeared. The group of 2 year olds all huddled together, crying in fear. They hated being in the dark, and this wasn’t an exception. They could hear the shadow monsters coming to their safe house. The toddlers couldn’t say much, only small sentences and one word answers. Anything else they tried to say tried to come out as gibberish. Right when the door was about to open, Casita opened the wardrobe. Antonio grabbed the umbrella and Parce, squeezing him tightly and unsteadily ran to the wardrobe. He made gestures and baby-sounds urging the others to follow. The other toddlers grabbed their toys, their items, and rushed into the closet. The door closed, and the toddlers backed away as they heard the nursery door slam open, the shadow monsters making a cacophony of noise that frightened the 2 year olds. Parce's light was the only thing keeping them safe. They huddled close together, whimpering quietly.

Just a thought ❤️

[greaterawarness]

Arc Training Program Ch. 4 "Getting To Know The Cadets (Part Two)"

(Sorry for the long wait! Here is part two! Hope you enjoy it!)

The next stop on hunting down his cadets is the library. He scans the room seeing some odd number of clones and Kaminoans scattered about but none were one of his. He starts walking slowly around the room until he finds someone curled on the floor with stacks of books surrounding him. His face is hidden by a large book that he is completely entranced by. He reads the cover The Species of Gree. Alpha clears his throat, but the boy doesn’t hear him. Alpha walks forward and pulls the book down so CC-1004’s eye would finally register Alpha. The boy jumps surprised and scrambles to his feet.

“Sir! Sorry sir! I didn’t see you!” He says much to loudly for a library. He hears a few shh hissed at him and winces. “Sorry… sir.”

“What are you doing?” Alpha asks realizing all the books scattered around the boy are books on different types of species. The boy’s face turns a deep shade of red.

“Uh…” Is all he manages to get out. Alpha kneels down to look at the book he was reading.

“The species of Gree?” He says before giving a deep hm while flipping through the pages.

“The Gree species is one of the oldest civilizations in the galaxy. They even predate the Republic.” 1004 explains. Alpha gives another small hm. 1004 looks down while squeezing and unqueening has hands in and out of fists nervously. “I know this probably isn’t the best use of my time but… I think studying different species and their civilizations could benefit the Republic.”

Alpha stares at the boy. He looks like he’s about to be scolded but shows no regret.

“Just don’t let your other training fall through the cracks.” Alpha hands the book back to 1004. He takes the book with wide eyes.

“I wont sir!” He says with a big, excited smile on his face. Reading has never been a big priority when training the clones. Most bounty hunters wont even take their cadets into the library. Alpha might have been the first to not scold the boy for wanting to pursue reading for leisure. Unfortunately, he had nothing to offer like he did for 2224 and 7567. Alpha never felt he had the time or patience for reading unless it was a report.

“Seen any of the others around?” Alpha asks before the kid can get to lost in his books again.

“3636 was in here not too long ago… I think… I kind of lost track of time when I picked up this book.” 1004 admits.

“Understood.” Alpha starts to turn away before looking back at 1004. “Don’t slouch when you read. You’ll mess up your back.”

After walking around the entire library and seeing no sign of 3636, he leaves. He walks with his hands behind his back and head held high. Other’s salute or acknowledge him politely as they pass through the corridors. When he makes a turn towards the mess hall, he spots Shaak Ti. She speaks with two bounty hunters. When she notices him staring, she smiles softly with a slight nod of her head down a different corridor. Alpha nods his thanks and heads in that direction.

He finds himself walking above different training rooms where other batches perform practice battles. He spots 3636 staring down at one of the ongoing battles. Alpha quietly walks to his side to watch the batch below. The batch is slightly younger then his cadets and have sloppy movements. Alpha can predict the ending but looks to 3636 who barely flinched when he approached. 3636 lets out a tsk before pushing away from the railing. Alpha raises a brow at him as the batch below fails.

“Something wrong?” Alpha asks calmly. 3636 half turns with his lips pressed into a thin line. His eyes stare at the floor in tense frustration.

“Why is it so easy from here?” He asks finally. Alpha tilts his head slightly so he continues. “From here I can see their moves before they make them. But when I’m down there it’s like I have tunnel vision. And when I slow down to see the big picture its usually to late to do anything before I realize what’s happening.”

He shakes his head and turns away. Alpha feels the corner of his mouth turn into a grin.

“What did you do before?” Alpha crosses his arms before brining one hand up to his chin pondering with great curiosity.

“Before, my batch would move ahead and I could see it all. Not at first but with trail and error I eventually learned the different battle sequences my trainer had us practice. But the ones you have us run through seem to be random. Or its like the droids have a mind of their own. I can’t predict their moves and what the others will do.”

Alpha stiffens.

“CC-3636, there are thousands of battle scenarios. Are you saying you memorized all of them?”

“Yes?” He says it as if it were obvious. “There are 1,325 to be exact. Well, 1,326 but I think one was a glitch that combined 453 and 34.”

He’s living breathing protocol droid.

Alpha stares at the boy not sure if he should be amazed or terrified. Instead, he motions for him to follow. He takes 3636 to the part of Tipoca City that only the ARC Troopers were allowed. They passed many familiar faces who acknowledged Alpha in a head nod, smile, or even gesture. When they spot 3636 following behind him, they turn cold and watch suspiciously. He eventually turns into a break room currently occupied by two ARC Troopers, Hull and Raff.

“Leave us.” Alpha’s words were cold and blunt. They pause and exchange glances pondering if they should protest or not. They make the right choice and vacate the room. 3636 doesn’t look troubled or even scared to be surrounded by true ARC Troopers. The only thing Alpha can find in the cadet’s cold analyzing eyes is curiosity. Alpha sits on one side of the holochess board and gestures for 3636 to sit on the other side. He hesitates for the first time but eventually lowers himself down studying the board intently. When Alpha turns it on, he frowns.

“What is this?”

“Dejarik. You have to use wit to win.” Alpha smiles with the holographic creatures buzzing in front of him. 3636 says nothing so Alpha does a quick run through of the rules. When he’s done, he begins. The first round Alpha goes easy on the kid letting him get a feel for the game and truly understand how it works. He still manages to win but the kid doesn’t look fazed. He merely leans back slightly with eyes narrowed on the board in deep thought. When they play their second playthrough Alpha thinks he might lose but comes through in the end. Still, 3636 doesn’t look deterred. On the third playthrough Alpha can tell there is a clear difference. The kid leans forward with eyes glued to the bored. Other ARC Troopers have begun to fill into the room to watch. Alpha has to choose each move carefully. Halfway through Alpha rubs the back of his neck wondering how he will pull the win when he lifts his eyes. He freezes when his eyes meet CC-3636’s. They stared at him like a wolf that just locked onto its prey. Alpha looks back down. He makes his move and leans back. The rest of the men in the room watch the kid, murmuring amongst themselves. Alpha wonders how many have placed bets. 3636 smiles while making his final move.

“Holy shit.” Alpha chuckles to himself. The room is in an uproar. Fordo leans against the doorway full body laughing. 3636 sits pleased with his victory. Alpha holds a handout, and they shake hands. He gets to his feet to lead the kid out of the rowdy room of ARC Troopers. No need to subject him to that horror. Fordo pats his shoulder as they pass. When they’re finally in the quiet corridor 3636 looks up at him.

“So, what was the point of that game?”

“There are very few troopers who have the strategy capabilities that you have CC-3636. Tell me, while playing the game did you win the first try? Or even the second?” Alpha places his hands behind his back and glances at the cadet as they walk.

“No.”

“Exactly. But on the third try you got the hang of it. Just like with all things it takes practice to be able to strategizes in the heat of combat. We’ll work on that. Soon you’ll be dominating on the battlefield as much as you do in holochess.” Alpha smiles at him. 3636 stares forward intrigued. He might have even smiled if Alpha wasn’t looking.

Alpha leaves 3636 to continue studying other batches so he can continue his hunt for his other cadets. He doesn’t have to go far it seems when he spots CC-1010 leaning against the windows overlooking the mess hall. Alpha frowns when he approaches. 1010 stands up straight when he notices Alpha.

“Sir.” He says plainly. Alpha gives a displeasing hm.

“What are you doing? I told you to be doing something productive not lean against a window and people watching.” Alpha crosses his arms. 1010 raises his eyebrows as if shocked but his eyes remain plain.

“Sir I assure you I am using my time wisely.” 1010 places a hand on his chest offering a small grin. Alpha frowns. “You see I am not people watching but studying. You would be surprised of what secrets you can learn from simply observing others.”

“Explain.”

Alpha decides to bite. Perhaps he’ll catch him in his own lie. 1010 gestures down to the people eating below. It’s mostly other clones but some Kaminoans and bounty hunters are mixed in.

“You see that bounty hunter there? She’s been fucking one of the Kaminoan scientists.”

Alpha frowns at 1010. “This is gossip cadet.”

“Patience, Sir, patience. I’m getting to the good part.” He assures him. Alpha settles again and looks to the female bounty hunter. “Now she is also fucking the bounty hunter over the Bravo Squad. Well, that or she wants to fuck him and is just working with him. I know this by watching their mannerisms. She acts the same around the city unless she is with the Kaminoan scientist or with the bounty hunter over Bravo Squad but there is a clear difference between the two. With the Kaminoan it’s very forced and overly flirty. Very out of her character. Almost like she’s trying to fool the Kaminoan. Then I compared that to when she is with the other bounty hunter. It’s more natural but much more secretive. Little whispers and glances here and there. A small hand gesture no one would notice you weren’t looking for it.”

“I’m failing to see the point of all this.” Alpha sighs starting to lose patience.

“I’m almost to the good part,” He assures him. “All of this intrigued me, so I followed her one day. It intrigued me because why force a romance she clearly didn’t want and hide one she clearly did. Didn’t seem right. After following her I found out that the Kaminoan scientist she’s interested in works in the genetics lab and she often convinces him to have meetings in the lab. Then after having a meeting, she would have an interaction with the other bounty hunter. One no one would notice if they weren’t looking for it.”

“Besides a serious health violation what are you getting at?” Alpha crosses his arms intrigued. He leans against the window with a smug grin.

“I believe our female bounty hunter is stealing from the genetics’ lab with the bounty hunter of Bravo Squad.”

“That’s a serious allegation. What proof do you have?” Alpha drops his arms. 1010 frowns while looking down at the mess hall at the female bounty hunter.

“Nothing but what I’ve seen.”

“Why haven’t you come forward yet?” Alpha shakes his head at the boy. CC-1010 turns to meet his eyes.

“I’m a cadet. Who’s going to believe me?”

They stare at each other for a moment as Alpha calms down. 1010 looks back out the window.

“I believe you.” Alpha says finally. 1010 stands up straight meeting his eyes again, confused.

“You do?”

“Yes,” Alpha nods confusing the boy more. “I’ll have others look into this matter.”

He looks down shocked for a moment.

“Thank you.” He says showing a genuine smile for the first time. Alpha leans against the window again prompting 1010 to mimic his stance.

“So, what made you start watching her?” Alpha asks now analyzing all bounty hunters in his site. When 1010 doesn’t answer immediately he glances over at him. He wears a grimace.

“Words often spoken are lies.” He says finally. Alpha waits for him to go on. “The bounty hunter over my batch was a master at manipulation. I learned very quickly I couldn’t take her words at face value. Instead, I learned to read her body. From there I was able to find the truth. Body language gives most liars away. When I started getting good with her, I started looking at others for practice. Our lunch lined up with the female bounty hunter’s and that’s when I noticed what was happening.”

Alpha nods while turning so his back was against the glass. He glances up at the ceiling remembering his time under Jango’s instruction.

“Jango would play mind tricks on us at times. He did it to try and push us mentally. Made most of us stronger. I know of bounty hunters like the one that taught you. They don’t use those tactics to help you but more to control you. But as long as you pass the simulations then the Jedi and Kaminoans are happy to let you graduate.”

1010 looks up at him.

“You don’t think those cadets should graduate?”

“I think those cadets will deal with more obstacles later down the road then most others.” Alpha says meeting his eyes again. The cadet nods but Alpha wonders if he really understood what he meant. Alpha clears his throat deciding to turn the conversation to a brighter note. “Do you watch everyone’s mannerisms then?”

“Yes, it’s become second nature now.” 1010 crosses his arms with his back to the glass now mirroring Alpha.

“So, what are mine?” Alpha arches a brow at him. CC-1010 pauses with eyes staring forward. At that moment Shaak Ti approaches making 1010 stand up straight.

“Sir, I see you and the General have business to discuss and I should really get back to blaster training.” He says before walking quickly down the corridor.

“Hey wa—never mind.” Alpha shakes his head with a chuckle. Shaak Ti gives him a look, but he just shakes his head.

“Something wrong?” She asks.

“No… well? Possibly. I have good reason to believe that two of the bounty hunters here are selling Kaminoan genetic secrets.” Alpha says pointing out the female bounty hunter below.

“That is quite a claim. And what reason do you have to support this?” she asks.

“I have on good authority that it is so. If it’s not, then I will personally apologize for any damage done.” Alpha insists. This surprises Shaak Ti.

“Alpha, you have never apologized for anything.” She says eyeing him slightly. He gives a nonchalant shrug.

“Times are changing.”

“It appears so.” She chuckles softly. Alpha notices a datapad in her hand.

“Did you need something?” He asks.

“Yes, I’m afraid there has been an incident with two of your cadets in hanger bay three.” She hands him the datapad. He reads the CC numbers and groans. He immediately takes off for the hanger bay.

When he arrives to the bay he finds CC-8826 and CC-1138 sitting handcuffed on the floor surrounded by a group of troopers.

“These are my cadets. What’s going on?” Alpha has to hold back his anger. 8826 and 1138 look nothing but bored while sitting at the feet of the troopers.

“Sir, we caught these two trying to steal a ship.” The trooper shoots a look at 1138 when he yawns. Alpha felt his anger boil in his chest.

“Sorry for any damages or inconveniences. I’ll take it from here.” Alpha squeezes his hands into tight fists already running through every exercise and drill he was about to make them run through and then he contemplated if he should just fail them and put them on sanitation duty. The cadets are uncuffed and follow behind Alpha.

“We weren’t trying to steal a ship.” 8826 says breaking the tension between them. Alpha whips around to face them. They still look unfazed by Alpha’s furious face.

“Then what pray tell were you doing?” Alpha shouts. His voice echoes through the corridor. He hears someone scurry out of the hall.

“I just…” 8826 starts but stops. Alpha shakes his head.

“No, go on. Explain yourself!”

“I just wanted to know how it works.” He says at last. Alpha shifts his weight taking in his words. He must not answer in time because 8826 goes on. “The ship. I’ve studied the design like everyone else but when it’s put together it looks nothing like the holograms. I wasn’t trying to steal the ship I just wanted to see what the inside looked like and how it all connected.”

Alpha felt his anger begin to simmer. He looks to 1138.

“He couldn’t lift one of the panels.” He shrugs. Alpha feels himself chuckle a laugh. He rubs above his eyebrows.

“You really weren’t trying to steal the ship?” Alpha feels like he just experienced a crash landing.

“No.” they both say. Alpha studies their faces. They didn’t appear to be lying but both boys have always been hard to read in the past. Of course, neither boys would be his first to suspect of desertion. Alpha lets out one final sigh releasing the anger he had only moments before.

“Very well.” He says turning away. He leads them away from the hanger by to one of the distant larger storage rooms near their barracks. He has to find 99 to open it for him. inside they cough and cover their noses from the dust collecting on all the items inside. Most were outdated gear and weapons with some obsolete spare parts here and there. 8826 and 1138 walk around taking in all the things while Alpha follows 99 to the back. He helps 99 pull a tarp off an old speeder bike. 8826 and 1138 stare at it intrigued.

“This is an old speeder bike left here by one of the Mandalorian bounty hunters. It’s rundown and needs a lot of work. You want to know how things work? Start by taking this apart and putting it back together.” Alpha places his hands on his hips watching 8826 squat in front of the bike inspecting it. He gets the same crazed look in his eye that he does when he’s in combat. Alpha leans against a crate glancing over at 1138.

“You interested in building the bike too?” He asks. 1138 has always been silent and calm. He only ever showed real anger when he lost and continued to fail at something. Every other time it’s the same blank expression. 1138 crosses his arms and nods. Alpha leaves it at that not forcing a conversation. 99 helps them clear a path to push the bike back to their barracks. Alpha didn’t want the kids let loose in this room to often. When they reach the barracks they walk in at the same time CC-4477 does. Alpha pauses. He had almost forgotten about the cadet.

“CC-4477,” he calls over while 99 leads 8826 and 1138 to the back wall with the bike. 4477 walks up to him. “Where have you been all day?”

“Sir? What do you mean? We passed each other in the corridor several times today.” He says plainly. Alpha frowns trying to think back. Did he really walk right past one of his cadets and never notice? He almost wants to ask more questions when the doors open and CC-1010 walks in with CC-1004. CC-4477 walks over to greet his brothers leaving Alpha feeling odd. He would have to keep a closer eye on 4477.

When the rest of the cadets return, the quiet barracks become loud with chatting cadets that prepare for the night. Alpha stays in the room helping 1138 and 8826 dismantle the bike and providing what wisdom he could all the while keeping an eye on the others. 1010 and 4477 sit on their extended racks chatting about their day and what they noticed while 7567 and 2224 sort through their gear. 99 shuffles around cleaning up here and there before getting pulled into a conversation with 3636 and 1004. Alpha feels a sense of peace wash over him. A feeling he hasn’t felt in a long time. If ever.

When the night drags on he leaves the cadets to bathe and get to bed. He walks back to his room to find Shaak Ti watching one of the cadets practice battles. He walks over to join her at his table. She smiles at him while sliding a data pad his way.

“What’s this?” He asks while examining it.

“It seems you were correct about that bounty hunter. She and her accomplice have been detained. It seems the Kaminoan she manipulated had no idea. Still, he will face his own punishment from the Kaminoans.” She leans back in her chair.

“That fox.” Alpha says softly to himself. He puts the datapad down wearing a proud smile.

“It seems taking an off day was good for you.” She smiles warmly at him. He rubs the back of his neck.

“What can I say? You were right. Each boy is very different and has their own set of skills.”

“Now you must find a way to utilize those skills to get them to work together.” She rests her arms on the table leaning forward slightly. Alpha nods before reaching over to turn the holovid off. The sit in silence enjoying the peace.

“Thank you.” He says suddenly. She tilts her head. “For helping me.” “Your success is all of our success.” She says making him roll his eyes slightly. After a pause she adds. “You have changed Alpha.”

“I believe you’re right.” He nods with eyes falling on the table where his hand rests. He looks up to meet her eyes. “You have changed as well. From the first time we met.”

“That is the nature of time. It changes us. For better or for worse.”

His eyes drop to the table again this time staring at her hand resting on the table.

“Do you think it’s for the better?” he asks staring at her hand resting loosely on the white table. She takes this time to stand, pulling his eyes towards her face again. Before she walks out of his room she pauses and says.

“I hope, Alpha. I hope.”

Read full story HERE on AO3

[seeminglyseph]

I really am kinda tickled that while I didn’t pick up on Cove being on the autism spectrum in my first playthrough, but still managed to be his best buddy just based purely on my having been a weird kid too. the little narrative choices like “you could tell he was actually listening to you unlike Shiloh” like had my little ADHD kid brain like ‘oh I would have been so on this level if my dad’d had any tolerance for weird or annoying things’

“He taps his hands on his knees” “he does a little shimmy to express happiness” “he goes nonverbal until he’s put all the words he wants together” “He didn’t really figure out or feel comfortable with sexual attraction until a while after his peers were dipping their toes on” “He sulks and mopes and cares a lot about the textures of food despite being a big eater” “He’s nervous about trying new things and being direct about support will just make him double down on his discomfort.” “When he gets upset he can throw a ‘tantrum’ or a sulk for a while”

And me of course, not even remotely neurotypical am sitting there like “These all seem like normal behaviours that other people made me feel bad about, what would I have liked to hear?”

And honestly because of that I feel a lot of authenticity in that. Probably Cove shows more of the big distress side effects if you’re not good at being understanding? I haven’t done that yet, but I am watching a playthrough that is picking options that seem like......... normal people options. And Cove has not become friends with their character and the behaviour is very different. It’s almost funny to watch someone struggle entirely through childhood to befriend him. I mean not in a mean way, but it feels like watching what it was like to try and maybe befriend *me* as a kid. I was so shocked when Cove didn’t go tell their MC they were running away when in my first play through he didn’t object at all to me coming along and in the next one was only a bit resistant because I wasn’t on crush and was building a platonic BFF groundwork, and I think that little bit of shyness and affection can change how he thinks of you.

Though I am liking the Best Friends to Lovers path as much as Childhood Sweethearts. though part of it is just learning the character I’m making as much as how Cove reacts. I mean if Cove supports Ari then it makes sense for me to make Ari more confident, if Ari’s more confident he can support Cove more which can improve Cove’s confidence as well.

I think I want to write in the five year gap between 8 and 13 the weird feeling of being AFAB, growing up as a girl, and having to deal with people getting weird about your friendships with boys suddenly. I know everyone is super accepting in the game but in my head I just can’t imagine it not being traumatic and stressful to go from a world where you were the same as your best friend and then he gets to keep being a boy and your body starts turning into a girl’s. Especially if you don’t really have any strong male figures in your life except the guy who kind of idolizes your moms and has too much of a guilt complex to think he could actually contribute to the co-parenting system. Though in my headcanons Ari eventually does work up the nerve to talk to him, and Kyra some, his moms are a little sad he doesn’t go to them, but eventually it does get explained that he just wanted to get help from someone who didn’t look at him and see their “baby girl” who would treat getting your period and needing a new bra as proud moments of coming into her own and not a horrifying twist of your body deciding for you what you get to be. Plus as forward thinking as the game is it takes place like 90′s-2000′s sorta and my bro, no one was diagnosing tomboys with gender dysphoria in the 90′s, it was way more likely people assumed you’d grow out of your childish behaviour and grow up to be a proper lady.

it’s not what the game’s about and it’s one small side option for character creation so I don’t expect it to be present in the game, but I can’t help but create a universe around them in my imagination XD