#and also. dragon. insane about his aesthetic

[polysucks]

How do you feel about cats? I desperately wish asoiaf had more of them

I love cats, personally. I got two of them! I also have two dogs! I’m more of a cat person than a dog person, but I love both :3

But, as you know, I’m fuckin insane, so of course I had to use your ask as a platform to talk about how Peepaw Greg uses cat and dog symbolism in the series.

So let’s talk meta about his usage of cat and dog themes in Westeros.

In asoiaf, gpa Greg makes big big use of canine and lupine symbolism—most notably through the Starks and their direwolves—to explore some themes of loyalty, survival, identity, and instinct. The prevalence of dog-adjacent imagery, from the feral wildness of the direwolves to the brutalized obedience of people like Sandor Clegane, speaks to a deeper thematic preoccupation with what it means to belong (hypergeneralized) like. to a family, to a code, to a pack. Wolves and dogs in peepaw’s world are not literally animals, they’re totems of identity and indicative to some degree of fate that becomes perpendicular with the moral and emotional arcs of the characters they shadow.

By contrast, feline imagery like the Lannisters’ cunty lion sigil remains largely heraldic and aesthetic rather than emotionally or thematically embedded. Lions in the series symbolize institutional pride, legacy, and power, but lack the dynamic intimacy of the wolves. They are mythologized apex predators, ya sure ok, but predators in captivity, not the wild. They’ve lost their instincts. Their strength is theatrical. Their claws have become ceremonial.

The Lannisters aren’t predatory like their avatar so to speak. They’re curated. Groomed. Caged in gold and politics and perception. They hiss and bite, but most of them are bound by visage and expectation:

• Tywin is the lion’s roar—but it’s hollow in the end. He dies on the toilet. Womp womp (I laugh errytime)

• Cersei sees herself as a lioness, but she spirals into paranoia and ineffectual tyranny. (Literally just an evil slut. Smooth brain. No thoughts, just vanity. Yas queen go offffffff)

• Jaime begins as the golden lion but is declawed—literally—and only becomes compelling once he sheds that identity. (Smol. Must be protected at all costs.)

• Tyrion, the runt of the litter, understands the lion’s mold enough to break it—and it nearly destroys him. (I mean it kinda does long long term. I love who he becomes in adwd)

The Rains of Castamere goes fuckin HARD and underscores their obsession with legacy through intimidation (BECAUSE OF ONEEEEEEEE TIME. IT WAS ONE TIME. LIKE ITS NOT HARD TO ERADICATE THE ENTIRETY OF 2 HOUSE LINEAGES ESPECIALLY IF THEYRE SWORN UNDER YOU IM SORRY TYWIN BUT THATS NOT the fLEX YOU THINK IT IS im sorry okay back to our regularly scheduled insanity)

— A Storm of Swords, Catelyn VII

— A Storm of Swords, Arya VII

This isn’t a simple cats vs. dogs dichotomy. It’s about what these animals represent. Wolves and hound imagery when used in asoiaf evoke loyalty, instinct, and interdependence. Lions (or generally, feline figures which, I note, are very few) represent arrogance, isolation, and the brittle weight of legacy. Martin privileges the canine because his world favors those who endure—not those who posture. True survival in Westeros depends on bonds, not bloodlines; on pack over pride. (Get it? Bc a ‘pride’ is a pack? A pack of lions? Like the phrase blood of the covenant is thicker than water of the womb? Get it? Ok I’ll see myself out no need to call security)

While the thematic imbalance may seem skewed toward the wolf, this asymmetry is deliberate!!! The lion isn’t underdeveloped—it’s hollowed. It stands as a symbol of inherited power, not earned strength. Like Famous Disabled Worker Rights Advocate and Cheese Enthusiast Magister Illyrio once said

— A Dance with Dragons, Tyrion I

The lions of Westeros roar from red keeps and golden thrones (toilet thrones, am I right? Huh? Eh?), but they are trapped by politics, legacy, and illusion. Their power is a spectacle maintained through fear, maintained through myth. They ain’t even got the fundage to back it up. Pull up, Cersei. The wolves, by comparison, represent power that is quiet, blood-won, and bone-deep. They do not command; they endure. They are not elevated by institutions, but by instinct.

Each direwolf’s fate mirrors their Stark:

• Lady’s unjust execution reflects Sansa’s theft of innocence and disconnection due to her loss of identity and lack of companionship.

• Grey Wind’s death during the Red Wedding marks Robb’s failure to heed instinct, and his transformation from noble heir to vengeful pretender.

• Nymeria’s independence parallels Arya’s exile and self-determination, leading a pack in the Riverlands as Arya learns to lead her own life beyond names.

• Shaggydog’s ferality reflects Rickon’s descent into chaos without guidance or protection or intervention.

• Summer’s sacrifice anchors Bran’s transformation into something inhuman, but still bound to loyalty and vision.

• Ghost, albino and silent, is Jon’s mirror: othered, introspective, and spectral. A quiet nod, too, to his secret Targaryen bloodline. (Suck my ass it’s canon)

These direwolves are not pets. They’re living metaphors and fragments of soul and fate.

So no—I don’t think the series needs more cats! Their absence is the point. The feline is not underused; it is overestimated, just like the legacy it represents. Lions are only dangerous when the wolves are gone.

And besides—when Martin did give us a Cat, he had her butchered at a wedding and threw her body in a river. He killed her. Then he brought her back. Then he killed her again—socially, narratively, and emotionally.

So… maybe we’re good on cats.

Rip cat you woulda loved the MILF category on pornhub <3

[averycutesalamander]

so after boots, what other hsr characters do you like?

hm. well. hmmmm. ahhh.. uhhhhhhhhhhh

[negrowhat]

Friends. Homies. Fam. Here is a list of SOME of the series I'm IMPATIENTLY anticipating the most. No one asked for this but I just felt like sharing.

Your Dear Daddy. The moment I saw Poonpun in that pink silk robe with the thigh tattoo and wearing that anklet in the promo pics I knew I wanted the series immediately. Obsessed! I'm excited for Fluke to be a lead finally because he deserves it and he and Poonpun seem to have excellent chemistry. I'm looking forward to Saitharn being saved by Sila who seems to be lost himself. I'm looking forward to watching Saitharn put it on Sila so good the first time that he decides that he's going to secretly rescue him and love him and worship him...because I know this whole tea farm debt is going to be a guise to keep Saitharn. I just know the series is going to be *chef's kiss*

Century of Love. I don't even know what the plot for this one is but the BTS pics are letting me know it's going to rip me in half. I'm expecting some scifi, soulmates, action, hurt/comfort, maybe some sacrifice, and romance. I'm most excited that we're getting more DaouOffroad and most importantly Daou's buzzcut because he looks soooooooooo good with it.

This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans. IDK man...I don't even care about cooking series like that but I'm excited for more SailubPon and even more excited to finally get some GarfieldBenz after PB viciously teased us with them. I'm also looking forward to Sailub breaking every single health code while he fucks Pon across that industrial kitchen. And also??? Benz's character being unapologetically flirty with Garfield's??? GIMME!

4 Minutes. Highkey thought it wasn't even happening anymore because...well you know. But now Bible has a new partner and I'm excited once again. I just know 4 Minutes is going to break us all into pieces and I'm excited to see Bible shine like the star he is and I'm excited to see how his chemistry is with Jes. And I just know the aesthetic of the series and the actual plot is going to be 20/10...BOC sure has the funds to turn this series into a masterpiece.

Jack & Joker. YINWAR HAVE FINALLY RETURNED TO US! And they're not in school! Whoever they work for heard us say we wanted that Bonnie and Clyde criminal lovers series they dangled in our faces with that one fanmeet and decided to deliver. I'm excited to see Joker being the cheeky seemingly trustworthy mastermind thief and Jack doing whatever he can to protect him because he knows he won't be able to stop him from skillfully robbing people blind. I need more criminal romances in my life.

SunsetxVibes. Wild we're getting this before Big Dragon 2/The Movie. Even wilder that this series is ALSO based on an mpreg story. I am not particularly interested in omegaverse BUT just like Pit Babe I am making an exception because I know I'm going to enjoy the series and I miss MosBank. We thought the chemistry was insane with Big Dragon but they are closer than ever these days and I know it's going to translate beautifully one screen. Much like the title, I'm here just to vibe because I know the plot is gon be a mess.

[theghostinabadbook]

The Holy Knights get more and more interesting with each chapter! Honestly, I'm loving them as antagonists!

I have more questions about Gunko every time she appears because so many things about her don't seem to add up. She is the only Holy Knight who has not received the title of World Noble or had her family name introduced (she also does not have a Saint in her name, but neither does Shamrock). She's also the only "celestial dragon" we've seen who has the power of a devil fruit (and we know from Hancock's story that they despise devil fruits), her uniform is very different from the others, and her eyes having different colors seems like it's going to be important in some way. Her powers are very similar to Imu's aesthetically, so I don't think it's a coincidence that she is the one who summons the "abyss" (the pentagram "portal"). Also, her name means "army child", which may imply that she was recruited (perhaps as a child) and trained to be part of the Holy Knights.

Kiringham being introduced in his hybrid form immediately catched my attention. Does his normal appearance reveal some kind of secret about him? He's the only Holy Knight introduced so far who wears the same bubble on his head as the other World Nobles, and the one he wears even appears to have something to help him breathe, so it's possible he has some sort of respiratory illness, or was only recently recruited, so he may have never actually left the Holy Land, which would explain why he was so nervous about being late even though he was already dressed and transformed. Personally, I feel like he could be quite young? As I said, he seems to be very nervous and curious about Elbaph, which probably means he has never been outside of Mary Geoise, and the bubble could be to prevent him from being corrupted by the air from the “filthy world”, also, the way he talks reminds me a bit of a teenager, but that could just be the translation I read.

Having a Holy Knight from one of the Gorosei's family is really exciting, and I hope this helps us answer some questions about the elders. Sommers also seems to be the oldest of the four, and it's the first to take responsability after finding out that Shamrock needs to go back to Mary Geoise, so he probably has been a Holy Knight for a very long period before the current time. He's also the first person we see actually concerned about the food thing in the Holy Land (which is kind of crazy, but okay).

And I don't even need to start talking about the whole Shamrock situation.

Also, the fact that Sommers so casually asked if Shamrock and Gunko were visiting Harald's grave is pretty weird. Like, we know what World Nobles are like, why would they care about Harald? He wasn't even affiliated with the government (and they wouldn't care about him either if that were the case), so why would they travel such a great distance just to see his grave? Why is this a possibility?? Was Harald also a Holy Knight? That's the only way I can see it being reasonable. We can see from their interactions in this chapter that the Holy Knights seem to get along pretty well, so two of them visiting the grave of a deceased colleague would make sense. This could explain why they tried to recruit Loki specifically and not another insanely powerful individual, since he would be the son of a former member, and we know how much they care about bloodlines.

[nightcolorz]

i genuinely don't get why yall don't understand that some people don't like a character who's violently antiblack and directed a lynching. some people think lestat is not as bad because while he's also racist, his involvement in the trial was murkier and they heavily implied that lestat was there against his will. + at this point in the story lestat is more remorseful while armand tried to manipulate louis even when daniel exposed him. also just so you know lestat in the show is 34, not 37 lmfao

I thought u were talking about Santiago bcus he’s the racist guy who orchestrated the trial for like the first half of this and I was like why is this guy sending me this ask I don’t ever talk about Santiago nor do I even like him and then I realized that u were hallucinating a version of iwtv I didn’t see, so like, alrighty. There r so many reasons to hate Armand he’s like the most fucked up character in the series and bro chose “violent anti blackness” bcus apparently “Lestat is less racist than him” ?? Ur extremely stupid and I’m laughing.

I am trying to figure out how to argue with this but it’s kind of like arguing with someone who’s hallucinating a giant dragon. Like how can I prove the dragon is not there in a way that would make any sense to you, you are clearly past the point of no return here.

Right, Lestat, the explicitly racist white character who is constantly racist on screen, is less racist and bad then Armand, the brown former slave, because Armand took part in a fantastical vampire murder that was orchestrated by another explicitly racist white character for the stated reason that he was afraid to betray the institution he was forced into hundreds of years ago, because Lestat “was implied to feel bad” or smth. So true. Ur so right, clearly Armand, who didn’t even write the script for the trial, nor decide it’s aesthetic components, and only participated in it because he was going to be ripped to shreds by his coven if he didn’t, actually decided that he wanted the trial to be like a lynching, bcus Armand is extremely familiar with 19th century anti black violence in colonial America, a period he definitely experienced, and he made it like that on purpose bcus he hates black people so much, and he also decided to implement that racism onto the white girl who’s being tortured on stage too, cuz she’s also black to him, I don’t know. Armand may be an equal opportunity violent killer and torturer who shows literally no preference for who he violently kills and attacks, but he definitely hates black people, cuz the one girl he let die that one time at the hands of his theater coworkers was black, so he’s like, violently racist.

When I noticed the lynching allusions in the trial I assumed it was a thematic undertone meant to aesthetically highlight how traumatic this was for Louis, a character who actually has a connection to lynchings and would have narrative reason to frame the events in a way that mirrored one, and not like, meant to convey that Armand is anti black and is trying to recreate a lynching cuz he loves those things. That is an extremely literal and extremely stupid, unfounded way to view that. If anything, it would be implying that the theater is full of racists, which I think aligns more with the actual episode. Believe it or not, shows often have aesthetic allusions that aren’t meant to be extremely literal representations of what is actually happening.

The idea that Armand is anti black bcus he chose to not stop the vampire execution enacted per the vampire laws that he has been forcefully indebted to for over 200 years to persevere his safety in favor of preserving the life of someone he has known for a relatively short amount of time is insane. Like sure, he’s a horrible person, but I think u are vastly misinterpreting his motivations. Armand has been the victim of more racial trauma then literally every single iwtv character, he was an actual slave who was actually tortured and assaulted bcus he was brown. He was victimized since he was a little kid, he literally has never experienced a life at this point that is not survival of the fittest. His decision to fawn instead of fight in the face of the trial was not a reflection of “violent anti blackness”, and the assumption that it was is so incredibly dull and stupid. Also the complete removal of responsibility from the canonically white and racist characters like Santiago and lestat is insane. Trying to frame me as being tone death against racism while insisting that Armand (brown) is actually the racist one and not Santiago or lestat (white) is hilarious. I like Lestat but I don’t like Armand for doing the same things lestat has done bcus!! I’m anti racism!!! 🥰🥰-real anon logic. Like give me a break. If u actually cared at all about the racial themes of iwtv u would recognize that Armand is someone who has been so victimized and abused by racial oppression that he considers it normal and unable to be dismantled, and so refuses to fight against it to survive. He is not the oppressor, you dick head. Like yeah totally, the canonical former child slave is the racial oppressor here, ur so right. If that was meant to be the case, if Armand was actually written as being the primary perpetrator of racism who oppressors the others, that would be some dickhead writing.

Anyways, I actually don’t mind at all nor care if anyone hates Armand. My little post ur referring to was me lightheartedly complaining to my Armand-loving followers that I keep seeing Armand hate advertised to me on my social media and I don’t like having it shown to me, cuz I like him. That’s what I do instead of going into the inboxes or comments of the people I disagree with, bcus I’m mature, btw anon. But u can hate on Armand in ur corner of the internet all u like, it’s literally not that serious. I don’t care if u hate Armand cuz of the trial either, he does bad stuff, like yeah, sure, fair enough. He’s an anti hero in a vampire book series + show, it’s all fun and games here. The only reason I care is bcus why are u bringing it to me, known armand fan. Keep it to urself. Get out of my inbox, stupid troll. And also I’m never getting over Armand’s “violent anti blackness” like please get a life, holy shit.

In conclusion This take is literally insane and u need to actually watch iwtv or talk to a person who doesn’t know what tumblr is so that u can be saved from the actual six stages of hell internet brain rot that ur trapped in, bcus if u took one single step outside of ur rotting cave u would find out that nothing you have ever thought or said has ever made any sense to any normal person.

also 🤓☝️ just so you know! I said Lestat was 37 bcus Sam Reid is 37 in real life, and I thought it was a funny overstatement to describe Lestat as being Sam Reid’s real age. I know he’s fucking 34, but thank you so much for correcting me. You’re so smart. Also! 🤓☝️ if u are going to send me obnoxious anons, say “you” and not “y’all” I am one goddamn person, address me, not the fandom as a whole. We are having a conversation if you come into my inbox, I’m not your puppet-y vessel to vent ur moronic frustrations through. Anyways, die

[xamaxenta]

Oh ok ok good points! Specifically I meant your Lancer Ace Saber Sabo and subsequent masters, since those are the two you've brought up interacting.

Ohigogh yeah ok lancer ace and saber sabo are a result of me @docxie and @meramera-writes fucking around with the fateverse and going balls to rhe walls crazy i dont take much credit other than thinking about what they look like and contributingto the ideas compliling :3 its a continuous blender of thoughts

But its important to know Saber Sabo is a boobs man and his master Ace specifically has some impressive tits so for the good of the kingdome and the mana transferrence he simply must suck on them for mana

Of course

So Lancer Ace is distinctly distracting to him for exactly the same reason, hes stacked hes also. Shirtless so those big bazoonggnas are out and about and hes going to gawk at them and thirst a little (thank god for his helm mouth visor mask hiding his emotions? Hlmao?)

Saber sabo is competitive and pushy and unhinged and really needs to win grail wars so he can use the grail to wish for aces boobs in his mouth forever amen - direct quote 😭

Lancer ace has two variants one is canonalinged bc Mars has this insane op canon compliant fate au that i consistently yearn over

The other Lancer Ace is the one i reference here and idk what his legend is or how he came to be a summonable heroic spirit (i forgot tbh but also i guess just take his canon story and make it a tale of heroic tragedy or smth) i kind of just looked at fate/zero diarmuid and shoved Ace into his outfit sans a shirt and we all collectively went ah yeah Sabo being a tiny cunty mouthy brat nerd to match him would be fun

Putting all that background on the floor now its incredibly funny for Ace or Lancer Ace to look at the nerdy Master Sabo and the crazy intense Saber Sabo and look back n forth like after figuring out theyre supposed to be the same person like

Holy shit how did you end up like that

Specifically Saber Sabo is an iteration of canon Sabo (of many ?) who gave his life voice and being of cause to the revolution, the dragon of the revolution imagery n stuff so hence his dragon knight aesthetic as a Saber

[thesummerstorms]

Arsinoë de Riva Lookbook

(aka my favorite recolor mods + outfit edits from Nexus + a few base game outfits and weapons)

Casual Outfit: Sable Doublet recolours (Blue)

Starting Armor: Worn Robes - Recolors with Bluebell palette

Tevinter Disguise: Quickstart Leathers Antivan Crows Colors

Exile Overturned: P4 Rooks Wardrobe Edits Executioners Plume - No More Feathers AND Executioners Plume - No Cloak

Exile Overturned + Cloak: P4 Rooks Wardrobe Edits Executioners Plume - No More Feathers

Mistakenly Told Viago About the Darkspawn: Utility Cloak (Unmodded)

Rebel Inspired Armor: Viper Outfit (no hat/mask) + Antivan Crow Recolor

Rebel Inspired Robes: Crowbes - Iconic-Rebel Robes w/ Rebel's Robe Fix (No Cloak Version)

Rebel Inspired Robes With Cloak: Crowbes - Iconic-Rebel Robes with Rebel's Robe Fix

Stole Viago's Cloak For the Hell of It: Hunting Plumage (Unmodded; but please someone kill the quiver. Or put this cloak on Executioner's Plume.)

Starting Mageknife: Silver Weapons of the Fallen Kingdom

Exile Overturned Mageknife: Spellcaster's Stiletto (Antivan) (Unmodded)

Favorite Dagger That She Stole From Her Long-Suffering Boyfriend: Lucanis' Crowkeeper for Rook

Compassion's Gift from the Wetlands: Hope's Last Kiss (Unmodded)

Courting Gift From Lucanis: Crystalline Shard (Everite) (Unmodded)

Bonus, Not Character Canon Compliant, but I'm Having Fun:

Too heavy armor for this character, but it has a very pretty cloak: Crested Armor Edit and Recolor (Recolor file AND Defeathered file)

She stole her boyfriend's clothes too?? Good thing she's short, I guess, but still: Rook Armor Edits: Clandestine Caster's Cowl (Lucanis Recolor) + P4 Lucanis Wardrobe Edits: The Mage Killer Outfit - Material Fix

Notes and Headcanons:

Crowbes is my absolute FAVORITE outfit mod.

The entire "Rebel Inspired" row can definitely be attributed to her courtship with Neve as much as a genuine appreciation for Shadow Dragon aesthetics, but it didn't quite feel like Neve would give her clothing as a gift, so it's not labeled up above like Lucanis's stuff.

I don't have an in universe reason she has Crowkeeper yet. I'm half-heartedly working on one, but mainly it's just too pretty.

There are several Shadow Dragon Armors I love, and the ones recolored above I also love in their original colors. Shadow Dragons have the best armors, generally. I also thought about letting her steal from Neve. Arsinoë will fight me for Crow colors though.

Speaking of: she never let the color scheme go, but she doesn't start wearing Crow colors again until after "earning" it by bringing Lucanis back from the Ossuary. She starts with really basic gear modified from whatever default leathers House de Riva or House Cantori had in storage, but gets fancier as she goes.

Arsinoë is slightly shorter than Lucanis, so, like, I guess she might be able to *actually* steal his clothes, but I don't see her ever being that bold. Plus Viago would have a stroke, and Spite would drive Lucanis to a BSOD.

Generally I wish the mage knives had more of a visible edge or sharp point, but the Crystalline Shard (Everite) is my favorite mage knife in the whole game.

Viago was not happy to hear his favorite Crow other than Teia was going up against darkspawn, given the Blight is one of the few things he doesn't believe himself capable of creating an antidote for. The armor plates on a mage were the result.

Please, please, please someone edit the quiver off of the Hunting Plumage. It's my favorite Crow cloak (the wing shape!!!!) but the quiver clipping through my *mage* Rook's hand drives me insane.

It would also look very nice on Teia's more symmetrical armor, but idek if that's possible in Frosty.

Taking all the feathers off is more a me thing than an Arsinoë thing. I just keep imagining Blight boils exploding and little bits landing in the feathers. 🤢

[luvdalkxdlk]

Arceus Decides That Putting N Who Wants To Liberate Pokemon Into The Past Where People Fear Pokemon Is A Good Idea (Spoilers, It's A Terrible Idea, Especially with God Seeking Volo) - The Fic.

Note that this is an absolute crack idea where being such an N and Volo fan, who only watched YouTube moments where they star in and bop to their music and ofc have more reedemable characteristics for such characters because I admit on my bias... Without fully knowing pokemon lore nor actually wanting to deep dive into it when I just want to give the vibe, the aesthetic, the dream of putting my two characters together and see the dynamic, the chaos, the craziness.

So here's the deal, the idea. That while I do like N after he figured out Ghetsis manipulated him and turned to a grayer thinking to thus become the sweet character we love that wants to hear our pokemons' voice through battle and become a great ally... I also want to explore what he was before, with the manipulation of Ghetsis when he wholeheartedly believed in the liberation of Pokemon, before the canonical events of Black & White and say just after being let out of the castle to explore the world in a brief period of time as Ghetsis might allow, to understand being King of Team Plasma and honestly doing God knows what. So N, our protag who wants to help Pokemon, understand the world, learn to become King with an idea about the Pokemon League and in search to find the Dragons of Truth / Ideals (leaning to either one, who knows).

Then one day, a rift suddenly popped up to him, sucked him in and he fell to the sky to Hisui, where P:LA happens and that N has some understanding towards because while Unova is his hometown, he was educated as the best as King (biased knowledge tho because if he was taught well, he wouldn't be so black and white about people and Pokemon, seriously Ghetsis...) so he was aware of the other regions, and with his smart curiosity with a thirst of knowledge because he is a smart chara coz remember that cube, and his philosophical rambles etc that being in Hisui meant he was in Sinnoh's past. Combined with the Arc phone and about the deity to seek out all Pokemon, plus the fact that in this era where people surprisingly feared Pokemon which N had no idea of... as King, with the idea to liberate Pokemon from people, even in such situations, he knew what can be done:

Find a way to present time. The Arc phone is related to that, so he would follow Arceus' will to seek out pokemon and learn what he needed for the path needed.

Check out the current state of the legends in Unova, whether they were still Kyurem or split into Reshiram and Zekrom because finding out what happened to those Pokemon in real time might help him locate whatever happened to them in present time. Also leaving an impression in the past might help to be recognized in the present, as long as he doesn't overdo it.

Plant seeds of separating Pokemon from people in the past. Although there was the paradox of chaing past and messing up with the future, if people can only fear and abuse Pokemon, if that was what the world of people and Pokemon together amounted to, then N is determined as heck to stop whatever happened with those newfound Pokeballs and at least made sure people stay far away from Pokemon and that they should be separated. Pokemon suffered enough.

Because I don't know lore enough, P:LA kinda runs about the same way it usually would but more emphasis on N and Volo dynamic because that's what happens as a sucker to both characters. But it would also largely change, because N can talk to Pokemon. N will obviously keep it a secret that he can talk to Pokemon if people fear Pokemon so what would people think about someone who can talk to them and he didn't want any trouble in an unknown timeline. So let's see what points I can make of the aesthetic, the vibe, the insanity...

N brought Zorua with him, who had disguised as a small Joltik to nestle in N's hair because they are BFFs for life, your Honour. Don't @ me

N refuses to catch the three starter Pokemon into Pokeballs, but went along with it for the Professor when he realized he was in the past and he needed more information and a place to live. He was about to make excuses that he was unable to catch the Pokemon after finding them himself, to urge them to freedom but see it go sideways because they were fascinated about a person who can actually talk to Pokemon and ended up with the Professor anyway. Also, when asked why N didn't catch them in Pokeballs, N stated his dislike reluctantly and yet firmly and the Professor decided to accept it thinking he had the same mentality as the Clans

Still since N was somehow good with Pokemon and he fell out of the sky to bring him into Jubilife Village, meeting Akari and Rei the twins. Getting an Oshawott because felt connected Unovan style... recruited into the Survey Corps because even though he refused to catch them, he somehow worked well with the starter Pokemon and the affinity might help surveying although it was a little tentative because the moment he was in danger...

He was tasked to help complete the Pokedex, which disgusts him. But then he hears that Akari and Rei were among the few Survey Corps people entrusted to the task and if there was one thing to be learned about young kids (or young trainers in his present) that they could be menaces to people and Pokemon alike (caring more for the latter obviously) with that curiosity and crazy wonder that spoke of foolhardiness, recklessness and if he wanted to plant the idea of liberation between people and pokemon... start with young minds (and secretly find his 20 y/o a- being a bit of a father to two young kids because by Kyurem, he might not have lived with people for that long opposed to Pokemon but even he wouldn't wish anything to happen to two children just because of short manpower by the people responsible for them.)

In other words, N will just *pretend* to help with the Pokedex but honestly, he was busy with other things. Anything to further his own goals though.

Kamado doesn't necessarily trust N because from what I kinda figured out about his character, because of fear of Pokemon that anyone who is close to Pokemon like that could be a little red flag although I know that might not the entire thing. N vowed even more to never say a thing about how he can talk to Pokemon.

In exchange for all that, N would have access to what the people in this village know about Hisui and potential access to records so he could know more about the legends, the nations outside etc. Or whatever he can find.

Moving on from that, N meets Volo. N will meet the totally not suspicious merchant who expresses complete interest for someone who fell from the sky and since N has an Oshawott, why not a friendly battle? The Pokeball revolts him so he refuses, hugging Oshawott closer and Volo berates with what's wrong with friendly competition as he summons out his Togepi who looks eager.

N, though revolted, was astounded by Togepi's love for Volo (which evolved into Togetic through friendship so honestly I do want to believe that Volo takes good care of Pokemon in his passion to learn and understand them more) and even when battles still repulsed him, N also can't ignore Togepi's voice, is curious about how a Pokemon who was caught in the first ever Pokeball feel and with Oshawott also surprisingly raring to go, N could only respect Pokemons' wishes. And intervene if things go too far.

It was a close battle and will end up in a tie, because I say so XD Volo will heal both Pokemon, gift N a Potion and offer parting words. N decided that it was because he was a merchant supplying for Pokemon battles that he was like this and thus didn't think highly of him. And yet his interest was piqued at the love Togepi had for Volo, ask whether it is worth for friends to get stronger, to get contained in Pokeballs. All that philosophy, even when the world now was at fear of Pokemon in this era but Volo was among few as N noticed to have a Pokeball and the first to ask for battle. Volo wondered aloud whether a person from the sky had some different mindset but could only offer an answer about curiosity, of 'don't you want to know more about Pokemon' and also at the very fact why wouldn't anyone not want their partner Pokemon to get stronger when wild Pokemon are more likely to attack people for dead. Which causes N to short circuit because it ends up people attacking Pokemon for dead, the abuse that he could not stand for friends. But if it were Pokemon attacking...

At first, he didn't believe but when you somehow find yourself attacked by an Alpha Rapidash and saving two kids who thought it was a good idea to face it in battle just because they got starter Pokemon... N who had lived a long time in the wild with Pokemon and despite very little with human civilization knew it all screamed bad idea and was thankful he befriended enough Pokemon along the way that helped provide a diversion for escape.

Interestingly enough, would that be enough for N to start questioning about the relationships between people and Pokemon, but honestly N lives in the wild before so he knew Pokemon could be aggressive but that was also because of people so his thoughts largely remained unchanged. Reluctantly tho he can see why people would train up their Pokemon to be strong just to survive that. It made the idea of separating Pokemon and people even more urgent than ever, but as circumstances allowed it, he had an understanding of Volo's view. But at the same time, wondered how someone who directs Pokemon in order for survival would have such a tight bond, the love a Pokemon has for who caught them. Something that the very few who owned Pokemon in Pokeballs didn't really have, say a stubborn Pikachu with one of the twins.

That kind of makes meeting the Clan members who ask help for the Nobles thanks to the space-time rift just propel N's curiosity even further because look, the Clans dislike Pokeballs (immediate approval) and just have their Pokemon by their side (what N does so hello kindred spirits) so this makes him eager to accept helping the Clans quell the Nobles' wrath and figure out what happen to propel them to a present with the disgusting Pokeballs and how people who could live alongside Pokemon would end up abusing the very Pokemon that were there with them. It wouldn't change his end goal, but the more he learned, the more he can pinpoint and for the sake of his friends, the less hurt he would let the world inflict on them. Maybe.

Volo appearing out of nowhere that could have scared N out, if not for Zorua always with him to say whoever's approaching, taught the Back-Strike technique which N refuses because he would never use Pokeballs, unusual for a Survey Corp member but reminiscent of the clans. Which piques Volo's interest and left with N's huffed disinterest.

N uses Zorua as some Noble whisperer as an ever changing Pokemon (not that anyone else will know at the time) to calm down Nobles when it was actually N's expertise and somehow summoning friends out of thin air that made him worthy to get the Plates.

Volo 100% freaking out on the Plates, expressed himself as interested in Hisuian ruins and N, despite having somewhat mixed impressions on Volo, knew that this person might be one of the only ones to have any idea about the histories and of legendaries (especially if the clans are arguing about who the Almighty Sinnoh is, when they are just talking about Palkia and Dialgia who cannot match Arceus) and started asking about Unovan legends.

This is how two nerds (kinda) bond with each other, hold interest with each other and can be terrible to each other regardless.

Because I honestly do not know how anyone can change the mind of a Mr. even if it will take me years, decades, centuries to meet Arceus so I land on them sadly enough being terrible menaces together. Or maybe Volo might not change his mind about meeting Arceus, coz why can't we mere mortals have questions about the universe but about changing the world to a happier place with Arceus power just like how N wanted to change a world separated of people and Pokemon, in black and white for happiness.

Actually, those two will clash because I think Volo likes Pokemon enough, curious enough about them and wanted the Pokedex completion to refuse N's vision of a black and white world but N wouldn't budge either.

And yet, maybe it's a little easier for N's worldview to shake a bit, because honestly, the more Nobles N meet, the more of the Clan side by side with Pokemon in happiness and also Legendaries who might not really have problem with people, even if its indifference. Yeah, N needed to find Kyurem just to become a hero and dispel those doubts. Will that be a pretty picture? Nope, but it will be funny.

Time skipping to basically Kamado exiling N out of Jubilife Village, for a lot of reasons from the space time rift and being caught talking to Zorua and understanding him which no one believed even if it is true which makes people think Kamado is just determinely deluded to heap anything against N to bring him into exile and THIS might be when Volo will have something changed by N, in actually speaking with Pokemon.

Because N was in a bad place, even if he could live in the wild, he was shocked by Volo's kindness, was thankful enough, asked to hear Volo's Pokemon voices which he had twice now after yet another battle that led to learning more about a stolen wall fragment few Nobles ago and wanted to hear a third time, not necessarily through battle. Because Volo, despite being something N would inherently despise, from those Pokeballs to the interest in the Pokedex and also using those mercantile needs to fuel Pokemon battles because apparently Survey Corps being what would bring his present was something that would make business boom... and yet despite all that, Volo's Pokemon trusted, respected and dare he say it, even love him. Not any differently than how N and his own friends love each other. Clan members who do not confine their Pokemon in Pokeballs were one thing, even if maybe forced to be stuck with their *owners* regardless but someone like Volo... the closest thing to the Poketrainer he knew of the present.

He listened to Togetic, confirmed he could hear Pokemon's voices by relaying what Togetic had said, all good things from knowing Volo since hatching from an Egg, partnering up together as a Gingko Guild Merchant using Togepi's cheeriness to soothe customers and showing out and yet protecting the very young Togepi in the world that they promised to do the same for Volo...

It left Volo stunned, for more reasons than one, and also he definitely asked N whether he can talk to a deity. The answer is maybe because he would like to talk to Legendaries (cough Kyurem cough)

Their interests was piqued by one another and an exchange was made, with a trust somewhat forged between them after N's secret was out and Volo was the only one to lend a helping hand. N expressed his desire to find Kyurem and Volo would like to know more about Hisuian legends but he would see what he could do.

I'm not making a full fic of this, because first of all, this is a vibe and aesthetic SO SKIP ENTIRELY TO THE POKE WIELDER VOLO VS TEAM PLASMA KING N because imagine how N feels about Volo when he has the Spooky Plate all along, was the reason why the space time rift existed which led to N being here in the first place and finally that he was leading N on to get the plates thanks to his success when Volo hadn't as much luck as N...

Yet Volo's monologue was something N understood as a somewhat nerd with a burning curiosity and passion about the questions left blank, which is why he was eager to seek out Truth and Ideals when Volo wanted to reach out to the Creator, even about a happier world because it was similar to how N wanted to do it even if Volo phrases it in a way that unnerves N and he now wonders about his own consequences...

Still, because Volo felt that N understood him more than anyone else, especially considering the fact that he got a bit of his life story out of Togetic and all that, also them being nerds together. He offered N that they could change the world together but N was wavering and while he did say he agree, they may differ on the ways that the world be remade. Because will Volo's world still have Pokemon or will they be separated as intended to?

They battle, only for their ideas of a different world. It was different than how N would envision because present wise, this might be the equivalent to hero vs hero, Reshiram vs Zekrom and for Volo, it felt different only because even when N was Arceus chosen with the Arc phone and all, N had similar ideals where he can't let questions go unanswered, with the burning drive and passion and it was easy enough to hate when someone so similar was chosen when he was not and rather chase a lesser legend but at the same time, N was an interesting character that fueled his own curiosity being the only person who can talk to Pokemon, who can understand and could even help him talk to a deity.

There was less ill will, more stake to the world but not to them despite their own personal stakes, not really duelling to the death but more like duelling each other for N to understand Pokemons' voices between each other and to see who's convictions were strong in battle while Volo wanted to understand the Arceus' chosen might, why he wanted to separate the black and white when he so obviously bonded with Pokemon like his own team who had his back in the harsh world of Hisui and so forth.

So we know Volo will have something like Cynthia's theme and also Girantina with Origin so it's like 8 Pokemon. So what does N have, that he can somehow summon because he straight up refuses Pokeballs, something he didn't do in B&W games I know but still somewhat canonical to his character. CALL IT ABUSING GAME MECHS ANYWAY AND SUMMON NOBLES USING ITEMS THAT COULD SUMMON TO BATTLE INSTEAD OF GETTING A RIDE.

Also, I'm going to throw in Kyurem for N because the time shennanigan stated in this, to look for Reshiram and Zekrom in his present, he... might have messed up with Unovan's past lore when he wanted to meet and understand Kyurem (DESPITE BEING IN HISUI BUT TELEPORT EXISTS AND HE WILL PRIOIRITZE) that ended up N hijacking a hero role somehow, able to summon Kyurem later and so forth. (I know this is in no way accurate but it makes the N vs Volo battle even more chaotic)

ALSO, N would be able to hear all of Volo's Pokemon team who somewhat knew about Volo's plan, understand the desire of a happier world but believe him going the wrong way about it and pleaded N to change both of their minds because when N wanted to battle for Pokemon liberation, the Pokemon steadfastly refused that notion and battled their hardest against it. Which led to an even battle to be honest.

And then there is GIRANTINA, when N somehow beat all of Volo's Pokemon down to their last HP that they struggle to hold on. And to hear confirmation from the PokeSatan themselves that Volo is indeed responsible in collaboration about the space time rift, agreeing with vengeance about kicking Arceus' ass and wanting to know what the Creator was thinking about this world...

From here, I'm going to make it a tiny bit anticlimatic when it is two legendaries Kyurem and Girantina who even through battle acted as the mediator between both Volo and N to reach a compromise because somehow they will end up as a tie, to the bitter end when both Pokemon refused to deal the final blow which both N and Volo knew what it meant.

N's convictions were not enough with a wavering heart that had met Legendaries and Pokemon like Volo who did not want the black and white world he envisioned which was something he respected out of Pokemon because they were friends and the journey proved that a mixture of gray, such a chemical reaction might not be such a bad thing after all.

Meanwhile, Volo still rather have the world a better place, but with N, he realized such a definition could differ for anyone. He realized what his Pokemon battling so hard for N meant, with the idea of what world recreation meant to his fellow partners that tried so hard for him but he honestly still wanted to win because he was kinda petty against the Arceus' chosen, about what makes one so special. It just meant PRIMARILY, he just wanted to seek out Arceus, wanted to know everything by solving Hisui's riddle to reach the end goal of a meeting and because he wished to be chosen as much as N was, to wield Arceus' power which he wished could also be right. And yet... despite everything sad and painful going through, a passion can cool even if curiosity could not and when everything just didn't seem to work in seeking out Arceus, to the point he would do anything, maybe now there will be a less destructive way. As for the world itself to making it a better place, maybe... that could be done by themselves, especially when nerding out with N and everything that happened by his own doing did make his world a better place. At least a little.

Girantina and Kyurem for their chosens, as they felt like they had words for the Creator themselves, realized the impasse enough to find out that both might have a goal they could compromise on and work together in the end. Seek out Arceus, kick their ass and get their questions answered.

For Volo and N's curiosity, whether it be for why this world, why people and pokemon are not separated, why do sad and painful things happen, it was something they can mutually agree upon.

In conclusion, if this fic ever be made because I cannot be bothered to look up B&W or P:LA or Pokemon lore in general to get this story done right, N and Volo will be somewhat semi-redeemed while being menaces together to search upon Arceus more as rabid researches than world destroying villains. Yeah, they can be redeemed AND be menaces together. Shoutout to the villains who had Legendaries on their side through friendship and partnership instead of being forced <33

Also, note in every way that because I'm practically biased to N and Volo in interpretation that it might not be completely accurate but I'm just letting out my crazy. As for plenty other charas who might make it to this fic such as Ingo, Cogita, Ghetsis to name a few, I wanted to focus on N and Volo BECAUSE I had too much thoughts about them. Also, imagining N breaking game mechs that no other Pokemon protag would do with how he's friends with every Pokemon while Volo already broke the 6 pokemon rule as a Pokemon antag... Glad to put this out here. Salute~

[magspy]

1, 6, 9, 14, and 19 for Solas?

Thank you so much!!! I love talking about my little guy<3

1) What was the original thought that led to the creation of this character?

Solas started out as a minor antagonist for a DnD game where our whole group took turns DMing for the same cast of characters.

I wanted to do a haunted house, but also needed a way to reveal something about one of the characters in the party (Namely that he has a very negative reaction to enchantment magic and sorta turns into a big monster when he freaks out).

So Solas became the minor antagonist for that session, having created a fake haunted house for non-adventurers to experience a little adventure of their own under entirely harmless conditions. HOWEVER, he's also a big wizard dumbass and got a little too into it, so he decided to test out his haunted house on a group of real adventurers to get their feedback, also deciding not to tell them that it was fake.

He had placed little enchantments on everything, so people would be deterred from breaking anything expensive, and that's what ended up biting him in the ass, because the barbarian tried to break the fake sacrificial altar in the basement and hulked out, attacking his own party. ( @auphelia this is what I mean when I say that 80% of his problems are of his own creation)

6) What was the thought process behind their appearance? Did you go mostly for the aesthetic or are there other reasons they look the way they do?

I wanted to include a red herring and get the party to believe that Solas is in fact a vampire that just invited them to his haunted mansion for a drink.

Cue the fancy wardrobe, enchanted glasses to block out sunlight, and glass of deep red liquid. The truth is, of course, just that he's a drow and a decently well-off wine merchant (luurden wine to be specific).

9) How big is their role in the story? Do they make a frequent appearance or are they a character with little "screentime" but big influence? Or are they just a favourite background guy?

Like I said, he started off as a one-off antagonist, BUT he did make one of the party members (notably NOT the barbarian he caused to hulk out) so angry that he had him kidnapped, mind wiped to forget that he's a wizard, and made to work as a bartender for a good two to three months.

And I got to play a slightly nerfed version of him as an actual PC after that, as he worked on regaining his full arcane prowess and experience being an adventurer himself :3

14) Do you have any quotes tied to the character, either from the story itself or from another source that fit them?

Ouf, this one I'm not good at, but have this little comic of him and the dragon skeleton he bought for his study:

19) What is your general favourite thing about the character? What is your least favourite?

Favorite: Lady! I love his familiar so much. He got her from his mom after her death. She was also a wizard and left him a slightly altered version of the Find Familiar spell so he could summon her familiar himself.

Him being an illusion wizard has also been insanely fun. He's actually not very good at evocation magic (your usual fire bolts, etc.) which is why he thought he'd never be able to make it as an adventurer, thus creating the haunted house for everyone else instead. But it's been really fun working around that limitation while playing him.

Least Favorite: Glasses... I love how they look and I keep giving them to characters, but god do I not enjoy drawing them...

[ghulah]

The Papas, DND and VTM

As some of you know, I am an avid TTRPG liker, watcher, player, etc. The idea of the Papas (and the Ghouls) playing a campaign has always been very fun to me, so I consulted with the council (my wives @bonesy-doodles and @parabunny).

And so, I present to you, the Papas and their set ups for Dungeons and Dragons and Vampire: the Masquerade!

Primo

So, Primo is overall very much the traditional Dracula of the bunch. He's all dark and mysterious and probably actually evil (by some metric), despite the garden tending and the (poisonous) plants he takes care of. He for sure is a roleplay guy but will kick ass in combat.

In DND, he would definitely attempt to play a Dhampir Warlock or Artificer. Artificer especially would allow for alchemy and a lot more fucking around with spellcasting - therefore making it both challenging and engaging and for Primo to pull some insane shit during session. He could also just multiclass Warlock/Artificer, definitely pact of Fiend, Undead, or the Great Old One. The Dhampirism is for vibes, okay. It just fits.

As for VTM, he would be Malkavian or Nosferatu, but the oracle aspect of Malkavian makes it all the more ominous. There is also Hecata and Tzimisce! Either way, he's one of the more ancient, traditional vampires. Primo would play VTM and say, "I am Cain." (bones said this) Much to the chagrin of the Master of Ceremonies.

Primo is also a dice hoarder, he has so many sets and he has a specialized dice bag for it too. It's embroidered.

Secondo

Secondo is very - how you say - wild? He would bring chaos to the table I fear, but he does it in character rather than like being a frustrating player. While he does read the rules well, he does it to get around them I feel.

In DND, he'd play a fighter class, probably just straight up Fighter or Barbarian. And he'd play bigger species like Dragonborn and Orcs! So basically the tank and also main hitter. But for a little bit of religious aspects, an Oathbreaker Paladin would be perfect for him. It has those angsty, turned back on my god vibes as well as the tankiness of melee classes. a Barbarian Paladin multiclass would hit hard methinks.

VTM wise, he'd definitely be Ravnos. I considered Toreador and Gangrel, but I think Ravnos fits the best. He loves (un)living on the edge and rather than the high art vibes that Toreador embody, it's a lot more, well, wild! And also cool. Very rogue-ish and plays by his own rules.

I think he likes fun dice that are like, metal specifically. Some of them are more dark, gothic designs and then some of them are just super fun.

Terzo

Alright, this guy for sure is a roleplay-heavy player. Yeah combat is fun and all but only to get shit done. He loves taking his time curating his character's aesthetics and their motivations and all. He will stick to the bit, do not try him.

That being said, of course he's playing a Bard in DND. He would play either a Tiefling or something of the Elf variety. College of Eloquence would be what I'd assign to him. The bardiest bard to bard, you know? However!! He could also play a Warforged, specifically one with Art Deco elements and that could also reference Frankenstein. It always comes back to Frankenstein with him.

To riff off of the artistry of bards - Terzo would be a Toreador. They're known for being artisans. They're beautiful and charming, seductive...all of which fits the bill for the type of character Terzo likes to play. On the other hand, he could very well play a Brujah. They're known as rebels, warrior-scholars. Terzo would play a vampire that's very Vampire Chronicle-esque.

He's also pretty superstitious about his dice, like if one of them rolls badly he will retire it.

Copia

I think Copia also enjoys the roleplay aspect of TTRPG's a little more than the combat but he gets super giddy whenever he hits a critical hit or takes someone down.

For DND, he would play a Tiefling Cleric. He's got that vibe that he enjoys both the aesthetics and the idea of Tieflings conceptually! Personally I think he always has a Tiefling PC on hand at all times, like it's just his thing. Other than Cleric, he might also take Druid for Wildshape, so he could turn into a little rat. Otherwise, he might also enjoy Sorcerer (magic nepotism /hj). Who has time to learn spells? Not him!

VTM though, it'd be funny if he played a Lasombra. Definitely hilarious considering their whole social-climbing thing and the administrative aspect! Tangentially, the Ministry Clan would also be kinda ironic. I just think he plays that sort of vampire that is less Ancient but more like What We Do In The Shadows vampire.

He likes having dice for each of his characters, he might reuse some, but he prefers having one set for one PC.

Extra

They all play an Oops! All Tiefling Bard Game, at some point. It is so stupidly fun.

There have been fights over in-game choices. Many of them. It's okay, they get through it.

The Ghouls do play as well! I have not figured out their own preferences yet, but trust, they get to have their TTRPG time.

OC tidbits

My OC, Sibling Nephtys would run games like Monsterhearts (college ver) and Monster of the Week.

Bones's OC, Sibling Rigorian, would run Dungeons and Dragons.

Para's OC, Bunny, would run Vampire: The Masquerade.

[aurerue3]

Hi, I wanted to request a romantic matchup from HSR if that's alright ^^

My personality: An ambivert. Hard to describe, but usually I am extremely polite, calm and kind to those who don't know me very well, I only let my true self out with people who are close to me; with them, I am sarcastic, sassy, I like to tease and I don't mind being teased as well, I like having fun but usually I am that one friend who tries to negotiate with the group to not do this dumb and reckless thing and then jokingly complain if they still decide to do it. I like to joke and come up with witty remarks which make my friends laugh. One of my friends once said that I'm usually very nice but can turn into a mean bitch when someone makes me really mad or when someone insults me or my friends. But I can also be very chill, caring, patient and gentle as well, I always try to be open minded and understanding while also being open about my feelings. I'm usually insanely loyal and try to be honest when I can, sometimes even if I know that the truth may be unpleasant. Deep down I'm a bit insecure and might have slight abandonment and attachment issues.

My aesthetic/style: Usually something along the lines of goth, emo or black elegance (I think that's what it was called?). In short, I usually wear all black but I never wear skirts though, I despise them. And you'll rarely see me in a dress so yeah. I also love silver punk jewelry, I always have a ring on each finger of both my hands and some bigger, visible earrings (usually snake or dragon themed). The silver earrings and rings are always a part of my outfits, but recently I also like to wear some purple and some more classy looking outfits- for example, lavender turtleneck with a dark gray vest on it and with black pants/jeans.

My hobbies, things I like, facts about me: First of all, a huge book lover, my whole room is covered in books. I also can't live without listening to music (my taste doesn't limit to specific genres, but I really like rock, pop and electro-swing). I've been an equestrian for many years now and there's nothing in this world that I love more than being around horses. Aside from horses, my favorite animals are cats and dragons (I know, dragons aren't real, but shh). I'm kinda a mythology nerd. I also really like swimming, writing stories sometimes, drawing, travelling, watching movies, series or cartoons, hanging out with friends. I like math. I love spicy food and trying different cuisines. I love puns, even if I may pretend to be annoyed by them sometimes. Like I mentioned, I also really like travelling, road trips and seeing new places. I'm quite interested in ancient history (the more ancient, the better). When I was little, I loved dinosaurs and wanted to become an archeologist. I'm bilingual- my native language is Polish but I've been learning English since I remember and dare I say I'm quite fluent at it (I'm studying English as a language in university now). I love autumn. I like going shopping for some nice clothes, various trinkets and books sometimes.

My love languages: I usually try to do a mix of every one of them, but I think physical touch (I'm touch starved as hell, but I try not to be clingy) and quality time are the most important to me, but I also love to shower people with gifts randomly, I like making them happy and watching them smile.

Who I don't want to get: Welt, Gallagher, Gepard, Luka, Yanqing, Arlan, Argenti

What I like and dislike in a person: Like I mentioned earlier, I value honesty and loyalty. I'm patient and understanding with people with secrets and with people who need more time to open up, but I dislike flat out liars and fake people. I dislike people who are too aggressive and impulsive. I also dislike overly sensitive people. It's a bit hard to say what I like in people, but I need someone who I can be unapologetically myself with, someone who won't judge me and someone who will care about me and my emotions just as much as I would care about theirs, someone trustworthy and preferably someone who will understand that on some days I might want to go out and have a little adventure and on some days I'd rather stay at home and be lazy. Someone who I can tell everything, ranging from talking about deep, meaningful topics to cringy jokes and completely random shit.

Please and thank you, and sorry for the really long description!

This took so long to make- I hope you like it 🙏 Thank you for the ask 🌼

I match you with…

Dan Heng 🍁

⭐️ He will feel at ease knowing you’re around to keep him safe (and possibly the express too considering some reckless choices they make-). He gets comfortable around you because you’re chill and appreciates that you’re open-minded and understanding when it comes to talking about feelings. He’s a hard nut to crack so being open to someone outside the express crew is a rare opportunity for him. He admires that you’re loyal and honest towards people you care about because that's how he feels to his own friends. He can relate to you when it comes to having insecurities considering he dealt with his past life haunting him for all throughout his current life (poor guy can’t catch a break-) and he’s very attached to the express so the thought of leaving them hurts him. 

⭐️ You and him have similar tastes in fashion. He already wears black in his drip and having more black in his wardrobe wouldn’t be much of a surprise- with a few colored clothes either from the Luofu or gifted to him by his friends. He likes seeing your accessories because of the attention to detail put on it and seeing the dragon-themed ones would remind him of his dragon form. You two would have reading dates while listening to some music. He’d love to hear you talk about mythology, history and a bit of math because he gets to spend his spare time with you (He may also share with you some history he learned during his travels-). He’d also be curious to see what stories you write~ If he has more free time he’d love to watch movies with you too. 

⭐️ Considering he’s a part of the express crew he drops by different areas often he would invite you to come with him whenever there’s a fun trip. When the crew gets into a shopping spree Dan Heng will be searching around the markets looking for small trinkets, accessories, and books as presents for you (and he will definitely add more dragon-themed jewelry as well-). He would also bring you to different food stalls and offer you to try some cuisines from the Luofu so you not only get a shopping date but also a food trip~ He’d love to accompany you while you’re with your horse (he’ll probably ask you about horses too-) and while you’re swimming. Since he’s a Vidyadhara he’ll be able to keep you two safe if danger lurks beneath the waters. 

⭐️ Dan Heng values quality time the most because he’s usually busy working on adding more information and maintaining the data bank and going out for expeditions with the express crew. Once he finds time to relax he’d love for you to rest with him since he knows it will take a long while until he finds time for leisure. He does his best when he gives gifts to you and his friends. He puts a lot of thought into giving gifts and he’d be happy to receive gifts from you to keep in his room as a treasure of his. Dan Heng struggles with physical touch and it takes him a while to ease into it. Once he’s used to it he’d give you gentle hugs while resting his head on your shoulder (especially when he’s tired-).

⭐️ Dan Heng is loyal to you as he is loyal to his friends. He won’t consider leaving you for anyone else because once he’s attached to you he sticks with you. He’s also honest, especially when it comes to his feelings- he shows it through his actions like spending time with you, cuddling you (when you two are alone-), and giving you small gifts from his adventures. He’s good with anything whether it be going outside and having a trip or staying indoors. Considering all the things he went through he can see why you would hate certain people and he understands you having your reasons to dislike them. 

⭐️ Dan Heng has a hard time opening up with his feelings but he eventually eases up to you and shares more about himself. He is loyal and honest in your relationship, trusting you wholeheartedly while keeping you safe. He will value his time with you and gift trinkets during his adventures. He also eases up to physical affection, giving you lots of cuddles when you’re alone and as long as he gets to spend time with you he is happy.

Honorable mention/s: Sunday, Dr. Ratio

I also match you with… 

Black Swan 🔮

⭐️ Black Swan likes having you around to lightly banter with and she is on your side most of the time when it comes to the group making careless decisions. She likes having someone else around who sticks around and cares for her especially with what happened to her in her past. She had a lonely life and having you keep her company makes her happy. Black Swan cherishes memories so she’d understand what having attachment and abandonment issues is like. Being a memokeeper, treasuring memories is a part of her role, especially memories that are dear to her. 

⭐️ You two match a lot when it comes to fashion. Black Swan has a lot of purple and black in her outfit as well as silver jewelry. Ever since she was little she enjoyed reading and learning about the past Black Swan will cherish your long talks with her about mythology and history because it's like a blast from the past to her. She’s also curious about the stories and art you make (because some works are based off of past memories-). She’d also love to know about your movie and music genres (she will remember them for future purposes-). 

⭐️ Black Swan would love to travel with you and she’d especially love shopping for new treasures for herself and gifts for you. Since you both have similar interests in books she would definitely find you more to read (and add to your room~). She’s also open to try out different cuisines and since she’s been on Penacony she would invite you to have a bite near the food stalls. Black Swan likes to have a dip in the water and relax so if you two had the chance to go to a river or spring you two would spend time chatting while having a soak in the water. You two would also have horse riding dates (and she’s unusually a natural at it for some reason- understanding her horse’s wants and needs too-) 

⭐️ She’s really good at physical touch- light touches to gentle hugs she tries to ease into being more intimate with her physical affection (the tango-). She values quality time, treasuring many memories of her past and of you. She puts a lot of thought on the gifts she gives. She will not only give you trinkets but also dream bubbles of your adventures together too. 

⭐️ Black Swan is loyal to you as she is to her role as a memokeeper. She won’t forget you because she will always have the memories she has of your moments with her. She rarely has a connection as intimate as yours. She will be open about a lot of things in her life, especially her past. She trusts you to keep her more personal secrets between just the both of you. She knows how to handle people you dislike (especially liars and fake people) and she’s good at reading them. She’s flexible when it comes to what you feel like doing for the day because to her, as long as she spends time with you she’ll be happy.  

⭐️ Black Swan is a flexible partner to have and she puts a lot of thought into what she does for you. She will stick to you for a long time and will openly talk about her personal secrets to you. She’s the type to think before acting so you two rarely get into arguments. She will treasure every memory of you and as a memokeeper, she will always find ways to keep them because she wants to remember her time with you. 

Honorable mention/s: Robin

[autisticlalna]

Skyblock Kingdoms species headcanons: expanded edition

okay so a while ago i had a post with an overview of my headcanons for the SBKers, but it was very basic bc i only had ideas for a few people . however, here is me now going completely insane. enjoy

Dark Oak:

Viking:

catboy. has ears under his hat, which is why he never takes it off.

i cant decide if he has a tail or not. itd make sense with the catboyism but not with the "able to hide it" thing

sometimes partially phases through things, and his elytra wings arent fully tangible. also: elytra are Very green.

not a species headcanon but, as is typical for when i write about Vikings: his compass points somewhere, and that somewhere is Down. if he holds his compass horizontally, the needle spins in place, but otherwise it's always pointing to the Void.

Fix:

is extremely normal. like, normal to the point where everything else just kinda.. fizzles out.

(Milkman is able to push it, but still doesn't get a strong reaction.)

if it somehow canceled out, something would be extremely up with Fix. like, this guy is Not human, hes just been made human by... whatever is causing this.

i don't know what he'd be, though. ccViking mentioned gryphon and i think that's fun considering there's a few other mythical creatures in here, but Solar has also been prodding me with the alien Fix agenda so

Cherry:

Rubyco:

pointy-eared allay hybrid

...although that's usually overwritten by her mimicry. shifts species and aesthetic often to better blend in with whoever xe's spending time with

might be an issue related to the timeline instability-- bleedover from other timelines where he's island partners with someone else instead of Vintage.

hair is made of gemstones, and injuries can show up as cracks or chips to reveal crystal underneath. (so, basically the same as my take on tRuby.)

has allay wings, obvs

Vintage:

dryad and guardian of the cherry grove biome

the original cherry tree on the island was Her Tree, and has now regrown into the big tree

i keep thinking [elora from spyro voice] "im a FAUN you dork" so . i guess she's a faun also??? dryad taking form of a faun

LUNA MOTH WINGS. I NEARLY FORGOT

what if a deer was a person. and pink. and a tree. and a luna moth. and had cherry blossoms growing on her. and was bi

Jungle:

Avid:

has everything wrong with him.

i dont know how to describe whats going on with Avid besides "it was BAD". the deeper he got into dark magic the more screwed up he got mentally and physically

got a white hair streak from stress of being trapped in incendium and his eyes gradually went from purple to red after selling his soul

nonhuman in the sense of "was human once and we have no idea what the hell he is now"

now he's monkey! this is an improvement. still has the hair streak though, and his eyes look red in some lighting

Doovid:

the actual only human on the entire server. Fix doesn't count

..and now he's monkey! oops lmao

im gonna be real most of my headcanons for who he is and where he came from are gonna hinge on me remembering to rewatch Shadow of Israphel. thanks mallow <3

full title Skylord Doovid, although nobody calls him that

elytra are a wood-and-canvas style glider

Birch:

Fool:

ex-human

covered in cracks and held together by gold seams, like broken pottery

bleeds liquid gold

can be mistaken for a marble statue if he stands still.

he's still flesh and.. uh, not blood, but looks a bit Off

Milkman:

gestures. WHAT DO I DO WITH THIS GUY

mimic shapeshifter like Ruby but, like. worse. guy who has realized he can use his abilities For The Bit and has never looked back

cannot be killed in a way that matters

Bamboo:

M1G:

humanoid alien with pointy ears, a tail, and bioluminescent freckles

eyes and blood also glow. M1G is very glowy.

has paws :3

dragon elytra

Kale:

space piiiiig

anthropomorphic, can be easily mistaken for a piglin

has the gift of opposable thumbs

Mangrove:

Marmalade:

ccRuby mentioned the idea of Marm having hooves and i think that's neat.

drifting further away from human the more times she falls into the Void

maybe some demon vibes? idk. in the category of "not a specific species, just has nonhuman traits" but Avid probably considers her demonic lmao

eyes have a slight glow. when doing magic or listening to the Void, the glow gets brighter / her eyes entirely change color and have a light trail

Tea:

kitty :3

like. Viking is catboy. Tea is cat.

Acacia:

Trog:

human... right?

not human. eldritch entity that's knitted itself together into a human form. either the original Trog is still in there somewhere, or was never there at all.

glowing eyes, sharp teeth, face always somewhat in shadow. movement either too fluid or too stiff. nearing the uncanny valley

has triangle pupils and their eyes reflect light like a cat's

bleeds black gunk (if they remember to bleed, anyway)

is "stuck" as human, but when stressed, too close to the Void, or losing focus they can start to glitch out into a chaotic mess of triangles and polygons until they're grounded again

Kittrix:

red panda hybrid! ears, tail, paws

very sculk-y under the hoodie. has the exposed soul-heart-cage thing the Warden does

sensitive to sound, but hasn't made the connection that it's a sculk thing and thinks she just has misophonia

completely unbothered by everything Wrong with Trog. it's all perfectly normal, says entity who is also not normal in any way shape or form,

Spruce:

Acorn:

was previously a squirrel in a raccoon mask

after the void jump, she's now just like.. kinda a mishmash of small winter-y animals. squirrel, ermine, fox, snowshoe rabbit, etc

congratulations! youve gotten promoted to "embodiment of winter". im sure that wont have consequences

does not have facial features under the mask. it's fine she doesn't need them where she's going

has arctic tern elytra wings

sculk is still surface-level, but it keeps regrowing when she tries to pry it off

Anathra:

android, looks human unless you play close attention - most SBKers haven't figured it out yet

used to overheat easily (especially with glasses off), but after his hair started changing color he's now freezing cold to the touch

glasses are an external attachment that lock into place, so Anathra taking them off is Very Intentional and they can't be knocked off by accident

is usually able to repair himself, but sometimes has to go to Trog or Neon for help

currently unbothered by the sculk, although he's getting a bit concerned about what damage it might do to his components if it continues spreading

Mushroom:

Elffe:

solar i am holding a hand out to you. elffebrine

(translation: what if Elffe was Herobrine. glowy eyes, teleportation, cryptid energy)

has mushrooms and crimson vines growing on him. that's probably fine

in contrast to Spruce being unnaturally cold, Elffe is unnaturally warm. radiates heat, melts snow and ice, etc

Artemis:

god i wish i knew literally anything abt artemis. please log back on all i know is that fallow thinks youre cool

End:

Neon:

cyborg, but in a cassette futurism way. 90s clunky electronics.

hard to tell how much of him is organic and how much isn't. has large bulky metal parts, but also faint lines of neon green circuitry that show through his skin.

is a bit run-down and weathered after being stranded with Leon. he was starting to rust :(

Leon:

chinstrap penguin :3

non-anthropomorphic because it's funny. scaled up to be average human size, though

has ender particles drifting off him

slowly transforming into more of an End creature because of his dependence on chorus fruit

[goblins-riddles-or-frocks]

What is your view of Aemond and Daemon?

Aemond is really fun. I love that he’s like such an over-the-top kind of anime character aesthetically but also all of the overlooked second son tropes.

It’s fun how strongly him having been picked on and ignored in childhood informs the false glass jaw ego he’s developed for himself in adulthood. And how he’s become overly cruel as a result. He always wants to get his own, he wants to prove himself. He’s so quick to try to crush anyone else underfoot if given any sort of advantage because he has such a tremendous chip on his shoulder and he needs to feel powerful to make up for his youth/how much no one cares for him now because he’s so annoying lol.

The entire scene where he stole a dragon— because he kept being picked on for not having one– and then immediately attacked the other kids because he finally had the upper hand and then lost an eye and went crying to his mom really exemplifies all of this! He really doesn’t know how to be normal. And in the present he’s still trying to constantly prove himself and to command respect while just being… kind of a fuck up.

I’ve said this before, but I did love him trying to just be kind of an asshole and scare Luke in the season one finale, talking up such a big game and demanding that Luke cut out his own eye. Then Luke leaves (normal reaction!) and then Aemond tries to scare him… upon dragon back and then shdhfhfd accidentally kills him and is like “oh fuck I accidentally started a war fuck fuck fuck.” Like that is such good character writing!

I was worried that season two was going to squander it tbh with the pilot just not doing anything with his feelings about that. But now that we have episode two, I nominally enjoy him pretending that he totes did it on purpose and was just out for blood. And then in episode two he’s crying in the lap of a prostitute in a brothel, while drinking milk, and telling her that he didn’t actually mean to do it 🥺🥺 but at least B&C means that Daemon considers him a threat and wants him dead. Like yayyy he was noticed 🥺🥺

Idk he’s just so embarrassing! It’s great!

As for Daemon, I started re-watching season one recently and it’s really interesting how little anyone respects him! He and Aemond are def similar while being kind of the inverse of each other in terms of what makes them tick. Daemon is similarly a volatile fuck up, but he seems to be more genuine of a wildcard whereas Aemond is consciously trying to look cool all the time. Daemon just kind of… does stuff, hoping to get some attention from his loved ones, and is bewildered when it’s perceived as some sort of big political move. He also just seems more genuinely loyal while always being perceived as a serpent. Like imo Aemond just is happy to overtly betray people. But Daemon is more untrustworthy because he’s fucking insane, rather than deliberate malice.

There is a consistent line in the show of people just fucking up or allowing things to happen and then that being perceived in a more dramatic way they never anticipated. A lot of people have complained about how a lot of the choices in the show are accidental, and I can agree that sometimes it does go a touch too far, but with a lot of these characters I think that’s a compelling choice— like Aemond! I think it works particularly well for Daemon too. On rewatch, it really stood out to me that after Aemma and her newborn die, there’s that point where Daemon’s out drinking and the crowd, somewhat pushed by Mysaria, start cheering that Daemon’s going to be the heir now that the kid’s dead, and he’s going to be the future king etc. Essentially celebrating the deaths.

And Daemon’s just drinking, barely listening and is half heartedly like “yeah, sure. fuck it” because the crowd is cheering. He doesn’t even seem particularly ambitious in that moment. So when Viserys is completely outraged and confronts him he seems kind of surprised that it’s something that comes up at all. I get the sense that he really wasn’t thinking about it!

Frankly, I think the late season one writing, in general, flags a little bit. Once we start getting time skips, there’s a little less continuity in terms of what these characters are doing and where they’re coming from. It’s just harder to follow their day to day priorities. I find Daemon particularly the most interesting early on, because he especially just drops off the map for a bit.

But in general, I think it’s really interesting how Daemon seems mostly motivated by just wanting attention and recognition. He wants the crown as a status symbol, but he doesn’t want to rule necessarily, like I doubt he has any strong policy opinions or any desire for administrative duties lol. But he wants to be treated like he’s someone of consequence, like it wouldn’t be a joke for him to rule.

I’m not really a Daemyra shipper. Shockingly, I guess, they’re just a bit too creepy for me. But the early Daemyra dynamic was the most interesting imo. I see people frequently say that he’s only ever been interested in her for the throne and I think that’s distinctly untrue!

Before they get married, his desire for her is framed as directly at odds with him wanting the crown actually. This is encapsulated by that moment where she shows up at Dragonstone and she’s literally like “I’m the thing that standing between you and the throne” and she’s right! He could literally just punt her off the bridge where they’re having that standoff, and Viserys would no longer have an heir. Would it be smart? No, it would be catastrophic! But he was obviously ready to throw down with Otto, who is literally there representing Viserys. It clearly wasn’t good sense holding him back.

He’s a character without much strategy, he’s just ready to do what the fuck ever, at any given moment, just to get people mad at him. He wants attention. I think it says something about Daemon, that he is so emotionally unregulated, and so immature, that he does have this continued bond with his 15-year-old niece. He’s grooming her for sure, but there’s this element of like shdgd that’s his buddy, you know? He emotionally relates to a 15-year-old, and then suddenly Rhaenyra’s grown up, but he’s the same. I think the last episode highlighted that very well when Rhaenyra says that she used to view him as a challenge as a child, but now she has too many challenges of her own. (If they lean more into their relationship fracturing and her disillusionment with him I might actually give a damn about them lol)

In season two, it’s so shocking he’s somewhat briefly the voice of reason. Frankly, he’s correct to point out that Rhaenyra should not be just randomly looking for her dead son alone and in enemy territory. And, sorry, he’s right, but she is shirking her duties while they’re in a civil war. I’m not really arguing about whether or not he’s like correct about everything now (Blood and Cheese was… a terrible fucking choice) but like it’s interesting that in his old fucking age he’s trying to rise to the occasion and strategize where he can. I honestly think that suggests that, while he has his own entitled feelings about power, and what he views more as his brother’s crown etc, he does love Rhaenyra and is trying to do right by her. But he’s just… such a perverse mess.

I also remember it was extremely controversial that he choked her at the end of season one, but I mean it’s in keeping with him as a person. He’s volatile, he’s awful. He killed his first wife with a rock, he barely mourned his second wife at all, like he was fucking Rhaenyra at the funeral. He’s just a terrible, terrible mess but that’s what makes him compelling.

[hayleythecannibal]

TWISTED MINDS: Act III- Chapter Thirty-Four The Great Red Dragon

TW: Crime scenes, Gore, Implied Death, Death, Mentions of Cannibalism, Guns, Mental Heath

Warning this is Fem!reader. You can also find this on Wattpad and A03 under the name @HayleyMarieOfficial. Comment if you want to be added to the taglist.

Taglist: @punkin-time @miaowkitty @gabriella-aesthetic @urlocalfanficwriter @dilfdemolisher

Twisted Minds Masterlist

THREE YEARS LATER

HANNIBAL LECTER'S OFFICE - DAY-

Hannibal sits behind his desk, across from ALANA BLOOM, the gorgeous white truffle between them. There's a playful yet slightly-challenging tone. “How I found you in Florence.”

“Betrayed by good taste. Is good taste itching at you in your daily rounds of institutional life?”

“An itch easy enough to scratch…” Alana takes a sip from her own glass of wine. “...when there's cause to celebrate. Congratulations, Hannibal. You're officially insane.”

“There's no consensus in the psychiatric community what I should be termed.”

“You've long been regarded by your peers in psychiatry as something entirely Other. For convenience, they term you a monster.” Alana snickers, Hannibal piqued with Curiosity. “What do you term me?”

“I don't. You defy categorization.” She takes another sip and makes a small "yummy" sound. “Do you still prefer beer to wine?”

“Stopped drinking beer when I found out what you were putting in mine.” She looks directly inhis eyes, finally seeing all of him. “Who.”

“Who.” At that, Alana SLOWLY TRANSFORMS from reality into art: A CHARCOAL OF BOTTICELLI'S FORTITUDE WITH ALANA'S FACE The drawing speaks: “This means you'll be spared the federal death sentence.” this drawing to reveal it is inside Hannibal's cell. Hannibal is now in BSHCI-issue garb.

BSHCI - HANNIBAL LECTER'S CELL - DAY-

Hannibal sits before the glass of his cage, facing Alana on the other side. His cell is a white canvas on which he can project his memory palace. A small scattering of books and drawings and articles that intrigue him, but minimal. On his table, a newspaper. Headline: "FAMILY SLAUGHTERED IN BUFFALO." We note it, but don't linger. “They had enough to convict you a dozen times over.”

“A baker's dozen. Lest we forget Mason Verger. You're welcome.” He smirks, amused. “You're welcome, Hannibal. The needle was guaranteed. But you beat it all on an insanity plea.” Alana says, she is amused with herself, having caged the creature. “I'm not insane.”

“You know that and I know that. A dozen or a baker's dozen, enough people have died.”

“You haven't.”

“A promise in waiting, isn't it? A promise you intend to keep.”

“I always keep my promises.”

MOOSEHEAD LAKE, ME - FISHING CABIN - DAY-

An achingly-beautiful view -- pine-forested hills surrounding a frozen lake beneath a vast blue sky softly painted with clouds. DOGS run among the trees, kicking up the snow. Down the

slope, a rustic fishing cabin sits overlooking the lake.

WILL GRAHAM, bundled against the cold, but enjoying the air on his face as he repairs a fence.

And then his face falls a little. He stands. A black SUV is coming down the track. He watches it, face inscrutable.

FISHING CABIN - VERANDA - DAY-

A mug of hot cider is set large in the foreground, steam rising from it in ghostly ribbons. Reveal it has been placed before Jack Crawford by Will Graham. The two men sit on the veranda overlooking the lake. Several stray dogs lie and mill at their feet. Will's posture is relaxed. He's unshaven. Jack is wearing a more formal overcoat, here on business. “Don't want to talk inside? Don't want to let me inside. Come too far to let the cold stop me, Will.”

“Why should the cold do something common sense couldn't?”

“You don't want to talk about it here.”

“I don't want to talk about it anywhere. You've got to talk about it, so let's have it. Just don't get out any pictures. Y/N and Brianna will be back soon.” He glances down to the shore.

“How much do you know?”

“Two families killed, in their homes, a month apart. Similar Circumstances. Y/N told me.”

“Not "similar." The same. You ever think about giving me a call?”

“No.”

“You know what it is.”

“I didn't call you because I didn't want to. I don't think I'd be all that useful to you, Jack. I never think about it anymore. I don't believe I could do it now.” Will looks down the lakeshore to where his Now wife Y/N and their 3 year old are walking toward them. Jack pulls two photos from his jacket pocket and flips them face up onto the table. Snapshots. Two happy families.

“All dead.” Will stares at them and then back down the lakeshore at his family closer now, laughing together. A good-looking, vibrant woman and a cute kid in winter clothes.

“This freak seems to be in phase with the moon. Killed the Jacobis in Chicago almost four weeks ago. Full moon. Killed the Leeds family in Buffalo night before last. One day short of a lunar month. If we're lucky, we have a little over three weeks before he does it again.” And then Y/N and Brianna are coming toward them, a little out of breath, chilly, their noses red. The dogs milling to greet them.  

FISHING CABIN - WOODPILE - NIGHT-

Will chops wood as Y/N picks up the pieces. “Jack stopped by to see me at the shop before he came out here. He asked directions to the house.”

“He said he got lost.”

“Good. That was the idea. I tried to tell him you dont want to be apart of it anymore.”

“What else did he ask you?”

“He asked how you are. I said you're fine. Said, if you missed your other life, you'd talk about it. You never do. You're happy and we’re safe. And i’m more than capable enough to handle this case. Its my Unit and i should be mad at jack for involving you when i said no.”  Will considers that and her, smiles. “Are you going to help him?”

“Helping Jack is bad for me.” Will as he splits another log… “I agree, i told him we didnt need you to consult.”  A CRACKLING FIRE It burns in the hearth. We are –

FISHING CABIN - DINING ROOM - NIGHT-

The dogs wander up to Jack and flop to the ground around him and the modest dining table at which he's seated along with Will and Y/N. Cluttered and comfortable. The remains of a fine fish dinner sit on the table. There is a nearly-empty bottle of red wine. “Those are probably dogs. People dump small ones here all the time. We can give away the cute ones, rest stay around and get to be big ones.” 

“We’re a sucker for strays.”

“You're not fooling anybody.” I smile at my husband, squeezing his hand tightly. “Got a nice life here.”

“I'm lucky here. I know that.” Brianna is reading a book on the floor by her fathers seat. “How old is she?” Brianna Perks up, “I’m three!” She holds up three fingers and goes back to reading. “And she’s already reading?” Will smiles at his Daughter.

“She’s very intelligent. Come on Bri lets go take the dogs out.” Will leaves the table and Brianna follos her dad happily. Will starts in corralling the dogs out the front door, leaving Y/N alone with Jack.

“Whatever he says he wants to do, you'll take him anyway, won't you? You’ll take both of us.” But we’re not his to take. “I have to. I'll make it as easy on him as I can. He's changed. It's great you got married.”

“Jack…we have so many on the case already- and we have Brianna now-” I say, technically i have the power to say no. it would be my final decision. “I know what I'm asking. And I wished to God I didn't have to. But you know as well as i that we need the help.” Jack quietly produces the pictures he showed Will -- the families, alive and happy. He slides them across the table.

FISHING CABIN - BEDROOM - NIGHT-

Y/N sits up in bed as Will pulls off his boots. She rests on his shoulders and he leans into her. She kisses his neck. “How bad is it gonna be if you stay here and read about the next one? If We stay here and there's more killing, maybe it'd sour this place for you. High Noon and all that.”

“Do you want me to go?”

“I'd have the satisfaction that we did the right thing. He kills families. We dont know how he chooses them and as much as i’m working my ass off on this case i do admit we need help. My team can only do so much.” I admit softly. I want him home, i dont want him to come. But it was inevitible that he would.

“Don't say that. If I go... I'll be different when I get back.” i cradle his face in one of my hands. “We won't. We will be as we always have been.” As Will kisses Me tenderly...

FISHING CABIN - DINING ROOM - NIGHT-

Will stares at the fireplace and then the letter in his hand. He tears it open and pulls a second envelope from within, the salutation written in charcoal.

Will considers it and then rips it open. He opens the folded paper and a CLIPPING falls to the ground. He traps it with one foot. Will regards the letter and its handwriting: recognizably Hannibal's.

"Dear Will, we have all found a new life, but our old lives hover in the shadows, like incipient madness. Soon enough, I fear Jack Crawford will come knocking. I would encourage you, as a friend, not to step back through the door he holds Open. Let Y/N handle this. It's dark on the other side and madness is waiting..."

Will ponders this note for a moment and then bends and picks up the clipping: the newspaper article about the Tooth Fairy killings. He tosses it into the fire, along with the note from Hannibal, and watches them both burn.

BUFFALO, NY - LEEDS HOUSE - BACKYARD - NIGHT-

Will approaches the sliding-glass door from the backyard, trees crowding over the high back fence behind him. He notices an empty doghouse tucked away from the house. Will tucks his flashlight under his chin and scribbles on a pad from his pocket: "Y/N - where is the dog?"  Will pulls a POLICE SEAL off the door and steps inside, into:

LEEDS HOUSE - KITCHEN - NIGHT-

Quiet. The only lights are blue pilot lights on the stove. Will is silent and still, just feeling the house.

He crosses to the refrigerator and opens the door, bathing the room in pale light. Among the family-friendly array of healthy foods and bottles of milk is a peeled MINI CHEESE WHEEL with a jagged bite taken out of it.  Then -- the thermostat CLICKS and the heat comes on. Will flinches. He shuts the refrigerator door and turns on his flashlight, illuminating the empty room.

WILL'S FACE lit from below in the backwash of his flashlight beam, in fluid SLOW MOTION as he ascends the staircase toward the upstairs hallway...

LEEDS HOUSE - BOYS' BEDROOM - NIGHT-

PANNING to see a dark bedroom in disarray. Two beds empty, the sheets flung aside on the floor. RED STRINGS, representing blood spatter, stretch out from origin points, one in each bed (one on a boy's pillow, one on the floor near his bed), to the headboards, walls and floor, like strange spiny flowers.

THE FLASHLIGHT BEAM As it passes over the strings and their origin points, the small balls on sticks become the DEAD LEEDS CHILDREN, but only within the core of the flashlight beam, like a wormhole through time, lying as they were found and photographed.

A SMASHED MIRROR In the upstairs hallway, its shards shining brilliantly as Will plays the flashlight over them -- we just glimpse Will's face, fragmented in the shards, behind the flashlight's piercing reflection. His eyes blink out of sync.

Follow the flashlight beam down the hall toward an ominouslyopen door at the end... On the outer edges of the flashlight beam, we can make out BLOODSTAINS and DRAG MARKS on the floor. A few RED STRINGS extending out from the bloodstains.

THE FLASHLIGHT BEAM As with the dead boys, the small balls on sticks projecting strings of red become DEAD CHARLES LEEDS lying as he was found and photographed by the police. Finally, Will reaches that open door and enters the...

LEEDS HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT-

Darkness. Shapes of furniture. Glints of mirror shards. Ominous dark designs on the walls.

Will's face again. Steely. Finally, he flicks on the light, the switch smeared with blood and strands of Mr. Leeds's hair. RED STRINGS extend from multiple origin points (one stationary on the bed, one that rose from the bed and staggered away), turning the bedroom into a nightmarish, phantasmagoric forest of red tendrils. Because there is –

LEEDS HOUSE - BACKYARD - NIGHT-

Will steps back and looks at the house, closes his eyes. FWUM. The PENDULUM clicks into place.

WILL -- now in full FWUM mode, about to reenact the crime from the killer's POV. A focused intensity to his movements. Will licks a SUCTION CUP and, with latex-gloved hands, sticks it to the glass.

A GLASS CUTTER Traces a circle on the clean glass -- then punches the circle loose. Will reaches through the hole and unlocks the door. his smooth, purposeful glide through the kitchen, up the stairs, to the –

LEEDS HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT-

Will strides in, his body language that of an entirelydifferent person -- large, aggressive.

He slashes Mr. Leeds's throat. BLOOD GOUTS. As the man rises, groping blindly and gushing blood:

“I cut Mr. Leeds's throat as he lay asleep beside his wife.” Will flicks the light switch, leaving a smear of blood. Mrs. Leeds wakes and Will shoots her in the abdomen with a silenced pistol, the MUZZLE FLASH illuminating Will's face.

“I shoot Mrs. Leeds. The bullet enters to the right of her navel and lodges in her lumbar spine. But she will die of strangulation.” Mr. Leeds is moving toward Will, losing great gouts of blood.

“Mr. Leeds rises, with his throat cut, and tries to protect the children.” Will shoves Mr. Leeds aside and he stumbles toward the hall. Will watches as Mrs. Leeds falls back in shock and pain. He turns methodically and walks out into the --

LEEDS HOUSE - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - NIGHT-

Will moves into the boys' bedroom. Two more MUZZLE FLASHES wash across his emotionless features. “I shoot one of the two boys in bed. The other boy I drag out from under his bed and shoot him on the floor.”

Mr. Leeds staggers from the master bedroom, covered in blood, but collapses before he can reach Will, who doesn't react. “All of them are dead, except possibly Mrs. Leeds. The smashing of mirrors begins.” 

Will smashes the hallway mirror. Sees himself in the shards. QUICK SHOTS -- MIRRORS BEING SMASHED: Bathroom mirrors, closet mirrors, vanity mirrors...the shard of glass is lodged over one of Mrs. Leeds's eyes. Mrs. Leeds's eyes and mouth have mirror shards wedged across and in, respectively. We are --

LEEDS HOUSE - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT-

Will stands above Mrs. Leeds lying on her golden sheets. Something is wrong. He glances at the walls behind him.

Will Graham, in the bedroom, looking at all the bloodstains on one wall. A pattern among the mad spatters near the floor. “I moved the family after they were dead and then put them back the way they were when I killed them.” There are three tracks of bloodstains, smeared from the hallway to the wall where three bloodstains have soaked: a higher-source stain flanked by two lower patches.

Now Will stands in the same position he was in before, looking at the wall. But this time, MR. LEEDS FLANKED BY THE TWO BOYS The mirrors in their eyes glimmer while the rest of their bodies fall into darkness, almost disappearing entirely. They are all propped against the wall.

“I wanted them to watch.” He turns to the bed where Mrs. Leeds still writhes. “Talcum powder on the body... but there was none in the house…” the glove is snapped off... leaving his hand naked in the cool air. He stands in front of the bed, bathed in a warm light.

“I have to touch her…”

Her eyes and mouth glow with GOLDEN LIGHT emanating from her eyes, mouth and crotch chakra, reflecting off the golden sheets of the Leeds' bed. As he reaches out to touch the Woman Clothed in Sun, behind him, RED STRINGS fan into the air, creating his wings.

“This is my design.”

BAU - EVIDENCE PROCESSING - DAY-

Zeller and Price flank the illustration of the fingerprint on the wall behind them. They are staring quizzically at… “It's a partial. Probably a thumb.” Y/N and Will Stand in front of Zeller and Price who are mildly distracted by Will's presence. “Jimmy, you're the light of my life.” I smile, i take a look at the print. 

“I know. The print's smudged. Came off Mrs. Leeds's eye. Never did that before. Never would've seen it, but it stood out against an eight-ball hemorrhage.” He can't help stealing glances at Will, finally: “I just... I can't believe you're back. I'm surprised you're back.”

“Welcome back.”

“It's good to see you.”

“Jimmy.” I warn. Price focuses back on the task, blows up scans on a screen. “The mirror pieces all had those smooth prints. Forefinger on the back of the piece wedged in the labia, smudged thumb on the front.”

“He polished it after he placed it, so he could see his face in there.” Will thinks, a hand cradling his jaw. “One in her mouth was obscured with blood. Same with the eyes. Ran an AFIS. He's not in the print index.”

“We could always do a Have-You-SeenThese-Teeth sort of APB.” Zeller wheels a trolley to them. On its surface is a Lucite stand displaying a set of teeth molded in resin, with a hinge. “They're distinctive.” They look at the mold -- a replica of Dolarhyde's dentures.

“Pegged lateral incisors. Here and here. The teeth are all crooked, a corner is missing from this central incisor. The other incisor is grooved, here. It looks like a "tailor's notch," the kind of wear you get biting thread.” Zeller points out. “Snaggletooth son of a Bitch.”

“He bites a lot. Six bad ones in Mrs. Leeds. Eight in Mrs. Jacobi.”

“He may have a history of biting in lesser assaults. May be a fighting pattern as much as sexual behavior.” Will leans against a nearby empty table. I look up at my husband, “What's he fighting, Will?” I ask softly as i adjust myself.

BAU - DR. Y/N GRAHAM-L/N'S OFFICE - DAY-

I look up from My desk to see Will standing before me. “You were asking about the dog. Last night, a vet called the police. Leeds and his oldest brought it into the vet the afternoon before they were killed.” I say softly. “What's going to happen to it?” Will asks me. 

“Please don't worry about the dog, Will.” I sigh. I set my pen down and close the file i was looking over. “What do you expect me to do Care?”

“Best we can Honey. For Bri.” I stand and walk over to him. “There's something else I can do. I can wait until I'm driven to it by desperation in the last days before the full moon. Or I could do it now, while it might be of some use.”

“Is there an opinion you want, Will? I’m not Jack. I might’ve taken the mantle of his job but im not him. I want you home with me and Bri as much as you do.” I cup his face in my Hands. “A mindset we need to recover. We have to see Hannibal.”

BSHCI - CORRIDOR - DAY-

Will moves down the corridors of the BSHCI, Side by Side with his wife who is holding their toddler, behind an ORDERLY, hating being there. The hall begins to darken as Will walks, until we are now --

BSHCI - HANNIBAL LECTER'S CELL - DAY-

Hannibal stands on the other side of the glass, in his cell, facing Will and his Family. His surroundings are a converted space in the asylum. The windows and fireplace have been cemented over and the furnishings are minimal, but it's very comfortable.

“Hello, Dr. Lecter.”

“Hello, Will.”

[twiggyofthesprawl]

I finished Veilguard last night (SPOILERS ABOUND)

Buffer rook to prevent accidental thumbnail spoils

I had a lot of thoughts, so I decided to sleep on it and write a post when I had had time to solidify them. Having done so, I think the most telling critique I have of the game, is how much of it evacuated my brain the minute I wasn't actively playing.

I wanted to like this game. DA:Origins still remains one of my all time favourite RPGs. And for all its flaws, I genuinely love Inquisition

But Veilguard just left me disappointed. At almost every turn, my takeaway from the big setpieces was "if this had one more draft, it could have been great-".

At the end of it all, I find myself picking holes in the plot, the new lore, the characters. And it's not just me being cynical. Because there are aspects I love. It just lacked the consistency to ever truly win me over.

(mostly) PROS: Despite all the noise about how the game shoves progressive messaging down your throat, and how much the internet wanted me to hate Taash... they were fine? A bit grating at times but that's because I don't care for the kind of personality they have. The dialogue for their gender stuff came off a little stilted and corporate, but the actual arc is kinda cute. And their big moment in the finale whips. If I ever replay the game, I need to actually play their quest. But I got kinda burnt out after doing 4 questlines. Also their relationship with Harding? Precious

Emmrich feels like he's from an entirely different, much better game, outside of a few small moments. his dialogue is much less anachronistic than other characters and feels way more true to the older games. His storyline is campy but takes itself seriously enough that you can take it seriously. His struggle of being a necromancer who's scared of death is fantastic. It also has the single hardest line in the game

And yes, he is my husband and we love our son, but that doesn't mean I'm biased! Speaking of my son, Manfred is a perfect angel and I have no notes.

While it feels kinda out of place in Dragon Age, the combat was really fun and vibrant. And the fun I had outweighed the oddity. The artstyle grew on me and the visuals in some of the setpieces kick so much ass that I can almost forgive them making the Qunari so weirdly smooth

Blighted Bellara is the coolest motherfucker I have ever met, both aesthetically and when she's dunking on a god. And if I replay the game, I'm romancing her. AuDHD queen, she deserves the world

Getting to clock the egg right in his dumb backstabbing hypocritical face. I was so pumped in the moment I almost entirely missed it screenshot-wise

CONS:

The game in general just didn't grab me. I found myself pushing through more because I don't like leaving things unfinished, than because I was genuinely invested in seeing where it went.

The Evanuris in general just don't really work for me. The level of power they have requires them to be complete morons for the plot to play out the way it does. They could have destroyed us basically up until the 3rd act.

The Davrin-Harding choice is stupid. I don't think a guaranteed party member loss is inherently bad, but making it specifically 2, and both AFTER you lock into a romance but BEFORE you get any real payoff for doing so, is insane to me. Also, Davrin is the clear correct choice? Because it makes the scene a callback to him and Lucanis failing the first time, vs Harding just kinda. failing to contribute in the finale. Though speaking of failing to contribute.... What the hell was his death??

He waves his sword uselessly a couple times, gets impaled, then falls in a hole and his dog suicide dives after him? It's like they didn't think anyone would care about the indigenous-coded black guy so they gave him a baby griffon for people to go "but the puppy ;-;" about.

And speaking of romances... the flirting is not only the most rizzless thing I have ever seen in my life (seriously, my Rook comes off like a frat fuccboi in almost every flirt option she got), the timing of the options really draws attention to how weird it is you can only talk to companions when its furthering the plot or their personal quest. It leads to you flirting at the most inappropriate times.

But its not just the flirting. As an ace person, it bugs me that games like this always seem to have "bone down" as the end goal for romancing someone. I romanced Emmerich because my MW Rook found a kindred spirit (heh) in him, and I wanted to play things out because he deserves love, and my Rook needed a more thoughtful, restrained perspective to rein in her "punch first, plan later" attitude to problems. So we get through the big 2nd act low point. And I go talk to Emmrich, and he says he wants to go to the Necropolis. And we do. Without me getting a say. Okay... oh! He's making sure im fully free of whatever Solas did to me, and now we're talking about how we love each other and don't want to lose each other? That's really sweet

Wait... why is he making me lay down in a coffin. We're not about to fuck right after one of our friends died, another may be dead, and I just learned a third has been dead for weeks? IN A COFFIN?! IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NECROPOLIS??

People also just don't react to anything properly. Bellara, an ELF and VEIL JUMPER, was with me when I recruited Lucanis. And she comments on the demon possessing him, but is then TOTALLY CHILL WITH IT?! Everyone jumps straight to "damn that sucks" and not "are you going to snap and kill us all in our sleep?" People have talked to death about how Rook can't be a jerk, but i think i could count on one hand the amount of times characters got genuinely angry, outside of little arguments about banal things like how many books to bring camping.

Taash and Emmrich's argument. Taash is NB, and should understand the concept of being respectful of people's identity. Yet its established they repeatedly call Emmrich nicknames making fun of him for being a necromancer, even going so far as to almost call him a SKULL FUCKER?! It's so disrespectful to his culture, his beliefs, and his identity. And it makes Taash seem really unpleasant and hypocritical in that moment. Its a black mark against a character I otherwise came to like.

The whole Varric reveal just did not land for me at all. I figured he was dead really early on because people never responded to him except me, and his contributions were always so nothing that Rook moving onto her reply unprompted wasn't weird. But I figured it was a guilt thing, not Solas fucking with us.

Also the whole guilt/regret prison failed to land because my Rook WASN'T guilty about anything. Yes, Davrin dying was sad, but he was a soldier. He knew the risks. As a Warden, he had one purpose, to fight the Blight. Hell, after Weisshaupt, him going down in order to ensure the kill on Ghillie felt like an honorable end. In his own words, "whatever it takes". Bellara, while sad, wasn't remotely my fault. I didn't "choose" for her to get got my Elgar'nan, somehow none of us noticed the conveniently placed Eluvian. She offered to deal with the wards, and argued her case when Neve also offered. The only one that's a maybe is Varric, except i told him not to try and negotiate with Solus, so him getting killed doing so... isnt on her? IDK, I could see it working, but not for my Rook.

---

There's a bunch of other things like how the 3-member party cap limits team variety and locks you into fixed banter chains, the sameyness of some questlines, etc. But I've been negative enough. Games are about having fun, and I try to focus on the fun I had.

All in, sure, it's not a perfect game. And its rough edges really show. I'm in no hurry to replay it... but I don't regret the run I did do. The high points in DATV are on par with the high points of the series as a whole, and I'm glad I experienced them.

I think this is gonna be the last DA release I play, unless a miracle happens and the inevitable next entry is a GOTY contender. Until then, if I find myself longing for the series, I'll do what I always do. Get my dog, my platonic malewife, and a cool priest, and go kick the blight's ass across Ferelden. In the meantime, however...

[yinyuedijun]

hi mao!! what are your favorite parts of dan heng's design? (visual, personality/backstory, or both! it's up to you how you wanna answer!)

amira!!!!! thank u for the ask, what a fun question 🥺💞💞 I honestly could have written an entire essay abt all the visual elements I adore about his design, but I felt it was easier to just post some images instead 😇

his horns, his tail, the interesting cutout detail of his modernized changshan, his eyes, and his......hands.... I appreciate them all from a purely technical perspective of course. I find them visually compelling and I admire what hyv has done to incorporate chinese mythological elements into his aesthetics. I WANT HIM SO BAD AMIRA I FEEL INSANE LOOKING AT THESE IMAGES I mean halfsjka what who said that

in all seriousness though LOL I am actually. very enamoured with how much dan heng is inspired by chinese folklore. he is based on a literal real-life dragon deity like who wouldn't desire that carnally !!! im kidding IM KIDDING (sort of) but I do genuinely love how inspired his lore is by chinese religion/mythology it's just so cool

I also honestly am just a huge sucker for tragic reincarnation stories, like I will always eat that shit up and dan heng really does have one of the most tragic out there 🙏 HOWEVER hoyoverse unfortunately fumbled dan heng's character arc (and dan feng's character by extension) so I think there was a lot of missed potential with his characterization in general 😭 but there are still things I adore about him anyway... the fact that his past self committed a horrific sin (out of love!!!! YOU CAN'T TELL ME IT WASN'T OUT OF LOVE, HYV!!!!) and now dan heng has been suffering an insane level of punishment for it in this lifetime, yet he still turned out so kind-hearted despite all the trauma and ghosts chasing him...... I need to wife him expeditiously . horns and all 😔