#but these expressions here and as laios talks to him are so... something

[eats-a-berry]

sighs this is always one of the most interesting set of panels during the fight to me. what are you thinking down there...

[honey-doc]

Why I appreciate Kabru and Mithrun's relationship in the story (with pictures!)

I just want to express how much I loved reading through the chapter with the 6 days they spent together and how I think their relationship developed in a pretty sweet way.

I feel like a lot of people reduce their dynamic to "nurse and patient" and that makes me sad because I personally got a lot more from it than that.

I do wanna start off by saying I'm here appreciating their dynamic as it is in the text.

Read more (spoilers ofc):

The beginnings

When they first met, there was an air of intimidation surrounding Mithrun as the captain of the ominous Canaries. He demonstrates his proficiency as a fighter and leader which worried Kabru because he knew it would lead to the dungeon falling into elven hands once again. But this threatening aura begins to dim in Kabru's mind as they get to know each other.

Even before they fell down the hole, the both of them ended up relying on each other's abilities a number of times (when the underground governor turned out to be corrupted Mithrun defeated him and Mithrun needed Kabru's deduction skills during the battle on the first floor) which is already the beginning of a great dynamic

(Kabwu is scared but Mithrun just asks for his help)

After Cithis tasked him with "taking care of Mithrun's needs" for the time being, Kabru treated Mithrun with proper respect and doesn't take advantage of his disability, even using his title “Captain” when he knew Mithrun wouldn’t have cared either way after learning about how he lost his desires. This is in contrast to Cithis who immediately took advantage of her position to mess around with Mithrun when she was taking care of him.

(When Cithis was put in charge of taking care of Mithrun)

The whole time Kabru is with Mithrun, he treats him like a person and more than just someone to be taken care of, as also he relies on Mithrun's fighting skills, knowledge of the dungeon, and teleportation magic.

When you reduce their dynamic to just "caretaker and patient", you're ignoring Mithrun's own capabilities and making him seem totally helpless. It actually feels rather ableist. They have a more balanced relationship with what Mithrun brings to the table than you may think. Mithrun couldn't have survived down there on his own, but it's the same for Kabru (who famously dies every time he fights)!

Kabru doesn’t show signs of trying to manipulate Mithrun either, and he's no longer intimidated by him in the slightest once he learns he’s not a threat or after his life. Though he does instinctively revert to his "sparkly" persona to get Mithrun to eat the disgusting mushroom, it doesn’t work so Kabru just has him eat it normally and never tries it again. This is the beginning of Mithrun unintentionally encouraging Kabru to be more honest with others.

(Kabru realizing he can chill out)

(Kabru being unreserved and Mithrun being silly)

bonus funny moment:

Bonding

Throughout the journey they talked to each other, shared things with each other, and ate with each other. And Kabru expresses genuine concern about whether Mithrun is comfortable (which is something he could live without and wasn't something the Canaries told him to do).

(Kabru showing he wants to make him comfortable by making food for him which is a very important part of the narrative)

(Kabru sharing intimate memories with Mithrun)

(Kabru initiating conversation without hesitation or worry. This part also is referencing how Mithrun shared very important details of his life with Kabru. Kabru also ends up trusting Mithrun with information about Laios despite knowing he could possibly tell the other Canaries about him and impede his plans..which he does lol they do end up knowing about Laios before meeting him.)

For a bonus Lycion implies Kabru was taking better care of Mithrun than they had been which is interesting to me.

Mithrun also shows that he has come to trust Kabru's decisions over the Canaries' when he says he wants to stay in the dungeon after fulfilling the caretaker requirement. They did talk to each other a lot, during that time. I wonder what Mithrun's Shapeshifter double of Kabru would look like now?

Here, Kabru goes out of his way to make sure Mithrun doesn’t overexert himself by knocking him out after the demon leaves with Marcille (again, when his time taking care of him is already over), and I think that demonstrates an extra level of concern he holds for Mithrun.

(Kabru holding back a hellbent Mithrun)

(KNOCKOUT!)

He even managed to make Mithrun mad. It's probably because he "let the demon get away" but I think it's cute and funny because would he huff like that at anyone else? Lol

When the demon breaks through the surface

Kabru begins panicking after Laios turns into the giant monster because he's wondering if he made the right decisions etc. If Mithrun didn’t care about Kabru at least a little bit, he would’ve just left him alone when he started losing it (right after Marcille did the same thing and she is technically more to blame for empowering the demon than Kabru was for not allowing Mithrun to go after it), but he went out of his way to snap him out of it.

It also means a lot to me that Mithrun even says Kabru's name, because in Japanese you can go your entire life without referring to someone by name and it wouldn't sound wrong (just rude) and it's the first time Mithrun says Kabru's name on screen (I checked).

Though it was with a slap, I think it says a lot, because if Mithrun didn’t care at all he wouldn’t have done anything and left him alone. It's not like Kabru could've done anything to stop the demon. He didn't even to tell him to do anything even though Kabru looked ready for an order.

(To be honest I don't know exactly why Mithrun starts beating him up here but you can say it's another rare demonstration of emotion Kabru was able to evoke in him lol. Maybe it's payment for Kabru stopping him the first time. That can be interpreted as paying it back and/or paying it forward I think.)

The last few chapters

And in the end when Kabru’s motivating Mithrun to continue living his life, he speaks to him like they’re friends/have no rank between them despite using the Captain title for him the whole time. Even Lycion initially gets upset that he’s acting “too familiar” with Mithrun.

It feels like Mithrun changed so much in the short time he spent together with Kabru and before the final battle, and it’s thanks to Kabru that Mithrun finally starts to be able to move past his lingering obsession with the demon and begin to really heal.

This is despite the fact that he spent so much time with Milsril and the other elves who never managed to break through to him like that.

(Before Kabru) (After Kabru)

And even after his role as Mithrun's caretaker was loong complete, he still shows concern for Mithrun and tells him to take a break when he's using up all his magic to slice the Falin meat (lmao).

He didn't need to do that! But it shows how he at least slightly considers Mithrun some kind of friend.

It all culminates with Kabru helping Mithrun regain his wil to live and Mithrun confiding in Kabru. Their relationship is important. Kabru continuing to do things for Mithrun to me is more of a sign that he just plain cares about him. Isn't it normal when a friend needs medication for you to remind them to take it? I think it's like that.

Kabru is there with Mithrun when he comes out about his feelings of uselessness AND when Senshi helps him put a spin on the 'vegetable scraps' metaphor and he find meaning in his life again. He's the first one to see him cry :')

Along with the fact that it feels like Mithrun is the first person we see Kabru doesn't feel the need to change his personality with or put on airs for since Mithrun doesn't need buttering up and he won't get offended if someone were to say something socially awkward, I think they made a pretty good team!

BUT ALSO the REAL reason I became endeared to them is cute shit like this:

GOD I love them!!!!! There are so many funny sides to Mithrun Kabru was able to bring out, and really show his charm as a character. Mithrun also brings out the best in Kabru while Kabru’s the most genuine he’s been since his debut with Mithrun. We are able to see that he’s just a kind and caring person, rather than the shady obsessed guy most fans have come to believe him to be.

The true depths of their dynamic also grew on me over time :)

TLDR

All in all it’s so nice seeing how even though Mithrun is a really deadpan person, and Kabru is a really secretive and withheld person, they clearly seem to have developed some kind of bond while they traveled together and even changed each other to an extent.

Doesn't Kabru feel more honest near the end? Maybe it's because of how much he talked to and shared with Mithrun during those 6 days so candidly...because they taaaalked a looooot like wow.

They mean so goddamn much to me. I don’t need them to be in a romantic relationship but I do want them to be together forever :'))) or like at least hang out when they have off time since they're still in the same country lol. Praying for Kui to make another side comic of them some time (crying).

Thanks for reading if you made it this far, I mostly arranged this because it makes me sad to see people reduce their dynamic to only one singular aspect.

Anyways ya...love 'em (heart hands)

[mxauthor]

Magic Hands

Summary: Chilchuck is having trouble sleeping, Y/n's magic touch just might be the answer.

Word Count: 1,531

Warnings: fluff

Y/n was a touchy person. 

The party was well aware of this statement. Especially since they have been on the receiving end of their affection. Y/n never took it too far, always being mindful of everyone’s boundaries and their comfortability at all times. 

Marcille loved Y/n’s hugs and headpats, the (race) was always warm and gentle, squeezing just the right amount to where she felt safe. Laios found their playful fighting or their lighthearted shaking endearing. The tall-man was rambunctious at heart, so having someone to ‘play’ with allowed him to be serious at times of need. Senshi appreciated their pats on the back. It was their way of saying ‘thank you’, something he appreciated since he also wasn’t great with words or expressing himself. 

So it was no surprise that when the moment came and Chilchuck had started to become open with the party little by little, Y/n took a small chance. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was ‘late’ into the night. Laios had suggested that they camp for the night seeing as they had just reached the 6th floor of the dungeon. They set up camp and Senshi began dinner.

The party conversed lightly, talking of plans within the dungeon or things that needed to be gathered. Y/n and Marcille chatted with each other, Marcille talking about a book she read a while ago, while Y/n softly combed out her hair. 

They listened intently, making sure to ask questions to show the elven woman that they were paying attention. Senshi called them over, having finished dinner. The party had gathered around the fire with their food and began eating. The group ate in relative silence, a small comment here and there but silence nonetheless. 

Y/n and Chilchuck assisted Senshi with the dishes of the night, as Y/n was drying a bowl they lightly nudged the half-foot getting his attention. 

“You doing alright? You seem a little more tired than usual.” Y/n asked. They’ve begun to notice a slight lag in his step, not enough to cause him to misstep while disarming traps, but enough that his normal walking pace was a lot slower. 

“Yeah, just haven’t been getting enough sleep.” Chilchuck quietly shared. Sharing his feelings and struggles was still new, especially since it was something as simple as sleeping. 

Y/n hummed in acknowledgement, trying to find a reason for his current dilemma, “Is it nightmares?”

“No, I’ve already checked.” His voice was filled with defeat. Every night he looked within his pillow for the small monsters. He even ‘borrowed’ Laios’ monster book to see if there was another type that caused sleepless nights. “I even tried to look for another monster to see if they caused the same thing, but nothing.” 

The (hair color) could tell that he was exhausted. It wouldn’t take long until the rest of the party noticed and when they caught on, all they would do is try to pressure Chilchuck into telling them everything that was going on, or try and take over work which would frustrate the half-foot more than him not getting enough sleep. 

Y/n knew that he liked his privacy and that he liked to be able to carry his own weight, not relying on anyone to do it for him. They hummed in understanding, before offering a small solution, “I could try and make a tea for you. I’m sure I have something that causes sleepiness.” 

Chilchuck turned his head towards Y/n, “there’s no need for you to do that. I’ll manage.” 

Y/n tried to counter his statement, but they’ve both finished the dishes and Laios called them over to draw straws for night watch. Chilchuck dismissed himself, walking right over towards Laios and the rest of the forming group. 

Y/n watched in defeat before following behind. The group all grabbed their stick before pulling them. Each stick had a number, which decided the order. 

Y/n had gotten first watch. Followed by Marcille, Senshi, Laios, and Chilchuck. They watched as the tired man’s shoulders slumped in relief. The rest of the group began to set up for the night, with Y/n getting comfortable for watch. 

Marcille set up to their right, while Chilchuck claimed their left. Senshi and Laios closed the small gap, and a light fire was set in the middle for warmth. It didn’t take long for most of the party to fall asleep. The elven woman made sure that Y/n knew she was next.

With amusement, the (race) lightly patted her head and wished her a goodnight, disspelling her worries about making sure they followed the order of the lots. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

An hour passed when Y/n began to hear the ruffling of covers next to them. They glanced over to see Chilchuck slightly tossing and turning within his bedroll. Trying to get comfortable again.

Y/n watched as he rolled over a few more times, before setting their journal down. They had a feeling they should’ve made the drink anyway. Slightly moving closer, Y/n would see the frowned brows of the locksmith. They lightly pressed onto his pillow to see if a nightmare had crawled in during the watch, but it was completely soft. 

The (hair color) quietly huffed to themselves, but an idea struck.

This wasn’t the first time Y/n’s dealt with a sleepless night, especially when it was someone else. Before, when Marcille had become restless, Y/n would lightly run their fingers through her hair, lightly scratching her scalp in the process. 

The elf would always fall asleep immediately, almost like Y/n had pushed the insomnia away with their touch. 

Hesitantly, Y/n reached out to Chilchuck’s hair, they knew he wasn’t the most open to physical touch and the last thing Y/n wanted was to make him uncomfortable. Before their hand connected, the (race) whispered lightly, trying to not disturbed the others, “I’m sorry if I make you uncomfortable by doing this.” 

Even though Chilchuck tried to grasp onto the little remnants of sleep, his senses began to wake slowly. His hearing always being the first one. He had heard the ruffling next to him, knowing that Y/n was most likely still on watch, then it went quite their steady breathing being the only thing he could hear. 

Then, their apology. He was confused about what they meant, but the feeling of fingers pushing back his hair and nails lightly scratching his scalp had answered him loud and clear. 

Y/n’s touch was soft and delicate. They made sure not to press too hard or scratch too deep, making it soothing enough that it was like a massage. Chilchuck had half a mind to push them away, but his forced closed eyes became heavy. His body was relaxing, and his mind was calming down. He sagged deeper into his bedroll, having to actually fight the sleep to continue feeling the heavenly sensation.

With the last of his consciousness, Chilchuck murmured out his thanks before falling asleep deeply. 

Y/n watched as his furrowed brows softened and his breathing evened out. They heard a light murmur of words, “feels nice.” 

Y/n continued to scratch his scalp, wanting to make sure he’d be in a deeper sleep before they removed their hand. Their movement almost hypnotizing, making sleep pull at their own mind, coaxing them into its warm grasp. Blinking the sleep away, Y/n slowed their movements until they came to a full stop. They then pulled their hand away, seeing as Chilchuck’s breathing became deep and constant. 

The (race) shifted back towards their own bedroll, they were going to continue with their journal, listing down all the findings within the dungeon. But an imaginary pull had coaxed them into moving their bedroll closer towards the half-foot. It took little back and forth between themselves, before lightly pulling it over. 

It didn’t make a drastic change, it was just enough that if Chilchuck needed another round of coaxing, they were close enough to reach over. With a small satisfied smile, Y/n continued working, happy that they were able to assist with Chilchuck's dilemma after all. 

Bonus: 

After the switch over, it took Marcille a little over an hour before she noticed the two of them. She thought Y/n’s bedroll was a little farther than when she fell asleep, but now it made more sense. 

Once her eyes had cleared enough and her mind was fully awake, she saw how Y/n’s hand was perched within Chilchuck’s hair, and how his own hand was laying within the crook of their elbow, almost like he was trying to keep them from pulling away. If she looked closer, Marcille could see the look of content within Chilchuck’s features, almost like a missing piece was put into place just perfectly.

It took everything within her to not squeal in delight. From the beginning, Marcille believed that Y/n and Chilchuck would be a perfect match. Maybe it was all her romance novels, but his grumpy nature and their soft personality had her swooning with the idea. 

Marcille watched on, only thinking one thing, ‘I wish I could draw.’

[grimm-writings]

Can I request something (I leave the format up to you) for Chilchuck x reader where the reader genuinely asks Chilchuck for his opinions and thoughts on things? (dungeon related things, union stuff, that sort of thing) Since he mentioned how he would like to be taken serious/respected like Senshi.

Basically reader respects Chilchuck and might have developed a little crush on him as well but doesn't want to make him uncomfortable by being unprofessional so they don't act on it. Maybe it's mutual.

Chilchuck is skilled as fuck and it would be nice if he got some well deserved genuine praise and appreciation for it.

mutual

…ft! chilchuck x gn! reader

…tags! fluff, headcanon format, some very very lightly implied maturity difference, marcille #1 wingwoman, reader is taller than chil

…wc! 992

…notes! YOU ARE SO CORRECT he’s genuinely such a valuable asset to the team!! every bit of praise here is well-earned!!!! 

You joined the party along with Senshi at the very start of their journey.  The group was rather small and you’d fear something might happen if they traverse the dungeon on their own.  You felt as if it were your duty to help out, eager to please as you are.

You realised fast that despite the dysfunctional way the group decided to acquire their food, they’re actually much more competent than you thought!

Though this is really you generalising your admiration for the picklock of the group.  Being more combat oriented, the ways in which Chilchuck easily bypasses puzzles and open doors left you rapt with his skill.

Before you knew it, you had acquired a notebook and pencil of your own (that you deliberated on robbing from orcs for a while before caving), and you were jotting down notes like nobody’s business!

(Only when alone or on night guard.  If anyone knew, you’d be so embarrassed…)

When Chilchuck offers a piece of advice about the social behaviours of adventuring parties, you notice.  When Chilchuck offhandedly mentions a tricky aspect of the dungeon, you notice.

When Chilchuck scolds Senshi for treating him like a child, you notice.

You had a feeling he wasn’t a child.  You were sort of observing him unendingly, and he seemed the image of a jaded, experienced adventurer.  You can’t help but feel your admiration for him grow upon realising that. 

It’s difficult not to come across too eager as you’re imploring him for more knowledge.  You’re just curious!  You’re expanding your dungeon knowledge!  He’s happy to tell you anything you need to know, as casually and calmly as any good teacher.

But you know deep down that you’re just really attached to the half-foot.  Maybe too attached…

When someone (Senshi) makes a comment about Chilchuck, even before he could retort like usual you’re standing in front of him telling him what’s what!  Chilchuck is too taken aback to make much of a comment about it afterwards, but he seems… pleased.

(It’s giving “his pronouns are they/them!”)

Marcille and Laios give each other a look whenever this happens.  Not saying you’re being judged, but…

Your earnestness to be the pinnacle of dungeon exploration gives Chilchuck pride in being your mentor.  He’ll make a comment about it occasionally but deep down…

You kind of wish it could be more.

You’re not young necessarily.  You’re years into your adulthood, but even with that in mind, Chilchuck already made it quite clear that inter-party relations are strictly a no-no.

And you just had to go and break rule number one!

It does leave you staring longingly at the half-foot’s peaceful expression when you’re supposed to be on night watch, wishing for a different reality.

It would be part way through your adventure, long after you’ve given up hope on your feelings being reciprocated, when Chilchuck gives you a spot of hope.

Just a run-in with a bicorn can really change your perspective…  Chilchuck actually asked if he could talk, just one-on-one, with you.

You had to contain yourself from exploding when you accepted, following behind him into a nearby corridor.  You pretend to ignore Marcille’s giggles and Izutsumi’s sigh and eyeroll. 

Just had to hold your breath…

Chilchuck turns to you, looking apprehensive.  You do appreciate his progress of trying to be a bit more open to people.  You’re always his number one supporter without even being coddling…  He takes a breath looking up at you.  If you only knew what you did to him with each round of praise and appreciation. …Well, only one way to get there, yeah? He says your name with a weight.  One you’re not able to put to name.  “I haven’t been… entirely honest with you,” he tells you. Your chest tightens and you feel your blood run cold.  “What… What do you mean?” “Nothing bad!”  He’s quick to ease your fears with a desperate wave of his hands.  He’s still working on this, and you can tell from how red his face gets that he’s definitely struggling with this.  You watch his Adam’s apple (small, but noticeable if you stare long enough) (not like you have) bob as he gulps. His gloved hands take yours.  You try your hardest not to blush. “You know how I keep telling you that you should get ahead?  Promote yourself to join the parties of more experienced adventurers?” “Yeah…?” “I was trying to push you away.”  He looks away from you, ashamed.  “So you don’t get any closer.  I also know… how you feel about me.” You’re back to feeling horrified beyond your wits. He's definitely going to reject you.  “I thought you said this wasn’t anything bad!” “I’m getting to it!”  He shoots back with the same increase in volume.  His nerves are getting the better of him. “Then by all means,” you say, “get to it!” Chilchuck’s hands over yours are shaking.  His mouth opens once more, but only a silent quiver of his vocal cords comes out.  He isn’t even looking at you anymore.  You probably think the worst of him by now, after all this time of trying his best to look his best, the image of professionalism. You know what?  Fuck this heart-to-heart stuff.  Marcille’s advice was shoddy from the start. The action is sudden.  Chilchuck unlaced his fingers from yours, and before you could process it, his hands on your shoulders, pushing you down to his height. And he’s kissing you.  A bit feverishly and you really would have thought he’d be a bit better at this considering his experience– But you kiss back, easing into it after your shocked “mmph!?”  He still definitely owes you for putting you through the five stages of grief twice though. Chilchuck breaks apart, and as you recover from your shock, he sighs and smiles slightly.  His face is nearly glowing from the heat; you can feel it quite plainly. “The feeling’s mutual,” he whispers.

[room-surprise]

Analysis of Laios and how he hugs/interacts with people, pre and post-manga.

Reading body language in real life is basically pseudo-science most of the time, however, these aren't candid photographs of real people I'm analyzing, they are drawings purposefully made by Ryoko Kui to tell us something about Laios and his relationships with other characters.

These illustrations are designed on purpose to communicate information. So what do I think they say?

Here's the illustration of how things are at the start of the manga:

NAMARI AND CHILCHUCK

They're both rough towards Laios, expressing displeasure with him, using violent physical touch to get his attention or punish him for something.

TOSHIRO

His reaction to Laios is totally passive. He isn't turned towards Laios, but he isn't turning away either. He's staring up into space with a look of discomfort, suggesting he wishes Laios would leave him alone... But that he is too polite to openly reject him.

We know this is partially a cultural issue: because Toshiro is Japanese, he considers it catastrophically rude to tell someone "no" in a blunt way. He is trying to communicate his discomfort and disinterest to Laios, but Laios isn't understanding Toshiro's signals.

Meanwhile, Laios is turning his whole body towards Toshiro, his eyes are wide open, he's smiling. He's very eager to interact, in a way that he isn't with any other character on this page except Falin.

MARCILLE

They are having a neutral interaction. Neither of them seems excited or interested in each other, but they are talking seriously. Marcille is gesturing at Laios in a way that seems scolding, they are standing at a polite distance, and Laios is standing at his full height, perhaps even leaning/straining away from Marcille slightly. There is a physical object (Marcille's staff) acting as a barrier, and it's physically pushing Laios away from her.

But it is worth noting that he has his hand on the staff, suggesting that he's not letting himself be pushed away any further, that he's having a reciprocal interaction with Marcille, not a passive one where he just stands there and gets lectured. Laios is participating and engaged.

FALIN AND SENSHI

The only people having unambiguously positive interactions with Laios on this page, which makes sense since they are the two people who are the most friendly towards him at the start of the manga.

Laios and Falin are touching hands, smiling and their bodies are turned towards each other, showing enthusiasm and a mutual interest. This is less intense than the hug in the post-manga illustrations, which maybe suggests that there's something distant and unresolved between them here, like resentment and guilt.

Laios and Senshi are closer to each other than Laios and Marcille. Laios is sitting or crouched down to get closer to Senshi's height, and they are both smiling and turned towards each other. Senshi may even be laughing!

Here's the "post-manga" image...

What a huge difference!

All of these interactions are basically positive, so I'll just go left to right, top to bottom. Also for some of these, we can't see Laios' friends full reactions, so I'll focus on what we can see, and how Laios is behaving.

SENSHI

They share a gentle hug. They both have their arms wrapped around each other, so the desire to touch is mutual. Laios bends to reach Senshi, and has a calm, content smile on his face while they hug. Laios rests his head on top of Senshi's head, showing trust and intimacy and a desire to be physically even closer to Senshi than just hugging. Senshi isn't pulling away, so I think that's a good indicator that he doesn't mind it, and possibly even likes it!

Which is a big change from how he felt violated by Laios touching his chest earlier in the manga, even though Laios was trying to heal him... I think Senshi isn't someone that easily lets others touch him, so this is a big improvement.

CHILCHUCK

The size difference makes this hug awkward, but that's not the only reason! Laios has both hands on Chilchuck and he is bending down in order to reach him, suggesting that he wants to embrace his friend, however Chilchuck is not straining to reach Laios, and he is only using one hand to touch him, suggesting that Chilchuck doesn't want to embrace too closely. Chilchuck is willing to allow a hug, and he is willing to touch Laios back, but he doesn't want it as much as Laios does.

I think Laios is aware of this, because he isn't trying to push the hug to a higher level of intensity. He's holding back to the level he thinks Chilchuck is comfortable with.

MARCILLE

They share a happy, but not overly intimate hug. Their chests and bodies are pressed together, but they are turning their heads away from each other.

Laios' hands are resting side by side on Marcille's back, and it seems like she is hugging him back in a similarly loose way. His arms are not overlapping, and they aren't squeezing or grabbing each other, just holding on lightly while pressing their chests together.

TOSHIRO

What a fascinating set of drawings!

I'm going to assume that the color drawing is what happens first, and the black and white line drawing is what happens afterwards, solely because if the black and white drawing is meant to just be Laios' fantasy of hugging Toshiro, then surely he would imagine Toshiro hugging him back enthusiastically, and not a more passive reaction like Kui drew.

Kui wrote a note here to remind readers that hugging is not considered normal in "the East", where Toshiro is from, to give context to why the character seems so uncomfortable.

Laios is approaching Toshiro at high speed, arms open and reaching for Toshiro, eyes wide, with a happy expression. He clearly wants to wrap Toshiro up in a big, enthusiastic hug.

Toshiro is sweating with discomfort, and he has a hand pressed against Laios' chest, attempting to stop him… However, the arm is not extended and his elbow is bent at an acute angle, and it looks as if no force is being applied. Toshiro perhaps feels a need to offer a token protest, but he isn't really trying to stop Laios.

In the black and white hug drawing, Laios has both arms wrapped tight around Toshiro, much tighter than Senshi, Chilchuck or Marcille, and he's pressing their bodies together and resting his head on Toshiro's shoulder. He's turning his face towards Toshiro's neck, and smiling serenely.

Toshiro's body is stiff, he's sweating, and his arm is held at a rigid 90 degree angle… But he isn't using it to push Laios away, just holding it uselessly at his side. Perhaps he is half-way towards returning the hug, thinking about lifting his arm a little higher and resting his hand on Laios' back, but he isn't sure if he wants to do that yet.

Toshiro is bending his body towards Laios, and allowing himself to be pressed against the other man. He's staring out into space with a neutral expression that suggests either discomfort or surprise. I think we're meant to understand that he has given up fighting against the foreign, offensive hug, realizing that it isn't offensive for Laios, and therefore it might be okay to allow it...and it might actually be more offensive if he rejected the hug.

FALIN

Falin has thrown herself at Laios with considerable force, and Laios has his arms overlapping across Falin's back. They are both squeezing each other tightly with their arms, and even Laios' hands are gripping Falin tightly. There is an overjoyed look on Laios' face, and I think this embrace shows how Laios has healed through the course of the story.

KABRU

Since Kabru is one of Laios' newest friends, it makes sense that the hug would be the least intimate.

The two of them have a complicated relationship in the manga, but the complete world bible shows that Laios has finally accepted that Kabru is genuinely his friend and not just trying to use or manipulate him. He's made an effort in the post-canon to reach out and try to be Kabru's friend in return, and Kabru has forgiven Laios for not listening to him in the past.

Kabru is turning his body away from Laios, which puts his shoulder towards Laios' shoulder at a perpendicular angle, forcing distance between them. Laios is fully facing Kabru, and has one arm behind his back, a hand resting on Kabru's shoulder, and another hand resting on his chest. The hand on the chest is attached to an arm that is bent at an obtuse angle, holding Kabru at a distance, with no indication that he is trying to pull Kabru in. Both hands are relaxed, like in the Marcille hug, indicating that Laios' grasp is loose.

This arm position is pretty unusual for an embrace. It allows Laios to keep Kabru at a distance where he can see him, and control where he moves, and how close he's able to get to Laios… and Kabru isn't returning the hug in any way, instead allowing himself to be touched and held in place.

Their bodies aren't pressed together, and Kabru's arm is down at his side, neither encouraging Laios nor pushing him away.

Laios has a big smile on his face, and he looks enthusiastic. Kabru on the other hand has a calm smile. In my opinion his expression is less enthusiastic than Marcille's.

I think Laios can't tell how Kabru feels about the hug, and so he's holding himself back. He's not blinded by emotion like he is with Toshiro, so he's not flinging himself at Kabru… And because Kabru is such a new friend, Laios is also probably hesitant to get too close to him.

There may also be some lingering trust issues, if Laios still isn't completely certain if Kabru genuinely likes him or not. Laios has often had trouble telling if people really like him, or if they are just being polite (Toshiro), or using him (former party members), so it makes sense that it would take awhile for him and Kabru to become truly comfortable with each other..

[magicians-abode]

Hiii!!! How about Chilchuck teaching you how to pick locks after you got locked inside a chest and the party couldn't find you? This is how he shows that he cares and worries about the reader lol.

With a halfling reader if that's oki with you....

Bonus points if after chatting for a while, they both started talking about locks and keys, not realizing it sounded like a sexual innuendo, then it got awkward lol

"Lost and Found"

[Chilchuck Tims x gn!half-ling!reader]

Warnings: slight sexual innuendo - fluff

You had gone missing. Missing. In the dungeon. From one moment to another you had disappeared from everyone's sight. You had been walking around with the group when you'd spotted a room full of chests and decided to enter to take a look around.

Chilchuck had groaned loudly at all the work Laios intended him to do to open every single one of them.— First of all, what if one of these is a mimic?!— Chikchuck protested, pointing a finger up towards the tall-man's face. Honestly he had a really good point.

That's when from behind them, they heard (y/n)'s voice speak and a sudden slam. Everyone turned around to see they were gone.

—(y/n)?— Marcille spoke up. Calling them a second time, when they didn't speak up everyone started to panic and look around. Were you outside of the room? Maybe on a room next door? but nothing, you had just dissapeared in the blink of an eye.

Groaning in discomfort and some pain, (y/n) rubbed the back of their head, where they had collided roughly against the inside of the wooden chest. Chilchuck fumbled to grab his tools as Laios, Marcille and Senshi looked at him expectantly when they had heard (y/n) knock from inside of one of the chests, making him even more anxious.

—Let's try this one!— pointed Laios.

—No! I think it's this one!— the mage contradicted him.

—Everyone shut up! Let me hear!— Chilchuck yelled, agitated as he stood silently in the middle of the room.—(y/n) can you knock once again for me?— he raised his voice so they could hear, trying to speak calmly, hoping you were still conscious.

When they knocked on the inside of the chest they had fallen into, Chilchuck hurried to help to unlock it and get them out.— It's okay, I'm here! Can you breathe well? I'm going to get you out! Don't panic!— no one had ever seen Chilchuck so... worried before. So seeing him stumble with his words and fumble with his lockpicking tools made everyone stare at him with curiosity and worry for (y/n).

After a minute or two Chilchuck successfully opened the chest to find them curled up inside. He helped them up and out with a worried expression on their face as he looked over their features. Where you hurt anywhere? How had that even happened in the first place? Was it a monster? Did someone accidentally push you? Did you fall??

—Uh– Chil, I'm okay...— they speak softly, reassuring him as he squished their cheeks to move their head to the side.— I saw a chest was slightly open and I wanted to take a closer look, but somehow I kind of fell in...?— they sheepishly admit with a chuckle.

Chilchuck hits their shoulder, protesting that he was worried. The faint redness on his cheeks didn't go unnoticed by the group as he fussed at them. How sweet. And grumpy everyone thought as they watched the scene unfold in front of them. (y/n) couldn't help the giggle that erupted from their lips and hugged Chilchuck by the neck.— It's okay now, thank you for saving me— they speak sweetly, which only makes the half-foot more red in the face as he reciprocates the hugs slowly.

—Don't do that again or I'm not getting you out...— he mumbles, obviously not being serious. They would save them a thousand times if it was ever necessary.

Much later, when dinner was almost served, (y/n) and Chilchuck were sitting aside on the ground, legs crossed as he held up his lockpicking tools for them to see.— Why does the tip look like that?— (y/n) pointed at something the group could not see, for they were sitting with their backs facing them. That made half of the party look up with wide eyes in their direction.

Chilchuck calmly explained— Every keyhole is different, sometimes you need a bigger one, sometimes you need it to curve or to lay flat— he grabs (y/n)'s hand and brings it closer— Here, feel it— as soon as he says that, Senshi coughs loudly, catching their attention.

Both of them turn around— Are you okay, Senshi?— (y/n) asks, noticing everyone's flustered look—...what?—.

—Kids, you should look for some privacy if you're going to be doing such a thing. I understand you're curious, but please respect everyone else in the room— the bearded dwarf speaks, returning his attention to the food. Their cheeks become as red as a pomegranate as Chilchuck protests that, first of all, they're not kids, and second, that's not what's happening at all.

One can't even explain lockpicking in peace anymore, geez.

[prismatoxic]

i need a nap but do you want some chilaios fluff ideas that have been rattling around in my brain for weeks

chilchuck doesn't want to announce the relationship but he does want to stop being secretive so he curls up against laios for a nap or sits in his lap while they eat like it's no big deal. coasts on the shock of it keeping everyone quiet (marcille is going to start interrogating him and laios in 0.2 seconds)

laios starts learning half-foot to surprise chilchuck with (i am sooooo fond of this one i wanna put it in every story i ever make)

extension of that: chilchuck meets his family with laios in tow and they start drilling him about the relationship in half-foot. chilchuck, who is bad at expressing emotions, refers to laios as his "lover" and is generally fond while speaking of him, clueless to the fact that laios is picking up on a lot of what's being said and is VERY flustered about it

the first time chilchuck actually tells laios he loves him, laios is doing something very mundane (and laios-y) and catches chil staring, and he just. says it. laios's turn to stare as chilchuck laughs and says "well i do! why else would i still be here?"

laios getting marginally more comfortable with longer hair and/or facial hair from time to time because chilchuck's never met his dad, so when laios is scruffy chilchuck only sees him (and he says it's a handsome look, which is a bonus)

chilchuck teaching laios how to pick locks, not necessarily for dungeon-delving reasons but just for fun. he knows a lot about the skill and laios loves to listen to him talk and watch him work

any one of chilchuck's daughters calling laios some variation of "dad" (jokingly or otherwise) and he starts crying

that's all i got for now i'm so tired. see you later

[thechekhov]

Dungeon Meshi Quick Reacts: CH45

Slumber party!

Fair, but consider: She deserves a little murder. As a treat.

Kabru be like "IS THAT MY BACKSTORY???"

That sure is....a ship. With no one on it.

Ah, shit the Americans are here.

Two things: Toshiro being tended to like a pretty pretty princess is hilarious.

And also, the fact that they think the elves can kill Falin......... hmmm.... Pressing X to doubt.

............... oh. Laios. 😂

But also like. How was he MEANT to keep it silent? Put a little something in it? I thought since it was a magic bell you could code it to only ring when it's shaken with INTENT?

Fancy ass house.

Also, Namari...........are you hitting that yet? Both of that?

Oh, it's backstory time.

Okay one: that's fucking tragic, it sounds like the Elves are just forcing the dungeons closed with no regard for how the ecosystem compensates and what people suffer by being in close proximity......

And another thing: Kabru. Kabru, isn't that what YOU'RE after? Having all the power?

Why is this so much like that one meme where the girls at the party are looking at you.

It's the same picture.

Kabru that's. That's maybe not the way to go about it. you're going to give them MORE reasons to go in.

Nevermind the governor not being into this 'good boy, now sign' talk, Toshiro's kinda right. Ya fucked up Kabru.

No matter how far Laios runs, he cannot escape other people trying to tell him how to live his life. Poor guy. But at the same time...

Is this real? Or a red herring?

Laios' father and mother seemed to be living relatively pious lives. They clearly had a good house, but it didn't seem like they were extremely rich. Then again, perhaps he's just a cousin of royalty? Is that why his parents wanted him to have children?

They want to.... halt the growth of the dungeon? Is this another part of the natural ecosystem of things? Dungeons growing seems to point even more towards the idea that it's a gigantic, fleshpit-like creature instead of simply a construct.

Then again, constructs CAN be creatures. Like the golems.

Elves not understanding how old humans are continues to be hilarious because like.

As humans, we HAVE this same concept of variant aging. Like. Dogs. We understand that dogs live less than us, and mature a lot slower. But this is.... COMMON KNOWLEDGE. Most people do not make it into adulthood without understanding that dogs mature within 1-2 years of their birth.

The fact that elves, a species with FAR more time on their hands, who have lived alongside other races for AGES....... have STILL not got the general concept of aging down....means their education is atrocious. Or they're all not paying attention.

.......this. THIS is the most fascinating concept in this chapter.

The fallen.... turned into MONSTERS.

We know that dying inside the dungeon doesn't mean permanent death. But dying above-ground does.

We know that dying in the dungeon doesn't mean your body turns into a monster (aside from ghosts and ghouls?) ..... but dying aboveground.... DOES......?

WHAT'S THE TRUTH.

👁👁

Hm.

If Kabru and Laios fused, they could almost make one functioning human being.

Senshi just beginning to speak in the middle of his own internal monologue is so real.

...... what's going on there with the expression, buddy?

Bread.......are they STILL carrying around flour with them?! How are they getting bread?!

Also, it's awesome that the eggs are canonically hard to crack, because it makes sense that they don't break during their many fighting events.

Izutsumi really said ◉_◉

Don't tell me Laios, who is sensitive to ghosts has ALSO been seeing things?

Not gonna lie, that's highkey terrifying.

Props to that ghost that's been following Laios around, not ever giving up hope that it can bother him into acknowledging it.

And also - hey, it already saved them once! that means it's probably not evil!

That, or it's the king of the bloody dungeon. Wouldn't that be something!

[batneko]

Oops I thought about Mithrun and Senshi too much and now the ship has sailed, sorry, it's cresting the horizon there's no point in even waving anymore.

(Cross-posted from a thread I wrote on bluesky yesterday.)

Mithrun was already fond of Senshi because Senshi is the person who made him feel like he deserved to keep living, so during the first year or so when the new kingdom is still getting settled Mithrun hangs around Senshi whenever they happen to cross paths.

Somebody mentions to Senshi that Mithrun wanted to learn to make noodles, so Senshi thinks that's why and is happy to teach him. Senshi is also trying to make a concentrated effort to unlearn his prejudices, and Mithrun turns out to be easy to talk to. He doesn't mind answering any odd questions Senshi has, or admitting when he doesn't know something. He'll also explain his own motivations (when he understands them himself) so even with Senshi's blunted social skills they can understand each other.

So it just makes sense for them to move in together! Neither of them is going to live in the city full-time, Senshi enjoys cooking for another person when they ARE both home, and they can report back to each other when they've seen particularly dangerous/delicious monsters on their trips. Logic!

Neither of them has a strong sexual/romantic drive so it's a solid decade before they even think to put a label on it. There are small changes here and there over the years though. Senshi learns Mithrun can't sleep without being lulled into it so he always makes him a filling snack and a warm drink. He keeps an eye on Mithrun's health and schedule. He likes doing this kind of thing, it feels good to have someone to take care of.

It's not perfect, of course. Mithrun has trouble expressing what he likes and wants, and since he's usually pretty blunt unless he's being bitchy Senshi has no idea when Mithrun is upset. Senshi can get upset about stuff too, and Mithrun has to learn to do things that seem pointless to him because they make Senshi happier.

(yes this is about doing the dishes)

And then one day while they're eating Senshi gently tucks Mithrun's hair behind his ear because it's gotten a little long and is suddenly overwhelmed with affection and the urge to do... something. He should do something here, right? So he offers to tie it back, but that's harder than expected.

Senshi tracks down Chilchuck to ask him how to do hair, and Chilchuck catches on immediately and is like, "lol, weird, you do you though man, congrats." Senshi is baffled and Chilchuck passes the lesson along to Flertom instead (her hair is most similar to Mithrun's). After that Mithrun heads out on his missions with his hair neatly pulled back and always returns once the braids have completely fallen apart.

Eventually Senshi is able to put a name to his feelings and realize he's felt this way for a WHILE, so he tells Mithrun he loves him. Mithrun says, "It doesn't feel the way it did before, but I care for you, your happiness is important to me. Being parted from you would be deeply unpleasant. I don't know if there's a name for this feeling other than 'love.'" And then reveals he inquired about dwarvish marriage customs EIGHT YEARS AGO and has had the rings in his room this whole time. Senshi, tearfully, accepts.

They have a quiet ceremony that weekend and forget to invite anyone.

Senshi eventually remembers to tell his friends, who are differing levels of surprised. Mithrun sends formal notices to the people who matter back in the elven kingdom and causes a HUGE scandal. He's quietly thrilled about this.

People who assumed Senshi and Mithrun were together this whole time and only mildly surprised they weren't already married: Laios, Falin, Kabru

(Kabru sees Mithrun often and always politely inquires "how are things with Senshi back home?" and Mithrun always says "good." or, rarely, "he's mad at me. 😑")

People who knew they weren't officially together but aren't surprised it turned out this way: Chilchuck, Cithis, Mithrun's brother

(Obrin came to visit once and Mithrun introduced Senshi as "this is Senshi, I like him." and Senshi was like "aw, I like you too! 🥰" and Obrin was just like "......hm!")

People who are absolutely blindsided: Marcille, Pattadol

(Marcille thinks love is supposed to be INTENSE and OVERWHELMING and LIFE-CHANGING and like, it can be but calm down.)

People who literally never wondered about them at all: Izutsumi

(Izutsumi lives with them, as much as she lives with anybody, she just doesn't care. She actually likes Mithrun's cooking better because he will serve her plain noodles without a word and Senshi is devastated by this.)

I'm not sure if they have sex. I think they would at least try it to see if it's for them. It does help Mithrun fall asleep! And I think Senshi would definitely enjoy being able to make Mithrun really come undone.

Not much really changes after they get married, they still have their own rooms, they still live largely separate lives. Except Senshi no longer has to worry about maintaining personal space when spending time with Mithrun. You're allowed to hug and cuddle your husband whenever you want, right? That's part of the whole deal!

Mithrun likes it but only Senshi can tell, at least until Mithrun starts reciprocating. Somebody who doesn't know they're together sees Mithrun wander over and lean on Senshi like an armrest and they're like "uhhhhh is that racist?" and somebody else is like "no no they're just like that."

[tallgirl14]

What if chilchuck joined Laios group when his kids were younge???

Chil: I need to grab something from my house

Marcille: we get to meet your family!?

Chil: NO! You're going to stay a couple of feet from my house while I run inside. I'll be in out and done.

Oh, and Marcille, keep your hood up. I don't want you scaring anyone

Outside his house, the party sees a little girl with dark hair playing, and chilchuck immediately picks her up and brings her inside

Marcille: "i didn't know he had a sister."

Senchi: "Didn't he say his dad died when he was young? That probably forced him to be the breadwinner of his family."

Laios: "That sounds about right from what I've read."

Inside the house, chilchuck puts down Fuler, and his wife turns around, surprise to see her husband back so soon

Bea: "Your back?? Did something happen?"

Chi: "Yes, and no, it's complicated. I'm ok. I just came to grab"

Fuler: "theres big people with daddy."

Bea: "What?" She moves to the windo and sees what looks to like 2 tall men and a dwarf

Chil pulls her from the window "where are the girls?"

Bea: " Meijacks at school and puck is still taking a nap"

Chil: " ok good" kiss his wife on cheek then runs to his office. " keep them inside until we're gone. This the party ive been working with that told you about There harmless, just weird

Backoutside party notices someone had come to the window and chilchuck quickly came over and shut the curtains

Senchi: " how many people are in his family do you know?

Laios: "no chil dosnet like to mix home and work because of how dangerous the work is.

Marille: but what if something were to happen how would his family know??

Laois: that's why he's made union to be the middle man they would pass word to his family. It makes since I've heard storied of angery party members going after family members so it makes since he wants us to keep our distance.

The group is distracted when they hear a small "hello" the look down to see lil half-foot maybe 3yr of age

Marcille squeals seeing how cute she is and she kneels down " HI, arnt you the cutes thing, do you live in that house?" She points and little girl nodded " im Puckpattie"

" it's nice to meet you, I'm Marcille this is senchi and Laios we work with your big brother." They notice she had confused expression but just as quickly as it came it left as she goes to pull something out of her pocket and hands it to marcille " here for you" marcille except excitedly sees the little half-foot has gifted her a pinecone with googly eyes "thank you!"

Up the road meijack is walking home from school when she noticed 3 Stanger infront of her house and a woman about to pick up her baby. Sister dread hit her and she takes off sprinting. Laios is the first to get hit by a flying school book at the back of his head and the group turns to see another halfLing this one looked to be and exact copy of chilchuck there was no question that they were related

Mei holding a big rock in one hand ready to throw: " don't touch her!"

Laios pust his hands up " it's ok were not here cause trouble"

Mei: " you brought trouble trying to take a kid that's not yours"

Marcille moves toward her " no I wasn't were here with your brother-"

Puckpattie runs over to meijack happily " your back" and hugs her leg but Mei dosnet take her eyes off the strangers " I don't have a brother"

Inside the house Fullertom looking out the windo and chilchuck yells at her to get away from the windo

Fuler wines " but why dose Mei and puck get to talk to your friends?"

Chil: "What??" And runs out of the house seeing his oldest armed with a rock holding her youngest "HEY"

Everyone turns to see chilchuck running towards them meijack looks confused " dad??"

Marcille knocking off her hood " your a Dad???"

Senchi: " he's s teen parent?!??!"

Meijack looks back now terrified seeing the woman she thought was trying to take her sister is an elf and throws the the rock hitting marcille.

Chilchuck grabes his meijack so she doesn't throws anything else. She looks up at her dad terrified" hey it ok it's ok." Meijacks: she an elf she was tried to take puck ."

Chil" he's harmless she's mostly nosey" Looks back at marcille " you ok? " she nods " just a scratch."

[sarahs-malewives]

a lot like yesterday, a lot like never.

► main ship - kabriel (kabru/sariel) ► side ships - mayzutade (izutsumi/meijack/inutade), implied tolaicat (toshiro/laios/cat) (cat you can use the ship name if you want . I’ll allow it. /silly)

► warnings - dunmeshi ending spoilers, but not for anime s2 and/or nothing more than what would be found scrolling tumblr ! mild cursing, nondescript violence/injury, alcohol mention. ► genre - fluff & a little angst. for flavor . ► word count - 1.3k

title is from “the things they carried” by tim o’brien. features Cat (@nulli-bug) !

rest of the confession fics

dividers: x / x

“Kabru!”

The man in question laughed when Sariel raised his pint, his other current party members crammed in the booth with him.

“Sariel. I’m glad I caught you all before you headed out again.”

“It would’ve been a bit,” Cat sipped her drink. “We just had a good run.”

“C’mon, Shuro.” Mejiack elbowed the man over the table, “Show him the loot.”

Shuro chuckled as he withdrew a pouch from his haori. 

“Wow.” Kabru sifted through handfuls of gems and coins, intermixed with a few trinkets. He slid the pouch back over, “Those are going to fetch for a lot.”

“We know.” Izutsumi’s excited smile betrayed her nonchalant words.

There was a beat of silence before they mostly went back to what they were doing before.

Meijack took a long sip of her drink, eyeing the others. Cat and Shuro seemed to be occupied talking amongst themselves, and so were her two partners. Inutade in particular was busy munching on something or other. 

“What’re you doing here?” She finally sighed. “You missed the last few treks.”

Kabru’s smile wavered slightly. “Onto business, then.” He placed two crisp envelopes- with sloppily done wax seals, Sariel would like to add- on the pub table. “Give these to Shuro and Cat, please. Sariel, can we talk outside?”

“Sure.” The half-elf stood and stretched, leaving his half-finished pint behind and affectionately ruffling Meijack’s hair. “Let Cat or Shuro know if you need anything, alright?”

“I’m sixteen, Sariel. Fuck off.”

Cat glanced up from her conversation as they walked away. “Don’t take too long, lovebirds!” She grinned at Sariel’s perturbed expression. “We’ve still got a bit of work to do today.”

Kabru laughed as Sariel shoved him lightly. “It’ll be a few minutes. Don’t worry.”

The party watched as the duo left the pub.

Inutade grinned cheekily, finally done eating. “Tade thinks they will be out for more than a few minutes.”

The others mumbled in agreement.

“So… is something wrong?” Sariel studied Kabru’s furrowed brow.

They paced away from the window, away from the party’s prying eyes.

“How was your last trip?” Kabru finally spoke, only to dodge the question.

Sariel raised an eyebrow. “It was great. Lycion and Fleki got along great with the kids. Don’t dodge the question, though.”

Kabru took a deep breath. “…Laios offered me a full time job.”

The other man’s expression became serious. “Are you going to take it?”

Kabru didn’t respond.

“You… you…” Sariel’s eyes narrowed. “You asshole! You’d give up everything we have right now for some lame fucking desk job?!”

“Hey!” Kabru placed his hand threateningly on Sariel’s chest. “We both know you want to get out of the dungeon as badly as I do! Wouldn’t you take the opportunity, if it fell into your lap?” He jabbed his pointer finger at the man, “Why do you care anyways?!”

Sariel scoffed. “Of course I wouldn’t take the job!” He shoved Kabru, “And when haven’t I cared!”

“You only care about me when it benefits you! You never cared about me before it didn’t benefit you.”

“This isn’t about me.”

Kabru couldn’t control himself any longer. He sent a left hook into Sariel’s face.

Sariel paused for a second, stunned, but then readied himself. “That’s it.”

They exchanged punches and kicks back and forth.

Neither man said anything. Speaking would ruin the evenly matched fight. They both knew Kabru would win a duel of words.

“Kabru.” Sariel caught a punch aimed square for his face. He held the other man’s fist tight, but he didn’t try to crush it.

Kabru stared at Sariel’s face, the purple bruise forming on his cheek and the trail of blood coming from his nose.

“I meant what I said-”

“I know you meant what you said-”

“Let me finish.” Sariel sighed. His expression was odd. Likely because it didn’t have any of his typical smugness, but it could be the injuries too. “This isn’t about the me of the past. This is about me and you- us- right now.”

Kabru’s eyes widened as he lowered his fist. “…Why do you care what I do?”

“That’s really all you’re going to say after,” He gestured his hands vaguely, “That?”

“It’s what I’d like to know.”

“I feel like it’s pretty self explanatory. Do I have to say it?”

Kabru paused, a smile slowly creeping onto his face. “I want you to say it.”

“Fine.” Sariel rolled his eyes. “Listen. I’m only going to say this once, okay? Kabru I... I care about you. In a way.” He frowned, taking a step back. “You mean a lot to me, Kabru. I just don’t want to…”

Kabru’s gaze softened. “Lose me?”

Sariel only gave him a hopeless glance.

“Sariel…” Kabru stepped closer again, punching him in the chest. Sure, it was a pretty cheap shot. But neither seemed to care. “You asshole.”

Sariel only laughed.

Kabru seemed to deliberate before hugging him. It was a bit awkward, since they had never hugged before, but Sariel hugged back regardless. “I think I love you too, Sariel.”

“Just let me heal it-”

“It’s not even that bad-”

“You are not waking back into that pub looking like that.” Kabru pressed his hand to the bruise, channeling his mana into the other man.

Sariel flinched. “I forgot how much that hurts.”

“Right,” Kabru rolled his eyes. “Because you can’t heal yourself.”

“Speaking of healing yourself,” The man grinned, “You should do that.”

Kabru chuckled, but followed Sariel’s advice. He placed his hand on Sariel’s jaw when he was finished, his thumb caressing the scar running up Sariel’s cheek. “You didn’t try to get this healed?”

“It’s one of the few that was pretty deep,” Sariel shrugged. “Besides. It makes me look cooler, doesn’t it?”

Kabru laughed in response. “Let’s head back inside.”

The party was in hysterics when they got back. Well, not really “the party.” It was just Izutsumi and Meijack.

“What’s so funny?” Shuro passed the unsealed letter to Cat, and Sariel glanced over her shoulder.

Hi Shuro! Wrote Laios in his weirdly out of character neat handwriting. 

So you know I’m king now right? It’s a bit weird, but I’m getting used to it with Marcille and Delgal’s help!

Anyways, I’d like for you to join me at the castle! As a guard personal guard captain of the guard guest!! Cat will also be there, I asked her to be my royal painter. :)

Anyways, see you there! Or here! I’m not sure what the grammar is!

Laios

“Mine was pretty much the same,” Cat confirmed.

“Even,” Sariel could barely hold in his laughter, “Even the little drawing of his face at the bottom?”

“Hey, don’t make fun of him! But yes.” Cat’s tone had no bite to it.

“Sariel,” Kabru smiled, “I’ll ask Laios if he has something for you to do.”

Sariel cleared his throat, stifling his laughter. “You really don’t have to do that.”

“I know you want to get out of the dungeon lifestyle. And we both know Laios will take you in,” He teased.

Sariel rolled his eyes. “Yeah. We’re ‘friends.’ He hasn’t been that bad a king, though. Castle life would probably be nice…”

“And hey,” Cat elbowed him in the side, “Shuro and I will vouch for you too.”

“Well, would you look at that.” Sariel slammed his palms on the table, “Kids, looks like we got an upgrade! That is, if you’d want to come with me…?”

“‘Course we would.”

Izutsumi smiled in agreement with Meijack, and Inutade nodded emphatically.

A laugh from Kabru startled Sariel, and he glanced at the other man. Kabru leaned over and kissed him on the cheek, “Looks like we can all head out together, when you guys are finished with your selling.”

Sariel allowed himself a genuine smile. “I’m looking forward to it.”

[fumifooms]

do you think the succubus chilchuck sees is his wife, but blonde? he seems so upset when its dead

I think it’s a very strained theory. There are two layers to this: Chilchuck’s expression, and the succubi’s appearances. And notice the plural of appearances.

Chilchuck’s expression here is meant as comedic, we can assume because of the lashes and sparkle in his eyes, it gives shojo energy (which is intentional and heavily present at the very least with Marcille in the same chapter). It’s a type of dramatic sorrowful expression that I think Marcille with Hareus and Laios with scylla Marcille would have had the same, the type that Laios had when Marcille crushed the cool dragon familiar he made the type of face you make when a unicorn is killed in front of you. Chilchuck would have this face regardless of this being his wife, because regardless of it being his wife or not the succubi are still Chilchuck’s ideal form. It’s like having the blorbo you fantasize about brutally mauled inches away from your face, or a painting you love stained. Chilchuck wants the sirens to come for his life and is sad he lost the opportunity for it lol. But most importantly imo, if that was his wife, he would have had a face much more like genuine terror or horror (which would have been still both funny and understandable so it was a deliberate choice to pick this expression instead), like in his nightmare with his dead daughters.

Ok now onto appearances: Here are all of Chilchuck’s succubi we see.

The biggest thing against this theory for me is that yes, these are different women who are visibly different. There’s no denying he has a type, long wavy blonde hair, deepset light-colored eyes and sultry mouths, faces with a mature quality to them, but different women no less. It would be interesting to analyze what it would mean for Chilchuck to have only one of his succubi in a sea of succubi be his wife, but it would defeat the purpose of it I think. We see waves of women succubi throw themselves at him, and I think the intent is just that; for them to just be women, his ideal type materialized but sort of identity-less, a mass of them that isn’t really meant to be differentiated or individualized. If you believe that the nameless black-haired half-foot woman portrait is his wife, that shortens the conversation, but there are also arguments beyond it for why yes his wife would have black hair, and why she’d have deepset eyes and a face like this (because it’s a solid argument that his type would be at least influenced by her yes. I go into this topic in this post). If we go with the portrait chilwife theory, then it’s pretty straightforward that none of them truly closely look like her. If we go with another theory then we’re truly walking in the dark for how she looks like. How close is close enough to "be" ‘her except blonde’, anyways? It’s the sort of thing you can believe if you want to, but it creates more questions than answers, which albeit isn’t always bad. My interpretation of Chilchuck’s succubi makes me biased though of course, because it’s closely intertwined with my overall interpretation of Chilchuck and whatnot. I’ve talked about succubi in dungeon meshi and them in relation to Chilchuck a lot over time. I think them being faceless and varied rather than one single model of perfection is because he craves pleasure with no ties, something to feel good for a while and forget all his troubles, including his separation. I think that when Chilchuck reacts like that below, it’s because he feels some amount of guilt at it not being her, and again not wanting to think about painful things, but it could be interpreted to be "can you not, when you just blew her up" I suppose. I go into it here and here as well.

I don’t know Kui’s brain so like, this is just my thoughts, like you asked for, but yeah I don’t think that first succubus literally had his wife’s appearance.

[chuckeroo777]

Dungeon Meshi Volume 8 Part 3

Welcome back! Let's finish up volume 8. We got some real juicy content, so let's get started.

Yes, I am using this in every post from now on. Why wouldn't I? It's perfect.

I mean, you saw his tall-man form. Was that the face of a happily married man? Yes.

So much to talk about here. First, who is the person at the top? Dandan is the only former party member not shown, but he seemed to be positively inclined to Laios.

Second, does the quaver indicate an active relationship? Honestly, it does not feel out of character for Laios to think he and Shuro have something deep. Shame it never goes well in any universe.

Also, I wonder how Chilchuck would classify his relationships if he included them here.

What's the story there? I'd guess the parents set up an arranged marriage or something, but you both left when you were pretty young. Please don't tell me Asivia actually managed to trick you into something.

There is so much to glean from this title page, but this bit intrigues me. Where is the royal grave? They aren't talking about the graveyard with the dryads, are they? Surely the graveyard in the castle town is for nobility, and the royalty interred somewhere within the castle? Granted, I don't know much about graveyards. Is this supposed to foreshadow post-canon events? Or is this just a joke about Senshi giving him the ol' birds and bees.

Also, Chilchuck's strongest relationship is with Laios, and I find that heartwarming.

:( She isn't lying. She has eaten rats. Back when she was a slave, she would eat anything she could catch.

Well, I think you're a good boy Laios.

See what I mean about them having a respectful relationship? As soon as Chilchuck expresses he isn't comfortable, Laios jumps in to do it instead.

Gluttons and Dragons!

If you were curious why Chilshi is so popular, here you go. The one piece of canon evidence.

Haha, get it? Cause she's gay? Bisexual actually, but that still falls under pride.

We went with Infidelity for the seventh sin, cause we really didn't want to watch Laios lust over the bicorn. Also, looks like someone else needs a lesson on stamens and pistols.

If good and evil are defined dubiously, then how the hell is that defined?

When your friend is being vague, so you out all of their secrets through the medium of interpretive self-insert fanfiction where you roleplay as their estranged wife.

Ha-HA! You fools thought he was a deadbeat dad, but all this stuff went down AFTER they left the nest! Also, oddly enough, the anime changed his confession in the griffon episode to say 'kids', so this joke won't hit as hard.

Plus, they're extremely merchandisable.

Laios may be a troll, but Chilchuck is the one trolling him.

Oh hey, here they are. I guess their first appearance isn't them dead in a nightmare. That's nice.

And that's it for volume 8! Join me next time as we look at Volume 9, which oddly is the only volume with six chapters, but they are some of my favorites, so oh boy!

[nie7027]

Hot take here but...

Like I know this is Tumblr. This is the autism site.

So of course I knew everyone would side with Laios on this and empathize more with him but its driving me insane how everybodys saying Toshiro was completely on the wrong here and he should have communicated better and talked about his grievances with Laios WHEN THE WHOLE POINT OF THIS IS THEY WERE BOTH ON WRONG HERE.

LIKE THERES A REASON CHILCHUCK BRINGS UP HOW LAIOS SHOULD WORK ON HIS SOCIAL SKILLS A COUPLE OF EPISODES AGO/JUST BEFORE THIS HAPPENS?

like I know most of you don't like it but social cues ARE a part of society culture. Social cues ARE a form of communication.

In fact they were made to facilitate communication.

They were made so everytime Alice and Bob annoy each other they don't have to go and have a heart to heart when a simple gesture can have the same effect.

In fact sometimes better because sometimes addressing something with words makes it come out stronger/ruder than it is.

And sometimes just like you have problems understanding social cues some people have problems speaking, finding the way to words their thoughts/feelings correctly.

Specially among strangers where you don't know the others personality or how they could react to your words.

That's where social cues, that are general rules the majority of people have agreed on, work. To facilitate convivence.

And yeah there's an argument to be said about how you are supposed to know them if they are unspoken rules and the thing is YOU LEARN THEM THROUGH SOCIAL INTERACTION, through living in a society.

Just like gender norms and the like you don't learn them in school during a boring lecture where a professor lists them on the board. You learn them through interaction and repetition, throught observing your peers. Just like learning to talk and walk and other stuff. Heck, your parents and other adults around are supposed to ease you into it.

And yes, it's not a perfect system. But nothing is.

The saying 'communication is the key' doesn't refer to just talking.

Social cues and other non spoken gestures are also another form of communicating. Equally as valid as all the others

There's beauty in talking and openly expressing your love to someone. Or your grievances.

But there's also beauty in grabbing someones arm or the you picking up your friend is uncomfortable due to the turnup of their mouth or the way they stand.

One isn't superior to other. They are supposed to complement each other

Laios and Toshiros mistakes were relying completely in one or the other instead a compromising and finding a middle point.

Toshiro should have expressed his annoyance at Laios.

And Laios should have picked better Toshiros signs of discomfort.

(All of this isn't even taking into account how they come from different cultures and shock it comes with it because others have talked better about it and I wanted to focus on this. On how even if they have from the same background Laios should have also been a fault.

Hell not only social cues even talking is affected by ones cultural background. What for me is normal could come out as rude for someone in Japan)

[marmorafarms]

Us Forever

Well, looks like the results said that I should write a Part 2 to My King! So here you all go!

MINORS DNI

Rating: Explicit

Paring: Labru

Word count: 2259

A/N: Kabru is trans in this fic!

You can find it on ao3 or read down below!

Ever since their kiss, things had been different between the king and his adviser. Laios was constantly consumed in thoughts about it, thinking about the way Kabru had tasted on his lips. Everything about it had been wonderful, and he kept wondering when the next kiss would be. But annoyingly enough, Kabru didn’t seem to be on the same wave length as he was.

Laios wasn’t sure if he was just bad at flirting, or if Kabru was intentionally brushing him off, but he intended to find out. Somehow he would get a second round in, even though Kabru was practically running away from him every time they met up. The next time he’d be alone with Kabru would be after their meeting with Yaad. Laios groaned internally. It would be another meeting about marriage, he was sure of it. What would he even say? That he didn’t want to get married because he wouldn’t be able to kiss Kabru again if he did?

That was his new reasoning anyway. Kabru had been so passionate, so wonderful. But if Laios got married, they wouldn’t be able to do that again. He would never do that to his wife, and Kabru would most certainly not approve of such a thing. So marriage was off the table.

Unless…

Could he marry Kabru?

That was certainly a thought. But would Yaad approve? Yaad had wanted someone who could bear him heirs. Would Kabru want do that? Laios knew a thing or two about Kabru’s personal life, but he had never asked if bearing a child was something that his dearest friend would actually be comfortable doing. And he would never force him into doing something he didn’t want.

Laios was lost in thought as he walked into the meeting room, sitting down at the head of the table. He barely even registered when Yaad, Marcille, and Kabru walked in. Marcille had to say his name twice before he looked up.

“Oh, hey there,” Laios said, and Marcille sighed.

“You should really pay more attention to your surroundings. What’s got you so deep in thought?” she asked.

“Oh uh, nothing,” Laios said. But even as he said this, his eyes betrayed him and flickered over to Kabru over on the other side of the room, chatting merrily with Yaad.

“Well ‘nothing’ is a little too busy talking to see you staring, but I’d suggest you’d pop your eyes back in. Yaad’s going to talk to you about a Queen again,” Marcille said.

“I know…” Laios grumbled.

Kabru walked over, sending a smile Laios’ way. His stomach fluttered, feeling warm inside at the pleasant look on the other man’s face. Yaad settled down in a chair as well, and Laios shifted uncomfortably. Now that Yaad was sitting down, he knew that he was about to get lectured.

“Laios, we all here to tell you that the time has come for you to find a bride,” Yaad said. “I know you have expressed that you don’t want to marry, but this time I must put my foot down. I have gathered the names of several eligible women from across the continents for you to choose from.”

“Wait hold on!” Laios said, looking horrified. “You’re going to make me marry someone I don’t know? Someone who doesn’t know me? I can’t do that!”

“That’s how it was done in my time,” Yaad said. “Arranged marriages aren’t inherently bad.”

“Yeah, well, I don’t want that!” Laios said, frustrated. “I already had one of those once, I don’t want that again!”

“Laios. We need to get this moving, you can’t stay single forever. The kingdom cannot handle this.”

“But…!”

“But nothing,” Yaad said, pulling out some papers. “I have here several pictures of the women along with a few paragraphs about each one. We’ll whittle it down from here to the best one.”

Laios could feel panic rising in his chest. Yaad was so prepared, and Laios was so…not! What could he do? What should he say?

“I already know who I want to marry!” Laios burst out. The whole room went silent, all eyes on him.

“And who is that?” Yaad asked, looking thrown. “I didn’t know there was anyone you were interested in. Laios, you should’ve told me so we could begin the courting process!”

“It’s because…I want to…” Laios looked over at Kabru, who looked calm and relaxed. He wished he could feel that calm and relaxed.

“Yes?” Yaad encouraged.

“I want to marry Kabru!”

Marcille slapped a hand to her forehead, and Kabru tilted his head up towards the ceiling, eyes closed. Yaad simply looked confused.

“Are you joking?” Yaad asked. “You need a Queen. You need to bear children.”

“Yeah but--”

“It’s nice that you are so close with your friend, but you need someone who can give you an heir,” Yaad said, “And he cannot.”

“Says you,” Kabru said, and Laios’ looked over at him, shocked. Marcille even looked a bit surprised.

“Excuse me?” Yaad asked Kabru.

“I can bear children,” Kabru said. “I have the anatomy for it.”

Yaad looked even more confused than before, but Marcille looked thoughtful. Laios looked over at Kabru, and was saddened to see that his friend was not looking at him at all.

“Well then,” Marcille said thoughtfully, “I think that could work, as long as Kabru agrees.”

“I think the King and I will need to have discussion about this before we decide,” Kabru said, giving her a tight lipped smile. She nodded, as did Yaad who still looked lost. “For now, I think the meeting should be concluded. You both will be informed with the results of our discussion. Laios, follow me.”

Laios got up, feeling nervous. Kabru didn’t seem happy or excited. If anything, he seemed annoyed. They made their way to Kabru’s study, and Kabru ushered him in. Laios gulped, feeling like he’d just been called into the principal’s office to get his knuckles whacked with a ruler. When the door closed, Kabru whipped around, fire in his eyes.

“Why did you say that?” Kabru hissed, and Laios gulped.

“Say what?” he asked innocently.

“You said that you wanted to marry me! Why would you say that? You never consulted me on the matter!”

“You haven’t really been alone with me much,” Laios pointed out. “So I haven’t been able to consult you about anything at all.”

Kabru looked guilty at these words, and Laios pressed on.

“I only really had the idea to marry you today. I think it’s a good one! I like you a lot Kabru.”

Kabru looked away, a slight flush to his cheeks. “I like you a lot too,” he said carefully. “But I am your adviser. I have a role in this kingdom that is very important.”

“Can’t you be both?” Laios asked. “I don’t see why not. You can be adviser and my…uh…other king?”

“Kings consort,” Kabru corrected. “I just don’t know Laios…”

Laios walked over to Kabru and put his large hands on the other man’s waist. “Well I guess I’ll have to convince you.”

“Laios…” Kabru groaned, “You’re really going to try and use sex as your tool?”

Laios paused. “I mean I was just gonna kiss you a bunch,” he said, “But I mean if that’s where your mind went I don’t see why not.”

“Oh shut up,” Kabru said, and let out a small whine as Laios bent down and kissed right under Kabru’s ear.

“You like that?” Laios asked, and began peppering the side of Kabru’s neck with kisses. Kabru let out little moans and whines, spurring Laios on. Soon their lips met, and it was like a spark hitting a match, the fire within them bursting forth. Their kisses didn’t start off soft and gentle, no. It was instant passion, Laios working Kabru’s mouth open with his own. Laios let out a load groan as their tongues touched, and Kabru suddenly pushed him away.

“What’s wrong?” Laios asked.

“Not in the study,” Kabru panted. “No lock.”

Laios nodded, and the two of them practically raced each other to Laios’ bedroom. When the door locked shut behind them, Laios scooped Kabru up bridal style, getting a squeak as a response.

“You’re…really strong,” Kabru said, and Laios looked at him.

“Well yeah,” he said. “Are you really surprised I can pick you up? You’re like a feather. Even Marcille could hold you.”

“No she couldn’t!” Kabru protested as Laios carried him to the bed. “I’m not that li--”

Kabru’s sentence was cut of by a shout of surprise as Laios tossed him onto the mattress. He looked in wonder as Laios crawled on top of him, lower lip caught between his teeth. Laios gulped. He really had no idea what he was doing, and knew he would need to ask at some point.

“So are we…are we gonna…? Or just kiss?” Laios asked. Kabru let out a tinkling laugh and smiled up at him.

“Are you nervous?” he asked. Laios nodded, cheeks turning pink. He wished he wasn’t nervous, he wished he could just do this without over thinking the whole thing.

“A little bit,” Laios said.

“I’ll lead you through it,” Kabru said softly. “It’s okay. You might cum fast, though, but don’t worry. When you have a dick, that can happen your first time. I’m not going to judge you.”

“Okay,” Laios said, and gently kissed Kabru again. Slowly they began removing each other’s clothes, and Laios was particularly curious about Kabru’s chest.

“What are these tattoos?” He asked. There were what looked like magical sigils underneath Kabru’s pecs.

“Oh, these got rid of my breasts,” Kabru said, looking down at them.

“Do you have tattoos down there too?” Laios asked curiously. Kabru shook his head.

“No, I prefer temporary magic down there. Stuff that can be reversed if I feel like it.”

Laios nodded, and took his own shirt off.

“Wow,” Kabru said, running his hands over Laios’ chest.

“Like what you see?” Laios teased, and Kabru nodded.

“Love it,” he said in awe. “Love how big and strong you are.”

Their lips met again, and pants were quickly pulled off and tossed to the side as they kissed and rolled their hips against each other. Laois could feel the blood rushing to his cock, desire filling him as he pressed against Kabru’s clothed heat.

Kabru took his underwear off and gently guided Laios hand down, showing him where to touch. Laios got the picture pretty quickly, alternating between rubbing circles against Kabru’s clit and fucking his fingers in and out of him, preparing him for what was coming next. It wasn’t long before Kabru was clenching the sheets, barely able to form coherent sentences. Laios went to reposition himself, and was in awe at the state he had left Kabru in. The man beneath him was a sweaty, panting mess, eyes slightly glazed over.

When Laios decided to remove his fingers to get into a better position, he realized he needed to clean his hand. But instead of just wiping it off on the bedsheets, Laios’ first instinct was to suck his fingers clean.

“Holy shit Laios…” Kabru breathed. “That was hot.”

“You taste nice,” Laios said, and Kabru gave him a sultry look.

“Want to taste more?” he asked, spreading his legs open. Laios blinked, and got in between Kabru’s legs. He wasn’t entirely sure what to do, but Kabru had said to taste…Laios began to lap at him, dipping his tongue inside Kabru, and returning to Kabru’s most sensitive spot, licking and sucking at it with passion. Soon Kabru’s back was arched as he cried out in pure pleasure, thighs squeezing Laios’ head.

“Was that good?” Laios asked, wiping his face. Kabru stared at the ceiling, nodding slowly.

“Yeah,” he said with a dopey grin. “Fuck yeah.”

“So um. Now what? Do I just…stick it in?”

“Basically,” Kabru said. “Come here.”

After a bit of shifting around, Laios was once more over Kabru, their fingers tangled together as Laios gently eased himself inside. Laios couldn’t help it, he moaned loudly and tried his best not to just slam in as hard as he could. It felt so good and he wanted more. He needed more, he felt this new desire with his entire being. It didn’t take long before he was fully seated, and then began to move.

“Oh god, Kabru you feel amazing!” Laios praised, thrusting hard and deep, Kabru making soft sounds beneath him. Kabru had been right though, Laios was fast. His eyes rolled back and he cried out Kabru’s name, fireworks exploding behind his eyelids.

“That’s right baby, you did so good,” Kabru praised as Laios thrust a few more times. “So good.”

Laios pulled out and rolled over onto his back. “Wow,” he said, and turned his head to look at Kabru. “That was…damn.”

“Who knows, you might have made yourself an heir,” Kabru said with a smirk. “You didn’t pull out after all.”

“Oh! I’m sorry!” Laios said, “I wasn’t even thinking.”

“It’s okay,” Kabru said. He snuggled closer to Laios, and they cuddled close. They would need to get cleaned up later, but for now, resting was the right choice.

“My answer is yes,” Kabru finally said. “Even though you didn’t ask.”

“Ask what?” Laios asked, confused.

“To marry you,” Kabru said. “You never actually asked. But yes. I’ll marry you.”

“Really?” Laios said excitedly.

“Yeah,” Kabru said, and gave Laios a small kiss. “It’ll be us forever.”

[felixcloud6288]

Dungeon Meshi Chapter 3

I thought of mentioning how the meals from the first two chapters were low in energy and fat and that would cause a problem, but this chapter goes and addresses that.

I really love how this series is focusing on the logistics of adventuring. I think Lord of the Rings is the only other story I've ever read, watched, or played where we're explicitly shown that mundane items like cooking pots and eating utensils are part of the adventurers' inventory.

The fact that everyone is carrying a backpack is putting more thought into logistics than the average story.

It's interesting how our dreams can interpret real-world information while we're sleeping. Marcille was having nightmares from the previous chapter and then she smells food cooking. So her brain interpreted the distress generated from her nightmares and the smell of food and jumped to the very recent association she's been dealing with of eating horrifying-looking meals.

Oh wow. I just noticed how worn out Senshi's axe is.

That thing definitely doesn't cleave as well as it used to. Meanwhile his cooking utensils look brand new. Definitely shows what his priorities are.

So this chapter is about basilisks. I'm curious if they have the general sexual dimorphism that chickens have. The one in this chapter is definitely a rooster.

And basilisk eggs seem to be more similar to snake eggs than chicken eggs based on how Marcille said they feel soft. Now I want to know what a basilisk chick looks like. Is it a big puffball like most chicks and has a little snake sticking out of its butt?

I've had to deal with aggressive roosters before and this is exactly how they act when they attack with their spurs.

The chicken half looks like it sees Laios as a rival male. Meanwhile the snake half looks like it sees him as a threat.

Senshi has a really bad sense of priority here. There's a guy dying from poison and Senshi doesn't want to give him the antidote because he'd rather use it for cooking, and he doesn't think he should cook the basilisk right now cause it's not lunch time, and he'd like to let the basilisk marinate overnight cause it will taste better.

I can't tell if he just doesn't care about the guy dying from poison or he doesn't comprehend that the guy will die if they don't do something soon or if he's just too much of a perfectionist who refuses to offer anything unless it tastes as good as possible.

I think Laios and Chilchuck realized they're being just as nonchalant about the situation as Senshi is.

A glimpse at the kinds of status ailments we might encounter on this adventure.

More bits of me talking about Marcille's right-handedness. She grabbed that basilisk drumstick with her right hand, but put it in her left hand so she could express how good it tasted. Then she raised the drumstick when she offered to heal the guy probably because she was holding it in her right hand and just instinctively thought that was the hand holding her staff.

She muttered that she's not very good when she offered to heal the guy. And last chapter, Laios recommended against Marcille resurrecting the guy they found because it might go wrong. So yeah, she's a black mage, not a red mage.

If this series doesn't end with monster cuisine being a skill that adventurers practice, I'm going to be so mad.

What a grim note to end the chapter on. Laios's team helped out that adventure team only for them to be completely wiped by the man-eating plants. If corpse retrieval and resurrection services weren't already an established thing, that would not be funny at all.

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