#give me some time to perfect my character and we shall meet on the battlefield!!!!!!!!!!!

[1eos]

Did you get a gaming laptop? I remember talking about Phantasy Star Online 2 with you briefly and I've been wanting to serve cunt and kill enemies with you. If not, it did get put on PS4 too.

just found out phantasy star had a persona event.....im starting the download now

[writings-from-the-hart]

Writebr Intro

Writeblr Intro Time!

Hiya! This is so overdue and I apologize for that lol. I’ve been meaning to write this but school seems to always be getting in the way of just that. Writing. But here I am finally writing this! And yes my username is a pun of my own last name but I just couldn’t resist.

So basically, I really want to surround myself with other writers and have stumbled across tons of writeblr’s (I think that’s what they’re called lol). Instantly I was in love and wanted more of what the community had to offer. I’ve been a self-proclaimed “author” or writer since my early years of grade school. I was that child in the back of the class with ADHD that couldn’t sit still (the cliche bouncing leg and always chewed down nails) and had what my mother called an “overactive imagination”. My notebooks in high school were often filled with wild stories about “galaxies far far away” or dystopias with cruel governments ruled by dictators. Now I’m in my second year of college swamped with classes about the Psychology of criminals (or I like to call the science of murder), and trying to find time to write a novel. So the struggle is real my dudes.

A little about Me:

Hana

20

She/Her

Pisces

Asexual

Forensic Psychology Major and English with a concentration in Writing Minor

Book hoarder

Dog Mom

Vintage AF

Low Key Emo Punk because I’m no average white girl!

History nerd (Love learning about the old wars and cultures)

Movie nerd (There’s an endless stack of DVDs in my house)

Fandoms:

The Mandolorian (or the ManDADolorian)

Star Trek

Star Wars

Hannibal

X-Files

King Falls Am

Welcome to Nightvale

Transformers (Obviously not the bad movies lol. Bumblebee is baby and must be protected always.)

Good Omens

Sherlock

Lord of the Rings

Marvel (There are so many shows and movies in this category we would be here all day if I tried to list them.)

Timeless (Not sure if the fandom is still alive after what the writers did to one of our ships lol)

DC (I’m a huge Batman geek and adore Wonderwoman, but I take the good with the bad when it comes to this fandom. Especially movie-wise anymore.)

And there’s probably more but my memory isn’t working currently.

Goals?. . . maybe:

Get my novel finished (This has literally been on my To-Do List for who knows how long.)

Meet more writers/new writers.

Improve my poetry (I suck at poetry so I bad I never let it see the light of day, so I need to work on it.)

Start my bullet journal.

Wips:

Okay by now you all know I have at least 1 Wip because I mentioned getting a freaking novel done, but just as a precaution as to what I mean by Wip or Wips. I get distracted quite easily, for some odd reason my brain absolutely loves to jump from one idea to another for no absolute reason. Like WTF dude we already have an idea we’re working on why do you keep bringing all these new ones to me like stray dogs. And like any good dog Mom or distracted writer, I want to keep all the ideas/stray dogs. So, when I say Wip I mean “Look at this cool idea I came up with” and I’ll make sure to specify which one is hogging most of my time.

Renegade: Dystopian, Thriller, Post-Apocalypse, and Science Fiction.

This is my baby. Most of my free time is dedicated to adjusting plotlines, character arc’s, fixing freaking plot holes, and other important stuff other than just plain writing. I’m hoping to finish this also monster of a story by 2020 and get it published. So big stuff!  

“So tell me little wolf do you want to punish those who have wronged you?” An assassin known as the Crimson Ghost makes their way through the corrupt city-state of Ashton completing a job given to them by the Black Rose. What is a seemingly normal job though turns into something far more complicated when they stumble upon the fractions of an abandoned notebook from the past. A past the Republic is trying to desperately hide and bury no matter what. On the other side of the world in the Republic’s capital Eshar, plainly referred to as “The Prodigy” or “machine” by his superiors,  Eric Coalwood has built a life upon the ashes of his family, striving to meet the high expectations set before him by his mentor General Wolfheart. However, his life falls out of its normal day to day routine when the unexpected is asked of him. Command a task force made up of the Republic’s most wanted or his life is over. Eric doesn’t need reasons for why he must do what he has to, all he needs are orders and the Republic is more than happy to give them. Either way the clock is ticking for both the Crimson Ghost and the Republic’s prodigy and with time running out they both have two options. Either get over their different beliefs concerning the Republic or allow the world to once again succumb to war but this time nobody is going to survive it. “Legends are slippery things. For the glory that coats them hides the pain, suffering and death that created them.”

The Trouville Files: Dystopian, Thriller, Post-Apocalypse, and Science Fiction.

Not my biggest priority but definitely one of them considering the plot of this story. I mainly use this wip as a reference for Renegade because it’s actually the prequel to it. Also, it’s great to use as writing practice when I’m plagued with writer’s block for Renegade or frustrated with a plot hole. So this is my double-edged sword that does a lot of good.

“Death in these black days is neither kind nor quick.” The year is 2153, the world we know is nothing more than a wasteland strewn with the dead and a sky being choked by their ashes, not glorious and thriving but desolate and starving. The Red Death, a pandemic with a steady progression and a gruesome countdown to the demise of those infected. No one outruns it or survives it. “United we stand, divided we fall.” The Allied Nations, a totalitarian superpower, promised a united people but all they gave this world was more death and destruction. The Red Death isn’t the only thing slowly killing humanity anymore, we are in the form of the War of Broken Pacts. The spark of revolution is lit, but if it will remain so is a question asked by everyone. Does it stand a chance against the iron-fisted government holding the people in shackles? “Rebel with a cause.” Genius Medical Officer for The People’s Republic, Cyprus Ramiro works day and night in search of a cure for the Red Death exterminating hundreds, at least before this war kills him first. But he is also a man on the run and the rebellion can only shelter him for so long. “Duty over pain.” Cunning Spy and Soldier, Orion Ultor is ordered by the Allied Nations to infiltrate and gather information on the ever-growing People’s Republic. In bold letters is Search and Destroy; make a ruin of the rebellion and ensure the Allied Nations remains as it should -- unquestionably in power. No matter the cost unless he wants to suffer the consequences again. “If we fall we shall rise from the ashes like a phoenix.” They should have never met, battlefields don't make good friends. It wasn't fate, it wasn't destiny, only war throwing people together.  The Allied Nations is trying to stamp out something they fear, but can they before the Red Plague? Or will humanity find itself extinct.

Beyond his point is where I house my stray dogs/ideas

Hiraeth: Paranormal, Horror, Mystery, and Thriller.

Scooby-doo who?

Hiraeth means a homesickness for a home which you cannot return. That is how Arcane feels like she’ll never be home no matter how hard she tries to connect with her family. The closest she feels to being home is with her friends and in the worn leather seats of the van they all pitched in to buy. It all started out as a way to pass time and for all of them to escape their families because to be honest parents never understand, but it all turned sideways when a simple “ghost hunting trip” stirred something that was meant to remain buried. The truth never remains buried though, not really, somehow it will always creep back in ugly and twisted. Arcane has never felt “at home” but she’ll do whatever it takes to keep what she considers her family safe.

Sweet Dreams: Historical Fiction, Thriller, and Romance.

A literal dream turned into story plot and no I’m not kidding.

The Red String of Fate, The Lovers, and War. These are the three elements intertwined within the plot of Sweet Dreams but before anyone makes any assumptions this isn’t some chummy rom-com. There will be tears and heart strings may get yanked clean out because the angst is real. War and love never mix well, it leaves a sour taste in ones mouth and makes the mind question things it shouldn’t. Like is the woman in his dreams the same woman he sees in all his dreams? Constantly he somehow ends up spotting that same ruby red lipstick, honey golden eyes, and brunette hair laying in perfect curls. She’s everywhere except in his actual life. They say you and your soulmate share dreams, living proof of how intertwined souls are. She doesn’t believe in love or the idea of souls, not with the monsters roaming around the countryside and battlefield carrying assault rifles. Society tells her where her place is, but she disagrees and rather create her own destiny.

The Prophet: Paranormal, Thriller, Post-Apocalypse, and Science Fiction.  

A short story I can’t seem to let go or it doesn’t want to let me go, but either way, this story has the makings for something great. It also at times seems strikingly similar to Good Omens, so don’t be surprised.

There’s no anti-christ in this story, he already has a book about himself so let’s not make another one besides there are other stories that need to be told. Such as, have you ever heard of modern day prophets and I’m not talking about those people with cardboard signs saying “the end is near!” or giant churches with people preaching about the end times. No, I’m talking about a kid with messy hair and dark circles under their eyes because sleep is no longer a choice due to migraines that plague them every night. Migraines that bring weird cryptic messages that make one question their own sanity. And what happens when strange people start asking about said migraines and messages?

Virago: Fantasy, Thriller, Historical Fiction, and Romance.

I’m not a huge fantasy reader, for some reason I can’t stay invested in them, but here I am with a fantasy story in my wips. It has mages, knights, assasination plots, and one super badass general who takes zero shit from her king. That’s right women empowerment, my dudes! I don’t really have much of a synopsis inline or a plot because this is only of those wips I let rattle around in my brain from time to time. But I will say it does give me that LOTR vibe but also Game of Thrones.  

Don’t be surprised if you see my stray doggos from time to time because I will admit I love to play around with storyboards. Even if I don’t have a fully planned out plot put together for it.

And that concludes this what was supposed to be short Writeblr Intro. I hope I have peaked some of your guys’ interests because the community definitely got a hold of minee. Feel free to send me a message about anything I mentioned (even if it’s just fandom shit I don’t care) and don’t be shy. I’m a huge introvert but somehow love talking, so don’t worry it won’t be awkward and odds are I’m equally nervous about conversation lol. Also, feel free to add me to any taglist and reblog/like if you’re active and would like more Writeblr mutuals!

Happy Writing,

Writings-from-the-Hart

[ikesenlemonadestandstories]

Level 9

Can you believe we’re almost all the way through January? One more day left and we’ll be a full month into 2020. How’s it feel gang? We all doing okay?

Tagging: @loudartanimeeclipse​

Master List here or search Ikesen AFK tag

Warnings: None

Happy Reading, T~

Level 9

You were here, it was nine, and you were starting to get annoyed. Had you been played? Were you about to be ambushed? Jumped? Hacked? As your mind raced nearly a thousand pop up windows flooded your chat screen as you were thrown into a brand new group chat, this one titled “Team Azuchi.” Interesting. 

4myLord → Seriously, though, how do you not know where they are? You just met her last night. This is horribly rude.

OneEyedDrag0n → Nope, see? I remembered her username! She’s in the group chat! @WildCyt0m3try you are in the group chat right. /;3;/ Please tell me you’re in the group chat!

Present, though, I’m not super sure where you are? You said 9 sharp but never specified where... ← WildCyt0m3try

Betrayal_is_real04  → He’s as helpful as ever I see. 

Your answer was equally unhelpful… ( - . - )  ← WildCyt0m3try

D3vilK1ng  → I like her @OneEyedDrag0n, she’s got spunk. 

OneEyedDrag0n  → Right! Almost beat me in that tournament too! 

EdoPorcupine5661 → Oh? No surprise there. 

OneEyedDrag0n → Hey! I resent that statement 

Betrayal_is_real04 → You resent most of his statements. 

EdoPorcupine5661 → Is everyone here now? Except for @WildCyt0m3try? 

4myLord → No. We’re missing @B00kOfLife7. You can find us near the South gate @WildCyt0m3try. 

Thx! I see you now! ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → Does it matter? Can we start without him? He’s probably reading and forgot we were supposed to meet. 

4myLord → We cannot!

B00kOfLife7 → We cannot what? 

EdoPorcupine5661 → Nevermind… 

D3vilK1ing → Glad you could join us, shall we head out now that everyone’s gathered?

In a matter of moments, your screen warped, and your character and her new teammates were whisked off towards the southern dessert. Excitement bubbled up inside of you, this was your chance to shine. Sure, you barely knew these people, but if they fought anything like OneEyedDrag0n had, you didn’t want to look incompetent. Fortunately, the battle conditions were a perfect way to showcase your stats. 

The dessert terrain made it nearly impossible for anyone on foot to move, and cavalry or armored units had almost no chance at advancing more than a single space at a time. You, on the other hand, were a flier, meaning terrain that diminished that particular stat didn’t apply to you. Giving you the range to quickly traverse the battlefield and assist your allies. Which is precisely what you planned to do. 

Everyone had spawned in one of two groups; truly, the game seemed to be out to get you. Both of the warlocks had been pushed together in the back corner of the map with the sniper. Everyone else in your party was in the top corner with you. Meaning all of your long-range fighters were too far away to provide any sort of backup to the poor guy on a horse and your swords.

So...this is unfortunate ← WildCyt0m3try

OneEyedDrag0n → We’ve honestly gotten worse, this ain't too bad 

You’ve got to be kidding ← WildCyt0m3try

4myLord → We wish. We’ll have time for that story later. @B00kOfLife got a plan yet? 

B00kOfLife → @D3vilK1ng and @Betrayal_is_real04, please proceed towards the center of the field to become the central targets. 

B00kOfLife → @EdoPorcupine5661 and I will cover the exit point down here to the south so bandits cannot escape. 

B00kOfLife → @OneEyedDrag0n, please do your best to cover @4myLord since he doesn’t have a large range of movement. Fend off enemies as you make your way toward the center of the field. 

B00kOfLife → @WildCyt0m3try, please make quick work of the chests around the field then chase down any enemies that attempt to flee. You are quite capable of fending them off on your own, I presume?

Everything but archers, though, I’m usually good with dodging, and I’ve got plenty of herbs on standby jic. ← WildCyt0m3try

B00kOfLife ← Wonderful. Message if something should go wrong. Good luck. 

With the plan out, the chat went silent. This was nothing like your other team, no microphones were used for in battle communication, not a single word was typed unless something was direly wrong. You had been provided exactly 3 chest keys to do your job, but you knew that at least three of these bandits had keys of their own, so you shouldn’t have to dip into your stock unless someone called you for backup. 

Just as OneEyedDrag0n had stated last night, everyone here was a capable fighter. The plan was being executed beautifully, and you marveled at how the CPU’s seemed to go down one after the other. It was like the computer wasn’t even paying attention to the stats anymore. Why would you go after an enemy that you only had a 16% chance of doing 4 damage to when they had a 98% chance of doing 36 damage twice? It didn’t make any sense. You'd take what you were given, though. 

In half an hour, all of the chests were successfully looted, the enemy had been routed, and EdoPorcupine5661 was named the MVP. You’d never seen that before, granted you hadn’t been playing that long, but it was rare for a bowed unit to take accolades like that. Being a ranged unit seemed to have its perks on terrane like this, you supposed. Prize money was divided, and the weapons and armor were awarded based on participation and usability. It didn’t make much sense to give something to someone who couldn’t make use of it. After thanking them for letting you play with them, you were about to log off and head to bed when you got a private message. 

EdoPorcupine5661 → OneEyedDrag0n said you were in the market for a bow. 

I am. Not sure where I’d find one this late in my game, though, sort of hard to reclass and start over.  ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → You fought well, and you aren’t completely annoying, so here, it was part of my loot today. 

Are you sure? That’s a really nice bow! ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → It is, which is why you’d be stupid not to take it. I’ve already got one. So here. 

Thanks! UwU You’re the best! Now I’ve just got to get the skill up so I can use it! ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → If you’re free tomorrow at 5, I can meet you for some quick tips. Don’t need you shooting yours or anyone else’s eye out. 

Is that what happened to OneEyedDrag0n? Training accident lol? ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → No. It wasn’t an accident.

Omfg, you didn’t xD ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → I didn’t, but it’s always fun to imagine. 

So 5 tomorrow? ← WildCyt0m3try I should be down for that as long as I get off work on time. ← WildCyt0m3try   Are you going to give me any hints about where to meet you, or is that part of this team’s quirks? ← WildCyt0m3try Make the newbie guess where you’re meeting? ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → You know, I was going to tell you, but I’m not feeling quite as generous anymore. 

Noooo! Please! I don’t like wandering around like a lost CPU! Someone tried to buy stuff from me today, you know! ← WildCyt0m3try That’s how idle I looked waiting for you goons lol ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → Maybe you should evaluate the face your character is making? It’s not my fault you look like someone who sells cheap spears. 

I would not sell cheap spears! Only the highest quality merchandise is sold here! ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → Whatever you say. 

I’m glad you’ve come to your senses and decided to agree with me.  ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → Sure, we’ll go with that. 

Okay, well, thanks for the bow. I’ll see you tomorrow around 5. I’ve decided I actually need to get some sleep tonight! Work has been a H A U L lately. ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → You don’t need to explain yourself to me. Just go to bed, weirdo. 

Roger that, weirdo. ← WildCyt0m3try

EdoPorcupine5661 → That wasn’t a compliment. 

Sure it was. Laters~ ← WildCyt0m3try

You smiled as you shut down the console and powered off your television, that had been fun. It was so different from your other team's dynamic, but it added something different to the experience beyond solo playing. Besides, you had totally just scored a kick-ass bow, and a training date tomorrow. You couldn’t wait; if you kept going at this pace, you were sure it’d be enough to push your team to the winning slot next tournament! Real-life prize money here you came!

[hoodie-lover]

My Multiverse - Part 2

Error was stressed, about to REBOOT stressed. He had made a deal with a psychotic god of creation with mind control powers, and now he’s nothing but a customizable doll to him. Saying Error was stressed didn’t even begin to scratch the surface of the pain, fear, anger, and anxiety Error was feeling. He knew he had to tell someone, he couldn’t keep it to himself, he just couldn’t. But the question was, who would believe him? After seeing how Dream reacted, Error thought about telling him, showing him the versions of hos code as proof, but getting Dream away from Ink would be way too hard. 

A lightbulb went off as he thought of someone who would be easy to confront, and easy to convince. Someone high up in the chain of command, but often overlooked. Underswap!Sans, also known as Blue. There was only one problem, his brother. Underswap!Papyrus was notoriously one of the most overprotective and dangerous Papyrus’ out there, so getting Blue all alone, possible, would require split-second timing. 

Error spent who knows how long spying and stalking Blue, trying to memorize his daily routine. That way he would know just what to do and when to do it. The first thing he learned about Blue, was his hyperactivity, expected from a Sans with Papyrus’ personality, but he took it to a whole new level. Another thing is that he is really cute, like a puppy. He had the smallest chub to him and was one of the shortest Sans’ around, besides Ink whom was the shortest of all. 

The stalking went on over the course of two-weeks. Nonstop watching, Error knew it was creepy, and he was going overboard, but he just liked watching Blue. If anything, he only got more excited for their first meeting outside of the battlefield. He knew it would be awkward if he were to just take him and pull him into the anti-void, and tell him his leader is a psychotic maniac, but he had a plan. He hoped it would work.

He had made several fluffy blankets and bean bag chairs, and had stolen some hot chocolate and tacos to make a more homey place as to not freak out Blue. A pain in his soul let him know that Ink wanted him. Error sighed and opened a portal to the pale AU he had made the deal inside, and sat on the same velvet chair, he had been tied to. He waited patiently as the clock ticked back and forth and the cracks of the fire sizzled. This was something he knew Ink had reprogrammed him to do, he would have fled long ago from this place, and waited until death was more bearable than the pain, but he didn’t. Ink made him not do so, even if the maniac wasn’t there to command him. 

Ink skipped inside the room, Dream at his heels. Error felt fear surge throughout his body looking at Nightmare’s brother. 

“Hello Error. It seems we’re going to have some fun, as Dream seems to be trying to resist my powers, probably because he doesn’t want to watch me punish people who disobey me.” Ink seethed as he grabbed Dream’s shoulder and threw him to the ground. Limp as a noodle Dream laid on the ground and Error felt sweat drip down his skull. 

“Stay still Error, this won’t hurt much.” Ink said as he handed Error a cup with the same sweet and bitter drink. 

Upon downing the entire thing, Error passed out. Ink giggled and summoned his soul, beginning to make changes to Error’s code. Ink was giggling evilly the whole time he was playing with Error’s soul and code, periodically stopping to massage the soul, fascinated by the texture of the 1/10 glitchy soul. Ink was surprised at the fact Error only had a tenth of a regular soul, just like Geno or Aftertale!Sans. Ink was curious as to why that was and did to research into that, but there was nothing but dead ends.

When Ink was done, he woke up Error. Error rubbed his head and looked at Ink, his eyes hazy and faded. Ink roped himself around Error’s body, his arms wrapped around Error’s neck and his hands caressing the back of Error’s skull. 

“W-what happened?” Error asked, swaying lazily as he leaned into Ink’s touches.

“We were going to punish Dream for resisting. You know that resisting me is wrong.” Ink said, booping Error on the nose as he pried himself off of him, much to Error’s dismay. 

Ink snapped his fingers and Dream gasped for air as he grabbed the carpet, shaking. Sweat dripped from his skull as he reoriented himself, getting onto his feet with some help from the table close by. He stumbled around for a while when trying to regain his balance. Dream felt his nonexistent heart stop as he saw Error. He stepped back, but fell on his butt as he tried to flee. 

“Ink, what is he doing here?” Dream hissed at Error, and Ink giggled. “He’s here to help me. You’ve been naughty Dreamy~. You think that trying to interfere with my punishments is good? Well it’s not.” Ink boomed as he picked Dream up by the shoulders and pressed him against the wall, with the assistance of blue magic. Despite being 3⁄4 of Dream’s height, Ink was much stronger physically and magically, so Dream had no escape. 

“What...?” Dream said, breathing heavily, sneaking a glance at Error’s deathly glare. 

“I need to break your will, outside of my own influence. As you seem to have a care, for others that gets in the way of my plans for you and others.” Ink explained, smiling his demonic smile. 

“Lets us begin~.” Ink said as he dragged Dream away through a portal, to a dark room with a variety of bloody items hanging on the wall. Dream screamed and thrashed against Ink, but to no avail. 

Dream was thrown onto the ground, and a magic inhibitor collar was placed on his neck, leaving the guardian of positivity helpless to the creator’s whims and wishes. 

“I will ask you a question, and you will answer yes or no. If you answer correctly, you won’t be punished, but if you answer incorrectly, you will be punished until you cannot take it anymore.” Ink explained, waving a remote in Dream’s face. 

Dream was trying to comprehend what was happening, and how Error got roped into this. He tried to get up, but he was held down by Error’s strings wrapping around his soul. A surge of pure fire and agony erupted from his soul and pulsed through his bones. 

“Are you allowed to interrupt me or question me?” Ink asked Dream, watching Dream squirm and pant. 

Dream said nothing, only trying to bear the pain. Ink’s face fell, his expression growing grim, and his hands becoming fists. He bent down and looked Dream in the eyes, and gripped his hand.

“Wrong answer.” Ink said and broke Dream’s hand with one firm squeeze. Dream screamed in response, clutching his hand in pain. 

“It seems that you need a lot of work.” Ink said, clicking his teeth. “Error, can you make sure that he is supposed to answer me.” Ink left the two alone, Dream screaming in pain. 

Error threw Dream across the dark void’s floor, his bones were broken and bent in horrendous angles, Error’s eyes were blank, unphased by Dream’s cries and begging for mercy. This continued for hours, maybe even days, but Dream eventually cracked. Ink came in and asked the same question, to which Dream nodded profusely. 

“Good. Now, are you to do what I tell you to do?” Ink asked, “No matter what it entails?” Dream hesitated, and Ink walked away, giving Error the same command. But the beating was twice as long, and Dream was barely conscious. Ink came back and asked the same question, Dream forced out his answer. 

“Y-yes.” But Ink was unconvinced, “Are you sure? You seem unsure Dream.” And Dream screamed “I’m sure!” And Ink signed. He told Error to leave Dream here and that they would only come back when he was ready to be honest. 

As Error woke up from what he felt was a very long nap, sudden flashes of his heinous crimes flooded back to him. The guilt wrapped around his neck and bones, threatening to choke and shatter the fragile bones and soul. Tears poured like a waterfall from his eyes as he wept in the same chair he had fallen asleep in, however long ago it was. WHat felt like hours passed until Ink came in, a wicked grin oozing pleasure plastered on his face. 

“It seems sleeping beauty has woken from his slumber. Did you have a nice nap?” Ink asked, though the question rhetorical as he giggled and snapped his fingers, seemingly forgetting the crying glitch on the chair in front of him.

Dream walked in, scars littering his bones as he walked in, his head hanging low and arms wrapped around his torso. Upon seeing Error he flinched and jumped back ever so slightly. 

“Now now Dreamy, you’re not being punished, I’m just showing him our new arrangement.” Ink explained, making Error hyperventilate. 

Dream stood at perfect attention and looked at Ink in the eyes. 

“You are my master and I live to do your bidding. You are the only one whose opinion matters and I am obsolete, I am very grateful for you taking a chance on a piece of trash like me.” Error had to restrain throwing up at the monotone and matter-of-fact tone Dream had. 

“Good boy.” Ink said, stroking Dream’s skull, making the guardian of positivity purr almost like a cat. “You’ll forget the torture, but remember the lesson you were taught. And you shall have a vague comprehension of the consequences of failing.” Ink told Dream. Dream gasped and began to ramble and thank Ink as he grabbed Ink’s shirt and pulled him close to his face. 

Ink pushed Dream off of himself and snapped his fingers, causing Dream to collapse in a deep sleep. 

“You can leave now. I’ll take it from here.” Ink commanded and Error wasted no time running away from Ink and never looking back, but his soul felt as if would shatter with every step he took away from Dream, whom he tortured at Ink’s command for weeks, maybe even months. 

Next

First

Characters belong to their respective owners

[poisonappletales]

What are your favorite traits in each of your characters?~

Hello, fearofprayer! Ooh, let’s see…this should be fun. Of course, I’m going to keep my answers spoiler-free. But whenever Beauty and the War (X Playing Pieces) is released, please feel free to ask again if you’d like to know about those.

Now then, this will include my thoughts on all my characters - the cast of Don’t Take This Risk being among them. I’m going to give you the short summarized answer first, followed by a wordier explanation telling you what I think in detail.Shall we begin?

Arsenik of the Hulder

Favorite Traits: Intelligence, style of speech, his hobby of writing

One of my favorite traits is that he speaks in that intellectual, old-fashioned style. It lets me use that older style of writing that you see in classical literature, whether it’s Jane Austen or Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Plus, he has a hobby of writing, so it gives me a chance to write things like poems.

You might say I like the opportunities he gives me for writing myself! On a related note, he enjoys reading just as I do, but I wouldn’t call that a trait I prefer/like in a character. It honestly doesn’t matter to me if a character has similar hobbies to me or not.

Why am I mentioning this? I just thought it’d be something you’d like to know, particularly since it’s common for “writers” and “reading” to go together. If he were to discuss books with someone, that would be easy to write since I enjoy doing so as well! However, his opinions are not necessarily the same as mine.

Anyway, what I like most about him is his style of talking, his intelligence and his writing inclinations.

For those who aren’t a fan of him, a common reason would be that they find his sort of character to be “boring.” I just want to note that I’m not offended by any of those kinds of opinions. Like and dislike whichever character you want! It’s your prerogative. I’m glad if my cast feels like actual people you can form opinions about when you meet them.

But yeah, I do know a lot of people who find things like the classic books boring, so if you personally aren’t fond of his speech, that’s totally understandable. Or just, you know, the do-gooder character you see in shows.  Though, something you may not realize is that he sounds a little more stilted/formal when he’s around his beloved…

(Again, that’s not a trait of his that I would call a “favorite” of mine. It’s just there and a part of his character that feels fitting for him. His shyness/awkwardness is just something I thought I’d bring to your attention in case you missed it in the demo!)

Oh, and a bonus trait I like about him (or the Hulder in general) relates to what’s been said about his clan: “They’re only gentlemen during the day.”

Chase of the Trold

Favorite Traits: How he rounds out the cast and what he represents

Ah, Chase. Two things I like about him: 1) He rounds out the cast well. 2) His relationship with Ambrosia (should you choose to put these two together) has a nice meaning behind it.

What do I mean by “nice meaning”? Well, does anyone remember this Chase/Ambrosia piece I wrote a while back? Chase is not considered conventionally attractive, but Ambrosia doesn’t subscribe to the masses, to say the least. She’s not superficial and considers beauty to be in the eye of the beholder.

He’s a character that represents those principles.

Going back to my first point, it’s not too difficult to see how he rounds out the cast. He’s the most “average guy” of the group.  I have heard a lot of players like him for that reason (heart of gold and a nice guy who’s easy to get along with). He also has a few people who dislike him for…a certain “temper” scene in the demo. Those of you who came across it probably know what I’m talking about here!

He has his strengths and weaknesses. I know I definitely wanted to make him as much a “real boy” as possible, so to speak. Hate him or love him, it’s your call!

Wind of the Imugi

Favorite Traits: Cool, tough barbarian fighter

Your resident tsundere (the hot-cold jerky type),��even if he isn’t your textbook classic example. I don’t like to do stereotypes straight-out, so you can’t expect my characters to follow any of those archetypes to a T.

I’m not generally a fan of tsunderes. I don’t mind them in shows, and I think that the cast needs their spice at times. They can create fun situations. It’s just not going to be a favorite of mine (not typically at least - there are always exceptions).

So, what do I like about Wind? He’s cool and tough and isn’t scared of slicing through flesh with those claws of his. I feel like I just picked him to play in a video game selection screen. You could say that’s what I like about him. I would enjoy playing him in a video game for a time.

“What kind of description is that?”

Oh, and if a fan dislikes him, it’s usually because he can be a jerk. That’s it.

Night of the Vi

Favorite Traits: Attitude and armor

Not that much is known about this guy yet, huh?

I’ll just tell you that my favorite traits about him is his cool attitude and that wicked black armor. I called Wind cool as well, but Night’s in a different way. He’s more relaxed and adventurous. As for that armor - well, it’s pretty self-explanatory. (Imagine the cosplaying opportunities there.)

If players don’t like him, it’s often because they’re not into his free lifestyle. He’s not looking for something serious straight off the bat and wants to come into a relationship naturally - whenever he feels it. In the meantime, he doesn’t see anything wrong with living it up, inside and outside the bedroom.

Describing it that way, I feel like you can almost see him as something of a James Bond character now…

Onyx of the Vi

Favorite Traits: Talented killing machine

All right, sure. Let’s put these Vi’s in a row, and give Onyx a nice animated gif that I have to polish up some more one day.

There’s actually a whole lot I like about Onyx. While you wouldn’t want to run into him in real life, there’s something awesome about him being a killing machine on the battlefield, wouldn’t you say? A stone-cold killer, daunted by nothing. His skill with a blade is a sight to behold.

A perfect dark warrior.

I’m actually looking forward to drawing and animating more of him fighting, with his blade drawn. Though, in that case…expect blood.

Prince Alexandrite of the Vi

We don’t talk about the prince.

King Barium of the Vi

Favorite Traits: A natural-born leader + cool and collected + some king realism

His easygoing nature, combined with his natural authority, makes him a likable and charismatic king. Those are my favorite traits about him. If he only had one or the other, I may not have necessarily called that my favorite (more so for the trait of being “cool and collected,” which I may or may not find likable on its own).

Plus…his armor’s pretty neat, isn’t it?

He owns a harem, and while that alone does not automatically make me favor a character, I do like how it’s a realistic aspect for a king of certain eras.

Viktor of the Hulder

Favorite Traits: Exciting party-maker with…comedic tendencies

And we’re back to the Hulder! The reign of the Vi is over - I joke, of course.

You know, it’s really funny, but I hear a lot of players say they like this guy for - shall we say - the wrong reasons. That is, for Arsenik reasons. What do I mean? Case in point:

1) They like his shyness. This young man isn’t shy.  I remember talking about it way back here, but yes, Viktor is a far cry from that description. He’s confident, talkative and gregarious. Sure, he blushes and stammers when Ambrosia touches him in the demo, but he’s still rather loud, wouldn’t you say? He makes his emotions very clear! He shows what he’s feeling and thinking a lot.

2) They like that he’s quieter/withdrawn/someone they can take the lead with. This is similar to the other point. This man is loud, sociable and can even be a little charming in how he flirts with Ambrosia in the demo, wouldn’t you say?

If you’re looking for someone sweeter, shyer and reserved, that’s all Arsenik. You want someone with confidence, liveliness and fun? Here’s Viktor!

That said, what do I like about Viktor? Well, he has a true knack for making a situation humorous. Look at any of his conversations, and I bet you’ll see what I mean. Plus, he has that old-fashioned way of speaking that’s always fun to write out. Just keep in mind that Viktor might be raised to speak like a Hulder, but he isn’t someone who would be considered intellectual.

I almost feel like Viktor has more fans than Arsenik does, given what people tell me! Just a reminder - Viktor isn’t an official love interest in Beauty and the War (X Playing Pieces). There is a secret bachelor, but that may or may not be Viktor. However, if you so wish, I do encourage you to pursue him in-game to find out.

Bo-Peep of the Cucuy

Favorite Traits: Bubbly cuteness

Not long after talking about the king, it only makes sense to discuss one of his mistresses!

She’s peppy, bubbly and cute! She may not be the brightest around the block, but that adds to her charm. Some players assume she’s innocent possibly because her voice is, well, childish (and her mannerisms can be as well). But oh no, make no mistake.

This is the king’s woman - a sexy gal with legs for days. That kind of person. She knows more than a few tricks in the bedroom to keep a man satisfied. She’s well-versed in fashion, flirting and make-up (hopefully - she does have the tendency to wear too much herself).

Despite her capacity for sexiness, she altogether feels, as I said, cute, which is what I like about her.

She is due for a bit of a re-design in the future. Just some tweaks to bring out what I had in mind.

Jasmine of the Phoenix

Favorite Traits: Prim girl trying hard to seem older than she really is

I do like Jasmine. She might be the eldest of the Phoenix cousin trio, but she acts more like the middle child.

She seems prim and proper, but she has immature tendencies. (She’s the one who goes “Moooom, she’s picking on me again” or “Stop messing with my things or I’m going to kill you, you little brat!” Just replace “Mom” with “Ambrosia.”)

She can be almost something of a “normal teenage girl,” but I like the contrast between her “prim” side and her “teenage girl” side. She’s also due a re-design again, but she’ll still be pretty.

Ah, and another thing I like about her: that competitive streak of hers. It makes for more amusing scenarios, as you might have seen during the last exciting Valentine skit.

When it comes to “teenage girl” types of characters, they’re usually hit-or-miss with me.  But I happened to make her a kind I could like.

(You might think I made an entire cast of people I enjoy…but I actually do have characters I wouldn’t like if I wasn’t the one who made it.  And it may not be the people you think it is - aside from maybe one of them, which you’ll see later down the list. As a writer, I want a fleshed out cast and story!)

Rosemary of the Phoenix

Favorite Traits: Fun, lively, endearing

If Jasmine is like the middle child, then Rosemary is equivalent to the youngest. She’s loud, fussy and often bursting with opinions, which makes her fun. I like how she livens things up!

I also enjoy her role in the story, as she plays her part well. What that role is in full detail remains to be seen…

Since she’s sensitive about her weight and enjoys eating, I’ve had a few players assume that I’m trying to make her a walking “fat joke,” but that really couldn’t be further from the truth! What I’ve made here is a character.

I’ve got to tell you, I’ve known people with these insecurities. I’ve even had players tell me that they relate to what she’s doing (i.e. airing out complaints, cheating on their diet, etc.). And I think those are all beautiful people.

You are not meant to ridicule Rosemary. That would be Wildfire’s job. She has strengths and flaws like all the rest.

She’s another one of those “average teenage girl” kind of personalities, but as with Jasmine, I like her. She has endearing qualities, and it’s not hard for her to grow on you! At least, in my personal opinion.

Wildfire of the Valkyrie

Favorite Traits: She does her role well

Speaking of Wildfire…

Say “hello” to my least favorite character. Frankly, I wouldn’t even put her on my list of favorites, and usually, I’m naturally fond on my own creation.

I don’t know if this comes as a surprise since I made a whole game featuring her as one of the protagonists (War: 13th Day), but I did say I can write about characters I don’t even like myself. It just depends on the story I want to tell.

I think almost all of us know people who have made your life way harder than it has to be. If not yours, then someone else’s - someone you cared about. You could call them enemies, rivals, bullies, or even monsters depending on the severity.

Wildfire isn’t based off anyone in real life, but she has elements from all those types of terrible people. In the end, she reminds me of them too much to like her. If you do like her yourself, that’s perfectly fine, of course. You can feel whatever you want about my character. She does have a backstory and a personality because I want her to be three-dimensional. In fact, I was a little surprised by how many people do like her from what I’ve heard.

Now, to be fair, I do enjoy a good villain in a series. But she didn’t hit any of the right buttons for me and that’s entirely on purpose. She has a role to play, and it fits her. She’s the mean girl with the tough girl attitude.

If I had to pick something I like about her that’s more defined than “she does her role well”…can I get back to you on that?

Brooks of the Valkyrie

Favorite Traits: Entertaining, dreadlocks

Okay, this is easier. Brooks is just plain fun. Her banter with others is a pleasure to write out. Her dreadlocks are pretty cool, too. 

Did you think I was going to mention “armor” again?Hmm…I wonder if I can cite “banter with her best friend” as a favorite trait of Wildfire’s…

Ambrosia of the Phoenix

Favorite Traits: Gentle, pure, strong of heart

The innocent sweetheart and exotic Snow White beauty of the island. Here’s the heroine of the series, Ambrosia of the Phoenix!

You might have heard me mention this before but one of my favorite archetypes? The yamato nadeshiko (the proper lady). She’s delicate and feminine. A big-sister type and wife material.

She may not be strong physically, but don’t underestimate her steel will! She’s my number one favorite female character.

While she’s not a fighter, you could say she’s strong in the way that a mother or, as I mentioned before, an older sister is. Who takes care of the chores? She does. Who tries to remind the immature ones (i.e. her cousins) about what to do and looks out for them? She does. If you’ve done something wrong, she will straighten you out but with kindness. If someone’s bothering you, she will step in and be there for you.

Now, when it comes to herself? That might be a different story, but that’s her weakness.

She’s also pretty sexy during the Present Day. Not that she can’t be in the First Act.

If a player doesn’t like Ambrosia (the First Act version, I imagine), they usually tell me it’s because they think she’s too “naïve” or “weak.”

Yes, she is naïve - at least, in the first act of Beauty and the War (X Playing Pieces). She’s young, so it isn’t too surprising. Again, that’s your call to make, but personally, I like that sort of character.

As for weak? I said before that she’s not strong physically. Perhaps, being naïve can be a form of weakness or just how much her young heart can love. And she does have her shyness. But I like shy girls too, so I apologize if that isn’t your cup of tea since you’ll be seeing her a lot!

And since we’re talking about her…

Ambrosia F. (Don’t Take This Risk ver.)

Favorite Traits: Same as above? With some differences.

Let’s talk about her Don’t Take This Risk version. She’s pretty much the same person, but there are differences. For one thing, her speech has less old-fashioned wording (something I enjoy doing for her Virgo Island self).

If you haven’t read the webtoon yet, there are spoilers ahead. (So, I do recommend you stop here and check it out if you haven’t yet!)

This Ambrosia is a bully victim, suffering from low self-esteem and cutting issues. Much like her other self, she’s strong of heart and will. She gets part-time jobs after school. She takes care of Grandmother when her cousins are too scared to do so (or too busy with homework/something fun). This is someone strong and independent, even if it doesn’t come with the usual tough, no-nonsense attitude you see with these kinds of women. (But let it not be said that I don’t like those types as well. I can indeed like those, too.)

When Dev offers to help her out financially, Ambrosia refuses because she wants to take care of things herself. She speaks gently but surely - like a mother/big sister again.

As young as she is, she’s sadly optimistic and naïve…but will her encounter with Unknown change her? 

Evie O.

Favorite Traits: Naughtiness, lively

You might recognize white-haired Evie O. from Death Room and the Don’t Take This Risk webtoon!

According to what fans tell me, she’s my most hated character.

For me, I actually don’t dislike her. If I knew her in real life and she did the same shenanigans, I wouldn’t be fond of her, no. But as a fictional character? You remember what I said about liking a good villain, right? She’s one of them.

She’s not a villain of the “Let’s destroy the world!” variety, but she has just enough naughtiness to make the story juicy. In Episode 20, you see a little bit from her perspective at the end. Did anyone catch her hint of insecurity?

She does have more depth than you might think. Of course, once they’ve been explored, you may not like her any more than you already do!

Unknown of Don’t Take This Risk

Favorite Traits: Crazy fun, predatory

This guy is crazy fun. Aren’t a lot of you on the edge of your seat whenever he’s around? Whether you’re looking forward to him or dreading him, he’s a character who knows how to steal the spotlight. He’s certainly a pleasure to write and a proper foil for some!

He’s also someone who a lot of people don’t quite get. Hence, the webtoon. Is it helping any? Do you feel like you understand him better?

Probably not. After all, his name is still…Unknown.

It’s interesting to note that some fans typically don’t like Night for his liberal lifestyle, but then, we get to this guy…then again, some people still fancy Unknown’s a bit reserved in some sense. Just remember: ignore the voice(s) in the game if it’s confusing you; the webcomic captures him perfectly.

Oh, and make sure you don’t do what he does at home. Unknown’s an interesting character to write, to be sure, but I don’t endorse what he does!

X from Prison

“Oi, Crown Ruler, why are you always putting me last? I ought to come first, you know! I’m the star of Beauty and the War, I’m tellin’ you!”

Favorite Traits: Powers, masculinity, snarkiness

I like X. He has good chemistry with (Present Day) Ambrosia. He radiates strength and masculine energy like he’s some kind of Arnold Schwarzenegger. But what I like most would probably be his powers, like his switch between Aries form and Regular.

His snarky remarks are pretty fun, too. You would think I’d mention this about Wind, but I just happen to prefer X’s debatably “friendlier” style. I don’t have anything against Wind’s sarcasm, and in fact, it can charge scenes with a certain kind of momentum that makes it engaging to watch. It’s just not enough to enter “favorite” territory for me.

Hopefully, I haven’t missed anyone there! I didn’t include the Huntsman’s characters (Dev and Dominic) since you asked about favorite traits for mine.

I’m a writer before I’m an artist, so you might notice that when I make a story, I make characters that fit a role. Each actor has their part in the unfolding play, and they must arrive on stage during their scene. Perhaps, individually, they may fall flat to one viewer, but together, the resulting interaction can be phenomenal - pure entertainment.

To say the least, these characters, even the ones I’m not strictly fond of, can become more intriguing when they mix and match with the others. So, that’s something I would like to add that I enjoy for each and every one - their chemistry and interaction with the rest of the cast. (Some more so than others.)

I typically enjoy talking about my characters, so if you have any other questions or if I wasn’t clear about something, please feel free to ask. Were you surprised by anything I had to say? If you have the time, share your thoughts! I love to hear them.

[askrsummonerdawn]

Meetings

@iturbide, I thought I’d say thank you by making a story post for you to enjoy involving the headcanon you made for me! So, thank you x3

There was silence between the quartet walking through the gates similar to their own Askr kingdom. The only sounds were soft hoots from Feh, who was enjoying the pets the young summoner was giving her. Dawn’s red eyes gazed around the entrance of the castle. It was so similar to their own, but the air and aura were different.

“Dawn, are you okay?” Asked Sharena, when the blonde noticed how Dawn has stopped for a moment. The girl looked up and nodded her head before she rushed to catch up to the others, who patiently waited for her before continuing on.

Alfonse somehow knew what Dawn was thinking, as he gently pats her head “I know. It’s almost like home, isn’t it? There’s going to be another me in there, another Sharena, another Anna. Maybe, heroes, you summoned, but don’t worry. You can tell who is who,” he chuckled.

When he said this, Dawn looked over at the pin she made for Alfonse. It was a blue pin shaped as the Askr Emblem she made with metals that she found. Sharena has a hairpin with the same emblem, but pink and Anna had a silver pendant with the emblem. Each of the heroes back home had a hand-made trinket that Dawn made herself. Feh’s is being worked on (it’s a scarf, but Feh doesn’t know). Seeing her handy work on her friends made Dawn happy.

They made her feel so welcome. At first, Alfonse did his best to keep their relationship professional and distant, but when Veronica almost captured her and Bruno helped her escape, it all changed from there. Alfonse and Sharena became family to her. Anna was like her aunt and best friend. The heroes Dawn had summoned also became family and friends to her. Each of them made Dawn feel warm inside. Though, she wondered if it were possible for her to ask of them to teach her magic, or how to wield a bow. Possibly learn to fight with a blade or

When they entered the castle, Dawn could see the other Alfonse, Sharena, and Anna was waiting for them and happily greeted the four. The other Anna and Sharena cooed at how small and cute Dawn was, as Anna couldn’t help but grin “Yep! Our Summoner is a cutie~”

“Maybe she could be with... Nevermind, I’m sure you’re wanting to meet Kiran. They’re from your world too!” The other Anna proclaimed happily. Dawn had caught what the other Anna was trying to say but didn’t question it. She knew it must be due to her age. However, Dawn is mature enough to handle any situation. She is the summoner and tactician. The six spoke to each other about meeting their summoner, Kiran, who was in the library. It was in agreement and they all headed there. Dawn, however, did not.

She got distracted at the paintings on the wall. She was trying to find any sort of differences with the details of the paint brushes that when she turned to point one of the differences she found, the others were gone. Dawn stood there for a moment with a blank expression before it hit her that everyone was gone! Feh realized this and hooted with worry. Dawn stood there for a moment, before she nuzzled Feh, to calm down the owl, but also herself. They just needed to find where the others went! Taking a deep breath and a look of determination, Dawn set forth to find her friends

She went to the library first, but when she arrived there, no one was present. Dawn checked the meeting room but saw no one. The albino girl continued on her quest, pondering where they could have gone as she arrived near the gardens. Dawn stopped in her tracks when she heard the laughter of children near. Dawn never had a chance to play with kids her age growing up. Even when her aunt was given sole custody of her, Dawn just never had the chance to interact with anyone her age.

Feh hooted softly when she felt Dawn tense. The owl snuggled into Dawn, causing the girl to snap out of her melancholy thoughts. Dawn gently pets Feh, giving her owl companion a smile, before taking a deep breath and slowly goes to look where the kids were. It only took a few moments until Dawn arrived and saw many kids and teenagers in the garden, which surprised her. Was there some sort of party going on? She recognized one of the girls among the children. She would never forget the hair color. Tiki. Only, this Tiki was younger, and there were different child versions of Tiki. Dawn wondered if these kid Tiki’s took siestas like her?

Lucina was there along with Robin, looking over the children. She noticed two adults. Both with green hair, but the man looked very strong and battle-hardened, as the woman next to him had a peaceful and kind aura to her. They had to be siblings, especially the facial features. Dawn could see the children playing with them, including the Tikis, so the man must not be scary as he looks. Children were the best judge of character... they are innocent... Maybe they never dealt with such hardships as she did.

Dawn made sure to keep herself hidden from view, using her height to her advantage. Feh, enjoying the peaceful air had taken a nap in the process. The thirteen-year-old observed everyone playing, making flower crowns, and just enjoying this nice weather. Dawn felt this strange urge... this longing to go join... however, she felt out of place. She can’t play. Besides, she had to find the others and meet Kiran and talk about... what was the reason they came here?

Suddenly, Dawn saw them. The two Robins. At first, she thought it was another set of Male and Female Robin. However, the minute she saw their eyes... Dawn nearly took a step forward toward the male Grima. For a minute, she thought it was her Grima. Her Grima wanted to come along, but the others insisted he’d stay. It took a lot of reassurance to let her Grima know that she would be safe. Grima had always been protective of her when she summoned him. However, when Dawn didn’t see the Fell Brand pendant on him, she took a step back.

What Dawn didn’t realize was that there was a twig under her boots. There was a snap of a broken twig that caught everyone’s attention and they looked over at her direction. Dawn froze like a deer caught in headlights. Her thoughts were racing in a panic. What was she going to do? Do they know how to read sign language? She needed to get her whiteboard out. Wait, she’ll drop Feh. She was in panic mode, Dawn didn’t notice one of the kids approach her.

“HI!” screamed out a voice causing Dawn to nearly jump in the air. Red eyes met green ones, as the girl before her smiled widely. “I’m Fae! What’s your name? Oh! Oh! You have the same coat as Kiran!” Fae exclaimed with joy. Dawn held Feh a little tightly, as she wasn’t sure what to do. She couldn’t vocally answer. Fae tilted her head, surprisingly patient for a reply. Before Dawn could raise a hand, Fae leaned in closer, causing Dawn to lean back a little

Fae stared before her eyes go wide “You look like Kana’s mama! Kana! She looks like your mama!” Fae exclaimed, before grasping Dawn’s hand so suddenly, and for a child, she had strength. Dawn felt her feet off the ground as Fae was taking her in the middle of all these kids! Dawn didn’t have the chance to pull away before Fae presented her to many kids. So many voices all at once as her hood was down. At least the sun isn’t harsh today...

“She does look like my mom!” one voice exclaimed

“Wait, why does she have Feh?”

“She has Kiran’s coat! Did you make it on your own?”

“Hi, there!”

“Hello!”

“Want to play?”

Dawn was feeling overwhelmed at this point. There were too many voices calling for her attention. She had to respond. She needed to be perfect. She needed to act appropriately. She is a mature adult! Dawn shut her eyes, feeling her mind racing, but she suddenly felt herself being picked up. Looking up, she saw it was Grima. He looked down at the children but gave them a smile. It was strange seeing him smile at someone else that wasn’t her. She had to remind herself that this wasn’t her Grima. This was going to be confusing. “Children, I know you want to play with her, but it seems she needs some time. Understand?”

There was a union of “yes” from the children, who went back playing, as some said “goodbye” or “We’ll play later!” to her. Dawn was suddenly taken to a quiet spot in the garden as Grima placed her down onto a bench. She could see him stare at her for a moment. Before anything could be said a voice screamed out “DAWN!” and the next thing Dawn knew, Sharena had tackled her to the ground, hugging her tightly.

Dawn was surprised from the tackle but carefully pats Sharena on her head. The blonde let out a sigh of relief but nearly jumped when she saw Grima “Grima?! When did you get here? Did you follow us?”

Grima stared at Sharena before Dawn quickly began to hand sign ‘That’s not our Grima’

“Oh! Sorry!” Sharena apologized, looking at Grima sheepishly, before gently grasping Dawn’s hand “Anyway! Let’s go meet with the others. Alfonse and Anna got worried,” Sharena then began to lead Dawn into the castle with Feh gently landing on the albino’s head. However, she was suddenly taken out of Sharena’s grasp by being picked up. Dawn looked up at Grima.

“I shall come with you. I have some questions”

“ABSOLUTELY NOT!” Grima yelled angerly. Dawn could see the dust coming from the ceiling. Yep. Grima isn’t happy about the news that she is a summoner and they came over for training for a week with Kiran, along with possible fights, knowing Veronica’s track record.

Anna sighed at this “Look, when I summoned Dawn, I didn’t expect her. I expected an adult. There is nothing we can do. Breidablik chose her, and Dawn is a fine tactician to the army.”

“So you decided it was an ingenious idea to send a child to fight your battles?” Grima growled out.

Kiran rested a hand on Grima’s shoulder to calm him down. “Dawn isn’t here to fight. There is no way she’s going to an actual battlefield while they’re visiting. Promise,” Kiran assured. Grima looked at Kiran after he finished glaring at Anna before nodding.

Anna let out a shaky sigh before crossing her arms. “She can still do the training tower, so that shouldn’t be an issue.”

“Then I and my female counterpart will accompany her,”

“Is that really necessary? I mean, the training tower is safe, right?” Sharena asked.

The other Sharna shrugged “We can’t argue with Grima. He makes it clear that no child that Kiran summons will ever set foot in the battlefield.”

Dawn looked alarmed at this before she pulled out her whiteboard from her messenger back and quickly wrote before holding out the whiteboard for everyone to read in her handwriting ‘What do you mean summon kids?!’

”Oh... well, there are heroes that are around your age. Some younger, and some older...” Alfonse explained.

This made Dawn tense at this for a moment, before she suddenly erased her board, and began to scribble profusely on the board. When she finished, she shows them her message. ‘I am not sending any kid into the battlefield. Never, ever!’

“Dawn, aren’t you a kid yourself?” the other Alfonse teased.

The albino had a blush form on her face and scribbled again ‘That’s different. I am a mature adult’

Everyone stared at the message before they all busted out laughing. Dawn simply stared at them, trying her best to not pout.

The few days were eventful. Veronica had shown up and closed their pathway home. Of course, Dawn ended up in the actual battlefield, but not once did the Grimas ever leave her side. While they were impressed with her tactics, they decided themselves that Dawn wasn’t going to be part of any fighting as long as she and the others stayed. Her Alfonse, Sharena, and Anna went with Kiran and the others to find a pathway to home. However, it was decided that Dawn would stay behind.

Dawn protested at this decision. She pleaded that she could be of use, that she was able to help. Yet, her thoughts were screaming something else entirely.

Please don’t leave me behind! I swear I’m good! I swear, I’m perfect! I’m sorry! I’m not bad!

Alfonse reassured her that she would be much safer here. Kiran insisted Dawn remained behind. The older summoner didn’t want her hurt, they explained, but they also noticed how Veronica had suddenly looked at Dawn with interest. The kind of interest that spelled disaster.

Sharena knew what was wrong. “Don’t worry, Dawn. We’ll come back for you. We just need to find a way home,” and with those parting words, they were gone.

Dawn clung onto Feh the entire time. For the first three days, Dawn rarely left the guest room, unless it was to get something to eat or to sneak a book. The Grimas checked on her repeatedly, slowly trying to coax her out of the room, but to no avail. However, they did not push but told Dawn where they would be if she wished to join the creche. She was unsure of what to do. It wasn’t... home. For all she knew, the heroes here would undoubtedly hate her guts. They would ignore her. They hate her. It didn’t help that nightmares were making their appearance that Dawn barely had any sleep.

It was at day three things changed. Dawn was getting hungry again. She grabbed Feh as the owl hooted gently to her as Dawn placed the owl in her hood. The albino girl went down the hall near the ballroom when she heard the laughter of the kids again. Dawn peeked through the door and saw the kids in the room, playing and having fun. The albino watched for a moment before she started to walk away when a ball had hit her ankle.

Dawn stopped and looked down at the ball and picked it up, staring at its red color.

“Dawn! Are you here to play?” The small Tiki asked, stepping out of the room. The white-haired girl stared at the young Tiki before looking at the ball. She wasn’t sure how to even answer. How was she even able to play? Why was she so useless? Why was she this pathetic? Why is she not perfect?! “Dawn... are you okay?” Tiki asked, causing Dawn to snap out of her thoughts.

The albino girl stared at Tiki with such a blank and emotionless gaze, Tiki looked worried. Suddenly, Tiki turned around and rushed back in the room “Grima! Grima! Something is bothering Dawn!” Tiki called out, causing Dawn to tense. No, she was being bad again! She dropped the ball and ran. Dawn was running as fast as her feet could take her. She needed to hide. She had to hide.

The girl rushed into the library and her eyes quickly spotted a table to hide in. Wait, no! That’s so stupid, the table is the first thing anyone would look under. She ran into the aisles of the library, before spotting a dark corner of the podium and quickly hid there. She was huddled in a corner, rocking herself and doing her best to breath calmly.

Feh flew out and hooted at her, getting the albino’s attention. Dawn stared at the owl for a moment, before she hugged her companion, as tears were forming in her eyes. She was supposed to be an adult. Adults don’t cry. Dawn was suddenly wrapped in a hug. The girl tensed for a moment, as Grima spoke “It’s alright, little one. I’m here. It’s okay now...”

Dawn remembered those words spoken to her. How long ago was it? When her aunt said those same exact words? Hugging her like this? The girl sat there, before she suddenly clung onto Grima, tears spilling out of her eyes as soundless sobs escaped her. Grima only hugged her, rubbing the child’s back. It wasn’t until Dawn had fallen asleep, that Grima decided he wasn’t going to allow her to be by herself if she reacted in such a way.

After that incident, Dawn wasn’t allowed to be alone anymore. Wherever she went one of the Grimas followed her. She was still shy around the children. However, they were making an effort to make Dawn comfortable. Fae even got a book and read to Dawn, which made the albino smile. Slowly, slowly but surely, Dawn started to open up to the creche. Dawn was honest with them. She wrote that she never had a chance to play with kids growing up.

The children began to teach Dawn all the games they played. Tag, Catch, Hide and Seek. Dawn played the games, smiling and having fun. The caretakers took quite a liking to her as well. With the Robins, they were impressed by how she was able to make tactics at the top of her head. They made it a game with her so she could improve, but also have fun. Mila loved the flowers that Dawn showed her on her cellphone, as the divine dragon created some of the flowers as practice. The children were obviously happy.

Duma could see how hard Dawn was trying to be strong. He could tell she has gone through many hardships. What kind, he did not know. However, with how small and young she is, facing the battle in her realm of Askr, he could see she was going to become a great warrior, but... he hoped Mila’s teaching of kindness will remain in her. Dawn had the caretakers read the Harry Potter series to the children, and they all loved the tale of the boy wizard with a heavy destiny before him. Though, Dawn could see they didn’t look happy during the parts with the Dursleys or Snape.

The nightmares were appearing less. When Dawn did wake up from one of them, one of the Grimas would instantly be by her side, gently hugging her and soothing her back to sleep. It felt strange... it was like being back with her aunt. Her Aunt Rose would make her feel like this. Slowly, Dawn was making sweets for everyone, though she had to ask permission before dooming the adults with sugar-high children.

Yet, despite all the happy times... there was some darkness that Dawn herself didn’t realize.

While the creche was playing, Dawn was with Tiki. Tiki was watching as Dawn was making one of her jewelry by hand. That was when a shadow loomed over them. The two girls looked up to see a woman with green hair such as Tiki’s but with this strange glow to her. Something about this woman... made Dawn uneasy, especially seeing the look on Tiki’s face. “M-Mother? What are you doing here?” Tiki asked shakily.

The woman gave a soft smile, “Come, Tiki. We’re going now.”

“I don’t want to...” Tiki muttered, barely a whisper.

“Now, Tiki. I know best,” The woman then reached out to grab Tiki. However, she wasn’t able to get her. Dawn had suddenly stood up and pushed the woman’s hand away as she stood firmly between her and Tiki. The woman barely had time to register before she could see the barrel of Breidablik was pointing at her face. Her eyes landed on Dawn, as the albino girl had her blank and emotionless expression on her face. The one she wears for battle or when she tries so hard to bottle up her emotions.

Dawn wasn’t going to give this woman any satisfaction of her emotions.

“... Child, lower your weapon. Such hostilities are not necessary.”

“NAGA!” Duma yelled as he approached. Tiki quickly ran to Duma, hiding behind him.

Naga cooly looked at him “Duma. I see you have tainted this child here.”

“I did no such thing. She sees you as a threat,” he answered.

Dawn never lowered Breidablik, as her screens began to appear around her. Suddenly, two hands gently grasped hers. “Dawn, lower the weapon. We’re here,” the female Grima whispered soothingly. Dawn looked at the Grimas before the screens vanished and Dawn lowered the weapon.

"... I see now. Forgive me, Duma. I now know who is tainting this child,” Naga said, looking at the Grimas before she smiled at Dawn gently, but the girl knew. That smile was fake. It wasn’t genuine. “Dawn, was it? I am Naga, the divine dragon.”

“Don’t speak to her, and do not look at her,” The male Grima said, as he placed Dawn behind him, as the female Grima picked her up, keeping the young summoner close to her.

Naga frowned “She is not our summoner, but from how things are looking, it seems you plan to keep her and corrupt her, is that it?”

The female Grima laughed coldly “Oh, Naga. You make up such wild stories. How about you leave. Your presence is unwanted,”

Dawn could see Naga look at the adults before sighing “Very well, I shall take my leave. However, I will be speaking with Dawn and Tiki.” with that, the woman left.

Tiki peeked out, before rushing to Dawn as Grima placed her down. “Dawn! Are you okay? You didn’t have to-” she stopped speaking when Dawn hugged the girl tightly. Dawn was trembling a little, but she had to make sure Tiki was safe and sound. That woman... Naga... reminded Dawn so much of... her.

“Come on, children, let’s go back playing,” Mila suggested, leading the two back to the creche. Yet, Dawn could see Duma and the Grimas staring where Naga had left. She knew something was happening.

Naga was exactly like Mother Gothel. Dawn had seen how hard this divine dragon had tried to get close to her and Tiki, but the Duma and the Grimas were there to protect them. Dawn wasn’t allowed to be anywhere by herself. When Naga tried to speak to her, the Grimas would intervene, explaining that her Alfonse and Sharena did not want Naga to speak to her. Naga knew it was a lie.

They had sent word, yes, but not about Naga. They were close to finding a way back to their Askr but asked Dawn to wait patiently. Dawn hoped it would be soon. Naga was making her uncomfortable. However, she wished to stay longer with the creche. They were giving her something she had not felt for so long. Fun. A childhood she deserved.

One day, Naga caught her alone. She was in the library when Naga appeared. “Little Dawn, please let me speak my peace?”

Dawn had her stoic expression but nodded. She wanted to know why this woman wanted to speak to her so badly. Feh had flown off to get help.

Naga sighed with relief “Thank the gods that you have not yet fallen, dear Dawn. Please, listen to my tale,”

The albino had to listen to how Grima was a product of evil and perversion, how Duma was blood-thirsty and Mila so naive. How Tiki needed to sleep to prevent turning wild or hurting everyone around her. Dawn stood there as Naga even offered to heal whatever is causing her to not speak and cleanse her. Dawn stood there for a few moments as she spoke about the poor children in the creche being corrupted, and the final thing she said “I know best, Dear Dawn, now come.. I will take proper care of you.”

Dawn then had a screen appear, as she quickly typed in caps as she had Siri speak for her. ‘YOU ARE A HORRIBLE LIAR. IF YOU REALLY CARED, YOU WOULD HAVE CHECKED ON ME WHEN I ISOLATED MYSELF FOR DAYS. IF YOU CARED ABOUT TIKI, YOU WOULD FIGURE OUT ANOTHER WAY TO HELP HER INSTEAD OF PUTTING HER TO SLEEP. SERIOUSLY, SLEEP FOREVER? WHAT KIND OF A MOTHER ARE YOU?! GRIMA HAS EVERY RIGHT TO HATE HUMANITY FOR WHAT HAPPENED TO HIM. MY GRIMA NEVER TOLD ME WHAT HAPPENED, BUT I’M SURE WE DID SOMETHING TO MAKE HIM HATE US. DUMA HAD HIS REASONS TOO, I’M SURE, AND MILA IS THE BEST SISTER. ALSO, DON’T YOU DARE SPEAK ABOUT THE CRECHE. THEY ARE FAMILY. THEY ARE MY FAMILY, EVEN IF I’M ONLY VISITING. THE FACT GRIMA CREATED THE CRECHE MEANS HE IS A BETTER DRAGON THAN YOU. WHEN YOU GET YOUR HEAD OUT OF YOUR BUTT AND CHECK YOUR PRIORITIES, THEN WE CAN TALK. UNTIL THEN, PLEASE RESPECT THE FACT THAT I DO NOT WISH TO SPEAK TO YOU WITHOUT AN ADULT PRESENT. THANK YOU!’

Dawn turned off the screen and her phone, as Naga stood there dumbfounded while grabbing her book and leaving. However, when she opened the door, Grima was standing there. Dawn was picked up as Grima smirked at Naga and left to head back to the Creche. Needless to say, everyone heard what Dawn did, and the girl was bombarded by hugs. The albino didn’t understand, but she simply accepted the hugs.

It was even cute when they all attempted to make her a cake. One day, the adults saw Dawn initiating a game of tag, the girl running around this the other children, smiling and having fun. It wouldn’t be long until she would go back to her own Askr, but until then, she would remain with the creche. For once, enjoying her time being what she is. A child.

[esseastri]

Megan Reads Oathbringer (part 9)

Happy New Year, y’all.

“Heavy Fuel” by Dire Straits is a punk!Dalinar song, sorry, I don’t make the rules.

Part 9 encompasses pages 666-753 (previous parts)

Pray for the mountain internet, please, that it lets me do this liveblog without dropping tumblr every five minutes.

okay, but Elhokar is drawing a map and I’m suddenly vaguely desperate for Elhokar/Eshonai map buddies.

I s2g every time someone calls him “the bridgeman” I just hiss protectively. HE HAS A NAME

oh snap his baby’s name is Gavinor. that’s... listen bud, your dad doesn’t deserve to have anyone named after him, sorry.

“Nice work, Elhokar.” *Gloryspren* THIS CHILD NEEDS MORE ENCOURAGEMENT, PLS, HELP HIM. BE KIND TO HIM. HUG HIM.

“Storming lighteyes, Veil thought as she watched [the food distribution].” YEAH HON, THAT GOES FOR YOU TOO, NORMALLY.

Okay, no, not quite--Shallan would probably not go so far as to send her servants to get food that could be given to the poor instead of rich people, but like... the principle stands. Shallan does not recognize her own privilege half the time, and I guess?? that “Veil” noticing it... might? be a step in the right direction? But... probably not until she fuses her multiple identities back into one person.

And that doesn’t seem like it’s happening any time soon.

HOID

WHY ARE YOU WEARING SADEAS COLORS? 

aw yis. storytime.

Aight, can Hoid see through Lightweaving, or can he just recognize Shallan by like... her stance and the way she moves or? HOW COOL IS HE, IS WHAT I’M ASKING HERE.

“You look like you could use the opportunity to buy me something to eat.” HOID, PLS.

“I’m not stupid enough to get mixed up in religion again.” Again. Hoid, wth does that mean.

but dear god, Hoid as a Herald would be hilarious.

THE LAST SEVEN TIMES HE’S TRIED IT. WTH, HOID, OH MY GOD.

“The sum total of stupid people is somewhere around the population of the planet. Plus one.” “Plus one?” “Sadeas counts twice.” GOD BLESS, WIT.

wait, so he wasn’t lying about the promise? About “always being there when needed” but not always knowing where or why? hm. Interesting concept. That I kind of love and wish I’d thought of first.

“Who came with you?” “Kaladin, Adolin, Elhokar, some of our servants.” I thiiiink the other bridgemen would take offense at that, but sure. Whatever.

I’m...intensely amused that chapter 69 is titled “Free Meal, No Strings.” Because I’m eleven and crude as fuck.

Idk, Kaladin, they have a point: the world is ending, so you might as well party. You can be miserable and afraid, or you can be partying and afraid. I’d go with the second.

OH OOOHHHHH OH ADOLIN CALLED HIM “KAL” AND I DIED A LITTLE BIT INSIDE

MY BOY’S GOT FRIENDS AGAIN AND HIS FRIENDS ARE ADOLIN AND I’M CRY

(but dear god, the Kadolin is real)

Also, Adolin being stupidly happy about getting a new wardrobe is giving me life, I LOVE THIS RIDICULOUS FASHION BOY

HEHEHEH Adolin is going to bring Skar and Drehy pastries from the lighteyes party, that’S SO CUTE I LOVE THIS

“What?” “What what?” “You’re going drinking with bridgemen?” “Sure. Skar, Drehy, and I go way back.” “We spent some time keeping His Highness from falling into chasms.” I’M LIVING MY CROPS ARE FLOURISHING MY SKIN IS CLEAR THIS IS ALL I EVER WANTED THIS IS THE BEST THING THAT’S EVER HAPPENED TO ME I LOVE THIS I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS.

“He felt good lots of days. Trouble was, on the bad days, that was hard to remember. At those times, for some reason, he felt like he had always been in darkness, and always would be. Why was it so hard to remember? Did he have to keep slipping back down? Why couldn’t he stay up here in the sunlight, where everyone else lived?”

The Megan-and-Kaladin-Think-the-Same-Exact-Way-and-It’s-Both-Comforting-and-Terrifying Trend continues. 

Sometimes people ask me why he’s my favorite and I just. Have literally never related more strongly to another person ever, real life or fictional. It’s wild.

ADOLIN COMING TO CHECK ON KALADIN WHEN HE FALLS BEHIND WORRYING.

THERE IS TOO MUCH. STORMING. KADOLIN. IN THIS BOOK.

I love that the phrase “and you’re lighteyed today” is a normal thing now. That it changes and he can just. change it. and they’ve all accepted it. I love it.

PUNCHY GUYS.

IT’S THE ACADEMIC TERM

SWORDY FELLOWS OR SPEARISH CHAPS. AXALACIOUS BLOKE.

bless these two nerds

“Adolin Kholin was simply a good person. Powder-blue clothing and all. You couldn’t hate a man like him; storms, you kind of had to like him.”

YOU REALLY REALLY DO. He’s infectious, this sunlight boy. And I adore him.

oh no

“Should have just gone to the party” YES YES YOU SHOULD HAVE. I’M WORRY.

also, why did the illusion wear off????? Shallan, what you do?

“The stew didn’t smell anywhere near as good as Rock’s.” HEHEH Nothing does, I’m sure.

I loooooove that Kaladin gets to tell the truth about Amaram now. Drag him, my boy.

the over-friendly wall guards are makin me nervous

I’m sure there are some good men here, and a lot of good soldiers, but... who are they and where did they come from and why are they all lighteyes and.... I have sooo many questions.

......I don’t remember if the squires’ eyes turn light when they’ve been flying with Kaladin.

I don’t think they do, but I don’t remember, and now I’m thinking...maybe the highmarshal is. some kind of Radiant whose squires are all...lighteyes?

hm

AAHH!!!!??? AAAHH!!???? A LADY SHARDBEARER!!!!!?? A LADY!!!!

Okay. That was a pretty dang good speech.

But who is shhheeee

Is she a radiant or is that an Honorblade???

Mmmmmm, Kaladin also thinks she’s a Radiant, but WHICH KIND? If she’s got a bunch of squires, it could be Windrunner, but... dangit, I just... really want to meet a Stoneward.

“In every way, she was the perfect Alethi wife--and her unhappiness crushed his soul.” IT SHOULD. SHE DESERVES BETTER.

I’m reaaaally glad that Evi recognized the Thrill as a bad thing. A monster crouching in her husband’s body.

“...the Thrill was your reward.” Reward? Dalinar, listen to your wife. Please. That is not a reward.

Dalinar, look at you go. You did try this before, the talking thing. You are talking to this angry kiddo, and you’re bad at it, but you’re trying. This isn’t very punk!Dalinar of you. I like it. I can see the bits of presentday!Dalinar poking through the Thrill-encrusted shell of punk!Dalinar. I like it.

This is such interesting character movement, gaahh.

Evi still deserves better though. “Because of a good woman’s tears” ugh the fridge doors are slowly swinging shut, aren’t they?

whhhhhhhhaaaaat

I mean, I’m not surprised, because it’s Sadeas and he’s Sadeas and of course he’s a fucking traitor, but

whhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaat

...........gross.

Shallan needs to stop getting killed, please. This is really gross.

NO, DON’T TRY TO TALK WITH A CROSSBOW BOLT IN YOUR FACE PLEASE THIS IS REALLY UNNECESSARY

I DID NOT ASK FOR THIS LEVEL OF HORROR NOVEL PLEASE TAKE IT BACK, BRANDON.

Kaladin “Good at Making Friends” Stormblessed being all sheepish at making friends easily when it took so much effort to make friends with Bridge Four, like... listen, buddy. YOU are excellent at making friends and these guys were all ready to be friends with you. The Bridge was not ready and you had to wear them down with your charm, and you did, and doesn’t that make it all the more precious that you are friends with them?

Also, I miss them. Are my boys okay, Brandon? How are they doing?

omg, Adolin, pls. Yellow?

The Wall Guards making fun of Adolin’s new wardrobe is DELIGHTFUL.

Kaladin: HELLO, FELLOW LIGHTEYES, FOR I AM SURELY A LIGHTEYES, YES INDEEDY, LOOK AT MY VERY LIGHT EYES.

Hi, I love Kaladin, I am not sure you know this about me.

“Yes, his suit was a little bright--but if they would merely spend five minutes talking to him, they’d see he wasn’t so bad.”

Kaladin.

Babe.

You’ve come. So. Far.

I’m so proud of him, oh my god.  

mmmm this food shipment stuff is so weeeiiirrd. where is it coming from? why is it going?? uuugghhhhh

Part of me is like, “I love that they call Azure ‘sir’ and use male pronouns because there is no gender on the battlefield! Everyone gets treated equal!” and most of me is like “fuck this, she’s a fucking lady in command and she deserves to be known.”

also, wtf, she had them attack a monastery? Okay, I get it, you want to control the Soulcaster, but like.... you didn’t just go in there a kill a buncha monks for it, did you?

OKAY, SO MAYBE IT IS AN HONORBLADE THAT WAS DEF MY THOUGHT

but which one.

We have the Skybreaker one.......so whose is this?

Unless it’s not.

I’m

confused. and worried.

Tell me things, Brandon!

OH. But then she wouldn’t need the Soulcaster...if she had an Honorblade for Soulcasting... so she went and got the Soulcaster to...keep up appearances? Hm.

....is it awkward that Stormlight Archive has, so far, been the story of several people slowly becoming atheist (Jasnah, Dalinar) or agnostic (Kaladin) as their lives fall to pieces around them and they slowly rebuild?

Kaladin is a Good, guys.

The best.

omg, okay, but the Swiftspren is just.... LISTEN, BRANDON, YOU CAN’T GO MAKING SHALLAN A ROBIN HOOD. DON’T DO ME LIKE THIS.

I feel so bad for Elhokar.

Buddy just needs some hugs, okay.

Okay, I know logically that Roshar is Bad At Horses, but somehow it never occurred to me that they wouldn’t have archers trained on horseback. Mounted archer is just... such a very Alethi thing, especially non-Shattered Plains Alethi. I didn’t realize, but of course they wouldn’t have that. Horses are too rare.

aight, I didn’t really think Sadeas had betrayed them THIS early on, but STILL, I was so hoping...

Still, rockslide ambush is... a pretty solid strategy for dealing with a Shardbearer.

Sucks for his elites tho. They did not deserve that. That’s shitty.

“They must know the punishment for broken oaths.” Huh. Even back then...

“for none shall remain to weep.” #YIKES, my dude. y i k e s.

punk!Dalinar needs to take a chill pill.

And maybe get some sleep.

Listen, if the Thrill is telling you not to sleep, yOU SHOULD PROBABLY SLEEP.

also, any time you are actually LISTENING to SADEAS? You should probably rethink your life and your choices.

Just saying.

So... presentday!Dalinar had a conversation with Taravangian, about sacrificing the few to save the many. That’s...sort of what Taravangian’s entire plan for world domination salvation rests on. But now here...at the Rift. This is 100% Sadeas’ argument: sacrifice the ten thousand commoners living in the Rift to make an example of their highlords to stop any rebellion further down the timeline that might result in more soldiers’ deaths. Which gives ...a really fascinating insight into just how incredibly far Dalinar has come. past!Dalinar is literally employing the exact plan that Taravangian is trying to do on a worldwide scale, and so he knows it. He understands the consequences that Taravangian can’t know and can’t anticipate and refuses to consider. And present!Dalinar learned from this, and knows what end these means lead to and...refuses. To do it again.

It’s SUCH an interesting character progression. And it’s absolutely fascinating to see it laid out in this order--to see the good, honorable man we know and love first and to see this...monster that he was and see exactly how very much he’s grown... It doesn’t excuse this bad period, the good he’s doing now, but maybe it explains it a little bit. Dalinar is getting a redemption arc and we didn’t even realize that he needed one until he’s almost done with it.

And that’s some badass non-linear storytelling for you.

Also past!Dalinar can get fucked by a cactus, holy shit, what an unbelievable fuck.

nooooo wonder Kadash leaves and becomes an ardent.

hoooooly shit.

“We’ve gone too far.” YA FUCKING THINK??

Meanwhile, Sadeas: “Nonsense!”

Fuck Sadeas, uuugghhhh I’m so glad he’s dead. UUGGHHH

what

the

fuck

THAT JUST HAPPENED.

Fun facts, y’all, the refrigerator is now on fire.

hoooollly fucking shiiiiiiit

WELP

[real-life-pine-tree]

Arc-V Aftermath: Beauty and the Beast (19/26)

When all is said and done, things have quickly recovered in the four dimensions. But when weird things start happening, the Yu-Salad Boys and the Bracelet Girls quickly realize they have some loose ends to fix. Co-written with @violetganache42​​.

WARNING: Dub names will be featured in the story.

"So I'm facing off against you," Lulu told Allie once Team You Show entered the field.

"Yep!" Allie replied. "I'm Allie Ayukawa, and it's an honor to duel a real life princess."

Lulu remembered hearing Allie calling her a real life princess as she was about to recite the Duelist's Oath. It must have been the outfit she's wearing for the tournament that rose confusion among the little girls. She wore a simple white, knee-length dress with frilled sleeves around the shoulders and had black and white stripes on the rims of the neckline, sleeves and bottom of the dress. Like the other dresses she's been wearing lately, this one had an elliptical neckline that covered her cleavage while also exposing her marking on her chest. And with her matching white flats and her hair tied in a messy bun, no wonder little girls kept on mistaking her for an actual princess. After realizing that, she figured this would be the perfect opportunity to practice her acting skills. This would be the first time she's done this since her surgery and recovery.

"But of course," Lulu replied, reaching up to remove the feather clips she used to pin up her hair. "Quite an honor to meet a young fan."

Once the clips were out, she proceeded to untie her bun, letting down her long, dark purple hair. It's a known fact that princesses have long hair, so she's got to stay in-character. Allie was awestruck and starry-eyed at how beautiful Lulu's hair was, especially with the sparkly vision she was having.

"You're so pretty!" Allie asked. "Do you have a boyfriend?"

"Funny you should mention that," Lulu answered. "My boyfriend is right over there." She pointed at Yuto. "He is quite a handsome knight."

The two girls' conversation made Yuto embarrassed. He was glad to be Lulu's boyfriend, but with a young child in the proximity asking a real life princess if she's dating anyone, it can get rather awkward for him. He simply cleared his throat as he adjusted his tie, indicating Lulu that the second round was about to begin.

"I apologize for the interruption, but Sir Yuto is right," Lulu told Allie. She proceeded to activate the Duel Disk built into her wheelchair. "We must begin our duel."

Yuto looked away from how abashed he was at being given a knightly nickname at a time like this. Lulu wasn't doing this on purpose; she was just getting into character to lessen the sudden confusion from the little girls. After regaining his composure, he glanced from across the arena to meet face to face with his opponent: Tate Yamashiro.

"I think I remember you," Yuto said. "You're that Deskbot kid Yuya knows."

"Yep!" Tate happily answered. "I've seen your Phantom Knights in action. They're alright, but can they survive the strengthening power of my Pendulum cards?"

"Probably," Yuto replied. He proceeded to activate his Duel Disk. "But we'll just have to see."

Tate also turned on his Duel Disk to face off against Yuya's XYZ counterpart and pit his Deskbots against the Phantom Knights. With two duels already determined in terms of who's dueling who, that means Sarah's opponent is Frederick Harada. Unfortunately, due to Fredrick's accent and quick way of speaking, Sarah had a hard time understanding what he was saying.

"Uh... I wish you luck...?" Sarah asked.

"Ya, you too!" Fredrick cheerfully replied.

At least Sarah understood that sentence as the two activated their Duel Disks. With everyone ready for the second set of the simultaneous duels, Block B was divided into its three sections again as different Action Fields materialized in each section. Coincidentally, Lulu and Allie's Field was set in a castle, but it wasn't Fairy Tail Palace; this time, it was Crystal Corridor, helping establish the princess topic they were just discussing about.

"Oh, wow!" Allie exclaimed. "It's so pretty!"

"Why, thank you," Lulu replied. "A lady such as myself needs a proper stage for a true performance."

The light that shown through the windows of Crystal Corridor helped make Lulu appear more sparkly, highlighting her natural beauty. Allie was even more amazed with this added detail.

"Wow!" the red-haired girl exclaimed. "I wish I had long hair like yours!"

"But you can," Lulu happily said. "It takes years to learn how to properly maintain long hair, but the results are quite amazing."

Allie never thought about having long hair, but hearing that she can grow it out and take care of it made her inspired. Once the winning teams are revealed, she will talk to her mom about it during the intermission.

"Uh... Can we begin, your highness?" Yuto called out from his side of the arena.

"My apologies, beloved knight!" Lulu replied. "I am now ready to take part in what might be quite an unforgettable duel!"

With a collective shout of "Let's duel!" from the Duelists in Block B and the rest of the arena, the next set of duels began.

"You should go first," Allie decided.

"Very well," Lulu said. "And I shall summon my friends to help! Come to me, songbirds of the forest!"

For her first turn, Lulu special summoned Cobalt Sparrow, Sapphire Sparrow, and Turquoise Warbler. With her three monsters ready, it was time to XYZ Summon.

"Now, birds of the forest, join forces and become one with nature!" Lulu declared. She overlayed her three Level 1 Lyrilusc monsters to build the Overlay Network to XYZ Summon her ace monster.

"Birds with beautiful wings, gather on the battlefield and take brilliant flight in the bright sky!" Lulu chanted. "I XYZ Summon Lyrilusc - Assembled Nightingale!"

As Assembled Nightingale flew onto the field, it immediately activated Lulu's Skill. She sang the same melody from earlier with her duel against Dipper, causing the songbirds to fly to where she was again. Simultaneously, her marking glowed blue from her chest and her monster gained an additional 500 ATK as the En Birds symbol flashed on her forehead. She may not be able to attack on the first turn, but she can always use her Skill again for her Battle Phase. She played two face-down cards and passed the turn to Allie.

"Alright!" Allie cheered as she drew a card. "And I'll start things off by summoning Aquactress Guppy! Then I'll activate three Continuous Spell cards: Aquarium Lighting, Stage, and Set!"

Aquarium is an archetype consisting of three Continuous Spells. Lighting can double Allie's battling Aquaactress' current ATK and DEF, Stage can prevent WATER monsters from being destroyed while negating the opposing monster's effects that target Aquaactress monsters, and Set gives all Aquaactress and WATER monsters 300 ATK and DEF. All three cards also share a common effect: Allie can target and special summon one Aquaactress monster if any of the Spells are sent to the Graveyard; however, she can't special summon monsters other than Aquaactress until the end of her turn.

"And I hate to do this, but Aquaactress Guppy will now attack Assembled Nightingale!" Allie said.

"How unfortunate," Lulu said. "Because you have declared an attack, I shall activate the Trap card Dimension Guardian to protect my beloved songbird from harm!"

Dimension Guardian can prevent battle damage and card effects from destroying Assembled Nightingale, but if the monster gets sent to the Graveyard, so does the Continuous Trap card.

"I never originally had this card in my deck," Lulu explained as the statue that represented Dimension Guardian appeared behind Assembled Nightingale. "But when Sir Yuto told me how powerful Traps can be, I simply had to add this one to my deck."

"Awww!" Allie gushed. "That's so romantic!"

Meanwhile, in the middle section of the arena, Yuto overheard the reasoning for Lulu adding Dimension Guardian and Allie's reaction to it. Even though it was true, he can't hide his embarrassment from what he was hearing.

"Are you alright?" Tate asked.

"Huh?" Yuto asked. "Oh, right." He cleared his throat, the blush never leaving his face. "I XYZ Summon The Phantom Knights of Break Sword! Rise, my great beast!"

As Yuto carried out his first Main Phase of his duel with Tate, it was his girlfriend's turn again as she drew a card from her deck. She looked at what was in her hand before making her move.

"I must say, this is quite a fun duel," Lulu said, sounding a bit sad. "I feel rather heartbroken to finish you off..."

"Oh, that's okay," Allie replied.

"Hmm?" Lulu asked.

"The last time I took part in a tournament was when I face off against Riley Akaba," Allie explained, recalling the Arc League Championship. "Ever since then, I've been trying to get stronger. So if I can learn something from this duel, I'll only make myself even stronger afterwards."

Lulu remembered Riley's name from her sleepover with her counterparts and knew the young Akaba used to be a little boy with powerful dueling dexterity. She was also rather astonished to meet a determined girl like Allie. It was amazing to know how the young girl truly learns from her losses to train herself for her future victories, and it was all thanks to the Critical Eye user.

"Very well," Lulu said. "I shall show you the true power of XYZ! I activate two Spell cards called Overlay Regen, which shall transform into Overlay Units for Assembled Nightingale!"

Now having five Overlay Units, Assembled Nightingale's ATK increased to 1000 since the two Overlay Regens became XYZ Materials. As a result, thanks to its effects, Lulu can attack Allie directly to deal a total of 5000 damage, but if she used her Skill to increase it to 1500 ATK, the damage would dramatically rise up to 7500 in all! Will the red-haired girl handle this strength during the Battle Phase? Only one way to find out…

"Aren't you going to activate your Skill?" Allie asked.

"I'm...not exactly sure," Lulu admitted, starting to slip out of character.

The Lyrilusc user began to grow hesitant about attacking her opponent directly. If Allie was at least a teenager, then it would be no big deal to inflict 5000 to 7500 total damage, but this? A young kid having to face such brutal force is heart-wrenching from just thinking about it. Maybe that was another reason why Shay had Sarah fill him in during the first round: using Rise Falcon's effect against a youthful Duelist would end up reminding him about his attacks against LID, making him feel terrible, which would be ten times worse if he did dueled against one of Team You Show's members.

"But Ms. Obsidian, aren't you a princess?" Allie asked.

"What?" Lulu asked, surprised by the question.

"I know princesses are beautiful, but that's not their only thing," Allie explained. "A true princess is fearless, tough, and refuses to give up despite all the bad stuff happening to her. Isn't that what you are? A true princess?"

A silent Lulu almost forgot about the princess's important qualities because she was letting her fear of Allie's safety getting the best of her. It was nice that she was worried for a good reason, but she doesn't want to be overprotective; children grow up everyday and they face endless challenges, some that may put their well-being on the line. They can range from a simple illness or injuries to life-threatening diseases or severe body damage. The best they can do is get the love, support, and aid they need from their friends, family, loved ones, doctors, and others that they can trust.

Before she decided on activating her Skill or not, Lulu asked if Allie was going to be okay, still feeling a little unsure on obtaining victory like this.

"Don't worry," Allie cheerfully said. "I watched your previous duel. A little wind won't bother me."

".......Very well," Lulu said, getting back into character. "I shall end this duel properly."

Lulu activated her Skill to give Assembled Nightingale an additional 500 ATK, all while her En Birds mark glowed near her heart and sang to the summoning songbirds once more.

"Lyrilusc - Assembled Nightingale, finish this duel with multiple direct attacks!" Lulu declared once she finished her song. "Graceful Winds!"

Her monster unleashed his signature attack by flapping its wings to send strong gusts of wind at Allie. Her LP went from 4000 to 2500, then to 1000, and finally to 0, making Lulu's finishing move a OTK and giving Team Noble four wins. As Crystal Corridor faded away and the section returned to normal, the dark-purple-haired girl wheeled towards where her recently-defeated opponent was to see if she was alright.

"My goodness," Lulu said as she tied her hair back up in a messy bun. "Are you alright, Mermaid Princess of Atlantis?"

"What did you call me?" Allie asked.

"The Mermaid Princess of Atlantis," Lulu repeated. "Legend spoke of how a wicked sea witch kidnapped an infant princess and cursed her into a human. For years, Atlanteans have been trying to find her, but no progress has been made until now."

"How come?" Allie asked.

"Your Aquaactress cards are actually Atlanteans in disguise," Lulu explained. "As long as you continue to duel with those cards, your true heritage will never be forgotten."

Allie never knew she was an Atlantean mermaid princess in the past and her archetype have found her ever since the day she obtained them. Hearing this new information was wondrous for the juvenile girl. She then was curious about this revelation; how does Lulu know about this legend and where did she learn it from? Hopefully, once the tournament is over, these questions will be answered.

"Are you sure?" Allie asked.

"Of course, young mermaid princess," Lulu answered. "A princess always looks out for fellow royalty."

Allie's eyes lit up out of excitement from discovering this new information. "Thank you!" she exclaimed, giving Lulu a hug.

Despite being handicapped, Lulu hugged Allie back, causing the audience members who watched the two girls' duel to be touched by their somber moment. Even Nico commented on their exchange, but he mentioned that Team Noble needed two more victories for them to move on to the second round. He then directed his attention to Block B's monitor, where Yuto and Sarah were still dueling against Tate and Frederick respectively.

"My goodness!" Melissa exclaimed. "What in tarnation is goin' on with Yugo?!"

"Whatever do you mean?" Nico asked.

"I'm not sure," Melissa admitted. "But he's been actin' like a wild bull throughout the tournament."

During the first batch of duels, Melissa had noticed Yugo seemed a bit off, but she wasn't sure what. His next duel convinced her that his dueling style has transformed into somewhat violent tactics. Shinji caught what the cowgirl announcer explained through her microphone and he was pretty concerned.

"You're not gonna interfere with my dreams!" Yugo angrily exclaimed. "Clear Wing Fast Dragon, rip his monster to shreds!"

Clear Wing Fast Dragon is similar to Clear Wing Synchro Dragon in terms of appearance and stats; they're both Level 7 monsters with 2500 ATK and 2000 DEF, but Fast Dragon is also a Scale 4 Pendulum monster, meaning she has two effects. Her Pendulum effect enables Yugo to send 1 Speedroid Tuner and 1 non-Tuner to the Graveyard to special summon her to the Pendulum Zone. Her monster effect involves her targeting a face-up special summoned monster from the Extra Deck on the opponent's field and lowering its ATK to 0 while negating its effects. Both of her effects can be done once per turn, but she can be special summoned to the Pendulum Zone if she was destroyed by battle or card effect.

Clear Wing Fast Dragon brought out her iconic move as she completely obliterated the opposing monster, sending Yugo’s opponent off his feet while his LP drained down to 0. The people watching weren't certain on how they should react to this. Yugo's sudden brutality reminded Declan of Zarc giving in to everyone's desire of violent Action Duels. He hoped there was a reason behind this and it wasn't history repeating itself.

"Wait, you can stop!" the Duelist exclaimed. "You won! It's over!"

"Oh, I'll tell you when it's over!" Yugo shouted, his Duel Runner speeding towards his opponent. "Eat wheel, you punk!”

Just then, Declan started feeling guilty and was unclear on why he was abruptly getting this emotion. Aichi quickly noticed this. "Are you alright, Declan?" the blue-haired young man asked.

"I'm not sure," Declan answered, wiping a tear away from his eye. "But I feel as if I have done something that I deeply regret."

Declan was reminiscing on his past life before the dimensional split when he was known as Seto Kaiba. He remembered meeting with Leo and agreeing to make Action Duels a reality. He remembered displaying his extreme and violent skills to demonstrate and promote the newly-created type of duel, which quickly became the social norm among the Original Dimension. He remembered what happened next: Zarc becoming champion and losing his sanity as he gave the audience what they wanted by becoming berserk and savage himself, leading to his onslaught on everyone as he killed innocent lives and brought the world to its end until Ray stepped in. Once the dimension was split into four, Kaiba was erased from existence and was reincarnated as the son of Leo and Henrietta Akaba known as Declan Akaba.

Declan quickly rushed over to the microphone. "Team Turbo, if you continue to act aggressive towards other Duelists, I will have no choice but to disqualify you from the tournament," he ordered.

The words managed to make Yugo get the message loud and clear as he slowed his Duel Runner down to a stop. He was clearly in tears, upset over what he had nearly done. He wasn't like this when he entered the Center Duel Field, but something deep down was frustrating him and he had almost let it consume him, only this time it made him into something monstrous, much like his past incarnation.

"My grudge towards Yuya..." Yugo realized. "Is it causing Zarc to reawaken?"

Here he was, taking part in the Team Duel Tournament and he still can't get over his issues with Yuya. Throughout the past few weeks, the belief that everyone preferred his Pendulum counterpart over him was buried within him and has been growing into something terrible. Even if Zarc's soul was cleansed from his darkness and soon split back into his four reincarnations, the Synchro Duelist feared about the threat that was officially settled resurfacing upon the revived Original Dimension.

Rin, who had just finished her duel, rushed over to Yugo. "What are you talking about?" she asked.

"Yuya wasn't the only one dealing with Zarc's darkness," Yugo explained. "It was affecting me as well." He took his deck out of his Duel Runner and looked through it. "It even tainted my Speedroids."

Yugo's monsters appeared normal, but they no longer acted like their usual selves. Thanks to the lingering darkness that kept itself hidden away within Yugo after Yuya's revival, it gradually warped his entire strategy into a more sinister and sadistic tactic, making him hell-bent on achieving his dream of being a professional Turbo Duelist, even if it meant bringing torment and suffering to his opponents. It was all thanks to two monsters that were mysteriously added to his deck some time ago: Speedroids Skull Marbles and Maliciousmagnet.

"Where did you get those?" Rin asked.

"They appeared in my deck during my last duel with Yuri," Yugo explained. "But no one cared about what was happening to me." He put his deck back in his Duel Runner and stood up, tears forming in his eyes. "Because Yuya is the only important one. Nobody cares about the Synchro guy who worked hard to become the next Duel King."

Rin walked closer to Yugo to comfort him. "You're still upset about that?" she asked, placing her hand on his cheek.

Yugo threw off his helmet and tightly hugged Rin, too sad to even speak. Rin hugged back, lifting up her hand to stroke his hair as he sobbed. The two may be dating as of now, but they still maintained the mother-son relationship that they developed over the years. Back outside in the Center Duel Field, Nico cut off the monitor's connection with Block C to give them some time alone; all that was temporarily seen was static.

"My apologies, folks," Nico said. "It seems we're experiencing some difficulties in Block C. Hopefully things should return to normal by the next round."

Usually, the audience would be disappointed and maybe annoyed to some degree about the monitors cutting to static, but after learning about Duel Academy's invasion during the Arc League Championship, they all saw this coming and let it slide to give Yugo and Rin some privacy.

Nico then focused back onto Block B, where Yuto and Sarah had just won their duels. Enthusiastically, he announced how Team Noble now has a total of six victories, but they shouldn't get themselves too anticipated because the other teams were also dueling to see which ones were eligible enough to advance to the second round.