#i think it’s important for noelle to face the question

[balls-on-my-face]

would you even try?

[kooki914]

How do you think would Noelle and Ralsei interact with each other if they got the chance? What would their relationship bring out of the other?

This is something I've given a lot of thought to, and something I'm still salty wasn't explored at all in Chapter 2. So this post is both going to answer your question as well as be my excuse to write an essay about these two.

The thing is, Noelle and Ralsei are narrative foils to each other. That probably sounds weird on account of the fact that they never interact, but both mechanically and through dialogue, we see parallels form between them. They're both enigmatic, mysterious, while keeping up friendly appearances, while also being literal or figurative royalty in their respective worlds (Noelle is from a rich family and is adored, Ralsei is a prince with no subjects). They're both love interests to the leads (yes, to Kris and Susie BOTH, the snowgrave route is essentially an exploration of a toxic friends-to-lovers but I'm not getting into that here), and they're both rife with religious symbolism, as well as the fact they're both prey animals (in a world where boss monsters like Toriel and Asgore can look more lion-esque, Ralsei's decidedly goat-ish appearance is kind of striking to me). They have the same heal spell (a pray to light) and they're both "passive" in that kind of way a mage usually is in RPGs.

Noelle's arc mainly centers around agency, while Ralsei's arc mainly centers around identity. For all the struggles she faces, Noelle doesn't really have that... crisis of character that Susie and Ralsei are prone to. Even in the snowgrave route, she doesn't question herself, she questions Kris. And, while Ralsei IS an obedient doormat, it's not out of a lack of agency (he shows us as much when he puts his foot down right before the kids open a fountain), it's an active choice he KNOWS he can simply... Not Do (as evidenced by how upset he is with Susie's behaviour in chapter 1 and his epiphany about it in chapter 2, he essentially equates mean behaviour to Purposefully making people around you suffer, instead of a personality quirk or showing of emotion).

It's interesting to think about how they'd complement one another. Not even strictly in a character arc sense (I'll get to that), but just in a... character interaction sense. Noelle has this pattern of putting the spotlight on other people. Even when she talks about herself it's always framed as a way to lift up those around her, while Ralsei has this sneaky way of getting to know you without you even realising (if the rooms he made for Kris and Susie are anything to go by). I think this would result in a dynamics where Noelle (passively, almost accidentally) allows Ralsei to open up in a more genuine way, while Ralsei still tends to Noelle's needs like he does for everyone else.

It's also interesting from a worldbuilding sense. We've seen Ralsei not give a flying fuck about Anyone that isn't directly connected to the prophecy, both for humour reasons and for horror reasons (as seen in the snowgrave route), so giving him a friend that's 1) a lightner, 2) not part of the prophecy, and 3) trying to actually know him on a personal level - it'd probably cause him to actually rethink his worldview. If someone like Noelle, someone who's got nothing to do with the prophecy, can be an important person to him and a good friend to people she doesn't *need* to care about, then why can't he? Can he be someone outside the prophecy? Is his identity and purpose not confined to this, and what does that mean for him in the long run?

And, on Noelle's side of things, Ralsei would probably be a healthier outlet for that feeling of nostalgia she's so addicted to. With him around, she's allowed to just be a kid again. No appearances to keep up, no expectations to fulfill, he's a fresh start and a new friend that she's allowed to be her authentic self around because his existence is essentially rooted in tending to the inner child of all the lightners he comes across. And maybe then she'll be able to let go of the past. Maybe, though viewing her childhood through an outsider's eager point of view, she can see how far away it is, and how she doesn't NEED it to be happy. Things can't be the same, and maybe that's a good thing. Maybe they can be better.

Overall, there's also a... vague "burden of femininity" they both have. They take on emotional labour even when they don't have to, just because that's what's expected of them. I so badly want a Dark Fun Gang-esque arc with these two where they defect from the team and just decide to be bad guys on their own terms for a while. Just because they can, just to see what it brings out of them. And, they'd be complete dorks about it of course, but it'd be nice to see them breaking their moulds with people they don't feel judged by, with friends they don't feel the need to impress because they're already so similar to.

There's this one bit of dialogue I wrote for them for one of my AUs, specifically in the above scenario where they decide to be bad guys for a bit, and I feel I need to share it here because it puts into words something I can't without taking away from the feels of it:

[pavardscherie]

girl dad benji has me in my FEELS! do you think you could write about the first time little girl goes to a game and benji is just so proud that she’s there and brings her all around the locker room showing her off to everyone? 💕💕

you’re making me fall even more in love with benji —

it’s been three month since you gave birth to the beautiful girl in your arms. the new role has been difficult in the beginning since benji still had to leave a lot because the games and training sessions didn’t wait for noelle to grow up. but this time, this one saturday, you decided to watch the game against freiburg and show the princess the allianz arena for the first time.

a pair of noise-reducing headphones covered her small ears, dressed in one of the first crimson-red bayern jerseys, benji brought home after a game. seated close to the pitch, you had the best view of your husband throughout the ninety-two minutes, and he even scored a goal. by the time the referee blew the whistle to end the second half with a win for the number one of the chart, benjamin grabbed a water bottle and jogged over to the stands.

behind you, the supporters almost went crazy. screaming his last name, reaching out with their phones and trying to get the match-worn jersey. and he would have been happy about the attention, he would have cared for it if his eyes would not have landed on the sweet, sleeping princess in your arms. the world around him seemed to vanish, it didn’t matter where he was or who shouted his name.

benji’s arms quickly found their way around noelle, picking her up from your lap and holding her tightly to his chest. the fans and cameras went crazy at the sight, taking millions of photos while the defender tried to hide the face of the little one. “i will take her to the team, are you coming with me?”

you nodded your head frequently, relieved to leave the mass of fans that gathered in the front of the stands to receive an autograph from benjamin. and he didn’t want to seem mean, or act like an arrogant fool but as soon as his fingers only touched noelle’s little body, he was pulled into another world. climbing over the stands with the help of a security guard, benjamin led you towards the catacombs, where most of the team already changed clothes and celebrated their important win to increase the points.

before even reaching the locker rooms, the loud laughs of müller and sommer already echoed through the busy corridors. photographers waited at the end, their cameras tightly in their hands and trying to take a couple of very interesting pictures for their websites, and the social media accounts of the club.

you quickly followed the hurried steps of your boyfriend, noelle pressed tightly to his chest and ignoring the incoming questions from the interviewers about the new-born baby in his muscular arms. when benji reached the locker room, kimmich’s eyes focused immediately on him and as the captain, he instructed the team to lower their voices and not interrupt noelle’s tight sleep.

“well boys,” benjamin stepped into the silenced changing rooms, followed closely by you. wrapped up in a rose blanket, and dressed in her sweet woolen cardigan over the bayern jersey, noelle smacked in his arms, moving slightly to cuddle herself further into the warm material and benji’s arms. “i’d like to introduce you to noelle, my beautiful princess. she’s just three months so no touching.”

you stayed in the door, the shoulder leaned against the frame and watching in awe, how benjamin carried the little girl through the attentive gazes of his teammates. after telling him that he could not fulfill his dreams of a little boy following into his footsteps, his mood changed for a couple of days. his expectations were completely overthrown when he saw noelle for the first time. since the first day, benjamin and noelle were inseparable. she slept more in his arms and cuddled up with her father than in her own crib. it was beautiful, a sweet sight and your phone was flooded with pictures of them.

“look at that cute little girl.” sane cooed, smiling widely as the team gathered around noelle and benjamin. most of the mates already had their own children, and always teased benjamin for not going a serious step forward with his marriage. and yet, a new baby in the locker room always seemed like a huge surprise.

“she’s way too beautiful to be benji’s!” müller chuckled, carefully patting benjamin’s shoulder with the dry palm of his hand. “she has your curls.” leon interrupted the joking ways of müller, and ruffled a large hand through the chestnut curls on benjamin’s head.

the praise from the boys, the little resemblances spoken by the teammates made him extremely proud. benjamin’s soft gaze drifted from the smiling mates around him to the little girl in his arms, watching how her small hands moved and tried to grab her woolen cardigan.

benjamin held the whole world in his hands before. being part of a popular and successful club for over two years, and having a certain position in the starting eleven of each game. playing football, doing what he loves so much and earning money for it.

but benjamin’s world changed, turned upside down when the babygirl was born. noelle pavard became all the good things in his life, and added another tad of happiness. and you were allowed to watch his loving gaze, how his brown, soft orbs traveled over the sleeping girl in his arms.

his long pointer finger reached out, carefully stroking over the soft skin of noelle’s strawberry-red blushed cheek. “you know, i made this beautiful, little girl.” benji muttered, his heart swelling with extreme pride.

“sure, but you had a little help.” joshua commented, patting the defenders shoulder and nodding towards the door. benjamin’s gaze followed his gesture, his lips curling into a wide smile at the sight of you. arms crossed, leaned against the doorframe and watching the loving interactions. but it was obvious, that you couldn’t wish for a better dad for little noelle than benjamin.

[kaylinalexanderbooks]

OC questionnaire

Thanks to @elsie-writes here, here, and here, @illarian-rambling here and here, @willtheweaver here, @ceph-the-ghost-writer here, and @mysticstarlightduck here!

I've somehow been tagged more than this somehow, but this post is so long I've decided to cut it off here.

Rules: answer the questions as an OC, then leave three new questions for the people you tag!

Past questionnaires: masterpost for round one

Tagging @mk-writes-stuff @elsie-writes @katwritesshit @rickie-the-storyteller @cherrybombfangirlwrites

+ ANYONE ELSE

TSP intro

TSP tag list (ask to be +/-): @thepeculiarbird @illarian-rambling @televisionjester @finchwrites

@nebula--nix @literarynecromancy @honeybewrites

I have done all TSP characters I can answer for. Everyone else is not important enough for me to leave a response. SOTL doesn't have enough yet.

Under the cut: Tyler, Gwen, Liam, Noelle, Akash, Robbie, Sam, Ewan

#1- Tyler

Who is the most memorable person you've ever seen? Why are they so memorable?

“One guy I met a few years ago, Anathi. He was interesting. A little, uh, repressed due to having never really interacted with anyone for three years. Um. He was an ultimate, but like way taller than average, so also physically memorable. Haven't seen him in years though. So, anyway, did you know the human mind can never forget a face? And it also can't make up one, either. So, if you see someone you don't know in your dream, you have to have seen them on the street at some point!”

What stresses you out most?

“Stupid and lazy and incompetent people in charge. Like, who gave that idiot so much power? A bigger idiot??? So an even bigger idiot has even more power. Awesome. Fantastic. It sucks.”

What is your favorite holiday?

“Halloween. It is fun to dress up as whatever I want. And plan a decent costume with makeup. It also pisses off Medina. And Dr. Asghar. Those are always fun.”

Other Tyler: questionnaire one, two truths and a lie

#2- Gwen

What is the most important thing someone can receive?

“Love, friendship, support, compassion.... I think I will go with support. Support in all areas of your life I find important.”

What was your favorite age of your life?

“I like being twelve. But I miss being six. When my grandfather would read to me.”

How do you like your coffee (or tea)?

“Preferably, not at the same time! Haha. ... Did I tell you about that? Yeah, I accidentally made my coffee with a tea bag. It...was surprising, for sure. Awful, but I couldn't stop drinking it. May make it intentionally again. I usually just take my coffee with sweet cream.”

Other Gwen: OC in three, OC in fifteen, picrew, kiss, two truths and a lie, questionnaire one, OC interview

#3- Liam

What's your go-to beverage?

“Water. And I'm not saying that to be boring. It's just objectively the best beverage. It keeps you healthy, hydrated. Why waste money on carbonated garbage? Everyone should be drinking water. It does nothing but help you. Except people who are allergic to water, but that is an incredibly rare condition.”

What's the stupidest argument you've ever gotten into?

“There is literally no such thing as a stupid argument. However, I did get punched in the face when I lectured this one kid about how landings didn't count as steps. Of course, they do, but I thought it would be funny if I tried to convince him they did not. Apparently I pissed him off.”

How do you act when you're over-tired?

“I become more easy to distract. Overwhelmed, maybe anxiety. More reserved. I also start noticing my mistakes more. I also keep thinking I'm sick. That's much better than some. Think about it: I could be yelling and screaming at everyone. I could become an evil dictator. But I don't. I just affect me, and in the end, that's much better.”

Other Liam: questionnaire one, interview

What would you do if you found someone's wallet and ID on the floor with no one in sight?

#4- Noelle

“I would look at the ID and figure out a way to give it back to the person who lost it. Depending on where I am, I'd give it to proper authorities. At school, the front office. Police if I'm out. If all else fails, I suppose I could ask Lexi to teleport me to them.”

Can you swim?

“Of course I can. It doesn't make sense not to learn. My mom taught me when I was really young.”

If you were an animal, what would you be?

“What a stupid hypothetical question. I'm not a shapeshifter. *Sigh* Okay, fine, I'll try. Um... Owls represent intelligence so maybe that? I think I'm smart. Wolves are loyal to their family. I'd call myself that.”

Other Noelle: OC in three, OC in fifteen, Picrew, Bingo, questionnaire one

#5- Akash

What is your idea of a romantic date?

“Oh, man. Everything! Dinner and a movie. Holding hands as we walk through an art exhibit. Strolling or hiking through nature. The classic stuff! That reminds me... I need to plan something for Gwen... A bit nervous to ask her out, to be honest, but Robbie says she won't mind what we do as long as we're together. I dunno, man, first dates seem so crucial to get right.”

Can you be trusted to keep a secret?

“Yes. [Pause] I mean, I've kept my own, so I'd completely understand, and would respect your wishes. But just so you know, I hate lying. Despite doing it. But I fixed it! So yes, I can, but I'll hate every second of it. Although it will not make me feel guilty like it was when it was mine! But uh... Don't ask me to keep it from Robbie... Y'know what? Don't tell me. Sorry.”

What is one thing that makes your blood boil?

“Well, uh... I hate not getting respect. It's not like I think I'm entitled to it, but... I do still want it. People with no compassion for each other, it... It pisses me off a little. I hate seeing it.”

Other Akash: OC in three, OC in fifteen, Picrew, kiss, questionnaire one, two truths and a lie

#6- Robbie

Which weirdly specific superpower would you prefer: ability to cook eggs in any manner and have them turn out perfectly, or ability to always recommend a piece of media someone else will enjoy?

“Eggs. Gonna be honest, I almost want the second one, but I can already do that! I have excellent tastes. Although maybe that is, like, a superpower or something and it would go away when I get the eggs power. Hm. Eggs because I genuinely also want to help my mom out in the kitchen. I mean, I can already make eggs, but I get overwhelmed most of the time, so I stick to scrambled just so I know I'm doing it right. So yeah, eggs. If my media powers go away, I don't care, because I'll still love my stupid cartoons.”

Most awkward conversation you've ever had?

“Oh, God. Why. Why must you make me remember this?? Sooo I had this playhouse I went to as a kid. One of my friends there was this girl Ava. We went to that playhouse for years! And one day, she came to my seventh grade play on The Secret Garden. I was hanging with Akash and another kid in the play, Bryan. Ava comes up to us after the play to congratulate me and say hi. And then I said, 'Bryan, let me introduce you to my old friend...' and then I blanked for a solid 17 seconds on her name. It was awful. I said, 'Ava' at the same time Akash did to cover for me. It was... So bad. I tried to pass it off as me being overly dramatic with a pause and that I wanted Akash to say her name at the same time. But. I think she knew.”

How accurate do you think your zodiac sign is?

“Apparently, I'm a Taurus. And according to Google... This is literally not me at all. Like, it says I'm super sensual and grounded. [Pause] Me. Sensual and grounded! What even?!”

Other Robbie: OC in fifteen, OC in three, Picrew, two truths and a lie, questionnaire one

#7- Sam

What is your favorite drink?

“Ooh, lemonade! I love lemonade!! I always wanted to have a lemonade stand actually. I like all kinds of lemonade. Canned or homemade or whatever!! I usually have a can after dance class.”

Do you know how to dance?

“I do! I'm in a class that I go to weekly! We do ballet and tap dancing. It's so fun! I could dance all day long!”

What would make you never forgive someone?

“I'm not sure. I like moving on and pretending the bad stuff didn't happen. But I guess... If a friend did something awful to another.”

Other Sam: questionnaire one

#8- Ewan

What is your favorite small nature item? Pinecones, rocks, leaves, seashells?

“I like rocks. I have a rock collection. I think it's pretty cool.”

Do you have a go-to or favorite idiom?

“Huh. I've literally never thought of this before. I guess I like 'cross the bridge when we get there.' It's kind of a mantra for me. Worrying about the future, y'know? I don't like waiting until we get there to cross the bridge. I want to be prepared to cross the bridge. At the same time... I'm bad at preparing cause I'm not proactive. So I use the idiom to get out of the stuff I don't want to do now. I have a complicated relationship with this idiom....”

What is your favorite fruit?

“No, don't make me choose!! I guess... Cantaloupe. You probably weren't expecting that.”

Other Ewan: questionnaire one, kiss

Your questions:

What's the last thing you replaced, and why did you have to replace it?

Where's a place you've been that you felt out of place?

Do you trust your instincts?

[genshinemblem564]

Chapter 7: A Debt Owed

Aboard the Alcor stood quite the bunch, Mona Megistus, Albedo, Sucrose, Bennett, Razor, Kaeya Alberich, Noelle, and Aether. Some seek knowledge, others seek adventure, but they all have the same destination, Askr.

Aether was noticeably not himself, provoking Kazuha to question him.

Kazuha: You have a tense aura, may I ask why?

Aether:Hmm.

Paimon: Ugh, fine, I'll answer him. Mr. Grumpy Pants thinks that (Y/N), the summoner, is withholding information about his sister because he only recently learned about that device of theirs.

Kazuha: I see. I know it may not help, but they could have been looking out for your comfort and possibly their safety. After all, how would you have reacted if they approached you and started spilling everything they knew then and there? Also, you're not exactly easy to track down. It would have most definitely been you who needed to want to meet again, given how much you travel.

As Kazuha expected, Aether's sour mood didn't brighten, but it did shift. Perhaps hearing the summoner's answers would calm him.

Once the ship had docked, it was a long treck to the Order's castle, Beidou decided to come along, also wishing to twist the summoner's ear in regard to some tactics. When they arrive, they are greeted by Anna.

Anna: Ah, hello. Might I ask what brings you all here?

As they each give their reasons, Anna chimes in again.

Anna: Well, I'm afraid that the summoner is training at the moment, but I'm sure there are numerous heroes who could...

Before she could finish, Aether had already left to find you. It doesn't take long to find the training ground. Given how large it is, he can only assume it's made to simulate real combat. When he saw you, he was tempted to march straight over, but he was stopped by his companion.

Paimon: Hey!! Don't you think you're being a little rude, you leave mid conversation, walk around like you own the place, and now you're getting ready to interrupt someone during a dangerous activity, all without even saying "Hi".

Aether: Sorry, but if they can help me find Lumine then...

Paimon: Ugh, you really have a one track mind, don't you? Also, it's not me you have to apologize to, now march right back to that lady and apologize.

Before Aether could leave though, he over heard you and someone else speaking.

Delthea: Why train for a spell like this anyway?

(Y/N): I owe it to someone.

Aether was intrigued and decided to stick around.

Paimon: Now you're eavesdropping!? You have no manners at all!

Ignoring his companion, he continues to listen.

Luthier: But, why portals? Is warping not sufficient?

(Y/N): Warps can be guarded against. A portal is a tear in reality from one point to another.

Luthier: What place could possibly be so well guarded yet so important that you'd need a way in and out.

You lower Breidablik and contemplate. You want to give a straightforward answer, but there's just too much going on.

(Y/N): A place that's important to the person I owe. That's all you need to know right now.

Luthier seems dissatisfied with your answer but decides to leave it be. After all, if you are unwilling to tell anyone, then his efforts would be better spent on his studies. Taking a deep breath, you raise Breidablik once more, focus your thoughts and....

BLAST

You launch a spell from it. The magic orb stops mid flight, flattens out , and forms what appears to be a doorway. A moment after, another appears right next to it. You stick your hand in the first one and see it come out the other.

(Y/N): Yes!! Alright, now the real test.

You aim once more, destination in mind, Abyss, and fire, but dark energy emits from the front, and when you pull the trigger, the energy explodes in your face, leaving you unconscious.

When you come to, you are almost immediately bombarded with words of concern and questions of why you'd attempt such a dangerous thing, but all you could think was "Why, why didn't it work?" This must have been a recent development because you knew Childe could reach the Abyss, so why couldn't you? You then notice Aether present in the room.

(Y/N): Sorry, I know you're all worried, but could I ask for some privacy, please?

Everyone is confused, but they don't argue, and you're left alone with Aether.

Aether: You tried to go to the Abyss, didn't you?

(Y/N): Perhaps.

Aether: Who is this person you owe?

(Y/N): Rather rude to eavesdrop isn't it?

The room is silent as Aether all but glares at you.

(Y/N): (sigh) I didn't want to hide anything from you, but I didn't know how you'd react to such an event, someone you've never met who knows you on a seemingly personal basis. I decided to play it safe, after that, well, you're not exactly easy to keep track of.

You were about to continue, when you were interrupted by a soldier nearly banging the door down.

Soldier: Sorry, I know you've only just woken up, but there's an emergency. Commander Anna requests your presence at once.

___________________________________________

Wow, this got longer than intended, I actually didn't intend to focus so heavily on Aether, I had to go back and change the title. Also, a good few of these characters won't be sticking around for one reason or another, which will be disclosed in future chapters. The ones who will are Kaeya, Noelle, Albedo, Sucrose, Kazuha, and Aether. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this

[kalolasfantasyworld]

I decided to make a new post to answer your questions @chiefpeanutcat 💕 Feel free to reblog it and continue the talk, or just reach out in tumblr DMs I'm pretty sure they're open... 😂

Honestly I feel you so much with the art publishing part 🥺

I used to make some fanarts for Voltron years ago (for my favorite fics actually) and they never saw the light of day, because I was super shy. (then I kind of stopped drawing for a few years...)

Only here with BC I started sharing my work and the support I received helped me improve so much. It was motivating. Lately I shared that beautiful Nozel art of yours and I was so happy to see it.

So also if you want to just chat like artist to artist I'd be happy to do so ^^

My style also slightly changes with most of the drawings ^^ we're having fun and experimenting, so high five with that. I'm honored that you chose Helena to play around with your art 🥹 I'm really proud of her design.

It makes me so happy that you're engaged in PH 🥺 This story is such a passion project of mine and the reason I started interacting with the BC fandom.

Also you have NOTHING to apologise for. On the contrary it makes me so happy and honored that you're engaged in this story and my art. Also that you like my amazing mutuals' works (because they are amazing). The other guys are right we all babble and would love to do it more.

I'm very happy to answer questions ^^, non spoilery ones of course, because let's leave a surprise.

So answers are below the cut, for those who aren't caught up.

Things would get really MESSY if she came back to Diamond when he told her to do so, because we have kind of satisfied Nozel who is proud that despite his feelings he protected her and then he gets a slap in the face in a form of the attack on Diamond.

He certainly wouldn't just let it happen and would try to bring her back, probably not really thinking about her family, just her, but it would escalate into him wanting to get all the Drazels. Just that Helena would not be so eager to go back with him. She wouldn't have heard that he had apologised to Noelle, which was an important realisation. The only reason why would she go to Clover would be to keep her family safe, but she would keep her distance from Nozel and the road to reconciliation (if there would be one) would be much longer.

And now for the gem part. I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU GOT THAT!

Yes it's exactly the same gem. I'm not going to expand on anything... but I'm genuinely impressed that you noticed. Only one other person did so far and it was after hinting from me that there is something in that drawing.

As you probably noticed I love planting hints, foreshadowing and easter eggs, it's a fun game for me and hopefully the readers as well.

Phew a long post. I hope I didn't bore you.

[idontknowreallywhy]

Best Jupidad Moments #6 Nevermoor Ch 9 - What’s Really Important?

Right, I’m not going to lie, I’m struggling to differentiate between “the best Jupidad moments” and “ALL the Jupidad moments” as each one has its particular charm but… I’ll try to rein myself in!

First: trying exciting new things…

The bone-shaking terror she’d felt watching the platform speed towards her was washed away by a wave of adrenaline, and she let out a triumphant shout as they hooked on to the rail. Jupiter grinned, throwing his head back to enjoy the ride.

I especially love this moment right now because I recently took my daughter on her first proper rollercoaster ride. She wanted to do it, to start with, but got herself very worked up and tearful in the queue. Part of me wanted to just say “ok fine, we don’t have to do this today” but I feel like I know her fairly well(!) and I was sure she’d enjoy it and also be really proud of herself for facing her fear and going through with it. So instead I said “we’re going to do it, I think you’ll love it but if not it’ll be less than a minute, you’ll be safe and I’m with you and we never have to do it again”. Thankfully she did love it, but I did question myself and my parenting a lot in that queue!

Our Jupidad is making a similar call, albeit without the assurance of physical safety cos… Nevermoor… and sure enough this becomes one of Morrigan’s favourite things about living in the city. Did he know for sure she wouldn’t hate it? No. But he pushes her to try anyway.

I also suspect he’s running distraction here - she’s nervous about the garden party, so he gives her something else to focus on, where she gets a big old shot of adrenaline and arrives at the party thinking “wow, I did that!” which should take the edge off the nerves at least a little. Clever Jove.

He also lets her choose her own outfit, rather than forcing her into something that would make her either blend in with everyone else’s pastel vibe, or match his own flamboyant style…

… filled with people in light linen suits and pastel dresses. Jupiter had allowed Morrigan to choose her own outfit – a black dress with silver buttons, which Dame Chanda declared ‘smart, but utterly lacking in spectacle’. Morrigan thought Jupiter’s lemon-yellow suit and lavender shoes provided enough spectacle for both of them.

I think this is a pretty big deal actually and perhaps not something Morrigan would have foreseen after the “black isn’t a colour” conversation. Would it have been kinder to have said “I think everyone else will wear something more spring-ish”? It might have saved her from a couple of insults from Noelle… but the two of them were likely to clash anyway and isn’t it better to start making new friendships by being yourself? It’s easy to want to protect a child from getting splashed by social waves, but if you coddle them too much they won’t learn to swim in the sea.

There are some waves, however, that nobody should take to the face. Like raw sewage, radioactive waste, or Baz Charlton…

He was cut off by a sharp look from Jupiter, his mouth left hanging open. ‘Consider your next words carefully, Mr Charlton,’ Jupiter said in the low, cold voice that Morrigan had heard from him only once before, on Eventide at Crow Manor. She shivered.

Baz Charlton closed his mouth. Jupiter stepped aside, releasing the long-haired man from his gaze and allowing him to stumble away. He sighed as he smoothed down his yellow suit and gave Morrigan’s shoulder a quick squeeze. ‘Told you. Odious man. Pay no attention.’

I really want to know what the deal is with Jupiter’s low, cold voice because it really freaks everyone out! I wonder how often he uses it other than in Mog-defence-mode? It’s a very effective way of protecting Morrigan here and although I think we’d all like to see Baz dropped from a great height into a skip, I really appreciate how there’s no physical threat used.

Enjoying yourselves?’ Jupiter wandered over with a placid smile, ignoring the stream of servants rushing past with nets and brooms. Morrigan chewed the side of her mouth guiltily. ‘A bit.’

Ha, I love the image of that smile where he knows exactly what’s gone on here. I also adore the fact that Morrigan has somehow befriended the one child out of 500 who is probably the most like Jupiter was at school 😅

Plus the moment of mirroring later when she asks Jove a question she knows the answer to:

‘I’m here illegally, aren’t I?’

Jupiter chewed the side of his mouth. ‘A bit.’

How do they debrief later? Not with a “so, what did you think of Wunsoc?” but…

‘You made a friend.’ ‘I think so.’

‘Anything else of interest?’

Morrigan thought for a moment. ‘I think I made an enemy too.’

‘I didn’t make my first proper enemy until I was twelve.’ He sounded impressed.

Oh poor Morrigan, you’re going to rack up a few of those pretty soon. Thanks to Jupidad for making that sound like an achievement rather than a character flaw 😬

‘Promise you’ll think about it?’

‘Only if you promise you’ll stop thinking about not getting into the Society.’

‘But if I don’t get in—’

‘We’ll blow up that bridge when we come to it.’ Morrigan sighed. Just give me a straight answer, she thought. But she said no more.

Jupiter ushered Morrigan down the hall ahead of him. ‘Now. Tell me more about your resourceful new friend. Where in the Seven Pockets did he find a barrel full of toads?’

And just like that he brings it back round to what should be important to an 11 year old - friends, having fun, new experiences - and sharing the excitement of these things with a parental figure is such a precious and vital part of the relationship. Jupiter proves he is as interested in these details of her life as much if not as more than the big picture “what does the future hold, what is my purpose?” kind of stuff that threatens to take over.

This is maybe my favourite thing about Jupidad - how he constantly values her as a person (and as part of that her everyday life experience) above everything else, even though he is confronted with the BIG thing that makes her particularly important to the world every single time he looks at her.

[akirakirxaa]

FFXIVWrite Prompt 22: Fulsome

Rating: T

Word Count: 777

Warnings: Sexually suggestive conversation, non explicit

Summary: Valeria made it through her wedding and now is enjoying her reception with her dearest friend and maid of honor. [Solus x Empress, continuation of Prompt 6. Not necessary to read the first part, but adds some context.]

Master Post

Valeria, despite having stayed at the palace for over a month, gazed upon the lavishly decorated ball room with wonder that almost had her tripping over her own feet. Soft lights at the edges of the room were almost completely drowned out by the bright lights of the brilliant chandeliers above. What are surely very expensive fabrics draped over what felt like endless tables laden with fulsome plates of food, many of which were traditional Garlean dishes, though some were foreign foods Valeria had never seen before. A large, open area in the middle of the room made up a dance floor, a small stage set out of the way for the quartet to play for the evening.

It was more than Valeria would have ever dreamed for herself, and she still wasn’t sure that this wasn’t all some dream. Perhaps she’d been in some accident and was trapped in a deep slumber, but if she was, it was certainly an improvement and so she didn’t complain. She spotted Noelle taking her place at one table, clearly uncomfortable with attending as a guest and not a servant, but settling well enough to shoot Valeria a smile and a thumbs-up from across the room.

There was dining and speech making and, honestly, Valeria was so overwhelmed it all kind of passed in a blur until everything settled down and people started wandering from their seats to speak and dance. Despite clinging to her new husband like she was afraid of getting lost in the crowd if she let go, they ended up swept away by various groups. Ambitious military types were seizing their chance to pick Solus’ brain and try to get into his favor while the rich, the noble, and the social climbers approached without cease to interrogate Valeria — who was she, where did she come from, how did they meet, and other such questions that carried the undercurrent of looking for leverage against the new Empress.

Perhaps Noelle could see that Valeria was drowning in conversation, or perhaps she just wanted to talk to the only person that didn’t look down on her, because the tiny hyur approached and chased away the high class Garleans harassing Valeria and took up a spot next to her, handing her a glass of wine.

“Gods, they’re persistent,” Noelle grumbled, glancing none too subtly at the more desperate to grasp for favor lingering nearby. “How are you holding up?”

“Honestly, pushy nobles aside, this is the easy part,” Valeria took a sip of her drink. “The food’s good, the drink is better, and the decorations are beautiful.” Noelle grinned widely; she’d picked most of the decor and food, Valeria having deferred to her taste when overwhelmed by choice.

“So…” Noelle’s face turned mischievous. “Feeling less nervous about tonight, then?” Valeria choked on her wine, though she knew she should have known that, now that she didn’t need to get her down the aisle in one piece, Noelle would bring back their former discussion.

“Could you…not? I was kinda hoping to just forget about those particular nerves,” Valeria blotted stray wine from her face, though there was no wiping away the way her face reddened.

“What, and then have to deal with all of them on the spot? I’m doing you a favor,” Noelle gave the most innocent expression she could muster, and Valeria rolled her eyes.

“I don’t think ‘thinking about it’ is going to make it better later,” she turned the glass in her hands, watching the wine gently slosh around inside. “It just…it is what it is. It’s my new job, after all, to make an heir happen, so—“

“Val, that is such a bad way to look at this,” Noelle sighed. “Just make yourself a list of your concerns and talk to him about it. I hear good communication is important for marriages— Your Radiance!” Noelle suddenly dropped into a low curtsy, Valeria turning her head to see Solus approaching, reaching one hand towards her.

“Shall we dance?” he asked, and she couldn’t contain her (only a little bashful) smile as she took his hand and let him lead her to the dance floor, Noelle deftly snagging her wine out of her hand before Valeria could forget about it and spill the wine.

“You looked like you needed rescuing,” he gently teased as they slowly spun across the floor. “What were you talking about?”

“Oh, n-nothing!” Valeria felt her cheeks warm, knowing she wasn’t fooling anyone, least of all her husband. “Just…um…girl things.”

“’Girl things’?” Solus raised an eyebrow at her, smirking in amusement. Valeria gulped.

“I’ll…tell you later?”

“As you wish.”

[loosesodamarble]

Ahaha. Due to some weird glitch, anonymous asks didn't automatically activate when I opened my inbox (which it usually does so what happened Tumblr?). Apologies for that. But the issue should be resolved now.

As requested, I have only taken the most important part of their recent message as reference for this post.

Hello it's 🖤 anon. For the ask game can you answer 9,23,24

And here are the answers to your questions 🖤 anon~!

..........

9) with characters i love

Ooooooh! Hee hee hee~! I've said it before but I do love all the Silva siblings. They get hated on so much but I adore how messy all of them are. And one fic that involves them is the Silva reconciliation fic I wrote.

“You redirected a spell that large?!” Noelle exclaimed as she leaned forward in her seat. “Don’t pretend to sound impressed!” Solid snapped back. “I bet you think you could’ve stopped it altogether!” “I’m not pretending though!” Noelle said, a bit more forcefully than she meant to. “Just take a compliment, why don’t you?” Solid made a “ngh” sound and his face started to burn red. “What you said was hardly a compliment! Besides, how do I know that you’re not just mocking me, huh?” “Oh how pathetic that’d be,” Nebra muttered behind her hand. She leaned in Noelle’s direction. “Though if you want pointers on how to get on Solid’s nerves, I can share.” She winked at her sister. “Yeah, no thanks.” Noelle hid a mildly disgusted look behind a sip of tea. And here I thought Nebra and Solid were as close as can be. Guess they’ll even turn on each other if it amuses them. Her heart felt heavy at that idea. She’d always felt like she alone was pushed away and knocked down. But the cruel, cutthroat nature of House Silva could target her siblings too it seemed. It really had been for the best that Noelle never fit into that environment, that she wound up in the Black Bulls and became who she was in the present. Had she been a fool for ever wanting to fit in with her family? Noelle lowered her cup. No. She wasn’t a fool for wanting to be close to her family. Rather, she was short-sighted for wanting to fit into a dynamic that tore down the weak instead of encouraging growing into the strength. Noelle glanced to her side to Nebra and in front of her to Solid. Their presence carried with them painful memories but… There was also a relief in knowing that they were okay after all was said and done.

This snippet leaves out Nozel but 3/4 ain't bad. I just love how Noelle, Solid, and Nebra kind of struggle to interact with one another. Nebra is the most at ease but she's being a bit of a bully to Solid and thinking Noelle would want to irritate him similarly, which is her still not really connecting with Noelle on her level.

They are a messy family. A very broken family. But I won't ever let go of the idea that they can find some way to reconnect with each other.

23) that was inspired by a work from another medium (music, visual art, dance, etc.)

This snippet here is from a very short fic where I imagined Nacht denying after the battle in Spade and reuniting with Morgen in the afterlife. It was inspired by a scene from the series Demon Slayer where siblings Daki and Gyuutarou have a moment declaring their love and loyalty to each other as siblings before descending into Hell for their sins.

In the void between life and death, there was no way to tell how long the embrace had lasted. The brothers eventually parted. Morgen wiped away the last of his tears. Nacht looked down at his feet. “Have you been waiting here this whole time?” “Yes. I couldn’t bring myself to move on without making sure you’d be alright.” “I’m sorry I let you down.” Morgen placed a hand on Nacht’s shoulder and Nacht looked up to meet his eyes. “You fought to protect Clover and the other countries. You used the power of devils for good. I couldn’t be more proud.” His smile turned sad. “My only regret is that you didn’t live any longer. But at least we’re reunited.” “Not for long.” Nacht squeezed his eyes shut to keep himself from crying. “You’re probably going to heaven now and I…” “You’ve worked for repentance,” Morgen assured. “And if heaven still doesn’t take you, I’ll gladly go to hell with you. We’re family, no matter what.” Nacht gave a bitter smile. He removed Morgen’s hand from his shoulder but kept it in his grip. “If you’re really okay with that…”

SIBLING LOYALTY! FAUST BROTHER REUNION (in a way that's different from canon)! AAAHHHHHHH!

24) that makes me go "huh...i wrote that?!"

This is less of a "huh?! I wrote something this incredible?!" shock at my own work and more of a "huh?! I wrote something that's kinda pretty horny?!" embarrassing shock. Like, akhsgaiurh! It's the closest I'll ever come to write, you know, smut and it's lowkey embarrassing for me to look back on. I of course love what I wrote, but I'm shocked by it still! I wrote this?!

Josele said nothing, instead moving in to kiss Morgen which he happily accepted. And this kiss, it felt like something more. More strength and heat. Morgen was sure that his whole body was shaking as he dared to press further. He let go of Josele’s hand but only to caress her face, to hold and reassure her. Josele parted her lips and let him deepen the kiss. It felt clumsy, messy even, but he could not hold back any of his fervor. And neither could Josele by the feel of her hands balling up around the fabric of his tunic. Want. Yearning. Desire. Whatever it was called, Morgen gave into it. The warm affection he felt increased, bordering on a burning passion. He leaned in closer, pressed more firmly. Caught up in the moment, Morgen ended up pushing Josele down onto the couch. Or perhaps Josele had pulled Morgen on top of her. Either way, Morgen now hovered over Josele on the couch. Their kiss broke, eyes locking in that breath, only for them to go in for another. Josele’s hands moved up to Morgen’s shoulders before her arms loosely wrapped around his neck. She undid the tie in his hair and tangled her hands in his locks. The sensation, her fingers combing through his hair and leaving a ghost of her touch, sent a shiver down Morgen’s spine. Morgen enjoyed moments of simple intimacy, ones that were innocent and tentative. That was for certain. But this raw yet divine passion… He hadn’t realized how much he craved it. Please, let me have all of you, Josele, he thought, hoping the heat of his lips on hers conveyed the words. Let me give all of myself to you.

AAAAAAHHHHHH! I don't know how my brain came up with this kind of steamy content! But I did!

[rangarlamamicado]

Deltarune Chapter 5 & Skies Forever Blue: THE MISSING LINK

Okay, so for the longest time I've been pulling my hairs in all of my previous theories regarding just what Chapter 5 would be. I know Chess Theory makes everything easy when it comes to determining that the boss of Chapter 3 will be a Rook (with the TV world already confirmed) and Chapter 4 a Bishop (which can easily be determined to likely be housed by the Church)... but since Chapter 5 supposedly has The Knight, I'd been a little confused. Especially since it could be ANYWHERE since The Knight clearly isn't restricted to one dark world, let alone any area in town.

However, recently, I saw a VERY GOOD Theory video by JaruJaruJ on Youtube about what several bridging pieces regarding Toby's newest independent piece of media is, as well as how it could easily be connected to Deltarune and December Holiday, the missing links, and potentially The Knight.

SO. With that basis in mind, I will heavily quote and paraphrase details from his video here to weave together why I think Chapter 5's Dark World will be...! DRAGON BLAZERS 2.

Look, let's face it, there's literally a Dragon within the first minute of the music video. In addition to this, there's also reason to believe that the version of Dragon Blazers being played here is the same because of the following:

In other media, such as Noelle's blog post at https://deltarune.com/icepalace_glaceir/ it's indicated that there's also a home-console version of Dragon Blazers. However, suppose this version of Dragon Blazers is meant to resemble being on the Gameboy. In that case, it's possible that the console version was on the Gamecube, since the Gameboy and Gamecube have cross-compatibility (this helps in the theory later, I promise).

The person in the music video looks to be a human, so it's possible that Kris at one point got to play Dragon Blazers 2, and is responsible for whatever happened in the music video instead of Noelle... whoops. Maybe that'll play into what happens during Chapter 5?

However, there's more - specifically, more to tie in the fact that the grander dark world (the darker world/dark world network? basically whatever allows things like Ralsei to move between dark worlds) exists with these details.

This sequence of events hints at the possibility that whatever grander darkness there may be - including the kind Ralsei uses to navigate Dark Worlds in addition to wherever the girl, who may be "Dess." Noelle literally remarks saying that the bow is familiar - whether with her sister or the character or both, it isn't known.

As for how I can ask or even question whether these places are even connected, I have an idea.

Noelle openly discusses that in Dragon Blazers, there is a Glacier Palace. The page leading up to this has very rudimentary spritework, yet the crude colors remind me very much of the music video, and I believe this location may be important - whether for the main boss or the secret boss.

There's also more evidence to support that, in some way, Dess herself may be directly related to whoever owned the game, hence connections in the music video.

A guitar case that could easily fit a guitar the likes of which appeared in the sweepstakes hidden site. To me I feel Toby was slowly trying to spread the crumbs of details, and it has led me to this ultimate theory thanks to the theorization of JaruJaruJ those who he also cites.

DRAGON BLAZERS & DESS: A HISTORY AND HYPOTHESIS

SO THEN! It's time for me to predict just what's happening here using the information we already have. Where do I even start though? Why doesn't Dess look like... well, Dess? Why does the grander dark world even come into relevance here? What do Noelle and Kris have to do with all this?

Well, to start, I'd like to use some relevant information to postulate how all of this is even possible.

While not directly stated, it's illustrated in the 'chair' hidden page during the sweepstakes that there exists the possibility of "darker darkness." To me, this begs the question: What does this mean for the dark world?

Well, for starters, JaruJaruJ postulates in the video that it might have to do with the dark fountain in Castle Town being made of pure darkness. He goes on to postulate how Dess might be related to that, but while I feel that might be important, to me, I think the possibility of a "darker world" is entertaining.

A meta-world of an already metaphorical thing such as a game - even Dark world have concrete items, places, and things, regardless of what it's based on. Also, clearly, the dark world has many things that the light world doesn't.

RPG Mechanics, "saving", darkners, fountains... you name it. All of these things are important, because to me, I think each of these represent basic structure for a dark world - and if a darker world were to exist, it seems to me that these traits may be blown even further into flanderization, perhaps even harmfully affecting those who venture into it. The one lifeline seems to be saving, as well as its connection to "heaven." JaruJaruJ makes this point in his video:

That said, if somehow it was possible that Dess got trapped

Save points. There seems to be what resembles a save point in the music video, but it's pink. Further, he says that, because being with determination seem to be able to save, (yellow for humans, white for non-human non-monster beings like Flowey (and Kris for some reason, do with that what you will) he says that we haven't seen what a monster with Determination seems to have a save look like - pink.

Save points seem to be the anchors in dark worlds to reality, whether from the angel or otherwise (he says in another theory that the world is an endless loop and supports it with saves and the angel as well as Ralsei having some stake in an endless reality).

Even Spamton, whose palette is literally mainly composed of white, yellow, and pink (the three colors) says he has a fascination with salvation, heaven, and darkness, as if some kind of symbol that found the interest of the darker beings (Gaster? Dess? Ralsei? The Angel?) whether it was an accident or not on his part. This, to me, is a sign by Toby. Nothing with his is a coincidence, and this music video having so many signs is the key.

Furthermore, even in the darkest of worlds, save points can help one out of darkness. However, for the girl, this isn't enough. She abuses saves to restart reality in this darker world to the point that she sinks further deeper, as if having used too much dark power, having lost her power.

But why did Dess do all of this? And what does it mean for the real world, as well as Chapter 5?

Well, to me, while JaruJaruJ might say there have been reasons otherwise, I find it interesting that, if Dess is stuck in this world as this girl, that perhaps she took this form for a reason? Was it the powers of Darkness that let her change her image? Is it metaphorically her, but not literally? Well, I believe that it may be one of two things.

If everything in the music video is truly Deltarune (the first possibility), that may mean a specific list of things. It means that Dess literally became the girl in the game. It means that only a human could've played the game, meaning it had to be Kris. It means that Dess was capable of saving, and according to the lyrics, loved Kris.

To me, if this line of logic is true, it means that Dess maybe wanted to take the form of a human princess because, like Kris, she loved humans. In addition, she claims that she was named the same as the one Kris loved, which may secretly have been Dess. (Hence, that's probably why Kris is probably so weird with Noelle in the weird route, since he sees her sister in her - albeit, these are all influence by the player and not Kris directly, it's just that not all the choices are the player either, which make me ask questions. But this isn't a Kris theory, it's a Dess theory.) I find it a far more compelling narrative for Toby to have weaved, especially if this all comes to manifest in Chapter 5, though I'll get to that.

The second possibility, to me, is that the video metaphorically represents Deltarune with some real details, but not completely. For example, this may negate that Dess took the form of a human, and Kris was the one playing the game. It may be that Noelle played this version of the game, and Dess' words in the song actually represent familial love, hence why Dess is familiar, albeit not completely remembering who she is or what she was/is. The love she may be singing of as well as the one the player loved may actually represent familial love, and in a way makes the scenes where Noelle and Rudy playing the game sadder to me. Because Dess may be trapped in the game, they may miss her and wonder where she is, but she may actually be right in front of them without knowing it.

This is why I brought up the details of NPCs, Darkners, and RPG-mechanics as well as a darker world taking a toll on those who may be trapped there, for whatever the reason. Dess may have forgotten about the life she had outside and only began to remember her role in the game - which she may have been afraid to break from.

If this is true, rather than the way it is in the other theory, it opens up a can of worms that also make sense along the lines of Spamton. There seems to be an "order" in the world. An order that, if broken, through causality and fate somehow bring ruin to those who stray from it. Spamton attempted to stray from fate by asking for assistance from someone with control over the dark domain, but causality assured ruin for him in the form of Kris. This may have to do with the theory about the loop that JaruJaruJ made (which I quite like), but I feel the Soul is just as important in the loop as the Angel is.

Anyways, if all of this were true as I said, Dess, having achieved her wish of becoming a human, may have been bound to the roll of her character in the game - hence order breaks. Dess likely wanted to tell Noelle or Kris that it's them and that they love them, but it would cause ruin, and the loops/saves in the game would come to an end. This perfectly follows the themes of "choices not mattering," but in the end it seems that Dess regardless confessed their love and sacrificed the world by breaking her role to tell the player who she really is in exchange for the world breaking and herself being banished into darkness.

So! If all that's the backstory, it's time to talk about Chapter 5 once and for all, and what it may mean.

CHAPTERS 3-5: THE GLIMPSE INTO DARKER DARKNESS

Now then. Based on everything I've theorized so far, I will rapidly cover what I believe will happen in Chapters 3 and 4, as well as what the secret bosses may be based on what we know and how this will apply to the future.

CHAPTER 3

The TV world is the world we know most about. The characters, to antagonist (to some degree), the setting... However, even Toby knows that we want to know who we fight and why - Spamton A. Spamton toys with that in the Sweepstakes video, even if it isn't canon.

Personally, I believe that the secret boss will be the Green Crayon. Too many things line up for it to NOT be relevant to this world. First, it's green, which may tie in with the green soul color. Second, it's discarded similar to Jevil and Spamton, in addition to having relevance to Kris in a way. They may be important in that they might have information about Asriel and his whereabouts, which would make for interesting secret boss information. The crayon also is already most likely within the home, albeit nobody knows where which would lead naturally to a good secret location. While I believe it's all interesting, as well as the potential of Toriel as the party member, I don't see relevance aside from the detail one person gleaned somewhere that has relevance to Dragon Blazers.

I don't recall who, but I remember reading something in the comments section that may have relevance here. I won't paraphrase. I will simply post it and move on to Chapter 4. Do with this what you will.

CHAPTER 4

This is where I have the most faith in my answers, theory wise and literally. As for the setting, aligning with Chess Theory, I can easily see this being the church and the boss as the Bishop. The locations including the church proper and the graveyard means there are ample opportunities for lore regarding the Angel, as well as with Alvin potentially as the antagonist/ "Bishop", attempting to revive Gerson and The Hammer Of Justice.

As for the secret boss, I can see it taking place in the Graveyard. There's very vague hinting at this during the Sweepstakes regarding information regarding the realness of ICE-E, but with the Pizza Box that supposedly winked at Noelle being burnt in the graveyard and left, I can see it coming back for revenge. Specifically, I cite a theory video by HalfBreadChaos regarding JUST what ICE-E might be, and how he might be an extraplanar monstrosity not too dissimilar from Everyman and even Gaster.

It would make sense since, in the soul order theory according to the strangely convenient order in this background in Deltarune that supposedly predicts the soul colors of each chapter...

... it would totally make sense if ICE-E's color was cyan. He may have connections to Gaster! He may have connections to Noelle! Hell, he may even have connections to Dess! I dunno! But either way, I totally look forward to this if it's real.

NOW THEN CHAPTER 5

I've TOTALLY had the hardest time predicting this chapter, as stated earlier. For the longest time, for some reason, I thought it would be in ICE-E's P"E"ZZA, but I don't think that'd make any sense aside from elements of horror for a chapter. I also thought, for some reason, that the antagonist would be Papyrus, because he's a knight, and it'd make the most sense.

HOWEVER, with this new information at hand and a seemingly perfect set-up, I can now say with confidence that the next dark world after the church is DRAGON BLAZERS 2. The antagonist, the Knight, could easily be a fake-out on the game's part - Specifically, I would find it very funny if the antagonist this chapter was The Knight from DRAGON BLAZERS, specifically the main character in the music video. It would be very funny if he was the stereotypical hero-type who sees the main characters as antagonists or dark-lords, and I would find it very interesting if, for this chapter only, everything was pixelated and downscaled like DRAGON BLAZERS. It'd make sense if the female character was there, albeit not Dess - a soulless replacement if you will, perhaps the real boss who turns on the hero and reveals the nature of things? Maybe it's the Everyman? The information that could be dropped has crazy potential here.

That said, as for the secret boss, I think the most relevant route would be something involving the labrynth that Noelle discussed in the secret post about the Glacier Palace that I discussed above. Seeing as it's greatly related to glitches and hidden areas like the door The Roaring Knight uses that's hinted to exist here (as hinted by Toby's unused intro using The Roaring Knight by The Door), it would only make sense to me if the boss was Dess Holiday. The blue soul color is related to ice, as Papyrus, who once bore it, resided in Snowdin, and is also related in the literal sense to being a "cold" color, similar to how Sans was cold during the Genocide battle in Undertale. To me, this is the only logical conclusion, and as for whether it hits the mark or not, I can't say.

ALL THIS SAID, THIS HAS BEEN A VERY LONG POST. I CAN'T WAIT FOR DELTARUNE CHAPTERS 3-5 AND I CAN'T IMAGINE WHAT COULD POSSIBLY BE IN CHAPTERS 6 AND 7.

If you like the theory, please remember to like, subscribe, and hit that be- *GETS HIT BY BRICK*

okay but for real. please share if you agree in some way. I feel very confident about this, and would love to see what comes of it. Thank you for listening to my lengthy wall of a post, and thanks for coming to my TedTalk.

[the-white-soul]

*Flowey is still surprised by Frisk’s boldness on this project. He normally thinks of Frisks as these perfect characters, but this… this is new. And he likes it all the more. He wraps a vine around Frisk’s outstretched hand multiple times and shakes it firmly.*

I’ll paint with you. Then when the shack is ready and Noelle is alone, I’ll knock her out and bring her over. If I take her while she’s conscious, that obviously won’t work out because she’ll know it wasn’t “someone like Jack” who did it.

I’ll join you at the shack soon! I’m just gonna visit my buddy Kara first. *Flowey waves and then burrows back to Kara and looks up at their face with a worried stare. Even though Flowey already knows exactly what’s going on, might as well look concerned.*

You look so down. What happened, Kara?

…Hey.

You know what?

You don't have to tell me.

Whatever you saw, it wasn't important. I think it’s best you forget about whatever person or thing if its hurting you so much. Trust me. That thing won't be bothering with you either anytime soon, so don't worry.

*He pays mind to only slowly move closer to them, seeing them in such a bad mood. Once he’s close enough, he takes their hand and settles it in his own head before giving it a little nuzzle. Seems he's looking for headpat. And trying to distract Kara from the problem at hand.* Now if you don't mind, I haven't gotten one of these in awhile.

(Kara) "Heh, you never know the extent I like you Flowey. *Sighs* I know you want to distract me but I just called my previous girlfriend I hated her. That's hard to ignore."

(Frisk) "Really? Why? *They are looking for more reasons to continue*"

(Kara) "Noelle was Dess the whole time! I would've been fine with it if she just told it to me. Then she accused me of being with you too much. *Cries* Of course everyone's on Noelle's side. I screamed in her face. Although, she did manipulate my feelings! She made me question my own loyalty to her by flirting with me when I thought she was Dess. The reason I wanted to love her was because she was just Noelle. But Noelle could never allow me to know it was her! I am not wrong, right? Who am I kidding, I don't even know if you'd understand. I shouldn't have a sad life just because someone else is having a worse life. If that makes any sense at all."

(Frisk) "I understand. When you know you are doing the wrong thing but it's..."

(Frisk and Kara) "...for the right reason."

(Frisk) "What if you were away from Noelle for a bit. Maybe a week by yourself. Who knows, maybe even Noelle will change."

(Kara) "What if she gets hurt?"

(Frisk) "She won't. Me and Flowey will make sure she's alive."

(Kara) "How will you know?"

(Frisk) "*Smiles a brighter smile than the sun* We'll know. I promise you, we'll know."

(Kara) "Ok. Where should I go?"

(Frisk) "You should go back home and make our plans. Noelle will stay here. It's a win/win."

(Kara) "Something feels off. Are you planning on hurting Noelle?"

(Frisk) "Come on you don't believe me! You know that's fair. I'm not the most trustworthy person. Maybe you can ask someone, maybe the only one, you can trust."

(Kara) "*Goes on a one-foot kneel* Will she be okay?"

[luxmaeastra]

//For Nat and Rhain!!! HC Ness and Nec end up loving Nat and her sister? Bc they can embody that wild violence better than Oryaa and her siblings? (Nat's cousins??) Rhain as a stable hand kinda seeing Ness as a motherly figure???//

Neculai idly watched his family, nails tapping on his glass. He turned to the doors, Nessayn glared at the messenger.

"He isn't new is he?"

"We don't hire Greens love."

She moved, Vincent and Simon stilled, Vincent'a children going quiet.

"What was so important you thought it best to interrupt? I'm feeling nice enough to let you speak."

The messenger slid to his knees, his throat barred in case she changed her mind.

He could see the individual shadows that shifted at her command. Royal blood, Nyaxia's neice, Saint's blood, he may be the figure head but she ran this kingdom from the shadows.

"She claims to be Fion's daughter with her sister Highne -"

"Where is our son and that female? Did they grow bored of playing house?"

Neculai frowned, moving toward Nessayn's side. He could hear the servant's heart begin to beat faster. He could smell his fear, it tasted sour and rotten.

"She - she says they're dead Highness -"

Nessayn let him hold her up, his grip on her arm tightening. The body was cut in two. He looked to the guards, raising his chin to them.

"Bring them."

--------

Noelle rubbed at her face, softly thanking the servant boy that gave her the rags. She looked to her sister, she hadn't spoken, not beyond giving her instructions.

It had been a month since they had to leave their mother's body in those woods. She sniffed, shivering in the entry way. The palace was old, it didn't look at all like their father painted it with romantic gambles and soft Torchlight. It looked like a labyrinth with teeth, she straightened her shoulders as the gaurds came for them. She reached for Natalia's hand, at least in this they were united. They wouldn't cower away from anything not after what they'd went through.

"Are you scar -"

The gaurds hastily stepped back, she sucked in a breath seeing her grandmother. She didn't look old like the other crones in courts did. But wasn't she old? Almost a millenia old right? Was it 500? The lessons tumbled in tangled pieces in her head.

Nessayn ignored the young girl, she looked to older one.

"What happened? Did your father tell you how he left our family? How he repayed all the time we invested in him?"

Did his daughters know how he ran off that disgraced noble girl? Daughter of the Bone Carver and his warrior bride? Did her granddaughters know the history of their parents? How Fion had spat everything they'd done for him? That he'd clocked himself and his family to protect them. Did they know he'd hate that they'd come to her?

She slid her eyes to Rhain a few paces away. She gave him a nod, a softer smile.

"Did the gaurds wake you Rhain? You can go back to sleep love. We have no need for you anymore tonight. Get some rest."

The sight of the two girls in rags caused him to pause, his eyes trailing over them as he took on the scene before them. We’re they gutter rats who were begging for scraps? Why were they there? Rhain’s attention was only torn away when he heard the sound of Nessayn’s voice, when she spoke up and addressed him.

Yes, he had been disturbed from his sleep, but he could not imagine why the guards had brought these things into the household? Yes, he was not of a noble title, but he respected these halls and the ones who sheltered and cared for him.

“I was awoken,” he confirmed. “Who are they?”

Natalia did not stray from Noelle, her hand held her’s tight as she stood tall. Even if the clothes they now wore were not the ones their parents had given them, even if the tender care they had received no longer showed through, she would not cower and lower herself before them. They had survived everything to be there, and if this woman who called herself their Grandmother to think she would lower herself…

Natalia didn’t react when the questions came, she held her sister closer to her as she weighed up the response she wanted to give. She had heard some things from their parents when they were younger, some commented of what his family was like and why they had never come to visit them.

“Father is dead,” she finally stated, her tone clear without interest in sugarcoating it. “Mother not long after.”

[inbarfink]

One interesting recurring with Spamton in Deltarune Chaper 2 is one of Isolation. In the Normal Route, Kris is always on their own whenever they encounter Spamton or even just deal with Spamton-related-things. They first meet him while wandering into an alleyway all alone - not just without their regular companions, Susie and Ralsei, but without their temporary companions Noelle and Queen. Lancer was distracted and missed the entire battle. 

Even when they split off from Susie and Ralsei, they at least had Lancer. When they first encountered Spamton, Kris was more alone than they’ve been in all of Chapter 2.

And if you choose to do the Spamton NEO sidequest, Kris does all of it alone. They ask Susie and Ralsei to wait outside when they’re talking to Spamton in his shop and when they’re venturing into the Basement.

(The latter is especially interesting cause like… at least they were very specifically instructed to ‘COME... ALONE.’ to Spamton’s shop - there’s no obvious catalyst to asking the two of them to wait outside while Kris ventures into the basement. And it is something they do outside the Player’s control. Do they get Bad Vibes from Spamton and want to protect their friends from whatever it is he’s planning even if the SOUL is forcing them to go through it? Have they figured out the parallels between themself and Spamton but they actually wanna keep the fact that they’re being mind-controlled hidden for some reason? Maybe because they’re afraid people wouldn’t like the real Kris as much as they liked the SOUL-controlled Kris?)

Whatever the reason, Kris is alone throughout every part of the Spamton NEO quest. Until the battle, when their friends rush in to save them - and all three of them face him together.

This dynamic is entirely inverted in the Weird Route, however: Kris is always with someone whenever they have a chance to interact with Spamton.

UNTIL they have to face him in battle, and then they are all alone.

Like on one hand, you can scratch it up to the very practical needs of the plot. Maybe it’s just a matter of “if Susie and Ralsei have too much Spamton Interactions before the Big Fight it will conflict with the aftermath scene” (Susie might start asking questions earlier, Ralsei will try and distract everyone from the quest?) and “Susie and Ralsei shouldn’t hear Spamton rambling about the Weird Route because than they might figure out that Something’s Up”. Buuuut I think it’s also important to look at it from a thematic standpoint. 

Espacially since it was just for Plot Structure, there doesn’t seem to be that much of a need to keep characters like Queen, Noelle and Lancer out of the loop. 

And espacially because the Weird Spamton NEO fight calls attention to the Isolation Kris has found themself in.

And especially because Spamton IS himself a character who is lonely and isolated.

Like, it’s pretty Deliberately Ambiguous whatever Spamton actually KNOWS that Kris is a ‘puppet’ or if he’s just projecting hardcore on Kris and the fact that it’s accurate is just pure coincidence. But it’s important to note that the first thing that Spamton actually notices about Kris is that they all alone. And this is what causes Spamton to start projecting his problems on Kris in the first place.

Compared to the Weird Route where - again - Kris is always with someone whenever they meet Spamton. And he doesn’t seem to be really projecting his own issues on them in the same way he does in the Normal Route. That is, until...

It’s only when Kris has to face Spamton alone, only when Spamton sees them all by themself, helplessly calling for their friends’ aid - that he starts to see himself in them.

Spamton starts to see himself in Kris only when Kris is alone, because Spamton is alone, because Spamton sees being alone as one of the defining traits of being Spamton.

And like... in addition to the whole “just a puppet” thing, I think that’s another thing Kris and Spamton have in common. I mean, yeah, Kris usually have their friends\party-members around but... it seems that growing up as the only Human in the Monster community of Hometown was a very isolating experience for Kris, and being mind-controlled by an otherworldly entity that no one else knows about is also a very isolating experience.

I think that might be a Thing here, isolation through Knowledge no one else has. Kris feels isolated even when they’re around other people because no one knows they’re possessed. Kris feels isolated because no one else knows about Spamton. Kris feels isolated because no one else knows about the horrible things they were forced to do in the Weird Route. Spamton’s isolation might be kinda about the Addisons still being resentful of his former success but it’s also kinda about how he now knows Things that make it impossible for him to function as a regular member of Cyber Society.

But in the end of the day.... in the Regular Route, Kris still has their friends to help them. And I do think that’s really important. At the end of the battle, Spamton recognizes that although he and Kris share some similar woes - they are not the same and are not doomed to the same fate.

I think a big part of this strengh is just... even if Kris sometimes feel all alone because of their humanity, or the mind-control... they still all have each other - and that might be the thing that will get all three of them to break away from their strings at the end.

[tavvattales]

Tales of Royalty: Choose your King

GENSHIN IMPACT DATING SIM SERIES With Prince!Character x Royalty!GN Reader

Staring: Albedo, Diluc, Kaeya, Ayato, Zhongli, Scaramouche

Pairings: Prince!Albedo x Royalty!GN Reader, Prince!Diluc x Royalty!GN Reader, Prince!Kaeya x Royalty!GN Reader, Butler!Zhongli x Royalty!GN Reader, Assassin!Scaramouche x Royalty!GN Reader

Warnings: 16+ content

This fic will be updated once a week, so make sure you check back for updates. If you'd like to be on a taglist-feel free to DM me.

The throne room was bustling with frantic servants rushing back and forth, placing grand decorations of jewels and floral arrangements. The day had finally come to meet your potential suitors. It was an important decision, much to your dismay, to unite two powerful kingdoms together in holy matrimony. Your maid clad in armor and an apron, catching up to you, pants heavily, "I've been haaa. . looking all over for you! The other maids are anxiously waiting for you to help you get ready; your Highness," she says with a heaving breath.

Nodding towards her, you could feel your heartbeat pounding wildly, yet if someone were looking at you, they'd discern your Highness as calm and composed, "I suppose you're right, thank you, Noelle," you say, having her lead the way to your bed chambers, your shoes echoing endlessly through the halls, leading you closer to your destiny.

Upon arriving, you were graciously greeted by your other maids, "Welcome, your Highness," they all say simultaneously, curtseying adorably. You couldn't help but smile with fondness towards them. One of them, swiftly starting to undress you while giggling, says, "Your Highness! What do you think the princes will be like~?" The young blonde, with a starry twinkling in her eyes, continues with a singsong voice, "I bet they're all so dreamy~."

Chuckling at her childlike imagination, you respond, "Your guess is as good as mine, Barbara," helping her to disrobe yourself. As you undress, the other maids start making a fuss over the bathwater.

"No! We must add cecila and sweet flower to the bathwater, Sucrose," Noelle asserts, eyeing the glowing liquid in the bottle Sucrose held.

"Why not both?" You inquire, testing the warmth of the water with your delicate fingers.

"B-but your Highness, we have no idea what's in that," Noelle exclaims while trying to grab ahold of the bottle, but a mint-haired girl with glasses was quick to hold it to her chest.

"I-I made it specifically for this occasion," Sucrose says, "I made this soap this morning with their Highness' favorite scents in mind."

Graciously accepting the bottle from Sucrose, you open it, sniffing the contents, an unexpected smile coming across your face, "Let's use this," you say to your maids, who nod, "Well done, Sucrose," announcing your praises as you give her a small pat on the head. Noelle wanting to protest, keeps her mouth shut under your watchful gaze.

As you get into the bath, a warmth encircles you, causing you to shudder in anticipation. They scrub you tirelessly, making sure not to leave a single speck of dirt upon your already radiant complexion. The girls share giggles with you as they start getting you ready, decorating you with the most splendid jewels, and draping you in luxurious silks, yet deep down, you couldn't help but feel disheartened.

The same questions kept popping up in your head, over and over, like a nagging feeling of dread. Just who are these men? Will they be suitable candidates for the most critical merge of your father's small kingdom?

As the maids finish putting on the final touches, Barbara calls out to you, breaking you from your daze, "Your Highness, look how marvelous you look. Truly stunning~" Barbara grins wildly, clasping her hands together, the other girls staring in anticipation.

Noelle, taking a nervous step forward, and placing a crown atop your head, bravely states with a shaking voice, "Y-you'll be just fine, your Highness. Your father knows what he's doing," nodding at her own words, Noelle gives a bright smile.

Returning her smile, reaching out towards her cheek for a gentle touch, rubbing it fondly, "Thank you, ladies. You really know how to cheer me up. Now, shall we?" you say, ushering towards the door.

Simultaneously the maids, all reaching for the door, opening it up for you, say, "Yes, your Highness!" Following you close behind back toward the throne room, your father waits patiently for your arrival.

Standing up and greeting you with a warm hug, your father exclaims excitedly, "Y/N, today is the day~! Your potential suitors have been waiting, don't worry, my dear; I picked the best of the best~!" He boasts

Gritting your teeth as you start clenching your fists in a ball of anxiousness, your heart leaping out of your chest violently made you feel queasy. Looking down, you notice your knuckles turning white, so taking a deep breath, you slow your heart rate down, relaxing and adjusting to your seat, "I'm ready," you announce.

ATTENTION: IMPORTANT DECISION AHEAD

Motioning to the head butler, Zhongli, the king handing him a piece of paper, begins to say, "If you would do the honors."

Nodding and accepting the slip Zhongli, unrolling the ribbon, and clearing his throat, starts the introductions with a deep booming voice, "Our first suitor hails from Khaenri'ah- His Highness, Prince Albedo."

With a sudden swing of the doors, a man with hair like sunshine and an azure gaze catches your eye. Darting your eyes away from his quickly, he makes his way towards you, kneeling on one knee, taking your hand gently in his, and placing a gentle kiss on your hand; he looks back up to you, "It's an honor to be here, Your Highness. I trust you are fairing well this evening?" He asks, his voice oozing with honey.

There was an air of prevarication about him that seems to suck you in, taking in his beauty. Holding in a small breath, you reply to his advances, "The pleasure is all mine. This evening certainly is entertaining, to say the least," letting out a short, curt laugh.

Albedo, chuckling, stands up, ushering Zhongli that his greeting is over. Once more, Zhongli announces, "Presenting Crown Prince Diluc Ragnvinder, and his brother, Prince Kaeya Alberich. The Royal Highnesses of Mondstadt"

The door swinging open once more, two men walk in, equally grabbing your attention; not sure who to keep your eyes on. Diluc having the brightest crimson hair like the hottest forge in the kingdom, announces his presence first, his crimson eyes like a passionate fire, glancing you up and down before kneeling to your feet. Lifting your foot, he places a soft kiss upon your heels, "Being in your presence is a great honor, Your Highness," he says with tenderness, causing your heart to skip a beat before he stands up, offering his brother.

Kaeya, having a playful smirk, laughs cheerfully, "You are quite the knockout, Your Highness, " he says flirtatiously, his deep blue eyes seemingly staring into your very core, making you feel vulnerable. Still, your heart couldn't stop skipping a beat as Kaeya reached forward, grasping a few strands of your hair, kissing it gently before pulling away.

With their greetings over, Zhongli announces the last and final suitor, "Hailing over Inazuma as the head of the Kamisato clan; we have Kamisato Ayato, accompanied by his sister, Kamisato Ayaka."

Ayato walking in with such a dignified grace catches your attention immediately; his sapphire eyes shining with affection as if they were smiling right at you, making you suck in your breath before he puts one hand on his chest, his other behind his back, you, bowing gracefully, not daring to make a move out of respect, "It is a great honor to be basked in your glory, Your Highness," he says with gentleness, his eyes never faltering from yours. Taking a step back, he joins the others in the line before you.

Eyeing each one before you, considering how they presented themselves, your heart still pounding away at the sheer beauty in front of you, you go over the candidates.

WITH WHOM DO YOU CHOOSE TO SPEND MORE TIME?

ALBEDO: A Prince with a mysterious past, careful and calculated, hiding a secret you couldn't possibly imagine. Do you want to carry the aura of the stars with him? Ch. 1 here

DILUC: First in line to the throne, he carries a heavy burden and blames himself for his father's death. Can you ignite the snuffed flame in his heart?

KAEYA: The flirtatious playboy who seems like the constant troublemaker, but behind his playful personality is a shroud of sadness and heartbreak. Can you melt his cold heart?

KAMISATO AYATO: A perfect gentleman but hard to read; he has a strong sense of duty, often losing himself in state affairs. Will you be able to gain his affections?

ZHONGLI: The head butler for as long as you can remember. A gentle yet stoic soul. Filled with wisdom, he often tutors you in state affairs. Having a one-sided love for him, can you finally show him how you truly feel and go against your father's wishes? [ROUTE LOCKED]

SCARAMOUCHE: An assassin sent to end your bloodline, starting with you. After failing, he can't help but keep watch over you from the shadows. Will you take the risk?[ROUTE LOCKED]

[noelle-holi-gay]

oo i think susie and ralsei or noelle and ralsei are good dynamics, so hm maybe... for the former, something from when they split up from kris and were at the fair? and for the latter it could be in snowgrave to spice things up, maybe related to ralsei knowing of her ice magic and power even when she doesnt showcase it

Gonna go for 'snowgrave Ralsei & Noelle' because I've had snowgrave on the brain recently:

Ralsei perked up as he sensed a Lightner enter into Castle Town. He put down his book and hurried out of the castle, making his way over to the town's entrance. Kris was there, marching forwards, looking like they were on a mission.

"Kris!" he greeted. "Welcome back!"

Kris didn't say anything. They kept walking.

"Um--what brings you here?" Ralsei tried.

"Shopping," they said simply. "Checking if there are new weapons."

"Weapons...?" Ralsei questioned, unsure. "W-well, I guess that's fine. Did you want me to--"

"No," Kris cut off.

Ralsei recoiled from the bluntness, but Kris didn't seem to care, continuing to stride off towards Seam's store. Ralsei was about to follow, but before he could, he felt another presence enter the fountain, and he let his shoulders relax. Susie would know what to do.

But instead of Susie, a deer monster fell down from above, snow-white robes billowing out from her as she dropped to the ground. She stood up on shaky hooves, looking down at herself with growing horror.

"Noelle?" Ralsei asked in surprise, stepping forward.

She yelped, jumping back and staring at him with wide, fearful eyes. "Who--who are you? How do you know my name?"

"I'm Ralsei. I guess we never did properly meet, did we?" He frowned; something was wrong. "Are you okay?"

"Right. From the... the rollercoaster. Gosh, that feels like a lifetime ago," Noelle said softly, taking him in. "This... isn't a dream. Oh, Angel save me..."

Ralsei furrowed his brow. "Wait, you didn't know? I figured since Kris brought you here, they'd already filled you in."

"They--they didn't bring me here," Noelle said, her voice barely above a whisper. "They were acting strange, so I followed them."

Ralsei's eyes widened. "Strange how?"

"It's... hard to explain," Noelle mumbled. "Nobody else seems to notice it, but they havne't known Kris as long as I have. Or... maybe I'm just finally losing it." She gave a harsh laugh. "What's the difference anymore?"

"Noelle..." Ralsei took a small step forward, worry spreading across his face. "When we split up with Kris in the Cyber World, you were with them, weren't you?"

Noelle's eyes widened. "How did you know that?"

"A feeling," Ralsei said. "What happened while you were with them?"

"That--" Something visceral flashed across Noelle's expression for a moment, but just as quickly, she pulled it back into a somber, half-lidded frown. "Nothing happened. Nothing important, anyway."

Ralsei heard a soft crackling sound, and looked down to see frost slowly creeping out from Noelle's hooves. His eyes widened, but he tried his best not to show that he'd noticed, meeting Noelle's eye and taking another slow, cautious step forward. "I just want to help," he promised, putting his hands out placatingly. "If something happened--if Kris made you do something--"

"STAY BACK!" Noelle shouted suddenly, throwing a hand out towards him. Glittering fleks of ice swirled dangerously around her fingers, and Ralsei could see tears of ice frozen fast to her cheek fur.

He paused, taking a healty step backwards and holding up his hands in surrender. Then his attention was drawn to something on her hand, and he gasped. "Noelle... why are you wearing a ring like that? Doesn't it hurt?"

"What?" Noelle asked, confused. Then she brought her hand up to her face and gasped, recognition mixing with terror on her face, and she quickly clenched her other hand around the finger, hiding the gnarled ring from view. A few crumbs of dust trickled out from under her clenched hand. "That's--I just--don't look at that!"

"Noelle--"

"We were just getting stronger, okay?!" she cried, stumbling backwards. "They were helping me! It was--it's fine. Everything's fine! I--I should go."

The ice under her hooves crunched as she swiftly turned around, walking away from him.

"Noelle, wait!" he called out, running after her. "I can help you! I don't know exactly what's going on, but--but I think I can help!"

Noelle was quiet for a second, but when she spoke, her voice was low and cold. "You'd only get in their way." She turned to look over her shoulder, icy tears glinting out from her lower eyelid. "Please, Ralsei," she begged. "Please don't get in their way."

Then she turned back around, stepped into the light, and was gone.

[pillow-anime-talk]

genshin month ; twenty-eighth day.

synopsis: You were the older, missing sibling of two fair-haired twins. Fortunately, with the help of Paimon, your younger sister and younger brother found you and so you could begin your final journey – a journey to your home, or rather a place where the four of you will be able to live.

# tags: scenario; family & siblings relation (+ being besties with paimon); big sis figure; adventure!au; fluff; sfw

includes: female reader ft. paimon, lumine & aether {genshin impact}

author’s note: i can’t believe it’s the last day! aaAaAAaaahHHHH!!!

You smiled a bit under your breath when you felt another, slightly tighter grip on both of your little fingers. On your right side was Aether with a soft but unusually precious smile on his thin lips. On your left, on the other hand, Lumine was walking calmly – the young girl kept looking around to make sure that no suspicious danger was going to hurt or scare all of you. 

Ah! And of course, Paimon hovered over your heads, talking to you about all kinds of topics; from your favorite drink, through the most pleasant memories of the last month, to a few funny jokes you two heard from other people.

“... Y/N~! You should definitely try the ‘Moon Pie’! It’s delicious, really filling and it has an indescribable taste...” Paimon changed the theme of the conversation one more time, and you were very eager to take the topic further, mentioning the snacks you’ve managed to eat on the other side of the world.

The tiny fairy-looked woman immediately went hungry at the sound of your words, as evidenced by the rumbling sound from her smol belly. You giggled sweetly, stopping suddenly.

“S-Sister? Is everything all right?” Your sister, five years younger than you, became concerned and her big eyes were on your figure so you were about to open your mouth, but...

“Are you tired, big sis? I can carry you or something...” Aether also glanced uncertainly at your face, and you just shook your head, looking around quickly to find a nice and quiet place.

“I’m fine, I’m fine! I just thought we should get some rest. You’re all hungry, aren’t you? I know that this is the first day of our expedition, but we cannot overstrain ourselves and do something beyond our limits. Let’s find a safe place and eat something hot, ‘kay?” You offered in a warm tone, and your two younger siblings agreed with your words. “Heh... Maybe my dishes aren’t as amazing as those from Mondstadt or Liyue, but they will definitely make you feel like you used to be... at our home.” You added at at the end, and the golden-yellow-eyed twins smiled happily.

It took a few longer minutes to find the perfect spot near the large cave where you could set up a fire and prepare some grilled fish or vegetables; then the four of you sat down on hard gray stones and old wooden branches, eating and talking about more or less important things. The knights questioned you again about your travels and activities, and you eagerly told them about what you were doing in a country thousands of kilometers away from Teyvat all that time. Later, you also asked a few short questions about the people your minor siblings met; about Childe, about the Acting Grand Master named Jean, about bard Venti... 

Of course, you haven’t forgotten about the smiling and cute Paimon, thanking her once again quietly for taking care of Lumine and Aether.

Your little thanks and praises made the two sixteen-year-olds blush, begging you to stop intimidating them. However, each big sister’s job was very simple; you had to protect and look after your siblings... Especially since for the last year you three were separated and you had no way of watching their development. You had to make up for it all over again.

“Okay, anyway. It’s already quite late. I think I’ll take first watch...”

“No, no. I should do it! Big sister, you need to rest.” Lumine pushed the food away from her mouth, then groaned as she felt a innocent punch on her smooth thigh.

“No, I should stand on guard. I am the only man here, so I should protect you!” The fair-haired teenager obviously didn’t want to let his twin win, but you instantly grabbed their heads in your hands, bringing their faces to your both shoulders.

“Stop, stop. As I mentioned, I’ll take care of it, so listen to your big sister and just rest.” You gave a pair of blondes a quick wink, and they sighed loudly.

Needless to say, your first night after finding each other looked like: your siblings cuddled into your arms and you, surrounded by the calm breathing of two twins, also fell asleep quickly, causing Paimon to roll her shiny eyes and take care of the first watch tonight.

The small fairy wasn’t angry with you, naturally; honestly, she didn’t meet a person as gentle and authentic as you for a long time, so allowing the three of you to spend time together and rest was a pleasure for the white-haired, and at the same time something very intriguing.

Plus, tomorrow your actual adventure to your old (new?) home will begin, and Paimon was really looking forward to how your relation would develop and at the same second how your last mission would be... It was all so interesting!

previous day ; noelle ♡ last post ; thank you!