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winterarmyy · 2 months

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Against All Odds | Part I

An arranged marriage with the duke's illegitimate son!bucky.

Summary: In a medieval kingdom where magic and political intrigue are woven into the fabric of society, Y/N, the youngest daughter of a noble Earl family, finds herself in an arranged marriage to James Buchanan Barnes, the illegitimate son of the Duke. Known as the Winter Soldier, Bucky's reputation as a monster in war had instilled anxiety into Y/N's heart. But that fear quickly begins to crumble when she discovers that her husband is not the brutal figure society depicts him to be.

Navigation: Part I | Part II | Part III (end)

Words: 8.1k++

Pairing: duke's illegitimate son!bucky x noble!female!reader

Warnings: fantasy/medieval au, i did not write this with much knowledge of fantasy nor medieval lore. I write it solely for plot and the couple dynamic lmao. if you're expecting full blown fantasy novel; this ain't it, man. anyways, 18+ contents, no minors allowed, nsfw, cunnilingus, p in v, unprotected sex, creampie, loss of virginity, praise kink, breeding kink (if you squint), marking kink (i think), soft fluffy smut, a wee bit of dirty talk. soft!reader and even softer!bucky. (idk what else, so tell me if there's something i miss.)

P/S: This is the fic for an idea I had earlier this year. The first chapter will only cover the original post but what happens next is something you will need to look forward on the upcoming chapters. Enjoy your read!

Read my other works here: Masterlist

Y/N stood in front of the grand mirror in her chamber, her reflection staring back at her with wide, fearful eyes. The delicate lace of her wedding dress was the opposite of the twisting anxiety in her stomach. Today, she was to marry James Buchanan Barnes, the illegitimate son of the Duke of the kingdom, a man labelled to be more beast than human.

He was known as the Winter Soldier, a title whispered with both fear and awe. Tales of his gruesome feats in battle, his merciless brutality, and his cold, metal arm was deemed as a horror story for the children in the kingdom. People spoke of him as a monstrous weapon, a beast moulded by the Emperor to do his bidding without question or hesitation.

Y/N had heard the stories many times before; and it has always been a hushed conversation that floats around whether a ballroom of a gala, or at the tables of the garden parties, sometimes even in between the racks of books in the library.

They always painted a picture of a man who lived only for war, devoid of humanity.

She couldn't help but let these tales feed her imagination. What kind of man was he truly? Did he revel in the violence, or was he a prisoner to his fate? Y/N shuddered at the thought, her heart heavy with fear and uncertainty.

Her father, the Earl, had made it clear why she needed to marry him. It was a political manoeuvre, a strategic alliance to strengthen their family's position. The duke, Bucky's father, wielded considerable power, and their union would bring the Earl closer to the heart of the kingdom's influence.

And when he heard that the duke was looking for a wife for his bastard son, he knew that she would be perfect. That was when Y/N, the youngest daughter, became the pawn in this game. Her father's ambitions certainly outweighed any consideration for her feelings or desires.

Y/N had always longed for a marriage of love, a dream she clung to despite her circumstances. She was a hopeless romantic through and through; much like her late mother. She remembered the nights when her mother would read to her and her siblings, spinning tales of prince charming and valiant heroes.

The fire crackled warmly in the hearth as her mother’s soothing voice filled the room. Y/N and her siblings, her older brother Eric and sister Clara, lay tucked under blankets, their eyes wide with wonder.

"And then the prince, with a heart full of love, swept the princess into his arms, vowing to protect her forever," her mother read, her voice a melodic whisper.

Y/N, her eyes sparkling with innocence, declared, "When I grow up, I want to marry a prince charming too!"

Clara, ever the practical one, nodded in agreement. "Me too! He has to be brave and kind."

Eric, being a little boy, scrunched his nose in distaste. "I don’t want to get married. I want to be a knight!"

Their mother chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair from Y/N’s forehead. "It does not matter if he is a prince charming or a humble knight. As long as you marry the one you love, that is what truly matters."

Y/N's heart ached at the memory. How she wished her mother were still here to guide her through this terrifying day. The gentle knock on the door brought her back to the present.

"Lady Y/N, it’s time," one of the maids said softly.

Y/N took a long and deep breath, smoothing down the fabric of her dress. She followed the maid down the corridor, her mind a swirl of emotions. Reaching the grand doors of the church, her father waited for her.

"Remember, Y/N," he said, his voice stern. "Do not mess this up. Just endure it. And you'll be fine. This is the most useful you can be to our family."

Her heart sank further; yet she nodded obediently.

Compared to Y/N, her elder brother, a celebrated swordsman, and her sister, a master in the art of business, had always outshone her in their father's eyes. Y/N's talent with languages; ancient and modern – was seen as a useless skill, something that brought no tangible benefit to the family.

Her father had never been cruel when she was younger but everything changed when her mother died. In fact, everyone in the family had lost a piece of their soul when she left. Now, his lack of affection only increases the number of scars on her heart.

The doors opened, revealing the crowds of high-ranking nobles; who were mostly strangers – staring at her. Some were judging her; some pitied her. She reminded herself that she was doing this for her family, for the greater good. But the little girl inside her who dreamed of prince charming certainly felt a pang of sorrow.

As she walked down the aisle, her legs trembled, and her hands shook so violently that she had to clasp them together to steady herself. From afar, she saw the silhouette of the man she was destined to marry. His tall and huge figure stood out compared to anyone in the hall. As she got closer, she kept her gaze fixed on the floor, too afraid to look up at her husband-to-be.

When she finally reached the altar, the priest began the ceremony. His speech was long and dragging, giving Y/N too much time to entertain her growing curiosity that she dared to glance up at the man next to her. Even from behind the veil, she could see his towering and broad-shouldered build, his presence commanding the room. His long hair was slightly untamed, and a scruffy beard framed his face. His metal hand, glinting in the sun that leaked through the church’s windows, was a jarring reminder of the rumors that surrounded him.

There were no heartfelt vows to recite to each other; only their promise of "I do" was exchanged. And that was the first time Y/N heard his voice. It was deep and resonant, sending a shiver down her spine; but there was a certain warmth in it that contrasted sharply with his fearsome reputation.

When the priest announced their union and Bucky lifted her veil, Y/N was struck by the unexpected gentleness in his eyes. They were a brilliant, mesmerizing blue, and for a moment, she forgot to breathe. Bucky's eyes softened as he looked at her, his gaze tender and almost reverent. Slowly, he placed one hand gently around her waist, pulling her slightly closer. His other hand came up to cup her cheek, his touch surprisingly gentle against her skin.

Y/N's heart pounded in her chest as he leaned in, her breath catching in her throat. When his lips met hers, they were soft, warm, and so unexpected. She could smell his cologne; an earthy, woodsy scent mixed with a hint of something fruity; like peaches or tangerines. It made her head spin and her heart jumped all at the same time.

The kiss was gentle and unhurried, very much differs to the forceful gesture she had feared. As he pulled away, Y/N found herself blinking slowly, her cheeks flushed and her fear momentarily replaced by confusion and a surprising awe. She was caught off guard by the tenderness of his touch, the way his lips had brushed against hers so gently.

Could the rumors about him be wrong?

"I’m sorry if I startled you," he said, his voice low and gentle. "I hope I didn’t scare you, my dear."

Y/N blinked slowly, trying to process the sudden shift in her emotions. The fear that had gripped her so tightly seemed to dissipate, replaced by a confusing mix of relief and intrigue. Her hands, which had been trembling, now rested at her sides, feeling strangely steady. Her eyes met his, and she could see softness in his gaze that contradicted the harsh rumors she had heard.

“I—no, you didn’t scare me,” she managed to say; her voice barely more than a whisper. She took a deep breath, her cheeks getting warmer as she processed the endearment he just called her. On the other hand, her mind was racing as she tried to reconcile the man in front of her with the fearsome figure of the Winter Soldier.

Bucky’s eyes mellowed even further, his gaze glazed with a tenderness that seemed to pierce through the weight of the room. A warm smile spread across his face, and he held her gaze with a comforting assurance.

“Good,” he said, his voice carrying a gentle affection. “I’m glad to hear that.”

The reception that followed was a blur of faces and polite conversation. Y/N moved through the crowd, accepting congratulations and well-wishes, but her mind was elsewhere. She couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to Bucky than the rumors suggested. Every time she caught his eye, he gave her a small, reassuring smile that made the butterflies inside of her go wild.

As the evening drew to a close, they were escorted to one of the Emperor’s palaces, a grand and opulent residence that was to serve as their temporary home before they traveled north to Bucky’s territory. The palace, with its lavish furnishings and golden accents, seemed to mock the uncertainty Y/N felt. She had been assigned a chamber to prepare for the night, and the palace maids were bustling around her, helping her into a set of elaborate, far-from-modest lingerie.

The palace’s maids’ whispers and side glances did nothing to ease her growing anxiety. Their condescending tones and occasional snickers were laced with cruel speculation about how roughly Bucky would treat her. The more Y/N overheard, the more her apprehension grew. Despite the gentleness Bucky had shown her earlier, she found herself doubting its sincerity.

Could he really be the caring husband he appeared to be, or was it all just an elaborate show?

The maids finally left, their laughter fading down the hallway, leaving Y/N alone in the grand chamber. Her heart raced, and cold sweat formed at her brow as she sat quietly on the edge of the ornate bed. She kept her gaze firmly on the floor, her hands fidgeting in her lap. The room felt enormous, its sheer size heightening her sense of isolation and dread.

The door creaked open, and Bucky entered the room. Y/N’s heart nearly stopped as she heard the heavy, measured footsteps approaching. She couldn’t bring herself to look up, her body tense and her mind a swirl of panic and unease. She almost held her breath entire when she felt the slight indentation of the mattress beside her.

“Y/N,” Bucky’s voice was soft and coaxing, a distinct difference to the coldness she was expecting. “Look at me.” He continued. She hesitated momentarily; torn between obeying and disobeying but ultimately decided to raise her eyes to meet his.

The sight of him; his upper body bare, revealing a tapestry of scars and the stark metal of his prosthetic arm; made her breath hitch. Her eyes traced the lines of his faded wound, particularly the jagged marks where his shoulder met his metal arm. She couldn’t help but feel a pang of sorrow and concern. Her fingers, almost of their own accord, reached out to trace the contours of his chest and shoulder.

Bucky let the innocence of her touch to trace the most tainted parts of him; however noting her trembling eyes, he misunderstood her apprehension. “I want you to know, Y/N,” he said, his voice firm yet gentle, “that I will never hurt you. You are safe with me.”

Y/N shook her head, her heart aching. She felt an unexplainable pain growing in her chest as she gazed at him. Her fingers still lightly touching his scars; her eyes, full of unshed tears, silently asked a question she was too afraid to voice. “Does it still hurt?” she wanted to ask, her expression betraying her concern.

Bucky’s eyes sparkled with affection, and he took her hand in his, holding it tenderly against his chest. “Don't worry. It does not hurt anymore,” he said with a reassuring smile.

The connection between them was electric, charged with a deep, unspoken understanding. Bucky’s gaze was steady and filled with a depth of unspoken emotion that took Y/N’s breath away. “I know this is difficult for you, Y/N,” he said, his voice laden with sincerity. “But I promise, I will do everything in my power to make you happy.”

His words and the way he looked at her left Y/N feeling both comforted and overwhelmed. For the first time since their wedding, she felt a genuine, flickering hope that maybe, just maybe, their marriage could become something more than a mere political arrangement. Bucky’s assurances, his gentleness, and the tenderness in his eyes began to dissolve the fears she had harboured since the beginning of their union.

As they sat there, the weight of the night’s expectations seemed to lift, replaced by a fragile but growing trust. Y/N had entered this marriage with a sense of duty, convinced that she would have to endure the consummation of their union as a matter of obligation. But Bucky’s tenderness, his understanding, and the sincere reassurance he had given her began to change her perspective.

The idea of fulfilling her marital duty had initially felt like a burden she had to bear. She had steeled herself to face it with resignation, convinced that it was merely another part of her role in this arranged marriage. But now, she found herself reconsidering. The idea of being with him no longer felt like an obligation but a possibility of something more profound and intimate.

Y/N hands softly toyed with the delicate strings of her sheer lingerie, pulling it softly as her doe eyes signalled her husband of her intention. Bucky, sensing the shift in her demeanor, looked into her eyes with a mixture of concern and affection. “Are you sure, my dear?” he asked softly. “I want you to feel safe with me and not afraid of me.”

Y/N’s heart fluttered as she met his gaze, her own eyes reflecting the depth of her emotions. “I am,” she said with quiet conviction. “I feel safe with you, James”

Bucky's hand naturally went to brush her hair behind her ear, “It’s Bucky, my dear,” he corrected softly.

“Hmm?” she asked, slightly puzzled.

He chuckled warmly. “You can call me Bucky from now on. It’s a nickname only a selected few who I trust and love knows.” Her eyes sparkled at his choice words; trust and love.

“Bucky…” she tested the name on her tongue, the syllables feeling strangely intimate. Upon hearing his name from her lips, Bucky’s heart swelled, almost bursting from his ribcage. He hummed in approval, “That's right, my dear. I’m your Bucky.”

His reassuring smile grew wider, his calloused thumb gently stroke her cheek causing a shiver to strum all over her nerves; sending an emerging desire. One she had not fully acknowledged until now. The way he looked at her, the pure and raw endearment in his eyes, and the softness of his touch stirred something deep within her.

As the moments passed, Y/N realised she wanted this. She wanted to feel his lips on hers, to explore the warmth of his hands, to connect with him on a level she had longed for. The yearning for his touch, which had been dormant under layers of fear and uncertainty, now surged forward with undeniable intensity.

Without fully understanding why, Y/N found herself leaning closer to him, her breath coming in soft, eager gasps. She whispered, her voice barely audible but full of longing, “Bucky, please.”

Bucky’s expression softened, and a tender light filled his blue eyes, “May I?” he asked, his voice low and gentle as he held out his hand. There a shy hesitation before she finally placed her hand in his.

With a gentle but firm pull, Bucky lifted her onto his lap, his careful hands beginning the process of undressing her. Each movement was full of care, yet almost deliberate, as he slowly removed her dress, leaving her in nothing but the flimsy lace piece covering the sacred area between her thighs.

Bucky's eyes roamed over her bare skin, admiration clear in his gaze. Y/N could feel the heat of his gaze, the way his eyes traced every curve and contour of her body. The intensity of it made her feel both vulnerable and cherished, a potent combination that sent pleasurable shivers all over her body.

Seeing the hunger in his blue eyes, she felt the warmth of his body and caught the scent of him; the same once she noticed at the church; warm and comforting. Her breath quickened, and she found herself unsure of what to do or where to place her hands, feeling like a deer caught in headlights.

Noticing the subtle panic, Bucky reached for her hands and guided them through the thick strands of his long hair. “You can touch me as you please, my dear,” he whispered, his voice soothing as he reassured her. He leaned in to kiss her bare shoulder, then moved up to her neck, along her jaw, leaving a trail of warmth on her skin.

Y/N’s fingers tangled in his hair, the softness surprising her. The intimacy of the moment, combined with his gentle kisses, began to dissolve the last remnants of her anxiety. The feel of his lips on her skin was electrifying, each kiss sending waves of sensation she never felt before.

Bucky’s hands, still careful and tender, caressed her back, drawing her closer to him. Her breath hitched as he kissed the valley of her breasts; soft gasps escaping her lips as Bucky begins to lick and sucked on her delicate skin; likely trying to mark his claim on her.

Every touch and little kisses he left sent shivers straight to her already dripping core. And by the time his lips grazed her nipple, her body jerked forward; in response, unintentionally dragging her aching pussy against his thick thigh.

His lips latched around her right nipples as he licks and sucks the hardening skin; lapping at it as if he was feeding from her. The sensation was overwhelming, yet she found herself leaning into his touch, her body responding to his gentle ministrations. The grip on his hair grew tighter as the strings of moans poured out her lips.

Bucky’s large hands find their place on her hips, guiding her to gently rut on his thigh. Trusting him, she followed his lead as he continue to grind her clit through the thin fabric she was wearing; introducing the sweet friction in on her core. Bucky pulled back slightly to look into her eyes, his expression filled with a mixture of subtle affection and desire. “You’re doing wonderfully, my dear. Can feel your pussy leaking on me. Do you feel good?” he murmured as he dipped back to kiss her neck.

Oh, he was filthy with his choice of words but surprisingly she was not mad about it. In fact she didn’t even notice the whimpers purring in her throat upon hearing those sinful words.

It was as if Bucky recognized that needy sound she made; it caused a smile to spread on his lips. She can feel it grow against the skin in between her breasts, “My my, is my sweet wife feeling needy right now?” he teased playfully as he effortlessly lifted her up and laid her down on their bed.

Placing himself in between her soft thighs, his lustful gaze trained on her naked body; he admired the marks he has left on her breasts, the wet patch on the flimsy fabric covering her cunt, and the way her breath shuddered when he teasingly grind his harden cock against her.

Y/N can feel the contrast of his hands on her thigh, one warm, one cold. Her eyes drew her attention from his hands to his gorgeous face. Oh, the pure unfiltered lust in his eyes was pulling her in so effortlessly; seducing her to submit her body and soul to him completely. Shying away from his stare, she dragged her view down to his chiselled jaw, his broad chest then slowly to his beautiful abs.

She admired his body as much as he did of hers.

But what was more prominent out of all, was the way she could feel his erection throbbing against her heat. Blood went rushing towards her face when Bucky guided her hips against the confinement of his cock, which in response; causing her hands naturally found their way to cover her face in embarrassment.

A deep chuckle bubbled from Bucky’s throat; he found her reaction to be absolutely endearing. He leaned down towards her, one hand holding himself up and another tenderly pulling her hands away, then drawing it close to his chest, right against his beating heart.

Having nowhere to run, Y/N’s teary eyes drowned in his ocean blues, “Don’t hide from me, dearest.” He peppered a delicate kiss on her forehead, then on her nose, then on her cheek. She could feel the prickly sensation of his beard grazing on her skin. It was ticklish and a little bit painful and yet weirdly enough, it felt good that it naturally made her want to nuzzle it more.

But before she could, Bucky’s lips were already making their way down to her stomach. Her body responds to how soft his lips trailing down; and further down until she could feel them on her clothed core. A surprised yelp fell from her lips as he tore the last piece of clothing from her.

“Now, hands away from your face, my dear. I want to see that beautiful eyes of yours when I eat your sweet pussy.” his voice was honeyed when he made himself comfortable in between her thighs. His hands reached upwards to intertwine both of her hands with his own; acting as a restraint to restrict her from covering her face.

Y/N almost sat up upon hearing his words, “Eat what now?”, the question she had in mind was unable to be vocalised; due to her confusion. Prior to marriage, she had learned about sex and its purpose in her marital studies. Unbeknownst to her, the knowledge she had was few and limited for academic purposes only. Which means there were only the few illustrations of penetration depicted in books and the process of how children are bred as a result of it.

So what does he mean when he said those words? While she was still lost and confused, Bucky on the other hand was in his own world; completely and utterly transfixed on the glistening need of her cunt. She was dripping wet; the juices covering her slits perfectly; her scent was intoxicating and if it weren’t for the fact that this is her first time, Bucky would’ve ate her like a man starved of touch. But, he can’t do that. Not tonight. He wanted to be gentle; to cherish her, to love on her.

Seeing the darkened clouds in his eyes as he stared at her private, Y/N braved herself to ask, “What are you– ohh hmmm” her sentence ended up transforming into a toe curling moan as she felt Bucky’s wet tongue flattened across her weeping core. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head as he dragged her clit into his mouth and sucked. He strummed her clit with his tongue, causing her to arch her back and he took the opportunity to push his face further into her cunt; licking and sucking quite the literal soul out her.

It felt amazing but her self-consciousness won the battle in her head, she let out a whimpering plea, “Buc--bucky st-stop. That’s dirty.” as she gripped on his hands, trying to escape from his grip. Bucky growled against her in response to her futile protest. The sweet vibration only caused her pleasure all over her fluttering core.

When Bucky pulled away for a moment; it caused her to feel a sense of loss. “It’s not dirty, my dear. In fact, it’s so sweet.” His lips moved to kiss on her inner thigh, murmuring against her skin as he left yet more of his marks on her, “So fucking sweet.” He releases his right hand from hers, just to rub his thumb on her clit, slowly dragging it in between her slit; smearing her wetness all around her throbbing bundle of nerves. Her thighs trembled to the sensation of his rough movement of his thumb and a string of shaky mewls fell out of her.

“But..” she tried to protest but immediately stopped when Bucky brought his soaked thumb to her mouth. Her lips were wet from how he gently smeared the juices on her, “Taste yourself.” He lured her softly. Hesitation glints in her eyes as her cheeks redden. Bucky’s eyes grew tender at her watery ones, he whispered lowly, “Sweetheart, do you trust me?”

She does; but she does not trust her own voice to not come out sounding like a needy moan, so she simply nodded. Bucky’s pink lips spread into a smile, “Good girl. Now, open up.” he coaxed lovingly.

Y/N opened her mouth as she was told and let Bucky slip his thumb inside; he was not shy to smother her juices across her tongue, coaxing her to suck on it. To get a taste of what he was having. “It’s sweet”, she thought to herself. A muffled moan purred in her throat at the thought of her husband enjoying the taste of her.

Bucky smirk grew at her reaction, “Tastes good huh, sweetheart?” he pulled his thumb away, leaving her nodding to his question. “Now are you going to let me enjoy your pussy?” his brow quirked when he tilted his head to the side. How can she deny him now? Her eyes glazed with need as she replied, “Yes, please”.

Her mouth falls open in anticipation as a low moan creeps up her throat. Bucky’s tongue slips past her folds, she watched him between her legs, savouring her pussy with his unfiltered groans vibrating against her sensitive spot. Breathless moans and incoherent pleads fall from her mouth as the soft and firm tip of his tongue circled her swollen pearl and flicked it. Bucky’s hands went to her hips, guiding it in time with her own movements, giving her partial control to set the pace.

“Buckyyyy.” She gasped as she alternated between wanting to push his head away or keep him in place. Meanwhile, the man in between her thighs had lost himself; consumed by pure desire the more he drank from her cunt. His tongue moved faster against her clit when he noticed the beat of her throbbing cunt increased. She was going to come. He was sure of it.

The way that she was practically creaming on his tongue drove him near feral. He kept lapping at her juices as if it was the sweetest honey he ever tasted; fuck he even sucked her clit in hopes to force out more of her nectar to leak; then he’d lap on it again.

The sweet cycle had pushed Y/N over the edge, her eyes rolling back as pleasure and her hips slightly lifted as pleasure surges through her veins.“Oh oh Bucky please please.” She didn’t what she was begging for as she chanted his name. “I’m gonna, ‘m gonna–“ her words died as she squealed; her body trembling in pleasure.

His tongue moved faster against her clit; her cum was dripping out of her; coating his beard but his frantic licks didn’t stop even when she continue to gush on his tongue.

“Bucky please, sensitive..” It was too much; her orgasm, her swollen clit, his tongue. Everything.

Unfortunately for her, Bucky was far gone to stop now. He had the taste of her cum, now he wants nothing more than to have it again. Despite her protest, Bucky held her hip down, interlocking his hands across her stomach to keep her in place and continue to lick and suck on her overstimulated cunt.

Her whiny pleas didn’t come across as a sign for him to stop; instead it kept him going causing him to bury his face further in between her legs. His cock continued to throb in his pants, probably leaking with so much pre-cum and in need of some sort of relief but he ignored it. He wants nothing more than for Y/N to cum on his tongue again.

And that is exactly what happened next.

The moment she fell over the edge, Bucky pushed her even harder against him as her whole body spasmed. He maintained his pace on lapping up at her all throughout her high as her hands went from his hair to the headboard, trying to hold her limp body upright. Y/N took a moment to gather herself together, panting heavily as she regained their senses; while Bucky was swift to pull his pants off and throw it to the side.

He grabbed on her hips, holding her firmly in place as his heavy leaking cock nestled between her aching pussy. “Are you sure about this, my dear?” his hot breath fanning against her neck as he gently ruts into her heat. Even though Bucky can see the darken lust in her eyes, he still wanted to make sure that she was sure of her decision.

Y/N’s heart swelled at his concern, and she found herself smiling, a genuine smile that reflected the warmth she felt inside. She pulled him closer and kissed him, pouring all her newfound trust and affection into the kiss. “Yes, Bucky. I am very sure. ”

Bucky quickly responded with equal passion, his tongue slipped in between her lips; exploring the warmness of her mouth, the softness of her tongue. Their muffled moans filled the silenced room, his hands moved to caress her sides, drawing her even closer before breaking away from the heated kiss.

Resting his forehead on hers, his eyes trained on her beautiful face; not wanting to miss his chance to witness the pleasure contorting on her expression. He nudges her clit first, rubbing it slow and sensual before trailing down to her entrance. Gradually, he inches closer, he pushes in and through the tightness of her sacred channel.

Delving impossibly deep, her tightness wrapped around his thick cock until the tip of him reached the deepest parts of her. The sudden feeling of fullness on her untainted pussy caused her to experience both pain and the delightful sensation inside her. The ecstasy of being so knitly connected to each other caused both of them to simultaneously let out moans and groans of raw pleasure.

Bucky waited for her to adjust to his size; leaning down to pamper her with the softest kisses and praises that tears started to swell in her eyes. It was as if Bucky knew exactly what she wanted to hear, how she wanted to be treated and what makes her feel good.

“You’re doing so good, my dear.”

“Look at how perfect your pussy’s taking my cock. So perfect.”

“Made for me aren’t you, sweetheart?. Made to be loved by me, made to be stuffed full of my cock.”

“I promise you’ll be safe with me, Y/N. Always.”

When Y/N finally gave him the permission to move, Bucky kissed her pouty lips and murmured sweetly, “Thank you, my dear.” His hands travelled to find her ankle; which he then gently prop her calf over his broad shoulder. He started pumping in and out slowly, letting her get used to the friction.

Bucky couldn’t help but to groan out to the feeling of her wet hole gripping his cock ever-so-tightly. It was slippery and dripping, that he almost completely slid out of her. Gripping her closer he continue ramming himself back in, deeper, harder; sliding in and out of her at an even pace. Each force of his cock causing her body to jerk in ecstasy; hitting that good spot in her so perfectly.

“S-shit, sweetheart,” he moans deep and heavy as he felt her pussy tightening around him. His metal hand slid in between them and his thumb hones in on her clit. The coldness of his finger made her jolt at first but when he proceeded to rub and pinch on it, everything suddenly started to feel too intense; so incredibly good.

With his fingers assaulting her clit, each thrust of his cock and every deep guttural moan and groan coming from Bucky, she felt her release was growing closer. Bucky also started thrusting faster and harder; he knew he was about to come. Especially when he can feel how much pre-cum has been leaking inside her.

He leaned and rested his forehead on hers, his needy ruts became more and more irregular when her pretty doe eyes looked up at him, “Cum for me, my dear.” his lips brushed against Y/N’s as he coaxed her to her sweet release. His thrusts got harsher and deeper and the friction of his metal finger working on her clit got her cunt to frantically tremble around him, “I wanna feel you milk my cock, sweetheart. Then, I’m gonna my pump cum inside you until you’re leaking.”

Although his words were debauched to no end, however Y/N could sense his genuine affection for her. She felt his sincerity in the way he looked at her, in the way he held her, in the silenced gaze they shared. Overwhelmed with pleasure, her nails dragged across Bucky’s back as she moaned and screamed out his name; letting the high took over her body.

“Fuck,, sweetheart. I’m gonna cum!” groaned as he took in the sound of her pleasured mewls. He ruthlessly grinds into her, savouring the feeling of her cunt tightened around him. With one last rut, he thrust his cock, balls deep inside and let his warm white strings filling her up to the brim. His cock twitches in her fluttering cunt, his legs tensing with every small grind he makes, groaning lowly at her as he bites down on her shoulder, almost drooling on her as he emptied himself completely into her.

Y/N continued to let out strings of soft moans as he pulled out from her leaking cunt; all swollen and sensitive. While she thought she could finally catch some breaths, she didn’t notice the way Bucky was biting on his lip at the sight of his cum dripping out of her, or how his hands lazily tugging on his now hardened cock.

“Dearest?” Bucky hovered above her as he cradled her by her flushed cheeks. She smiled sweetly as she leaned to his touch, “Yes, Bucky?”, she was anticipating him to utter more of those soft words and praises to her; but instead his lips curled into a devilish grin when he slid his cock back into her, immediately pulling a long sinful mewl of his name from her. Bucky hummed approvingly in response; he gently brushed his lips against hers, “May I fill you up again?”

As the morning sun streamed through the windows, Y/N slowly stirred awake. She reached out, instinctively searching for the warmth of her husband beside her, but found the space empty. A pang of loneliness touched her heart, but it was quickly replaced by curiosity when she saw a bouquet of bluebells, her favourite flower, placed delicately on the bedside table.

Next to the bouquet was a note. With a small smile, she picked it up and began to read.

"My Dearest Y/N,

I hate to leave you alone this morning, but I must ensure our journey home is smooth and safe. I trust you slept well, and I promise to return to your side as soon as I can.

Yours always,

Bucky"

The words written on the note were filled with sincerity and reassurance that made her heart flutter. She smiled, a blush creeping across her cheeks as she wondered how he knew bluebells were her favourite.

Just as she was lost in thought, the door opened, and the palace’s maids entered the room. Their faces were a mixture of curiosity and impatience, clearly expecting to see a frightened and bruised young bride.

However, when they saw Y/N's skin, they temporarily froze in their spots. Her skin was indeed bruised, but each one of them recognized the marks for what they were: love marks, not signs of harsh abuse that they were expecting. The traces of Bucky's possessive love were prominent all over her neck, chest, and inner thighs, leaving Y/N blushing as the maids, too, found themselves flushed with embarrassment.

“Well, isn’t this a surprise,” one of the older maids muttered under her breath, her tone laced with irritation. Another maid, with a more condescending sneer, huffed. “Looks like we lost the bet, ladies. Who would have thought the beast could be so... tender?”

Y/N’s cheeks burned with a mix of embarrassment and pride. She could feel their resentful glances and knew they were not pleased with the outcome. The marks on her body were a testament to the affection and desire Bucky had shown her, and despite the initial fear, she now wore them as symbols of the unexpected bond they had begun to forge.

The head maid, who had been the most vocal the night before, now seemed to handle her with an edge of bitterness. The other maids, who had been so quick to judge, were now silent, their eyes wide with resentment.One of the younger maids, braver than the rest, couldn’t hide her frustration. “Well, my lady, I suppose you’re alright, then?” she asked, her voice barely masking her disappointment.

Y/N looked at her, considering the appropriate response. If it was up to her, she ought to punish every single one of them for not knowing their place. Unfortunately, they were not her maids to begin with, but the palace's staff. Otherwise, she would likely fire each one of them.

The memory of Bucky’s affection and care filled her heart, leaving no room for anger or resentment. The warmth of his embrace and the gentle way he had treated her made the maids' behaviour seem petty and insignificant.

She could still feel the lingering touch of his lips on her skin, the way his hands had caressed her so delicately, and the sound of his reassuring voice. Her body was still tingling with the remnants of the previous night's intimacy. Her skin bore the marks of his love, not of brutality, and each bruise was a testament to the passion they had shared. It was completely different to the vile expectations of the maids.

A small smile playing on her lips despite the blush that still coloured her cheeks. "Yes," she said softly, "I am quite alright."

The maids exchanged annoyed glances, their expressions a mix of frustration and disbelief. Their muttered disappointments were tuned out as Y/N focused on the lingering warmth from the night before.

She couldn't hear a single thing except her heart beating to the thought of her husband. She missed him already. Who would’ve thought she’d be swooning for him so soon?

She found herself yearning for his presence, the comfort of his touch, and the sound of his reassuring voice. The memory of his gentle kiss and tender words lingered in her mind yet again, making her heart flutter.

As the maids continued their work, Y/N hoped they would at least perform their duties well enough to cover up for their childish behaviour. She wanted to be ready to see Bucky, to greet him with the same warmth and affection he had shown her. Despite their rudeness, she resolved to focus on the positive, cherishing the newfound bond with her husband.

Bucky stood at the head of the table, his stern expression and commanding presence filling the room. He was reviewing the logistics of their journey home, his voice cold and decisive as he issued instructions to his knights. His trusted knight, Sam, was detailing the possible hotspots for bandits they might encounter along the way.

"We'll likely face trouble here," Sam said, pointing to a spot on the map. "We should send some of our best men ahead to clear the path."

"Agreed," Bucky responded, his tone unyielding. "Deploy the knights in advance. Ensure the path is secure before we proceed."

Sam nodded and continued outlining the plan. He paused, expecting Bucky to reconfirm, but noticed a change in his leader's face. The harsh lines softened, his eyes filled with a tender warmth, as he stared intently at something across the room. Before Sam could look or utter a word, Bucky turned and walked away with determination.

Sam followed Bucky's gaze and understood immediately. "Ah, that's why," he muttered to himself as he watched Bucky approach Y/N. The change in Bucky’s demeanour was striking. He moved with a grace and warmth that was at odds with his usual stern and imposing presence.

Bucky’s eyes softened as he took in the sight of Y/N. He admired her beauty with a gaze filled with awe and adoration. The way he looked at her was as if he was seeing a vision he had longed for, a rare and precious gem that had finally come into his life.

As he extended his hand toward her, a gesture usually seen as etiquette but now entirely with different meaning, especially with the hearts bursting our of his blue eyes. Y/N’s face lighting up with a shy smile, took his hand; almost too eagerly. Bucky's fingers closed gently around hers, his touch tender and reassuring. The contrast between his usual, fearsome reputation and the gentle way he interacted with her was profound, making it clear that his feelings for Y/N were deeply genuine.

Bucky kissed the back of her hand, his lips softly caressing her knuckles. "My dear," he greeted her, using the endearment he had chosen when they first met at the altar.

The scene seemed like it was pulled raw from a romance novel that the surrounding staff and knights simply watched in shock and awe. "Did he just..." one knight whispered, eyes wide. "Called her 'my dear'?" another finished, equally stunned.

Sam, who had witnessed firsthand the monstrous side of Bucky in war, found himself in a state of utter disbelief, jaw dropped loose. He had seen Bucky’s sword painted blood-red, his face splattered with the gore of countless enemies. The Winter Soldier was a force of nature on the battlefield, his brutal efficiency leaving a trail of carnage in his wake. Sam recalled the sight of Bucky’s cold, unyielding eyes as he cut through foes without hesitation, his armor and weaponry gleaming with the blood of those who dared oppose him.

And yet, here he was, the same man who had struck terror into the hearts of many, now standing before Y/N with a tenderness that seemed unimaginable. Sam could hardly believe his eyes. The disparity was pronounced and bewildering. Bucky’s expression was soft, his movements gentle as he held Y/N’s hand in his.

“I’ve missed you,” Y/N said softly, her eyes shining with affection. She truly did, it would be a lie that she didn’t felt the ache in her heart when she woke up alone that morning. The emptiness beside her had felt profound. The bed still carried his scent, a lingering warmth that whispered of his recent presence. Even though the separation had been brief, as evidenced by the thoughtful note and the bouquet of her favourite flowers he had left behind, the loneliness she felt was palpable. His absence, however fleeting, had created a void that left her feeling incomplete.

Bucky’s heart seemed to burst with emotion. He couldn't care less about the gawking staff surrounding them as he pulled her close and kissed her deeply. She initially froze, caught off guard and embarrassed, but soon melted into his kiss with a blossoming confidence.

As their lips met, memories of their tender and passionate night together surged through Bucky's mind. The way she moan his name, the taste of her cum, the tightness of her pussy gripping on his cock, the way his cum leaked out of her, every single sinful scene replayed in head; infinitely. The intensity of the moment was overwhelming, and he found himself nearly losing control. Reluctantly, he pulled back from the kiss, his breath uneven and his gaze filled with an unspoken hunger.

"God, what should I do with you, hmm, sweetheart?" Bucky whispered, his voice laced with seduction as he continued to place gentle kisses along her cheeks and jaw. His lips brushed softly against her skin, whispering how much he had missed her and expressing a wistful desire to stay wrapped in the warmth of their shared bed just a little longer.

Y/N’s soft giggle rang out as she felt the roughness of his stubble against her delicate skin. The sound was like music to Bucky's ears, brightening his mood and filling him with a profound sense of joy. Despite the joyful exchange, he reluctantly ended the sweet torment, his kisses lingering just a moment longer before he pulled away.

“We should be ready to begin our journey shortly,” Bucky said, his tone shifting to a more practical note when e turned to Sam, who had approached during their moment of intimacy.

“Y/N, this is Sam Wilson, he is one of my trusted knights.” Bucky introduced, his gaze shifting to his wife. Sam gave a respectful nod to Y/N, a hint of surprise still evident in his expression from witnessing Bucky's affectionate display. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lady Y/N.”

Y/N smiled warmly at Sam, appreciating the introduction. “The pleasure is mine, Sir Wilson.”

Sam, sensing that the formality was unnecessary given their imminent interactions, decided to ease the situation. “Just Sam, my lady,” he said with a friendly tone. Y/N repeated his name with a touch of amusement. “Well, it’s nice to meet you, Sam.”

Bucky, observing the growing camaraderie between his wife and his trusted knight, couldn’t help but feel a twinge of protectiveness. The easy familiarity between them seemed a bit too casual for his liking. His eyes narrowed slightly as he gave Sam a warning look. “Watch it, Wilson.”

Sam, not missing a beat, chuckled at Bucky’s protective demeanour. “What’s the matter, my lord? Can’t handle a bit of friendly conversation?”

Y/N, noticing the playful tension and Bucky’s slight irritation, couldn’t help but laugh. The contrast between Bucky’s usually soft demeanour that Y/N had witnessed and his current protective stance were both endearing and amusing. Her laughter lightened the mood, making Sam’s teasing even more enjoyable.

Bucky's stern gaze softened as he watched Y/N’s laughter, though his protective instinct remained palpable. Steering the conversion back to the preparations, he allowed a faint smile to tug at the corners of his mouth despite his earlier warning.

“I trust you can escort my wife to the carriage,” Bucky said, his voice serious but tinged with a hint of a smile. “However, I expect you to maintain proper distance and adhere to these additional guidelines.” He paused, ensuring his words were clear. “No unnecessary physical contact or overly familiar behaviour. And if you could, avoid any casual conversations that might be misinterpreted.”

Sam looked at Bucky in disbelief, shaking his head with a bemused expression. “Seriously, Barnes? You’re laying down rules for me to keep my distance from your wife now?”

Bucky’s eyes narrowed playfully. “Consider it a precaution. I’d rather not have any misunderstandings.” Sam chuckled, rolling his eyes as he complied. “Understood. I’ll make sure to follow your... guidelines.”

Y/N watched the exchange with amusement, her earlier shyness melting away into a warm appreciation for Bucky’s protectiveness. The scene, tinged with a touch of comedy, only deepened the connection between them.

Bucky, intent on making a point to Sam while expressing his affection, pulled Y/N close and pressed a tender kiss to her forehead. The gesture was both intimate and deliberate, a subtle yet clear indication to Sam that she belongs to Bucky. “I’ll join you shortly, my dear,” Bucky said softly, his voice filled with warmth as he gazed into her eyes.

Sam, unimpressed by Bucky’s display, rolled his eyes at the seemingly childish antics. “This way, my lady,” he said with a hint of impatience. Y/N nodded in agreement but paused before turning her back on Bucky. With a loving smile, she whispered, “I’ll see you later,” before following Sam.

Bucky watched as Sam guided Y/N away, his gaze lingered with a mix of affection and something much deeper; an unspoken sadness. As their silhouettes walked further and further away from his sight, a sombre glaze settled over his eyes.

Beneath the surface of his composed exterior, his heart ached; the was a silent reflection of a pain he had hidden deep within his heart. It was a lingering sorrow that had shadowed him ever since he stood at the altar, the weight of unvoiced grief clinging to him as he gazed at his future bride.

Part II >>

Read my other works here: Masterlist

A/N: Wondering why he was in the feels at the end? We’ll know it soon enough. I’ll see you in the next parts! Thank you for reading!

#bucky barnes au #bucky x reader #bucky x you #bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes x you #bucky fluff #bucky smut #bucky angst #bucky barnes fluff #bucky barnes smut #bucky barnes angst #winter soldier!bucky #medieval!bucky #duke!bucky #grumpy!bucky #soft!bucky

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moiyume · 1 year

Text

death is the only end for us — chapter ii. imaginary

pairing: yandere!satoru gojo x fem!reader

sumary: Discussions about the past bring out an important revelation, [Y/N] will not surrender, she is willing to destroy everyone in her path to prove her innocence, even Satoru.

warnings: angst, threats, mentions of death, humiliation, yandere thoughts, spoilers from the main story.

word count: 2265.

more information about the history: here.

⠀⠀⠀⠀───◌┈┈───♡⃝───┈┈◌───

AND BY PLANTING MISTRUST, LOVE WILL COOL DOWN, GIVE WAY TO HATRED AND RESENTMENT. There is no way to mend a broken glass, when you put the pieces together, the cracks and scars of the breakage will be there forever, the glass will break again if you fill it with water. There is no way to mend the heart of someone who has already been betrayed or abandoned.

After ten years forced to live in ostracism you have learned that curses are not as bad as the wizards say they are. Curses are predictable, they obey the primitive instinct to kill humans and devour each other for more power, they have no filters, they are direct in what they set out to do. But people are not, people are cunning, people deceive, people betray, people change, people are not what they appear or say they are, and above all, no person can be trusted. Father, mother, brother, friend or stranger, it is the nature of human beings not to be trusted.

You have learned the hard way that you cannot trust anyone. No matter how well you think you know someone, you really don't know how much someone can change in a day, maybe even in ten years. It was a long ten years living a miserable life, hunted like an animal for slaughter across three continents, you saw and experienced many things, but nothing surprised you more than the falseness of the human being.

However, there is a proverb that says that the prey will kill the predator. In the game Gō the winner is the one who has the most pieces on the board, however it is not as simple as it seems, you need to knock down the opponent's houses if you want to ensure victory, because as in the animal kingdom there is no draw, only the strongest will prevail, the one who is able to continue living. It is a game of survival, but it is also a mental game, you beat the enemy destroying what he worked hard to build, you take his place and eliminate him. Satoru and you are adversaries in this battle. He vehemently believes that victory is his, but the foundation of the houses he plays with are as fragile as a house made on the sand of the beach, and like Gō's board, you will knock down all the pieces that hold him up.

He approaches you with a smug smile, there is no escape, it is only you on this empty hill, there are no trees you can use to hide, yet there is no way and no reason to hide when the Six Eyes search for you. You stop walking away and accept that there is no other option but to stand still, he seems pleased with your decision, the smile on his face widens. However, you will never surrender.

"I don't..." Disappointment tries to swallow your words, but you swallow your tears and face Satoru with clenched fists. "I'm not willing to give up my freedom just yet."

He takes a wrong turn with your words, to his ears they are just childish statements, but you are a human being and it is your nature to insist even when things seem impossible. The man in front of you falls into laughter and wipes away a tear that has run down the corner of his eye, it is annoying to see him mocking you, but to Satoru Gojo all people were such idiots that they were worthy of pity, and you were no exception.

"You act like you're a heroine from a light novel, that's hilarious." Satoru teases you with a smug smile on his face, you struggle to keep your cool, but a vein pops out on your forehead. "Seriously! Look at that pose! A great actress." He measures you from top to bottom. "Of our old group, you're the only one who keeps acting like a pre-teen, always wanting to prove to others that you're a martyr, it's ridiculous, don't you see?" He shoves one of his hands into his pocket and takes out a black blindfold and puts it over his eyes. "You have become such a pathetic person that it is hard to believe that you were considered a threat. Man, you killed civilians for nothing, I never understood the motives behind it, but honestly? I don't understand how we came to have anything, for a moment I even thought of you as an equal, but even Suguru did better in the villain role than you."

You are startled by those hostile words, he had never been so mean to you before, you even thought he would have some mercy for your bestie dying, but as usual you are expecting too much from Satoru Gojo. You never wanted to be a martyr, but there is some truth behind such hostility, the way you have behaved all this time as if you were being wrongly accused. Your hands have been dripping blood since the moment you were accused and the lives you took will haunt you until the day you die, but the people who died that night were not innocent and they were not civilians either, and the person who killed them was not you. You have put up with it all quietly, but this time you are determined to make a mess of it, as in gō, you will surround your enemies and let them fall alone.

"You're not entirely wrong." You admit waving your index finger towards him, mimicking his smug smile, I straighten my posture and take a step forward. "But I'm not the same girl you knew."

"Really? You still look like an idiot to me."

"Eh." You mutter amidst his debauched laughter. "The difference between the 18-year-old [Y/N] and the 28-year-old [Y/N] is: she doesn't mind crushing every ant that crosses her path."

You raise your hand towards his face and abruptly close it, making him take a step back, you laugh dryly and dullly, it's comforting to know that you're still able to mess with his head.

"Get out of my way, Gojo, before I crush you too." You threaten him, your will like a sharp sword about to slash his throat, he frowns and you step forward. "Don't tell me you don't know why no one had the courage to come to me." You watch his hesitation to give you an answer, but before he can say anything, you hold up your index finger to get him to shut up and listen, "Looks like you're the idiot here."

You place your hands together behind your body and lean forward, he is very close at this point, so you stand face to face, you feel the hesitation in his posture, his right foot goes back a step and a half before he steadies himself. You make no point of hiding your evil intentions beneath an innocent smile, the intent to kill is obvious, but it only comes from one side. Satoru may be many things, but you doubt he would kill you before he could experience the torture of the court again, he likes to play with his fangs and that would be his downfall. The moment he realises something is wrong, his hand comes towards your neck like lightning, however she is unable to touch you. The sky blue eyes shine in fury and you can't contain your laughter, it's not a genuine laughter, you just couldn't miss the moment to debauch his innocence.

"What have you done?!"

The scenery around you begins to change. The once bright and colourful landscape of the hill turns into a hostile, cold and gloomy environment, the welcoming atmosphere has become inhospitable, the peace you provided was false, as you had said earlier it is just an imaginary space. Satoru knows it is too late, however you give him the chance to move, and he approaches to attack me, but to his despair the distance between you is still the same, as if he cannot reach you, he is stuck in your trap, and you are waiting for him to place the piece on the board that will make him fall into ruins.

"What kind of cheap trick is that?!" He shouts in exaltation, unable to touch you, his steady footsteps crunch the frozen grass making an annoying creaking noise, he seems in a hurry. "What have you done to me?"

"That's not the right question, darling, try again." You reply in a playful voice and make the distance between you disappear, you grab his cheeks and lower his head so you can pull the blindfold off. "That looks really ugly on you, it makes you look like you have no forehead." You throw the piece of cloth on the ground, it's hard to believe that someone as vain as him chose to wear an accessory that would devalue his beauty so much, is that kind of thing fashionable in Japan? You would like to know.

"DAMN. [Y/N]!"

"Hm?!"

"What the hell is that?" He insists.

"You must be wondering why the Six Eyes don't recognise what's happening now, right?" He nods for you to continue explaining. "It's because you're not seeing anything, really. You taught me that for the Six Eyes to work, you need to see things around you, and okay, I know you can perceive the world on an atomic level, but I'm inside your head and not in front of you, got it? Or do you want me to draw?"

You tap your index finger on his temple and watch his eyes grow larger, it is satisfying to see him like this, for years you have kept a vow to Master Tengen not to use his true cursed technique for your own benefit, but you no longer have any connection to him, let alone the school. You cannot allow yourself to be the person who is passed over. You feel sweat drip down your hand, but it's not yours, rambling made you forget that you were still holding Satoru pinned in your hands.

"My cursed technique is called ████, by the way." You whisper, it's the first time you hesitate to tell Satoru something, you slowly back away until your hands can no longer touch him. "You must know what it means."

Satoru's skin turns as pale as paper, nostrils dilated and hairs standing on end, like an animal on alert, you would like to laugh and mock him as unassumingly as he did you, but you would not be satisfied with scaring him even more, you are not like that. You gather up a snowflake and the landscape has started to change again, this time it has started to crack, as if you were inside an old television full of static, living through a film locked in a stormy day.

Melancholy suddenly takes over you, you let out the air trapped in your lungs and watch the smoke of hot air, he's right when he says you're still a dumb teenager with childish aspirations. You turn your back and walk towards the "exit door" of the illusion you created to trap him, but before you go, you look at him over your shoulder, Satoru is staring at you with a weird look, clenched fists are at the side of his body, one leg is in front of the other as if he wants to come to you, but there is something holding him, only this time it's not you who holds him.

"When I disappear you will regain consciousness, I recommend you look around and be careful." You give him a weak smile and nod. "We will see each other again."

Satoru watches you enter a doorway of light that disappeared as soon as you stepped through it. His hands are sweaty and burning, nails are digging into his palm, blood drips down the spans of his fingers, it wasn't the first time an opponent had played a trick on him, but it's been so many since it happened he's forgotten how bad it feels to be tricked. A vein popped on his forehead and he began to laugh nervously as the word 'tricked' came to his mind, not much can be expected of you, you are clever and slippery as jelly, if he is not careful you will slip like sand or blood between his fingers.

"Bitch!" He roars exhausted and slaps his own forehead.

The space in which Satoru was trapped crumbled in a magical pass as he surged, soon the sound of horns and car tyres singing on the tarmac pierced his ears, regaining consciousness he hurriedly climbed onto the pavement. You dumped him in the middle of a busy avenue, it's your nature to play tricks on people, no matter how serious, you're the kind of childish person who would put a bucket full of water on the door to wet the first inattentive person who walked by. Drivers drove past him cursing and grumbling, but he didn't give a shit, his thoughts focused elsewhere, someone else.

- "We will see each other again" Satoru repeated and looked up at the sky, it was daylight a few minutes ago, no? He wondered if you could mess with time too and laughed bitterly, then brought his hand up to his face and covered his eyes, maybe nothing was impossible for you and Satoru resented that. "I hope so, but..." He paused before admitting to himself. "You have to pay for leaving me."

⠀⠀⠀⠀───◌┈┈───♡⃝───┈┈◌───

━ to be continued; ﹢ ⌑ ﹒

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four-loose-screws · 21 days

Text

FE2 Novelization Translation - Book 2 Cover and Intro Pages

If you would like to start from the beginning, read a missed part, etc., click here!

FE Game Script Translations - FE Novel Translations - Original FE Support Conversations

If you are interested in donating to support my work, please check out my Ko-fi here. Thank you!

———————————

Cover

Fire Emblem Gaiden

Land of Sorrow

Book 2

STORY

A large-scale war is currently ravaging the continent of Valentia. After the loss of countless Units, the story of a new encounter is told. General Alm, leading the imperial army of Zofia to restore the country’s sovereignty, under the name “the Deliverance.” Young Priestess Celica, attempting to make her deepest wish of restoring goddess Mila to her rightful place a reality. However, fate is still leading these two in opposite directions.

The dark plot of the cold-hearted and ruthless Emperor Rudolf of Rigel is once again in motion. …The plot to thoroughly destroy the Kingdom of Zofia. For what reason has he fallen to such insanity? Alm, who has not even an idea of the fate of his bloodline, raises his sword against Rudolf.

Will he and Celica finally be able to act upon their love for each other? Will peace return to Valentia? Find out here, in the conclusion to this story!

Written by Katsuyuki Ozaki

Cover Illustration by Ichiro ?*

Cover Design by Kazuo Hiroi (WIDE)**

*T/N: I cannot find the Kanji character in this person’s last name anywhere to confirm its reading.

**T/N: First name could also be ‘Ichio’ or ‘Itsuo.’ I cannot find any record of this person online, so I cannot confirm the correct reading of their name. Their nickname is ‘WIDE’ because their last name, ‘hiroi,’ is the Japanese word for wide.

Published by Futabasha

Author’s Profile

Katsuyuki Ozaki

An up-and-coming author also working as a copywriter. His major works include “Valkyrie no Densetsu,” “F-Zero,” “Zelda II: The Adventure of Link,” and many more, all published by Futabasha. He has also written for other strategy guide series. His hobbies include golf, cars, and computer games. He is of course also passionate about Fire Emblem, and has completed all of the games so far. He poured all of his love for the series into writing these two books without rest!

Front:

The stage continues to unfold upon the continent of Valentia at war!

This fantastical tale of our young fighters finally comes to its end!

What will become of Alm and Celica’s love for each other? Where will their fate to fight lead them?

And in what direction will these Unit’s adventures take them…?

Back:

Ad for Book 1.

Ad for a Shin Megami Tensei novelization.

Color Art

Text:

This fantastic story is about the great battle on Land Valencia.

According to the destinies, many young heroes and heroines will fight to save their lovers.

Which will God promise to them, victory or defeat?

For whom will He smile?

Whom will He crush by a hummer at last?

Nothing but the bravy spirit of youth can bring peace to such a confused world.

The new act of this drama has just started now!!

Title Page

Table of Contents

(T/N: Exact translation of the chapter and chapter part titles are subject to change, once I read and translate them in full detail, based on exact context.)

Prologue

Chapter 1: The Second War

Mila, Lost Forever

The Empty Throne

Divine Blade Falchion

The Army of Witches at the Border

Chapter 2: The Battle at the Border

The Tragic Mage Luthier

Fratricide

The Golden General, Zeke

Surprise Attack

Sonya’s Secret

Crux of Fate

Chapter 3: God Duma

Triangle Attack

Great Sage Halcyon

Volcano

My Father, Jedah

Chapter 4: Reunion

To Rigel Castle

Mad Emperor Rudolf

The Heir

Chapter 5: The Altar and the Final Act of the War

The Mystery of Gradivus

Inside the Continent

My Father, Rudolf

The Gods’ Slumber

The Reborn Kingdom of Valentia

Epilogue

Illustrations: Ichiro ?* & Kazuo Hiroi (WIDE)**

*T/N: I cannot find the Kanji character in this person’s last name anywhere to confirm its reading.

Book design: Yusuke Matsuoka (NEXT)

Editing & printing: Rekkasha

Character Introductions

Celica’s Army

Genny: A Cleric from Novis Island’s Priory who supports Celica’s ideals.

Atlas: A Villager who joins Celica and her army to defeat the pirate Grieth. A hot-blooded young man with exceptional sword fighting talent.

Leon: A young Archer who is saved by Celica’s army at the pirate’s fortress, and stays with them afterwards.

Saber: A Mercenary searching for an employer to work for at Novis Greatport. Later transcends to Myrmidon.

Valbar: An Armor who was one of three people fighting to kill the pirate Barth at his fortress.

Est: A Pegasus Knight and one of the three sisters from Archanea. She is captured alone and brought to Grieth’s fortress.

Palla: One of the three sisters from Archanea. A Pegasus Knight with superior strength and mobility.

Nomah: A Sage whose spiritual powers have only strengthened in his old age, and possesses the skill to cast Sagittae.

Catria: A Pegasus Knight and one of the three sisters from Archanea. When they combine their powers, they can pull off the strongest attack of all…

Boey: A young Mage who serves at Novis Island’s Priory with Celica.

Jesse: A Mercenary who joins forces with Celica to defeat Grieth. Though he acts like a ruffian, his swordsmanship skills are above average.

Sonya: A female Mage who can cast Excalibur. Her red lipstick and makeup proves that she is not associated with either the Mila nor Duma faithful.

Mae: Like Boey, she is a Mage from Novis Island’s Priory.

Celica: A deeply devout Priestess who leaves Novis Island’s Priory to travel to Mila’s Shrine. She is the second protagonist of this story, in addition to Alm.

Kamui: A Mercenary who goes to the pirate fortress with Leon and Valbar.

#FIRE EMBLEM #FE #FIRE EMBLEM 2 #FE2 #GAIDEN #FE GAIDEN #FIRE EMBLEM GAIDEN #FE15 #FIRE EMBLEM 15 #SHADOWS OF VALENTIA #FIRE EMBLEM ECHOES #ALM #CELICA #JAPAN #JAPANESE #TRANSLATION #NOVEL #LIGHT NOVEL #FE2 NOVELIZATION TRANSLATION

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mystybelle · 3 months

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From last night's stream-

I don't think RPGs have anything to do with stats.

I think an RPG, or whether or not a game counts as one, is more about how you can affect it's world or environment beyond just winning or losing.

Like, Skyrim and space Skyrim, for example,are not RPGs. They are a very shoddily made, medieval & sci-fi themed amusement parks.

But neither are any Final Fantasy games, Legend of Zelda games, Shadow of Mordor, the Assassin's Creed series, Genshin Impact, God of War (any of them, even the new ones), Kingdom Hearts (any of them), Diablo, Transistor, or any Pokemon games. These are lovingly crafted roller coasters with various themes, with different additional genres of games therein, unlike most Bethesda games, but not roleplaying games. They're gripping movies, comics, art exhibits, and dioramas with well done and utilitarian world-building.

Or visual novels. And that's not me disparaging these games, just hopefully pushing our evolving language for discussing games in a better direction?

I guess the next question is probably- "What is an RPG by your call then?"

I'd say games like the original Deus Ex, Stardew Valley, Fallout 1&2, Undertale, Pathologic, literally every single Animal Crossing game, Pathfinder/DnD (if your DM has a stable sleep schedule), and Shadow the Hedgehog.

The difference between these two groups is:

group A: Interactive media (games) that are stories, or Games(under the cut), with worlds that only exist to tell their stories or for the player's convenience.

group B: Interactive media that is a world the player is encouraged to interact with as a consistent Character within, or where the player's avatar & actions exists as a character within the world and not just an artifice of design or play.

There is nothing you can do on Final Fantasy VII's Gaea that will impact any part of the rest of the world, besides succeed at a given challenge or die and have another go. Nor in X, IX, or VIII. Locking a world's keyhole in Kingdom Hearts 1 doesn't change the game's state it's the next part of the story and the success state that follows defeating most level's final bosses (or after figuring out a clever puzzle in Traverse Town). Riku can't fail to save Sora at the end of Kingdom Hearts II, you fail to rescue Riku's man, and the game lets you try again until you catch up with canon. Transistor does not care whether you collect certain programs/citizens, the Process [REDACTED] no matter what. Zelda can't not be rescued in any of the series' games where she appears; there are no ways to save the land of Termina except by assisting its citizens in a very specific order. In Pokemon, Team Rocket cannot successfully kidnapp someone's Pokemon on screen, and Team Aqua cannot successfully flood the world.

But in Shadow the Hedgehog; the president can be spared and his life determines how the rest of the game's story plays out; you can steadily work to destroy the world with the Black Arms and feel the progress of the invasion as you complete more of their missions. In Pathologic, failing to cure a patient doesn't send you to a game over screen, the patient just dies. Sometimes your patient is important to you and their death will have disastrous consequences, sometimes not. In ACNH, everything you can do changes the game's state in a meaningful way, there are almost literally no meaningless actions you can take in that game (or any animal crossing game). In a solid Pathfinder/DnD game, unless your party fights and dies to the last man, failing to kill the Lich or Evil king means that they get to take over that town or city. Some tables don't even run TPKs back, that specific world just gets worse and you either abandon it to its fate or have to make new avatars to re-enter a world that's likely grown more hostile because of the failure. In the original Fallouts, the only real "game over" fail state in those games is dying. Everything else is simply a choice to make, or a consequence to avoid. Likewise in the original Deus Ex, JC Denton's actions decide whether the [REDACTED it's old but go play the game] play out as planned, whether [seriously go play it] live or if the [please, you won't regret it] get their way. Each potential reality in these games, doesn't meaning you just lose, but that you now have to account for new circumstances in the world of your own making.

I don't think a game doesn't become an RPG because it has stats, or levels. Those are just conventions of the media of games as a whole. A game is more or less of an RPG based on how internally consistent and independent of the player its world is. I think our language should reflect that that too, but considering that this genre of game comes from the original pen and paper RPGs, I don't like giving the most faithful successors to their heritage a name that doesn't include the words RPG in it. I'd rather call the first group of games "Immersive Movies" and give the term "RPG" back to the second group. But if we must call both groups kinds of RPGs, I want to suggest replacing WRPG vs JRPG, with RPGs vs "VRPGs" or Virtual Ride Playing Games (or Vibe Role Playing Games), seeing as the first group is more akin to a book/movie/play/amusement park ride that you read or ride through than they are games where you meaningfully play the role of a character.

If that makes sense? Replies/rb as are welcome as comments, I had the thought on stream and I've spent all day working to make it more coherent than the babbling that usually rattles around in my brain, but I couldn't make it any shorter than this. So idk, let me know what you think. I'm eager to hear from other devs, or just players for that matter.

Also, I CANNOT STRESS ENOUGH, this isn't me shitting on any game I've mentioned except for Skyrim and space Skyrim. I'm not using RPG as a title of prestige, or saying any of these games are worse than the others except for Skyrim; I'm only saying we should probably re categorize them. Roller coasters are good things when they're well made.

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princess-of-the-corner · 4 months

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Kingdom Hearts II: Final Mix Recap: Port Royal (He's a Pirate)

First of all, credit to Mudarrow and KH Wiki.

Second of all, I forgot to mention this: To complete the Titan Cup in Jiminy’s Journal, you need to finish with a score of 5000 or more. All you have to do to unlock it is clear the Hades Cup.

And now, back to our regularly scheduled recap.

In order to reunlock the last three Disney Worlds, we’re gonna have to clear Port Royal first.

The game opens on the stone chest that holds the cursed Aztec gold.

X of Organization XIII appears to be very interested in the cursed medallions.

The cutscene ends as he approaches the chest.

Sora, Donald, and Goofy arrive at the Rampart, and Goofy notices that something (I’m guessing sound, but this isn’t a voice acted cutscene) is coming from the port.

Sora suggests they check it out, and the player is given control of Sora.

Progressing to the Harbor reveals that Captain Jack Sparrow has gotten into a tussle with some Undead Pirates.

“Zola! Some assistance!” the Captain shouts over his shoulder.

“That’s SORA, Donald, and Goofy!” Sora corrects, even though Jack only got his name wrong (in the novelization, him getting SDG’s names wrong is a running gag).

“Will ye leave a mate to perish?” Jack asks as “He’s a Pirate” starts playing.

“Aye-aye,” Sora deadpans, before running into battle to help him.

Captain Jack Sparrow rejoins the party, and you just have to defeat all the pirates to progress.

After the last undead pirate falls, Sora notes that the pirates were cursed.

“I thought we’d seen the last of the curse of the Aztec gold…” Sora remarks as he, Donald, and Goofy turn to Jack Sparrow, “What gives?”

“Some scallywag must’ve got greedy,” Jack theorizes.

SDG give him a Look.

“Oh I see,” he remarks, “You don’t trust me, do you?”

Donald and Goofy nod.

“Likely a wise choice,” Jack praises, “I AM a pirate, mates.”

“Jack! Sora!”

Elizabeth runs up to Jack and our trio of heroes.

Sora greets her, while a thought bubble reveals that Jack is aware that she’s going to try and get him involved in “sticky business”.

Elizabeth stops him from leaving, and explains that the cursed pirates have returned.

“Will had to find out why…” she elaborates, “so he went to Isla de Muerta – to check on the Aztec treasure.”

She’s not seen him since then, and so asks the others to take her to him.

Jack tells her to do it herself, much to her unamused reaction.

She reminds him (in a dry tone you don’t need voice acting to hear) that it would require sailing to a faraway island and fighting off cursed pirates.

“Well, if any lass could…” Jack starts.

“Are you sure he’s in trouble?” Sora asks.

“No, not certain,” Elizabeth admits, “But he’s been gone far too long.

“I wanted to go with him, but he insisted I stay here.

“I can’t just sit and wait! I’ve got to know if he’s all right.”

Jack remarks that Will is a lucky man, but wants to know what’s in it for him if he helps Elizabeth.

Elizabeth responds by pointing out that Jack still owes Will for saving his life, and Jack finally agrees to help.

In order to progress, you need to head onto the dock, at which point Sora, Donald, Goofy, Jack Sparrow, and Elizabeth will automatically board the Black Pearl.

You can pick up a few Puzzle Pieces (since you can actually explore the Black Pearl for the first time), and then talk to Jack Sparrow to access the ocean map.

Select Isla de Meurta as your destination to continue.

After dealing with the enemy ambush, a cutscene plays.

Goofy looks off over the open ocean.

“Interceptor off the starboard bow!” he shouts.

Our heroes (and Jack) rush up to see the ship lazily drifting towards them, and Elizabeth notices Will’s unconscious body draped over the side of the ship.

She calls out his name, and Jack pays his respects.

“Stop that, Jack,” Elizabeth snaps, “We’ve got to rescue him!”

In the hold of the Black Pearl, Elizabeth wakes Will up.

“Elizabeth…”

“What happened?” she asks.

“The medallions… and… the stone chest – someone’s taken them…” Will explains, “Next thing I knew, we were attacked… but I couldn’t see who it was – his face was shrouded… in a black hood.”

“The Organization!” Sora remarks.

“We found a way out of the cave…” Will continues, “but the villain sent a horde of terrible creatures after us… I’ve never seen their likes before…

“I think I’m the only one who made it back to the ship…”

“Will…”

“Elizabeth… I feel rather…”

Will passes out again.

“Our turn, guys,” Sora remarks.

“You’d best go prepared,” Elizabeth replies, “We’ve no idea what’s out there.”

“Pardon me, lads and lass,” Jack intercepts, “but your captain will have no monsters today.

“Thank ye. We’re turning for home.”

“Just like that?” Elizabeth asks as Jack turns to walk towards the deck.

“Just like that!” Jack answers.

I suggest you save before going above deck.

Jack Sparrow is taken aback the second he steps onto the deck of the Black Pearl.

“Don’t remember invitin’ you,” he remarks.

The camera cuts to reveal the stone chest of Aztec gold on the deck, with X emerging from a Corridor of Darkness right next to it.

“So it was the Organization,” Sora states, “We’ll handle this!”

X briefly holds up a hand, then starts pacing and talking.

“The darkness of men’s hearts – drawn to these cursed medallions;” he opens, “and this Heartless – a veritable maelstrom of avarice:”

A large, skeletal, ghost-like Emblem Heartless, wielding a scythe-like pendulum, materializes behind him.

“I wonder, are they worthy to serve Organization XIII?”

“You want an answer now?” Jacka asks as “Sinister Shadows” starts playing.

“Precisely!” X answers as he vanishes through a Corridor of Darkness.

Cue boss battle with the Grim Reaper.

It can only attack by swinging its scythe around itself. It can also teleport to try and avoid damage.

Defeating it grants Sora Horizontal Slash (Unleashes a powerful attack that hits a target from left to right during a midair combo with [guard button]), Donald +4 Max HP, Goofy Draw (attract dropped items and prizes from a greater distance), and Jack Sparrow +15 Max HP.

The defeated Heartless falls into the ocean.

“Oh boy!” Donald cheers.

“Not over yet!” Sora reminds him, as X is standing behind the stone chest.

The Nobody pulls back his hood, revealing him to have blond hair and a beard, plus five earrings, two on his left ear, three on his right. All in all, probably the most normal-looking member of Organization XIII.

This is Luxord, and I promise you that you aren’t pronouncing that name correctly.

“Throw him overboard!” Captain Jack Sparrow orders.

“Aye-aye!” Sora agrees.

“Parley!“ Luxord declares.

“’Scuse me?” Jack replies.

“Barley?” Goofy questions.

“It’s a bit of a pirates’ code,” Jack explains, “Anyone who invokes ‘parley’ must not be harmed ‘til negotiations are complete.”

“This is no time for rules!” Sora protests.

“True,” Jack concedes, “But as we’re honorable pirates we should always stick to the Code.” He turns his attention to Luxord. “All right you, out with it!”

“I surrender the chest with my humblest apologies,” Luxord answers.

“Rather accommodating of you, mate,” Jack replies, “And for that you want…?”

“Just a few souvenirs…” Luxord answers as he reaches into the chest, “for the memories!”

“Huh?” Jack replies.

Luxord throws four cursed medallions into the air, letting four of his personalized Nobody subordinates grab one each and scatter over the edges of the ship.

“Oh no!” Goofy shouts, “We can’t stop the curse unless we have all the medallions!”

“Our friend’s about to learn what it means to cross a pirate,” Jack seethes.

“Oh?” Luxord questions as the ship rumbles.

The Grim Reaper bursts from the ocean, now rotten and surrounded by three ghostly skulls (each one alight with blue flames).

“Sora! Donald! Goofy!” Jack shouts, “He’s yours!”

The Grim Reaper swings its scythe, hitting Sora, Donald, Goofy, and Jack Sparrow with a powerful gust of wind that sends them flying onto the Interceptor.

Luxord raises a hand.

“Fire!”

The Black Pearl’s cannons fire.

Will and Elizabeth step up on deck, and are helpless to do anything but watch as the Interceptor is blown apart.

Sora, Donald, and Goofy wake up on the wreckage of the Interceptor to find Jack Sparrow is now undead.

“You stole a cured medallion again?!” Sora exclaims in disbelief.

“Were I only that fortunate…” Jack Sparrow remarks.

“Fortunate?” Donald questions.

“So, uh, how come you’re all skeleton-y?” Goofy asks.

“Perhaps I got a touch o’ somethin’ from that monster what attacked us,” Jack guesses, “Yet, why’s the skin restin’ right on you three?”

“’Cause we’re not greedy!” Donald declares, prompting Sora and Goofy to give him a funny look, “What’re you looking at?”

“That still doesn’t solve the mystery,” Sora points out.

Jack turns around and walks off, reverting back to normal when out of the moonlight.

“Gawrsh…” Goofy remarks, trying to speak quietly but failing, “Maybe the reason we’re all okay is because we’re not from this world.” Jack pauses in his step.

“There must be different laws,” Donald observes.

“Yeah… we’re always just passing through…” a dour Sora notes, “Wonder when we’ll see home again…”

“Sora…” a worried Donald speaks up.

“Heh!’ Sora forces himself to perk up, “Just kiddin’ you.

“Lucky we didn’t get cursed, huh?”

“Quit yammerin’, mates!” Jack chimes in, “We’ve got to find ourselves a ship that’ll float.”

Welcome to the Ship Graveyard. The Interceptor’s Hold has a Puzzle Piece, and a treasure chest that holds the Feather Charm.

The Feather Charm allows Sora to summon Peter Pan.

Peter flies alongside Sora and attacks enemies with his dagger. Sora’s command menu remains pretty much unchanged, outside of the “Summon” Command now kickstarting Peter’s limit.

Additionally, Tinkerbell flies around Sora, healing 5 HP every 5 seconds. Her face even appears in a tiny portrait next to Sora’s and Peter’s throughout the Summon. Just like in the first game, she can even revive Sora the first time his HP runs out while Peter Pan is summoned (although her portrait will disappear after this). It costs 3 Drive Gauges to summon him.

His Limit is “Never Land”.

Tinkerbell boops Sora on the nose as photographs of Neverland (as it was depicted in the first game) flash on screen, before he and Peter fly into the air. The “Attack” Command becomes “Tiny Fairy” (deals more damage and blows the enemies away) and the “The Flying Boy” Reaction Command becomes available (drags enemies into the air, dealing weaker-yet-constant damage).

Using them enough time produces the finisher: Journey’s End (Sora and Peter deal damage to surrounding enemies as a photograph of Sora sealing Neverland’s Keyhole appears on the screen).

Ahem, as for Port Royal itself, outside of the Ship Graveyard: Intercept’s Hull, you arrive at the Ship Graveyard: Seadrift Row. One of the items you can find here in a normal chest is the King’s Recipe, which allows you to synthesize Goofy’s strongest weapon, Save the King (+9 strength, +0 magic, Item Boost for the ability). Also, unrelated to the game itself, but KH Wiki incorrectly lists the “Queen Recipe” as necessary for synthesizing Save the King.

Once the party moves past Seadrift Row, they arrive at the Ship Graveyard: Seadrift Keep, where Donald spots one of the Nobodies Luxord sent out with the medallions.

Though the Nobody appears to be made of empty clothing in a shape vaguely reminiscent of a humanoid version of the Organization’s insignia, it is actually a Gambler one of Luxord’s servants. As this is a lone Gambler, it’s easy enough to defeat, but all Gambler’s actually have the following two Reaction Commands.

“Stop Dice” can be used when the Gambler prepares a dice attack. This starts a minigame. If Sora can activate the Reaction Command when it shows an “O”, he’ll win and be rewarded with Munny. If he activates it when it’s an “X” instead, or lets 3.5 seconds pass, he’ll temporarily be transformed into a living Dice (his own face displayed on the “one pip” face) and will be powerless to do anything but bounce around until the transformation wears off.

“Begin Game” can be used when the Gambler prepares a card attack. Sora’s Commands in the Command Menu will all be replaced with “X”-es. However, a single “O”, will rapidly move between the Command Menu’s options. Hit the “O” to win Munny and stun all nearby gamblers. Hit an “X” or let 3.3 seconds pass to transform Sora into a card instead.

With “Jackpot” they’ll drop even more Munny when you win their games, and with “Drive Converter” they’ll drop Drive Orbs instead, making them a good enemy for grinding out levels for Master Form.

When the Gambler is destroyed, it leaves behind one of the stolen medallions, with Jack revealing they only have three left to recover.

“A pirate must have a keen eye,” he explains, “Else he won’t be sailin’ free for very long. Savvy?”

Elizabeth and Will Turner sail up with the Black Pearl to pick up our heroes and Captain Jack Sparrow.

The party has recovered a Cursed Medallion and retrieved a Map of the Ship Graveyard.

In a text box cutscene, Sora explains how Organization XIII’s behind everything that’s gone wrong recently.

Goofy has no idea where they went, but Will reveals that the hooded man (Luxord, but he never said his name so only Jiminy knows that), took the pirates and his creatures with him when he left.

Thus, our party has a new objective: Track down the remaining three medallions and return them to the chest.

How do you do this?

Gamblers can be found in some of the normal enemy spawns at the Ship Graveyard or Isla de Muerta.

If the Gambler has a Medallion, you’ll have a time limit to defeat the Gambler before it automatically despawns. I don’t know if this is an automatic game over, or if it just means you have to track that specific Gambler down again, but the Gamblers aren’t particularly tough enemies either way, so the real threat will be the Undead Pirates who might protect them, as they’re COMPLETELY invincible unless you can lure them out into the moonlight.

Collecting all the medallions causes the party to automatically return to the Black Pearl, wherein they discuss what to do next.

Namely, return the medallions to the chest.

Will figures it’d be with the hooded man, and thus Sora suggests he’d take it and the Heartless to Port Royal. After all, Organization XIII is after people’s hearts.

Will is horrified at the idea of the Organization siccing the Heartless on the townspeople, and even Jack Sparrow doesn’t even BOTHER trying to contain his disgust as he notes that the Organization “makes we pirates look like proper gents!” as he’s still fed up over having somehow been cursed.

Jack doesn’t even need much convincing to go protect the people of Port Royal, as he’s just as eager as everyone else to stop whatever the Organization’s plan is.

Before you enter the boss fight, make sure Donald has Fire, Blizzard, and Thunder Magic equipped. Talk to Jack Sparrow when you’re ready, because the battle will begin as soon as you arrive in Port Royal.

Indeed, the Grim Reaper is waiting for the party as soon as they disembark from the Black Pearl, hovering above the stone chest.

“Go!” Jack Sparrow orders before running off, “He’s for me!”

The Grim Reaper chases after the captain, allowing Sora, Donald, Goofy, and Will to dump the Cursed Medallions into the stone chest.

As soon as Sora drops the medallions in, the Grim Reaper reverts back to its uncursed form.

But Jack Sparrow is still a skeleton.

It seems as if the Heartless was the source of the curse, rather than the cursed gold, and thus they’ll need to destroy it in order to lift the curse and solve the Undead Pirate Problem.

Unfortunately, right as they realize this, the Grim Reaper strikes the stone chest with its weapon, scattering several medallions and even sucking up a few in order to turn itself undead again.

Cue boss battle!

At the start of the battle, there are only 652 Medallions in the chest. 107 are held by the Grim Reaper, and the rest are scattered across the ground.

The Grim Reaper can spin its weapon above its head to create a cyclone that’ll let it suck up loose medallions. It can also direct the burning skulls orbiting its body to attack in its stead. If an attack hits Sora while he’s carrying medallions, he’ll drop his medallions, allowing the Heartless to collect them.

In order to make the Grim Reaper drop medallions, you have to use magic to make it drop them. Fire causes it to run around flailing, Thunder makes it bounce, and Blizzard freezes it in place, each attack causing it to “bleed” medallions.

Melee attacks make the Grim Reaper drop MP orbs when its in its undead form.

When Sora is near the chest, he can use the “Return” Reaction Command to put all of the Medallions he’s carrying back in the chest.

The Grim Reaper is only vulnerable when all 882 medallions are in the chest, as that reverts it back to its base form.

Once it’s vulnerable, it more or less fights exactly like it did back in its first battle, but it can ALSO strike the stone chest with a gust of wind to blow out and suck up a couple hundred medallions.

When depleted to 70% HP, it gets an extra trick while undead: It can plant itself by the chest and start sucking out even MORE medallions.

When it starts doing this, Sora needs to run up to its weapon and use the “Hinder” Reaction Command to spin around it, stopping the Medallion draining. This leads into “Loot Launch” which allows Sora to strike the heartless with its own weapon, scattering many of the medallions it had already consumed.

When the Grim Reaper is on its last legs, it will absorb ALL of the medallions and vanish into its burning skulls, supersizing the skulls so they can stomp all over the battlefield and send out fiery shockwaves. You just need to survive the onslaught.

Also, if you let it curse itself AGAIN at even lower HP, the Grim Reaper will counter the “Return” Reaction Command by planting itself near the chest to suck the returned medallions right back out, which can be used to bait it into an ideal position of using “Hinder” and “Loot Launch” to knock even MORE medallions out of it.

Defeating the Grim Reaper rewards Sora with a Magnet Element (upgrading “Magnet” to “Magnera”), Donald with Flare Force (Grants Sora access to Donald’s “Duck Flare” limit command. Donald rides on Sora’s shoulders, granting him the “Rocket Flare” Reaction Command. “Rocket Flare” sends a series of target-seeking rockets. Using Rocket Flare four times grants “Megaduck Flare” the finishing move. Donald conjures a barrage of firework rockets to home in on a single enemy and damage all the surrounding ones), Goofy gets +4 Max HP, and Jack Sparrow gets +15 Max HP.

Defeating the Heartless did indeed break the curse on Jack, but Luxord was still able to capture the Grim Reaper’s captive heart after it was defeated.

“Sora, bravo!” he praises, before vanishing into a Corridor of Darkness.

Jack Sparrow asks what his deal is, and Sora explains that he’s part of an Organization that’s collecting hearts.

“First, they release Heartless into different worlds,” Sora explains, “We defeat those Heartless. Then, they get the hearts.

“We’re never gonna stop them like this!”

“What’s the plan, then?” Jack Sparrow asks.

“We’ve got to find their stronghold and finish them off once and for all,” Sora declares.

Jack Sparrow answers, truthfully, that it’s probably the strangest tale he’s ever heard.

Will and Elizabeth ask what they can do to help, and Jack notes that there’s something they CAN do to make Sora’s job a little easier.

As the camera fades out, Secret Ansem’s Report 6 is unlocked:

My choice to befriend darkness here in the midst of nothingness was a sound one.

The moment I stared straight ahead with a calm heart, neither rejecting darkness nor fearing it, I gained a newfound power.

A superhuman power—the power of darkness.

It is likely Xehanort and the others were enraptured by this power, eventually becoming its prisoners.

I do not intend to allow my heart to be devoured by the darkness, as they did, of course.

With this new power, I uncovered a "corridor of darkness” that connects the realm of nothingness to the outside world. While it is still difficult to come and go as I please, my banishment is now a thing of the past.

To deceive Xehanort and my apprentices, I first used my power to change form before returning to the realm of light.

As I had suspected, Xehanort had become a Heartless.

Under my name, he commanded other Heartless in quests to snatch away the hearts of many different worlds.

At the center of the heart Xehanort has stolen was “Kingdom Hearts,” which attracts tremendous darkness itself and attempts to send any and all matter back into its depths.

The other five have disappeared. Have they become Heartless, like Xehanort?

Or did they vanish after Xehanort exploited them?

I became familiar with an unusual “entity” while pursuing the truth.

It is the soul and body that remain when a being loses its heart.

When a Heartless is born, these entities disappear from the realm of light, to be reborn as entirely new beings in a completely different realm.

Back on the high seas, Jack, Will, and Elizabeth dump the stone chest into the depths of the ocean, ensuring that it and its cursed gold will be forever lost to the abyss.

Organization XIII will never weaponize the curse again.

Jack Sparrow then claims that he only did this because he couldn’t have the Organization and the Heartless competing with pirates like him, with Elizabeth noting that they thought he was trying to help the townsfolk. Jack claims that a pirate always looks for profit first and foremost, and Sora jokingly notes that he thought he had turned over a new leaf.

“The question is, what’s beyond the leaf? Savvy?” Jack Sparrow replies.

Elizabeth realizes Jack wants a reward, and Jack confirms that he wants the Keyblade.

Sora acquiesces immediately, much to Jack’s confusion and suspicion, knowing immediately that there’s some kind of catch.

So, he’s not surprised at all when the Keyblade magically returns to Sora’s hand. While Sora implies that having the Black Pearl should be enough for Jack Sparrow, Jack just figures he can put together a pirate crew and take the Keyblade himself later on, figuring he’ll figure out a way to hold onto it for more than a fraction of a second by then. He notes that he’d like Will and Elizabeth to join his crew once he has the Keyblade, and Elizabeth agrees pretty much instantly, perhaps figuring that there’s no way Jack would ACTUALLY be able to take Sora’s Keyblade.

Goofy ponders that Jack might be able to wield a Keyblade himself someday, noting how similar he and Sora are (???).

“Are not!” Jack and Sora reply in perfect unison.

Cue everyone laughs ending!

Port Royal’s story closes on Jack Sparrow sailing the Black Pearl off into the distance as Will, Elizabeth, and Sora note that Jack’s the best pirate to ever sail the Spanish Main, “He’s a Pirate” playing in the background.

Back in Gummi Space, Chip and Dale pick up the same weird reading from before, noting that it gets stronger every time Sora helps somebody.

With that, Agrabah and Halloween Town have been reunlocked.

And with Magnera, we can continue Atlantica’s story. (Behind Atlantica, a massive city the size of five worlds is slowly becoming visible.) Next time, it’s back to Atlantica.

Honestly I like this boss battle.

Don’t get me wrong it sounds like absolute hell to playthrough but the mechanics, in theory, are neat!

Also Jack being sure that if anyone could go off on their own and save the day it’d be Elizabeth.

#submission

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nrhartauthor · 2 years

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“Only soulmates can hear your thoughts.” Twin Flame Love, a winter season N.R.Hart © 2022 Twin Flame Love 🔥 now available to order! Link in my stories 🛍🎄 “Legend has it there is always a reason why souls meet.” N.R.Hart I wanted to write a fairytale , a love story and a romance novel all in one. 📖👑 N.R.Hart. ♥️♥️♥️ Twin Flame Love by N.R.Hart This book will be for anyone who has shared a sacred bond - an unexplainable bond - an unbreakable bond. a soulmate or twin flame experience. This poetry will reflect this special bond. “An ancient bond between souls.” ©2022 N.R.Hart]] 🕊 🕊🕊 • Poetry and Pearls I & II are in full color 🌈 with all my original floral posters inside divided into the four seasons Winter Spring Summer Autumn because I feel there are seasons of the heart too. 💗 These books are beautiful works of art.🍃 • Love Poems to No One ,Beauty and her Beast, The Last of the Romantics 🌹 beautiful rose floral hard covers in black including all my original black & white posters divided into the four seasons Winter Spring Summer Autumn. The perfect little size to carry with you everywhere. 🍃🍃🍃 These books are a trilogy series. Pick up your copy today. You will want the set! 👉🏻 If you have pictures of my books please tag me. I love seeing where my books end up around the world 🌎 Thank you! Love, N.R.Hart ❤️ All my books are available @amazon https://www.amazon.com/poetry-pearls-romantic-n-hart/dp/1512179272/ https://www.amazon.com/Poetry-Pearls-Romantic-II/dp/0578428660/ https://www.amazon.com/Love-Poems-No-One-Romantic/dp/0578451166/ https://www.amazon.com/Beauty-Her-Beast-Romantic-Poetry/dp/0578616440/ https://www.amazon.com/Last-Romantics-Romantic-Poetry/dp/0692168591/ https://www.amazon.com/Twin-Flame-Love-Soulmate-Poetry/dp/B0BND3GH3W/ #nrhart #nrhartpoetry #nrhartbeautyandthebeast #poetryandpearls #lovepoemstonoone #beautyandherbeast #thelastoftheromantics (at London, United Kingdom) https://www.instagram.com/p/CmX9_fXsxAY/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#nrhart #nrhartpoetry #nrhartbeautyandthebeast #poetryandpearls #lovepoemstonoone #beautyandherbeast #thelastoftheromantics

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two-white-butterflies · 1 year

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coaxed you into paradise visualizers

The following graphics below may contain spoilers for both Coaxed you Into Paradise and As Lovers Often Do.

Please proceed with caution.

What will be written here is not for sure going to be the main storyline - I'd like to think of this as my guide in writing the series.

"...her half-brother, Aegon II then had her fed to his own dragon, Sunfyre - and her nephew, Prince Daelon was forced to watch."

Queen Rhaenyra's life was filled with cruel suffering - after the death of her last child, Jacaerys, all remnants of humanity faded from her. It earned her the nickname: Rhaenyra the Cruel for all her deeds.

"It has been decades since the death of my sister - even longer since our dearest Alyssa decided to leave us. I often think about it. If there was something that we could've done to prevent it." - Princess Saera to Prince Daemon.

"Our sister always had a peculiar way in expressing her emotions. Do you know what the portrait means?" Viserra turned to look at her younger brother - she was one of the few people that could remember Princess Alyssa Strong. Despite that memory, she still couldn't understand what the painting meant. "I don't know, but it has an effect on me. It makes me feel suffocated." Daelon replies.

"A portrait of an old woman carrying a babe, what could that mean?" Viserra ponders for what felt like an eternity. "Mayhaps she felt alone. Mayhaps she is both the old woman and the babe. Mayhaps she felt like she was the only person that she could rely upon." Daelon hypothesized - the painting was interesting.

Life was breathed into the portrait - and he wished nothing more than to interrogate the one that created it, but alas his sister was with the gods. "Mother," both of them paled - they were not allowed to look at the painting. "It is a mother's conscience." Saera answered with a thin-lipped smile, before turning around and leaving. - From the novelization of Maester Munkun.

"...and soon, all of Saera and Daemon's children grew to be formidable rulers. With Viserra as the Lady of Highgarden, and Daelon as the King of the Seven Kingdoms." - According to Mushroom.

"The realm seldom spoke about the Dragon Twins - with King Daegon taken by fire and Princess Alyssa by water. Their deaths became an end to House Strong and its legacy." - According to Septa Gray.

"The Ladies of the Reach have clever tongues - even my trained heart cannot help but mellow at their tune. However, they should know better - their silver tongue came from us, from my ancestors Princess Viserra and Princess Rhaena." - Queen Daenerys Targaryen to Jon Snow.

"The Dance of the Dragons was over - but House Targaryen was forever ruined - its legacy was torn apart. Until the return of the dragons - a few years after Robert's Rebellion." - From Unknown.

"A century passed without any dragon hatching - then suddenly with the revival of Daenerys and Naerys - there were three dragons. You should understand that this is the age of prophecies, my friend - and you wouldn't want to be on the losing side." - Tyrion Lannister to Bronn.

"Our house colors are black and red; but in the times of war white always wins. You are green, impostor - but me and Queen Daenerys Targaryen are white." - Lady Naerys Velaryon to Young Griff.

#coaxed you into paradise visualizers

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queerstuffonscreen · 1 year

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Pretty Little Liars (2010-2017) [I]

Episode length: 40-45 min.

Country: USA

Genre: Drama, Mystery

Language: English

Based on the Pretty Little Liars series of young adult novels by Sara Shepard, the series follows the lives of four girls — Spencer, Hanna, Aria, and Emily — whose clique falls apart after the disappearance of their queen bee, Alison. One year later, they begin receiving messages from someone using the name "A" who threatens to expose their secrets — including long-hidden ones they thought only Alison knew.

Season 1

Episode 1: Pilot

Episode 2: The Jenna Thing

Episode 3: To Kill a Mocking Girl

Episode 4: Can You Hear Me Now?

Episode 5: Reality Bites Me

Episode 6: There's No Place Like Homecoming

Episode 7: The Homecoming Hangover

Episode 8: Please, Do Talk About Me When I'm Gone

Episode 9: The Perfect Storm

Episode 10: Keep Your Friends Close

Episode 11: Moments Later

Episode 12: Salt Meets Wound

Episode 13: Know Your Frenemies

Episode 14: Careful What U Wish 4

Episode 15: If at First You Don't Succeed, Lie, Lie Again

Episode 16: Je Suis Une Amie

Episode 17: The New Normal

Episode 18: The Bad Seed

Episode 19: A Person of Interest

Episode 20: Someone to Watch Over Me

Episode 21: Monsters in the End

Episode 22: For Whom the Bell Tolls

Season 2

Episode 1: It's Alive

Episode 2: The Goodbye Look

Episode 3: My Name Is Trouble

Episode 4: Blind Dates

Episode 5: The Devil You Know

Episode 6: Never Letting Go

Episode 7: Surface Tension

Episode 8: Save the Date

Episode 9: Picture This

Episode 10: Touched by an A-ngel

Episode 11: I Must Confess

Episode 12: Over My Dead Body

Episode 13: The First Secret

Episode 14: Through Many Dangers, Toils and Snares

Episode 15: A Hot Piece of 'A'

Episode 16: Let the Water Hold Me Down

Episode 17: Blond Leading the Blind

Episode 18: A Kiss Before Lying

Episode 19: The Naked Truth

Episode 20: CTRL:A

Episode 21: Breaking the Code

Episode 22: Father Knows Best

Episode 23: Eye of the Beholder

Episode 24: If These Dolls Could Talk

Episode 25: UnmAsked

Season 3

Episode 1: It Happened 'That Night'

Episode 2: Blood is the New Black

Episode 3: Kingdom of the Blind

Episode 4: Birds of a Feather

Episode 5: That Girl Is Poison

Episode 6: The Remains of the 'A'

Episode 7: Crazy

Episode 8: Stolen Kisses

Episode 9: The Kahn Game

Episode 10: What Lies Beneath

Episode 11: Single Fright Female

Episode 12: The Lady Killer

Episode 13: This is a Dark Ride

Episode 14: She's Better Now

Episode 15: Mona Mania

Episode 16: Misery Loves Company

Episode 17: Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Inferno

Episode 18: Dead to Me

Episode 19: What Becomes of the Broken Hearted

Episode 20: Hot Water

Episode 21: Out of Sight, Out of Mind

Episode 22: Will the Circle Be Unbroken?

Episode 23: I'm Your Puppet

Episode 24: A DAngerous GAme

Season 4

Episode 1: 'A' is for A-l-i-v-e

Episode 2: Turn of the Shoe

Episode 3: Cat's Cradle

Episode 4: Face Time

Episode 5: Gamma Zeta Die!

Episode 6: Under the Gun

Episode 7: Crash and Burn, Girl!

Episode 8: The Guilty Girl's Handbook

Episode 9: Into the Deep

Episode 10: The Mirror Has Three Faces

Episode 11: Bring Down the Hoe

Episode 12: Now You See Me, Now You Don't

Episode 13: Grave New World

Episode 14: Who's in the Box?

Episode 15: Love ShAck, Baby

Episode 16: Close Encounters

Episode 17: Bite Your Tongue

Episode 18: Hot for Teacher

Episode 19: Shadow Play

Episode 20: Free Fall

Episode 21: She's Come Undone

Episode 22: Cover for Me

Episode 23: Unbridled

Episode 24: 'A' is for Answers

Watch on HBO Max or Hulu

See Pretty Little Liars post II season 5-7

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dan6085 · 1 year

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Here are some TV series with high ratings from Rotten Tomatoes:

1. **"Breaking Bad" (2008-2013):** A high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine producer teams up with a former student. (Rating: 96%)

2. **"The Wire" (2002-2008):** Explores the city of Baltimore and its relationship with politics, media, schools, and the maritime industry. (Rating: 94%)

3. **"The Sopranos" (1999-2007):** Follows the life of mob boss Tony Soprano as he tries to balance the demands of his crime family with his personal life. (Rating: 92%)

4. **"Fargo" (2014-present):** Inspired by the film, each season features new characters and storylines, all connected by crime and moral dilemmas. (Rating: 94%)

5. **"Better Call Saul" (2015-present):** A prequel to "Breaking Bad," focusing on the evolution of the character Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer. (Rating: 97%)

6. **"Game of Thrones" (2011-2019):** Based on George R.R. Martin's novels, it explores the power struggles among noble families as they attempt to control the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms. (Rating: 89%)

7. **"Stranger Things" (2016-present):** Set in the 1980s, a group of kids in a small town encounters supernatural forces and government conspiracies. (Rating: 87%)

8. **"Black Mirror" (2011-present):** Anthology series exploring the dark side of technology and its impact on society. (Rating: 83%)

9. **"The Crown" (2016-2022):** Chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II from her wedding in 1947 through present day. (Rating: 90%)

10. **"Mindhunter" (2017-2019):** FBI agents investigate and understand serial killers by interviewing them and applying psychology. (Rating: 97%)

11. **"BoJack Horseman" (2014-2020):** An animated series following the life of an anthropomorphic horse actor dealing with self-worth, addiction, and relationships. (Rating: 93%)

12. **"The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" (2017-present):** A housewife in the 1950s discovers her talent for stand-up comedy and pursues a career in the male-dominated industry. (Rating: 86%)

13. **"Patriot" (2015-2018):** An intelligence officer tries to prevent Iran from going nuclear, leading to various high-stakes and darkly comedic situations. (Rating: 91%)

14. **"One Day at a Time" (2017-2020):** A sitcom focusing on a Cuban-American family dealing with everyday life struggles. (Rating: 99%)

15. **"Sherlock" (2010-2017):** A modern adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes detective stories. (Rating: 78%)

16. **"Veep" (2012-2019):** Follows the life of former Senator Selina Meyer as she becomes the Vice President and later, the President of the United States. (Rating: 93%)

17. **"Westworld" (2016-present):** An amusement park for rich vacationers, the park is looked after by robotic hosts until they start malfunctioning. (Rating: 78%)

18. **"The Good Place" (2016-2020):** Afterlife comedy where a woman realizes she hasn't been a good person and tries to earn her spot in the "good place." (Rating: 97%)

19. **"Rick and Morty" (2013-present):** Animated series following the misadventures of an eccentric, alcoholic scientist and his good-hearted but easily influenced grandson. (Rating: 94%)

20. **"Chernobyl" (2019):** A historical drama miniseries depicting the Chernobyl nuclear disaster and its aftermath in the mid-1980s Soviet Union. (Rating: 96%)

Please check Rotten Tomatoes or other reliable sources for the most current ratings and reviews of these TV series.

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teapots-and-hats · 2 years

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List of Final Fantasies I have played (almost) until the end so far

Just putting this on screen so people know how much deep into one FF hell I am AKA how much I possibly know it's plot, characters and lore.

I also say "almost" cuz some I reached end boss but got too frustrated/tired to actually finish the game. Final Fantasy and spin-offs

Final Fantasy VII + Crisis Core + FF7R + Rebirth

Final Fantasy IX

Final Fantasy X + FFX-2

Final Fantasy XII

Final Fantasy XIII + FFXIII-2

Final Fantasy XIV (up-to-date with current patch)

Final Fantasy XV + all DLCs + read Dawn to the Future Novel

Final Fantasy XVI + all DLCs

Final Fantasy Tactics

Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

Dissidia Final Fantasy + DFF Duodecim + Opera Omnia

Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origins (no DLC)

Not Final Fantasy but related / had crossover with FF:

Kingdom Hearts

Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories

Kingdom Hearts II

Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep

Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance

Kingdom Hearts III

Fantasian

Bravely Default

Drakengard (haven't actually played but I got so fascinated by its lore I watched a gameplay for all of them... kinda regret doing that for DOD2)

NieR (I know the general plot and lore because I read some novel based on Replicant and went after the game's lore after finding out it was connected to Drakengard. I have both Automata and Replicant here waiting for me) + played Reincarnation

#final fantasy #games #personal #square enix

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oveliagirlhaditright · 1 year

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I remember when I used to read a lot of SoKai fanfiction in the 2006 era, a lot of people would write Sora with the dialogue, "Say, (someone or another)," even though he only ever said that once. LOL. But at least with the novel here, we can now argue that he's said the "Say, Kairi" thing twice.

#kh #kingdom hearts #sokai #parallels #sora #kairi #sora and kairi #kh1 #khi #kingdom hearts 1 #kingdom hearts i #kh novels #kingdom hearts novels #kingdom hearts 2 novel #kingdom hearts ii novel #tomoco kanemaki #also i should mention that i'm totally not calling out any fanfic authors with this of course! in fact. i did this myself i think. lol

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forevermagik · 1 year

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13 video games to get to know me

vaguely tagged by @rarmaster. Sort of pulling from an old tweet thread about this. Ish. In sort of a particular order, but don't think too much about it.

Under the cut 'cause this is long

Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword - gave me feels about time shenanigans and destiny and stepping up to the plate and waiting for the person you care about and character growth and childhood friends. Also reincarnation and the self, and are you who you think you are, or are you who you were destined to be? Very much my shit. It's my favorite Zelda game.

FFVIII - also time shenanigans and destiny and proving destiny wrong and forging your own way and making your own luck and standing up for what you believe in. Also, there is something about the fact that my disc 3 (out of 4) was broken and I had to replace it 3 times just to get past the part on the moon so I could finish the game. Definitely makes it more special I think. The patience and dedication. (Also, I know a game has wrecked me when I'm writing fanfiction for it. And then taking characters from this game and putting them in other fanfiction. (Okay, it was Kingdom Hearts so it only kind of counts.) But I definitely added Rinoa to my KH long fic and have no regrets about it.)

Kingdom Hearts II - Yeah it was only a matter of time before something KH showed up on this list. I chose KHII because it's honestly my favorite to play. It's a really good balance of mechanics, controls, and skill that I feel other KH games don't necessarily have. Plus, I mean, somewhere between here and Days, I had enough ideas to start writing a longfic that basically is the length of 4+ novels.

Dragon Age Origins - I really enjoyed the concept of starting out in different places but coming to the same result in Ostagar. I loved making the best of a shitty situation and getting to know a bunch of people who were also coming from shitty situations but somehow we all were what it took to save the world. And my choices mattered! (Well, as much as they could in a BioWare game.) Also a game I wrote fanfic for - though never finished the fanfic. But that doesn't change the fact that sometimes I think about what would've happened if all the potential Wardens had lived.

Undertale - I feel like this one speaks for itself a fair bit. Being kind. Choosing mercy. The power of friendship. (Assuming you go that route.) But also, consequences of actions. Choosing to be good. The lesbians win. Sometimes a marriage isn't recoverable. Sometimes kids are just kids. The horror I felt when I realized how the game changed based on your kill count? Yeah, definitely restarted and figured out how to do a full pacifist run. Wrote fanfiction for this fandom too. A couple of shorter one shots. Because I like operating under a "what if everyone lives" sometimes.

Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess - Yes, another Zelda game. Twilight Princess is very much vibes for me. Another Link who steps up to the plate even though he was just a goat farmer. Zelda trying to reconcile her past. Midna's entire fucking existence. Also, there is so much that haunts the narrative in this game if you look hard enough. I want to know more about it. I don't want to know more about it. It's perfect as it is.

Super Smash Brothers Brawl - Play Subspace Emissary. I'm begging you. Epic team ups. Character development in a fighting game. Trying to save the world from a greater evil that's destroying everything. Former enemies setting aside their differences to wreck shit together. Some of my favorite moments include Peach and her tea and then Zelda also has tea. Also Zelda, Link, and Ganondorf deciding that the Big Bad is a bigger problem than their differences. So much good stuff here.

Thrillville - This game has everything. "You've inherited a park from your crazy uncle go manage it." It's a rhythm game, a side scroller, a coaster builder, a racing game, and so much more all packed into one. I spent way too much time getting every high score for the cheerleading mini game. Also Event Horizon is the best. I go back to this game for comfort.

Yoshi's Story - This is also a N64 game. I worked very very hard to get to the end of this game while keeping all of my Yoshi's alive. (Did I absolutely reset if I died so I didn't lose the Yoshi? You bet I did as soon as I learned I could do that.) I spent a ton of time trying to figure out how to unlock everything in that game (when the internet was still new for this sort of shit) and I *still* never managed it. I tell myself one day I will, but I probably won't.

Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Maybe it's cheating to say this game? It's also the newest game on here because I really focused on ones that were formative for me at a younger age. However, if there's one Zelda game I wish I could go back and play for the first time again, it's this one. That's it, that's the vibe.

Tetris 64 - I very specifically mean this one. There is something about making a square that makes my brain go BRRT. It makes happy noises. I play this game to destress. I remember racking up lines and building the 7 wonders of the world alongside my fam. It's good shit.

Shrek Super Party - Honestly, this one is about the fun memories of playing with my family. We would mimic the voices of the mirror and poke so much fun at each other while playing. We'd compete for high scores in some games, and just accept that others of us were just better at others. So so so much fun and a lot of fond memories attached to this game.

Mario Party 1 - Okay look, you're probably like, "magik, why are there not one, but TWO party games on here?" And my answer is that Mario Party 1 was the first game that my family and I played together that we actually like, worked for a common goal. (Tetris notwithstanding.) Like sure, we'd play racing games and stuff, but there was something about Mario Party when we got our 100 stars and then Bowser came to steal them and we played his map for the first time? And then Eternal Star? I have *vivid* memories of sitting on a chair with a TV tray in front of me with my food in one corner and the controller in another as I waited for my turn or mini games. And we all just sat there, playing a STORYLINE that hadn't been there until then. Except it had been? So, I mean, that is a very specific scenario to me. I cannot do that again for the first time. But that's okay.

Honorable mentions:

Mario Kart Double Dash - while this game doesn't have all my favorite Mario Kart tracks, there's something about the mechanics. Two racers, with power ups linked to racers. The ability to play two people one kart?!? Wild. The mindmeld required to do that and the experiences I had playing with my friend and sibling growing up. Also, Baby Park is insane.

Super Mario 64 - I played this game a lot with my friend as a kid. We shared a save file. My younger sibling was not a fan of seeing this game in their dreams because they watched us play it all the freaking time. We just worked to get gud and beat the game. Before school. After school. Over the summer. It was like, goals.

Mario Party 2 - Costume changes based on the worlds. That is all.

Some non-video game media that fucking rewired my brain that you should consider:

Owl House - I have not been this wrecked over a TV show in years. I have not been this wrecked over media in years. But if you haven't noticed, it's been Owl House hours on my blog for the past several weeks and that's not stopping in the near future either. But there's something about seeing myself in Eda. Along with the tight writing. The excellent magic system. The characters. The parallels. Everything.

New Who - I specifically mean doctors 9-11. Tennant was like, my favorite doctor. But 9 has some amazing episodes. And River, another of my beloveds, is primarily featured with 11.

Middlegame - Time. Loops. Siblings. TIMELOOPS. Dodger, I love her.

So You Want to Be a Wizard - Technically, I wasn't really wrecked until much later in the series, but the way magic works in this universe is fantastic. Also, I so wanted to be Nita and find a manual like she did. Alas, I did not. So instead I write my own stories.

Mistborn - Listen, you do not read all three of Era 1 in three days, make a shitton of playlists, and think about it for hours on end and not say it didn't rewire your brain. (This is currently, effectively, what I am doing with Owl House apparently.)

Arcane - Again, siblings. The vibes. Victor. The will-they-won't-they between Caitlyn and Vi. The music. The vibes.

#13 games #video games

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meltykarasu · 1 year

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Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories, The Novel review

Again written by Tomoco Kanemaki, illustrated by Shiro Amano.

The Bottom Line: A stellar adaptation by default, stripping the maligned gameplay systems from the series's most tightly written stories.

I'll try and break it down quickly: Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories is oft spoken of with derision in the fanbase because of a strange gameplay system involving numerical cards filling in for attacking, magic, items, and abilities of prior titles. I, personally, really love the gameplay — especially of the GBA original, which is one of my top 3 games of all time — but can understand the frustration of new players who often bounce off the title and skip straight from Kingdom Hearts to Kingdom Hearts II, assuming that the portable spinoff is, like many handheld adaptations of console titles, a purely superfluous experience made to capture kids' hard-earned allowances.

This is a mistake.

Anyone who played II without playing Chain of Memories would have met with confusion at new characters and oblique references to the events of the game.

Chain of Memories is also one of the most tightly written stories in the franchise — owing partially to the then-lack of necessary prerequisite titles to play and the fact that it introduces much of its own lore.

It is a mystery story involving a castle whose floors take the form of remembered places and the sinister group occupying it, dealing thematically with repression of memory.

The group — Organization XIII — becomes the focus of the next small arc of games including II and the famously nonsensical title Kingdom Hearts: 358/2 Days.

There is an unfortunate side effect of how the game was written and therefore how this novel has to be written, that being the fact that every world here has to be from Sora's memory. You don't get any new Disney worlds or characters, and of the ones cut from the novelization of Kingdom Hearts, you won't be seeing them in this novel. This is a shame because the Halloween Town segment in Chain of Memories is a fantastic piece of writing that pushes thematically right up to the conclusion, and it's not present here.

However, the novel works incredibly well at getting into Sora's headspace and the uncertain nature of our own memory. As the individual world sets in the game could be tackled in any order, this could lead to a disconnect in how Sora acts, but with how the novel is structured, there is a clear throughline of narrative intent.

The novel is split into thirds — two covering Sora's story, and one covering the Riku-centered Reverse/Rebirth mode from the original game, discussing what exactly Riku was doing during Sora's plot. As the gameplay of this mode was largely filler, they add multiple scenes — creating dialogues at times or providing additional viewpoints on the events previously depicted.

The translation remains very good and, because I'm a pedant about these things, I want to highlight that the translator used both the GBA and PS2 localizations, which have slight differences in lines, and chose which lines felt more effective for dialogue purposes.

Would I Suggest Reading This Over Playing The Game:

This is a difficult one because I adore Chain of Memories, but yes.

Chain of Memories does a poor job of explaining its gameplay systems to the point that it is an active detriment to itself, but the story is one of the best — you'll notice I've tiptoed around spoiling literally anything about the plot.

What it subtracts isn't noticeable — you'll, well, forget all about it for the sake of the tightening of the remainder of the plot.

#meltylnreviews

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sleeping-in-the-sky · 2 years

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Those Halcyon Days (Infinite Blue)

“Plotting these schemes, pulling the strings… It has been painful. It is still painful,” Brooklyn confesses. His voice, usually rich and warm like honey and hearth, is ragged as he shares his sins. "But I have come too far for this to be all for naught, I can’t- I shouldn’t- stop now for the sake of the nation, for the sake of the duchy, for the sake of the people and you-”

His voice cracks. The hand holding his cup is trembling, and the amber liquid contained within ripples.

Brooklyn x Reader, Vampire & Royalty AU. Reader’s gender or pronouns are not mentioned. Also posted on Ao3 here.

CW: Blood, character death, grief.

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Author’s Note: The vampire lore in this story doesn't have the classic "to become a vampire, you need to get bitten by a vampire/drink vampire blood" rules. Instead, I borrowed my incredible friend's homebrew vampire lore (with permission, bless her heart). The condensed version of her lore is as follows:

Vampires are, on a metaphorical level, a representation of trauma that haunts people. In a lesser sense they also represent regret and guilt. Every vampire is the tragic protagonist in their own Ancient Greek play, doomed from birth to fall to a cataclysmic disaster. They can be the instigator of this tragedy, and then vampirism is a sort of purgatorial punishment for them, or they could be a victim, perhaps dying in an extreme circumstance where they never received closure and they’re still searching for it, etc.

To become a vampire, the vampire-to-be must have lived a life of tragedy and misery, leaving an unrepentant wake of destruction in their path. Then, as their human body dies, or after it has died but before rot sets in, blood must be ingested by the vampire-to-be. This is not necessarily a vampire’s blood. Even animal’s blood will function well for this purpose. That’s it. Other vampires are not needed to create a new vampire. In fact, in certain conditions, vampires can even turn on accident.

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Act I: Cloudless Blue Skies

The children’s laughter rings throughout the town, excited voices mixing as they share old tales and imagine new ones. Armed with satchels full of toys and snacks, they race through the streets fueled by innocent excitement.

The adults engage in friendly chatter as they walk down stone-cobbled paths. Some start their daily banter with the lively street vendors, others wave goodbye and head home, all of them going about their humble lives to support their families.

The elderly bask in the gentle afternoon rays, watching their grandchildren and passing along the stories of old; tales of magic casting miracles and curses, legends of heroes fighting against dark-dwelling demons of sin.

From the open window, the young lord hears them all yet pays no mind, for he has more pressing matters to attend to. With a feather duster in one hand and a rag in the other, he continues his mission to make the entrance hall spotless, ignoring his servants' pleas to stop. After all, today was the day for his spouse’s arrival. Why shouldn’t he help make the manor as presentable as it can be?

He hears the creaking sound of the mansion gates opening, and he turns to see you - dressed in your best attire, hands clasped nervously in front of you - but with a quizzical look on your face. No doubt wondering why the head of the household, a high-ranking noble of the kingdom, and your new husband, was doing the duties of a maid.

He brushes away his embarrassment with a small cough before setting down the cleaning supplies. “Brooklyn Hayes, thirty-fourth head of the Hayes Duchy, at your service, ” he says with a graceful bow. He raises his head, and as soon as you lock eyes with that golden gaze he visibly softens.

“Pleased to meet you… My dear.”

Act II: Soft Clouds

The silk curtains sway to the rhythm of birdsong as the breeze leaves soft kisses on your cheek and entices your book to turn its pages. You set the novel down and look out the window, watching and listening for signs of life in the town. Your town.

It’s a good day.

As if right on cue, you hear two knocks at your door, and Brooklyn enters the room. He looks a little fatigued, but his usual grace is prevalent as he kisses you in greeting. “My dear, I was thinking of going to the café by the town square for lunch,” he said. “Would you like to join me? I heard they’ve added new tea cakes to the menu.”

He doesn’t even need to wait for a reply - the joy that lights up your face says it all, and he laughs. It’s a deep warm chuckle, and you can’t help but give a bashful smile in response.

“Well now, shall we go?”

The town square is bustling with its usual activity when the two of you arrive. The younger ones cheer and wave at the passing stagecoach, and the adults smile and bow respectfully. Your heart flutters as you accept a tiny bouquet of daisies from a particularly brave child, grateful at how accepting the townspeople were to you, an outsider.

Entering this arranged marriage was quite frankly, intimidating; joining the household of the famed Hayes Duchy, and even marrying the head of the family! But you soon learned that those worries were for naught. Despite his formality and status, you found that Brooklyn was just a kind and gentle man, and although you sometimes found his quirks odd - one of them being his penchant for excessive cleaning and organizing - he was someone you found worth and happiness being with. And for the townspeople, as soon as they saw how smitten their lord was with his new spouse, they quickly welcomed you with open arms.

Seating yourself on the café terrace, you watch over the plaza as Brooklyn graciously pours the two of you a cup of tea. A warm floral scent drifts lazily through the air. “I unfortunately have to continue my work right after this,” he says. “The royal court has been rather… disorderly lately. I truly do apologize.” He reaches across to take your hand in his, and he genuinely looks regretful.

“I hope to spend more time with you soon… But until then, I will cherish these moments of respite we share.”

Act III: Raindrops

It’s a quiet evening. Despite the relaxed ticking of the clock reminding Brooklyn it was close to midnight, he sits in his office, head in his hands, and lets out a sigh as he contemplates his course of action. Political strife had always been rampant under the thinly stretched tarp of noble appearances. But the cauldron, filled to the brim with unspoken resentment and hidden agendas, bubbled relentlessly underneath the covers and with the soon-to-be passing of the current king, he knew that all it’ll take was one more drop for everything to come spilling out.

To allow the Hayes duchy to shift from its longstanding neutral position would be adding more than a single drop to the cauldron. Opposing the first prince and his supporters was akin to a death wish, but with every bit of knowledge and experience Brooklyn wielded he knew that if he didn’t help the second prince succeed the crown it would lead to a future more torturous than death.

But was he prepared for the sacrifices, the cost, of purposely starting fires? Raking back his hair in frustration the duke abruptly stands and leaves the study, letting his legs decide where to go down the dark hallway without any direction while he relentlessly ruminated over his options. It wasn’t until he stopped in front of a mahogany door did he realize he was in front of his bedchambers.

Carefully, in an attempt to not make a sound, he pushes open the door. Under the plush comforters you were fast asleep, clutching a pillow in your arms as if it were your victim placeholder instead of your husband. Brooklyn couldn’t help but crack a smile. A cuddler, you were; it seemed like you were never fully comfortable until you were cozy under a dozen blankets and snuggled up to something, or someone. Yet another thing he adored about you. He sits on the edge of the bed and gently traces his thumb against your cheek, then shifts his attention to the open window. Singing cicadas, the gentle wind, all joining together as the chorus of Night, envelop him in a soft embrace. The townscape with his people, wrapped in their own dreams, glows dimly. Beside him, you murmur incoherently in your sleep and turn to nuzzle your face into his hand.

Guilt courses through his veins and threatens to swallow him whole, but he knows what must be done. Contrary to the heavily corrupt first prince and his faction, a noble exists to serve the people. And you, this town, this province- was his everything.

So with a deep breath, he lifts his hand and willingly steps into sorrow.

Act IV: Rainstorm

Steeling your nerves, you raise a reluctant fist and give two raps on the door. Hearing the muffled approval for entry you enter, a maid carting tea and sandwiches following close behind.

Most of the study is in its usual pristine condition. The antique bookshelves and their contents are sparkling with the prideful work of the servants, but Brooklyn’s desk is a mess. The usually carefully stacked papers are in a haphazard heap with the noble in question sitting surrounded by clutter, and when he raises his head to meet your eyes worry leaps into your throat. Despite his usual dignified attire, fatigue shone through in the shadows under his eyes and the delayed reaction as it finally registered that it was his spouse that stood before him.

Finally, he lifted the corners of his lips in a forced smile. “My apologies… It’s been a while since I’ve last had tea with you, yes? I suppose I do need the break.”

He leaves his prison-like workspace and joins you on the velvet chaise couch. The maidservant, despite casting worried glances toward her master, quickly finishes setting the coffee table and excuses herself. Like clockwork, Brooklyn lifts the porcelain teapot to serve you and then himself a cup of tea. Watching him move with his natural ease of grace was a routine for you, but unlike other days where you would be filled with peace, your mind was scrambling, searching for the right words to say.

But it was Brooklyn who broke the silence. “I’m guessing you’ve caught wind of the storm.” After a moment of hesitation, you nodded. News of riots breaking out at the capital, exposure of previously-hidden corruption of nobles, and instability in trade were rampant, and despite many pointing blame to the first prince you’ve heard subtle rumors that the mastermind behind them all was your husband.

When you relay what you’ve heard, Brooklyn goes silent. Finally, he confirms that the gossip was true. “Plotting these schemes, pulling the strings… It has been painful. It is still painful,” he confesses. His voice, usually rich and warm like honey and hearth, is ragged as he shares his sins. “I have long since accepted that I would be making sacrifices. But the number of innocent casualties, the suffering I’ve caused the civilians as a result of this was not anticipated. Or rather… I was foolish for not thinking this would happen. But I have come too far for this to be all for naught, I can’t- I shouldn’t- stop now for the sake of the nation, for the sake of the duchy, for the sake of the people and you-”

His voice cracks. The hand holding his cup is trembling, and the amber liquid contained within ripples. He takes a shuddering, deep breath. “You should flee,” he says, and your eyes widen. “I cannot fathom how much misery is yet to come. Leave me, and seek shelter be it with your family or another noble, but I’m terribly afraid to put you in the way of danger, so-”

His words die in his throat as your hand, firm and steady, takes hold of his. Anxiety and fear for the situation and the future gnaw at you but when you see your husband overburdened like this, all you could think of was to stay by his side.

“... Thank you, my love.” Brooklyn searches and finds comfort within your compassion and loyalty. “I want no harm to come to you, and I’ll arrange things so you can escape at a moment's notice. But at the same time… I am grateful that you choose to stay by me.”

“…I realize it’s selfish to say, but right now, I can’t help but wish that you continue to stay by my side. As of right now, you are the only thing that brings me ease.”

He sets down his tea, and in an unusual show of weakness, pulls you into him in a tight embrace. As you tenderly run your fingers through his brown hair, you could faintly make out a nearly-inaudible thank you as Brooklyn buries his face into the crook of your neck.

Act V: Thunderstorm

The mechanical ticking of the grandfather clock reminds Brooklyn that it was a few more hours until Night ends her reign and lets Day come to take her place. But unlike several seasons ago when he first waged this torturous political war, as he toiled away at his papers and plans the weight on his shoulders felt lighter. The first prince’s faction was steadily weakening, and it was only a matter of time before the king names the second prince as the official heir to the throne. The deaths of the innocents that were caught up in this mad dance still twisted his heart and crushed it with guilt, but maybe, just maybe, if all goes well, their deaths would not be in vain and all of the sleepless nights would be worth it.

He neatly caps his fountain pen and stretches in his seat. Maybe it’s finally time to get a decent amount of sleep. With his old orderliness he arranges the documents into neat stacks before leaving the office, finding friends in the shadows of the hall he walks down, and he looks forward to embracing you in slumber.

But when the heavy doors slowly open he’s not greeted by the steady sounds of sleep. There’s a figure standing by the bed and at first, Brooklyn wonders if it’s you. Although rare, it wouldn’t be unusual if you needed to get up during the night for a drink of water. But his eyes adjust to the darkness and he notices there’s another figure in the bed and he realizes it’s you, and under the silver moonlight shining coldly through the window he sees patches of blood, and then he hears it - gasps and wheezes, of your life slowly slipping out with every weak breath you take.

The standing assailant, in a familiar uniform but with an unfamiliar visage, turns and charges at Brooklyn, but his thoughts dissolve and blood rushes to his head, and in what he could only comprehend as a fit of vengeful malevolence, disarms the assassin and uses their own dagger to slit their throat.

There’s no time to think, to cry out for help, to identify the killer. He lets the body collapse in a heap to the ground and rushes to your side. He grabs the blankets with shaking hands, trying to use them to stop the bleeding, but even in the darkness of the callous night it’s clear that the wound was deep, your eyes look back at him as frantic as the beating in his heart as he whispers your name over and over like a prayer to the gods, your lips quiver and move as if you’re trying to speak-

For a split second he hears footsteps from behind. Then sparks of lightning shoot through him as he looks down and sees the tip of a blade in his chest and a glimpse of another figure behind him. The next moment he’s engulfed in what feels like hellish flames and a tidal wave of cold sweat, and the last thing Brooklyn feels is the metallic taste of blood in the back of his throat before darkness crashes down, swallowing him whole.

After what feels like simultaneously nothing and all eternity, vague sounds worm through the darkness and slowly give way to light as he lifts his heavy eyelids. Blinking slowly, it takes him a few minutes as he realizes the swarming figures around him are his servants, all in a myriad of emotions. They’re talking fast to him and to each other, moving about in a blurry dance and when with aching limbs he slowly sits up he feels nothing - no warmth, no grief, as empty of a husk as the cold lifeless body laying in bed in front of him.

Act VI: Fog

Brooklyn wasn’t sure how long time had passed since then. It could have been days or weeks, but through it all he feels as though he was drifting through a hazy dream. He has a vague recollection of another duke in the first prince’s faction arrested for the attempted assassination of the Hayes duchy, and that was the last raindrop of the political storm as it allowed for the first prince to quickly lose his influence. He remembers being invited to the royal capital for the second prince’s coronation, but he also remembers declining. Something about entering the sunlight-dappled palace didn’t feel right to him.

There’s a memory of your casket, lovingly decorated with orchids and carnations, and he even remembers placing a stuffed bear inside so you have something to snuggle with while you rest in eternal slumber. But when the priest starts to lead the prayer, it feels like an inferno was lit in his chest- and he leaves, pocketing the memory of your last peaceful expression deep within him.

He remembers his servants and guards leaving one by one - did he let them go? He probably did, solitude suddenly feels more comfortable. And soon the mansion was empty except for him, besides a few friendly townsfolk and old employees who, out of concern, visit him once in a blue moon.

Brooklyn drifts through the greyscale hours of his new everyday, living in the darkness that he suddenly finds comforting until one day without much thought he brews himself tea and realizes that out of habit he’s set out two teacups.

A breeze slips through the cracked window and flits around the empty mansion before leaving a kiss on his hand. The porcelain teacup slips through his fingers and shatters into a million fragments on the carpet, and it feels like a wake-up call to what was his reality.

It sets in that he won’t ever be able to see your uncontainable giddiness at the café, he won’t wake up at dawn to your arm slung over him, he won’t be able to feel your presence and the comfort you brought. All of them, now only existing in his memories.

But closing his eyes the only images he can conjure is one of your frantic expression before slipping away and the restful smile in your coffin and it’s enough to make him crumble.

A torrent of thoughts and emotions race through him and he clutches and claws at anything and everything - his face, his hair, the tablecloth. Anguished sobs rip out of the shell of his former self until there’s nothing left. Sullen eyes glance around the desolate manor and he feels sharp canines piercing his bottom lip, tasting despair.

From then on, all communication ceases from the Hayes duchy. When the newly crowned king sends a messenger to the providence, he is later found as a corpse, pale and empty of life and blood. The same fate meets the next several visitors.

The house is soon abandoned by the kingdom.

Act VII: Grey Skies

The children trade secrets in hushed whispers, spreading their tales of the broken manor hidden in the corner of the town. The brave ones, gathering their wits and curiosity along with their unenthusiastic friends venture to explore, but none make it inside.

The adults walk briskly to and fro through the graying town, still smiling at their children who scamper down the street, but the street vendors are quieter, and there’s no waving at any fancy carriages that run through the town because none come at all.

The elderly speak between themselves of love and nobility; tales of the years before the reign of the current king, how the benevolent lord of the now-gone duchy selflessly protected those who lived within.

But Brooklyn hears none of this, for why does it matter? The life he once knew, so vibrant and beautiful, was ripped and torn away from him, along with you.

And the eternity he must endure for atonement feels so hollow.

He sits, in solitude, in the dust-laden, cobweb-littered mansion.

#Infinite Blue #Brooklyn #Reader Insert #Brooklyn x Reader #fanfiction

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ultraericthered · 2 years

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KH Canon OCs - How I See Them

Any followers of mine I have on this hellsite are likely aware that I am and remain a Kingdom Hearts fan who personally considers only the core narratives of Birth By Sleep, Kingdom Hearts (1), Chain of Memories, and Kingdom Hearts II (plus some Appendix content from the UX fairy tale, BBS 0.2 and 358/2 Days), all chronologically, to be the canonical narrative of the true and pure Kingdom Hearts, the epic Disney saga before it was all remade in the image of director Tetsuya Nomura’s demented shonen mangaka brain. Or to put it differently, only the first decade of the franchise (the 2002 release of KH1 up to right before the 2012 release of KH3D) matters to me on any deep level (though the second decade up to Sora joining Smash in 2021 has some shining gems of merit to take from even while the rest of it is all hot flaming garbage that’s being doubled down on and continuing going forward and I want absolutely no part of it, bye.)

As such, the KH original characters I would consider canonical to any worthwhile work of Kingdom Hearts are all those introduced in that first decade, with one exception I’ll bring up at the very end. And these characters, like many franchise characters, have been written and portrayed in differing ways between different entries, whether they be games, manga, novels, web original/fanon material, or even just the basic rough draft concepts. So...where does that leave me and how I view these characters? I thought it’d be fun to not only answer that, but to compare with actual officially liscenced depictions of the characters and see which ones best match what I consider the ideal for the “baseline”/”template” these characters ought to follow.

Sora

Sora is a free-spirited, mostly easygoing and cheerful young boy from Destiny Islands who finds himself the chosen wielder of the Keyblade one fateful night when the Heartless invade his home. He’s best friends with Riku and Kairi, and also with Donald and Goofy, his travel companions across the worlds. Generally positive, upbeat, bold to the point of cockiness, and with a steadfast belief in the heart and in his friends that are his power, Sora can also be very deeply contemplative, surprisingly considerate, and prone to becoming moody and melancholic whenever something really gets him down. Despite this his agility, abilities, and willpower are exceedingly strong.

The Sora who best matches this characterization would be...

Somewhere right between both games in the Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix+ package - Re: Chain of Memories and KHII. As great as KH1 Sora is, his character arc, growth and maturity through the course of that game’s story sort of ends at a narrative wall, as it was clearly developed like a standalone with the continuation of the storyline afterwards being uncertain. So Sora’s whole ordeal in Castle Oblivion was designed to break him down and the following story of KHII was likewise designed to build him back up again ‘til he reached Peak Sora, slicing through skyscrapers with his Key and everything. In between these portrayals, if we took the best of Sora from Re:CoM and added it to the best of Sora from KHII, we’d have my Sora.

Kairi

Kairi is the seventh Princess of Heart, a pure-hearted girl who comes from the world of the Radiant Garden Hollow Bastion but now lives on Destiny Islands due to being sent there by Xehanort when she was very young and small. Though appearing scrawny and fragile, Kairi is a spunky, cheeky, outgoing and good-natured tomboy with an endless supply of willpower and inner strength in addition to her athleticism. Unlike her best friend Sora, though, Kairi isn’t exactly carefree and is prone to anxiety and fear of change beyond her control due to her traumatic childhood experiences, and is also very impatient and fidgety, but tries to conceal all this beneath a sunny disposition. But put her in a situation of action and danger, and she will go fucking feral. Over the course of the saga, Kairi matures and grows braver, stronger, more proactive, more aware of all that’s around her, and more accepting of great changes, even temporary separation from her friends. Oh, and she and Sora might be in love.

The Kairi who best matches this characterization would be...

Yeah, you all saw this coming. Shiro Amano’s Kairi from his manga. Admittedly, his KH1 Kairi was not very good in the KH1 manga - the scripting for Kairi’s character in KH1 the game remains superior. Everything else, though, he nails for Kairi. We see more of her 14 year old self in flashbacks, we get her KHII character expanded upon so that her personality and dvelopment arc is better fleshed out and she gets more badass achievements to her name, and even the currently running KHIII manga improved her content. She’s perfect.

Riku

Riku is Sora and Kairi’s best friend from Destiny Islands and was to be the Keyblade’s chosen wielder. Cool, cocky, competitive, a bit aloof and tough on others, and prone to snark and joking around, Riku was also very inquisitive and yearned to explore bigger and better places outside his small backwater home, which paralleled his desire to be mature and regarded like a strong and capable adult. These qualities made him susceptible to giving into the darkness in his heart and calling the Heartless to invade his world, which lost him his claim on the Keyblade. His stint with Disney villains and turn to exploiting the powers of darkness for his purposes set his future course, as even when he realizes his errors and repents, he’s stuck with dark powers and a natural pull towards the Dark Realm. From here, Riku becomes first and foremost the “Good Disney Bad Guy” who uses what he gained from villainy towards the cause of good, to help others rather than himself, and to ultimately turn his Darkness into Light. This is symbolized in how he hangs around with Mickey Mouse, the epitome of a Good Guy. Ultimately Riku matures for real and becomes a watchful guardian with his own “twilight” power.

The Riku who best matches this characterization would be...

Like Sora, the ideal depiction of Riku lies somewhere between two games - his KH1 character and the parts of his story mode in CoM that worked and pushed him towards a unique and special path of redemption and heroism that wouldn’t require he wholly sacrifice his Disney Villain-ish aesthetic and edge that he makes work so well. He should never have become the Vegeta of KH, not when he could’ve been the Piccolo of KH, a role his character fits far more naturally.

Xehanort/Ansem, Seeker of Darkness

Xehanort (yeah I know *officially* he’s “Terra-Xehanort”, but that’s not spoken aloud in canon, so he’ll always be “Xehanort” to me) was an amnesiac young man heavily implied to have been a Keyblade wielder who was taken in by Ansem the Wise and made his chief apprentice. Growing envious, arrogant, and apathetic to ethics and emotion, spurred by feelings of inadequacy and his desire to know all that there is to know, Xehanort betrayed his master, banishing him to oblivion and stealing his research, his other followers, and even his name. Allowing the Heartless to overrun his world and sending Kairi adrift in his search for the Keyblade Master, Xehanort became a Heartless himself and masterminded a widespread invasion of the worlds for the purpose of cultivating the Heart Of All Worlds so that he may claim the power of Kingdom Hearts and blanket the universe in everlasting Darkness, which his research had concluded was the true essence of the heart and the stabilizing force of everything.

The Xehanort/Ansem who best matches this characterization is...

There was never any realistic chance than any other depiction of this character was going to top Billy Zanenort in the original KH game + its Final Mix. Everything about him there was so perfectly realized.

Xemnas

Xemnas is the Nobody of Xehanort who was born after Xehanort became a Heartless, who formed Organization XIII and leads it as its Superior. Devoid of feelings and with a vast emptiness where his sense of self once was due to lacking a heart, and now recognizing how pitiful his old self truly was, Xemnas refuses to sink back into Darkness and be rendered nothing of significance, so he desires to enhance and assert his own non-existence by not only gaining a heart of his own through his own Kingdom Hearts, but by claiming its power for himself, tainting the hearts of all life in the universe with his Nothingness so that everything is reduced to nothing and all hearts be enslaved in the thrall of his own, as the deified ruler of the worlds. Completely cold, calculating, philosophical, utterly ruthless, devoid of pity or mercy and with a grandiose sense of self-importance, Xemnas schemed to make the power of the Keyblade serve his own uses.

The Xemnas who best matches this characterization is...

Much like his Heartless counterpart, Xemnas was never better than he was in his debut game, but particularly KHII:FM, which added so much to his on-screen appearances and role as the overarching villain at the head of the Organization, fully selling how complex, tragic, and frightening a character he is. He was great in the other special edition games (KH1:FM and Re:CoM), but those were simply teases at him. Character-wise, KHII:FM remains his definitive outing.

Namine

The special Nobody of Kairi, born when Kairi’s heart departed the body of someone who was not her (Sora). Due to being a product of the connection between Sora and Kairi’s hearts, Namine posesses mystical powers and abilities to look into the hearts of others and tamper with the chains of their memories, which can create certain effects on their minds. At first Namine was a captive of Organization XIII and exploited in Marluxia’s conspiracy at Castle Oblivion, which she let happen due to her loneliness, fear of being left alone and abandoned, and desire to matter in the hearts of Sora and his pals. Initially timid and withdrawn, Namine grew to be more assertive and proactive thanks to her experience with Sora, which allows her to act with more confidence and let her more rebellious and mischievous sides show more openly. She forms a special bond with Roxas, Sora’s Nobody, and eventually with her own other half, Kairi, who she re-assimilates into so that now she has a home inside her heart.

The Namine who best matches this characterization is...

Yes, technically Namine had her strongest showing in terms of character development and story relevance in CoM/Re:CoM, but as a personality with longer lasting value to the series, KHII, the initial game, the FM edition, and also Shiro Amano’s manga adaptation, had Namine at her most appealing by far. She’s sweet, intelligent, helpful, lively, and as strange and awkward as you’d expect someone of her conditions to be, but I think it’s really all brought together in just that sly grin and pose she does in both that game image above and in her official character model art, and how she now fully embraces herself as a “witch” despite that having been just what others called her to start with. The girl’s a naughty little troll and she knows it.

Marluxia

Number 11 in Organization XIII. Marluxia was made lord of Castle Oblivion and from within it concocted a very diabolical and ellaborate scheme to brainwash Sora and bend him to his will so that he could turn the Keyblade against Xemnas, which would allow Marluxia and his co-conspirators to take over the Organization. While seeming elegant and refined, Marluxia is very authoritarian, cruel and without scruples when looking to claim the power he craves. In combat, Marluxia’s a graceful assassin who fights with a sickle and flowers.

The Marluxia who best matches this characterization is...

For reals, Marluxia’s never been gotten quite perfect in anything to feature him, but he was indisputedly at his best in the Kingdom Hearts II: Final Mix+ package, containing Re:CoM and KHII:FM. Re:CoM made his character a lot cooler and more intimidating than he was in the original GBA game (his confrontation with Axel and the fights with him alone prove as much), and his fight in KHII just really runs with the whole “reaper” aesthetic, making you truly fear him.

Axel

Number 8 within Organization XIII. Axel is quite the complicated character, being primarily an assassin with a mercenary sense of values and who does the work of others within the Organization only when he can be sure that it’ll benefit himself to do so. Despite acting like a snide, aggressive and largely blase punk, Axel is not only charming but very perceptive and good at reading a room, making deeply thought cost-benefit analyses of any situation and having a knack for manipulation of both people and events so that things go his preferred way. Selfish and scheming as he is, Axel also harbors deep vulnerability that only his oldest friend and senior member Saix has seen, and when he comes to value something or someone, he is unwilling to let go no matter what he has to do to keep them around. In combat, Axel is very flexible, and fights with chakrams and fire.

The Axel who best matches this characterization is...

It’s Shiro Amano for the win once again! The one constant for Axel is that his debut showing in CoM, whether on GBA, the PS2 specially remade edition, the novels, or even the manga (he’s literally the sole positive in that entire manga adaptation!), goes great for him. It’s everything that follows that I had to consider when weighing them against each other. Then it became no contest - not only is Axel’s portrayal in the 358/2 Days manga stronger, better written and better handled than the game version, but in the KHII manga I am actually very glad he survived past the prologue and can see the value in his role the whole way through. I have never been able to say that regarding KHII the game and especially the novels, but the manga actually got it right. So Amano’s Axel is the best, got it memorized?

Larxene

Number 12 within Organization XIII. Larxene moreso than other Nobodies is particularly agitated by the emptiness within her, so she seeks to fill the void by amusing herself and has found no better way to do so than to cruelly bring others down and toy with them even to a breaking point without any mercy or misgivings. A prideful sadist who cares little for others, Larxene became Marluxia’s co-conspirator in the Castle Oblivion plot to brainwash/recruit Sora so that they may overthrow Xemnas and take over the Organization, and she got an affinity for teasing both her colleagues and Namine. While normally easygoing, playful and snarky, in combat Larxene shows why she’s called a “savage nymph”, fighting with kunai knives and electricity.

The Larxene who best matches this characterization is...

In both versions of CoM, Larxene is a standout. Re:CoM removed a handful of her dialogue for some reason, but otherwise got to portray her personality in even greater detail, with her sauntering movement, skeevy flirtiness, and irritated gestures adding a lot to how enjoyable she is, her facial animation and voice acting emphasizing her malicious sadism, and even her death feeling sadder than just an abrupt tantrum fadeout. What both versions share in common is how uncompromisingly brutal she is to fight. “Savage Nymph” indeed!

Vexen

Number 4 within Organization XIII. As his human self Even was, Vexen is a very dedicated scientist, looking at everything as an opportunity for research and turning any exploitable situation into an experiment to conduct. Feeling like science lends itself not to heartfelt emotion or compassion, he is ice cold and even cruel in how he pursues his agenda. Vexen is also incredibly pompous and elitist, believing in the seniority that numbers within the Organization give and looking his nose down at those of “limited signifigance”. His claim to fame is the creation of Replicas, beings that duplicate the bodies of others but, much like Nobodies, are incomplete due to having fabricated hearts and minds. In combat, Vexen is meticulous, and fights with a shield and ice powers to match his personality.

The Vexen who best matches this characterization is...

As great as Vexen always was in CoM, Re:CoM made him just a teensy bit even better. Part of it is due to the voice acting, which is spot on in both languages. Part of it is due to him coming off as less of a dirty coward than before, thus easier to feel for. And finally, a big part of it is how he dies, a death far more grisly than in the original!

Lexaeus

Number 5 within Organization XIII. The Nobody of Alaeus, one of Ansem’s royal guards and scientific assistants, Lexaeus is the brute force within the Organization who doubles as one of the deepest thinkers of the bunch. Well composed, taciturn, and with a sense of honor, Lexaeus channels his mind through his muscle and is a force to be reckoned with as a result. In Castle Oblivion, he worked in the basement level along with Zexion and Vexen. In combat Lexaeus fights with a tomahawk and earth powers, and can also raise his chi so that he becomes a nigh-unstoppable rampaging monstrosity!

The Lexaeus who best matches this characterization is...

In CoM/Re:CoM he was a bland, forgettable, ultimately throwaway character who is laughably easy to beat despite his professed strength, and in KHII:FM, he’s is much less a character than he is a boss fight (though at least a really strong and difficult opponent now!). 358/2 Days got him down just right, with him being calm, gracious, and intelligent while also being brutal (poor Roxas!) and one of the strongest characters to play as. The only thing missing is his fondness for mind games and puzzles, I think Shiro Amano actually did that really well and it added to his character, but oh well.

Zexion/Ienzo

Number 6 within Organization XIII. The Nobody of Ienzo, youngest of Ansem’s apprentices, Zexion is an analyst and a tactician by nature, always observing, always thinking, and always deciding to act on what he believes to be the best recourse for disadvantaging his foes. Very deadpan, smug and assertive with others, Zexion owes the Organization a great deal and wishes to succeed Xemnas as its leader one day. But as he’s still young and impetuous, he’s not the successful schemer he’d like to be and cracks under pressure. In Castle Oblivion, he worked in the basement level along with Vexen and Lexaeus. In combat Zexion’s not the best physical fighter, so he prefers to cast illusions and mental tricks using a magic spellbook.

The Zexion who best matches this characterization is...

Re:CoM is the best Zexion is going to get in terms of character and combat, and I quite like Ienzo whenever he appears in later games. He’s the only counterpart to an Organization member other than Xehanort and Braig who feels like he warrants the expansion.

Riku Replica (Repliku)

A replica of Riku created by Vexen in Castle Oblivion, designed to reflect Riku’s full dark potential. Was brainwashed by Namine into being obsessed with protecting her and fighting off Sora, but he eventually regained knowledge of what he really was and it got him grappling with his sense of identity all the way to his tragic demise.

The Repliku who best matches that characterization is...

I mean, he’s pretty much the same in Re:CoM as he is in CoM, but with two added benefits: voice acting to actually sell his comically inflated intensity, and not being so ridiculously too difficult to fight.

Ansem the Wise/DiZ

The ruler of the Radiant Garden with an affinity for science and the aquisition of knowledge and wisdom. In trying to better understand the heart, Ansem ended up drawing beings born of the heart’s darkness to his world, and his efforts to keep them at bay were thwarted when his apprentice Xehanort betrayed him and banished him to the Realm of Nothingness. Consumed by dark thoughts, negative emotions and a desire for vengeance, Ansem went by the identity of “DiZ” (Darkness in Zero) as he sought a way to strike back at the Heartless and the Nobodies, the latter whom he particularly despised due to their very non-being serving as a reminder of his failures and the traumatic tragedy he’d been made to endure. While proud, callous, disdainful and patronizing to others, sometimes even downright cruel, Ansem has a wry sense of humor, enjoys peculiar interests such as computer games and ice cream, and can be civil when need be. He recognizes deep in his heart what’s right and wrong, but stubbornly refuses to heed his heart in favor of his mind. Suffice to say, this man’s story doesn’t have a very happy ending.

The Ansem/DiZ who best fits this characterization is...

When you get down to it, Ansem is really not that terribly interesting or invaluable a character in anything other than KHII. It’s the story with the role he was literally made to play, and in it we don’t only get his Ansem Reports and legendarily great voice acting by the late Sir Christopher Lee, but Final Mix even adds the one scene from 358/2 Days featuring him that was best fit to be shown in this story.

Roxas

Roxas is the Nobody of Sora, born when Sora’s heart left his body and he became a Heartless. Made the 13th member of Organization XIII, the solemn, moody and ill-tempered Roxas grew dissatisfied and at odds with himself, beginning to question his purpose and his very identity, which led to him leaving the Organization. He was then captured and mind-wiped by DiZ, who placed him in a simulation of Twilight Town where Roxas developed another identity, a bright, kind, considerate, humble and skeptical “boy scout” type who hung out with Hayner, Pence, and Olette. During this time his memories were scanned and extracted by Namine, and one identity crisis and fight to the death with his former friend Axel later, Roxas was made to re-assimilate back into Sora’s heart, where over the course of Sora’s next journey Roxas made peace with himself and his new home.

The Roxas who best fits this characterization is...

For a third time, Shiro Amano pulls through on not just doing justice to but actually perfecting a character from the games. While his Organization XIII persona in 358/2 Days still isn’t quite what I’d imagined, Amano’s writing for Roxas makes him so engaging the whole time that I barely care, and in the KHII manga he steals the show from Sora in a way Roxas in the game never could. I really like him - he’s way better than the black-coated turd of the later entries.

Hayner, Pence, and Olette

Three friends who live in Twilight Town and who were Roxas’ best friends in the simulation. Hayner is brash and energetic with a take charge attitude. Pence is chipper, laid back and good humored, and has an interest in stuff like machinery and truth-seeking. And Olette is sociable, willful, a bit bossy and snarky, and a shopaholic.

The Hayner, Pence, and Olette who best fit this characterization is...

Yeah, they’re pretty much the same in every single work they appear in, making it impossible to choose (though in Olette’s case I have to give her manga incarnation as shout out for the spiked baseball bat!)

Xaldin

Number 3 within Organization XIII. The Nobody of Dilan, one of Ansem’s guards and scholars, Xaldin is a naturally gifted warrior in the fields of both strength and strategic thinking. Viewing himself and his fellow Nobodies as abominations devoid of feelings, Xaldin views the Beast of Beast’s Castle with contempt and jealousy over him being a literal monster who possesses a heart, feelings, and humanity to reclaim, so Xaldin makes it his priorty to gradually take the Beast’s life apart and utterly break him in both body and spirit so that he may become a Heartless and create a Nobody that Xaldin may then enslave. Moreso than his colleagues, Xaldin is spiteful, malicious, verbally abusive to others, and devoid of any civility or decency, as it’s “not in his nature to hold back.” In combat, Xaldin is relentless, wielding six deadly lances and the power of wind.

The Xaldin who best fits this characterization is...

You really can’t do Xaldin any better than KHII:FM.

Demyx

Number 9 within Organization XIII. Demyx is a lazy, undisciplined, largely apathetic wastrel and a coward who prefers not to fight or apply himself to any tough situations. He likes lounging around, playing music, gaming with his colleagues, and generally taking advantage of others. Though he seems scatter-brained, silly, and even quite friendly at times, Demyx’s empty self makes him insecure about his place in the World, and when that button is pushed, he will throw caution and the pretense of feeling anything to the wind as he becomes a ferocious assailant, fighting with water and his sitar.

The Demyx who best fits this characterization is...

Again, KHII:FM got Demyx down the best. While 358/2 Days and even its manga adaptation fleshed him out a bit more, it lacks the spectacle of his boss fight that has made Demyx such a legend.

Luxord

Number 10 within Organization XIII. Luxord is a gentleman first, a gambler second, and an Organization agent last, so he’s not always the most effective when on a mission. However, he is also shrewd of mind, nefarious in means, and utterly fearless in face of a challenge. He generally gets along with his colleagues, respects a worthy opponent, relishes a good game, and prides himself on being keen and seeing through to the end anything he takes on, and he gets rather frustrated when things fail to match up with his perceptions and risk/reward analysis. In combat, Luxord fights with cards and dice, the gambler’s arsenal, and utilizes the power of time itself.

The Luxord who best fits this characterization is...

Fourth hit for Shiro Amano. While Luxord as an Organization operative in the Caribbean is enjoyable in KHII and even KHIII, Luxord as a character was better realized in the manga, which made him so much fun and notably goofier, meaning he has a much better chance to avoid the utterly asinine bullshit Nomura is now set on.

Saix

Number 7 within Organization XIII. Saix is a Nobody who both fully embraces being a Nobody and curses his fate as a Nobody, yearning for a heart of his own. He is so cold, so efficient, so faithful to the cause, and so uncompromising in his cruelty that he got himself the role of Xemnas’ second-in-command. Normally very deadpan and detached from any semblence of emotion, Saix always hides an undercurrent of intense rage, displeasure, venom and instability that only comes out when a full moon drives him into utter lunacy. He’s been friends with Axel since the start, as their human counterparts were friends too, but lately the two have drifted apart. In combat, Saix wields a broadsword and powers of moon, stars, and space.

The Saix who best fits this characterization is...

358/2 Days just gives Saix all the character focus, meaty role in the plot, and truly villainous deeds that you could ask for. He’s great in Shiro Amano’s manga adaptation too, but his darker presence and actual fighting in the game gives that portrayal of him the edge here.

Xigbar/Braig

Number 2 within Organization XIII, and the Nobody of Braig, one of Ansem’s guards and apprentices who always had a greed for higher status and power that could elevate his self worth. Wanting to wield a Keyblade of his own, Braig gladly accepted Master Xehanort’s offer to collude with him in his scheme to set off a new Keyblade War, and ended up exploiting Xehanort’s trajectory when he became Ansem’s apprentice. Becoming the founding member of Organization XIII along with Xemnas, Xigbar retains Braig’s laid back, gruff, rude and talkative personality and seemingly flighty and unserious attitude, but actually knows many secrets and holds many cards close to his chest, always thinking opportunistically about what can gain him the best advantages and put him several more steps ahead of others he disdains. In combat, Xigbar fights with sniper rfiles and gravity power.

The Xigbar/Braig who best fits this characterization is...

To put it plainly, Xigbar was initially one of the weakest characters in the Organization, and everything about his character in KHII:FM and 358/2 Days only works with the context given with Braig in BBS. (Also, he’s not Luxu. If Luxu were to exist, he’d not be this character.)

Xion

The suddenly added Number 14 of Organization XIII and the centerpiece of much of what happened in the time gap between CoM and KHII. She turns out to be an imperfect Sora replica made by Vexen who absorbed the memories of Sora that Roxas could not recall, leading to the puppet taking on an appearance and personality reminiscent of Kairi. But wheareas Kairi is sweet (albeit sassy and teasing), light-hearted and acts like she’s got her shit together, Xion has no such chill - she’s manic, edgy, feisty, stubborn to a fault, quite prone to angst or anxiety-inducing emotional turmoil, and very open about her insecurities. Despite this, she is fiercely dedicated to being a hard worker and applying herself on missions, giving it her all to earn her keep and putting on her best brave face for her friends ‘cause she loves them so deeply. Even when her screws come more loose and she has her very identity and continued existence in question, her desire to do right and look out for what’s best for her friends wins through. Due to her connection to Sora and Roxas, Xion too can wield the Keyblade. Was ultimately wiped from all memory.

The Xion who best fits this characterization is....

To the surprise of no one, Xion from Shiro Amano’s 358/2 Days manga adaptation IS the character for me and many others - in fact, she’s probably Amano’s crowning achievement, fully realizing the potential in such a bizarre and fanficcy character concept that was thought up by Tomoco Kanemaki and screwed with by Nomura.

Terra

The young Keyblade wielder who, years ago, fell prey to the darkness in his own heart and from Master Xehanort, becoming Xehanort’s vessel and a crucial component of who Xehaort was as Ansem’s apprentice. Having a soured relationship with his mentor and father figure, Master Eraqus, Terra’s heart burned with the desire to prove himself strong and to be a hero to others in need. While rather overconfident, willful, dense, brooding, short-sighted and with a fixation on power, Terra was also good natured, compassionate and vulnerable, wanting to see the best in others and so convicted to ideals of heroism and moral values that his will to do good and protect what mattered most to him outlived him and his own failings.

The Terra who best fits this description is...

Say what you will about Terra in BBS, good and bad, but he was easily the most fully realized character with the fullest realized story arc out of the leads in the game, plus his combat style holds up best.

Aqua

The young Keyblade wielder who, years ago, played a key (pun intended) part in saving the worlds from a plot by Master Xehanort to lay waste to everything, even sacrificing her physical existence to the Darkness in order to give her two friends, Terra and Ventus, their best shot at survival. Aqua was kind-hearted, keen and insightful, strong-willed, stubborn, and hyper-focused on her tasks due to the seriousness of her position and the ideals of peacekeeping and justice that Master Eraqus instilled in her. Having shown the Mark of Mastery, she was also a bit showy, standoffish, and judgmental, wanting to believe she knew best and that her heart wouldn’t lead her astray only to constantly second-guess herself and expose her more awkward side. She cherishes light and is constantly pushing back against the darkness in others and in herself. Above all else, Aqua values her friends as family and will do anything to help them.

The Aqua who most fits this characterization is...

The reason I hold a deep appreciation for what we got in BBS:FM’s bonus episode and in BBS 0.2 even when I don’t like either of those as products is that their contents helped really define who Aqua is and needs to be as not merely a strong heroine, but as a character who stands on her own apart from her two male friends. Shiro Amano’s recent adapting of the material did it one better by restoring Aqua’s adorkable side from BBS to give us bits of levity here and there. Plus, she’s just beautiful and such a damn badass in Keyblade combat, making Nomura’s ever sexist treatment of her in KHIII afterwards a legit crime of bad writing and character assasination.

Ventus

The young Keyblade wielder who, years ago, played a key (pun intended) part in saving the worlds from a plot by Master Xehanort to lay waste to everything, even sacrificing his very heart to vanquish the threat of the Unversed. Initially brought into the secret Keyblade Master order by Master Xehanort, while not of age to become a Master, Ven trained hard and looked up to his older friends/surrogate siblings, Terra and Aqua. A positive, confident, good natured, helpful and spirited youth, but one prone to uncertainty, melancholy, and impertinence when faced with conflict he found himself ill equipped to deal with. While not too strong or magically gifted, he was very agile.

The Ventus who most fits this characterization is...

Yes, just the basic concept of Ventus. He was never too well realized in any officially liscened work, and was most effective when asleep.

Master Eraqus

The old master of Terra, Aqua, and Ven, who in his own younger days was a colleague of Yen Sid and Xehanort in their Keyblade training. He meant well, but was overly strict with his surrogate children and zealous about safeguarding the light by stamping out darkness whereever, whenever, believing in absolutes such as the need to ultimately erase darkness from all hearts in existence and guide the worlds to a new age of prosperity in secret. He was struck down by Xehanort, the man he’d looked to as an elder brother.

The Eraqus who most fits this characterization is....

Once again, a character is never executed too well beyond his rough draft concept and design. And what a cool concept and design, too!

Vanitas

A being of pure darkness who spawned the Unversed years ago and who may have had some influence in the darklings’ evolution into Heartless. Vanitas trained under Master Xehanort as his secret apprentice and wielded his own dark Keyblade. He relished being cruel and channeling the pain of his own negative emotions into the pleasure of hurting others, and he was also very arrogant, viewing himself as the most supreme warrior who could even usurp and outlive Xehanort himself. While seemingly destroyed by Ventus, Vanitas never fully went away - we see traces of him in Riku’s dark mode and soul-eater, and in Sora’s own positivty turning to negativity and obsessive desire during his trek through Castle Oblivion. So long as darkness holds great power, Vanitas will linger as its embodiment.

The Vanitas who most fits this characterization is...

This was bar none the biggest shock to me. I didn’t think KHIII would get anywhere here beyond a shout out to Ienzo, but Vanitas in that game is honestly even better than in BBS, and for mainly one reason - he redefined what I thought of the character and his potential. ‘Cause beforehand I wasn’t sure I even wanted to see Vanitas again since he seemed to have no lasting value beyond that dumb ying-yang X-Blade plot with Ventus. KHIII showed he didn’t need to be just that. He could be his own brand of menace, the “Darkness” he chose to be. He didn’t even need to go around looking or sounding much like Sora - he could have far stronger “repeatedly comes back taking on a different shape and form” potential than Xehanort! And naturally, I don’t care one bit about whatever Nomura might have in mind for Vanitas and tying him to 12 other “Darknesses”, that’s BS. Leave me with my proud, gleefully evil solitary Darkness Incarnate!

Master Xehanort

The old Keyblade Master who set in motion the events that led to the story of Kingdom Hearts and whose heart became the canvas for the creation of the story’s overarching villain, Terra-Xehanort. Hailing from a small, constraining world before being chosen by the Keyblade, Xehanort finally got to explore the larger World only to, like Ego from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, find it so... disappointing. Being a naturally born sociopath with an inquisitive soul who always sought knowledge and yearned for the answers to all his heart’s most burning questions, Xehanort researched deeply into the old Keyblade War legends all while arrogantly intaking and exploiting Darkness in hopes of chanelling it as power. His ambition became to initiate another Keyblade War-sparked apocalypse where Darkness would ravage the World and he could then set foot inside Kingdom Hearts to harness its light and recreate the World anew in his own image, partially out of sheer curiosity to see the results such a grand cosmic experiement would yield and partly out of a desire to trascend his own humanity and play God. By the time he got around to it, Master Xehanort was little more than a self-interested, callous, maniacal old crackpot who did evil for evil’s sake and shamelessly reveled in it. Even after he, from inside Terra’s body, got amnesia and faded from consciousness, his dark legacy lived on in Terranort and his Nobody.

The Master Xehanort who most fits this characterization is...

OBVIOUSLY. In both Birth By Sleep the secret ending FMV and Birth By Sleep the game story, Master Xehanort was easily the most interesting, enjoyable, and best realized character, particularly when his on-screen portrayal firmly followed the Watanabe vision for him. A fantastic villain even with a dumb plan and incoherent motivations; were only those issues fixed, we’d have the ideal Master Xehanort who’d be by leaps and bounds superior to Nomura’s pet Villain Sue.

And last, and unfortunately least, we have....

Strelitzia & the Chirithy

Strelitiza is a girl who lived in the same world and village as Lauriam and Elrena, to whom she was a blood-related sister and surrogate sister respectively. The three of them belonged to a guild inspired by folk legends of the Keyblade, though they were not wielders of the fabled blade themselves. She was a rather quiet and shy girl who looked to others to give her courage and resolve, holding the highest opinion of her brother and best friend while undervaluing herself. Met with an unknown tragic fate, which effected Lauriam and Elrena deeply. The Chirithy, meanwhile, were local critters who were said to have been around since ancient times and could gague a hearts connection to the Keyblade. Chirithy also exists in the Final World.

The Strelitzia & Chirithy who most fit this characterization is....

As with Ventus and Eraqus, the basic concept and design outdoes the actual implementation of the character we got in the series. Don’t care to see these characters anywhere outside of my headcanon.

#Disney #Kingdom Hearts #characters #opinion #analysis

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