#passed pawn duo

[dominicsorel]

Think, Sora. Think of the person who's most special to you. See that faint glimmer way in the back of your heart? That's a piece of your memory, Sora. Call out to it! No matter how far away the light gets, your heart's voice will always reach it.

[rimbaud-fan-page]

Read the Fifteen Light Novel and also I hate you Bones

Studio Bones looooooves screwing BSD over, and nothing is more indicative of this than the anime adaptation of Fifteen (except maybe Dazai's entrance exam because what the fuck was that).

To be fair, they did an okay job. It's nowhere near as good as the light novel but there were some changes that I did like; the soukoku hand-hold was one of them, Rimbaud's ability changing from red to gold was good, and like....very little else.

But contrasting the pros with the cons gives an OVERWHELMINGLY negative outcome, because dear lord???? The sheer amount of things they managed to mess up is borderline impressive. And it all leads back to their bastardisation of Rimbaud.

For those who haven't read the Light Novel (but assuredly will after this), Rimbaud's motivation is to kill Chuuya and absorb his memories. Why? To find his partner.

What partner you ask???

Why, were the few lines where Rimbaud offhandedly mentions his partner in passing not enough?

No???

Not ringing any bells????

See that would be because Bones REMOVED HIS ENTIRE FUCKING MOTIVATION????

Meaning all his lines about his partner? Gone. All his reasoning and character and personality? Aufwiedersen.

But why does this matter? Rimbaud is a fairly minor character as BSD goes, and whilst I love and adore him with all my heart, what damage does a couple cut lines do?

More than you could know.

Rimbaud is the main antagonist of this arc, therefore when he is misconstrued, the arc itself falls apart, his impact on Soukoku is gone, the stakes are gone, everything SUCKS (maybe I'm being petty but shush).

The gall Bones had to do this is beyond me, because tell me how they removed the antagonists ENTIRE GOAL and expected it to turn out well???? The thing that sets Rimbaud (and all BSD antagonists) apart from an average run-of-the-mill-villain is that he has a goal, and it's personal. He doesn't want to take over the mafia, although he has the clear means to, he doesn't want to blackmail Mori or betray him or gain any kind of power, he just wants his partner back.

Not only that, Rimbaud's relationship with his partner is a fantastic parallel to the relationship within Soukoku, Rimbaud himself has many aspects to his character that connect back to Dazai and Chuuya, which is why that last fight is SO IMPORTANT for them as both individuals and a duo.

Rimbaud and Dazai have a similar disconnect from the world around them and their internal emotions. Dazai is encouraged by Mori to view others as pawns, and has trouble connecting with his emotions, whereas Rimbaud deliberately does not acknowledge his emotions, as he believes they will interfere with his work. On the other hand, Chuuya is exceedingly loyal to his friends, and is able to understand Rimbaud's reasoning, as he would also do anything for his friends, just as Rimbaud is sacrificing everything to find out what happened to his partner.

Also, Rimbaud is a transcendent, one of the most powerful ability users in Europe, and yet two Fifteen year olds were able to beat him??? Either he's weak, or those are some insane fifteen year olds, and the light novel makes it clear it is not the former. Rimbaud is incredibly strong and clever, he often predicts Dazai's plans, and is able to counteract them. But he still lost, because he was up against Soukoku.

Their first victory and it's a BIG one.

And back on the topic of Rimbaud's partner, he isn't even named in the anime, why does he matter???

Paul Verlaine matters to me <3333

And in the main plot and lore of BSD too but whatever ig, I mean it's not like he's an inciting character that creates a situation that is vital to both Dazai and Chuuya's development and also changes what we understand about abilities or anything.

Not to mention Bones cut out so much of what makes Rimbaud entertaining?? I love him, but he's so boring in the anime, because they took out everything and made a cardboad cutout of a man.

He's so stupid I love him so much <33

In conclusion; Light novel good, read light novel, please please pretty please

[satoshi-mochida]

Dragon’s Dogma II ‘Character Creator & Storage’ tool now available

From Gematsu

Capcom has released Dragon’s Dogma II “Character Creator & Storage” tool for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam, which allows users to create their Dragon’s Dogma II character ahead of the game’s release for transfer to the full game when it launches.

Get the details below.

Dragon’s Dogma II director Hideaki Itsuno and producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi joined Capcom Highlights to provide an overview of what players can expect when setting out on their own immersive fantasy adventures. In addition to your party with up to three AI companions known as Pawns, players are encouraged to indulge their curiosity and stretch their creativity when exploring the world of Dragon’s Dogma II. From how they resolve quests to the way they interact with characters around them, the decisions players make will not only impact their Arisen’s relationships with other characters, but they will also in turn change the interactions between characters as well. There are often creative solutions to avoid physical altercations, such as passing off an exquisite counterfeit item as the genuine article. Each decision the player makes will impact the complex web of relationships throughout a world filled with over 1000 characters, each with their own objectives and motives. Itsuno and Hirabayashi also unveiled the “Character Creator & Storage” tool, which can be downloaded for free on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam. This allows players to create five designs for their Arisen and Main Pawn starting today! Those designs will be instantly transferred to the full game when Dragon’s Dogma II releases, so players immediately embark upon their journey at launch. Finally, the duo unveiled plans to release official Capcom support Pawns created by renowned content creators that will be available for other players through the network to join their own adventure, with initial announcements during Capcom Highlights and other participating creators to be revealed in the near future.

Dragon’s Dogma II is due out for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam on March 22.

View a new set of screenshots at the gallery.

[amethystroselily]

Honestly it makes sense that the mafia seems to consider Akutagawa and Higuchi kind of bumbling idiots when you remember they were given Dazai’s old job. Like that squad went from being led by a hyper competent prodigy who accomplished everything in the most brutally efficient way the mafia had ever seen and kept a decent amount of secrecy to being led by the dumb and dumber notice me senpai duo who are operating on pure desperation and brute force and seem to just be doing every mission on their own instead of actually utilizing the squad. Akutagawa’s so bad at subtly that he’s the one member of the mafia the entire fucking city seems to know about (well, and kajii). And I’m pretty sure Akutagawa was just so bad at being a leader that Mori sent Higuchi in to be his babysitter and she’s… not helping much.

I like to think Dazai passed by one of his numerous wanted posters one day after he left the pm and was just like “….God damn it Akutagawa.”

Bet the members of that squad were fucking thrilled tho. Because at least now they have a boss who won’t sacrifice them like pawns and they probably have to work a lot less because Akutagawa’s just sending himself in. I wonder if they downsized…

[tumblingxelian]

Wednesday Fanfic Concept - Duo Detectives!

Summary:

Enid does not trust Tyler, not in the least. SO when Wednesday skips away to get a ride for him she doubles back to make sure the girl won't be ambushed in the parking lot or something.

Instead she finds herself pursuing Tyler into the woods and witnesses his trust nature and the death of Rowan

Wednesday, now armed with a secondary witness and ally is determined to fin out the truth behind Rowan's death, the prophecy and most of all...

Why Principle Weems and Sheriff Galpin are coordinating to cover up Tyler's murders?

Concept.

So yeah, basically expanding on the fact Enid seemed to have an intense distrust and dislike for Tyler and that leading to her being in the know of the monster and murders.

The reason this isn't taken straight to Weems is because thanks to Enid's assistance they are able to determine she is a shapeshifter and so start thinking Weems is in on it.

As opposed to desperately scrambling to keep the school open. Her penchant for trying to encourage outreach day and whitewashing history does not engender trust.

Because of these elements, I imagine Enid only explains all this side of stuff to Wednesday after joining her looking for Rowan's remains. Likely by sneaking her out earlier by using Wednesday joining the Black Cats and collecting paint from Xavier as a pretense.

The Hyde also freaks Enid out on an instinctively level because rather than true Outcasts they are more like a generational curse applied to several families. An external, magical parasite that was made from a Lycans spirit being mutilated and attached to a human to make living weapons in ages past. E

Enid remembers her mom telling her stories about the "Hyde Hunters" who killed little Wolves who could not transform because they were easy targets and used their skin to make bastardizations of true werewolves.

Notes:

The duo also can't determine if Bianca is a pawn, heir apparent or totally unaware. She isn't helping by being more involved, more effective and potentially trying to seduce Enid after Weds revealed the Nightshades to her & Yoko got guilt bombed, so Enid was offered membership and revealed she used to have a crush on Bianca.

Bianca (Strokes Enid's chin and walks away) I'll be waiting~ Enid: (Drops to the ground) Oh you're really in it now Sinclair.

Not sure of much passed that point but yeah, them thinking Weems is the mastermind is a huge part of why the case drags on.

Oh also the Nightshades actually do stuff, mostly smuggling and the like.

Eugene is also aware of all this as his hive hut is the main base of operation but he generally just observes and offers suggestions till he gets injured.

The basic premise is "Wednesday, but what if Enid was Wednesday's partner in the crime solving?"

I had the amusing idea of switching out the "Apologize to Thing or I won't help you" with Enid just going with her but Thing very deliberately only riding on Enid's shoulder and basically giving Weds the silent treatment for that segment of investigation.

Its fun to tinker with these things and see how "Investigate Rowan's death" can still happen but in very different ways

[mac-lilly]

Arranged marriage Juke AU

Let’s start the week with a juke au: An arranged marriage/enemies-to-reluctant-allies-to-friends-to-lovers au for juke. (Inspired by this whiny post.)

Won't be around for Juke Jeudi this week. So happy Lulie Lundi! (I blame @thedeathdeelers for that term.😛)

☆.。.:・°☆.。.:・°☆.。.:・°☆.。.:・°☆

Setting: ~18th century

The two kingdoms of Los Feliz and Hollywood have been at war for decades, and recently, Queen Rose's life fell victim to the armed conflict.

To end the war, King Caleb makes a shady proposition: A marriage should tie a bond between the kingdoms.

King Ray strictly opposes the idea, of course. But to his utter horror, his daughter, Princess Julie, accepts. After her mother's death, she's become a ghost of her former self. Since her mother's death, she's barely smiled and has banned music from her life. If this deal spares the lives of the innocent, she's happy to sacrifice herself by marrying the Prince of the enemy kingdom.

But since Caleb does not have an heir, he picks one of his minions to fill the role. For whatever reason, he chooses his most rebellious soldier.

At the age of 15, Luke runs away from home to pursue his dream of becoming a musician. As King Caleb has a reputation for valuing and supporting music, he travels to the capital.

Surprise ... It's a trap to lure in young people.

Upon his arrival, he's immediately drafted into Caleb's army.

Over the next three years, he attempts to desert multiple times. But he gets caught every time. And when he gets summoned to the king after his latest failed attempt, Luke's convinced that this time his punishment will be much more severe.

It is ... kinda. Luke isn't thrilled to become a pawn in Caleb's plan but ultimately has no choice. Either he plays along and marries the Princess, or his friend Bobby will be hanged in his stead.

So, the wedding happens. And it's an awkward and strange wedding with the atmosphere of a funeral. Nobody is very happy to be there – except for Caleb, who is sickeningly cheerful for the entire ceremony.

Afterward, both kings announce a truce, and to celebrate the fragile peace, the newlywed "couple" gets to tour through both kingdoms.

Which is even more awkward than the wedding because Julie and Luke can't stand each other. Even after volunteering, Julie still despises Caleb and his actions and believes Luke must be as bad as his king. Plus, his constant guitar playing and singing irritate her because it stirs up painful memories. (After her mom's death, she's banned music from her life.)

Meanwhile, Luke's too worried about his friend to care much about a moody and (presumably) snobbish princess.

However, despite their mutual dislike for each other, in public, they delinquently play their roles.

Until they get attacked.

Soldiers set an inn they were staying at on fire. However, Julie and Luke manage to escape the death trap and flee.

They argue about whose country is to blame. (Although Luke already has a sinking feeling regarding the identity of the real mastermind. But keeps his mouth shut.)

The duo proposes a temporary truce as they try to figure out what to do next. After all, the assassins are probably still after them.

The usual road trip stuff happens from here on.

As they travel aimlessly around the country, they get to know each other and eventually build trust. Julie confesses that she hates hearing him play because she associates music with her mother's death, and it hurts. To her surprise, he respects her feelings and doesn't play when she's in earshot.

Luke, in return, tells her bits of his story – that he left home to become a musician but then accidentally joined the military. He omits the real reason why he agreed to the deal, though.

As time passes, their alliance slowly morphs into a friendship which then evolves into a much more complicated and deeper bond.

Julie's fascinated by his personality. His charisma and charm, his passion for music, his untamable energy -- it's highly infectious, and suddenly she finds her heart filled with so much life and joy again. His support gives her the strength to enjoy music and eventually sing again.

And Luke's awe-struck by her voice. And her beauty. And her intelligence. And her bravery. And her kindness.

In short, he is totally SMITTEN with her.

Especially after she helps him write down his songs since he never got much education and his reading and writing skills are rudimentary. 

And at least once, they pretend that Julie's pregnant to hitch a ride to the next village.

While they travel, they make plenty of new friends who tag along: A runaway lord, a wannabe trickster, a badass huntress, and an ex-soldier.

They escape death a few more times, btw.

And every time, they celebrate their success.

And it's during one of these celebratory gatherings (and maybe they are a bit tipsy when it happens) that Julie and Luke share their first (real) kiss under a starry night sky.

And then they never talk about it …

There's also some betrayal happening because Willie and Bobby need a plot too. (Willie is a spy; Bobby is brainwashed, and Carrie leads a group of female bandits.)

Anyway, they eventually come across a small fishing town, which happens to be Luke's hometown.

Julie visits his parents for him and later assures him that they are alright, although they do miss him and are worried. Luke promises to return and talk to them one day.

Then they learn that Caleb is using their disappearance to justify another attack on Julie's kingdom.

Julie's mad at Luke, believing he's been in the cahoots with Caleb all the time. So, Luke tells her the truth. He also tells her about his rising suspicion that this has been Caleb's plan from the beginning: Kill Luke and put the blame on Julie. Then execute her for murder to break her father's will.

At first, Julie's furious that he withheld the information from her. But she understands that his intentions were noble. They decide to return to Julie's castle.

There, they get separated, and a very, very angry Ray is about to sentence Luke to death for kidnapping his daughter until Julie intervenes.

They explain the story, and Ray apologizes.

He also announces that the marriage will be annulled once the war is over, which shocks Julie and Luke because they've never talked about their feelings.

They FINALLY confess their love

JUKE KISS

Ray is super-duper proud of his daughter.

The marriage won't be annulled.

In fact, there'll be another wedding because Caleb's presence totally ruined the first one.

MORE JUKE KISSES.

AND FOREHEAD TOUCHES.

AND NOSE RUBS. AND HUGS.

And then, they develop a plan to get rid of Caleb.

(More plot happens here that's not really Juke-relevant)

They defeat Caleb, the war ends, and they all live happily ever after. 

(And maybe they travel the lands after they exchange vows again, and maybe this time they do not have to pretend that Julie's pregnant to hitch a ride.)

The end.

[chainsawsangel]

meet my oc!

lovely art of my OC, Ray Asaka, done by @leviiackrman (also if this type of content/oc content in general isn't your thing feel free to ignore this post or unfollow. I don't mind but don't be an asshole about it) - universe: jujutsu kaisen name: ray asaka age: 23 birthday: march 25th, 1994 born: sendai city, japan partner: ryomen sukuna -

Background:

*NOTE: there is an age gap between the two, Ray being 23 and Sukuna being over 1000 years canonically lol, but he looks at least mid-30s.

Ray Asaka was born within a hospital located in Sendai City, Japan and was welcomed into the world by a lovely mother and father. Growing up, Ray was always fascinated with nature and the forest, she'd always be quick to run off and explore which left her mother worried 24/7 and her father just as worried.

As she got older, Ray also grew a curiosity of watching crime/law television which would lead to her studying as a Law Student.

At 23, she found herself with her own apartment while balancing life as a law student! She also doesn't live too far from parents so whenever she finds the time, she'll go and visit them, catch up. However, all of that would change after a slippery car accident winds up killing her bringing her short life to an end....kind of.

When Ray died, it seemed like it was the end for her, that she'd buried in a pit of darkness while her parents struggle and cope with their daughter's death but, the world had other plans it seems because after she died, Ray found herself in a dark place filled with the depths of death and a one powerful being: Ryomen Sukuna, King of Curses.

Sukuna would be the first person Ray would see after, a sinister grin staring down at her, whispering the words: you'll be perfect here. Ray was confused, all she wanted to do was go home and rest after a long day of studying. Her first thought was home, that's what she wanted. After finding out the place she was in belonged to the King of Curses himself, Ray pleaded and begged him to take her back into the world, give her a chance at life. Sukuna would eventually grant the living dead girl that wish in some form....by making her his apprentice, his pawn and eventually, his future lover.

Ray agreed and she became just that: his pawn, a young woman that would become powerful alongside him given the abilities she had to take down whatever enemies Sukuna had on his mind, he saw her potential and he liked it, he liked her. loved her.

The abilities given to Ray were aligned with death itself, those abilities included: Darkness manipulation, Reanimation and Demonic Energy Manipulation, all of which were powerful enough against those that got in her way and they'd be terrified of her for it.

Once Yuji bites the finger of Sukuna, things get a bit awkward considering his life is not only aligned with the Sukuma's but also the young woman's as well considering Sukuna is connected to a teenager's life. Yuji and Ray have seen each other in passing, there'd be some glances or some quick "hello's" here and there but nothing major yet, those subtle passings would be what brought all of this together from Ray's death to Yuji biting the finger.

Yuji winds up keeping her a secret for a while, away from both Megumi and Nobara before eventually revealing her to them. She's also introduced to Gojo as well, someone she sees as a frenemy in a way.

Ray forms interesting dynamics with them, whether they're her frenemies or simply enemies, the dynamics are there but, she still remains loyal to Sukuna as both his pawn and soon, lover.

No matter who she's near, Sukuna is as well. Where she goes, he's right there with her and they make for a terrifying yet powerful duo.

- Some quick fun facts about Ray Asaka:

Her parents own a calico cat, his name is Honey.

Canonically, Sukuna can only take control of Yuji for one minute meaning it's a struggle for him and Ray to be together at times. However, I headcanon that once night hits and Yuji is asleep, Sukuna can take over at times (not always) and that's where most of the moments between him and Ray take place.

Some means Ray enjoys include pasta and lasagna.

Her favorite color is purple.

Ray has three scars that she gets from her death: A scar across her neck, one in the middle of her nose and one next to the corner of her right eye.

Ray Asaka (JJK OC) and Ryomen Sukuna - art done by the wonderful at @leviiackrman

[professional-termite]

MallCop HM 2023 Harriota AU

This is an idea that me and @youngstarfishphilosopher were talking about so here's the idea so far...

-William Gracey and Allistair Crump are both rival store owners in New Orleans in this AU. I think Gracey's store would be called The Haunted Mansion Store and would sell themed products, with local legend Constance Hatchaway being a large part of it (she's pretty much the store's mascot). Crump's store would be called Hatbox Supply or something, which earns him the nickname Hattie by the townsfolk.

- Gracey's store is a lot more successful than Crump's because Gracey is just a better businessman in general, so Crump ends up trying to sabatoge the store a lot. Crump ends up paying Kent Owens, the now middle-aged, broke, estranged son of the local priest, to help him steal stuff and sabatoge the store.

- In order to combat the thieves, the rich Gracey ends up hiring Harriet Lee and Leota Curtis (yes I'm giving them both Jamie Lee Curtis references for last names, be quiet) to be the security guards. Leota is something of a local legend, retired cop and town hero, and is a MASSIVE inspiration to Harriet, aka the reason why she tried to join the police force in her 20's. She didn't pass at the academy, however, and ended up working in security.

- Ben Matthias and his adoptive father Bruce Matthias are 2 store regulars, and close friends of Harriet. Ben's wife recently died, which caused him to quit his job, so Bruce ends up spending a lot of time trying to get Ben to apply at Haunted Mansion so he can begin living a normal life again (and also stop living with Bruce, because Bruce works as a professor and can barely afford to feed himself, let alone a depressed Ben).

- Gabbie and Travis Hauss (get it because in the movie they owned the house so their last name is Hauss) are 2 other store regulars, and family friends of Gracey's. Ben is broke as hell and can't cover all his groceries when Bruce sends him out, so Gabbie helps cover some of his stuff because she's rich and nice, which is how they meet.

- Ben catches Kent screwing with the shelves and ends up calling security (Leota) on him, but when Leota starts getting really mean towards him for being, like, an idiot and a failure for being unemployed and essentially disowned by his dad (cuz yk Leota is friends with Kent's dad and also in on all the town drama), Ben steps in and defends him (cuz even though he's trying to sabatoge the place, Kent is really really bad at causing any real trouble, and he wasn't stealing stuff either, and Ben takes pity). Ben tries to clarify that he doesn't really like Kent, but Ben got him off the hook, so Kent has decided they're friends now. There is no escaping him.

- Now that Kent has chilled out, he and Ben make a promise to each other to go job hunting and get their lives back together. Crump gets really pissed that he lost Kent as a pawn and starts actually causing damage to the building.

- Long story short, the whole thing turns into an investigation (that the actual police won't touch since there's no evidence), so Leota and Harriet become an unofficial cop duo and start collecting evidence to prosecute Crump for the various crimes he's trying to commit in order to shut down The Haunted Mansion Store.

This is just a basic outline of the story, I might polish this and turn it into an actual thing later but uhh yeah :D (also yes ofc there's background Ben x Kent how could I resist...)

@creative-soul-22 thought you might be interested in my hm brainrot so enjoy

[carsonian]

August '23 SteveTony Fics Recap

Ayo, whassup YouTube. It's ya Boy. Cars to the O-N Ian. BACK at it again with the SteveTony fanfiction. You already KNOW what's about to go down. . .

But before that, here's a word from our sponsor ➡️

Word! Now, onto the fanfics, featuring our favourite blond/brunet duo. No, not that one. The OTHER one. Yeah, that one. Let's GOOOOOO ➡️

Your Mans wrote a total of SEX fanfics this month. Your Mans wrote a total of 36942 words. Haha 69.

That is pretty crazie! And telling of your Mans emotional state. Which is to say: get a life. And another hobby. Now BACK to the video.

Fanfics (in chronolgo chronsol ciacal chrongologic edit prev out @ editor chgrasonlogical order):

"I Can See Clearly Now The Blindfold's Gone" | 3,577 Words | M | 1 Aug

"Then, without further ado, I'd like to offer my sincere congratulations to the two of you for winning the all-expenses paid date." "What?" Steve straightens. "Pass." Tony says at the same moment. (A.K.A. Modern, No Powers AU where Steve and Tony go on everyone's favourite internet shitshow, "The Button".) For the prompt fill: blind date au

If I had to rate this fic I would SMASH THAT BUTTON !!!!!

"Just Wanna Feel Your Touch (When It's Cold)" | 1,339 words | M | 16 Aug

Steve's got a press conference to deal with but he's more worried about Tony's cold hands. Stony Bingo 2023 Round 2: "Rescue Me"

If I had to rate this fic I would rate it!

"'Cause It's You and Me (and All of the People)" | 8,945 words | T | 19 Ugh

Steve and Tony discover that they're soulmates in their senior year of high school. As they wrestle with this realisation and try to build out a genuine relationship in the backdrop of high school nonsense and college admissions stress, they're met with a ridiculous number of hurdles in the form of every friend in their circle recruiting them as "fake dates". (A.K.A. the high school soulmates AU where they keep getting pulled into fake dating schemes for other people, told in a chatlog / texting format) Stony Bingo 2023 Round 2: "WTF"

Just a day ago I had to go back and fix some GIFs that had disappeared. So if I had to rate this fic I wouldn't.

"We Just Keep Going" | 1,829 words | M | 23 Aug

A coda to "Here I Am & Here You Are" where Steve and Tony go and visit the Chip 'n Dale duo in New Orleans. (A.K.A. Established relationship, banter-y nonsense.)

The only fic that isn't trying to be a FOB lyric w/ the length of its title. So, this fic, if I had to rate it I would rate as oim just a nocch in yewr bedpowst. . . but yewr juust a loine in a sowng!!!!!!

"Must Admit I'm Out of Bright" | 2,606 words | T | 25 Aug

Steve's got a handful of bullets in his abdomen and Stark's looking at him all funny. Stony Bingo 2023 Round 2: "Pain"

If I had to rate this fic I wouldn't but I would desecRATE it and if I had to desecrate it I would desecrate it w/

Are you still here? Yeah?! 😲😲 Please like, comment and subscribe! 🙏Make sure you hit that post notifications bell so that you can type "first" in the comments! 1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣

"The Remarkable People Initiative & The Zugzwang Dilemma" | Chapters 8 & 9 (aka the FINAL CHAPTERS. Yes this fic is DONE! FINALLY!)

Chapter 8: "Pawn to Queen, Promotion Forseen" | 5,594 words | E | 9 Aug

Chapter 9: "Rematch?" | 13,052 words (don't @ me I tried to plan this shit out and it did not WORK. planning is a SHAM. or maybe I am. either way. don't @ me!!!) | E | 31 Aug

Steve Rogers and Tony Stark first met as promising candidates of The Remarkable People Initiative when they were children. Twenty-four years later, Tony shows up at Steve's doorstep. (The Mysterious Benedict Society AU.)

If I had to rate this fic I would uhhh ok come on. Someone else make the bad joke this time. I can't carry this whole goddamn video.

& that's all we have for you today! Tune in next month to hear all about the myriad situations I put our favourite boiz in! There will be many situations and many ships. Perhaps even a situationship 👀 NO SPOILERS! This is, after all, an MCU ship 😜

Finally, due to mounting pressure from *reads smudged ink on hand* budgetary cuts & the economy, here's another word from our sponsor! ➡️

Word!

[beardedmrbean]

“Velma is a right wing take on diversity!” no sweethearts, Velma is just leftist shit without flowery stuff that make most of it tolerable.

I think the thing that really bite the Velma cartoon in the ass isthe people behind the og Scooby doo show.

Joesph Barbara and William Hanna worked their asses to created and produced shows that have diversity and inclusion to break barriers of their time. Cartoon Network studio is the direct successor HB studio.

While the duo didn’t execute diversity well all the time. They help set the foundation a lot of cartoons with (good) non white leads came from.

Velma is just a bunch of well off non white people with inferiority complex bashing the living shit of white people.

It more annoying because as a black person, I see Scooby doo as one of most gender neutral and inclusive franchise there is.

Sorry for this, but Mindy, why not make a spin-off series where a bunch of non white teens are inspired or mentored by the mystery gang?

Fuck Disney Junior made a better Indian girl detective cartoon than Velma. Actually come to think of it, while she didn’t even try to put some of heritage into this cartoon? Weird

>Sorry for this, but Mindy, why not make a spin-off series where a bunch of non white teens are inspired or mentored by the mystery gang?

That would require far too much original thinking I'd wager. You'd think piggybacking off of a existing franchise wouldn't be too rough but apparently it is.

The people attempting to pin it on conservatives are really only going to wind up making things worse too, pawn your failures off on someone else you're only going to learn that passing the buck works for you.

Until it doesn't.

[socairnaich]

A small exploration of Diluc's depressive thoughts regarding his brother, Mondstadt's beloved Cavalry Captain. I can't remember the exact prompt this was in response to, but it's some food for thought nevertheless!

꒰✦꒱⎯ 𝖀𝖓𝖈𝖗𝖔𝖜𝖓𝖊𝖉 𝕶𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖔𝖋 𝕸𝖔𝖓𝖉𝖘𝖙𝖆𝖉𝖙 , 𝓒𝖗𝖔𝖜𝖓 𝓸𝖋 𝓣𝖍𝖔𝖗𝖓𝖘 𝓪𝖓𝖉 𝓐𝖘𝖍

Many in Mondstadt have their thoughts about Diluc Ragnvindr. Conversations about him are never dull: a myriad of opinions and observations from the common folk. Among the many topics - his stoic nature is brought up often. Several in Mondstadt remember a Diluc who was very different: the honourable Cavalry Captain who someday would be pawned off by his father to marry a worthy bride with whom he could bring House Ragnvindr's next generation forward with. A smiling and diligent young man - saccharine with a respect for others seldom seen in the upper class. Those who once brightened and rose their hands to wave to the duo of brothers now merely smile quietly as the Ragnvindr now passes alone - for perhaps they can see how his heart has stilled from the agony and loss. Diluc's time in Snezhnaya is left to many a rumour, as the redhead never has intentions of exposing his time abroad - though many seem to know that revenge came at a cost. A murderer: yet a righteous one, many sympathise with his noble cause, but sympathy rarely falls onto a state of being he never shows.

Those who knew him as a child know Diluc had a big heart - perhaps to a fault. A heart so loving and free is at the worst odds of all of being wounded later on as the reality of life settles in. Hardened he may have become from his years AWOL and abroad: fighting for a cause that took his aching soul beyond seas. Like a fish on a hook: the pain tugged him along. Many a winter night: the cold would freeze tears to his heavy lashes as the winds raged just outside the tent door. The howl of storming gales: oh, how much a reflection he had become of what he hated most. The Ragnvindr had changed in an instant: in a single night. Some may know that as the Darknight Hero never smiles, as he is an echo of the side Diluc keeps quiet about. It's necessity - he mustn't tarnish the family name. What good is a hero who . . . can't . . . who can't - The emotional turmoil is inevitable. The kindest hearts break the hardest - the happiest souls have the farthest to fall toward the depths of sorrow. There is a cruel irony to everything. Haunted by the past - Diluc finds himself incredibly alone. Crepus' straw hat no longer pokes out above the tops of the vineyards in the summer. There's no Kaeya to steal squares of cut steak from at the dinner table. And somehow, apple pie never tastes as sweet when eating alone. Triggers to panic and half-canistered sobs plague his every day life, but in the public eye, all Diluc lets on, at most, is a frown that tightens a little too much at each corner. There is no room to sob in front of others, or so he believes. To Mondstadt: Diluc's position as nation royalty is beloved by all - so why, in turn, must he feel like he's worth nothing? How can he love - when he can hardly shake the sentiment that his good will has been forgotten? He's not the same as he once was, after all - he can't... he shouldn't-

It starts as a rumble when Diluc cries. His throat bobs, as if something within him tries so desperately to stay afloat atop the depths dragging it in. It's as if the very lining of his throat thickens with only the nasty intent of suffocating him from the inside out. His eyes fog, and just as his breath flourishes in hopes of breathing - his features knot with agony. A gaze that often stares on with trained vigilance fill with tears that pour down his cheeks in rounds. There is no beauty nor delicacy in such human suffering. His flames extinguish entirely when upset: it's anyone's guess as to why. The Dawn Phoenix exhausts him to manifest when filled with anything other than an empassioned rage - and though Pyro may define his battle, it's as if only malice can bring its true power out. For dulled elemental resonance: there is no counter cure, other than to search within one's self for patience.

It's... so cold. Like rain falling on the last warm ember of a campside fire - the trickle of figurative drops are most silencing. Even as the arms of a tender beloved wrap over his shoulders - and coo his tired self in hopes of calming his weary heart. She's warm, he thinks as heavy eyes relax with no small amount of agony. "I'm sorry.." The whispers of regret come, as they always do, while scarred hands grip the back of her night shirt in shaking fists as he trembles in her consoling hug. Words simply cannot paint a true picture of how sorry he is. How well can words describe emotions, after all?

There was no crown for Him of silver or of gold There was no diadem for Him to hold. But blood adorned His brow, And proud its stain He bore, And sinners gave to Him the crown He wore.

[dominicsorel]

We'll be able to be together again, right? When all this is over?

[looney-mooney-studio]

Assuming you’re still into the miraculous au, how did our favorite dog and rabbity thing get their miraculouses in the first place?

Okay, so. Here’s what I’m thinking:

The Miraculous box basically takes the place of the Devil’s Toybox in this AU. The previous Miraculous Holders are mostly the same, but the society that protects it is more Egypt-centric than China-centric. The Miraculous Box, like the Devil’s Toybox, was eventually brought from Egypt to America sometime in the late 18th century.

Though the ancestors of the Boxists are spread throughout the world, most members of the secret society forgot about the artifacts entirely in a memory-related incident sometime around the loss of the Peacock and Moth Miraculous. Unlike in Miraculous Canon, these two artifacts were split, and most of their owners didn’t realize the artifact’s potential - the Peacock Miraculous was looted by pirates, and eventually sold to a merchant in New York, who passed it down as a family heirloom (which is how Momma Bosco eventually ended up with it). The Moth miraculous was lost to pawn shops, yard sales and swap meets, and eventually ended up in Hue Bliss’s possession when he was just a down-on-his-luck queer kid looking for a new start in NYC. He discovered the power of the Miraculous, and used it to build his cult. He was a bit of a shadow villain, puppeting prominent figures, and has only started causing more visible mayhem recently.

The only person who remembers everything about the Miraculous is the current guardian, a man who is smart enough to never reveal anything about himself, and goes by “The Commissioner.” He’s been trying to find the missing Miraculous for ages, and now he has to deal with these Akumas??? He’s getting too old for this shit.

Meanwhile, Sam’s just about to start his first year at the New York College of Art and Random Studies (NYCARS for short) and Max is tagging along even though he can’t afford the tuition and didn’t even really try applying for any colleges. Granny Ruth gave them an apartment to stay in, one that was passed down to her by her late father, Sameth.

While Sam went to his first day of class, Max started wandering the city in search of jobs and trying to get a feel for the neighborhood. He’d already gotten a few gigs doing some modeling work for the art classes at the college Sam was going to, but he figured they couldn’t be too prepared, even if they didn’t have to worry about New York’s famously relentless rent costs. He still didn’t want Sam having to deal with student loans if he couldn’t help it.

While he was wandering, he started hearing screams coming from down the street. He rushed towards the danger instead of away, and saw a monster attacking everyone.

The Commissioner was just about to use one of the Miraculous to fight the akumatized victum when he saw a white rabbity college-aged boy wearing nothing but a crop top and some booty shorts launch himself at the monster and sink his teeth into it. He was immediately impressed.

Sam called Max as soon as class was done, and Max put the phone on speaker and immediately let his best friend know what the fuck was up. Sam ended up strategizing with Max mid-fight, and they met in Central Park, Max riding the darn thing right into a trap the two buddies made together. The Commissioner saw the whole darn thing, and knew immediately that they would make the perfect crime-fighting duo.

But Hue Bliss got to Max while the Commissioner was busy trying to get the Ladybug Miraculous to Sam, and offered him a modeling job promoting his books. Max already knew a little bit about Celebrity Queer Icon Hue Bliss, latched onto the opportunity to have a stable job with someone he already kinda idolized. The Commissioner left them both their respective miraculous, with strict orders (via note) not to tell ANYONE about it. The Kwami emphasized this point, telling them about how they had lost their friends.

Sam wanted to tell Max immediately, but, well… rules are rules for a reason, right? Meanwhile, Max was ecstatic at the idea of a secret identity. In one day, he 1)fought a giant monster, 2)got a stable job modeling for Queer Icon Hue Bliss’s projects, and 3)got SUPER POWERS. BEST. DAY. EVER!!!!!!

[opaldasilva]

Full name: Opal Estelle da Silva Gender: cisfemale Pronouns: she/her Birthday: May 30, 1993 Sexual orientation: bisexual Marital status: single, but also probably engaged to satan Moral alignment: chaotic neutral

(things like her age, personality, and even looks may change with whoever she's pursuing at the moment)

IMPORTANT STUFF (TW: PARENTAL DEATH, CANCER)

opal was born sofia estelle da silva to a very young mother and an absent father. without family to fall back on, the duo suffered financially. this led to many odd jobs that barely made ends meet.

but crime pays, baby!

a little petty theft here, a pickpocket there, some light manipulation and at least they went to sleep with full bellies

and like mother, like daughter, little 6 year old opal began to dip her toes in the shallow end of the crime pool. because honestly, she’d just blink those big, innocent brown eyes and they’d just assume she didn’t know any better

eventually, opal’s mom got an actual job– though they refused to give her full time which meant she got zero benefits– but opal didn’t feel it necessary to stop. she was good at it. and they still needed the money.

together, they managed to buy a house. it was the first real, solid thing they owned and it finally felt like they were getting somewhere

when opal's mom started seeing someone she was serious about for the first time in as long as opal could remember, she was happy for her. but then he kept making excuses as to why he couldn't come to dinner, why he had to cancel dates, and when it came out that he was the ceo of the company her mother was working for— and married at that— the bad feelings set in

then opal’s mom got sick

without health insurance, treatments went unsought and bills went unpaid and when opal’s mom eventually passed, the state came for those unpaid bills in the form of her estate.

left with absolutely nothing, opal moved (ran) away from miami, got a job as a cocktail waitress at a strip club in orlando, and called herself ruby.

and because gross old rich men are idiots, it was almost too easy when a patron took a liking to her, thinking himself clever as he gifted her a ruby. when she left town and pawned the gem, she’d hatched a new plan

that plan sorta came to a screeching halt when she tried to steal from the wrong dude. but instead of turning her in, he offered her a proposition. he could help her create fake identities with documents that were all but government issued. for a price. cocky as she was in her ability to pay it off, it turned out to not really be the case

the next place she lived, she was pearl and she found another sucker to fall into the same trap. and on it went: saffron, jade, diamond. it was too easy. and opal loved it.

it was at some point in colorado where fate finally dealt her a hand she could play with. pure coincidence had the son of her mom’s old boss (that asshole that would fuck her but wouldn’t give her fulltime and health benefits? yeah, him) and so opal ran the con of her life. she made him fall in love, relished in every second of it, and then took him for everything she could as she slipped away into the night. her only regret? not being there to see his face when he realized what she’d done. (at least, that’s what she likes to tell herself)

she made her way to california, chasing a tip that might lead her to the dude who essentially owns her at this point to cut herself free once and for all

she’s kinda evil and she kinda likes it

but she’s fun

come play with her

[kootiepatra]

#FFxivWrite2022 - Day 7 Prompt: "Pawn"

LET THE RECORD SHOW: I wrote yesterday's piece well before today's prompt had been announced, but since I seem to have accidentally ALREADY USED TODAY'S PROMPT WORD YESTERDAY, it seems like we're getting part 2 right away. I guess it was destiny.

Timeline: ARR patch quests

Also: Wolmeric nonsense, before they were wolmeric (but at least both people actually appear in this one)

=====================

Through the bitter winds of the Coerthan wilderness, the Warrior of Light bounded on chocoboback, a speck of lavender and yellow against a landscape of somber grays. She rode in silence, the words of the Antecedent still reverberating in her mind.

Such notoriety is the price of making an impact, she mused to herself. She could see the logic in the words, but still struggled to bring herself to accept them. Had she truly lost the option to return to small odd jobs, contenting herself with traveling a bit and quietly being a help where she could? Had she really been intractably set as a fixture of throne rooms and war zones? Was there no way to withdraw herself from the curiosity of powerful people she had never even heard of?

She squinted into the driving snow and tried not to think on it. That was a dilemma for another time. She believed in the Scions’ cause. She wanted to do good, and surely that meant she could not refuse to serve the greater good. Her own comfort must needs come second. Not to mention that many people would sell their very souls to attract the kind of attention she had somehow stumbled into. She hardly had a right to complain.

Still, she glanced over to the Elezen teen riding astride the bird next to her, noting that he looked a bit too preoccupied with the frigid weather to maintain his customary placid, self-assured smile. She would not be making this trek at all were it not for his negotiations, a deal which had been struck without her consent. 

You are no pawn, Keimwyda, the memory of Minfilia's words reminded her. She was grateful to have been reassured of it—but she did rather wish she would have said the same to Alphinaud.

But no. She shoved the thought from her mind. It was not her place to argue, and this line of thinking helped no one.

At last the duo passed through the gates of Camp Dragonhead, wearily dismounted their chocobos, and handed the reins off to waiting attendants. They gratefully bundled into the office of Lord Haurchefant, who welcomed them with his customary aplomb.

At least this was one part of the journey she did not mind.

Keimwyda quietly returned his greeting with a smile. She had almost forgotten how different Haurchefant seemed from any of his Coerthan peers. His manner was so open, charming, and energetic, that she almost found it a little unsettling. Almost being the key word—through their interactions over the past months, she had come to trust him as a genuinely good-hearted man and an ally. She marveled that somehow, despite itself, Ishgard had managed to produce anyone like him.

“Our hearths have been stoked to blazing in preparation of your arrival,” he effused, looking directly at Keimwyda. “It would not do for such a distinguished personage to catch cold whilst enjoying our hospitality.”

She was flattered, but embarrassed, and attempted to demur the compliment, when Alphinaud stepped forward. She yielded the floor to him. It was his job to do the talking, after all. Haurchefant’s demeanor drooped ever so slightly, but he graciously pivoted, and the two hashed out all the necessary political pleasantries—expressions of indebtedness for past assistance, apologies for intruding upon one another’s courtesy, and so on and so on. 

Haurchefant grew more animated again as he began recounting his excitement over the Scions being granted an audience with the Holy See. Keimwyda could have sworn that his eyes kept darting meaningfully towards her as he spoke. At first, she could not fathom why. Alphinaud would be handling all the negotiations; she was just here for show.

Oh… OH. Oh, I see, she realized. It should have been obvious. So THAT is how this—Ser Aymeric, was it?—of course that is how he learned my name.

She hoped her face wasn’t reddening as much as she imagined it was. Much as she appreciated Haurchefant's kindness, she was not sure how she felt about him singing her praises throughout Ishgard. She believed that he was sincere in his efforts. She did not believe the same of his superiors.

Before she knew it, she and Alphinaud were escorted into the intercessory, a low but well-lit and well-warmed room, dominated by a large meeting table which Keimwyda found needlessly imposing. Alphinaud busied himself with his notes, acting if he was born to be here. Keimwyda, on the other hand, felt miserably out of place. She shifted uneasily on her feet, even as she took a deep breath and affixed a pleasant expression to her face.

Haurchefant must have noticed. “Have faith, my friend,” he said warmly, nudging her. “You need only state your case with confidence and clarity.”

She chuckled. “I believe I shall leave that bit to Alphinaud,” she began, but was interrupted as the door swung open.

Into the room stepped two tall figures. One was a female knight, clad in ornate plate armor that seemed to outrank that of most others she had seen in Coerthas. The woman's stern, quiet bearing almost subconsciously prompted Keimwyda to stand just a little bit straighter.

Beside her was a poised man, clad in golden armor and rich blue robes that fairly dripped with ornamentation. Keimwyda racked her mind to try and remember if she had seen that shade of blue on any of the high house standards—and she didn’t think she had. Not even the officers or priests she met had been so well-attired.

The man wore a calm, pleasant demeanor, and introduced himself as indeed the person of the hour: Aymeric, lord commander of the Temple Knights.

He greeted Alphinaud as “Commander Leveilleur”, and struck up formal small talk with him. He had a genteel manner about him, and his conversation flowed smoothly. Keimwyda had been prepared for something much more akin to the judgmental scowls and cold shoulders that had most often greeted her all the way up the chain of command in Coerthas. She did not waver from her own polite smile, but still regarded him warily. The Temple Knights were agents of the Inquisition, surely? She wondered what his game was.

She had not even realized how blissfully she had been left out of the conversation, until the lord commander turned and addressed her directly. “...Speaking of reputations, yours towers over us all. Does it not?”

As his companion dutifully voiced agreement and Haurchefant nodded, beaming, the Warrior of Light wanted nothing more than to shrink and disappear into the stonework of the intercessory. Nonetheless, she smiled mellowly and gave a light bow. “You are too kind, Ser Aymeric.”

He continued, “I am not too proud to admit that I have followed your activities with an interest bordering on fascination. Full glad was I to learn that you would be joining us.”

Keimwyda’s pleasant smile did not move, but her mind raged with alarum bells. His words seemed complimentary enough, but the last people she had known the Holy See to regard with “interest” had been under suspicion of heresy. Haurchefant’s glowing excitement notwithstanding, she did not trust this man further than she could throw him, and she felt anything but flattered by his “fascination”. She most certainly did not like that he seemed to know so much more about her than she knew about him.

She was grateful that the conversation turned immediately to the negotiations, allowing her the mercy of not coming up with a reply.

As he made ready to set about the business at hand, Alphinaud gave her a pleased nod of approval.

She wondered if this is what trained animals felt like when they were summoned to perform tricks for the houseguests.

You are no pawn, Keimwyda.

She ignored her misgivings for the moment and willed her attention into the meeting. She was not about to lower her guard around these Ishgardians, and she would carefully hear what they had to say. 

But she made a mental note for later: she must give long and serious thought to whether this was truly the life she wanted.

[dire-kumori]

Okay so I do this thing when watching horror movies where, when a character does something incredibly stupid, I'll think "this idiot has dumb bitch disorder fr", yk, as a stupidly unfunny joke. When said character CONTINUES to do painfully stupid things, I'll just roll my eyes and decide "fine, if you're going to continue to be stupid and stress me out, then your last name is Dumbbitch now."

That information is important because OH MY GOD DOES EVER AFTER EVAN NEED TO CHANGE HIS LAST NAME. this dummy passing out MULTIPLE TIMES during his fnaf experience is giving me SO MUCH ANXIETY. he is sooooo dumb, I'm gonna need to come up with a third tier in my "dumb bitch" rating because the STRESS IS TOO MUCH. I felt like I was having an out of body experience reading his interaction with the Marionette from how terrified for him I was and how expertly you captured the suspense and quiet horror of the moment. I sincerely cannot stress this enough when I say: OH MY GOD.

I was so hyped for the Cassidy and Evan team up and it did not disappoint! What a beautiful blend of comedy and unsettling foreshadowing. And then i was SCREAMING when you ended their little duo on that cliffhanger, but I didn't even have time to be upset about the cliffhanger because you IMMEDIATELY followed it up with that emotional gutpunch of young Evan being traumatized.

"That same horrific moment played in his mind over and again. Grasping the sheet. Expecting to find his brother and coming face to face instead with a corpse." "For four glorious days he’d had the ideal big brother he’d always dreamt of, and he’d been too much of a coward to let himself enjoy it." "Clutching the Walkman he gasped, dry sobs wracked his body as his lips silently formed the words ‘it’s not fair’ over and over and over…" "If only Michael had just gone on being a bully. At least then it wouldn't have hurt..."

^ my only response to those lines is DIRE YOU AWFUL, AWFUL PERSON, YOU ABSOLUTE MANIAC, WHYYYYYYYYY MUST YOU WOUND ME SO

Like I was only partway through this chapter when my roommate came up to me and tried talking about something, and I had to be like "respectfully, can we continue this conversation after I finish this chapter. I'm literally begging you."

And i absolutely need you to know that I was just reading your ending notes on that chapter when my roommate inquired about whether they could ask me a question about the research paper they're writing. And then I was friggin half-crying as I said "umm, I'm currently emotionally devastated by the fanfic chapter I just read, but go ahead."

My roommate literally just looked up at me from behind their laptop and asked "....are you okay? (Me: no) ...do you need a hug? (Me: no) .... Drugs to make it hurt less [/j]? (Me: ...no)."

That chapter was so beautifully horrific, I'm both in awe of you and angry at you for this fresh new trauma. I'm literally still misty-eyed with a gaping, aching hole in my chest as I type out this ask :')

(I was able to get a hold of myself and help my roomie with their paper if you were curious. Twas the hardest thing I've done in my life, but I managed. Mostly.)

I had to go have a lie down for a moment after reading this. You're killing me, Kats. You're gonna kill me with kindness.

That is, if you don't kill me with pain first because those last two Saffron Pawn posts turned my heart into confetti. And then you hopped into my inbox to set what remained on fire. You monster (affectionate).

To be fair, Evan's already changed his name once, he can do it again. It's funny that you described it as having an out of body experience because...

You 🤝 Mike -> being stressed out by Evan's reckless disregard for his own safety.

Also you 🤝 Mike -> having out of body experiences.

...I'll stop now.

I'd say I'm sorry for the emotional devastation, buuuut I'm not, lol. Honestly, I was a little bit anxious about the reception to the second part. I'm always so impressed with how well you portray strong and painful emotions in your writing, so I feel like I'm being acknowledged by a grandmaster. Also, sorry, but I'm just kind of cackling over the mental image of your roommate looking at you confused while you sob over your computer (and since you look like Gregory in my head, the image is extra funny).

Lmao, I'm glad you were able to help your roommate with their schoolwork in the end. Danke schoen for your kind words, and for the cardiac arrest!