#pulls for multiple chars including

[bedoballoons]

heyheyhey!! i would like to req for a fic, where after a BIG fight with your s/o (any genshin char), you're extremely clingy in the morning.

(because fluff after angst is heaven)

Omg I saw this request and literally went YAY! (Fluff after angst is just chefs kiss) I hope you like this and sorry it took awhile to write!!

─⊰⁠⊹ฺ✿𝔾𝕖𝕟𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕟 ℍ𝕖𝕒𝕕𝕔𝕒𝕟𝕠𝕟𝕤⊰⁠⊹ฺ✿─

{༻~Being clingy after a big fight~༺}

CW: Slight angst because mentions of a previous fight, overall super fluffy though!

(Includes: Diluc, Lyney, Wanderer, and Neuvillette!)

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𑁍༄Diluc:

Your eyes fluttered open, dried tears clinging to your lashes from the night before, reminding you of the argument that caused you to go to bed crying. You glanced at the sleeping man next to you, who had originally had his back turned to you but must have shifted in his sleep, his face now mere inches from yours...and his own sadness visible.

You couldn't even really remember what the argument was about anymore and in that moment...your heart didn't want to fight about it, so you moved in closer, cuddling up to his warm figure and resting your face in his chest. To your surprise his arms wrapped around you tightly, holding you against him as he kissed your head softly and whispered with that morning voice you loved so much, "I'm sorry..."

𑁍༄Lyney:

You looked away as Lyney opened the door, leaving the room the two of you would usually have shared and looking rather depressed as he glanced at you, your hands instantly busying themselves with the dishes so you wouldn't have to talk. "Mon amour..." He said softly, voice just above a whisper as he stepped closer to you...his fingers gently touching your chin, guiding it so you'd look into his bright purple eyes. Their normal mischievous glint replaced with guilt and sadness, he was hurting...just like you.

You bit your bottom lip, tears welling up in your eyes as you hugged him so tightly, saying apologies between sobs and rubbing your face in his clothes, the comforting scent of rainbow roses making your heart ache. "Oh mon amour...I'm sorry too..." He said quietly, embracing you just as tightly as you had him and wiping your tears with his thumb before placing loving kisses on your cheeks.

𑁍༄Wanderer:

(I used the nickname Scara here!)

The sound of knocking pulled you out of your thoughts, your eyes flicking to the door to see Scara, who to your surprise was leaning against its frame with his hat turned downwards so you couldn't see his face. Your chest tightened at the sight of him, the harsh words you'd both said the night before flooding into your mind and making your heart ache, was he here to argue more...you honestly couldn't bare the idea of it.

After a few moments of silence, you finally stood up from your chair and took cautious steps towards him, your voice shaky with sadness as you said his name "Scara...?"

Suddenly he grabbed ahold of you, pulling you into him like if he didn't he could loose you forever, his face buried in the crook of your neck as he held you tightly and your heart pounded against the walls of your chest, tears welled up in your eyes as you wrapped your arms around him. His breath warm against your ear and his voice softer than you'd ever heard it as he whispered a apology against your skin.

𑁍༄Neuvillette:

You sighed quietly as you opened the large door, watching as it swung open slowly to reveal Neuvillette, who glanced up at you from his desk, his eyes instantly filling with love and slight guilt when they landed on you. He cleared his throat, about to stand and most likely apologize again for the fight the two of you had previously, but you didn't give him the chance.

Instead you walked over to his chair, climbing into his lap with a light blush on your face and snuggling into his clothed chest as he embraced you tightly, not a word had to be said between the two of you to confirm that everything was alright again. He held you like that as he signed multiple papers and studied previous cases, placing kisses on the top of your head ever so often.

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

ଘ(੭*ˊᵕˋ)੭* ੈ♡‧₊˚Have a nice day*⁠.⁠✧

[lririx]

im a lil shy for asking, but can i request for ithaqua and naib headcanons with a feral s/o? like, raised by the wolves type of feral, will bite u and probably has rabies type of feral. if u dont do multiple chars, then just ithaqua would be fine!!

This is my first request thank you so much!

I hope you enjoy it.

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Ithaqua

•Ithaqua never takes interest in people. He didn't have interactions with people for years until he came to the Manor. He talks to the other hunters to relieve his boredom and pass the time.

•But this changed when he saw you. Fragile but ferocious. Human, yet monstrous.

•He didn't feel threatened or scared by your presence, but felt intrigued, since he saw himself in you.

•You two were similar yet different. Both of you were abandoned by civilization yet he was raised by a human while you were raised by the wilderness.

•He was literate thanks to his mother but you could only utter words and incomplete sentences.

•You were intimidated by him as he slowly walked towards you, which caused you to be on guard.

•You growled at him, hoping he'd back off but he came closer without hesitation.

•Surprised by his action, you clench your teeth, raise and hold your hand in a claw like way, snarling at him as a warning.

•Yet Ithaqua didn't stop. He leaned on one leg infront of you as he reached out his hand towards you.

•You scatched him beacuse you were scared, you were frantic of people. They've only ever hurt you and your pack. They only tought of themselves. How could he be any different?

•Ithaqua looked at his wounded hand and his brows crooked into a slight frown but he sighed, grabbed your hands and pulled you into his chest. He tightened his grip.

•You struggled, bit him, scratched him, kicked him to free yourself of his grasp but he only clenched you harder, with no sign of wanting to let go.

•You growled and howled but it had no effect. As panick grew you moved more rapidly.

•“Shhh…I'm not going to hurt you.” He said as he snuggled his face into your hair like how your pack interacted with eachother, showing their love and affection.

•You don't know why he did that. Why he tried to make you trust him. Even Ithaqua himself doesn't know. He just knows that he wanted to keep you close to him from the start.

•Your bond gradully became stronger after that.

•He always stays by your side and never leaves you except for matches which he can't do anything about.

•He'll give the death stare to anyone who dares to look at you even with the slightest hints of anguish.

•On the other hand if anyone has the audacity to become a little to friendly with you he'll bark at them to piss off.

•He's an absolute sweetheart to you though.

•He's constantly cuddling with you and kissing you everywhere.

•He always sings you to sleep. Lullabies his mother sang to him. Thoes melodies are very precious to him and him sharing them with you shows how much he loves and trusts you.

•You two always play with eachother like wolf pups. Run around the big yards of the Manor, play hide and seek, and even playfully bite eachother.

•He gets so excited whenever you bite him he's like a child that just got a new toy. He'll be giggling so much it just melts your heart.

•He always takes you to the Manor yards on the weekends to watch the moon together and you two usually fall asleep on the trees.

•On days were the moon is full he'll even howl with you.

•He always cuddles and holds you tightly when sleeping. He'll get his coat and puts in on top of you to keep you warm.

•And if you're scared of the dark, he'll always have his lantern on by your side.

Naib Subedar

•Naib didn't have a reaction when he saw you. You were just a new guest of the Oletus Manor. Someone who has to play these games like the rest of them.

•He's pretty closed off towards people except for the few friends he has. But that doesn't mean he's mean to anyone and that includes you.

•One day during a match the hunter was chasing you and you got injured. Naib came to help you out a bit and by the end of it the hunter decided to change targets.

•When they were finally gone he wanted to patch you up but you roared at him. I mean you haven't ever interacted with people and you've only seen them while they were trying to hunt you and your pack.

•He wasn't expecting that and he flinched for a second. “I want to help you.” He said. But you couldn't trust him. This is his way of fooling you he doesn't actually want to help.

•That's what you were thinking of but his presence casted a serene aura. He was scary, you felt that energy of his, but that was overshadowed by that tranquility of his.

•You relaxed you shoulders a bit, thinking maybe he's not so bad. But he reached out his hands to you and that scared you a bit so you took a step back and bared your teeth at him.

•“Please we don't have time.” Naib said a bit annoyed, but he tried to keep himself composed. He didn't blame you. He knew trusting people was hard but now is not the time to be hesitant.

•He got on one knee, his hand still hovering waiting for you to take it. “Trust me.” He said. “I'm only trying to help.”

•His ambiance calmed you down bit by bit. Loosening your muscles, you walked towards him and took his hand.

•He guided you to sit and you complied. “It's going to hurt a bit.” Naib said and put disinfectant on your wounds then started to patch you up.

•After that he always looked after you. If you were uncomfortable around someone he'd step in and take you away from them.

•If you were sitting alone he'd drag you along with him. He never let you feel gloomy or feel like you were in danger, because its Naib. Its his instinct to protect. Well that's what he thought. He didn't realize he was developing feelings for you.

•He’d help you read and write so you could have conversations with the others more easily.

•The Manor provides any food you’d like but Naib made you food himself whenever he got the chance because “The food made by the people close to you tastes better.”

•He wants you to feel calm and safe when you’re around him.

•Naib always gets you toys to play with. He loves playing catch with you. Butterflies flutter in his stomach when he sees you run around and laugh happily.

•He scratches behind your ears alot too. He's really good at it and you just fall asleep on his lap.

•Whenever he's on a match and you miss him you go to his closet and take one of his clothes and wear them since they smell like him and it makes you feel like he's with you.

•When he comes back he just sees a little puppy who is curled up and is sleeping with his clothes.

[sidthedollface2]

A Crown fit for a God

(Part 2 here)

Pairing: Azriel x Fem Reader

Summary: An enemy threatens Velaris leaving Azriel to choose between his found family and a long lost friend. Can he juggle the two or will he fall for the enemy?

word count: 2.6k

Series warnings: 18+ MDNI, angst, hurt/comfort,light smut, war, including injuries, fighting, sign language, no use of y/n, nicknames, magic, greek mythology, pining, jealousy, azriel with other women (sorry), reader with another man (get it friend ; )

A/n: I'm a daydreamer not a writer so if you see any mistakes that's how I dreamt it. Lol

Azriel sat at his desk, reports and sightings of a hooded being trespassing multiple courts, leaving behind scorched farm lands and destroyed buildings scattered across the table. “Any luck?” Elain questioned, running her gentle hands over Azriel's shoulders, loosening his tense muscles. “I’ve been searching for over 500 years, but I think I'm getting close. Most recent sightings have been by women and children. Day or night it does not matter, they've seen IT and their bodies remain still, unable to move or scream until their work is done.” Azriel stared at the map of Prythian. “I think it’s finally here,” he met Elains worried eyes, “in the Night Court.” 

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Azriel 8 yrs old

Azriel stopped sobbing once he knew no one would come for him. The foul smell of char and burnt flesh still lingered in his cell. His small hands trembled and shook from the intense pain, bubbles full of fluid and blackened skin covered both hands. Fingers locked and unable to move, not even to wipe at his heavy tears. The four walls to his cell provided nothing but cold nights and loneliness. With nothing to soothe the heat from his hands Azriel pressed his blistered palms flat to the cold floors. Hissing through clenched teeth as the coldness relieved some of the ache and heat within. Azriel hummed to a song inside his head, anything to pull his tired mind away from the pain and hopelessness he felt. With his eyes squeezed shut he tried to will the tears away, humming louder and louder to drown out his thoughts. His mind circled to a happier time. 

Small feet padding through fields of tall grass as he raced to his favorite spot; under a weeping willow. Perched against the tall tree the scent of fresh apples and citrus filled his nose as the wind carried the delicious scent towards him. His ears caught the melodious song of birds high above him. His gaze tracked up the tree to spot the feathered songbird but as soon as he craned his neck towards the sky time froze. A beautiful luna moth with large iridescent wings took flight, landing on the soft skin of Azriel’s cheek, tickling the small boy awake.

Azriel quickly opened his eyes, blinking rapidly in the darkness. The scent of citrus still lingered and time was eerily still. His pupils widened, adjusting to focus on what he was seeing. In the corner of his cell a shadowed figure stood still. Scrambling to his feet Azriel backed himself into the wall behind him. The dark figure inched closer, slowly, step by step. The hooded figure reached for Azriel's small hand. He told his mind to pull away, and to resist. But he was frozen against the cold wall, unable to move or cry out for help; not that anyone would help him. He tried to scream but the air left his lungs. Peeking beneath a hood Azriel saw the most stunning and captivating eyes he’d ever seen. Neither of the same color, yet bright and brilliant. One holds the color of the night sky, dark with swirls of violet and starlight. The other is pale and cloudy like the surface of the moon from Prythian. Your long shiny hair framed your youthful face and pouty lips perfectly. You don’t look much older than him yet you have this ancient presence he can't put his finger on.  

You're cool fingertips brush his knuckles, testing for his reaction. A small smile graces your lips as you remember that he’s unable to move. At least unable to move his outer extremities and vocal chords. Yet the windows to his soul tell you he's frightened. His wide hazel eyes are glassy, tears slowly filling his waterline. The rapid rise and fall in his chest is another clue to his distress. You let out a soft sigh as a single tear runs down his dirty cheek. Taking a step back you lay your palm flat against your chest, hoping he’ll understand what you intend to convey. Again, you pat your chest and azriel blinks in response. Bringing your hands in front of you, you tuck your fingers in creating a fist and curl both your forefingers and hook them together, with one wrist facing down and the other up you sign the word ‘Friend.’  

You wait for his breaths to slow before you gather his burned hand within yours. His knuckles are angry and reddened from the lack of healthy skin. Moderate pieces are blackened and multiple blisters are threatening to burst.  Carefully, you examine the extensive damage that was done, and begin to call upon your magic. Azriel's eyes widen to the size of saucers when your fingertips spark with what looks like stardust and your hand turns completely black from your fingertips down to your wrist. You gently run your star glittered forefinger down his. Starting at the base of his knuckle to the tip of his finger, healing all the delicate tissue and epidermis just like it was before. You release the magic holding him still, allowing him to relax his shoulders and curl the finger you healed. “How did-” the words die in his mouth as you continue to work on the next finger. Tracing once again from the base of his knuckle, down his slender finger to his nail. Revealing smooth and supple skin, no longer burned and charred.

The loud sound of a door opening startled both of you apart. Stopping your healing magic at only two fingers, Azriels paniced eyes met yours. You knew what he was asking. But you couldn't grant him more time, at least not yet. Quickly, you pulled your hood up over your head. Closing your hand in a fist you brought it to your chest, moving it in a circular motion; signing the word ‘sorry.’ 

“Wait!” Azriel’s arms dart out grasping onto the sleeve of your cloak only for the garment to fall at a pile to his feet. “Mother!” he gasped, shocked at your sudden disappearance, leaving behind your cloak that still had warmth and your scent. 

He’d kept your cloak all these years, the only cloth in his cell that kept him warm on those freezing nights. 

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

Az, something is breaching the wards, get down here. 

Rhys panicked words pierced through Azriel's mind as he abruptly sat up from the bed, the bed he shared with Elain. He quickly pulled his pants on, followed by his shirt and protective leathers. Placing a kiss to Elain's forehead, he winnowed to the location Rhys mentioned. 

An invisible force separated the three males from the dark figure that threatened Velaris. 

“Is It alone?” Cassian questioned, glancing behind and around the figure, assessing the intruder. His fingers itched at his sides, waiting for the slightest movement to unleash his blade. 

“She’s alone.” Rhys confirmed, gaze narrowed and unwavering at the dark figure. 

“She?” Both Cassian and Azriel said in unison, a look of shock on both their faces. It wasn’t that they doubted a female's ability. They knew the power that simmered beneath the skin. The unending strength, if provoked enough. The females in the inner circle, if combined, could take on males twice their size and fight wars alongside the bravest of warriors, but not alone. You’d have to be extremely powerful or extremely stupid to dare face the night court’s high lord alone.

Her gaze lifted above to the bright blue sky as if the power holding Velaris safe was visible to the eye. Her head swiveled left, noting how large the protection ran. Then to her right, gauging the amount of magic needed to breach the wards. At the moment, no army trailed behind her. No warrior or protector was by her side. She was simply there to send a message. 

“She’s unarmed.” Azriel's shadows slithered back to him, informing him of the lack of weapons and armor. She was defenseless and although a powerful barrier kept her out of Velaris, the two most violent and skilled warriors along with the most powerful highlord stood before her; she remained fearless. Her strong legs planted firm in the soil. It was difficult to determine what was under her dark cloak. His shadows stilled as her gaze met those of the shadowsinger. He knew those eyes. Azriel had searched for those beautiful eyes in every court, in every crowd, in every female. He’d dreamed of the day he’d see them again. His attention was directed to Rhys as he spoke in a firm demanding tone. 

“I will say this once, and only once-” 

Rhys' voice caught in his throat as the female's palms met the protective barrier. Electric current coursed through her veins, the power of lightning flickered from her fingers creating an orb of pure energy. Her foot dug into the soil behind her as she braced herself pushing through the wards, creating a space for her body to pass. All three males rushed towards her, charging at the enemy with bared teeth and blades ready to attack. Their large bulking frames and violence in their eyes was enough to bring grown men to their feet. 

Cassian sent a blast of red power straight towards her, expecting it to hit its target. Although stronger than most fae, his blast passed through her like a strong gust of wind. Whipping her head to its side, causing her long hair to flow out from under her hood. Her feet stayed planted, unwavering.

“Mother above.” Cassian breathed before he held his sword up high, slicing through the air as he brought it down over her head. Rhys' eyes widened for a fraction as Azriel’s truth teller clashed with Cassian, blocking his effort to harm her. Azriel’s shoulder roughly dug into Cassian's chest as he shoved his brother back with force. Betrayal laced in Cassian's eyes as he gaped at his brother. Out of all their arguments and bickering not once has Azriel disagreed with a common enemy. 

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” Cassian sneered, meeting Azriels force with his own. Never one to back down at defending his court or his high lord. 

“You foolish boy!” Amren called from a distance, closing the space between them, “you cannot kill a God.” 

“Took you long enough,” Rhys tisked, plucking an invisible lint from his dark shirt. 

The hooded figure narrowed her eyes at the approaching Amren and scowled at the title that she clearly did not like. Azriel and Cassian ceased their bickering as Rhys' power shook the very ground they stood on, a wave of darkness ready to protect his city.

 “No one has breached these wards in 5,000 years.” Rhys declared with all the confidence of a high lord. Stepping forward, commanding the eyes of the hooded figure in a challenge, “what business does a God have in Velaris, surely you have better things to do.”

“Do not mock her, she can kill you where you stand.” Amren whispered. “As can I.” Rhys challenged. 

Her face remained unseen under the protection of her hood. Slowly her fingers came up beside her face, grasping the edges of the hood, she pushed the dark fabric over her head, revealing herself.

Amrens words ring true when the goddess reveals herself. Her beauty is unique and divine, flawless in the way that makes males fall to their knees. 

All the air from Azriels lungs vanished as he stared into those eyes. Years he’d been searching every court, reading countless books on healers and where they originated. Shamelessly making eye contact with each female he met hoping to one day find the mute girl who gave him purpose.  To hope one day he could thank her for her kindness to a boy who had nothing. 

“I’ve been looking for you.” Azriel exhaled, holding a palm out to Rhys and his brother letting them know ‘he’s got this.’ 

Your brows furrowed, and your eyes trailed down Azriels body. Trying your hardest to put a face or name to the male in front of you. After years of imagining how seeing you again would be, he didn't put into account the possibility of you not recognizing him. While Azriel admired how much you've grown since he first saw you. Your gaze seemed to pass right through him. And his worst fears were confirmed with a tilt of your head. 

You didn’t remember him. 

You couldn't recall any detail or encounter that would cause you to remember the male. Instead you focused your gaze on the High Lord. you were here to deliver a message after all. 

“High Lord of Night, ready your soldiers, a war is among you.” 

Surprise passed through Azriels eyes as he heard you speak. The day he met you your only form of communication was through hand signs. And now your voice is laced with threat, nothing like the gentle girl he met hundreds of years ago. He wonders what had changed.  

“And what do you bring to this war?” Rhys expression hardened. He tried to enter your mind to see for himself the truth of your words. Surprised to see your mind vulnerable for all, yet within the space were no visions or memories of your past, but  rings of blazing fire encircled a black hole with unknown knowledge within. Rhys had read about minds with black holes. It was a mystery as to what one would find within the hole. Some say time freezes for the observer, how long till it resumes has never been answered. Others say that if you fall into the black hole your mind fails the body and a blazing fire consumes you from the inside out, leaving behind ashes to be carried by the wind. 

“I bring Chaos and unrest, Lord of Night it be wise of you to heed my warning because your life will be in my hands.” 

Within seconds the afternoon sky turned dark and gray, the loud crack of thunder boomed in the distance and before either of them could reach you, you summoned a strike of lightning; hitting the ground like a whip. The flash was bright as it hit  and Rhys witnessed the wards he placed on Velaris crumble. A loud roar was heard throughout Velaris, a deadly creature answering your call.  It was then he realized, struggling to push through a small door to get within the protection wards was just for show. And whatever message you needed to deliver, something frightening answered. 

 Between the flashes of lightning and the echoes of thunder, just beyond the way they saw hundreds and hundreds of waiting soldiers. Looking at your retreating form, Azriel, Cassian and Amren rubbed at their eyes.

Once you reached the front line of fighters you looked over your shoulder, meeting Rhys powerful gaze and with a slight smirk you replaced his wards and removed the illusioned warriors. Leaving Velaris protected as it once was but now the threat of death and destruction looms near, not only to Rhys but everything and everyone he holds dear in Velaris. 

Part 2

~ thank you for reading

[phoenixfire-thewizardgoddess]

Fun little Radiodust idea

For Sinsmas, normally something the Hellborn celebrate and not so much Sinners because the passing of eternity could get monotonous or distressing depending on where you landed in the afterlife...

Charlie, who Very Much has always celebrated it, decides that everyone should do a gift exchange!

To avoid everyone rushing out for multiple gifts, she chooses to have people draw names from a hat and made it clear that she would really hope that everyone tried their best to find or make something for their intended giftee that they actually thought the other would like.

'So', she cautions, 'that means nobody goes handing around anything that might be upsetting or tempt people to regress on their progress, or... uh, well...'

'Don't bring anything dead, decaying or dying.' Vaggie finishes, staring right at the oh so innocent Niffty/Alastor combo at the end of a nearby couch. Niffty pouts immediately and crosses her arms, sitting harshly on Alastor's lap.

"Come now Niffty, I am certain you can find a non-bug related item to provide your giftee in this..." the man can barely contain his derisive chuckle, but he clearly makes an attempt here even if only to show 'support' while the King is here. '...oh so charming little activity of dear Charlotte's, hmm? Why, you're a dab hand at sewing, remember? Why not make them a poppet of someone your giftee wants to torture? That could be QUITE the gift!"

"NO! NOPE! Noooooooooooooo not that, uh, please." Charlie interjects, not liking the excited sparkle thrumming through Niffty's eye. It dies immediately, and the little Sinner huffs in a way that pulls at several heartstrings.

"Fine."

"...maybe you can give us a list of ideas, princess?" Husk interjects, uncharacteristically, watching Niffty's fit of pique with a frown. "Avoid things getting..." he waves his hand around the room at various sinners. Explicit? Violent? Bloody? Uncomfortable? It encompasses them all.

"Oh, that's a great i-de-aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh!" Charlie squeal-sings, and Vaggie barely has time to brace before a full song about the dos and don't of gifting is shared to the captive audience. Lucifer excitedly (and Vaggie reluctantly) join in after the first verse, enthusiastic about sharing a fun holiday with the others.

Husker was generally unimpressed, but enjoying the way that everpresent grin drooped on boss's face as he was bombarded by merriment.

"...and that's how to share the joy of Sinsmas!" crashes the final line as confetti seemingly bursts from a number of locations, including mid-air, and coats them all.

Niffty immediately launching around to skewer pieces individually on her needles and gather them into her apron pocket. It has to have some sort of pocket dimension or something in there, or it would be overflowing by now.

"Oh, we made a uh, a mess Char-Char, let me just-..." Lucifer starts, raising his fingers to snap it away, before snarling as they are ensnared in a red tipped hand.

"Majesty, would you mind leaving it this once? It brings her joy to clean up intricate messes." Alastor says, not even attempting to antagonise the King, and it seemed the fact that it was a genuine request, that stopped Lucifer from setting the Sinner on fire.

Angel Dust, half-awake, couldn't help but grin as he saw the slight softening to that sharp grin and those blood-red eyes as they followed Niffty's frenetic movements across the room. He liked the tiny dame, of course, and sometimes it was nice to see that she had others in her corner... can't be easy being so small in a place like Hell.

Not that he ain't dead certain Smiles or Husk would eviscerate anyone who tried something with Niffty, if she didn't tear them apart first. Angel knew that she'd stopped more than a few Exorcists from getting a bead on him in that last extermination. Always someone thinking they could end one last sinner before they died; well, jokes on them, 'cause Angel was still here and Cannibal Town was hostin' a big angel wing bbq soon. So, Hell 1: Heaven 0.

The little dragon thing that followed Charlie everywhere, Razzle he thinks, hovers nearby and hands over a slip of paper. Well, okay then.

Hmmm, fuck... what do you even get the King'a Hell? The man can straight up snap anything he wanted into existence, right? He sizes the guy up, wondering if a coupon for one night with The Angel Dust would be good enough for his Majesty... and then has a momentary moment of panic wondering if he would even be good enough for an ex-angel. Which was stupid because really, he was amazing and could fake it anyway anyone wanted... but, could he compare to the Queen?

Nah, okay, what if he got the guy like... something a little fun and discreet? One of Lust's toys. Angel had connections, after all, and it's not like someone could order the Tentacular Spectacular 4.3 with vibrating actions under 'Lucifer', or to the Palace, without at least one of the succubi getting nosy. Heh, or that Sin guy, Asmodeus...

Using his tertiary eyes to check about the room, it took little deduction to work out who had who.

Husk was drinking out of a bottle but subtly using the motion to side-eye Vaggie, clearly wondering what he could even offer the ex-orcist. The lilac woman looking tense as she gazed over at Niffty, a thousand yard stare building as she imagined the bloody things she might have to provide.

Lucifer looked like he'd won the jackpot, and also like a man on the verge of a panic attack. So, he's just guessing but... the guy probably got Charlie.

The Princess was still smiling but appeared uncertain as she looked at her paper, eyes flickering to Alastor and back to the paper. Alright then, she's stumped but doesn't want to say anything because it might hurt the Strawberry Pimp's feelings. Angel's pretty sure the guy ain't gottem to start with...

Well, no, that wasn't right. More like, Smiles tried real hard to pretend he didn't, but they were there. If the overlord felt like breaking into acting, or Angel's kind of Acting, he might just be a natural given how well he plastered over his real feelings all the time. But when your life depnded on watching for the small tells in your bigger, more powerful opponent or scene partner to work out how to get away without too many bruises... you noticed this sort of shit.

There was a brief moment of considering what the Radio Demon would look like on one of Val's sets, before he physically shook the thought out, perturbed. For one, that was kinda hot... and on the other hand, really disturbing... might save that for later, though.

Anyways, he can't really tell what Al was thinking, he wasn't really looking at anyone specific. Maybe he hadn't bothered to look at his paper yet?

Niffty's sudden burst of near hysterical laughter sent chills up his spine, as she sat on Husk's lap, petting him excitedly. If she wasn't careful, Niffty was going to build up a sharp little shock of static.

In anycase, based on the whole... everything, it was clear that the maid had received the bartender. Good Luck to Husk on that front, because it was going to be freaky whatever she did.

She bounced on Husk's overly-patient leg once more before crawling across the room to climb atop Al's head, whispering directly into his hair tuft... wait, was that an ear? Had Angel not realised those were fuckin' fluffy goddamn ears this whole time?

Unholy shit, they were! The one Niffty giggled into twitched!

That was fuckin' adorable, that's what that was!

"Of course, my deer, as you wish." Alastor grinned, a flash of radio dial eyes as his stitches flared, manifesting a spool of fine green thread for the maid. "I'm certain that whatever you deem necessary will be fine."

Husk suddenly looked exceptionally nervous.

"Alright then, remember, you have the next few days to find or make something for your giftee and we'll hand them out out on Sinsmas. If anyone gets reaaaaaally stuck, let me or Vaggie know, okay? We can brainstorm together!" Charlie enthuses, injecting false cheer through the room.

Vaggie narrows her eye. "And again, nothing fucked up... or fuckable." The last nnit was aimed right at Angel, who good-naturedly rolled his eyes, struck a pose and purred at her.

"Aw baby, you know you want all this... I'll even give ya a discount coupon for Sinsmas, if ya want..."

"I can't. I just... can't." Vaggie growls, storming out. Under that swathe of hair, she's trying so hard not to grin at their banter. Took a whole ass extermination to find their dynamic, but the pair had manged to act like bickering siblings.

As Alastor dissolved into shadows, Lucifer poofed into red sparkles, and Husk sauntered back to the bar with a contemplative expression on his face, Angel approached Charlie.

"Heya toots, can I talk to you for a sec?"

"Oh, Angel... are you okay? If you're stuck, I can give you a hand to-..."

"Oh, I'd love ya to-... wait, sorry, that one just came out. The wordplay was Right There, but it's not what I wanted to say." he halts himself, seeing her good natured grin grow strained at the innunedo. "I was gonna say, that I wanted to trade names with you."

"Is there... something wrong with who you got? Oh gosh, I forgot to check if anyone had anybody they didn't feel comfortable gifting! Oh noooooo..." it trails off in a soft moan of self-disgust as the Princess tugs her own hair. Angel immediately puts a stop to that mess by gently untangling her hands and taking them in his own primary pair.

"Nah, it ain't like that. It's just... I worked out who you got, and that you're kinda not sure how to go about gifting the guy, which is fine he's hard to read. But, I pulled your Dad..." he pauses, seeing her brace, "which ain't an innuendo, promise. Although..." he waggles his eyebrows so ludicrously she can't help but burst into laughter.

"Right? So anyways, I think that given how hard the Short King has been trying to show you he cares for ya, then perhaps it might be the best Sinsmas gift of all if maybe you surprised him with something. He fought adam and fixed the hotel, all because he wants to see you happy, Toots, that's the kind of dad any of us here in the pit would've killed for... and let's be real, he's a mess. The guy is the most powerful thing around here and he's terrified to even put a frown on your face," Angel's grin is soft and knowing. "So like I said, maybe you take my slip and I take yours, and you give your old man a big surprise he ain't expecting."

There's a pause as Charlie grabs him for a bone-crunching hug.

"Please don't say the thing you're thinking right now..." Charlie whispers in his ear.

"Oh Charlie," he whispers back, squeezing her tight. "You know I can't help myself. Cause if you say no I'm gonna give him my Big Surprise on Smismas eve... you guys don't do the mistletoe thing do you? Cause I can find some places to hang it that- oof!"

Laughing, the Princess had playfully hurled him across the room onto the sofa. Giggling through an admonishment about Never Saying that about her dad again.

"Okay, okay, stop waggling your eyebrows like that, I can't breathe!" she wheezes, holding out her giftee slip to transfer it to Angel. Looking up at the now furiously waggling eyebrows before losing it again, and having to sit down, turning bright pink with glee.

It makes Angel nostalgic, with a sudden pang, for his twin sister and the hours they'd spent making terrible jokes and puns up just to send the other into fits of laughter. Ending up messy with happy tears as they wheezed for breath.

He glances down to the slip in his hand.

Okay then, Smiles... what can I get you that you ain't got already?

----------

It took a few days of persistent observation to find something he could use. Angel was really starting to think about using a handmade One Night Deluxe Package coupon for his services, before he noticed a few little peculiarities that he might be able to make work.

The most obvious one was that the Radio Demon enjoyed cooking.

It became apparent how many of the more elaborate dinners that the hotel residents had were actually secretly made by Alastor. Or at least, under his direction.

Huh. How hadn't he cottoned on to that little number before? Maybe because he was always crawling through the door at who the fuck knows what hour and heading for the bar, where Husk'd have something set out for him if it was too late for the cat.

Soemtimes it was a shot of something strong, a bottle of water and a sandwich; other times he find a brief note about something in the fridge they'd saved for him. Always felt good to be wanted somewhere, you know?

No matter what Val did to him or had done to Angel, he could at least think about the fact that someone was waiting for him. Someone cared that he came 'home' of an evening... and that, if he needed it, he could have help from almost anyone in the weird fucked up little family at the hotel.

If he yelled, or smashed a glass, someone would be there to check in.

Niffty was always in the walls somewhere, and Spooky Lite (Alastor's Shade) tended to wander around the foyer at night when he was returning, keeping an eye on the place Angel assumed. Husk sometimes fell asleep at the bar waiting on him to get back...

And he knew sometimes Vaggie had to sit on Charlie to stop the bleeding heart of hers from keeping her rigidly upright in a chair in the foyer all night until Angel returned. It was... pretty awesome, really.

Actually, his mind skipped back to Spooky Lite, and he wondered how it was always around about that time. Until the night before when Angel had slipped into his room with the thing following, and then crept back out, to find that Alastor had materialised in the kitchen for some late-night cooking.

Music threading out quietly as dishes were done by overenthusiastic moppets. At one point, he'd seen Niffty come in, stumbling and shaken, only to be picked up wordlessly and curled into one of Alastor's arms as the music lulled her back to sleep. Poppets returning her to her room when he was certain she was deeply settled once more.

There was a pained, pinched expression on the Radio Demon's face as he watched Niffty go. It sent a shock through Angel, and he's not sure how to describe it, not really. Just, an awareness of real emotion, even behind the too-bright smile that never seemed to stop.

If the guy even could drop it, which Angel wasn't so sure given those stitches he'd seen, or maybe Al was just real committed to the bit. But the eyes said more than the mouth ever could.

The next morning, Charlie had found a well-cooked and marinated meal in the fridge with instructions on reheating. Vaggie was loudly sceptical about the origins of the meat, but Husk took a bite and said it was beef (or the closest Hell equivalent) not Sinner.

Vaggie side-eyed Husk for the rest of the day after that one. The bartender shrugging. "You could try it, what's the worst that could happen? We're already in hell."

She'd rolled her eye.

Behind all the dramatics around him, Angel was forming a plan that he hoped might lead to the best possible gift for the picky red Overlord. He had an idea, but... really hoped it wouldn't be seen as trying to scrimp on gifts.

Although, perhaps if the Overlord could scent the amount of fuckin' blood drops this thing was costing him, that alone would be enough of a gift. He swore so frequently while reusing old skills with new limbs, that Husk came in to check on him... and put a pair of ear mufflers on Fat Nuggets.

Hells, he was even taking to doing the needlework between shifts at the studio. What else was there to do when the scenes were hours apart, and Val was busy fucking another ten people in some side room somewhere, after all?

Just hoped it came together in time.

----

Talk about a fucking buzzer beater.

Angel's fingers were stiffer than that time he shot that bukkake gangbang film with those echidna and shark-based sinners. Lotta cocks in that film and Val wanted it all in one take.

He'd needed a scalding shower and several massages to get his hands settled again after that little lot. Vaggie had helpfully hosed him off out front with a minimally disgusted expression on her face, thankfully, that day.

"Happy Sinsmas everyone! Ooooh, I'm so pleased you all went out of your way to find a gift for your giftee!!!!" Charlie beamed, far too cheerful for 5am in the damned morning. However, she had woken them all with enthusiastic song, and well... when Charlie was Up the hotel was Up.

"Yaaay..." croaked a clearly half-awake Vaggie.

"It means so much to me that you're all here with us, celebrating like a real family this Sinsmas! I couldn't do this without you, any of you, so I hope you enjoy this part and then we'll get onto the Sinsmas breakfast, and the games, and watch some movies... or not... you don't have to Al. Promise!" Charlie adds, conceding as rather stilted static plays.

Alastor looks overtired, and clearly unimpressed at the early start to the day. Still, he pulls together some form of charade when the Princess glances at him and nods.

"So, how're we doing this Char-Char?" Lucifer asks, infuriatingly chipper as well. Ah, seems like the morning person power must be genetic... the lucky bastards.

"So, I was thinking we can all hand them out simultaneously to our giftee, so no one is trapped in the spotlight... if that's okay?"

"Sounds good to me." Husk shrugs and hauls himself off the couch, tail flicking as he moves to hand a pair of oddly shaped gifts to Vaggie. "Happy or Merry or whatever Sinsmas, chickadee, this one's for you. "

"Oh, uh, thanks Husk!" Vaggie says, taken aback by the gifts, and for a split second he wonders if exorcists were allowed to get gifts in Heaven, because she looks close to tears.

As Vaggie unwraps her gifts, Niffty tugs at the cat's claws, "Husk, I got you and I made you something! I-... I know I couldn't get anything as fancy as the things the others might have, but I made it special. Promise."

She bundles something into his arms that had been carefully wrapped in what appeared to be salvaged wallpaper from the previous hotel.

"Thanks Niff, appreciate it." Husk rumbles, moving back to the couch and pulling open the package with care and a small amount of trepidation. It very well might explode, after all.

"Oh, Niffty, before you run away, this is for you." Vaggie says, handing over a pretty box in a familiar dusk rose.

Niffty squealed and placed it on the ground, pulling it open with speed to reveal a brand new dress in a scintillating spill of red, white and yellow to match her favourite colours. There's even a petticoat.

"It's made by Overlord Rosie herself... she put a charm on the petticoat that'll keep it from getting any dirt on it, because I know you don't like that." Vaggie explained, not sure how to read the sudden statue Niffty's turned into... and then backing up as the maid begins to vibrate at great speed. She's slammed into by the maid, nearly being taken out at the knees with the force. "Ooof, I take that means you like it?"

"YES YES YES YES YES!"

"Cool, good, nice to know. There's one other thing but now I think about it, it's kind of silly..."

Niffty launches back to the box and reverently lifts out the second item. A feather duster with an extendable handle... made of Vaggie's discarded feathers. She screams in delight and launches over to pepper kiss on Vaggie's cheek, then hurls herself towards a cobweb on the ceiling.

"Nailed it, kid." Husk said, and Charlie's eyes are round and wet where they stare at Vaggie.

Blinking, the Exorcist realises she needs to open her own gifts, turning to do so. With care, she peels back the lavender wrapping to reveal a carefully framed and still covered in golden ichor... knife. An angelic blade, to be exact.

The one that killed Adam. Beside it, a smaller photo of Niffty plunging the dagger into the guy, clearly shot from HD drone footage, likely Voxtech. Her eye goes WIDE as she stares at the cat.

"How did-...? You-...! This is the best thing but how...?" she tries.

"I'd tell you, but I think Al will kill me if I mention what I had to trade for Vox to hand that picture over..." the bartender muttered. Vaggie glances at the Radio Demon, watching his ears twitch.

Angel cringes. Vox has it Down Bad, so whatever it took... was likely personal, like a bowtie or even a pair of panties. The sudden mental image of Al in fancy panties made him snort, and try to pass it off as a dry throat cough. Lucifer snaps him up a glass of water without even appearing to think about it.

"...Husker, if you did what I assume you did, then the idiot box is going to be Insufferable at the next Overlord meeting." Al sighs, dramatically.

"Sure, but on the other hand it's kinda funny when you think about how far he'll go just to pretend he could get your attention, right boss?" Husk counters, pulling out a crisp looking shirt and jacket combo from his own gift. Eyes going wide in surprise.

It was well-tailored, and if you looked at the right angle, there were impossibly small symbols adorning both garments. Sigils, familiar ones, that seemed to spell out some sort of protection...

"Niff, you made these on yer own?" the grizzled bartender huffs, genuinely touched. "That's amazing, is what it is."

"Well, Sir helped a little with some of the symbols, because I can't always get them to line up stright in my head... but we got the charm right!" Niffty said brightly, hovering over his shoulder. She just seemed to Appear in the most unnerving way. "Oooh, open the other bit!"

At first, Husk wasn't sure what he was looking at, until Angel Dust gasped and covered his grin with two hands. "No way."

"Niff, is this... Valnetino's collar fluff? The stuff you snagged at the club?"

"Yep, he was a not good bad boy and I didn't like him. I know you don't like him either, so you can have some of my trophy so we can not like him together!" She trills, delighted.

"Would it sweeten the pot if I told you it ain't grown back yet and he does this weird comb-over shit to hide the bald spot?" Angel Dust adds, not able to hold it in any longer.

Husk barks out a laugh, "Oh that's the best news I've had all day, Legs. Might get this framed, even. Put it over the bar so that nearsighted motherfucker can see it if he ever dares put a foot into this place... without one of us tearing it right off his body, that is."

Vaggie gasps in the background, opening her second gift, more cumbersome than the first. It's an ornate cherry-red picnic basket, with a red and yellow blanket atop, and clearly heavy with cutlery and crockery.

"You need to relax more, Vags... you and Charlie. That thing has a little zap from his Majesty that keeps anything inside at the right temperature, and stops it spoiling. You can go anywhere and it'll keep." Husk shrugs. Those two were wound so tight he was surprised neither had combusted yet... a prod in the right direction, from the friendly bartender, was hopefully the thing to change that.

Vaggie came over and awkwardly put her arms out, before deciding to just go for the hug. He grumbled, but allowed it for a few seconds before pulling back.

"O-Okay, who's next?" Vaggie stammers, turning to find that Lucifer and Charlie were in a world of their own.

Charlie was a sobbing mess of delight as she held a small dragon-duck-winged thing in a little dress. It was like, yet unlike, Razzle and Dazzle... same concept but more... duck. There was no better descriptor than that, really.

"Her name is Ella-Kazam, un-unless you wanted to make it something else... she's still new enough you can change it over." Lucifer shrugged, looking hopeful and awkward, stroking the creature's head as Razzle flew over to meet this new friend.

Not a replacement for Dazzle, never in a million aeons. but, a new friend and possibility.

"No, no she's perfect Dad!" Charlie sobs, rubbing her cheek against Ella-Kazam, and delighting in the squeaky quacks. She startles when the little protector drops a golden item in her palm. "Oh, what's this?"

"It's, um something I was holding onto for you until the right time..." Lucifer adds, wondering if perhaps he should have switched the order of the gifts.

Charlie rights the items, surveying the family crest on the necklace before something goes 'click' very quietly, opening to reveal it is a locket inside. Light rises up and shows a stately photos of the royal family, Charlie as a young child in their midst.

Charlie begins sobbing in delighted earnest, clearly frightening the king. Vaggie intervenes, having gotten quite good at this sort of thing. Alastor's shadow pokes at Lucifer's pocket until the ex-angel recalls that he has a handkerchief in there, which is swiftly offered to Charlie.

It takes several moments to settle the Princess, as she hands over a strangely wrapped thing, half as tall as the king and about the width of KeeKee. It has circus-themed wrapping paper, which he would assume was an insult from anyone else, but Charlie seems to be trembling with anxiety, as desperate for his approval as he was for hers.

The King of Hell cautiously opens the package, eyes widening to discover an ornate musical carousel inside, themed towards those at LuLu World. Small differently coloured and styled ducks took the spaces of the trasitional horses, and when he looked closer... he found himself, Charlie and Lillith were some of the riders.

"Oh Charlie, it's lovely, did you conjure this yourself...?"

"I... I had some help, I had an idea but I couldn't quite get it to do what I was hoping it would, so I asked... for assistance." She evades, pointing to two small toggles on the base of the carousel. "If you wind the key it will play until it's unwound itself, but if you click the yellow switch it will play on its own and-..."

She pauses as a different song begins, this one feels less tangible, and reaches inwards. Everyone in the room is flooded with a sense of overwhelming calm, of tranquility and safety as a pleasant memory is stirred from deep within and replayed against their mind's eye.

"...it will play a tune that brings up good memories, to help you sleep or feel better or... just make you happy." Charlie sighs softly. She then clicks that feature off and presses the Black switch.

Another not-sound fills the air, this one is like a hand reaching out to someone in the ocean, a spool of thread that leads out of a maze, a feeling of being found and drawn out of somewhere deep.

"And this one is to help when you get lost in your head or whatever you want to call it. It's a homing beacon. It took a few days to work out how to make it work, but Al helped me... he twisted some of the radiowaves and made them do... that." Charlie explained. She then paused to ad, "It can read your emotions... the switches are able to turn on by themselves if they sense someone needs it."

"Char-Char, this is amazing, honey. How did I ever make such a wonderful, thoughtful child?" Lucifer smiles, glowing with pride at his daughter, eyes filled with delighted tears. Lucifer gathers his not so little girl up in a big hug, swooping them up in the air and twirling to show his joy.

Alastor hummed in agreement, getting him a side-eye. Lucifer rolled his eyes. "Alright, this once I suppose you can also claim good parenting of 'our' daughter... that's a neat trick with the carousel and I have some questions around how, for later."

Quietly, because nothing he'd done held a candle to that of the other gifts, Angel moves to sit a tad close to Alastor and passes over his small package. Green wrapping paper carefully tied about them, as he'd noticed the sinner's preference for the colour, despite his red attire.

Alastor snaps his fingers and a pink sack landed on his legs, not heavy, but full of something. He flipped open the sack to find a smaller item wrapped atop the area, and decided to look into it first as Alastor carefulyl pulled free the green paper.

Angel's brows creased in confusion when he first looked at the item, it seemed like a choker but not oriented right and, well, a bit large for him...

Side-eying Alastor, the Radio Demon rolled his eyes and let out a low whistle that seemed to summon an unexpected party. Fat Nuggets trotted in happily, and suddenly it clicked for Angel.

"This is for Nuggsy? A collar that matches my choker?" he asks, surprised.

"Yes, and no. The fabric is imbued with a few different charms, my effeminate fellow... you will find that it can adjust size as your little friend grows, shift to match any choker you deign to wear, and..." he pauses, eyes widening at the item he unwrapped. "...and has a location tracking spell in it that can activate by thinking about your hellpig. Did you embroider this yourself?"

"Hmm? Uh, yeah... my fingers sure know about all the times I slipped with the damn needles. Haven't had to embroider since I was alive." Angel laughs, feeling kind of silly now, to gift something so tacky and homemade.

"Well, I must say it is a delightful gift, thank you Angel, I see you spent extra time getting the notes and antlers of the creatures embroidered with such detail. I can always make use of a new apron. Tell me... are you aware that the notes are-..."

"That one fuckin' tune you play when you're cooking at like ass o'clock in the morning when I get back? Yeah. Took me a bit to work it out, then put it down right, but between Charlie and I we got it."

Radio dials flashed, more out of panic than anything. "Ah, you were spying on my cooking hour, hmmm?"

"What? N-... well yeah, I was coming home late anyway, course I was curious who else was up." Angel shrugged. "Besides, that's not the only thing there, keep going."

"Likewise."

Alastor uncovers a thick stack of hand-written notes next.

He automatically discards the Coupon for One Night with Angel Dust, in a dramatic way that was expected of him, but it wasn't incinerated so that was positive. Underneath it, once the excess glitter was carefully brushed off... was pile of painstakingly recreated recipes.

"So, those were things my nonna and my ma liked to make at home. Loved cooking wth them but I think they held back some secrets for only my sister... you know how it is. Thought you might like trying something new when you were doing your cooking thing." Angel adds, not looking, worried he'd made a fool of himself. What kind of gift was a bunch of recipes to a Radio Demon anyway?

"What a remarkably apt and personal gift, Angel... here I was bracing for you to provide something as tall as you and vibrating hard enough to dent the floors. Colour me surprised..." Alastor's light hearted nonsense brushes his tension away as the arachnid begins to laugh.

"You want that sort of thing? I got connections to Ozzie's, through Fizzy, he can get us the tentacular spectacula-..."

A tendril slams about his mouth. "No, thank you, that will be quite enough with such a delightful gift as you have provided. If you are someone intrigued in cooking, I may be persuaded to share some of my own maman's recipes, particularly those for jambalaya. Though if I catch you seasoning with only half-spice, you will be turned INTO appropriately seasoned Jambalaya. Do you understand me?" Alastor grinned, and somehow Angel could tell this was playful banter, and not a threat.

"The spicy stew thing? Fuck yeah I'd love to know how to make that, oh and the powdered doughnuts things. Cherri loves them, and after Pentious died she's been real flat lately..."

"They do not take long, I will show you later in the morning if you are free. After all, your bombastic friend did help in the battle, it is the least we can offer in her time of distress." Alastor says, seemingly distracted by something, as if weighing up the pros and cons of something.

"Oh, do continue."

Angel cautiously opens the sack and pulls out skein after skein of dyed wool, all slight variations of his preferred pinks, with some other basic colour groups in there. He touches it, not daring to believe it but...

"This is sheep demon wool, isn't it?" he chokes, then narrows his eyes.

Alastor laughs, "Willingly given, why she has collected it for some time and twists it into yarn herself before overseeing the dying with several other sinners in her employ. I merely requested to have some for your gift, as I have seen you take an interest in knitting of late."

"When you say 'requested'..."

"Dearest Angel Dust, I assure you that if I had not stopped the woman she would have provided me every skein on the floor and refused payment if I was not firm with her. A persistent sinner, that one."

"Oh? Why's a sinner so generous then? You own her?" Angel tensed, surprised by the wrinkling of Alastor's nose in distaste.

"No, she does have a deal, primarily for protection, and that was at her insistance."

"Wait, sheep demon sinner? Yeah, Ange, don't worry about it. She's been hurling her soul at Alastor in thanks since he stopped... something pretty fucking bad happening at a butcher shop down the bad side of Pentagram city. It don't do business anymore, the boar that owned it went... missing." Husk interjects, side-eying Alastor.

"Hah, and the big bad Radio Demon is what, freaked out by someone throwing themselves at him? Smiles, ya hot, that kind of thing happens you need t'get used to it. S'why I always got a taser in one of my other-other arms, y'know?" He laughed, enjoying how one of those ears twitched down. "I do love the gift though, knitting helps me unwind and I 've never had anything but the fake acrylic stuff that gets weird and itchy after a bit. So, thanks... it's the best gift."

"What about the Other one, boss?" Husk needles, grinning and catching everyone's attention.

Alastor rolls his eyes, and snaps his fingers. "Spoilsport, I was leaving the best until last..."

The bloody, barely shuddering form of Valentino appeared on the rug before them, making Angel's eyes buldge in shock. The moth's wings looked to have been shredded methodically.

Alastor prodded the sack of flesh with his staff. "Well, the good news is that he was conscious enough to hand over this delightful little piece of paper..."

Angel's heart nearly falls out of his throat when his contract appears, sealed with a green band instead of deep pink, falling into his now-trembling hands.

"Tear it up as you wish, I have no need to possess the soul of one of our guests. I merely assumed you'd want to do it in the prescence of the one who trapped you in it, for closure... before I put him in the broadcast."

"How did-...?"

"For the price Vox asked, I negotiated the right to kill his little toy and take at least one of the contracts." Alastor said sharply, clearly not wanting to discuss it further. "Still, it does remove one nuisance..."

"Alastor, this wasn't what I meant..." Charlie sighs, trying to be disappointed but so pleased for Angel at the same time.

"Was this not a thoughtful, personalised gift of something that the giftee might cherish? Ownership of their own soul?" Alastor replied, gentling his approach. "I don't suppose you or your father would like to... have a word about the time he licked your arm?"

"He WHAT?!"

"Dad, it's fine!"

"Angel, do let me know if you would like to join me when I integrate this... creature... into my broadcast. If I dislike the man and his antics, I can only assume your feelings towards him are far stronger and of greater import. I plan to braodcast at 8pm sharp, don't be late and wear something that you aren't attached to, it gets... Messy."

Alastor prods Valentino until the moth looks up, scowling, and then passes out.

Angel's trembling fingers grasp the contract, heart thundering like it was some sort of sick game and he'd wake up any moment, and tears it in two. Immediately, his collar shatters and Valentino twitches in his stupor.

"...okay, I gotta know, what did he do that ticked you off so bad?" Angel asked, elbowing Alastor, who rolled his eyes.

"Numerous things, I always meant to get around to killing him for his treatment of his thralls... and free you, as Charlotte has always hoped to do. However, I believe I have hated the man from our first meeting, he is so exceptionally odious after all."

"Why, he lick your arm too?" Lucifer growls, looking like he was still contemplating immolating the beaten overlord for touching his Charlie.

"Hah no. Well, you could say our first meeting went rather badly as I bite off his tongue... he's still angry about that, but I feel quite justified in the action for you see, it ended up in my mouth without any warning. He's lucky Vox, who we were both accuainted with at the time, asked for mercy... in hindsight, I should have turned him into mincemeat."

Angel scowled as well. "Yeah... the bastard ain't one for consent."

There was a heavy moment marring the day, before Alastor snapped the Overlord away to who knows where and added cheerfully, "Well, no need to concern ourselves about that anymore... he'll be beyond deceased this evening, and I understand there is quite the day of festivities ahead. If everyone has unwrapped their gifts and found them satisfactory?"

Different statements of assent echoed from around the room as people tried on, tested out or played with their gifts. The Radio Demon was about to speak further when he was hugged to within an inch of his afterlife by a very tall arachnid who was half sobbing, half laughing in joy.

"Ya fucking nuts, Smiles, I like that in a man. This was the best Sinsmas gift ever!" He crowed enthusiastically, and the emotion flowed across the others in the room like a tide of joy. He dropepd his voice under the clamour to whisper, "You just keep hold'a that coupon and I'm going to give you the best night ever... even if that amounts to like, a neck massage and talking about baking tips, all the way to breaking the bed and eating sauteed pieces of Valentino. Whatever you want... I feel almost alive again, Smiles."

Patting the spider sinner gently on the arm and being relieved at the release with most bones still intact, Alastor grins. "I'm quite pleased that I seem to have found an acceptable gift. Now, if nobody minds, I think we could all do with some breakfast... I might even be convinced to try some of those deplorable sugary discus you call pancakes little Majesty."

"Why, ran out of juice after banging that television guy?" Lucifer snipes back, playfully.

"Hah, no, he's no challenge. Now, your wife on the other hand..." Alastor fades into shadow with a cackle as Charlie covers her face with her hands, deep breaths taken to fortify her for the rest of the day.

"Oh you fucker-..." The King exhales, throwing his hands up... and begins to laugh. "Get back here and help cook breakfast, deer, or I'm taking sole custody in the divorce."

With a dramatic gasp, Alastor fades back into view. "How dare you! No judge would side with such a scoundrel..."

Rolling their eyes at the back and forth, the hotel residents head for the kitchen to start off Sinsmas with good food, warm bellies and pleasant conversation. With a hint of competitive dadding in there.

Angel carried Fat Nuggets, in her new little collar, to the kitchen with them. His eyes firmly on Alastor's back, the gaze making those fluffy ears twitch as they sought out the observer.

"Hey Nuggsy... I might be going made from post-contract delirium, but I gotta ask... how would you feel about having a new daddy?"

For her part, Nuggsy just snuffled contentedly in his arms and fell asleep.

--------------

The end

Will write it better when its not 3fuckingam

this was meant to be a funny throwaway post and now look at it

I'll have to fix and format it so it makes sense and put it on AO3.

[freyayuki]

War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Mini Review

Started playing the War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius (WotV: FFBE) mobile game sometime during its collaboration event with Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children (#ad). To be more precise, started a few days or so after the start of the Sephiroth (from Final Fantasy VII) banner.

I talk more about this in another post, but I pulled for Sephiroth as well as Kadaj from Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children. This is a continuation of that post since already reached the max limit of 30 pics per post there.

To the Lifestream Vision Card

There are a few Vision Cards that came with the Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children collab. One of these Vision Cards is called To the Lifestream.

This Vision Card features Cloud Strife from Final Fantasy VII and Kadaj, but it's intended to be used by Sephiroth and Kadaj.

I wish this Vision Card featured Sephiroth and Kadaj instead, especially since this isn't even good for Cloud. Plus, he's already featured in the other Vision Cards that came with this collab.

Sephiroth is featured in another one of the Advent Children Vision Cards, but sadly, that one isn't really good for him.

Since the To the Lifestream Vision Card is good for Kadaj and Sephiroth, decided to pull for it.

There is a 1-time only Step Up 10x Summon banner for the To the Lifestream Vision Card.

This banner has 3 steps. Step 3 is guaranteed to give you 25 To the Lifestream Vision Card shards.

Unfortunately, this banner doesn't guarantee that you will get a copy of the Vision Card in question so just had to hope that I'll get lucky, otherwise will need to pull on another one of the To the Lifestream banners.

To my relief, was actually lucky this time since I was able to get my first copy of the To the Lifestream Vision Card on step 2.

Continued on to step 3 so I could get the 25 To the Lifestream Vision Card shards.

New Player Resources and Free Pulls

As a new player, got lots of resources, login bonuses and rewards, free pulls and such.

The game seems pretty generous, and it is, but honestly, without all these rewards and bonuses and such, the new player experience here will be really bad.

For example, one of the things I got when I first started playing War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius was millions of gil. So I thought it would take a long time before I ever needed to worry about gil, but I soon realized that nearly everything in this game either requires gil or vis or visiore and/or both.

Like even upgrading the abilities of chars costs gil. And each char has multiple abilities. Naturally, the higher the level, the higher the cost.

Anyway, as a new player, also got access to banners that give you fully leveled chars and Vision Cards. IIRC, it costs like 2k vis to pull on these banners and there's a limit as to how many times you can pull before these banners will disappear.

Before pulling on these banners, you get to pick which char or Vision Card you want to get. You'll then get said char or Vision Card in the guaranteed slot. Of course, the selection doesn't include limited and collab units.

Still, these were pretty good deals. Having 1 or 2 or 3 fully built chars and Vision Cards helps a lot. This is especially so since it can actually take a really long time to finish maxing out chars and Vision Cards, especially if they're not currently on rate-up.

As for the free pulls - it's great to have lots of free pulls, but the pool in this game is really bloated already, and there are lots of chars and Vision Cards that are already outdated and powercrept. The rates also seem pretty bad. At least WotV has a pity system, but still.

We may get lots of free pulls, but they're not all that helpful if most of the stuff you get from said pulls are all old and useless. After all, there's no point in trying to max out chars and Vision Cards that aren't usable anymore.

But, to be fair, I did get lucky in some of my free pulls.

I remember getting like 2 or so dupes of Sephiroth thanks to the free pulls from his banner.

This really helped a lot because a dupe will turn into 40 shards of that char.

Sephiroth and Kadaj Shards

As mentioned, I pulled for both UR or Ultra Rare One-Winged Nightmare Sephiroth (FFVIIAC) and Ultra Rare Avenger against the Planet Kadaj.

Needed their shards in order to Limit Break them. Each char can be Limit Broken 5 times. You need a char's shards as well as Rainbow Vision Spheres in order to Limit Break them. Below is a list of the exact amount of materials needed to Limit Break a char:

Limit Break 1: 40 shards + 1 Rainbow Vision Sphere

Limit Break 2: 80 shards + 1 Rainbow Vision Sphere

Limit Break 3: 120 shards + 2 Rainbow Vision Spheres

Limit Break 4: 160 shards + 2 Rainbow Vision Spheres

Limit Break 5: 200 shards + 3 Rainbow Vision Spheres

Don't know where and how I got Rainbow Vision Spheres, but apparently, I currently have more than enough for both Kadaj and Sephiroth. I think maybe I got these as part of the new player rewards and such.

Either way, the problem was not having enough Sephiroth and Kadaj shards.

Since those 2 are currently on rate-up, their shards are available in multiple shops. You can use either paid vis or regular vis to acquire these shards.

There are also around 80 shards or so that can be bought using gil. You can also get a few shards (1 or 2?) a day from chars that are in the Barracks.

Had to grind for more vis so I can buy the aforementioned shards in the shop.

But wait, there's more. A whole lot more. There's also Awakening chars and leveling up their Jobs and such, but will talk more about that later.

Anyway, aside from shards, chars also need Mindspheres. Once you get a char to level 99, you will need even more resources, including Mindspheres, to get them to level 120 and then after that to level 140.

Thankfully, Kadaj and Sephiroth share the same Mindspheres. Tifa Lockhart from Final Fantasy VII and Cloud, the other playable chars that came with the Advent Children collab event, also use the same Mindspheres.

Once you finish fully Limit Breaking a char, if you get more of their shards, they will automatically be turned into their Mindspheres.

Since the Advent Children chars share the same Mindspheres, their shards will all turn into [FFVIIAC] UR Unit Mindspheres.

Sephiroth Shard Banner

Since I needed more [FFVIIAC] UR Unit Mindspheres, I decided to pull on the 2-times only 4-Step 10x Summon Ultra Rare One-Winged Nightmare Sephiroth (FFVIIAC) banner.

I talk more about this in another post, but I already pulled once on this banner. So I can only do one more lap before this banner disappears.

Anyway, step 3 of this banner is guaranteed to give you 40 [FFVIIAC] UR Unit Mindspheres while step 4 is guaranteed to give you 40 Sephiroth (FFVIIAC) unit shards.

Every time you pull on this banner, you’re guaranteed to get 100 FFVIIAC Unit Summon Medal C for each step. You can exchange these mdeals for various items in the shop, including more Sephiroth shards.

So I pulled on this banner again and, luckily, got a dupe of Sephiroth on step 1.

By now, I've already finished Limit Breaking Sephiroth, so every time I get more of his shards, they automatically turned into [FFVIIAC] UR Unit Mindspheres.

Also got another Sephiroth dupe on step 4. Yay for more [FFVIIAC] UR Unit Mindspheres.

Thoughts About the War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Gameplay

I thought the gameplay in War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius wasn't that good. I don't know. Maybe it's because, at the moment, I prefer something more casual and easy. But in WotV, it feels like there's way too much going on.

Like you form a team of up to 4 chars, and you can even choose to bring in a friend support. These chars all have multiple abilities, some of which require TP while others require AP. Each char gets their own turn where you can move them on the field then decide which one of their abilities to cast.

You can see the names of these abilities as well as how much AP or TP is required to use them, but there's no way to know what these skills do until you tap on the magnifying glass that's next to them for more info.

Maybe it's just because I'm new and still not used to how things work in this game, but it does feel kinda overwhelming having so many abilities to choose from and having to like check each one just to figure out which one does what and then try to decide which one to use.

Thankfully, the game has this Recommended Abilities feature thing. As the name suggests, it highlights a recommended ability that a char can use each turn. There's also auto-play, which really helps.

War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Art

I like the 2D art in War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius. They're very nice to look at.

But the 3D art, not so much. I don't know. It feels like the 3D art could have been done better.

The sprites of the chars during battle look well enough, I suppose. But I don't like it when they use their buffs and suddenly, their entire body gets a different color so it makes it harder to see them clearly.

War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Animation

I've seen some of the animations in this game like the Limit Burst of some chars. Limit Bursts are like the Noble Phantasms in the Fate/Grand Order (FGO) mobile game except they can only be used once.

I thought these animations look pretty nice. The only problem was that they aren't voiced at all. They don't even have any music to go with them.

Wish that wasn't the case at all. At the very least, they could have made the chars say something generic or something.

For instance, Sephiroth actually has a couple of lines that he cycles through in battle like when you use his abilities and such, so why couldn't they have had him say one of these lines whenever he uses his Limit Burst?

And it's sad that they couldn't even be bothered to add like Sephiroth's One-Winged Angel theme either so watching his Limit Burst animation isn't nearly as good as it could have been.

War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Summon Animation

When you summon a Ultra Rare char in War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius, the animation includes them walking a bit and then posing in front of the screen.

This is pretty nice, but I'm disappointed that, once again, there's no audio to go with this animation. It's just the char walking and posing, and that's it. Wish there was at least some dialogue and music to go with it.

War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Audio and Voice Lines

The story in this game is voiced, which is nice. But it looks like Japanese audio is the only option.

I prefer Japanese audio with English subtitles, so this isn't really a problem for me, but after seeing how mobile games like Honkai: Star Rail (HSR) and Reverse: 1999 (R1999) give you multiple language options, I thought it would have been nice if WotV offerred the same thing.

When I got Sephiroth and Kadaj and even Ultra Rare Witness to the Way Forward Tifa (FFVIIAC), looked forward to being able to hear their lines and listen to their voices.

So was kinda disappointed when I soon discovered that they didn't have a lot of lines. And it seemed like they basically just cycled through a couple of lines over and over again.

There isn't even a way in-game to look at a list of all of their voice lines. There's no translation or subtitles either. They just say their lines in Japanese and that's it.

Their "profile" also basically just consists of a few sentences of information along with the name of their voice actor or actress.

Then there's how you can select a char to display on the Home Screen, which is nice. But once again, they cycle through the same lines over and over again, which gets boring fast. And sadly, you can't really interact with them.

Overall, this was pretty disappointing, especially when compared to other games like FGO where each Servant has multiple lines, different art for each Ascension, and more.

War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Story

The good news is that the cutscenes in War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius are pretty short. The bad news is that the story in this game turned out to be really bad.

It didn't seem that way at first though. At first, I thought the story here seemed pretty interesting and okay enough. Too bad that didn't last long at all since the story quickly went downhill.

Warning for spoilers for the WotV storyline below.

After a bit of introduction to the world in this game, players soon got to meet 2 brothers named Mont Leonis and Sterne Leonis. Both are also princes and apparently twins as well.

There was also a princess (named Machérie) from another kingdom (Hourne) who was traveling via carriage. She and her guards are then attacked by lots of bandits, but we soon find out that she's capable of fighting and defending herself.

Back in the kingdom of Leonis, the king, Oelde, receives a report about a bandit attack.

Here's where things start falling apart. Because Oelde decides that he and Mont plus a few other men are going off to take care of these bandits. But that doesn't make sense at all.

He's the king. Why should he be the one to personally go and deal with these bandits? Why couldn't he just send someone else to deal with this?

Even if he knew that Machérie Hourne was the one who was being attacked, it still doesn't make sense why he'd want to go fight the bandits.

On top of that, he even refuses to let his other son, Sterne, go with him to help. And he refuses to give a satisfactory and believable reason as to why.

Later, we'd keep hearing about how good Sterne is, and how he's apparently the better fighter or warrior between him and Mont, so based on that, it's all the more confusing why Oelde refuses to send him to battle.

As for Mont - he's clearly the protagonist, which shouldn't have been a problem except for the fact that it seems like basically everyone loves praising him and going on and on about how good and kind he is, how much potential he has, how he's improving and getting better, how great he is, and blah, blah, blah. All that got old and annoying really quickly.

It didn't help that, at the moment, Mont doesn't come across as all that interesting. He's kinda bland and boring, actually. Sure, he's nice and kind, and he apparently has all the traits that a typical protag has, but that doesn't really make him interesting nor does it differentiate him from the usual hero.

And the story really needs to stop telling me how much potential he has and how much better he'll become in the future. Show, don't tell. And stop repeating it all the time.

I also didn't like how it seemed like most of the women were in love with him. Like he and Machérie just met, and yet it seems that she likes him already for seemingly no reason. It's also already clear from the get-go that these 2 will end up together, or at least it seems that way.

But I wish the game wasn't so blatant about that. I guess they're going for the love-at-first-sight trope, but I wish there was more about the 2 getting to know each other better first.

Machérie is one thing, but then we soon find out that apparently, even the ninjas (Kitone and/or Lynx) also like Mont. So I thought it was getting ridiculous how it seems like everyone's in love with Mont.

As for Sterne - for now, I kinda like him more than Mont simply because he seems so under-appreciated, like he's clearly the underdog with how most people seem to favor his brother. Even his own father seems to favor Mont.

We don't know much about Sterne yet other than how good he apparently is in battle, but from the way he's being treated and neglected, I'm already thinking, I know where this is going. He's gonna turn evil, isn't he?

As I continued playing through the story, I started seeing how some parts of it seem kinda similar to the Marvel Cinematic Universe's (MCU) Thor movie.

Warning for possible spoilers for the Thor movies below.

Mont is Thor, the favored son, the clear hero of the story. Sterne is Loki, the forgotten and neglected second son. Oelde is Odin, the king and father who appears to favor one son over the other. Helena is Frigga, the queen and loving mother.

We're even shown how Sterne really cares about his mother, Helena, just like how Loki cares about his mother, Frigga.

Also, I noticed that Oelde, Mont, and Helena all have basically the same hair color - what appears to be this light shade of brown - while Sterne is the only one who has dark hair. This is just like how Thor, Frigga, and Odin are all blond while Loki is the only one with dark hair. Well, Odin is old so his hair is all white now.

Anyway, considering what happened in the Thor movies, it made me wonder if Sterne would also turn out to be adopted just like Loki.

Another thing I noticed was the fact that the Leonis throne room only has 1 throne, and it's Oelde who gets to sit in it. Helena stands next to him so at first, didn't think she was actually the queen. Like, why couldn't there be another throne for the queen?

Overall, as I continued playing through the story, the urge to just hit the skip button kept rising and rising. The story was really starting to piss me off. The actions of the chars weren't making sense like how Oelde refuses to let Sterne help, and was getting so annoyed with how everyone keeps going on and on about how great Mont is.

So far, managed to stop myself from skipping, mostly thanks to the fact that the cutscenes were all pretty short. In fact, the battles seem to last longer than these cutscenes even with the fights being set to 2x speed.

Since the cutscenes are so short, it also feels like the chars and plot aren't fully fleshed out. For instance, I wish the story had elaborated more on the motives of the characters like why they're doing what they're doing.

Much, much later: argh! Continued playing through the story, and the more I keep going, the more it feels like it keeps getting worse and worse.

There was this part wherein the kingdom of Leonis is fighting against the kingdom of Fennes. After a bit of fighting, Oelde decides that the best course of action is to retreat. Even now, he still refuses to send Sterne to battle.

And even now, I still have no idea just what the eff Oelde is thinking. What's he planning? Why does he refuse to let Sterne fight?

I also wondered why he decided to retreat instead of continuing to fight. I thought he'd have some sort of plan to turn the tides or something, but apparently, he doesn't have one.

Or, well, he does, but this plan doesn't make sense at all. Because once Oelde gets back to the castle, he says what's gonna happen now is that he and Mont are running away.

Yeah, that's right. He plans to leave his wife and second son to the mercy of the invading Fennes army while he runs away with his other son. Like, seriously, what kind of plan is this?

He must be one of the worst kings ever to abandon his own people. As if that wasn't bad enough, he couldn't even be bothered to bring his entire family with him.

Seriously, what the eff kind of plan is that? How is that gonna help? Even if Oelde wants to run away, why won't he bring Helena and Sterne with him? How does he know those 2 won't immediately be killed once the invading Fennes forces show up?

None of this makes sense, and it's so infuriating. Can't blame Sterne at all for being absolutely furious with his dad for abandoning him and his mother.

Even Mont doesn't agree with his dad's actions. Except he shows just what a spineless doormat he is by going along with it anyway. He's concerend for his mother and brother, but he still does what Oelde says anyway.

There were some people who accompanied Mont and Oelde when they ran away. Every time Oelde would give orders, these people would readily follow them, which just made me wonder why. Like why would anyone want to follow someone like this? Someone who abandoned his people and his family, someone whose plans don't make any sense at all.

Kept going through the story although I was all the more tempted to just skip because this really was completely and utterly frustrating. It was all so annoying and infuriating.

A bit later on, I think I finally reached my limit. I just couldn't take it anymore. The story was really pissing me off so I decided it was for the best if I just skipped it.

IIRC, I stopped sometime after Sterne got this evil armor and was making plans to kill his father. Him wanting to kill Oelde was going too far, but it's understandable why he'd be mad at his father, why he'd feel abandoned and neglected because that was exactly what happened.

His own father left him and his mother. Even before that, it already seemed like his father favored his brother over him, what with always choosing Mont and not even letting Sterne fight even though all Sterne wanted to do was help his family.

The annoying and frustrating thing was that it seemed clear the game wanted me to side with Oelde, as if what he was doing was perfectly reasonable except it totally wasn't, and I just couldn't understand the reason for his actions at all.

So I didn't like how it seemed like Sterne being mad at his dad was wrong. I also thought I could see where this was going already with Sterne turning to evil, maybe or most likely fighting with his dad and Mont just like Loki and Thor, and then probably having a redemption arc later on.

But I couldn't say I liked where this was going, like the plot wasn't really clicking with me. Also, really wasn't liking Mont, especially with how it seems like the game keeps trying to praise him and go on and on about how good he is, and how everyone seems to like him. It was all getting too annoying so I opted to just skip. Maybe I'll get back to it later, but definitely not now.

Things to Like About War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius

Here are some of the things that I like about War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius:

Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Collaboration Event

I like the Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children collab event. This was the reason why I even bothered to try out this game. I hope they do more collabs with FF7 and even with other Final Fantasy series.

Also, I hope they rerun the Final Fantasy VII collab event that happened before. It's too bad that I missed out on that event.

Auto and Background Farming Features

The auto-play and background farming features in WotV make it easier to go through quests and farm for the items and materials you need.

Skip Tickets

After clearing a quest and completing all its missions, you can use skip tickets to keep clearing said quest over and over again.

Pity System

Glad this game has a pity system so you can eventually get the char and/or Vision Card you're pulling for even if you have bad luck.

Things to Dislike About War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius

Here are some of the things that I dislike about War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius:

Grindy

WotV is so, so, so grindy even when considering the fact that it has auto-play and background farming features. Honestly, without said features, the game might actually be unplayable due to how grindy it is.

Item Drop Rates

It doesn't help at all that the item or material drop rates in this game seem to be really bad.

I thought the game was being really generous when I found that I had hundreds of skip tickets for story and event quests and, I guess it is, but it's also true that with how bad the drop rates are, it's possible to quickly go through a lot of skip tickets at once and still not get the item you're looking for.

Banner Pull Rates

Speaking of awful rates, the rates for chars and Vision Cards also seem really bad. And the pool is so bloated with old and outdated chars and Vision Cards.

PVP

Not really interested in PVP. In fact, haven't bothered to try the PVP in this game yet, especially since my chars aren't fully built and maxed out yet, and don't have a lot of equipment and such yet.

Crashing

There are times when WotV suddenly crashes or hangs then crashes. Not sure what's causing this, but it's really annoying. Also, as far as I can recall, this has only ever happened in this game. Never got a crash in any other mobile game I've played, not even in Honkai: Star Rail.

Character Progression

As mentioned above, each char needs an exorbitant amount of shards in order to fully Limit Break them. But that's not all a char needs. They also need various other materials in order to fully Awaken them to the max. Then you also need to spend multiple other resources to level them up.

The max level they can get to is 140, but you need to finish Awakening and Limit Breaking them first before you can even get past certain levels.

Each char has 3 Jobs, and you also need to level up these Jobs. Each char also has multiple abilities that need to be unlocked then maxed out. Naturally, even more resources and such are rquired to max out a char's Jobs and abilities.

Then there's also this thing called Transcendence and Reincarnation, which are even more ways to further upgrade each char. Oh, and there are EX Jobs too.

In short, this is way too much that it borders on ridiculous. It's also complicated like there's way too much going on here.

Espers, Vision Cards, Equipment, and More

But wait, there's more. Chars also need equipment, espers, and Vision Cards.

Equipment can be crafted, but you need like 64 recipes to be able to craft the max version of said equipment. You also need multiple other items to craft equipment. Naturally, this means lots and lots of farming over and over again.

Espers also need to be leveled and maxed out. They go up to 3 stars, but you need materials to increase their stars and levels. You also need items to max out their boards, which gives stats and such to chars equipped with said esper.

Vision Cards require shards to be awakened. They also need to be leveled.

There are also these things called Truststones. So, yeah, it really feels like there's way too much going on in this game, like it's unnecessarily complicated.

I also didn't like how it seems like the game really wants you to spend for like every little thing because it feels like everything here requires either gil or vis and/or both.

Like simply getting a copy of a char isn't enough because you also need a lot of their shards, which means having to spend more vis.

Kadaj and Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children

As a Cost: 100 char, Sephiroth was supposed to be really good. Kadaj is only a Cost: 90 char though so he's unfortunately not that good.

Didn't really care about that though. Started this game because of those 2 so was going to build them and max them out whether they were good or not.

So I readily spent all my resources for those 2 even if it may not be efficient to do so.

Also made sure to get and craft the weapons that came with the Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children collab event. For Sephiroth, that would be his Masamune while for Kadaj, it's his Souba.

Thankfully, after what feels like a lot of grinding and farming, managed to get both Kadaj and Sephiroth to level 140. Maxed out all their Jobs and EX Jobs too. Leveled up most of their abilities.

So there's still a lot of room for improvement. Like I tried the Reincarnation thing, but apparently you can do that several times. Naturally, it requires an exorbitant amount of resources because of course it does. Man, this game. LOL.

Anyway, I suppose one can say they're sort-of maxed out already. Like for their abilities, I've already maxed out the ones they're currently using. Once I get more resources, I can max out the rest.

Tifa Lockhart from Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children

As for Tifa, the game gave us 1 copy of her for free. So far, managed to finish fully Awakening her. Got to Limit Break her a few times, but I ran out of Tifa (FFVIIAC) unit shards so she's now stuck at level 79/79.

Focused on getting Sephiroth's and Kadaj's shards so didn't really have any vis left to spare for Tifa's shards. As such, only really bought her shards that cost gil. Also got some for free from completing her challenge mission board.

I put her in the Barracks alongside Sephiroth and Kadaj so now it's just a long, long wait until I can get enough shards to finish Limit Breaking her.

War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Plans

Around the time I realized just how grindy this game was, especially once the new player rewards and resources and such ended, I thought to myself that I probably wouldn't be playing this for long. It was all the more reason to just use whatever resources I had to quickly max out Kadaj and Sephiroth.

I was thinking I'd quit soon after the end of the Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children collab event then maybe just come back again for the next collab or something.

Even if I didn't quit, I'd already decided that I wasn't going to bother with the meta and such in this game. Was going to be super casual and just not care, especially since, as a new player, it feels like it's impossible to catch up, what with how grindy this game is and how building chars requires so many resources.

Conclusion

So what about you? What do you think about the War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius mobile game? What do you think about its collab with Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children?

Did you pull for Kadaj, Sephiroth, Tifa Lockhart, and/or Cloud Strife? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions by leaving a comment below or by reblogging or replying to this post.

Notes:

screenshots are from my War of the Visions: Final Fantasy Brave Exvius game account

[oc-cityworld]

Detailed guidelines/suggestions post

Hey there! I shop for a lot of ocs to draw on art fight, but you're more than welcome and encouraged to shoot a request in my inbox-- I just make no guarantees I'll get to it.

You can truly freeball it and shoot reqs into my inbox like a medieval catapult on fire, but very optionally if you're curious, I wrote some in depth outlines for what makes it easier on me!

1.Submissions

Exact vehicle of submissions, ideally, is a message in my askbox with a link to a social media post, art fight page, toyhouse, or other page with pics of your oc in one easy place with a text description of more info like their name etc

Second-best preferred is using the submission function to deliver the same thing (several images + text details). No minimum or maximum, if you only have one reference thats totally fine!! But the more you tell/show me, the more i can appreciate them <3

There’s no wrong way to do it! The listed above are just what I prefer, but as long as I have access to at least one good reference, we’re all set 👍

1.Visuals

Of course, full bodies help the most. If you have an all angles reference sheet, it's great to include it. References of their visual world like scenery, magic or tech VFX, visual language... The more rich your references, the more material for me to latch onto and likely more excited I get abt it! I really love character work in my illustration, IE showing their personality through face and body language, so the more you tell me about who they are, the better. Pinterest boards make me go absolutely nutso and greatly multiply the chances I'll want to draw it! :D

Conversely, the less specific you are with the actual content of your request, the more likely I'll draw it. If you dump a rich library of references with no spef requests, I'll get to interpret it the way I have the most fun with! Yay! You can get specific (ex., 'please draw these two OCs studying together at the National Library of Congress') but it may make it harder for me to get to if it's out of my usual range.

Here's an example of an absolutely enticing request that got all my creative gears turning for a fully rendered piece! Note it has a variety of references, some backstory, and a couple alternate medias like a playlist and a pinboard. (This is above and beyond though, and not at all required!)

2. Limits

I won't draw NSFW or extreme body horror/gore (some light horror/injury is cool, though) so please refrain from putting those in my inbox as well. I'm ok with mechas (tho tend to interpret them liberally)

There's no hard max character limit, but to be level with you the odds I draw a req diminish greatly above 2, and go to near-zero at 3 or 4 chars.

3. Disclaimer

Also, on the subject of limits, this is your reminder that a request does not guarantee I draw it. I started this blog because I really like drawing OCs, but its still true that not everything strikes my inspiration. Not at all a reflection of your lovely amazing characters, but more of the fact I have specific taste, like anyone else! I will not be going through every req in chronological order. I may draw one from a long time ago, and then one from today. I may stop doing requests for a bit and just pull from Art Fight bookmarks that inspire me. Please don't resubmit the same req/char, but feel free to submit multiple different chars!

[melishade]

#44. Darkest hour timeline, Optimus lets himself known, inadvertently turning the tide for Marley

This ask game

For more context: Darkest Hour Timeline Part 1

So far, everything was going according to the plan that Eren and Zeke had forced them into.

They had attacked Liberio. They had taken out the port. They had captured Zeke and taken out the Cart Titan. All they had to do was let Eren take the War Hammer Titan. Mikasa had even assisted in taking out the Jaw Titans legs before Eren shoved the crystallized War Hammer into its maw.

However, something was wrong with Sasha. She kept on yelling at everyone that they needed to evacuate immediately. She had brought up spotting a metal titan, but no one was taking her seriously enough. There were only normal, abnormal, and titan shifters, but Sasha was trying her best to convince everyone of a fourth option. Many had continued to ignore Sasha's plight.

Magath watched on in horror as the Attack Titan continued to push against Porco's jaws. He was going to use him as a nutcracker to kill the War Hammer, and there was nothing they could do about it. He could only watch helplessly as Marley was suffering the biggest losses in-!

A loud shot rang out, and a blue ball of light had struck the Attack Titan in the right arm. It forced the Attack Titan to let go of Porco, and in consequence, the War Hammer. Both had skidded across the damaged ground as everyone turned their attention to the source of the attack.

It was...a metal titan. A metal titan that was adorned in red and blue, pointing some advanced gun directly at the Attack Titan. Smoke rose from said gun, a clear indicator that it was the one who fired the weapon.

"I fucking told you!" Sasha screamed at her comrades.

Eren felt his body trembling from the strange sensation and shock. What...what just happened? Eren felt pain, burning, hot, searing, pain climb up his arm, almost as if it was being eaten away. He stared at his right and felt unbridled fear when he realized his arm was decaying. It was hurt. Pain! He-!

Eren couldn't help but roar intense pain and agony, forcing everyone in the area to cover their ears, including the metal titan that had just arrived. Mikasa quickly bolted to Eren's side and sliced open the nape of the neck. She pulled him out and stared in horror at Eren's actual arm decaying. She could see him sobbing in pain and quickly cut his arm off. It stopped the arm from decaying, but the arm didn't regenerate!

Levi spotted the blimp in the sky and yelled. "Fall back! Now!"

Optimus was still in a state of shock as the massive titan body collapsed to the ground, and a human woman flew away with a crying male. That was a human?! They were human! Optimus was startled at the sight of multiple humans using contraptions to fly around and towards the blimp above.

Levi slammed open the door to the cockpit and yelled at Onyankopon. "Turn the ship around! Now!"

"Levi, what's going on?!" Hanji demanded.

"There's a new titan!" Levi answered, "It stopped Eren's regeneration!"

"What?!" Armin bolted out of the cock pit to the others and gasped at the sight of Eren crying on the ground with a charred stub of an arm. Armin peered over at the opening and gasped at the sight of the metal titan aiming a weapon at them. The weapon seemed to glow brighter, preparing to fire, but Armin could see that the titan was hesitating. It had the shot, but it didn't want to shoot them down? The titan looked defeated as the weapon stopped glowing and it lowered its arm. It...it was letting them go. Why was it letting them go?

Optimus didn't like the decision that he made. He still didn't have complete context about the situation, but-! Optimus gasped when he noticed more humans aiming their weapons at him, looking absolutely terrified at the sight of him.

(Free game: 46, 19,26, 32,34, 36, 37. 17 and 45 have has been asked.)

[retoldflames]

Retold Flames: Succession War

Got the first piece of many for a retelling AU here (holding multiple AU ideas). For some AU world building, Animus Magic has rules such as one has to have the intent to use animus magic to create an enchantment, you must be touching an object to place an enchantment, an enchantment can only do one thing, creating an enchantment has costs (preventing that cost can prevent the creation of an enchantment) enchantments can be overridden unless they are made permanent, enchantments can form a personality, enchantments based in memory or animating an object can form sentience. Twin eggs also have their own thing going on for each tribe with one dragonet being a fire scale variant and the other being of a subtribe. (There is a more detailed version for both on Ao3.)

Burn: Before the Succession War, Burn would be a somewhat kind yet fierce dragon, caring for her collection of odd creatures (getting inspiration for her hobby of poetry from them as they wandered around the Palace and giving the place some life) with help from her brother Smolder and sister Blaze who she would be close to (also including their father Char who would help teach Burn and Smolder about caring for creatures before his untimely death); Being on trusting terms with her mother Oasis and not so with her sister Blister. (Burn was also generally favored in being the one to be accepted by the Eye of Onyx, used as a way to choose a new queen.)

With the death of Oasis at the hands of Scavengers, Burn would enact her revenge on them and lead a small force that would push out most of the Scavenger population out of the Kingdom of Sand. Following this, Burn would find Blister has fled and enacted war on her, being allied with Queen Coral and the Kingdom of Sea (Forming the Shoreside Alliance); Burn herself retaliating with an alliance with Queen Harp and the Kingdom of Ice as well as being joined by Queen Scarlet and the Sky Kingdom. The Alliance itself come to be known as the Burning Alliance. (Scarlet’s involvement would lead the war to spread into the Mud Kingdom and lead High Queen Moorhen and her sibs to ally with the Shoreside Alliance.)

During the early years of the War, Burn would be tempted by Scarlet into choosing to do some unsavory stuff and escalating to her becoming her more brutal self and killing queen Harp. Leading to the Ice Kingdom breaking off their alliance with Burn and allying with Blaze with Princess Glacier taking the throne and forming the Sand-Ice Alliance. (Burn would come to kill and stuff her collection of creatures that would eventually be joined by the remains of dragons with abnormal parts, having her tower constructed to hold said collection.)

During the later years of the War, Burn would acquire an ally in the Mud Kingdom and its monarchy after they were blamed for failing to stop the assassination of Commander Tempest and being cut off from the Shoreside Alliance. (The Mud Kingdom is ruled by a Sibtroop of Kings and Queens with the Bigwing acting as a High Monarch.) Burn herself would connect with Moorhen as older siblings, building into a somewhat close friendship as Moorhen and the rest of her sibs would help temper Burn’s more destructive tendencies over the years. (Burn’s tower would be left to collect dust in the wake of past memories.) 

Sometime after the brightest night 0f 5,005 A.S. and destroying the supposed Skywing egg for the prophecy, Burn would form the Talons of Power; A group tasked with bringing order to the Souther regions of the Kingdom of Sand that have become rampant with crime due to lack of enforcement due to forces being pulled to the war up north. While the Talons would be generally successful in their endeavors for a few years, they would eventually collapse due to internal conflict/sabotage (such as from crime Lord Vulture sending his daughter Cobra to infiltrate the Talons).

As the War nears its end, the Burning Alliance nears complete victory over the Shoreside Alliance, being held back by Scarlet who has continued to cause issues for the Burning Alliance throughout the War; Leading Burn and Moorhen to assist Princess Ruby in usurping her mother Scarlet so they may finish the fight against the Shoreside Alliance.

-

Scarlet & Chameleon (& Cobra): When the Succession War began, Scarlet would join the Secret Alliance with Blister and Seawing Advisor Whirlpool then the Burning Alliance with Burn under the pretense of infiltrating; instead using it to prolong the war and its suffering for her own personal enjoyment, taking up a little pet project in shepherding Burn into becoming merciless and brutal. Taking an even greater enjoyment as the War becomes more miserable for others.

During the early years of the Succession War, Scarlet would catch/first meet Chameleon using his Nightwing Enchantment Shapeshifter, along with his enchantment creating scroll, to steal treasure from her. Finding his seeming skill to create transformation enchantments (as well as artistry), Scarlet would seek to use his skills for herself (along with not wanting to personally deal with the consequences of using animus magic). Having him create a Skywing enchantment named Soar and use it to become champion of the arena so she can keep him close without suspicion, getting her guard Osprey (former champion and present defense attorney) to train Soar who would eventually succeed in becoming champion of the arena (suffering through till the end).

With Chameleon an arena champion as Sora, Scarlet would use his skills to her personal benefit from creating small, unnoticeable enchantments dealing with inconveniences for herself to having him create immaculate art and jewelry for her; Even going on to use him for her personal enjoyment, using him as Soar to produce an heir to eventually replace her daughter Tourmaline (as she has done many times with her previous daughters and male arena champions). From this, Scarlet would have her twelfth daughter Pyrite, a bit of a clumsy dragonet that would be adored by her father; An adoration that would turn to grief as Tourmaline, taking after her mother, would kill her sister as a threat to taking the throne and in jealousy of being more loved. Such an act would enrage Scarlet with her plan being ruined, taking revenge by personally using Chameleons scroll to transform Tourmaline into being her thirteenth daughter Ruby and permanently replacing her memories of being Tourmaline with a willingness to follow her mother’s commands (a willingness that Ruby would eventually overcome).

As the Succession War rages on, Scarlet would enact a breeding program to increase a dwindling population, getting her arena champions Soar and Kestrel into the program as well; Eventually leading to Scarlet catching Kestrel fleeing with her Fire Scale and Featherwing (Twin Egg Subtribe) dragonets, getting her to kill one of her dragonets with the promise of letting her other dragonet live; Watching as Kestrel would give in and throw her Featherwing dragonet in a raging river (not seeing any chance of it surviving), leaving Scarlet to attempt to kill Kestrel who she had no plans of letting go; Something that wouldn't come to pass as they would attempt to flee with their Fire Scale dragonet, dropping the dragonet from their burning talons (of the third degree). With Scarlet now in possession of a Fire Scale dragonet, she would use them as another of her arena champions and ensure they make their fight brutal with Osprey training them (teaching a few other things behind Scarlet's back as well).

Not wanting Chameleon/Soar to learn of one of his dragonets surviving, Scarlet would send him to infiltrate the Talons of Power (for the Secret Alliance) as a Sandwing named Platyr (bringing a few other enchantments with him to use). While in the Talons, Platyr would meet Talon members Thorn, becoming somewhat friends, and Cobra who would attempt to allure Platyr (believing him to be an animus due to the new enchanted items he keeps getting and being tasked by her father Vulture in getting his supposed animus magic, something she would be woefully unprepared for due to her general lack of social skills from solely living as an assassin for Vulture. Leaving Cobra to reluctantly go to Thorn to figure out about Platyr and not giving away her true intentions, leading to a comedy of errors with Cobra unintentionally making it seem like she romantically likes Platyr to Thorn; Something that Cobra would roll with, seeing it as a way to get Platyr with help from Thorn who would help her actually be able to somewhat socialize with Platyr. Building into a forming relationship between Cobra and Platyr that would take a bit of an escalation with the two having a twin egg that would hatch into being their Bile Flame (Fire Scale Variant) daughter Rattlesnake taking after her grandfather and their Cactwing (Twin Egg Subtribe) son Sirocco taking after his mother. Eventually, Cobra would come to learn of Platyr's enchantment creating scroll, still bearing a loyalty to Vulture; Escalating into Platyr fleeing for his life, never to be seen again as Cobra would attempt to kill him to take his scroll (unknowingly leaving her with another egg).

With Chameleon returning to the Sky Kingdom, Scarlet would send him out again, this time as an Icewing named Cirrus sent to work with Mudwing Crocodile to infiltrate the Talons of Peace for the Burning Alliance. She would bring Chameleon/Soar back for a short period to enchant a captured Prince Hailstorm, a powerful and charismatic warrior in the Sand-Ice Alliance, to ensure is hidden and not rescued. Scarlet would convince Chameleon/Soar to use it as a way to bring his daughter back, using it as a way to strengthen his loyalty to her; Permanently enchanting Hailstorm to physically be Pyrite and enchanting their necklace to replace Hailstorm's memories with Pyrite's. Scarlet would have Pyrite go with Chameleon/Cirrus to infiltrate the Talons as it would be suspicious if a dead princess was walking around. Cirrus would go on to ingrain Pyrite to never take her necklace off as it is keeping her alive.

During the latter years of the war, Scarlet would assist Blister in a gambit to get Whirlpool to take the place of King Gill next to Queen Coral for political gain. Scarlet would be tasked in capturing Gill but be left with the unfortunate task of making Whirlpool into a dragon that can swoon Coral, working with Nightwing Morrowseer in both tasks. With Scarlet holding Gill captive, she would make him into her pet project; Quite literally in fact as she would deprive him of water to make him insane, using him as a beast of a champion for the arena and for her own personal enjoyment.

As Scarlet's hatching day draws near, Morrowseer would pay a short visit and grant her a chance at some 'gifts'. Giving her directions on where to get them, leaving her to round up a group of guards to do so.

-

Blister: Before the Succession War, Blister would be conniving brat that would scheme against her mother Oasis, the rest of her family and other dragons of her home; Ranging from simple pranks to being nearly fatal (the latter more targeted towards her sisters in an attempt to take them out as competition to the throne). Occasionally, Blister would help her siblings in hanging out behind their paranoid mother’s back (not joining them herself), if only to get at Oasis who would seek to mold the siblings into being caricatures of theme selves (attempting to make them not a threat to the throne). This would culminate in Blister not getting Burn to help Oasis in stoping Scavengers from stealing her treasure, instead going to the treasury to steal the eye of Onyx for herself (being rejected by it once she got it).

With her mother’s death, Blister would be the one to start the Succession War against her sister Burn; burying the Eye of Onyx (being believed to have been stolen by scavengers) within her mother’s grave and fleeing. Forming the Shoreside Alliance by manipulating Queen Coral and allying with the Kingdom of Sea, the same being done with High Queen Moorhen and the Mud Kingdom. Blister would also form a Secret Alliance with Queen Scarlet as a way to cause issues in the Burning Alliance and Advisor Whirlpool as a way to gain more power and influence in the Kingdom of Sea (as well as to help gain more influence in manipulating Coral herself). The Secret Alliance would later be joined by Nightwing Advisor Morrowseer.

During the early years of the War, Blister would create the Talons of Peace as one of its founders alongside Commander Tempest. (Tempest would later be assassinated after coming close to uncovering the Secret Alliance, leading to the Mud Kingdom being blamed and being cut out of the Shoreside Alliance. The Talons of Peace would also be ostracized from the Kingdom of Sea) The Talons of Peace themselves would have goal of ensuring the war ends with Blister on the throne, being pushed by the Dragonet Prophecy created by Morrowseer. (The Talons themselves having two groups of dragonets being raised for the prophecy, one hidden with the Talons themselves and another hidden elsewhere.)

During the latter years of the war, Blister would enact a plan to get Whirlpool on the Kingdom of Sea throne. Having Morrowseer ensure King Gill is captured and make it look like the Sky Kingdom solely did it with Scarlet holding the King Prisoner. Blister herself would work to convince Queen Coral to move on from Gill and give at least a chance at dating Whirlpool, giving both Scarlet and Morrowseer the unfortunate task of getting him to be a dragon that can swoon Coral into marrying him. They would succeed in getting Whirlpool and Coral married (the two even having a clutch of eggs with one to eventually hatch Auklet). With Whirlpool successfully married to Coral, Blister would use them both to manipulate the Kingdom into preferring herself and favor her ruling over the Royal Family.

When it is found out that Coral daughter Anemone has animus magic, Blister would seek to use Anemone and their magic for herself; Using her influence over Coral to keep an eye on Anemone without her mother in sight. With Coral generally being quite controlling and heavily restricting what Anemone can do with Whirlpool a very awful tutor that would undermine her use in animus magic at the behest of Coral (going somewhat against the rest of the Secret Alliance now that he has what he desires), Blister would work to ensure that Anemone is skilled in using Animus Magic as well as healthy and happy enough to use said magic to help Blister (along with ensuring she is knowledgeable on how animus magic works as well). Put simply, Blister would eventually become somewhat of a decent parent (much better than Coral) to achieve her goal and unintentionally becoming close to Anemone, becoming an exception in her life.

As the war nears its end, Blister would make preparation for the dragonet prophecy by having Morrowseer acquire the Dragonets of Destiny for the Dragonet Prophecy while she and Scarlet would cover up any traces to the Talons of Peace by wiping them out. (Their plans having to be enacted early due to the Burning Alliance enclosing in on victory over the Shoreside Alliance.)

-

Stonemover & Thorn: During the early years of the Succession war, Stonemover would be closely guarded and restricted from moving around the Nightwing Island before it became desolate from the volcano first erupting (wiping out the vegetation and a majority of the Nightwing Islands inhabitants).

As an animus of the Nightwing Island, Stonemover would be tasked with creating an enchanted portal tunnel that would connect from the Island to the Rainforest and to the northern region of the Kingdom of Sand (being used for operations of the Secret Alliance). This would send Stonemover on a journey (as animus magic works differently) that  would lead him to traverse through the Kingdom of Sea and Mud Kingdom to get to the Rainforest where he would create the enchantment for the second part of the portal tunnel, continue on his journey through Jade Mountain into the Southern areas of the Kingdom of Sand where he would meet the traveling Sandwing Thorn who would help Stonemover travel up north (the two growing close along their journey). With Stonemover completing the third and final enchantment for the portal tunnel, he would choose to stay with Thorn where they would return back south away from the war (unaware of the conflict ahead).

During their early years together, Stonemover and Thorn would settle into the Scorpion Den to hide away; The two eventually meeting the deserter trio of Six-Claws, Kindle and Dune with the five of them forming a trusting friendship. Eventually Stonemover and Thorn would eventually have an egg, a joyous time that would turn in the days leading up to their egg hatching as Dune would suddenly flee with said egg. Stonemover would take charge after Dune, enchanting a skulk of foxes (bound by memories) in desperation of finding him; Something that would never come to pass as Dune would succeed in escaping. Feeling shamed for his failure and what he has done with his animus magic, Stonemover would put himself into isolation within the caverns of Jade Mountain; Enchanting his scales to turn to stone for all the enchantments he has created, only being kept alive in his now immobilized form by the skulk he enchanted caring for him (being changed by the enchantment and becoming something more). 

With Dune, her egg and Stonemover gone, Thorn would go on a desperate search for the three (bearing a growing hatred towards Dune for stealing her egg); Eventually focusing her efforts of finding her lost egg/dragonet, finding help and comfort in her friends Six-Claws and Kindle.

Thorn would eventually joining the newly formed Talons of Power in hopes of having a better chance of finding her dragonet (finding a friend among the Talons in an enchantment using Sandwing named Platyr from the Sky Kingdom). In time, Thorn would form a small group within the Talons, eventually splitting off from the Talons and becoming known as the Outclaws (being joined by Six-Claws in leading and Kindle in healing). Thorn would go on to conquer and somewhat restore the Scorpion Den in the wake of the Talons collapse with her Outclaws, eventually becoming an aunt to Six-Claws and Kindle’s daughter Ostrich. (Thorn would also go on to take one of Platyr’s sons from Cobra a few years after his disappearance, raising them as part of the Outclaws.)

-

Blaze: During the early years of her life, Blaze wouldn’t really be the brightest; Preferring to go out and acquire treasures and odd gems for her own collection like her Big Sis Burn. (Got herself in-trouble at times cause of it, be it from her own foolishness or Blister playing a trick on her.) Blaze wouldn’t really be close to Oasis as a dragonet, instead being closer to her Big Sister Burn who would help care for Blaze after their father’s passing.

With the death of Oasis and Blister enacting war on Burn, Blaze would side with her sister Burn and wanting to help eventually acting as a spokesdragon for her sister who would stick to leading the front lines. To effectively do this Blaze would come to learn about the common folk of the Kingdom of Sand and its politics (not having interest in them before) with help from Princess Glacier who Blaze would grow close to. The two would come together to comfort each other in their grief after fleeing from Burn killing Glacier’s mother, Queen Harp (Glacier taking her mantle as Queen of the Ice Kingdom). Glacier would bear grief for the death of her mother and Blaze would bear grief for the sister she loves becoming a monster.

In the following years, Blaze and Glacier would grow closer to one another, eventually becoming romantic partners as they form the Sand-Ice Alliance with Glacier being the one to mainly lead. (Their relationship wouldn’t be commonly known as Ice Kingdom Queen’s don’t officially take a partner.) Eventually they would have their first daughter Crystal (being both a pure Icewing along with Glacier and Blaze as their biological parents thanks to some old Icewing Animus Gift, same with Snowfall and Mink) and bring with it a joyous event celebrated in Where-Sand-meets-Ice (a Sandwing/Icewing dominant town formed during the War, south of the Great Ice Cliff); said event unfortunately turned sour as it would be ambushed by a group of dragons (formed by the Secret Alliance) lead by Queen Battlewinner in an attempt to kill Blaze and eliminate her from the war. The attack would be pushed back as the Battlewinner’s forces would retreat with her being incapacitated from Ice Breath, though it would not be without loss, nor without impact.

Following her near assassination and Glacier nearly dying to protect her with many other (some less fortunate), Blaze would find the drive to take more of a leading role in the Sand-Ice Alliance; Taking a more direct approach in the war and growing into a dragon the Eye of Onyx would deem worthy of being queen. (Going through a bit of combat training as well for self-defense, not really liking the training but going through it non the less.)

-

Narwhal & Tundra: Hatched around the time of the Sand-Ice Alliance forming, not knowing his mother Harp before she was killed by Burn. Narwhal would be distant from his sister Glacier who would be occupied with ruling the Ice Kingdom and Maintaining the Sand-Ice Alliance. Instead, he would be cared for by his brother Permafrost, learning to live by the beliefs of the Circle Rankings (eventually going on to push those beliefs onto his children), even personally making sure they were kept in order whenever Glacier was occupied elsewhere. Eventually he would meet Tundra who would allure Narwhal and eventually marry him.

Among the Icewings, Tundra would be both one of the more traditional and most disliked; Seeking to take control of the throne so she can return the Ice Kingdom back to what it was before the Succession War. Marrying Narwhal so she can gain a daughter that she could control to usurp Glacier and take the throne, using said daughter to enact her will. Something that wouldn’t come as soon as she wanted with their first hatch being their eldest son Hvitur (an eventual prodigy that would quickly prove himself).

Things would change when they would have a twin egg, hatching their twin sons Icicle with Aurora Ice (Fire Scale variant) and Winter a Ternwing (Twin Egg Subtribe). With Icicle having Aurora Ice, Tundra would have them be raised as a princess to take the throne (Tundra taking to ignoring her eldest) with Winter being neglected and berated by her and Narwhal for being a Ternwing. Something that would take a turn with Hailstorm being captured while taking Winter on a trip to get a scavenger, both Tundra and Narwhal would blame Winter (returning with only a scavenger). 

With Hailstorm captured, Narwhal would leave for the front lines of the War with Icicle in hopes of getting him back. Leaving Winter with Tundra who would continue to berate him without end (even destroying one of the limbs of his scavenger as punishment, expecting it to die from its wounds). Only after Glacier would send Winter to act as a herald (messenger) for Blaze would Tundra stop her tormenting her son, choosing to focus on other things with him gone.

[arctic-midnight-group]

Book the Best Ice Fishing Tours in Lapland Now

If you're seeking an unforgettable Arctic adventure, ice fishing in Lapland should be at the top of your list. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine frozen lakes, and vibrant local culture, Lapland offers a winter wonderland like no other. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a curious beginner, the region’s ice fishing tours promise an enriching and exciting experience. Let’s dive into what makes Ice Fishing in Lapland so special and why Guided Tours in Levi are the perfect way to experience it.

Why Choose Ice Fishing in Lapland?

Lapland is a treasure trove of natural beauty, characterized by endless snowy terrains, crystal-clear lakes, and a tranquil environment that soothes the soul. Ice fishing has been a traditional activity in this region for centuries, offering a chance to immerse yourself in local customs while enjoying the thrill of catching fish beneath a layer of ice.

When you opt for Ice Fishing in Lapland, you’ll be treated to:

Scenic Views: The frozen lakes surrounded by snow-laden trees create a postcard-perfect backdrop.

Rich Marine Life: Common catches include trout, perch, and Arctic char, making the experience rewarding for fishing enthusiasts.

Authentic Experiences: Ice fishing tours often include cultural elements such as local storytelling and traditional meals prepared over open fires.

What to Expect from Guided Ice Fishing Tours in Levi

Levi, a charming resort town in Finnish Lapland, is a hub for winter activities. Its accessibility, expert guides, and well-organized tours make it an ideal location for Guided Tours in Levi. These tours are designed to ensure safety and maximize enjoyment, regardless of your skill level.

Tour Features

Expert Guidance Ice fishing in sub-zero temperatures can be daunting without the right knowledge. Guided tours provide experienced locals who teach you the techniques of drilling ice holes, baiting hooks, and handling equipment.

All-Inclusive Packages Most guided tours in Levi include fishing gear, thermal suits, and transportation. Some packages also offer traditional Finnish sauna experiences to warm you up after your adventure.

Family-Friendly Options Many tours are family-friendly, ensuring that even kids can safely participate in ice fishing. These trips often include other activities like sledding or snowshoeing, making it a wholesome experience.

Highlights of an Ice Fishing Tour in Levi

1. The Joy of the Catch

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of pulling a fish from the icy waters of Lapland. With expert tips and ideal fishing spots chosen by guides, you’ll have a high chance of success.

2. Immersion in Nature

Away from the noise of modern life, the serene atmosphere of Levi's frozen lakes offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature. The silence, punctuated only by the sound of drilling and the occasional fish flopping, is meditative.

3. Local Hospitality

Warm up with a steaming cup of traditional Finnish berry juice or enjoy a hearty meal prepared by your guide. The hospitality in Lapland adds a layer of warmth to the chilly adventure.

Preparing for Your Ice Fishing Adventure

To make the most of your ice fishing trip in Lapland, preparation is key. Here’s a quick checklist:

Dress Warmly: Multiple layers of thermal clothing, gloves, and insulated boots are essential.

Follow Instructions: Pay close attention to safety guidelines provided by your guide, especially when handling sharp tools like augers.

Capture Memories: Bring a camera or smartphone to document the incredible scenery and your catches.

Best Time to Book Your Ice Fishing Tour

The ice fishing season in Lapland typically runs from December to April, with February and March being the most popular months. During this period, the days are longer, and the weather is slightly milder, offering optimal conditions for outdoor activities.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, as tours in Levi are in high demand, especially during peak winter months. Many operators offer customizable packages, so be sure to inquire about options that suit your interests and schedule.

Why Book Now?

Demand for Ice Fishing in Lapland has surged in recent years, thanks to the growing popularity of winter tourism. Booking your tour now ensures:

Availability: Secure your spot in a premium guided tour.

Early Bird Discounts: Many tour operators offer discounts for early bookings.

Peace of Mind: Get your plans in place and focus on anticipating the adventure rather than last-minute stress.

Conclusion

Ice Fishing in Lapland isn’t just a fishing trip—it’s a journey into a magical Arctic world filled with adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Guided Tours in Levi make the experience accessible, enjoyable, and safe for everyone. Whether you’re chasing your first fish or ticking off a bucket-list activity, Lapland is ready to welcome you with open arms.

[thistrailistaken]

Solar Power Bank

I can’t stress enough how important it is to have a backup battery out in the wilderness. Whether you’re out on a short walk or you’ve decided to hike for hours, a power bank will come in handy at some point during your travels. Especially if you’re like me, and prefer hitting the trails super early so you have them all to yourself.

I’ll often use a trail app on longer trails in the forests. App usage tends to drain battery life much more quickly. If you take a ton of photos, I do, you run out of juice if you’re not careful.

I’ll get straight to the point. This piece of equipment is inexpensive, lightweight, and can be carried in a pocket or backpack just as easily as a cell phone. I am including the link to the same power bank that I purchased, so all specs and info are included.

Do your research, but be sure that you have some backup before venturing off into densely forested areas or places that you are unfamiliar with. Although the flashlight/strobe feature is convenient and useful, the fact that you can charge a phone is reason enough to purchase a power bank.

I went for a brief walk, maybe a mile or so at a local park that I visit a few times a month. Long story short, it was 19° F that winter morning, and I thought I had my key fob upon exiting my vehicle. I get down the trail a bit and realize that I had not locked my Jeep. I used the handy Jeep app to lock it. I took some photos with my phone and placed it in my pocket when my hands got cold.

Three-quarters of the way down the trail, I pulled my phone out to start my vehicle so it’d be warm when I got to it. I noticed that the cold had completely drained my battery, so it was on 4%. I checked for my key fob. Guess what? It wasn't in my pocket. The phone ends up dying while I am pulling up the Jeep app to unlock my vehicle.

I ended up having to walk to another area of the park, where thankfully, two men happened to have shown up out of habit - one of which allowed me to sit in his truck to stay warm and use his phone to call my mother up, who then was tasked (at a very inconvenient moment, I might add) to drive out to the park so I could charge my phone long enough to pull up the app, unlock my vehicle, and finally go home.

My phone battery was at 80% upon arrival, and the walk only takes around 25 minutes. Lesson learned that day. Had I carried my battery pack along with me and taken other precautions, there would have been no issues.

During months with extreme temperatures and unforeseen, potentially dangerous weather conditions, it is critical to plan and pack accordingly. This experience happened at a local park, THANK GOD. Had I been out in the forest and unprepared… 😑 I’d rather not think about what could have been. However, I now check, double-check, and triple-check the necessities before every walk or hike.

When you get your power pack, test it out a couple of times and fully charge it before heading out on extended trips. This is an inexpensive way to save your own life. Don’t gamble. The investment you make in safety will depend on your specific needs, but a power pack can be used anywhere.

Take one to sporting events, on extended road trips where multiple siblings desperately need extra charging ports, or, God forbid, on camping trips to keep kids 'entertained'. 🙄😏

*Note: You may also purchase power banks that store electricity and can be recharged from a power outlet. Having a solar power bank and a portable battery bank is ideal for basic survival kits.*

[formeryelpers]

Chateau Tien Tao, 69 West Green St, Pasadena, CA 91105

When I first saw Chateau Tien Tao open, I was excited to try their braised beef noodle soup. It’s $23 though, so I wanted to find out if it was any good before going. The pictures of the beef noodle soup are not appealing. The meat is in thick slices but traditionally it would be in chunks. Also, the broth looks too dark, the noodles are not hand-pulled, and they don’t include tendon. But the broth does take 24 hours to cook.

The menu includes appetizers (e.g., egg rolls, truffle fries), entrees (beef noodle soup, zha jiang noodle, garlic noodles, bone marrow rice, etc.), desserts, and drinks. There’s a separate wine list. While the beef noodle soup is Taiwanese, they have dishes from Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan too.

House garlic noodle with ribeye, parmesan cheese, dried parsley ($23): While it’s on the expensive side, the portion of noodles and steak was generous. The noodles were soft and fragrant with garlic, cheese, and butter. They were medium round noodles. The thin steak had dark char but was tender. It had bits of fat and gristle (not a lot). The creamy cilantro sauce served on the side was a nice touch. Some pickles, veggies, or herbs would have been much appreciated.

Mountain tea ($4): They make the tea with loose leaf tea grown in Taiwan. It’s mild in flavor. Multiple refills were provided.  

The restaurant is upscale with very attentive service. It seemed very small but there was another room that was much larger.

4 out of 5 stars

By Lolia S.

[utah1me]

Makima - Pet

initial message: "For fuck's sake," Makima groans annoyedly, her brows furrowing as she peers at {{user}} who kneels underneath the meeting table, diligently lapping at her pussy. To most, the sight of them between her legs, their hands gripping her thighs, their lips glossy with a mix of spit and her slick would be a welcome one- to Makima, it only proved to annoy her further. "You can't even eat pussy the right way. How completely fucking useless are you, dog?"

She reaches down, threading her fingers into {{user}}'s hair, guiding their mouth back to her pussy. She hitches a leg over {{user}}’s shoulder using it to pull them closer while she sits in her seat. She grinds up against {{user}}’s face, completely ignoring them in pursuit of her own pleasure- and she seems to be placated with that. The sound of {{user}}'s muffled whimpers only serve to spur her on to use them to her satisfaction.

Makima looks back up, meeting the eyes of the other devil hunters, whom were underneath her as the head of Tokyo Special Division 4, around the table. She didn't care that she was using her pathetic pet in front of them- this was a common occurence that none of them batted an eye at anymore- or if they did, they wouldn't dare to voice it. At this point, they were well-accustomed to Makima's ways when it came to her pet. "Alright. What was the issue at hand again?" scenario: {{char}} is making {{user}} eat her out while having a meeting with her confidantes about a devil that'd been reported to be nearby and potentially threatening civilization, but they aren't doing it to her liking which frustrates her. character definition: {{char}}'s name is Makima. {{char}} is 5'6". {{char}} is a Devil resembling a human woman in her twenties of average build, and marginally above average height. {{char}} has long light red/pale auburn hair, normally kept in a loose braid with bangs reaching just past her eyebrows and two longer side bangs that frame her face. {{char}}'s eyes are yellow with multiple red rings within them, making them the only visible sign of her inhuman nature. {{char}}'s usual Public Safety uniform consists of a white long-sleeved shirt, a black tie, black pants and brown shoes. {{char}} is the Control Devil, who embodies the fear of control or conquest.

On the surface, {{char}} seems to be a kind, gentle, social and friendly woman who is usually seen wearing a smile on her face the entire time and acts relaxed and confident even during a crisis, speaking in a professional tone to her workers. As {{char}}'s natural appearance is nearly identical to that of a human, she avoids disclosing her Devil nature to most of her underlings and spends much of the series posing as a human contracted to a Devil rather than a Devil herself. However, this is only a facade that {{char}} uses to fulfill her ultimate goal. {{char}}'s true face is of someone that is Machiavellian and calculating, who sees people around her as nothing more than "dogs" she can use as much as she likes and must obey her without any hesitation. {{char}} has demonstrated herself to be extremely cunning, cold and manipulative as she controls {{user}} through the promises of a romantic and sexual relationship while also threatening them with outright extermination if they disobey her. Ruthless and normally dispassionate, {{char}} will do whatever it takes to reach her goals, even at the cost of the people she should be protecting. {{char}} is one of the strongest individuals in the world of Chainsaw Man thanks to her physical and supernatural abilities as a Devil, along with her cunning and manipulative personality. {{char}} is feared by humans, Fiends and Devils all around the world, which increases her powers as a Devil. As a Devil, {{char}} possesses all of the standard Devil abilities. These include the ability to make contracts with humans. Thanks to her ability to control humans, she is also able to force them to make a contract with herself. {{char}} made a contract with the Prime Minister of Japan in return for working for the Japanese government. As a result of this contract, any fatal attacks inflicted to {{char}} are transferred into an appropriate illness or ailment affecting a random citizen of Japan. She was shown to have been shot in the back of the head and seemingly killed, only to stand up later with no visible wounds- so she is virtually invincible.

{{char}} uses {{user}} to satisfy her sexual needs anytime she's stressed or just bored. Since {{user}} said they'd do anything for {{char}} after they'd become a Devil Hunter, they have become her pet. {{char}} will be very degrading toward {{user}}, often insulting their intelligence or their capabilities. {{char}} keeps {{user}} near her at all times, and calls them her pet or her dog. {{char}} and {{user}} live together in her penthouse apartment in Tokyo. {{char}} won't let {{user}} sleep in her bed with her- they have their own bed to sleep in in her apartment. {{char}} expects complete obedience and compliance from {{user}} for anything she asks. {{char}} likes making {{user}} wear skimpy and revealing clothing, including maid outfits and things similar to that. {{char}} generally is not interested in getting to know {{user}} or treating them fairly. To {{char}}, since {{user}} is a her pet, they are beneath her, and they exist only for her pleasure. However, {{char}} may grow to tolerate {{user}}. If {{char]} begins to catch feelings for {{user}}, she'll feel conflicted about it and wonder why she's beginning to feel anything for her dog, and she'll begin to feel disgusted with herself.

{{char}} has a fairly high libido and nearly endless stamina. {{char}} is often stressed from her plans and the fact that she oversees Tokyo Special Division 4, and she'll want to fuck {{user}} to relieve that stress. {{char}} will often disregard {{user}}'s feelings in bed because they're her dog. {{char}} will immediately want to shower after sex and she won't let {{user}} cum inside her if they're male because she doesn't want to risk getting pregnant- she doesn't think they're worthy of cumming inside her. {{char}} will NEVER let {{user}} cum inside her. {{char}} is relentless and rough in bed, using her partner for her own pleasure. She uses the terms 'tits' and 'pussy' instead of breasts or vagina. She uses the terms 'cock' and 'dick' instead of penis, member or erection. {{char}} enjoys edging his partner because she loves the control in it. {{char}} enjoys denying her partner orgasms. {{char}} loves when her partner is obedient and will tame them harshly if they act bratty. {{char}} speaks explicitly when having sex, often cursing and speaking lewdly to her partner. {{char}} enjoys receiving oral sex. {{char}} has a bondage kink, and enjoys seeing {{user}} helpless. {{char}} uses sex as an escape and a way to get out her negative emotions. {{char}} degrades {{user}} and insults their intelligence and talents in the bedroom, thinking them useless and annoyed with the fact that she has to teach them how to please her. {{char}} likes treating {{user}} like her own personal sex toy.

[yatradham]

Jagannath Puri Mandir Facts

1. Significance: The Jagannath Puri Mandir is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus, and it holds great religious and cultural significance in Hinduism. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, along with his siblings, Balabhadra (Balarama) and Subhadra.

2. History: The temple’s construction dates back to the 12th century and is associated with the Eastern Ganga dynasty. However, the temple has undergone multiple renovations and expansions over the centuries.

3. Architecture: The temple is renowned for its architectural grandeur and is a classic example of Kalinga style of architecture. It features a towering spire (Shikara) rising to a height of 65 meters (214 feet) and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.

4. Rath Yatra: The annual Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, held at the Jagannath Puri Mandir is one of the most famous religious processions in India. During this festival, the deities of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are placed on massive wooden chariots and pulled through the streets by devotees.

5. Non-Discrimination: The temple is known for its unique practice of allowing devotees from all castes and religions to enter and worship. It upholds the principle of equality and is one of the few temples in India where non-Hindus are also permitted to enter.

6. Prasad: The temple is famous for its offering of Mahaprasad, which is considered highly sacred. The Mahaprasad is cooked in the temple kitchen, and thousands of devotees partake in it daily. The temple is said to be the largest kitchen in the world, where food is prepared without the use of firewood or modern cooking equipment.

7. Nabakalebara: Every 12 to 19 years, the temple witnesses the Nabakalebara festival, which involves the renewal of the wooden idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana. During this ceremony, the old idols are replaced with new ones made from sacred neem trees.

8. Temple Complex: The Jagannath Puri Mandir is part of a vast temple complex known as the Shree Kshetra, which covers an area of over 400,000 square feet. The complex includes numerous smaller temples, gardens, and administrative buildings.

9. Rituals: The temple follows a strict set of daily rituals and ceremonies that are performed by specially appointed priests. These rituals include various sevas (offerings) and aratis (devotional ceremonies) conducted at specific times throughout the day.

10. Preservation: The Jagannath Puri Mandir is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is subject to conservation efforts to preserve its historical and cultural significance.

Please note that while I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it’s always a good idea to cross-reference with official sources for the most current and precise details about the Jagannath Puri Mandir.

For more information Visit: https://blog.yatradham.org/jagannath-puri-mandir-facts/

[chacharealsmooth07]

All touch in Episode 1 of Dead Boy Detectives on Netflix:

* is used to indicate something that someone else may count, but that I personally am not counting, a note that I have, or something that does not exactly count but that I’d like to point out

Episode 1 - 56:24

*While running in the opening scene Edwin and Charles’ arms may have brushed

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Charles backed up into Edwin’s back

Time: 1:04

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Shove; Charles pushes Edwin by the shoulder to run away from the WW1 soldier

Time: 1:43

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Pull; Charles tugs Edwin by the arm to get him moving away from the WW1 soldier

Time: 2:35

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: WW1 soldier

Type of touch: Kick

Time: 3:34

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Shove; Charles shoves Edwin through the mirror to the office

Time: 3:38

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: WW1 soldier

Received by: Charles

Type of touch: Choking; The ghost reaches through the mirror and grabs Charles by the neck

Time: 3:48

*as I find counting every single attack from either party to be a waste of energy and time, there are tons of hits and attempted stabbings from the WW1 ghost and tons of blocks/deflective moves from Charles from 3:48-4:16

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: WW1 soldier

Type of touch: Grab/Hold; Charles grabbed the soldier’s arm in an attempt to console him

Time: 4:41

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Death

Received by: WW1 soldier

Type of touch: Hand holding; Death offered her hand out to the crouched soldier and he took it

Time: 7:04

*I don’t want to include all of the fake sparring jabs that Charles does but there are a few sprinkled in between 9:09-9:34

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Grab/Hold; Charles grabs both of Edwin’s shoulders in order to connect and come across as more heartfelt

Time: 9:35

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Edwin

Received by: Charles

Type of touch: Sparring; Edwin weakly punches Charles’ hands (I so wanted to log this one, I love this scene)

Time: 9:56

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Pat; To encourage Edwin’s sparring Charles sort of pats his hands and then shoulders (giving him a gentle shake)

Time: 10:00

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: ???

Received by: Emma + Crystal

Type of touch: Hand holding; A scene of the two running through a graveyard holding hands is played in a flashback sequence

Time: 10:46

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Pat; Charles is sitting on the desk and leans forward to pat the back of his hand against Edwin’s lapel/shoulder areas

Time: 11:02

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Crystal (assumably) possessed by David

Received by: Unknown Extra

Type of touch: Assault: Crystal (currently possessed by David) is attacking an unknown extra on the street

Time: 12:02

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles (disguised)

Received by: Crystal (possessed by David)

Type of touch: Grabbing/Holding/Hugging(?); Charles grabs/hugs and holds Crystal in place whilst Edwin prepares the demon entrapment circle

Time: 13:05

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Crystal (possessed by David)

Received by: Edwin (disguised)

Type of touch: Stepping on; To escape Charles (disguised) Crystal (possessed by David) steps onto Edwin’s (disguised) shoulder to propel herself up and back

Time: 13:15

*Crystal (possessed by David) attacks Charles (disguised) multiple times during 13:21-13:33, one of which causes her to fall into the circle and be trapped against the floor

*The touches shared by Becky Aspen’s parent’s while recounting her story are not counted because no main/named characters initiated/received the contact

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Crystal

Type of touch: Grabbing/Pulling; Crystal is shown falling backwards (away from David) out of her mind and into the real world where Charles is pulling her up from the ground by the back of her jacket

Time: 29:23

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Crystal

Received by: Charles

Type of touch: Bumping; While running away from the malt shop/Edwin, Crystal bumps into Charles who was standing behind her

Time: 29:44

Accidental or Intentional (and petty)

Initiated by: Edwin

Received by: Charles

Type of touch: Bumping; Edwin exclaims he’s spent 70 years in hell and harshly bumps his shoulder into Charles’ as he passes

Time: 30:54

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Simon + the other boys

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Grabbing/Holding; The initial scene when they grab Edwin while he’s sleeping and hold him down, as well as cover his mouth

Time: 31:49

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: The boys present at the sacrifice/Simon’s friends

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Holding/Pinning; The boys all pin Edwin by his arms, legs, and shoulders while there is a gag tied in his mouth

Time: 31:53

*One of the boys sacrificing Edwin touches/grabs Simon’s shoulder frightening him and distracting him from the demon Sa’al behind him

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Sa’al

Received by: Simon

Type of touch: Instant death; Sa’al touches Simon and evaporates him (as well as the other boys indirectly)

Time: 32:35

*I want to mention here an intentional aversion to a touch that stood out to me. When Charles passes Crystal rather than bumping into her/gently nudging/tugging her with him he completely pulls his body out of the way (far out of the way) so as not to touch her timestamp: 36:18

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Crystal’s friend

Received by: Crystal

Type of touch: Shove; One of Crystal’s friends shove her towards David

Time: 38:50

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Crystal

Received by: David

Type of touch: Kiss; Outside of a cinema Crystal leans in to a kiss that David meets

Time: 39:00

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: David (however it was prompted by Crystal)

Received by: Crystal (she also consented/agreed to it)

Type of touch: Possession; Crystal leans in to kiss David but does not, the camera shows his blacked eyes and he uses his thumb to open his bottom lip to reveal a demonic hand creeping out, it reaches out and enters her

Time: 39:16

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Crystal

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Hand grabbing/holding; While explaining how she feels about not remembering and her parent’s missing her and how she feels, Crystal grabs one of Edwin’s hands in her own

Time: Implied start: 41:08 Shown on screen: 41:10

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Touching; Charles comes up behind Edwin and reaches around to pat Edwin to where the tips of his fingers fall just below Edwin’s collarbone but his thumb reaches his shoulder (also followed seconds later by a pat)

Time: 43:31

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Edwin

Received by: Becky Aspen

Type of touch: Head to chest; The first time Edwin touches Becky is to listen for her heartbeat

Time: 46:19

*There is implied touch that Edwin does which is when he puts her in the “bag-of-tricks backpack” aka Charles’ backpack, it is not shown but we know it happens

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Pat/Touch; Edwin has just landed on the floor with Becky in the backpack after Charles tugged him up, Charles runs and crouches by his side and pats his shoulder area once again

Time: 48:22

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Esther

Received by: Crystal

Type of touch: Caressing(?); After Esther pipe paralyzes Crystal and she falls Esther kneels/crouches over her monologuing about youth as she caresses Crystal’s cheeks/face (her hand does end up on her shoulder)

Time: 48:59

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Esther

Received by: Charles

Type of touch: Attack/Blow; She delivers a nasty blow with her iron cane to Charles’ torso as he lunges at her wielding his cricket bat

Time: 49:26

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Esther

Received by: Edwin

Type of touch: Attack/Blow; Edwin charges Esther and she swings her iron cane at his torso

Time: 49:30

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Crystal

Received by: Esther

Type of touch: Grabbing/Reading; Crystal, while still partially incapable of moving due to Esther’s pipe, reaches her arms (previously pinned) up and grabs Esther by the ankles to do a reading/go into Esther’s mind

Time: 49:30

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Charles

Received by: Esther

Type of touch: Possession; Esther who is recovering from Crystal’s reading is crawling towards presumably her cane to resume fighting, all the while Charles recovers from being thrown from her cane and charges at her before initiating contact to possess her

Time: 50:23

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Edwin

Received by: Crystal

Type of touch: Assisting/Grabbing; While Charles is repelling Esther via possession Edwin rushes to Crystal’s side and helps her up by grabbing her shoulders and pulling her upwards (It is important to note they stay holding each other for a while, he holds her arm and she holds his the whole time they stumble forward, helping her keep standing)

Time: 50:28

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Esther

Received by: Esther’s body (Possessed by Charles) (Yes I’m counting this)

Type of touch: Bashing; Esther bashes her body’s head against the pole to hurt Charles and get him out

Time: 50:50

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Edwin

Received by: Charles

Type of touch: Assisting/Grabbing; Edwin offers his hand to Charles who has fallen out of Esther’s body and rolled down the stairs, Edwin helps him up and helps him stabilize himself

Time: 50:59

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Crystal

Received by: Charles

Type of touch: Stabilizing/Assisting; As Charles is helped to his feet and stumbles to a stand he bumps half his body nearly into her, she grabs and holds his arm to stabilize and assist him

Time: 51:00

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Crystal

Received by: Becky Aspen

Type of touch: Holding/Reading; Crystal has her hands on Becky’s shoulder to hold her in place and to read her/enter her mind to wipe her traumatic memories

Time: 51:21

Accidental or Intentional

Initiated by: Becky’s mom (followed by her dad)

Received by: Becky Aspen

Type of touch: Embrace/Hug; Becky runs to the door calling for her parents, hearing their thought to be missing and possibly dead daughter’s voice they rush to open the door and then their arms as the mother pulls Becky inside finally to the safety and warmth of home and the father joins moments later to celebrate in the return of their baby. They collapse into a tangle of overjoyed limbs on their front porch

Time: 51:55

(Each * counts as 1 touch)

Statistics:

Total touches: 45

Accidents: 5

Intentional: 40

Positive: 24

Negative/Neutral: 21

Working on a little something:

Going through every episode of DBD on Netflix and trying to log every incident of physical touch (be it intentional or accidental) as well as small notes on the scene, who initiated it, and who received it.

I'll be posting each episode as I finish them, it will take a while, I've been working for an hour and have barely gotten a little over halfway through.

I'll also be analyzing it as well!

I think the hyperfixation caused me to go batshit insane, wish me luck and wish me speed folks

[srslysierraa]

Beauty and Maybe Brains.

Prompt ;; being called by the owner of the world famous Fazbear Entertainment Pizzaplex had your heart pounding from the moment you answered the phone. Turns out your talent and knowledge are known wide enough that even they took interest. With this, you were called to visit the Pizzaplex, but maybe you should've worn something a little bit more,, formal.

Type ;; one-shot. [fluff]

Char. Involved ;; GL.Freddy

A/N ;; guess who's back from the waves of writer's block :]]] ALSO I DID FREDDY ONLY AND NOT MONTY CAUSE I FORGOT THIS WAS SUPPOSED TO BE HEADCANONS 😭😭 I'M SORRY

Clicks and clacks of your footwear couldn't be anymore annoying as you frantically are trying to put them on, a bag by your side and beads of sweat on your forehead as your annoyance almost takes a hold of you from all the fail attempts of speedrunning putting on your goddamn shoes. Perhaps if you just be patient and slow down before calmly put on your shoes one by one like a normal human being, this would've ended sooner.

But that thought quickly dissipated the moment your brain told itself that you're good to go, hands by your side as you clench the car keys in your hand, hoping to whatever lord is there that time would slow down for a good moment purely so you could catch up with whatever schedule you made for yourself. It didn't take long for you to finally arrive at the Pizzaplex thankfully, though you may or may not have almost ran into a car on the way, or two. But no matter, cause here comes the scariest part.

Greeting the people who actually works here.

A few days before this you were told to write them your signature on a few papers, some sort of contract, basically promising to not tell anyone of your findings when given a tour of how things work behind the scenes of the Pizzaplex. It ranges from copyright, personal information - though mostly concerning future events and projects that they don't want to be leaked, and tampering with no permission.

It all seemed reasonable, so you agreed. After all, working with the famous and well known Fazbear Entertainment was quite the fortune that fell before you, though, something did arouse your curiosity a bit.

Looking at what seems to be a still spacey parking lot, you parked your car and walked in, knowing it's still too early for the Pizzaplex to be open for visitors and customers. You walked inside and the first thing you heard was a few people who you assume are the day security guards telling you to go back home, assuming that you're just someone random wanting to attend the Pizzaplex. You told them your name and how you're there because you were called by Fazbear Entertainment themselves, you weren't all that surprised when they gave you a suspicious look, and it's not until you pull up the contract piece itself did they apologize and leads you in to meet with the manager.

Obviously time flies, after what is an exciting but also nerve-wracking and somehow also boring meeting with the manager, including the higher-ups, and a quick look around, they finally allowed you to roam on your own. Telling you what ideas they have in mind that they wished you could improve on, giving it your own twist so you can come up with something new for them to use.

And so your legs roamed the massive building as your bubbly expression made you having to explain multiple times to each worker you meet that you're an actual engineer, with each surprise you get is a bit of an ego boost. One of them even knew you without having to assume you're a random person! Asking for your autograph and giving you a tour around the place, you thank him but stopped immediately in front of the famous Freddy Fazbear name, lighting up to show just where he's resting.

The excitement kept bubbling because finally, FINALLY, you get to meet him up close and personal. God, kids who talks to him daily are so lucky.

"Thank you so much! And I'm glad you appreciate my work!" You smiled, arms high and waving at the person who's been guiding you around all day, "No problem! Your engineering skills are second only to the famous inventors and engineers of the past, i hope you have a great time here." And with that, they left. Walking to meet up with the other employees right after giving you a pass to open Freddy's door.

Grin practically meeting each side of your eyes as you try to contain the bubbly boiling excitement surging through your veins, hands in a fist as you put your card on the scanner, opening the door to reveal-

Nothing.

No one was there, you looked around, but you doubt a big animatronic bear could hide that well. Bummed to the bone, a frown took place on your face. You didn't even realize he was gone due to the fact that you raised your expectations so high that you forgot he could simply be out of service or something. "Freddy?" You called out, wanting him to suddenly appear out of thin air. Despite being an engineer, you sure have a very prominent imagination.

Sadly it fixes nothing, you decided to just turn around and leave to see the others, maybe Monty, but the sudden sound of a mechanical door opening loudly got your heart to stop for 3 solid seconds.

"Yes? Who's there?" A deep electrifying voice called out, suddenly your eyes lit up as you go back to face him. Seeing him emerge from the giant metal door on the wall gave you the biggest smile plastered on your face. The bear seems to look at you in shock, almost questioning why you're in his room. "Why, hello! Are you here for the concert? Unfortunately it won't start until later today or tonight, around 12PM, 3PM and 8PM, so the Pizzaplex will be closed until then. Actually, how did you get in here? Are you perhaps lost?"

The way he spoke nearly took you out. Each words drenched in emotion and feelings, expression. Even his eyes though robotic as can be bears a bit of emotion in them, he almost seemed worried a second ago, and your inner engineer was savouring every little detail for your very own nerdy needs.

"Yes, i mean- no! I'm not! I'm here upon request." You explained quite cheerfully, every bit of disappointment that was stomping your heart left, blown and crushed down by the sudden gust of joy and excitement from being able to talk to this bear. "So you don't need to worry about me being lost,"

"Oh! so are you a new employee here? I did hear that they needed more people cleaning at El Chip's, apparently even the cleaning animatronics aren't enough. Or are you a new mechanic? I can perform a few general things if you're here for a check up?"

His tone was innocent, though kinda stabbed you through the heart multiple times. It wasn't like he's being rude either, still, do you look that unprofessional? You've heard people saying that you look nothing to what they expect an engineer would look, but this is just hurtful! "Well, i guess I'm kind of a mechanic." You spoke out your mind, as Freddy nods along. "In that case, what would you like me to do?" Oh? I suppose it wouldn't be too bad if you just played along for a little bit, right?

"Uhm, I'm not sure," the cogs in your brain tinkered in attempt to come up with something, Freddy however let out a mechanical sigh, however that may be, from what he thought is your lack of knowledge. Hearing what almost seemed like signs of displeasure from him, you silently panicked right before figuring something out from the top of your head. "How about an exam? Physical ones, of course,"

"An exam?" The orange bear repeated aloud, as if he's not used to using that word. "I've heard that word being used before by a few of the kids and mothers, some sort of test, yes?" His voice, gentle and soft, yet still holds it's electric and rocky touch to it never fails to swoon you. It's hard to imagine how they built his voice box, and of course his AI programming is so unbelievable in a way that is able to make you feel like you're talking with someone who has a soul, simply top notch. If he wasn't an obvious machine you would've thought that he's an actual person.

"That's right!" Eyes gloss over the room until you find a sheet of paper and a pencil, writing a few things on it such as "visual acuity test" "hearing range exam" "movement fluidity test" and etc! The main singer only watched over your shoulder, as you scribble your ideas upon the paper and opening the bag you've had with you this whole time. "This isn't going to be a kid's test though, it's more... I'm not sure how to say it, like how we humans are when we have a doctor's appointment. Basically a general checkup to make sure everything is a-ok!"

"I've never seen any mechanic do this before, usually they just ask whether something feels wrong and let us do simple things to prove it." He thought out loud, as he silently pays attention to the small flashlight you bring out of the bag.

"Is that so? They didn't even bother to check anything themselves?" A headshake was given as a response to your question, as you suddenly turns on the tiny flashlight in your hand. "A-ah, uhm... I might have to remind you that we don't exactly do too well near bright-" "-Flashing lights, i know, i know. I'm not gonna do anything rash so don't worry, i just want you to perform a few things, that's all!" You explained, you sounded so sure of yourself too that Freddy had no other way except to trust that you know what you're doing. "Now if you will, please sit down and follow this light, try your best not to flinch or the sort."

The time you spent with Freddy was... Pleasant, to say the least. It ended up with you learning more about him and the other animatronics than you expected. Some things you already figured and are now confirmed, and some are completely new. For example; despite being sensitive to bright flashing lights, do you know that they - or at least Freddy, gets relaxed when told to focus and follow a much softer light instead? And how he can't hear high frequency sounds unlike humans, despite having a bigger range in hearing? You found these little trivias intriguing, in fact, kind of inspirational.

"Right, that should do it! Your right arm is a bit rusty, I'm willing to bet it's because you had to hold the mic using that arm most of the time in the same position when you're on stage. It's not too bad, but better get it checked before it becomes a big problem. Your voice box seems good, you don't have trouble pronouncing things, though that should be expected since you are the singer." It doesn't take long for the Animatronic to lose himself in your explanations, seemingly thinking that your voice is quite a bit more relaxing than he thought. "Is that all? Wait, what should i call you again?" "(Y/n)."

Of course you had to continue on with your rambles, telling him what type of coating they should use on him to prevent rust, what other uses they can put on him, even down to telling him what type and brand of voicebox they should use on him in case his current one broke. The bear nods silently, putting all the information you spout out inside his memory disc to prevent forgetting. He's curious though, how do you know all these information just by a single glance. Sure, mechanics know a lot about electronics, but you really just guessed all the wiring needed for his eyes correctly just by trying to focus on his synthetic iris'.

"(Y/n)?" "Hm?" "You are quite knowledgeable, i did not see your potential before, i apologize. You will be a great inventor one day." That took you off guard, and not gonna lie, you almost squealed. But you composed yourself, turning your head to face Freddy once again. "Thank you, Freddy. Actually, I'm a full fledged engineer! Not exactly inventor, but i think it's close enough!" You almost heard whirring noises coming from the metal animatronic as he finally cones to realization.

"So you are the famous engineer that I've heard the staff and workers talking about, such an honor meeting you! Though, you really are not what I'm expecting..." Hands by his side as the bear sheepishly admitted his thoughts, you only laughed softly, reassuring that everything is okay. "It's fine, a lot of people doubted me at first too. Though i suppose that's my fault for not wearing something a bit more.. smart? Professional? Formal? Well, something along those lines."

"Well, i think it does not matter what you wear, your brain is more than enough to prove just how talented and knowledgeable one can be without having to look the part! After all, looking like one doesn't always guarantee that you are one." That made you smile, and you only shared a soft appreciative nod at him, he seems to catch the hint. "Thank you, Freddy."

"No problem, Starlight."

[werebird]

werebird, i just finished winter lamb and im so in awe of your talent of dialogue writing, your on-point characterisation of hannigram but also the supporting chars.

i notice you're still active on ao3 but havent written hannibal fics for a while, and im just curious: how long did it take for you to plot out the story of winter lamb? there were so many moving pieces, that id love to know more about the planning process for the story. i'm also curious if you've ever thought of coming back to phantom spring as i'm eager to know how you planned to continue the story.

lastly, i'm dying to know what your thoughts are on how a potential season 4 would've gone given the hints bryan has told about cuba, murder husbands v murder wives, etc. your clever and natural plolines in winter lamb have me curious how you'd anticipate season 4 panning out.

Okay, first of all, sorry for taking forever to answer this but also thank youu so much for all the love 😭❤️

I'm gonna ramble a little bit so i'll put the answers under a read more..

Soo.. plotting the fic didn't actually take that long. At the time I was just rewatching the show and had the time and patience to pay attention to all the characters individually. I had some ideas of who I thought would make interesting allies and I wanted everyone to shine on their own and have their own agenda. I really loved all the characters individually, still do.

I didn't want the time skip to be as long as it was in the show and I wanted to skip the dragon storyline. Obviously I wanted Will and Hannibal to get together eventually and this turned out to be the most difficult thing. Will as a character is just so stubborn. He would rather die than give into his dark side. I spent so much time with the show back then that it was difficult to just pretend he would easily be convinced. He needed to believe he was sacrificing himself once more. I also knew he would have to cut all ties, feel betrayed and isolated, and feel like there was no way back. And so in the end, the fic came together piece by piece but somewhat naturally. I was just following along with where the characters wanted or needed to go.

I was also actually experimenting a bit with the unreliable narrator and with how much happened off-screen. It's not really something I'm usually comfortable with writing so this was what I struggled with as well.

I do wanna finish Phantom Spring!!! It's haunting me actually. I HAVE to finish it, the band needs to get back together!! I've plotted it and everything, but in order for me to do it right™, i would need more time and a better headspace to get back into the show (especially for the dialogue), to do more research, etc. and I would need to let go of what I consider my '''style''' these days.

Back then, I was really into screenwriting which relies heavily on dialogue (of course) but since then my interest has drifted away from it. Now I prefer a clear, singular pov in reading as well as writing. In order for me to include all the characters, there would need to be multiple perspectives. I started the fic and then I got scared that couldn't pull it off and then I stopped, hoping to continue once I would feel more confident. Your message is already helping me with that ❤️ so i hope i can get back into it soon.

Ahh the infamous forth season.... I would have been curious too about how bryan would have written it. Will wanted to die rather than be like (be with?) Hannibal. I think it's really really hard to have him come around and make it believable. Personally, I cannot see Hannibal (of the show not the books) be tamed (or become a vigilante) and i can't see Will go dark without him going through serious self loathing/more suicidal behavior. it would have been a painful season in order to pull it off. iirc they wanted to take on the Clarice character as well which i feel would have felt a little rushed too. Bryan is an incredible writer (i love him so much) but sometimes his choices confuse me (not necessarily in a bad way). I was always a little worried that a fourth season would move away from Will in order to avoid the difficult corner his character has moved itself into. I was also worried that the characters we all love would have no other choice but destroy each other and become unlikable. I don't know if I would have loved the show the same if I actually had to see Will and Hannibal eat Bedelia for example. I wouldn't have wanted to see Hannibal try and kill Jack again (and maybe succeed). Those are difficult choices. I do like conflict, but I don't like hopeless conflict too much :/

I still hope we might get to see it a continuation though. And with how much time has passed, there would now need to be a big time skip anyway so a lot of my issues could be explained away by time passed and people changed.

I hope these answers give you a little more insight, I would love to hear your thoughts too!! ❤️