#tis a law sadly

[enigmatist17]

Basically, Angel comes to help Spike after he escapes from the Initiative, getting a call from Giles/a vision from Cordelia, because he's my blorbo and needs some love <3

Part 2

---

Cordelia had never really been afraid of Angel's driving before, he had a good few years on her in terms of experience. However, speeding so fast that the desert was more of a long dark tan blur was...unsettling, and a look in the backseat only confirms the speed is terrifying. Wesley gripped the backseat with one hand, the other clinging to the door so tight his knuckles were white as he tried to focus on anything that wasn't the blurred landscape.

Angel wasn't concerned as much as the others were, a sign noting Sunnydale was soon in their sights flashing by as he kept speeding towards the town he didn't think he'd be seeing so soon.

"So, how do you know Spike won't just try and kill you?" Cordelia half-yelled as the town began to appear before them.

"Oh, he will." Angel knows Spike, has for a long time, and just how much of a bastard he could be. "Or, I think he'll try."

"This chip may prevent that." Wesley piped up, finally releasing the seat when Angel finally slowed down to a reasonable speed.

"Mhm." Angel's grip tightened on the wheel, and he forced himself to relax as they headed for Giles' place. "The cooler still cold?"

"Yes Angel, as it shall remain until we break the seal." Wesley glanced over at a cooler in the foot well, filled to the brim with fresh blood.

"Good, good." Angel sighed as he cruised familiar streets, finally parking outside Giles' neighborhood, raising an eyebrow when Wesley all but bolted from the car. "What?"

"He's probably worshipping stable ground after your atrocious driving." Cordelia smiled, having also quickly unbuckled and gotten out with a relieved sigh.

'What she said." Wesley mumbled, watching Angel stop long enough to lock the car before he was gone in the blink of an eye. "Ruddy vampire speed...should we stay here? I doubt Spike is here, by the cooler he left behind, and he may need our encouragement and support."

"No, get your bag before he comes back." The other shook her head, moving for the trunk. "Giles said Spike was pretty bad, and just having us with our beating hearts and pumping blood will not help."

"....right, fair point." Wesley moved to assist, pausing only to move the cooler to the passenger seat. By the time they've gotten their bags out Angel appears on the hood of his car, thumb tapping against the warm metal nervously.

"Giles said he'll have us tonight, we'll update you later." Cordelia smiled, circling the car to give Angel a small hug. "Good luck with Spike, I'm going to source out the blood scene here...just in case."

"...thanks." Angel looked uncomfortable with the contact, but reached up with his free arm to pat her hand before Cordelia let him go. "Be safe, okay?"

"Always."

----

Angel is surprised the mansion he used to stay in is still there.

He's positive the Initiative would know about it, but a scan of the area after parking his car out of sight revealed no soldiers or devices of any kind. He's not oblivious to the quiet scuffling of someone inside his former home, however, and after grabbing some things from the trunk and the cooler, Angel heads inside. The scuffling stops entirely the moment he heaves the door open with his shoulder, and after closing the door, he drops his bags.

"I'm walkin' in slowly, so try not to jump at me like a feral cat or something." It's silent, big shocker there, and the older vampire progresses further into the house. Spike should have said something by now as Angel looked around, finally zeroing in on some disturbed dust leading towards the basement, and Angel went down maybe one step before the smell of antiseptic and other nasty things laced the air. "Spike?"

There is no answer, and Angel moves faster this time.

The first thing he sees is Spike's beloved duster on the ground, two large holes dragged down the back, and Angel can feel dried blood around the holes when he picks up the familiar leather. "Okay, Spike, where are you?"

Again, there is silence.

Angel's face shifts with a deep breath, and tilts his head when he hears sudden scuffling coming from his left. "Spike..."

He's not expecting the visceral snarl before he's suddenly knocked to the floor, snatching a pale fist before it connects with his face as Spike pins him to the floor with his other hand, crouched over the other man. Whatever retort he had died on his lips when Angel took one look at the other vampire, gut coiling at his condition.

Spike looked like shit.

No, scratch that, worse than shit. He's a shade or two paler than normal, which while that's a feat in and of itself, the grey veins all over exposed arms and bits of his face that weren't covered in nasty bruises were not normal. Nor were the reddened eyes that focused on everything yet nothing, chipped teeth bared as he hissed at his grandsire in warning or fear, Angel couldn't tell.

"Spike, listen to me." Angel watches dulled blue eyes dart around before staring at his face, and it's a start. "You're going to let me go, right now." There's a quiet growl in response to his words, but the arm pinned to the floor is slowly released as Spike backpedals before Angel can open his mouth, scrambling back until he's clear across the room pressed against the wall. Angel's seen that sort of behavior before, sitting up and shimmying out of his coat, tossing it just far enough to land at Spike's feet.

"Put it on, you're freezing." Slowly getting up and onto his feet, Angel watched as Spike stared at the jacket with a head cocked to the side, a trembling hand reaching out and poking it before whipping it back, as if expecting pain. When none makes itself known, Spike snatches the warm fabric and pulls it around his shoulders like a blanket, snarling when the now human-faced Angel approaches with a box.

"I have blood." The seal Wesley had conjured a few hours ago breaks when the lid is lifted, and the older vampire grabs the closest packet before closing the lid, turning to the cowering vampire. "O Neg, your favorite." He's fairly surprised when Spike scoots away from him, backing himself into a corner while eyeing the blood bag like it was going to stake him at any second.

Angel doesn't like the fear in his eyes.

"Okay, it's okay." Angel turned back to the cooler and set the bag inside, digging around to find a glass bottle he'd stuffed inside just in case they needed a small container for...well, at the time he hadn't been sure. However, he wasn't going to complain, filling it up from the blood in the packet before turning to Spike. He's properly put the coat on during his quick transfer of blood, and Angel can only hope the other doesn't tear any holes in it as he approaches Spike, kneeling down when he's close enough to hold out the bottle.

"Drink."

Spike stares at the bottle, then Angel, then back at the bottle over and over for a few minutes, before after what feels like an eon he snatches the bottle and downs it. It's a messy affair, Spike's hands trembling enough to cause some blood to drip down his chin, and as much as Angel would like to help, he knows for a fact the smaller man would try and rip out his throat, so he doesn't. The bottle is cradled to Spike's chest when he finishes, Spike burrowing himself into the large jacket as if it was going to hide him away from the world.

"It's okay, it'll be alright."

Angel shudders when he feels the familiar presence of Angelus surface from the dark depths of their shared mind, watching as Angel picks up his progeny and heads for the upper floor of the mansion. Spike is deposited on the couch so Angel can start a fire, moving to the bedroom afterward to shake off the dust and cover the bed with fresh sheets he'd brought from L.A.

"I can feel your anger," Angel murmurs to the empty room, cracking his neck when he receives an almost imperceptible growl from somewhere in the back of his mind. "For once, I agree. As much as Spike has been a pain in the fucking ass, he didn't deserve what he got, and I'm not leaving this shithole until I find who did this."

The beast fades away, but Angel knows it won't be for long, able to feel the thrumming of anger under his skin as he goes back for Spike. The pale man doesn't register being picked up, Angel shakes his head as Spike is laid on the bed, pausing to throw the blanket over the sleeping male before letting Spike have the room to himself.

---

Spike slept for a solid 48 hours, Angel dropping in every few hours to force blood down the Brit's throat. Some color has returned to, his admittedly already pale skin, and the rim around his eyes looks like a pale sunburn rather than the effects of starvation. It's better than nothing the older vampire supposed, eventually heading out to pick up more blood for the both of them. It felt strange stalking the streets of Sunnydale after all this time, ignoring the flashes of fear from various demons as he collected the blood he needed from the few sources dotted around town. Eyes are watching as he takes the time to stop at some clothing stores, the duffel bag he'd brought full to the brim by the time he'd checked off his list and headed back for the large home.

Spike is waiting for him.

He's perched on the back of the couch, those dulled eyes sizing Angel up as he slowly sets his bag down.

"Someone's up."

Spike doesn't respond, he just watches.

"Well, I got you some clothes and stocked up on blood, so you're welcome." Angel crossed his arms over his chest, unsure if Spike was even registering what he was saying. "Even scored some of that black nail polish you like, because I'm nice like that."

Spike raises an eyebrow as he scowls, and Angel rolls his eyes.

"That's something, I guess." No longer worried about the other lashing out, Angel scoops up the bag and heads for the kitchen, able to feel Spike's stare as he moves. "The Initiative-" The word is barely past his lips when there's a snarl, and Angel barely has enough time to chuck the bag on the counter before Spike tackles him to the floor, and Angel wishes the floor was carpeted as he slams into concrete.

"You will not send me back!"

It's a frenzied thing that forces its way out of Spike's mouth, and Angel lies completely still as the younger vampire pins him down, eyes darting around the room as he keeps low to the floor.

"They won't find you." Spike snarls again, focusing on Angel's face with an angry look. "They won't touch you."

"That's all they want, touch and take." Spike jerks away, crouching at Angel's feet while hugging himself. "I can't touch them the bloody bastards."

"What do you mean?" Angel can feel Angelus slowly rise again as he sits up, Spike trembling as he curls in on himself.

"Somethin' is in me 'ead, I can't fight, can't hunt, can't feed." Taking a deep breath for a heart that no longer beats, Angel scoots closer, blue eyes looking over before either could blink. "I'm so hungry..."

"I know." Angel sets one of his hands on Spike's shoulder, the other freezing as he stares at the man who shouldn't be this kind, this close, this bloody nice.

Falling into the waiting embrace was never so easy, and Spike decides that oblivion is a nice treat, going limp in familiar arms. He wouldn't be surprised if he never awakens, but just for a selfish moment his grandsire is there to protect him, and it makes the pain lessen just a little bit.

Angel is not as calm, carrying Spike back to the couch and setting him down before grabbing his phone. It takes him a second to pull up Cordelia's number (he still hates these things, if only she let him cast a communication spell) and dial, pacing back in forth in front of the fireplace until she answers.

"Hey, boss man."

"I want to talk to that Riley kid, and I want to talk to him yesterday."

"Okie dokie, just promise me you won't try and kill the guy?"

"...."

"Oh man." Cordelia looks over from her spot on Giles's couch, at Riley and Buffy sitting together at the table and chatting with quiet voices about something.

Angel was pissed, so this kid was screwed.

[queenshelby]

AMERICAN GIRL (PART ONE)

Pairing: Tommy Shelby x Grace's Stepdaughter!Reader

Warning: Grace is a bully, infidelity, taboo

On a brisk autumn day, you and your younger sibling Emma sailed into Liverpool harbor. You each carried a large, old-fashioned cart filled with towering brown suitcases, with a satchel casually slung over your shoulders.

The journey had left Emma exhausted, clinging to you as she marvelled at the unfamiliar sights of the port with wide eyes.

"I'm afraid," she confided in you, her words barely audible as they grazed your ear.

"I understand Em, but we have each other, and I will always look after you," you comforted her, putting on a smile. You promised to always take care of Emma, and true to your word, you have been her guardian angel since the day she arrived in this world.

Shortly after Emma was born, your mother sadly passed away due to unexpected complications during the pregnancy at her age.

It was a shock to everyone and left you to step into the roles of both mother and sister to Emma at the young age of 12.

Even in your youth, you held onto the hope that your father would one day find love again. Little did you expect that it would come in the form of Grace Burgess who was a young Irish woman with no money to her name after fleeing England in a haste. Grace had cleverly leveraged his wealth and power to her benefit despite their significant age difference.

Your father fell head over heels for her the moment he laid eyes on her at the corner grocery store in New York, just after your 13th birthday.

Their romance blossomed quickly, leading to marriage in less than a year.

At the tender age of seventeen, your father's love for her tragically transformed into heartbreak as she started a romantic relationship with a man from England - the very same man you were about to start living with.

Thomas Shelby was a name that sent shivers down the spine of those who knew of him - an enigmatic and formidable figure who held significant sway in the depths of England.

In the streets of Birmingham, he controlled his own illicit kingdom, bending the rules to his liking. And yet, your stepmother Grace couldn't help but be drawn to him, just as she had been to your father all those years ago when they first crossed paths.

Just before ending his life due to a broken heart, your wealthy father decided to cut ties with his second wife, leaving all his possessions to you and your sister for your 21st birthdays. This decision left Grace boiling with rage.

Soon after, she vanished to be with her lover in England and the two of you were forced to reside with a cruel family member instead as you had not yet turned 21, being the age of adulthood in America.

Within less than a year of living with this man however, you brought about his demise with a single bullet to the head, all because he dared to touch your sister Emma. It was in that moment that your entire world began to shift.

After a series of run-ins with the law leading to stints in juvenile detention, your father's lawyer came to the rescue, securing your freedom at the age of nineteen, albeit with the catch that you had to leave the country for good.

Of course, you gave your consent, but you were taken aback when it was revealed that your grandparents had struck a deal with Grace, out of all people, to care for you and Emma until you turned 21 and inherited half of your father's wealth.

What also came as a shock was the discovery that for the past two years, your family had been colluding with the Shelby Family, smuggling liquor into the United States without your knowledge and you knew that this must have been Grace's doing.

Grace had always been fascinated by the concept of wealth, much like your grandparents and uncle who shared her passion. Therefore, it didn't come as a shock to you when you recently stumbled upon the name 'Shelby Company Limited' in multiple transaction records within your grandfather's office.

While you understood the reasons behind everything relating to the business deals between your family and the Shelbys, the mystery still lingered as to why Grace decided to take you and Emma in after all the turmoil she had caused. After all, she had found herself entwined with a man of considerable wealth, so she had no need for the money that your family would have been willing to pay her for looking after you and your sister unless, of course, she was worried it wouldn’t last.

After two years had passed, this man still hadn't made her his wife, leaving you to ponder whether she harboured any doubts about his commitment to ever tying the knot.

Your stepmother may have been anxious about her partner abandoning her once the business arrangement in the US came to an end, a deal that she likely orchestrated and this, in itself, made you think that, perhaps, you would now finally have the upper hand.

As any young woman in your situation would, you nurtured a deep-seated anger towards Grace. She was the last person you wanted to rely on, let alone live with.

But you shoved those emotions down as you and Emma disembarked the large ship, weaving through the bustling crowd, ready for what lay ahead.

Just as instructed, outside the dock, you were greeted by a young man named Finn.

Finn, in his early twenties, extended his hand to take your luggage with a friendly smile as you approached.

"I am Finn, and you must be Y/N and Emma, right? Tommy has sent me to pick you up," he told you and Emma clung to you tightly, before peering at Finn suspiciously.

"Nice to meet you, Finn," you replied, offering a warm, polite smile.

Once your luggage was stored securely in the back of the Bentley, the three of you set off on the two-hour journey from Liverpool to Birmingham.

Emma's head rested on your shoulder as she slowly drifted off to sleep, her energy depleted from the journey, while Finn was attempting to make small talk with you while, occasionally, looking back through the rear-view mirror.

It was obvious to you that he had already taken a liking in you, but his youthful charm and charisma was not enough to sway you, not after everything that had happened in the past.

You acknowledged his attempts with brief responses, unable to fully engage in the conversation until he brought up the fact that you had killed a man.

"So, my brother mentioned that you had to leave New York because you killed someone. Is it true?" Finn questioned earnestly and without any filter whatsoever.

Your heart raced as you contemplated the best way to respond to his question.

"Yes, it's true," you finally admitted bluntly, looking straight ahead, not wanting to engage in a detailed conversation about it.

Finn, seemingly surprised by your response, paused before shifting the Bentley into a higher gear.

"Did you shoot him?" he asked, curiosity piqued.

You nodded, your jaw set.

Finn didn't press for more details, for which you were grateful. But you could sense his intrigue as he glanced at you through the rearview mirror.

Emma stirred in her sleep, mumbling softly, drawing your attention back to her peaceful face. You smoothed her unruly hair back, your heart swelling with protectiveness.

You would do anything to keep her safe. After all, you had already lost so much in your life already, so you could not lose her as well. 

***

Eventually, the streets of Birmingham came into view, appearing as a striking contrast to the glamour and elegance of your hometown. 

"Wow, this is different," you murmured to yourself, your gaze locked on the sprawling slums that lay outside the car window. There were workers fighting each other and whores selling themselves on the cobblestone streets, while children ran in all directions, many of them ragged and filthy.

"Don't worry. I am taking you somewhere nice," Finn assured you, seeing the look on your face and you could only hope that he was right, because if this was what Birmingham looked like everywhere, you wondered how you could possibly survive here for the next two years.

Despite Finn's enthusiasm, something about the place left you feeling uneasy, like a predator lurked in the shadows and you could see the appeal for criminals to operate here.

Before long, the Bentley turned into the private road of a luxurious home outside of Birmingham  .

The driveway was long, shielded by trees, and it wasn't until the last bend that you caught a glimpse of the mansion at the end.

The house was stunning, with intricately carved mahogany furnishings, rich velvet curtains framing large bay windows, and marble floors polished to a high sheen.

The structure exuded opulence while maintaining a cozy air with its plush décor.

Upon arrival, Finn hopped out of the driver's seat and opened the back door for you and Emma.

You carefully stepped out onto the cobblestone driveway, feeling the weight of this new world pressing down upon you. Emma rubbed her eyes and slowly emerged from her drowsy state, taking in the splendor of the ornate mansion with fascination and open admiration.

Finn led you through the imposing oak door, which creaked slightly as he pulled it open. As soon as you entered, you were met with a grand foyer adorned with chandeliers that cast an amber glow upon the walls.

"You made it," Grace 's stern voice eventually echoed off the marble tiles, causing you to turn around.

She stood there in a long-sleeved maroon blouse and black pencil skirt, her piercing blue eyes sizing you up like some sort of puzzle she couldn't wait to solve.

Emma, seemingly intimidated by her appearance, slowly retreated behind you as Grace approached with determination.

"You look well, given the circumstances," she then said to you, her voice laced with a noticeable hint of sarcasm, causing you to roll your eyes.

"I was hoping not to see you again, but here we are," you murmured under your breath, drawing Grace's ire as she narrowed her bright blue eyes infinitesimally.

"You should be grateful that I took you in," she snarled sharply, causing you to chuckle.

"How much are my grandparents paying you to have us?" you said, unflinching, watching Grace's face for a reaction.

Grace's expression barely changed, merely raising an eyebrow as if amused before replying scathingly, "Nothing. At least not until you make it to 21, so you better behave," she warned.

You took a deep breath, realizing that this was not the time to engage in a war of words with your stepmother. You turned to Emma and noticed that she was trembling slightly and you could see the worry etched into her delicate features. You slipped your arm around her shoulders, pulling her close and offering what you hoped was a reassuring smile.

"Let's get you settled in," you said softly to Emma, who managed a weak nod in response as Grace turned and led the way down the grand hallway.

"The maids will show you to your rooms. You will be staying in the staffing quarters,"  Grace snapped as she pivoted and strode through an arched doorway, leaving you and Emma with two young women wearing crisp white aprons who appeared in your line of vision.

You watched silently as Grace disappeared before you turned to Emma, smiling despite the tension thickening in the air, and whispered gently, "She can't hurt us, Em. She needs us. So just ignore her." 

Emma nodded slowly, but it was clear that she wasn't entirely convinced.

You couldn't blame her - the past few years had been nothing but a series of harsh lessons for both of you, leaving you both vulnerable and wary. But deep down, you knew that things would be different here. This was a new beginning for the two of you, away from the cold-hearted family members who had mistreated you, and into the care of someone who, while intimidating and unpredictable, was bound to follow your father's final wishes for financial reasons.

You were determined to make the best of this opportunity, no matter how difficult that might be considering your complicated history with Grace and, with that in mind, you unpacked your suitcases and settled in.

The rooms were modest but comfortable, with the staff quarters being clean and well looked after, much to your surprise.

Soon enough, your first day in Birmingham was drawing to a close and after you put Emma to bed, you decided to have a warm bath before venturing out to explore this somewhat opulent mansion. 

You put on the satin robe which once belonged to your mother and strolled towards the grand staircase with bare feet, looking at all of the incredible paintings that lined the walls, showcasing various landscapes and portraits of people whose names you did not yet know.

As you reached the second floor, you came across a door which seemed slightly ajar and upon pushing it open, you discovered a library.

Your eyes widened at the sight of thousands of books neatly arranged on wooden bookshelves that stretched from floor to ceiling before, in the room next to it, finding a large piano.

You walked over to the piano and gently touched its surface, marveling at the intricate carvings before looking back at the books surrounding you.

The library was quiet, save for the occasional creak of the old wooden floorboards settling. You moved further into the room, running your fingers along the spines of various titles.

There were novels from authors you recognized like Charles Dickens, Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters but there was also an array of non-fiction texts ranging from science, philosophy to mathematics and history.

There was also a section dedicated to poetry where you spotted a few works by Lord Byron, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Wordsworth which intrigued you.

Despite the vast quantities of books in this room, the smell of old leather-bound volumes filled the air as if it was just yesterday when they were placed on these mahogany shelves.

Just as you were about to pick up a book of poetry, the door creaked open, and you heard a dark voice behind you.

"It's quite sad, really," the man said, his tone heavy with contempt. "The book, I mean," he clarified as you turned around, meeting the stranger's gaze.

"I am Thomas Shelby and you must be Y/N,"  he introduced himself, approaching you with a confident stride.

Your eyes widened as you took in the sight of the man who stood before you. He was handsome, there was no denying that, but it wasn't just his chiseled features or his magnetic blue eyes that caught your attention. No, it was the air of danger that surrounded him, like a cloud that warned others not to get too close.

You composed yourself, extending your hand towards him. "Yes, I am Y/N. It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr Shelby," you greeted him with a polite smile, determined to maintain your composure.

"Please, call me Tommy, eh,"  Thomas replied, his cockney accent more pronounced than you'd expected.

He took your offered hand, giving it a firm shake before letting go and stepping back to study you with his intense gaze which lingered a little longer on your bare legs than it probably should.

"Thank you for letting me and my sister stay here, with you," you said almost professionally , breaking the silence. You had to admit, Thomas was an intimidating man but you held your ground without flinching under his scrutiny.

"Well, it wasn't my choice," he chuckled. "Grace practically begged me and I find it rather difficult to say no to her these days,"  he admitted, his tone softening.

You couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at his candidness. "Well, my stepmother can be persuasive, I give her that," you told him while putting the book back into the shelf. 

"You could say that," he replied, offering little insight into their relationship. "Do you drink?" Thomas asked in a manner so casual that the question caught you off guard, but your curiosity was sparked, and you wanted to know more about him. Despite his intimidating presence, he struck you as an intriguing puzzle you couldn't wait to solve.

"I wouldn't say no," you responded with a slight tilt of your head, smiling coyly.

Thomas chuckled at your response before turning around to pour two glasses of whiskey from a crystal decanter on the leather-topped table nearby. With an elegant grace, he handed one to you.

You took it with a slight nod, allowing your fingers to graze his before taking hold of the glass. The warmth spread from your fingertips and up your arm, causing a pleasant shiver to run down your spine.

"There you go, now you can keep me some company," Tommy said with a sly grin as he took a sip of his whiskey and sat down.

"Why don't you get Grace to keep you company?" you asked as you followed suit, feeling the alcohol burn your throat and spread through your body, warming you from the inside out. 

"Because, by now, I would assume that she is sound asleep," Thomas replied, chuckling wryly.

"Well, it is midnight already, which brings me to the question of why you are still up," you asked, raising an eyebrow at him.

"Because I can't fucking sleep, Love," he replied in a tone of voice that made your heart race, "there is always business on my mind, day and night." 

You stared at him for a moment, contemplating whether or not to ask more about his life. After all, you had heard stories about Thomas Shelby and his criminal empire. 

"Well, the booze doesn't export itself to New York now, does it?"  you replied, a small smirk playing on your lips.

Thomas chuckled at your response, finding amusement in your wit. He appreciated a challenge - it was something he hadn't encountered in a while. Grace had always been so timid around him, obedient almost. But you, on the other hand, didn't cower in the face of his daunting presence.

"So you know what I do, eh?" Thomas agreed, swirling the whiskey in his glass. "Did Grace tell you?" Thomas questioned, a slight glint in his eyes as he studied you intently. His gaze was unwavering, and you couldn't help but feel a sense of discomfort at his scrutiny. However, you refused to let him intimidate you, meeting his gaze head-on.

"Oh god no. My stepmother would not discuss matters like this, not with me anyway. She very much dislikes me," you told Tommy as he lid himself a cigarette, his gaze never wavering. "But I know more about my family's business interests than one might think," you admitted, reluctant to speak ill of Grace.

Tommy's lips quirked upwards before he exhaled a cloud of smoke. "That doesn't surprise me, Love. A little birdie has told me that you had some run ins with the law recently, which is why you are here now, in fucking Birmingham of all places,"  Thomas said, his tone laced with an underlying hint of mischief.

He leaned back against the leather armchair, his eyes never leaving yours as he took a long drag from his cigarette.

"Well, it's safe to say that I had made some mistakes in the past," you admitted, holding his gaze firmly. "But I had my reasons for doing what I did," you explained, and  Thomas chuckled at your response, finding your confidence endearing. He had always admired a strong-willed woman - and you were undoubtedly that.

"We all have our reasons, Love,"  Tommy agreed, his tone softening.

You took another sip of your whiskey, the fire in your throat becoming increasingly comforting, and you let out a sigh. The truth was that you had always been impulsive, driven by emotion rather than reason.

You took a moment to gather your thoughts before speaking. "I suppose you're right," you admitted, swirling the amber liquid around your glass before raising from your seat.

"It's getting late and I should probably get some sleep," you said before thanking Tommy for the drink.

Your gaze lingered on him for a moment, studying his features as he did the same with you. There was a spark of curiosity between the two of you, but you quickly tried to push your intrusive thoughts away. 

"Good night, Y/N,"  Thomas murmured, his gaze dropping to your lips for a fleeting moment before you turned around and walked towards the door, hiding your body's reaction to his intense gaze.

"Goodnight," you replied softly, taking one last look at the library before stepping out and closing the door behind you.

You couldn't shake off the feeling of uneasiness that clung to you like a second skin. You shook your head slightly as if to clear the thoughts away, telling yourself that you were only imagining things.

But the way he had looked at you, the slight hint of something deeply sensual in his gaze, lingered and left you with a curious sensation.

You made your way to your guest room, undressing slowly before slipping between the smooth sheets. Emma was already fast asleep, her gentle snores barely audible as you switched off the bedside lamp. The room plunged into darkness, leaving only the faintest gleam of moonlight to cut through the curtains and cast thin stripes of silver upon the walls.

You stared up at the ceiling, the alcohol swimming lazily in your veins and causing your thoughts to swirl with unclear notions.

As much as you tried to fight against the growing allure, Thomas Shelby had intrigued you. There was no denying it. He possessed an air of mystery and darkness that called out to that impulsive part of you like a siren's song which was a part of you which you knew you had to suppress. 

Tags:

@sunbeamseas @saint-ackerman @oatmealisweird @naxxsstuff @amanda08319 @r-m-cidnah @elysiannook @cillshot @infireddabdab @tastycakee @harrysbestiee @lilybabe22 @adalynlowell @henrywintersdearestgirl @ietss @thatgirlthatreadswattpad @ryiamarie @axionn

@heidimoreton @nela-cutie @futurecorps3 @delishen @nosebleeds-247 @thirteenis-myluckynumber @gills-lounge @hjmalmed @lost-fantasy @tiredkitten @sidechrisporn @smallsoulunknown @charqing-qing @hopefulinlove @aporiasposts @shycrybaby @me-and-your-husband @hjmalmed @lacontroller1991 @galxydefender @aporiasposts

@galxydefender @hunnibearrr @saint-ackerman @lunyyx @gentlemonsterjennie1 @ihavealotoffandomssorry @nadloves @lost-fantasy @nolucesn@mcavoy-girl @hjmalmed @bloodybagels @obeyme4life @richiesgroupie @blushykiss @tatumrileyslover @teawithsatanx @orijanko @rhaenyra4ever @xcinnamonmalfoyx @budugu @nadloves @kmc1989 @bloodybagels @obeyme4life @richiesgroupie @forgottenpeakywriter @smailaway @sophiaaguirred @blondie-22

[grandline-fics]

hello…may i request mihawk, law, and sanji with a reader thats a famous pianist? please and thank you! hope you have a good day :)

DESCRIPTION: You’re a famous pianist

WARNINGS:  none

CHARACTERS: Mihawk, Sanji

WORDS: 1,197

A/N: Thank you for the request! Sadly I couldn't think of a good scenario for Law so hopefully you're happy with what I managed to come up with for the other two.

*REQUESTS ARE OPEN*

MASTERLIST

———————

MIHAWK

Mihawk found himself standing in a lavish banquet hall, his expression impassive but his eyes remained sharp as he observed the whole ridiculous scenes of disguised conversations, ass-kissing, and not-so secret dealings. Just a typical function though none of it held his interest he was only here for you. Your name was considered one of if not the greatest pianist in the world. He’d heard your music in his travels but it was only ever through speakers and projected on screens. To see you perform in person was one of his greatest ambitions. 

Yet somehow you were annoyingly evasive regardless of how vast your fame reached. In one regard he could applaud your need for privacy and being reclusive but when it messed with his own selfishness his feelings became conflicted. So when he finally heard you’d be preforming at a royal gala he made it his mission to be there. Even if it meant he was currently having to endure the current tedium, the reward made it all worthwhile so now he just had to wait. 

Finally the doors opened and the obnoxiously loud chatter abruptly ended as you entered the room and sat at the gleaming piano. You’d paid no mind to the crowd already enchanted by your presence with practiced poise and when your fingers defy began to play Mihawk felt everyone take a collected breath, himself included. As much as Mihawk had found enjoyment in the projections and records of your playing in the past he found that by comparison to the real thing they all but spat in the face of your talent. 

At the end of the performance and the thunderous applause sounded you began to detach yourself from the situation, having no ties to the king of the island or his guests but paused when you met the intense golden stare of someone you truly hadn’t expected to be in attendance. Instead of making your usual quick exit you found yourself walking towards the swordsman. “Well I wasn’t expecting to see you here. If you’re here to kill someone for a bounty could you wait until I’m paid first?” you asked playfully. 

Mihawk smirked, pleasantly surprised that you seemed calm in his presence when most tended to shy away from him which was how he preferred it most of the time. It seemed your ability to charm people wasn’t confined to just when you were sat at the piano, even speaking to you had him captivated. “I promise my being here is for anything but business. I had an opportunity to finally see you perform and only a fool would pass up a chance.”

Surprise lit your eyes at the revelation and a smile graced your lips, genuinely touched that someone like the notorious marine hunter and warlord of the sea would be a fan of your music. “I hope I didn’t disappoint your expectations.”

“My dear, the only disappointment I felt was that I couldn’t hear more.” He told you smoothly before offering to get you a drink. If he had to cut talking to you short, it would be a second disappointment of the evening. Thankfully you didn’t seem to be in any rush to leave just yet.

SANJI

The first time Sanji met you was the day before the opening of the Baratie. After spending so much time with Zeff in making this restaurant a reality he was a bundle of nerves and excitement to see it all finally complete. The older chef however was calm and collected which only annoyed Sanji further. As the two were about to launch into an argument a small knock sounded and Zeff immediately grinned, the final piece to make the opening one to remember had arrived just in time. The door opened and Sanji frowned to see two unknown adults enter, not getting why they would make Zeff’s demeanour change to become pleasant for once. Then he saw you poke your head out from behind the legs of one of the adults. You were around his age, maybe a little shorter but you looked around the restaurant with silent appreciation. Then you spotted the piano and your shyness immediately disappeared and you hurried over to inspect it. 

While the adults talked, Sanji followed you and watched carefully; he was protective of everything in the restaurant, even if it was over the stupid piano that Zeff insisted was a necessary purchase. The last thing he wanted was some kid wrecking it before the opening. His eyes narrowed when you climbed onto the seat and reached forward to touch the shining keys and he caught your hand to stop you. “It’s not a toy.” He warned. The two of you glared at each other and you sharply pulled your hand out of his grip. Swiftly you began to play, effectively shutting Sanji up with the skill coming from your small fingers and the tune it created was one he’d never forget. 

After that rocky start you and Sanji slowly began to warm to each other. Over the years as your reputation grew as a world class pianist and his grew as a world class chef you still found time to stop by the Baratie to visit, never forgetting where your big break came from. You still stopped by your favourite restaurant when Sanji joined the Strawhat crew and your visits seemed to stop. At that same time your fame skyrocketed too, taking you further into the New World with many concerts and performances to keep you occupied.

One day while Sanji walked through a new town to stock up on supplies for the ship he came to an abrupt halt to see your face and name on a poster. Excitement flooded him to see you were here on the island at the same time as him and you were due to play at a local theatre that evening. Knowing you, you’d already be there and practicing. Not wanting to risk missing the chance at a reunion after so many years he set off for the theatre, his task of food shopping forgotten.  

His skills as a pirate allowed him to sneak into the theatre from one of the side entrances and he smiled in satisfaction to hear the faint sound of music drifting down the empty hallways, glad that his hunch was right. As quietly as he could, Sanji made it to the wings of the stage and watched you with a growing smile. You’d truly honed your skills as finely as he’d refined his abilities as a chef until the most complicated task-performing or cooking- appeared effortless. When you finished the song, Sanji applauded you, grinning to see you look up at him in surprise and joy. Quickly you got up and hurried over. “About time you showed up, I’m starving.”

“Oh really? In that case, come back to the ship with me and I’ll make you the best meal of your life. Least I could do since after getting to hear you play again.”

“Well how could I say no to that?” You grinned while hooking your arm through his and let him lead the way.

[whiteeyes-is-a-mad-scientist]

oc intro

week has started off rough cause I got bit by a dog and my leg now hurts and has a nasty bruise 💔 so why not chat about some of my wof ocs. Fair warning there will be alot of older art 💀 prepare

princess jojoba, sandwing, she/her

Jojoba I'd one of many siblings and in no way near the throne, thus she is carefree. She's also mama's favorite and they spend time together often. when not with her mother she is off watching races across the dunes and trading within markets. While Jojoba is outgoing and joyful she is haunted by the fact one of her sisters will kill their mother for the throne. She doesn't want to loose her mother and she knows she'll never very whoever does it the same.

art status: oldish ref needs redone

Forestfire, skywing, he/him

Forestfire is a rather large firescales skywing. When he was born rumors and fear spread quickly. His parents paid an animus to make a rope, unable to be burned or broken, and tied it around their sons jaws to keep him from using his fire. They thought if he never used fire that the internal flame would just burn out and he'd become "normal". The rope did the opposite causing his flames to burn stronger and break through his scales to find some relief. The poor boy was then banished into the mountain and locked up for good. Forestfire now waits within the mountain growing angrier by the day waiting for a group of pseudo prophecy dragonets to stumble their way in and release him.

Art status: old ref, needs redo and will probably be removing the front horn it's a bit too hivewing

BASE: Joy ang lines from the book

Fossil, mudwing, he/him

Fossil is a lost mudwing trying to find his family. He doesn't remember them but just has that gut feeling something is wrong. He is well liked within the mudwing villages and he drifts from troop to troop, feeling loved but not exactly fitting in

Art status: needs drawn ref

Wolfsbane, leafwing, he/him

A hired hand, will do anything for money kinda guy. He looks pretty intimidating so he hasn't really had to get violent on many of his jobs. Thinking of sticking this guy into my other mind au story

Art status: old-ish art, would like to give new ref but doesn't not need one immediately

Queen Sonne and Queen sunset, skywing and silkwing, both she/her

Two queens I made for an rp a long time ago that sadly didn't work out. They do have full refs but they are on bases rn and need redone.

Queen sonne of the skywings is an older more serious queen, she is known for being harsh and no nonsense.

Queen sunset of the silkwings is a very young queen. She was her mothers only daughter and her mother sadly passed early. Sunset is under constant pressure from a group of nobles each trying to dictate laws to their own interest. Sunset is currently trying to find her voice and looks up to queen Sonne a lot.

So there's a handful of my own ocs ❤️ some need to to be reworked and refs re drawn but I still love them

[bumblesimagines]

is that a hickey?

you make a great pillow.

- Kiara Carrera

you make a great pillow.

is that a hickey?

Pronouns: They/Them/Theirs, GN!Reader

There was something calming about the Carrera Residence. Maybe it was the sound of the water gently sloshing around nearby, or the soft rumble of boats in the water, or maybe it was simply the complete and utter silence. Back home, in Tannyhill, catching a wink of sleep was difficult once someone woke up. Ward would start making phone calls and his loud voice would boom throughout the house, Rose's shrill voice would shriek through the hallways, Wheezie's neverending complaints and whines would begin from the second she woke up, Sarah and Rafe would thump around with heavy footsteps. With the Carrea's, however, Mike and Anna were incredibly mindful of their daughter's beauty sleep. 

Sadly, Kiara hadn't inherited that caring trait. 

"Wake up." Her hushed voice hit your ear, sluggish and still tired but loud enough to draw you from your slumber. "You gotta go, babe. Dad will kill you if he catches you here."

"Mm, I doubt it. Mike loves me." You still remembered the way Mike and Anna's faces brightened when Kiara brought you around to their place. You were sure they'd been praying day and night that her secret partner wasn't one of the troublemakers she called friends. A charming, good kid from Figure Eight had been exactly what they wanted for a future in-law.

"It's conditional." Kiara giggled.

"Oh, fuck you." You laughed softly and she slapped her palm over your mouth, the sting forcing your eyes to crack open and glare in her direction. Kiara snorted and pressed her lips into your shoulder to muffle her giggles, mouthing a silent apology against your skin before slowly peeling her hand back. She moved carefully, nose crinkling when her bed creaked loudly into the quiet air. You could hear the muffled sound of speaking downstairs, signaling her parents were up and about. 

"You have to go now," Kiara whispered and tied up her mop of curls into an equally messy bun. She brushed a few curls out of her face and slipped out of bed, tiptoeing around her bedroom to collect the clothes scattered around the floor. Separating your things from hers, she wiggled on the pajamas she'd worn the previous day and motioned for you to hurry up. "You make a great pillow, by the way."

Climbing out of her bed, you began slipping your clothes back on. In the middle of tugging your pants up, you felt your phone slip out of the back pocket and clatter loudly onto the wooden floor. You and Kiara froze, staring at the phone wide-eyed as the sound downstairs briefly paused before resuming again. You scrambled to finish dressing and snatched the phone off the floor, the sounds of the stairs creaking and groaning prompting Kiara to shove you toward the window. 

"I'll see you later?" You asked quietly, planting your hands on the windowsill and sticking your legs out. Kiara answered with a kiss and rapid nodding so with one last smile, you hopped down onto the grass below and nearly fell over when your knees threatened to give out. You held in a grunt and braced yourself against the wall, giving your body a minute to catch up. 

"Hey, sweetheart," Anna's voice drifted through the open window and held your breath, hoping she hadn't caught on.

"Hey, Mom. What's up?" Kiara was horrible at pretending. You could hear the quivering and awkwardness in her voice.

"We're just finishing up breakfast downstairs. Go brush your teeth and join us." You exhaled a sigh of relief and pushed yourself off the wall, beginning to creep away toward the front gate when you heard Anna's next words and nearly laughed. "Kiara Carrera, is that a hickey?"

[rainybyday]

When Danny became Ghost King or simply the Ghost Prince there has to be a system of order. Sure, Pariah Dark was a tyrant, but he wasn’t always so, he actually had the decency to meet and overlook at the rulers and lords of different death related dimensions and time spaces. And being that Danny is going to take the title of ruler of the Infinite Realms of ALL those dimension and time spaces he has to meet with each and every one of them. 

The law/rule of the Infinite Realms is that one must beat the previous ruler on a one-to-one combat to gain the title of King of the Infinite Realms. Logically a few rules/lords did try to fight Danny for the title, but they all lost. Thankfully it was only a few that tried to fight him. I mean, who would want to fight the boy that is Balance himself and who defeated the previous King that none of them could every dream of winning against. So, while there are a few dumb ones everyone else was smart enough to welcome Danny into their Domian. 

Part of the greetings also establish ties to the lords/rulers to have Danny on their good side, so many of them would give gifts or favors to Danny, some even going as far as to offer their undying (ha) loyalty.  

But there are some rulers that need help from Danny because of Pariah Dark. You see, while some rulers were smart enough to detach themselves from the tyrant and his power, some rulers were very dependent on his powers to hold their domains together. Ever since Pariah Dark was sealed away, their power and hold of their domain dwindled significantly and created the domino effect of hurting their domain and their people/spirits. 

On such place was Gotham City herself. 

Gotham was a city created by history of magic and death, so logically the City became a domain that can be claimed under the ruling of Death. When Gotham was created, she was actually quite powerful and would grow and prosper for many years. But when Pariah Dark was sealed, she had to save her energy in order to stop the collapsing of her domain. Sadly, she didn’t have enough energy to go out for long and had to use the last bits of her energy to protect the bats of her city. 

She was in such a bad state that Danny decided to take her back to the Infinite Realms in order to heal her, but also knowing someone had to stay in order to hold up her domain. As the new King/Prince, Danny stayed and promise Gotham that her domain would be safe under his protection, and he promise to clean the ‘cracks’ that had damaged the area. 

And that is how Danny became Gotham’s temporary ruler and damage control ruler. 

First, he started with even more protection on the bats. If Gotham had used all her energy to protect them with the last of her strength, then they must be important. Once he does that, he will clean the streets of the smaller thieves and crooks while at the same time help the homeless children of Gotham have a safe place to be and food to find. 

The rouges? Well... let's say there was a very silent where Gotham watch Joker willingly walk into his cell. 

Gotham is delighted when she came back, fully healed and well enough to watch her city without collapsing in pain. She adored the way her streets were less filled with children going hungry, how the night was more peaceful instead of tense, and how the rouges have been given a good smacking. She never saw how... how... how bright her city can become. 

With that set and done, and Danny signing a contract with Gotham to have a permanent connection to Danny to share his power Gotham asked him if he would meet the ones, she cherishes the most in her domain.

And that was how Batman was greeted by a woman in a dress of shadows and a boy of green Lazars eyes. What should have put him on edge had the opposite effect of peace sweeping down on him for the first time in a long time.

And that was how his birds and bats found him, smiling gently at the pair with silent tears. 

(Gotham held and protected her bat because he was her only hope to save her domain. Now, she finally has the power to bring hope to her lovely little boy’s eyes.) 

[workersolidarity]

🇺🇸 🚨

UNITED STATES CONGRESS PASSES SERIES OF ANTI-DEMOCRATIC AND PRO-WAR BILLS DESPITE PUBLIC OPPOSITION

The United States Congress and Senate passed a series of bills, including three controversial anti-democratic and pro-war bills, two of which were tied together, on Saturday, bypassing public opinion and popular opposition to the profligate, pro-war, globalist, Neolib/Neocon agenda currently driving United States domestic and foreign policy.

Included in the bills passed was a bill to force TikTok to divest from its connections with China at risk of being banned immediately, which naturally was tied to a Foreign aid bill.

However, as even Republican Senator Rand Paul mentioned in an opinion piece in Reason Magazine, the Bill is almost certain to lead to more power for American political elites and their administrations to pressure companies like Apple and Google to further ban apps and sites that offer contradictory opinions to that of the invented narratives of the American Political class.

Before long, Americans, many of whom are already poorly informed, and heavily misinformed by their mainstream media, could lose access to critical information that contradicts the narratives of the United States government and corporate elites.

Horrifically, this only the start. The US Congress also extended the newly revised FISA spy laws, which gives the United States government the power to spy on the electronic communications of foreigners, while also conveniently sweeping up the conversations of millions of Americans, as we learned years ago thanks to the sacrifices of whistle blowers and journalists like Edward Snowden, Chelsea Manning and Julian Assange.

The new FISA Law goes further than this, however, granting US Intelligence agencies the power to spy on the wireless communications of Americans in completely new ways.

A recent Jacobin article describes these new powers as a, "radical expansion of government surveillance that would be ripe for abuse by a future authoritarian leader", or it could just be used by the authoritarian leadership we have right now, and have had for decades.

In fact, when one commentator described the new powers as "Stasi-like," Edward Snowden himself replied with a long post in which he remarked, "invocation of "Stasi-like" is not only a fair characterization of Himes' amendment, it's probably generous. The Stasi dared not even dream of what the Himes amendment provides."

The amendment in question just "tweaks" the current law's definition of an "electronic communication provider," which is being changed to "any service provider," something extremely likely to be abused by the government to force anyone with a business, a modem and people using their broadband to collect the electronic communications of those people, while also forcing their victims into silence.

The government could essentially force Americans to spy on other people and remain silent about it. Cafe's, restaurants, hotels, business landlords, shared workspaces all could get swept up into the investigations of the Intelligence agencies.

Worse still, because picking out the communications of a single user would be next to impossible, all of their victim's data would end up being surrendered to the authorities.

Sadly, the assault on Americans by their own political elites didn't end there, to top this historic day in Congress, at time when the United States public debt is growing at an astounding rate of $1 trillion every 100 days, US lawmakers also passed a series of pro-war aid packages to American allies (vassals) totalling some $95 billion.

Included in the foreign aid bill are aid packages totalling $61 billion for the Ukraine scam, $26 billion for Israel's special genocide operation in the Gaza Strip, and $8 billion to the Indo-Pacific to provoke WWIII with China, at the same time we're also provoking a nuclear holocaust with the Russian Federation.

Also buried in these aid packages is the authorization for the United States government to outright steal the oversees investments of the Russian Federation, and thereby the Russian taxpayers.

Astonishingly, and in direct opposition to the wishes of their own voters, Republican support was won without the possibility of conditioning the aid to any kind of border security, this despite the issue being among the top biggest concerns of Republican voters.

Although much of the money is to be used replenishing the heavily depleted stocks of America's weapons and munitions, it remains unclear where the munitions are expected to come from, as US defense production has remained sluggish and slow to expand despite heavy investments and demand in recent years, despite the rapid urgency with which the policy elite describe the situation.

It bodes poorly for working Americans that only a relatively small handful of lawmakers opposed the bills, producing unlikely bedfellows like Senator Bernie Sanders and Senator Mike Lee in the Senate, opposing the FISA bill.

While in the House, the loudest opposition to the foreign aid bill mostly came from populist Republicans such as Marjorie Taylor Greene, Thomas Massie and Paul Goser. Only 58 Congresmembers voted against the Foreign Aid Bill in which the TikTok ban was tucked.

Not one word from American politicians about the need to raise the minimum wage, which hasn't been increased since 2009 despite considerable inflation, nor a word about America's endlessly growing homelessness crises, property crime increases, or the 40-year stagnation of American wages, the deterioration of infrastructure, and precious little was said besides complaints about border security over the immigration crises sparked by American Imperialist adventures and US sanctions.

What we've learned today is that we are highly unlikely to see any changes to the insane behavior of the US and its allies any time soon, neither with regards to the absolutely bonkers Neocon foreign policy leading us to the edge of abyss, nor the spending-for-the-rich/austerity-for-the-poor Neoliberal domestic policy of the last 45 years.

#source1

#source2

#source3

#source4

#source5

#source6

#source7

#source8

@WorkerSolidarityNews

Blue: titles are opinion pieces or analysis, and may or may not contain sources.

[abbatoirablaze]

Sealed, Steve Rogers

Word Count: 2.2k

Warnings:  sexual tension, slight angst, mentions of fighting, underage drinking, dubcon/noncon relationship.

Part 2 of 3.

Part 1, Signed

Part 3, Delivered

“My god, you’ve grown so much, (Y/N),” your future mother-in-law cooed as she pulled you into a hug.  You gave Mrs. Rogers a small, albeit forced smile as you pulled away and she got another look at you.  She reached out and stroked your cheek, “my god, I remember when you were just a little girl.  Barely knee high and going at it with Stevie like cats and dogs.  Now look at you!  You look like a refined young woman…”

“Yeah…it has been a while…”

“Been a while,” she giggled, pulling away from you, “been a while might have been a holiday or two…I haven’t seen you since your mother squirreled you and your sisters away from sight when you hit the end of fourth grade.”

You gave another forced smile, “yeah…I’m sorry.  I-I would have called…or written, but I-I didn’t have anyone’s numbers memorized.  A-and, well…mum thought it was best that I focus on school.  She always said a good education helps all.”

“It’s okay sweetie,” she smiled softly, “we understand…Steve’s sister just got married to that Parker boy…sweetest little couple you’ve ever seen…you’ll see them at the reception at the end of the week.  They’re still finishing their honeymoon.”

Your eyes widened, “oh no…I-I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean to interr-“

“Oh, you’re not interrupting anything,” she laughed, “we insisted on Peter taking her on a nice little honeymoon to one of our villas in Milan.  They get back from there in about a day or so, so they’ll have plenty of time to unwind before your nuptials…”

“Yeah…”

“Sarah…maybe we let (Y/N) get reacquainted with everyone…I don’t believe she’s gotten to say hello to her father yet…have you dear?”

“Oh…uhm no,” you admitted sadly, the smallest of frowns crossing your lips, “I-I haven’t seen daddy yet.”

“He’s in his office,” she smiled as she looped her arm through Mrs. Rogers, “go say hello to him and pull him from whatever he’s doing in there.  He should be out here…enjoying the party.  It is your homecoming after all…and soon you’ll be a Rogers and not a Barnes.  All of you should be mingling…it’s your graduation and engagement party after all…”

“I still don’t see why we couldn’t do two separate parties,” Mrs. Rogers sighed as she gave you a soft look, “the girl should be celebrating all of her accomplishments…a party for graduating high school, and a party for becoming officially engaged to my Stevie.  I keep telling you Winnifred this all feels too cluttered…you should have let me plan at least one of the parties…allow me to showcase our home...”

“You’re too kind, Mrs. Rogers,” you offered, giving your mom an out as you put a hand on her arm, “I’m perfectly fine with just the one party.  Two parties so close to the wedding would have made it seem forced, wouldn’t it?”

She gave you a firm smile, “perhaps you’re right, sweetheart…you know, you always were a wise one, well before your time.  And how many times do I have to remind you, it’s mom…you’re practically our daughter as it is, (Y/N).  Lord knows Stevie’s been in love with you since the two of you were little…call me mom, sweetie…”

“Okay…mom…”

She chirped excitedly to your mother, cooing at how you calling her mom as well felt ‘all too right.’

Meanwhile, you rolled your eyes as you started back to the house, promising both mob wives that you would go to find your father, while ignoring the rest of the party goers and well-wishers. 

You barely had an idea on who many of them were, only knowing that they were associated with one of the five families, and here to ‘strengthen ties.’ 

It sickened you to your stomach. 

Everything was done to ‘strengthen ties,’ while they bickered behind closed doors and made stomach-turning deals.  All of them wearing faux masks of happiness to see one another, when they would all too quickly stab one another in the back for a chance on a higher rung.  But that was the nature of the beast.  One that you’d become all too accustomed to. 

You were glad when your parents sent you off to finishing school back in London.  You didn’t have to deal with anyone and could just blend in without having to be a Barnes, or the future Mrs. Rogers.

“Champagne, miss?”

You smiled politely, holding a glass in each hand.  When he gave you a look, you shrugged, “going to take one to my fiancé…or father.  Whomever I can find first I suppose.”

He gave a nod, one that said that he didn’t believe you, but he didn’t question it as he turned on his heel and went back to the main part of the party.  When he was out of sight, you downed the first.  Feeling the crisp, dry bite of the champagne, you rounded the corner and took the other, as though it was a shot yet again. 

A shiver ran down your spine as the warmth from the alcohol filled your belly.  You placed the two empty glasses along a desk sitting in the entryway. 

Sighing, you noticed that your father’s study door was closed.

It was always business with him. 

But stepping forward you could hear voices behind the heavy wooden door.  You frowned when you couldn’t recognize the one that was speaking, nor make out any words that he’d been saying.  But a roar of laughter made you pause from knocking. 

You recognized the melodic laugh of your brother, despite not seeing him since you were ten. 

“You gotta stop getting into fights, punk,” the thirteen-year-old chuckled as he ruffled the sandy blonde hair of his best friend, “you’re twelve and nearly losing to a eight year old.”

“He was nine,” Steve grumbled, shooing his friend’s hand away, “and anyways…I didn’t need your help, Buck.  I’m Steve Rogers.  The heir to the Itali-“

“You’re the heir of every ass-kicking from here to the Bronx with how you go picking fights…” Bucky replied sternly, his laughter fading away, “come on man…I shouldn’t have to rescue you from a little kid…all I wanted to do was enjoy my book and-”

“He was annoying (Y/N).”

Bucky gave you a small frown and you rolled your eyes, crossing your arms over your eight-year-old chest, “he wasn’t annoying me nearly as much as you were, Rogers…”

Steve’s nostrils flared, “you know…I did it to help you, (Y/N)!  I did it because I was standing up for my wif-“

“Don’t you dare say it, Steven Grant Rogers!” You growled, cutting the older boy off as you wagged your finger in his face, “don’t you dare!  I am not your wife!”

“But (Y/N), you are going to be it one day!” he said quickly, “you’re going to be my wife!  And I’m going to burn down the world for you…or at least anyone that gets in your way.”

“You’re in my way,” you growled, “you’re always in my  way.  News flash, Steve…I don’t need you lurking around every corner waiting to be chivalrous.  I don’t want it!”

“But (Y/N) I’m doing it because I love you,” he simpered, attempting to take your hand in his own, “I-

You sneered, your face scrunching up at the words as you ripped your hand from his, “stop it, Steve!  I will never be your wife…because you won’t make it to adulthood.  You won’t ever be anything other than a scrawny little twerp who can’t fight his own battles let alone the ones you pick over me…and you’re gonna get Bucky hurt…just like the last time.”

Steve frowned as he turned to look at his best friend.  Bucky nervously pulled the sleeve down so that his cybernetic arm was covered by the sweater, “(Y/N)…”

You looked at your older brother, still angry over the accident that Steve caused years ago when he and Bucky first became friends.

“I-It was an accident, my lo-“

“I’m not your anything, Steve!” you spat, glaring at the young man, “now go away!”

Bucky took a step forward, “(Y/N), that’s enough.  Steve was being a good fiancé and looking out for you.  And right now, you’re being a spoiled brat and pushing people’s buttons.”

“You had to come save his butt!”

“Yeah…and he saved yours…it’s what family does for one another…” Bucky growled, defending his friend, “family makes sure that they’re safe and sound.  That they-“

“Then why did he let you lose your arm, huh Bucky?”

“(Y/N)!”

“(Y/N)!”

You were snapped from your thoughts, and you noticed that the door to your father’s study was open, and man just inside the door, holding it open was none other than your big brother.  You felt a bit of pride in your stomach as you launched yourself at him, “BUCKY!”

“Pipsqueak!” Bucky exclaimed happily as he easily lifted you from the ground, “What are you doing in here?  You’re supposed to be out there enjoying your party!”

“Ughh, gag me with a spoon!” you groaned, “last thing I want is another snotty person from one of the families telling me congrats.  I wanted to see you, robo-boy!”

“(Y/N)” your father scolded as he stood from his desk.  Your heart melted as you peeled yourself away from your older brother and started towards your father. 

In the years since you’d last seen him, he’d definitely aged. 

He was only about fifty years old, but time had not been kind to him. 

He kept his hair short and tight on the sides, as was normal from his military days, but the salt and pepper look that had graced the longer hair on top was all but silver on the sides. 

He looked like an aged version of your older brother.  A little bit smaller, and definitely less muscle-mass, as well as the obvious differences in the fact that your father had both of his arms, while one of your brothers was a robotic one, but they were very much the same otherwise. 

“Daddy!”

He smiled as you wrapped your arms around him, becoming wrapped in the scent of the posh cologne that he wore that reminded you of smokey bourbon and fresh leather. His scolding of you had quickly faded and he allowed himself to melt under your touch. 

“Oh, sweetheart…I’ve missed you…it’s nice to have all of my children so close to home again…”

“How’ve you been.  Wha-“

“Good…good!” he smiled, pulling away from you, “but I don’t want to talk about me.  Tonight is about you, honey.  You and Steve!”

You groaned, hearing your fiancé’s name, “Daddy….can we just not talk about Steve Rogers for a second…you know that I don’t want to marry him.”

“Don’t worry…I think you’ve made that abundantly clear since we were children.”

You paled as you turned around and noticed a man that you didn’t recognize, standing off to the side of the room.  He was watching you interacting with his father while he kept his hands in his pockets.

You felt a blush rising to your cheeks as you stared back at the attractive man. He was tall and muscular…well built.  His sandy blonde hair was styled elegantly, and he was dressed to the nines.  You felt your heart fluttering as he looked at you with his cerulean stare and pouty lips. 

Was he someone new to your father’s crew?

But then the words snapped in your mind.

‘Don’t worry…I think you’ve made that abundantly clear since we were children.’

And you paled once more.

NO!

It couldn’t be.

Your stomach turned. 

Had you just been guilty of finding yourself attracted to him?  To Steve Rogers. 

You took a few steps away from your father and started to back out of the study.  “Sweetheart, where are you going?”

“Anywhere but here,” you muttered softly as you backed through the door.  You were nearly there until you stumbled when you took another step back.  You thought you’d hit the edge of the door frame, but when you heard the crashing of a silver platter behind you and the crunching of glass, you spun, “oh fuck…”

You had knocked over a waiter carrying a tray of champagne from the catering space in the kitchen to the party outside. 

“And here I was thinking it was bad luck to see the bride just on the night before the wedding,” the charming blonde smiled as he leaned against the bookcase.  You shot him a glare, trying to focus your rage into him, instead of staring at his chiseled jawline and the way that his clothes clung to his muscular frame and slim waist.  He pushed himself away from it and pulled his hands from his pockets.  In three quick steps he was nearly on top of you, his arm already looping around your waist and pulling you close.  Your lips parted as you stared into his cerulean eyes, unsure of what to do or say.  A smirk tugged at his lips, “why did no one tell me that it’s also two days before?”

“S-steve…”

He chuckled, and the action sent a pulse straight to your core as he watched you, “have you been drinking, (Y/N?)”

You felt a whimper escaping the back of your throat as you lost all resolve.  You weakly nodded, unable to form the words. 

“I can smell it on your breath,” he chuckled softly, still holding you close, “You naughty girl…”

“Sweetheart…I’m sure you remember Steve…” your father reminded you, “perhaps…your brother should take you to the powder room though…or the kitchen and get you sobered up before we address the guests for coming to celebrate you and him…”

“Y-yeah…”

[sabo-has-my-heart]

Excuse me, i saw the req is open. I hope you don't mind me requesting. If its not up to date with the rules, you can ignore it.

So do you mind writing some kind of a funny scenario for a x fem!civillan reader?

The reader is the beloved granddaughter of Sengoku who is a civillian with ridiculous luck (she know that she is not that strong but her luck make sure she is alive and well in that ridiculous world, that is why she chose not to join the marines because she believe she is not up to a marine standard, unlike her brother who is a powerful marine. Btw, her standard is a potential half of her grandfather power. And she is 1/15 of his, but she is more smart and cunning than her brother. I give her a brother so she is not burdened to feel dooming her family by not being a marine.)

And somehow through her luck, she dates and accept the proposal of Ace, making his soon-to-be-wife. She know that she need to choose, between her family who are all on the side of marines and 'justice' and her fiance on the side of pirates and 'freedom'. But she ends up choosing Ace, she did tell Ace that her family are all marines, just not which one. And she knows that it will be better not to tell her family that she is going to marry a pirate because she know they will not give her their blessing and they will be dissapointed in her.

On the day of the Marineford war, she already made an undercover rescue plans on her own. She understand marine tactic, know she have luck on her side and betting her life on that luck. She did somehow rescue Ace and Whitebeard but sadly her cover was blown by Akainu. And the world now know that Sengoku's granddaughter is siding with the 'criminals', so with a heavy heart she declares to cut all ties with her family (to not make more problems and dishonoring her family name further), before dissapearing with the other pirates. Sengoku was shocked, sad, and don't understand on why she is on the side of pirates.

After the Marineford, Garp give him reader's letter (she know that Garp is Ace's adopted grandpa and she trust him to give sengoku her letter and giving garp hints about her relationship with ace and indirectly asking garp for his blessing for her and ace relationship) detailing about her relationship, how she choose to leave the family to marry ace, how sorry she is to dissapointing and bringing shame to the family, how hard it is to chose between the two side, how much she loves her family and how she still wished to have his blessing on her marriage even though she know that its impossible.

Sengoku who read the letter is sad but understand her intention on her public declare in breaking the family ties but he still love and consider her as his granddaughter in his heart forever even tho she will become a pirate's wife, indirectly giving her his blessing after reading her letter.

But what i request is can you please write it more focused on the comedic aspect of Garp teasing and annoying Sengoku on how they would be in-laws and a family, how his beloved granddaughter will be garps granddaughter too, and sengoku is fuming about it and blaming garps grandson on corrupting his granddaughter? Just make it funny and not too serious.

I dont even know why i give the background on the reader while what i really want is the funny stuff on the bickering of these two old grandpa. I try to be specific, like what the rules said. But is it too specific and too long? I am sorry if it is. You can ignore it if you want.

Warnings: 

Word Count: 1040

     Garp had read the letter over Sengoku’s shoulder, allowing the man to quietly, somewhat mournfully, give his granddaughter his blessing. All he’d ever wanted was her happiness. She’d always had luck on her side, no matter what she did, no matter where she went, she never seemed to run into trouble. It was as if the world pushed dangers away from her. Even on the rare occasion that she did run into trouble, she was always able to get out of it. She had some skill with fighting, but she’d never had the skill or talent for it that her brother had. Her poor brother. He worked twice as hard, as if all of his luck had gone to her. It wasn’t that he had bad luck, he had no luck. Still, he’d never once resented his sister for being the lucky one; she was his beloved sister. Sengoku would need to tell the boy, he deserved to know the truth. He’d been there, watched her disown her family, the boy had been crushed. A small chuckle, then a hearty laugh, finally turning into a full blown, loud, boisterous howl drew Sengoku’s attention, watching as Garp leaned against the wall, laughing like a mad man, even as his lungs begged for air, gasping for breath.

"Welcome to the family, Fleet Admiral! You mind if I start calling her granddaughter too?” the man roared, finally collapsing into a chair as tears of laughter pricked at his eyes. Sengoku’s eye twitched as he stared at Garp.

     “You and your damned family! Always causing trouble no matter where you go!” Sengoku nearly shouted, wishing he could strangle the man. Still, Garp’s laughter filled the office, echoing down the hallways. The other marines would likely wonder what could possibly make the man laugh so loudly after everything that had happened. Not that Sengoku cared, as Fleet Admiral, he didn’t have to tell them a damned thing. Especially not about his granddaughter’s letter. 

     “Hey, maybe I should start calling her my granddaughter as well! I’m sure she’ll make a fine addition to the family!” Garp said, trying not to say anything too loudly, despite his roaring laughter. 

     “She might be getting married but you’d better give her the respect she deserves!” Sengoku said angrily, still trying to keep his voice quiet enough that nobody would hear.

     “She’s a pirate now, Fleet Admiral.” Garp said, still laughing. This only irritated Sengoku more. He knew that marines never respected pirates, by his own logic, Garp could call her whatever he pleased.

     “You’d better stay away from her, you hear! I know you let that other grandson of yours escape! If I even think that you’re going out that way, I’ll demote you!” Sengoku said angrily, his irritation at the man easily showing. He was friends with Garp, he liked the man well enough, but there was no way in hell he was letting Garp call her ‘granddaughter’. 

     “Don’t worry, I’m not about to go messing around with Whitebeard at my age.” he said, making it clear that the giant man was the biggest thing keeping him away. For once, Sengoku was glad that she was with the Whitebeard Pirates, at least this way he’d be forced to stay away from his beloved granddaughter. He might not be happy with her choice in men, but he loved her and just wanted her to be happy. 

     Of course Garp couldn’t stop there. At every chance he got, he’d remind Sengoku that Ace was marrying his granddaughter, that they were, for all intents and purposes, family. Fuming, Sengoku entered his office, slamming the door behind him. Garp had started asking him if they’d both be called ‘great grandfather’ by a child. Great Grandpa! Garp a great grandfather to his own great grandchild?! That damned grandson of his! Corrupting his sweet, innocent Y/n. She was too good of a girl for Garp’s wild, feral grandchildren! He’d heard the stories, things that people had witnessed of the ‘Great Portgas D. Ace’. It was clear from her letter that his granddaughter truly loved the boy, that it wasn’t some mere coercion or spell, she loved him. But his darling, darling granddaughter, the little girl he’d played tea time with, holding her high in the air like she was flying, let sleep on his shoulder as he carried her to bed, was marrying Garp’s grandson. He wasn’t sure what he preferred more. The idea of this wild child raised by wolves in the mountain, or a child raised by Garp. He didn’t really like either. Y/n deserved the kindest, sweetest, most loving man on earth. Someone who would shower her in love and affection for the rest of her life and protect her with their life. Someone who would hold her close forever, who would give her everything she ever desired, and never let her go. He hadn’t had many interactions with the boy until the execution, but until Whitebeard, Y/n, and Luffy had shown up, the boy had seemed pretty resigned to his fate, like all fight had been taken out of him. Seeing Whitebeard and Luffy, he’d been filled with worry, yet clearly felt so much love. He cared for both a great deal and didn’t want people to die for him. When he saw Y/n, he’d fought to break free, pleading with Whitebeard to get her out of there. When he’d gotten free, he and his brother had immediately been by her side as they escaped. He’d watched Ace block attacks aimed at her, protecting his beloved granddaughter. It was clear how much Ace loved her. Perhaps, if the boy loved her enough to protect her as fiercely as he did, it would be alright, she would be happy and that’s what mattered. Hearing his office door slam open, he was once again face to face with Garp, the man grinning like an idiot.

     “There you are. Thought I might stop by to give you the wedding announcement. She’s officially married to him. Welcome to the family.” Garp said. His grin widening as he handed Sengoku a beautiful card. On second thought, there was no way any grandson of Garp’s could be good news.

[arminreindl]

Baru: The Cleaver-Headed Crocodile

Ok back on my croc stuff, today discussing Baru. Like most the other crocs I've been talking about, Baru was a mekosuchine, a member of an endemic radiation of crocodilian native to Australasia. Baru is easily among the largest of this group and among the most robust, with massive curved teeth and almost inflated looking jaws. Left my interpretation of Baru darrowi, right the illustration by Willis et al. from 1990.

My reconstruction differs subtly in some regards, obviously the jaw material shown is from Ristevski et al. 2023 and elements of the posterior skull are based on the older Baru wickeni. My mandible also turned out slightly different, tho the quality of the images in the original description is not great so that is not guaranteed.

Anyhow, this head likely sat atop the body of what was a decently large crocodilian, with estimates suggesting four or even five meters in length for both currently recognized species Baru wickeni and Baru darrowi. As you can see below, I went for the lower estimate (which is the one given by proper publications), which still renders an immense animal all things considered, certainly holding up with many crocs of today.

Currently, there's two recognized species, one unnamed species and one that has been reassigned. The older of the named species is Baru wickeni, which was found in the Lake Eyre Basin and Riversleigh World Heritage Area during the late Oligocene. Like I already said, it was approximately as large and robust as the later Baru darrowi, but did differ in some regards. The skull had much more prominent crests, the nasal bone extended into the opening for the nares and importantly, the cutting edges of the teeth were smooth.

During the Miocene, Baru wickeni would be replaced by Baru darrowi, known from younger strata of the Riversleigh and the Bullock Creek fauna. Baru darrowi had less prominent crests, but in turn slight serrations on its teeth. Also the nasal bones did not extend into the nares. Baru darrowi is the species shown at the start.

The other two are then the unnamed Baru species from the Alcoota fossil site and "Baru" huberi. I talked about the latter before and how it is now thought to be something else entirely. Which leaves us with the Alcoota form. Generally regarded as a distinct species, fossils of the Alcoota Baru have been found from 2000 onwards near Alice Springs and appear to represent an animal more robust than the other known Baru. Below you can see a skeletal mount on exhibition at the Megafauna Central in Alice Springs (image by Aussie Bucket List) and a skull held by Adam Yates, an important researcher of this animal.

A little side note I want to mention is the name Baru. As you might have guessed from the etymology of various other mekosuchines (Kambara, Mekosuchus, Quinkana, Kalthifrons), the name actually ties into the native People of Australia. Specifically, Baru is a figure in the mythology of the  East Arnhem Region, which describes him as a sort of totem crocodile that brought law to the lands he named. Baru also had a fight with Jarkitj (Willy Wagtail) after stealing fire for himself. Sadly I couldn't find much about the mythical Baru beyond a brief summary written up by George Pascoe Gaymarani you can read here.

Returning to the animal, one would suspect that the robust skull meant that it didn't quite hunt like modern crocodiles, especially considering the serrated teeth found in the younger species. Well, tho nothing concrete is known Willis and colleagues speculate that this might have been an adaptation to shallower waters. While modern crocs tend to ambush prey, grab it using a strong bite and conical teeth and then proceed to drown it, Baru may not have had that option. A modern croc can just drag a zebra for instance into deep water, weaken it and let go to adjust its grip without the risk of it getting away. In shallow waters, this may have been too risky and lead to prey escaping. So Baru's robust head and curved, sometimes serrated teeth were built to inflict a lot of damage upon prey when lunging, securing the bite and incapacitating it. Willis estimates that it may have taken prey as heavy as 300 kilos.

There's also the interesting tidbit of Baru wickeni coexisting with a diverse croc fauna, yet being conspicuously absent from more southern regions of Australia despite entering the respective drainage basin. I go into more detail while talking about Australosuchus, but the jist of it is that Baru was likely not as cold resistant as Australosuchus and thus not found as far north.

Alas, as with other mekosuchines, not much art of Baru exists aside from this absolutely fantastic piece by @knuppitalism-with-ue

As per usual, this deep dive is brought to you as part of me redoing the wikipedia page of this genus, which resulted in a major size increase. The image below is just to show the difference, but if you want to read it here's the link: Baru - Wikipedia

[anti-zionist-jew]

“Well Israel isn’t going to abide by this order” probably not. That sucks a lot. However this would be true even if ICJ used the word “ceasefire”.

Unfortunately the ICJ is not and never has been a courts that can do much about Israel committing genocide. All they can really do is rule whether or not they are. Today’s ruling indicates they believe there is merit to call it that, and the case will continue. In the case of the ICJ and the UNSC, the parties involved themselves still have to agree and then actually commit to the ceasefire. It has always been known that they are both limited in their powers. They can only make rulings, and expect all other members to hold Israel accountable.

It’s important to note the importance of this still. For the first time in Israeli history, they are being held accountable. And it’s not just by an ally state, it’s by the World’s Court. That’s bigger than you think.

While I understand the frustrations, the way the courts work was like this well before this case was even brought to application. That’s not an excuse, just a fact. The entire thing needs to be dismantled and rebuilt. Just like all justice systems in this world. As horrific as it may be, this case was, sadly, not about stopping the genocide. It was about ensuring Israel is found guilty of genocide. The ICJ is not the mechanism for stopping genocide but the mechanism for determining whether genocide is happening or not under intl law.

This ruling can lead to sanctions, allies cutting ties with Israel, the end of funding and weapons being sent to Israel, the UNSC calling for a ceasefire, and even referring it to NATO to actively enforce the ceasefire. This case was never the be-all, end-all. It is just the beginning

[mbslost]

hi. yes i came back for another yapping session, ironic.

i would like to express some of my feelings towards... some interesting things.

1. The Strade nazi drawing

i talked about his before, i am aware, but later (while reading other opinions as well) i got reminded about EP (Electricpuke for those who dont know him). did we all forgot HOW MANY nazi drawings he made? dont you believe that's an influence as well? if i remember correctly, Gato cut ties with him because of his abusive behaviour (there arent many people talking about this but some user are aware about his actions. sadly i wasnt in the community when that happened)

literally there are people calling Gato a nazi when she doesn't support the ideology. why did no one act the same with EP? different standards? the fact he left (probably) for good? still its not an excuse to call Gato a nazi. also she apologised multiple times. again MULTIPLE TIMES. even in the callout post in twt you can see the fact she IS sorry for drawing that. that she REGRETS it

edit: kay found a ss on tt from the user @/gorturic where Gato said this as well

again, she doesn't support any nazi shit :/

2. The way others silence opinions that they dont like

im not saying you should be forced to agree with it, but when you make a callout account, normally, you let multiple people say their opinions over that thing. you can even show proof when you see someone is wrong. thats how argument work, crazy ik.

i start to see that if you defend Gato or just leave the community because the fandom its on thin ice, you'll be harassed and bullied for your choices. first of all, HOW ABOUT WE LEAVE PEOPLE THAT DONT WANT TO ASSOCIATE WITH BTD/TPOF ANYMORE ALONE. good? literally saw multiple users being harassed by this. its THEIR decision, suck it up. also can we stop SENDING DEATH THREATS???

or the fact that if you do have a point, they'll immediately cancel it with the "oh but its not important". it can be if you have some proofs for their misinformation (just like i proved the variety of poc characters Gato CREATED. didnt talk about Ren since he's another story)

3. Lack of proof for the side allegations.

if people noticed mods harassing people sm, why didnt they talk? why arent there ss of their conversations? we dont even know (most of us) what they even commented about (aside of Pussyspieler drawing). or the twt user that was wronged. that situation was like.. kind of a "im more autistic so you should shut up" (i have to add that i asked people on the spectrum about this and that was their point of view) of course the mod shouldn't have said it like that but.. its more of a misunderstanding really.. that doesnt mean you cant be upset. you absolutely can. everyone can react differently so dont harass them for feeling down or for being frustrated.

also the spanish (or mexican idk) users that just copied and translated @/renhanasgf posts with little to no new information. just the same thing. (although they said something of Gato not sending merch to latin America. probably because of the laws back then or the fact that the transport fee would be high af. im still searching for the reason tho so ill need some time for that one).

4. This fandom is messed up

people when fans of horror porn games are problematic 🤯. i agree that some people are being like extreme with their reactions, but no one is perfect here. just like i approached the situation completely wrong, they did the same. of course, now if you go around and be a racist piece of shit, you shoudl just stay off the internet for a while. luckily more approach the "like the art not the artist" thing.

look. you can always block users that you dont like (just like i do to those who are either into csam,thanks for telling me ab this term anon!, or incest). i know. shocking that people can block others.

after all these fandoms are not for the weak. there may be some safe spaces in it as well but... lets be real... its still going to be problematic. if you cant handle the community or how others act around here, then id suggest for you to not have a close interaction with others. like uhm, just, appreciate the content, not every person around here. just be aware of the users, stau safe okay?

5. Will i stop yapping?

not until i will see an agreement in the fandom. Gato is a human, of course she will do mistakes. especially if she's anxious or tired. having hundreds of people around you its hard and i can imagine it. having supoortive people only to wake up with people hating you. i hope she's safe and that she wont have to go to the hospital again. i pray for her well being, and to others that got spammed with those disgusting comments.

im not saying we should forget about this like.. her poor management and emotional way of responding to things, but is it truly worth it? to force a person to apologise just because they tried to fix things?

i also dont think ill stop because i just feel like im the only one that does talk here (trying to even prove wrong on some things). if others do it as well, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE TAG ME I WANNA SEE THEM😭 also because most people are still so confused about EVERYTHING. for some reason this drama its only getting more popular on tt for some reason.. which is a big no no since there are a lot of YOUNG people. i believe this should be talked here, and on twitter. (idk what to say about telegram)

ill stop here since my sickness got me. i will edit it later to add or correct myself but *sighs*

please stay safe and try to view more opinions over this. DONT SPAM OR HARASS ANYONE WHO ONLY WANTED TO EXPRESS THEIR FEELINGS. we'll see on Sunday how things will turn out.

(if i missed something out or said something wrong please correct me)

[im-not-a-l0ser]

So a while ago I did a poll on who Mark Chasity should date

For some reason, Ted Spankoffski won???? With Gary Goldstein (Attourney at Law) in second place.

Anyway, Officer Bailey made third, and I'd like to make my case for him and my opinion on the rest of the relationships.

I think that Officer Bailey and Mark Chasity would be so cute because they'd balance. Bailey is intense in an overcompensating way, and Mark Chasity is a sweetboi. Like it's such 😠👬😸 and I'm here for it.

I think that they could have a nice, domestic relationship, that Mark could make Bailey open up and be vulnerable.

Now, if you're uncomfortable with shipping characters played by the same guy, worry not! Many of us have decided that the cop in TGWDM (the guy who's not Sam lol) could easily be Bailey. And if that helps, do that. Because I love the idea of them.

Opinions of everyone else under the cut.

Okay, we're gonna talk about how these relationships would go, and I'm gonna go in decending order of who won. Which means:

Ted Spankoffski- I think that maybe it'd be a gay awakening hook-up? Nothing long term for them. Mark doesn't deserve that, honestly.

Gary Goldstein- This I think could be a longer term relationship, where they meet bc of some legal trouble or something like that, and they date for a few months, but Mark is overall neglected by Gary's busy worklife. They have a civil breakup, and maybe even a comforting relationship if they need a shoulder to cry on.

Offer Bailey- I already said, but I will continue to say: Bailey is someone Mark would consider separating Karen for. Someone he can just be with, and who keeps his life interesting without being abusive or rude to him, and who will be emotionally vulnerable with him, even if it's probably only with him. I think of of ever broke up, it would be so bittersweet. I think it would be Mark picking his religion and family over Bailey, and Bailey holding back tears while supporting him because he knows that his family means so much to him and since Bailey may have wanted something like that for so long (imagine him with a little girl omg) he'd understand even more

No one, he will never be happy- Sad, but realistic.

Dan Reynolds (with Action News, weekdays at 10 pm)- He's someone I highkey put to fill slots, so I'm surprised he made 5th. But like... I can sort of see it? Like, I feel like one would flirt with the other, and the other would either not notice or ignore them.

Bill Woodward (tied with Gerald Monroe)- I have mentioned how I think Bill is straight, and how it makes me sad bc I like him and Paul, but it's prolly one-sided. But it would be cute if he were queer. Someone said they met at church, which I love, but I just think Bill is (sadly) straight.

Gerald Monroe (tied with Bill Woodward)- I feel like this would be more of a similar relationship that he'd have with Max’s dad; a not-even-friends with benefits that's out if the public eye because they are bigots who happen to be attracted to men. They would both not treat Mark like a person, and while he might even enjoy that for a short period of time, he would realise that it's unbalanced and would eventually leave like he deserves.

Kyle's Dad- So, we don't know Kyle's Dad, I just thought it was a silly, cute idea. Besides Bailey, it's either Kyle or Jason's dad that I could see, just based on how nice their kids are when given the freedom.

General John MacNamara- Okay, I get it, it's a cute idea. Uh, Jon McNamara is married though and I don't wanna fuck that up.

Other (Put in Tags), AKA President Howard Goodman apparently- I think this is silly, but I actually like it. Especially if he is with Mark during/after his meeting with Wiggly. Because hooo boy, imagine that conversation. A stuck, frozen, breaking down Howie calling his long distance hubby and telling him 'I just met a dark god and almost died,' and Mark doesn't want to belittle his experience or preach in a moment of absolute madness, so he just doesn't know what to do? I see the appeal 100%

[yournextflame]

Lost echoes of English translation

So here I want to discuss what was lost in translation of Marika’s echoes. English is not my native language and my grammar is quite terrible, but I hope result will be comprehensible enough to understand.

Let's start with the echoes from the Church of Pilgrimage and Third Church of Marika. They are extremely important to the narrative as they are explaining the origin of Tarnished, a reason behind Godfrey’s banishment, how the grace works and Marika’s goals. Sadly, they are often overlooked and English translation did them no favor.

My Lord, and thy warriors. I divest each of thee of thy grace. With thine eyes dimmed, ye will be driven from the Lands Between. Ye will wage war in a land afar, where ye will live, and die. Well? Perhaps that might serve you in lieu of a maiden's guidance.

Then, after thy death, I will give back what I once claimed. Return to the Lands Between, wage war, and brandish the Elden Ring. Grow strong in the face of death. Warriors of my lord. Lord Godfrey.

The choice of pronounce is interesting. Marika referers to Godfrey as お前 “omae” ( 我が王よ、王の戦士たちよ。お前たちから、祝福を奪う), a derogatory form of “you” in Japanese, this pronoun is widely considered rude and usually used for inferiors or enemies (”omae wa mou shindeiru” meme). In some cases it’s used by teenagers or family members (by the head of the household), however, in pre-Edo Japan “omae” was actually a polite form of you. Notably, she calls Tarnished omaetachi, plural and a bit more polite form of omae.

But both Radagon and Godfrey are “omae”. She doesn’t value one over another, she uses for Godfrey the same prounonce as she uses for Radagon when she calls him a dog instead of leal hound in JP. In the end they are her tools and treated as such.

A bit of offtopic, but I noticed the raise of “poor Marika was forced by the Greater Will to banish her beloved Godfrey for his ties with the Crucible Knights” and I just can’t.

Not only Godfrey’s banishment is temporary, but Godfrey couldn’t be exiled for his close relations with Crucible Knights because Crucible Knights themselves weren’t exiled in the first place. They are still in Leyndell, no one of them was sent away with Tarnished. Some of them abandoned their duty after the Shattering, but nothing in lore suggests that they were ostracized by the higher ups. Various decriptions are mentioning that Gelmir soldiers rebelled against Rykard, Cuckoo’s Knights turned their backs against Rennala, Carian Knights followed Miquella, but nowhere it is mentioned that Crucible Knights were banished from Leyndell forces.

Back on the rails.

Really didn't like the choice of translation here.  赴くままにエルデンリングを掲げるがよい was translated as “brandish the Elden Ring”, not only EN misses  赴くままに “following this way” part, which is quite important since we are talking about Elden Ring, an object which shape dictates laws of reality, and 掲げる is nowhere as offensive as “brandish”, it’s “to raise up” or “to put up”. The same verb is used for the description of Dectus Medallion (２つの割符を合わせ、掲げること) and what are we doing with it? We are raising halves of the Medallion and mending them together. 

 - Marika never wanted to give up on the Elden Ring, a creation of the Greater Will (Elden Stars: It is said that long ago, the Greater Will sent a golden star bearing a beast into the Lands Between, which would later become the Elden Ring)

 - she expected that Elden Ring will be repaired in the end and in a certain manner (if you look at the grace before Godfrey’s bossfight the grace claims Tarnished as a target. I assume she wouldn't want Tarnished to win because Tarnished has a freedom of choice in the end - 3 different mending runes, Age of Stars, Frenzied Flame, unlike Godfrey who will do exactly what she wants)

 - she lowkey hints that she is going to shatter the Elden Ring by saying that it should be mended for some reason in the future

I guess that “with thine eyes dimmed, ye will be driven from the Lands Between” is what make some people think that Godfrey and Tarnished were exiled by the third party because EN uses passive verb “will be driven”, while in JP it’s clear that Marika herself dimmed the eyes of Godfey and Tarnished and sent them away そして、その瞳が色褪せたとき、狭間の地を追放する. Marika never speaks about her actions in passive form, she is always in charge and controls the situation. “I will banish you from the Lands Between” instead of vague “will be driven” (presumably by someone else).

tl;dr: Godfrey’s exile isn’t a punishment, it’s a part of Marika’s machinations. She wants to create an army of the strong, immortal warriors for her future plans.

Just to be clear, in this post I’m talking about goals that are mentioned/estabilished in dialogues or descriptions. I’ll try to keep at bay theories and headcanons.

What Marika wanted before she got locked in the Erdtree:

 - to create Tarnished

 - to shatter Elden Ring/repair it again

 - Tarnished were supposed to slaughter demigods and a god. (Your kind are meant to challenge them. To slay them. The demigods. And their a god/ Use my masterpiece to slay a god.That is all that I have lived for. And my promise to Q-queen Marika. - master Hewg) It’s never specified, who is a god in question - Marika/Radagon, Elden Beast or any of ascended Empyreans. It’s worth noting that Tarnished mission doesn’t revolve about killing only a god, demigods, Marika’s children and faravaway descendants, should be killed too. 

What Marika wanted after she got locked in the Erdtree (questionable):

 -  set the Erdtree aflame and burn the impenetrable thorns

I put this one in questionable category because there is no direct confirmation that Melina is Marika’s daughter/collaborator, even though eveything screams about it. However, I believe that Melina was created in response of Radagon blocking the Erdtree with his rune:

(while browsing Melina’s dialogues I’ve found something interesting, Melina refers a person, who blocked the Erdtree (Radagon) as a “husk of a self” in JP or “husk of Erdtree’s being” in EN, which almost confirms my old theory that “Radagon of the Golden Order” we are fighting is animated corpses, this is why he doesn’t speak, use magic or drop the remembrance)

The consequences of the placement of this rune on the Erdtree are outstanding to at least and deserves their own post, here I want to mention the most basic one: it leads to the destruction of the Golden Order.

The Golden Order was created by confining Destined Death. Thus, this new Order will be one of Death restored (Mending rune of Death Prince)

I also can’t get over the comedy of Morgott religiously protecting Erdtree for centuries because he naively believes that Erdtree blocked itself (The Erdtree wards off all who deign approach) without knowledge that Erdtree is blocked by Radagon.

And this rune sends Two Fingers into “404: The Greater Will not found” mode until the end of the game. Also, the sealing of the Erdtree is contradicting with Radagon’s attempt to mend the Elden Ring, but it’s an offtopic.

Let’s talk about echoes again, here is a line from “leal hound” speech in Queen’s bedchamber. 

O Radagon, leal hound of the Golden Order. Thou'rt yet to become me. Thou'rt yet to become a god. Let us be shattered, both. Mine other self

さあ、共に砕けようぞ！我が半身よ！

Come, let’s shatter together. My half-body!*

Direct translation is half-body, but 半身” used by native Japanese speakers talking about the D twins, “other half” or “other self” still works. But the most notorious change is that it’s another example when Marika uses passive “let us be shattered in EN”, while in JP she invites Radagon to join her. I’m genuinely fed up with “Radagon was sent to control Marika” plague of headcanons, there is nothing that suggests his control over her at least from Marika’s POV. It’s the opposite, he is “omae”, Marika’s subordinate, he is  黄金律の犬よ, a dog of the Golden Order, her dog, considering that she is a god of the Golden Order. She doesn’t hide from him that she is going to shatter 砕けよ the Elden Ring, even more so, she approaches him about her plans and expects that he will participate or more like obey her order.

(”dog” in a major insult in many Eastern countries, for example in Genshin Impact it’s censored in chat)

お前はまだ、私ではない。まだ、神ではない。

This quote (you’re not yet me, you're not yet a god) is pretty much the same in JP, but I’ve found it’s interesting that Marika calls Radagon half-body, but doesn’t consider him as a god. “Gods” in Elden Ring are vessels of the outer gods or the Elden Ring, in the end we can see Elden Ring in Radagon’s body, he became a god, but prior to it he was a half-body and not yet a god. It’s confuding, yes. Him not being a vessel of the Elden Ring implies that he had physical autonomy and was separate from Marika, however, she calls him a half-body.

Hear me, demigods. My children beloved. Make of thyselves that which you desire. Be it a lord. Be it a god. But should ye fail to become aught at all, ye will be forsaken. Amounting only to sacrifices…

I was surprised to find out how many people in Western fandom view this quote as a motivational speech. In Chinese and Japanese there is no way to read this quote as something positive, Marika doesn’t aspire her children to become something (ie “follow your dreams”) like a caring mother or gives them a freedom of choice, she limits their options to “Elden a lord” and “a god” 王であれ、神であれ, very specific positions in Elden Ring verse. Even then she has an army of Tarnished with a task to wage war on the Lands Between and a smith, who was cursed to forge a weapon against demigods and gods. Makes me wonder if she encourages her children to fight each other on purpose, following good old “divide and conquer” rule.

(However, she doesn’t reinforce them to become Elden lord)

To be fair, EN ignored もう “soon”, so maybe she expected that the strongest demigods are going to succeed her as a god/elden lord, but they failed and she decided to become a god once again. (Remember that before the Shattering Two Fingers began to pick new Empyreans to replace her?)

Wait, didn’t Marika discovered dark secrets of the Golden Order? Isn’t Erdtree is a parasite that syphons souls to the alien invader the Greater Will? Isn’t Marika  a savior from an evil cosmic horror?

Greattree doesn’t exist. 

The Greater Will... granted souls.

…すべては、大きなひとつから、分かたれた 分かたれ、産まれ、心を持った

けれどそれは、大いなる意志の過ちだった だから、戻さなくてはならない

All that there was divided from the One Great. Divided, born and given heart. But it was a mistake of the Greater Will (Hyetta)

(Seriously, what’s up with EN constantly describing something without involvement of the subject of sentence? EN sounds like “fractures and births” happened without the Greater Will, it completely misses the point of the conflict between the Greater Will and the Frenzied Flame, the followers of the latter believe that creation of individuality, disparity and kokoro was a mistake because it’s the root of the suffering. It’s a a reference to Gnosticism)

Okay, here is a famous echo from Minor Erdtree Church:

I declare mine intent, to search the depths of the Golden Order. Through understanding of the proper way, our faith, our grace, is increased. Those blissful early days of blind belief are long past. My comrades; why must ye falter?

“depth of the Golden Order” isn’t a thing as well,  黄金律の探究を、ここに宣言する Marika does a research of the Golden Order, but in a less formal way. 

JP: あるべき正しさを知ることが、我らの信仰を、祝福を強くする

Marikas promises that she will increase the grace of the people, who will follow the right way, while in EN “the grace will be increased” (by whom?) English translation and removal of Marika’s agency, name more iconic duo. She basically encourages her comrades to follow her teachings, she is a religious leader, a god after all. While without a context this quote may sound like something motivational (see: “children beloved”), you should remember that the Golden Order founding rule is “there is no god but Marika” and her religion was becoming more and more fanatical over the course of history to the point when incantation book of Two Fingers became a heresy. The blissful early days weren’t half as bad. 

I’m not going deny that in way this quote sounds like Marika has certain doubts about the Golden Order, but the thing is that the Golden Order is her creation and in the end it’s just one many Orders that can be created with the power of the Elden Ring. The Greater Will isn’t representative of the Golden Order, it’s about Order in a more broad sense. 

Even Marika understands the difference:

The Erdtree governs all. The choice is thine. Become one with the Order. Or divest thyself of it. To wallow at the fringes; a powerless upstart

我らの律の一部となるか？それとも律の外にあり・・・

Genuinely speaking, I have no idea, who she refers in that quote from Grand Lift of Dectus, but maybe it doesn’t matter. She tries to estabilish(?) political alliance, if you can call it one, considering that she is talking from a position of power. EN creates an illusion of freedom (”The choice is thine”), while in JP this quote reads more like: “Join our Order or die in the ditch”, where she views Order as the source of her power.

And the last one, the echo from the First Church of Marika:

Hark, brave warriors. Hark, my lord Godfrey. We commend your deeds. Guidance has delivered ye through ordeal to the place ye stand. Put the giants to the sword and confine the flame atop the mount. Let a new epoch begin. An epoch glistening with life. Brandish the Elden Ring, for the Age of the Erdtree!

導きに従い、よくここまで戦ってくれた

EN is at it again, “you followed my guidance” instead of someone else’s guidance. Marika leads her army by her own volition, EN makes it sounds like she was ordered to do it.

エルデンリングを掲げ、我ら黄金樹の時代を！

The first echo in chronological order mirrors the echo from the Church of Pilgrimage, Marika uses “raise Elden Ring” when she leads her army to fight the Fire Giants and eventually estabilish the age of the Erdtree; she uses the same wording when she sends Tarnished far away with a goal to return them back, fight and raise Elden Ring (again). 

In this one and a previous echo the Golden Order isn’t mentioned, I assume that it wasn’t estabilished during war on Giants.

Here are my final observations:

The overall tone is very different, in JP Marika speaks like warlord from medieval Japan, she is a military dictator, who bosses everyone around her. EN refined her speech pattern like a lot, it added flowery old English, which is not bad in terms of autentic fantasy atmosphere, but often portrays her like a passive bystander or a subject of someone else’s actions. Is this the reason behind fandom’s obsession of turning Marika into innocent damsel in distress, who was oppressed in fifty different ways? I mean, I can’t say that EN translation is bad, it has a different purpose than 1:1 accuracy, but in terms of lore and characters portrayal it’s quite questionable. 

Well, it’s over, if you read this, thank you and sorry for my grammar again. I hope it was helpful.

P.S. Thank you @subterranean-subalternsmall for pointing that “半身” used by native japanese speakers talking about the D twins, “other half” or “other self” is still a way to call Radagon

[gold-rhine]

i thought Neuvillette and Navia would be a more popular ship bc their scene at Callas' graves gave huge Jane Austen/period drama vibes but now i feel he's more paternal toward her than anything. i can't see him with Furina either if i'm being honest.. but i always look forward to your insights bc you always have such smart and interesting observations <3

thank you! :3 their confrontation with navia was very dramatic and emotionally charged, yeah, but like you gotta remember context in the narrative. like, their scenes were about critiquing failures of the justice system, with neuvi being a representative of it as the high judge. like navia is literally the victim of failures of fountaine court that followed the letter of the law and let her father die, yelling at the authority who allowed that to happen. if this authority figure then somehow had expressed any interest\attraction to said victim, that would be like beyond fucked up. like navia's role in the plot is to be representation of common ppl suffering from the negligence of the rulers, neuvi as a ruler can only stand there and nod sadly as she yells at him, there cannot be any chemistry, come on adfgjk

and this ties to the "paternal" vibes like come on, not everything has to be family coded. neuvi is a sovereign\god of life, a lot of his interactions is immediately taking responsibility\care of weaker people\people in need. if we start calling this "paternal" every time its gonna get ridiculous. and also like he is canonically a single dad of 400+ daughters, we do have example of how him being paternal looks like. so like, does he look like that when interacting with a character? no? then mb lets not assign him a dad for said character. seriously, i think there is a very distinct difference in how he lights up and interacts with melusines, who are actually vishaps and part of his bloodline, compared to him being benevolent ruler interactions

with furina specifically i don't like the paternal angle bc like it infantilizes her a bit, like they are the same age first of all. but also it erases interesting dynamic of archon and dragon i was talking about before, because yeah, she IS the one actually in charge, even if he's more powerful and ppl can tell. She pulls the rank on him ALL THE TIME, and she's in precarious situation where the rank is all she has, she cannot force him to do smth and it throws her off when he confronts her about it, like when she assumed he would go cover her in meeting with arlecchino without even asking him, he was like "thats not my job tho:\" and she lost her shit panicking, and pulled rank on IM THE GOD TRUST ME even harder. like there is a lot of interesting power play between them, even not touching colonialism specifically, where she is the puppet-ruler in power just bc his usurper took that power, and trying to force it into family box erases it

[evolutionsvoid]

When it comes to harvesting and harnessing the humors, purity is key. Any fool can stumble upon a pool of stagnant Phlegm or bust into a vein of congealed Blood, but these holy fluids will do little good if they are highly contaminated or diluted. Of course, there are processes developed to refine collected humors or filter out all the nasty gunk. However, the process can get complicated and expensive, making them not very viable for small settlements far from the graces of civilization or the Church. Even then, the more common filtration methods can only do so much, stopping at a level that is still far from pure. This is why finding untouched pools and veins deep below is crucial to many dissectors, and why its stores of holy fluid is so coveted. It is from within the great corpses below that one can find fluids so pure and perfect, which would fetch fantastic coin or provide crucial resources to a suffering town. There is, however, another way to get the good stuff, but this path has a bit more danger and a touch of blasphemy to it. Do remember that the blessed humors are the fluids born from life, Ichor itself! Within these humors are traces of this golden life, and in rare cases, these sparks can light aflame. In places where a certain humor is highly concentrated, an elemental may rise. These are the embodiments of the very fluids themselves, living humors that now grace the land with their presence. Every inch of their form flows with these precious juices, and it appears the mere act of living allows the humors within their bodies to purify to incredible levels. 

However, to retrieve these refined stores of humor, the elemental must be slain, which is seen as taboo for some communities. The Church of Divine Wealth does not frown upon the harvesting of these elementals, but they do make it a rule that these pure beings should be brought as a sacred offering to the grand church. The blessed order should be the one to receive such a miracle of life, which then can be properly harvested and shared amongst the masses. Many do follow this law, but those on the outskirts or in the wilds are not see keen to give up such a potent source of valuable fluid. Elemental poaching is a common crime, but one that is hardly enforced when far from the reach of the Church, especially now as chaos consumes the lands and the Church has bigger problems to deal with. Even so, the mere act of hunting an elemental is a danger into itself, as these entities are no simple beasts. They embody the humors, carrying the very energeiai that radiates from these holy fluids, and they will not hesitate to use them when cornered. 

The elementals of the Four Humors are as such:

Phlegm Elemental: Of all the elementals, this one appears to be the most serene, fitting for its ties to Phlegm. They seem to be in a constant state of swaying and dancing, their bodies and limbs slowly undulating and flowing to some unheard song. They are cloaked in a thick layer of Phlegm, which leaks from their large brain organa. With their bodies coated in a highly refined form of Phlem, the healing potential they possess makes them tempting targets. However, these elementals are ones of peace, and may be convinced to grant samples of this healing fluid to those in need. These offerings are small, but can be lifesaving to those far from the healing services of the Church. Sadly, some folk won't settle for small globs of this gift, and would seek to harvest everything these elementals have. Those who threaten them will find the elemental releasing a green mist of numbing Phlegm, a pacifying fog that robs foes of both sensation and want. The comforting, numbing touch causes most to collapse into a mindless slumber, their limbs unable to function and their minds too consumed by bliss to care. At this point, the elemental will flee, as they do not wish to kill. It should be noted though, that this can still be a danger to poachers, as conked out hunters in the wilds and war torn land are easy prey to more unsavory types.  

Black Bile Elemental: Its rigid movements and unfaltering pace makes this elemental seem more a construct than a living being. Their crystalline form makes them much less squishy and organic than their elemental brethren, but one can see their ties to the spleen organa in their stony silhouette. These elementals travel the lands like a sentry, or an uncaring cloud drifting through the air. They do not share the animalistic traits some elementals possess, seeking no prey or shelter. The most they will do is use their hardened spikes to drill down into Black Bile pools and reserves, sucking up the precious humor to fuel themselves. They will not attack any other creature unless they stand directly in their way or they throw the first punch. Once this elemental deems a target a threat, they will unleash a rain of razor Black Bile shard to shred them. Their stony veins can branch and lance out like spears, impaling targets in the blink of an eye, while their central mass has a sharpened edge that can land blows like an axe. They will move just as efficiently and rigidly as they do in travel, cutting down foes in precise strikes and then continuing on their unknown journey without pause.  

Blood Elemental: Though these elementals occur at the same rate as the others, these ones are deemed more rare due to them being so hard to even see. Their erratic jumpy nature truly embodies the electrical nature of Blood and their heart organa bodies constantly pump this invigorating fluid through them. These elementals move like jittery insects, zipping about with blinding speed. They are filled to the brim with refined Blood, but they still thirst, much like the imbibers of this wondrous drug. Blood elementals seek out that incredible crimson fluid, hunting prey like a rabid parasite. They use their impossible speed to strike from blind spots, latching on with their spiny limbs. If victims put up too much of a struggle, they will unleash a debilitating shock to stun them. Once they have a good grip, their large proboscis will plunge into flesh and slurp up enough Blood to quench their thirst, albeit temporarily. It should be warned, that their thirst grows as they use up energy during a hunt. Those who fight back and prolong the battle will drain the elemental's supply, and thus they will need to drink more Blood to satisfy themselves. Thus, it is often offered that folks attacked by a Blood elemental simply give up and let them feed, as they will only take a small portion of Blood. Exhaust them by fighting back and they may drain you dry as a result.

Yellow Bile Elemental: A voracious elemental and very much the most dangerous of the four, as this elemental has a hefty appetite. As those who align themselves with Yellow Bile know, this humor requires food to do its work. Their liver organa bodies are simply large stomachs, and their heads are used solely to fill this belly. Though they may move slow and slug-like, their necks and heads are incredibly elastic, able to stretch forth and open wide to swallow prey whole. Yellow Bile elementals are always hungry and ready to devour any living thing they find. Those swallowed will be dunked into a gut of caustic boiling Yellow Bile, and melted down into nutrients and more precious humor. Any who fight back and deny their fate of being food will be blessed with a gout of yellow flame spewed from their stretchy maws. These elementals will fry any who resist and happily slurp down the melted remains. Those who hunt these elementals should know that the tables will quickly turn with the simplest of mistakes, and many poachers have met their end in the bellies of these beasts.  

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

"Elementals of the Four Humors"

A while back I was playing Elden Ring and having a good time, really enjoying the world and strange creatures within. It was as I was playing it struck me "My goodness, I feel a flash of inspiration! This world and its fantastical elements makes me want to make fantastical fantasy creatures!" And then came the thought, now how would I make these strange beasts? How would I craft this world for them? What I would need is some kind of fantasy world that could be filled with a multitude of monsters, and possibly explained through years worth of worldbuilding (maybe by a plant person! Imagine!), but where could I find such a thing? Do I have one of them fantasy worlds already made and functioning? Hmmmmmmmm. Nope! Guess not! I will have to start from scratc- now hold up! What's this in the dusty bins? An old rundown world! I'LL REDO IT! NO ONE WILL EVER KNOW!

So here we are folks! Fall of Ichor is coming back! But its going to be very different from the old busted concept I had before, just take all that old garbage andjustcrumpleitupandthrowitinawastebasket! That old stuff was so scatter shot and poorly thought out, but THIS! This is the good stuff! So strap in folks, because we got a second world to build!