#twins 2.0 in spirit

[starrcrossrose]

🦋“Shelldon, play Mama Mia!”

🌙“Yeah!”

They’re supposed to be doing chores… but the music calls💃🎶

Commission for @/star_sparkler on Twt! I’m so happy she wanted something of August and Sofía, I had so much fun making this!

(Close ups and an extra silly)

They are their fathers’ daughters after all 😗✌🏻💫

[dokidokitsuna]

A Cat Most Curious~

-So it turns out I was right about the Curious Cat way back when. They were basically an Ironwood 2.0: enjoyable and engaging as a supporting character, deliciously evil as an antagonist, with surprisingly sympathetic motivations…all undermined by contrived emotional stakes and an anticlimactic character arc, and capped off by an ignominious death. T_T Fortunately, by the time they got viciously mauled I was too jaded about RWBY to feel anything beyond vague annoyance.

-They’re still my favorite aspect of Volume 9, though, and the only Afteran that really left an impression on me. So I’m trying to give them a role in NeverFell…something very close to the end of the story, after the Gods come back to Remnant, but before they’re ultimately defeated. Someone to help usher in the 2nd Era of Magic and show Team RWBY around.

-Do they have to be anthropomorphized for this purpose? No, but it’s fun, so why not? ^^ Tbh, once I thought up that crazy hairstyle I couldn’t help but go through with this design~. I don’t know if it’s actually physically possible…it might be. It was inspired by a type of friendship bracelet knotting pattern, BECAUSE THE CAT IS A FRIEND 😤

-...In truth, they’re more like an amoral spirit-type character, a being who simply craves knowledge and will aid whoever seems to have the most to give. The RWBY girls will have to employ some clever strategy to keep them on their side…

-Much like the god who created them, Curio here has a sort of existential rivalry with their twin sibling, the Jabberwalker. While they seek answers to questions, it simply provides unintelligible “information”, which they find much more irritating than its destructive habits. Meanwhile, the Jabberwalker just wants the Cat to stop fixing things and let them stay broken. Essentially, the direct descendants of Light and Darkness are Order and Chaos, respectively.

[august-sysex]

my fav releases of 2023:

realyungphil & gud - victory music

realyungphil & gud - make moves not excuses

realyungphil & boofpaxkmooky - sonder freestyle

7038634357 - neo seven

död mark - död mark 4evigt

ML buch - suntub

earl swearshirt & the alchemist - voir dre

earl sweatshirt - making the band (danity kane)

bar italia - tracey denim

baba stiltz - paid testimony

ichiko aoba - meringue doll

ouri - blueprints of us (prod. oli XL ❤️)

arthur russell - picture of bunny rabbit

laetitia sadier - une autre attente

melody english - the web

björk & rosalía - oral

YS - brutal flowers

dijon - coogie

peso pluma, jasiel nuñez & junior h - bipolar

peso pluma - génesis

junior h & peso pluma - el azul

becky G & peso pluma - chanel

the-dream - stream (V7 demo archive 9.20)

tujiko noriko - crépuscule I & II

sampha - spirit 2.0

PLO man - anonymousmaterial

ESP - amber sun

tinashe - talk to me nice

kode9 & burial - infirmary / unknown summer

astra king - make me cry

tainy - data

osipenko bus stop - corner wax volume 2

lil uzi vert - pink tape

king krule - space heavy

mammo - variable / plate

CoA-A - the end of nduja

2301 - untitled

aphex twin - blackbox life recorder 21f / in a room7 f760

nation & ecco2k - ça va

ingrate - a melody inside

monolake - hongkong (2023 remaster)

vladislav delay - entain (2023 remaster)

holly waxwing - the new pastoral

joanne robertson - blue car

tammo hesselink - beam

tammo hesselink - paint reduce trick

tammo hesselink - sewei

tammo hesselink - work work work

yaeji - with a hammer

pinkpantheress - heaven knows

DJ babatr - las lomas / fuma con los panas + remixes

DJ babatr & arca - mek3fe

bad gyal, tokischa & young miko - chulo pt.2

teruyuki kurihara - parallel

james k & hoodie - 065 (scorpio)

special guest DJ - panoramic deep love story

agilität - unique / untradeable

chuquimamani-condori - DJ E

rabit - tears (elysia’s edit)

jorg kuning - BH007

instupendo & ripsquad - kissout

juno R13 - existens miserabel R13 edit

bambinodj - high as ever still passin’ through (remix)

colleen - le jour et la nuit du réel

kelela - raven

airhead - lightness

juanito - cumbias & reggaetones

DJ manny - control EP

mount eerie - huge fire

cousin - homesoon

[fajitaposting]

So my thoughts on the Dawntrail keynote:

Going feral over Solution Nine, they really went heavy on the cyberpunk and I'm here for it. Slightly concerned that they're going to be split too much between themes and fronts and it might end up like Stormblood 2.0, which I like Stormblood but I get the issues people have with it.

I called Pictomancer and it looks really cool I'm happy with it, I just think it would be better on Alphinaud since he was kinda the established Scion Artist, but Krile deserves the chance to shine and Alphinaud's arc into sage was fitting well enough so...

Do kinda wish we were just doing South Tural, not the entire new world, but I guess that means Meracydia sooner sooooo hurray!

Skipping the Stormblood MSQ ultimate and going right to the Shadowbringers Raid ultimate is an interesting move, I hope Stormblood doesn't get skipped forever. Also still holding onto hope that we'll one day get Trial Series ultimates, but that seems unlikely. I've also never cleared an ultimate or attempted any outside UWU so I don't really have the grounds to be talking about ultimates but the sudden inconsistency has me curious.

Character model graphics previews looked pretty good except some of the darker skinned example characters seems kinda shiny? like they'd been doused in baby oil.

Femroths looked really strange at first but I think the design is growing on me, have to wait and see how they look in game I guess? (Remind me of Khajiit from Elder Scrolls.)

So a decent couple of people were missing from the Key art shown at the end of the Keynote, like G'raha, Y'shtola, Estinien, and the Twins. My personal theory is that they're going to be on the other side of the Scion split, which is confusing because I can see Alisaie and Estinien siding opposite the WoL out of competitive spirit, Y'shtola doing it for fun, but Alphinaud and G'raha opposing us is breaking my heart and now I'm really curious about how the Scion split is going to be handled.

[weathermanpolls]

Note: Penny 2.0 is her adult robot form in Atlas. 2.5 is her living form. Both Penny votes will be added, and if the total is the highest she will be taken as the winner.

[why-raven]

Hi!! I told you I’ve been mulling over an ask for you! c’: It’s for Yiuno! I know, Yiuno’s very knowledgeable about the history of the star (-‿◦) could you tell us which era from Hydaelyn’s history he considers his favourite? Without revealing more about his OC lore than you’re comfortable revealing publicly, of course!

Thank you very much for the ask and a million apologies for the super late reply, @archaiclumina! ’Tis a tough question to answer—let’s see:

Though Yiuno has lived well and beyond the age of ordinary mortals, this doesn’t desaturate the memories of his troubled past, nor dampen his feelings for those fleeting moments. He remembers them all—this inability to forget the time he cannot rewind pains him, twisting him into the man he has now become.

To withstand the agony of living on while others around him would perish, he started to distance himself from the people and the world around him—a defensive mechanism to minimize the consequences of growing attachment on things that wouldn’t last forever. Living on becomes a mere routine, a daily motion to go through each day while staying under the radar, hiding in the shadows of history and be forgotten.

Calling these his favorite times in history is a stretch, but Yiuno did break out of the mundane cycle twice in his eternal life so far:

The War of the Magi.

Yiuno, along with his twin sister Yiuna, joined Magi Lucis—the Mages of Light. Similar to the Circle of Knowing (1.0) and the Scions of the Seventh Dawn (2.0), Magi Lucis was founded by three mages, from each of the warring factions:

Seika Yan, a white mage from Amdapor,

Loki Zoki, a scholar from Nym, and

Kokoa Koa, a Mhachi magus.

The formation of Magi Lucis was to bring an end to the century-old war through peaceful means. However, that was quickly proven to be impossible, as none of the three nations were willing to negotiate and compromise—all of them were hellbent to destroy one another through military might. The organization was then forced to employ a different approach: by infiltrating each factions from within, they might be able to find ways to steer these nations away from their hunger for power and blood, and convince them to call for a ceasefire, to work towards a more amicable resolution.

Given Yiuna’s aptitude for healing magic, she was assigned to make contact with Amdapor. Through her efforts, she managed to gain the trust of the Elementals—the spirits that co-exist with the people of Amdapor in the woods, which also taught the basics of white magick to the locals.

Yiuno, meanwhile, was sent to Mhach, where he met Shatotto Shato. Shatotto had grown disgusted at the over-reliance on voidsents in the war. She began to develop a new kind of spell, which was later known as black magick. Recognizing Yiuno’s great affinity in her area of study, she wasted no time to force the Veena under her wing, and used him to refine her research with alarming efficiency. Yiuno also later found out that Kokoa was acquainted with Shatotto—both graduated from the same arcane academy in the same year, and Shatotto, with her overwhelming talent, was the top student at that time.

Convinced that her new magic would be enough to finally end this ridiculous bloodshed once and for all, Shatotto brought Yiuno alongside her onto the battlefield, and summoned a meteor rain to annihilate the opposing armies with sheer power. However, she severely underestimated Yiuno’s raw potential. The destruction that they caused was beyond control, wiping out just as many of their own people as their enemies. Shatotto chose to shoulder the full responsibility herself and removed Yiuno from the equation—she believed that it was her own miscalculation that had resulted in the huge loss. She knew that Yiuno had long surpassed her; she wanted him to continue living on and become the epitome of her legacy. He didn’t have to die with her, and bear the shame of her mistakes. (This is the reason why Shatotto was feared in history, and her black magick was often attributed to forbidden arts, or even considered evil.) Yiuno became the last direct successor, though he often hides his knowledge on black magick, and pretends to be a Red Mage instead.

The relationship between Yiuno and Shatotto appeared to be built on mutual benefits (Yiuno used Shatotto’s high rank position in the military for political gains, while Shatotto used Yiuno for her own research); their constant bickering and attempts to dominate over one another gave the impression of being on bad terms. In reality, they were very fond of each other, with mutual respect on equal footing. (On the same note, this is probably why Yiuno clicks so well with Y’shtola later in the game canon timeline, because intellects at that level aren’t easy to come by.)

The Seventh Umbral Calamity.

Yiuno and Yiuna often wandered around Eorzea and other lands as mercenaries for hire. This is mainly to keep themselves under the radar and avoid drawing attention to their immortality. They were hired by an exiled Sharlayan scholar—a Moon Keeper by the name of I’suca Amariyo—on a excursion to the Nhalmasque Ruins. I’suca’s main area of study, which ironically was about the relationship between aether and ageing, brought her to the ruins in search of an artifact rumored to defy the logic of time.

However, what they found was a young Xaela girl cryogenized in a life pod, which appeared to be powered by something similar to Allagan technology. I’suca freed the Au Ra, hoping to learn about her origin and the mystery behind her extraordinary state, but was disappointed when the girl turned out to be amnesiac.

I’suca named her “I’sora Amariyo,” and she began to subject the Xaela to a series of experimentation. The Viera twins, though they didn't agree with I’suca’s questionable treatment towards what she called an “empty vessel,” were bound to the contract as hired bodyguards, and they were unable to openly defy their client. However, they did their best to take care of I’sora, playing with the curious girl and teaching her various things about the world around them. I’sora was particularly close to Yiuno: she’d often curl up next to him whenever she fell asleep. On occasions when the young girl had sudden panic attacks, Yiuno’s presence was the only thing that could calm her down. Both Yiuno and Yiuna had come to regard I’sora as their little sister.

I’suca’s redemption happened during the Seventh Umbral Calamity. She had been tinkering around the life pod while trying to figure out I’sora’s origin (she hypothesized that the child was probably a remnant of the Age of Endless Frost, hence the use of deep freezing to preserve her). To save I’sora and the Viera twins from Bahamut’s rage, she forced the trio into the life pod, and protected them with her own magic until her last breath.

By the time Yiuno and I’sora woke up from their five-year slumber into a new era, they couldn’t any trace of I’suca remaining in the world. Yiuna was also missing, though Yiuno was sure that his twin sister must be still alive somewhere. With the Xaela, renamed as Sora Amariyo, they journeyed across the Star in search of Yiuna, and Sora later became a Warrior of Darkness.

The lore-bending parts are mostly my personal take on existing canon and expanding it further to weave into my blorbos’ lore and backstories. There are actually a lot more to what you’ve just read above, which I’m more than happy to go into details in DMs if anyone is interested. For now, this is the barebone that should (hopefully) answer the question.

Once again, thank you very much for the ask!

[foxingpeculiar]

Elden Ring/SotE:

Okay, its my Saturday from work and I was pretty determined not to do anything important today, so I got some shit DONE in this game.

Alright, so Shadow Keep. Went in and promptly got stomped by a giant Hippopotamus. Did not expect that, but okay. Went back in, prepared this time, and managed to eke it out.

Made my way through the castle, poking around. Eventually got to the Leda vs. Hornsent invader battle and helped the Hornsent, obviously. Leda was pissed, but y'know... maybe don't go around being all paranoid and trying to murder everyone?

So then I made it up to the storehouse, but got sidetracked on a path through the Ancient Ruins of Rauh. Some neat stuff in there. Lotta scorpions, not a big fan of that. Eventually, I sort of wandered into a cave with a bunch of Rot Kindred and wound up at the Church of the Bud, and hey, there's a remembrance boss/bug lady here. Romina wasn't that bad, really--took I think three tries? A lot of staying to the side of the centipede bits of her and dodging back from blade hits and spins and the like. The AOE butterflies were kind of annoying, but overall, probably the easiest remembrance boss so far.

Wandering over and finding the Divine Dancing Lion 2.0 was a little bit of a different story. I was doing fine until all of a sudden there's basilisks everywhere and an entire smog cloud of Deathblight over everything. Yikes. Eventually, I cottoned on to a strat of using Rellana's Twin Moons to kind of clear the field around me a little bit--that could take out several of the basilisks in one go. Then it was just kind of staying at range and taking careful opportunities to blast or slash when I could. The time I beat him, he killed my Mimic Tear and I ran out of healing, so it was a nailbiter, but we got there.

So I found the Sealing Tree behind the church, but I don't have Messmer's Flame (or whatever) yet, so I can't do shit about it.

Having poked around up top, I went back through the Gravebird Swamp and poked around in the Rauh Base area. Found a forge, fucked around in Temple Town Ruins, went up to the Northern Mausoleum and beat guy named Red Bear, got my ass handed to me by like 3 Runebears at once, but then snuck past them and beat an actual red bear (Rugalea, I guess? That makes two of them now.)

Then it was time to go down the hole in the Moorth Ruins and check out that shit over there. (For the record, I am looking at a general progression guide--which gives suggestions about where to go when, because I'm 102 hours in this game and I only have so much time in my life--but not one with any details about what I'll find in each area.)

Found the (not particularly) Bonny Village and its associated dungeon. Also found an emote on a statue, I think of Marika? It's the "O Mother." And like... I dunno. Getting an emote, but not from a character---my spidey sense is tingling. I'm gonna need that for something. Fuck if I know what, but something.

The Furnace Golems aren't THAT much of a problem at this point, but the one here with the armored legs. I figured out you had to use the Spirit Spring to get up to the ledge and basically play basketball with him, but I did have to look up what, exactly, it was I needed to throw to make it work. Cos man, I tried a bunch of things. Furnace Pots. Doy. Felt dumb after that one.

Anyway, went to the wizard's rise and then met Count Ymir in the cathedral and his "I'm too good for this and you" knight friend. Dude kinda gave me the creeps, but told me to go check out some ruins, and I'm not gonna NOT do that, so okay.

Next, I found my way down into the river. I found the illusory wall when I was fucking around in the castle, but saved exploring that direction until this point. Played basketball again and got the Sword of Light, which is pretty cool. Found Dryleaf's set chilling in a waterfall and I gotta say, I like this guy's style. Then found the Eastern Mausoleum and got a sweet katana that I think I now actually have the stats to use but probably won't.

Eventually stumbled on the Village of Flies. That was... pleasant. There's so much stuff in this DLC that's like "ugh, gross." Manflies, scorpions, those super-meat-boy things that are supposed to go in the jars. Yech.

Then found the Darklight Catacombs. Which was fine until I got to the boss arena. I've been rocking the Snow Witch's Hat, which is very large and tends to block my immediate view when I go through fog gates. And in this particular case, I was dead before I even knew what the fuck was shooting at me. Went back in, dodged immediately and eventually, when the magic bullshit clears, I'm starting down this spellcasting Inquisitor fuck. Thankfully, wizards have bitch-ass poise and I have a handy move that staggers like a motherfucker, so the second time I managed to put him in his place, although things did get crazy there.

Anyway, I understand this path leads to a deeper area, but I'll come back to that later.

So okay, let's go check out this thing for Ymir. I found the Eliac River Cave a while ago, so followed that down past a bunch of electric sheep (that's gotta be a conscious Phillip K. Dick reference, right?) and made my way out to an eerily beautiful night on the Cerulean Coast.

And promptly got ambushed by another Ghostflame dragon, this time with an army of bullshit skeletons fucking up my rhythm. That took some tries--maybe 5 or 6--before I got him. Again, the Twin Moons spell was very helpful here.

Fucked up some shellfish in the tunnel over to the little western island and found the Southern Nameless Mausoleum with the Dancer in it. She was the easiest of the mausoleum bosses, I think, but she did make an important contribution to Fashion Souls because I'm rocking her dress now. In the course of all this, I did also try a couple of other weapons I've come across that are INT-build compatible. The Spirit Sword was kind of fun--very flowy and dance-like, and I did use that for a bit, but goddamn, Transient Moonlight is such a good fucking move. And Moonveil is doing more damage than anything else right now, so I'm back to using that.

(Stats wise, I'm at 79 INT, 60 VIG, 40 MND, 30 END and DEX and 14 STR--haven't upgraded FTH or ARC at all, so they're both under 10. But still. I am a fucking magic-blasting machine. The base game endgame is gonna be a fucking cakewalk.)

The big Demi-Human Queen in the area was pretty easy, so I took her out and then made my way over to the Finger Ruins. Which was creepy and I didn't like it. But I blew on the finger hole or whatever (not a sentence I expected to write today), which made Ymir happy. Now he's cuddling a finger creeper and I don't like that either. But at least his edgelady knight will kind of talk to me. Anyway, he has more ruins for me to explore, but they're up past Shadow Keep, I think, so putting a pin in that for the moment.

So then I went and jumped down the Dragon Pit (after fighting the dragon inside), fought the Ancient Dragon Man (*sung to the tune of "Secret Agent Man"*) and then fought the Drake beyond the tunnel, found the Dragon Communion Altar at the giant dragon's corpse, climbed over said corpse and wound up in Charo's Hidden Grave. (I don't know who Charo is in game, but I know who I'm picturing, and that's delightful.)

The Tibia Mariner there was a pushover--he was dead before the Revenant he summoned even got to do anything. The Deathbird, on the other hand, was another story. Even trying to take out as many of the Gravebirds as I could before hand, still more would show up, and I'd end up getting pecked six ways from Sunday AND ghostflamed. Another one that took several attempts before I managed it, and another one where I was out of flasks and had only a minuscule shred of health left by the time I pulled it out.

Did the Lamenter's Gaol, which was... interesting (that corpse pile room with all the jars and the second key--another "yech" moment). Boss in there was kind of fun. I've seen the whole "I'ma spawn a jillion clones of myself" gag before, but it was well executed here. And it wasn't too hard to deal with because of... you guessed it, the Twin Moons (god, I love that spell).

I think this was also the area with the Scorpion River Catacombs? Or maybe that was somewhere earlier, I don't remember. That shit sucked, though. First, getting death-stared by apparently unkillable statues the whole way down (and the floating ones in the hallways) and then running into a Death Knight. Cos Death Knights have no chill. None. Taking him out was difficult, but very satisfying, and involved a LOT of cursing.

Anyway, there was another Furnace Golem up there, but it's another one with armored legs and I don't have any Messmer's Embers right now to craft more Furnace Pots, so I'll deal with that later.

And so then, it was time for the Stone Coffin Fissure. And I get down to the Cross just fine, no problems. But the stretch between the Cross grace and the next site of grace... hoo boy, that was some BULLSHIT. Those fucking laser rock guys. You can kind of avoid one of them if you're careful and clean out the area from range before hand, but every time I'd have to fight something on the way to one of them, I'd get laserblasted to fuck, cos they pulse QUICKLY. And then there was that section with TWO of them. Fuck all that noise.

But okay, we did it, eventually. Got past the giant slime thing and the spirit Leonine Misbegotten. Finally made it down to the Depths grace. Talked to the spirit guy and realized what I had to do, and damn, that leap down into the pit was fucking cool.

Which is great, cos I got to watch it several times. Cos the Putrescent Knight... hoo boy. Yeah, he smashed me a lot. And froze me. And such. That, I think, was the hardest of the remembrance bosses so far--whether that's just my build, or him, or me as a player, I dunno. But it's the first boss where I really felt like I had to learn the moveset just to find the space to breathe--even with the Mimic Tear, she wasn't drawing enough aggro to keep him off my ass. And that move where he jumps off his horse and they're both coming at you... ye gods. But eventually, after maybe 8 or so tries, I got him.

So then I found Thollier and St. Trina. And he was like "don't drink the nectar!" And so, obviously, I had to drink the nectar. And it killed me. But this isn't my first Fromsoft rodeo--I wouldn't be able to do it if there weren't a reason to, especially with a character this important. So I did it three times. And died three times. And then got frustrated and looked it up. And oh, you have to do it four times and then something will happen. Hm. Okay. Damn.

But I did, and then told Thollier about it and he got all mad and tried to fight me but was a total scrub, and then I died/hallucinated a couple more times and told him about it and he was finally ready to hear me and then he... died? I dunno. That seems to be as far as that's going right now. Dunno if there's more to it, but I guess we'll see.

So okay. Next on the list is to go back to Shadow Keep and check out the storehouse, so we'll see how that goes. I feel like Messmer's in here somewhere, but I don't know when I'll come across him or what his deal is, exactly yet. Goddamn this DLC is big, though.

[moronkombat]

Brain rot 2.0

At least Tomas have readers kids as she trusts him alot to make sure they are safe, even more they called him father or dad instead of Bi Han

Like when they are older they see how the madness effects on him after their mother death and how he crave power

I can imagine they both stood between Bi Han and Tomas and have their weapons out and telling him how their mother died because of his greed and they been told she pray he gets out of his madness

And Bi Han sees how the twins have their mother kindred spirit in them and his strength n temper

that would be one unhappy reunion. Bi-Han is planning on killing Tomas in order to get his children back but Tomas made a promise to their mother that he would protect them. Not everyone will survive this

[tepkunset]

X-Men Evolution ft. Alpha Flight

Been enjoying X-Men Evolution recently, and it made me think about how great an Alpha Flight episode could've been. Hell, there was a Captain America one, so why not?

Anyway, some thoughts about what an Evolution version of the characters might be like:

KIDS -

JEAN-PAUL BEAUBIER / NORTHSTAR:

Age 16, Québécois

Super-speed, flight, can create blinding light by linking with his sister

A jerk, but in his defence is straight up not having a good time. Only does homework for the classes he likes

Backstory only semi-unlocked because it's none of these clowns's business: Kid on his way to being an Olympic-level skier who is hinted to having been blackmailed into joining AF by Guardian, but mostly remains for the sake of his twin sister he only recently reunited with

I didn't bother designing new superhero outfits for JP and JM because why mess with existing perfection?

JEANNE-MARIE BEAUBIER / AURORA:

Age 16, Québécois

Super-speed, flight, can create blinding light by linking with her brother

Either very outgoing and bubbly or very shy and quiet, (depending on if she's Aurora or Jeanne-Marie of course). Definitely forgot about the homework

Backstory unlocked: Raised in a very old-fashioned Catholic boarding school hinted at to be abusive, until running away as Aurora and was found and recruited by Guardian. Really not sure how her DID might be handled in a kid-friendly cartoon, but I think it should still be present because I don't see why children can't be educated on such things

I originally had her civvies designed to reference her 2.0 yellow costume, but then I liked the idea of JM wearing blue and JP wearing pink too much

MARRINA SMALLWOOD:

Age 14, Newfoundlander

Super-speed underwater, can breathe underwater as well as on land

Just happy to be here; tries too hard to seek validation from everyone older than her. Agonizes over not being able to go to public school due to her looks

Backstory unlocked: Was adopted by a small coastal family and raised in a very happy environment, joined AF because she wanted to see more of the outside world and genuinely believes Guardian is teaching them to do good

I literally just drew her in a wetsuit for a superhero outfit lol

ELIZABETH "LIZ" TWOYOUNGMEN / TALISMAN:

Age 15, Albertan / Tsuut'ina

Deus ex machina mystic powers

Running on anxiety and bitterness towards Guardian. Won't let you copy her homework but will help you with your own for as long as it takes

Backstory unlocked: She and her father were recruited to Alpha Flight as what she believes is a PR stunt for so-called Reconciliation. Her magic circlet helps her control her mystical powers, but unlike in the comics she's capable of taking it off

Of all the characters I was most excited to design a new age-appropriate look for her, since 90% of her outfits in the comics look like they're racist Spirit Halloween costumes

ANNE MCKENZIE / SNOWBIRD:

Age 17, Nunavummiuq / Inuk

Animal shape-shifting

Easily forgotten from being so quiet, very prim and proper behaviour that can sometimes come off as up-tight. Studies above and beyond regular homework because she feels like she has to work twice as hard to be respected

Backstory semi-unlocked: With her parents divorced, Anne was used to spending the school year down south with her father and summer up north with her mother, but when her powers started manifesting, her father scorned her and wanted to give up his custody. Instead she now spends her school year under the care of Department H

I hate Snowbird's comic backstory so much; the whole "she's 100% white because her mother was a goddess who temporarily transformed into a white woman to appeal to her white father" makes zero sense and also has gross connotations, so I decided since this is my adaptation, she's not a demigod but rather just a mutant, because why not...

I thought about giving her tunniit, but since I know so little I figured I wasn't the best person to depict them

WALTER LANGKOWSKI / SASQUATCH:

Age 17, British Colombian

Super-strength, super-stamina (when in gamma form)

Biggest nerd in any room, pretty chipper. Will do your homework for you just for fun

Backstory unlocked: Walter was taken in by Department H after being branded as a failed experiment by a group of scientists playing with gamma radiation—except the experiment didn't fail, turning Walter into a gamma mutate, but one with control over himself and the transformation

I had such a hard time trying to decide what to do with this bitch... His power is to turn into a 'cryptid' that is just lifting from spirits across multiple Indigenous cultures so that's really awkward, but I didn't want to leave him out since that felt weird? I do imagine this version of him having a different personality though, where he's less annoying

ADULTS -

JAMES MACDONALD HUDSON / GUARDIAN:

Age 35, Ontarian

Flight and super-strength granted by super-suit

Thinks acting like a Cool Dad™ will make children like him. Believes recruiting kids to work for the government is justified because they have superpowers, but at the same time hypocritically insults the X-Men

Backstory unlocked: Oil corporation research and developer who designed a super-suit for oil extraction, except then the Canadian government put him on the payroll to head Department H for monitoring superhumans in Canada

I knew I still wanted him to be decked out with the maple-leaf because it fits his asshole nature, but I wanted to make him look like he's trying too hard to be Hip

MICHAEL TWOYOUNGMEN:

Age 40, Albertan / Tsuut'ina

Healing mystic powers

Is the actual Cool Dad because he's so chill and actually cares about the well-being of the kids

Backstory Unlocked: A surgeon who turned to traditional medicines in attempt to save his wife when western medicine failed her, and though he he did not succeed, he did discover he had innate mystical powers, putting him on Department H's radar. Just here to protect and patch up the children the best he can

EUGENE JUDD / PUCK:

Age 42, Saskatchewanian

Super-durability

Says thinks like 'back in my day' and 'eh' unironically way too much, low-key waiting on that inevitable divorce between the Hudsons

Backstory semi-unlocked: Is mostly there to train the kids how to be superheroes and survive the experience

Like Snowbird I think Puck's backstory is some bullshit that they should've just left alone instead of trying to create this magic explanation for his dwarfism and chronic pain... just let him be disabled! Disabled superheroes exist! So again, in this version he's just a mutant who happens to also have dwarfism and chronic pain

HEATHER MCNEIL-HUDSON:

Age 37, Albertan

Guardian's wife, tries to be a Team Mom and make up for her annoying husband

[beevean]

"So Maria Renard is a young and feisty vampire hunter who can communicate with animals and have them help her fight evil! She's really esager to prove her worth! In SOTN she's a young adult who's matured a lot yet she still remains cheerful and optimistic, unwilling to give up on Richter's soul!"

NFCV: ...so she's a strong leader for the French Revolution, got it. It's girl boss time!

Oh you want me to talk about the new preview of Nocturne?

Because boy do I have. Words about it! :D

First of all, the obvious: where is RoB's story? Where is Dracula kidnapping young maidens? What is Erzsebet Báthory doing here, she's the one who in the games causes WWI! Are they going to explain how Dracula has a niece, or is it just a name for the sake of a name?

But yeah, this has nothing to do with either RoB or SoTN. This is just... political commentary for the sake of political commentary. Because we all loved the insistent "CHURCH BAD" from NFCV, right? Seems like kicking out Ellis changed jack shit :D

"the atmospheric backdrop of the French Revolution" ah yes, bloodshed and guillotines, so mystique~

"Richter, the tough young hero who’s continuing the family tradition of vampire hunting" what tradition? Trevor barely killed a vampire in the original show :'D

"Maria, a natural leader who’s fighting inequality in her country, and also a magic user battling the vampire elite" bro. bro she's 12. Why do I fear that she's going to become an expy of Diane from Bojack.

"Annette, who used her power and wits to escape vampire-enforced enslavement in the Caribbean, and now wields magic to stop the impending apocalyptic threat" ohhhhh boy. So first of all, yes, this confirms that the black girl seen in the leaks is indeed Annette. Seems we have another Isaac case on our hands! Now they're free to write her as shittily as they want her to, and fans will immediately jump to accuse you of being anti-blackwashing :'D

Aso, what's with black characters and being former slaves? (or non-white characters in general, if we count the Japanese not-twins) You really can't think of anything else for a black character? They have to be slaves. Okay.

But that's not the issue. The issue is that they gave her magic powers too. Why? Maria already fills that role. Is she going to be Sypha 2.0? Are we already girlbossifying all the women? Why can't she be a normal yet brave woman?

Edouard and Tera prove that we're going to get plenty of OCs from the start.

"Olrox, who killed Richter’s mother years ago and now must decide whether he can stomach teaming up with his sworn enemy in order to stop vampiric world domination" what the fuck. what is this.

"Erzsebet Báthory, aka the one foretold. She’s the queen of vampires, and, if all goes as planned, of the entire world." carmilla. she's carmilla. i swear if a single radfem speech comes out of her mouth...

"In the thick of the French Revolution, members of the so-called lower classes are rising up to fight inequality: “It’s the natural order for them to milk us dry with impossible rents and unpayable taxes,” Maria (Davies), a young leader, laments." yep! So faithful to the spirit of Castlevania! I love that part in RoB where you have to fight Louis XVI <3

"Richter joins forces with Maria and an unlikely crew of characters whose toughened exteriors bely their various tragic backstories." hopefully they'll be treated with more respect than Trevor's :)

"Their last-ditch battle to save humanity becomes fraught with existential questions as each vampire hunter is forced to confront their own troubled (and deeply human) traumatic past." not to be all "play the games", but Richter feeling crushed by his family legacy is way more gripping than a generic "mom died :(". We gonna mention that, Nocturne? Surely, Richter's appeal as a character is why you immediately jumped to RoB/SoTN, right?

"Is Castlevania: Nocturne based on a video game?

Yes, and then some"

YOU FUCKING LIAR.

anyway this already sounds absolutely awful, it has nothing to do with the games, it's going to be so pretentious, maria you deserved better my girl.

Oh, as a bonus...

"As the peasant class rises up against the aristocracy, an even darker threat emerges: a cabal of powerful vampires intent on taking over the world and blotting out the sun forever."

"vampire-enforced enslavement"

So, a vampire cabal is behind a slave trade...

This is what happens when NFCV is falsely accused of being woke without anyone pointing out how deeply offensive it actually is.

[alls-fair-in-pride-and-prejudice]

Is your Tav a romanceable character?  Are there any specific requirements to romancing them? Do they have a special romance scene at the tiefling/goblin party? Does the romance have different branching paths, or just one route to take? (Especially curious about Tarathil here, but as usual I'd be thrilled with both!)

Okay so I'm going to answer for Tarathil first because they're easier. No, they are not a romanceable character, but more of a "drow twins" potential scene. I'm thinking that they would make a couple comments about Halsin, and players that decide to romance Halsin exclusively (as in Halsin is not becoming a third in a pre-existing romance) would have the option of including a second druid in on the fun. (And... yes, the wildshape would be an option for Tarathil too, mostly because I love chaos but also because I would like to include Tarathil's vaginismus as something that is actually mentioned and they would say that taking a different form makes that easier for them.)

As for Lyra, I would want to do something very fun for her romance, because she would be a romanceable character, but it wouldn't appear so at first. The player would have the option to choose flirtatious options with her, but outright flirting with her would get her to shut them down quickly and decline (she's taken!) and persisting with flirtation would actually get a "Lyra disapproves." However, at the tiefling party, the PC would find that Lyra is a bit off and looks as if she has been crying. Depending on the approval rating, she will divulge more about how she had a very strained conversation with her patron. (Why don't the warlocks get to be happy at the party? Who knows.) And for a player that has successfully unlocked her romance, she would say something about how "do you feel like we're all just playthings for these higher powers?" and then "I have often thought of myself in such a way, just an ant trying to grasp at the heavens... but with you... I start to feel like we can beat this, that we can take our destinies where we want," and then a sheepish brush of her hair back. "Ah, look at me, weighing you down with philosophical conundrums on such a celebratory night. As much as I am beginning to care for you, I cannot monopolize your time. Thank you, though... for coming by. You've certainly raised my spirits."

Oh my gosh this is also getting so long but I have another question to answer which is "diverging/branching paths" for Lyra. I think this would tie into her personal quest, which would be a bit like an inverse of Astarion's endings. There's the healthy choices, where you have her refuse the additional power/info from her patron so she is not as dependent on him and coming into her own power/independence, similar to the spawn ending for Astarion where he feels more himself without the power promised in the ritual. At the six month mark she'd be talking about being on the verge of making some sort of amazing magical or astronomical discovery. She'd be vibrant in sharing her passion with you and for you.

But, as Astarion becomes Cazador 2.0 and perpetuates the cycle of abuse with his Vampire Ascendant ending, the player is the one who encourages Lyra's cycle and becomes her new Midnight. Not literally, they're not going to be her new patron, but they will play the same role that he played for her. This would have to be handled VERY delicately, because otherwise you just romanticize being an abuser. I really hope that it could come across as truly chilling the way that Astarion's voice as the vampire ascendant chills me. Perhaps the way to do that would be to exaggerate her bitterness. That yes, you have worn her down and stripped her of the personal power she could have achieved, at the cost of the light and love in her eyes. She is resigned, resentful, her smile is forced, but she's tied to you, devoted to your goals and fully abandoned her previous studies. With Ascended Astarion, I feel like you're not sure if he's actually going to lock you away, torture you in some mirror of how Cazador tortured his spawn. With Lyra, you wouldn't entirely be sure if she won't stab you in your sleep to finally be free. You're nicer than Midnight was to her, certainly. Just like Astarion is certainly nicer than Cazador. But does that really count for much? Maybe one day, they'll just crack.

[winamphetamine]

README

********************************************************                 TWIN PEAKS                      Skin for Winamp 2.X ********************************************************

I tried to translate the Twin Peaks spirit and its weird atmosphere into this skin. A few of the characters can be seen: Special agent Dale Cooper, Laura Palmer, The Man from an Another Place (as well as their evil doubles). "Fire walk with me" & "The owls are not what they seem" are quoted from this story. These sentences witness its strangeness for those who are not familiar with the Twin Peaks world. It took me about ten days to build this skin, using Adobe PhotoDeluxe 2.0 and MSPaint. I hope you like it - even though being a Twin Peaks fan helps. Special thanks to David Lynch for these great TV shows and movie!

Check out my other skins: Yellow Subamp (about The Beatles' film and album) Bauhamp (about the english goth band Bauhaus)

Vincent Garnier vegarnier@magic.fr

[larathia]

TBHK theory (on leaving the school)

I think that any of the Wonders can leave school grounds if they want to. But I also think that if they do, they leave the power and title of “school wonder” behind - that the power of the Wonder only works while on school grounds.

Thus, a being like Tsuchigomori can leave school grounds and not worry too much - he’s a tsuchigumo, a spider demon, a fairly powerful creature in his own right - but Mitsuba 2.0 (a creation of Tsukasa, considered ‘very weak’ prior to being forcefed Three’s heart and power) becomes a “low-level spirit” once off school grounds, because that’s all he is without Three’s mantle.

And Hanako would absolutely not want to be a ‘mere ghost’. He’s not like Tsukasa - whatever Tsukasa truly is at this point. He needs the mantle of the Wonder to stand on anything like even footing with his twin (and that’s assuming his need for the mantle is based in rationality, and isn’t ‘just’ a throwback to his mortal “getting-bullied-by-everyone” days. He may just not want to be a ‘weak ghost’ in a town that has Teru and his family patrolling the streets outside the school every night.)

[bellatheinkdemon]

Pt. 3 Of explaining my Cookie Run Ocs in a walnut

Spicy Egg Ramen Cookie: The person chasing after Onigiri's ass. Also was heavily manipulated by his "Master."

Blueberry Muffin Cookie: Transfem supremacy. Also Sea Ink Captain Cookie's partner.

Prismatic Seafoam Priest Cookie: Spicy Egg Ramen's "Master." Also manipulative asf.

Spirit Informer Cookie: Literally just there to give Cookies that get lost in foggy woods "useless" info. Info about what? Who knows.

Enoki Warrior Cookie: "Fuck you Spirit Informer."

Shark King Cookie: "King of Sharks" he says.

Red Licorice Cookie: Basically Strawberry Crepe except, for everything except the robot making thing.

Midnight Blue Cake Cookie: Venoct 2.0

Molasses Cookie: Midnight's adopted little sister.

Jellywalker Cookie: "Oh dear god let me rip."

S'more Cookie and Timegear "Master" Cookie: (S'more) Is both a mechanic and news paper delivers enby. (Timegear) Basically Baumkuchen's de except they have slight memory loss and they lost an arm. (It got replaced)

Vortex Cookie: Stardust but more evil and Bigender.

Creme Brulee Cookie: Idk I haven't made lore for them yet

Root Beer Cookie: Parsley 2.0 (From Smile for Me)

Blue Grey Conch Cookie: Oyster's grandkid

Cheese Toastie and Rice Cracker Cookie: (They're both twins so hence why they're both together) Both work at the TBD (Idk what they're working as so please don't ask) and really good friends with S'more and Timegear.

Black Syrup Cookie: (was that a yo kai watch refe- No it isn't) Someone get their damn crows.

(Black Syrup's crows cause idk):

Pinto, Emmet and Bellarosa (yes those are their names) literally just joined Black Syrup cause fuck it why not? Also Pinto can't fly thanks to their fucked up wing

[xiv-wolfram]

Primal Awakening - The Binding Coil - Comic Script

Post ARR - Patch 2.0

Wolfram and Alisae investigate Bahamut - Part 1.

Catch up on my WoLComics (Chronological List)

This is the script for a future comic. Posting for those who don’t want to wait to get the story. Numbers indicate frame number.

Part 1

Wolfram and Alisae exit the Bahamut facility into Northern Thanalan. Wide shot. Narrator - "Wolfram has just emerged from the first Coil of Bahamut with Alisae. He's been impressed with her brother Alphinaud and is happy for the chance to get to know her as well."

Alisae smiles - “Grandfather's alive, Wolfram! Bahamut did not defeat him!”

Wolfram beams - “I’m so happy for you! This is amazing news indeed!”

Alisae ponders - “But why won't he return to us? I don't understand...This expedition has yielded more questions than it did answers.”

Wolf nods - “Aye, I sensed something… off about him. Perhaps he is bound there? Somehow unable to leave?”

Wolf beams and places a hand on her shoulder, comfortingly - “Whatever it is, we will figure it out together. I will do everything in my power to see you reunited with your family!”

Alisae looks surprised - “Why thank you Wolfram! That is quite a lot to promise to someone you’ve basically just met.” Thought - ‘Perhaps I remind him of my brother?’

Wolf looks embarrassed, holding a hand to his head - “Sorry if I seem overeager. I lost my own family many years ago. I would see you and your brother spared that pain.”

Alisae smiles sadly - “I see. I’m sorry you have known such loss and I thank you for your aid. On the few occasions I’ve talked with my brother recently he has spoken most highly of you.”

Wolf smiles - “I’m glad to hear it. I’ve become quite fond of him. In fact, he reminds me of my own brother, Klaus.”

Alisae grins - “Was your brother a bit of a know-it-all as well?”

Wolf laughs - “More than a bit! Yet also kind at heart and had a way with words. Strong sense of justice.”

Alisae laughs - “That is indeed an apt description of Alphinaud. Though if you tell him I said so I will deny every word!”

Alisae nods - “At any rate, we would both be better for a rest. Let us return to the Waking Sands and reflect upon what we have seen.”

Wolfram smiles - “Aye. Although …Ul'dah is on the way. Let me see that you’re fed before we continue on to Vesper Bay. Uriangier’s cooking leaves much to be desired. Besides, I should check in with my commanding officer. I try to keep the Flames aware of my location in case they need my aid while I’m in the field.” Thought - ‘I could just say I want to check in on Raubahn. Why am I being weird about it?’

Alisae laughs. Thinks - ‘Poor Urianger. Yet he speaks true.’ Says - “That it does! I would welcome a proper meal. Pray do not hurry on my account. I’ll be fine continuing on my own after we eat if you have business in Ul’dah. I may not be able to slay dragons single-handedly, but I’m perfectly capable of defending myself from the common beasts of Thanalan.”

Wolf grins - “I should have known you had a warrior’s spirit. Forgive me my protective instincts.” Alisae smirks - “No apology needed.”

A) Wolf whistles. B) Asuna, his red chocobo, flies towards them.

Wolf walks up to Asuna and pats her beak. - “Asuna, I’d like you to meet Alisae. She’s Alphi’s twin sister.” Asuna - “Kweh!”.

Alisae surprised - “Where’d she come from?!” Wolf (off frame) - “The stables in Ul’dah. She’s been working so hard I thought she could use a rest… “

Wolf beckons to Alisae from atop Asuna - “Yet I’m far too tired myself after fighting to walk all the way there. Hop on!” Alisae pats Asuna’s beak - “Well, thank you miss Asuna!”

Part 2

Walking out of the quicksand. They’re holding loaves and eating as they talk and walk towards the Flame headquarters. Alisae - “This is delicious! A bit spicy, yet were it on their menu I would order it again happily. How did you get them to make it for us?”

Wolf beams - “I’m glad you like them! It’s a Thavnairian recipe. Momodi and I go way back. I used to work for her when I lived here over a decade ago.”

Alisae surprised - “Oh? Were you her bodyguard?” Wolf winks - “No, I wasn’t always this chivalrous and heroic. I worked in the kitchen.”

Wolf smiles - “I had tired of conflict and it was familiar work. I’m a decent cook having grown up working in my parents inn… in Gyr Abania.” Thought - ‘Should I be telling her this? She feels trustworthy and I sense in her a kindred spirit. She reminds me of someone…who?’

Alisae smiles sadly - “I see. I’m sorry. I’m sure it was nice to have a peaceful profession for a time.” Thought - ‘Ah, so he’s Ala Mhigan, I suppose he lost his family to the Garleans then. Poor fellow.’

Wolf smiles - “Thank you. It was. These rolls are my father’s recipe, though they are light on chilis.” 

They’re about halfway to the Hall of Flames. Finished their food. Wolf nervous - “So…I know you were close with your grandfather, but what about your parents? Are they still in your life?” Alisae looks uncomfortable - “They are alive, but… our relationship is strained of late. They were less than thrilled at our decision to travel so soon after graduating the studium.”

Wolf concerned - “Ah. That is a shame. Perhaps once they see the good work you’re both doing they’ll be more supportive?”

Alisae smiles - “I certainly hope so. I know one of their concerns is our protection. I must say your combat style intrigues me. To wield both blade and magic.”

Wolf beams - “Thank you! I’m a Red Mage. It’s a rare style from Gyr Abania. I trained for several years with my friend X’Rhun. While my current duties limit my time, if you’re interested in learning a bit yourself I’d be happy to contact him for you.”

Alisae beams - “Thank you! I do appreciate the offer, but I prefer to stand on my own merits. Though once we’ve taken care of Bahamut I would be glad to know this X’Rhun’s location so I may seek him out myself.”

They reach the Hall of Flames. Wolf beams - “I admire your independence. Know that I’m just a linkshell call away if you need anything though. I’ll take my leave. Travel well, Alisae.” Alisae beams - “I will. Thank you again for all of your help. As well as the good food and company. I’ll see you soon.” Thought - 'He's so nice. And not only tolerates but likes my brother. An impressive feat indeed.'

Catch up on my WoLComics (Chronological List)

[4x4enginespecialists]

What Is The Impact Of The Twin-scroll Turbocharger On The Range Rover Engine 2.0's Performance?

Introduction

The advent of twin-scroll turbochargers has revolutionized the automotive industry, particularly in enhancing engine performance and efficiency. This technology has found its way into various vehicles, including the Range Rover Engine 2.0, where its impact is profound. We delve into the significance of twin-scroll turbochargers on the performance of the Range Rover Engine 2.0.

Understanding Twin-Scroll Turbochargers

Before delving into its impact, it's crucial to grasp the fundamentals of twin-scroll turbochargers. Unlike conventional turbochargers, which utilize a single exhaust pulse to drive the turbine wheel, twin-scroll turbochargers feature two separate exhaust gas inlets. This design allows for more efficient energy extraction from exhaust gases, leading to improved performance.

Enhanced Torque Delivery

One of the primary benefits of twin-scroll turbochargers on the Range Rover Engine 2.0 is enhanced torque delivery. By effectively segregating exhaust pulses from different cylinders, twin-scroll turbochargers minimize turbo lag and optimize torque output across the engine's RPM range. This results in a smoother and more responsive driving experience, particularly during low to mid-range acceleration.

Improved Power Output

In addition to torque enhancement, twin-scroll turbochargers contribute to a significant improvement in power output for the Range Rover Engine 2.0. The design ensures a more efficient flow of exhaust gases to the turbine wheel, allowing for increased boost pressure and, consequently, higher power production. This translates to enhanced performance capabilities, whether it be for spirited driving or towing applications.

Optimized Fuel Efficiency

Despite the power gains, twin-scroll turbochargers also play a crucial role in optimizing fuel efficiency for the Range Rover Engine 2.0. By extracting more energy from exhaust gases, these turbochargers help reduce pumping losses and improve overall engine efficiency. The result is a balance between performance and fuel economy, ensuring drivers can enjoy spirited driving without sacrificing efficiency.

Enhanced Engine Response

Another notable impact of twin-scroll turbochargers on the Range Rover Engine 2.0 is the enhanced engine response. Thanks to reduced turbo lag and improved torque delivery, the engine exhibits sharper throttle response and quicker acceleration. This translates to a more engaging driving experience, where drivers can confidently navigate various driving conditions with ease.

Heat Management and Durability

Twin-scroll turbochargers also contribute to better heat management and durability for the Range Rover Engine 2.0. The design minimizes exhaust gas interference between cylinders, reducing the risk of thermal stress and exhaust gas backpressure. This leads to improved component longevity and reliability, ensuring the engine remains robust under demanding operating conditions.

Integration with Engine Management Systems

Modern twin-scroll turbochargers are intricately integrated with advanced engine management systems, further optimizing their performance on the Range Rover Engine 2.0. These systems monitor various parameters such as engine load, temperature, and airflow, allowing for precise control of turbocharger operation. As a result, the engine can adapt dynamically to varying driving conditions, maximizing both performance and efficiency.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

While twin-scroll turbochargers offer numerous benefits, there are certain challenges and considerations to be mindful of. For instance, the complexity of the turbocharger system may result in increased maintenance costs and potential reliability issues if not properly maintained. Additionally, achieving optimal performance may require specialized tuning and calibration, which could limit aftermarket modification options. More information about the range rover engine here at the https://4x4enginespecialists.co.uk/ .

Conclusion

In conclusion, the adoption of twin-scroll turbochargers has significantly enhanced the performance of the Range Rover Engine 2.0. From improved torque delivery and power output to optimized fuel efficiency and engine response, the impact of this technology is undeniable. Moreover, its integration with advanced engine management systems ensures a harmonious balance between performance and reliability. As automotive engineering continues to evolve, twin-scroll turbochargers are poised to play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of automotive propulsion systems. Read the full article