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theweeklydiscourse · 3 months

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What Makes Feyre’s Pregnancy Plotline in A Court of Silver Flames so Upsetting?

The answer is that the events and outcome concerning Feyre’s pregnancy speak to a fear of one’s loss of autonomy, specifically one’s reproductive autonomy. Furthermore, this plotline demonstrates Maas' consistent prioritization of her male characters at the expense of her female characters. Multiple factors make this subplot feel particularly uncomfortable and upsetting, but I can condense them into three main points that converge to create one frustrating scenario.

1. Rhysand and the Question of Choice

From ACOMAF onwards, the reader is made aware of Rhysand’s unusually progressive politics and his attention to the autonomous choices of women. This is demonstrated through his selection of counsel, appointing Mor and Amren in roles of authority, and eventually crowing Feyre as High Lady of the Night Court. In addition to this, we are shown his emphasis on choice through his interactions with Feyre. Rhysand repeatedly reminds Feyre that she can choose, that she can make an autonomous decision that he will respect. So, it is these positive features of Rhysand that make the pregnancy subplot of ACOSF so disturbing.

He, and the Inner Circle by extension, purposefully omit the information that Feyre’s pregnancy will turn deadly and never volunteer the information to her. During Cassian’s meeting with Rhysand and Amren, we are shown their thought process behind withholding information from Nesta (and Feyre by extension) According to Amren, it is not lying because they are technically not telling lies in the traditional sense, only withholding information.

While this is about Nesta, the reader can see the parallels between both cases. The choice to lie by omission reveals that both Amren and Rhysand are aware of the dishonesty of their actions, choosing to mitigate it slightly on a technicality. It feels distinctly like a loophole in Rhysand’s previous promises to Feyre, making this act feel more deceitful while demonstrating Rhysand’s willingness to undermine Feyre’s authority as High Lady. If Rhysand had a condition or illness that would eventually kill him, informing him of it would be certain, you wouldn’t even consider the possibility of not telling him. However, because Feyre is pregnant, she is not afforded the same autonomy.

Wanting to keep Feyre in blissful ignorance is not a sufficient reason, especially when Feyre is still of sound mind and can advocate for herself. Rhysand’s reasoning sounds noble, but in reality, it is just benevolent sexism. It doesn’t matter if he thinks it will cause Feyre stress, she NEEDS to be aware of what’s going on and the fact that the news will ruin her peaceful pregnancy is of little consequence when her life is on the line. Rhysand prioritizes his feelings and implicitly gives himself executive authority over Feyre’s pregnancy, demonstrating his disregard for her autonomy and choices. This action directly contradicts the progressive beliefs Rhysand stated in previous books and is a betrayal for the reader as well as Feyre.

2. The Infantilization of Feyre

The omission of this critical information, good intentions or not, is based on a belief that Feyre would not be competent enough to handle such a pressing situation in her pregnant state. Amren claims that the stress and fear could have physically harmed Feyre, but such a claim assumes that Feyre would not have the fortitude or ability to handle the situation.

Amren's explanation demonstrates a belief that Feyre's input on the matter would be irrelevant and pointless because it prevents Feyre from offering any. It is a plan that assumes Feyre will not be able to add anything meaningful to the solution and that it would be less harmful to her if she was kept out of it. This is infantilizing and paternalistic because Feyre has proven herself to be capable of coping under pressure and happens to be an unprecedented magical anomaly. Feyre’s access to pertinent medical information should not be revoked and it is insane that Madja her physician, actively misleads her with Rhysand’s consent.

This infantilization of a pregnant character echoes how pregnant women have been infantilized throughout history. It is a terrifying thought to imagine that your bodily autonomy could be stripped from you in the name of serving your supposed best interest. Rosemary’s Baby is one of the most famous horror movies of all time and it explores this exact topic, the same is true for the short story The Yellow Wallpaper, both stories capture the horror of reproductive/medical abuse that still happens to women today.

3. The Aftermath & Prioritizing Male Rage

Lastly, one of the most disturbing elements of this subplot is the way the text consistently prioritizes and coddles the violent rage of male characters at the expense of female characters. This is on full display when Rhysand flies into an intense rage after Nesta reveals the truth to Feyre. Although Nesta can be faulted for her harsh phrasing, let it be known that even Feyre felt that she did the right thing and was expressing her anger at the paternalistic and unjust practices of the Inner Circle. However, Nesta is still subjected to severe physical and emotional punishment in the form of a grueling hike where she is left to stew in her guilt and suicidal ideation despite Feyre ultimately not faulting her.

Feyre admits that Rhysand “majorly overreacted” and that she wanted Nesta back in Velaris. And yet, Nesta is still punished. But why? Will Rhysand or any of the Inner Circle be punished for betraying Feyre? Why, if Feyre agreed that Nesta was right to tell her, would she ever need to be subjected to a severe punishment when she was justified in what she did?

This is a particularly telling detail that compels me to ask: is this punishment about Feyre’s feelings or Rhysand’s? Why is it that Rhysand’s “overreaction” needs to be assuaged by punishing Nesta? What I observe from this passage is the characters prioritizing the feelings of a male character and placating him with the suffering of a female character, even when he wasn’t the one who was hurt in that situation. Feyre asks Cassian to tell Rhysand that the hike will be Nesta's punishment as though it isn't truly a punishment, but it undoubtedly is.

Throughout the hike, Nesta is in a silent spiral of guilt and self-hatred, Cassian never tells her that Feyre is alright and that Rhysand overreacted, letting her dwell in it alone. He hardly speaks to her, he pushes her to the point of exhaustion and is somehow surprised that Nesta shows signs of suicidal ideation.

This isn't constructive at all, it is not evidence that Cassian cares about Nesta's well-being, and the scenes of Nesta internally repeating that she deserves to die and that everyone hates her are nothing but gratuitous and disgustingly self-indulgent. The text basks in Nesta's suffering, even when she was in the right and this hike only happened to placate Rhysand who wronged Feyre in the first place.

Hindsight am I right? Fuck off. A more productive resolution to this matter would be for Feyre and Nesta to talk it out ALONE. Feyre could express her feelings to Nesta directly and they could find a solution together, that way Feyre’s situation could be centered on the two sisters working together. Cassian can see that Feyre is alright, she’s obviously upset, but she didn’t crumble like he expected and that makes it completely baffling that he would punish Nesta anyway. It’s a solution that prioritizes his and Rhysand’s feelings as opposed to Feyre’s, making it not about a perceived transgression against Feyre, but against Rhysand.

In Conclusion

This topic has already been discussed at length by many people in the fandom, but it is a topic that still stays on my mind with how upsetting it is. It is a stunning example of the misogynistic undertones in Sarah J Maas’s writing and makes reading a very straining experience due to her obvious bias towards certain male characters. Not even her main character matters when Rhysand is factored into the situation, his emotions are always centred by other characters and is permitted to betray his wife and get off scot free.

Feyre’s reproductive autonomy is violated, and Maas doesn’t bat an eye. But when Nesta rightfully reveals the truth to Feyre, everyone loses their mind. Both Nesta and Feyre have their autonomy stripped away from the, by way of the Inner Circle’s paternalism, and when Nesta advocates for herself and Feyre, she is punished severely. Being put in her place as the hierarchy is strengthened.

#a court of silver flames #acotar #nesta archeron #acotar meta #feyre archeron #amren #rhysand critical #rhysand #cassian #sarah j maas #acosf meta #anti nessian #close reading #acotar analysis #anti sarah j maas #anti sjm #anti inner circle

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azsazz · 1 year

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Between Me and You

Azriel x Reader (Jax Centric)

Summary: Anon Request: Is it Jax who likes to meet creatures? Will we see him interacting with Bryaxis at some point? he is an empath, so he must feel the power that must emanate from the library too 😳👀

Warnings: N/A

Word Count: 2,102

Notes: this one’s for all the Jax girlies.

_________________________________________

“This doesn’t seem like such a good idea,” Wren presses worriedly, grip white knuckled on the railing as he stares down into the dark abyss of the library. Uneasy.

“It’s not a good idea,” Baz agrees, crossing his arms over his chest and rolling his eyes at his older brother. Irritated. “That’s the point of the bet. And Jax wouldn’t have agreed to it if he wasn't able to handle the consequences, right J?”

The youngest of the three chooses not to respond, instead swallowing harshly at the darkness of the bottom of the library. He had in fact made the bet, but he should’ve known by now that Baz would find a loophole in the terms of agreement that would cause him to lose.

They’re not even supposed to be in here alone, though they rarely listen to what is asked of them these days, the naughty oldest sons of you and the spymaster thrive off of a little chaos.

A part of him thinks he catches sight of something moving, but when Jax’s wide eyes flicker over to that part of the basement there’s nothing but the deep void staring back at him.

They’d grown up on horror stories of the beast that resides in the bottom of the library. Something that had been unleashed during the great war and had chosen to come back and live in the dark, dusty library at his uncle’s house.

And Jax understands better than his brothers. Had felt the fear creeping from his Uncle Cassian when he had spoken of the creature prowling below, begging for company. The emotions he’d felt from one of the most powerful Illyrians in regards to the beast has his limbs coiled in fear.

“Alright, better get on with it now,” Baz shoves him towards the ramp, “Before mom and dad notice we’re gone.”

“Baz–”

Apprehensive.

“Wren,” the second oldest snaps, glaring. Displeased. “There’s no going back now. Unless you want them finding out about these…” He shoves up the sleeve to his shirt to show the dark tattoo coiled around his forearm. Jax feels the one on his own skin tingling with magic it’s made of. It does nothing to calm his pounding heart. Fear.

They aren’t supposed to be making bargains either.

“It’s fine, Wren,” Jax replies. Lies. He tries to give his oldest brother a smile but he can’t seem to force his lips to curve upwards, not when Wren’s nervousness is cracking the thin walls he’s built up.

He hasn’t quite mastered how to block out other’s emotions yet, especially when he’s in a fragile state himself, and in close proximity with his older brothers he can feel Wren’s concern seeping through the seams and even Baz’s apprehension as he takes a step downwards, and continues.

It’s now or never.

But Baz is right. If their parents find out that they’ve been making petty bargains and dares they will surely receive a harsher punishment than if he goes down to the bottom of the library to visit Uncle Cassian’s old friend, right?

His legs wobble with each step downwards. The weight of his brothers’ worry mixed with his own crash over him. He can hardly hear his own footsteps over the pounding of his chest in his ears. Closer and closer he gets to the bottom, and each flight he descends is one step further from his brothers, from safety.

Terrified.

Jax peeks upwards, trying to spot his older brothers at the top of the ramp, but they’re nowhere to be found. It’s too dark from him to see, the light growing dimmer the closer he gets to the bottom, and his brain is telling him to scream up to them, turn around and run, but he can’t, the stinging of the bargain on his arm is growing, knowing that it’s about to be fulfilled.

So he keeps going.

Jax freezes when he steps off of the winding slope into the beast's home. It’s eerily quiet, the kind that screams threats. He clenches his fingers tightly together, palms clammy and fingernails biting into his skin, trying to ground himself.

He doesn’t feel a thing all the way down here. It’s like his senses are muted. Like he can finally breathe.

Something moves not far from him, but there’s no use in trying to discern what it is. He can’t see a thing in these depths, not even the skylight that had been put in for the creature shines all the way down here.

He swallows harshly, trying to follow the movement anyway. It’s not quite a slither but he can hear the dull scrape of claws all around him and it reminds him of the way his Uncle Rhys can look into people’s minds.

He wonders if Bryaxis can do the same.

Jax doesn’t know much about this creature, other than the fact that it’s terrified his uncle so much that he shudders every time it’s mentioned and had begged them all not to bring it up ever again after that fateful dare, the one that had so obviously given Baz the idea.

He startles as the creature sniffs the air, releasing a knowing hum that makes the hair on the back of his neck stir. It’s intrigue, Jax recognizes, letting his powers reach out to the beast. “You smell…familiar. Son of darkness and death. What is your name?”

Jax shifts his weight onto his other foot as a shiver slides up his spine. Son of darkness and death. Might that be his father the creature is referring to? He doesn’t know if he should say, and doesn't think he should trust this creature, for the beast hasn’t mentioned his uncle by name either.

He could lie, tell Bryaxis that his name is Baz. Or Montauk, the boy at school who’s always giving him trouble. One side of his mouth curves upwards at the thought.

“Why are you smiling?”

Oh shit. The smirk falls from his lips.

“My name is Jax,” he answers, proud that his voice only shakes a tiny bit.

“Jax,” the beast hisses, savoring it. Maybe it’s imagining what he will taste like when it tears the flesh from his body.

He squeezes his eyes shut, shoving the thought from his mind.

The creature moves again and he’s trying to map out its movements, reaching out to feel the emotions rushing through its body. It’s overwhelming and confusing, the amount of feelings the beast is experiencing. Hunger, excitement, dread, longing, all thick in the back of his throat, filling his head so quickly that Jax tries to shut it down the best that he can, panting as he tries to focus on closing his emotions down one by one.

“What are you doing in my home, Jax?” Bryaxis prowls, and the suspicion in its voice pulls to the front of his mind, the emotion consuming him.

“I’ve come to tell you about life,” he wheezes, and does not expect the creature to let out a belly laugh at his response.

“And what do you know about life, little one?”

Curiosity.

Jax sighs, finally relaxing as he forces his powers into control, “Seems like too much sometimes.”

He feels the flare of intrigue, mirroring that of his own for the creature down here.

“You…” the creature trails off, and Jax swears he can feel its hot breath caressing his hair, “Have felt a great deal.”

Jax’s mouth drops in surprise because this thing, this Bryaxis knows what he is? Maybe he can convince the creature to–

The darkness turns sideways and so does the emotions radiating off of the beast. Annoyance. Fear. Defensive. His father’s cobalt siphons appear in a flash right before him, wings flaring wide to protect his son and for a fleeting moment Jax wonders if his dad can see down in these depths.

He doesn’t get the chance to ask. There’s a tang of emotion, something that he doesn’t have the time to decipher because his father is wrapping a hand around his bicep and the shadows swallow them whole–

“What were you thinking going all the way down there?” Azriel bursts immediately when they're once again on solid ground. He doesn’t give Jax the time to get his bearings, adjust to the bright faelights around the office.

He blinks, recognizing you as his eyes adjust. You’re sitting in one of the study’s chairs, a hand pressed to your stomach with worry. Jax doesn’t even need to read your emotions, you’re wearing your concern clear on your face as you spring from your chair and move towards him.

He lets you hug him, even opens his senses a little to revel in the rush of relief you’re feeling. It makes his shoulders relax, the tension and adrenaline seeping from his body.

Azriel doesn’t even wait for his son to respond, pacing across the office with worry. He’s sheathed his knife at his side, and runs his scarred fingers through his inky black mane. Jax could laugh at how comical it is that his father is striding around the room but yet his footsteps are silent.

He’ll have to tell his brothers all about it later.

“Who put you up to this?” Azriel asks, but he’s not a rat.

They stare at each other, both silent and watching. Jax looks everything like Azriel in this moment, steely eyed and stoic, slightly eerie in a way. He knows that his father already likely knows exactly who’s put him up to this, or has the ability to find out quickly if he doesn’t, but Jax doesn’t care about the lecture or the punishment, finally realizing what that quiver of emotion he’d felt from the beast as he was whipped away was.

Your hands on his shoulders are grounding, and you flood the bond with reassurance and comfort that Jax feels tenfold. He sways beneath your grip.

“It’s lonely down there,” he blurts, feeling utterly calm and safe, he’s able to honestly speak his thoughts.

You coo, smoothing your son's hair back, sharing a look with your mate.

“Lonely? How can it be lonely? It wants to be there, it’s its home,” Azriel nearly growls, not nearly as close to calming down as his son is. He’s the one who had to track the beast across Prythian, trying to get it to return to the library. He’s seen that creature, knows what it can do, what it has done to fae and armies alike. The thought of what it could have done to Jax makes his fingers curl in fear.

His son shrugs, a concerned twitch to his brow. “It has feelings, dad.”

Azriel’s pacing stops at his son's words, staring down at his fourth born. He always seemed more grown up than the rest of his children, because his abilities as an empath made him so. Azriel’s heart aches at the thought that his son has had to carry such a burden, because he would do anything to protect him if he could.

The spymaster knees in front of Jax, placing a gentle hand on the forearm that is now free of any traces of the bargain he’d made with his older brother. Azriel smooths his thumb over the still smooth skin of his son, eyes soft and understanding.

“Do you want to go back down there?”

Jax looks up, eyes wide and mouth parted in shock. Is his father really asking him if he wants to go back downstairs to visit Bryaxis?

“We can put a ward on you, and you’ll need a chaperone, but if you want to visit Bryaxis, I will come with you.”

“Really?” Jax asks, surprised. You, however, are not, knowing that your mate will do anything for his children. You flood the bond with warmth.

Azriel nods, holding his son's gaze.

Love.

The spymaster is normally one to suss out the reactions of others before they appear on their face, but he’s not expecting Jax to fling himself into his arms, wrapping his hands tightly around his neck.

Azriel catches his son, hugging him close to his body as he wobbles backwards. His wings flare out for balance but he’s too late and he tumbles onto his ass. None of it matters when Jax is beaming up at him with the biggest smile he’s ever seen from his son, shouting “thank you’s” excitedly over and over and over again.

You can’t help your own teary smile as you watch your two loves embrace each other, both looking incredibly happy with the outcome of this event.

And maybe sometimes Baz’s plans work out for the best.

#Azriel #azriel x reader #daddy!azriel #daddy!az #azsazz #azsazz next gen #azsazz - jax #azriel/reader #acotar #acowar #acomaf

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laplaces-lovecraftian-dick · 3 months

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re: arcs in touhou

this is a personal way of packaging the events of touhou for convenience. literature not explicitly mentioned, I'd place in the corresponding release chronology.

1. PC-98

We all now by now that pc-98 canon is deemed mostly canon unless contradicted. It is also quite outdated and left for much of interpretation. Either way.

- Reiiden, (The) Highly Responsive to Prayers. What do we know? Reimu can seriously kick some ass. Also, joyful spherical creature.

- Fuumaroku, (the) Story of Eastern Wonderland. What do we have? Mima was apparently unsealed from Hell, and it's established that the Hakurei is famous for better or worse. Moreover the "true powers" of the orbs are quite curious.

- Yumejikuu, (The) Phantasmagoria of Dim. Dream. What do we have? Professor Yumemi Okazaki from a world that resembles the foundation of the Hifuuture. Also some insight into the whimsy of this world.

- Gensoukyou, Lotus Land Story. There isn't that much other than the name (!!!), Yuuka, and the existence of a dream world.

- Kaikidan, Mystic Square. There is once again not that much lore other than Makai having more of a structure and Alice appearing for the first time. Perhaps the mention that Yuuka doesn't use magic is of vague interest (and so would be Mima's words about being a god if she hadn't disappeared).

2. Spellcard Arc

Immediately following the Vampire Incident (which in and of itself is quite interesting for a variety of reasons) we get to watch as Gensokyo becomes used to this new system. This is an arc for Exposition.

- Koumakyou, (the) Embodiment of Scarlet Devil. We get it, Remilia wants to show off. We are introduced to Patchouli and Flandre, who are for now important to the lore.

- Youyoumu, Perfect Cherry Blossom. Of importance, we expand upon the fact that Gensokyo has History and that it has Connections to other worlds, at least one of which seems to be manageable by Yukari Yakumo (whom we also meet here and we get some interesting interactions with Reimu). We also see Alice again, and this implies a possible connection to Makai somewhere.

- Suimusou, Immaterial and Missing Power. We meet Suika, who has a great deal of importance as an oni, as Yukari's friend, and as one of the four that once controlled the mountain.

- Eiyashou, Imperishable Night. Oh, where to even start. We get more insight on Yukari through Stage 3, we learn of the Human Village (protected by a hakutaku, mind you), we learn about the Lunarians, and we learn about Mokou. This is Chekhov's gun, I dare say.

- Kaeizuka, Phantasmagoria of Flower View. Clearly there's not really a Major Incident per se, but we do get insight on Reimu's duties, the nature of Gensokyo, how Yuuka has become relatively quiet, and we get insight from Yukari through Seasonal Dream Vision.

- Bunkachou, Shoot the Bullet. Here, I'd also place the literature of this era as more exposition with fun bits of lore.

- Hourai Doll ~ Dolls in Pseudo Paradise, Night Trip to Rendaino ~ Ghostly Field Club, Changing Dreams in the Age of Science ~ Changeability of Strange Dream, East-West Tokaido ~ Retrospective 53 Minutes, and Celestial Wizardry ~ Magical Astronomy. Boy oh boy do we have a fun ride learning about the Hifuuture and our dear protagonists, Maeriberii "Maribel" "Merry" Hearn and Renko Usami. This is of great importance for Yukari and Gensokyo lore later on, plus it's a good segue into the more philosophical arc next.

(yes I know DiPP isn't strictly Hifuu but!)

3. Religious Arc

- Bougetsushou. This expands on Lunarian lore, which is especially important when we try to understand Yukari Yakumo and Gensokyo, and it complements well the established setting in the first half of Hifuu. We also get insight on Patchouli's magic-science unification, more on religious setting (as seen in Yorihime and maybe Yuyuko loopholeing the concept of purity), and more on History such as Mokou's past and Eirin's growth.

- Fuujinroku, Mountain of Faith. Well, other than welcoming a more divine side into Touhou, we establish properly the dynamics of the Youkai Mountain, especially the tengu's presence. Moreover, we meet Kanako and Suwako, who are living proof of gensokyo's concept of adaptation and self-definition, as well as of gensokyo's sustainable balance. Sanae is also a good way to expand on the relationship with the Outside World.

- Hisouten, Scarlet Weather Rhapsody. We are introduced to Tenshi and the philosophy of the Celestials, and also we see Yukari having a bit of an obvious interest in keeping the shrine as is.

- Chireiden, Subterranean Animism. We learn about Former Hell, continue to see Yukari and Suika being suspiciously helpful, meet Yuugi, and continue the trainwreck caused by Kanako's arrival.

- Seirensen, Undefined Fantastic Object. Makai returns! Byakuren is here! With her arrival, the Trainwreck continues, there is a vague connection to the Blood Pools via Murasa, and we get to see the side of mythology about humans and youkai (as seen with Byakuren's approach to it, and Ichirin existing).

- Hisoutensoku, Unthinkable Natural Law; Bunkachou, Double Spoiler; Sangetsusei, Great Fairy Wars. Naturally, we must see Gensokyo adapting to it's new state of affairs as things change and forces tug at it.

- Shinreibyou, Ten Desires. Much more lore regarding History and self-definition as seen in Miko; also, we meet Mamizou, who can somewhat play with the Hakurei Barrier.

- Shinkirou, Hopeless Masquerade. The Trainwreck comes to a close as Kokoro puts an end to the religious wars. This event (by which I mean a tsukumogami and a satori accidentally solving everything with some nudges along the way) show the way Gensokyo works: nothing truly Bad can happen to it.

- Suzunaan, Forbidden Scrollery. This further shows that there are forces at play which ensure the balance of Gensokyo. More on that in other official literature.

4. Gensokyo Arc

We are back to seeing the nature of this fantasy land through a much larger scope. Gensokyo has been established as a setting and as a concept, so now we get to see it in full action.

- Ruins of Torifune ~ Trojan Green Asteroid, Izanagi Object ~ Neo-traditionalism of Japan, Swallow stone Naturalis Historia ~ Dr. Latency's Freak Report, Old Testament Tavern ~ Dateless Bar "Old Adam". What a better way to start this era than through the moment in Hifuu where the Renko-Merry dynamic takes a turn, and Merry's true colors start to show more clearly?

- Kishinjou, Double Dealing Character. An independent incident, really; we are given a refreshment as to what a Gensokyo Incident feels like. No intervention from any other worlds, simply put. It's quickly resolved, as expected, and even quicker does the world adapt. (Insert ISC here).

- Shinpiroku, Urban Legend in Limbo. Much to discuss! From a new Outsider in the form of Sumireko Usami, to the scale that an incident can reach when there are other worlds at play! Especially, the Moon and an Outside World that ever so slightly drifts from what Sanae knew and into what Merry will know. Also, we get a proper game appearance for Kasen, which means...

- Ibarakasen, Wild and Horned Hermit. Sure, the story began much earlier, but it's worth nothing a few things here and now, such as the insight we get on being a hermit, a sage, and an oni all from the same person: Kasen, another prime example of self-definition. Also, a fun little peek at Hell and Heaven.

- Kanjuden, Legacy of Lunatic Kingdom. Well, among many other things, this brings us Hecatia, who offers good insight on the dynamic of connected worlds, which we have been seeing quite a lot of; as well as a comparison between the rigid Lunarian culture, the unique lawlessness of Hell, and the adaptable Gensokyo.

- Hyouibana, Antimony of Common Flowers. Well, with this incident we get to see more of Kasen and Yukari's current dynamic, their relation to Reimu, and two very important points shown through the Yorigamis: anyone can cause an incident (which, we kinda already knew, but bear with me), and the Dream World takes importance. Tenshi can freely desire to reshape the world into something better (albeit through odd means), is that not reminiscent of Reimu's desire?

- Tenkuushou, Hidden Star in Four Seasons. What was that about anyone crafting an incident? Oh yeah, another sage appears, and makes incision on the nature of Gensokyo. There is also, albeit not as directly, insight into self-definition in Okina, who embodies so many concepts.

- Hifuu Nightmare Diary, Violet Detector. More Sumireko shenanigans that showcase the adaptability of Gensokyo and the meddling of the sages when things are tricky. Moreover, the importance of the Dream World for Gensokyo is highlighted: both in universe, as the Yukaribel story grows, and out of universe, for the very conception of Gensoukyou involved a dream world.

- Kikeijuu, Wily Beast and Weakest Creature. Woop woop, there's no time to keep musing about sages and dreams, Hell is here! Is this a consequence of Hecatia and Okina's quarrel? No, it was actually the Beasts. However, we do get to see a curious phenomenon involving Keiki and the human spirits.

- Gouyoku Ibun, Submerged Hell of Sunken Sorrow. Once again, the sages meddle when things are tricky. There's also something to be said about their wisdom - are they not very clever with Flandre's power? They must've quickly learnt in order to devise such a plan - Kasen learnt to solve the Urban Legend Incident, Yukari learnt to solve the Perfect Possession Incident, surely Okina can do the same. And yet... perhaps, and just perhaps, the knowledge was always there. The Vampire Incident was long ago, and Gensokyo is fundamentally an accepting place. Had they wanted to, they could've kicked the Scarlets out, and yet. This is how they built Gensokyo. This is how they work with it. But let's move on - more Beast lore, and we utilize obscure mythology to our advantage.

This, we have already seen. Vampire lore is not exactly commonplace, so they didn't know how to deal with them. Oni lore was forgotten, therefore Suika and Kasen were tricky to deal with. The sages are masters of self-definition through their mythology. The entirety of shinpiroku and hyouibana was based on working with the mythology of the incident. More on this later.

- Kouryuudou, Unconnected Marketeers. Another instance of "anyone can create an incident if they try hard enough," of "redefining oneself" with Chimata and not too unlike what Kanako herself showed, and of Reimu finding more about her own power.

- Bulletphilia-tachi no Yami-Ichiba, 100th Black Market. Whimsical instance of Gensokyo adapts. Somehow, it always does, for better or worse.

- Juuouen, Unfinished Dream of All Living Ghost. Whuh-oh! This was the for worse! Now, the beast incident brewing in the background crashes into the ever fluctuating Gensokyo. Thankfully, even the other worlds have their own measures to remain stable, just like Gensokyo does. This means both through the dutiful shrine maiden and through this strange innate balance (Aunn saves the day! Okina will surely claim it was all according to plan). Everything passes.

5. The Future.

Who knows? Predicting touhou is famously not the best of ideas. However, I'm confident there will be constants: this is a place to determine oneself, and this is a place that will persevere.

On a more specific note, I imagine that Chireikiden, Cheating Detective Satori will bring an interesting plot, whether it be a conclusion to the arc or the beginning of a new one. We recently tackled Hell, so it may be the former option.

It seems to be shaping up a lore reveal regarding the Hakurei and Gensokyo's creation. Perhaps, there will be more on its connection to other worlds, specifically the dream world. The importance of change. The nature of the shrine. The balance established by the sages, of those who embrace otherness as seen in Hifuu, in DiPP, in Forbidden Scrollery.

#touhou #touhou project #gensokyo meta #goodness gracious who do i even tag #reimu hakurei #yukari yakumo #kasen ibaraki #okina matara #and many many others

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monstersdownthepath · 6 months

Text

Monster Spotlight: Liminal Sprite

CR 2

Chaotic Neutral Tiny Fey

Bestiary 5, pg. 158

These little ladies are afflicted by an absolutely bizarre curse, one which prevents them from ever sleeping inside a building or outside in the open. Thus, as their name suggests, the Liminal Sprites must find transitory places that are neither inside nor outside if they wish to actually rest, but there is also a loophole that allows Liminal Sprites to sleep anywhere that's both inside and outside. Thus, these moths are drawn to civilization, as human construction has created marvels such as porches, bridges,, stairwells, gazebos, vehicles of every description, and hallways which connect two buildings together. Liminal Sprites which end up trapped out in the wilderness must find hollow trees, caves, or even animal dens before they succumb to exhaustion.

Why they possess this strange and paradoxical curse is anyone's guess, as who or whatever placed it upon them is either long gone or no longer known. It may be, as most fey curses, a form of punishment that afflicts their entire bloodline, and whether or not they deserve it is determined entirely by whether or not you've been targeted by their pranks. Liminal Sprites are among the Fey breeds who love, love, love interacting with/pestering mortalkind for their own amusement, taking in all the local news and gossip from their hiding places or shrouding themselves with their 3/day Invisibility while using their extremely swift 60ft fly speed to flutter around busy markets, theaters, and other places of congregation so they may passively absorb whatever's going on in their city. They become sponges for the who's-who in the city, the He's and She's of the he-said-she-said games, though how they use this information is entirely up to them.

Unlike their fellow social butterflies (pun intended), the Danthienne, Liminal Sprites aren't compelled to stir up trouble for the sake of it. Some lean towards Good, using their powers to cause fouler sorts of people to make fools of themselves, while others lean towards Evil and humiliate anyone trying to make their lives better. Most, however, flip flop back and forth depending entirely on whether or not they like a given individual and can be a boon or a bane. A Liminal Sprite wishing to ruin someone's speech can use Fumbletongue 3/day to turn their next 1d4 rounds of words into meaningless babble, or use their at-will Daze to make someone freeze up entirely as though claimed by stage fright.

To anyone they wish to help, Liminal Sprites may use Memory Lapse 3/day to erase a mistake from the mind of an onlooker, or use their at-will Prestidigitation to make their lives a little bit better overall, but more importantly they may sit on the shoulder of their new friend and offer kind advice. Their witty Repartee allows them to take the Aid Another action with Charisma-based skill checks and add +2d4 to the result instead of the normal +2 up to three times a day, meaning the target can get anywhere from +2 to +8 in their attempts to beguile, bluff, or boast past another... or +2d4 to Performance and Use Magic Device checks.

Liminal Sprites are performers themselves, and take little seriously. This, they're able to use Versatile Performance to substitute Bluff and Intimidate checks with Perform (Comedy), which they have +8 to, because c'maaaahn, c'mahn, they're just little guys! they're so little! AND it's their birthday! you're not gonna hit a little guy on his birthday, are ya? But you can't let that routine work on you, or they'll go right back to scrambling your speech and mucking up your memory. Fittingly enough, the book states people wanting a Sprite gone often turn loose animals that their performance won't work against and their magic won't affect, because a trained dog can sniff them out even after they've turned invisible. A dog might have a hard time surpassing the Sprite's DR 5/cold iron, but being chewed on and thrashed about by an animal still hurts even if it doesn't do any damage to the little Fey, so it's still a surefire way to make the Sprite abandon its home in your porch.

No, they're not really a danger to your dog, either. The only damage a Sprite has is its tiny rapier, which deals 1d3-1 damage, so it's only a real hazard if it leads your pooch somewhere dangerous, or if it uses Prestidigitation to skunk-spray the dog. Really, the best part about it is that it condemns the Sprite to madness if it can't find somewhere else to sleep fast enough. A more kind-hearted soul can easily make a Liminal Sprite kind as well, leaving offerings of food and keeping the Fey company each night out on their porch, and a caster of 7th level or higher who's willing to work around their unfortunate resting restrictions can even take one on as a Familiar! Fun fact: Extradimensional spaces fit nicely into the Sprite's curse loophole... Just make sure enough air gets in.

Or, y'know, you could just let them use your tent like a normal person. Not as funny, though.

You can read more about them here.

#Monster Spotlight #CR 1 to 5 #familiar spotlight #Pathfinder #dungeons and dragons

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acourtofthought · 4 months

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Not Elucien related but do you think after HOFAS there's a chance that Nesta will in fact move away from the inner circle? The spoilers I've seen, it feels like she is unhappy with her life and I think there's a possibility we might see her moving away from NC altogether and getting involved in Autumn drama (helping Eris kill Baron).

I do think Nesta will move away from the Inner Circle, but not the Night Court.

At first thought, it seems like Feyre, Nesta, and Elain all working together as one big happy family within the Inner Circle would be picture perfect.

But, would it?

Because there will always be an imbalance in that scenario. Feyre is their High Lady and Rhys would be their High Lord, the sisters would be forced to listen to them when it came down to it.

And that does not give room for the sisters growth into individuals, into striking a healthy balance where they each respect their own strengths and independence outside one another.

Nesta's sister and Nesta's brother-in-law being able to tell her what to do does not create an environment where being sisters comes first.

I think the same will be said of Elain, she is mated to Lucien who is set up to become a High Lord and regardless of what side of the ship wars you fall on, mates are equals which means Elain should technically have it in her to be capable of ruling as well. Her ending up working for the IC would also create an unfair imbalance between her potential and her relationship with Feyre.

But in SF, everything we were told is that the Night Court is her home. The HOW is her home. There is nothing to indicate she would leave the Night Court for Autumn and honestly, there's nothing to suggest that Eris would be willing to work with Nesta after she screwed him over in SF. The Autumn Court drama involves Beron, Lucien, Eris and the LoA. Despite them working with Eris in SF, their interactions with him took place outside the NC because outsiders are not permitted within it's borders. So long as Beron is alive, nobody with NC ties is going to easily play a part there, not when Eris was aware of Az trying to spy.

This next part will contain HOFAS spoilers so if you're avoiding them, you might want to stop reading here.

The ending of HOFAS has Bryce leaving her birthright (which is the Prison lands, the would be Dusk Court) to Nesta because of the 8 pointed star tattoo she had.

I'm not sure that the land itself is destined for Nesta to rule because she isn't a descendant of Theia and we're told that only her heirs have true claim to that land.

But Nesta is set up to become the general of the Valkyrie and she is most likely going to be responsible for setting the restoration of the lands into motion. Just as Bryce passed the torch to Nesta, it could be part of Nesta's destiny to pass the torch to whomever is meant to tie their magic into the land (maybe Mor?). The reason I say this is because whoever is tied to the land should probably remain there and since Valkryie territory is a group of female warriors, I can't see how Nesta would be it's "leader" (different from general) when she's mated to Cassian and they were left the HOW which Nesta says is her home. Since Mor's preference is that of females, she and a female love interest would make sense being the permanent presence, overseeing the Valkyrie while Nesta is their general.

But regardless of who oversees the Valkryie territory, we learned in SF that the Valkyrie were independent of the courts which is a way for Nesta to remain living in the Night Court while her job provides her a loophole to not report directly to Rhys.

#hofas spoilers #acotar theory #crossover acotar #eris vanserra #lucien vanserra #elain archeron #nesta acosf #morrigan acotar #rhysand acotar #feyre acotar

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phoenixyfriend · 2 years

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Worldbuilding: The ASPIRE Method (Introduction)

Read here

Now available to all patrons!

I will likely make a version of this available in full on tumblr for free at some point. However, as this is currently my only source of income, I would like to keep it limited to just patrons. If you are a patron, please do not share to large groups of people; encourage them to subscribe (even just a dollar a month!) instead.

Preview:

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

Introduction

So you’ve figured out your main character. You’ve designed an alien species and planet, or you’ve reinvented the vampire, or you’ve just set up your latest fantasy world. Maybe your characters are purely human. You’ve got a few cities named, a few maps, and a basic idea of how you want society to work… mostly.

It’s time to start building your world.

There are many ways to approach worldbuilding, especially when you dabble in both original fiction and derivative.

One of my preferred approaches is what I refer to as the ASPIRE method. It is derived from the PERSIA method of historical analysis, a tool taught in the International Baccalaureate and American AP courses.

A – Arts S – Social P – Political I – Intellectual R – Religion E – Economic

I’ll be going through these in order and providing both historical and fictional examples of how they apply.

A key part of this tool is to remember that any aspect of a society is influenced by any or all of the others. Any aspect you want to analyze will be through multiple lenses, and the process of building your world will be influenced by all of these.

Not every story needs to have incredibly complex worldbuilding, but the more complex you want it to be, the more use you will get out of this tool. It is somewhat biased towards a Western perspective, as I grew up in the United States.

The Power of the ASPIRE Method

Why should you use this format to develop your fictional setting?

I hesitate to describe any approach to a creative act as ‘should.’ What I do believe is that this is a process worth attempting, to see if it is one that helps you understand your own setting, and finding the possible loopholes that your readers may find distracting.

This is a process that is primarily structured to help you break down what makes for a society, and build it up on the basis of what makes for a society or culture in a real world. The bones are built on an analysis method for historical studies, and so this creative method works heavily through analysis and formalization. You very likely are already thinking of some of these things—you may have decided that this is a monarchy, in a temperate climate, following a polytheistic religion—but this process helps you refine what you’ve already decided on, and then build out the logical consequences or expansions of those decisions.

What this allows you to do is take your vague thoughts or bare bones, and build on them until you have something that, even if you do not include it in your narrative, will hold up if you do touch on one of them, or will let you hide those little easter eggs that an eagle-eyed reader will delight in. Who doesn’t enjoy recognizing that an author did research on a subject close to the reader’s heart, even if it’s just noticing that two seemingly unrelated details mean a third, cohesive thing that suggests a wider world of thought in the background?

Why is the method based on these six topics?

As mentioned, this is a reformatting of a tool that I learned as a student in high school. There are things that are invariable facts in your story, like how your main species reproduces, or what your geography and basic weather are, but the things we build on those basics are all based on the ways that people interact with one another, and that is a different beast.

I believe that a world that has thought put into the ways its people function socially will feel more ‘real’ than one that has an extensive and complex rulebook for the laws of magic or the geological history. This will vary by the genre and the consumer, because a geologist playing a tabletop game with complex magic rules will likely prefer the latter, but for someone that is consuming a narrative, character interaction is a central part of the draw.

Society is just the wider net of interaction.

The nature of a society, and thus of the world you build, is in how people relate to one another and to the world around them. These things are either greatly formalized, like politics or academia, or vague and often undefinable, like arts and social dynamics. Others are somewhere in between, like economics and religion.

Most elements of society fall into more than one of these fields. Something like fashion or textbook design will be impacted by all six in obvious ways. Other things, like banking interest rates or agricultural trade, are obviously in one field, with less obvious ties to the others.

We as a society are rarely, if ever, without connection to one another.

We communicate thoughts and feelings in words and pictures.

We find ways to be better than each other, just as often as we find ways to better each other.

We set rules and regulations for our safety, and find people who do that as a job so the rest of us can focus on making the things we need to survive.

We learn, and invent, and teach.

We find things we can’t explain, in our minds and in our worlds, and come together to tell stories of something bigger than what we can see.

We take what we have, turn it into something new, hoard and share and trade, and tell ourselves that innovation is built on the backs of the search for more capital.

(You may want to put a pin in that one.)

This is all a very flowery way to say that humans are a communal species, and the ways in which we build and then define that community mean something.

(Continue on Patreon)

#creative writing #world building #writing guides #tutorials #worldbuilding #Phoenix Patreon #Patreon #Phoenix Files #original work

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witchofthesouls · 7 months

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The Primes are lucky Optimus' Witch s/o isn't friends with Sun Wukong the Monkey King. While OP's s/o can't do much, I'm pretty sure an 5 times immortal incarnation of chaos who wrought sheer havoc to the Heavens can. 13 Primes getting beaten up by a stone monkey.

Now that I think of it... Witches having contracts might protect them from the immense pressure when being in the godly realm. Their divine power acting like a barrier against the other.

Also the sheer awkwardness if one deity claims Optimus as their ward. The madness it shall wrought on the 13 Primes since in a way, OP is a walking loophole in divine affairs.

I think the Monkey King would either be best friends, terrible enemies, or both with Liege Maximo. Same with Amalgamous Prime.

Quintus would love to study how an inanimate stone was brought to life. Solus would be interested in his shape-shifting abilities into weaponry. Megatronus and Prima have differing opinions. The Shadow enjoys the hell-raising antics the Monkey King brings forth, while the Light, although can respect the fighting spirit and prowess, prefers the guy to be far away from him. Onyx and Sun Wukong would have meditation retreats in the most dangerous regions.

Magic-users can form contracts and allegiances with the divine, the unknown, and the powerful, but the issue lies with their patrons and where they settle in the cosmos as well as their own Domains and Traits. Tributes can vary even among similar deities. One war god may demand blood and bone as their tribute, while another settle for victory and/conquest. A few entities are so encompassing that their hierophants can only represent a single trait of their whole. And feuds by the immortals can be a whole other level of cruelty and pettiness.

So since his "disappearance," Prima has been interacting with avatars he reformatted into the equivalent of a Cybertronian Escanor from Seven Deadly Sins. Very powerful and able to channel the Matrix (aka Prima's own power), yet still mortal.

Prima is literally used to only handling beings that have been reconfigured to his own specs to channel the Matrix, so yeah, he didn't even notice a human until the end. Like hello, tiny thing that's definitely not my champion, how did you get here? Wait, brother-mine, come back!!

Megatronus, on the other hand, had given up his physical form to encompass Earth to keep Unicron in check. He's literally now the ocean and the layers of sediment. Megatronus 1.0 is in everyone and everything on Earth (and Cybertron). Much like his siblings and creator, he doesn't need worship to sustain himself. He simply is a force of his own kind. Megatronus has always been tried to life via his twin, Solus, and his very nature. He's aware of the Earth's quirks, but he can only withhold so much or risk breaking the containment.

Okay, Optimus is such a weird case because that's actually true, canon wise. It's said that he's the reincarnation of Thirteen, yet his wandering self was claimed by Alpha Trion and later by Prima. Orion and Optimus carry so much of their teachings, so who's to say they didn't interfere with what Thirteen was supposed to do?

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letters-from-dekarios · 3 days

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(you are incredible, truly, if I were to count how often I read the response letter, the number would be embarrassingly high.

I allowed myself some crossovers here because in the game, Astarion quotes Tell-tale Heart so that opens up a loophole for real life works to make some appearances here! And the author's name honestly sounds like it would exist in the world of bg3 xD

I saw multiple cameos of Tim Downie reading poetry and I desperately needed to find an outlet.......)

{There was a restless about him that Gale couldn't quite place a finger on. Busying himself with some tomes or preparations for work serves only as a temporary relief. But when another letter of his old friend arrives, it settles. A warmth then, spreads in his uneasy limbs. Comfort.}

⚝─⭒⭑⭒─⚝

Warm Greetings, Gale Dekarios

A little bit of an ego never hurt anyone, though I sense you might even disagree with me on that. I assure you, I don't mind you rambling on about yourself, especially after not hearing from you personally in so long. I am quite interested in anything you wish to share with me. When I heard of your companions for the first time, I definitely thought their descriptions were exaggerated, but as word of your achievements grew, it became pretty clear you were quite a colorful set of adventurers. I suppose such a variety of lives lived serve as quite the opportunity to learn about new perspectives and yourself.

Though the fact you traveled all that time on foot - I dread to think of the state of your knees! Borage fruits would be beneficial here should you ever find yourself on long walks again and Mandrake leaves for joint pain in general. Courtesy of my father, he insisted I should let you know. Surely there are healing spells for this but my old man is a bit scared of 'witchcraft' as he calls it. (You can't imagine the face he made when I had first told him about attending Blackstaff Academy. Being the sweetheart that he is, he supported me still. There are stories here I will save for when we meet in person. Stay tuned.)

I'm glad Tara and your mother are doing well, even if you had to endure quite a bit of scolding. You can't deny them their caring and at times overbearing nature - it's an expression of love. I've learned as much from my family. I'd be happy to ease your load on baked goods, motherly love is a magical ingredient in on its own after all, or so I've heard.

I'm quite pleased to know I inspired you, I suppose I was rather blinded by all of your talent back then and missed that side to our interactions. Frankly, I'm happy you thought of me at all. There's no denying that I feel a bit flattered even, I count my optimism as one of my greater traits and I've worked hard to maintain it throughout my darker times. See it as smoothing out a dent in the molding of that piece of pottery that is me.

Speaking of which, it has actually become a bit of a hobby of mine. There was a time I used to sit for hours in the basement and work on vases and pots, though usually smashing them was the end result - It's awfully therapeutic. But I have completed a few tiny ceramics that are mainly for decoration.

Currently my projects revolve around making specialized pots for my plants. I've become a bit of a homebody in the progression of my ailment and the greenhouse gives me motivation to drink up some sunlight along the greenery sometimes. I'm tempted to look into the usage of magical plants.

If there is one thing I'm guilty of, it's busying myself with things to fill out any gaps in my days. The more I do the better, lest I wake another day to find my limbs weigh a ton of bricks again.

Moving on, I wish you lots of luck with your professorship. Those nights spent trying to teach me a spell or two will finally pay off. I do hope I wasn't too bad of a student because you were an excellent teacher. You'll be a great professor also, I'm sure. And I wouldn't mind being a translator - there's a satisfaction in being able to explain something to someone else. And I admit I miss hearing you ramble before you put your thoughts into order for the common person.

I do very much hope the allies you've made will deter any enemies that you met along the way.. Although it would be quite bold to mess with someone who has defied both Gods and Devils. Perhaps you're lucky and there's too much of a risk factor to it.

And maybe that's how any potential suitor feels, too. I imagine it's quite intimidating to be with someone who has saved innumerable people from a Mindflayer invasion. Or they have certain expectations of you as a hero while I'm sure you still see yourself simply as a very ambitious mage. With a bit of an ego.

Either way, it's good to see you're not too hung up about it. I was going to joke that you are already committed to your work, but you beat me to it. Fair enough. If I am allowed to demonstrate a small annotation here, I think things like love are found in the most unexpected places. As you've said, you need a foundation to build upon rather than that sudden spark of love at first sight. It might take until the roof is put up or the furniture is being arranged for you to realize you have found yourself at home in the person right beside you, the only thing left to do then is to settle in. I'm also still in the process - an open lot and waiting for a permit, you could say. Those can take quite a while to be granted. But currently unhoused.

As you can tell, I also haven't lost my poetic tendencies. Although I am much more a consumer and commentator than a writer, I dabble occasionally and I am terrible at it. There's already a very good passage on this that I recall from a book I've recently transcribed, but I fear I'll be sending my whole library back to you, considering all the things I can think of that might be of interest to you in there. Perhaps you ought to see it for yourself some day.

I also want to say I was delighted by your sonett at the end. You have an incredible way with words and I find myself continuously quoting you in my mind ("Having everything yet nothing at all", "no longer a block of unused clay", "sui generis, of its own kind. Inimitable. Bespoke.".. you catch my drift). The pictures you paint are that of a skilled brush and they are brought to canvas by a man who has a mind that can put his thoughts into form, and it is commendable. While I am still stumbling over my words, I hope the ones of another that I attached to this letter might resonate with you instead.

Enough of the rambling on (we are awful at this), my family is well. My father has an apothecary here in town, but his assistant is usually the one at the counter while he's off traveling, gripped by a sudden sense of wanderlust. Right now he's trudging through the Misty Forest and visiting Daggerford for new herbs and writes me regularly.

I don't know if you remember my aunt at all, but she's usually the one to stick around and check in on me everyday in case of difficulties. She's also doing quite well, though I think my proneness to worry is definitely something I've inherited from her. Besides that, my friends are similarly busy with work and travel but overall doing quite alright. There's a peace in this stillness that life sometimes offers.

Do tell me all about the Academy once you've resumed your work there, I'm quite curious about the state of things. And if you have another piece of poetry springing from your quill anytime soon I'll be most eager to review it. Are you still in contact with the companions you've met on your journey? And how has your return to Waterdeep been received? I'm sure you were dearly missed. How does it feel to be back home, stationary and warm after being on the road for quite a while? There's likely a bit of getting used to the old ways of things again. Perhaps even some yearning and reminiscing of your travels, although less about the walking and more about the comradery and thrill, I assume.

I'm taking care of myself, I promise you. You better do so as well. Don't underestimate the power a bit of sunlight and a walk outside have on your mood (and health!!). You should know that your letters are a great joy to me and I am just as keenly anticipating your reply. Especially with the prospect of a visit on the table - I'll be glancing out of the window for the arrival of my mail without even realizing it.

~ Warm regards, Theo Rivershade

PS: I audibly chuckled at the part where you threatened to scold me, should I attempt to travel to you. You sounded exactly like my aunt. I think your mother and Tara are rubbing off on you a tad bit. It is amusing and somehow endearing.

PPS: Your "idiotic rambles" will be regarded as the musings of a wise man one day, just you wait. Although I beg of you to tone down on all those complicated words when you teach your students. I know they might sound better than modern synonyms and their etymologies are just so interesting but I assure you that your class will pick up on your favorite words and tease you with them. Coming from firsthand experience.

{Together with the letter, he finds another, smaller parchment on which a poem is written, Theo having made an effort to use his neatest handwriting here as well. The poem reads:..}

"When I compare / What I have lost with what I have gained, / What I have missed with what attained, / Little room do I find for pride.

I am aware / How many days have been idly spent; / How like an arrow the good intent / Has fallen short or been turned aside.

But who shall dare / To measure loss and gain in this wise? / Defeat may be victory in disguise; / The lowest ebb is the turn of the tide."

Loss And Gain - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

{ small annotations are scribbled by the side of the text, as though the half-elf couldn't help himself.}

"> days idly spent, not realizing time was running out. The thought was there but the courage to leap wasn't."

"> arrows are meant to hit a target, falling short or aside as though missing an opportunity, distracted by something or shooting your shot but with not enough momentum. The opportunity passes."

"> defeat/victory, ebb/tide, a low is the sign of a turning point, a second chance, one needed to fail to realize what had been lost and take that regret and reflection to turn their fate around and try again, intending to hit the target this time with conviction."

⚝─⭒⭑⭒─⚝

(let me tell you the way I grinned like an idiot on the train as I listened to the wizard himself read out that poem.. It reflected the way the potential relationship between the two of them slipped out of their grasps so well!!!

And also I'm so happy you like Theo?? I wasn't too sure if I was able to get across his character through text but it seems to be working. Thank you do much for this blog this is so delightful! Don't feel bad for being busy and not replying immediately, we all have lives of our own to take care of and I'm very happy you take time out of yours to indulge us like this. <3)

Dearest Theo,

I can assure you I was the most skeptical of their situations at first! But as the days grew longer and the nights more restless, the stories told made all too much sense for my companions. In an unfortunate kind of way, it put my circumstances into a perspective I’d never considered prior. Call it ignorance, or perhaps man-made stupidity, but I hadn’t thought that there were situations worse than I until I met all of them. It helps to lessen the blow of the anxiety in one’s heart when you recognize you aren’t at your worst as you once thought.

Please, I may be in my later thirties now but long-distance walking is no match for me! Though I must admit, because I can hear your incessant comments about that statement being untruthful, it would take a bit of a toll on these bones of mine. Whatever needs to be done to combat it, I am certain you will find a way.

How could I not think of you? Amidst our childish revelry and academic discourse, you were the one thing within my life that was constant. Even when my world changed so rapidly, you, Theo, you were the same. I could always count on you to be there. Whether it was to poke fun at me or laugh at my haphazard spell-casting, you challenged me in ways that I cannot forget. Oftentimes, I find myself reminiscing over those days as though I could turn back the clock and relish in them all over again. The day I stop remembering the glow of youth on you and how I imagined what you’d be like as you grew up is the day I am buried in with the dirt.

Pottery is an amazing hobby! I do not consider myself talented in the arts, but pottery has always amazed me. It takes a careful, steady hand to not pierce the clay that you’re moulding. Perhaps when I visit I can see the wonderful pots you’ve created, that would be nice. I’m sure your craft has improved much the more you’ve practiced, and I’ll be quite able to recognize the stamp of your originality you’ve placed on it.

Ah, you flatter me so, Theo! I do like to give myself a bit of a pat on the back, so to speak, when it comes to my lectures. Speaking in front of those curious, ever-hungry minds does remind me much of my attempted lessons with you. While my frustrations would get the better of me, it was good practice. I believe that is what has sparked my love for teaching— knowing that, even though it may take some students a bit more effort to grasp, in some way I am affecting their lives to their benefit.

I appreciate your confidence in me. It can be overwhelming sometimes, especially when my desk is stacked high with papers needing to be graded, but it comforts me to know someone believes in my efforts. But if you ever want to seriously consider it, I know the academy can make accommodations for you as you need.

Hah! You amuse me. Or maybe it’s the wine at this hour as I write to you. Intimidation is hardly the word I’d call it, but despite the ego I hold I can’t deny I minimize my accomplishments from time to time. If they are intimidated, I couldn’t imagine why. I suppose you have a point, however.

I guess you could say I cannot measure any potential suitor against my… mental requirements. As aforementioned, it’s difficult for me to allow someone in when they cannot compete with the idea I have in my head already. Perhaps I am stuck on someone or something. I simply cannot get past this roadblock and allow myself to indulge elsewhere. Never mind, though, that is what these pages and ink are for.

“An open lot and waiting for a permit.” My friend, you are as much the poet as you claim me to be. Perhaps we should contact our local authorities to get a move on with granting those permits, hm? It’s an odd sort of feeling, wishing to rush the granting while not wanting to finish the building. When the home is complete, though, the workers go on their way and I am simply left in an empty box. Does it get any simpler in this life? So complex these things are, it almost makes a man want to sell the lot entirely.

You know I am a sucker for good books and transcribed poetry. I would be happy to explore the contents of your library one day when I get the chance to visit.

You would be surprised how long that sonnet took to write! My mind was blanketed and uninspired. But I knew I must deliver for you since it has been so long. The words penned by Henry touch too close to home, your annotations only driving the point closer. I am ever thankful you share such things with me.

“How many days have been idly spent”, “The thought was there but the courage to leap wasn't.” How true your annotation is. It can often feel as though one is wasting away. Despite the efforts one wants to take, fear has a stronger grasp that prevents them from making the move.

“Has fallen short or been turned aside.”, “…shooting your shot but with not enough momentum. The opportunity passes.” This resonates oddly, you could say. Hesitating in letting go of the arrow prevents you from succeeding to the fullest extent, and thus the target has moved on and is no longer attainable. Not unless you can rebuild your momentum again, that is.

“Defeat may be victory in disguise; / The lowest ebb is the turn of the tide.", “one needed to fail to realize what had been lost and take that regret and reflection to turn their fate around and try again, intending to hit the target this time with conviction." Ah… I stated that the last one resonated, but this is even more so. Being knocked down time and time again can often blind oneself to the small victories happening around them. In my case, my fall to selfishness provided room for improvement and allowed me to gain a more sensible heart. When the intention behind the aim becomes clear, it is easier for the target to be hit. Failure is not often the last and final step, but it is the first one that allows a person to move forward.

I am glad your family is well! It sounds as though your father is having much fun in his adventures. He would do well to keep that spirit up! I’m sure he’ll find much satisfaction in it. For your aunt, oh I do remember her so. She reminded me of my mother in a way, and I’m glad to hear she hasn’t changed much. Sometimes we need that overbearing, motherly presence to help keep us in line. Sometimes that motherly presence comes in the form of a middle-aged human man. You cannot blame me for my concern!

Believe me, I will write you as soon as I set my eyes on this new generation. I cannot wait to see what attitudes these young ones have and how much has changed since we were once here in their positions.

I do still keep in contact with those that I can! As we have all resumed our new lives, it can be hard to keep up with all that’s changed. Astarion, bless the vampire’s changed soul, visits Waterdeep now and then when the moon is high enough to do so. Wyll, I’m sure you know Duke Ravengard’s son, writes often. As gentlemanly as he is, boy do his words get overwhelming. He’s almost like a small child, needing to write about every detail and every change in the city. The others I met along the way write when they can, as how things usually are. Each are busy with their respective new duties as I mentioned.

As for the welcome parade, once I returned home, it’s safe to say not many were pleased with how it happened, but a majority were relieved. Considering I isolated myself from most of them, choice words were exchanged, a scolding here and there, but for the most part, it was handled well. Having a hero in the City of Splendors makes the spot an even more firey tourist attraction, seeing where the great “Wizard of Waterdeep” once grew up as a normal young boy! Please, the flattery is exhausting. I much prefer being “Gale Dekarios” now. But I know they mean well, most of them do.

Being home, though, despite the gawking and attraction, is refreshing. Sleeping in my bed, with no worry of being attacked in the midst of the night, certainly eases my heart. Not wondering where my next meal will come from or whether I will have the strength to make it through the day is certainly calming, too. Resuming my not-so-normal life has taken some time, I’ll admit, but it’s better than it was on the road.

You’d be correct, though. I sometimes do miss the travels and the good times we’d share around the campfire. Late nights under the stars sharing a bottle of wine like we had no time left to live… the feeling of walking on the edge between life and death, the thrill of knowing you might die a hero without living to see if you would succeed… in its own kind of a way, it was exciting. It brought a sense of adventure that sitting at home grading papers cannot counter, no matter how much I enjoy professorship. But I doubt I’d turn this up to experience that all over again, I’m afraid my body cannot handle that any longer.

Good! You should be taking care of yourself, otherwise I may have to send a mirror image of myself to combat your neglect. I can promise you I am taking as best care of myself as I can. As I said, I’ve got both Tara and my mother to step in if anything happens.

Do you ever miss Waterdeep? Do you ever think you’d return if you had the chance, or would you want to? I know I do miss your presence around here, but I know health concerns can come in the way of that. Are you interested in continuing your studies at any point? It would be fun to see you as a translator and a student at the academy again, I can just imagine you there now.

I promise to send word when I have a moment to head to you. I cannot wait to hear from you again.

From the desk of,

𝑮𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝑫𝒆𝒌𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒔

P.S. Oh, please! I’m sure they’ll do fine with the more complex words. I’m now going to use more of them just to prove you wrong, Theo. I may have shaved down my ego, but you know better than to challenge a stubborn man with his own skills.

text reads: gale dekarios

staaawwwwpppp omg… that poem took so long trying to find words that rhymed and also had the right syllables. i should’ve payed more attention in english class as a kid haha. and yes!! theo is my little baby… i want to hold him and gale like tiny dolls and make them hang out. UGHHH i love the ocs everyone is throwing at me.. but theo has a special little place in my heart right now ~kore

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gaslightgatekeepgirlbosscombat · 7 months

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Group C, Round 2, Poll 1:

Propaganda under the cut

Phantom of the Bwahpera a.k.a. Tom Phan

He's a sassy-ass Rabbid who's had many flings in the past, and roasts Mario iN SONG FORM-!

Phantom was a character made out of spite by the developers of Ubisoft. Because they had a rule about Rabbids speaking no English while Kingdom Battle was being made, Phantom was created from a loophole. He can't speak English, but it wasn't said that he couldn't sing in English. On top of that, Phantom has been breaking the fourth wall multiple times, from roasting Mario in a operatic diss track to even interacting with the developers (mentioned mainly on social media). He also was in a relationship with one of the Planets' Wardens in Sparks of Hope, ultimately dumping her for one of her backup dancers in the end. He is a big Rabbid with an even bigger ego, narcissistic and highly dramatic, as well as quite the Casanova. Currently, a brand new DLC for Sparks of Hope is about to be released on August 30th, all dedicated to Phantom by giving him his own network show!

Chelle

she has an information network of spies called "kittens" so she is always informed on all matters. since the dragon she's partnered with is a giant fluffy cat, it's entirely ambiguous whether or not they are literal cats or not. she's no stranger to manipulating both strangers and family alike to make a situation more favorable for her and to keep herself out of debt to others. also she runs a near exclusive weapon trade on guns. like she is one of the only people in the world who is able to make guns. also she does the OOOOOHOHOHOHO laugh when she starts firing her minigun

"- princess and 3rd eldest scion (out of 8 children) of her kingdom, she also oversees her own realm called chanzelia that was a bum fuck backwater but she singlehandedly turned it into one of the most prosperous and technologically advanced cities in the kingdom - has a bunch of ""kittens"" (spies) that serve as her network to know any and all information. her kittens never get caught - her personality -- she's very cunning and charismatic and secretly manipulates people/situations to her own advantage -- but never out of malice really. she cares about the others around her genuinely but does so in a very roundabout and clever way. - she's a lead innovator in reviving ancient technology (which was more technologically advanced than the present) like guns. she has her own gatling gun that is pink and awesome and she used it to bail the party out of jail and it was epic she was shooting pink lasers all over the place - owns and created a giant landship called the ""gran fiore"" that can also serve as a submarine and can survive magic conditions like Divine Dark Fog That No Mortal Should Be Able To Enter"

What COULDN'T I say about Chelle? She is a princess that rules country thats situated on top of a moving landship, which is entirely because she specializes in blackmailing others to get what she wants. She has a network of spies she calls her "kittens" - because her partner, Cait Sith, is a cat-dragon - that have dug up so much information on people that she uses against them that they're known world wide. Her introduction to the story consisted of her saying she would help her brother, the protagonist, in fighting a war, and then she turned around and claimed that it was all a lie, leading them deep onto old ruins to kill them with magical robots. THEN when he WON, she turned around AGAIN and said it was all a very elaborate ruse. She does this like two entirely separate times. She is the sole dealer of Fantasy Magic Guns on the entire continent. Her main weapon is a machine gun with neon pink bullets. She's even bisexual.

She’s literally the princess of a small kingdom where she has “kittens” aka servants spread all over to gather information like a girlboss like who needs privacy

#round 2 #group c #mario + rabbids #Phantom Of The Bwahpera #mario rabbids #rabbid phantom #chelle #chelle dragalia #princess chelle #chelle dragalia lost #dragalia #dragalia lost

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self-spaghettification · 2 months

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Because we might find out today as the new missing scene is shown, I need you to know that I think

Why I'm Confident Viren is not dead and I will die on this hill Unlike him Part 2 Electric Boogaloo

This time with a more evidence backed and clearly stated argument

Whether you like Viren or hate his guts or just find him an interesting character, I still think it’s going to be interesting for all of us, and ultimately more satisfying than his death alone.

Let’s get into it.

Primary Evidence

Aaron’s reply in a Twitter Q&A

Devon’s comment on the short reflections story, strangers

TDP Official Discord Q&As after S4

We know it’s not about the short story between them because that story primarily delves into the introspection behind the scene that was “not a very satisfying moment.” Aaron even says yes, Soren and Viren will get a chance to straight up confront each other outside of that moment in the reflections, and that the most meaningful interactions are yet to come.

It says most meaningful interactions, plural, so I don't think it's possible that's the only one.

Counterargument:

While that's true, I think it'd be a dissatisfying ending and there's more potential to his arc, especially reconciling his mistakes/failures with his children rather than escape through death as a martyr of sorts, and l'd be glad if Wonderstorm chose to explore that.

Additional Points:

Summing up the photos above: Aaron and Devon also been very clear on how Viren and Soren will have more interactions plus at the very least, mysterious/open ended on whether he will survive, while in comparison, after S1 they were straightforward and shot down theories that Harrow would survive (re: Pip the bird)

Meanwhile, there are like 10 different ways Viren could survive/be revived. (Claudia, in one way or another. Sir Sparklepuff. Kim’dael blood pact. A storm. The sun not rising. Some other dark or star magic. Some loophole in what was said. A metaphor. Maybe him even changing his mind. Who knows. Point is, it’s still possible.)

Additionally, the whole villain martyr thing has already been done plenty a time (looks at Shadow Weaver and Darth Vader immediately) and I don’t think it’s the direction they have to go with Viren.

We also have the whole redemption themes, picking a third option instead of believing you “have no choice” or are at “a horrifying crossroads” like, no. You have “two cakes” so I believe they will deliver on that.

P.S. They have done fake outs and cliff hangers several times in TDP before. This would not be an outlier.

Conclusion

A redemption arc would just be cooler to see, and I feel like if any show can pull it off, it’s TDP. Give me all of the awkward moments of reconciliation. All the pain and crying together. All the attempts to prove yourself that aren’t immediately accepted because you’ve still done terrible things in the past. All the distrust and vitriol. All the guilt being confronted. It’s going to be delicious and I am so here for it.

#the dragon prince #i’m feeling spicy and excited today folks #self spaghettification #viren #tdp theory #tdp meta #kind of #soren #mine

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unohanabbygirl · 5 months

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Hi!! I’m not sure if you are still writing the nights watch Luke fic or if it will even be jaceluke, but I have tidbits that I’d like to share that you are welcome to use. You previously answered my ask about this au so felt the desire to share more. First: I am HERE for Arrax losing his tiny bit of color as a reaction to living up north. This dragon is going to be a chameleon up there. I also am someone who is really interested in the magic of the wall and the reactions dragons have to it. It makes me wonder if they are reacting to the different flavor of magic that built the wall OR are the dragons actually sensing the others and that’s what causing their negative reaction. If it’s the former, I think the magic of the wall would act as a sort of vaccine for Arrax’s own magic. Sort of like exposing him to the virus gives him stronger protection against it…and in this case the growth of Arrax’s magic causes him to grow at the same rate that Dany’s dragons do. I’m talking Arrax being the size of Syrax when Luke is 8, Seasmoke by 10, and Meleys’ size by the time the Driftmark trial occurs. Jokes on ALL of the greens. Up there in the north, with that magic burning itself into his brain, it’s a grow or die situation. Also? The best part of this au with Arrax magically growing? Luke has to learn to ride him without a saddle. There’s no dragon pit and no dragon masters were sent because Arrax was such a tiny thing and they all believed he would perish in the cold. They also all believed Luke would send word when Arrax was big enough to ride to request a saddle (he didn’t want the greens knowing about Arrax). Luke also begins to wear wildling clothing in order to camouflage himself against archers. Him wearing Karsi’s outfit makes me squeal. The brothers hate seeing him in these clothes but they can’t deny the safety it brings him.

Okay more tidbits you are free to use: I love the idea that the commander assigns Luke to grow up at Eastwatch by the Sea because that’s the easiest way for Corlys to visit him. This leads to him interacting with the wildling fisher folk of that area. More politically minded: I have this idea that when Viserys punished Luke this way, Daemon can’t help but be his chaotic self and interject. He states that Luke will not be made to swear the oath’s of the brotherhood until Rhaenyra’s unchallenged ascension to the throne; he will be a ward of the watch till then. This is something Viserys immediately agrees to because Luke is still a child and he is dumb enough not to read into the ‘unchallenged’ bit of that contract. Otto only agrees because he severely underestimates the way Luke will charm the night’s watch making them all but immune to Otto’s machinations. (They send Otto fake reports and act their asses off when it comes to being loyal to the greens). Basically this contract Daemon creates provides an excuse for Luke not to be bound by oaths and the second the greens make their move he is no longer obligated to be a brother. This is also a loophole that Corlys uses to the fullest, stating that since Luke is not to be sworn in then he can still remain heir until that point. Daemon and Corlys all but insure that Luke’s future and position in life is not stolen from him because they both know the greens will rebel, freeing him from Viserys decree. And it means that if Aemond says Luke is still in debt because he left the watch, well…Aemond’s family stole away that payment themselves. Luke would have done his duty and repaid the debt but the greens broke faith first. Luke is no longer beholden to him.

Finally: because I can’t help myself and I am utterly obsessed with the way you talk about Daeron…let’s include this little guy. Can you imagine that while the greens are keeping Viserys death a secret from the blacks, Otto instructs Daeron to fly north and escort (capture and take hostage) Luke? He must force Luke to swear his oaths with the maw of Tessarion behind him. No doubt the commander of the watch will heed a command from the hand of the king and everyone knows the child’s dragon probably froze to death because it hasn’t spotted so taking Luke will be met with no resistance. Cue Daeron landing and seeing a snowy hill move, only for giant white wings to burst out, stretching to block the sun against a stark blue sky. OR…hear me out…Tessarion throws Daeron from his saddle the more Daeron tries to force her closer to the wall. He passes out and is found none other than our pearl of eastwatch who brings him back to the castle to treat his injuries (conveniently finding the letter and learning of Viserys death and Aegon’s crowning). While I am firmly of the mind this would be a great au for jaceluke, I do love Daeron softly falling in love with a sad boy and his feral giant dragon. Feel free to use/adopt ANY of this is you so wish. You’re writing is lovely and I’m so excited if you decide to continue with this au

Nights watch Luke and the eventual Jaceluke that’ll bloom within is still in progress albeit coming along very…very slowly, lol. Let me tell you something anon, your interest with the magic of the wall is a dream come true for me since I too have been fascinated with the outright mysterious nature of it. What really solidified this fascination for me was Silverwing straight up refusing to cross that boarder the wall built to the other side. It really makes you wonder exactly why dragons refuse to cross it and what emotions did Alysanne feel coming from Silverwing that disturbed her. Did she sense danger and go “nope, not doing that. Sorry babes” or did the walls magic make crossing over physically impossible??? This fic is basically giving me a chance to take that mystery, throw in my own theories and run with it since I have several theories and let me tell you babe, you’re basically a mind reader seeing as I’ve already made some outlines predicting Arrax’s enhanced growth! It only makes sense since out there in the cold its basically do or die for a baby like him. Arrax has no choice but to adapt not only in more natural ways like his color leaving so he’ll be able to blend in with his new environment, but in more supernatural ways such as going from a babe that can’t yet be ridden to challenging Syrax in size in less than three years even though such a thing is practically unheard of even for creatures that can live for hundreds of years. That mysterious magic from the other side tearing its way through this small thing like a sickness leaves Arrax to start exhibiting symptoms akin to a human fever almost immediately. It leaves the brother’s downright confused for a multitude of reasons. These men know little of dragons but what they do know is they aren’t known to get sick unless death is on the horizon… at least not like humans do.

Baby Arrax hobbling his way into the cloudy snow in the middle their third night there and disappearing for weeks leaving little Luke an outright mess. Crying, shaking, and basically mourning his dragon as even as young as he is, Luke knows the cold would likely kill his bonded. At this point the watchmen have already decided to protect him and do what they can to calm the little prince down (who in the hell would even damn a boy barely weaned off his wetnurse to such a fate *stares daggers into Viserys*) However, when the sound of heavy wings rings thick through the air weeks later and the sight of a slightly larger and much less orange dragon comes into view Luke nearly passes out.

And omg, I never thought of Luke learning to ride without a saddle?! Originally I planned for Rhaenyra to have a few commissioned in the weeks before Luke’s final departure all sized appropriately for when the time comes, but I like your idea so much better. It ties in with the almost beastly, boaderline raised alongside the wolves atmosphere i’m trying to create. Riding without a saddle is like eating with your bare hands to people like the Targs. For them it’s seen as inappropriate— unsophisticated and all around dangerous. I can just imagine fifteen year old Luke riding into Dragonstone on Arrax’s bare back and leaving everyone except Corlys and Daemon absolutely stunned. (Also picture mommy Nyra nearly having a heart attack at the sight) He’s older, growing into his height, slowly growing this thick unkempt beard, and dressed like a damn wildling of all things, all the while holding onto his dragon’s bare horns like they’re proper reins without a care in the world?? Oh this is gold.

I can’t begin to tell you how much I love these ideas. Especially the tidbit about Luke growing up at the Eastwatch-by-the-sea! Not only is it great for Corlys frequent visits which have been allowed due to Luke still being his heir, but because it feels the most like home after being torn away from it. Daemon would absolutely be quick on his feet and five steps ahead of Otto by insisting Luke remain a ward until he’s of age so they can make sure his spot is still solidified and Vaemon’s ass can’t immediately go for the throne. Alicent is upset by this but it’s not even about the politics for her until Otto tells her the implications of what Luke’s position as heir remaining secure means for them, it’s about Luke still keeping his privileges despite having harmed her son.

Daeron visiting on the greens orders to scope the surroundings as they ready to crown Aegon only for him to get thrown off Tessarion’s back like a crash test dummy due to the wall setting him off is just *chefs kiss* This would actually be a perfect parallel to what would’ve been Luke’s death as Aemond loses control of Vhagar

Think of it; whereas Aemond is much too cocky to honor the emotions his bonded feels which are separate from his own, he ignores them and overpowers that with his own need to send Luke cowering which results in disaster. However, as soon as Tessarion begins sending waves of unease through their bond Daeron immediately begins to question his route. Coming so close to successfully turning them around in worry only for that unease to morph into outright fear before he can even think and boom…all of a sudden he’s falling and lands right in the middle of Castle black, broken bones and everything.

Now here I am imagining Luke who’s just been informed of the death of the man who sent him to the wall in the first place. Already making plans to gather his brothers as he’s throughly read through Daeron’s messages all the while peering over the bed his injured uncle is stuck in.

Oh anon, please accept my virtual smooches 🥰

#asks #send more ideas if you ever want to!!!#that goes for everyone interested really

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idrellegames · 11 months

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Hi, I have a few asks! Hope they're not too much to answer!

What types of weapons do the Erebian League use? I'm thinking scimitars, rapiers..? Maybe poison-coated?

Can a magic-user give up their magic willingly? If so, then how would they be treated in society afterwards?

Out of the Origins you can choose from, who has the worst/best relationship with their parents? (excluding the Child of the Streets since they're an orphan/don't know their parents) I think the Child of the Sea hates their parents the most- they were sold off like a piece of merchandise for Gods sake! (Wayfarer curse reference!)

What age do Wayfarer's usually join the order? How long do they train for before graduating?

Which is the hardest magic sphere to master?

Are bloodbinders exclusive to those of Melusine ancestry- since only Rhodarth and Iaera have been mentioned to have this power and they're both of Melusine ancestry.

Which Origin is likely to receive the most discrimination based on where they are from?

Are Atheists rare- most of the characters mentioned seem to be religious- and if they are, then how are they treated?

Is there any way to find a loophole in a blood oath?

Most of these are answered in the text, either directly or in the subtext.

1. Daggers and throwing knives. As demonstrated by Malsara.

2. No. You can't "give up" magic.

3. This is best left to player imagination and headcanon! How your MC feels about their family and their parents is up to you.

4. There's no standard as it depended on when they joined. But they were usually recruited as children and would graduate in their late teens/early 20s. The MC and Aeran are around 12-14 in the Prologue.

5. They're all difficult to master. The vast majority of the population don't have a grip on the full extent of their abilities because they don't have the training. Not every person who can run can run a marathon.

Of the six spheres, Dispersion is the least understood. Most practical research is focused on teleportation. There are a subset of people who can use it to see briefly into the future (augurs - you can meet one in Episode 2), but the applications aren't thoroughly researched. Similarly, there are aspects of Illumination magic that go unresearched and unexplored. The sphere deals in illusion and perception magic and the predominant focus on the crafting of illusions and manipulating the vision of others. However, manipulating emotions falls into the sphere's domain. Most lightseekers stay away from this aspect of their magic because it is frowned upon culturally outside of specific professionals.

Beyond that, combinations of different spheres for Dual and Triple attunement are even more difficult to master as there are very few people with this level of inherent magic and spheres interact in unexpected ways when you have access to more than one.

6. No, they aren't. The Corsida Brightblades (the largest contingent of bloodbinders in the world) are based in Corsida, a former Lotharic city-state now under Imperial rule. It is located on an island in the Lotharic Sea and very close to Maira, a melusine city below the waves. Many of their members are melusine as a result.

As a side note, Iaera is being re-worked. I'm not sure if they will be a character in Wayfarer.

7. The Wayfarer is going to receive far more shit for being a Wayfarer than where they are from. Child of the Wilds does get some minor flavour text in regards to their accent (since Artanis is considered a backwoods Imperial province), but I wouldn't go so far as to call it discriminatory.

8. I've answered something similar to this before - what gives you the impression that most of the characters are religious? As I said in the previous ask many characters may be culturally religious and participate in religious events, but that doesn't necessarily mean that they believe in gods. Belief and faith lands in many different places across the board.

9. Possibly, possibly not. But a named character who has been introduced is trying to find one.

#wayfarer #wayfarer if #wayfarer lore #answered

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dentos-wife · 8 months

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Day 2: Relationships

Art by @/RitDelba on Twitter

Day 1: Introductions here

When Alfonse tells Jane not to befriend the heroes she summons, she does the opposite because she no longer wants to listen to anyone. Most of the time it's fine and she gets along with mostly everyone; there is the occasional person she doesn't but it's nothing bad. Until she summons Grima and goes through hell trying to get him to listen to her; partially because she's stubborn and partially because everyone told her to send him home he's too dangerous. And she wanted to prove them wrong.

Let's talk about the ones in this image here:

Grima: Becomes Jane's special partner but the start was rough, her snarky attitude pissed him off and she taunted him to do his worst. Once he found a loophole in the summoners contract, the summoner is only protected physically not mentally he tried to break her spirit in various ways. After finding out her hidden hatred of humanity in one of his cruel attempts became curious about her and the two came to an understanding. He's like her shadow always there, even if it's a meeting he can't be a part of.

Leo: Jane's first summoned hero and her advisor. She doesn't listen to his advice most of the time however. It's his job to keep her in line and prevent her from getting into too much trouble. Enjoys being in charge for it allows him to step outside of Xander's shadow a bit. Sees Jane like another sister and butts heads with Grima and his "ideas" often.

Corrin: Jane's best friend in the new world, always willing to lend a hand. Full of trust. It's her heart and kindness that prevents Jane from going too far and saves the team from a lot of trouble. Also sees the summoner like a sibling, a sibling from another world. Really wants to befriend Grima and might be making progress with the Fell Dragon the more they interact as a team.

Azura: Quiet and reflective usually is the one to deal with the messes the group gets into. Her song can both calm and invigorate. Really interested in music from Jane's world and fascinated with the different styles. Once she learns of Jane's hidden secrets she is able to understand having secrets of her own about Valla.

And some others not in the image

Alfonse: Great friends with Jane but exasperated with her tactics of act first think later. Despite this he still trusts her with his life. Once he discovered she does the opposite of what he asks often he plays mind games with her and asks her to do what he doesn't want knowing she'll do the opposite. He has a 50/50 success rate of this tactic.

Plumeria: Someone agrees humans are disgusting? As a sex repulsed asexual Jane feels awful for Plumeria having to do that job because she sure couldn't do it. They're able to bond over this. With Askr Plumeria is slowly able to stop the job she hates and gives fluff instead of smut. Gains the nickname the Sugar Plum Fairy with her new purely romantic dreams.

Eir: Is the one to convince Grima and Jane to take over Hel so it has a ruler while she rebuilds Ymir her true home. Considers the order to be her new home. Gets really into magic girls after learning about them from Jane

Robin: Jane's tactics teacher; the only reason she does more than running headfirst at the enemy. Used to wake her up for her tactics lesson with a bucket of cold ice water, because she refused to wake up early but stopped once Grima moved in. Originally not very happy about the summoning of the Fell Dragon but over time the two are like twin brothers, and they fight over who is older.

#fe oc week #summoner oc #jane jasmine #I could keep going but I really need to stop #I have so many headcanons thanks to feh being an ongoing game you have no idea #I also have so many commissions I have a problem

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metamatronic · 2 years

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After the first game in the ghost au fanfic is over, would there be like a sequel with the ghosts in danganronpa 2 (and maybe v3 when you finish it)?

If so, would the dead people in danganronpa 1 also be there in the 2nd/3rd (like in your drawings) through some magical loophole in ghost physics, or would we just start over again with either twogami or rantaro as the protag?

If I did a sequel—which is a big if, considering how much work just the one fic has been—I would probably incorporate the DR1 ghosts. I love to see their interactions and the comparisons between the games.

Other fics on my to-do list include:

- Cryptid AU

- Time Loop AU, AKA All The Students Wake Up in a Non-Despair AU with full memories of the Despair Timeline and Must Pretend Everything’s Fine.

- DR1 Ghosts accidentally get uploaded into SDR2 Ghosts’ Bodies via A Glitch in the Neo World Program. Hilarity Ensues.

- Baseball AU

- 5 Times The Ghosts Possessed Yasuhiro Hagakure + 1 Time Kyoko Called Them Out On It

#meta talks #danganronpa #ghost au

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thirtiethelement · 1 year

Note

asking you about your in-depth trans ranni theory

Oh, THANK you, I'm always happy to infodump about that blue nerd.

Okay, so, before getting into the core of why I think trans Ranni is textually supported, let's go over some of the in-universe history with her:

In the setting, there's a force called Destined Death. It is the natural law of mortality, dictating that everything must eventually come to an end. However, when Queen Marika and her Golden Order came into power, she managed to somehow pluck that law out of the Elden Ring (a massive rune outlining how the world functions at a basic level), hiding it away and effectively banishing death. This allowed for people to live indefinitely by being reborn from the Erdtree when they otherwise would have died.

Marika, along with three of the demigod children of her Golden Lineage (Miquella, Malenia, and Ranni) was an Empyrean - an individual with the potential to channel the power of an Outer God, like Marika and the Greater Will. When Ranni was young, her mother, Rennala, took her to a cloistered spot in Liurnia where she had some sort of communion with another Outer God: the Dark Moon. And she was vibing with it! Whatever ideology it expressed to her, and whatever power it provided, she ended up wanting to work with it. Only one issue: The Outer Will had a vested interest in not being displaced from its position of power.

The Outer Will made its power known not only through deifying Marika and maintaining the Golden Order, but also by sending a number of creatures in service to act as its enforcers: The Two Fingers. Despite how ridiculous they look, they're apparently incredibly dangerous and just about immortal, which makes the fact that each Empyrean is shackled to one to force them to toe the line all the more difficult. Somehow, the presence of one of these linked Two Fingers influences the destiny of an Empyrean, preventing them from supplanting the Golden Order. But Ranni, being clever, figured out a loophole.

Ranni, through some means, found out that the Two Fingers' power over her actions was somehow bound to her body. To sever that link, she chose to do the unthinkable: Working with a group of co-conspirators that included at least her brother Rykard, Ranni arranged for the thievery of Destined Death, and committed ritual suicide in a fashion that managed to kill her body without killing her soul - which, incidentally, did kick off the entire horrific state the world of Elden Ring is currently in, but she was being a girlboss, so it's okay.

The evidence I can point to for her being transgender starts here. To still interact with the world after killing her own body, Ranni chose to let her soul inhabit a finely-made doll instead. It seems as though this may be why she kept Preceptor Seluvis around despite how utterly untrustworthy he is; for better or worse, he's a brilliant magician when it comes to the magic and maintenance behind the doll constructs Liurnia is known for. However, Ranni DIDN'T choose to have the doll made in her own former image, which was presumably well within her capabilities given the in-depth planning that went into her stealing and using Destined Death in the first place. Instead, she had it made to resemble a witch, Renna, who had taught her at some point in the past. In fact, during her first meeting with the player, she outright INTRODUCES herself as Renna, keeping her true identity close to her chest in the face of an unknown variable.

So, that explains it, right? She chose not to look like her old body because she wished to live in hiding, open and shut. But this is where small details start to get interesting. Ranni the Witch is called out by name by Morgott during his pre-fight cutscene, in which he looks across the various thrones in Leyndell abandoned by the other demigods. Radahn and Rykard's thrones are both much, much smaller than the forms we find them in during the course of the game - but oddly enough, RANNI'S is sized for the Renna doll she inhabits, a body that's outright shorter than the player character. We can find her original corpse at the top of Liurnia's divine tower, and she's just as huge as one might expect of a demigod.

This implies that, between the Night of the Black Knives when she performed her ritual and the Shattering, when the demigods went to war with one another over who got to take control of the Elden Ring, Ranni showed up to court with her fellow demigods in her doll body. This would completely defeat the purpose of trying to hide her identity from those who could pose a threat to her. In addition, Ranni shows that she can either extend her consciousness to other bodies, or inhabit other dolls entirely; during the latter part of her questline, you find her inhabiting a miniature version of her doll body, suggesting that she may be fully capable of switching to a different form if she was so inclined.

As a result, my suggestion is that Ranni wasn't just abandoning her original flesh because it was linked to the Two Fingers. If that was the case, she likely would have just stuck to that original body's form when choosing a replacement body to inhabit. It's not like there's some sort of overriding tactical, strategic, or even just physical benefit to the Renna doll, either; Ranni clearly LIKES to feel tall, judging by the stack of books she sits on in her tower to stay above eye level with the player character when they visit. In addition, while there's plenty of portraits and statues of the other demigods how they appeared pre-Shattering (save for the Omen brothers, for obvious reasons), Ranni's image is conspicuous for its absence throughout the entire game.

Ranni has enough incidental bits and pieces scattered around the game to suggest that she had deep personal reasons to inhabit her current form, reasons which go well beyond practicality. And honestly, the fact that signs point to the rest of her family being outright supportive of her (Rykard, who has portraits of the rest of his family, conspicuously leaving her out despite the implication that they were close, the fact that her throne is sized for the doll, etc.) is really heartwarming in an otherwise bleak setting if you choose to make this sort of reading.

Anyway thank you for allowing me to infodump about my blue nerdy-ass wife

#Elden ring #Ranni the witch #Ranni #Y'know I should probably make a tag for infodumps #Thank you whoever sent this ask in

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