#they did a bit of a heel turn with his charcter

[alecthewreck]

An intro to a novel idea I had a few years back, from a villain-esque charcter pov. I think I want to build this into something...Getting the itch to write a novel.

Heart Ablaze

Emeric gazed out over the fires that would soon raze the city to the ground, and his eyes were the darkening storm clouds that hovered on the Eastern horizon. As far as tumultuous divorces went, Lucard’s denouncement of Emeric’s ruling and, consequently, their marriage had been pretty violent. For a man who spoke out against harsh tactics, Lucard had certainly left a wake of death at his heels as he fled with Emeric’s broken heart. Perhaps Emeric should have seen this coming to such an end, but love does much to blind a man. 

Now, he needed to get his things and evacuate with the rest of the city. He could hear Wyneth on the other side of his door calling for him. Her voice was lilting into panic, and Emeric did not wish her any more harm than what had already befallen his inner circle from Lucard’s betrayal. He grabbed a pack, slung it over his shoulder, strapped his sword to his hip, and paused at the bedside table.

The bed itself was still a mess from the previous night. Their bed, the one Emeric would never return to with Lucard. Likely, he’d never see Lucard sprawled across another bed, smile on his face while he waited for Emeric to join him. 

A silver ring sat on the bedside table. It was the one that Lucard had left behind with his statement against Emeric’s ruling. Emeric grabbed it, looped it through a bit of rope in the drawer, and let it rest around his neck.

Wyneth seemingly lost patience. She pulled the door open and looked down at him with a grimace. “We need to move, my lord. Your Chevalier have already started for the Western Banks and I’ve sent Regina ahead to prepare the fortifications there. The people are trying to follow as best they can.”

Emeric waved his hand at her last comment. “So long as my Chevalier make it, that is what matters. We can’t run a kingdom without our military.”

“My lord,” Wyneth said bowing her head. She put a hand to his shoulder, ushering him down the hallways of the castle.

Once outside the walls of the castle, the roar of the fires and the screams of those who lived in the village below resounded louder in Emeric’s ears. He did not turn to help his people, but rather followed Wyneth to the stables and to his mount. He was a man who led unapologetically from swordpoint. Lucard may have fooled himself with his sudden grasp at morality; however, Emeric knew the nature of their beings--warbent and riding into the gates of the Underdark, Emeric was a Warrior-King ready to meet his fate. But not today, and not without first driving a sword through Lucard’s heart. 

6/17/23

#romance #fantasy novel #original novel #original story #introduction #snippet #novel idea #villain #lgbtqia #lgbtq #gay romance #writblr #writeblr #creative writing #Emeric Wynthrope #Lucard Wynthrope #Heart Ablaze

[kiwibirbs-library]

Not What You Expected

a/n: hi hi so i had this idea after seeing a bunch of things on how everyone thinks kags is super scary but he really is a cinnamon roll and about how hes only really seen like because of middle school. So imma play off that. im thinking about making this a type of series but idk on who other than like three charcters soooo

btw this is kags second year so the third years arent there there to much. Im also going to warn you right now this is INCREADABLY LONG as crap and the stories are uneven i got carried away

word count: 3460 words

warnings: fluff of the century, not read through

pairing: Kageyama Tobio x fem!reader

summary: Tobio Kageyama looks like the type to be mean at any time of day to anyone. Of course of the past couple of years you’ve learned different. Over plenty of moments you’ve seen that reputation get proven wrong.

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not my art

The Day You Met

Tobio Kageyama.

The name is known around Karasuno now that he’s a second year. Normally that’s a good thing. But his name was known for being a guys the was mean and snappy. A name known for a guy with no friends and no sociability. 

You had never met the guy. Never even seen him in all honestly. You had transfered from Fukurodani half way through this year so it wasn’t to surprising. Still you would think you would at least see him at some point. I mean he even came to the school while you were there. Bokuto had told you about him enough times to know that much.

So when one of your friends invited you to a practice game they were having,, you took the chance to finally see the dude. And dang when you saw him, you SAW him.

There, in the middle of a game that tired YOU out by watching, was this guy running around and jumping like crazy. Everyone was so focused on him and how he was moving. Your eyes how ever were focused on the tall boy with black hair near the net. He seemed so focused on everything. The players, the ball, the net, everything. It was crazy to watch him. He seemed so serious at first but then when he would score a point with a serve his eyes seemed to sparkle. He didn’t smile to much or anything but his eyes just screamed excitement. 

When he set the ball for set point and it landed the whole team yelled in excitement. The tall boy whipped around to his team. Before his eyes could lower from the stands they locked on yours. You both just stared at each other for a second before he went back to teams celebration. Your friend pulled at your arm so she could go talk to the friend that told her of the game. 

She hooked her arm with yours and started down the stairs toward the gym doors. Who was the friend again? Ya- something? You two waited in the hall when a small girl came through the doors. She gave your friend a small smile, walking over to talk to her.

“Y/N this is Yachi! She’s the teams manager, Yachi this is Y/N,” she introduced you two. She smiled, saying hi. You three talked until she needed to go back to the coachs. Thats when you saw him again. He was walking with the small speed demon from earlier. He seemed like he was snapping at him but the small kid wasn’t phased by it. He turned forward where you were standing, locking eyes with you again. You didn’t miss the light pink that hit his cheeks. None the less, he ignored you as they passed by.

Tobio Kageyama, interesting.

Your friend waved goodbye to you as she got into her mom’s car. As they drove away you grabbed your jacket from your bag. When you looked back up you could see Kageyama at a vending machine in the corner. He leaned down, grabbing a carton and stabbing a straw into it. You watched him as his eyes sparkled again when he grabbed it. You laughed a little as you watched him. Here he was getting so excited over a carton of milk. 

You watched him as he left. He was going in the same direction as you. As you followed behind him the sun began to set. There was a quiet meow from a bush up ahead. Your eyes wandered to the noise. When you reached the maker you found a small black kitten. As you stepped closer you found someone else there too. 

Squatting behind the bush, holding a finger out trying to get the small cat to notice him, was Kageyama. He looked frustrated that the cat wasn’t paying him any mind. The kitten turned its head away towards you. It immediately started to you after it saw you. Kageyama followed the animal with his eyes until he saw you. You were sitting on your heels, scratching behind the kitten’s ear. He watched the exchange for a second before standing up to leave. When you looked up it was a lot darker and he was slowly leaving your sight. The wind started picking up and there was wierd rustling coming the trees. All of it was slowly starting creep you out. Looking in front you caught sight of the tall boy again and before you thought about it you were running up to him. 

To say he was shocked when his sleeve got pulled was an understatement. He jumped comically high into the air. He looked down at you with fear before relaxing a little. He was tense and looked a bit confused. 

“um can I help you?” he was leaning away from you but you still had his sleeve in hand. 

“oh I’m sorry. It just got kind of dark and I was hoping I could stick closer to you? Sorry I just wanted to not have something happen,” you said letting go of his sleeve. He looked throughly confused still but (ahem he does have a sister after all) he nodded.

“ya that fine,” you smiled at him and he blushed slightly. As he walked you followed close behind. Then he turned to you. “are you going to stay back there?” he looked over his shoulder to you. It took you back but you took the offer. Jogging up besides him and thanking him a comfortable silence drifted over the two of you. You would have thought you would be scared or intimidated but no, it felt really nice to walk next to him. You turned to him.

“by the way, I’m Y/N L/N. Nice to meet you.”

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When You Met The Team

You were with Kageyama at the vending machine before he had to go to practice. He pressed the button, handing you your own drink before grabbing his own. You leaned on the wall as you two talked. 

It had been a couple months since that walk home, and you had made an effort to say hi every now and then. You didn’t really know why but it was nice talking to him then. And now you were comfortable enough to meet up everyday before his practice. It was always a peaceful interaction and he was always so quiet and calm.

Of course when a little ball of energy came into the picture that changed fast. He came running around the corner and barreled towards Kageyama, not seeing you yet scince you were hidden by the vending machine. 

“KAGEYAMAAAA!” Kageyama flinched turning to the smaller kid. “Come set for me before practice starts!” he hopped up and down.

“ya ok I’ll be there in a second,” Kageyama turned back to you. “sorry I’ll talk to you tomorrow Y/N.” You smiled and nodded to him.

“ok have fun with your practice.”

Hinata froze. That was a girls voice. A girls voice that was talking to Kageyama. He poked his head around the vending machine. When he saw you and confirmed that it was a girl he whipped around to look at him.

“YOU KNOW A GIRL?!” he yelled out. You flinched back while Kageyama jumped back.

“WHAT THE HELL DO YOU MEAN?! YES I KNOW A GIRL HINATA YOU DUMBASS!” he yelled back. As they yelling back and forth, you slipped out from behind Hinata. 

“um Tobio I’m gunna head out,” you patted his shoulder before giving Hinata a small smile before walking off. They both quieted down, watching you go to the road look around then walk down the sidewalk. As you disappeared the two boys turned to each other before Hinata smirked. He bolted down in your direction, Kageyama chasing after him. He raced in front of you, sliding to a stop.

“Hi! I’m Shoyo Hinata! What’s your name? Do you know Kageyama well, you called him by his first name too,” he smiled widely at you. You however had been incredible surprised by his sudden show that you were stumbling backward. Kageyama was the one to stop you from fully falling over. 

“I- uhh hi? I’m Y/N L/N, um yes I do know him,” you stuttered. Kageyama, who was still holding onto your arm, glared at Hinata.

“HINATA DON”T DO THAT YOU IDIOT SHE ALMOST FELL!” he yelled. Your eyes widened. You really hadn’t heard him yell other than that first practice game you watched. He stiffened with his tone, remembering you were still listening. 

“SHUT UP! Oooo wait did I embarrass you or something?” he snickered “No way, did you actually get a girlfriend?!” he looked shocked.

“SHE IS NOT MY GIRLFRIEND YOU IDIOT!” you looked up to see his beet red face an you laughed. They both turned to you with a confused look.

“is there something wrong Y/N?” Kageyama asked you.l

“no no I- I’m sorry. It’s just I’ve never seen you like this, you’re normally calmer than this,” you laughed. Hinata snorted

“Pfft I don’t think I have ever heard anyone call him calm,” Kageyama seemed to almost growl at him. You and Hinata continued to laugh however. Thats when Kageyama’s worse nightmare happened. “OH Y/N you should come to todays practice!” he bounced on his heels. You smiled widely and nodded, both of you turning to face Kageyama. “isn’t that exciting Kageyama!” Hinata poked.

Kageyama glared at him mumbling something.

“Tobio? You good?” Hinata smirked at the sound of his name. Kageyama blushed slightly, continuing to glare at Hinata.

“no whatever come on were going to be late,” he turned on his heel and started back to the gym, Hinata and you skipped after him. Hinata went on about the other kids on the team. He was in the middle of saying something about a tall guy with glasses when there was a yell. 

A guy with a shaved head was standing in the door way, hands on his hips and a wide, kinda scary smile, on his face. A small guy slid into the space behind him, a bleached section of his hair swinging with the momentum. 

“well you two are never late wh- oh...” the guy with the buzz cut stopped when you came out from behind Kageyama.

“helloo pretty girl I have never seen before! Whats your name?” the short one asked with a smile. You just smiled and introduced yourself. Hinata bounced into the gym, telling them about how he invited you to watch. They followed along with the excitement, introducing themselves and throwing in some complements here and there. They whole time Kageyama was grinding his teeth and glaring. He stayed quiet though, not wanting to full on yell in front of you. He followed behind you into the gym, the other third years noticing you as well. The three came up to you and introduced themselves. The captain, Enoshita, was in the middle of telling you where you could sit when Nishinoya flew in out of nowhere almost jumped on you in the process. You weren’t paying attention to what he was saying out of surprise. 

There was a faint snickering from somewhere, gaining your attention. A tall boy in glasses sat on the floor, laughing into his hand.

“honeslty, you should calm down around Kageyama’s girlfriend a little. If you don’t it looks like he’ll crack a tooth,” he said quietly. You turned to Kageyama and sure enough, he was glaring on the wall quietly, teeth grinding again. You laughed lightly at how he stiffened and yelled at the kid with glasses. Noya snickered along with him, switching his attention to poking at Kageyama. 

“its not like that idi-”

“Y/N!?” Yachi came barreling up to you. You smiled, finally seeing someone you were familiar with. She gave a glance to the boys, gently pulling you away. “sorry if they were a bit overwhelming,” she laughed as you two got the stage area. 

“oh don’t worry its actually really nice to watch. Not to mention I’ve never seen Tobio so, I don’t know, uncalm I guess,” you laughed. Yachi gave you a look.

“oh you’ll get used to it. He’s normally like this. I do have to admit that hes a little more intense today,” she giggled.

You ended up staying throughout the whole practice. You watched on the stage as they played against themselves, walking over at one point to help Yachi through the balls up. At one point Kageyama missed a set or two and they bounced off his head. It took about ten minutes each time for the boys to refocus from teasing him. 

By the end of the practice it was dark outside. Yachi had already left, her mom calling her to get home for dinner a little earlier tonight. You waved a goodbye to the team and walked outside, sighing at how uncomfortable you were with walking alone at night.

“wait up!” you turned to the familiar voice. Kageyama jogged up beside you. “sorry I just remembered you don’t like walking home alone at night,” he rubbed the back of his neck. You smiled up at him.

“thank you Tobio,” you paused for a second. “sorry for embarrassing you in front of your team.”

“you didn’t embarrass me. It was actually nice to know you were watching,” you looked back up to him. He was turned away but you could see the red glow to his cheeks. You laughed lightly, returning to the peaceful silence you two could always hold with only one thought. 

‘scary my ass’

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The Day You Started Dating

Out of all the time you spent with the young setter, this was both one of the sweetest and scariest. 

You had a steady schedule now. You went through your classes, went to the vending machine to meet Tobio for lunch, more classes, and then meeting the boys for club. After meeting them all you became a somewhat unoffical manager, helping with set up, clean up, and over all practice. You were enjoying it, and when you all went to matches you were able to meet people and socialize more than you were. 

You were especially excited for this coming up trip. It was a training camp with the tokyo schools and you were ecstatic to see Bokuto and the team again. As you all filed onto the bus you were practically bouncing off the walls with Hinata in tow. The newer first years watched in slight fear that you two might explode. Even though you sat with Tobio you were still basically having a race with words with Hinata. Unknown to you, however, the tall boy had been waiting for your attention the entire ride.

“Y/NNNNN!” Bokuto was speeding down the stairs in front of Shinzen. 

“BO!!” you yelled back. he picked you up and spun you around in a hug, both of you laughing. The rest of Karasuno watched the interaction in semi-shock. 

“you need to come visit at some point! I haven’t seen you since you transfered!” he said as he set you down. 

“I know, I know I’m sorry,” you both continued talk as the rest of the team came down. Akaashi casually slide into the conversation when he met up with you both. Soon enough he was calming Bokuto down a couple knoches after detecting Tobio’s aura of death from beside the bus. The team was able to catch onto it too, snickering and poking at him. 

This continued throughout the rest of the week. Between Bokuto’s constant hovering with you and the overall simpingness from E V E R Y O N E with all the girls in general, not leaving you out, Kageyama was on the edge of murder. He really wanted your attention more and more throughout the week, but you were busy half of the time. It wasn’t until the third day that he fully snapped.

Karasuno had just lost a set and were taking a breather before their next match and you were talking with the shinzen manager. Shinzens new captain came up to you and joined into the conversation. Kageyama noticed immediately, his attitude getting worse by the minute. He unconsciously moved closer to hear.

“so you’re with Karasuno right?”

“yes I am.”

“oh cool cool. So are you... seeing anyone up there?”

“umm not really,” his head whipped in your direction. You were alone with the captain now, he was slowly leaning closer to you as you backed away.

“not really? So is that a yes or no?” he asked again. It wasn’t even like he was making a big scene or being mean about it, but you were still uncomfortable. You probably looked normal but Kageyama could see it. The way your eyes were shifting between him and around the room. The way you were leaning backward and shuffling backward at the same time. The way you held his gaze when you found it. He immediately stood up and walked over to you. The captain took notice quickly and backed off a little with the glare he was getting. 

Tobio grabbed you hand, throwing one last glare, then pulling you away and outside. He sat down and pulled you in between his legs. You were currently confused, flustered, and scared. Confused because what was happening. Flustered because you were now located basically in his lap with his head on your shoulder. And finally scared because the glare he just gave the other player was scarier than any other he’s ever thrown to Hinata or Tsukkishima. 

“um Tobio?” you tried to turn around to look at him but he help you in place.

“I really didn’t like it,” he said quietly.

“what?” you turned your head a little.

“I really didn’t like him hitting on you. I didn’t like how I haven’t been able have your attention these past few days. I really don’t like that,” he mumbled into your shoulder. You smiled lightly. You knew you should be trying to comfort him in a way but, listening to how he was talking, you could only smile .

“Tobio can I turn around?” he stiffened slightly before letting go of your waist. You turned, sitting on your knees. “you know, if you wanted my attention, you could have just asked,” you giggled.

“harder said than done with a girl that is constantly surrounded by guys,” the start of a smile spreading on his face.  

“oh please, you could steal me away at anytime and I wouldn’t complain,” you flirted. He blushed at the comment. 

“so like does that count at school too?” he asked looked back up to you.

“as long as anytime means what I think it means, then yes,” you laughed again.

“and at random times of the day?”

“yes,” the laugh you had was growing.

“and  at practice?”

“oh.my.GOD. Tobio just ask me out!” you laughed into his shoulder. He was bright red and had been for a while. His smile was growing despite that though.

“isn’t it cheesy if I just ask ‘will you go out with me’?” he was starting to laugh too. You both just sat there, his hands on your waist and you head on his shoulder, shaking with laughter.

Little did either of you two know you would get caught in a couple of minutes by one shocked coach Ukai after not being able to find Kageyama.

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Graduation

It wasn’t anything really special. Just everyone after buzzing with excitement about after parties and pictures. You had run out to meet your family and friends a little late. You saw everyone in a little group, the now third years on the team, their families, and a couple others. You could see Nishinoya and Tanaka jumping up and down and patting Hinata and Kageyama’s heads. You smiled as you got closer to them, knowing that they didn’t need to come. Kageyama saw you and smiled softly. You sped up slightly, running head on into his chest as he wrapped his arms around you. 

There were groans from the boys, while their parents cooed and awwed. He always was like this with you though. No matter how pissed or upset he was he would always smile when you showed up. It meant a lot to you, knowing how he hated the teasing. 

Thats when he did what he never does. He pushed you away slightly, then taking your chin in his hand. When he kissed you there were quiet gasps and gags from your little group. 

“sorry I just needed to do that,” he mumbled against your lips. Once again you could only think one thing as you smiled back to him.

‘scary my ass’

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a/n: dang that was long ok thanks for sticking through it tell me if you would like this with more of the charcters :)

#haikyuu!! #haikyuu #haikyu x reader #haikyuu x reader #kageyama #tobio kageyama #kageyama x reader #volleyball #oh my god #ok but when i wrote him asking Y/N out ahhhhh

[amaranthine-inscriptions]

Do Pulitzer, characterization, and mifflin!

pulitzer: tell about/link a piece where you fielt your writing was the best.

Ooh that’s going to be easy! Since I roleplay a little more than I actually write, I can post one of my RPs right here! My writing is the the charcter Adelaide, but I’ll bold my posts to differentiate. This roleplay set up a larger story arc for the site where war is on the horizon. 

Warning: There are possible dark themes with this RP and since it has been a while since it has concluded, I cannot remember the details it entails. Please proceed with caution. 

Spellbound Adelaide || As they reached the entrance of the catacombs, which appeared to be littered with the bones of adventurers found all throughout Vennadore and citizens of Polis as an act of remembrance, small stairs lead down into the gaping mouth of the underground tunnels. The feeling of dread and fear tickling her spine and hairs as she trudged through the mostly darkened pathways as the small torches that were mounted upon the walls were lit with a red flame, bathing the surrounding areas in crimson light. Her once emerald orbs, now a brilliant blue, drifted over her shoulder as she offered the Taskmaster a smile before leading the way through winding corridors and claustrophobic spaces before finding a suitable room for her Father. The entrance to the pocket in the system of tunnels was jagged and narrow, but allowed enough space for the Taskmaster to squeeze through. The room was dark and smelled fowl of something awfully rotten. After guiding the Messenger through the opening, she seated the crimson gentleman in a corner of the room. “Please stay here as I retrieve some light and reflective surfaces for you, Father. I shall return promptly, I promise,” Adelaide instructed, offering a wide grin before slipping back out into the catacombs.

(The Red Priest) The Messenger would calmly follow behind her, his presence feeling strangely hollow each time she looked away, as if he wasn’t there at all, but as she gazed behind, there he would be, offering a silent nod of encouragement as she led the way. As she led him into the room, the Taskmaster would look around, as if investigating the place, before silently sitting down, tipping his top hat to her as she left, alone in the dark, except for the eerie glow of the red Orb atop his cane.

Spellbound Adelaide || Quickly, Adelaide ran down the corridors and out into the city in the cover of the night. She ran back into her room at the Elderberry Pub and Inn, grabbing a spare knapsack and the candles that lined the windows of her room and shoved them into the bag along with a set of matches before grabbing the gilded mirror that hung on her wall before leaving the inn once more out the back entrance, where hopefully no one noticed her with one of the inn’s mirrors in her arms. This would have to do for her Father until daylight touched the city and the merchants opened their shops for the day. Moments later, she reaches the entrance to catacombs once more, finding her way back through the winding paths until she reached the chamber she left the Taskmaster in. “Here, all of this should work. When morning comes, I’ll bring more to you and we can continue spreading the good word,” She said as she set the mirror against the stone wall in the back before she knelt down to unpack the candles from her bag, setting them around the mirror in a semi-circle before lighting them with the matches. Once lit, the yellow flame slowly shifts to a crimson shade, just like the candles and torches that could be found in the halls of the catacombs, bathing the chamber in a soft scarlet light.

(The Red Priest) The Messenger would be there, exactly in the same place as before, patiently waiting. He would simply observe as she placed the accoutrements she had attained in preparation. As the candles are lit, she would notice that the silver underneath the glass would begin to tarnish, turning cloudy and black…until the blackness turned smooth and reflective…yet it refused to reflect the room, or even her form. The sound of distant footsteps would echo across the catacombs, reverberating around the waiting Acolyte, seeming closer and closer by the second. The Messenger would move behind her, picking up his cane and stretching it ahead of him, the black outlines of its form twisting and deforming, lengthening and blackening further, evolving into the regal form of a void staff, with pearlescent teeth biting upon a now glowing red Orb. The Messenger releases the staff…and it hands in the air for the mirror now shows the reflection of the one the Acolyte waited for. Tall, drabbed din wet red leather, stitched together in the form of a clerical robe, a hood over his head. His face was a mask of carved bone, smooth and featureless except for the sharp-toothed smile upon it, serene and wicked all the same, topped the arching horns of carved obsidian arching regally over his head My child…you did well. From this humble beginnings, our Shrine shall grow and spread across this land…

(Khan & Arabelle) Footsteps would echo from behind Adelaide, the clacking of heels against stone. But who would be here this late at night? They were supposed to be alone. However, this sound made it obvious they were not. After a few more moments it was obvious that the footsteps were getting closer. Someone or something may reveal her true allegiance! That is, until the footsteps stopped. If she turned around, she would see a figure clouded in shadow. It was taller than her by almost a foot, the entire form itself androgynous in gender. The shoulder were broad, the arms lean and muscular, but the waist was relatively and the hips were curvaceous. The chest was a pure mystery however, one would be unable to tell if the bosom housed there were flat, or just well-toned pectorals. A hand, fingers slender and delicate but clearly strong held out awaiting Adelaide’s. If she placed it there she would see the figure sort of curtsy-bow and hear a distorted double-toned voice speak out to her, a black, short-haired tail flicking out from behind. Greetings Memory. Long time no see… I hope this land has been treating you well… rather different from our last… no? A disturbing mix of a chuckle and a giggle emanate from the figure’s thrat befre it turns to the mirror and bows deeply. My apologies Master, I was not aware you were here just yet… I thought I felt your presence but I was unsure… I beg your Excellency for lenience in this matter… I can assure you that my heart is full of shame…

Spellbound Adelaide stepped back a couple of steps before curtsying low before the blackened surface of the mirror that her father’s form to come into view, giving the Messenger a side-glance as she watched his movements curiously. As her father came into view, she bowed her head, allowing the tangled mess of her alabaster locks to spill over her shoulders and dangle towards the grounds of the catacombs. “Thank you father. It comforts me to see you in my home realm. Soon we shall tell everyone of the glories to come.” Adelaide smiled widely and allowed herself to fall upon her knees, resting her manicured hands upon her legs before her attention was pulled away from the mirror. Footsteps. And they were closing in on the chamber they were in. Adelaide turned her cerulean gaze to the shrouded form that loomed over her, a prickling sensation tickling at the nape of her neck as the sense of familiarity washed over her. “Necessity. It is good to see you as well. Welcome to my home realm. I hope that it is treating you as well as it is treating me,” she greeted cordially, a thin, tight-lipped smile spreading across her porcelain features. Adelaide was more than aware of who was beneath the mask and under the cloak. They were still connected through the Red Dream and now through the recently discovered Coven in this realm. But it felt like months and may have been months or even years compared to the former realm they had once shared and whether their friendship or relationship lasted, that was a separate matter. Adelaide then returned her attention to her father, her forced smile becoming more pleasant as Necessity spoke with him. “Well, my dear Necessity the flow of the magic system or the Allure as they call it here is much different than what you are used to. Even for myself. So it is possible that whatever connection you have with the Allure here has been adjusting since your arrival,” she stated in a matter-of-fact tone, keeping her gaze up front as she explained.

(The Red Priest) The Red Priest calmly reached forth to grasp the reflection of his staff with his left hand, the real one shaking and shuddering upon contact. As the two Acolytes observe, their perception would shift and change, blurring for mere moments as the reflection of the staff and the staff superimpose. As their vision once again sharpens, they would find HIM standing before them, the lighting around them growing dimmer Ah, Necessity, my loyal enforcer. Worry not my dear, my presence in this reality is still faint, the rules that guide it stifling my reach…until I felt the power of another group grow recently, allowing me a bit more…agency. As the voice echoed in its strange deep duality, penetrating their minds and ears with slight dissonance, he would take a step forward, his free hand reaching forth to caress the feline mask across the floral-engraved cheek, before moving towards Adelaide, resting gently on the top of her head We have much work ahead of us my faithful Acolytes. This realm is vast, its cultures varied as are its people. We must spread, seed our Shrine, and spread our influence into every piece of civilisation, so the birthplace of the Taskmasters can be found. There are many potential allies and enemies, and all must be discovered…

(Khan & Arabelle) The figure watches the hand, the eyes focusing intently on it until it stops before moving their vision back to back to the bone-white mask of their master. Once it caressed the proper cheek, the Acolyte kneeled before HIM much like a knight would before a king. Soon, the dual-toned voice spoke once again, scraping against the walls of the Catacombs, defiling the ears of the dead. I am ready to receive my assignment my lord. However, may I suggest something? Memory knows more of this land than I. Let her lead the charge in gathering followers. I will do what I can and scout out the general populace, but will also quell those who will not follow my counterpart’s words.

Spellbound Adelaide bowed her head, pride blossoming inside of her as Necessity spoke of her knowledge of this realm. The realm that was once her home that had become foreign to her until her mother’s interference in the spectral plane. “May your will be fulfilled, father. And glorious is your plan for us.” Adelaide would bow once more before devising a plan to spread her father’s word, hoping that it would be received among the multitude in this world but also fearing the gods and rulers that watched over it. Afraid that their plans would crumble. Surely her father could make them see reason.

(The Red Priest) The grasp upon his staff would loosen as both hands extend to his sides with the palms facing upwards, almost in a beckoning manner, each hand above the head of his Acolytes, akin to a Saint over his Chosen My faithful few…Indeed my sweet Necessity, I had planned as much. A different realm presents different rules. But I believe the two of you will prove enough. Memory, my dear child. He called in a sweet, almost paternal tone as he lowered his hand over her headYou are well connected amongst the society of this realm. I leave you in charge of spreading the word across the strata, and contacting this other cult I feel, see if they are willing to embrace us, become one with us…if not.His hand would lower over the head of Necessity, his tone changing to a prideful, almost flirtatious toneLoyal and ambitious Necessity, search, collect and destroy. We must find the ones that will become the Taskmasters, and root out the weaknesses of the gods of this realm…The Red Dawn shall rise soon enough, and the land must be prepared for the coming of the Bleeding Sun! His hands rise and cross over his chest as the lights flicker, and with a passing shadow his form is gone, but his staff, it snakes and slithers around the mirror frame, stretching its dimensions and bending it unnaturally, before slamming it into the rock, merging silver and stone. The first seed of the Shrine.

False King Sharil The whisperings of the city never cease. Through spider and rat alike they spread. There was naught in the underbelly that escaped their gaze and it was with them that the false king had garnered connection first. For what good is the assassin without information? They were a petty dabbler, a pup destined for death. Yet they, no they were a master of the art. As all black court were, their wealth of technique and information second to none. The spiders spoke, the allure sung, and the rats chittered their knowledge to them. In the confines of the catacombs there was a gathering held. The underbelly was alive and thriving. “Ahh Polis, you never cease to be entertaining.” The words crackled through the dank, mouldy air as his harmonic voice punctured the softened silence between the voices of those gathered. Stepping through the darkness, the cold caress of shadow writhing about his tangible form. His silent footfalls carrying their physical form towards the crimson light. Dressed in padded leathers of mottled monochrome colouration allowing them to perfectly blend. Breathing was slowed, trained. The unseen, as they were labelled by the mundane. Myth and fairy tales say they got their name through their ability to blend in. “What do we have here?” Their voice flowed eloquently across the stone structures, whispering back against their ears in chorus. How long had they been here? They had followed the one labelled necessity. A wicked grin spread firmly across their lips revealing pristine enamel. “You should pay more attentions to your surroundings.” The comment was aimed towards the one they followed and they continued to speak after a short pause. “If it weren’t someone merely curious as to who disturbs the catacombs, you might have died.” Eyes of violet were luminescent in the crimson glow cast from flame as they rounded upon the central figure. The one labelled father. It looked less like a family gathering and more a druidic ceremony. A soft chuckle escaped their lips once more as they rested their back upon their stone. The androgynous visage of the unseen in clear view now. Unhidden as they dropped the hood once covering their face. “Such a unique gathering.” They said flatly, hands circling around their midsection. “So, who are you?” The comment was directedly solely upon the apparition holding a staff. The one they called Father.

(Khan & Arabelle) Necessity would listen to Memory’s assignment and then their own, keeping their head bowed before HIM until their Master began to disappear. Then, they rose from their kneeling position, the shadows themselves still keeping some of The Acolyte’s frame hidden as well. When the words were spoken, Necessity sprang into a defensive pose, ready to strike down those who threatened the Shrine’s existence. They would not allow others to foil their plans. Not again. The Acolyte sliced their own hand, the blood beginning to pour from their palm, the droplets forming the staff of a weapon rather than a pool on the catacomb floor. In a matter of seconds the androgynous form had a full halberd in their arms, pointing directly in the direction of the voice that had spoken. A panther like snarl would emanate from the Acolyte’s throat, their dual-toned voice once more dragging itself across the chalkboard of the air. Show yourself intruder so that you may meet your death with dignity. But if you come to talk then I suggest you state your business and show yourself regardless. The Master deserves more respect that you could conceive.

Spellbound Adelaide would still remain on her knees until a stranger spoke. Yet they emanated with the Allure; it was tainted, but nothing darker than the power her Father held. Calmly Adelaide rose from her kneeling position, her nightgown fluttering around her legs as she turned her gaze towards the vague form in the candlelight, shadows dancing across their face as the flame flickered. “Necessity, dear friend, please do calm yourself. The catacombs are often crawling with degenerates, we do not know if they came to join us or were simply lost in this maze,” she spoke, keeping her eyes trained on the vague form. “You there, stranger. What drew you to this place? Particularly this chamber? Come closer to us so that we may get a better look of you.” Adelaide beckoned them with a gentle wave of her hand, hoping to see if this person were a member of the Courts of the Unseen or the tribes that wandered the forests in her home realm.

(The Red Priest) Despite being addressed to no voice would emanate from the dark depths of the corroded silver mirror, yet a dark red light light emanated from its edges, strangely akin to the flickering candle-light that illuminated the room with its ephemeral light. The Messenger too was nowhere to be seen, gone as he was after delivering his message. After all, one cannot be The Messenger without a message to deliver. Still both Acolytes would still be able to feel HIS presence, the dark, forbidden intent filling pockets of power that had long been unused. Yet no words or guidance came. He watched, but didn’t intervene. A test perhaps? And if so, to whom? His Acolytes, or the bold stranger?

False King Sharil Luminescent violet eyes shift their focus from the group towards the garish act of severing flesh as the one known as Necessity would slit her own hand. An eyebrow would peak upwards as the droplets of blood would manifest into a solidified halberd. As they spoke an elegant laugh escapes their lips. Leaning forward, hunched as they continue to laugh, the sound hysterical. “Oh please, die with dignity? Please, I could have killed you as I followed you in.” The Black court king raised his left hand and wiped away a tear from the corner of his left eye and flicked it towards the ground. “Bound by chains, are we? A slave. So interesting.” Attentions would drift away from Necessity towards Memory as she spoke to him. Stepping forward, left eye winking as he whispered a word in foreign tongue. Allure surged through the candles, flames erupting into thick tongues of flame that stood taller than the wick produced. As the flame roared to life, the catacombs bathed in vibrant tangerine and carmine revealing the amassed vermin. Spiders, serpents and rats alike all congregated around them. Then, stepping forward still until he was close to the very candles. “Degenerates? I suppose I am, but I don’t crawl about here.” Violet eyes focused completely upon Memory’s own. Behind it was the accusatory vision of a king, hardened by a time at war. “I came because I was alerted by…” His hand swept to the mass of vermin. “… The residents that something was happening here. So, I followed your friend in merely curious about the people gathering in the catacombs to summon a ritual. Awfully like a bunch of degenerates no?” His eyes focus back round to the both. “My name is Sharil, King of the Yalitemeret’e court.”

(Khan & Arabelle) Necessity keeps their halberd trained on the stranger, the display of fire, spiders, snakes, and rats not even causing the acolyte to flinch. It seemed the display did not impress this being in the least. They simply continued listening to this Sharil, the mismatched eyes of cerulean and shamrock filled with scepticism at their display of rank, but they did not address it. Flaunt all you want. It will get you nowhere here. However, I’m afraid I can’t let you leave after what you’ve witnessed. Not unless… The Acolyte’s eyes look to Memory’s, it was clear an idea had popped into their head. Soon, Necessity looked back at this ‘King’ and spoke once again. You say you were curious as to what was going on here. Without knowing for sure… what do you think is going on? Not to mention… most who look upon The Master’s visage are thrown into a state of fervent worship of him the moment they lay eyes upon his form. So either, your willpower is stronger than most’s… or… he is trying to tell us something. The Acolyte’s head turned back towards he mirror’s surface, the tip f the halberd still pointed at Sharil. It seemed this one was not keen in letting their guard down at all when dealing with those outside their Order, especially when they had to look away. Necessity wasn’t totally sure what they were looking for in the mirror, but all they needed was a sign. Something to see if their latter suspicion was correct. If it was, then this would most certainly be quite interesting.

Spellbound Adelaide kept her gaze focused on Sharil, despite the light show that they displayed with their use of the Allure and the mass of tiny creatures that gathered around them. Adelaide wrinkled her nose as she eyed this so-called king. “Of course you don’t you crawl around elsewhere, Outcast.” She waved her hand dismissively before looking to Necessity, almost nodding, knowing what they had in mind. She turned her attention back to Sharil, stepping closer to circle around him slowly, looking at the girlish yet masculine features this king had. “Sharil, I do have to say that you must be lying about being king of your people,” she clicked her tongue, shaking her head before continuing, “Madoc still rules over the Black Court as far as my mother is aware.” Surely he hadn’t already overthrown Madoc – even if the true king was ruthless. “Besides, you still look like a boy still trying to grow into his father’s shoes.” She pinched at his arm then at his side before retreating back to her spot beside Necessity. “But no matter, it is nice to meet you Sharil.” She dipped down into a curtsy, her lips spreading into a tight-lipped smile. As she rose, she whispered a single word, wishing to scatter the little creatures that gathered around them to begone. “So, a king? Specifically one of the Yalitemeret'e tribe of the Unseen.. Hm.. Sharil, if you are truly curious and if your mind is open to explore the possibility of what we are doing here tonight, would you like to know more about my Father? He is a great man and may help you achieve what you think is… out of reach for you.”

(The Red Priest) As Necessity gazed back into the black mirror, they and they alone would see their faint reflection replaced by another, the familiar bone-white mask, a single red finger raised upon the sharp-toothed smile of his features, much like a child asking for silence or a secret to be kept. Nonetheless, for those sensitive to what the local called the Allure, there would be a shift in the feeling, in the aura of their corner of the Catacombs. All the the candles would be snuffed out, yet an omnipresent red hue cast the space into permanent dim light. The vermin however would remain, but they now circled the entire room, observing, a forbidden intellect laying behind their eyes…No hostility, no message for either side. Just a simple display of power, a metaphorical flag in the ground shaped in the nature of the Allure. That area no longer belonged to the world. It belonged to HIM.

False King Sharil’s attentions fixated upon the one called Memory. They saw it now, the feminine bullshit that spewed from the white court. Yet, they were as stringent in their beliefs as the black court. Would mother be proud of her child for following a nameless false god? The term outcast caused not but a laughter before they stepped close - too close - to Memory. “Lying? I think not.” As he spoke a wry grin, wicked and sadistic down to its core spread across their lips. Violet eyes danced in the carmine light with that all knowing danger. The white court always believed they were correct but they were more gullable than even the mundane. “Your mother? Your mother would believe the sun was green if she had a royal informant tell her so.” Leaning forward into Memories ear, their voice caresses her ear in a chilling tone. “Do you not think the Black court’s whisperers don’t know how to manipulate every amount of information coming in and out of our court.” They paused for a moment, attention drifting towards the red hue that pushed vermin aside. A soft laugh escaped their lips before returning towards Necessity. “My willpower is absolute. I am absolute.” The words were spoken with a finality, attetion returning towards Memory. “So, Adelaide Princess of the useless. How does your mother feel about you joining this false god?” The title was thick with mockery before he stepped forward. “I am king of my people. Perhaps you should check the Black court yourself for my precious father.” With a chuckle, they flicked their wrist dismissively. “Playing with beasts not of the original gods will see you outcasted yourself wouldn’t it?” He asked before he stepped back, bowed and with a flicker of darkness. They were gone.

(Khan & Arabelle) Necessity looks back towards the Unseen, listening to their wrds but holds their anger. This… child had no clue who he was insulting. If anything, it were the gods of this realm that were the false ones. They were weak, HIS control over the Shrine’s area had shown that much already. They had forsaken this world, and it was up to their order to prove that. Just as they were about to speak again on the boy’s insolence, he had already disappeared. The Acolyte snarled agrily and then spoke once again to Memory. I do not believe it was wise to tell him your forsaken name Memory. Are you sure he will not try to remove you from your position within your mother’s court? Regardless, we should keep an eye on him. He could be useful. He has a desire we can exploit. He exudes potential. Not to mention he did not falter when faced with The Master’s presence. They turn back towards the mirror, stepping over to it and pressing a hand upon the darkened surface.

Spellbound Adelaide clasped her hands behind her back, allowing her cerulean gaze to follow the lithe form of Sharil as she bit down on the inside her cheek to keep from lashing out any further. Waiting until the trickster removed himself from the chamber where she had set up the make-shift shrine for her Father, she turned to face Necessity. “I never spoke my name.. Only of my mother. Members of the White, Grey, and Black Court are usually familiar with the royal families within those courts,” she explained calmly as her pointed fingernails dug into her palms. “But that pompous brat will see what Father can do. There is no way he can resist the potential for rank and power.” She spits on the ground with a wrinkled nose. “We’ll make sure of it. This whole world will see, even my mother if I must.”

(The Red Priest) The creatures that circled the area eventually left, banished suddenly as the stranger made their leave. There was worry and adrenaline in the air, but the Acolytes would soon feel a bit more relaxed, the stress and worry leaving their minds as if by the sweetest opium. The familiar voice would resound in their minds, the dual, deep cadence nearly harmonising Shhh…don’t shy away from this confrontation. Face it, be strengthened by it. Memory? My child…Something tells me your mother would appreciate hearing your sweet voice once more. Necessity dear? We need to strengthen my grasp upon this realm, so that I may be flesh upon it…for our Shrine to grow, we need our Tinkerer. Seek forth amongst those blessed in technology, whisper my name, and one shall rise…

(Khan & Arabelle) Necessity breathes in and and exhales deeply as the worry left their mind, their body clear of any tension, the halberd dissipates in a red mist, the coloured cloud twisting into a tornado back into The Acolyte’s sliced open palm. Once the voice of their Master fills their head once again, they nod and look towards Memory. The Master has spoken. We have our tasks. I will head towards the city of the Illuminated, so that I may find the first of the Taskmasters. You know what to do while I am gone. Deal with this Sharil. If he joins, good. If not… Necessity moves a thumb across their neck in gesture towards their compatriot, telling them what they must do. They then nod and begin to leave the catacombs to make way for the capital of the Illuminated. Before exiting however, they speak once again, this time with more concern than usual. Tell us how it goes with your mother once we return. It would be interesting to hear what comes out of it. No doubt The Master has a plan for her. With that, The Acolyte takes their leave the footsteps echoing down the corridor of the catacombs. The shadows to protect the bones of the dead soon consuming the androgynous form of Memory’s fellow. It was time to get to work. The Red Priest demanded it.

Spellbound Adelaide grimaced, closing her eyes as she listened to her Father’s words, relaxing her shoulders. “I shall ride to the White Court in the morning. I’ll send a Crow to her, announcing my visit. I shall explain everything to her, should Sharil reach her before I do.” Adelaide slowly opened her eyes and stared blankly at her augmented counterpart and let out a soft sigh. “I shall fetch this Sharil and try to convince him to join us. And since he knows of my identity and our potential plans, I will try to get rid of him.” Truth be told, since she had been shoved into this “new shell,” she felt weak, almost powerless. She hated it. “I won’t let you down, Father. I swear it,” she murmured before slipping between the thin entrance and made her exit out of the dank catacombs of Polis.

characterization: describe your favorite character(s) you’ve written.

Obviously my favourite characters would have to be Adelaide and Octavia because I’ve had them for so long. Adelaide has been around for a little longer than 10 years and Octavia for maybe 4-5 years? Anyway!

Adelaide is the daughter to the White Queen, Caiolainn, and the King of Niraya. She is a half-fae just like her brothers and sisters, who were created through the treaty between the K'idusi (basically Seelie) and the Mundane. She grew up in the Kingdom of Niraya for most of her childhood before the riots ran her family out of the kingdom and evenutally causing the kingdom to become a heap of ruins. During the escape she was separated from her mother and brother by a portal to another realm pulling her and her twin through. However, when she landed in the strange new realm, she lost her memories and started her new life with a clean slate. She eventually found love and had children before her partner turned away from their normal life to an elder god that promised power before he dragged her into the same lifestyle. Instead of power, the elder god promised her memories while pretending to be her father. This of course altered her moral compass greatly. Now she is a twisted version of what she once was.

Octavia is a Mangkr (the offspring of a dragon mother and human father) who lived with her mother because her mother decided to eat her father after she was born. At her adolesence, she realized that what her mother was doing was not right and so she rebelled against her, helping the Mundanes without giving her name to prevent form being discriminated against. Then she ran far away from her home and encountered a group of degenerates that challenged her purity and morals, before changing her into the image they wanted her to be. She now struggles with the habits she developed from her old life as she tries to redeem herself. She’s afraid to love anyone seriously after being hurt so many times.

mifflin: what do you feel is your strong suit in writing?

I’m really great at coming up with horrible backstories with my characters.. or it’s a bad habit mostly. When I’m writing, I tend to go towards darker themes when I post my roleplays. But when it comes to Venndore, I would have to say worldbuilding. I try to think of every aspect and take into account of every possible person that could be in my world and come up with explanations for their lore.