thegrandheist-if

[thegrandheist-if]

After nearly a millennium of innovation, research, and money sank into a far-off dream of space travel, the world watches with bated breath as the oval portal sparkles to life. Safe in their homes they lean forward on their couches, captivated by the next big step in mankind’s conquest towards the great beyond. The portal lights up in a brilliant display of greens and blues, and the world cheers. Their celebration mixes with the screams from beyond their screens, unheard, a mix of raucous joy and unimaginable terror lasting mere seconds before the broadcast ends.

DEMO TBA ✕ CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS

Note: Demo will be written in CScript, but the full game will be written in Twine.

The Erebus Project is an 18+ sci-fi game meant for mature audiences, and will include scenes that might upset some readers.

This includes, but is not limited to; death, violence, blood & gore, body horror, loss of control, recreational drug use, unhealthy relationships (optional), harsh language, and (optional) sexual themes.

The Earth is the cradle of humanity, but mankind cannot stay in the cradle forever.

 - Konstantin Tsiolkovsky.

When humanity first dabbled in the science of portal technology, no one thought much of it. A project of immense proportions, doomed to fail, that’s what everyone said.

You were skeptical as well, and that exact skepticism ended up uprooting your entire life. Not that you had much in the shady pits of The Pens, but it was better than the glass cage you’ve been imprisoned in.

An alien. It came through the portal with a vicious screech and a horrifying visage of a maw large enough to swallow you whole. It did so to the others, tore them limb from limb and left them in pieces, but here you are; safe, quarantined, with that same black ichor briefly appearing like veins on your skin. Poked, prodded, and treated like nothing but a walking test subject, that’s what the alien turned you into.

Until it utters the first notes of speech, inside your head like an echo. It learns through you, and for those endless months it was one of the only two voices you heard. It grew angry, restless, loud in your head. It spoke of a threat, and a salvation in words you couldn’t comprehend. As it grew stronger, you had to resist it more. Hold down your own fingers, then your hand, then your entire arm. The scientists were exstatic.

Then it broke out. Not from you, as you, and your life would never be the same. From a poor, unassuming resident of The Pens to the most hunted human on the surface of Earth - All the while the alien echoes in your mind, threatening, warning in a low, constant rattle.

It’s coming.

Create and guide your Host; a broke and desperate resident of The Pens that learned that when something is too good to be true, it probably is.

Customize the Host! Names, gender, appearance, sexuality, and romantic preference; even clothing style, skin details, and core personality. It’s up to you to create your perfect host!

Romance it not lost in the void of space: there are currently four characters to pursue, with possibly more on the horizon. All characters are gender selectable, and available for romance even if the Host is asexual.

Name your alien! It doesn’t need a name, but you can’t call it ‘parasite’ forever. Decide whether or not to give it pronouns as well, unless you’re content with calling the thing 'it’ throughout your journey.

Choose whether to accept the new tenant residing in your cranium, or fight it every step of the way. On one hand, you’re technically a bona fide superhero; on the other hand, you have an interstellar, sentient goo inside your body.

Learn why the alien appeared through the portal, and subsequently gain knowledge of a approaching threat that will end your solar system as you know it.

Balance a semi-social life as a fugitive, all while being hunted by the CSI, and keeping the parasite from going on a rampage. Your willpower will be your greatest asset, use it. If not for anything else but to keep the alien from entirely consuming you.

And most importantly: Save the galaxy! No big deal, right?

Continuar lendo

#the erebus project #lily other if's reblog #👀👀👀 i'm already looking... #interactive fiction

[thegrandheist-if]

Creating a universe for a book can be a complex and creative process that involves a lot of world-building. To create a universe for a book, you must first establish the basic elements of the world, such as its geography, history, culture, and politics.

You will then need to create characters, plot, and a story that fits within the universe they have created. You may choose to create detailed maps, history, and culture. You may also want to create a set of rules and physics that govern how the world operates.

The process of creating a universe can be both exciting and challenging, as it requires you to think deeply about the world they are creating and to make decisions about how it functions. But ultimately it will add depth and richness to the story and make the reading more enjoyable for the audience.

I have created a universe, but turned it into a dimension after a long and hard year of thinking of what I wanted to do with it. I hope that this post helps you guys start on creating your worlds as well. Keep in mind that this is not all that you need to know and some of this you may already know!

Coming up with a name for your universe:

Consider the theme or tone of your universe. If it is a fantasy world, you may want to choose a name that evokes a sense of magic or wonder. If it is a science-fiction universe, you may want to choose a name that sounds futuristic or technological.

Think about the culture or history of your universe. If your universe has a specific culture or history, you may want to choose a name that reflects that.

Use a thesaurus or other word reference to find synonyms or related words. This can help you come up with new and unique ideas for your universe's name.

Play with different languages, combining words or using words from different languages to create a unique name.

Consider using a name that is symbolic or metaphorical. This can help you convey the theme or tone of your universe in a subtle and powerful way.

Creating a fictional race:

Consider the physical characteristics of your race. What do they look like? Do they have any unique features or abilities? How do these characteristics affect their way of life and culture?

Think about the society and culture of your race. What are their beliefs, values, and customs? How do they govern themselves? What is their technology level?

Consider the role of your race in your universe. Are they the main characters or just a secondary race? How do they interact with other races in your universe?

Take inspiration from real-world cultures and myths. You can borrow elements from different cultures and myths to create a unique and believable race.

Please please PLEASE avoid stereotypes and cliches. Fictional races should be original and not based on existing stereotypes or cliches. You do not want to be insensitive towards a group of people by feeding into the negative stereotypes.

Give your race a unique language, naming convention, and history. This will give them a sense of realism and depth. This can be hard, so I know a few people that have hired linguists for this (however this is pricy and I know not many people can do this)

Creating a fantasy language:

Start with the basics of language structure. Decide on the phonemes (basic sounds) and grammatical rules for your language.

Use inspiration from existing languages. You can borrow elements from different languages to create a unique and believable fantasy language.

Create a vocabulary. Come up with words for common objects, actions, and ideas.

Consider the culture and history of the race that speaks the language. Does it have any influences on the language? How does it reflect the beliefs and values of the race?

Keep it consistent. Once you have established the basic structure and vocabulary of your language, make sure to stick to it throughout your story.

Give your language a writing system. Create an alphabet, symbols or characters that can be used to write the language.

As said before, don't hesitate to use a linguist or a language creator tool to help you create the language in a more accurate and professional way.

Again, this is not all that goes into created a universe or dimension of your own, but it's a step towards having a fleshed out world that your readers will love.

One thing I did not see, however, was that you will want to make sure that you keep your word in a document! Keep it written down if you prefer, but put it down somewhere. I created a template for myself when I was world building and it helps a lot. There's also a book that has helped me with thinking kore in depth and I will be sharing that soon!

#writing advice #fantasy writing

[thegrandheist-if]

SURPRISE! not really but yay!

I'm so nervous about this you guys have no idea but it is time. ✨️

I am pretty happy that I managed to do what I wanted (release prologue and chapter 1 at once) so yay win for me.

So in this demo you have:

Prologue and Chapter 1, approximately 29.2k words in total and approximately 23k words per playthrough.

Get a glimpse of the life in Vesphire.

Meet 2 of your siblings!

Meet Lancelot and Luceris.

Meet Helios, Hunter and Vincent.

Make a... strange deal with someone.

Demo here.

I hope you guys enjoy it! Please (please please please) let me know what you think of it and your opinion on it all.

#congrats on the demo release!! #crown of ashes and flames #interactive story #if wip

[thegrandheist-if]

Random mansion generator

The Procgen Mansion Generator produces large three-dee dwellings to toy with your imagination, offering various architectural styles and other options. Each mansion even comes with floorplans:

https://boingboing.net/2019/07/12/random-mansion-generator.html

#reblog for later #if: resources #generators

[thegrandheist-if]

FAQ on Writing Signed Language

(and deaf/HoH characters)

An amalgamation of all the questions that have come up repeatedly since the original posts. All the people who wanted to be tagged have been put under the read-more link at the bottom.

“Is it okay to use italicized speech for signed dialogue, even if I describe faces and signs?”

The short answer is a simple no. I’ve been asked this a lot, repeatedly, and I can understand why- other languages are, it’s the common mode of operation for writers when encountering a language their viewpoint character either doesn’t speak, or doesn’t understand. Differentiation between spoken language is needed in this way.

However, signed language is not spoken, and the struggle to have it recognized as a “real languge” has been long. Many people, as the result of a lack of education by no fault of their own, still don’t see it as such. Because of this, using italics to seperate signed and spoken language can do harm for the recognition of signed languages.

Also, signed language is usually in the same language of the spoken variant, while not being the same language at all: although respected as a language of it’s own, sign and spoken language are like cousins living in the same household of language, and so would be treated just like the rest of the family.

“If not using italics, how do I differentiate?”

With the description of sign, and facial expressions. For spoken language, you would write about the sharp tone of Samuel’s voice, the way it rises in tone; for signed language, you would talk about the way that Mark’s fists are tighter and his signs louder (wider).

This kind of differentiation may come naturally to a majority of people who speak signed languages, because many of us can think in signed language, but for people who do not or who use spoken language more frequently, it is understandably more difficult. It will take a little more work at first, but eventually it will come naturally in the flow of signed dialogue.

“How do I describe the tone and non-verbal inflections of sign?”

By facial expressions in combination with the signed words.

I understand that not everyone is able to read facial expressions, for a variety of reasons (I struggle too) so here’s a list of facial expressions as verbal inflections in sign:

Facial exclamation mark - For amusement, sarcasm, yelling and making points.This is done by an O mouth shape and widened eyes.

Facial question mark - For questions, confusion and when challenging someone. This is done by a simple raise of the eyebrows during the main word of the question. E.g, Name Yours What [raised eyebrows on what].

And some examples of how you might use these:

Anger - The signs become hard, sharp and fast. The fist isn’t just touched to his chest, it’s slammed in; elbows go everywhere. His face is widened in a facial exclamation mark, brow furrowed, the signs become ungainly and faster, just like speech can become faster and louder.

Fear - You know the expression small voice? Apply that to small signs: Slower actions, eyebrows knitted and arched, perhaps even mistakes are made such as hands knocking together or fingers in the wrong shape, just like people often stutter or trip over their words when afraid.

Agression/Challenging someone - use the facial question mark, but make it harder, more defined. The eyebrows are raised high and the mouth quirks, or twists, and the signs become more agressive in the same way you would write anger.

Joy, enthusiasm and humour - the signs are bigger again, and the character would grin- eyes shining, maybe, and eyebrows raised in the facial exclamation mark for jokes. Also, you know how we use silly voices in verbal language? In sign, we also make the signs really over-exaggerated, like in charades, and accompany that with pulled faces. Examples of these would be the mouth in an overlarge O, eyebrows raised too high, grinning in the middle of the O shape or mocking a grimace, so that the downwards pull of the mouth is forced.

Lying - The facial expression might contradict the sign. Eg, someone who is lying to feel confident may inflect their words with a facial exclamation mark, but their hands may shake (a signed stutter). Facial tells such as quirks of lips could also be present, since people who use signed language as a primary language learn to have naturally expressive faces.

“How could I portray signed language in artistic media, eg, comics?”

If the speech can’t be heard, because the signing character is completely deaf and either doesn’t use hearing aids/implants or doesn’t have them, the dialogue bubbles are best left blank. When the speech is signed, it should come from the hands, and facial expressions should be drawn. You wouldn’t need to do the entire sequence of signs, but give important words or phrases their own boxes to highlight them. (I don’t draw comics so I don’t know any of the phrases but i hope this makes sense)

The best example I’ve found is the Hawkeye comics! Blue Ear showed this so well.

Some extra points that have been brought up

Hearing aids get sweaty, dirty and uncomfortable if worn too long, and stop working so well. They also get clogged with wax and it’s really unpleasant

Cleaning kits should never be far off, especially in summer

Aids and implants can also withstand rain, even heavy rain, but sometimes the moulds of aids get clogged with water. They would not survive being submerged (but you can get waterproof ones as far as I know, the NHS just won’t supply them)

Some hearing aids will get through batteries faster than others. My old ones lasted a month if I used the hearing aids every day. With these new aids, the batteries for one last a week and two weeks for the other.

The sticky labels on the back of batteries are really fun but also really annoying, and get stuck on e v e r y t h i n g

Hearing aids and implants are not cure-alls for deafness. In my completely deaf ear, I can only hear a buzz from my hearing aid that vaguely resembles speech; in my semi-hearing ear, the hearing aid still misses some sounds and blurs others.

Some deaf people choose not to get implants, since sign language is available and deafness is widely considered a blessing.

There are huge nuances in the levels of deafness, so percentages are generally not as useful as medical professionals make them sound. This thread covers it very well (plus some other things, such as sunglasses and reliance on facial reading as well as lip reading)

Lip-Reading is not a skill that everyone has, it’s tricky and, no, I can’t tell you what the kids over at that table are talking about Karen.

On the subject of mouths, it’s important to mouth while signing words. In BSL, the words for battery and aunt are the same. This could get strange if you were asking where to go dispose of your aunt.

So while a character might recognize mouth shapes in connection with signs, they could still be awful at reading lips.

 Aaand that was everything I have been asked frequently, collated in one place. If you still have any queries, please do drop an ask!

This has been a part of my weekly advice uploads. This week I have covered writing queer characters. The lineup for January includes Often Overlooked Points in Writing Period Fiction and Ways to Build up Settings and Scenes. If you need any help in the meantime with related or unrelated writing issues, send me an ask!

Happy writing until then 

ʕ•ᴥ•ʔﾉ♡

Keep reading

#if: writing resources #disability reference

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#writing reference #patterns #reblog for later

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#fashion #writing resources #men's fashion #reblog for later #collars

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#writing resources #reblog for later

[thegrandheist-if]

HEY, Romance Writers!

A few followers have asked for tips on writing romance into their stories or as the basis of their stories. Here’s a masterlist of sources (below cut) that may help.

General Romance:

What Defines Romantic Love?

How to Build a Romance Thread in Your Story

How to Plot a Romance Novel

Slowburn Romance

When Friends Fall for Each Other (ask)

Tips for Writing a Character Who Has a Crush

Tips on Writing Unrequited Love 

Writing Healthy Couples in Fiction

An Antidote to “Love at First Sight”

How Attractive Should Your Characters Be?

3 Great Ways to Show That Your Character Is In Love

6 Ways to Get Your Readers Shipping Like Crazy

Six Steps to Stronger Character Arcs in Romances

Seven Great Sources of Conflict for Romances

9 Romance Writing Mistakes to Avoid

20 Tips for Writing Lovable Romance Novel Heroes 

How to Write a Kissing Scene in a Romance Novel

Types of Kisses and Kissing + This Post Is All About Kisses

List of Ideas to Keep Romantic Tension High

100 Questions for Character Couples

How Do I Make the Relationship Development Realistic?

How Do I Know If Two People Are Compatible?

Healthy Relationships Can Include Teasing

How to Write a YA Romance Without Cliché   

Intercultural Romance:

How do I write an interracial couple accurately? (ask)

15 Common Stereotypes About Intercultural Relationships

Cross Cultural Relationships

[Ideas for] Your [Fictional] Cross-Cultural Relationship

Things to Avoid When Writing Interracial Romance

writingwithcolor: Interracial Relationships (w/ links)

Bad Romance:

Removing the Creeps From Romance

Why The Surprise Kiss Must Go

Possessiveness 101

10 Signs You May Be in an Emotionally Abusive Relationship

Edward & Bella Are In An Abusive Relationship

Red Flags, Verbal Abuse, Stalking… | Script Shrink

5 Huge Mistakes Ruining the Romantic Relationships in Your Book

How do you write a [bad] relationship without romanticising it? (ask)

General Tips for Writing Characters Love Interests:

How to Write from a Guy’s POV

Writing Awesome Male Characters: What You’re Doing Wrong

7 Point-of-View Basics Every Writer Should Know

How Do You Describe a Character?

4 Ways to Make Readers Instantly Loathe Your Character Descriptions

3 Signs Your Story’s Characters Are Too Perfect

Is a Quirk Just What Your Character Needs?

Six Types of Character Flaws

Is Your Character Optimistic Or Pessimistic?

5 Ways to Keep Characters Consistent

9 Simple and Powerful Ways to Write Body Language

10 Body Language Tricks for Deeper Characterization

Describing People Part Three: Gestures, Expressions, and Mannerisms

33 Ways To Write Stronger Characters

Conveying Character Emotion

Distinguishing Characters in Dialogue

How to Make Readers Love an Unlikable Character…  

Characters: Likability Is Overrated

Relationships in General:

How to Create Powerful Character Combos

8 Secrets To Writing Strong Character Relationships

Character Relationships: 6 Tips for Crafting Real Connections

Writing Relationships: Hate to Love

Stereotypes, Archetypes, & Tropes:

Five Signs Your Story Is Sexist: Part 1, Part 2

Five Signs Your Story Is Sexist – Against Men

Always Female vs Always Male

Born Sexy Yesterday & Manic Pixie Dream Girl

7 (Overused) Female Love Interests

Other Resource Lists

Resources For Romance Writers

Pinterest Board “Writing: Romance Arcs and Plots”  

thewritershelpers FAQ (romance, kissing, sexuality, etc)

+ If you benefit from my updates and replies, please consider sending a little thank you and Buy Me A Coffee!

#reblog for later #writing romance #romance

[thegrandheist-if]

This might be a total coincidence but are you prince lapin? Your icon is familiar from other IF discords. what are your favourite ifs??

ah shit lads ive been found out Yeah, thats me !! the hyperfixation got so strong i needed to write my own

SPEAKING OF. you have opened pandoras box. god have mercy on you. Woe, Interactive Novels be upon ye.

CHOP SHOP by @losergames i fucking love crime. And they way everything is written? mwah. byootiful. like im watching a fucking movie.

WOLF SET FREE by @wolfsetfree-if WULFEBOUND by @wulfebound WEREWOLF NOIR by @canismaxim-games BLOOD MOON by @barbwritesstuff

I AM SO GAY ABOUT WEREWOLF SHIT YOU HAVE NO IDEA.

THE EXILE by @exilethegame I was (and am) hyperfixated on this singular game for a very very long time and my commander is the poorest little meow meow that i love repeatedly throwing against a wall and into a meatgrinder 💖

FIELDS OF ASPHODEL by @chrysanthemumgames I am so deeply unwell over Hades. but also i never noticed the simiarities that persephone and dionysus have and it makes me go insane to think about.

THE NAMELESS by @parkerlyn not only is my own bastard cat thing on an mc the most fun to draw, but it has reawakened my feralty over fae settings and fae creatures. also parker is just like. one of the sweetest people ever created??? illegal. how are they so nice.

THE NORTHERN PASSAGE by @northern-passage not only am i deeply unwell about Lea, but i adore deeply inhuman mcs <- (the transgenderism speaking). I also just like. respect the hell out of kit fr. takes absolutely no bullshit. absolute inspiration.

GREENWARDEN by @fiddles-ifs Bautista. I am unwell. do i have a type? perhaps. shut the fuck up about it. mc is deeply neurotic and a freak (complementary) (affectionate)(relatable)

SPEAKER by @speakergame one of the BEST writers of sibling interaction, hands down. one of the first twine IFs i have ever played and god it is so fuck quality. my god.

EVERYTHING BY @heart-forge oh my god. oooohhhh my fucking god. where do i begin. all of their projects are so fucking good and distinct. i can tell you i am unwell about trigger siruud and valerian and you could probably diagnose me with something but i dont care. i am going to fucking explode their shit is so quality.

EVERYTHING BY @pdrrook how do they do it. no seriously how the fuck do they do it. magic? are they fae? did they sell their soul to the devil? banger project after banger project after banger project. ALL of their shit is quality AND THEY DO NOT MISS. EVER.

THE GRAND HEIST by @thegrandheist-if BRO I FUCKING LOVE CRIME. LOVE BEING A BASTARD.

EVERYTHING BY @jaunefleurwrites fun highschool detectives!!! :) AND THEN MY FUCKING HEART GETS SHATTERED.

LEGEND OF A SAVIOR by @legend-of-a-savior-if THE DRAMA.....THE INTRIGUE......i loved fucked up cults. I loved fucked up shit. I hate my mom. thank u.

EVERYTHING BY @leftski-if bro......the softness of orcs......leftski gets it. everyday i thank them for my FUCKING life. (wolfsbane has werewolf shit, and as you know i am. Gay. About. It.)

VIRTUE'S END by @virtues-end you already fucking know who the fuck i am unwell about if you read the rest of this god damn list. dont fucking @ me. (barghest best helvling)

VENDETTA by @vendetta-if ok hear me out guys. have i mentioned the i love crime. that i love being a nasty crime boy? well jokes on you fucker im a vigilante.

THE KING'S HOUND by @the-kingshound Mordred is my fucking son and if anything happens to him i will kill everyone in this room and then myself.

BASTARD OF CAMELOT by @llamagirl28 the drama.....the fucking drama......my mordred, a literal ten year old has their shit together better than his fucking parents. this is my fucking soap opera. i have my fucking popcorn at the ready.

THE BALLAD OF DEVILS CREEK by @devilscreekballad Okay no jokes, i absolutely and genuinely hope the author of this IF gets to be in a better spot financially and health wise. This IF is so fucking phenomenal and the dedication to the time period without shirking away from sensitive topics is honestly insane. i absolutely wish them the best. 🌻

And finally, what might be the first twine if i ever played-

SCOUT by @anya-dev im crying. im scratching at the floorboards. im crawling on the walls. im barking in a cage. scout is such a fucking interesting post apoc story. the reason is unclear but at the time of the story it doesnt particularly matter. but at the same time it does so much. i want to know SO MUCH. Oliver was the fucking blueprint for my god damn brainrot.

#❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ #this list has a lot of my favorites! #thanks for the mention!

[thegrandheist-if]

Writing With Color – Featured Description Posts

Some of our most useful posts on describing People of Color, all in one place.

Words to Describe Hair

Words to Describe Skin Tone

Describing Asian Eyes

Describing Wide Noses

Describing Undead & Sick Dark Skin

Describing POC and Avoiding Caricatures

Describing Unnatural Skin Tones: Green

Describing Unnatural Skin Tones: Jaundice

Indicating Race of Characters (FAQ Questions #3-4)

Not Indicating Race at All – Note: You Probably Should

Praising Beauty Without Fetishizing

Describing Characters Without Othering

Olive Skin, Race and Ethnicity

Specific Description Posts  

Describing Skin as Swarthy (Spoiler alert: it’s sketchy)

Describing East Asian Skin as Porcelain (Spoiler alert: it’s also sketchy)

Describing Skin as Russet (Spoiler alert: it’s alright)

Describing PoC as Exotic (SA: it’s othering)

Describing Skin as Ebony (SA: it’s cliche)

Describing Natural Hair as Cloud-Like (SA: it’s cool)

Describing Black Hair as Unkempt (SA: it’s offensive)

Describing Black Hair as Kinky (SA: it depends)

Describing Skin as “Dark as Night” (SA: it also depends)

Describing Skin as Like Dirt or Soil (SA: See above)

Describing Skin as just “Dark.” (SA: it’s vague)

Describing Black Hair as “Nappy” (SA: it ain’t recommended)

Describing Skin With Food (SA: it’s a no-no)

–WWC

#writing reference #writing with color

[thegrandheist-if]

World Building Tips:  Empires and Power Structures

World building is important in any setting. There are places, such as fantasy literature where it can become the difference between a believable world and an unbelievable one. Suspension of disbelief is often a critical part to stories. 

Many fantasy books take place during times of war, or revolution or even a fall of a corrupt empire.  I love reading these sorts of stories, as many people do.  Power structures can be complex.  They can be used to create tension and drama between characters - take for instance the hero versus the corrupt government troupe in fiction such as The Hunger Games, Harry Potter or even more traditional fantasies such as Tigana ( by Guy Gavriel Kay) or The Wheel of Time series (by Robert Jordan).   As a reader it can be compelling to follow these stories.  For writers though, it can seem daunting to go into the details of shaping a believable power structure.  Here are some basic tips for creating one.  

There are four crucial factors to any power structure.  These are as follows:

1. Military - this includes the size of the army, the types of technology used (guns or swords? navy or land army?), the basic structure of the army (is it highly regimented like the Romans? What are the different groups within the army? How are they divided - by technology, skills or social status?). Another important question here is why has the military developed in this way? The Roman military, for example, grew out of competition with other Italian states. The opposition is equally important here - who were/are they within your story? Apply the above questions just as much to them, because empires and other structures are influenced by the world around them. The military can be the reason an empire begins in the first place.  The military should also play a role in sustaining the power structure/empire.  It doesn’t have to be the strongest factor by any means.  It may even become the downfall of the structure in the end.

2. Economy - How is your power structure or empire funded? Does this change over time? Does your empire take part in internal or external trade? Is trade important to the running of the empire? Resources such as crops, fertile land or people are also a part of this and influences the larger actions (such as conquest) your structure takes towards other countries. Trade can be a form of control and influence as well, even outside of the structure’s territory. In terms of story, a lot of decisions that are made involve trade or economic reasons - no one wants to get on the wrong side of someone who controls valuable resources or trade with other entities. The British Empire was based mainly on trade and this insured a global influence even as it declined in actual power.

3. Administration: The system of government and the way it manages itself is important to know. Is it a traditional monarchy or a democracy? How is leadership decided? How is power delegated throughout the larger administration? Hierarchy? One person can’t do or know everything. In terms of empire and conquest this is equally important. Does the empire recruit the local elites from conquered areas to administer to the general public, like the Romans? If your story is set in the outskirts of your empire, this could effect the outcome of the story - local elites might enjoy the power they have gained through an alliance with the larger empire and thus be unwilling to revolt against it. What other ways does your power structure control its territory? Does it use culture, or a set language to spread out into new territory? What kind of empire is your empire? Is it land based (only conquering territories linked by land) or maritime (navy focused with overseas territory)?

4. Culture: How does your power structure interact with its subjects? Even in a small area, different ethnic groups exist, so what unites all of them together? Are they all united, or is there groups of people the power structure leaves out? Have they always been left out deliberately or have these groups formed over time?How does the the government and the people from inside the empire view outsiders and their culture? Does this influence your story or characters? Do negative stereotypes or different language create a barrier between your character and others? In newly conquered areas is the empire’s language, laws and social ideals endorsed to locals or is it forced upon them? Is religion important to how the empire works or interacts? For example, before war do the gods need to show approval for the empire’s commanders? What about clashes of religion with other areas? Where do cultures intersect? Is your empire influenced by an older power or a hard past? What is seen as integral to your structure’s culture - art, literature, music etc? Are allies connected with your structure through culture, a shared distant history?

Most power structures rely on all of these factors - but none are ever equal in importance. Your government will identify one or two of these areas as important and focus on them. This can impact how the structure comes together and eventually falls apart - the greatest strength becomes a weakness, or something is overlooked until it is too late.

This is a long post - so I’m going to leave it here for now. If you guys have any questions, feel free to use the Ask feature to contact me.

#if: worldbuilding #if: writing resources

[thegrandheist-if]

Evallon University, a place many believe to be more myth than real, is one that few have ever been privileged to see; at least where you’re from. However, it’s prominence over all within the world is known. Any who graduate with it’s seal are destined to have any job that they desire.

Of course, only the strongest are able to do so.

You never imagined that you’d be accepted into the ancient halls. Never anticipated that your fool hardy sisters plan would actually come to fruition; after all you just expected them to take one look at your application and scoff.

All of that changes on the eve of your eighteenth birthday when there’s a knock at the door.

Customizable MC: name, nickname, appearance, sexuality, gender (M, F, and NB), hobbies, and more! Note: Portions of the MCs personality have been set in stone.

An Arthurian IF that takes a more modern twist on our favorite tale (and characters).

Romance 1 of 4 Love Interests (2 Male and 2 Female). From the Golden Boy of Evallon, some might even call him the King, to his seemingly disinterested half-sister.

Discover the secrets that echo throughout the ancient halls of Evallon, but make sure that you get enough sleep for your classes in the morning! You need to be prepared for the Exams.

Pass your classes or utterly fail them (or possibly find a middle ground). It’s up to you!

Discover your Familiar! Who will be a reflection of who you’ll become.

Will you become a Legend in the land many believe to be a myth?

PLAY THE GAME (TBA)

Arthur Drake [M] — The Golden Boy

Son of the Dean, Arthur Drake is known far and wide across the campus of Evallon. Though, one would expect Arthur to be stuck up, like a classic popular kid, but he’s one of the most down to Earth people you’ll ever have the privilege to meet. With a gentle smile, a golden heart, and keen wish to see everyone do well, it’s no wonder that so much people on campus adore him.

Appearance: Arthur stands at around 6’5” with ice blue eyes and sun kiss skin. His golden hair, almost like the sun itself, falls to just beneath his ears. Despite his boyish smile, the chiseled features of his face depict that of a warrior that won’t stand down to anyone if he believes strong enough. He has a muscular physique that makes him imposing (if it wasn’t for his tendency to smile and laugh).

Lance Reed [M] — The Best Friend

You’re not sure what to make of Lance, or Lancelot, Reed. All you have heard about him are tales of how he hurt his best friend, Arthur. You aren’t sure if the rumors are entirely accurate— after all you could still see the adoration Lance had for him— but the way in which Arthur avoids him gives some credence to them. Will you be able to crack through the shell that Lance has put up around himself?

Appearance: Lancelot stands at around 6’1” with impassive hazel eyes. Onyx black curls, that fall across his forehead haphazardly, pair well with the warm brown tone of his skin. His athletic physique is usually hidden behind various layers of clothing; as if he doesn’t wish to be seen.

Guinevere Prince [F] — The Queen

Even after her fallout with Arthur, again mere rumors give the reason why, Guinevere still remained on top. Of course, it could very well be because of her beauty and the elegance that seemed to exude from her. You aren’t quite sure what to make of Guinevere, but you can tell that not everything is as what it seems. After all, that seems to be the common theme within Evallon.

Appearance: Guinevere stands at around 5’6” with slate gray eyes. Golden brown hair falls to the middle of her back in soft curls, which pairs nicely with the light bronze tone of her skin. Her slender body, usually housed within ensembles of designer clothing, exudes a type of strength you’ve never seen before.

Morgana Lafayette [F] — The Enigma

A recent newcomer to Evallon, like you, Morgana certainly doesn’t seem to be a novice in anything. Not with the way she holds herself and definitely not in how she interacts with the world around her. You aren’t sure what to make of her. With the only concrete information you have being that she’s related to Arthur somehow. Will you be able to uncover what lays beneath her walls of ice and snark?

Appearance: Morgana stands at around 5’11” with cunning forest green eyes. Raven black hair falls to her hips in a cascade of waves, which pairs well with the fairness of her skin. Being able to give Guinevere a run for her money in terms of looks, Morgana doesn’t seem to care all that much about them. Her lean body being encased in whatever she finds most comfortable.

#oh! seems so interesting!! #👀👀👀 I'm already looking... #interactive fiction #lily other if's reblog

[thegrandheist-if]

A LIST OF SOUNDS/ONOMATOPEIAS FOR WRITERS:

Action

bam (a sudden loud noise/sudden impact)

bang (a loud noise like an explosion or gunshot)

beep (a short high-pitched electronic sound)

biff (a short, sharp movement)

blip (a short, high-pitched electronic sound)

boing (representing the noise of a compressed spring suddenly released)

boom (a loud, deep, resonant sound)

buzz (a low, continuous humming sound)

ching (the sound of metal on metal)

clang (a loud, resonant metallic sound or series of sounds)

clank (a loud, sharp sound or series of sounds)

clap (the act of striking the palms together/an explosive sound)

clatter (a rattling sounds as objects fall or hit each other)

click (a short, sharp sound/a short electronic sound)

clink (a short ringing sound)

crack (a sudden explosive noise)

crackle (rapid succession of slight cracking noises)

crash (a sudden violent noise)

crunch (a muffled or grinding sound made when something is crushed)

ding (a metallic ringing sound)

ding-dong (the sound of a doorbell, like the chiming of a bell)

drip (the action of liquid falling in drops)

honk (a long and loud beep, such as that from a car horn)

jingle (a catchy rhythmic sound/light metallic clinking)

kerplunk (a loud, dull sound or plunk)

knock (to strike a surface noisily in order to attract attention/ sudden short sound caused by a blow)

patter (a repeated light tapping)

pew-pew (a sound made by a laser gun)

ping (a short high-pitched ringing)

pitter-patter (the sound of a rapid succession of light beats or taps)

pop (a light/soft explosive sound)

pow (expressing the sound of a blow or explosion)

rattle (to make a rapid succession of short/sharp knocking sounds)

screech (give a loud, harsh, piercing cry/a lour, harsh, squealing noise)

sizzle (a hissing sound made when food is frying)

slam (a loud and forceful sound caused by something being shut)

slap (a sharp sound made by a forceful blow)

smash (violent breaking of things)

snap (tp break suddenly and completely, typically with a sharp cracking sound)

splash (a sound made by something striking or falling into liquid)

splat (a sound of something soft and wet or heavy striking a surface)

swoosh (the sound produced by a sudden rush of air or liquid)

thud (a dull, heavy sound)

tick (a regular short, sharp sound, especially that made by a clock)

thump (a dull pounding sound)

thunk (a dull, heavy sound, such as that of an object falling)

varoom (a roaring sound made by an engine at a high speed/revving up)

whack (to strike forcefully with a sharp blow)

whir (a low, continuous, regular sound)

whoosh (a sudden rushing movement and sound)

whump (a dull thudding sound)

wham (a forceful strike/impact)

zap (the sound of a sudden burst of energy)

Animal

arf (canine)

bark (canine, seal)

bah-gawk (chicken)

bellow (alligator, deer)

buzz (bee, hornet, fly, mosquito, wasp...)

caw (blackbird, raven, rook...)

chatter (monkey, mouse

cheep (bird)

chickadee-dee (chickadee)

chirp (bird, cricket, grasshopper)

click (crab, dolphin)

cluck (chicken)

cock-a-doodle-doo (rooster)

coo (pigeon)

croak (frog)

cuckoo (cuckoo)

drum (rabbit)

gobble (turkey)

growl (bear, canine, crocodilian, feline...)

grumble (boar)

hee-haw (donkey)

hiss (goose, snake)

honk (goose)

hoot (owl)

howl (canine)

hum (hummingbird)

maa (goat)

moo (cow, wildebeest)

neigh (horse, pony, zebra)

purr (canine)

quack (duck)

ribbit (frog)

roar (bear, feline, gorilla...)

scream (hyena)

screech (bat, eagle)

sing (songbird)

snarl (feline)

snort (pig)

squeak (hampster, mouse, squirrel...)

tlot-tlot (hooves)

trumpet (elephant, swan)

tweet (bird)

wheek (guinea pig)

whine (mosquito)

whinny (horse, pony, zebra)

whistle (bird, whale)

whoop (monkey)

Vocal

achoo/atishoo (the sound of a sneeze)

ahem (clearing throat to attract attention)

argh (expressing annoyance, dismay, embarrassment or frustration)

blech (to express distaste/gagging or retching)

blurt (to speak out suddenly and abruptly)

chomp (vigorous chewing)

cough (expel air from the lungs with a sudden sharp sound)

eek (used to express alarm, horror, or fright)

giggle (to laugh lightly in a nervous or silly manner)

glug (to drink or pour with a hallow gurgling sound)

groan (to make a deep inarticulate sound in response to pain or despair)

growl (a low rumbling noise that expresses discontent)

grunt (a short, deep sound inarticulated when angry, sullen, or lazy)

gulp (to swallow loudly and quickly)

gurgle (a hallow, bubbling sound)

hiccup (an involuntary cough-like noise)

huh (used to express scorn, anger, disbelief, surprise, amusement, or confusion)

hum (to make a steady continuous sound like a bee)

moan (a low prolonged mournful sound expressive of suffering or pleading)

mumble (speaking incoherently, like a sort of whisper)

murmur (to make sounds that are not fully intelligible)

ow (used to express sudden pain)

phew (an exhale of relief)

oops (an exclamation of surprise or of apology, as when someone drops something or makes a mistake)

ouch (an exclamation of sharp sudden pain)

squeal (to make a shrill cry/a sound of complaint or protest)

ugh (used to indicate the sound of a cough or grunt or to express disgust or horror)

yikes (used to show that you are worried, surprised, or shocked)

whimper (to make a low whining plaintive or broken sound)

whoop (a loud cry of joy or excitement/laughter)

whoops (another term for "oops")

#if: writing advice #if: writing resources

[thegrandheist-if]

Basic guide for testing conditions using <<if>> statements (Twine Sugarcube)

Hello everyone! I made this guide for a fellow writer and since it's pink and pretty, I thought I'd share it with you all. This is for someone who already knows the basic types of variables. If you're new to coding, check out this guide which helped me a lot when I first started.

This might confuse you more than anything, so feel free to reach out if you need help 💖

#twine resources

[thegrandheist-if]

𝐎𝐂 𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐉𝐈 𝐀𝐒𝐊𝐒!

feel free to tweak questions + all emojis r listed in text form bc i can't see some of them aAAaaAA! sorry if any of these questions are too similar i tried to avoid that but .. there's a lot lol! categorized by emoji type.

i wanted to make one because i could not find one on tumblr already that had a ton of questions. this was created by combining ones under the #oc ask game tag + my own contributions. hi charmymemes nation i'm back.

people

👁️ EYE - what colour are their eyes? do people notice their eyes? is there anything special about them (shows emotion easily, literally magical...)?

🤥 LYING - are they good liars? do they have tells to show they're lying?

👻 GHOST - do they believe in ghosts? what are their "ghostly experiences", if any?

💥 COLLISON - what emotions do they have trouble dealing with?

😭 CRYING - what makes them cry? do they cry easily?

👊 PUNCH - are they quick to violence?

💢 ANGER - what are some habits they have that will take some getting used to?

👪 FAMILY - what is their family like? what is your ocs relationship to them? does your oc have any siblings?

😨 FEARFUL - when scared, do they go into "flight" or "fight"?

💤 SLEEPING - do they fall asleep easily? what helps them sleep?

food & drinks

🥞 PANCAKE - what is their comfort breakfast?

🎂 BIRTHDAY CAKE - when is their birthday? do they like celebrating it?

🍩 DONUT - favourite sweet treat?

🍟 FRIES - do they order food often? or they prefer to cook their own food?

☕️ HOT BEVERAGE - do they prefer hot or cold drinks? what is their favourite drink?

🍓 STRAWBERRY - do they eat their fruit & veg? what is their favourite fruit or vegetable?

🍰 CAKE SLICE - favourite cake flavour? are they specific about types of cakes?

🍧 SHAVED ICE - do they still have any objects from their childhood? what significance does it have to them? what would their reaction be if they lost it?

plants & nature

💐 BOUQUET - create a bouqet for them! what do those flowers mean? are any of the flowers their particular favourite?

🌙 MOON - what is your oc's greatest wish? how far are they willing to go for it?

🌋 VOLCANO - how bad is their temper? is it a slow boil, or a instant explosion?

🌺 HIBISCUS - do they have any allergies?

🍁 MAPLE LEAF - what is their favourite season? why?

🍃 FALLING LEAF - do they enjoy being in nature? what is their favourite outdoor activity?

☀️ SUN - are they a morning person? what is the first thing they do in the morning?

🕷️ SPIDER - what is their biggest fear? do they have any irrational / mundane fears?

🌹 ROSE - do they like valentines day? have they been confessed to before? have they confessed to anyone before?

🙈 SEE-NO-EVIL - whats a side of your oc that they don't want to show other people?

🙊 SPEAK-NO-EVIL - what is something your oc will refuse to stay quiet about?

🙉 HEAR-NO-EVIL - what is the worse thing your oc could hear from someone?

🌱 SEEDLING - what is their most vivid memory from childhood?

🍀 CLOVER - do they believe in luck? are they lucky?

🌏 EARTH - will they give up the world for someone they love? is this decision easy for them?

🌌 MILKY WAY - what was the inspiration behind your oc? what was the first thing you decided about them?

activity

⚾ BASEBALL - can they play sports? what is their best position if they play a team sport? what's their strong suit (speed, power etc.)?

🏊 SWIMMING - can they swim? or are they afraid of water? how well do they swim? how do they feel about swimming in the ocean?

objects

📣 MEGAPHONE - how loud are they? what do they speak like? got a voice claim?

📖 OPEN BOOK - do they like reading? what's their favourite genre?

🪤 MOUSE TRAP - what will always lure them into certain danger? a loved one in danger? a promise of something they are always searching for?

📸 CAMERA - do they enjoy having their picture taken? what's their go-to pose? do they like taking photos? what do they take photos of?

🎭 MASKS - do they act differently around certain people? what's different between the way they act around friends, family, strangers, etc.?

✂️ SCISSORS - what is the "last straw" for them to cut someone out of their life? how easily do they let go of people?

💡 LIGHTBULB - is your oc a planner? do they write down every small detail or just wing it?

💎 DIAMOND - how rich are they? can they live the lifestyle they want to?

🎁 PRESENT - what types of presents would they be most happy to receive? are they good at gift giving?

🍼 BABY BOTTLE - what are their thoughts on children?

🔪 KNIFE - how do they react to injury / misfortune befalling their loved ones (significant other, family, friends)? do they put themselves at blame?

👑 CROWN - what does your oc want to be remembered as? why?

✏️ PENCIL - is there a particular quote / lyric that you associate with them?

🎵 MUSIC NOTE - what is their playlist like? their favourite artists? do you associate a particular song with them?

🎤 MICROPHONE - are they good at singing? what is their go-to karaoke song?

🎷 SAXOPHONE - do they play any instruments? are they any good at it?

📚 BOOKS - how were they at school? what is their best subject? what is their worst subject? do they have a favourite subject?

👖 JEANS - what is their go-to outfit?

🎨 PALETTE - can they draw? what do they like to draw?

🎡 FERRIS WHEEL - are they someone who wants to kiss at the top of the ferris wheel?

⏳ HOURGLASS - are they usually late or on-time?

🔫 PISTOL - do they trust people easily? how easily will they turn their back to someone? have they been backstabbed before? will they betray someone if given an ultimatum?

🎀 RIBBON - how would they fit into other worlds / aus? what aus would you like to try out? what fictional world would they fit / not fit into?

📎 PAPERCLIP - a random fact.

📦 PACKAGE - what are some "most likely to..." that can apply to them?

🖍️ CRAYON - what advice would you give to them?

⚙️ GEAR - what are your ocs thoughts on science & art? which do they give more importance to? how much value do they place on each?

🔧 WRENCH - are they good at fixing relationships? or do they tend to avoid doing so?

❇️ SPARKLE - what is their most prized possession? what do they value?

📏 RULER - is your oc well educated? where did they get their learning from?

transport

🚆 TRAIN - what is their answer to the trolley problem?

🚲 BICYCLE - can they ride a bike? what do they remember from learning to ride a bicycle?

weather

🌩️ LIGHTNING - are they scared of lightning?

💧 DROPLET - random angst headcanon

❄️ SNOWFLAKE - do people consider them cold? if so, what made them this way?

🌪️ TORNADO - what is the biggest change you've ever made to them? how have they changed from their original version?

🌈 RAINBOW - what advice would they give to their younger self?

🔥 FIRE - do they have any self destructive tendencies? what habits do they have that hinder them from becoming their best self?

☁️ CLOUD - a soft headcanon

🌟 GLOWING STAR - what do they think about when they look at the night sky? is there someone they want to star gaze with?

🌠 SHOOTING STAR - if they could make any wish with no repercussions, what wish would they make?

☄️ COMET - what do people assume about them? are they right?

hearts

💓 BEATING HEART - what gets their heart racing?

💘 HEART W/ ARROW - what traits do they look for in a relationship? do they believe in love at first sight?

💗 GROWING HEART - if they have a crush, is it noticable? what changes when they're in love?

❤️ RED HEART - their love language(s)?

💙 BLUE HEART - do they miss their s/o easily? how do they act when their s/o isn't around?

💚 GREEN HEART - what things make your oc feel comforted? hugs, kisses, food?

💖 SPARKLING HEART - are they a subtle or a showy lover?

💌 LOVE LETTER - do they like love letters? what kind of messages do they leave for their partner?

💔 BROKEN HEART - what could their partner do that would absolutely break their heart?

#ask game #TGH #Send me your ask! One or two question to one/ or more character!

[thegrandheist-if]

A second snippet from chapter one!

"Hello... May I know who I'm speaking to?" I question hesitantly, my fingers absently moving the wedding band attached to my necklace. "I believe I'm talking to Henry's little sibling? I'd love to be calling to exchange pleasantries, but we shouldn't fool ourselves when we both know what the purpose of this delightful phone call is. Isn't that right, name?" She says dismissively, aware that she was talking to the correct person, promptly continuing without even waiting for my reply.

"I don't think it's necessary to beat around the bush to say that your beloved brother has vanished into thin air and, unfortunately, you will have to take his place. Believe me when I say it is better that such news is coming from me and not from Damien." She continued, in a disinterested and rather dull tone, despite the slightest trace of mockery that slipped into her words in the end.

#snippet #chapter 1 #TGH