essythewolf

[essythewolf]

Too many writers are using generative 'AI' to make their book covers, so I've written a guide on how to make your own cover for free or cheap without turning to a machine.

If you can't afford to pay an artist, you CAN make your own!

I hope this is a helpful overview that covers the basics and points to some free resources.

[essythewolf]

Since the shop is still not ready because of German bureaucracy bullshit + the reallife bullshit starts for real now + I was not happy with the print in terms of quality of lines and colors (but still wear the shirt and hoodie often).... Have it. Share it if you want. Works on all backgrounds and makes good stickers/flyers/flags. Everyone is free to use it for anti-racist purposes, but in case you want to buy directly from me I set it up as design for buttons, cards, sticker, magnet and scarf/flag on redbubble -> click here (and let me know if something doesn't work)

[essythewolf]

Old watercolor sketchbook of Enderal characters and friend's Prophets.

[essythewolf]

Don't know how it happened that I forgot about this one. But here it is. Pari and Barb, probably somewhere near not very friendly Arps and Skeletons.

[essythewolf]

Rules: Without naming them, post a gif from ten of your favourite films, then tag 10 people to do the same!

Not tagging anyone but if you want to have at it! Thanks @jhara-ivez !

[essythewolf]

i wonder how many it is what it is he has left in him

[essythewolf]

What is Enderal..? (explain like I was 6)

It's a total conversion Skyrim mod, meaning that it uses Skyrim as an engine, but has a unique gameplay, setting, story, characters and visuals. Basically it's a stand alone game but you need to own Skyrim to play it.

As to what kind of game it is, it's an rpg with a very heavy focus on the story, heavily philosophical in nature (especially Jungian philosophy), and also character stories often deal with ptsd, various disorders and disabilities. Gameplay-wise it's kinda similar to Gothic, for me it's difficult but cheating is easy 🥹

It also has romances that are kinda akin to Bioware romances (they're optional, but with a nice development across acts); these two are romancable:

Can I also add that in my opinion it's so well written that I read most of the in-game books. It just has this compelling way of storytelling :D

The game has its own Steam page; this one if you own Special Edition Skyrim:

And this for Legacy Skyrim:

[essythewolf]

[essythewolf]

SOURCE. - I’m just posting it here as an aid and taking no credit.

Galactic Standard Time Measurement

60 Seconds = 1 minute

60 minutes = 1 hour

24 hours = 1 day

Galactic Standard Calendar

5 days = 1 week

7 weeks = 1 month

35 days = 1 month

368 days = 1 year

10 months + 3 Fete (Festival) weeks + 3 holidays = 1 year

Fete/Festival Weeks

New Year Fete Week = first five days of the new year (takes place before the first month)

Festival of Life =  five days between the sixth and seventh months. It was marked by parties, get-togethers, and gift-giving.

Festival of Stars =five days between the ninth and tenth months of the year that celebrates interstellar space travel. It was marked by vacations to other worlds most often.

Days of the Week

Primeday (first day of the week)

Centaxday (second day)

Taungsday (third day)

Zhellday (fourth day)

Benduday (fifth/last day of the week)

The Galactic Standard Calendar is based on the luno-solar calendar of Coruscant (from before the official founding of the Empire). It is the ‘standard’ in both the Republic and the Empire for basic measurements. However, there are many, many variations for various species, planets, etc. This is just the ‘standard’ used; similar to measurements of weight, etc. 

Basically, this is not the ‘only calendar’ but the one used most often by governments, the military, etc. to be the ‘standard’. I thought it might be useful for people writing or roleplaying in the Star Wars galaxies to have a rough idea.

NOTE: There is mention in some sources of a 12 month/368 day calendar, but it doesn’t mention length of weeks, months, etc. other than ‘30-31 days’ so basically seems to be a ‘real life calendar’. I’m not 100% sure which is considered ‘canon’ so I choose to list the one that was a bit more ‘different’ for fun.

SOURCES http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Galactic_Standard_Calendar http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Fete_Week http://swtor.wikia.com/wiki/Galactic_Standard_Calendar http://starwarsrp.net/topic/63474-resourse-galactic-standard-calendar/

[essythewolf]

Some Enderal silly sketches, also spoiler warning for the entire game

Calia was severely lacking in the first half of the game, and I imagine my character was insufferable about that lol

When Calia asked me out on a date:

The first couple times I heard the word "Fleshless" but before it was explained to me:

And then finally learning what it was:

Also!! I’d love for Calia and Thareal to meet, I think they'd find some things relatable about each other

[essythewolf]

Wrapping them in a warm blanket

[essythewolf]

I raise you: this shot I took on a playthrough a couple years ago.

The post this came from.

Almost didn't have to kill a panther.

Almost... 😔

[essythewolf]

Easily my favourite moment in Epic

[essythewolf]

10 Non-Lethal Injuries to Add Pain to Your Writing

New Part: 10 Lethal Injury Ideas

If you need a simple way to make your characters feel pain, here are some ideas: 

1. Sprained Ankle

A common injury that can severely limit mobility. This is useful because your characters will have to experience a mild struggle and adapt their plans to their new lack of mobiliy. Perfect to add tension to a chase scene.

2. Rib Contusion

A painful bruise on the ribs can make breathing difficult, helping you sneak in those ragged wheezes during a fight scene. Could also be used for something sport-related! It's impactful enough to leave a lingering pain but not enough to hinder their overall movement.

3. Concussions

This common brain injury can lead to confusion, dizziness, and mood swings, affecting a character’s judgment heavily. It can also cause mild amnesia.

I enjoy using concussions when you need another character to subtly take over the fight/scene, it's an easy way to switch POVs. You could also use it if you need a 'cute' recovery moment with A and B.

4. Fractured Finger

A broken finger can complicate tasks that require fine motor skills. This would be perfect for characters like artists, writers, etc. Or, a fighter who brushes it off as nothing till they try to throw a punch and are hit with pain.

5. Road Rash

Road rash is an abrasion caused by friction. Aka scraping skin. The raw, painful sting resulting from a fall can be a quick but effective way to add pain to your writing. Tip: it's great if you need a mild injury for a child.

6. Shoulder Dislocation

This injury can be excruciating and often leads to an inability to use one arm, forcing characters to confront their limitations while adding urgency to their situation. Good for torture scenes.

7. Deep Laceration

A deep laceration is a cut that requires stitches. As someone who got stitches as a kid, they really aren't that bad! A 2-3 inch wound (in length) provides just enough pain and blood to add that dramatic flair to your writing while not severely deterring your character.

This is also a great wound to look back on since it often scars. Note: the deeper and wider the cut the worse your character's condition. Don't give them a 5 inch deep gash and call that mild.

8. Burns

Whether from fire, chemicals, or hot surfaces, burns can cause intense suffering and lingering trauma. Like the previous injury, the lasting physical and emotional trauma of a burn is a great wound for characters to look back on.

If you want to explore writing burns, read here.

9. Pulled Muscle

This can create ongoing pain and restrict movement, offering a window to force your character to lean on another. Note: I personally use muscle related injuries when I want to focus more on the pain and sprains to focus on a lack of mobility.

10. Tendonitis

Inflammation of a tendon can cause chronic pain and limit a character's ability to perform tasks they usually take for granted. When exploring tendonitis make sure you research well as this can easily turn into a more severe injury.

This is a quick, brief list of ideas to provide writers inspiration. Since it is a shorter blog, I have not covered the injuries in detail. This is inspiration, not a thorough guide. Happy writing! :)

Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks? 

Check out the rest of Quillology with Haya; a blog dedicated to writing and publishing tips for authors!

Instagram Tiktok

[essythewolf]

10 Lethal Injuries to Add Pain to Your Writing

Prev: Non-Lethal Injury Ideas

Need some creative ways to give your characters a real fight for survival? Here are 10 ideas: 

1. Punctured Artery

A puncture to major arteries like the femoral artery (thigh), the carotid artery (neck), or radial artery (arm) can cause rapid blood loss. It starts off with a sharp pain, weakness, lightheadedness and eventually can lead to hypovolemic shock. Requires urgent medical attention.

2. Punctured Eye Socket

A punctured eye socket will cause blood vessel damage leading to internal bleeding. I would use this for non-combat characters trying to get away. The eyes are an easy weak spot + you don’t need much strength to cause a critical injury/puncture. Also good for a protag's tragic backstory.

3. Torn Achilles Tendon

A torn Achilles tendon can result in severe bleeding if nearby arteries or veins are damaged. Your character will be forced to hobble away as pain causes their foot to swell and bruise. Plus, you can easily adjust the pain levels per your scene, from swift cuts to explosive jumps. 

4. Neck Hyperextension (Hangman’s Fracture)

This injury will fracture the C2 vertebra and can lead to spinal cord damage, paralysis or sudden death. This isn’t a light injury your character can come back from, so I would suggest using it only when you’re aiming for death.

5. Pierced Lung

A punctured lung will lead to a pneumothorax where air escapes into the chest cavity, collapsing the lung. Characters with this injury may have difficulty breathing, chest pain, and a cough that produces frothy blood (all the dramatics you need). 

6. Severe Concussion

A severe concussion will lead to confusion, vomiting, immobility and memory loss. More dangerously, brain swelling, internal bleeding and damaged brain tissue. Plus, it has a long recovery period. 

7. Shattered Pelvis

If you need something severe that restricts mobility but also causes severe pain then this is perfect! Involves signs of shock, internal bleeding, numbness, swelling—really a lot of things. Can occur if OC falls from a high place, hit repeatedly, car accident, etc.  

8. Internal Bleeding from Blunt Force Trauma

I like using this when you need something subtle since it doesn't show immediate symptoms. Over time, they will feel weak, cold, nauseous, and intense pain. Perfect if you want that 'everyone made it out then suddenly someone collapses' moment. 

9. Intestinal Perforation

A sharp blow or penetrating wound can cause a tear in the intestines, leaking bacteria into the body cavity, then peritonitis. It can go from small stomach pain to near death pretty quickly. Without prompt medical care, sepsis can set in, causing organ failure and death.

10. Cut to the Jugular

If you need something more visibly dramatic then go with the classic cut to the jugular. A warm rush of blood will pour out, and blood would spurt with every heartbeat. Causes panic, choking, and internal bleeding too. All the blood and gore you need. 

This is a quick, brief list of ideas to provide writers inspiration. Since it is a shorter blog, I have not covered the injuries in detail. Remember the worse the injury the more likely your character is to die (so be realistic folks). Happy writing! :)

Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks? 

Check out the rest of Quillology with Haya; a blog dedicated to writing and publishing tips for authors!

Instagram Tiktok

[essythewolf]

10 World-Building Aspects You Probably Overlooked

When crafting a fictional world, it's easy to focus on the big picture—epic battles, grand landscapes, and memorable characters. However, it’s also important to flesh out your world-building to create a ‘real’ world. Some aspects to consider when world-building are: 

1. Local Cuisine

Consider the types of food your characters eat and how it reflects their culture, geography, and economy. Unique dishes can reveal societal values and local ingredients.

2. Currency & Trade

Explore the forms of currency used and the trade systems in place. This can include bartering, precious metals, or unique items as currency, influencing economic interactions.

3. Timekeeping Practices

Different cultures may have their own methods for measuring time, whether it's a unique calendar system, seasons, or celestial events, affecting daily life and traditions.

4. Cultural Taboos

Consider the unspoken rules and taboos that govern behavior in your world. These can drive conflict and character motivations, adding depth to societal interactions.

5. Local Flora and Fauna

Unique plants and animals can shape the environment and influence the culture, whether through medicine, food sources, or as part of local mythology.

6. Rituals and Festivals

Incorporate unique rituals or festivals that celebrate historical events, seasonal changes, or important life milestones, providing insight into cultural values and traditions.

7. Language Nuances

Explore dialects, slang, or even the use of sign language that reflects the culture and social dynamics, enriching dialogue and interactions between characters.

8. Architecture and Housing Styles

The design and materials of buildings can reflect climate, resources, and cultural values. Unique architectural features can tell a story about the society that built them.

9. Social Hierarchies and Classes

Examine how social structures affect character relationships and interactions. Class distinctions can influence everything from daily life to political power.

10. Environmental Impact

Consider how the natural environment shapes societal behaviours, resource usage, and conflicts. Climate and geography can drive migration patterns and societal development.

Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks? 

Looking for writing tips and tricks to better your manuscript? Check out the rest of Quillology with Haya; a blog dedicated to writing and publishing tips for authors!

Instagram Tiktok

[essythewolf]

Show, don’t tell

"Show, don’t tell" means letting readers experience a story through actions, senses, and dialogue instead of outright explaining things. Here are some practical tips to achieve that:

1. Use Sensory Details

Tell: "The room was cold."

Show: "Her breath puffed in faint clouds, and she shivered as frost clung to the edges of the window."

Tell: "He was scared."

Show: "His hands trembled, and his heart thudded so loudly he was sure they could hear it too."

2. Focus on Actions

Tell: "She was angry."

Show: "She slammed the mug onto the counter, coffee sloshing over the rim as her jaw clenched."

Tell: "He was exhausted."

Show: "He stumbled through the door, collapsing onto the couch without even bothering to remove his shoes."

3. Use Dialogue

What characters say and how they say it can reveal their emotions, intentions, or traits.

Tell: "She was worried about the storm."

Show: "Do you think it'll reach us?" she asked, her voice tight, her fingers twisting the hem of her shirt.

4. Show Internal Conflict Through Thoughts or Reactions

Tell: "He was jealous of his friend."

Show: "As his friend held up the trophy, he forced a smile, swallowing the bitter lump rising in his throat."

5. Describe the Environment to Reflect Mood

Use the setting to mirror or hint at emotions or themes.

Tell: "The town was eerie."

Show: "Empty streets stretched into the mist, and the only sound was the faint creak of a weathered sign swinging in the wind."

6. Let Readers Infer Through Context

Give enough clues for the reader to piece things together without spelling it out.

Tell: "The man was a thief."

Show: "He moved through the crowd, fingers brushing pockets, his hand darting away with a glint of gold."

7. Use Subtext in Interactions

What’s left unsaid can reveal as much as what’s spoken.

Tell: "They were uncomfortable around each other."

Show: "He avoided her eyes, pretending to study the painting on the wall. She smoothed her dress for the third time, her fingers fumbling with the hem."

8. Compare to Relatable Experiences

Use metaphors, similes, or comparisons to make an emotion or situation vivid.

Tell: "The mountain was huge."

Show: "The mountain loomed above them, its peak disappearing into the clouds, as if it pierced the heavens."

Practice Example:

Tell: "The village had been destroyed by the fire."

Show: "Charred beams jutted from the rubble like broken ribs, the acrid smell of ash lingering in the air. A child's shoe lay half-buried in the soot, its leather curled from the heat."