#CoG Chapter 7

[heronchild-haven]

“Do you think she’s in love with James?” said Thomas. “Because he seems gone on her. I hope it’s not unrequited.”

“She had better love him back,” said Matthew. “He deserves it.”

[vendetta-if]

The Public Update is now live! 🎉

Hey guys! The public update is now live! 🥳 The update brings 27K new words (excluding codes) into the demo, bringing the overall word count to 384K words!

Some new stuff to expect from the update (without spoilers 🤭):

Some changes and options additions in Ash's Hangout.

A whole new section and new scenes added at the end of Ash's Hangout.

A (promised) brunch with Rin 😉

Just a word of warning, I did change one or two variables in the previous iteration of Chapter 7, so if you're using an old save file, there's a small chance it might give some error. But hopefully it doesn't. Of course, the safer way would be to play with a new, clean save (either playing from the beginning or use the quickstart to get to Chapter 6 immediately).

Anyway, I'll start answering spoiler asks regarding the update in a day or two 😉 And when I answer them, I'll make sure to tag them with the #chapter 7 spoiler tag.

If you do enjoy the story, please consider checking out my Patreon or Ko-Fi pages for more exclusive contents and to help support my work 😊

I hope you guys enjoy the update! 🥰💖

[DEMO] | [PATREON] | [KO-FI] | [DISCORD] | [COG FORUM]

[devilscreekballad]

It's here, it's here. The long awaited Chapter 7 is here.

After the MC got knocked out at the end of ch6 they awake back at the hotel, with Charlie telling them of the rescue mission to get them back. And that an old friend of Lynwood's has joined them, albeit just temporarily. Or maybe he's meant to stay? Also there's a cat.

Play it HERE

-

Updates & Changes (Version 7.0; 10/12/2024)

Added Chapter 7

Added Interlude Chapters from Charlie, Mrs. Meadow's and Lynwood's perspective (Lynwood's is atm incomplete and will be added with the ch8 update)

Updated skintone options

Added option for whether MC swears

Added options to not reveal if you're trans/under the umbrella

Added options to say if you bind/pad your chest or if you are flat-chested

Various bug and prose fixes.

Total Wordcount of this update (with code) 46725 words, bringing the overall wordcount (according to twine) to ~219000 (not counting unused/notes passages).

Can't give an average, sorry, but might very well be around 100k per playthrough now.

Note:

With this update the Choicescript version is on ice, though if there's ever a change to how CoG handles publishing (and if CS gets expanded array usage), who knows what the future holds for a more mobile and screenreader friendly version of Ballad.

For those new to the game:

The West is Wild and the West is Weird. A new century is around the corner, and you are an outlaw traversing the towns and terrains of the Frontier, only to one evening get wrapped up in chasing down the means to stop a doomsday cult from bringing forth the end of days. You’ll face hustlers, grifters, gunslingers and vengeful brides as you make your way to the ghost town of Devil’s Creek to find answers, and hopefully get out of there alive.

What can you play as?

Ballad allows you to set your a broad variety of factor besides gender and age, all which will have a variety of impacts on the story.

Who can you romance?

Right now there are six possible ROs, with more going to be added later:

Charlie, your best friend and partner in crime

Seán and Tommy, and odd couple of outlaws happenstance put into your little posse (they can only be romanced together)

Lynwood, a Pinkerton Agent on Seán's trail

Mrs. Meadows, widow, sharp-shooter and doctor there to make sure you'll uphold your end of the deal

Isaac, former colleague of Lynwood's picking up the trail of a cold case

As this is a Weird West game, some Warnings do apply:

Death

Blood

Violence

Swearing

Alcohol

Smoking

Mindsets and Vocabulary of the late 19th century North America/Europe

Mentions/Discussions of

Sexual Violence/Abuse

Spousal/Parental Abuse

Racism, Sexism, other forms of bigotry

Miscarriage

Infertility

Murder

Animal Death/Animal abuse

Guns

Spiritism

Mediumship

Ghosts

Supernatural events

Capitalism

Pinkertons

Like what you're seeing?

You can support the author on Pat or Ko.

~+~

But now, have fun with the game.

Stay safe, stay hydrated, stay weird. <3

[lureofthegallowsgame]

Demo Update(?) 7/4/24

This probably deserves its own special post, but I've been meaning to post it all week and I keep forgetting! So behold, the original TLOTG demo up to chapter six, which was originally posted to Patreon and now serves as special little extra content.

Key things to note: this demo is obsolete because the Naturalist is not in it. This demo is also important because it still has the Seer's storyline, even though I'm adding things in as I go. I'm picking apart both their stories in my free time and it's going really well!

Also, I'm no longer posting on Ich.io, and will return to my roots on CSIDE because the language is easier for me to just shut up and write without fussing over code. I'm not publishing through CoG, but I am playing in their sandbox. TLOTG will be free when it's finished.

Anything else? I don't remember. My job is all-consuming at the moment and it's been hard for me to write more than a few sentences a night. My brain is mush. I just wanted to give you all something new because you all deserve it! Thank you for being patient and kind and supportive. I am always thinking about this game, and I'm excited to update soon.

[breachverse]

Breach: Chicago War Zone - WIP Update 18 - 26th of August 2023

... This one's actually been brewing for 6 months, so... 1 Million Words folks!

Update 21 has been released! Last public upload was pretty much a year ago so, I'm very sorry for the long silence, a lot of the updates have been mostly in the private testing phase on Patreon, but I am here with a bunch of fixes and hangout updates.

But most importantly... We've passed the 1 Million Words mark... My fingers are tired. ❤

You may play it on the link below.

Breach: Chicago War Zone (Updated)

DEVELOPMENT LOG#21 (15-April-2024)

(B2.1.1.24.4.15)

Alpha - 21

Fixed something here, fixed something there, fixed something everywhere

SideModule: Fixed Justin's hangout background

SideModule: Fixed Hayne's hangout background

SideModule: Added Anna's 1st hangout

SideModule: Added Charlie's 1st hangout

SideModule: Added Kaz's 1st hangout

SideModule: Added Carly's 1st hangout

Stats_Page: Added Archangel crew background notes

UniModule: Added 7 new weapons to the shop

MISC: Added AA-12

MISC: Added FAMAS G2

MISC: Added HK G36C

MISC: Added SIG MPX

MISC: Added PP-19 Vityaz

MISC: Added Ultimax 100

MISC: Added SR-25

COMPLETED: Chapter 3 Part 1 of The ARC branch (100%) (PT only) W.I.P.: AA Hangout Part 1 (86%) W.I.P.: AA Store system (85%) W.I.P.: FBI Hangout Part 1 (46%) W.I.P.: FBI Store system (65%) W.I.P.: Stat screen upgrade (40%) Word Count: 1,007,622 words including codes (Last update was 971,142)

I'll be completely honest, when I started Breach 2 I knew it was going to surpass 1 million words. I just didn't think it would take this long. Through numerous challenges, both in writing and in real life. Through numerous ups and downs, I'm absolutely surprised and grateful to know that there are people out there who still support me. I've had many thoughts, numerous times, to give up and move on to other things in life, but I didn't want to disappoint, so I kept writing.

I bring to you, the 1 million milestone update. It's really not much, but it is one step closer to completion. This update has been in the works for the past 6 months mostly due to the weapons rework and also story changes for the crew members that I apparently couldn't keep track of without a giant excel spreadsheet. This update finalizes the Archangel's Gamma Crew hangouts, which is Kaz and Carly's hangout as well as Anna and Charlie's hangout.

As before, they share the same storyline so they will both share the same hangout. If you choose to go out with one, you cannot go out with the other. Kaz shares it with Carly, and Anna shares it with Charlie. Keep that in mind. Oh, and there's 7 new guns to play with. Have fun, Ian.

This update does not include the new Chapters. Chapter 3 will still be Patreon exclusive until Breach 2 finishes and I can send the demo to the public testing, and to CoG for the full release.

I really cannot reiterate how grateful I am to have an amazing array of readers and supporters who are still here after numerous hiccups and fuck ups. Thank you all, so very much.

Much, much love. - Max ❤

Link to the CoG Forums

I also have a Discord server!

As always feel free to drop however many screenshot feedbacks you'd like, either in the forums or in our Discord channel!

[mmogurl]

In The Shadow of Dragons Chapter 3: Rude Awakening

18+ | 4.5k | Daemon Targaryen X Female OC | possessive, protective, objectifying, simping, raunchy Daemon | Uncle / niece incest, Smut, Dragons, Political Intrigue, Plotting, Murder, lots of old timey concepts that don't make a lot of sense today, but are still kind of hot/fun.

Now just how is Daemon going to pull this one off? Continuing the story from Daemon's POV.

CH 1 | CH 2 | CH 3 | CH 4 | CH 5 | CH 6 | CH 7 | CH 8 | CH 9 Also on AO3

The guards outside the King’s chamber regarded him with a suspicious glare, but Daemon just gave a smile and pushed his way inside despite their presence.

“Good morrow, Your Grace!” Daemon shouted loudly as he walked into the room, already fully dressed for the day and as chipper as any man could be so early in the morning.

Viserys startled awake and just as Daemon expected, he looked like he had been dragged through some maester’s leech pit. His face was pale with red-rimmed eyes, tired and blood-shot.

“What is the meaning of this, Brother!? Has someone perished?” Viserys sat up, pulling the sheets around his waist as he looked at his brother with disoriented concern.

“No, no. No one has died, Brother. There’s no need to worry,” Daemon was already opening the curtains to let streams of bright morning light into the room, knowing it would add to the king’s discomfort. “Quite the opposite in fact.”

He turned back to Viserys with a smirk plastered deviously across his face, looking like the proverbial cat who ate the canary. “I do have a solution to all of your troubles, dear brother! Where our precious little Ryna is concerned.”

The king rubbed his head gingerly, letting out a low groan as he turned away from the sudden brightness. “By the Mother’s mercy! I hope whatever you have to say is quick. My head feels like it’s about to split in two.”

Ah yes, exactly as I had hoped.

“Oh, it most assuredly will be brief,” Daemon chuckled, but not without a small pang of sympathy. He’d been in Viserys’ shoes quite a few times, so he knew the feeling all too well.

He stood at the edge of his brother’s bed, resting his hand against the corner post as he continued, “But, first, I want to make sure we are on the same page. I know you wish to see Princess Ryna married, but to a suitable match, yes?”

“Yes, of course!” Viserys shouted clearly irritated by Daemon’s stating of the obvious. “But the girl will not give a man a second glance, let alone a chance to court her!”

Daemon tried to temper the smirk that pulled at his lips as he answered. “Quite simply, Brother… I’ve found a match for our darling girl that she will agree to. No, better than that, a match she will desire.”

The king looked up at Daemon, confusion wrinkling his brow. “And just who in the Seven Hells is the fellow then!?” he grumbled, cogs slowly turning in his groggy head as he tried to figure it out.

The look of bewilderment on his brother’s face was priceless. Oh, this is just too good. He let the anticipation build a little longer before giving the answer he had longed to say.

“Myself, of course,” Daemon finally replied with smug nonchalance.

“You and Ryna!?” Viserys was instantly wide awake and alert, the shock of his words jerking him to the edge of the bed as though he meant to stand. His eyes grew wide as saucers and his mouth fell open slackly. “You want to wed my girl?”

Oh, this is even better than I imagined.

“Yes, Ryna and I, but there is no need to look so startled, Brother,” he retorted, making an effort to keep his voice level so as not to give away his true amusement. “I’m sure once she hears of my proposal, she will gladly accept. Why, it was practically her idea.”

“And what makes you so sure she’ll agree? Have you been conspiring behind my back to ruin another of my daughters?” his voice was growing angry, making his distrust of Daemon’s ‘plan’ known.

Daemon rolled his eyes at Viserys’ question. He knew his brother had a tendency to always think the worse of him, but the accusation still stung.

“Conspiring behind your back? Hardly. I prefer to think of it as finding an effective solution to a problem we both agree needs to be addressed,” he said allowing a touch of frustration to color his words.

“And for your information, it was your lovely daughter who approached me at the banquet last night laden with worries,” he continued, keen to cement his intentions before the king. “She feared you might force her into a marriage that she does not wish.”

Daemon smiled again at the thought of his conversation with Ryna, feeling a surge of excitement at the memory of her in the dark. “I inquired why she’d had such difficulty in choosing a suitor and she admitted that she prizes her Valyrian heritage above all, but does not care for her brothers. And then after speaking to you, it seemed the answer just fell into place.”

Viserys stared at him for a long moment before letting out a groan, rubbing his temples again.

Come on, Brother, you ’re so close. You know it’s the only way.

Finally, the king spoke with a thoughtful, yet slightly melancholy tone. “My lady-wife held onto the hope that Ryna might embrace Aegon as a husband, either by choice or compulsion. The match was a strong one to preserve our bloodline, so I had no objection to it. Yet, I desired for my daughter to have agency in her own contentedness, for we both know that my first born son…. Well, he is not particularly suited for the role of husband to a gentle and spirited young maiden such as my second daughter.”

“That boy is an utter twat! He is even more scandalous than I,” Daemon hissed back with incredulity at the Hightower cunt’s aspirations. How dare she even plant the seed of marrying that rapacious little shit to his darling niece.

The king gave a small resigned sigh, accompanied by a defeated nod. “So, it would seem,” his brother replied, sounding less than happy that his solution would be coming from Daemon. “I should have you sent to the Wall for even suggesting such a thing, Brother. I must say I am not entirely fond of the situation, but I cannot argue with its potential merits. If Ryna consents to this union, then I will permit it.” Viserys paused for a moment and then his eyes sprung open as he added, “With condition.”

Inwardly, Daemon felt his heart leap wildly, but he did his best to remain composed and kept an expression of mild disinterest on his face.

Ah! I ’ve won. Victory is mine!

Daemon raised an eyebrow and held up his hands in a gesture of mock submission. “Name your terms, dear brother,” he urged, remaining mostly stoic. He didn’t want to appear nervous or overeager, in fear it would drive the king’s price higher. But the truth was, he would do anything, sacrifice anything, to possess that beautiful nymph that was his niece. It was a burning need that he must quench.

“The first condition is that you will not lay with her until the wedding night,” Viserys declared, his demeanor stern and unwavering. “There has already been enough talk of Rhaenyra’s exploits and I won’t have Ryna’s reputation tarnished as well. I assure you, should a single whisper from a servant reach my ears, I shall swiftly send you to the Wall to take your vows as a brother of the Night’s Watch.”

The King knows me all too well! Daemon thought to himself, feeling his enthusiasm ebbing slightly at the thought of not having his sweetling before the wedding. Then again, he liked the idea of using creativity to circumvent the rule.

“Agreed,” Daemon conceded with a nod. “What else?” he inquired, silently hoping the next demand wouldn’t as torturous.

“Secondly, you will court her in a proper and honorable manner. You will perform all the duties expected of a suitor. You will spend time with her, in appropriate settings. You will stroll with her in the garden, dance with her at gatherings, and present her with gifts. You will demonstrate to me that you are truly serious about her, that she is not merely a temporary amusement or a means to further your own ambitions.”

Viserys spoke slowly and deliberately, each word imbued with a sense of authority, his directives explicit and firm.

Daemon had to suppress a scoff. I don’t need some courtship game to make her fall for me. She’s all but ripe for the taking…

He kept his expression neutral, determined not to betray any hint of irritation while simultaneously appeasing his brother, and nodded in affirmation once more. “Very well, Your Grace. I shall be the epitome of courtly refinement, a suitor unlike any that King’s Landing has ever witnessed,” he promised as convincingly as possible.

Viserys laughed boisterously, his expression gladdening substantially. “I should like to see that, Brother.”

Don ’t sound so unconvinced, you prick!

Daemon fought hard to repress his grin, but a hint of a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth nonetheless. “Be careful, Brother,” he cautioned. “I just might surprise you in this.”

He paused a moment and then tried to conclude the conversation. “I suppose I should begin my courtship then, barring any further objections or stipulations from you, Your Grace,” he said, stepping back from the bed, unable to keep a hint of eagerness from his voice.

“Do not look so pleased, Brother. I am not finished yet,” Viserys said with a glaring smirk. It was clear he was beginning to enjoy holding this over Daemon’s head. “Should I be satisfied and give you my daughter’s hand, I expect you to behave as a proper husband would.” The king was sitting up at the edge of the bed now, arms crossed and sheets still covering the lower half of his body.

His next words made Daemon’s heart beat faster. “You will not see other women, you will comport yourself with decency, and I will expect to hear news of a child on the way within a year of the wedding.”

By the Gods …

Everything the king was demanding was to be expected, but the thought of having to be a proper husband with all the obligations that came along with it was a struggle to bear. Surely his brother’s strong hand would grow lax after the wedding, for there was only so much a man like him could endure.

However, the final condition of Viserys’ terms made him stiffen with arousal. He could already imagine his beautiful girl full and round with his babe… Gods give me strength. The mere idea made him dizzy, but he knew he had to focus on the task at hand, so he pushed all thoughts of that glorious image as far back into his mind as possible.

Daemon finally spoke again with a hint of hesitation in his voice, knowing he needed to be on his best behavior so he wouldn’t lose this opportunity. “Of course, I will behave as an upstanding husband should. I have no heirs, save my twin daughters, and have wont of a male to carry on our name.”

“That pleases me to hear, Brother.” He gave Daemon a thin lipped smile, before letting out a conclusive sigh. “I have my doubts that you will be able to uphold your end of this bargain, but if you make good on your word… If the courtship goes well and it is what Ryna truly wishes, than I shall give my blessing and my second daughter’s hand in marriage.” The king took a moment to collect himself, and a more relaxed expression settled over his face, a hint of satisfaction in his features. “Perhaps it shall go a long way towards mending old wounds, Brother.”

Viserys opened his arms, welcoming his brother into an embrace. With a slight hesitation, Daemon accepted his brother’s gesture of goodwill and leaned in to encircle his arms around his back. It wasn’t often that the two shared such a moment of peace, and he found it refreshing that such a potentially hostile topic might end well. He clapped Viserys on the back before standing upright again, given neither man was taken to such displays of affection.

Daemon looked down at his brother with as much honesty as he could convey. “Old wounds and old grudges, Brother. Let us hope that I shall do us both proud.”

“Join the family for the morning meal and I will announce the courtship,” Viserys said with surprising fondness. “I do not look forward to the irate glances my lady-wife will surely give me from across the table, but The King has cause to make his own choices once in awhile.” He chuckled and laid back in bed, likely ready to slumber for another hour before rousing.

He chuckled, imagining the look on Alicent’s face when she found out. No doubt she will do her best to sabotage this courtship.

“I am quite eager to witness her reaction. I am almost certain steam will shoot from her nostrils.” Daemon replied with a hint of amusement in his tone, barely suppressing a grin. “But I will see you at breakfast, dear brother. Now, I must take leave. I have a princess to court.”

Viserys waved his hand in the air to shoo his brother away, his head already nestling into the plush pillows. With a satisfied nod, Daemon turned and left his brother’s chamber with a grin, already planning his next move.

He could feel the blood coursing through his veins, a burning passion igniting his every step as he moved closer to his prize. The thought of his sweet niece, soon to be his bride, fueled his desire and set him ablaze with a fierce intensity.

His hands curled into tight fights at his sides as visions of Ryna danced through his mind. Soon he would have her all to himself, and he would make her squirm and whine, begging and pleading for him. She many never fully grasp the extent of what he had endured, just to earn the chance to call her his own.

Daemon found himself walking down the hall towards his niece’s chamber, the desire to tell her of his victory, to hear her response and see her smile with delight, now almost irresistible. He knew that such thoughts were driven by his own impulsive nature, and that he must remain rational and patient for the time being, but he could not help himself.

He stood quietly at her door and listened, wondering if she was even awake yet. He heard the sound of shuffling inside the room and then the soft padding of bare feet across the floor.

He could only imagine what she would be wearing. A nightgown, so thin and flimsy it might as well be see-through, and her skin glowing in the morning light. He tried his best to push those lurid thoughts aside, but the mental picture of her was too enticing and it lingered persistently as he finally knocked on the door.

There was an abrupt silence from within the room, followed by hushed whispers as footsteps approached the door. A crack of light shined through and the outline of a young handmaid filled the doorway.

She spoke nervously with her head hung low, avoiding eye contact, “Greetings, My Prince. How may I serve you?”

He was annoyed for a moment that it wasn’t Ryna who had opened the door, but he kept his composure and nodded his head to the girl.

“I’ve come to speak with your mistress,” he replied in a tone of authority. “It’s a matter of great importance.”

“Pardon me. M’lady is not yet ready to receive you,” she said apologetically. “Would you be kind enough to wait a moment while I make her presentable?”

Daemon suppressed the growl that threatened to rise up, knowing he had little choice but to wait, especially if he was going to play by Viserys’ ‘proper’ game.

“Very well, but be quick about it,” he grumbled. “I haven’t got all day.” The last thing he wanted was to sit there while the maid brushed Ryna’s hair and tidied her gown. He wanted her now.

The handmaid nodded adamantly and replied with urgency, “I will make haste, My Prince.”

“See that you do,” he answered with finality as the maid disappeared behind the closed door.

He leaned against the door frame, crossing his arms restlessly. The wait was a slow and excruciating one. He found himself tapping his foot impatiently as the sound of whispers drifted from within the room. The young women no doubt discussing the impropriety of receiving a male in her chambers at such an early hour.

His thoughts began to run wild as time passed, envisioning the scene inside the princess’ chamber. Ryna half dressed with ivory skin spilling out in all the right places, standing before her maid, looking beautiful and sweet. She was likely surprised and a bit flustered to have him at her door, and he could almost envision the rosy blush on her cheeks. The urge to open the door and push his way past the servant became so strong it was practically unbearable.

How will I ever survive this courtship?

The door suddenly opened, causing Daemon to look over with anticipation, only to be greeted by the sight of the same maid that had come to the door moments ago. He tried not to let his displeasure show at not seeing Ryna herself standing there in wait, but it only served to make his irritation grow.

“Well?” he inquired. “Is the Princess ready to receive me?”

“She is, My Prince,” the young woman said shyly and backed up, opening the door and standing behind it to let him enter the room unobstructed.

He strode into her chambers with measured steps, his gaze fixed intently on her petite frame. She was so deliciously small, hardly reaching his chin in height, and he savoured the thought of how soft and supple she would feel against his own body. His eyes devoured her from head to toe as a sly smirk crossed his face.

She wore a simple dress of crimson, the bodice lined in yellow gold with a black insignia of the three-headed dragon embroidered in the center of the bust. Her hair hung loosely against her shoulders, golden silver curls brushed out, but not yet braided. She was a sight for sore eyes, his in particular.

“You look lovely this morning, sweetling,” he said with a low rumble as he closed the distance between them. He reached out for her hand and brushed a light kiss against her knuckle.

His delightful, little niece blushed just as he thought she would, a charming look of innocent embarrassment upon her face. Daemon held onto her hand as she began to speak.

“Thank you, Uncle,” she replied nervously. “What brings you here? I was not expecting you.”

My sweet girl.

She was truly adorable with her shy demeanor and her struggle to look him in the eye. He was surprised how easily he had been able to cast aside years of torment with just the simple notion of her returning his affections. The very purity that had once kept him at bay now only served to heighten his desire to corrupt her further, to make her whimper and plead for more of his touch.

“A matter of great importance, my dear girl,” he continued, keeping the caress of his fingers light as he stroked the back of her hand. “I’m here with a proposition, and I should very much like to have your answer. Now.” He winked at her, keeping up the pretense for the handmaid that was still present.

“Oh?” she asked with a curious gleam in her eyes. “What could be so urgent that it could not wait for the morning meal?”

Daemon tried his utmost to resist the urge to seize her and draw her into his arms. The way she looked at him was almost more than he could stand. If only that blasted handmaid were not lingering, watching them like a hawk, he would have her bent over the bed in less than a second.

He took a deep breath, trying to focus on his words, rather than his cock. His voice was softer now when he spoke, but just as insistent, “I spoke to your father this morning… He has given me permission to court you, Niece. I would hear your decision immediately, for he wishes to announce it at breakfast.”

“What?” she looked remarkably surprised. “How!?”

He had to admit, her shock was a refreshing sight to behold. Daemon half expected the girl to throw herself into his arms at the news.

“I have my ways, sweetling,” he answered cryptically with a smirk. “But, first I need your answer. Will you allow me to court you?” There was a soft gasp from the maid and Daemon realized her presence wasn’t quite as aggravating as he’d originally thought. Who better to spread rumors like wildfire than the servant caste. Soon, everyone in the Red Keep would know that he was courting the princess.

And they will all know that she is mine. Just as it should be.

“I cannot believe you managed to convince him. Even for your velvet tongue, that is quite a feat, Uncle,” she looked thoughtful for a moment, as though considering everything that might have been said or promised to make it so. “And it was Father’s wish that we court? A test of devotion, I take it?”

“A test of devotion, indeed,” he said, nodding as he continued to hold and dote on the soft skin of her hand. “Though, I’m sure your father is still not entirely convinced of my sincerity.”

Suddenly, his free hand snaked around her slender waist, drawing her closer until their bodies were nearly touching. A startled gasp escaped the maid at the sight, and Daemon relished the knowledge that their little performance was received so well. He allowed his face to shift closer to her ear, so he could whisper.

“But I have every intention of winning your favor, my sweet, little princess. What say you, hmm?”

Ryna placed a hand on his chest, pushing him back to a comfortable distance once more. Her eyes brimming with eagerness, “Yes, positively yes!” She took both of his hands in hers with a beaming smile that made his chest ache.

She said yes. He had expected the answer, of course, but to actually hear it confirmed was a feeling he could have never truly anticipated. Years of pent up desire and frustration were starting to release and it took all of his restraint to not just kiss her there in front of the damned handmaid.

Daemon pulled her hands up to his lips so he could place a kiss on her skin once more.

“Very good, my sweet girl,” he said with a smug look of satisfaction. “Very good indeed.” Daemon allowed his voice to drop once more so only she could hear. “And I promise to court you properly, so long as you do your part and be a good girl for me. I will not abide any misconduct from my wife to be.”

His voice was practically dripping with mockery for he knew how to play this game. This was all a part of the dance, to lure his niece into giving herself up entirely to him. To make her his, once and for all.

“You know I will not go easy on you just because you are my favorite niece?” His gaze darkened and he allowed a small smirk to play about his lips.

“I w-would never!” she stuttered out anxiously as though he were actually serious. The poor girl was so flustered by what he’d said in front of her maid, that she didn’t even realize he’d been jesting.

He chuckled, amused by the uncertainty in her flickering gaze, and he couldn’t help but smile. He knew he would thoroughly enjoy himself during the coming moon, playing with her and indulging in his desires. However, it was also becoming obvious that the challenge of their courtship would test him like no other had before, as his lustful temptations gew harder and harder to resist.

Daemon smiled wolfishly. “Your decision pleases me greatly, sweetling,” he said in a low voice as he continued to place kisses against her knuckles. “Now we must get you ready. Quickly. We wouldn’t want to keep the king waiting, hmm?”

He let go of her hands regretfully and stepped back to allow the maid to take over. Daemon watched as the handmaid scurried back to the foreground and immediately began busying herself with finishing up Ryna’s morning routine.

With her touch gone, he longed to reach out and grab her once more. His hands burned with the irresistible urge to feel her body beneath his touch. It would be exquisite torture, having her close at hand and yet unable to take her in the way that he wished.

He could feel something primal and possessive stirring inside him at the thought. She was his and she always had been. Since she first came into this world, he had treasured her more than any other. And, once she came of age, he had fought against his desires, finding them wrong and ruinous, yet all of these years later she had chosen him of her own accord. Now, nothing would keep him from her again.

“Uncle,” she interrupted his thoughts, and he looked up in a daze. “I shall need some privacy. I’ll look forward to seeing you at the morning meal shortly.” She smiled, a hint of knowing in her eyes.

“Of course, sweetling,” he managed to get out.

His mind and body were suddenly at odds with each other. One part of him wanting to linger in the room just a moment longer, to catch another glimpse of her sweet smile, while the other part was more than eager to be out of there so that he could have a quiet moment to himself and gather his fraying control.

“I’ll be waiting…” It came out as more a growl than words and he mentally berated himself. You sound like an impatient little boy, you fool.

“Until we meet again, Uncle,” she spoke softly, before turning her head so that the maid could continue working on braiding her hair.

Daemon nodded to her with a grin, his eyes fastened on her for just a moment longer than appropriate, before turning on his heel and exiting the chamber. The door closed behind him and he leaned back against the cold stone wall. His eyes closed as he lout out a long, shaky breath.

Gods give me strength… Read Chapter 4

[runabout-river]

Thoughts on JJK chapter 265 (spoilers)

There is so much in this chapter that one could write essay after essay about its content, themes and symbolism to name a few. The best thing though is that Gege shows us that he can take the time to put deep character moments into his plot. In the last year that seemed to fall to the wayside unfortunately especially when it came to Yuji.

Yuji recreates his grandfather's hometown in the northeast of Japan to show Sukuna and Sukuna is uncharacteristically going along with it for a long time. This might be because of the special way this DE is formed, it could e.g. have a non-violence Binding Vow. Or Sukuna was just flabbergasted.

I looked the statue up that Yuji pointed to and found the Oni kenbai dance from Iwate prefecture. On the panel it's difficult to make out what the statue represents but you can see a fan in the right hand.

This panel is an extremely important one about the point of view that Sukuna and Yuji have towards each other. For Sukuna, Yuji is barely anything; he blends into the background like a ghost, maybe reminiscent of how Sukuna might've viewed his eaten twin once in his life.

For Yuji Sukuna is not a person, there is no face to him, he's just an abomination consisting of black mass. Not even CE is presented to us like that, Sukuna is just a black distortion in space able to walk on its own.

It's good that we're given this panel so early in the chapter because it tells us what Sukuna is about and that Yuji knows it.

In Japan, the Hydrangea is used to make a sweet tea that on April 8 is poured over Buddha Statues for the Buddha bathing ceremony. This is in direct contrast to Sukuna's Bath that comes from the historic practice of throwing poisonous insect and more into a pit to make them kill each other.

Symbolically, Gege tells us that Yuji will be the one to reverse Megumi's torture that he went through. Narratively, I'd like to see the Bath have more physical affects on Megumi before it gets cleaned though.

Really funny how Yuji entices Sukuna to play crayfishing with him and I count 4 missed arrows from Yuji compared to Sukuna's bullseye hit.

Also capitalism killed Grandpa's hometown.

Whats also funny is that Yuji says that he was about 6 or 7 when they moved out of that town and that he was about 10 years before he went back there again. Boy, you're still 15.

I counted 8 dragonflies on that grassy panel with many more in the Yuji close up panel. I forgot what dragonflies represented in Japan but th symbolism appeared before in JJK, once on kid Gojo's kimono and once at the base of Megumi's domain construction.

Next we get a much needed Yuji character resolution and growth while he thinks of all the people that have died on him. We see that he did put his cog mentality behind him and that he analyzed his "proper death" wish from the very first chapter and concluded that he wanted sth else from that.

Nobara is with the others on the dead list and this looks like the final nail (ha) in the coffin that is her death but the diehards (me) can still say that Yuji merely thinks that she's dead.

Take this Sukuna panel and inject it straight into my veins 💉

There is just this visceral level of disgust and mania in Itadori Sukuna that Gege has barely shown in OriginalSukuna and absolutely didn't in Megukuna. Think of the detention center, and laughing at Yuji with Mahito together or just laughing at Yuji whenever he came out as a mouth and eye. How much I've missed that.

Can't wait to see where this will go 👀

[whenthebirdsings]

the stranger in spring [ch. 5]

pairing: gojo satoru x reader [no smut here but very explicit language. the full thing is also very horny. so mdni]

tags (for this chapter): once again very bad banter, stalking, public fingering, sexual tension

word count: 4.3k

ch. 4 / full ao3 fic

Sunlight claws at your face as you crack the door open. One eye closed and the other one hidden behind a hand as everything turns blinding white before you blink it away.

The world around you seems to jolt in joy — but everything in you screams the opposite. Your shoulders slouch. Your lips downturn into a frown. A crease between your brows; that dull ache of an oncoming headache again. The day just started and you already feel like going back to bed. But you know you can’t afford that luxury. Already, your phone is blaring with one notification after another from your boss. It’s not even 7:30 yet.

You sigh as you reply to each and every one of them. The birds chirp, and you can vaguely make out the sound of school kids laughing as you sling your bag over your shoulder. Ah, you think, already despondent, another day, another round of depression at work. It’s something you used to say as a joke, but you don’t think it is anymore. Between your workload and the fact that your boss seems hellbent on making your life miserable, you might as well be selling your soul to the devil. Which, to be honest, wouldn’t be that far off the mark.

At this point, you wonder how you’re keeping yourself together. Your body is worn, your eyes have shadows underneath them, the lines of your face are terribly fatigued. And you think you’re starting to drag your feet more and more with each day. Every step is heavier, the pit in your gut seems to grow bigger. You feel suffocated. Just this morning, you looked into the mirror and you think you saw death. You feel like one, at least.

“Excuse me,” a voice chimes in from beside you, breaking you out of your reverie.

You turn just in time to see a delivery guy standing before the apartment next door. Briefly, you look down to see all the boxes from last night already gone. Then, you peer at the one in the delivery guy���s hands — this one seemingly bigger, seemingly heavier. Causing him to struggle as his arms shake and his legs threaten to give out. He’s trying not to stagger back into the railing as he eyes you sheepishly.

“Um, sorry,” he says. Apparently flustered. “Do you know if the person who lives here is at home? I have their package, but they’re not opening up no matter how many times I knock on the door.”

Well, at least you’re not the only person having a bad day.

“I’m not sure, I haven’t met them,” you answer. Smile soft, but bitter comfort. You can understand the pain of being just a cog in a bigger system. “Perhaps you can leave it there? I’m guessing you have other packages to deliver, so it might not be the best idea to wait. They probably already went to work.”

He seems to consider that. “You could be right,” he agrees. A pause before he then heaves out a sigh as though exasperated. “See, I could just leave it here, but I kinda need their sign? I dunno, company rules or whatever.” He looks over at you and appraises your work bag and your well-dressed outfit. “Sorry, you must be on your way to work as well. I shouldn’t be keeping you.”

You laugh. Shaking your head and dismissing him with a wave. “No need,” you say. Fingers tightening around the strap of your bag. You glance down to see school kids boarding the bus near your apartment. In a few seconds, the doors close and you watch it drive away. “But, yeah. There goes the school bus — which means mine might be here in, like, five minutes or something. So I do have to go.”

“Ah.” He nods. Following your gaze before sparing you an apologetic smile. “Right. I hope you have a good day, then.”

“You, too,” you say, nodding back. Your lips pulling up into a grin. Maybe today’s start wasn’t that bad. It’s been a while since anyone’s told you to have a good day. You check your wristwatch before spinning on your heels — but not before bidding the delivery guy farewell. “Well! That’s my cue to leave. Wishing you luck on that package. If push comes to shove, just knock the door down.”

He doesn’t say much else. Simply laughs as he waves back. Or tries to, at least. With that huge box pretty much covering up most of his body, you don’t think he can afford the privilege of freeing one hand to respond to your gesture. Still, you appreciate it nonetheless.

You step down the stairs just in time to hear the delivery guy knocking at your new neighbor’s door again. It creaks open — and your curiosity piques. Had it not been for your bus, you probably would have glanced back just to catch a glimpse of your next door neighbor.

But then the driver sounds a honk, and the thought is immediately forgotten. You rush through the doors just in time to notice a tall body behind the delivery guy. They’re covered, though — hidden behind a package too large. All you can tell from this angle is the fact that he’s a guy. His figure seems like one, at least.

“Took you long enough.”

Satoru opens the door to see Suguru standing there with a huge box. His lips thinning into a scowl as he exhales a loud, frustrated huff.

“Suguru,” is all Satoru says. Peering past his shoulder to stare at the bus speeding away before he dips his gaze back to his friend. A frown now marring his forehead as Suguru waits for no response and simply nudges him aside to step into his apartment. “What are you doing here? I thought you said you wanted no hand in this?”

“Well, I wanted to have a look at the girl,” Suguru shrugs. Dropping the box unceremoniously at the center of his room. “As always, she’s none the wiser. It’s kinda funny.”

Satoru stares into space before the lost look on his face dissipates. Eyes glazed over before they’re back to their calm ocean blues again. “What did you talk about?”

Suguru purses his lips in thought. Apparently displeased that he’s ignoring his snide remark before he expels a sigh. “Nothing you don’t already know, I’m sure,” he replies, voice lifting in a laugh as Satoru levels him with a look.

“Tread carefully, Suguru,” Satoru warns. Voice composed, save for that cold edge underlying his tone. “If she finds out who you are, it might jeapordize the both of us.”

“You mean you,” Suguru points out. Sounding a scoff as Satoru’s shoulders tense into a rigid line before he wills them relaxed again. “Don’t get your boxers in a bunch, ‘Toru. I doubt she’ll even remember me if she sees me again.”

Satoru contemplates that. “And if she does?”

“Then you know what to do,” says Suguru simply. A shrug of his shoulder uncaring as he flops on the couch and switches on the TV. Flipping between channels to find something interesting before landing on a terribly-made horror movie. “It’s nothing you haven’t done. It’s par for the course the moment you decided to get involved with her, no?”

Satoru wisely opts to pay that no mind. “If you want anything to eat, there’s some leftovers in the fridge. Just heat them up,” he offers instead. Sparing a glance at the clock ticking 7:45 before grabbing the remote and changing the channel again.

“Hey!” Suguru protests. Hand already shuffling through some of the snacks in one of Satoru’s boxes. “I was watching that.”

“It’s a bad movie anyway,” Satoru snorts. Slapping away Suguru’s hand from his snacks as he gestures towards the fridge instead. “I do have a microwave, ya know? Besides, I need you to watch someone else for me. Don’t do anything yet. Just keep an eye on them.”

“I told you,” Suguru starts, words slurred and muffled from chewing on the few chips he managed to snatch before Satoru took the whole bag away, “I’m not interested in whatever weird plan you might have. This obsession has to stop somewhere.”

“And yet, you’re still playing along,” Satoru points out with a wolfish grin. He knows he’s won for now when Suguru presses his lips tight. “It’s nothing much. Just tell me what they’re up to now and then. Also, dig up some dirt if you have to.” There’s a pause as Satoru’s eyes flash. The slightest of a laugh before he curbs it. “The filthiest dirt possible if you can.”

Suguru looks down to see Satoru sliding him a photo. “She doesn’t even remember you, ‘Toru,” he says, voice oddly gentle. “I can do that for you if that’s what you need. But I’m not sure if I’m liking where this is going.”

Satoru peers him over for a moment. “Is that your opinion as an accomplice or a best friend?”

“Both,” Suguru’s answer comes quick. Even so, he takes the photo out of Satoru’s grasp. Albeit, not without heaving another sigh. “This won’t end well. You know it never does,” is all he says. It’s what he always says.

And then, Satoru would always give him the same expression. That same cold smile, that same edge in one eye. Features a vacant stare; gaze dead like he’s already lost to time. Like this, with the sunlight scratching at his face, his complexion seems strangely sharp. Details of his face tired but ruthless. Shards of glass broken to pieces; waiting to cut, to break through skin. Nothing good will come out from being at his receiving end or the object of his affection — whatever that means in Satoru’s point of view.

But that’s not Suguru’s problem to worry about. Not until later when he has to clean up after Satoru’s mess.

So he’s not surprised when Satoru simply brushes him off. As always, reticent. As always, flippant. Walls closing in on himself.

“She’ll remember,” is all Satoru says. It’s what he always says. That same pensive tune again. “She has to.”

[8:15am] handsome money bags: guess what

You halt mid-typing to glance at your phone. Satoru’s contact name stares back at you in white text, a half-smile tugging at your lips at the thought of him reaching out to you so early in the morning. You’re also already working your ass off so early in the morning, but you think it might be easier with something nice to leer at.

[8:16am] you: did your butt get stuck to the bed or something? how come you’re not already here at the office. lucky you, must be pretty privilege again

Stretching in your seat, you’re about to put down your phone so you can avert your attention back to work. But then your phone dings with another notification — a laugh leaving you at the words written on the screen.

[8:17am] handsome money bags: youre just jealous im hot. which, tbh, i don’t really get it because youre already hot as fuck. [8:17am] handsome money bags: but to answer your question, nope my butt did not get stuck to my bed. stop thinking about ass at work, y/n! that’s scandalous smh [8:18am] handsome money bags: also, what i meant to say before you (very rudely, might i add) interrupted me is that i had a dream about you

You arch an eyebrow at that last message. A flush coming to rest on your cheeks over the thought of him being that affected by you. It makes your chest swell with pride; the briefest of your ego stroked before you try to massage the blush away. Unfortunately, your hand isn’t an eraser, so it doesn’t help much.

Your fingers are an odd tremble as you brush them over the keyboard. Mindlessly typing out your reply.

[8:19am] you: bold words for someone who stares at my ass every five seconds [8:20am] you: also what do you mean you had a dream? haha what is it about? i’m totally not that curious.

You were too distracted by the feeling of your heart stuttering to notice the presence behind you. That is, at least, until you feel an arm draping over your seat. His cologne creeping up your nose even before you turn to face him as you meet dark sunglasses before white and blue. That sly grin lining ever so perfect and soft lips. Now that he’s so close, you can definitely tell that he’s wearing lip balm. The arrogant prick.

You find your own tingling with heat — itching to touch, to taste and smother him out of breath. Kiss the moisture away from his lips and replace it with a smear of red from your lipstick. Yet, you suppress the urge. Grabbing at his collar and shoving your tongue down his throat when your colleagues could walk in at any given moment probably wouldn’t be the best idea. Tempting, but not the best.

“Three guesses on what it is,” Satoru says. Looking around for any onlookers before leaning in to place the sneakiest of a kiss along your temple when he notices none. You jut your lower lip out in a pout — disappointed by the cryptic answer and the fact that he didn’t kiss you where you want. Then again, you don’t know if you’d be able to stop if he did.

“Speaking in riddles much?” you retort, sinking back into your chair and pinning him with a sarcastic smile. Seemingly calm, despite the red flushing down your neck and disappearing under your shirt. His gaze follows the trail of your shame; blues dimming in lust before he blinks it away.

“Curious much?” he shoots back. Hand propping himself against your desk as his sunglasses slide down to the bridge of his nose. He’s grinning; a little too smug and a little too pleased. You roll your eyes, but the look loses its intended effect when you sputter at the feel of his foot brushing up your calf. “For someone who claims she’s not.”

You scowl. “I’m really not,” comes the huff. Not that it says much with the lack of bite in your tone. The crack in your voice as you shudder when he inches his face closer. Too close, you think. Feeling his lips hover over yours, his hot breath on supple skin.

His hand wraps around your shoulder. His voice dipping into a low purr. “Yeah? You sure about that?”

It takes a moment for you to swallow a lump in your throat. Your chest tight before you cough out loud.

“Why are you here so early anyway?” you ask instead of supplying him a response. Changing the subject before the blood rushes too much to your head. “Didn’t peg you as the type to clock in fifteen minutes earlier.”

Satoru doesn’t say anything at once. Lips slanting into a smile as his gaze flickers in amusement. Seemingly entertained by your lame, pathetic half-attempts at collecting your tattered composure.

Still, he allows you some distance and reprieve. Pulling back — but not before giving your shoulder a squeeze and relishing in the sound of your breath hitching. Not before granting himself another chaste kiss on your cheek and tucking your hair behind your ear. Soft, before he’s gone again. Out of your space and away from your fingers that crave to pull him in. Closer and closer, until you don’t know where you end and he begins.

“Hm.” He sounds the hum, whirling your seat around to tilt you into facing your laptop’s screen again. In an instant, your hands start meandering over your keyboard — instinctive as you type out some words on a work file. Only slightly focusing on the task at hand as Satoru leans down. Lips ghosting the shell of your ear, breath wisping the hair on your nape.

“Well, I, for one, definitely pegged you as the type to clock in at least thirty minutes earlier,” he whispers. Teeth catching your earlobe before tugging it back. Nipping hard then letting go. “So I figured I might as well see you before anyone else. You know, maybe steal a kiss or two. Fuck my cum once or twice into you.”

Your fingers stop. A low whine escaping you as your mind grows heady with desire. Your skin prickling from where he touched, warmth left behind as his hand absent-mindedly traces your collarbone. Fingers dipping just slightly under fabric, mapping a line up your slender neck and eliciting a shiver. His nails scrape against your pulse — and your eyes flutter. Your toes curl and your knees buckle. Neck still remembering the memories of his hand wrapped around your throat. That crazed look in blue eyes as you choke, you pant, you sing him praise for knocking the air out of you.

“Satoru,” you pant. In warning, in want. Eyes blown wide before you blink away the haze in them. Panic flitting past your face at the sight of your coworkers walking in one by one. Satoru lets go at the same time you lean forward — laughing at you as you threaten to curl into your laptop in hopes that no one noticed.

“Relax,” he says. You glare at him, but it’s half-hearted. The slightest of lust lingering still even through your exasperation. He shrugs; that annoying mischievous grin ever present. “No one saw. They were too busy looking at their phones.”

“Thank god for social media,” you sigh in relief into your palms as you drag hands over your face. Peeking from behind your fingers just in time to see Satoru pulling out a chair from one of the other cubicles. “Nuh-uh, you’re not doing that. Also, Kujishima might have a day off today but I don’t think you should be using his belongings however you want.”

But it’s too late. Satoru’s already placing it next to you and sitting down by the time your tangent is finished. He ignores the weird looks your other coworkers send in your direction.

“Okay, little miss perfect,” he laughs. Brushing you off with a wave and tucking his chin into his hand as he studies the document in front of you. “And it’s called borrowing. I’m sure Kuji-what’s-his-face won’t mind.”

“Kujishima,” you correct him. But you don’t say much else. Exhaling a sigh as you already know he won’t relent either way. Satoru shrugs a shoulder, sounding a nonchalant scoff as he traces a thumb over the side of one paper in your many files.

“Honestly, you should be the one having a day off,” he says. Frowning a little as though in thought. “Do you even take breaks? I feel like all I see you do is work.” There’s a pause as he ponders that for a moment. You know from the glint in his gaze that it’s nothing good — even more so when his ankle flutters past yours from under your desk. “And, well, some other things.”

You flush at the implication, but choose to pay it no mind. “You never told me your dream,” you remind him instead.

He taps a finger on your desk. For some reason, the single sound resonates in an echo in your head. One thud louder than the last.

“It’s something to do with our weekend hang out,” he answers. Once again, a sly grin. Once again, something in his face you can’t really pick apart. “You’re still down for that, right? You said yes last time, but it doesn’t hurt to check.” You raise an eyebrow at him and he lifts up his arms in defense. “Hey now, don’t look at me like that. I’m just making sure so I don’t get stood up is all.”

All that does is cause you to shoot your other eyebrow up. This time, in surprise rather than confusion. “You’ve been stood up before?”

Another laugh breaks out of him. “No.”

“Oh,” you say, before slipping out your own laugh. Right. You should have figured as much. It’s just that there had been something there — his smile hadn’t been as wide, his laugh not as sincere. For a moment, it actually made you wonder.

He pouts at that. “Just ‘oh’? You’re toying with my heart over here.”

You slow down your typing to look him over. Somewhat enjoying the way he seems to fidget as he waits for your response. It sits foreign on his face — that look like he’s holding his breath. Maybe even afraid of a no.

You suck in the inside of your cheek. Smiling to yourself as a thought sneaks into mind. “Well,” you start, cracking your knuckles before resuming your typing again. Fingers quickly tapping on your keyboard. “I did say yes. But now you’re making me think it over because you’re being a dick about your dream.”

Satoru purses his lips. But then they tilt upwards. Another roguish grin. You can’t help but feel like you’ve walked into another trap. “Say yes and you’ll find out. We can just, you know, re-enact what happened in my dream and see what happens.”

You shoot him an accusing glare. “You’re trying to trick me again.”

He feigns a startled gasp. One hand to his chest for added effect. “You think that little of me?” he fakes a sob. Only to break character when you make an exaggerated gesture of rolling your eyes. “Seriously. I’m not trying to trick you. I’m just, uh, providing you a practical demonstration. Works better than a detailed retelling, right?”

There are eyes digging into your back as he leans too close. Shoulder to shoulder, knee to knee as he pretends to peer over the document you’re working on. You can already hear the whispers; the so-called tea spilled, the gossip under hushed breaths. But at the moment, you can’t seem to care. Not when Satoru’s trailing fingers up your thighs. Not when he’s parting your legs and kneading at supple flesh. Up and down — his laugh drowning out your low pant.

“You said three guesses,” you say lamely. Thankful as he drops his jacket over your lap and scoots you further into your desk. Hiding what’s happening underneath in plain sight. Not that it helps, because anyone with a brain and working eyes would be suspicious. But you can’t deny the thrill of excitement down the base of your spine. Aroused, even if another part of you fears getting caught.

“I did,” Satoru murmurs. Another laugh as he slides underwear to the side. Fingers feeling wet folds before sinking into tight heat. “But you don’t wanna guess.”

He hooks his fingers and angles them at your g-spot. Slow, deliberate strokes that cause your hips to shake. Firm rubs of his palm on your clit that render you speechless and mindless as he calmly flips through your files like it’s a normal Tuesday. He pulls out almost entirely before shoving back in — and you bite back a scream. Pleasure short-circuiting your brain as your mouth hangs open. Rust on your tongue as your teeth break through skin.

All that leaves you after that is a yes.

“You’re coming over?” you say as your best friend brings up Satoru. Your legs still feel like jello; shuddering and threatening to collapse even hours after. Even now, you can still feel his warmth on the apex of your thighs. His laugh burning into your skin. Tongue on your cheeks, lips on your lips. The way he pushed you against the wall in the store room during lunch break to finish what he started.

“No, I don’t mind,” you reassure her. You hope she didn’t notice how your breath grew heavier before you recouped yourself again. “It’s just that. He’s. Wow. He’s just. Wow,” is all you can manage to utter out. She barks out a loud from the other side of your phone and you’re flustered. Red tinting your cheeks as you try to cool that heat forming in your belly.

“Anyway.” You clear your throat. Deciding to save the topic of Satoru until after she’s over at your place so you don’t accidentally fuck yourself in the middle of nowhere. Not that being turned on in front of your best friend would be great either — but, well. Better than on a dark road at least. “Do you want anything? I might drop by the convenience store in a bit. Was just gonna grab a pack of beer, but since you’re coming over, think I’m gonna need the whole store.”

You lean into your phone just in time to catch her telling you to fuck off. A laugh ripples out of you — but that sound, too, gets drowned out by the rain as it drops quickly down your umbrella. Everything else muffled in the midst of the loud pitter patters surrounding you as you squint your eyes. Only barely making out the lights of the convenience store through the heavy downpour.

“Girl, I gotta hang up,” you say. Noticing that you’re almost running out of battery. “Text me when you’re co —”

“— ming over. Also, let me know what you wanna eat.”

One step, two steps, three steps — he follows you like a shadow sticking closely behind. Movements synchronized, pace set to match yours. Twenty feet becomes ten feet, and he’s lingered too close. Still, you don’t notice. Still, the rain is too loud for you to notice. He tilts his umbrella down to cover his face as he eyes your heels clicking towards the convenience store. Another waiting game. He’s had too many of those over the years.

He sniffs in the air. Catching moisture and petrichor at the same time you step out of the store. Always none the wiser; lips that oblivious grin, eyes that bright life despite the shadows all around. He sounds a laugh — but you don’t hear that either. Nor do you notice his steps; footfalls quiet and deadly composure. Any other day, he wouldn’t be able to wander this close.

He has the rain to thank for that.

[marcusakito]

I had a dream about the majority of the Fatui Harbingers being playable, along with some details but since it's a dream I only remember so much. But I thought I'd share!

Remember, this was only my dream!! Nothing is based on concrete facts and if there are similarities it only a coincidence.

So in my dream I was bitten by a snake and had to recover at the hospital. But instead of normal hospital things on the wall there were seven posters. It was about the seven harbingers that have yet to appear/be playable minus Signora and Pulcinella. It had possible materials, release dates, weapons, bursts and skills along with a theme.

Pierro's theme I believe it's called "The Director." Or something similar, just related to being the head of the Harbingers. It said the release was version 7+ so that would mean it'll be in the Khaenri'ah chapter. His weapon was a catalyst, and he was a cryo but he doesn't have a vision. His skill was similar to Lisa's but it rains ice shards, and his burst was similar to Gepard's (From Star Rail) but it was an attack where the iceberg(?) He creates hits the enemies. I didn't know his materials so it's most likely a new enemy from Khaenri'ah.

Dottore's theme was "Madness and Folly." And for some reason he was a claymore?? I don't see him as a claymore but I guess my dream did. Release date 6.4+ so in the Snezhnaya Chapter. He's also a cryo, but with a vision. His skill was similar to Rosaria's burst, but I couldn't remember his burst, all I know is that the animation is him snapping his fingers with a smirk on his face. His materials were dead ley lines (the ones abyss mages dropped.)

Columbina's theme was either "Fallen one" or "Downfallen" and she uses a bow. I don't know her element since her playstyle in my dream was that she's meant to be physical damage and a healer. Her attacks were throwing daggers instead of arrows (Like Lyney using cards) and her skill was rushing at enemies and unfurling these sharp, white wings and using them to slice the enemies. The animation for the burst was her putting a finger to her lips and telling us to "Hush" and similar to Qiqi enemies will be marked so if you hit them you'll heal. In the background while the burst is active you'll hear Columbina singing. It said she'll be released during the Natlan Chapter, 5.8 iirc, and I didn't recognize her materials.

Arlecchino's theme was "Wolf in Sheep's Clothing." I think. Similar to the leaks she's a pyro polearm and she'll be released 4.6 as well. Her skill was like Tartaglia's, it switches polearm and her using claws to attack the enemies. Her burst was only one kind though no matter which phase, it'll be a close-up of her face and I think she said "The games are over." Or "The show's over." Before it zooms out and an explosion happens behind her. Her materials are the Fatui operative's pocket watches.

Sandrone's theme was "Cog in the Machine." And she's a sword user, but I don't remember her element. I think it said Version 6+ so her release would be during the Snezhnaya Chapter. When she gets hit, her robot protects her like Svarog to Clara in Star Rail but there's no counter attack. Her skill would be summoning her robot (the one where she sits on the arm) and it auto attacks the enemies. The burst would be her robot releasing rockets on the enemies just like ruin guards do. Her materials are what you'd expect, it's the ruin drakes' drops.

Unfortunately, Pantalone is the one I remember least about. His theme was "Mora and Power." And he's a hydro catalyst. I don't remember his skill and burst though. His release date is also in the Snezhnaya Chapter and his materials are the treasure hoarder insignias.

Capitano's theme is "Rebellion." Or "Rebel Forces." And his release is between 5.4-5.6 and he's a pyro sword user. His attacks are similar to fencing maneuvers. His skill is similar to Tanjiro's water wheel in Demon Slayer but it's pyro. I remember his burst was called "Hellfire." And it rained lava meteors like Navia's burst. His materials looked like broken swords of a new enemy in Natlan.

And that's about it! Thanks for sticking around to read all of my dream ramblings, I just thought it'd be nice to share these possible concepts!

[heronchild-haven]

He looked up, and his green eyes widened. “James,” he said, and the word sounded like an exhale of relief. He quickly schooled his face into a frown. “I don’t know wether to embrace you as a brother or strike you down as a foe.”

[vendetta-if]

Chapter 7 + Ash Hangout Public Update is now live! 🎉

The Chapter 7 and Ash Hangout update is finally here 🔥😁 I'm sorry for the slight delay, I had something urgent to attend to today and I just got home and I just basically went straight to my computer to upload this update.

Finally, we are starting to get into the ROs' first hangout sessions. Of course, to start us off, we'll have Ash's hangout session 😁This update adds around 31K of new words, bringing the total word count so far to around 356,701K words!

Anyway, this update also brings quite a lot of changes in the coding, especially for the skip chapter function, so I'm going to strongly suggest you guys play with clean save, either from the beginning or using the skip chapter function.

I have recently added another skip-chapter checkpoint, which is Chapter 3 in addition to the already existing one on Chapter 6. There is also now an autosave function at the beginning of every chapter starting on Chapter 2, so you'll be able to replay any chapter you're currently reading and try out different options in that chapter.

Anyway, enough of the technicalities.

Here's what you can expect in this update:

The set up to the ROs'  first hangout sessions

Ash's first hangout session

Go down the memory lane and see snippets of MC's most cherished memories.

Some more Viktor 😔

A mix of angst, wholesome, and even potential fluff 🤭

🔥🧡😉

Ash/Rin poly route is not yet ready for this hangout and it's still work-in-progress 🙏

New stuff added to previous chapters:

Added autosave/reload function for Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, and Chapter 5.

Added another skip-chapter point to Chapter 3, in addition to the already existing Chapter 6.

Also, little news that I'm going to make a post of tomorrow, I'm about to open both the Side Story and Spicy Side Story ideas and suggestions for this month on both Patreon and Ko-Fi, so if you're interested in supporting me while also getting some exclusive stuff, please do consider checking out my pages and subscribing 💖

I hope you guys enjoy the update! Oh, and also, feel free to send asks about the new update, but I'll probably hold off on answering them until a few days have passed to make sure a lot of readers already have the chance to check out the update and not accidentally spoil them 😊

[DEMO] | [PATREON] | [KO-FI] | [DISCORD] | [COG FORUM]

[fenricken]

You Keep Slipping From My Grasp 1/7

Ao3

Ship: Spirit Halloween

next

Summary:

Danny has been getting the hang of this whole “Ancient of Doors”, “Apprentice to Clockwork”, “Dad to the Chaos Gremlin Dani” thing, and he’s really starting to find his flow! Sure, he sometimes misses the life that could’ve been, but overall everything has been great! Sure doesn’t need anything throwing a tangle in things.

Bruce is suffering. He doesn’t know who he is, where he is, or what the hell is going on. All he’s running on is instinct and strange forces propelling him towards some end he’s not entirely certain of.

Basically, Danny tries to help Batman over the course of events covered in Batman:Return of Bruce Wayne

Chapter One:

“Clockwork? Are you here? I got your message.” Danny floated up the tower, peeking behind cogs and pendulums, hoping to find a glimpse of his teacher’s signature purple cloak.

It had been a long time since certain… events had led Danny to become a far more permanent resident of the Infinite Realms. Of course, he wasn’t alone, as much of Amity had also followed him here to carve out a new life all together, his friends and family included.

Danny had since reached maturity and been recognized as Ancient of Doors for his actions. When faced with his evil future self, he strove to find another path where he didn’t become that future self. When Dani was revealed to be with the enemy, he chose to love her still, rather than hate her as many would. When he was faced with a reality where he was famous, and accepted by his parents, he chose to undo all of that for the peace and safety of his friends and family. While he now knew his parent’s acceptance would always come, he still had to make the choice then to put his trust in them and reveal himself so his friends could be saved when the GIW came to destroy Amity Park. And so, for his commitment to forging new paths, always finding another choice, and braving the unknown he was named Ancient of Doors. 

Sam had also found her own mentor in Undergrowth, working hard as his apprentice to aid him in his duties as Ancient of Wild Growth. Tucker and Technus had quickly formed a rivalry, both competing to see who would reign supreme as the Infinite Realm’s ultimate tech master. Jazz had found her purpose in the Department of Lost Souls, as an advisor to those who weren’t certain about their afterlife, and what they wanted to do with it. After Jack and Maddie’s change of heart with regards to ghosts, it was not long before they found new purpose in investigating and researching the many mysteries of the Infinite Realms and beyond.

While he and his friends had reached their own maturity, Dani had remained a child. Something about “It’s easier to cause chaos this way” and “No one ever suspects the baby”. Danny’s fondness for his clone only grew until he saw her less as a cousin and more as a daughter. Ultimately, it was only a surprise for Danny and Dani when the ghost-bond snapped in place, formally cementing her as his daughter, to both of their suffering.

Currently, she was out in one of the universes, chasing after some hybrid spider-pig, Danny thinks. Unless she got distracted and went to hang out with Klarion again, in an effort to “maximize joint chaos”. Tucker and Sam were both busy with their respective duties, Jazz was at work, and last he checked Mom and Dad were elbows deep in a mech suit they were hoping to get working off an Infinite Realms Corn-based fuel Sam had created. Danny had been feeling quite bored before he got the summons from Clockwork, and had jumped on it right away, hence his surprise at not being able to find his Mentor anywhere.

Danny had finally reached the top of the tower. He could see a table set up with a small tea service, but still no Clockwork. Figuring there’s nothing else to do, Danny pours himself a cup of tea, and settles in to wait.

—

Who is he? What is this place? His hand rests against a cool, smooth surface that appears so at odds with the rest of his surroundings-rocky ground, a red sky, and the water lapping against the cliff-side. There is nothing, and no one else that he sees, except – a cave. He stumbles in, visions of symbols surfacing in his brain- two “W”s, an “S”, a bat. He carves these into the rock-face desperate to have a visual trigger that would help him remember anything, but nothing comes.

A rock clatters against the floor of the cave, followed by someone’s voice. He approaches, steadily, entering into the light. Four men stand before him, weapons raised. They say something else, but he can’t understand.

“Where am I? What is this place?”

They do not answer him, but pull back their weapons. They introduce themselves, and speak some more. Names, he realizes- Man, Boy, Giant, Surly, Joker. This last one gives him pause, tickles something in his brain that upsets him, but soon his eyes lay on the structure from before, and he stumbles back to it, certain it must contain some clue.

The men he walks past continue to converse amongst themselves, but he has only one destination in mind. He digs through, looking for anything, but comes up only with a large swath of fabric. That same “S”, that calls to him but gives no answers.

The men set up camp, cooking as they go. They invite him to join, and he does, his hunger for food now outweighing his hunger for knowledge.

—

“Danny, I’m glad you came as soon as you could.” 

Danny’s teacup clatters as he jolts in surprise. He turns to face Clockwork, “I hope you don’t mind that I helped myself. What did you need my help with?”

Clockwork’s face turns a bit grim. “There is… something twisted in the time stream in one of the Justice League universes. While I can tell it is meant to happen, I am still uncertain about what is actually happening, and fear that I am unable to see with any certainty the outcome. I need you to venture to when this is to investigate on my behalf.”

Danny nods, his concern growing. “Of course. Is there anything in particular I should be prepared for?”

Danny swears he sees the corner of Clockwork’s mouth twitch up into his signature sly grin, before his face is quickly schooled and he says “No, just observe for now. Your destination is through here.”

Danny watches as the cog begins to glow before he ventures forward.

Immediately he is met with the sight of violence. It seems one group of cavemen has taken to attacking another during their dinner. Danny watches, cautious against intervening, trying to figure out who he is meant to watch for. He sees one man, dressed in black bottoms, escape the field of battle with a young boy and hide in the bushes. The battle quickly turns against the four who had been eating dinner, and Danny looks at the leader of those attacking, surprised that the leader’s face is familiar to him…though he can’t quite place who.

The man from before rejoins the fray, quickly beating many off before ultimately being subdued himself. The leader of the attacking cavemen crows in victory, before the army collects the man they’ve now taken prisoner and any other spoils, and returns to their home base.

Danny follows, trying hard not to focus on the bloodshed beneath. He may have lived a long time, but the kind of person willing to commit such violence is not someone he goes out of his way to find. He watches as the chief holds the man they took captive above his head.

“Conquering Chief Savage brings gifts from the forbidden land!”

“Shit,” Danny thinks, “I can’t believe I’m witnessing Vandal Savage’s villain origin story. Or is he already a villain at this point?”

Danny continues watching as they tie up the captive, who they’ve been calling ‘Man-God’ underneath a giant bat pelt. He takes a closer look, before reeling back in shock.

“I thought his pants were weird, but those are pretty 21st century” he thinks, before glancing around at hearing a shuffle. He sees a shadow lurking beyond the camp, crouched down. Danny approaches, recognizing the boy that had been rescued from the fight. He wears what looks like a yellow utility belt, and has painted a bat-shaped mask over his eyes.

“Wait… bats, a yellow utility belt…” Danny glances again to the Man-God strapped to the ground. 

“What is Batman doing here..?” Danny pauses, thinking. He should only be here as an observer, but it has never felt right to just stand on the sidelines when he can make the choice to do something to help. Maybe he doesn’t have to do too much. He floats over to where the Boy is crouched, clearly wanting to help but paralyzed with fear and indecision.

“Go to him. Help him as he has helped you. There has been enough bloodshed this day, will you wait around to see more?” Danny whispers to him, watching the boy’s eyes harden as he comes to a decision.

The boy is quick to act now that he’s made a decision. He approaches Batman, and frees him from his bonds. Danny watches as they collect themselves. Batman dons his utility pelt, and the bat pelt that had been hung over him. By the time they’ve finished their preparations, the sun has risen and the men who captured Batman are rising.

“Should I cause a distraction?” Danny wonders, but before he can do anything, Batman and the boy spring into action, taking out fighter after fighter, until Batman is left facing Vandal Savage.

They charge towards each other, but Danny’s attention is caught by a shadow that begins to pass over the battlefield. He looks up, noting an eclipse is starting. He can feel the energy changing, knows that something is going to happen when the sun has been completely blotted out.

But Clockwork has instructed him only to observe, so observe he will. He turns back to the battlefield, noting that Batman and the boy have managed to push back Vandal Savage, but are still being chased off by the remaining caveman. They drop over a waterfall, but when Danny follows, he only sees the boy surface.

The sky is dark now, as the sun has been completely covered, and there is energy concentrated underneath the water. Danny focuses, in the way Clockwork has taught him, to figure out what lies beneath and where Batman has gone.

“A strong amount of time-manipulation energy…No Batman, not in this time anymore.” Danny looks around to see the boy has realized Batman will not follow, and has left to find shelter. 

“Did he make another jump through time? But how? I didn’t see that he had anything on him capable of such a jump?” Danny thinks. He’s considering if he can piggy back off the residual energy to jump to when Batman is, but a portal opens behind him and Clockwork steps out.

“Danny, I think it would be best if we return now.” he says, gesturing for Danny to follow.

—

Back at his mentor’s lair, Danny explains the situation to Clockwork. Clockwork inclined his head in thought, only speaking after some time, “I can’t say for certain whether or not Batman was meant to be in that time period. However, there is something suspicious about the way he’s been traveling through time. Did you notice anything off with the time manipulation energy, Danny?” 

“I can’t say for certain,” Danny starts, “Though I did notice there was a build-up to the event, in line with an eclipse. Then again, I’m not familiar enough with the way dimensional energy manipulation feels in the universes with the Justice League to say for certain.”

Clockwork hums, before turning to rifle through a cupboard that popped up behind him. He pulled out a glowing orange orb. “Here, it’s a record of the time-manipulation energy gathered from one of the Flash’s misadventures. Can you compare and feel any difference?”

Danny closes his eyes before focusing again. “I can feel there are some significant similarities, but it feels like both have an added component that is different from each other? I don’t know if that makes any sense.”

“The energy reading from the sphere I handed you will likely contain energy both from the time-manipulation and the Speedforce the Flashes use to travel between time. If we assume the time-manipulation energy is the constant in both samples, then…”

“There’s some other energy added into the mix that is propelling Batman forward through time?” Danny finishes.

“That is likely the case. Until we know what it is, it would be best to exercise caution. We don’t know how it interacts with the time-manipulation energy, so we can’t predict how it might affect you Daniel.” Clockwork pauses in thought once more, “I’ll spend some time figuring out where Batman made his next jump. In the meantime, take a rest and prepare yourself.”

“I’m not totally familiar with the universes containing the Justice League. I’ll spend some time researching for now… and maybe I’ll ask Dani what she knows when she returns.”

Clockwork smiles slightly, before nodding. “A fine course of action, it might be best to gather all the information we can before proceeding.”

A/N:

At the time of plotting this, I haven’t read A Glitch in Time. I know that there are some time periods in common that Danny and Bruce travel to, so I want to address that at this moment I’m not planning to reference A Glitch in Time.

As for actual writing, I feel a bit stuck on how much of Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne to actually reference, as I’m aware that most people in the dp x dc fandom are more familiar with Danny Phantom, and from other references I’ve seen to Batman’s travels through time it might not be a story many are familiar with. That being said, I don’t want to just directly repeat details from the comics. I guess if you feel I didn’t provide enough background from the comic series to understand what’s going on, or that I should maybe try referencing less, please let me know so I can make corrections.

On that note, I do recommend reading Batman:The Return of Bruce Wayne if you get the chance. There are so many interesting layers it adds to the mythos and history of Batman and the Wayne family, and it’s really a great read. It helps that you don’t really need too much knowledge of what comes before– except maybe that Batman had crafted a god-killing bullet he shot Darkseid with, before Darkseid retaliated and “killed” Batman. Even this is alluded to in the story in enough detail that you can understand what’s going on, though.

[hpowellsmith]

Your writing for this game is flowing so fast and it makes me so happy, cause my anxiety didn't let me wait for RA without checking this form everyday lmao!! It has the potential to be as good as Creme!!

Is chapter 7 the last chapter you'll update before you submit HB to COG?

Thank you, that's incredibly kind 🥹

I'm really pleased that Honor Bound is going so fast and (generally) smoothly, it's been really nice working on it almost full-time. I think Chapter 7 will probably be the last update I put up publicly (it's currently up on Patreon and will go up for everyone on 2nd July).

I'm hoping to write as much of Chapter 11 as I can during June, and hopefully complete the draft in July. Whenever it is completed, what will then happen is:

I will send everything to my editor who will give me notes for Chapters 11-12

I will revise Chapters 11-12

Then at various times, with some overlap the following will happen:

The whole game will be closely reviewed by one of the CoG editors who will send me notes (in the past it's usually been an editor who isn't my main one, so it's fresh for them)

Automatically-generated playthrough seeds will be read by a number of continuity readers who will give me notes about errors, unclear stuff, or sensitivity issues

The beta test for the whole game will happen (usually this is announced publicly and can be signed up for by email - I say usually because a couple of games haven't been organised like that lately and I'm covering all my bases)

Through all that, I'll be editing the game in response to the feedback and putting up updates for the readers and testers.

Once all the edits are done, the game is polished to my satisfaction, and playtesters have slowed down and aren't finding errors anymore, the game will go up be copyedited. That's the stage at which I twiddle my thumbs and feel at a loose end, and also start thinking in more detail about what I want to make next. It's also the stage at which I'll have a clearer idea of the release date.

Then once the copyediting is finished and I've answered any queries about it, once the release date comes around we're ready to go! (I can't remember the timing for my other games, but for Royal Affairs, it was 4 months from the full draft completion to the release date.) And that's the point where I get jittery and nervous, and panic about self-promotion. But I also try to do something nice to celebrate.

After a couple of weeks I have a reasonable idea of sales and reviews (though I really try not to obsess over either) and can use that to make further decisions about what I do next.

So that's an essay you didn't ask for about what my next few months are going to be like!

[myimaginedcorner]

SCALES OF JUSTICE - CHAPTER 7 UPDATE!!!

Welcome back, my dear reader. It has now been 2 years since we first met, and soon, this journey will come to an end. Yes, we're very close to the finale of this book, all set, and everyone ready for the final push. However, that's still lost to future; today, I'm here to take you on a day around Galeya's streets, four little stories waiting to be discovered. Explore, decide, and shape your life and others - have the first taste of choices one must make when playing in a higher league.

As usual, I welcome any feedback, specially now that my beta-tester is quite occupied with her MSc (still a strong woman in STEM, still a prisoner to her project. We shall remember her dearly). If you have any issues, recommendations, or comments in general about my work, feel free to text me here or make a post in CoG forum, where I will be answering you to the best of my capabilities. This new update is MASSIVE - I've sure missed things among all the potential choices.

NEW THINGS IN THIS UPDATE:

Explore Galeya, a bastion to Hero's safety, a haven to its crime.

Choose how to sort out your rooms for the night.

Accompany one of your companions in their own story on this day of peace before the storm: steal, catch or save, your pick.

Discover secrets about yourself... or about others.

Remember: not always one can have it all.

Chapter 6 is 161k words long. Yes, I just decided to give you 3 of my normal chapters in one go. Enjoy!

KNOWN BUGS:

Sometimes, the image for Chapter 5's title doesn't appear at the beggining of the chapter. I'm unsure why, and thus the bug still persists.

DEMO DESCRIPTION AND USEFUL LINKS:

Scales of Justice is a fantasy game situated in another world, far away from Earth. There are plenty of species living together in harmony, but the human race is currently split in two civilisations: the one known as Hero kingdom, which is ruled by ‘heroes’, and the one named Vannais kingdom, controled by ‘villains’. Both nations hate each other and the fight between ‘heroes’ and ‘villains’ here is something that happens on a national level. The game is focused on lore, on character development and your own perception of the world: perhaps, your MC just wants to live a peaceful life... or maybe wants to save the world.

Or even rule it, if you’re into such things.

If you want to know a little more about this project and read the first 7 chapters, I'll leave the link to the game here -> https://dashingdon.com/play/myimaginedcorner/scales-of-justice/mygame/

If you want to discuss anything on CoG's forum, I'll leave the link for SoJ here -> https://forum.choiceofgames.com/t/wip-scales-of-justice-new-project-announcement-and-demo-release/101088/16

If you want to send me a more extensive feedback, here's my email -> feedbackscalesofjustice@gmail.com

Any mistakes, concerns or questions you have, feel free to contact me through Tumblr! I am very excited to share this story with all of you, and I want to make it as good as possible with your help!

RO DESCRIPTIONS:

Shoren/Seile → Heir to the throne of Hero kingdom, where your journey starts. Also, your old friend whom is very attached to you. Likes to read and practice magic, enjoys adventure and heroic deeds. A recognised “Hero”, with blonde curly hair, pale skin and a pair of beautiful blue eyes.

Robert/Reina → Order’s Paladin, defender of Hero and knight of Fate itself. Brave and honourable, they are determined to protect the people of the kingdom. Very loyal to friends and very dangerous as an enemy. Has short brown hair, tanned skin and an athletic build.

Valerius/Venis → An Outworlder, who was caught by cultists in the Wicked Woods. Gracious, elegant and charismatic, with ideas that you cannot always grasp. Has long, dark brown hair with a silver streak, olive skin and golden eyes.

Arion/Aria → Leader of Vannais, a recognised “Villain” who escaped from Hero and now rules the enemy kingdom. Serious, reserved yet respectful. Doesn’t like to stay behind hiding in the castle, an so always personally appears in battlefields and negotiations. Has short blonde hair, pale skin and greenish eyes.

Be careful! These characters have their thoughts and opinions on the world and your actions: if you want them to support you, convince them or take their side… or neither. That is your choice after all!

[docterdenseif]

Broken Fable

Hey all, this is the general synopsis of the interactive fiction I am working on.

Demo Link: https://dashingdon.com/play/drdense/broken-fable/mygame/

Length: 182k Words

Play as a broken legend in a world ravaged by a war between two hostile superpowered factions set in a history alternative to our own. Will you betray centuries of secrecy in order to protect what you’ve grow attached to, or will you cave and lead the world down a path of ash?

Plot Summary:

It’s been 50 years since The War of Reformation, a 10 year conflict between two factions of the newly emerged augmented humans that devestated the world. Cities were destroyed, hundreds of millions died, and a whole continent was sunk. But since then the world has recovered, and the winning side evolved into The Praetorium, the de facto rulers of the new world order. The year is 2023, and tensions between the two superpowered factions are rising once again.

The whole world holds their breath wondering if there will be another mass slaughter.

You have sat on the sidelines of history for a insane multitude of years, witnessing the birth of modern society. You watched, not even raising a finger, as Chicago was literally reduced to a smoking hole in the ground.

You could have stopped it, it was within your power, but you didn’t. Having lost touch with your humanity, you simply drifted, feeling nothing. But now you are thrust into a situation that forces you to take a stand. Will you reclaim your humanity, or will you finally fully cast it off, becoming something greater.

if you want more information make sure to check out everything I have written over on the COG forum thread:

Patreon: patreon.com/DrDenseIF

https://forum.choiceofgames.com/t/wip-broken-fable-68-5k-words-prologue-and-chapter-one-complete-updated-5-7-23/133585

[wolfsbane-if]

Wolfsbane FAQ

For anyone who can't access the FAQ page through the Tumblr mobile app, I've copied and pasted it below:

1. Where can I play the game?

Right here!

2. Is there a Discord server for Wolfsbane?

Nope! Wolfsbane doesn’t have a Discord server or CoG forum thread associated with it; all info and content will be shared right here.

3. How often does it update?

Wolfsbane was initially updated on a per-chapter basis, but my plan now is to hopefully finish the first draft of the game before updating the public demo again. Wolfsbane was last updated on June 28th, 2022, and currently contains the prologue and first four chapters.

4. Regarding asking about future events, plot points, choices, or outcomes:

As a general rule, I don’t discuss future game content before it happens in the game itself. I’m the sort of author who feels a story out as I write it, and the nature of WIPs means that things are very subject to change and I don’t yet know what all I’ll be able to deliver on, so I prefer to not publicly commit to anything ahead of time. For that reason, I’d prefer to not receive any questions asking if a certain event/outcome will happen, if the MC will be able to make a certain choice, or if a character will ever do or experience a particular action or feeling. I don’t have an answer for asks of this nature because I simply don’t know, and even if I have an idea in place, I’d rather not discuss it before it appears in the story proper, lest things change from how I’ve envisioned them along the way. While questions about future happenings in the game are off limits, however, I alternatively welcome asks regarding general worldbuilding, hypothetical scenarios, and characters and events as they were in the past or are in the present. Asks about worldbuilding are tagged #Wolfsbane Worldbuilding Thank you for understanding!

5. Who are the ROs?

So far, no one. I feel that the label of RO carries with it certain connotations, such as each character getting a similar amount of spotlight, development, and time with the MC; but Wolfsbane is not primarily a romance story and I don’t know if looking at the characters through that lens would be beneficial for setting expectations. My intent is for Wolfsbane to be a story about characters and their experiences rather than a dating sim about love interests, and for now my focus is on developing those arcs asymmetrically and without romance being the intended culmination. Elements of romance and romantic feelings are touched on throughout the story, but not in the way that is typical for IFs.

6. Is Wolfsbane genderlocked?

Nope! The MC isn’t locked to a specific gender; there just isn’t an option to specify it in-game because it hasn’t actually come up at all. I’ll be sure to include a choice of male, female, or nonbinary if/when it becomes relevant, but feel free to imagine your Wolfsbane however you please.

7. How tall is Garamond?

Height chart can be found here!

8. Do you accept NSFW asks?

I don’t necessarily mind asks with NSFW topics, although I do ask that they please be actual questions I can discuss as opposed to just sharing NSFW thoughts/fantasies. I’d also prefer they be kept in line with the content level of Wolfsbane itself (eg: sex is mentioned but never particularly detailed). If you’d like to filter NSFW content out for yourself, the tag I use is #nsfwolfsbane.