#Direwolf Project

[bamber344]

i desire... comments.

and ENGAGEMENT

i want to hear people's opinions and thoughts on my work!!

raaaaagaaghghg

[blujayonthewing]

I love that justin has made simon so fucking delightful that I'm sitting here going 'okay damn I need to figure out how exactly to roleplay felix's attachment issues fast'

[mylovelookup]

Ollie rises onto two legs and leans into Roose’s throat, pressing the end of his silver muzzle into the side of his jaw. It’s a pretty thing, at least in Felix’s opinion— a shiny contraption fitted with two rows of iron teeth, each of them long enough to puncture a man’s windpipe. Two leather straps keep it securely against his beast’s face. Felix had it uniquely fashioned for Ollie, shaped after the mouth of the direwolf that raised him. It opens and closes with the movement of Ollie’s jaws and even comes with a locking mechanism that, when triggered, keeps both his metal jaws and his real ones from opening. Very handy.

@follieaun 💝💖💝

[arte072]

when Arya returns to the North after having destroyed the Lannisters relationship with the Iron Bank of Braavos, walking around with a giant ass direwolf and said direwolf’s giant ass wolf pack on her heels, astral projecting into animals and practicing blood magic, all with Robb’s crown in her hands with her undead mother’s full blessing 

[greenmtwoman]

Elder Brother turned to the three figures in the wagon, his eyes widening at the sight of the direwolf standing beside them and the raven perched on the side of the cart.  His hand grasped his crystal.  “You are a larger company than when you set out.  Have you found the girl you sought?” he asked Brienne.

“We have.”  Brienne was too tired at the moment to even think of beginning the tangled tale.

“I am eager to hear to hear of it.”  He smiled, spread his hands and nodded.  “Be welcome to the Quiet Isle, maidens.  I am the Elder Brother.”

Sansa dipped her head with perfect courtesy, as if she sat in a palanquin, not a rickety cart.  The raven quorked.  She said, “I thank you, Elder Brother.  I am Sansa Stark of Winterfell, and this is my sister, Lady Arya Stark, who is no longer no one.”

Arya elbowed Sansa sharply and Elder Brother frowned, puzzled.  “An interesting description, Lady Sansa.  I am most glad to see you both.”  He then asked, “And with you is…?”

[asongofstarkandtargaryen]

I find myself deeply frustrated by people who assign Daenerys Targaryen’s titles to Jon Snow.

No, Jon is not the father of dragons, this isn’t a group project. Daenerys bled for her dragons, she walked into that pyre fully prepared to die. Jon Snow stumbled upon a direwolf, he is handed a Valyrian steel sword, he stumbles upon Dragonglass.

Everything Daenerys has, she has earned with her blood, her sweat and her tears. I truly wish people would stop using her achievements to prop up their faves. Since the Dragonbane died, her family had been trying to bring back dragons.

All this to say, blood is not enough. Jon being Rhaegar’s son means less than nothing in the context of hatching dragons.

Dany is the only person who will even be the mother of dragons. She's the one who gave birth to the dragons and even if Rhaegal and Viserion one day find different riders to bond ( because Dany can't become their rider; she's already Drogon's) that wont eliminate the special bond they all share with their mother; Dany. Their potential riders will be like the countless dragonriders from the past who shared a bond with the dragon they rode, meanwhile Dany will be the only person in history who revived the dragon species. That will always be hers and hers alone.

With that being said, I don't like belittling a character in order to elevate another (and frankly Dany doesn't need it, she's special on her own account). Jon Snow didn't stumbled upon the direwolves, he found them and convinced his father that his siblings were meant to have them, his actions lead to the greatest treasure the Stark siblings have; to a bond that helped them unlock their magical powers. He's the one who found the sixth pup (despite the fact that Ghost is the silent one so possibly their bond was strong even before their meeting?) and claimed it for himself.

Furthermore, if you bothered to read Jon's chapters you would know that he wasn't given Longclaw just because. Jeor Mormont gave it to him because Jon bravely saved his life from a wight, even burning his hand in the process. Finally, it was Ghost who led him to the dragonglass. It's not something that was discovered by chance, Ghost - who shares Jon's soul- wanted to led him there. It's laughable to pretend that out of all the previleged noble character, the one who has grown with the stain of bastard, gets handled things.

Fuck anyone who belittles Dany's accomplishments. But also fuck anyone who belittles Jon's ones.

[ladyrunestone]

Sometimes prayers are answered

“I prayed for it,” she said dully. “He was my special boy. I went to the sept and prayed seven times to the seven faces of god that Ned would change his mind and leave him here with me. Sometimes prayers are answered.” — AGoT, Jon II.

Tags: Teen And Up Audiences, Gen, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings

Word count: 3,1 k

Summary:

Had it been any other day, Catelyn would have left as fast as her feet could carry her. She hardly ever came to this place, if she could help it. But tomorrow she was sending half her family away, and the dead direwolf was still howling in her mind, and she had felt something coming ever since receiving the news of Jon Arryn’s death. She knelt beneath the weirwood as she usually did beneath the seven faces of god, and she prayed. A sept smelled of incense, but this was an ancient, primal place, and it smelled of moist earth and decay. It clung to her throat like a spoonful of spoilt honey. She knew no hymns, no songs for the nameless, faceless gods of the greenwood. But the blood of the First Men still flowed in the veins of the Starks, and it was for them she was asking. “Let them all be safe,” her throat rasped as a light breeze danced through the rustling leaves, “and I’ll give you anything you ask of me.” Anything? The wind seemed to whisper. (A different Stark child finds Cersei and Jaimie in the abandoned tower.)

Notes: Inspired by the prompt event at the subreddit's official discord, except that I arrived late to participate on the first prompt and I also really didn't like the 500 word limit <3

[jackoshadows]

Do Direwolves Dream of Sheep?

"Wolves and women wed for life," Haggon often said. "You take one, that's a marriage. The wolf is part of you from that day on, and you're part of him. Both of you will change." - Varamyr, ADwD

So we know that the more Arya and Jon warg into their direwolves the stronger they become as wargs. Arya who is able to warg across great distances has now advanced to the next level and skinchanged the cat in AFfC. In ADwD Jon is able to taste blood while awake because Ghost has just fed.

However, as Varamyr points out, surely the direwolves would also change from having the consciousness of these wargs in them.

I am curious about the wolf dreams in particular. Searching the interwebs and the wiki on warging, while mentioning the wolf dreams, does not go into the details of what that actually means.

In some cases it’s pretty simple. Arya’s wolf ‘dreams’ are her warging Nymeria in the Riverlands.

The smell of blood was heavy in her nostrils… or was that her nightmare, lingering? She had dreamed of wolves again, of running through some dark pine forest with a great pack at her hells, hard on the scent of prey.

...

Except in dreams. She took a breath to quiet the howling in her heart, trying to remember more of what she'd dreamt, but most of it had gone already. There had been blood in it, though, and a full moon overhead, and a tree that watched her as she ran. -TWOW, Mercy

Since Arya and Jon don’t really understand warging they assume they are dreaming when they warg into their direwolves while sleeping. I am assuming here that warging is some kind of astral projection like phenomenon where one’s consciousness takes over that of the animal. So while Arya assumes it’s a dream, it’s not really one is it? It’s Arya warging into Nymeria across sea and land and vast distances. Jon assumes the same of what is happening with him and Ghost:

The wolf dreams had been growing stronger, and he found himself remembering them even when awake. Ghost knows that Grey Wind is dead. Robb had died at the Twins, betrayed by men he’d believed his friends, and his wolf had perished with him. Bran and Rickon had been murdered too, beheaded at the behest of Theon Greyjoy, who had once been their lord father’s ward … but if dreams did not lie, their direwolves had escaped. At Queenscrown, one had come out of the darkness to save Jon’s life. Summer, it had to be. His fur was grey, and Shaggydog is black. He wondered if some part of his dead brothers lived on inside their wolves. - Jon, ADwD

Now here is the tricky part. Does Ghost know that Grey Wind is dead or is it Jon Snow through Ghost who senses that Grey Wind is dead? Is it the direwolf’s consciousness that knows this or Jon’s? If Jon’s consciousness leaves Ghost, does Ghost still know that Grey Wind is dead?

When he [Jon] closed his eyes, he dreamed of direwolves.

There were five of them when there should have been six, and they were scattered, each apart from the others. He felt a deep ache of emptiness, a sense of incompleteness. The forest was vast and cold, and they were so small, so lost. His brothers were out there somewhere, and his sister, but he had lost their scent. He sat on his haunches and lifted his head to the darkening sky, and his cry echoed through the forest, a long lonely mournful sound. As it died away, he pricked up his ears, listening for an answer, but the only sound was the sigh of blowing snow. - Jon, ACoK

Far off, he could hear his packmates calling to him, like to like. They were hunting too. A wild rain lashed down upon his black brother as he tore at the flesh of an enormous goat, washing the blood from his side where the goat’s long horn had raked him. In another place, his little sister lifted her head to sing to the moon, and a hundred small grey cousins broke off their hunt to sing with her. The hills were warmer where they were, and full of food. Many a night his sister’s pack gorged on the flesh of sheep and cows and horses, the prey of men, and sometimes even on the flesh of man himself. - Jon, ADwD

So is this Jon in Ghost reaching out to Nymeria and Shaggydog and feeling that sense of incompleteness without the rest of Ghost’s siblings? Or is it Jon sensing that incompleteness in Ghost and sensing/feeling Ghost reaching out to his siblings?

As in, do these abilities to sense and literally see what the other direwolves are doing come from warging or is it the direwolves who are doing this and it’s Jon’s consciousness in Ghost seeing what Ghost is seeing with respect to what Nymeria and Shaggydog are doing?

If it is warging, does Arya have to be warging Nymeria and Rickon warging Shaggydog at the same time for Jon warging Ghost to sense them by connecting through fellow wargs?

For example, Bran is clearly in some of these wolf ‘dreams’ when Jon and Arya warg into Ghost and Nymeria.

There had been blood in it, though, and a full moon overhead, and a tree that watched her as she ran. -TWOW, Mercy

Jon? The call came from behind him, softer than a whisper, but strong too. Can a shout be silent? He turned his head, searching for his brother, for a glimpse of a lean grey shape moving beneath the trees, but there was nothing, only…

A weirwood. Red eyes looked at him. Fierce eyes they were, yet glad to see him. The weirwood had his brother's face. Had his brother always had three eyes? - Jon, ACoK

Is it just that Jon, Arya and Bran are all warging at the same time in their sleep and hence able to connect across these warging dreams? I am assuming Westeros and Essos fall in the same time zone and day/night occurs at the same time. In which case they would be asleep at the same time while their wolves are up and doing all sorts of killing.

Do Ghost, Nymeria, Summer and Shaggydog dream when they sleep?  What happens when the Stark kids warg into sleeping direwolves?

In ACoK, we get this from Bran when Summer is restrained in the Godswood:

"If I were truly a direwolf, I would understand the song, he thought wistfully. In his wolf dreams, he could race up the sides of mountains, jagged icy mountains taller than any tower, and stand at the summit beneath the full moon with all the world below him, as it used to be." - Bran, ACoK

Is this Summer’s dreams that Bran is experiencing?

There’s also an indication that Shaggydog and Rickon are changing each other:

Shaggydog had come slavering out of the darkness like a green-eyed demon. The wolf was near as wild as Rickon; he'd bitten Gage on the arm and torn a chunk of flesh from Mikken's thigh. - Bran, AGoT

I wonder if GRRM has kept this deliberately vague for now and more will be revealed in later books or if it’s intended to be a deliberately vague magic system where the effects on the Direwolves from all this warging is not ever addressed. It’s certainly interesting though. 

[alxarasm]

Vampire Catelyn X Direwolf Ned

Looks like it’s gonna be a multi chapter.

Rating: M

Pairing: Ned Stark/Catelyn Tully Stark

Some minor Brandon/Barbrey

Summary:

Brandon and Catelyn are yet to be married, even as she nears her twenty second name day and the likelihood of her giving him an heir as a vampire decreases ever so drastically with every passing day they remain unmated.

For reasons unbeknownst to him, Ned Stark’s brother refuses to marry the alluring Catelyn Tully, preferring to turn his attentions to Ned’s own betrothed before the eyes of gods and men.

As unseen forces drive Ned and Catelyn closer together, and farther away from their duty, it’s only a matter of time before one of them succumbs to their desires, only who will be the one paying for their sins.

[yuki-boshi]

Kai no Kiseki - Act 1 Part 2 English Summary

Table of Contents

Sorry it took so long to release this. Life gets in the way. And Act 1 Part 2 I think is pretty long.

As always, this is is not a substitute for an actual translation, it's supplementary at best!

1 PM

Elaine and the other Bracers meet Van at his office in Old Town. Van asks Elaine about the case she’s working on. Elaine looks to Zin for permission to share, and he agrees. She explains that the case dates back to March, when the Guild, ASO, and the CID cooperated to arrest an anti-immigration terrorist group. Now, there are signs of a new anti-immigration organization called the Yuushidan (憂士団). Elaine mentions that the police have little information and that this new group may have activity outside the Republic as well.

Risette asks if this is connected to the case Towa mentioned about Northern immigrants disappearing. Elaine speculates that the Yuushidan might be recruiting white immigrants to strengthen their ranks.

A map shows neighboring nations, revealing a small number of missing people, all tied to the same "broker." Bergard notes how covert the operation is, which explains why it's gone unnoticed for months. However, it's still a significant issue. Zin agrees, adding that the last three months coincide with the Space Program announcement, and there might be a reason the CID hasn’t acted yet.

Elaine then informs Van that neither she nor Van have been able to contact Rene. The Guild reached out to the CID for collaboration but was turned down, likely because the CID is focused on the space project. Aaron finds it suspicious that Kincaid, a master analyst who tracks every jaeger group, including the Kruga’s, seems to be overlooking this potential terrorist threat. Judith asks if the MK is involved, but Risette corrects herself, saying that the MK has no such orders.

Van interprets this as a sign that the anti-immigration issue isn't on anyone’s radar and proposes a joint effort like the one in March (Kuro 2). Zin agrees, although Elaine clarifies she can’t fully participate but will help occasionally. Frustrated, Elaine remarks that she could have just had Fie assist the ASO, but wonders why Zin specifically recommended her. The group has a lighthearted moment before Van thanks Elaine for her limited participation. Elaine agrees and asks Bergard to spar with her again to learn. Bergard, amused, accepts, eager to see what the "Sword Maiden" can do.

While the girls head upstairs, Aaron relaxes on the couch. Quatre comments on Aaron’s ability to stay fit despite his daily drinking. Aaron teases back, saying he’s "built different" and has his own form of "night exercise," implying something risqué (sex or something). Quatre, embarrassed, blurts out that he doesn’t need to know that. Bergard approaches Aaron, offering to teach him Kunlun breathing techniques. Aaron declines, satisfied with his Gekka style, but Bergard insists on the importance of being diverse.

Zin jokes that maybe he and Elaine can assist Van part-time so that he can study with Bergard too. Van declines and shifts the conversation, asking if there’s any news about Walter (Direwolf). Zin clarifies that the anti-immigration group has no connection to the Society. He also recalls Renne's earlier hint about an upcoming plan.

Zin then mentions that the Lemans State Headquarters may contact Van, as they are interested in learning about the Spriggans. Although Zin shared some information, he kept crucial details hidden, including Van’s ability to transform into Grendel. In very neat Japanese things, the kanji for “her” appears in the text, but the furigana reads Agnes, revealing the identity to the reader.

Zin also notes their curiosity about what happened in the Marchen Garten.

In the funniest most meta (outside game) thing, Zin leaves says considering Van’s track record, he will also be contacted by an organization that the guild frequents. Van thinks about it saying there’s only ONE group, and then a big Epstein logo just flashes in.

Elaine then re-enters, complaining about her new outfit. Van, geeking out, compliments her look, saying it suits her well and that her white heels look stylish and durable. Elaine is taken aback, stuttering, "O-Oh... R-Really?"

Quatre, annoyed, comments that Van still hasn’t praised him, and the others begin teasing Van about his dynamic with Elaine. Even Bergard joins in.

Overhearing them, Van tells them to knock it off and urges Bergard not to get involved. Elaine clears her throat to regain the group’s focus and announces that she’s temporarily removing her Bracer insignia to work with them until evening, ready to tackle the 4SPGs.

The players then receive a Judith Disguise item.

As the players take control in the field, Elaine will ask where Agnes is, expressing her hope to work with her. Judith adds that she also did not get to spend time with Agnes due to the morning's events. Van responds, telling them that they are both celebrities and should avoid attracting too much attention, especially Judith. Flustered, Judith questions why she is being singled out, insisting that she is very careful.

Outside the store, Baselia is no longer at the hotel and has come to Old Town to talk to Brenda, Eddy's mother. Baselia asks Brenda if Eddy is around, mentioning that she hasn’t seen him in a while and feels he has been distant. Baselia wonders if she has done something wrong. Brenda, with a sweatdrop, thinks to herself about Eddy's behavior. She tells Baselia that Eddy has been absent-minded lately, but he left the house today looking serious and went to a busy area. She suggests that if Baselia is interested, she should check there for him.

At the 4SPG board, the group finds no requests. Van receives a call from an unknown number, causing him to panic slightly at Zin's warning. He answers the phone and hears a girl’s voice, Altina, asking if this is Arkride's number. She introduces herself as Altina Orion, stating they met yesterday at MK. Bergard comments to himself about her being the same age as Agnes but having a beautiful background. Judith thinks Altina is very pretty and would make a great actress.

Altina, hearing their comments, clears her throat and explains that she is not contacting them as a member of Thors but as a representative of the Crossbell branch of the Epstein Foundation, requesting their assistance. The group returns to the office, feeling annoyed to hear that the Marchen Garten has been taken over again. They reminisce about events from Kuro 2, not expecting that MK would abandon the Garten after it was hacked shortly after a major update in May, especially since the Beta version was set to release in June. They learn that the takeover was executed using extreme cutting-edge hacking technology rather than Genesis.

Mirabel hijacks the call, stating that MK's policy is to let the Foundation handle this situation. She asks if it is acceptable to follow everyone since the handoff is not finalized yet. Altina agrees, and they load up what the Garten looks like now, revealing the Grim Garten, which has a darker, moodier appearance. Van appears unimpressed.

Judith remarks that it is obvious who is behind this, leading them to immediately suspect the Society. However, they note that they have not encountered them since March. Regardless, since MK is asking the Foundation to take action, the Foundation has no choice, especially since MK is also offering to share secrets about Shard technology in exchange for liberating the Garten. Aaron chuckles, commenting on the cheekiness of the arrangement.

Altina asks if they can take on this request as a 4SPG. Van hesitates, explaining that he cannot promise anything due to a backlog of tasks. However, he still agrees to accept the request. Altina is surprised and asks if he really means it. Everyone expresses their thoughts, with Aaron saying it is a good opportunity to utilize his skills, Quatre showing interest in how the hacking was done, Judith wanting to know how it was stolen as a phantom thief, and Elaine insisting she must participate since the Society is involved. Mirabel thanks everyone for their support. Shortly after, Van receives an app called “Grim Search,” a newer version of the Shard Search.

They discover a portal in the back alley and are introduced to the Grim Garten.

Grim Garten

The next area transforms into a board game format. In the first domain, the team must defeat a boss monster. After they successfully defeat it, the Garten briefly returns to normal but then changes back. They are teleported back to the entrance, where Altina explains that while they defeated the Boss Guardian, they did not clear the Domain. Mare reappears to assist them with their situation, noting that all the customization aspects of the Garten have been renamed to reflect a more grim theme.

Altina asks Van if he will continue with the request, to which he agrees. Altina thanks Mirabel, who will oversee the Garten in the meantime. Meanwhile, Simeon watches from a distance, noting that the team took the bait and entered the Grim Garten. He remarks that this is the first time he has seen anyone other than the “Lion” (Bergard) and expresses excitement about meeting the Hero of Shackles, which is Van’s chibi nickname. He decides it is too early to reveal his identity and plans to continue assisting the Professor from behind the scenes.

Riverside Area In the Riverside Area, players can find Sonia, the teacher from earlier in Part 1, where Towa encouraged her to talk to her boyfriend. Sonia is sitting at a small table by the water with Edward. They discuss their relationship and how not seeing each other often makes them feel as though they are not really dating. Sonia suggests breaking up because she feels inadequate. Edward interjects, insisting that he loves her and has taken their relationship for granted. He resolves to work harder, stating that being too busy with work is not an excuse anymore.

The group then enters Bermotti’s café, questioning if it is even open. Bermotti informs them that it has been open since noon, and it is now past 1 PM. He explains that another significant event is likely drawing customers away, probably related to the Star Taker plan Van is investigating. Van brushes off Bermotti's comments with a lighthearted response, but Bergard points out that Bermotti must have valuable information if he is speaking so directly to Van.

As they share information, Bermotti mentions that he initially thought the CID and the Spriggans were handling the underworld, but it seems to be the opposite. Everyone is focused on the Star Taker project, which makes him suspicious. He describes the situation as a calm before the storm. Van urges Bermotti to share any information he has since he is acquainted with Hermes and has been seen with her frequently. Elaine also reminds them that Bermotti introduced Hermes to her.

Van addresses Hermes by her proper name, prompting her to ask him not to do that. Emilia drops by because she knows they haven’t seen each other since the announcement of the space project and thought it was a good opportunity.

Van jokingly comments on the fact that the first astronaut in history was moonlighting as a delivery girl and questions if her injury was fake. Emilia clarifies that she was genuinely injured but is making a comeback. She explains that she began her career three years ago after the Great War. Van expresses surprise at her decision to be a delivery driver instead of pursuing racing, to which Emilia responds that driving allowed her to practice her piloting skills for future space travel.

She shares that she is 28 years old and flirts with Van, suggesting that she hopes to resume delivery services for him once everything settles down. Van reciprocates, acknowledging her help as Hermes. Emilia playfully clings to him, implying that if he relies on her so much, he could be more than just a customer. Van becomes flustered by her assertiveness.

Feri warns him that getting too close to a woman before marriage is inappropriate. Aaron teases Van, and Elaine asks him to clarify his earlier comment. Van requests that they not interrupt the conversation and misinterpret his words.

Judith, Bergard, and Risette do not tease Van; instead, they are hurt and curious about why Emilia misled them through omission.

After the cutscene, an optional conversation with Emilia becomes available. Speaking to her reveals that she is leaving for the Oort Testing Site to work on the space project. Van offers to take her out for a drink if she is ever free, hoping to hear about her experiences in space. Emilia agrees.

Talking to Bermotti reveals that Jack and Hal went on an expedition to Tharbad.

---

4SPG Quest A man from General Affairs at Edgeworth Company reports that the PC terminals have not been functioning since yesterday and that a ransom note demanding 1 million mira was found on a screen, threatening to release all the company’s stolen data to the public. Quatre and Risette determine that this type of hacking is known as ransomware. Van questions the man’s honesty, as this is a legitimate crime that should be handled by the police or the Bracer Guild, not the Spriggans.

The man admits that his device is likely the reason the company fell victim to ransomware because his phone was connected to the company’s orbal network while he was goofing off at work. He explains that he visited a shady gambling site, which likely infected the entire network. Judith understands why he sought assistance from the ASO instead of other agencies; he wants to avoid being fired.

Van agrees to help since it seems the attackers are likely former associates of Almata.

They access the bidding site where the auction for the Edgeworth Trading Co. data is taking place. Choosing Option 2 twice (+5000 each) and then Option 3 (+10000) allows them to win the bid. After acquiring the data, they receive a direct message from PLAYBOY. The group tracks the IP address to the Auber District. However, they are interrupted by a person named Rain, who delivers something to Van using drone technology. Rain states that he will fill in for Hermes regarding ZCF-related inquiries.

In Auber, they find people in a suspicious black car, which flees the scene. Rain uses his drone to deploy spikes on the road, causing the car to crash. The perpetrators are arrested, but Rain explains that he is from RA Security and must report to his superiors about the drone’s use. This means the employee from the Trading Company may face consequences and possibly get fired.

Players can choose from the following options:

Tell the man to be honest with the company.

Deny the allegations.

Make a deal with Rain.

If players choose Option 3, Van interjects, suggesting that Rain could leave out the employee's name from his report. Rain responds skeptically, questioning whether Van is trying to interfere with his work. Eventually, they reach a compromise.

After the quest, Rain states it is time to focus on business and informs the group that he will leave the Crossbell situation to his sibling.

Tyrell District Upon entering the Tyrell District, the group notices that the area is buzzing with excitement about the Star Taker project. They discuss how the introduction of the T-Phone and Orbal Social Networks has enabled news to spread quickly.

Players can find Celis and Rion at a café, where they inform the group that they are searching for something not available in the capital, so they are leaving. Additionally, players can find Shahina and Saara looking for a book, which triggers a 4SPG quest where Shahina seeks information about Central Eastern performing arts. After inquiring around Tyrell, players can use the T-phone network to contact someone at the Z1 GR to obtain the book.

Auber District

The group arrives at Auber District in their truck. Aaron parks the vehicle, and Elaine asks Van if he plans to see Agnes since she is in the area. Van confirms he does intend to visit her, and he is suggested to bring gifts from the nearby cake shop. At the patisserie, the owner mentions that they are familiar with Van's blog about sweets and expresses a desire for him to share more content.

Meanwhile, Regina and a new recruit are stationed at the gate to the underground. Regina warns Van about the recent increase in Bracer recruits and expresses concern for their safety, advising against rushing into danger.

At the school gates, Bergard reminisces about attending a festival in Aramis eight years ago, before he knew Van. He recalls watching Elaine's performance about the Revolution, where she portrayed Sheena.

The local 4SPG is seeking assistance in dealing with an Almata assassin who remains at large. The group's reaction to the direct request for murder is one of hesitation, but they reach out to the Bracer Guild for guidance. Hazel informs them that the assassin is likely "Lady Silence," known for leaving little evidence behind after her crimes. They contact Hal for more information and head to Brothers Music Store, where they notice someone suspiciously following them and give chase.

The options for pursuing the stalker are as follows:

He hid in the News Store.

He hid behind a car.

Choosing the second option successfully captures the culprit, who turns out to be Lady Silence's son. He pleads with the group for help in finding his mother so they can escape abroad, away from the threats they face. They eventually track down Candice, a.k.a. Lady Silence, in the Riverside sewers.

Candice refuses to cooperate and opens fire on them. After a chase, Bergard confronts Van, suggesting that Candice may have orchestrated the 4SPG request as a way to seek assisted suicide by involving the Spriggans. Van decides to contact Stan while urging Bergard and the others to move ahead. They finally corner Candice, but she points her gun at Van, leading to a tense showdown.

The choices presented to Van are:

Turn her over to the police.

Turn her over to Eisenchild, known for dealing with Almata remnants.

If Van chooses the first option, Stan reproaches him for not fulfilling their promise. Van counters with the harsh truth that aiding Stan's wish would only result in a life built on lies and constant fear. He argues that if she goes to jail, it might provide her a chance to start anew.

Grand Prix

At the racing track, Lucio and Graham engage in a mock race to prepare for the actual competition the next day. During the race, Lucio’s car flips, causing Graham to crash into a wall while trying to help his friend. Yunifa expresses her sadness that they may be unable to participate in the race due to the damage to the engine. Lucio and Graham feel guilty about the incident.

Elsewhere, Maxim, Gotti, and Giordono discuss the usual movie business. Gotti spots Elaine and wonders if she has come to accept his offer for her to star in his films. Elaine bluntly declines. Judith observes the interaction, commenting that Elaine’s face conveys everything without needing to say more. Gotti and Maxim also chat about their upcoming film, Perfect Driver 0. Maxim wants Yume to finally acknowledge him more than just Uncle and see how rich and cool he really is.

Zin, Gray, and other Bracers discuss Gray's transfer to Basel.

Connect Event: Agnes

Van and Agnes take Alphonse for a walk around Edith. They visit Old Town and encounter Yume and her friends. Afterward, they head to the Central Marche, where Agnes requests to visit a nearby dog park near the fountain. Van is swarmed by dogs, prompting Agnes to laugh and remark on his unexpected popularity with them. She reveals that she has been fostering dogs since childhood and that Alphonse is a rescue she found when she was ten, during a rainy walk with her parents in Riverside, where she heard a puppy's cries for help.

As they continue their conversation, Van compliments Agnes, expressing how much he relies on her as his indispensable part-time assistant. She blushes at his praise. After another swarm of dogs, Agnes giggles, but her thoughts drift as she contemplates how to confess her feelings, recalling her experiences during Kuro 2. She hopes to take things one step at a time.

Connect Event: Elaine

At Riverside, Elaine asks Van to help her choose an Orbal bike, having been indecisive for a week. Van suggests that either option would be fine, leaving the decision to her personal preference. They test ride both the ETWAS and the Red Star. After switching back and forth, Elaine feels more anxious than ever about her choice.

She decides on the Red Star as a safer option, but Van's intuition suggests that she is avoiding the ETWAS due to her father's arrest and the negative reputation of its CEO from the previous year. Elaine quips that childhood friends can be annoyingly perceptive.

She then finalizes her purchase, choosing the ETWAS, Elaine asks if she can drop by to express her gratitude to Van for his support during her decision-making process.

Back at Auber District

The group heads to the Student Council Room in the school. Elaine and Van reminisce about their time there, including memories of Rene. Upon entering, they meet Towa, marking the first introduction between her and Bergard. Towa shares that she has heard various stories from Gaius. The group enjoys cake together while Towa discusses her friends from MK, Thors’ class. Feri mentions that one of Towa’s friends inquired about the Grim Garten case on behalf of the Epstein Foundation. Renne joins the group to greet them.

Towa checks her phone and discovers that the bus system in Edith is down. She asks Van for a ride, complimenting his diverse friend group as being naturally harmonious despite their different backgrounds. Elaine echoes Towa's sentiments, pointing out that Thors has a similar diversity. Towa agrees, explaining that her connections to her friends stem from Thors, which is why she decided to leave for the Republic.

While driving to the airport, Towa mentions a new anti-immigrant organization operating near the Republic. Van expresses his concerns about the group's lack of visible connections to the space project, noting that the Guild is worried about them. They ponder whether Thors might have any relevant information, but Towa reports no activities from Liberl, Crossbell, or Imperial territories.

Eventually, Towa reveals that she is headed to Basel on a secret mission. After dropping her off, the group proceeds to the Blacklight District. On their way, they see news coverage reporting that the test dummy from the prologue has successfully returned to the planet and announces the date for the upcoming manned rocket launch, set for three days later on July 12th at 1 PM. Feri realizes that this date coincides with Agnes's birthday.

Upon entering the Blacklight District, the group encounters Ashlad and Hasan, who are seeking information. Hasan mentions a troubling trend of missing persons connected to the area. Van claims this is the first he’s heard of it, but Elaine suspects it may be related to a canceled missing persons report previously handled by Inspector Nate. Hasan elaborates that initially, only a few Jaegers were missing, but now the number has increased significantly, prompting Bergard to inquire if Ashlad is in the area due to the Church's activities. Ashlad affirms this, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about these groups.

Van asks about influential powers in the Blacklight District and learns that a certain individual is referred to as "boss." He seeks out Isabelle, the unlicensed doctor, to inquire about this "boss." Isabelle is hesitant to reveal the identity.

After the group looks around they learn that it is Gin, the tobacco lady. She explains that the nickname was not her doing but rather something the community adopted, and that she oversees the area, caring for vagrants. Eventually, she directs the group to an abandoned area called the Culvert, where they may find more information about the missing people.

As soon as they enter, Elaine mentions that not even the Guild knows about this place. Van says, no wonder someone as important as the boss would know something that even the Guild doesn’t.

They find a spot where a bunch of clothes are on the ground. Risette starts to feel uneasy as Bergard and Van notice, and they are jumped by a giant boss monster. They are saved by Gouran and Rixia. They discuss how Rixia is no longer a contractor of The Lu family, but that she and Gouran are collaborating together due to both being Heiyue. They discuss about the monster being similar to the ones fought at the Outskirts.

Chardin District

Upon reaching the Chardin District, the atmosphere is enchanting, especially in the evening. Feri describes it as the "adult" district, to which Aaron responds that she is still a kid. Feri retorts that, in Kruga culture, turning 14 is considered adulthood. As you explore the area, you will come across a museum displaying art from Kisara, Fleix, and Mehmed. Engaging with nearby NPCs will lead to Feri expressing her surprise at discovering what "sex appeal" means.

Next, you encounter a small club performance featuring Central Eastern dancers. Van speaks with a man surrounded by women who questions why a child is present. Feri insists she is an adult in her hometown. The man thinks to himself that Feri looks promising and notes that if the establishment has no objections, then it should not be an issue.

While considering entry into the Chardin, Van learns that acquiring tickets can be quite challenging. Shortly thereafter, they run into Marielle, who mentions an upcoming play. Judith realizes she forgot she was invited by Nina and hastily puts on a disguise.

The play, titled "Gloria” features re-enactments of Atkinson, Aramis, and Sheena Dirke, with Nina portraying Sheena. Judith explains her absence from the rehearsal, which necessitated her disguise. Dominique and another person spot the group; the other person is identified as Judith's mother, Chloe. During this moment, it is revealed that Bergard knows Dominique and that Chloe is acquainted with Paulette's father, Viktor. Additionally, Cody and Rocksmith are present.

Part 2 concludes with Nina, in her role as Sheena, reciting that the path for Calvard has been fraught with blood from the beginning, yet she must continue moving forward. She wonders if a new tomorrow (dawn) awaits them.

[bamber344]

heyo, people who like my writing, if you want more of what I got, you should check out my old webnovel, Direwolf! The quality isn't quite as good as Project Genesis as it was the first thing I ever really wrote, but it's still my baby and I will forever love it. Legit it means so much to me

If you're into lesbians, sappy teenage romance, werewolves, sad detectives (my trademark lol), and watching my slow whump awakening in real time, I recommend giving it a read! Admittedly it is a lot to sink your teeth into though, sitting at around 380k words, but hey some of y'all like that longform shit

If you're just in it for some juicy whump (don't blame you lol, and it does get juicy), i recommend starting at chapter 18 or 19, as that's the start of the arc that is probably the whumpy peak of the story. You'll no doubt be missing a bit of context, but do you really need it to enjoy some whumpy goodness? TW for minor whump tho, as the mc is 16/17 throughout the arc. Other than that there is assorted whump throughout the rest of the plot, peaking again around the ending.

Also, reading it means you get to learn about Roxy and Sam, my very first OCs that have been in my head for years and years! They are my babies and a permanent part of my psyche and I love them very very much.

if any of that sounds interesting to you, you can check it out here (royalroad version) or here (scribblehub version). Royal road has more authors notes as I was uploading there first, so if you wanna read those, i recommend that version, but otherwise I prefer scribblehub personally

Happy reading! :)

[kellyvela]

The “Sansa and Lysa = have sisters favoured by their fathers” parallel (if you can call it that) is so funny to me because ned completely ignores sansa and her interests compared to arya. He immediately hires a personal trainer for arya the moment she expresses a slight willingness to learn but he doesn’t even realize that sansa doesn’t play with dolls or that he literally kills her direwolf.

If anything it’s sansa who is dismissed and ignored by her family members to the point where the only close bond she forms in winterfell is with jeyne poole compared to her siblings who all seem to be favorited by another family member (Arya with jon and ned, bran and robb with catelyn and rickon, jon with benjen)

Ned neglecting Sansa is the reason why I hate him. But he was a noble man in a society where lords didn't take care of the children, much less of the daughters. At most, the lords mentored their male heirs at some point. That's why Sansa had a septa, Mordane. But Mordane wasn't the best guardian/tutor for Sansa and Arya, and she was also a woman and a subordinate of Lord Stark. Also take note that Ned was named Hand of the King, a really busy and stressing job, and he was also on a mission to find Jon Arryn's murderer.

Ned also had that corrupted notion of duty that led him to kill Sansa's direwolf.

And more important, our author projected his own relationship with his father in characters like Sam Tarly and Sansa. Both of them have fathers that didn't understand them, Sam got it way worse, of course.

On the other hand, Ned is traumatized by what happened with her late sister Lyanna, and since Arya reminds him of her, he is more empathetic with his younger daughter and her interests. Arya looks like Lyanna and Brandon and has the wolf blood that took both to the death, so Ned was afraid that Arya's impulsiveness lead her to a grave as well. He never imagined that it would be his obedient and dutiful daughter the one that would emulate Lyanna in defying her father pursuing an unwhorthy blonde prince. He never see the wolf blood in Sansa.

Ned was wrong about all of that and he failed Sansa. And when he realized what he has done to her was too late, and the only thing left was dying for her.

Now, I wouldn't say the rest of the Starks ignored Sansa. Catelyn often dismissed the maid to brush her hair. Arya spent most of her time with her being annoying. Bran, despite calling Sansa's interests "stupid" (similar to Arya), seems to be Sansa's fave brother. Rickon was a baby, we don't know much about Robb, but Sansa idolizes him as the rest of the Starklings. But Jon Snow was always observing her from afar, that's why we know he knows about Sansa's love for stories of chivalry and courtly love and he didn't call that "stupid." He seems to appreciate that of her. He also longed for Sansa to consider him more than just her "half brother," like the other Starks did.

But yeah, I go your point, she really was the different sibling of the family; you can see it with Lady, the prettiest, smallest and most trusting of the pack, like Ned sadly realizes moments before killing the wolf.

[here-there-be-drag0ns]

Jay takes advantage of the opportunity to check on Gillion, who should be up and retrieving his sword by now. Her heart stutters in her throat. Gillion hasn’t moved. He’s lying flat on his back in the grass and leaves, limbs twisted awkwardly around him. Blood pools around the shoulder the direwolf bit. His tail doesn’t so much as twitch, his fins laying limp and crumpled on the ground. - Or, when turned on their backs, tritons enter Tonic Immobility, a state of temporary paralysis similar to hypnosis. In typical Gillion Tidestrider fashion, he neglects to tell his co-captains this particular fun fact and scares the ever-loving shit out of them

[neoncherryblossom]

Day 4: Wolves

@sergeantsporks

Hunter wasn’t used to having anyone genuinely be interested in his hobbies, at least at home. In the human realm, he had Gus and Camilla, and here he has Darius and Eberwolf, though he was normally careful that he went to the right person for the right interest. He knows his voice is annoying and he knows everyone was just being patient, but still. That doesn’t seem to matter if they’re interested in what he’s talking about, so he’s always careful.

“I don’t understand why you’re so surprised,” Darius scoffed, rolling his eyes as he stood in front of a huge Venn diagram, a picture of a direwolf and wolf on either side, a giant pile of books to his left. “I’m friends with Eber, what did you expect?”

[inesqueen]

‘’Will he bite me, Lord Robb?’’

Lord Robb, he tasted the words. Why does the way she said it sound as an insult and an invitation at the same time? ‘’Greywind don’t hurt people who don’t deserve to be hurt’’, he answered, trying to sound unaffected by her. 

‘’That’s alright then. Come here, Greywind’’, she said and snapped her fingers. Suspiciously, the direwolf approached and put its face on the palm of her hand. ‘’See, your dog likes me. He just wanted me to be his friend’’, she affirmed while stroking its head. 

‘’Greywind is not a dog. He is a direwolf’’

‘’A big dog, if you prefer’’. 

They stared at each other's eyes for a considerable amount of time. Long enough to make a maiden blush and a septa fear for his young lady’s honor.  Robb never thought he would find kindness and playfulness in a Targaryen. 

Rhaenys Targaryen and Robb Stark in Children of Destiny - chapter 06

[deviantgrey]

Night hung heavy over the small campsite, the sleepy breathing of his companions muffled by the canvas tents that covered them. When Gale took over Astarion’s watch with a silent, sleepy nod, the elf decided that he could wait no longer. He needed to hunt. Walking back toward his own tent, he waited until he was sure the wizard was no longer paying attention before slipping off into the dense woods beyond the camp’s borders.

The sounds of the forest came alive when he focused his senses, waiting to catch the scent of a suitable quarry. There was less animal activity than he expected from a forest this size. It was likely many of them had been scared away by the crash of the nautiloid or the hordes of goblins. Astarion’s feet began to move silently over the ground as he stalked after what smelled like a rabbit.

Tired, aching limbs did their best to keep up with the rest of his body as his thirst urged him forward. It had been three hungry, agonizing days without feeding. Days full of more fighting and travel than he was used to. The rabbit would be enough to sustain him until he came across bigger prey. It would at least be more appetizing than dead rats.

Deeper and deeper into the forest, he followed the trail, wary of any hidden adversaries that he might be too weak to fight off on his own. After ten minutes of beleaguered tracking, the faint smell of blood in the rabbit’s veins exploded into a much higher intensity. The animal had been gravely injured, both the smell and the sight of blood trailing the grassy floor giving that much away. Desperate, he followed the trail, thirst overriding sense as he resolved himself to fighting off whatever predator had stolen his dinner.

Another minute’s walk, and Astarion found the rabbit at the mouth of a small cave. Dead. In hindsight, he should have tried to figure out what had killed it or what might have caused the prey to be abandoned. Perhaps his approach, less graceful than he normally could have managed, had scared it off. Though he would have preferred a fresh kill, he had drunk the blood of far-fouler creatures than a barely dead rabbit. The elf crouched down, lifting the rabbit to his mouth before burying his fangs in its neck, drinking eagerly. Still warm.

Losing himself in the blood, he’d finished the rabbit off far quicker than he would have liked. With a sigh, he set the carcass down, just about to wipe his chin when he heard a noise from within the nearby cave. With a curse, Astarion realized that in his haste to hunt, he had only armed himself with the dagger in his boot. But surely a vampire with a dagger could fend off a simple beast.

As he peered into the cave, he saw two yellow eyes reflecting the moonlight as they peered at him, a low growl emanating from below them. A wolf, then. More challenging than he was hoping for, but at least he would be rewarded with a good meal afterward. Raising his dagger, Astarion faltered slightly as the eyes raised higher. And higher. And…higher. Out into the moonlight stepped quite possibly the largest wolf he had ever seen. A direwolf, teeth glinting dangerously as the black fur on its hackles stood up in warning. Blood dripped from its muzzle, likely from the very same rabbit Astarion had just bled dry.

Perhaps he was still hoping the wolf would be intimidated by his posturing and that was why he had allowed it to venture far closer than he should have. Its eyes were level with his, feral gold and blood red as they sized each other up. Hopefully, the rest of the pack wasn’t lurking in the shadows, waiting to strike. Swallowing nervously, but not one to back down from a fight with a dumb animal, he gestured, challenging the creature.

“Come on then, you mangy mutt.”

That seemed to do it. The wolf lunged at him, taking them both to the ground as it snarled viciously. Astarion cried out as his dagger was quickly knocked aside by a massive paw, claws digging into his arms painfully. With a punch to the face and a swift kick to the wolf’s midsection, Astarion was able to briefly free himself and dive for his dagger just in time to bring it up and slash at its shoulder, blood splashing over both of them as it yelped in pain. The cry was quickly followed by his own as the wolf bit down on his wrist, causing him to drop the dagger once again.

Massive jaws encircled his neck as he was pinned down fully under the wolf’s weight. The vampire froze, knowing a sudden movement could impale his neck upon the sharp teeth that grazed his skin. Time slowed to a crawl as he waited for the creature to bite down and end him. He couldn’t help but laugh mentally at the irony of it all. Centuries of torture, a stint in Avernus, a mind-flayer tadpole, and the crash of the nautiloid. He had survived them all, and had a scarce three days of anxious freedom, only to meet his end at the jaws of a direwolf.

The weight on his body was suddenly lifted as a second howling creature joined the fray, knocking the first wolf to the ground. To his astonishment, Astarion saw this wolf was even larger than the first, almost impossibly huge. It stood between him and his assailant, snarling and howling before they began to tear into each other. The smell of blood in the air was potent as teeth tore into flesh, spattering the ground with ruby liquid. Shaking himself free of the shock, he realized this was his opportunity to run.

Standing up sorely, Astarion began sprinting as fast as he could back towards the camp. When had he wandered so far? Minutes passed and still the light of the campfire could not be seen through the trees. From behind him, the sound of massive paws hitting the ground approached at an alarming pace. Clearly, one of the wolves had emerged victorious and intended to have him as a victory meal. A fast runner he may have been, but he knew he could never outrun a wolf.

With a bit of quick thinking, Astarion stopped beside a large tree and began climbing as quickly as he could manage. Which was not very fast considering he’d had little reason to climb trees in the last two centuries. Blessedly, he managed to get high enough that the wolf could not reach him. Looking down at it, he was taken aback by the familiar color of its eyes. An almost tawny gold. A curious mixture of relief and dread churned in his gut as a flash of magic revealed a familiar half-elf standing at the base of the tree, glaring up at him.

“Get down from the tree, Astarion. Now.” Theodora ordered through clenched teeth. Her skin was covered in scratches and even a few teeth marks, her already red hair was splattered with crimson. The scratches bled slowly, her scent nearly overwhelming him. But still, he hesitated to obey, causing her to roll her eyes at him. “A regular wolf might be foiled by your little trick, but I assure you I am not. You can come down here or I can come up there. The former will end much better for you.”

Had Theodora seen him feeding? It mattered little, given that he knew the rabbit’s blood dripped from his lips even now. But she had not tried to set him on fire yet. At least if he complied, he might still be able to talk his way out of this little predicament. Lowering himself from the branch he sat upon, he dropped gracefully to the ground, a charming smile already aimed at his companion.

“Theodora, my dear friend! I assure you there is a perfectly reasonable explanation for this. I–”

She waved off his attempt, her other hand pinching the bridge of her nose. “Please don’t patronize me, Astarion. I am not a fool.”

Debatable. “And you… don’t take issue with it?” Standing up straighter, he dusted himself off, wincing once again as the bite wound throbbed. “Travelling with a vampire?”

Theodora’s eyes turned on him then, hard as topaz. “There are a lot of things about my life right now that I take issue with. There’s an illithid tadpole swimming around my skull, I broke my favorite staff, and everything else seems to be falling apart around me. You being a vampire hardly makes the list right now.”

She stood up and walked over to him, looking him up and down before taking his wounded arm into her hands, giving it a pointed squeeze that made him hiss. “I understand your secrecy, but you all have seen fit to make me the leader of this group. I need to have all the information to make sure that we make it out of this alive.” She narrowed her eyes at him slightly. “Or… as close to it as possible, I suppose. Do we have an agreement?”

Astarion glared at her, making a show of weakly trying to remove himself from her grip. “That was a cheap shot.” He griped, rolling his eyes. “Fine. I agree. Now be a dear and heal my arm, would you?” Theodora smirked at him briefly before closing her eyes and beginning her incantation anew.

As he waited impatiently for the wound to heal, he considered his good fortune that out of all their companions that could have discovered his condition, it was Theodora. Despite their rocky start, she was the most agreeable of his companions by far. Still, he’d expected some druidic tirade about how “vampirism is an insult to the natural order” or something like that. Likely, she just realized he was as important to her survival as she was to his at this point. Astarion could appreciate the pragmatism, if nothing else.

After a calming but unnecessary breath, he turned his gaze to her as warm, soothing tendrils of her magic worked their way up his arm. Taking advantage of her closed eyes and proximity, he looked her over. He had seen her before, clearly, but not so close. She was young, that much was obvious. If she were human, he’d guess she was in her early twenties, but with half-elves, it was harder to tell. Her skin was dotted with freckles from so much time in the sun.

“All better.” Theodora sighed, patting his healed arm in satisfaction before stepping back to lean against a nearby tree. “Any other parts of yours that need tending to?”

There was a joke to be made there. She probably expected him to make one, having grown used to their flirtatious bantering. Pushing that aside, he figured he had ingratiated himself enough to at least ask. Why not push his luck at this point? “Actually, if I could impose further impose on your kindness, o illustrious leader, I have a request.”

One dark brow raised quizically. She could clearly see right through him and he doubted his request would come as a surprise. But he was eager to regain the upper hand in the situation. Sauntering up to her, Astarion placed a hand on the tree trunk beside her head as he loomed over her. Not difficult given her stature. Her eyes went wide as she took in the sight of him, her gaze falling down to his mouth. Whether her gaze was on his lips or his teeth, it mattered little. There. So simple.

“In the interest of keeping us all alive,” he said the word pointedly, “I would be much more useful if you would allow me to feed from your lovely neck.”

Theodora swallowed audibly, her earlier confidence almost entirely gone as she considered his words. Her heart hammered in her chest, the sound so very appealing. “Can I trust you to stop before you kill me?” She asked, barely above a whisper.

“That is a question only you can answer, my dear. Can you trust me?” Astarion replied, flipping the question back on her. If she were wise, she would say no. But as capable and sage as druids were meant to be, her youthful naivete could be to his advantage. But as eager as he was, she was too valuable an ally to push the matter if she denied him. Still, he cradled her chin in his free hand, tilting her face up to look at him. “I’ll be gentle, I promise.”

After a long pause, she exposed her neck to him wordlessly. Almost surprised at her consent, Astarion was suddenly beset by doubt. Could he even feed from her, a thinking creature? Cazador’s voice echoed in the back of his mind, forbidding him from even attempting it. But he was no longer bound to his master’s will. This was the true test. Steeling himself, he lowered his lips to her neck.

By all the hells, she smelled divine. Like fresh herbs and a summer rainstorm. He was glad he had already fed from the rabbit, unsure if he would be so confident in his self-control without it. Theodora whimpered slightly as his teeth grazed her skin, in what he assumed was fear. With a final burst of willpower, Astarion sunk his fangs into her neck, groaning at the first rush of blood on his tongue.

He hardly felt her hands grab at his arms as she leaned into his mouth. Though he would have thought it impossible, she tasted even better than she smelled. There was so much life in her, hardy and intoxicating. Gathering her in his arms, he lifted her onto her toes as he continued to drink. She let out another sound, decidedly not a sound of fear, and some part of his mind tucked that information away for later.

Theo spoke then, the words lost to him as he was lost in the taste of her. After another moment, he suddenly cried out, freeing her from his fangs as he did. His fingers went to his own neck to find the area sore. Had she… bitten him back? When he looked down at her, she seemed just as confused as he did. “I panicked, okay? Don’t look at me like that!” As he backed up, wiping her blood from the corner of his mouth, her eyes drifted down before widening in shock. “Gods preserve me, Astarion!” She shrieked as she looked anywhere else but him.

Following her gaze down, Astarion noticed that his body had reacted… unexpectedly to her blood. Turning away, he was quick to deflect. “Please, as if you weren’t moaning like a brothel girl just now!” As he made to adjust his trousers and turn back towards her, he was blindsided by the impact of her fist against his jaw. It was an unexpectedly painful swing from such a slight creature.

“You little devil!” He hissed, going to lunge for Theo. But before he could grab hold, she shapeshifted into an owl and flew back towards camp.

Bloody druids.

Gale thumbed through the pages of his book, passing the hours of his watch shift near the fire. A simple spell over the camp would alert him to any trespassers and allow him to indulge in a spot of reading. A book on druidic beliefs that Theodora had kindly gifted him held his interest firmly until something fell from the sky, landing just a few feet away from him as he jumped in fright. Upon further inspection, it was a dead rabbit. Looking up for the source of the carcass, an owl swooped down swiftly to land on the log opposite him. In a flash of magic, the aforementioned woman appeared.

Setting his book aside, Gale took a steadying breath. “You sure know how to give a man a fright.” He chuckled as she stomped over to pick up the rabbit before settling back on the log to begin cleaning it. “Late-night hunting trip? I do hope you’ve rested enough.”

“Something like that, yes,” Theodora said gruffly, not looking up at him. As his eyes adjusted to the firelight, his brows raised in alarm, taking in her disheveled appearance. Her red hair was ruffled, she was covered in scratches, and splattered with blood. There were two distinctive puncture marks on the side of her neck.

Gale jumped up, already reaching for a healing potion in his pack and debating waking Shadowheart. “Gods above, Theo! What happened?!”

The half-elf waved off his concern but accepted the potion, uncorking it with her teeth before downing it in a gulp. The more superficial wounds quickly knitted together as she looked up at him.

“I’m fine, Gale. Really. You should see the other guy.” Returning to her work, he could tell that was all she wanted to say on the matter. Concern churned in his gut as his gaze lingered on the bite marks which had been closed by the potion, though the indentations remained. The last thing they needed right now was for Theodora to turn into a vampire.

With a final worried glance, Gale returned to his book, content to not observe the bloody business of skinning a rabbit. But after a few minutes, the uneasy silence got the better of him. In an attempt to strike up a conversation, he decided to ask a question that had occurred to him in his reading. “So, were you born into your druid circle or did you join it later in life?”

“Born,” Theo said simply, wiping her hands free of blood on a cloth nearby before looking up at him. “My mother’s family has been part of our circle for generations.”

Gale nodded, considering her words. “And your father?” Another pause as he waited for her to answer, but she seemed determined to make him pry the answers from her. “If I may ask, that is.”

She laughed bitterly, glancing up at the moon. “You can ask, certainly.” Her reply was sharp, which she realized quickly, looking at the wizard apologetically. “I’m sorry, Gale, that was rude of me. It’s a bit of a sore spot. Maybe another time.”

Holding his hands up in surrender with a good-natured smile, he relented. “Far be it from me to demand answers from a lady.”

“Theodora, a lady? A feral wolverine, more like.” Came Astarion’s cutting voice from the treeline as he stalked towards the fire. As he stood in the light, Gale was able to see a dark bruise forming on his jaw, dirt covering his clothes, and a bite mark on his neck as well. A fangless bite. The elf glared at Theo and the look was returned with equal vitriol.

Gods preserve us all. That explains a lot.

Astarion threw down the bodies of two more rabbits in front of Theo before stalking off to his tent. Her glare followed him until he was out of sight and she picked up the rabbits and set to cleaning them, much more vigorously than the first. Gale, to his credit, held himself back from asking the myriad of questions he had at that moment. He likely didn’t want to hear the answers anyway. One question was all he allowed.

“Do you trust him?” He asked Theo.

She nodded, barely looking up from her work. “I do.”