#Gates of Harmonious Interest

[bittertasteofhoney]

Good Day Sunshine | Ch. 1

Seems Like Years Since It's Been Here

Summary: You’re fully immersed in your sunny life in Jackson when a certain Miller brother’s harsh nature cracks your bright demeanor.

|| angst, jackson!joel, jackson!tommy, this will be a slooooooowwww burn, joel being a bit of a butthole ||

Notes: My first time ever posting on tumblr so please be kind! Also if this isn’t your thing, feel free to keep exploring. :) I had to put my brain rot somewhere. This idea would not leave me alone. 

The characters, names and characterizations belong to HBO Max and The Last of Us franchise. This work is my creative property and aside of re-blogs and shares, I do not give permission to share or copy my work without permission or consent.

The sun burns your back in a way that translates to a hard day’s work. Your knees ache and you are elbow-deep in soil, but your cheeks also hurt from grinning with your co-workers. Being a part of the gardening crew in Jackson wasn’t an easy task but in your opinion, it was one of the most gratifying. 

Everyone had their talents. Some were good with their hands in the way that saw wood transformed into reinforced gates for the town or furniture to welcome a newbie home. Others were the brains behind the operation, making sure the cogs in the great machine that was Jackson were well-oiled and plentiful, to not only make sure everyone was safe but they had room to thrive and help the town in turn. 

Within the garden, you got to witness the beauty of the deep soil nurturing the seeds and growing the food that kept the town going. In tandem with the farmers, you made sure each citizen of Jackson went to bed with a stomach filled with wholesome food. 

It was life complete with such harmony that it was easy to forget what lurked beyond the gates. You rarely ever ventured out thanks to your steady position in the rows of produce. There were times where you wished you could be of more help but the days of prowling through the woods with a gun clutched in your hand were thankfully behind you. 

Life existed before Jackson but you were only interested in keeping your sights on your future here. 

You stand, bracing your hands on your hips as you stretch out your legs and back from hours spent knelt over weeding and clipping. 

“You goin’ to check the inventory?” Your head snaps to your coworker, Roberta, who was also standing for a stretch break. Her bright, red hair shining under the midday sun and her clothes equally speckled with dirt. You flash her one of your well-known smiles and give her a small shake of the head. 

“No. Actually, I'm going to check to see if that welcome box got picked up before I grab lunch for everyone.” She gives you a nod of her head and continues twisting from side to side to stretch out her joints. You lean down to grab the mason jar you keep near you during the day to stay hydrated and head to the greenhouse. 

You pass by rows of your other coworkers working through their to-do list under the Wyoming sun, waving and smiling as you pass. 

Your nickname, Sunshine, was well-earned throughout town. You didn’t realize it but after a year or two living here, you became known not by your overall appearance or bright personality but the thousand-watt smile you always flashed towards people, friends or strangers. Like everyone in Jackson knew, life past the gates was harsh beyond words. In your mind, a smile could go a long way if someone was struggling with memories from life before or if they were still recovering from those monstrous memories.

However, your smile never seemed to work on a certain Miller brother, recently returned from an seemingly impromptu trip outside Jackson. He left just as fast as he came and the most you were able to see of him was a glimpse of a tense conversation between him and his brother Tommy, Maria and the little girl Ellie in the mess hall before he and Ellie were gone again the next day.

When the pair returned, they kept close to one another, leaving little for any outside introductions. Eventually, Ellie befriended one of the local girls and in turn, settled into the younger Jackson population. Meanwhile, Joel kept close to Tommy and Maria. You occasionally bumped into him around town, while walking to work or at the Tipsy Bison. Like clockwork, you always flashed him a smile but in turn rarely got anything more than a grimace and if you were lucky, a grunt. Those always turned out to be good days. 

Despite how many smiles you flashed at him, knocks on his front door and reminders to Tommy, neither Joel nor Ellie ever came to pick up their welcome produce box. To make the transition into Jackson life simpler, your team always curated a box filled with the season’s fresh veggies and fruits, a selection of canned spreads, a baked good or two and coffee. 

Jackson’s citizens picked up their weekly rations like clockwork and ate a majority of their meals at the mess hall. These boxes and weekly rations made it easy to make breakfast at home, have nutritious snacks on hand and host the occasional gathering at one’s own home. Joel however, took it upon himself to not even bother with stocking up the home and instead make the mess hall his and Ellie’s only food destination.

You couldn’t blame them really. It was convenient and there was always friendly conversation to be had but all the same. Their welcome box was starting to wilt.

You step into the greenhouse and spot the cardboard box sitting next to the inventory station. Dropping your mason jar in the communal sink, you pick up the box and head up the road towards the direction of the Miller house. The walk was on the long side but you welcome the feeling of the breeze and a chance to move more than from one row of tomatoes to the next. You spot a patch of wildflowers and decide to pluck them to add a little life to the box.

You spot their crooked mailbox and walk up the path, dropping the box on their stoop before knocking on the door. After a few minutes of polite tapping, you realize no one is home. You could drop the box on the stoop and head to the mess hall but you want to make sure they knew how the town’s ration system worked and you couldn’t trust Tommy to explain it truthfully. That man will flash a wink and smile any day of the week if it means he can snag a little extra of anything to surprise Maria with. It usually worked too. It was hard saying no to the town’s resident hero and handyman. 

You shake your head to yourself and lift the box again to head into the main part of town to hit up the mess hall for sandwiches for your crew. A few minutes of smiles and neighborly waves later, you enter the bustling building filled to the brim thanks to the lunchtime hour. 

You step inside almost tripping over a gaggle of your neighbor Lisa’s kids playing near the entrance. You smile off the almost misstep and continue inside, spotting the serving station. You weave around a few tables almost reaching the counter when you hear a familiar booming laugh. You smirk, knowing that goofing cadence anywhere. Tommy Miller. 

Your eyes scan the room until you see the mop of curly, black waves and next to him, a shorter set of grayer waves. Bingo. Smiling to yourself, you redirect your path up to their table, slowing down when you catch a piece of their conversation. Joel’s back was to you and Tommy was too busy frowning at his brother to notice your slow approach. Both were clothed in dusty plaids and denim, matching the overall town population.

“Oh, c’mon Joel. Stop being so hard. All you gotta do is pick up the damn box and get on with your day. Stop making work for everyone else.” You see the back of Joel’s head snap up, previously fixated on the plate in front of him.

“I ain’t making work. It’s plenty easy grabbin’ food here throughout the day and plus it saves me from Little Miss Sunshine.” You freeze about a table’s length away from them. 

Jesse, one of the town's younger patrolmen notices you pause next to him and he half turns to you, cracking a crooked smile. You don’t notice him until you feel a slight tug on your work shorts. You frown down at him, still listening.

Tommy groans in annoyance. “Really? Of course you’d have a problem with the sweetest girl in town.”

“I don’t have a problem. I just don’t feel like wastin’ my time on idle small talk is all. There’s no point.”

“She’s just bein’ nice, Joel. Can’t really blame her.” You can almost feel Joel’s eyes narrowing at his brother.

“I ain’t got time to spend losing brain cells to listen to some airhead talk. Don’t worry. I’ll send Ellie to pick it up.” You see Tommy scrunch his eyebrows at Joel, half incredulous and half pissed.

“Really? And she’ll pick up your weekly rations too? Scared Sunshine’ll flash you a smile and you’ll fall-” 

You don’t wait to hear the rest. You take a deep breath and finally turn towards Jesse and hold out the box to him. “Mind handing that over to Joel for me?” You give him a weak, watery smile. “I gotta grab food for the crew and he seems a bit tied up.” 

Jesse nods at you confused and replies, “‘Course.”

You scurry off to the counter to quickly grab a set of sandwiches before beelining for the exit, counting to twenty in your head to keep the tears at bay. Airhead. You shake your head to propel the thought momentarily away while you walk outside. 

Meanwhile, Jesse walks up to the table and deposits the produce box in front of Joel. The older Miller peers down at the arrangement of goods in confusion and looks up at Tommy who passes the look to Jesse. The younger boy shrugs and motions to your hurrying form. “She asked me to drop it. Said y’all looked busy.”

Tommy’s eyes catch a glimpse of you and he’s quick to notice your rushed steps.“Shit. She hear anythin’?” The only response the two brothers get to Tommy’s question is the narrowed look Jesse gives Joel. 

Joel hangs his head muttering under his breath before swinging his leg over the bench, abandoning the harsh look his brother was pointing towards him and the box of good intentions. He takes quick strides to the exit, hoping to catch you before you get too far down the street but when he steps back into the sunlight, you’re long gone down a side street he has yet to discover.  

Next Chapter.

[deny-the-issue]

Love Thy Nature

Summary: Set in the "Baldur's Gate 3" epic tale, you struggle with ongoing body image issues while pining after Halsin, hoping to earn a special place in his heart.

Thank you so much to my lovely beta readers @juniper-sunny and @sirenofzaun <3

AO3 link

link to divider

Thank you everyone for the overwhelming amount of interest in this fic! I hope you all enjoy <3

[MDNI] [Halsin x fat!Reader] [no mention of gender pronouns] [reader has vulva/breasts] [body image issues] [whatever height you are, Halsin is taller] [whatever weight you are, Halsin can lift you] [smut] [fluff] [angst] [happy ending] [oral sex] [vaginal sex] [teasing] [5580 words]

Chaos. Those first few hours were absolute chaos. In Baldur’s Gate shopping for vegetables one moment, infested with a slimy tadpole the next. At least you aren’t alone. 

Even if they intimidate you. 

You all have a common goal, and you wear this safety like a blanket. With companions like these, maybe you’ll have a chance to live. If you don’t get caught in between Shadowheart and Lae’zel, that is. 

Stomach rumbling, feet aching, thighs raw, the nights end with you silently crying yourself to sleep. You are distinctly unsuited for this life. The others say nothing, but you feel like you’re letting them down when you lag behind them during the day’s journey. You simply cannot keep up with Karlach and Lae’zel’s pace, and with the dismal amount of food for dinner, you’re starving. 

You’re not the only hungry one, but you are the only one that eats away from the fire, in solitude. Even in the city you preferred to eat alone. Judging eyes haunt your every bite, but you know the shame comes from within. You know you have no right to complain about being hungry when you have the most weight to lose.  

So you suffer in silence. 

Your armor consists of ill-fitting cloth and leather which you have to repair frequently. The cloth is thin and your thighs can rub it away to nothing within a single, travel-heavy day. The others have found armor that suits them quite well, and you’re happy for them. But you’d be lying if you said you weren’t envious of the ease at which they can find things that fit. 

It’s hard not to dwell on your size. How it would be easier to find armor if you were skinnier. How much easier it would be to keep up. How much more confident you would be. 

You see your travel companions flirt and cast lewd looks at each other. It lightens the heart to see, yet stirs a deep yearning within that has been your constant bane over the years. To love is something you have known many times, but to be loved is another story entirely. Truly loved for everything you are, inside and out. It seems impossible to behold when you cannot fathom loving yourself in that way. 

Maybe one of them would have given you a chance, if only you had the confidence to try. 

As the days go on, you learn more about each other, some willingly and others forced. Just when you think no one else is hiding something, another secret arises. Every single one of them has enough problems without the threat of becoming illithid, and you start to see the people underneath the mask of intimidation you assigned to them. 

Despite your best efforts to keep your distance, they start to grow on you. Their troubles become yours, and a warm feeling of belonging takes root in your chest. 

The grove is a delightful little community. Their harmony with nature is beautiful, your curious eyes take in every part and crevice. 

Maybe too curious, since you had a near scrape with the guards due to the little shit, Mol. She’s too smart for her own good–trouble will surely follow her wherever she goes.

Just as it does you.

Just as it does him, too, apparently. Breaking a bear out of a dungeon is a first for you, but watching that bear transform into the most gorgeous man you’ve ever seen becomes a keystone memory. 

Already you are filled with conflicted feelings, more thankful everyday this horrible thing happened to you because it brought you to them. All of them brilliant, all of them flawed, and all incredibly beautiful. 

You cling to the hope of his companionship as you prepare to protect the grove. Halsin’s knowledge instills fear in your bones, more defined than it was before. Now you have an idea of what you’re up against, and it’s all much bigger than you can fathom. Getting to know him personally casts away the worrisome thoughts; his words a honey-sweet distraction to the storm clouds gathering overhead. 

You leave his company with a smile straining your face, but it doesn’t take long for the bite of loneliness to nip at your heels. Halsin’s answer about lovers echoes through your mind, a deep spiral into well-trodden waters. 

“Right now? I bed down alone, I’m afraid. Perhaps once I talk less of curses and parasites, my fortunes will improve.”

How foolish of you to think he might warm to you. You’re sure his fortunes will improve, only with someone else. Someone more deserving of him. 

These depressing thoughts do not stop you from befriending him. Quite the opposite, in fact. By casting aside your hopes for romantic love, you feel as though you can finally start to be yourself in camp.

And you’re surprised to find they like you. Your spirit and sense of humor return to you in troves–making some poor sod kneel for Lae’zel has everyone laughing at camp that night.

Yet you still make off alone with your bowl of stew when dinner is served, until a large obstacle blocks your path. 

“I do not pretend to know why you dine alone, but you are most welcome to join us.” Halsin smiles kindly.

“I know, it’s ok. Thank you, though,” you try to dismiss him, but he doubles down. 

“Do you not find our company agreeable?”

“No! I mean, yes? You’re lovely–you’re all lovely,”you stammer, heat rising to your face. 

“Good, then you’ll have no problem joining us,” Halsin’s eyes sparkle with amusement, no doubt from watching your mind implode. 

The prospect shouldn’t be as terrifying as it is, yet you cannot help but feel extremely uncomfortable. 

You beat down the slight panic and return Halsin’s smile, unwilling to argue your case further. What would you even say? Laying your insecurities bare to a man you just met is not on your agenda for the night. 

His large hand touches your shoulder as he makes his way to the fire, confident you’ll join him. So warm and rough with callouses–the contact lasted but a moment but you can feel it still, like an invisible badge of affection. 

“Come on, Soldier, grab a stump! I already picked the slugs off for you.” Karlach laughs at your grimace. 

“Thanks,” you walk over to the offered seat. “I’ve had enough slimy things for a lifetime.”

A chorus of agreement and various stages of grief crosses the face of each companion as you join them around the fire, a part of the pack for once. As much as you begrudge Halsin for pulling you out of your comfort zone, you never spend another night eating alone, and your heart is all the fuller for it. 

The battle for the grove was hard won, and the celebration that followed was a well-needed respite for everyone. Surrounded by friends, plenty of food, and drink, you felt more alive than you had since it all began. Whatever shame you were harboring faded away with the alcohol settling into your rosy cheeks, and you sought out the man you’ve been pining for. 

Weeks of hard living have left you as lightweight as Halsin claims to be, but the confidence to mingle in his company is a welcome boon. Oh, to see him tipsy–better still if you are the first person he sees. Is he handsy in his affections, or reserved, you wonder? 

But what does he mean by calling you resourceful? 

You’ll have to ponder its meaning after some sobering sleep. Nothing could sway your mood tonight. He may have turned you down, but he was surely flirting with you. Even with the short time you’ve known him, you know he is not the kind to lead anyone on. 

Enjoyable. A night with you would be enjoyable; the thought has you grinning for the rest of the celebration, and biting your lip later, when you’re alone in your tent with roaming, lusty hands.

You’re able to find suitable food, but with life’s ever-increasing hardships, it continues to take a toll on your body. Hiking is not as hard as it once was, though, and you are thankful for it. With a body such as yours, it would take a considerable amount of time before you’d be deemed ‘thin’, but the loss of weight is undeniable. 

Your clothes are loose, for one, and the little armor you have shifts uncomfortably, always needing adjusting. The others have started noticing as well. 

Karlach gave you a, “Lookin’ good, soldier!” the other night and you never wished to cast an invisibility spell so much as in that moment.

This slightly-slimmer body should make you happy, but the success is tainted in your mind. It’s not as if you chose to lose weight, to starve, to walk endlessly every damned day. What happens when– if-- you can live a normal life after this? The same mistakes will surely be made as before, and you’ll go right back to the size you so hate. No lesson has been learned here, not in regards to food. 

Even if you do somehow lose all this weight, you still will not be pleased with yourself. Stretch marks and loose skin, you could never look the way you want to. 

The frustration grinds your spirit down, but no one notices. Hells, you hardly notice. The Shadowlands dampen the mood of everyone, infecting the camp even without touching it. 

Fighting has never been easy for you, and you’ve managed to hold your ground so far. But every person’s luck runs out sometime, you suppose. One awkward move and you get a knife in your side. The armor should have protected you–would have–if only it fit you better. 

Halsin gathers you in his arms, carrying you despite your weight. A mad rush back to the Last Light inn saves your life. As you’re placed in a healing sleep, you hear echoes of Halsin’s soothing voice. You can never make out the words, but they calm your turbulent mind, keeping the nightmares at bay. 

When you wake, you are mostly healed. The skin is healed, though a scar remains, and the pain is manageable while lying still in bed. Halsin greets you with warmth and a small amount of haste.

It seems, while you slept, Halsin talked to both a tailor and a leather-worker on your behalf. What is more surprising is the light scolding you receive.

“You should have spoken up, we cannot afford such a loss in these dire times.”

“And we can afford this?” You doubt, knowing how much new, custom armor costs. 

One stern look from Halsin, and you concede.

Everyone pooled their gold together to buy you fitted clothing and armor, a gesture that means the world to you. What have you done to deserve such kind friends? Just as you took on their troubles, they’re taking on yours without a second thought. 

There is one part of their gesture that gives you pause. They need your measurements, and you need to stand for it. With abdomen muscles still healing, you require Halsin’s help to get out of bed, leaning heavily against him. 

So close to him, you breathe in his scent, take in his warmth, and relish the contact. It’s almost enough to distract you from the embarrassment of having a stranger shimmy a measuring tape around your body. You hide your discomfort as best you can, but Halsin notices.

He always does. 

He must have read it as pain, because he hastens the person along so you can lay down and rest again. Another unsaid deed that shows his care for you, soothing the stinging humiliation. 

“Let me call the healers over, I am sorry for disturbing your rest.”

You grab his hand, stilling his movements. “Wait, please.”

“What troubles you, friend?”

You shake your head. “Thank you. For carrying me back and for the clothing. Words cannot describe how grateful I am.” 

Halsin takes your hand in his gently, “This fight would not be the same without you by my side.”

You blink away a rogue tear as Halsin brings forth a healer, and drift into a deep, healing sleep with a smile on your face. 

When you wake, you’re fully restored, and your new armor and clothes are atop the bedside table. The sight should fill you with excitement, but all you feel is dread.

What if they don’t fit you? What if they’re too small?

Retreating to a corner with a privacy curtain, you hesitantly try them on, thankful that your party isn’t here. To your surprise and great relief, they all fit–as they say–like a glove. The leather armor comes with a learning curve with all the straps and strings, but after a few mistakes, you figure it out.

It’s genius, really. With overlapping leather and lacing on the side, up the arms, and down your legs, its size is fully adjustable. Up to a point, of course, but extremely useful for the days to come. You’ll probably lose more weight as the journey is far from over, and now you have armor that can account for size changes in either direction!

You choke back tears of happiness, never once having known the feel of well-fitting clothes until now. Everything has been uncomfortable in some way or another, always with minor inconveniences, and never once did they look good. 

In these clothes, it doesn’t matter how you look. You feel good in them, and for once in your life, that is all that matters. A burden has been lifted from your shoulders whose weight you never noticed before now. 

Could you truly be comfortable within this body of yours?

Later, when they all come back to the inn after adventuring, the party makes you spin for them so they can get a good look at your new attire, and although shy, your smile is brighter than it has ever been. 

Saving Thaniel is no easy task, and you probably have a few more gray hairs after that battle. With Halsin’s life at stake if you fail, you fight tooth and nail to protect the portal. 

Even though it is not enough to lift the curse, Halsin’s eyes soften whenever he looks upon you, and that is all the reward you need. 

Your love does not end with Halsin; each party member has wormed their way into your heart. So when Shadowheart embarks on her quest with you at her side, you trust her to make the right choice. 

Dame Aylin is truly something to behold. The daughter of a goddess, and a god in her own right. To be reunited with her love after so many years is a love story of the ages. You’re lucky to bear witness to it, although it tugs at the heartstrings. 

The longing for a love such as theirs does not linger on your mind, not with the battle for Moonrise Towers looming overhead. 

Is this the end? Will you be free to live your life once more? The end does not feel as near as you are led to believe. Not all of the pieces fit together yet, and the unknown scares you. 

As you suspected, Ketheric Thorm was just one head of the hydra. There is much more to be done, and the journey ahead weighs heavily on your shoulders. You try to focus on your triumphs; the Shadowcurse is lifted, the land can begin to heal, and Halsin promises to remain by your side. 

A heart full of joy can only do so much when you’re running on fumes, requiring a warm bed and a few days rest. Your friends help distract you from the wear and tear of the past few weeks, always bickering about this or that. Usually you stay out of it, but Halsin has other plans on the journey to Wyrm’s Crossing, it seems.

Freeing Thaniel, and moreso, the land, has earned you a special place by Halsin’s side. You did not expect that place to come with an honorary nickname. 

Two simple words. It, at first, fills you with a sense of kinship, but soon begins to wear on your mind. As much as you love the affection it implies, one of those words hasn’t pertained to you for a long time. 

You find him that night at camp, voice hesitant. “Halsin, can I ask you something?”

“What is it, little duck?” He greets you with a pleased smile. 

“Well, that’s what I need to talk about. Little duck.”

“Does it not please you?”

“No–it’s not that. It’s just,” you pause, crossing your arms as you take a deep, calming breath. “I’m not little.”

“Are you not?” he inquires with a hint of mirth. 

Confused eyes lift to find his hand hovering above your head, a silent judgment of your height. 

Your stoic facade breaks with a smile, then with laughter, and you nudge him with your shoulder playfully. 

“You got me there,” you surrender, grinning ear to ear. 

Halsin laughs with you, but retains a more serious composure. “As much as that pleases me, should I call you by another name?”

“Please don’t,” you answer swiftly, needing no arduous thought to decide. 

From then on, anytime he says those two words, it fills you with warmth. 

Reuniting with the refugees saved from the Shadowlands brings you joy, but not as much as a real bed and a roof over your head does. 

Freshly washed and bathed, you almost forgot what it’s like to be clean. The quest to save the city is as grave as ever, yet all you needed was some self care to feel ready to take on the Elder Brain. 

The nights in Elfsong Tavern are anything but quiet, and you feel Halsin’s attention grow with each night, like he’s working up to something.

Maybe it’s just hopeful thinking, but you feel the chemistry between the two of you. Laughter and conversation is always easy with him, and he’s been touching you more. 

Nothing serious; grazing your arm, wiping a smudge of dirt off your face, his hand lingering on your shoulder. The contact, although small, brightens your mood, and you begin to yearn for it every time he’s near, even if you still think romance is out of the question. 

It’s almost comedic, how wrong you are. 

Not a week passes before Halsin confesses his feelings for you; how he yearns to feel your skin against his in a romantic night under the stars. You barely hear his next words over your heartbeat pounding in your ears. 

His heart stirs for you, just as yours does for him. He seems so vulnerable, just now. Nervous, just as you would be in his shoes. You feel as though you are seeing a piece of him rarely shown, or perhaps you did not wish to see past the brawn. Your souls are of the same gentle nature, and just a rest away from uniting in bliss.

Fidgeting in your sheets, you try to calm your turbulent mind, but it is hopeless. Each shift calls attention to the throbbing in between your thighs, their thickness both a blessing and a curse. But your mind is still eager to race into dark territory. The night of your dreams is accompanied by your mountain of insecurities. 

You’ve been intimate with others before, but that was of a low time where you hid parts of yourself to please others. 

There will be no more of that. He will know you. All of you. Even if it means he does not want you after. 

With mind set, you find him in the clearing by the lake, his large hand upon the rough bark of a tree in silent communion. When turns to greet you, the relief and excitement in his eyes brightens the world around you both, and instills you with courage. 

All thoughts of revealing your most authentic self blow away with the breeze when Halsin relieves himself of his clothes. Standing proudly naked before you, he sweeps you up in his arms, his kiss as passionate and devouring as he promised, with roaming hands settling on your plump rear.

All of your insecurities come back to nag you all at once, and you break away from the kiss. “Wait, please.”

“What is it, my love?”

Crossing your arms, you begin to pace. The movement helps focus your thoughts, and you take a deep breath before speaking.

“I’m fat,” you begin with the simplest statement of your imagined deficiencies. “For most of my life now I’ve been various sizes of fat, and I’m probably always going to be fat. I don’t want to be. I didn’t choose it. I have stretch marks, flabby arms, back fat.”  

Your voice begins to shake as tears well in your eyes. “Yes, I’ve shrunk a bit these past few weeks, but it’s not enough! Not nearly enough. Because even if I do lose all this weight,” you pause, feeling the pressure build within–a truth so long known but never said aloud, ready to burst out of your chest whether you will it or not.

“I will still hate myself!” The first sob rips from your throat as the emotional dam is broken, shaking your entire being.

Halsin rushes to you, enveloping you in his embrace, cradling your head to his chest. 

“Beauty is not about size, little duck. Variety provides necessary balance in nature, and there is no shame in taking joy from its fruits. Your inner peace is what truly matters.”

Only now it occurs to you that he has also been judged for his size. Maybe not all negative, but that is not to say it did not have an ill-effect on his self-esteem and outward personality. 

After you stop shaking, he coaxes you to meet his gaze. Eyes red and puffy, you do as he wishes, taking in every beautiful detail of his face before settling on his eyes, as serene as the lake before you. 

“I love you as you are, stretch marks and all.” He strokes your face gently and then takes your hands in his. “Let me show you.”

Halsin guides you to the lake’s edge, and positions himself behind you, leaning both your bodies forward. The view is exquisite, but you know it is not what holds his attention. Cautious eyes follow the ripples of the water, slowly casting down until you see your reflection. 

Halsin smiles when you meet his mirrored gaze, wrapping his arms around your waist. The angle is unflattering, to say the least, but you are willing to try this for him. The heat off his bare skin is a comfort, but also a reminder that your clothes are what separates your skin from his. 

“If you are comfortable, I’d like you to undress. To look upon yourself as you do, and be comforted in my desire.”

Comfortable is not something that would describe you in this moment, but you feel ready to reveal yourself to him. Closing your eyes, you still your mind to the symphony of the world around you; crickets singing, a light breeze coming off the lake, and Halsin’s steady breathing as he nuzzles his nose into your hair. Heart fluttering in your chest, you take your shirt off with nervous hands. 

After helping you discard the fabric, he is instantly upon you, trailing kisses down the side of your face until he’s sucking at your neck. You melt into him, tilting your head to reveal more skin for him to worship with his soft lips. 

Rough fingers tickle at your waist with feather-light grazes, you giggle at the feeling and place your hands over his. Lacing your fingers in between his, you move with him as he explores your waist. 

Heat rushes to your core as you feel his cock twitch against your back. You grow impatient, moving his hands to hold your breasts. He moans into your neck, pulling you against him while gently squeezing. 

“More, please. I need to see all of you,” he pleads breathlessly in your ear, thumbs pulling down the hem of your bra. 

You pull away for only a second, the ambient temperature feels so cool compared to your combined heat. Gooseflesh prickles at your arms, and as you discard your bra, you can’t help but admire your form in the water below. Nipples hard from the cold air soon find shelter in Halsin’s large hands, and his heat blankets you in a blissful stupor once again. 

Lust pools in your mind, overpowering any insecurities still swirling within. Only thoughts of him remain, and you need no further instruction to take the next step. Your panties cling to your pants as you pull them down. Halsin provides an arm for you to balance while slipping them off, and you come face to face when you toss the unwanted clothing further onto land. 

You’d pounce on him, but he quickly turns you around to face the lake again with a playful chuckle.

“Almost, my love. Look how extraordinarily beautiful you are, just as nature intended.” 

There you are, indeed. There’s your belly that you’ve loathed, the fat thighs that have been your bane, your double chin that distracts you from your beautiful face. Yet, with him at your back, your perspective begins to change, and you can see this body as yourself instead of some ugly, fat thing.

Halsin trails one hand down your stomach, over your stretch marks, and cups the plush overhang, squishing slightly as he smooths his palm back up your body, feeling the entirety of your curves.

All of your fears dissipate with the irrevocable proof of his attraction digging into your back, and you turn to face him. This time, he allows you, his hands grabbing your ass greedily. You run your hands up his body, relishing the feel of his coarse hair covering his chest and stomach. He moans softly at your touch, but something else starts to happen. 

His eyes begin to glow as he backs away from you in haste. The transformation is something you have seen many times, but never did you see the emotion behind it.

There is nothing as flattering as a partner losing themselves so utterly in a shared moment. Changing back just as fast, he flashes you a sheepish grin. 

Halsin starts to speak, but your patience is at its limit, and you run up to him, pulling him down for a kiss before he can utter a single word. 

Having regained his confidence through your kiss, he leads you back to the tree he was initially at, kneeling at its base. He leads you down to him, laying you down on the softest grass you’ve ever felt. There is a fleeting taste of his passion-full lips as he kisses his way down to your breasts, taking his time to kiss each one before descending further. 

Halsin’s lips against your stomach tickle in a touch-starved way, adding coal to the fire raging inside your core. He slips his arms underneath your knees, bending and spreading your legs. Supporting himself on his elbows, he reaches around, parting your lips by pulling your flesh toward your belly button. 

The first soft kiss upon your exposed clit has you gasping for air, hands grabbing fistfuls of grass at your side. It was only the calm before the storm; a single taste of honey is not nearly enough to satiate the beast between your thighs, and he shows you no mercy. 

Tongue lapping at your cunt from entrance to throbbing bud, Halsin has you squirming under his touch. Just as you think his pleasure is at its peak, he suckles your clit.

Toe curling, back arching, you scream his name as you reach carnal heights you never thought possible.

You whine when he stops, but when you see his swollen cock twitching between his legs, you know exactly what he needs. He lets you push him back onto the grass, helping you straddle him with a steadying hand. Cock nestled perfectly between your folds, you nuzzle his nose with yours before he pulls you into a passionate kiss. The taste of you is intoxicating as you drink in his moans, slide your hips against him, obscenely slick.

Ever hungry for more, you explore his body with your mouth, hips never ceasing their slow but steady rock. Thick, muscled neck, tender for kissing. Pronounced pecks perfect for light, teasing bites. Sensitive nipples ripe for sucking. Veiny arms that your lips could kiss for days. The faded but still visible stretch marks around his shoulders that now hold a special place within your heart, and you kiss each one of them.

You worship him, mind and body just as he does with his burly hands ever present on your lust-driven body. His touch now bruising, he tries to push into you with each thrust, soft moans turning into desperate grunts.

He catches at your entrance, but you tilt your hips so he passes over your clit once again. You shiver at the feeling, and cannot help the laugh that accompanies the bliss.

Teasing Halsin is just so fucking hot.

With an animalistic growl, he rolls you onto your back, having had enough of your shenanigans. Your sounds of glee quickly turn lewd as his cock finally finds purchase, stretching you delightfully with his mighty girth. 

Even with a mind lost to passion, he takes your comfort into account, pushing in slowly to let you adjust. His hungry mouth kisses your face, your lips, your jaw, your neck, until your canting, impatient hips break the last thread of his self control.

Burying his nose in your hair, one hand holding your breast, hips pumping, he makes love to you under the stars. You wrap your arms around him, holding onto his back to keep from being pushed away from the force of his hips. Your voices are a sweet, rhythmic chorus to nature as you feel a fluttering grow in your core. Halsin relinquishes his grip on your breast, hooking his hand underneath one of your knees to spread you further.

He reaches new heights within you, and you feel his cock harden more than you thought possible, readying to fill you with the nature’s bounty you’ve been craving. Your hands slip down to his ass, needing all of him inside you.

Your wants ever his desire, he buries his cock inside you and ruts, massaging the bundle of nerves deep within. Your fingers cling to him, leaving red lines down back unintentionally as the chord within finally snaps. Walls fluttering around him before clenching down, the waves of pleasure overtake you both, and he is a helpless passenger in its wake. He says your name like a prayer as his hips stutter in their rhythm. 

Cradling him close as you feel his cock pulse, you whisper in his ear, “I love you, Halsin.”

That mystical night under the stars with Halsin was legendary. Its memory, as well as the man himself, helps you through the rest of your quest, picking you up when you are down. All you need to do is close your eyes, and you’re right back in that clearing by the lake with him beside you.

You do not know if you would have gotten through it all without him. By the time you defeat the Netherbrain, you are the thinnest you’ve been since childhood, and also the most sickly. Stronger muscles and better food is not enough in the face of true exhaustion, and it shows in your gaunt face. 

The celebration with Halsin that night is sweet and gentle, containing all the relief of a battle hard won. You cannot help the tears that fall from your eyes as you reach your climaxes together.

It all feels like a dream. How could you have made it through all that alive and relatively well? With him at your side? A man as loving as he is large, he still does not impose anything on you. Talking as if there could be a chance you wouldn’t be going with him to resettle Moonrise Towers. 

You depart in the morning with nine wagons full of kids of various ages, all without families or homes, and your bear at your side. 

The savior of Baldur’s Gate is a bit rich for your liking, but it does give you a certain air of respect when you have to give them time-outs.

Halsin calls them all his ducklings, and it is so very fitting with how they follow him around from dawn till dusk. 

When you receive a letter with shaky lettering inviting you to the place where it all began, you’re more than happy to reunite with everyone. The time without doom hanging over your heads has certainly made you both plump and happy. You still struggle with body image issues, but you feel comfortable in your skin more often than not. A battle that is waning in your favor, with once barren fields blooming with slow acceptance.

Your appetite for life has always been large. Giant partner, a heap of kids to call your own, and enough tall tales to last them well into adulthood; you want for nothing in the years to come. 

With Halsin you build a loving home–an ending you never thought you deserved. 

And you wouldn’t have it any other way.

Tag list: @incognitoowl @slowlydecayinginside-blog @freddiemonstar @strawberry-siberian @zorazeppeli

@callgirl-of-cthulhu @leftoverice @mickster-trickster @theidesofpisces @athenakeene

@camelliaandjasmine @otherredsareoutthere @bewitchedbg3 @kelseyxyeslek-blog @angelicsignature

@gloomweed @tolkien-fantasy @whitetxilwxlf @towriteloveontheirarms @uhhh-idk-dude

@ladyjeweler @rintheavatar @loverbug1123 @unreadpoppy @mossthedevouring

@railmeloki @wendy940010 @anexhaustedanomaly @the-bear-and-his-sunbird @tyrannydarling

@creatednoodle @mossy-moggins @whiskeyskin @ouranyaoi @appalachiancowboy99

@juniper-sunny @myheart-mydarling @mollymauksboi @pwney @sensitivesoil1008

@gremlin-dave @cosmicaeons21 @its-jaytothemee @reignydeys @im-eating-rn

@rosekicks @nefolstardust @blueraspberrycola @cpiev @lifechasingdreaming

@the-ashtronaut @gildedlilyvibes @emmybee11 @gh0ulbunny @shyomission

@fandom-star @garbdump @caitlam @wicked-game-black-butler @i-like-duckies

@hollywritin @reduxskullduggerry @thoughts-of-bear @opossumbloom @vixnovacoda

@amorgansgal @avabjorna36 @rodeocl0wn @emoguardian @minimisthios

@thegirlsmorgue @confused--polarity @waterm3i0n @violet-starlings-blog @thunderdownunder

@ashrio20

[a-d-nox]

human design: the mind

the mind is considered the place where your thoughts come from. this is where heuristics are born - information is filtered, actions are rationalized, and understanding occurs. not everything is accurate based on what gates are conscious. this is where anxiety, obsessive thoughts, and overthinking begins. but also ideas, thoughts, and other ideas.

paid reading options: astrology menu & cartomancy menu

enjoy my work? help me continue creating by tipping on ko-fi or paypal. your support keeps the magic alive!

defined mind: human computer, constantly reviewing and/or researching, information overload, professional worrier, nitpicking, looking from problems where none exist, can't turn off thoughts, etc.

undefined mind: lax, contemplative, forgetful, clarity amongst chaos, other people's problems become yours, wanting to help others before helping yourself, openminded, being able to read what others are likely thinking, etc.

gates

4 - problem solver: fixing, solutions for problems that don't exist, over-preparedness, needing to always be doing something, puzzle lovers, can't understand something and getting anxiety from not being able to understand, over fixation, needing to lighten up, cleverness, having an answer for everything, whats relevant, etc.

11 - harmonious: imaginative, social harmony, utopia, seeking peace, consideration of others, fresh ideas, constant evolution, responsibility to others, change for the better, etc.

17 - follower: agree v. disagree, flexible thoughts, diplomatic v. healthy debater, opinionated, logical mindedness, understanding, forcefulness, fairness, opinions about everything, dogmatic, fixed on your own views, balance, impartialness, quality over quantity, etc.

24 - returns: rationalizing, constantly playing back the tapes, screenshots/receipts, preoccupied, interest in forensics, finding missing clues, conceptualizing, theorizing, set in your ways, etc.

43 - breakthrough: deep thoughts, one step ahead, unable to express self clearly, profound, wise, shifting everyone's perspective, wrapped up in your own thoughts, stubborn, unconcerned with other people thoughts, etc.

47 - realizing: thinking constantly, love for puzzles, lots of lightbulb moments, problem solver, abstract thinking, etc.

no gates: openminded, overwhelmed by everyone else's thoughts and worries, constantly reflecting on the world around you, getting cluttered with other peoples mental chatter, etc.

channels that connect from the crown to the mind

channels that connect from the mind to the throat

11 -> 56 - curious: seeking the meaning in life, insatiable, wanting to share new information with everyone, speaking your mind, excessive interest in a lot of things, interest in multiple beliefs systems, seeking firsthand experience, etc.

17 -> 62 - organized: strategic, logically minded, absorbing the facts and details available, giving concrete opinions and recommendations, well informed, futuristically minded, methodical, opinionated, enjoying debating with others, etc.

43 -> 23 - structured: giving insight, breaking new ground, changing the views of others, open 3rd eye, empowering others, provoking the reactions of others, lightyears ahead of everyone else, tactful, genius, authentic, confident, blurting things out, etc.

have ideas for new content? please use my “suggest a post topic” button!

return to nox's guide to metaphysics

© a-d-nox 2024 all rights reserved

[dianatriformis]

✨Asteroid Vesta (4)✨

Hello everyone! This post is about Vesta and her influence in the natal chart! Her asteroid number on astro.com is 4. Hope you enjoy reading this post :)

✨ Vesta ✨

Vesta is the Roman goddess of the hearth, home, and family, akin to the Greek Hestia. She symbolizes the warmth and stability of the hearth fire, which was central to both domestic life and the Roman state.

In her temple in Rome, an eternal flame burned as a representation of her presence, tended by the Vestal Virgins—priestesses who vowed 30 years of chastity to serve her. Unlike many deities, Vesta had no statue; the sacred flame itself was her symbol. While she doesn't feature prominently in mythological tales, her worship was vital to Roman religious and civic life, reflecting themes of purity, protection, and continuity.

In astrology, Vesta represents focus, devotion, and the sacred flame within. Vesta symbolizes the things we hold most sacred and the commitments that inspire our dedication. It governs areas of life where we channel our energy with purity and purpose, often highlighting where we find inner peace or a sense of duty. Vesta also relates to sexuality and boundaries, reflecting the balance between personal autonomy and the devotion we give to others or to a cause. Its placement in a natal chart reveals where we seek meaning through service, ritual, or inner alignment.

✨Vesta through the Signs ✨

Vesta in Aries Devotion to independence and personal goals. This placement emphasizes the need for self-direction and pioneering spirit. You find sacred purpose through action and courage, often dedicating yourself to personal achievements or leadership roles. Boundaries may be fiercely protected.

Celebrities: Justin Bieber, George Clooney, Freddie Mercury, Emma Watson, David Bowie

Vesta in Taurus Focus on stability, comfort, and material well-being. Here, Vesta’s sacred flame burns in the pursuit of beauty, sensuality, and lasting values. You find meaning in building security, whether through relationships or material success, and tend to show unwavering commitment.

Celebrities: Jennifer Aniston, Princess Diana, Mariah Carey, Kylie Jenner, Sharon Stone

Vesta in Gemini Dedication to knowledge, communication, and intellectual exploration. Vesta in Gemini seeks sacred purpose through curiosity and mental stimulation. You may feel drawn to writing, teaching, or sharing ideas, though maintaining focus can be a challenge in the face of scattered interests.

Celebrities: Steve Jobs, Eminem, Billie Eilish, Amy Winehouse, Cameron Diaz

Vesta in Cancer Devotion to home, family, and emotional security. This placement finds sacred purpose in nurturing others and creating a safe, loving environment. Emotional boundaries are important, as overextending yourself in caregiving can lead to burnout.

Celebrities: Marilyn Monroe, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez

Vesta in Leo Focus on self-expression, creativity, and recognition. Vesta in Leo is devoted to living authentically and inspiring others through personal passions. You thrive when your work or pursuits allow you to shine but must guard against neglecting others’ needs for the sake of your own spotlight.

Celebrities: Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, John Lennon, Jay-Z, Adele

Vesta in Virgo Dedication to service, healing, and precision. Vesta in Virgo channels her energy into perfecting systems and helping others, often through detailed or practical work. You find sacred purpose in improving lives and creating order but must be mindful of becoming overly critical or self-sacrificing.

Celebrities: Johnny Depp, Katy Perry, Bill Gates, Chris Evans, Christina Aguilera

Vesta in Libra Devotion to harmony, relationships, and balance. This placement finds sacred purpose in partnership and the pursuit of fairness. You may dedicate yourself to fostering beauty and equality in your environment, but it’s important to maintain your individuality within relationships.

Celebrities: Beyoncé, Selena Gomez, Lana Del Rey, Scarlett Johansson, Kendall Jenner

Vesta in Scorpio Focus on transformation, intimacy, and emotional depth. Vesta in Scorpio seeks sacred purpose in uncovering hidden truths and experiencing profound connections. This placement may drive intense focus and passion, but it also requires care in managing obsessive or possessive tendencies.

Celebrities: Kurt Cobain, Nicole Kidman, Timothée Chalamet, Cristiano Ronaldo, Brigitte Bardot

Vesta in Sagittarius Dedication to exploration, freedom, and higher learning. Vesta in Sagittarius burns brightly in pursuits of adventure, philosophy, or spiritual growth. You find sacred meaning in broadening your horizons and sharing knowledge, though commitment may feel restrictive at times.

Celebrities: Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Miley Cyrus, Britney Spears, Julia Roberts

Vesta in Capricorn Focus on ambition, discipline, and long-term goals. Vesta in Capricorn is devoted to achievement and creating lasting structures, whether in career, family, or society. You find sacred purpose in your work and responsibilities but must balance this with emotional fulfillment.

Celebrities: Elvis Presley, Zayn Malik, Chris Brown, Carla Bruni, Bradley Cooper

Vesta in Aquarius Dedication to innovation, individuality, and humanitarian ideals. Vesta in Aquarius seeks sacred meaning through progressive causes or unconventional paths. You may devote yourself to improving society or championing unique ideas, finding fulfillment in breaking barriers or challenging norms.

Celebrities: Taylor Swift, Elon Musk, Nicki Minaj, Tupac Shakur, Jared Leto

Vesta in Pisces Focus on spirituality, compassion, and creative flow. Vesta in Pisces is devoted to transcendent experiences and emotional connection. You may feel drawn to artistic expression or helping others, finding sacred purpose in unity and forgiveness, but need to guard against over idealization or self-sacrifice.

Celebrities: Angelina Jolie, Lady Gaga, Robert Pattinson, Harry Styles, Ariana Grande

✨Vesta through the Houses✨

Vesta in the 1st House Devotion to self-expression and personal identity. Your focus is on cultivating individuality and embodying your inner fire. Others may see you as highly driven, but you must balance personal pursuits with consideration for others.

Celebrities: Brad Pitt, Kanye West, George Clooney, Nicole Kidman, Mariah Carey

Vesta in the 2nd House Dedication to building security, wealth, and personal values. You may find meaning in managing resources or developing self-worth. This placement highlights the sacred nature of material stability but warns against overattachment to possessions.

Celebrities: Ariana Grande, Megan Fox, Billie Eilish, David Bowie, Adele

Vesta in the 3rd House Focus on communication, learning, and sharing ideas. You are deeply devoted to intellectual pursuits and may channel your energy into writing, teaching, or connecting with others. Maintaining clear mental boundaries is key to avoiding burnout.

Celebrities: Taylor Swift, Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio, Britney Spears, Selena Gomez

Vesta in the 4th House Sacred devotion to home, family, and emotional roots. This placement suggests a strong focus on creating a sanctuary or preserving family traditions. You may feel called to nurture others but should guard against losing yourself in family obligations.

Celebrities: Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Princess Diana, Shakira, Kylie Jenner

Vesta in the 5th House Dedication to creativity, romance, and self-expression. Your sacred purpose may involve artistic pursuits, personal passions, or inspiring others through joy and play. Balance is needed to ensure that personal fulfillment doesn’t overshadow responsibilities.

Celebrities: Michael Jackson, Harry Styles, John Lennon, Princess Catherine, Chris Brown

Vesta in the 6th House Devotion to service, work, and well-being. This placement emphasizes commitment to daily routines, health, and helping others. You find purpose in making life more efficient or productive but must avoid overworking or neglecting your own needs.

Celebrities: Keanu Reeves, Julia Roberts, Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lawrence, Elizabeth II

Vesta in the 7th House Focus on relationships, partnerships, and balance. You are devoted to building meaningful connections and may find sacred purpose in helping others achieve harmony. However, it’s important to avoid losing your identity in your partnerships.

Celebrities: Miley Cyrus, Elon Musk, Eminem, Jennifer Aniston, Emma Watson

Vesta in the 8th House Dedication to transformation, intimacy, and shared resources. This placement suggests a deep focus on uncovering hidden truths and navigating life’s mysteries. You may find sacred purpose in healing, exploring taboo topics, or managing power dynamics.

Celebrities: Prince Harry, Drake, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Matt Damon, Kendrick Lamar

Vesta in the 9th House Sacred devotion to exploration, spirituality, and higher knowledge. You are drawn to pursuits involving travel, philosophy, or teaching. This placement highlights a need for freedom to seek truth but warns against being overly dogmatic or restless.

Celebrities: Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Steve Jobs, Sharon Tate

Vesta in the 10th House Focus on career, public life, and long-term goals. You are highly devoted to achieving success and may find purpose in contributing to society or building a lasting legacy. Work-life balance is crucial to avoid overidentifying with your career.

Celebrities: Lady Gaga, Scarlett Johansson, Cristiano Ronaldo, Natalie Portman, Zayn Malik

Vesta in the 11th House Dedication to community, friendships, and progressive causes. You find meaning in working for collective goals or championing innovative ideas. This placement encourages collaboration but warns against losing personal focus in group dynamics.

Celebrities: Madonna, Katy Perry, Cameron Diaz, David Beckham, Kristen Stewart

Vesta in the 12th House Focus on spirituality, inner growth, and hidden dimensions of life. Your sacred purpose may involve helping others, exploring dreams, or delving into the subconscious. This placement highlights compassion and transcendence but requires boundaries to avoid self-sacrifice.

Celebrities: Marilyn Monroe, Beyoncé, Robert Pattinson, Lana Del Rey, Heath Ledger

I thank you all for reading my post on Vesta, and I would like to know if any of it resonated with you!

Sending love, Xx

[r--kt]

Okay, but why the "Kannabi" Bridge? I mean, why is this called that? Turns out, this is an amazing and very beautiful metaphor.

Kakashi Gaiden analysis. Kannabi — the bridge between two worlds

I will look at this from the side of Shinto culture (based on the materials that I could find, feel free to correct me if you know more about this) and from the side of Kakashi and Obito's storylines.

Contents | cultural code · significance for the plot structure · the idea itself (this one is really important!)

Cultural code

In Shinto culture, it is not customary to divide the world into human and sacred, especially into divine and demonic principles — everything exists in harmony with each other, in a single system.

Kannabi (神奈備) refers to a region that is a shintai (repositories in which kami reside) itself, or hosts a kami. In fact, Kannabi is a place of connection between the human and the spiritual. Usually these are mountains, rivers, and forests that stand out for their beauty. These are such accumulations of natural energy, so sacred that their presence requires observance of a certain rite. So, if in relatively modern times be present next to the blossoming sakura, picnics in picturesque mountains and the like has normalized in Japanese culture, then in ancient times people did not dare to disturb mountains or groves with their presence. In such places, people performed rituals of worship to the deity, wrestling matches, divination, sacred dances, offerings, etc. The territory of the kami did not completely coincide with the territory of worship to them, people still tried to move away from the center of the sacred place so as not to bother their deity. To mark the border of entry into Kannabi, symbolic gates were installed — most often in the form of torii.

examples of kannabi in real life. Mount Fuji and Nachi Falls. [ as I understand, shintai and kannabi are synonymous concepts, but kannabi is broader in meaning. ]

It's all about how important the term is in a cultural context. A place of divine power that cannot be desecrated. From here, the Kannabi Bridge and the surrounding area can also be considered endowed with divine energy — and here the most interesting thing begins.

Significance for the plot structure

Now about the scenario composition. In general, the Battle of Kannabi, as the event itself in Kakashi and Obito's storylines, according to Joseph Campbell's «hero's journey», is a stage of transition between worlds. That's what the symbolism of the place also works for. This is the moment when the hero assumes responsibility for the beliefs he carries and their consequences, and literally or symbolically crosses the threshold between the safe and familiar world to the dangerous and unknown one, embarks on the path of reflection and prepares to meet the unconscious.

Thus, briefly speaking, Kakashi finds the strength to resolve his internal conflict in favor of his father's attitudes about the value of each Shinobi, and Obito sacrifices himself, protecting his loved ones and defending his ideals. Then their paths got separate so that each one could face with the unknown by himself.

In the context of the monomyph model, this is how the beginning of the initiation stage is demonstrated (i.e., the transition from one state to another, which is accompanied by some kind of ritual). Since Kannabi in culture is the boundary between the human and the divine, it can be concluded that this very transition is shown almost literally, thanks to the sharingan awakening and the broken tanto. This is the first turning point in history, structurally coinciding with the end of the first act.

The idea itself

And what do we see in general? In the battle of Kannabi, the religious Shinto subtext is vividly read. For the battle in a sacred place, the moral positive change of the hero (Kakashi) or his original courage (Obito) and a certain sacrifice (Kakashi's eye), the deities give a reward: the power of sharingan, which helps them save Rin, which is shared between Obito and Kakashi and in the future generally serves as a direct demonstration of the spiritual connection between them. At the same time, for the desecration of a sacred place (the goal of the mission was to blow up a bridge), heroes are punished: from this point of view, Obito's death is a certain sacrifice for the damage inflicted on the deity.

There is also information that the name of the bridge - Kannabi-kyo (神無毘橋) - can also be interpreted as «A bridge where the gods won't help». idk if it's true, but sounds cool.

Moreover, the very name of Obito's mangekyo — Kamui (神威) — literally translates as «The Power of Gods». Perhaps it is based on the mentioned concept of the place where Kakashi and Obito received the power of sharingan. And maybe that's why they call the technique the same way: because they treat it rather with such a religious meaning.

and thanks for reading to the end ♡

[srbachchan]

DAY 6054

Jalsa, Mumbai Sept 14, 2024 Sat 11:43 pm

Birthday - EF Mahendra Chaudhari .. Mahendra C ..

Ef Ritika Jain Sunday, 15 September .. and all our wishes to our Ef with the prayer that all be well and in the joy of happiness and a harmonious life .. 🌹❤️❤️

time passed away and the time now reads 1:18 am of the Sunday September of the year 2024 .. so what .. we are still on it ..

some rather interesting developments occurred .. the bandages .. few bandages came off .. so when the walk on the GOJ occurs they shall be in remission and absent - the bandages !!

the distance from the well wishers gets intimate and close as the stand rolls forward .. gives me better position to welcome those that stand on the mid partition of the road , and often go unnoticed .. no that shall not happen or should never happen ..

yes the well wisher is the reason for our presence .. they dictate our being .. they desire , we aspire and give reason for their presence .. !

without them we are nobody .. nothing nada .. !!!

fear not the disinterest from the audience .. when you aspire they be the ones to walk beside you ..

each criticism is the bed of steaming fire coals that compel you to walk over them .. and when it has been swept under the bare feet .. the ground on the other side is the coolant respite ..

my love and expectations for the morrow by the Gate ..❤️

Amitabh Bachchan

🪔 ,

September 15 .. not forgetting the birthday greetings to Ef Vinita J from Hyderabad .. 🙏🏻❤️🚩

September 14 .. belated birthday wishes to Ef Shani Yadav from Kolkata .. lots of joys and balloons 🎈 from the Ef Family .. ❤️

[kfkr1ze]

Reset ≠ Astronauts - Chapter 1

Characters — ✈︎ Muneuji, Ushio, Akuta, Kiroku, Nanaki

“This is Muu, this is Muu. Do you copy? Ober. [1]”

“This is Dad, this is Dad. Congratulations, you’ve made your first contact, Muneuji…ーー”

Location: The Kaguya Family's Archery Dojo

Akuta: Aw… AWESOOOOOOOMEEEEEEE～～～～!!!! He got 4 shots in a row, right in the middle like BAM BAM BAM BAM～～～!

Kiroku: It’s all…perfect…!

Kaede: That’s truly amazing, Muneuji-kun…!

Ushio: Of course he’s getting perfect shots. It’s Muu-chan. Isn’t that right, Panda over there?

Nanaki: …Could you stop calling me that? And why are you the one sounding all happy like you’re the one being praised?

Ushio: Hah? Because I already learned all of this, so I can obviously do better than Panda? I think you should be more concerned with how your staring at a certain somebody in a Kyuudou uniform thoughーー

Muneuji: Phew…

Kaede: Muneuji-kun, good work today! Thank you for offering to be an example also! It truly is impressive to see it in person.

Muneuji: I’m truly honored. However, I myself am still inexperienced as well.

Today, since everyone was interested in Kyuudou, I was able to face my target with a new sense of determination… since I wanted to be a leading example.

Nanaki: In that case, it really took a great amount of concentration huh?

Kiroku: Both his posture… and his bow as well… remained perfectly still… That’s really… amazing.

Akuta: It’s so much like Nasu no Raichi! I knew you came from a family of Kyuudou masters, but you’re even more awesome than I thought!! It really gives off those Muneuji vibes!

Kiroku: (I guess he means… Nasu no Yoichi…?)

Ushio: You didn’t know that? You should’ve come and saw him in person sooner.

Akuta: No literally so true! The moment Sensei said he was coming to Muneuji’s house to say hello, I couldn’t not come with, y’know? And I don’t regret it at all either!

Kiroku: …I’m happy to… just obs…erve.

Muneuji: As a Kaguya, it’s my duty as a head of this school to open the gates and share the spirit of archery. I’m truly glad to hear of everyone’s praises.

Those wishing to try Kyuudou and those who are just visiting are both welcome here.

Kaede: When I heard you say that, I just said I’d love to try it out without even thinking about it, but… I wonder if I can actually do this properly.

Muneuji: There’s no need to fret. In Kyuudou, there’s a saying that goes “if an arrow is shot correctly, it shall always hit the target.”

Akuta: What’s that mean?

Muneuji: The phrase means if you use the correct technique, any arrow you shoot will not miss. 

Akuta: So what you’re saying issss… once I master this technique thingy, I’ll always hit in the center!?

Nanaki: But, isn’t that what’s hard about it? I’m sure not just anyone can master this technique…

Ushio: That was so obvious I got a headache just hearing you ask it…

Kaede: R-Really?

Muneuji: Indeed. You can say that hitting the target is just a means, not an end.

The true purpose of Kyuudou is to achieve “Truth, Goodness, and Beauty”. Aiming to hit the center of a target with a true shot is the pursuit of “Truth”.

Akuta: The persuit of truth… I dunno what that is, but it sounds cool…!

Kiroku: Then… What about… “Goodness”?

Muneuji: The purpose of “Goodness” is to keep a calm mind. You achieve this by facing your own thoughts and practicing to try and maintain a composed and proper mindset.

Nanaki: I get it. So that’s why you always seem so calm and level-headed, Muneuji.

Akuta: And thennnn… The last one’s “Beauty”. It’s the last one on the list, so is it some sorta secret ultimate move!?

Muneuji: Indeed, you’re correct.

Akuta: SERIOUSLY!?

Nanaki: R-Really…!?

Ushio: Hold on. Muu-chan, you’re spoiling Idiotake too much. 

Muneuji: Don’t say that. The combination of “Truth” and “Goodness” are both essential to achieve “Beauty”. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to akin it to something like a secret ultimate move. The form of perfect harmony you acquire in achieving “Truth” as well as the grace you need for a calm and proper mind for “Goodness” is what defines the pursuit of “Beauty”.

If you are an archer who has mastered “Truth” and “Goodness”, you will naturally master “Beauty” in your form as well. Kyuudou in itself is a world of beauty.

Kiroku: A world of… beauty… That’s why it’s… so visually… captivating…

Ushio: There’s a certain path you need to follow with Kyuudou. As citizens, we should know that it has its own etiquette at the very least.

Kiroku: (Kurama looks so proud…)

Kaede: I get more and more impressed the more I hear about it. I never would’ve imagined it had a world this deep…!

Muneuji: Having proper teaching within a class would be ideal, but it’s worth it to just try it out. Chief, you should try taking a shot and seeing how it feels.

Kaede: Okay, please guide me well.

Akuta: Get that cool ass shot right in the middle, Sensei! I’ll take a pic!

Kaede: Akuta-kun, you raised the difficulty to hard mode so quickly…!

Muneuji: Alright. Remember the eight fundamental stages of shooting, and try going through them one by one.

Kaede: Y-Yes!

(The eight fundamental stages of shooting… I learned them before when Muneuji was leading as an example.)

(Umm, getting your stance with proper footing and then correcting your posture…)

Muneuji: Your abdomen… Put force underneath your navel area and keep in mind where in your body the center of gravity is.

Akuta: OHHHH〜! That stance is so cool! It’s like he has this cool aura around him!

Nanaki: Yeah, just his posture is… amazing, he really has the vibes. Maybe Chief does have the ability to master it…

Ushio: No matter how you look at it, he has a sloppy beginner’s stance though.

Kiroku: He might just be… nerv…ous, but… good lu…

Muneuji: Next, reading your bow.

Kaede: (Place my right hand on the string and adjust my grip with my left hand…)

Muneuji: Look ahead. Use your right eye to find the center of your target.

Kaede: (Once doing this, you can’t blink or look away from the target…)

Muneuji: Level both of your hands and gently raise the bow to bring it into the drawing position.

Kaede: Ugh, ngngh…

Kiroku: …It looks… really… hard.

Ushio: He’s just using too much force. Look, he’s even shaking.

Muneuji: “Complete your draw”. Clear your mind and allow the energy to fill you within.

Kaede: Phew…

Muneuji: Now, wait for the timing in which that energy is neither too excessive nor too scarce.

Kaede: (ーーNow.)

(The last step is the “release”, Even if I already shot the arrow, keep my guard up and watch where it landsーー)

H-Huh!? 

Ushio: Ah well, he completely failed. It didn’t even hit the target, much less the center.

Akuta: EEHH～!? As soon as I was gonna get the perfect shot too!? Hey Sensei, make sure you follow through til the end!

Kaede: Uu… Sorry…

Muneuji: Uu-chan. Isotake. It was wonderful to witness Chief being mindful of his every move. Don’t laugh at him.

Uu-chan, you can also relate to a time when it was your first time to pick up a bow. If I recall, you hard a hard time drawing the bow as well to a point in which your face started turning redーー

Ushio: T-This isn’t about me…!

Nanaki: I could tell you were concentrating really hard, Chief. I… was watching you closely. You had this focused expression on your face and… I-It was really cool.

Kaede: Ahaha, thank you for watching so well. You’re very sweet, Nanaki-kun.

Nanaki: I-It’s not like that, really…

(I’m this close to taking that arrow home with me…)

Kiroku: Good… work… Just drawing the… bow… looked really… diffi…cult.

Kaede: Yeah, when I actually tried it myself, it just made me realize even more how cool Muneuji-kun is.

Sachie: Sorry to interrupt you, everyone～

Muneuji: Oh, Sachie-san. …Everyone, this is our housekeeper, Sachie-san.

Sachie: It’s a pleasure, thank you for your support.

Kaede: You as well. I’m sorry for barging in so suddenly.

Sachie: Oh there’s no need to apologize. I apologize for keeping you all waiting here. I came to inform you that the main house is ready.

Muneuji: Is that so? Then, we’ll clean up here and make our way over there quickly.

Location: The Kaguya Family's Living Room

Akuta: Oh wooooooww… The inside of your family’s house is also so cool… It’s like a samurai or emperor’s home kinda vibe!

Hey hey. Do ya think I can take a quick shot? I wanna say something like “Off with your head[2], de gozaru!”

Muneuji: There’s no need to be so stiff. Please take it easy and relax here. 

Kaede: But it truly is an amazing house. You grew up in a place like this, Muneuji-kun?

Muneuji: Indeed. It’s also Uu-chan’s second home.

Ushio: I-I guess, yeah. I’ve been coming over here to play since I was little.

Muneuji’s Mom: ーーMuneuji, are you all gathered here?

Muneuji: Mother.

Kaede: It’s been a while since we last spoke to each other, ma’am. I’m Kaede Hamasaki from HAMA Tours.

It was my intention to come by myself, but it suddenly turned into a big group of people, so I truly apologize for that…!

For this round of Feature Tours, Muneuji-kun offered to be the Main Host this time around… I’m truly grateful for his assistance.

Muneuji’s Mom: Oh please, stop it with that Chief-san. I should be the one who’s indebted to you…!

Kaede: Oh no, there’s no need! Muneuji-kun has truly been a great help, we’re the ones who are indebted to him!

Muneuji’s Mom: No no! I’m the one…! You’ve taken care of him for work and even in his daily life, I should be the one who’s…

Kaede: No no no no!

Ushio: Adults really love doing this pointless back and forth thing huh.

Muneuji: Mother, Chief, please cease this never ending battle between who’s in whose debt. If this continues on, we’ll be here for eternity.

Kaede: Ah, s-sorry…!

Muneuji’s Mom: I-I suppose you’re right…!

Muneuji: On top of that, the Feature Tour truly isn’t that big of a hassle. 

After all, the Sub-Host who will be aiding me is my dear childhood friend, Uu-chan, as I requested.

Ushio: Well, that’s just how it turned out. I’ll support him, so you don’t have to worry too much Auntie.

Muneuji’s Mom: Oh my, is that the case? Uu-kun, please take care of Muneuji.

Ushio: Yes.

Muneuji’s Mom: And you all in the Day Squad, thank you for coming over today. Are any of you hungry, perhaps?

Akuta: I AAAM! We’re all so hungry, we’re in starvation mode・deluxe edition!

Nanaki: Whaー Akuta…

Muneuji’s Mom: Fufu, that’s good then. I’ve prepared my famous sweet stew for lunch, so you’re all welcome to have some. Of course, that includes Chief-san.

Kaede: You were already gracious enough to allow us to experience Kyuudou, I couldn’t impose on you more with lunch…!

Muneuji: Mother’s famous sweet stew is very delicious. I would definitely recommend you try it.

Ushio: They aren’t lying when they say it’s sweet either, so be prepared.

Muneuji’s Mom: I’ve already prepared enough already, so please don’t hesitate if you want any.

Kaede: I’m sorry, I’ll be taking you up on that offer then. Thank you for the meal.

Muneuji’s Mom: Then I’ll go get that ready for you with Sachie-san. If you don’t mind, please wait a little bit longer.

Kaede: I’m sorry if we made you feel uncomfortable…

Muneuji: My mother has told me before that she always wanted to greet you properly, Chief. And many people come in and out of our house frequently, so please don’t feel the need to apologize.

Kaede: Thank you. I hope your mom doesn’t worry too much about the Feature Tour.

Muneuji: Uu-chan helped ease her worries by saying he was the Sub-Host. There should be no problems.

Kaede: (Since Muneuji-kun and Ushio-kun teamed up, I’m sure there won’t be anything to worry about. I hope your mother rests assured…!)

On that topic, Muneuji-kun. Have you decided on a destination for the study trip yet?

Muneuji: Ah, yes, for that, I was thinking of Tanegashima.

There is a rocket launch scheduled to take place in the very near future, so this is a rare opportunity to see the launch site in action.

Ushio: ‘s that fine?

Kaede: A rocket launch sounds nice! Then, let’s make it a goal to go to Tanegashima.

Muneuji: Indeed. I’ve already been eyeing the Tanegashima Space Center, as well as several other locations.

Ushio: You already have a plan?

Muneuji: Just in my head. Only as candidates though, nothing is set in stone.

Kaede: Then could I hear about your plan? I might be able to suggest some places that you haven’t thought of yet.

Muneuji: That’s certainly true. Then let’sーー

Akuta: Nanaki, look, look! Even the garden has a real Wabi-sabi[3]ish incomplete feel! Look, there are even things that make that kinda sound you hear when water hits an empty thing!

Nanaki: Like that sound water-filled bamboo makes when it’s empty? That’s nice, I think Natsume-san would like the vibe this place has.

Kiroku: ……… 

Akuta: Kiroku, what’s up? You’ve been looking around all over the places for a while.

Kiroku: Ah… I-It’s noth…ing. I was just… thinking… that Kaguya’s… little sister… isn’t around…

Akuta: Aah right, Princess-chan! She comes over to the HAMA House every once in a whil…

AH! If she’s the Princess of the Kaguya house then she’s… Princess Kaguya!?

Nanaki: Eh, you only now noticed that…?

Akuta: Will she return to the Moon one day!?

Kiroku: If the… Moon’s messengers… come to take… her away, we have… to chase them… away together… with Kaguya…

Nanaki: …Huh, is she that kid? There’s a kid peeking over here through the entrance.

Akuta: Huh?

Muneuji’s Sister: Ah…

Akuta: Princess-chan is here! Let’s think about what to do when the Moon’s messengers come～!

Muneuji’s Sister: I… I-I… gh… Hic!

Akuta: Hm?

Nanaki: Huー Wh-What’s the matter…? Uh, um, why do you look like you’re going to cry…!?

Kiroku: …Did something… happen?

Muneuji’s Sister: Uuu… Waah…!

Akuta: …Uuum, does anyone have a tissue?

Muneuji’s Sister: WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH! I’M SORRRYYYYYYYYYYYYY!

Masterlist — ✈︎ Next

Notes — ✈︎

Muneuji is around 5 here and he doesn't say the word properly. Princess talks the same, so I'll keep their dialogue like this.

Akuta says a famous line from the Edo period I believe? If you drew your sword inside a place like the Edo Castle regardless of the reason, you were forced to commit seppuku. I think “off with your head” gives the same vibes?

Wabi-sabi is an aesthetic about the acceptance of transience and imperfection or the beauty of things that are simple.

[the-ferocious-kittyrose]

Hazbin Hotel Ep1 Rewrite

Okay, let’s get the shit I like first out of the way. Animation? Beautiful. Art style? Iconic. Music? Pops off.

Okay, now the fun part…

First let me just say, I adore biblical lore. So when I see something changed from the og lore, where I think the og was more interesting, I cannot let it go.

(I’m gonna focus on the Charlie storyline in the episode)

1. The Backstory

Let’s start with the first scene, the backstory of Lucifer and Lilith. In the show, they got some of the timeline and motivations wrong. I understand that the story is sugar coated, but hear me out.

“Once upon a time, there was a dazzling kingdom protected by golden gates, known as Heaven. Home to beings of pure light. Angels that worshiped good and lived in peace and harmony under the rule of God. The most beautiful of the Angels was Lucifer. He was a dreamer, with fantastical ideas for all creation. But he was restricted by God and the elders of Heaven, for they felt his way of thinking was dangerous to the order of their world.

Outraged by this injustice, Lucifer gathered an army of Angels, and declared war on the kingdom of Heaven. The battle raged on for centuries, but in the end, Heaven reigned victorious. As punishment for their betrayal, Lucifer and his army were cast out of Heaven. Banished to a crumbling wasteland, where the light of God could not reach. But Lucifer would not wallow in failure. From the barren landscape he rose a beautiful golden palace, crowned himself king and crafted a plan to share his freedom with God’s newest creation. Humanity.”

(I like to imagine that when Lucifer and his army fell, their wings burned up, leaving scattered feathers everywhere. In order to fly to Eden, Lucifer gathered these burned feathers and turned them into a new pair of wings for himself. They were black, messy, and trailed billowing smoke, but they could fly.)

Now for the Lilith part of the story. The more popular interpretation of her is that she is the first wife of Adam, but there is another version too, one where she is Adam’s second Wife after Eve. I personally prefer the latter because I can’t see anyone sinning or getting cast out of Edan before Eve eats the apple.

“He approached the garden of Edan in disguise, and offered the forbidden fruit of knowledge to the mother of humanity, Eve, who gladly accepted. But with the gift of knowledge and freedom, came a terrible curse. Evil bleed into the earth, and humanity was infected by darkness and sin.

For her disobedience Eve was cast out of Edan, to the dismay of her love, Adam. To appease him, the Angels crafted him a new bride, Lilith. Lilith was beautiful, with a voice so enchanting even Lucifer was mesmerized, but she was strong willed and refused to be subservient to her new husband. She fled from the garden, and rather than chase her, Adam found the tree of knowledge and bit into the forbidden fruit, so he could follow his true love, and be with her once more.

Lilith wandered, lost and alone, until she was found by Lucifer. Enamored by her beauty and iron will, he gave her his heart and made her his queen.”

Then you have the bit about Lucifer becoming depressed while Lilith thrived in Hell. I hate this! I was looking forward to a demonic Mortica and Gomez, not another Stolas and Stella. Plus, I’ve never been a fan of uwu sad misunderstood Lucifer. He is a complex character, but too often he’s over simplified by people who read Paradise Lost in high school and misinterpreted Lucifer as a tragic anti hero who was treated unfairly by the evil Angels. Lucifer can be tragic, even sympathetic. He can be fun and a caring father. But don’t forget that he is king of Hell. He is the prince of pride. He has an ego the size of east Texas and waged war against God himself.

And let’s not forget that in the show he is the head honcho over a strict cast system that encourages violence, allows the worst of the worst to take power, and leaves the hellborn races at the bottom at a severe disadvantage.

In this rewrite, Lucifer and Lilith essentially switch places, except Lilith isn’t a pathetic push over, she’s an incredibly famous rockstar, who’s always busy and not around often, but still has a bigger role in her daughter’s life than her husband, who’s been mia doing king shit.

And the last thing we hear about in the intro monologue is that the exterminations happens to prevent Hell from rising against them, which while that may be the case, don’t have Charlie say it!!! That realization for her would make the entire hotel superfluous! Charlie has to think that the problem truly is overpopulation.

2. Meeting with Adam

Let’s start with Adam himself. I hate this character. Especially as an adaptation of Adam. Yes, Adam is misogynistic. He expected Lilith to be subservient to him, but he wouldn’t be the frat boy type of misogynist, he’d be the old school chivalrous type. Grandpa style sexism. And shouldn’t the father of humanity care about his descendants? It doesn’t make any sense for him to be an executioner. He should be the leader of the guardian Angels or something.

In this rewrite, Adam is not the leader of the executioners, instead it’s the Angel Dumah. Dumah is the angel over the wicked dead, and he was appointed by God to torment sinners in Hell.

I want him to be an actual intimidating antagonist. He rarely speaks (his name means “silence”) and has many eyes (is described as having a thousand eyes)

As for the exorcists, they are Angels, but not actual dead humans wearing mask. They just look like that. Dumah is described as having tens of thousands of Angels of Destruction at his disposal. That’s what the exorcists are going to be, but instead of thousands, I’ll give him five. They don’t speak and are hardly sentient. They stand on top of the tower like gargoyles, until they “come to life” for the execution.

“But it’s a comedy! Shouldn’t they be funny?” No. It’s all about how characters react to them. The Litch in Adventure Time is a good example of this.

So obviously the meeting goes a lot differently.

Charlie gets a call, looks at the number, and excitedly tells everyone to, “shooooosh!” She takes the call nervously, saying, “yeah! Okay! Yes! Of course! I’ll be right there! Thank you SOOO much!!!” She hangs up and happily tells Vaggie that Dumah requested a meeting with her. Vaggie is nervous and says she should probably go with her, but Charlie says that she’ll be fine and tells her to stay and work on the commercial. She leaves excited that the Angels may finally be taking her seriously.

She makes it to the clock tower’s board room, where Dumah sits silently at the end of the table. Charlie nervously starts to greet him before she realizes they’re not alone. The Angels, Gabriel and Uriel have come from Heaven, for a meeting with Hell’s princess.

Uriel remains professional, politely bowing her head as she greeted Charlie. Gabriel on the other hand, threw his arms out, happily yelling, “Charlotte!!!” He wrapped her in an uncomfortably tight and awkward hug, saying how much she’s grown since he last saw her. He’s like a chill but estranged uncle meeting his now adult niece who he hasn’t seen since she was a baby and has no memory of him whatsoever.

Uriel watches the whole thing in embarrassment. She tells Charlie that Dumah had contacted them, regarding some, “interesting,” ideas about the extermination.

Charlie starts with her pitch, but Gabriel insists that they should take some time to catch up first. He claps his hands and summons plates of food for everyone. When we cut back to them, Gabriel is in the middle of telling the story about almost getting his ass kicked by Joseph when he told him his virgin wife was pregnant.

Uriel cuts him off, saying she doesn’t need to hear this story for the eighth millionth time. She turns to Charlie, exasperated, and tells her to get on with the pitch.

Charlie says that she has a potential solution for the over population problem in Hell. Uriel, Gabriel, and Dumah look at her blankly. Gabriel asks, “overpopulation?”

Charlie goes on to explain that she knows overpopulation is a big problem, but 275 sinners were executed this year alone and she just can’t stand to watch her people be slaughtered anymore.

Uriel asks if she’s suggesting an alternative, and Charlie very excitedly pitches her idea for the hotel. Uriel and Gabriel wear a matching “wtf” face and look back and forth at eachother like, “does this girl know what she’s suggesting?”

As Charlie is finishing, Uriel is visibly annoyed. She interrupts Charlie, complaining that this is ridiculous and has all been a massive waste of time as she stands up to leave. Charlie tries to stop her, saying, “please, you don’t understand.”

Uriel snaps back, “no, you don’t understand! They had their chance in life and they earned damnation.”

Charlie responds, “you're wrong. Sinners made mistakes, sure, but everyone makes mistakes.”

Uriel pinches the bridge of her nose (or where a nose would be on a person) “a mistake happens once. It’s an accident, an error in judgment due to naivety. Of course mistakes can be forgiven, but we’re not talking about mistakes, are we? These sinners had a choice, and they chose to live in sin.”

“A choice they now regret!” Charlie defends.

“It takes a lot more than regret to be forgiven.” Uriel says coldly. “It takes remorse.”

Gabriel chimes in, “she has a point, Charlie. It’s easy to make someone regret their actions, but to have them feel true selfless remorse, that is much more difficult.”

Charlie furrows her brow and starts to look defeated.

“But perhaps not impossible.”

Charlie beams with excitement. Gabriel explains that this is a big decision, too big to be made right now, but if she can successfully redeem one demon, they will allow her to come to heaven and pitch her idea to the entire Angelic court. Uriel tries to argue, but Gabriel just says they’ll discuss it later. Charlie gives him a tight hug before he and Uriel disappear.

As she turns to leave, Dumah puts his hand on her shoulder. This is the first time he’s moved in the entire scene. He stares at her coldly and says, “the only reason you’re here is your father has spared you from the executioner’s blade. If I had my way. Each and every one of you would be slaughtered.”

Charlie stares up at him. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

For context, part of the reason Gabriel and Uriel were initially confused by Charlie’s proposal is because they know that Lucifer is trying to keep Hell’s population as high as possible, in preparation for the second war with heaven. That’s why he and the other princes of hell work to manipulate humanity and temp them towards sin (i.e. succubi and incubi). That’s why he arranges marriages between powerful demons to make powerful demon children (i.e. Stolas and Stella). He needs as many demons possible for his army if he’s gonna have a chance at winning. So obviously, sending sinners to heaven, aka the opposing force, is the LAST thing Lucifer would want.

[viridescentelf]

Yandere Bard x Reader - Say you're mine

Universe: Baldur's Gate 3 or DnD

Follow up to the introduction of Elphael and his nightly fantasies, this is my yandere OC.

Summary: your childhood, musical friend is madly in love with you, fantasizing about you in secret and planning to make you his. He has written a song about you and thinks your compliments mean more than you intend.

Warning: 18+ content, general nsfw, toxic, obsessive behavior, self deprication

The song in this fic is below, they're an awesome band:

-----

He felt nervous. Rereading his lyrics, he was sure nothing directly referenced you. But what if you suspected him? Maybe you noticed his lingering eyes. Or the way his breath quickened when your thigh briefly touched his. He was always so obvious, damn it! And yet, you still stayed with him. That had to mean something…?

You looked over the new notes Elphael had provided for you. Your eyes flew over the lyrics and a small smile grew upon your visage.

Oh, Elph is really into someone! you thought. This idea excited you. He never acted particularly concerned with love. The topic always made him fidget, wanting to move on from it fast. It was nice to see that he was open to it now. You had tried to introduce him to people, you thought he’d like previously, but he never really showed any interest. You had decided to let the idea rest, it was his decision after all. But now, wow! The raw emotion in the words, this had to be something!

Elphael watched you from afar, his face engulfed in heat. You would figure it out. You surely would.

You started tuning your guitar, practicing your parts quietly. The curtains muffled the patron’s loud conversation in the bar behind it.

The drow let out a jittery sigh. You didn’t seem that bothered by the words, which calmed him slightly. He wasn’t ready to tell you, although his entire being ached to do so for an age. He instructed the other band mates on tempo changes and note enhancement to keep himself occupied. He dared not get too close to you, in fear of losing it.

It was time. The announcement had sound.

The curtains were raised. Elphael bowed to the patrons and the whole room blurred. He felt you close, which simultaneously calmed and terrified him. Taking a deep breath, he nodded and the band erupted in song.

He could hear faint squealing from some of the loyal fans at the front of the stage. They usually forced flowers or stupid notes into his hands, asking him on dates or leaving locations on where to meet them after the show. He never really cared for their flattery. You were all he thought about. And you hadn’t asked to meet him under a dank light after the performance. If you had...

The drow stood at the front, with you strumming wildly to the song he secretly dedicated to you. He opened his mouth and took another deep breath, starting to sing the words he longed to scream into your face:

Say you're mine, don't leave me hanging by myself

The band echoed in the background with the words: you make me lose my mind

Can't think of anybody else because every time you come around

Oh darling, all I want is you

Say you're mine, we'll get it right, get it right

(You make me lose my mind)

Got me going crazy every time

I've never played with fire

But I guess it's something about you-ooh

The band played the interlude, the swelling of the music made his skin shiver.

Lately, I've been tryna find a way out of my shell

Reconcile my own emotions by myself

Stay alone and claim it's for my mental health

The band let out an excited note in unison. He heard you join in the harmony.

(Say you're mine)

He knew you were just singing with him. But hearing those words from you sent chills down his scarred spine.

Don't leave me hanging by myself (you make me lose my mind)

Can't think of anybody else because every time you come around

All I want is you-ooh

Say you're mine! Got me going crazy every time I've never played with fire, but I guess there's nothing I can do

The crowd errupted in applause once the song had ended. The fans at the front screeched when Elphael’s eyes flew over them, thinking he noticed them. In reality, he was trying to stop himself from looking back at you, gazing anywhere else, fearful of you having caught on. You swung your arm around his shoulder and bellowed cheers into his ear. You were happy for the grand execution of the song, but also that he showed such vulnerability.

You thought the growing indigo blush on his face was due to the excessive squealing from the patrons.

The applause faded as you and Elphael made your way to the bar, adrenaline still coursing through your veins from the performance. You ordered your usual drinks - a honeyed mead for yourself and dark ale for him. As you settled onto the worn wooden stools, you couldn't contain your excitement any longer.

"Elph, that song was amazing! I had no idea you could write like that," you gushed, eyes shining with pride for your friend. "It was so... raw and passionate. You must really be into someone."

Elphael's grip on his tankard tightened imperceptibly. He forced a casual shrug, taking a long swig of ale to buy himself time. "It's just a song," he mumbled, not meeting your gaze.

What if you could read him now?

But you weren't about to let it go so easily. "Come on, you can tell me! Who is it??? Is it someone I know?” You pushed your elbow into him, teasing. Elphael’s stomach dropped at your touch and couldn’t help but let out a small laugh. He was a bit ticklish; you knew this.

“It’s a secret…”, he uttered sheepishly. You sat so close to him, your leg was practically on his. He didn’t dare look anywhere, but straight ahead, since his face was already an unusual shade of blue.

You turned towards him and took another big gulp of your drink. Your eyes squinted as you thought long and hard about who it could be. Elphael talked to the kitchen staff a lot. Could it be one of them? Or was it someone outside the inn?

“Come on…”, you purred, leaning closer to him. Elphael’s eyes turned to you. If he moved his head, your lips would touch. Should he do it and pretend it was an accident?

He pondered this too long, you had already moved your face away to make room to swing your arm around him again.

“You can tell your old bud!”, you beamed at him.

Elphael chuckled, mostly to mask his annoyance at the word “bud”.

His mind raced, searching for a way out of this predicament. He couldn't tell you the truth, but he didn't want to lie outright either. His gaze darted around the tavern, desperately seeking inspiration.

"Alright, alright," he conceded with a sigh, his gravelly voice barely audible over the din of the bar. "There is... someone."

Your eyes lit up with excitement, and Elphael felt a pang in his chest. They sparkled like starlight, partly why he was so enthralled by you. You were waiting for him to continue and the drow shook his head slightly to concentrate.

"I met them a while ago, during one of our…shows," he began, weaving truth and fiction together. "They have this... presence about them. It's hard to describe. When they walk into a room, it's like everything else fades away."

Elphael paused, taking another swig of ale to steady himself.

“When I hear their voice, it makes me go crazy. I could never tire of it. And they are…”, he looked at you briefly, studying your features in seconds, “absolutely stunning. In every way."

You were clapping your hands in excitement, delighted at this information. You had always wished Elphael would find someone, because you truly felt he deserved all the love in the world.

“That’s amazing, Elph!”

The drow felt another sweet twinge at the sound of his nickname. He adored it.

“Well, have you told them? Are you going to tell them? Are they here?!?!” You turned around and looked frantically from one end of the bar to the other, trying to spot the person Elphael could be describing.

You were so cute. But he wanted you to look at him.

He put his hand on your shoulder and pulled you to face the bar again.

“Stop staring at strangers…”, he laughed, but there was a distinct assertiveness in his voice. Your attention belonged to him.

You turned back to face Elphael, your eyes blinking at his sudden change in tone. "Sorry, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable," you said softly. "I'm just so excited for you! Have you told them how you feel?"

Elphael's grip on his pint tightened, his knuckles turning a paler shade of lavender. He stared into the dark depths of his ale, as if seeking answers in its murky surface. When he spoke, his voice was barely above a whisper, rough with emotion.

"I... I can't. I don't deserve them. They're too good, too pure. And I'm..." he trailed off, his free hand clenching into a fist on the bar top.

You leaned in closer, your brow furrowed with worry. "You're what, Elph?"

He could smell the perfume you wore. It drove him insane. You always smelled so fucking good. He paused to breathe it in more.

You tilted your head slightly.

“...A piece of shit! Obviously! I’m disgusting. The things I’ve done, thought about…Gods I can’t even utter what I imagine sometimes. No one wants someon- something like me. An ugly, poor drow that whores himself out for money. Debased and damaged." He pointed sharply at the deep scar on his face.

"They could never want me. They are…”, he didn’t want to look at you, but your radiance pulled his grey eyes towards you, “just so damn perfect…”

Your eyes widened in shock at Elphael's harsh words. You grabbed his arm, forcing him to face you.

"Elph, what in the hells! When will you stop saying such terrible things about yourself?"

He stared at you and his forlorn eyes always made you feel an immense amount of sympathy. There was such a vast glimmer of loss within them, something was constantly eating at him.  

You turned on your stool to face him fully, your knees brushing against his thigh.

"Listen to me," you said firmly, your voice low and intense. "You are not disgusting. You are not ugly. You are one of the most beautiful people I know, inside and out."

Your fingers traced the constellations tattooed on his arm, making him tense up.

"Just look at you. These paintings tell a story of survival, beauty and strength. Showing how much you've overcome." You cupped his face gently, thumb brushing over the scar that marred his cheek. "And this? This just makes you look dashing and mysterious."

Elphael's breath caught in his throat at the intimacy of your touch, his skin tingling where your fingers drifted over his face. He screamed internally, resisting the urge to pull you into a deep, hungry caress. To throw you onto the bar top and hover over you, pressing himself between your legs: the thought made his body vibrate.

“You're one of the most handsome people I know, honestly! Do you not see how many people throw themselves at you?"

You pointed at the group of fans, huddling together, staring in anguish at the back of the drow’s head. He kept his gaze on you.

Your hands fell from his face and you gripped the drow’s hand that was clawing the side of the bar intensely.

"Your music touches people's souls," you insisted, your voice yanking him back to the present. "The way you play, it's like... it's like you're weaving magic with every note. And your voice? Gods, Elph, when you sing, it's like the whole world stops to listen."

You squeezed his hand, your eyes boring into his.

"And you're so kind and gentle. That person is so damn lucky to have you care for them. I love the way you comfort me… it always lifts me up!”

Your face was so close to his.

Elphael's heart thundered in his chest, your words echoing in his mind. The tavern around you seemed to fade away, leaving only you - your earnest eyes, your soft hands still clasping his, the intoxicating scent of mead on your breath. He wanted to believe your words, to let them sink into his very being and wash away years of self-loathing. But more than that, he wanted to crush his lips against yours, to taste the sweetness of your mouth and feel the warmth of your body pressed against his.

His gaze flickered to your lips. What if...what if your words meant more than friendship? The possibility sent a jolt of electricity through his body. Maybe, just maybe, you felt the pull between you too. Maybe you'd been waiting for him to make a move all this time.

He felt his body move without command.

Elphael leaned in slowly, his heart pounding so loudly he was sure you must hear it. The din of the tavern faded to a dull roar as his focus narrowed to your lips, slightly parted and glistening from your drink. He could feel the warmth of your breath mingling with his own. This was it - the moment he had dreamed of for so long.

His eyes fluttered as he closed the final distance between you. He imagined how soft your lips would feel against his, how you would taste of honey and mead. His hand moved up to cup your cheek, fingers trembling slightly as it traveled upwards.

Just as he was about to make contact, a thunderous crash rang out from across the tavern. Your head whipped around instinctively towards the source of the noise, leaving Elphael's lips to barely brush against your cheek. The movement startled him and he twitched upright, swallowing hard at the shock of how close he had just been.

You were still looking over at the tumult, some people were fighting loudly. You turned to him briefly and smiled, completely unaware what almost just happened. You thought he had just been swaying weirdly from the alcohol. You leaned over the back of your stool and watched as the barmen pulled a group of ruffians away from the other roudy troop. Evidently, there had been some kind of disagreement while gambling.

You sighed and shook your head at the idiocy.

“See, Elph. This is the level of morons that exist in this world. You are much better than any of them combined. Don’t beat yourself up like that.” You patted his shoulder with gusto. The sudden friendly body language made Elphael’s world spin, when you were just so intimately intertwined.

So close.

But this meant something. You wanted him, too. Surely.

The night went on with you joining the other band members to drink a few rounds. Elphael stayed at the bar, replaying the scene in his head over and over again.

Maybe if he told you the truth,…or tried again?

What would your reaction be?

[melliae]

The Great Seal’s Design

Considering how close Episode Aigis/The Answer is to being released, I think it’s time to point out one of the most interesting design choices in the game. Because everyone must have asked themselves why does the Great Seal look like this:

A golden door with 6 eyes and 4 spirals…

Well, the choice for it to be a door has an obvious source: one of the titles the Death card receives in esoteric traditions (in particular Thelema) is the “Lord of the Gate of Death”. This title also influenced the card rendition in P3 and P4.

The doors behind the skull? Yeah, they are the ones.

I don’t think I’ve to do an in-depth explanation of why doors—and thresholds in general—are a perfect representation for death and transformation/evolution, going from the known and familiar world into the great unknown, from the inner into the outer and vice versa.

“Man is a gateway, through which from the outer world of gods, daemons, and souls ye pass into the inner world; out of the greater into the smaller world. Small and transitory is man. Already is he behind you, and once again ye find yourselves in endless space, in the smaller or innermost infinity. At immeasurable distance standeth one single Star in the zenith.” - Seven Sermons to the Dead.

And as a curiosity that has no particular relation with the Seal’s design: Makoto created the Seal within Nyx’s body, yet The Answer showed him using it within the depths of the collective unconscious. Pretty interesting, and I can only link it with the Star mentioned in the previous quote, and thus with…

“An Indian picture of Shiva-bindu, the unextended point. It shows the divine power before the creation: the opposites are still united. The god rests in the point. Hence the snake signifies extension, the mother of Becoming, the creation of the world of forms. In India this point is also called Hiranyagarbha, 'golden germ' or 'golden egg.'” - Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious

How I lied about its importance xD

Again, I’m not going to repeat the meaning and role of Nyx’s here; I already wrote a post about it. So to put it shortly, Nyx isn’t something that can't be defeated, but only accepted, integrated and transformed. That’s why the Great Seal is a door, because doors are meant to be opened, to communicate the outer with the inner. However, as life and humanity are unable to confront their darkness, the Gate is sealed for the time being.

Now, moving into the next element, the 6 eyes! And I have a perfect quote once more.

“Eyes are round and in common speech are likened to ‘cart-wheels.’ They also seem to be a typical symbol for what I have called the ‘multiple luminosities of the unconscious.’ By this I mean the seeming possibility that complexes possess a kind of consciousness, a luminosity of their own, which, I conjecture, expresses itself in the symbol of the soul-spark, multiple eyes (polyophthalmia), and the starry heaven.” - Mysterium Coniunctionis.

That quote was in regard to an analysis of Ezekiel’s visions about (biblically-accurate, duh) angels, the cherubim and ophanim. Since those angels are the bearers of God’s throne, they become extensions of his essence and symbols of the Self as well, of the unified and whole nature of man. The animal and monstrous characteristics of the angels are due to said wholeness, which fully embraces the autonomous and (sometimes) beastly aspects of the unconscious.

At any rate, the same logic should apply to the Great Seal, with the multiple eyes it has being representations or outright multiples souls/complexes that are working harmoniously as one, constantly watching their surroundings. In this regard, the number of eyes also makes sense: 6 is the quantity of directions (above, below, front, back, right, and left) in a 3D-space like the universe. While the number doesn’t really fit with the hindu Lokapala, it does with their role as the guardians of the cardinal directions and eternal watchers of the universe at large.

However, as far as I’m aware, there’s no particular relevance of the number 6 within a psychoanalytic context beyond two mentions. The first one is in the explanation of Seven Sermons, where the candelabra named “Ignis” and “Eros” has seven arms due to the spiritual principle of the number 3, or “3 + 3 + a special 1”, which in turn connects with the second mention:

“Luna is thus the sum and essence of the metals’ natures, which are all taken up in her shimmering whiteness. She is multi-natured, whereas Sol has an exceptional nature as the ‘seventh from the six spiritual metals.’ He is “in himself nothing other than pure fire.” - Mysterium Coniunctionis

This one makes more sense, considering Makoto’s visage is a white/gray stone hanging near the center of the Seal. It can also connect with the alchemical symbol of the hexagram, representing the union of opposites during the Great Work and, as per Tatsuya’s Scenario, the macrocosm of space—or the macrocosmic universe (“大宇宙”). And just to put the final nail on the coffin:

“This sun has seven rays. A commentator remarks that four of them point to the four quarters; one points upwards, another downwards, but the seventh and ''best" points inwards. It is at the same time the sun's disc, named Hiranyagarbha.” - Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious

The six eyes are the multiple “consciousnesses” that watch over the ever-expanding and ever-developing outer word. They observe and change, focusing only on the reality that surrounds them. While the seventh ray, the most important and exceptional “metal” of all, focuses inwards, into the equal and contrary of the macrocosm: the human soul. And that disposition isn’t only found in Makoto’s “soul”, but also in the other element on the Seal, the 4 spirals.

“We can hardly escape the feeling that the unconscious process moves spiral-wise round a centre, gradually getting closer, while the characteristics of the centre grow more and more distinct. Or perhaps we could put it the other way round and say that the centre—itself virtually unknowable—acts like a magnet on the disparate materials and processes of the unconscious and gradually captures them as in a crystal lattice." - Psychology and Alchemy

4 is the number par excellence of the process of individuation and the Self, the sacred quaternity that’s ever so prevalent in mythology and folklore. And it’s present along with the figure of the spirals that, as previously quoted, stands for the movement of the psyche around its core and whole nature, the Self. Thus, the spirals go on forever, endlessly and fruitlessly getting close to the underlying archetype of life and humanity.

The eyes and spirals, then, present complementary imagery. They both represent the simultaneous collectivity and individuality of the Self, which is “smaller than small and bigger than big”. Yet, the divinity present on them is only fulfilled when the effigy of humanity is included, the immobile and changeless center from which every movement emerges and around which they move.

However, life is bound by time and change by definition. It transforms itself to accommodate archetypal wholeness. So what happens when that wholeness is achieved and embodied?

“That would probably mean—translated into our language—that when the Self, after having grown within the earthly man, has completely reached its goal, i.e., the mandala of the unus mundus, then it has a deadly effect on the earthly body because it has reached a form of definite oneness with the all-pervading cosmic One-continuum, which seems to be hostile to separated existence.” - Psyche and Matter, by Marie-Louise Von Franz.

The Self, the union between the outer and the inner, is the final goal of life, its purpose. And once it’s achieved, life is ready to “depart”, but not completely. Again, when individuation is finished the individual becomes one with the collective and world at large, and just like them, it keeps going even after death, though not necessarily in a physical manner. Again, the only thing that dies is the physical body, because the realized essence becomes everlasting, like stone itself.

“Then spirit, soul, and body become ‘the One, in which the whole mystery lies hidden.’ This ‘One’ is also described as a stone statue which is born out of the fire. It unites spirit, soul, and body and contains all four elements.” - Psyche and Matter.

The real stones that everyone knows of aren’t eternal, obviously. I’m not speaking about that kind of thing, but of their symbolic nature as things that surpass the lifespans of all living beings, that resist the weathering of time and the elements. Thus, what element better than stone to represent the non-bodily eternity of the soul? Even Erebus, with a strength that Elizabeth said was enough “to tear down mountains to the heavens”, can’t even put a scratch on Makoto’s effigy.

Following with the stone motif, Christ’s association with stones can also be highlighted, the eternal cornerstone of the house of god, as well as the Philosopher’s Stone, which, despite having red as its main color as seen with Trismegistus, is said to be a manifestation of God like Christ is, and the microcosm itself—the perfected human spirit. But again, the main idea behind the statue is that it’s Makoto’s crystallized life force, made to last as long as humanity finds life unbearable.

The Great Seal, the manifestation of Makoto’s soul and his final resolution, will forever remain in the abyss of the collective unconscious as a symbol of the potential that lies dormant within everyone—the timeless bond that joins everyone as one. And as long as it remains as such, the Gate will be eternally closed, immovable as a mountain.

He may look alone, but that's from the truth.

[fanficsdumpomg]

John Dory Boyfriend Headcannons

*John Dory and y'all met during his brozone days, you were in a band that frequently opened for them. You both met during an afterparty and you hit it off.

*John Dory and you would constantly spend time after shows, you got closer to his brothers during this time as well and became like a big sister to baby Branch. However, as much as you cared about John Dory you never wanted to take your relationship to the next level for fear of crazy fans.

*Your relationship came to a head after the big brozone concert where John had wanted to perfect the perfect family harmony, you didn't hear from him after the show so you went back to his family's pod to discover they had all quit the band and left baby branch alone.

*Feeling angered and Sad at JD's disappearance and leaving his brother behind you decided to help Rosiepuff take care of Baby Branch. After Rosiepuff's death, you however became like a parent to to branch.

*In the years that followed Branch had grown out of his shell and met his bff now girlfriend Poppy who helped him become a better person. You couldn't be more proud of him but where did this leave you? You spent so long taking care of him what were you going to do now?

*These feelings continued to build but you pushed it down with hobbies, these feelings exploded however on the day of Bridget and Gristle's wedding an unexpected guest appeared.

*JD was back and you were pissed not only for leaving you without a single word but only now showing up when he needed something from his brother.

"Y/N, I'm sorry...I was so young and angry I didn't give anything else a second thought but I have never stopped loving you."

*You didn't accept his apology and wanted nothing more to do with him but when Branch had agreed to go on the rescue mission to save Floyd you immediately wanted to go feeling that motherly instinct to protect Branch Arrise again. Also, you could take care of cute little Tiny diamond who had managed to sneak his way on Rhonda so this was a win-win for you.

*Getting in Rhonda, y'all set off to find Spruce and came across Vacay Isle; where a spruce turned Bruce now worked with his wife and family. After some convincing you guys managed to get Bruce to come along but not before performing to show/prove to his kids that yes, he was in a band.

*During the performance you were glad to see how happy Branch was with his brothers again and when he pulled Poppy on stage, John Dory pulled you up on stage as well where y'all performed the last verse of the song.

"I forgot how fun it was to perform with everyone... especially you <3."

*Okay, JD still has the band charm you see; but it will not work on you you tell yourself no matter how much you blush.

*Moving on with Bruce, you were well on your way to collect Clay and on the way over you were finally civil enough that you and JD could have a talk about what the two of you had been doing the last 15+ years. You told John all about how you cared for Branch at that time (which John thanked you for) and John Dory talked about his time hiking the Neverglade trail.

"Sounds...interesting to say the least, you'll have to bring me on your next adventure JD." you said smiling resting a hand on his.

*You had finally reached Clay after Branch's brilliant yet gross plan to have Rhonda track Clay with his old Funder Underwear.

*Arriving at the abandoned gold course you meet Clay and Viva the leader of the putt-putt trolls and as it would turn out Poppy's long-lost sister.

*After Viva and Poppy went off to reconnect, Clay informed you of her tragic backstory on how she was separated from King Peppy and Poppy during the night of the troll escape. Clay also let you know that Viva is very protective over the trolls she protects here so unfortunately you would have to leave Poppy behind if you all wanted to get a move on to get to MT. Rageous.

*Unfortunately, Viva did discover y'all as you were about to leave and shut the gates effectively trapping you inside. You were however able to escape with Poppy due to Clay opening the gate again but left behind a broken-hearted Viva.

*Now you were on you were way to Mt. Rageous and the gang + poppy decided to have a little practice session which in your opinion was going very well until John Dory stopped it claiming it wasn't perfect enough. Feeling frustrated everyone lashed out and him especially Branch who was disappointed when he learned that his brothers planned to split up once again after they saved Floyd. He stormed out of Rhonda with a distraught Poppy following behind him

*You were incredibly angry not Just at John Dory this time but at the rest of them, how could they be so insensitive towards their little brother.

"You know what John Dory, you have hurt your little brother and me for the last time. You better hope when we get to MT. Rageous that he is okay 'cause I will end you!" And with that, you stormed off towards the back of Rhonda.

*And you stayed at the back of Rhonda till MT. Rageous where you were kidnapped by Velvet and Veneer. Velvet and Veneer had no use for you so they threw you for draining purposes but Velvet thought it might be cute to use you as a little good luck charm and captured you in one of her diamond earrings. Poppy and Branch confronted the two of them at the entrance to the rage dome and outed them as liars/frauds which prompted their roadshow in their car.

*Horrified you watched the brothers get drained as Branch, Poppy, and Tiny Diamond raced to save you on the MT. Rageous freeway. They eventually got aided by Bridget, Gristle, and Viva and managed to corner the Popstars on a boat.

*The fight was tough and they managed to free John Dory, Clay, Bruce, and You but not Floyd. And in one last attempt, the seven of you performed hoping to achieve the perfect family harmony. It worked and you were able to save Floyd at last, shattering the diamond prisons that trapped both you and the brothers.

"John Dory...getting kidnapped made me realize that I have never stopped loving you no matter how big-headed and stupid you are. The time we spent together these last few days has made me realize that you are still the silly goofy boy I fell in love with all those years ago." You said smiling.

"I love you too, Y/N!" he shouted with a grin pulling you into a kiss.

[professorshape]

My mind is full of BG3 but as my laptop is shitting the bed and I cannot get to decent Wi-Fi until Monday, I must sit and stew and write my ideas instead of playing with my favorite gay people. So here are my little thoughts.

I love the way that the characters names have something to do with their pasts. Gale is from a sea fairing city, so he is named after strong wind that pushes the sails of ships. unseen forces moving massive instruments. I wish we were able to actually meet his mother, she a spit fire!

Wyll's will is such a strong theme for his character, discipline is a key part of his character, despite being a warlock and under the hand of literal devil. A name also reflects massively on what the parent wants for that child. Very few parents will name their child shit burrito for good reason. I sometimes wonder if Wyll's mother, Francesca Ravengard, wanted to name Wyll Wyll. I wonder if she had other ideas, and dreams for her son before she passed. She might have been perfectly healthy up until the end, but labor is like battle and there is no sure chance one will come out alive. I sometimes think of the nights Ulder Ravengard spent without Francesca Ravenguard, holding his son. I wonder if Wyll was ill and Ulder was faced with the reality he may lose his son as well as his wife in the span of a few weeks. I wonder if he could stand to be in the same room as his son or if he worshiped the baby, the only living thing left of his late wife. I think that Wyll is a perfect name of him.

Shadowheart was a name that Shadowheart gave to herself. At first it was proof of her devotion, to the point others in her cult laughed at her. But in the end the change of the name also aided the cult in tricking her, it pushed away her family's influence and memory, while also making her feel like she had agency, leading to further disassociation from her past. Names have so much connection to the past it is one of the only things that really remains from the baby you once were to the person you are now, if you choose to keep the name. I think that the cult pushed her to change her name, subtly or not. It is easier to sever that connection with a new name.

Astarion is interesting to me because it's not a name outside of cannon. it makes me think his parents were romantics, artists maybe. His name makes me think A Star Orion. Maybe he was named after a character in a book or play. I'm not a fan of his name being juvenile, that he was supposed to be renamed as an adult elf. He was a magistrate in Balder's Gate, this man had a big boy job sending big boy men to big boy prison and everything, let's not infantilize him lol. I do like the nickname Star, but i think he would hate it. The drunks he lead to Cazador would shorten his name with their weakened tongues so he is not a fan.

I think it is crazy that there aren't more bard wizards. There is magic all around us and we can manipulate it to the point of making godly headshots, but I can't make my spells more powerful by adding harmonies??? Honestly i wish there more stuff for bards, but I automatically go for bard anyway unless i am playing brick the barbarian.

It would be so fun to have special character reactions to having your character named after another. Just let me slap Mystra's face onto my Tav's face and give Gale and mini heart attack when he's pulled from the stone. I need to play around with the game and see if there are any limits to the names, we can give ourselves.

I think that Jaheira and Astarion would make a good pair, he could be useful as a night assassin, and it would keep him fed. Also, I feel like Jaheira would appreciate a companion with some reference to what happened years ago without it feeling like to grandmother's talking about the good old days. I usually turn my Astarion relationships into friendships, and i think having someone who wants connection and intimacy without sex would be good for Astarion. Stable but not too invasive. He still gets to have control over his body.

Anyway, there are my gay little thoughts before school takes over my life again!

[honourablejester]

Since I’ve been talking a lot about religion in D&D and fantasy lately, as well as deities in ttrpgs just in general for ages, I thought I’d maybe highlight a few of the deities from published 5e that I do greatly enjoy. The Forgotten Realms has its issues as a setting, but there are some gods and goddesses that I do greatly enjoy.

And I figured I’d start out with what several people may already know is my favourite god in the Faerûn pantheon: Deneir, the First Scribe.

D&D Deity Spotlight: Deneir

Deneir is the god of literature and literacy, the patron of the artist and the scribe. His is the power to accurately render and describe, to write and to read, and to pass on information. In legend, Deneir is often portrayed as being a scribe in service to Oghma, and he is sometimes thought of as Oghma's right hand.

It's common practice for someone who writes a letter or records information to say a prayer to Deneir to avoid mistakes. Similarly, artists acknowledge Deneir before beginning and upon completing paintings, particularly illuminations on manuscripts, tapestries that relate stories, and any such attempt to use art to capture the truth.

Followers of Deneir believe that information not recorded and saved for later use is information lost. They consider literacy an important gift of the gods, one that should be spread and taught. His followers are scribes and scholars devoted, like their patron, to preserving written works, and also to experiencing them, for they say that Deneir himself is hidden within the lines, shapes, and passages of all written works. Priests of Deneir take an oath of charity as well, compelling them to accept the requests of others to write letters and transcribe information.

The god's followers tend to be individualists, united by their shared faith but not overly concerned with religious hierarchy and protocol. This behavior is supported by the fact that Deneir's blessings of divine magic are more often bestowed on those who lose themselves in written works than on those who fancy themselves part of any temple or religious order. Contemplation of the faith's most holy book, the Tome of Universal Harmony, is the most effective way to become deserving of Deneir's blessings.

--- Sword Coast Adventurer’s Guide (2015)

The knowledge domain is one of my favourite cleric subclasses, and I just deeply enjoy Deneir as a patron and a god. He’s the god of ‘receipts or it didn’t happen�� and ‘document your damned findings’. He’s the god of writing shit down. And reading it later, interrogating it, pulling texts apart (metaphorically, not literally, do not pull texts apart literally or he will smite you) to get down to the metatext beneath it. He’s the god of literacy, of teaching. And I deeply, deeply adore the oath of charity his priests take, to write letters and take dictation and transcribe information, all for free. Information must be free. Literacy and information should be accessible to everyone. I love that about him.

I do find it interesting that his followers ‘tend to be individualists’, that Deneir has no care whatsoever for religious hierarchy. You’d think a high degree of organisation would be required for the sort of large scale documentation and preservation of knowledge that he is decidedly in favour of. But I think that possibly comes back to that oath again. That literacy and information should be free to all. I think that might be part of the reason he doesn’t want everything concentrated in a single religious library institution, knowledge kept behind the gates of his priesthood. No. Anyone who writes and reads and interacts with knowledge comes under his purview, anyone who wants to read and write and interact with knowledge. He doesn’t want a centralised institution, he wants literacy to spread. So yes, his followers build libraries, and preserve collections, and keep records, but his followers also … write letters. Teach literacy. Make themselves available to transcribe information for other people. Make art, so that stories and information can spread even without the direct tool of language. (I feel like he would love Shaun Tan’s ‘The Arrival’, a wordless comic documenting a fantasy immigrant experience, and a story told in that format specifically to avoid/cross the language barrier, to relay the experience without the barrier of words).

Deneir is a scholar and a scholar’s god, but he’s also a god of teachers and artists and couriers and writers and journalists and historians and …

It’s about writing things down. It’s about giving people the ability to write things down. The ability to read. It’s about finding ways to communicate and preserve knowledge even outside of writing.

Like. This may be obvious, but one of the reasons I love Deneir is because he fits a lot of my real world beliefs over here. About literacy, about the joy and necessity and promise of literacy. About giving people access to whole other worlds of information and experience beyond what they can directly experience for themselves.

And maybe you’re like, okay, but what does that have to do with a fantasy game about fighting dragons? To which I would answer … Well, firstly, worldbuilding, obviously. He’s a great god to have knocking around in the background. But on a more direct, adventurer-focused level …

The first character I ever properly played was Kossi, a little rat-shifter knowledge cleric/fey wanderer ranger, and her whole thing was that oath of Deneir’s above. To go out and write letters for people. To teach literacy. She was a wandering postwoman and scribe and teacher. She had ranger levels because her oath wasn’t about sitting in a library or scriptorium somewhere, it was about bringing literacy to people who might not have it. Going to villages and offering reading lessons. Offering to write letters for people and also to deliver them if they were places she was going. Offering to read letters for people, read wills for people, help people document their lives. Send information. And if you think there aren’t a thousand little quests and adventure hooks that can be built into writing people’s letters and records for them and being asked to deliver them …

And even for the more formal adventurers she went on, Deneir believes that knowledge that is not recorded is knowledge lost. She was journaling her experiences. She was documenting everything she came across. She found a complex built to honour forgotten giant gods in a cave system, and she was so happy, because that knowledge would now no longer be lost, those gods might potentially no longer be forgotten, because she’d found them, and she’d written it down. Part of her deal was that she would make sure to leave her filled journals in towns or send them to archives every so often, so that her adventures wouldn’t be lost with her.

She also had a habit of buying books in one town or village or city, keeping them on her while she read them, and then gifting them to another town or village or city later on, so that the books and the knowledge they contained could travel and new people could encounter them. She spent a significant chunk of the loot she earned adventuring doing this.

I played her from levels 1 to 5, and four of those levels were ranger levels. Only her first level was cleric. But that level shaped her whole character. She was a cleric of Deneir first and foremost. Her faith shaped her whole way of life, her ideals, her reasons for choosing mechanical benefits (another reason for her ranger levels was that rangers have a lot of opportunities to pick up languages via their features), what she spend her loot on.

One of the things I do enjoy about the ‘portfolio gods’ thing you get in D&D and other fantasy ttrpgs, despite all the problems with the way it has been utilised over the history of the genre, is that it does … it lets you pick a god with an area of concern that you believe in, or want to interact with, and build a character around it. I love Deneir, wholeheartedly. He’s easily my favourite of the Forgotten Realms gods. And it probably is at least partly because he’s the god of something I do believe in in real life. Literacy, the importance of literacy and communication, the importance of making literacy available not just to the chosen few but to everyone.

And I think the other thing about the portfolio gods, as portrayed in D&D, is that … It’s not ‘I believe as my god believes because if I don’t I’m damned’. There are lots of gods, and lots of things those gods stand for and believe in. Which makes it more ‘I believe as my god believes, and that is why I chose them, and also why they chose to support me back’. There’s an element of choice, of being able to choose what god you support and what cause you will spend your power and your skill and your life on. It’s faith, but it’s faith by choice, and I enjoy that.

(Yes, I am an atheist in real life, this may also show here).

There’s also … There’s areas of conflict to run into. Because literacy isn’t morally or culturally neutral either. Deneir believes that things must be written down (or documented some other way, such as art) to maintain their value. What about oral histories? What about mythologies that are designed to change, stories that are designed to change in the telling to reflect the values of each new teller and audience? What about people who put more weight on writing, that it is too powerful a thing, and so can’t be used for more mundane things without risk? And here’s a scribe of Deneir trying to write everything. One of the interesting things about playing a character with a defined set of values is then testing those values against situations. Which can be done with any character, and doesn’t require a god or a faith, but I do enjoy it in that context. I’m a cleric player, you know?

… I think I have rambled off the point somewhere along here. Several times. But.

Coming back to Deneir. In terms of the gods of the Forgotten Realms, he is definitely my favourite, or at the very least one of them, and I’m delighted that he exists.

[katyspersonal]

Chad Scadutree vs virgin Erdtree or something idk let me explain

@val-of-the-north has been torturing me with prompts to talk about GEQ all day and my biggest frustration so far is that I have to delay fleshing out her design because Nightreign has a huge chance to give some lore on her (not to mention clarifying Farum Azula statue debacle)... like, that will have to wait

But just to bounce more ideas around. If Marika is Erdtree and GEQ is Scadutree, there is something curious! Rather than Scadutree and Death being just polar opposite of Erdtree and Life, it reflects the union. Erdtree is just Gold, but Scadutree is not just Shadow - it is "Gold accompanied by Shadow"!

(Ulcerated Tree Spirits of the Erdtree have just golden fire, without this black)

Scadutree is also actually two trees hugging each other (you know what I mean), Scadutree Avatar's stalk is also two stalks hugging each other... There is this "duality" theme going on; whereas Marika's Order resists the nature, GEQ's existence in shadow instinctively or deliberately tries to keep it!

Interestingly enough, the former manifestation of harmony of Life and Death in nature, the Twinbird, doesn't have any evidence of "Lifebirds" existing anywhere although she is implied to be capable of bringing creatures of both Life and Death. Only Deathbirds remained, and it was only Death that still existed alongside Life even as it was removed from the Golden Order... Marika, by straight up denying to do the same for Death, ironically choked something about Life it seems! Honestly it would be one of the most Fromsoft things ever to write in

There is also a situation with the serpents, like I've mentioned! Man-serpents born of Eiglay and Winged Serpent attached to Messmer have the same green eyes; it seems like Eiglay's eye color only changed to golden because she ate a Demigod! But whereas serpent is the enemy of the Erdtree, Winged Serpent was an "exception"! Marika had to have it to place on Messmer to begin with! GEQ is connected with the snakes inseparably, and I think they certainly were part of her body one way or another!

Eiglay and Winged Serpent are probably related, but I am not sure in which way... Siblings? Or maybe mother and child? Since serpent is not bound by the number (two Winged Serpents on Messmer, multiple Base Serpents summoned), I like to imagine that GEQ had two tiny Eiglays as a part of her body, a lot like what Messmer has now x) Slaying Gods, devouring Gods... they are not exactly concepts far apart from each other! Heck, if she was skinning Gods, maybe Eiglay with her used to eat the flesh that was left? XD

And seeing how allyship between GEQ and Farum Azula is implied, and how it is a Winged Serpent, I start to wonder if Winged Serpent is actually borne of GEQ and Eiglay.. It is depicted with bird wings under Volcano Manor (as in stormhawks) and appears with bat wings (as in dragons) on Messmer...

I don't know if she descended from Azula to embrace the serpentine nature in Eiglay, or if she ascended from the ground into accepting air element within her being (maybe to marry Stormlord?), but the point of Winged Serpent strangely representing this allyship stands! Bonus points: one of Godskin Apostles attacks is very whirlwindish and GEQ's sword is stored in the Divine Tower of Dragonbarrow! Don't forget the Godslayer Seal and Godskin Prayerbook are both found in Stormveil too. Bonus bonus point: there is Eiglay's shed skin near Bonny's Village! Like, both the settlement deep under Volcano Manor and Farum Azula seem to be her residences.... so, why not both? So, again: when she betrayed, Marika and Maliketh attacked GEQ, and Godfrey attacked Stormlord who stood by her maybe?

^^^ If Abductor Virgins allude to GEQ, another interesting detail here is the Miquella's arms situation; two normal arms and two much more small and frail arms beneath (the ones that hold the baby here). It might imply that she did walk through the Divine Gate too, but I for the love of me don't understand why only ever mention her as an Empyrean and not a Goddess then..

Maybe Nightreign will suddenly explain it? But the idea that I do like, is that whereas decorations she was inseparable from, or parts of her body, but the small arms were one golden arm and one black arm holding each other, still representing the "duality" that she preserves but Marika rejected until the bitter end.

In general I am getting an impression that GEQ is followed by a theme of acknowledging the duality of things in nature, in the contrast with Marika who was running from the "everything should die one day" sentiment kicking and crying. Maybe she was not even malicious per say, but acknowledged that whereas she was slaying Old Gods to clean the path for the new Erdtree era, it was only natural that said Erdtree era should also die one day, and new era will sprout in its place. It is probably the source of the conflict. My vision is that GEQ refused to help with the Fell God since Marika dealt with him and not GEQ whose job it is to kill Gods! But still, Scadutree including the Gold when Erdtree would never include the Shadow is so bittersweet and unless we get canon design for GEQ I think it should be represented in her design somehow

Even Melina is born with only one "Death" eye, and another is... again, reserved for the Grace of Gold. She repeats the trend of people Marika killed coming back to her; whereas Messmer was born with one cursed eye (like Fell God), Melina has "duality".... oh noooo it is coming together...

Basically GEQ was doing this all the time:

[absolutebl]

This Week in BL - A Lot Ended, Quite Bit Started, I got things to say about it all

Organized, in each category, by ones I'm enjoying most at the top.

Nov 2023 Wk 2

Ongoing Series - Thai

My Dear Gangster Oppa (Thurs iQIYI) 3 of 8 - This is just a great BL. So fun with few frills and paced nicely. Thai talent + Korean story is proving very harmonious for narrative flow. I’m delighted. I love that they don’t shy away from letting Tew be an actual violent criminal who is just gone and mushy for this one geeky cutie. Also I appreciate it when a show hangs a lantern on its own plot failing. In this case, the main character being drunk as a plot devise 2x in subsequent eps.

Twins the series (Fri GaGa) ep 2 of 10 - Love it. Love Spite and his chronic guilt over his younger brother, the golden child. Love that he is driven to repair for a past that no longer exists. Evil mom who cares more for what her son can do than that son, let alone his brother. The volleyball well…. erm. I played varsity (setter) so this is amusing to me but I’m not mad about it. 

I agree that this Not Me just sports and pulp. 

Last Twilight (Fri YT) 1 of 12 - JimmySea are back and is this... good? Do I like this? I don't have faith, GMMTV has been doing us dirty lately. But I think I like it! Why The Little Prince AGAIN? Ugh. 

Middleman’s Love (Fri YT & iQIYI 1 of 8 - Domundi giving us an office comedy hyung romance staring TutorYim (Cutie Pie) with NetJames (Bed Friend) and LeoTai (Friend Forever) providing support. Lets hope they stick to only 8 eps. Buckle up, I got shit talking to type.

I warned ya out the gate that this is a Cheewin comedy, so tonally it could be very OFF, and boy howdy is it EVER off. There's a place this kind of show goes where it's so cringe it's visually rotten and this one went there out that gate. Also, I'm gonna say it because no one else has, Yim is not good in this role. Comedy is HARD to do and Cheewin isn't doing this green actor any favors. He's chewing the scenery like a woodchuck after a diet.

To be fair, Tutor isn't great either, but he's been given less rope to hang himself with. Mai is currently suffering from seme obscurity: the love interest's defining characterization being = tall and handsome. (Which is not characterization... agony... glares at Cdramas.) We will see if he gets a personality, but based on past work form this director and this writer, don't bank on it.

Frankly? I'm not convinced either of them are mature enough as a pair or as actors to carry something this abrasive and to stand up to Cheewin's visual abuse of our eyeballs. I think this is going to be a rocky ride. HOWEVER, because it has tropes I'm good with (as opposed to SCOY) I'm sticking with it for now but this is gonna be ROUGH going for everyone.

Backstory: This used to be a JimmyTommy vehicle before the pair split (also prev title Middle Love). Adapted from a Y-novel. I can actually see Tommy in this role very clearly and I suspect he may have been bettern(and I am more a TutorYim fan as a pair). Also I will likely be referencing SCOY a lot while watching this because SCOY is peak Cheewin nonsense comedy but with an incredibly strong lead pair, so comparisons will be drawn.

Absolute Zero (Weds iQIYI) ep 7 of 12 - Sigh. Linguistic negotiation but for sad reasons? It fascinating but it hurts. Look, the cast is very good I just don’t like the premise.

My Universe (Sun iQIYI) The Camp Fire ep 12 of 24 - Well that was extremely odd. I’m not sure how I feel about it. If it hadn’t had the strange framework and horror component and been just a simple BL story I probably would’ve enjoyed it. Why do the pulps always  squander their best pairs? 5/10 New installment (Friends Forever) looks terrible and not BL.

Beyond The Star (Weds iQIYI) qp 1 of 8 - House of Stars meets Boyband. I am not impressed. Thailand just needs to leave everything music related to Korea. I’m enacting a ban. The framework on this is truly awful. The talent is not talented in acting let alone dance or song. I thought about sticking with it a few more eps but i putting in on hold. It’s too wooden even for me.

@heretherebedork I depend on you to report back. This is the kind of thing only you can watch. It’s like Cupid 2023. 

Ongoing Series - Not Thai

A Breeze of Love (Korea iQIYI) 1-2 of 8 - previously know as Weather Forecast Love this one popped up in MDL's currently airing, and I was like, what what? Basically: Tsundere insomniac grump and his sunshine jock ex bestie (human sleeping pill) who now hates him. Basketball is involved and I love it.

It ended, are we sad? REVIEWS

Kiseki: Dear to Me (Taiwan Viki & Gaga)

Yes, we sad! Ai Di and his dumb oversized sweaters and flappy flappy sleeves are EVERYTHING.

Final ep? Nice that the elder gays got screen time, more of this please? Sides dominated this finale, matched outfits and all. Also I’m living for the Bless this Mess shirt. Finally Taiwan gave us lots of biting and a counter lift. It’s like they know me!

Quick pitch for KDTM?  

The plot is totally ridiculous and slightly unhinged, but that’s normal for Taiwan. It involves all the tropes under a very casual framework of gay mafia gangs + food = love. Absolutely every character is queer. There’s a gum-ball machine of cameos, elder gay rep, great chemistry from all pairs, and a KILLER side couple. As a result Kiseki is a poster child for Taiwanese BL, and I happen to love Taiwanese BL. Bonus? They also managed to END IT WELL, which we cannot expect from Taiwan. 9/10 HIGHLY RECOMMENDED 

Triggers for knife play, child abuse, lingering trauma. I found both platforms did not do a great job on subs, but I will give the edge to Viki for pure usability.

You Are Mine (Taiwan Viki & Gaga)

We are more disappointed than sad.

Far be it from me to extend this show, but we should’ve had 2 episodes of quality supportive boyfriends coping with family drama before the mom-confrontation climax and defense of the ESTABLISHED relationship. Baby's little speach had no power or impact coming where it did in this narrative, even though it was sweet. And while the make-out scenes were charming it mostly jsut felt like we'd squandered this pair. This last ep was good and rewatchable, but a series cannot be judged on its last ep alone.

Finally... could have used some side dishes. My vote? Lesbian secretaries!

Conclusion 

I am sorry Taiwan, you know I love you, but I have to say it: this show was a mess of terrible pacing. And not a hot mess, sadly. I should have liked everything about this: it’s an office drama, it’s mature characters, it’s grumpy/sunshine, it’s a strong power dynamic, and it’s Taiwan - which means good chemistry. YAM was all those things and yet… something went horribly wrong with the narrative structure. You tried dears, but not hard enough. 7/10 

Bump Up Business (Korea Gaga)

Well, poop. Don’t have them speak English. Also no playing drunk. Meanwhile, all the manipulative gay drama. No kiss of course.

How do I summate this?

An idol group did the best they could with a script tailored to idols but which they were not allowed to fully realize because they are active idols in the same group. Ultimately it felt a bit like OnlyOneOf were just doing one of those Kpop skits for a variety show were two of of them dresses in drag/gay/BL and "ha ha isn't it funny?" I don’t know, it was fine? 6/10

stop wasting my time, Korea

Mr Cinderella 2 (Vietnam YT)

DNF on the advice of several of my BL spies I will not be finishing this. Apparently it pretty much ends sad. Here's an explanation.

It's Airing But...

I Cannot Reach You AKA I Can't Reach You AKA Kimi ni wa Todokanai (Japan Tues Netflix-Japan & ????) 8 eps - in classic JBL fashion, I Cannot Reach You could not be reached. I will try it when I have some time and access to my home computer.

One Room Angel (Japan Gaga) 6 eps - adaptation of Harada’s manga (which I did not like) about a clerk who's stabbed, nearly dies, and returns home to find an angel waiting for him. With only 5 eps and a good chance this won’t end happy, I'm gonna wait and let you tell me how it goes.

WAITING FOR VERDICT OR TO BINGE

What Did You Eat Yesterday Season 2 AKA Kinou Nani Tabeta? Season 2 (Japan Gaga) 10 eps - I find this series more fun to binge, so I'm waiting until it completes its run.

SHADOW (Thai Gaga) 14eps - this is a horror BL with ghosts & paranormal elements in a boarding school setting. I'm not wild about Thai horror (or horror at all). It features Singto (who did paranormal BL He's Coming to Me) opposite Fluke N (who's done a couple horror's before). Also Fiat. Dan suffers from sleep paralysis, and in his dreams he sees a shadow that suffocates him. It gets worse when he transfers schools. I'm holding off on this one and if told it's good I'll binge watch.

Next Week Looks Like This

11/15 Let's Eat Together Aki and Haru AKA Aki wa Haru to Gohan wo (Japan Gaga) - this BL movie is coming to Gaga.

11/16 PLAYBOYY (Thurs ????) 10 eps - trailer here, high heat and it's helmed by Cheewin (shudder) with screenplay by Den (Only Friends) under Copy A Bangkok. It's gonna be a shizz show people. It's predicting Thai style "dark" (War of Y) one of my least favorites. Apparently there is a "plot" but when has Cheewin ever bothered with plot? A university kid who was involved with escorts, sex-trade, porn, online hook-ups, drugs, prostitution, blackmail, revenge, and so forth goes missing. His twin (sigh) and two friends look for him.

11/17 Pit Babe (Fri iQIYI) ep 1 of 14 - high heat teaser here, based on alittlebixth's omegaverse novel #พิษเบ๊บ’ set in the world of car racing (author says show will not be omegaverse). Charlie (fresh face), a young hot nerd, approaches his driver idol (Pavel "my love" 2 Moons 2) to borrow a racing car and win one for the team. Production house is new to BL but behind the Club Friday stuff. Show stars many known actors: Nut (Oxygen), Pop (Ram in La Cuisine), Pon (Phai in Gen Y, we LOVE him), Benz (twins in En of Love: This Is Love Story).

Thailand bring the November heat, I guess?

Upcoming November BL

11/19 Bake Me Please (Sun Gaga) ep 1 of 6 - trailer here, stars Ohm (of OhmFluke) opposite Guide (bestie from IFYLITA) and possibly also Poom (well known, but not for BL). This looks like an actually gay version of Antique Bakery (play it again, BL). Still, I'm intrigued, it looks HELLA pretty.

11/22 7 Days Before Valentine (Weds ????) ep 1 of 10 - trailer here, horror-esk. Adapted from y-novel of the same name, directed by Tu (180 Degree) stars Jet (Why You… Y Me?). When you want your old love again, but fate sends you a reaper instead. All he can do for you is kill people. I'll likely give this a pass and wait to binge if safe.

11/25 The Sign (Sat ????) ep 1 of 10 - trailer here, horror-esk, but with a suspense and adult characters. Special investigators who loved each other in previous lives reunite in new bodies. Stars Billy Patchanon (BillySeng) & Babe Tanatat (new). Includes other SCOY favorites as a special investigation team. I may give this a try because I'm into the non-horror bits.

11/26 The Whisperer (Sun ????) 1 of 10 - trailer here. Thai horror BL that ALSO involves cheating (what joy is mine). He has dimples (My Ride) but I don't think even that gives me the will. Maybe a binge for me.

11/26 Cooking Crush (Sun YT) 1 of 12 - OffGun are back, trailer here. Adapted from the novel “Love Course! เสื้อกาวน์รุกเสื้อกุ๊กรับ” by iJune4S this is about Prem who runs a not-so-popular restaurant with 2 friends. About to go on a cooking competition with a huge reward, Prem gets involved with Ten, a stressed-out med student who wants Prem to teach him to cook.

11/30 For Him (Thurs ????) ep 1 of 10 - high heat trailer, I suspect iQIYI will scoop this one up. From the people who brought us Unforgotten Night (please no) based on a y-novel, man nursing a heartbreak has a one-night stand, but the other boy didn't want it to end. It looks terribly trashy so I'm in! Maybe I'll do a trash watch?

VIP Only (Taiwan) - may be delayed/canceled

Wuju Bakery AKA Space Bakery (Korea) - this one may be DOA

A Breeze of Love (Korea) - I know less than nothing about this.

Nov 2023 line up with screen caps here. Not kept updated.

Original 2023 forthcoming BL master post (see comments, some are inaccurate, NOT KEPT UPDATED).

THIS WEEK’S BEST MOMENTS

This is in the intro card of My Dear Gangster Oppa, I'm just amusing myself.

Thank you Keseki for givign this to us twice!

Also the tears! So pretty crying.

And, of course, my favorite the biting!

Have I mentioned recently how much I love Taiwanese BL?

(Last week)

[oryu404]

What is your opinion on Sting Eucliffe's queer coding?

I’m going to try to keep this as short and sensible as I can, but–You know what? who am I kidding. I know me, and I’ll go ahead and predict this is going to be anything but short or sensible. Buckle up.

Queer coding. The implication that a character is queer through subtext. So the thing is that Fairy Tail is made by Japanese person in Japan, so there's probably a lot that gets lost in translation, or that I interpret very differently because I'm Western European. That being said, I'll share my thoughts on what's commonly pointed out as subtext, as well as the stuff that stands out to me.

First up: Sting's clothing. The fur, the crop top, the single earring (in his left ear; in case you were wondering, that's not the supposed Gay Ear from the 80s/90s)the whatever situation he’s got going on there with his pants that reminds me of cowboy chaps… Yeah, I see it. I definitely see it. I know not to judge a book by its cover, but Sting's outfits don't exactly scream heterosexuality to me, even in the world of Fairy Tail fashion.

Another thing that’s mentioned a lot is his feelings for Natsu. I say feelings because some call it admiration, others call it bromance, some like the idea that there’s romantic attraction involved. I personally think Sting views Natsu as a goal he has set for himself. He wants to be like him, measure up to him in strength and spirit. That's what I'm getting from the way their dynamic is presented. Sting has looked up to Natsu from a young age, when Natsu was 7 years his senior. This was already the case before the dragons slayers traveled through the eclipse gate, and it was the same way before the Tenrou crew disappeared. Because he was still so young when this admiration started, it feels more like a mentor/older brother thing than any queer hint.

What does stand out to me and I've mentioned this often is the harmony between Sting and Rogue. Everything about the way they were presented when we got to know them as new characters. Two mages wielding opposite elements in perfect sync. Their ability to do Unison Raids as if it's nothing. It's giving that “Historians would say they were best friends” vibe. They'll likely never become a canon couple, but they've been presented as a unit from the very start, their names are usually mentioned within the same breath.

I know you specifically asked about Sting, but I also know you love Rogue, so consider this a bonus track:

I think Rogue actually has more of that queer subtext than Sting does. His name alone, “going rogue” can be used to describe behaving against what's considered the norm. Now add in the fact that he was ashamed of his name and its meaning when he was young, and then chose to go by Ryos for a while. He later went back to Rogue, implying he reached a point of self acceptance.

Honoring his name, he was pretty much the outlier within the Sabertooth of the GmG. What made him stand out was that he was kinder, more caring and sympathetic–traits that were considered weaknesses in Jiemmas’s Sabertooth. You know what these traits are also typically associated with? Femininity, which also tends to be a gay criterion.

(Just to be clear, I don't agree with the notion that femininity equals to weakness or gayness, and I think gendering traits is frankly quite ridiculous. I'm just analyzing and seeing some parallels to the toxicity from Sabertooth and that of the real world. Sadly homophobia and misogyny go hand in hand.)

Then there was the “as long as he's here” line. Sorry Rogue, but entrusting your life and sanity to the hands of another man and his proximity to you sounds pretty gay to me.

Back to Sting.

Other, smaller things I'd consider possible queer subtext are:

- he sure likes to fight dudes and watch dudes fight each other.

- he’s never shown to have any interest in women, while I’m sure girls would throw themselves at him because he and Sabertooth were pretty popular.

I probably forgot stuff, despite this post already being longer than a Monday morning without coffee, but I'm calling it a day. I'll end with this official artwork. Are we still considering this subtext, or is this just text? A flashing, multicolor neon sign? Up to you to decide.

PS: past me was right. this was neither short nor sensible.