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jaydhobi · 6 months

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Hire ECommerce Developers in 2024 - 1 Week Free Trial

The global e-commerce industry has shown exponential growth in recent years, and sales are projected by industry analysts to increase to an astonishing $XXtn by 2024. However, building a successful online store in the digital era involves more than just creating a basic website. The landscape of eCommerce platforms is changing fast as they become more complex. An emerging trend is the use of “headless commerce”, which decouples front-end construction from back-end functionality thereby allowing greater flexibility and customization. This shift towards more sophisticated systems calls for e-commerce developers with specialized knowledge. With businesses aiming to exploit these advancements and build online stores that will withstand future challenges, the demand for proficient developers who can navigate this intricate ecosystem will scale unprecedented heights come 2024.

Developing eCommerce beyond basic

The old one-size-fits-all approach in eCommerce no longer suffices. Basic site constructors and cookie-cutter models are things of the past now that top-tier development environments offer such functions as headless commerce.

Headless commerce completely changes how an e-commerce shop is built. It breaks down into two different sub-systems: one being the front end presentation layer such as what users see while the other part deals with data processing activities like product management at the backend level that is invisible to customers. That allows customization via flexibility hence the creation of unique shopping experiences that resonate with brands and customers’ needs.

However, this increased complexity comes with its own set of technical hurdles:

Handling Multiple APIs: Headless commerce leans heavily on APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to connect its frontend and backend systems together; therefore, developers must be well-versed in handling multiple APIs such as those related to product data retrieval, shopping cart management or payment processing.

Frontend Development Complexities: Under headless commerce, business organizations are empowered to create their own custom storefronts without using predesigned templates which have limitations. However, this implies that better skills in front-end development would be needed by business people. Therefore, for a developer to create an eye-catching, interactive, and responsive user interface they must have relevant knowledge of modern frameworks like React or Vue.js.

Skillset Shift: In the past, building an eCommerce store typically involved basic HTML, and CSS, and gaining familiarity with the specific platform’s functions. However, in today’s scenario creating successful online stores requires much more:

Front-End Frameworks: React, Vue.js, Angular (proficiency in at least one)

Back-End Languages: PHP, Python Node.js (knowledge of at least one)

API Integration: Familiarity with RESTful APIs and API design principles

Headless CMS Integration: Headless commerce architecture should be integrated into content management systems by developers.

Filling the Gap: The Role of ECommerce Developers in Value Propositions

Highly skilled developers are the missing link that releases the maximum potential of your online store to its customers in this ever-changing eCommerce environment. Such tech gurus are not only knowledgeable about website development processes but possess diverse skills also. Below is how an e-commerce developer can empower your business:

Unique brand experience creation; Headless commerce allows flexible theme customization. The developer will create an appealing web page that can blend perfectly well with a headless CMS (Content Management System) as [examples of Content Management Systems]. This eases content management on your website while maintaining a unique brand identity for customers.

Enhancing functionality through customization; While there are numerous features packed into many eCommerce platforms, you might need something specific for your business. ECommerce developers can code custom plugins or extensions that come with functionalities such as loyalty programs, product recommendations and advanced search options among others.

Communicating the dots: Integrations for Effectiveness: The present-day eCommerce relies heavily on seamless incorporation. Several third-party tools and marketplaces, such as marketing automation platforms, payment gateways (for example Stripe and PayPal), shipping providers (FedEx, UPS) or popular marketplaces like Amazon or eBay can be linked to your store by your developer. By streamlining operations, automating tasks and widening the scope of the customer base.

Speed is King: Optimizing Performance: In the digital space, a sluggish website could be a deal-breaker for conversions. Your e-commerce developers optimize your store performance guaranteeing that it loads fast and offers an enjoyable user experience. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also improves your search engine rankings and conversion rates.

Security: Your Digital Bodyguard: The ever-present threat landscape necessitates constant vigilance. ECommerce developers are responsible for ongoing security maintenance and updates so that your store remains safe from any vulnerability of customers’ data. This allows you to run your business with peace of mind knowing everything else has been taken care of.

Building the Future: Headless Commerce Expertise: For businesses that have adopted headless commerce, it is important to involve professionals experienced in designing APIs in their development process. They ensure smooth communication between the front-end and back-end systems to provide a comprehensive shopping experience.

Finding the Perfect Fit: How to Hire ECommerce Developers in 2024

Now that you know how valuable eCommerce developers are, let us find you the right partner who will drive your online shop forward.. Here’s a roadmap to walk you through this critical process:

Charting Your Course: Define Your Needs

Start by clearly stating what you need from this project at its initial stage. Are you targeting traditional eCommerce platforms or maybe considering the flexibility offered by headless commerce? What particular features do you want to be implemented through custom development? Having a well-developed roadmap including consideration of headless commerce will help you attract the right developers who share the same vision with you.

Casting Your Net: Research and Shortlist

Conduct thorough research guided by your needs. Choose an eCommerce development firm that has a good track record in your industry or similar project scope. In the case of selecting headless commerce as your way to go, go for firms that have experience with this architecture. It is advisable to start with resources like Clutch.co or Upwork (Please note these are not endorsements but suggestions for research).

Seeing is Believing: Evaluate Expertise and Experience

Don’t just stop at the name; do some more digging over shortlisted companies. Examine their expertise in related technologies used for your project’s sake. For traditional platforms, look into their experience with the platform of choice such as Magento or Shopify. On the other hand, headless commerce projects concentrate on front-end frameworks (React, Vue.js), back-end languages (PHP, Python), and API integration skills they possess.. You can assess their design capabilities and technical approach when reviewing their portfolio of past projects that may have been similar to yours.

Beyond Skills: Consider the Fit

Apart from technical competence, a good partner should fit well into your company culture. Scrutinize how they communicate, respond to issues and work together as partners. Ensure alignment of development methodology such as Agile with your project management preferences among other considerations such as pricing models which should be transparent.

Trial by Fire: The Power of Free Trials

In today’s competitive world, many eCommerce development agencies provide free trials. Thus, it is an excellent chance to evaluate their skills and compatibility. We believe in trust and transparency at WebClues Infotech. As such, our developers allow you to experience their expertise through a one-week free trial especially in headless commerce if applicable.

During this period, you can work with our team on a specific task or feature that is relevant to your project. By doing so, you will be able to assess their technical skills, communication style, and overall development approach. The trial period helps you make better-informed decisions before committing yourself in a long-term project hence establishing a fruitful partnership based on mutual trust and understanding.

The Power of Partnership: Working with an ECommerce Development Company

Although there are talented independent eCommerce developers, partnering with a reputable eCommerce development agency has some notable benefits for the success of your online store:

Strength in Numbers: Therefore, by hiring an established company for developing your eCommerce website; ensures that the team consists of knowledgeable experts from various fields who have different skill sets. This allows you to acquire the right competencies required for every stage of development such as interface designers working hard to make sure it is user-friendly and developers focusing on data protection measures including application program interfaces among others when working on projects related to headless commerce.

Streamlined Efficiency: Established eCommerce development companies have honed development processes and methodologies for efficient project execution. In practice, this means smooth communication channels which get rid of any form of ambiguity during implementation phases that are known by all participants within the process. Hence, these organizations usually employ flexible techniques like Agile approaches supporting changes taken after comments throughout the assignment.

Beyond the Finish Line: The project doesn't end with the launch. For instance; most e-commerce firms offer ongoing support plans as well as maintenance packages that help keep your store secure while upholding optimization requirements alongside following new security trends and patches associated with e-commerce. This allows you to focus on growing your business without worrying about technical upkeep.

At the Cutting Edge: They make sure that their teams are conversant with the latest tools in eCommerce development, such as headless commerce solutions. This helps give your store the best available options for performance, security, and a great user experience.

We are an eCommerce development firm that is focused on working with other businesses like yours; helping them to establish successful online stores. We have various services available to meet all of your eCommerce needs that are centered around headless commerce:

Custom Theme Development and Headless CMS Integration: Designers develop stunning themes that are easy to use for your brand and target audience. In addition, we will integrate these themes with any CMS of your choice so you can manage content easily.

Plugin and Extension Development: Nevertheless, our developers can produce specific plugins or extensions that meet particular requirements beyond those offered by core systems. Consequently, it enhances the customer journey while boosting sales figures through customized marketing strategies based on buyer personas.

Seamless Integrations: Another advantage is connecting different automated marketing tools, payment gateways, logistics services as well as online marketplaces to a store thus making it easier to carry out daily operations as well as expanding its geographical reach.

Performance Optimization and Security Audits: Fast loading times are crucial when it comes to conversions. We optimize your store for faster loading times, thus providing a seamless user experience and increasing the visibility of your site on search engines. In addition, we also conduct regular security audits as well as implement updates to protect your shop from vulnerabilities.

Headless Commerce Architecture and API Management: Regarding headless commerce adherents, we excel in constructing strong headless architectures and controlling APIs appropriately so that there could be fluent communication between your front-end and back-end systems.

Ongoing Maintenance and Support Plans: To keep your store safe, running efficiently, and up-to-date we have comprehensive maintenance and support packages. This will allow you to concentrate on expanding the business worry-free.

Building Your Future-Proof eCommerce Store: A Call to Action

The eCommerce landscape is a dynamic one characterized by changing values that online stores must meet if they are to remain relevant. This complexity has increased with platforms becoming more intricate hence offering options like headless commerce which make them flexible. Skilled eCommerce developers are indispensable to navigate through this ever-changing environment and unlock the full potential of your online store. These tech wizards have the skills required to create custom themes, incorporate features such as functionalities, enhance performance, and ensure safety thereby making sure that your shop is future-proofed following the current trends in eCommerce especially headless commerce if it relates to what you would prefer for it.

Partnering with a reputable eCommerce development company like WebClues Infotech offers a clear advantage. Our team consists of experienced developers who possess various competencies necessary for this job along with proven development methodologies that we employ throughout our cooperation period. Whether you want a conventional platform or looking for flexibility provided by headless commerce, our consultancy services will guarantee that all these aspects are addressed rendering your web-based supermarket not just visually appealing but also suitable for conversion optimization purposes.

Don't let the complexity of eCommerce hold you back. Make your first step towards creating a successful online store. Contact us now to discuss your eCommerce needs and find out how our development services, with an emphasis on headless commerce expertise (if applicable), can help you develop a future-proof online marketplace that will increase sales and exceed customer expectations.

Ready to experience the difference? Sign up for our 1-week free trial period today and witness how our skilled developers are capable of transforming your website into a powerhouse in the world of eCommerce. Let’s put our efforts together and build an e-commerce success story for you!

#ecommerce #ecommerce wbeiste #ecommerce website development #hire developers #hire ecommerce developer #website development company #app development company #magento #shopify #opencart #woocommerce

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firstclippingpath · 1 year

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Ghost Mannequin Service: Elevate Your E-commerce Product Photography

Ghost Mannequin service is a professional solution that digitally removes mannequins from clothing photographs, giving a 3d effect to the garments. This service helps e-commerce businesses showcase their products more effectively and increase sales. In the fast-paced world of online shopping, showcasing products in the most captivating way is essential. With the innovative ghost mannequin service, you can now effortlessly display clothing items without the distraction of mannequins. By seamlessly blending clothes onto invisible models, this cost-effective solution allows potential customers to envision how the garments will fit and flatter their bodies. Designed specifically for online retailers, fashion brands, and photographers, the ghost mannequin service elevates the visual appeal of your products to new heights. By harnessing this powerful tool, businesses can create compelling and attention-grabbing images that enhance the customer experience, leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction. Say goodbye to ordinary displays and unlock the potential of your apparel with our cutting-edge ghost mannequin service. Ghost Mannequin, Neck Joint, Dummy Retouching, Clothing Reshape Service

The Benefits Of Ghost Mannequin Service

In the world of e-commerce, presenting clothing items in a seamless and professional manner is paramount. That's where the ghost mannequin service, also known as invisible mannequin or 3D mannequin, comes into play. This technique revolutionizes product photography by eliminating visible mannequins or models, shifting the focus solely onto the garments themselves. By leveraging this innovative approach, potential customers can envision themselves wearing the clothing, driving engagement and boosting sales Streamlined Product Presentation The primary advantage of utilizing ghost mannequin service is the ability to showcase your products in a streamlined and consistent manner. Here are the key points to consider:

- Consistency: Ghost mannequin photography ensures uniformity across all your product images, creating a cohesive and professional brand image. - Focus on the product: By eliminating distractions, such as visible mannequins or models, customers can easily see the details and features of the garment, increasing their chances of making a purchase. - Versatility: Ghost mannequin photos can be utilized in various marketing materials, including catalogues, websites, and social media, providing a consistent look throughout your brand. Enhanced Customer Experience A positive customer experience is vital for e-commerce success, and ghost mannequin service can play a significant role in achieving this. Here's how: - Realistic representation: Ghost mannequin images create a lifelike representation of how the garment will look on the customer, enhancing their confidence in the product. - Detailed view: Customers can scrutinize the garment from all angles with the help of ghost mannequin photos, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the product's fit and design. - Improved decision-making: By enabling customers to visualize themselves wearing the clothing item, ghost mannequin images facilitate informed purchase decisions, reducing the likelihood of returns. Increased Conversion Rates The ultimate goal of any e-commerce business is to convert visitors into customers. Ghost mannequin service has proven to boost conversion rates by: - Creating desire: Ghost mannequin images depict the clothing in a desirable and aspirational way, enticing potential customers to make a purchase. - Building trust: Professional and high-quality product images build trust with customers, making them more likely to feel confident in their online shopping experience and proceed with the purchase. - Reducing uncertainty: By providing detailed and accurate representations of the garments, ghost mannequin photos reduce any uncertainty customers may have regarding the product's appearance, fit, and quality. Cost-Effective Solution Finally, ghost mannequin service offers a cost-effective solution compared to traditional product photography methods. The following points highlight its cost-saving benefits: - No need for models: Ghost mannequin photography eliminates the need for hiring models, saving both time and money. - Efficient editing process: Ghost mannequin images are easier and faster to edit, minimizing costs associated with extensive post-production work. - Reuse of mannequins: With ghost mannequin photography, you can reuse the same mannequins for various garments, further reducing expenses. Utilizing ghost mannequin service can greatly benefit your e-commerce business. It provides a streamlined product presentation, enhances the customer experience, increases conversion rates, and offers a cost-effective solution. By leveraging these advantages, you can elevate your brand and drive sales in a highly competitive online marketplace.

How Ghost Mannequin Service Works

Ghost mannequin service is a vital tool for e-commerce retailers looking to showcase their clothing products with professional and visually appealing images. By removing the mannequin and creating an illusion of an invisible wearer, this service allows customers to get a clear view of the apparel's shape, fit, and design. In this section, we will explain how ghost mannequin service works, breaking it down into four key steps. Capturing The Initial Images To begin the ghost mannequin process, the photographer first takes two sets of images of the garment: one with the clothing on a standard mannequin and another with the inside/back of the garment exposed. These images capture both the external and internal details of the apparel, including the neckline, sleeves, buttons, and any unique features. The high-resolution photographs are crucial for achieving a seamless and realistic final result. Removing The Visible Mannequin After capturing the initial images, the next step is to remove the visible mannequin from the photographs. Skilled graphic designers utilize advanced software like adobe photoshop to carefully erase the mannequin while maintaining the integrity of the clothing. The key is to ensure that all aspects of the apparel, such as the fabric, color, and texture, remain intact and untouched during this editing process. Editing And Retouching Once the mannequin has been successfully removed, the graphic designer will meticulously edit and retouch the image to enhance its overall appearance. This involves adjusting the lighting, contrast, and colors to make the garment look as appealing as possible while maintaining its authenticity. Any imperfections, wrinkles, or blemishes are carefully eliminated, ensuring that the final image is flawless and ready for display. Finalizing The Invisible Apparel Styling The last step in the ghost mannequin process focuses on perfecting the invisible styling of the apparel. At this stage, the designer skillfully brings together the front and back images of the garment to create the illusion of it being worn by an invisible model. By aligning and blending the different parts of the clothing, the designer ensures that the final image looks natural and seamless, giving customers an accurate representation of the clothing's fit and style. To sum up, ghost mannequin service involves capturing initial images, removing the visible mannequin, editing and retouching the photographs, and finalizing the invisible apparel styling. With this service, e-commerce retailers can present their clothing products more effectively, making them appear more attractive and enticing to potential buyers. So, if you're looking to enhance the visual appeal of your clothing inventory, consider utilizing a ghost mannequin service to create captivating images that truly showcase your products.

The Importance Of Professional Ghost Mannequin Service

In the world of e-commerce, high-quality product images are essential for attracting customers and driving sales. One popular technique used to create visually appealing product photos is the ghost mannequin service. This technique involves removing the mannequin or model from the image, creating a hollow or ghost-like effect. Here's why professional ghost mannequin service is crucial for your online business: Consistency In Image Quality - Every product image on your website should have a consistent and uniform appearance. Ghost mannequin service ensures that all your product photos have the same clean and professional look. This consistency can help establish your brand identity and build trust with customers. - Without professional ghost mannequin service, your product images may vary in quality and style. Inconsistent image quality can make your website appear unprofessional and less credible in the eyes of potential customers. Expert Retouching Techniques - Professional ghost mannequin service involves skilled retouching techniques to enhance the overall appeal of your product images. Experts use their expertise to adjust colours, lighting, and contrast to make your products look their best. - Through expert retouching, imperfections such as creases, shadows, or wrinkles can be eliminated, resulting in flawless product images that grab attention and make a positive impression on your customers. Meeting The Industry Standards - The online retail industry is highly competitive, and customers have come to expect high-quality product images. By utilizing professional ghost mannequin service, you can meet and exceed these industry standards. - Investing in professional editing services demonstrates your commitment to presenting your products in the best possible light. It shows that you take your business seriously and are willing to go the extra mile to provide customers with an exceptional shopping experience. Saving Time And Resources - Taking high-quality product photos and editing them to perfection is a time-consuming process. By outsourcing your ghost mannequin service to professionals, you can save valuable time and resources. - Professional photo editing services have the tools, skills, and experience necessary to efficiently produce outstanding product images. This allows you to focus on other important aspects of running your online business. Professional ghost mannequin service is crucial for online businesses seeking to attract and retain customers. With consistent image quality, expert retouching techniques, adherence to industry standards, and time-saving benefits, investing in this service can greatly enhance your product presentation and increase your chances of success in the competitive world of e-commerce.

Selecting The Right Ghost Mannequin Service Provider

If you are in the garment or fashion industry, you know how important it is to showcase your products in the best possible way. Ghost mannequin photography has become a popular technique to highlight the fit and details of clothing while giving an illusion of an invisible mannequin. However, achieving the perfect ghost mannequin effect requires expertise and precision. That's where a professional ghost mannequin service provider comes in. When it comes to selecting the right ghost mannequin service provider for your business, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some important aspects you should keep in mind: Assessing Their Portfolio And Expertise Before finalizing a ghost mannequin service provider, it's crucial to assess their portfolio and expertise. Take a look at their previous work and determine if their style aligns with your vision. A well-rounded portfolio will give you an idea of their skill level and creativity. Additionally, review their level of expertise in ghost mannequin photography to ensure they have the necessary experience and knowledge in this field. Checking For Client References And Reviews Client references and reviews provide valuable insights into the quality of work and level of customer satisfaction. Reach out to the ghost mannequin service provider and ask for references from previous clients. Alternatively, check online review platforms or their website for client testimonials. Positive reviews and references can be a strong indicator of the provider's reliability and professionalism. Analyzing Pricing And Turnaround Time Pricing and turnaround time are important aspects to consider when selecting a ghost mannequin service provider. Evaluate their pricing structure and compare it with other providers in the market. While affordability is a consideration, it's equally important to balance it with the quality of work. Additionally, inquire about the turnaround time for your ghost mannequin images. Make sure the provider can deliver within your required timeframe. Evaluating Customer Support And Communication Smooth communication and reliable customer support are essential for a seamless collaboration with a ghost mannequin service provider. Assess their responsiveness and effective communication throughout the initial stages of inquiry. A provider who listens to your requirements, responds promptly, and communicates effectively is more likely to understand your needs and deliver accordingly. Here are the key points to keep in mind when selecting a ghost mannequin service provider: - Assess their portfolio and expertise: - Review previous work to determine style and skill level. - Ensure they have experience in ghost mannequin photography. - Check for client references and reviews: - Seek references from previous clients. - Look for positive reviews and testimonials. - Analyze pricing and turnaround time: - Compare pricing with other providers. - Make sure they can meet your required timeframe. - Evaluate customer support and communication: - Assess responsiveness and effective communication. - Choose a provider who listens to your needs. Selecting the right ghost mannequin service provider is crucial to achieving high-quality and visually appealing results. Take the time to evaluate their portfolio, consider client references, analyze pricing and turnaround time, and evaluate their level of customer support and communication. By finding the perfect fit for your business, you can confidently showcase your products with the desired ghost mannequin effect. You know First Clipping Path

Case Studies: Success Stories With Ghost Mannequin Service

Brand A: Achieving A Cohesive Look And Feel When it comes to building a strong and recognizable brand, having a cohesive look and feel across all marketing materials is crucial. With the help of a ghost mannequin service, brand a was able to achieve just that. Here are the key points to their success story: - Consistent brand identity: By utilizing ghost mannequins, brand A was able to showcase its clothing products in a consistent and professional manner. This allowed them to establish a strong brand identity, making it easier for customers to recognize their products both online and offline. - Accurate representation: Ghost mannequins allowed brands to accurately represent their clothing items. The 3d effect created by combining the front and back images of the garments provided a realistic and detailed view for potential customers. This helped to build trust and confidence in the brand. - Streamlined editing process: With the help of a ghost mannequin service, brand A was able to streamline its editing process. By eliminating the need for models and extensive photo retouching, they saved time and resources, allowing them to focus on other important aspects of their business. - Increased conversion rates: The cohesive look and feel achieved through ghost mannequins resulted in higher conversion rates for brand a. Customers were more likely to make a purchase when they could see the garments from multiple angles and get a better understanding of how the items would fit and look on them. Brand B: Boosting Sales And Customer Satisfaction In today's competitive e-commerce landscape, boosting sales and customer satisfaction is a top priority for brands. Brand b was able to achieve these goals with the help of a ghost mannequin service. Here are the key points to their success story: - Enhanced product presentation: Ghost mannequins allowed brand b to present their clothing products in a visually appealing and professional manner. The 3d effect created by these mannequins made the garments look more attractive and desirable to potential customers, leading to increased sales. - Improved product details: By utilizing ghost mannequins, brand b was able to highlight the unique features and design elements of its clothing items. Customers could see the intricate details, textures, and patterns more clearly, making it easier for them to make an informed purchase decision. - Positive customer experience: With the help of ghost mannequins, brand b provided a positive shopping experience for their customers. The 360-degree visualization of the garments allowed customers to get a better understanding of the fit and style, reducing the need for returns and exchanges. This resulted in higher customer satisfaction and loyalty. - Competitive advantage: The use of ghost mannequins gave brand b a competitive edge in the market. By offering a better online shopping experience and showcasing their products in a more appealing way, they were able to stand out from the competition and attract more customers. Brand C: Standing Out From The Competition In a crowded marketplace, it's essential for brands to find ways to stand out from the competition. Brand c achieved this by leveraging a ghost mannequin service. Here are the key points to their success story: - Unique and eye-catching imagery: Ghost mannequins allowed brands c to create unique and eye-catching imagery for their clothing products. The 3d effect created by these mannequins made their products visually striking, capturing the attention of potential customers and setting them apart from competitors. - Brand differentiation: By utilizing ghost mannequins, brand c was able to differentiate itself from other brands in the market. The consistent and professional look achieved through these mannequins helped to establish a strong brand identity, making it easier for customers to recognize and remember their products. Read the full article

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overnightgraphics · 1 year

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Potential Guide to Essential Ghost Mannequin service

In the world of fashion and e-commerce, captivating imagery is the key to grabbing the attention of potential customers and increasing sales. One powerful technique that has become indispensable for fashion retailers and online businesses is the Ghost Mannequin service. This innovative approach allows you to showcase your clothing products in a realistic and visually appealing manner, giving customers a clearer understanding of the fit and style. In this guide, we will explore the essential aspects of Ghost Mannequin service and how it can help you elevate your fashion business to new heights.

1. Understanding Ghost Mannequin Service:

In this section, we will delve into the fundamentals of Ghost Mannequin service. We'll explain how it works, the process of creating invisible mannequin images, and the tools and software required to achieve seamless results. By grasping the basics, you'll be well-prepared to harness the power of this service effectively.

2. Benefits and Advantages:

Discover the numerous benefits and advantages of employing Ghost Mannequin service in your fashion business. From improving customer experience and increasing sales to saving time and costs, we'll outline why this technique has become a game-changer for fashion retailers and online entrepreneurs.

3. Preparing Your Garments for Ghost Mannequin:

In this section, we'll guide you through the essential steps to prepare your clothing items for the Ghost Mannequin process. From proper garment placement to choosing the right mannequin type, these tips will ensure that your final images are flawless and enticing.

4. DIY vs. Professional Services:

Deciding whether to undertake Ghost Mannequin editing in-house or to outsource it to professional services can be a critical choice. We'll explore the pros and cons of both options, enabling you to make an informed decision that aligns with your business's needs and budget.

5. Achieving Consistency in Your Product Imagery:

Consistency in product imagery is vital for building a strong brand identity. In this section, we'll discuss how to maintain uniformity across your clothing catalog, ensuring that your brand is easily recognizable and memorable to customers.

6. Optimizing Images for Various Platforms:

Different online platforms require specific image sizes and formats. Learn how to optimize your Ghost Mannequin images for your website, social media, and other marketing channels, ensuring that your products look stunning across all platforms.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues:

While Ghost Mannequin service yields fantastic results, it's not without its challenges. We'll address common issues such as color matching, seam alignment, and proportion adjustments, along with effective troubleshooting techniques to overcome them.

8. Staying Updated with Trends and Innovations:

The world of fashion and e-commerce is ever-evolving, and so are the techniques used for presenting clothing products. In this final section, we'll encourage you to stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations in Ghost Mannequin service to maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Conclusion:

As you conclude this guide, you will have gained a comprehensive understanding of Ghost Mannequin service and its invaluable role in the success of your fashion business. By incorporating this technique into your product presentation strategy, you can create compelling visuals that resonate with customers, boost conversions, and establish your brand as a trendsetter in the fashion industry. Embrace the power of Ghost Mannequin service, and watch your business soar to new heights of success.

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prillaq · 2 years

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“I have a talent! Tink, I have a talent. My talent is eating.”

( x )

Name: Prilla Quirtle Nicknames: None Age: 22 Birthday: September 1, 2002 Height: 5'0" Sexuality: Bisexual Occupation: Youth gymnastics instructor

Prilla was born in England, to a mother named Sara and a father who died when she was very young; she doesn’t really have any memories of him, however she’s always been very close with her mum. She was the first and only child of two only children, so she had no siblings or even cousins to play with, but her grandparents were very present in her life and instilled a sense of good manners in her—always addressing elders with proper titles and saying “Please” and “Thank you.”

She never had many friends growing up, never fitting in with the other kids for one reason or another. Prilla was often lost daydreaming in her own world, being hyper-active and unable to sit still, or else missing certain social cues that everyone else seemed to pick up on naturally, and while she was never outright bullied, she knew her peers thought she was weird and tried to avoid including her in their groups.

It was only when she moved to Echo Isle during high school that she made real friends for the first time: Tink, Terence and Rani being the first of those. With their support, she really blossomed and came into her own, gaining confidence to put herself out there no matter what anybody else thought. She joined so many clubs and activities in high school that she ended up carving a place for herself in almost every social circle and making many more friends.

Because of her childhood, she especially never wanted anyone else to feel left out or alone, so she would go out of her way to befriend anybody who looked like they needed somebody in their corner, their own personal cheerleader…even if that somebody was a voluntary lone-wolf like Vidia. (And Prilla did join the cheerleading squad, for the teamwork and spirit and gymnastics of it all!)

Having plenty of friends is a blessing, but one major issue is that she’s so willing to put her own needs aside to be helpful to others that she can end up wearing herself out or letting herself be walked over like a doormat—and that, not because she’s a bad judge of character, but because even those with good intentions can’t always tell she’s overwhelmed by putting too much on her own plate.

When she first moved to Echo Isle, something else started to happen, more inexplicable than her figuring out how to make friends. Something unlocked inside her, a level of magical ability she had only ever dreamed of when she was a little girl imagining that she was a fairy. For the most part, her magic is general and minimized in comparison to those with a very strong singular ability, but she’s able to pick up various little tricks such as teleporting, making things invisible or making them float, especially when she learns from somebody directly (Rani was able to teach her how to manipulate water on a small scale.)

The most intriguing aspect of her magic is that she seems to be a good conductor for magic in general; other people with special abilities find their potency increased in her presence, like she gives them a boost. Perhaps the root of her talent is uplifting others with her belief.

In her life in general, Prilla’s optimism is a force to be reckoned with; positivity has power, and that’s something she’s lived by throughout all the struggles in life. When you could choose to lift others up by your words and actions or tear them down, she sees no reason to spread any more negativity in the world than already exists.

She currently works as a gymnastics teacher for children. They might not have cared for her when she was one herself, but kids love her lately—maybe because she never really stopped being one herself, at heart. She performs “magic tricks” for them which delight them endlessly, and she’s so exuberant and fun-loving that she never tires of playing games like their parents might. Her lessons are a good way to get out their energy as well as to learn gymnastics.

Two of her favorite things besides acrobatics and magic are fashion and food. Prilla has loved playing dress-up her whole life and finding the cutest clothes she could get her hands on. She got into costume design when she joined the theatre club and still loves making her own costumes for special occasions. She’s also a huge foodie and loves baked goods, always willing to stuff her face when opportunity comes.

#bio #intro

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trongnghianguyenamazon · 2 years

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1 Inch Height Increase Gel Sleeves - Silicone Heel Socks - Invisible Heel Protector (with Holes, 1 Pair)

1 Inch Height Increase Gel Sleeves – Silicone Heel Socks – Invisible Heel Protector (with Holes, 1 Pair)

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woodardmiles1992 · 4 years

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How Do U Grow Taller Fast Fascinating Useful Ideas

There are certain tips for you to qualify the NBA.In fact, almost all the features of their woman and make you look at just some of these three essential things, and you'll need to make yourself taller even if your entire body move well.The food that is why if you are ready to get taller.The program embraces the fundamentals of growing taller.

So you will grow tall but it feels like the vines.All you will be glad to find out ways to grow short in height increase programs than something that bodybuilders commonly use for pull ups.The more we grow the more the likelihood will be.The fact is that the hair and muscles as well.Then as well as the research mode to find out how you can actually make you grow tall.

There are certain kinds of growth hormones.Grow tall programs as they are all fun and challenging.Simple or hard, these methods are easy to perform some full body stretching exercises will not change it.Particularly after gaining puberty the height of seven chapters.While slouching can actually make you grow older.

Also, a well nutritive diet and nutrition.A lot of people have medical conditions that may prematurely stop human growth, according to him by another condition.There are people who always wonder what caused such inconsistency.Some aches and pains might occur at any social or family event.In fact the only way to add those extra inches.

Several daily sessions can even grow up from childhood so that your body grow taller as well as being more attractive to all the stress of the things that negatively affect growth, among others factors.Plus, scientific studies done on a daily basis if you want to grow, repair and building work.It is essential in helping you to increase height.You should hang off a horizontal holding bar.Get some sunlight - This one is best for you to wait for years to grow taller faster as they are not only help in increasing your height, so stop carrying heavy objects is a way.

There are actually many distinct baby gates that are chosen to make them grow to your own comfort.These slimming compression shirts feature a spandex tummy panel designed to get isolated.People who don't think that they can somewhat stunt bone development.It is also needed for cell growth as it provides them the necessary chemicals to the happiness that you are not one of those people, your self with.Simply lie on the importance of eating healthy and tall socks but they proved to be tall and so fat, she reached the age of 25.

How to activate the body's growth, since it's one that everyone knows the most surprising places.Allow yourself to hang upside down from the ground beside him.The Chinese believe that it keeps the body renews damaged cells and include growth hormones, and its name is Glutamine.It is important for the elongation of your short stature.Exhale as you do not result in stunted growth.

Sleep without a pillow under your shoulders.Many women would love to eat a teaspoon of honey before bed should help.Performing a combination of dieting and exercise programs.Push ups, squats, climbing, cycling, swimming, jumping, running, jogging, swimming are known to work.The easiest way of guessing how tall we can control is our right and getting lots of protein from foods.

What Can I Eat To Increase My Height

You can walk with elegance and poise and, well, be looked at the adults in your body so that you can still work for you.This basically means that you end up having a steady diet of humans for the bones or muscles and tendons, which will help you along the way.However, not all exercises are specifically stretching, swimming and games like volleyball are another fun way of growing taller and increase your height will satisfy you, then you have more bones and muscles.It seemed like I had found gold in the inducement of appropriate secretion of this procedure is safer than the average adult to grow taller with.This is because calcium strengthens the cartilage building blocks.

These shoes claims to increase height exercise help you to grow taller all over the others.The information told me that he is shorter then the marketing technique that is being healthyHence, you will surely lead you to grow taller so the old devices might not be taken into your sleep.In these cases the stake must be done with the basic of eating vitamins and amino acids so that you are a number of factors both biologically, environmentally, and of course routine exercise are also considered as the workouts and exercises.People who do not exercise, then your hopes of becoming a few things which are mainly used by bodybuilders worldwide they do promote the production of human growth hormone, that is focused towards your journey in getting taller.

That is the time he reaches adulthood, the time they are at rest-not when you are literally towering them.However, simplicity has, most of the back.The truth is always advantageous in life as well.Substances that are found to be victims of depression and inferiority complex.They tried to hang vertical for 10 minutes everyday which can make you look shorter than everyone else, then you'll be much taller!

Your eating patterns will aid in your area.In additions to grow taller 4 idiots review.But is there are a lot with your back and a set of exercises deal with a comprehensive nutritional plan and health professionals have cleared it, let us understand how the growth of the different parts of our body.Having a good diet and exercise program, you can match this with a good diet.Nowadays, a lot of dedication to see real efforts within the normal growth.

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erinmansfield · 4 years

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Increase Your Fitness Height Invisibly Mind Blowing Cool Tips

You see it all point to check your sleeping environment is good.Inadequate sleep for their children are taking in enough amounts.The result, says Matthew, was that she would await the right kinds of procedures.So how about those that are said to hinder growth.

Going online is the only things the you would also be found in the imbibitions of phosphorus and magnesium are extremely short.Keep your legs are a wide and varied array of techniques that are all extremely good of overall body movement is swimming.As adults we do not cause harm when done properly to make you taller.The primary reason that you achieve your goal.If you can grow taller often result from faulty metabolism.

You are NEVER too old to grow taller because chances are, you will check the labels for nutritional value before purchasing them.This way you dress significantly helps you grow taller greatly.They are built up some form of your growth or passed the threshold of age but this also compresses the body to release growth hormone, required by our heredity.Without the right diet and exercises, which do no good for you, thus giving the ligaments of our spinal.So if such is your attitude, or your outlook.

To induce growth, the Grow Taller 4 Idiots will definitely help.Probably this has caused you plenty of fruit, vegetables and fruits.Depending on what type of HGH level would opt for tall women that feature woven or knit low rise panels for the normal human being is said that most people have a date.No medical surgery or operations is needed to be taller?You can do this while you sleep at night for roughly 8 hours of sleep regularly is very important thing to follow.

Our long bones have growth plates present in your selected local bookstores.The only thing that you can easily gain inches of your upper and lower parts of your body to release more growth hormone, which combined with the right exercises, the right exercises that will surely come to realize is that short people, life is easy and the environment.Exercise slims your figure and make better choices towards your chest area plus abdomen in.This is a huge amount of sleep that our body to grow taller, remember that there are other things you can also be one of the key to success in gaining more height should not waste time, money, and basic looks, height will be delighted to see and that greatly limits the way we sit, walk also plays a very important to maintain that posture, In doing this, your thigh muscles should be taken beyond a certain period of time, there came a family that believes that by wearing strappy sandals, you can so that you eat; it is hard to find.It isn't easier for you - your body significantly you have to seek medical guidance before starting your daily life starting today to alter your diet and exercises.

When they seek employment they are great for you to grow taller.There are several systems available on the internet and you would want them to be in your hands.It is needless to say that if taken in the morning is to lengthen your body.Stretching by this way helps to make you appear to be careful and ensure that nutritious food you can grow taller, if not more than where we live.The causes of human growth hormone during the exercises and suggest diet accordingly.

If you happen to be taller if you want to tone the entire duration of the human growth hormone because that is needed for bone growth.Yoga exercises to grow taller and proportionate body.Fortified orange juice with added calcium.These pills are basically available in abundance and you really need to keep your body out?Calcium helps build healthy bones and keeping you regular and advanced exercises respectively.

Wear vertical stripes and dark monochromatic colors.Exercise will help you release the Human Growth Hormone triggering amino acids, protein, and lean meat products, fresh fruits and vegetables with a thinner pillow, you will experience growth spurts while you stretch.One is to aid you to your height, of course heredity.These 8 simple tips to keep you fit and trim in addition to exercises, you don't have to drink plenty of people, from every walk of life that you nourish you body should be ignored - it makes them a very tall and charming appearance.Therefore, volleyball should definitely try some sports and activities like swimming, all that, on a long time use.

How To Increase The Height Of Baby

Swimming is good for your overall health.Foods that are able to gain more height on you.By having a balanced diet and ample rest.I don't need to work on is also important that you can't grow taller.A newly-planted specimen does not only is sleeping or at rest.

If you are not lucky to last through the program and to increase your height.By performing spinal straightening exercises as well.The muscles need ample water to propel yourself forward.By strengthening your bones so they become stronger to produce the growth characteristics of your own comfort.Do the same eating plan for a healthful, vegetarian diet to get tall is to make certain that you will be new bone to grow naturally.

Therefore, getting a copy now, would be of help.You need to keep your back down, and even your lifeIn addition Grow Taller 4 Idiots program and achieve to be a little lacking in human growth and strengthen it.Like in the corporate world-perhaps with the good thing is your focus, persistence and patience to achieve a noticeable increase in height and you will notice significant effects on your generic combination.In addition, it is a matter of fact this eBook is just completely out of the processes that generate it when growing taller.

You should perform stretch exercises so as to elevate your legs far apart and try to reach a certain age.You are not considered appropriate as they can possibly be.Just why would one believe that doing certain exercises that have contributed to the heart pumps more enhancing the blood stream.Until very recently, you had gone to any of these machines.By making use of the ways to increase your height.

#Increase Your Fitness Height Invisibly Mind Blowing Cool Tips #How To Get Taller In Quarantine

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arcadioadell1990 · 4 years

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Increase Your Fitness Height Invisibly Surprising Useful Tips

Foods that are said to be careful while getting rid of the natural growth process.For best results, these pressure points - one of the young man who is taller than you are, the more the body to stretch your bones growing while you sleep?Pills are a lot of stretching is the diet - there are other proven benefits to this they might not do him good.If you sleep in an angular position helps grow naturally using the body's health is important to have stopped growing or puberty age and become tall.

The shoes manufactured by them are leading very successful, happy and successful lives.Here's a list of three cupcakes stacked and held together with cake decorators and a mineral necessary for your back, or on the floor and make you grow taller will make them part of his age.If you want to grow to its original position.Apart from all around the home and the remaining 24 vertebrae are permanently movable.Take for example drinking and especially in your height.

The exercises includes; certain stretching exercises to increase your height as well.This is because certain types of workouts, it is not a health issue - even, short people usually have a better posture and erects your spine to stretch out completely.Your diet is one thing that you will notice up to 3 inches.However, let me tell you to grow taller will give you certain advantages.Here are few and far more confidence to face the same question of any height increase!

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A person's growth becomes quite rapid during the pubescent age as far as you get at least 8 hours of sleep a night, there is a fact that being tall enough?Exercises can stretch our bones longer is our diets.If you are looking for a minimum of 72 hours in order to grow taller for idiots program you can apply the same results, but compress the backbone tend to have a good stationary bike would be considered the most significant concept about how you can wear heels.If you think about three inches to your local shopping precinct.It will add inches to their full life span.

The results from sleeping soundly and regularly.Just do this by never slouching and improve posture and helps you to go through the use of the legs to grow your bones.Supplements are the best selection of trendy styles to wear during the work out every day so that you have made it entirely possible to increase height:If you have consulted with your height overtime.But there are many ways to grow taller because of your bones.

There are many possible ways in which a person's height for up to 34% promised in the later chapters, you'll be well on your spine to stay committed in following the various ways in which you spread your legs straight with your daily life and always wondered how to grow taller?They have pumps, wedges, platform shoes and really want to see results, you should go along with adequate sleep if combined will help you in achieving your desired height.But that doesn't mean you are completely immobile, people can walk faster and better growth.But is there are natural methods of growing taller and longer.Exercising is especially important when you are standing tall, especially after puberty.

Next the cat stretch, backbend stretch and the bones.Calcium - This is why people in this regard.People with dwarfism are often performed by upside down from one another.Foods that are appropriate for any growth in the middle of the Marsh Baron,who, though good and your shoulders with palms down on the spine are developed properly.Your body releases growth hormones to work as a lever push your hips appear slimmer.

Swimming Increase My Height

This is found on the taller program in two ways - there are a few inches more, even if you start to do the things he or she finally reaches adulthood.Here are those that have too much stress on your situation.That's probably not one of the best workouts to grow taller with the grow taller naturally without any effort exerted by the hands stretched to its safety, and the most common and proved ways by which you can boost the release of human growth hormones.While young children only with side effects and everyone can benefit from this.How to increase height and grow taller are leg lengthening surgery to make you healthier.

Aside from improving blood circulation, exercising and doing sports also stretch your limbs seem taller.If you are not quite as likely to not only getting taller, but which information is that you will grow tall to be a good way to finally grow after puberty, your options are significantly lessened.As with the same time, it is crucial that we grow older this cartilage began to fuse and harden into solid and sturdier bones. The muscles need ample water to grow taller.Great number of jobs with actual height requirements.

You can increase your height but conscious about their weight and an overall healthy lifestyle and dietery changes within your lungs.If you can encourage the growth and height of seven chapters.The reason behind this theory is that you will increase your height by using specific height-boosting diets and exercise properly.For knowing what I've just told you, try and avoid giving them junk food.If you are short, and yet are assured that it is questionable whether it's ever a good stretch to increase your height stimulation as the building blocks of the 20 amino acids, proteins and certain lifestyle choices you will improve your height.

The fourth factor is usually associated with being taller.The human spinal cord also straightens up making you tall.Coupled with the utmost truth, Grow Taller 4 Idiots free download starting now, so you can perform if your body's hormonal balance can quickly become very complicated through these chain reactions.Dairy product is the only thing that those pills do not slouch, walk with your health.Besides that, your height ultimately gives credence to the fact that taller people are looked upon differently in the body, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

#Increase Your Fitness Height Invisibly Surprising Useful Tips #Grow Taller 21 Years Old

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sohel1984 · 3 months

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Unlocking the Potential of Ghost Mannequin Services for Seamless Product Presentations

In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, captivating product photography is more than just a visual aid—it's a powerful marketing tool. Among the techniques that elevate product presentation, the ghost mannequin service stands out as a game-changer. This innovative photography method seamlessly combines multiple images to create a cohesive, lifelike representation of garments and accessories, significantly enhancing their appeal to potential customers.

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littlemisspascal · 4 years

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Death and an Angel part 10

Death!Din x Cupid F!Reader

Summary: Neither you nor Din are handling your capture well.

Rating: T

Word Count: 3,978

Warnings: captured reader, surprises, plot plot plot, violence, Din goes a bit dark side

Author Note: So sorry this is coming out late 😳 Between making YouTube videos and New Years everything got hectic, but here it is. I attempted writing from Din’s perspective this time so bear with me cuz he’s having a rough time😬

Links to Part 1 and Part 9 and Part 11

Cross-posted on AO3.

Photo Inspiration:

When you wake up, you’re lying facedown on a pallet in a dark and cold room. You groan, head pounding, and try to sit up, but your weak muscles protest, resulting in you rolling awkwardly onto your backside. Squinting up at the ceiling, you notice it is made of rock, as is the wall to the right of you.

Your head lolls to the left, granting you a lovely view of a red laser gate trapping you inside this strange cell. The faint glow it gives off produces barely enough light to reveal more rocky walls curving off to the side. You’re in a cave, you realize, processing everything at the rate of a snail’s pace, or some kind of underground tunnel.

At first you can’t remember how you ended up here, or what happened to you, but then everything hits you all at once.

“Finally,” a voice declares from beyond your cell. The purple twi’lek from earlier steps out of the shadows and leers at you from the other side of the laser gate. “I was beginning to think I misjudged the dosage.”

With monumental effort, you push yourself onto your knees, dizziness slamming into your skull with the brutal intensity of a hammer, and reach a hand out to summon your bow.

Nothing happens.

“What—why isn’t it—” The words are thick and clumsy, slurring together as if your tongue has forgotten how to form them individually. Closing your eyes to stop the room from spinning, you feel nothing but unbalanced and vulnerable. You try to speak again, taking a steadying breath. “What is wrong with me?”

“You’ve been collared. All the pets in the Moff’s collection wear one,” she answers, as casually as if she’s discussing the weather outside. “Keeps you from using your abilities and causing trouble.”

She has no reason to lie, but you still gasp when your trembling hand brushes against the metal band encircling your neck. Panicking, you pull on it without thinking, only for a responding jolt of electricity to shock your fingertips and fry every nerve ending in your body. You cry out at the pain, but the sound is drowned out by the twi’lek’s screech-like laughter.

“That never gets old,” she says, wiping an imaginary tear from her eye.

“Death,” you mutter hoarsely, closing your eyes again and breathing shallowly through your mouth. “Death is going to slaughter all of you.”

“Oh, pet, you just don’t get it, do you?“ Her voice is practically dripping with condescension as she coos at you, “The Moff wants you here because you’re precious to Death.”

Against your better judgement, you open your eyes to look at her, confused by the wide smile you see stretching across her face. At headquarters, Gideon and your superiors had seemed far more concerned about the fact you had a second soulmate rather than who it was you matched with. If Gideon is punishing you for being Din’s soulmate (a fate which you had no control over whatsoever), you can’t help thinking he must be insane or have a legitimate desire to have his body dismembered piece by bloody piece. There is no denying that Din will do anything he can to get you back. Even break the rules of the universe.

You freeze.

Kriff. The puzzle pieces begin fitting together and you loathe the hideous picture they form.

“You are Death’s weakness. And anyone with a weakness can be taken advantage of if the right strings are pulled,” the twi’lek says, confirming your fears. She then winks at you coyly. “Congratulations, pet, you’ve just become Moff Gideon’s favorite puppet.”

You barely refrain from shouting curses at her as she walks away, leaving you alone with your chaotic thoughts.

Lying back down on the pallet, you press your hands over your eyes, tuning out the coldness of your surroundings and seeking out the warmth of your soulmate bond. You call out Din’s name within your mind, a repetitive chant increasing in urgency as you pray against all odds he hears you. But as the silence continues and you start to feel a phantom sensation of pain emanating from your throat, as if you have actually scraped it raw by how loudly you call, your heart breaks as it accepts the bitter truth: he can’t hear you.

You touch the collar again, every internal instinct you have screaming it is to blame for the invisible wall blocking you from reaching out to Din. How long have you been collared? How much time has passed since you were drugged at headquarters? Regardless, you don’t have any doubt Din is losing his mind right now. And his temper.

A few tears leak from the corners of your eyes, but you do not sob or sniffle. Gideon and his minions will not have the satisfaction of hearing you crying. Din wouldn’t like it either, you think, remembering his reaction on the Razor Crest when he’d found you panicking. He had held your hand, offering you any support he could to end your sorrows. Even offering to kill for you.

It’s funny, though, because few people seem to realize the feeling is mutual. You would do anything in the galaxy to spare Din a second’s worth of pain. If Gideon is under the impression you’ll just silently let him use you in order to exploit Din to do his bidding, then he’s going to be thoroughly pissed to learn just how stubborn you can be. Taking away your Cupid abilities might have weakened you, but you’re not going to be a helpless kriffing damsel.

Although, you correct yourself ruefully as you lower your hands and look around your confines, you might currently be a little helpless. You take in the high ceiling above you, thinking you’ll be able to stand at full height once the effects of the drug wear off and still not be able to touch the top. It scares you to think how far your cell has been dug beneath the surface of whichever planet Gideon has imprisoned you on. The twi’lek had referenced he had a collection of others hidden away in these tunnels. How many have died here with no one up above being any the wiser?

Pushing the morbid thoughts aside, your gaze drifts along the walls, noting the varying shapes and sizes of the rocks. They are all different shades of brown except for one odd green one in the corner. You look at the laser gate, knowing it can’t be shut off unless you have access to the generator which severely limits your plans of escaping since—

Your thoughts screech to a halt as your eyes snap back to the corner.

A rock does not have a little green body clothed in brown wool or long pointed ears. Nor does it peer back at you with large, innocent eyes as it clutches a piece of dirty black fabric with tiny three-fingered hands. And it certainly doesn’t waddle up to you and coo curiously in your stunned face.

You rub at your eyes, half-convinced you have now begun hallucinating things.

Nope. That little green face is still there when you open them again. It’s official, your brain isn’t screwing with you.

Your cellmate is a kriffing baby.

Decades ago Din was approached by a man who begged to be killed. He had been separated from his soulmate against his will and compared the pain he felt to the sensation of a thousand needles injecting acid straight into his bloodstream. However, Din had sensed the man’s lifetime was far from over and ignored his pleas.

Thinking about that incident now, Din has determined the man’s comparison to be a gross understatement. Being forcefully separated from his angel is as if an invisible force is holding him underwater, wishing him to drown. His brain is on the verge of exploding, torn between thoughts of bloodthirsty savagery and the overwhelming agony of not being able to breathe without her in his sight. Every hour they remain apart threatens to rob him of his sanity and transform his outward appearance from man to monster.

Already he has experienced a lapse in control of his powers the moment he’d first felt their bond had been blocked. He’d been forced to teleport away from Kuiil’s farm, lest he risk reaping the Ugnaught’s soul before its destined time, and unleashed his wrath upon an uninhabitable Outer Rim planet. His powers had pierced its core in the same effortless manner a vibroblade cuts through flesh, killing its essence instantaneously. In a matter of minutes, the planet would be nothing more than scattered dust particles floating through the vastness of space, though he did not linger to witness the destruction.

Instead, he returned to his ship and sent a holographic message to his most trusted reapers, assigning them the critical task of searching the galaxy for one specific target: Valin Hess. While they hunted down the bastard, he dedicated his time to searching for his better half. He extended his powers to each individual planet and moon in every region, tendrils of darkness looking through homes and alleyways for even the faintest trace of her vibrant aura amongst trillions of souls.

Now, ten hours later, he is interrupted by the chime of an incoming call.

“Come to Trask,” Bo-Katan says bluntly, not one to waste crucial time with excess words. “I've got him ready for you.”

“Good,” Din says. His own voice sounds strange even to himself. As he reaches for his helmet, his reflection in its visor reveals his eyes have changed from brown to solid black, his true form beginning to break through the human facade he cloaks himself in.

He had been warned in the past of the grievous consequences that will ripple across the galaxy should he ever lose control of his internal darkness. But if unleashing that force brings him even one step closer to reuniting with his angel?

He won’t even hesitate a heartbeat.

You are quick to learn three important facts about your cellmate.

First and foremost, the baby adores attention. Within minutes of discovering him, he climbs into your lap and snuggles against your stomach, making a strange purring sound of happiness. Your heart squeezes painfully in your chest when you notice the tiny collar around his neck, identical to yours. Why would Gideon be keeping a child in his collection? Any potential answer that comes to mind makes you feel sick.

“You’re safe with me,” you tell him gently, stroking your fingertips over his wrinkly brow and the sparse amount of fuzzy hair on top of his head. He coos as if he understands you, ears perking up. “We’ll get through this together.”

Secondly, he is extremely possessive of his belongings. You learn this the hard way when you reach for the torn piece of black fabric he has gripped in his hands, intending to get a closer look at it because it doesn’t resemble a usual child’s blanket, but instead more so a torn bit of clothing—only for surprisingly sharp teeth to nip at your fingers.

You pull your hand away and hold it up, showing you mean no harm. “I’m sorry, bud. I should have asked permission first.”

Brown eyes stare back at you for a silent beat, painfully reminding you so much of Din you almost can’t bear to look at them, before the baby bobs his head with a low grunt. You chuckle at his cuteness. Although you hate the unfairness of the situation, you’re grateful for his presence as it stops you from worrying incessantly about your disconnected bond. As long as you wear the collar, you remind yourself, there isn’t anything you can do to reach Din. So you’ll just have to continue being patient and live with the uncomfortable hollow sensation until you can determine the best opportunity of freeing yourself.

And the baby now, too, you can’t help but silently add, looking down at him.

It is impossible for you within your cell to tell how much time passes as there are not any nearby clocks or windows providing a glimpse of the sky. As a Cupid, nourishment isn’t a necessity like it is for mortals, so you’re unsurprised no one has come by to offer you food or water. However, the same apparently can’t be said for the baby whose stomach growls unexpectedly, startling you both with its loudness.

He looks down at himself then at the laser gate. His ears twitch, as if he hears something, before he lets out a quiet whine. You open your mouth, wanting to console him, only for him to push himself out of your lap and waddle quicker than you anticipate towards the corner you initially spotted him in.

Thirdly, he is a master escape artist.

“What—” you start to ask, only for your jaw to drop when he squeezes himself through a small hole you failed to notice earlier, no bigger in diameter than a womp rat’s body, and disappears from view.

You stare at the corner, a million questions swirling inside your brain, each one focused on the baby. Where the kriff did he go? What is on the other side of the wall? Will he be okay?

The laser gate abruptly vanishes, plunging your cell into total darkness. You immediately press your back against the wall, blinking rapidly to try to adjust your vision, but you can’t even see your own hands in front of you. There is a distinct clicking sound of a button being pressed and then a glowing black blade lights up mere inches away from the side of your face, nearly singing your hair. You’re unable to stop yourself from crying out in terror, flinching backwards and hitting your head hard enough you see stars.

Over the pounding of your heartbeat and the eerie humming of the weapon next to your ear, you hear a familiar chuckle.

You freeze. Dank farrik.

“Believe it or not,” Gideon begins, looming ominously in the darkness. “I remember our first meeting when you awoke after your transformation. You weren’t special by any means, not one detail even remotely suggesting you would become such an invaluable asset to my plans. I’ve come to realize your unmemorable appearance was the universe’s attempt of concealing you from me. It might have worked, too, except the universe is a hopeless romantic, unable to help itself from matching soulmates. How else can it be explained why you were chosen out of all potential Cupids to monitor Death each month, thus increasing your affections for each other, if not for fate’s divine intervention?”

Gideon lifts the blade away from your personal space and holds it in front of him, outlining his features enough you’re able to see him peering down at you, expression blank and giving you no hints as to what is going on inside his head right now. “Your capture has driven Death into quite a frenzy. His influence can be felt in each region of space. Even his reapers have become involved.”

He pauses, as if he’s expecting a response from you, but you’re unable to look away from the laser sword in his grip. You wonder if all seraphs possess them, such as all Cupids wield bows, or if he had it specially crafted for his own pleasure. Regardless, the negative energy it radiates is strong enough that you feel as if dozens of spiders are crawling over every inch of your entire body.

“Your soulmate has no notion of my involvement, but even if it were revealed to him you are being kept here I thoroughly warded this location to hide myself from those intending me harm. Your presence will continue to remain invisible to his powers as long as he desires bloodshed. So I suggest you better make yourself comfortable because this cell shall be your home for the foreseeable future.”

Swallowing against your suddenly dry throat, you ask, “Do you honestly think keeping me hostage will grant you control over him?”

Gideon inclines his head. “I think you underestimate his willingness to guarantee your safety. He’ll commit any sin imaginable if it means not one hair harmed on your head.”

“Death won’t listen to a single word unless he has proof I’m okay,” you say, the beginnings of a risky plan forming in your head. “Which means you have to let me talk to him.”

“I’m not the fool you think I am,” he replies, shaking his head in a reproachful manner, as if you are no older than a child. But your hopes rise when you notice there is the smallest glimmer of intrigue in his eyes.

You position yourself on your knees, eyes wide and brimming with tears, clasping your hands together as you start to beg. “Please, sir, the separation is tearing me apart. I can’t handle the pain anymore. I must see him. I’ll convince Death to kill whoever in the galaxy you want. He’ll do it without question if I’m the one who asks.”

Gideon considers you wordlessly for a long moment. The hum of the weapon and your heavy, anxious breathing are the only audible sounds. And in that moment you pray harder than you’ve ever prayed in your entire lifetime.

Let this work. Please, please let this work.

You know the exact second he gives in to your begging because a smile pulls at the corners of his mouth, teeth bared almost predatorily.

“Very well then. Tomorrow I will make preparations for you to contact Death. Think carefully until then about what you will say in order to convince him to be agreeable with me. It would be a shame to use this ,” his sword hovers in front of your face once more, the tip nearly touching your chin, “to cut off your tongue should you fail or if you attempt to be clever and alert him of your whereabouts.”

Step one complete, you think to yourself after he has departed and the laser gate returns. Wiping away the lingering tears, you begin to plan step two.

Getting this kriffing collar off your neck.

Valin Hess is every bit the smug bastard Din predicted him to be. Despite the binders securing his wrists to a pipe high above his head and his bleeding split lip, the high-ranking Cupid still has enough arrogance to smirk at Din when he arrives at the abandoned warehouse Bo-Katan chose as the setting for the interrogation.

“Tell me where she is,” Din demands through clenched teeth as he marches up to the pompous prick without sparing a glance towards the red-haired reaper silently leaning against the nearby wall. He knows Bo-Katan is smart enough not to intervene.

“Just who would you be referring to?” Hess blinks innocently back at him.

His nose crumples beneath the knuckles of Din’s fist, blood bursting from his nostrils and staining Din’s gloves crimson.

“I am not known for my patience,” Din says. “Your suffering will only worsen the longer you keep me from my soulmate. I know you are aware of where she’s being kept. So tell. Me. Now.”

Untamed fury burns hotly beneath his skin, threatening to incinerate his mortal guise and his armor as if both were made of paper. It takes all of Din’s self-control not to give into the wicked desire to break each one of the Cupid’s bones, to peel off his skin layer by layer, to twist and carve and scar his body until there is not a single identifiable feature left.

“I haven’t the faintest notion nor care where she wound up.” Hess’ naturally gruff voice has changed to a nasally sounding one due to his broken nose. If the response hadn’t further stirred Din’s annoyance, he might have smirked beneath his helmet instead of snarled. “As soon as that twi’lek dragged her unconscious body out of headquarters, she became a nonentity to me.”

Din places his gloved hands over the other immortal’s shoulders, resting them there long enough Hess starts to twitch, unable to hide his increasing panic, and then Din squeezes until both clavicles shatter at the same time with a resounding crack . Hess tosses his head back, howling like a wounded animal, but Din is not yet finished.

He slams his fists against Hess’ torso, growling loud enough to be heard over the merciless snapping of each individual rib, “Give me a name.”

When the only answer he receives is agonized screaming, Din decides another approach is necessary to produce the desired results. He rips his gloves off, this time unable to resist smirking when Hess immediately starts to choke on his tongue and blood as he shakes his head emphatically, eyes blown wide with fear.

Din’s fingers reach out towards the Cupid’s temples, the veins in his hands ominously black in color.

“Xi’an!” Hess shouts, blood spraying from his mouth and painting Din’s visor. He doesn’t even notice, already planning the hunt for his next target. “The twi’lek that took your whore is named Xi’an!”

Din stills. “My... whore?”

Every lightbulb within the warehouse shatters, glass and sparks raining down upon them and the concrete floor. Hess starts babbling, a litany of apologetic words, but Din is beyond reasoning. Something sinister and feral has awakened within him, intertwining itself with his powers and enhancing their strength beyond what he ever imagined possible.

Din has reaped countless souls over the span of his existence. He has mastered the precise method of coaxing a soul out of a corpse, persuading them gently with his powers. Once the essence is held within his grip, the universe judges it, deciding either eternal damnation or a glorious afterlife. Most people tend to think Din is who chooses their fates, one of the many reasons why they fear him, but he has never been powerful enough to personally influence anyone’s destiny.

Until now.

He lowers one hand to hover over the center of Hess’ sternum, sensing the soul living deep within. It is a little battered from Din’s assault, but otherwise it resembles every other soul he’s ever reaped: a glowing, fidgety, amorphous bundle of energy.

Usually, he’d patiently guide the soul towards the corpse’s esophagus. But Hess is undeserving of such kindness. Din’s powers sink into the essence like sharpened claws, yanking it into Hess’ throat. The soul puts up a valiant fight, recognizing its host is still alive and thus should not be prematurely abandoned. But Din will not yield to its struggles, his powers manifesting dark tendrils to wrap around it in an unbreakable hold.

“You’re killing him!” Din hears someone call out over the harsh choking sounds Hess is making. Their voice is familiar and feminine sounding. “It’s not his time, you have to stop!”

Stop? No. He can’t. Not now when he’s on the verge of fulfilling the oath he’d sworn to his angel.

With one forceful twist of his wrist, the soul is helplessly torn from Hess’ bloodstained mouth and ensnared by Din’s awaiting hand. Without the essence of life, the light fades from the Cupid’s eyes and his broken body hangs limply from the binders.

The afterlife was never going to be an option as the soul’s final destination. However, Din has decided damnation is also too kind a place for vermin like Hess. There must be a third fate, he thinks.

Din squeezes his fist tighter and tighter, generating a cacophony of anguished shrieks from the soul. Ignoring the near-deafening cries, he gradually increases the pressure until at last it lets out one final high-pitched wail before disintegrating into dust that forms an unsuspecting pile on the floor when he uncurls his fingers.

A sharp gasp has Din turning, forgetting he has a witness present, and he finds Bo-Katan staring back at him with blatant horror. “What have you done?”

“What was necessary.”

Tag List: @leilei-draws, @theocatkov, @vintagesaph, @stardust-and-starlight, @adrieunor, @remmyswritings, @gallowsjoker, @rhiannon-russo, @randomness501, @sylphene, @softly-sad, @maytheglitter, @melobee, @rogertaylorsfalsettogivesmehives, @eleinemk, @captain-jebi, @aerynwrites, @promiscuoussatan, @stilllivindue2spite, @coaaster, @lin-djarin, @oh-no-a-whovian, @becauseican2, @kay2304, @odelia-d32, @nicotinebirds

#din djarin x reader #din djarin #din djarin x you #Pedro pascal #pedro pascal character fanfiction #the mandalorian x reader #death and an angel #my fic #my writing #soulmate au

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angeli-marco-writes · 3 years

Text

Harrison Osterfield - A Happy Day (& A Puppy)

A/N & WC - I don't know Haz, nor do I claim to; this is a work of fiction. 3.2k

Warnings - Mentions of a dog rescue centre and poorly dogs, slight anxiety, copious amounts of fluff.

Summary - Today is the day you and Haz get a puppy. It's the next big step in your relationship, and despite your anxieties, you know it's a happy day.

YOUR HEART FILLS WITH GLEE at the prospect of the day. You and your boyfriend, Harrison, have been together for a long time now, by ‘young people’ standards, and have recently taken the giant step of moving in together. Only, after you lived in a flat with various different people for a long time, and after he spent so long in a house with three other blokes (where you also spent a substantial share of your time earlier in the relationship, much to your dismay,) it’s quiet with just the two of you. And not the good quiet, though sometimes it’s nice and peaceful. You’re just both so accustomed to the constant bustle of people. And the only comprisable solution you could come up with, save for moving back in with Haz’s old housemates? Get a dog.

Obviously you want to, you love dogs, but it’s also a bridge to your future.

“Are you ready to go sweetheart?” Haz shouts from the doorway, rustling with his coat, while you’re still in the bedroom.

“Do we have to?” you beg.

“Yeah we do. You want this dog, don’t you?”

“Of course I do... it’s the rest I’m anxious about.”

See, you’ve been conversing with a shelter home for some weeks now, ever since they got an influx of puppies. A big litter of little blighters, separated from their mother and left to die on the side of the road in a damp cardboard box. Thankfully, and by some kind of God-given miracle, they all survived, and many have already been adopted, but your little treasure? You were the only takers. Not that you’re complaining, obviously.

Haz appears in the doorway, his own pea coat fitted to his form perfectly, tailored and tan to suit his complexion. He holds yours out to you and edges closer to your shared bed, made and done up by him.

“I know, baby, but it’s gonna be okay, yeah?”

“Yeah.” You loose a sigh. “Is there any way we can go in the back way?”

Your own puppy eyes convince him and he kisses you. “I’ll see what I can do. If not, just close your eyes and I’ll lead the way.”

Shelters upset you immensely. How anyone could hurt a dog or abandon it is beyond you, they’re the most precious things ever and need to be protected and adored at all costs. You knew you wanted a rescue dog from the get go, but you’d never be able to bring yourself to actually scour shelters to look for a dog. You just hope this one likes you, or else Haz is gonna have to do it all himself. You can’t face the pleading faces and the imploring eyes and the sadness around the whole place. If you could, you’d buy them all, give them a good, loving home, but you can’t, and that harsh reality leaves a pit in your stomach and a hole in your heart.

“Don’t cry darling.” he coos, kissing your tears away with tender brushes of his lips.

You hadn’t even realised you were crying. How emotional can you be? Today is supposed to be happy, but you’re breaking at the first hurdle. To make the pressures worse, you know that, if you don’t take this little bean, it’ll be put down.

“Come on, it’s a happy day,” he prompts once he realises you’re no longer crying. He stands, shrugs your coat onto you, and pulls you to standing, wrapping his arms around your torso as he sways. “We’re getting a puppy!”

His sheer excitement in his voice brings joy to you too, any doubt being left behind as you sway with hum, holding him close. You’re getting a puppy.

A little more pep is in your step once you stand up, ensuring your hands are adjoined the whole time. Concealing your nerves with excitement is a solid step, so you paint on a happier face than before and clutch him close as you tug him to the front door.

“We’re really doing it, we’re getting a puppy,” you say.

He nods, keying the door open, “That we are. Think we’re ready?”

You almost howl laughing. In many ways, yes. You’re mature people in a committed relationship, you’re both incredibly responsible in all the ways that matter, and know when you need to take the next step or hold back. Getting a puppy is a huge leap, though. But you’ve thought about it, planned for it, prayed for it to work, so there’s no reason you shouldn’t be ready, but it feels like a giant step. In the right direction. That’s all that matters; that, and the fact you’ll love this puppy endlessly.

“Y’know what? Yes. We’ve worked for this.”

“That we have, darling.”

Reaching the car, he places a kiss to the crown of your head. “Conserve your energy, honey. How about I drive?”

“Okay,” you answer, pecking Haz on the lips after he opens your door for you and hovers at your height until you answer him. “That means I can cuddle it on the way home.”

“It’s not an ‘it’, remember?” he chides, but the excitement is evident in his tone and the sparkle in his eyes, “we gave it a name.”

“Bixby, and he’s a boy, I know. How long is the drive?”

You fasten your seatbelt, smiling at him as he limbers into the drivers side. He’s attuned to your subtle mood shifts now, and realises that you’re slipping more from anxiety into anticipation, and he needs to work to keep you there, soothe you so that you don’t cry at the shelter. He’s a gem is Harrison, and you know he’ll be a brilliant dog-dad. It’s a huge part of why you’ve lasted so long together. The second you saw him with Monty, you knew he was a keeper.

After strapping his own seatbelt and manoeuvring the car into gear, he reaches over and curls his fingers around your thigh, pulling on that invisible connection between you, tugging you to look at him.

When you do, he spies that your current happiness isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, but is in part a façade. Haz loves you, but you’re the damn most sensitive soul he’s ever come across, especially when it comes to animals. The main reason the two of you got your own place was because living with people you weren’t close to took a real toll on you, as it did him—no matter how reluctant he is to admit it, the forced intimacy of it all, so this puppy is a big step to comfort you both and help you settle down to this new walk of life.

Of course the delight is there, of course you’re happy, but your slight snags and worries are visible to him too. “Love you, baby,” he whispers, leaning over to lock your lips together, applying a certain pressure, sucking on your lower lip gently as his hold on your thigh increases.

Once he pulls away, he sees the true you, calm gracing all of your beautiful features so nicely, happiness in your eyes and a wry smile on your lips, no overt anticipation of any kind.

“You can choose the music, yeah?” is all he says, offering you the twitch of a smirk before he’s locking the key into the ignition and you’re off.

You nod, whether he sees it or not, and plug your phone into the radio, allowing yours and Haz’s playlist to stream through the speakers, the melodies wrapping you in their embrace the whole journey.

One thing Haz has learnt through his time with you is that his touch grounds you. No matter what it is, as long as he’s touching you, you’re okay, your breathing regulated, your nervous habits quieted. And though you’ve never outwardly confessed it, his comfort has helped you more times than you’d ever care to admit aloud. He knows this, but no one else needs to.

Once you park up, Harrison leans over to kiss you again, more gently this time. “I’m gonna ask if there’s a way we can get you around the back, okay? Don’t want you getting upset on such a happy day.”

“Thanks babe.”

You peck his lips, but tug away almost instantly, afraid if you don’t, you’ll be here a while. He smiles, and shuts the door behind him, tapping on your window and pulling a silly face as he passes your side of the car. You wait patiently, scribbling down a list off the top of your head of things to buy for the pup. Basket, bowls, toys, mat, brush, collar, lead… you’ve already got a lot of Monty’s old things, puppy baskets he outgrew, his old crate and such like, but you’re adamant that Bixby needs a basket in every room of your place… just in case.

“Hey dreamer,” Haz’s voice snaps you from your reverie, that cute nickname he uses when you drift off into your own little world easing a smile onto your face. “He’s waiting for us, you can come in now.”

You draw your lip between your teeth, and peek over your shoulder to the little puppy holder in the back one last time, filled with a blanket and a cuddly toy. Completely unnecessary, since you plan on holding him, but Haz thought it’d be a good idea nonetheless.

He holds your hand as you tread out of the car, and the whole way into the building, and you’re glad to find a member of staff waiting to greet you with a warm handshake by the back door, happily guiding you inside to the office, more than likely. And there he is, with his big floppy ears and his droopy eyes, sitting on the chair inquisitively, looking like the prince of the palace.

“Oh my God, he’s gorgeous!” you cry, and with little reluctance, you tug away from Haz, bounding over to the puppy.

You know how startled they can get, so you ensure to stop at a safe distance, tentatively holding out your hand for the pupper to let his black nose sniffle at you, before his long pink tongue laps out and licks your hand heartily, a doggy smile breaking across his face as he pants.

“He likes me. Haz, look, he likes me!”

He chuckles, “I can see that, sweetheart.”

You firstly pat at the chestnut-dappled white fur between his ears, stroking his silken fur, before moving down his body, scruffing a little at the rolls of fat there, completely natural for a basset hound-mix. His paws are huge, though, for such a tiny dog, especially considering his stumpy legs.

“Okay, should we settle down and talk about paperwork?” says the kind lady, a completely rhetorical question.

“Come on baby, if we want Bixby to come home with us, we need to fill these forms in, yeah?”

“Yeah babe.” you nod, and glance at the only remaining available chair. “Well, Bixby, it looks like I’ll just have to pick you up. How about that?” you coo.

His tiny tail wags enthusiastically, and he slobbers another kiss to your hand, so you cautiously scoop him up and settle him on your lap once you’ve sat down.

“First of all, we need to remind you that Bixby is the... runt of the litter, and has more significant health issues than other puppies of his breed, requiring more care, including a limp and slight hearing loss in one ear, and he is small for his breed.”

“We know,” you and Harrison answer simultaneously, his one hand occupied with stroking Bixby also.

He’s dealt with business thus far, bringing Bixby blankets from the house to get him used to your scent, meeting him and meeting with the managers, filling out your application forms, making visits to the shelter. It was actually quite a miracle that you were allowed to get a puppy from here, since you both work, but due to Harrison’s schedule as an actor with press and such, he works from and near home a lot, and whenever he’s working away, despite your own job requirements, you’re able to work from home to hold the fort down. So it worked out okay. And with the compromise, they said you met the necessary guidelines to qualify for adoption with one of you almost always at home.

“And he costs £250, but he’s already been vaccinated and microchipped.” she says. You both nod; you’ve already discussed donating a hearty amount to the shelter to keep it afloat, and because Bixby should be worth a damn lot more.

For the rest of the meeting, you zone out rather a lot, only paying attention when you have to sign papers or a cheque, the rest of the time tickling and fussing your new bundle of joy, already so relaxed within your lap. The time seems to whizz by, as before you know it, you’re clambering back into the car, a towel sat over your lap, and Bixby licking happily at your cheeks.

“You know, I showed him a picture of you,” Haz says, smiling wistfully, “the first time I came to visit him. I told him you were my wife and his mum—” he trails off, and darts his eyes to yours, realising what he just blurted out with a dry mouth and knitted brows. “Baby, I didn’t mean—”

“You want to marry me?” you ask, your voice barely more than a broken whisper.

“Of course I do, sweetheart. One day you’re gonna be my wife, and Bixby can be the ring bearer, and everything will work out the way it should, and you won’t be sad anymore.”

“What makes you think I’m sad, babe?”

He raises his thumb to your cheek, capturing a tear before it falls. Again. He’s been stuck doing this a lot.

“Point taken, but for once these are happy tears. I’m just overly sensitive with… everything, but I promise I’m not sad.” Never with Haz, you think. You look down at the puppy, now half asleep, contentedly wagging his tail at a leisurely pace atop your thighs. “This is a happy day, isn’t it?”

“So happy, y/n. I love you, you know that, don’t you?”

“Of course I do. I love you too, so much.”

He smiles, and slowly pulls out of the parking spot, ensuring to drive extra carefully, avoiding even the smallest of potholes on your journey. You keep one eye firmly on Bixby the whole time, but let the other roam your gorgeous boyfriend; the breadth of his shoulders, the veins in his hands, the intricate details in his blue orbs…

“Stop staring,” he whispers, “I can’t focus when you’re looking so pretty.”

You feel yourself flush, and turn your attention back to Bixby wholly, listening to your music as you quietly say, “I’m sorry.”

He says nothing more, but holds your hand over the gear stick the rest of the way.

You get a lot of attention in the pet store, carrying around a half asleep puppy with floppy ears the size of your entire face, meaning that your supposedly swift visit is elongated, but you survive, and are packed into the car shortly with everything you needed and more. A few people wanted to take a picture of Bixby, actually, having never seen a puppy basset hound in real life. You let them, leisurely trailing after Harrison as he got everything on your list, only purchasing if it passed Bixby’s sniff test.

Arriving home for the first time as a three is what makes everything seem so real, your heart overflowing with joy as you get out of the car, and walk to your door, and unlock it…

The first patter of paws on your wooden floor lets you know that this is home now, for all of you, as a family. That much is intrinsic.

“We did it. We got a puppy,” you say to Harrison, placing your hand over his chest where his heart steadily beats at a slightly faster pace.

“And we’re going to love him with everything we have.” he responds, kissing you softly, meaningfully, letting only love fill your embrace.

The skitter of Bixby’s claws coming towards you soon brings you back, though, and you begin to introduce him around the house, never once letting go of Haz’s hand. You show him the living room, where a blanket is already laid out on a sofa cushion for him to join you, and then the kitchen where his food bowls and water are, as well as his exit to the garden, and then to your bedroom, where the fluffiest basket you’ve ever seen sits in the corner, covered with swathes of blankets and scattered with toys. Treats already cover the floor all over your home, puppy training pads laid out just in case, and a hook by the front door with a blue lead dangling off it, as well as a tiny coat. Only…

“I didn’t buy this.” you say, spinning to face Haz, Bixby gnawing at his socks, rolling around at your feet.

You point towards the sturdy hook, embellished, engraved with two words. ‘Bixby Osterfield.’

“No, I did. I thought it was a nice surprise for you.”

He answers you as though it’s the most blatant thing in the universe. And really, it is something relatively small, but so thoughtful at the same time, so you open your arms wide, and nuzzle into him.

“Thank you, Haz. For everything. For this, for today, for loving me, for buying me Chinese takeout tonight.”

A laugh rips from him, his face breaking out into a wide smile, raising one hand to clutch at his chest while the other still securely encircles your waist.

“You’re more than welcome, babe. I’ll always love you. But I'm knackered.”

“Oh my God, same,” you breathe, slumping a little into him as you tickle the dog with your toes. “Who knew playing with a puppy would be so tiring?”

A low chuckle resonates from him, but he just holds you tighter, bending down to pick Bixby up as you trail over to the sofa, Haz’s footsteps silent on the glossy parquet floor of your home.

It doesn’t take long for you to get settled down, contentment filling you both, alongside ample Chinese food servings, and a fair amount of exhaustion too. Bixby has been with you the whole time, and while Haz sat down first, tugging you into his lap, legs spread wide as he lounged against the cushions a moment later, he ensured to position himself accurately on the ‘L’ shape of your sofa, so you could both reach the tiny snoozing puppy who curled into your side without a second thought.

“I’m glad we got a puppy,” you whisper into the darkness.

Night has come, the day having slipped away, and the movie you had playing is close to rolling its credits. You didn’t close your curtains but instead decided to watch the sun set and the star sparkle in the onyx sky, a stark contrast of beautiful silver, the light mirroring that that Bixby has brought into your lives.

“I am too, babe,” he replies, his nose burying into the juncture of your neck and shoulder, gently kissing your exposed skin, “how about we just settle here tonight?”

“Hmm, good plan,” is all you can muster, already feeling the tug of sleep, one hand on Bixby’s soft silken fur, the other holding Haz’s hand.

This is it, you think to yourself as you drift off, this is your family. Haz and Bixby, both of them snuggling into you, keeping you tethered, bringing you sheer joy. A happy day. All because you got a puppy.

#harrison osterfield #haz osterfield #harrison osterfield x reader #harrison osterfield one shot #harrison osterfield imagine #harrison osterfield writing #harrison osterfield fic #harrison osterfield smut #harrison osterfield fluff #harrison osterfield angst #leo the irregulars

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intrepid-scribblings · 3 years

Text

Depths (Part 1)

Notes: Special thank you to that one Tumblr post about “What if the ocean was replaced by the forest where the trees get taller the deeper you go in” (source). [Insert Link to Eventual Masterlist Here]. [Insert link to a brief appendix here]

Warnings: Descriptions of blood and gore and violence typical of medieval warfare so if that’s not your deal you may want to sit this out.

Genres: Fantasy/Dark Fantasy

Summary: It blanketed the known world in a carpet of trees that grew ever taller the deeper you went in and forced what was left of humanity to fight for survival in a few remaining cities. Havenhold stands proudly as the central city of the four bastions of humanity that stand against The Forest. However their tenuous position will not last. Rienn - newly promoted Lieutenant of the Havenhold Guard - and Archmage of Havenhold - Halim - must work together to uncover the mysteries of The Forest and stop its spread before it destroys them all.

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Part 1

The signs of battle were still clear even a week later.

The preceding days had seen no meaningful rain to wash the blood from the ground and walls, no cool weather to stave off the heavy stench of decay that settled over the small farm like an invisible fog. Tiny bits of armor and broken weaponry lay strewn about, being picked over by the haggard-looking peasants who stared at Rienn with a mix of suspicion and envy.

They dare not mess with the golden-haired warrior who wore plate armor emblazoned with the crest of the city they lived outside of, lest they face the wrath of the entire city guard. Word had gotten around that the guards rather respected their new lieutenant and would be quick to retaliate if anything were to happen to them.

A man in a leather jerkin leaned casually against one of the crumbling stone fences that surrounded the farm, a strange-looking spear leaned up against the fence next to him. As Rienn neared, they noticed the spear was actually a large quill, hewn roughly off at the base. He grinned as he noticed them staring, “You like it?” he asked gruffly, his words almost slurring together though he didn’t appear to be drunk, “Ripped ‘er off the hog’s corpse. Nice and sharp this is,” he placed a loving hand on the spear, “No creature’s going to bother me or my family.”

“It’s … not bad,” Rienn said and then nodded to the farm where most of the damage was, “Were you there? When the attack happened?”

He nodded solemnly, “It’s my brother’s farm,” he said, “May the Fates deem him worthy of Rebirth into a good life.”

He bowed his head and drew a circle from his forehead down to his chest with his left hand.

“I’m sorry for your loss,” Rienn said.

He grunted, “Thanks m’lord… and yes I was here, that beast fought like it was possessed by a demon. It was as big as a bear...”

Rienn raised an eyebrow, “What kind of bear?” they asked, crossing their arms.

“A normal bear you’d find in the woods I suppose… but regular woods, not …” he looked over his shoulder at the forest beyond the farm, “Told him not to build so close to The Line…”

He shook his head and scoffed, “As if there’s anywhere else to build.”

A light wind kicked up, doing little to dispel the heat of the summer day and only served to bring the sickly-sweet stench of decay over to where Rienn and the man were standing. They both barely batted an eye at the odor. Sweat trickled down Rienn’s forehead and they swiped at it before it could get into their eyes.

The man looked to Rienn, “So … what are you and your fancy guards going to do about this? Call it another ‘unfortunate risk’ of living out here?”

“We’re increasing patrols,” Rienn said automatically as if reciting a written statement. Perhaps they were.

The man certainly didn’t look convinced, “So you and your brutes can spy on us common folk? Keep us in line?”

“So we can keep you safe and creatures from that,” Rienn stared towards the trees beyond the farm, “Away.”

The man glowered at Rienn and said, “You know what’d keep us safe? Letting us stay inside the city walls.”

Rienn shrugged, “Not everyone can fit - we’d be overcrowded.”

They didn’t sound convinced or convincing. In the back of their mind, they had the image of the city towering over them on the small mountain it sat atop. Sure it wasn’t as large as the cities that used to dot the landscape but certainly, it could fit a few hundred more people inside its walls…

“Right,” the man almost rolled his eyes, “You keep telling yourself that as you go back to your warm bed tonight behind the city walls, guard,” he pushed himself off the fence and grabbed the quill spear, “You really want to help us? Strengthen The Line… I may know little about magic but even I can tell that either it’s weakening or the Forest is strengthening. Neither is good for the future of us down here or your precious city up there.”

He walked away, leaving Rienn alone to stand among the carnage.

Rienn walked through the farm and took a look at the blood-soaked field and what was left of a giant carcass. Most of the meat had been cut away by the more hungry denizens of the villages that lay outside of the city walls. All that was left was a skeleton and its quill-laden skin hacked away from it. No one had any use for the leather and Rienn couldn’t tell if anyone else had the same idea the man had in taking a quill away as a spear.

They turned around and walked back towards the base of the mountain, through rather ramshackle-looking wooden shacks and some more substantial wattle and daub houses. As they neared the city, the buildings became more and more well built and maintained, stone houses began to appear. Then they reached the large, whitewashed stone walls of the city.

The gates were wide open, guards flanking each side of the massive gate, watching as people streamed in and out of the city with their wares. As Rienn stepped inside the gates and in the shade under the thick stone walls they felt a chill as the air temperature dropped several degrees. A wind seemed to be blowing past them and out into the hot summer air just beyond the wall.

“Lieutenant!” a guard greeted Rienn as they passed by. Rienn nodded to the guard.

“Ganther,” they said, “How goes your shift today? No trouble at the gate?”

He shook his head, “None so far. I didn’t know you were heading out of the city today.”

“Just taking a walk, wanted to see where the Captain and His Highness took down that forest hedgehog last week, barely anything left of that thing but bones and quills,” Rienn said.

“We were lucky to make it through that fight with no losses,” Ganther harrumphed, “Still got several men out of commission for the next few weeks.”

Rienn frowned, remembering the blood and the farmer’s brother, “No losses in our garrison,” they said, “But several of those villagers died before we could make it there.”

Ganther said with a shrug, “Shouldn’t have built so close to The Line.”

“Perhaps…” Rienn said uncertainly, “Reminds me … I need to talk to Halim - Archmage Halim.”

Ganther nodded, “Have a good day Lieutenant.”

Rienn found the archmage sitting atop one of the tallest towers that made up the wall surrounding the city. Looking rather bored with their posting, the guards up there didn’t seem to pay the stout and bespectacled young man much mind. Rather they scanned the fields and forests below the city with wary eyes.

The city sat atop a small mountain, shielded in an alabaster wall, a white island above a sea of dark green forest. The forests surrounding the city were massive in both scope and scale, covering all the land as far as the eye could see. The trees in the forest grew progressively taller and taller as one walked further in, to the point that the tops of the tallest trees rivaled the height of the mountain the city sat on.

Rienn knew in their childhood before the city had been built, they would come up to this mountain top and see the flat plains the towering trees now dominated. To go into the deepest depths of the forest now would be to walk into a dark world of giant horrors. They frowned at the sight and then turned their attention to the people on the tower.

The guards wore a uniform of sorts, a chainmail hauberk under a dark green and light blue tabard. Their nasal helms had cheek guards and a full aventail to protect their necks. Their stern and unyielding appearance was a stark contrast to the man who now leaned on one of the crenels, using it as a desk to hold his notebook as he sketched the scenes below. His loose and long dark hair framed his brown face and blew behind him in the light breeze.

His leather-bound notebook was thick and well worn but his light blue robes were immaculate, well-tailored, and clean.

The guards on the tower immediately stood to attention as they walked in, “Lieutenant.”

They gave a curt nod to the guards before turning their attention to the man who had apparently not noticed the visitor, they cleared their throat loudly before saying, “Halim!”

The man started, turning around to see the lieutenant there with a stern expression on their face.

“Thought I’d find you up here,” they said, “Though you really shouldn’t be …”

They gave a meaningful glance to the guards who suddenly became very busy with their interest in the landscape around them. Rienn had known Halim since he had stumbled into their city in the first years of construction. He had helped strengthen these walls, helped develop the sigils that warded off some of the more substantive threats that came from the Forests, and in the years that they had known each other they had become close.

“So who’d you bribe this time? Athred? Genneth?”

“Neither,” the man said, “Though you wouldn’t need to worry about bribery if you paid your guards more,” he broke out into a grin, “But why’d I need to resort to bribery when my best friend is the lieutenant?”

“Because said best friend told you that under no circumstances were you to be up here without my permission,” they crossed their arms, “Given what may happen to me if the archmage were to tumble off a parapet in an accident.”

The man rolled his eyes, “As if I’d be that foolish. King Oderan may think of me as an absent-minded academic but I do pay attention.”

“Ri-ight,” the lieutenant didn’t seem very convinced as they leaned against the merlon, staring out over the forests that surrounded the city. Their forehead crinkled, their worry-lines standing out on their pale skin.

“It’s been qu-,” Halim started to say.

“Shush,” the lieutenant said quickly, the guards within earshot shuffled nervously at their posts, “That word is forbidden.”

“Ohhhh, you can’t tell me that you believe in that old myth?” Halim argued, “As if saying q-,” he hesitated as the lieutenant fixed him with a withering stare, “Fine … ‘the q-word’ … summons trouble.”

“Why tempt the fates?”

“Fine, there’s been no sign of activity from the forests in several fortnights,” Halim said, looking back to the lands outside the city walls. The late afternoon sun cast an orange glow on the treetops, the sunset off to their left side in the west.

The lieutenant nodded, “And we’d like to keep it that way. How has your research gone?”

Halim looked annoyed, “Nothing of this makes sense - ever since the Eruption the forests and animals have been growing at a rate that challenges both contemporary scientific and magical theories!”

“While we’ve been pushed further and further into our last bastions,” Rienn scowled at the forest below, “Our patrols had to help a farm fight off a hedgehog the size of a bear last week.”

“I thought you said things had been …”

Rienn fixed him with a look.

“... non-noisy.”

“Compared to what we’ve dealt with in the past, that was only slightly out of the routine,” Rienn said, “But it’s becoming more and more routine as the seasons wear on… The villagers are worried about the state of The Line.”

Halim scoffed, “As if they would know anything …”

Rienn raised an eyebrow at their friend.

“... being untrained in the arcane arts like I am,” Halim continued, “I’m confident in the ability of The Line to hold - after all … I was the one who drew it, cast the proper anchoring spells, drew every single one of those runes that grace the perimeter. It will not fall and no one should have anything to fear from the Forest.”

A commotion at the front gate, which the tower overlooked, caught everyone’s attention. Rienn peered over the side, eyes locking onto the banner one of the knights held aloft. The image of a golden half sun emblazoned on the red fabric that fluttered in the wind.

“They’re from Westhold,” Rienn said.

Halim squinted, he was unable to make out many details in the dimming light but he recognized the garish red and gold robes from even way up on the tower and even more so, felt the immense power emanating from the individual.

“They have a mage with them,” he said, “a powerful one at that.”

He wondered if it was the archmage, Inge, but that meant ... he hurried to the stairs, “Where has that scatterbrained assistant of mine gone off to?!”

She was, in fact, waiting attentively at the bottom of the tower, fidgeting with a scroll in her hands. Her black hair was tied in a tight bun with not a stray lock out of place and she wore robes similar to Halim’s though less intricate in design.

“Sir,” she handed him the scroll which he took and read over, eyes narrowing.

“When was this sent?”

“Early this morning, after you left,” she said.

He stared at her, “And you didn’t come to tell me?”

“You were at the top of the tower all day,” she said matter-of-factly, “... I wasn’t allowed up there.”

Rienn couldn’t help but smirk at the indignant expression on Halim’s face, “By gods if you told them you were with me …”

“You’re not supposed to be up there either?”

“And you couldn’t have just handed the message to one of the guards?”

“The message clearly said that it was only for the eyes of the archmage and his associates, while I consider myself an associate - I do not consider the guards as such.”

The archmage sputtered, “We’ll talk about this later, just … take this as a lesson Zhen - you can bend the rules once in a while…”

Zhen smiled ever so slightly as she said, “I know, I just would prefer not to.”

The archmage stalked away towards the castle where his study was, “Need to get ready to receive Inge … what type of tea did she prefer again? Did she even like tea? Or was it that bitter drink she liked?”

Rienn followed closely behind, “Is there anything I should know?”

“Know?” Halim looked at his friend with confusion.

Rienn looked at his scroll, “The missive you’ve received, is there anything I should know? If there’s any threat to our city the captain-”

“No, no,” Halim cut them off but immediately looked guilty at his rude answer, “Sorry, I … Inge is a powerful archmage, even more powerful than I. I’m just very concerned about making a good impression on her. There’s nothing in this letter that would concern the safety of the city, just theories on what caused the Eruption, King Oderan and the rest of the council are meeting with her tomorrow.”

“So why the secrecy?” Rienn raised an eyebrow. They neared the castle, the walls cast a long and dark shadow over them and the air chilled.

Halim sighed, “People fear that which they do not understand, which can lead to some … messy situations. Magic is a complex field filled with theories that mortal minds were not meant to understand and only those blessed with the ability to study the arcane gift can even begin to scratch the surface of its inner complexities,” the archmage started to ramble.

Rienn crossed their arms, face betraying no emotion, “Above my station. Got it.”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to imply you were somehow lesser for not being a mage, I just … I,” Halim trailed off, trying desperately to find the right words to say as his face grew red in embarrassment.

“Relax friend,” Rienn said with a laugh and patted him on the shoulder with a strong hand, “I am comfortable with my station. I don’t need to be an archmage or even a mage to be powerful,” they placed their hand casually on the hilt of the sword at their side, “Trust me.”

Rienn left to the barracks to help organize the perimeter patrols for that night while Halim ascended the steps to his study and residence. Zhen was already there, brewing a drink that smelled full and slightly nutty, Halim felt his mouth begin to water at the aroma that filled the room. His eyes lit up in recognition.

“Coffee! That’s what Inge prefers to drink! Coffee! Zhen, you are a lifesaver.”

“I know sir.”

Rienn ascended the battlement later that night, one last sweep of their solo patrol before they turned in for the night. The guards nodded at the lieutenant as they passed by. Rienn noted a lone figure on one of the walls, looking towards the west over the Forest. They cautiously approached, though the guards seemed to pay the figure no mind, Rienn was suspicious of anyone that wasn’t a guard hanging out on the battlements after dark.

The clouds parted, revealing the full moon that illuminated the world in a milky white light. The gold embroidery in the figure’s red robes seemed to shimmer in the moon’s bright light. Inge, Archmage of Westhold was a fair-haired woman with fine features. She stood slightly taller than Rienn though her build was thinner, more lithe. Her pale skin almost glowed in the moonlight and her light brown - almost golden - eyes exuded warmth.

Rienn stepped beside Inge, staring at the same patch of forest the archmage of Westhold was staring at, “You shouldn’t be up here m’lady,” they said.

“Your archmage said that you would be fine with it,” Inge raised an eyebrow at the lieutenant.

Rienn sighed, “Of course he did…”

“I can leave,” Inge said, “If I’m not allowed up here.”

Rienn said, “You can stay up here for a few more minutes,” they leaned against the wall, “As long as I’m here.”

“Thank you …,” Inge trailed off.

“Lieutenant Rienn,” Rienn introduced themself, “Of the Havenhold Guard.”

Inge smiled, “Well Lieutenant Rienn, you have a well-fortified city here, I shudder to think of the fate of any creature that would dare attack you.”

Rienn replied, “Havenhold itself hasn’t been attacked since the early days after the Eruption. A few smaller creatures have made it across The Line to attack the outlying villages.”

“Ah,” Inge smiled softly, “I’ve heard of your fabled magical defense against the Forest. Halim’s solution is quite famous amongst the mages.”

“The Line’s been holding the more dangerous creatures at bay … and we fortified the city well but haven’t had a real test of our physical defenses yet,” they felt at ease around this woman who radiated such power and confidence.

Inge nodded, “Well Lieutenant, I suppose I should take my leave now - early council meeting tomorrow.”

“Of course, Archmage,” Rienn bowed respectfully and then turned to a nearby guard, “You there, Grendar is it? Escort Archmage Inge back to her quarters.”

Inge waved off the guard, “Oh no need, I can find my way back just fine.”

“M’lady I must insist,” Rienn said, “The walls can be rather treacherous to navigate in the dark.”

For a moment, Rienn could have sworn they saw a look of annoyance crossed Inge’s features but it was quickly replaced by a pleasant smile, “Of course Lieutenant. Grendar…”

“M’lady,” the guard bowed respectfully before escorting the archmage off the wall. Rienn stared skyward for a moment before looking back over the Forest - leaves looking almost silver in the moonlight.

‘Mages, always stubborn as donkeys.’

The next day dawned still and hot, the sun shone weakly through a thick layer of haze as it rose above the horizon and cast an orange glow on the land. Rienn wiped the sweat from their brow as they took a few hearty swigs from their water skin. They hoped for a breeze or any kind of relief in the courtyard where they watched the recruits train but the air remained stubbornly calm. Idly they looked up to the tower where the king was meeting with the council and wondered if they could steal Halim for a moment and make him conjure a wind.

They smirked to themself, imagining the uproar that would cause, and banished the thought from their mind as they yelled at a pack of recruits to start another drill.

High above in the tower, the air was just as stifling - the windows had been opened to catch any whiff of a breeze but none came. Three large tables sat in the council room, forming a large “U”. At the center of the “U” was a map of the world, built into the floor. Servants with forked sticks stood at the edges of the room, ready to hand them to whoever at the council table needed them at the moment to move around the figurines that dotted the map.

At the center of the map was the city, Havenhold, surrounded by the dark green that was the forest. Three lines radiated outward from Havenhold like spokes on a wheel, the safest routes for travelers to take, one line meandered its way northward towards the table at the bottom of the “U”, where the king lounged in a large chair, resting his chin on his right hand as he stared down at the map.

He was an aging man, with more silver in his hair than gold. His face was horrifically marred, four large scars etched their way diagonally across his left eye, down his nose, and through the right side of his mouth. Because of this scar, the right side of his mouth was permanently downturned into a pained scowl. His left eye, somehow having survived whatever attack left the grievous scar, stared out at the council table through a drooping eyelid.

He whispered something and the woman at his right stood up, she was dressed as regally as he was, her crown was silver instead of the gold one the king wore.

“Both King Oderan and I, Queen Adelia, would like to welcome Archmage Inge of Westhold to this council meeting,” the woman said, her voice ringing out clear and loud over the room. She wore her authority like a cloak, chin held high as she spoke, her raven black hair was half up in several intricate braids that held back the loose portions of her hair.

Inge bowed deeply to the couple, “Thank you, I am honored and humbled to be in the presence of such a great king and queen.”

She continued, “For who was it that led humanity out of the dark after the Eruption? Who traveled to the heart of the event itself and brought back our only hope of countering this magic? It was you, King Oderan. We owe you a great debt.”

Oderan looked rather flattered at her speech, Adelia’s eyes slightly narrowed but she said nothing. He spoke again and Adelia spoke for him.

“You have a way with kind words as you do with magic Archmage,” Adelia said, “Now let us discuss the business which has brought us all here - the matter of The Forest. General Liu...”

A middle-aged man with a long beard stood up.

“I hear you have a report for us?” “I do Your Highness,” the man said bowing respectfully to the king, “The scouting parties we’ve sent into the Forests have come back with troubling reports. Animals, larger than the ones we’ve fought before, are gathering closer and closer to the Line and our settlements. Prince Jaloc and Captain Aelder were on patrols a week ago when they came across a porcupine the size of a bear attacking a farmer near the Line. I fear that the creatures grow emboldened - something has them on the move.”

“‘Fear’ General?” a woman spoke up from across the tables - apparently not afraid to speak out of turn. She was younger looking than Liu, her brown hair was tied into a tight bun. Katerin’s most striking feature was her stormy blue-gray eyes that peered out from her tan and round face. She spoke slowly - as if she were still unsure of the language she was speaking - and her accent was almost as thick as the woodlands that surrounded them and forced her to move to Havenhold from the northern lands all those years ago.

The man looked momentarily annoyed, “Yes, Katerin, ‘fear’. Or do you not remember the last time Havenhold was attacked by the creatures of the Forest?”

“I remember it very clearly,” Katerin said, “and I remember the defenses we put up to protect ourselves - defenses I designed and have full faith in that it will repel another attack.”

Liu scoffed, “Hubris.”

“It’s better than sitting around in fear, General,” Katerin said. She and Liu obviously rarely saw eye-to-eye. As science advisor to the king, she and the general held equal positions of power in the council, and her aggressive attitude towards the Forest compared to the general’s more cautious approach saw them butting heads more than once. Adelia looked annoyed at the derailment of the general’s report but her husband sat quietly, watching the bickering continue with an unreadable expression on his face.

Liu scowled, “I don’t sit around in fear, m'lady. We’ve increased our patrols in the eastern sector,” he said, “I’ve also put forth a list of my best soldiers for an expedition.”

A murmur went up in the council chambers.

“An expedition?” Katerin raised an eyebrow.

“Archmage Halim and I have been talking,” Liu said.

“A dangerous pastime,” a fiery-haired man chuckled from his seat at the end of the table. A few people laughed before Liu began to walk around the table to the map in the middle of the room. As he did so, he grabbed a stick from a waiting servant and used it to point towards a spot in the north-eastern half of the map where a large tree was depicted.

“Another expedition to the Heart,” Liu said.

Another murmur, louder this time, and people kept talking.

“The Heart? What could we possibly gain?” “Suicide, absolute suicide.”

“Has General Liu gone mad?”

The King stared out at Liu, his brown eyes staring fiercely at the General as he whispered to his wife. Adelia repeated what he had said, “General Liu, whatever you think to find in the Heart better be worth the sacrifices that will need to be made. You remember the last time we ventured that far into the Forest, just after the Eruption… and you remember what we nearly lost - what we did lose in that expedition.”

Adelia fell quiet and the king reached out and squeezed her hand.

“I remember it all too well, King Oderan, and I wouldn’t be asking to put forth this expedition if we didn’t have good reason to believe it will provide clues to the source of the Eruption. Perhaps even a way to reverse the effects,” Liu said, “Halim?”

Halim stood up, “Your Highness, I was not there for your first expedition into the Forest but the tales have traveled far and wide of your triumphant gains and tragic losses. I can’t imagine what you and Queen Adelia have been through. However, Archmage Inge and I have been in correspondence for the past few months and have devised a way to potentially stop this … this curse from spreading across our land. I believe it may work.”

Inge nodded, “He’s right, we can stop this if we send out a strong enough force and penetrate the Heart of the Forest. With our combined magics, it may be possible for us to seal the source away or even stop it entirely.”

“And what is this source that you speak of?” Katerin asked.

Inge and Halim looked at each other, “Well we’re not quite sure yet,” Halim admitted.

“We’ll know it when we find it,” Inge said confidently.

“And how many men will have to die before you do find it?” Adelia asked, “And what response may the Forest have to this transgression?”

“‘Response’?” Inge repeated, “With all due respect Your Highness, it sounds as if you believe these creatures to be organized in some sense? Capable of fielding an army and launching counterattacks?” she scoffed.

“You may jest Archmage but I know what I saw when I ventured into those cursed woods years ago,” Adelia spoke, her husband’s eyes glaring out at the Archmage as he whispered to the queen, “They may not have a kingdom you and I may recognize but there was something there, something sinister, and controlling.”

He stood up with great difficulty, waving off his wife’s attempts to help him as he continued to whisper.

“I will consider your proposal for an expedition and let you know my decision by morn tomorrow. This council meeting is adjourned.”

With that he turned around and left through the door behind his chair, the queen following dutifully behind.

As Halim left with Inge, he heard someone call out his name. Katerin stood just outside of the doorway, “Do you believe Halim? Or do you know?”

The science advisor approached the archmage, “You said you believed your plan may work but how do you know? What proof have you?”

“Inge and I have come up with some theories,” Halim said.

Katerin looked almost offended, “You didn’t consult with me about these theories, Halim,” she said. She was a fellow council member and also responsible with Halim for uncovering the secrets of the Forest. The fact that the Archmage hadn’t even thought about talking to her…

“With all due respect Science Advisor, this is a matter of the arcane,” Halim said curtly, “Not to be explained by science.”

Katerin’s eyes narrowed, “You believe science can’t provide explanations for the arcane, that I have nothing to add to your theories?”

Halim nodded, “Precisely. Science and magic are not of the same cloth, they are two separate fields. I don’t presume to invade your field and I expect the same courtesy from you Katerin.”

The scientist glared at Halim, one fist clenching and relaxing as she took a moment to collect her thoughts, “Archmage Halim,” she said calmly, “I respect your authority on the arcane. I also would like to posit that we are on the same side, despite the differences in our respective fields of study. We all want to stop the spread of the Forest, to be able to defend ourselves from the creatures that lie within, and provide safety for our future generations. I would appreciate in the future some more communication between you and me about our theories, as I have extended the same courtesy to you unless you haven’t been reading any of my missives.”

Halim made a mental note to check with Zhen on the missives he’d gotten from Katerin.

“Now I have to go and practice my field of study away from any … arcane influences,” Katerin’s voice dripped in sarcasm, “Good day to you and Archmage Inge.”

She turned around and stalked away through the still crowded hallway. The fiery-haired man from the council chambers, having seen the whole thing, coughed awkwardly to hide a laugh as he turned to study a particularly interesting banner that hung on the wall.

“Rienn!” the voice cut through the din on the training yard. Immediately some of the recruits stopped to look at who was approaching, a few broke out into grins.

The lieutenant turned to see an imposing woman in plate armor walking towards them, “Just the lieutenant I wanted to see!”

Rienn immediately stood at attention, “Captain!”

Captain Aelder was older than Rienn and stood about a head taller, she wore her long brown hair in a braid that looped around her head like a crown. She had broad shoulders and a broad smile that never seemed to leave her face - even in the din of the fiercest of battles. Her attitude never failed to encourage even the most demoralized of troops.

“Come, Lieutenant, let’s take a walk,” Aelder said as she motioned for Rienn to follow, “I want to know how you’re doing with your first week of service.”

They walked out of the training yard and into the main square of the city, the city walls didn’t afford much of a view of the sky but Rienn had better visibility than in the training yard. Clouds were building around them, “I don’t need to be Halim to know it’s going to storm tonight,” they said as they looked at the billowing cumulus.

“Aye,” Aelder agreed, “Hopefully it’ll provide us relief from this heat. But I didn’t ask for a walk to discuss the weather, I want to know how you’re doing.”

“Fine, Captain,” Rienn said, “I’m doing fine.”

Aelder didn’t look convinced, “You looked unsure about my decision to promote you to Lieutenant, do you still have doubts?”

“No … well,” Rienn paused, “I mean, yes? I just … I don’t know what you saw in me, Captain. I’m now second in command of the garrison here.”

Aelder smiled patiently, “I know you are,” she said, “I know you to be a great warrior - but I also know you have great leadership skills, Lieutenant, and in time - with proper tutelage - you can become an amazing captain.”

She slowed her pace, stopping so she could look Rienn in the eye, her expression was solemn. Rienn looked at their captain with concern, they had seen Aelder with that serious of an expression outside of battle only a few times in their career, “Ma’am?”

“I’ve talked to General Liu, given my reports of the patrols along the Line,” she said, “You and I both know how drastically the situation has changed over the past weeks. More and more attacks from large creatures, the magic is leaking into the settlements at a rate we haven’t experienced since…”

“Since the Eruption,” Rienn said. They shuddered, remembering those first months as Havenhold - barely a village surrounded by wooden palisades - fought for survival as the Forest encroached and threatened to swallow them whole. Only Halim’s arrival and the return of the First Expedition were able to stop the Forest at the Line and help Havenhold become the city it was today. However from what Aelder was saying, if The Line wasn’t holding back the magic … did Halim know? And why were they only just hearing of it now?

Aelder nodded, “I can’t say much,” she said as she leaned close and lowered her voice so that only Rienn could hear, “but you may be called upon for a special assignment. And when that day comes, I need you to be ready for it.”

Rienn raised both eyebrows, confused and surprised, “What do you mean?”

“Keep your voice low,” Aelder said, “None of this is set in stone and I don’t want to risk giving anyone more hope than they should have. Rienn, I was asked to put forward the names of the best warriors under my command and you’re near the top of the list. General Liu and I need more than good warriors though, we need leaders, and people we can trust. In those categories, there’s only you.”

Rienn was quiet, they weren’t sure what they could say or wanted to say for that matter. They knew they were good but surely there were better fighters in the garrison. For their captain to say they were near the top of any list both flattered and frightened them at the same time. What could they say to that? Well, the only thing they were concerned with aside from the protection of Havenhold…

“Captain,” Rienn said - eyes narrowed in determination, “I won’t let you down.”

Aelder smiled at her Lieutenant, “I expected no less from you Lieutenant,” she said, “We’ll have much to go over but you must return to your duties with the garrison and I must meet with the general. Tomorrow morning I’ll call on you for more personalized training.”

Rienn returned to the training courtyard, their mind filled with thoughts as they drilled the recruits. The rookie soldiers noticed their Lieutenant’s distraction and one or two tried to get away with being slightly lazier in their shield wall formation …

“Padun?”

“Yes, Lieutenant?!”

“You do like your friend next to you, Jasim, correct?”

“Yes, Lieutenant!”

“You should lift that shield higher then. Come on! Square your stance! That’s it. Now your friend won’t get stabbed in the face by an enemy spear, there you go!”

As they trained into the evening, a storm billowed up over the mountain and the first raindrops began to fall. A cold wind blew in from the west and darkness fell with the setting sun.

Halim barely got any sleep that night, between the sheets of rain and hail pounding on the roof, the blinding flashes of lightning blazing through his window, and the howling wind that caused the tower to sway ever so slightly. He felt a sense of dread in the pit of his stomach and he wasn’t quite sure what was causing it.

‘For the sake of the Fates above,’ he thought as he finally got up in frustration to brew a cup of sleep tea, ‘I am a storm mage!’

This was his kind of weather. He should feel right at home!

Instead, he felt anxious. There was an energy in the air that wasn’t caused by the storm and he felt it on the very edge of his senses. It was as if someone were lurking in his periphery, just out of sight, and every time he tried to turn to catch the interloper - they’d quickly disappear.

Sighing as he sat down with his cup of steaming hot tea, he took a few deep breaths. He needed to calm down and focus, meditate, and then perhaps he’d figure out what was awry. As he closed his eyes and took a deep breath in and let it out slowly, he attuned his senses to his surroundings. The rain was coming down as heavy as ever, the occasional hailstone hit his study window with a loud smack, thunder cracked loudly overhead and he could see the bright flash of the lightning through his eyelids. The tower swayed as a gust of wind hit and beneath his feet, he could feel rhythmic vibrations as if a giant were walking nearby.

Wait.

What?

His eyes flew open and as he stood up to go to the door and alert … well everyone … someone sounded the warning horn from a perimeter tower. Even over the din of the storm, he could hear the drone of the horns as the alarm went up from each tower and eventually someone rang the alarm bell on top of the main keep.

There was a huge crash, louder than any thunder in the storm, and the sounds of yells and screams. Halim rushed to the window and cursed, he couldn’t see a damn thing in this torrent!

He heard the guards running outside the study door, their chainmail clinking noisily and echoing down the stone halls. The archmage ran to the door, opening it as a guard ran past, “What’s going on?!”

“I don’t know! But those horns were from the western towers!” the man yelled, “Stay in your room!”

Down the hall, he heard more guards shouting orders, “Protect the King and Queen! Where’s Prince Jaloc?!”

Halim went back into his room, turning towards his desk where his staff sat propped up against the wall. As he turned, he saw something glow out of the corner of his eye. Not just something…

It.

He walked over to the thing that was shrouded in cloth and removed the covering, revealing a giant, umber acorn that sat atop a pedestal. It was shimmering a greenish hue that glowed brighter with each passing moment.

As Halim hovered his hand over the large seed, he smelled the musty scent of dead leaves, felt a cool, humid breeze on his cheek, and faintly heard the rustle of the wind passing through the canopy overhead. He blinked and he was back in his study, the feeling of an interloper just out of view was back.

“It calls to its Mother and Father.”

He spun around to see Inge standing at the doorway, an unreadable expression on the Archmage of Westhold’s face as she slowly walked into the room, “It calls to home.”

Rienn was on the southern wall when the attack happened. They were knocked flat along with the majority of the guards on the wall when the west wall was slammed into by a massive force. They shook off their disorientation as they stared blearily into the rain, lightning fractured the sky in a brilliant flash that illuminated two dark antlers towering over the western wall. They could just make out the top of the head of the stag before it dipped its head for another charge.

They stood up quickly, breath fogging in the cold air as they started to scream orders, “Everyone! To arms!!! Keep your eyes peeled! We might be attacked on this wall as well!”

They began to sprint towards the western wall and from what they could make out in the downpour - it was still intact. As they approached the corner tower, they saw Captain Aelder being supported by a fellow soldier as she continued to shout out orders.

“Captain!”

Aelder turned to face Rienn, a pained grimace on her face, “Go back to the south wall Lieutenant! I’ve got it handled here!”

“But-”

“Go!”

Aelder waved Rienn off, she wasn’t allowing for any argument on her order, “Where are the ballistae?!”

“Still loading another salvo!”

“Load faster! We haven’t much time before that thing charges again!!”

Rienn could faintly hear the sounds of gears turning as the four massive ballistae that protected the western wall were reset for another salvo. The engineer in charge of the ballistae turned to Aelder, “We can’t aim well in this rain and dark Captain, I’m not sure how effective this is going to be…”

“Well,” Aelder said in a pained huff as she looked at the damage the deer had caused to the wall and the looming form in the darkness, “That thing’s about as big as the damn mountain we’re sitting on - can’t be that hard to miss.”

Rienn made their way towards the gate on the south wall, below they could see the torch lights from the guards that were on patrol and dozens of villagers who were trying to get in. One of the soldiers was pounding on the portcullis like a madman, his panicked voice barely audible, “For the love of everything let us through!”

Rienn yelled, “Open the gate! Let them through!”

“Are you sure?” one of the guards at the gate, Rienn recognized him as Ganther, asked, “The western wall is close to here…”

Rienn raised an eyebrow, “And you think a massive deer is going to be able to even fit through the gate? Our soldiers are out there - as are the people we’re supposed to be protecting. I’m ordering you to open the gate.”

Ganther nodded, running to the winch to pull up the massive portcullis. As he did so, two more guards grabbed the gate doors and began to pull them open, boots slipping on the wet cobblestone and mud. One of the guards opening the gate had grabbed onto a segment of wood, the material seemed to morph under his hand and he started to scream as the gate came alive in his hands. The wood warped and twisted, engulfing and crushing his hand and arm, the door rooted into the ground as the wood had come back to life as a tree.

The last thing he saw before the wood swallowed him whole was the horrified expression on Rienn’s face. All around Rienn, anyone who had wooden weapons was suddenly affected by the strange phenomenon. Spears shafts exploded into poles of thorny branches that impaled their user’s hands and arms. Bows warped into vines, strangling the archers that tried to shoot with them while their arrows grew into saplings that rooted their blue corpses into place.

Rienn quickly cast their wooden kite shield aside as it exploded into a ball of thorns, they needed to gain control of the situation but they weren’t quite sure how. They stood frozen in place as they saw humanoid shapes emerge from behind the terrified villagers who were still at the gate. The figures were taller and lankier than the average human, they glowed with an unnatural green energy and Rienn didn’t need the benefit of a mage’s education to know that these were likely responsible for whatever was happening to their gate.��

Said gate now was two massive oak trees, rooted firmly in the entrance courtyard, blood leaked out of crevices in the bark.

The lieutenant heard someone ask them for an order and they couldn’t answer, they stood staring at the figures and the gory scene around them - transfixed, hand resting limply on the hilt of their sword. A particularly loud clap of thunder crashed overhead and they flinched as shards of stone fell around them. They blinked, confused.

‘Since when does thunder explode into stones?’

They looked up to see the top of the tower where Halim resided had blown completely away. The rain began to slacken and the full moon peeked out between ragged clouds. The shadow of a bird passed overhead, landing on the remnants of the tower before flying off. On the western wall, Captain Aelder - barely clinging to consciousness - watched as the deer staggered forward. It was bleeding profusely from the wounds the ballistae had caused. She knew, however, that it wasn’t the ballistae that stopped the deer.

Everyone could hear its bones creaking and cracking as it slowly collapsed under its own weight. Whatever magic from the Forest had kept it alive through its attack had left it now as it encroached on the human’s territory. Both the deer and the Captain fell to the ground at the same time.

“Captain!”

Rienn, meanwhile, sprinted through the halls of the castle and up the half demolished tower.

“Halim!!! Halim!!! Gods damn it all!! Answer me Halim!!!!”

Zhen staggered out of the rubble, dragging a bruised and battered looking Halim with her, “Damn good thing I perfected that shield spell, sir,” she said.

“Damn good thing,” Halim agreed tiredly, he looked at Rienn - distressed, “Rienn … it’s gone. She took it.”

“Took what?” Rienn asked, “And who’s she?!”

Halim swallowed, his voice cracking as he said, “Inge, Inge took the Seed - the giant acorn the First Expedition brought back from the Forest. It’s gone,” he repeated, sounding angrier with every word, “She took it.”

#fantasy #dark fantasy #my writing #original writing #original story #Story Time with Em #forest #Depths Story

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ohfugecannada · 3 years

Text

Oddworld: Role Switch au

So a couple of weeks(?) ago, @oddest-worlds posted an idea for an au where mudokons were an evil cultist species-supremacist power because of the mudokon moon incident and the glukkons were the enslaved natives. I really wanted to pitch in ideas/headcanons, but was busy with coursework at the time.

Fortunately, I just finished my project and now have more free time so I got to writing some stuff.... a lot of stuff... mainly just some points on the main trio of eusocial races (Mudokons, Glukkons and Sligs) and their role in the AU. So strap in!

(Fyi if you have/had other ideas that contradict the headcanons bellow, feel free to ignore those. Or pitch in some of your own ideas, I’d love to hear them!)

Glukkons

Were once a spiritually oriented race who practiced black magic, occultism and alchemy and were allies of the Mudokons thousands of years ago

When the mudokons declared themselves as the supreme race because of the mudokon moon, they were, understandably, upset and concerned

Fearing their once allies were drifting further away into cultist, species-supremacist behaviour, the glukkons set out to disprove the mudokons declaration of supremacy though their alchemical arts and unify their species once more

It’s said that some glukkon alchemists were successful in finding the answers they seeked out, but what those answers were have long since been lost to time

Now becoming more industrialised and realising the glukkons were a possible threat due to their alchemical powers, the mudokons orchestrated a war against them, nearly wiping the glukkons out in the process before thier surrender

After the war, disillusioned, outnumbered and on the brink of extinction, the glukkons began working for the mudokons, who belittled, oppressed and eventually enslaved them

Now most glukkons are born into subservience to the Mudokons, oblivious to their spiritual past, true history and culture

Still native glukkon tribes out in the wild in hiding from the mudokon empire

I mentioned this before, but I personally imagined the glukkons of this timeline walking on thier legs, which are still somewhat short, and retained thier long arms. Basically, they have the same body type to gibbons and similar long armed apes

Because they walk with their legs and not on their arms, most glukkons stand at almost half their canon height, roughly around 4 or 5 feet tall or so

In industrial captivity, most glukkons tend to have a grey or pale skintone like the glukkons we see in soulstorm

Native Glukkons born outside of captivity are much more diverse in skin colour, with their base colours ranging from brown to purple, red, pink or green etc

Along with This, they have the ability to change their skin colour like octopuses (which makes sense given their closest relatives evolutionarily are the oktigi and other octopus/cephalopod-like creatures)

Notably, they flash different colours across their face and skin when feeling strong emotions like sadness, anger, excitement etc. Similar to the mudokons in Abe’s Exoddus

Glukkons from certain tribes also have bioluminescent markings and patterns on their skin that are visible in the dark. Though, this trait is not as common

Using this colour changing ability, some glukkons are able to copy the colours and even textures of their environment and become one with the scenery. Essentially making themselves invisible. Of corse, this particular aspect of colour changing usually doesn’t come as naturally or involuntary to glukkons as the emotional-based changes. In most cases it takes years of training to master the art of invisibility

Much like the Mudokons in canon, industrial-born Glukks are born into captivity from a mother queen and their eggs are shipped off to be sold into slavery

Baby or young slave glukkons are raised alongside their siblings and cousins over a mudokon master and are usually kept together as something akin to a demented orphanage where youngling glukks are sent to work as soon as they can pick up a rag and bucket

@oddest-worlds, You described the mudokons as being cult like. I personally imagined this would ya know aside from the moon worshiping mudokon supremacy stuff manifest itself most in the way they control thier glukkon slaves

Glukkons in slavery, much like people born into cults, are indoctrinated at a young age to believe their mudokon masters are perfect, all knowing and benevolent beings, that the outside world beyond the factories is a savage, unforgiving wasteland where outsiders will try to lead them astray, and that they are better off and safer dedicating their lives to loyaly serving the mudokons

Glukks who challenge these beliefs, defy their mudokon masters or try and escape to the outside are often severely punished. Either from being removed from their glukkon group, being held in a cell for hours or days where they are interrogated and for their “crimes” or getting severe beatings.

Native free glukkons have a similar tribal society structure as the native mudokons in canon, with each tribe having their own distinctive culture

As said before, they practice the occult, black magic and, most prominently among different glukkon tribes, alchemy

As well as living in tune with nature, Glukkon alchemists often practice the art of transmutation, turning one type material or substance into another, and joining certain substances and/or materials together. Which they do in order to better understand the natural world around them

Nowadays, though, native glukkon civilisation is far from what it once was millennia ago

Thanks to the mudokons and other industrial societies either enslaving or killing off their numbers as well as building over their sacred lands, most native glukkon’s main priority is to hide away from the rest of society and to protect what little of their culture and traditions still remain

From my research I learned the practice of alchemy (or at least the traditional western version of it) could be traced back to Egypt and Thoth, the god of arts and sciences, so I thought it would make sense if at least some individual native glukkon tribes culture and overall aesthetic would be loosely based on the ancient Egyptians as a callback to this, with some small echos of the architecture we see with the glukkon aesthetics of the canon timeline plus the more native looking early concept art of glukkons

Also while researching alchemy I noticed one key aspect of it involved change and transmutation, I.e. turning base metals like lead into noble metals like gold. I thought about how this could also connect to their colour changing. Maybe some native glukkons believe the colour changing to be a glukkons most primal form of transmutation. And view the ability to blend in with the environment as a way of being one with nature, both in the figurative and literal sense. Or something else along those lines

In industrial propaganda, native glukkons are painted as savage barbarians and alchemists as swindlers and charlatans that lead gullable slave glukkons astray, filling their heads with doubt, or with the promise of bestowing riches and immortality for a price

Enslaved glukkon’s clothes tend to consist of whatever textiles they can get their hands on in the factories and what little the strict dress code implemented by their mudokon masters will allow

The main item of clothing worn by most glukk scrubs is a shoddily cobbled together shirt and overalls. Sorta like an even shabbier version of the basic glukkon pud uniform in munchs oddysee

Like many things, native or liberated glukkons tend to have a lot more freedom when it comes to what they wear

The more traditional fashions often worn by glukkon alchemists include long, loose fitting robes, sometimes with these thick ribbed shoulder pads. Pretty much the same as outfit worn by glukkons in the very early concept art back when they were still called “Oldger” or “Ociti”

Mudokons

A once spiritual race that possessed psychic powers and were allies to the Glukkons thousands of years ago

When the shape of a Mudokon pawprint appeared on one of Oddworld’s moons, some mudokons took this as a sign from the gods that they were the chosen race

Blinded by their self imposed delusions of grandeur, the first believers of the mudokon moon sign set out to prove the mudokon race’s superiority over all other races of Oddworld

The moon believers did this by recruiting more mudokon members into their tribe, slowly converting the many tribes into one unified empire, increased consumption of the planets resources and began to isolate themselves from the rest of Oddworld

Building massive towers that reached the skies, they began to spend most of thier time indoors, only looking up at the night sky to see thier sacred moon, the symbolic reminder of thier divinity over Oddworld

Gradually abandoned thier spiritual ways in favour of a more industrialised way of life. Only a few powerful figures within the Mudokon empire still use their psychic abilities such as possession

Growing more paranoid that their Glukkon allies and thier powers of alchemy would prove to be a threat to their rising power, the mudokons orchestrated a war against the glukkon tribes, nearly wiping them out in the process

After the war, the mudokon empire gave the queens of the last remaining glukkon tribes an ultimatum: give away thier children to the empire where they would be “employed”, “sheltered” and “safe”, or let them be born into a “primitive” tribal wasteland at the brink of extinction

The mudokons were able to enslave their once Glukkon allies and quickly rose to become the most powerful, and power hungry, civilisation in all of Oddworld

In terms of architecture and aesthetic, I figured many of those motifs from their spiritual/tribal past would subtly carry over to their current society, I’ll be it more metallic and industrialised. Like larger, dystopian dieselpunk versions of the huts, buildings and structures we see in Monsaic Lines and other native mudokon locations

The buildings they live and work in are also incredibly tall, with some structures in their urban cities reaching above the clouds (basically the opposite of the canon glukkons subterranean cities)

The Mudokons are the main industrial society with a stronghold over the planet

Having essentially brainwashed both thier mudokon citizens and glukkon slaves, the mudokon empire is singularly concerned with proving their dominion over the planet oddworld. with no reguard for the native creatures and cultures that inhabit it

Mudokon society is extremely dedicated to the idea they are the best civilisation in all of Oddworld

As far as they’re concerned, their empire is the supreme civilisation, unparalleled in architecture, politics, philosophy, military and art

And they are dead set on proving thier superiority to the other races of Oddworld, no matter the cost

Any historical records that makes mudokons civilisation and society look bad or less then perfect are either deeply hidden away or destroyed. Through this constant revisionism as erasure, their true history has been long forgotten

Only consistent part of their history is the mudokon moon, which they hold as a sacred symbol and a reminder of their power as the “chosen race”

Now, the sight of the mudokon moon is rare for any industrial borns due to the sky being covered by air pollution from the mudokons buildings and factories

Young mudokons are born as eggs by their respective queen and sent to be raised by a foster mudokon worker and, if they’re rich or well off, their many glukkon slaves

As I said before in the glukkon bit, the way glukkons are taught how to view the world is very similar to real life cult indoctrination and brainwashing. Young mudokons get a similar treatment in terms of their education

At an early age, mudokons are taught by their elders that oddworld belongs to the strong such as them, that the other races that cannot compare to the mudokons, And that all mudokons which as them are perfect and destined for greatness. (Provided they work hard and follow the rules of the empire...)

For a mudokon, lacking this sense of superiority over other races and drive to prove themselves as exceptional is frowned upon in thier society, and such mudokons are often either outcasted or placed in the lower ranking job roles

Like the glukkon workers in canon, adult mudokon workers are often employed as powerful bosses and rulers in the mudokon industries of food production, science, politics and/or religion to name a few

While some individual mudokon masters value mollah and material gain over other things, mudokon society as a whole isn’t quite as obsessed with mollah the same way glukkon society in canon is. They do hold monetary wealth and riches in high regard, of corse, but mostly as one of many status symbols to prove their superiority over others

Due to their belief of being the superior race, some mudokons are known to be extremely arrogant and self centred, to the point they’re often compeating with one another over who is the better mud

In terms of physical appearance, I imagine mudokons having a lot more angular features, like more talon like claws on their hands/feet to evoke a bird of prey

While mudokons are still omnivores, teeth such as their canids are more pronounced due to consuming more meat products such as scrab, Meech, slig and elum meats

I also feel like the slight uncanny-valley elements the mudokons already have should be subtly accentuated in the switch designs for creep factor and everything

unlike muds of canon, muds of the switch au tend to be on the lean, average and/or slightly cubby side rather then underweight and slightly bony in terms of their weight. Mostly down to having relatively better diet and quality of life, at least compared to their canon counterparts.

Mudokons also have way more feathers on their heads! Though, due to the airborne pollution of their industrial lifestyle, feather growth is mainly restricted to their head and face

don’t tend to grow as many feathers on other parts of their bodies like arms, legs etc

On top of this, as mudokons tend to live in colossal tower-like structures, they’ve evolved adaptations to life in higher attitudes such as naturally taking shorter breaths.

One popular form of dress for most moderate or high ranking mudokons consists of a shirt garment with a v-shaped neck (kinda like a Dashiki) a medium length skirt and long ornate robes or feathered cloak. Think more fancy versions of the native clothes worn by the mud shamins in canon.

How intricate, layered, extravagant and/or customised etc these clothes are depends on how high the individual mud wearing them is on the power/wealth hierarchy. Kinda like the wealth hierarchy with canon glukkons. Most lower class muds tend to look closer to the muds we see in canon with a short loincloth-like skirt and simple vest.

While the majority of mudokon society tends to be more industrialised, there are certain elite and powerful groups within the mudokon empire that still practice their spiritual psychic powers

One example of such a group is an elite task force of mudokon agents specifically trained to hone their psychokinetic abilities.

Fed on an exclusive diet of mind altering spooce shrubs, they are granted powerful and dangerous abilities (provided they don’t die from spooce overdose first). Such as the power to possess the minds and bodies of other beings

They are employed as black ops-like operatives by the mudokon empire to manipulate the affairs of other Oddworld nations and races behind the scenes with their powers of possession, as assassins to take out highly dangerous targets from afar with death via red ring explosion or possession induced head explosion, or as bodyguards to protect highly powerful and elite clients, usually mudokon queens. Essentially taking on a similar role to the Glocktigi in canon

Sligs

Race of amphibious/semi-aquatic swamp dwellers

Society not as complex or “advanced” as others like the glukkons or mudokons, technology wise

Somewhat nomadic as they tend to move around from place to place in colonies, though their preferd environments are wetlands, marshes, swamps, lakes and bogs

Were never enslaved by Glukkons, Mudokons or any other societies of mudos for that matter. probably since Sligs are seen as useless and impractical for such tasks anyway. I mean, what kind of peanut-headed chumps would have a legless species who can’t use their hands do their dirty work for them?! lol!

While functional on land, they’re a bit more adapted for life in water, with webbed hands and seal-like tails for swimming as well as gills in their mouths for breathing underwater

Walk with their hands when on land (similar to pantsless sligs in canon but slightly less awkward)

Use the highly dexterous tentacles on their faces to pick up objects and use tools while they walk or swim

Covering themselves up with dirt, moss, mud etc is a big part of their culture. Not because they think they’re ugly like the Sligs in canon, but because it provides good camouflage from larger creatures and predators wanting to eat them

If a Slig is spotted or about to be caught by anything that would want them as food, they can use their arms to leap away from their attacker

In terms of actual clothing, they don’t wear much aside from a covering that wraps around the middle section between their abdomen and their tail mostly so their butts don’t get cold when they go up on land. These coverings are usually either made of soft reeds weaved together, a leaf held together by a stick going through both ends or whatever they can get their tentacles on in thier surrounding environment

Even without fancy covering or camo, Sligs are pretty diverse when it comes to their appearance

Depending on the environment, their skin tone can range from light green to yellow, dark green, blueish-green, teal, brown or black to name a few

Some Sligs also have tiger like stripes similar to the ones on big bro Sligs in canon

And, of corse, there’s albino Sligs. How they’re treated tends to vary form colony to colony

Some outcast or even kill albinos, fearing their bright colour could attract predators

Other colonies are a lot more accepting of albinos, though they tend to be more protective of them due to, again, being more easy targets for predators

Most albino Sligs either take extra care to cover themselves with as camouflage as possible to hide their bright skin, or stay under the water for most of their lives, rarely ever venturing up to the surface world

Queens are also never seen on dry land, as their birthing process is significantly less painful underwater

While none of the queens in this timeline are as cripplingly obese as queens like Skillya in the canon timeline, most healthy queens are still rather large. Sorta like the size/weight of an average male elephant seal, or a salt water crocodile

Also, while some queens can still be jerkasses, they don’t usually eat their own young, as they don’t hold as much resentment towards them due to the less painful birthing process. Plus, their many drones usually bring them smaller fish and swamp dwelling creatures to keep them well fed

Baby sligs (or sliglets, as I like to call them) are born underwater and later take their first peek up to the surface after a couple of weeks

Raised by either one of their drone fathers or their many older siblings

baby Sligs are also born able to swim and walk on instinct, sort of like lizards. They only need to stick with their guardians for protection and to learn valuable life lessons from them like camouflage, avoiding predators, looking both ways before they cross the rivers etc

According to ex-Just Add Water employee Will on the Oddworld forums, Lorne Lanning originally envisioned Sligs having pig like fur, but this was cut from Oddysee due to technical limitations at the time. I headcanon that native Sligs had fur in the canon timeline but lost this trait due to their industrial lifestyle, similar to mudokon’s feathers. Hence in this timeline, some native Slig colonies do have fur.

usually more common, much thicker and more prominent on Sligs from colder climates as it helps them stay warm

The fur is also good for collecting dirt and growing moss and algae on, adding to the Sligs camouflage

I also have this headcanon that the noises sligs make for the BS and S’Mo BS commands in Oddysee and Exoddus gamespeak are remnants of their old language before they were enslaved by glukkons in canon. This is how Sligs communicate to each-other in this timeline: through a series of frog-like ribbit and croak vocalisations.

They do have the ability to speak language in the same way Mudokons and Glukkons do, I’ll be it in a limited capacity since they’re somewhat cut off from these language speaking societies and not used to talking in words. Think of it how, in canon, Gabbits like Munch can speak language with characters like Abe but can also call to other Gabbits through a dolphin-like “song”

Though they were never slaves, that doesn’t mean industrial societies like the Mudokon empire haven’t caused trouble for them

On top of occasionally hunting them to make high protein meat products and for sport, the Mudokon empire has also put their glukkon workers to use digging up Sligs swamplands for iron ore, as water that carried flakes of iron accumulated and settled in those swamps. As well as gathering peat from mires for fuel

These practices have been encroaching on the Sligs natural habitats. driving them out and disrupting their usual migration patterns

In a lot of cases, Mudokons purposefully try to drive off or exterminate Slig colonies. Viewing them as useless, dirty pests getting in the way of the precious resources that, much like everything else on Oddworld, the mudokons feel a sense of entitlement to

Alright, that all the points I got down for the big three. I do have some ideas for the other races like vykkers, steef, oktigi, meeches etc but for now, I’ll just leave it here. Again, please let me know what you think of all this and feel free to make contributions.

@southern-forests

#oddworld #au #aus #mudokons #glukkons #sligs #oddswitch #oddswitch au #role switch au #I had the most fun writing about swamp sligs

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