#Now I just need Rook's and I'll be content

[blackcherryvelvet0909]

HE'S HERE!!!! <3 <3 <3 <3

(Neige's beach episode fic will be released tomorrow! Just gotta polish everything out and make his banner. After that, it's time to write about a certain Catholic boy [again])

[merrinla]

Davrin vs Lucanis cut content. Actually, some of it was rewritten, but most of it was cut.

I guess this is a previous version of the dialogue after Weisshaupt.

Davrin: My problem is you've got a demon in you. That's enough to lock you away. But you're also very good at killing people. Davrin: Combine the two, and I don't know how we let you anywhere near this team. Lucanis: Because it wasn't your decision. (?): Lay off, Davrin. It's not your place to interrogate him. (?): Rook made the call. Rook: All right, all right. That's enough. Davrin: No, it isn't. Davrin: If this demon gets out of hand we're all in trouble. Rook: I'm not worried about Lucanis. Davrin: But you should be…. (?): But you were worried, Rook. Rook: Well, I'm not now. Rook: Everyone deserves a chance. Rook: I stand by my decision. Lucanis and his demon will behave. Davrin: But how can you know that? What if Spite attacks Assan? Lucanis: He'd win. Davrin: What? If anything happens to Assan— Lucanis: The Venatori were better at it. Davrin: Yeah? Well they had your number real good. Lucanis: And what about you, Warden? Don't all your kind have the blood of darkspawn in your veins? Davrin: What do you know about that? Lucanis: Adamant Fortress. The Wardens must have told stories about it. Everyone else did. Davrin: Are you seriously trying to pretend the tragedy at Adamant is the same as your demon? Lucanis: At least I know I'm a threat to everyone around me. You think a noble cause and a little honor make you safe. Lucanis: Prison warden… Grey Warden, what's the difference? Davrin: Let me get my blade and I'll show you— Option (Grey Warden origin): Hey, I'm a Grey Warden. Rook: Careful there, Lucanis. I'm a Grey Warden too. option: Both of you work this out. Rook: You're adults. You can settle how to work together yourselves. option: Davrin is right. Rook: Obviously, having a demon in the Lighthouse is dangerous. We can't pretend otherwise. Lucanis: You're no longer glad I'm here? Rook: I am. But Davrin's not wrong. Lucanis: And I thought we were getting along. Rook: I still need to be careful. option: Lucanis is right. Rook: Every single person on this team is dangerous. Nice, safe, regular people don't fight ancient gods. option: I'll be watching Lucanis. Rook: We're being careful. I'll be keeping an eye on Lucanis. Rook: Somebody has to. Lucanis: Such fine hospitality. Davrin: Just be grateful you're not back in the Ossuary.

The conversation with Varric after that.

Rook: Davrin and Lucanis hated each other on sight. And I just ticked off Lucanis. Again. The minute he got back. Rook: Davrin and Lucanis hated each other on sight, and now Lucanis is probably ticked at me. Rook: Davrin and Lucanis hated each other instantly. And now Davrin's ticked off at me. Rook: Davrin and Lucanis hated each other on sight. And now they're both ticked at me. Varric: Don't panic. Things always seem impossible. Just fight one battle at a time. option: I need to find the enemy. Rook: I can't fight any battles right now, Varric. We have no targets. Rook: Don't give me sage advice. Give me a target. option: I need a plan, not platitudes. Rook: I know you're trying to help. Rook: I appreciate the effort, Varric, but that doesn't exactly help when we don't know where to go next. Varric: Look around you. You've got all these people. Experts in all sorts of things. Rook: I just told you, the team— Varric: No, no. That's the problem. You have people. Not a team. They don't know each other, and they don't know you. Varric: Work on getting to know them. The better you understand your people, the closer you get to having a team. Rook: Understanding won't make them work together. Varric: No, you have to do that. Which means they all have to trust you. Even if they hate each other. Rook: That's not going to work. Varric: It's worth a try. Rook: How? I've never led people like these before. Varric: Ordinarily, I'd say you should get them all into a game of Wicked Grace, but I think you'll have to work up to that. Varric: Start with Lucanis and Davrin. Something else must be eating at them, to get them at each other's throats. Rook: I guess it can't hurt. Varric: That's the spirit.

Another squabble.

(?): The trail's gone cold. (?): We don't have any leads. Rook: Hey, what's— Davrin: You're the Crow! You're supposed to have eyes and ears everywhere! Or maybe the only voice you hear is Spite's! Rook: I said, Hey! Lucanis: You're the Grey Warden, the "expert" on all this blight! You're supposed to have answers! Lucanis: Maybe you're spending too much time playing with your flying cat! Rook: So the two of you decide to tear into each other? Knock it off. Rook: That's not anyone's fault. We just haven't caught a break yet. Lucanis: Tell him that. You said it yourself, Rook: Davrin's the problem. Davrin: Tell him that. You said it yourself, Rook: Lucanis is the problem. Rook: Seriously! You need to take all this anger and use it against Elgar'nan and Ghilan'nain! Davrin: I'd love nothing more. Just as soon as Lucanis and his Crows do anything to find them. Lucanis: We're waiting for you and your Wardens to remember your job is to… What is it again? Oh, yes—destroy the blight. Rook: You think it makes me happy? I'm pissed off, too Davrin: You should be pissed at him. You said it yourself, Rook: Lucanis is a problem. Lucanis: You should be pissed at him. You said it yourself, Rook: Davrin is a problem. Lucanis: You should be pissed at him. I tried to warn you. Davrin: I tried to warn you about him, Rook. Davrin: If you'd listened to me about him, we wouldn't have this problem. Lucanis: You said it yourself, Rook: Davrin is a problem. Davrin: You said it yourself, Rook, Lucanis is a problem. Rook: The way you two are going, I'd rather spend my time talking with Solas. Rook: I wouldn't mind a little break from reality right about now. Can you guys knock this off? Rook: I know you're both doing your best. That doesn't mean you have to like each other. Rook: But it does mean you have to stop the constant fighting. Okay? Rook: I'm not tolerating this. You're both professionals and I expect you to act like it. Understood? Davrin: I hear you, Rook. But as a professional my duty is to keep an eye on him and Spite. Lucanis: And with darkspawn blood running through your veins, I'll be watching you. Professionally.

[mysteryshoptls]

SSR Deuce Spade - Room Relaxation Vignette

"Happy Birthday"

[Exterior Hallway]

Deuce: Whew… Today was another exhausting day.

Deuce: I couldn't even understand any of the questions they said was super basic… I don't even know if I'll be able to finish up all the homework we got by tonight...

Rook: Oh, my, is that you, Deuce-kun? What has you looking so forlorn?

Deuce: Hunt-senpai! Good afternoon! Umm… I was just coming back from my supplementary Enigmics class.

Deuce: I'm still not really understanding anything even after Crewel-sensei took the time to help me try and figure it out… Urgh, I'm just so lousy.

Rook: Oh là là! That is indeed a predicament. That must be why you seem so unusually tired.

Deuce: Yes... He told me to at least memorize the formula for magical power by tomorrow, so I need to have something to show for it…

Rook: I see… However, they say that joyfulness follows every hardship. I do hope you'll be able to enjoy your birthday tomorrow.

Deuce: Huh, you know my birthday?

Rook: Of course! Make sure to fully enjoy yourself at the party you're throwing in Heartslabyul and mingle with your friends to your heart's content.

Deuce: Thank you very much! No matter what, I need to avoid staying after for supplemental lessons tomorrow.

Deuce: I'm feeling more motivated thanks to your words, Hunt-senpai! I'll definitely focus on my studies tonight!

Rook: Heh, now that is a much better look for you to carry. I'll be cheering you on, Monsieur Spade.

Deuce: Yes, sir! I'll take my leave now, Hunt-senpai!

[Heartslabyul Dorm – Lounge]

Deuce: Alright, we're done taking care of the hedgehogs. Glad I was still able to make it in time to do my assigned duty…

[Heartslabyul student speaks]

Deuce: Eh, what was I doing…? I had to stay after for a supplemental Enigmics lesson.

[Heartslabyul student speaks]

Deuce: You can't think of anything that was confusing? Come on, we're both in the same class. I'm talking about the problem I got hit with today…

Deuce: Eh, you're saying that formula is something that's even taught during middle school? Y-You're joking…!

Deuce: Man… Becoming an honor student is a long and winding road. But I got no time to cry about it.

Deuce: I gotta finish up everything I gotta do and head back to my room. Bye!

[Heartslabyul Dorm – Deuce's Room]

Deuce: Now that I'm outta the shower, it's time to study. I'll pull out the papers that Crewel-sensei prepared for me.

Deuce: Rosehearts-ryōchō said it helps with memorization to vocalize things. I'll try that now!

[Heartslabyul Dorm – Deuce's Room]

Deuce: P = T × S² × X… P = T × S² × X…

[Roommate A speaks]

Deuce: Hm? What am I mumbling about…? Oh, I'm not talking to myself. I'm trying to memorize a formula for Enigmics class.

[Roommate B speaks]

Deuce: So, don't bother me… Huh? What do I want to eat at tomorrow's party? Oh, hmm…

Deuce: …Oh, yeah, I know what I want! A melty omelet, and a fluffy egg cake!

Deuce: Maan, now that I'm thinking about it, I'm starting to feel a bit hungry. I should head to the lounge to find something to eat…

Deuce: Wait… Now's not the time to do that. I need to memorize this formula. I'll write it out again…

[Roommate A speaks]

Deuce: Huh, you're giving this to me!? Thanks. I really was craving these cookies just now.

[Deuce starts eating]

Deuce: Ack, shoot! I stopped writing again. I gotta focus, focus…

[Roommate B speaks]

Deuce: Hm? You're gonna let me be the first to read the comic we've been taking turns reading every week?

[Roommate B speaks]

Deuce: Oh, wow, because it's my birthday tomorrow? Thanks! I was really excited for the next part.

Deuce: Ack, wait, now's not the time for that, I told you already! Augh, I can't remember the formula at all…

Deuce: Hm? What are you guys laughing about? Ah…! Wait, were you doing all that on purpose!?

Deuce: Don't bother me! I absolutely, definitely have to memorize this formula by tomorrow!

Deuce: If you guys keep this up…

「Survey on Quality of Life Improvements for the Student Body」

Deuce: I'm gonna write "There should be even more opportunities for supplemental classes."

[Ace speaks]

Deuce: What, that'd be a problem for me, too? Nope, I'm always super grateful for the extra classes that help me learn things with greater detail. I say bring it on!

Deuce: Besides… I already stay after class a bunch, anyway. Even if that happens more often, it doesn't really change anything for me…

[Ace speaks]

Deuce: …Heh, as long as you get it. Okay then, I'm gonna go back to memorizing the formula… Eh, an Ancient Magic quiz!?

Deuce: Shoot, I need to study for that, too. I can't fail that quiz, either!

Deuce: But I still haven't even memorized the formula for my Enigmics class either, what should I…

Deuce: Oh, right! I should just study for both of them at the same time!

Deuce: I'll write the formula for Enigmics while I repeat the Ancient Magic stuff out loud.

Deuce: P = T × S² × X… P = T × S² × X…

Deuce: The next word means… "to flow."

Deuce: P = T × S² × X… P = T × S² × X…

Deuce: This word means "mountain"… Right. I'm gonna get all the rest of these 40 words to stick in my brain, too…

Deuce: I'll definitely be able to memorize everything if I do this! Now to keep this up all night long!

[Heartslabyul Dorm – Deuce's Room]

[RIIIIIIIING!!!!]

Deuce: Nnnngh…

Deuce: Nnn… P = … The mountain… flows… T ×…

Deuce: EH, IT'S MORNING ALREADY!? NO WAY!!!!

Deuce: I only meant to take a short nap, but I ended up sleeping until morning…

Deuce: What was the formula for Enigmics again…? Urrgh, I can't remember at all.

Deuce: And I've only been able to memorize about 3 of the terms for Ancient Magic. What should I do…?

Deuce: No, I can't give up! I need to head to class early and study. Gotta get ready fast!

Deuce: …Whew, washing my face really feels refreshing. I'll apply some sunscreen after doing some quick skincare…

Deuce: Alright, next is the makeup. I'll start with my eyebrows.

Deuce: I just need to brush it and draw in any hairs where it feels lacking. Finish the ends of the eyebrows with a sharp point up…

Deuce: Cool, that's perfect.

Deuce: There was a time I just shaved off all my eyebrows… But I definitely look more like an honor student when I take care of them like this.

Deuce: After the eyebrows, I gotta draw in the suit… It's my birthday, so should I make it look a little cooler around my eyes?

Deuce: Maybe I could cover it in sparkly glitter just like how a Blastcycle can get all deco'd out…

Deuce: …Nah, I shouldn't. That's not something an honor student would do!

Deuce: My mom always said that the most important thing about making a good impression is looking crisp. If I think of those words, then…

Deuce: I guess the suit mark should just be drawn in simple black. I just gotta draw the line diagonally up, then make a sharp point…

Deuce: Alright, I drew it pretty good! Now all I have to do is fill in the color without any gaps… There, I'm done. Not bad at all.

Deuce: Next, I gotta deal with my hair. I just need to brush everything… Hmm.

Deuce: I did the makeup like I normally do, so maybe I should do something different with my hairstyle?

Deuce: I could use wax to give my hair some lift… Maybe make it a bit wavy, or harden it with a bit of gel?

Deuce: …Nah, I think I'll just comb my bangs to the side and call it a day. This looks the most normal, so.

Deuce: Besides, I can finish getting ready almost instantly when I choose to go with this hairstyle.

Deuce: In the past, I didn't just dye it, but sometimes pinned my hair back, or slicked it back, or had a more shaved look…

Deuce: I'd used to try out so many different hair styles, so it'd take a lot more time to get ready in the mornings. That kinda takes me back.

Deuce: I still kinda feel like something's missing, but… I don't want to come off as intimidating. I think this is the closest I can look to my ideal self!

[Main Street]

Deuce: My appearance looks spot on today. No matter how anyone looks at it, I look just like a serious student.

Deuce: I just gotta work on my insides. First, I gotta memorize the Enigmics formula, and the Ancient Magic terms.

Deuce: I'M GONNA GIVE IT MY ALL! RAAAH!!

Rook: Good morning, Monsieur Spade!

Rook: Not only do you look even more invigorating than usual, but there you go, giving yourself such a rousing inspirational pep talk… How beauté!

Deuce: H-Hunt-senpai!? Good morning. And here I thought no one would be here, 'cause it's so early in the morning…

Rook: Heh, there's nothing to be so embarrassed about. Your passionate declaration struck my heart like a steadfast arrow.

Deuce: Ahaha… I guess that's fine, then…

Rook: Oh, yes, and since we've met here, allow me to extend my heartfelt well wishes.

Rook: Happy Birthday. I wish from the bottom of my heart that this year will bring you nothing but the opportunity to shine on brilliantly.

Rook: As long as you have the will, your dreams will definitely come true. I will be rooting for you from the side.

Deuce: …! Thank you very much, Hunt-senpai… I'm so happy to hear you say that.

Deuce: In order to become who I want to be, I'll do my best today, too!

Requested by @farfalla049.

[gayspacepiratesss]

Hiiii friends I made a thing!!! 💕 An illustrated mini-fic, to be precise.

The art part isn't quite finished but I think the last three illustrations might take me longer and I wanted to share what I have so far. There are six color plates now and eventually I hope I'll have nine. I'll do a separate art post when they're all finished for folks who aren't as interested in the story!

I wrote this because I was thinking about trauma, and Neve's love for Docktown, and how two people who take too much responsibility for things might try and fail to help each other. About how breaking out of regret prisons isn't something most of us get to do just once, but over and over again: new chapters in the same old story. Plot twists that get a little better each time, if we're lucky.

I think Neve and Rook are lucky, but you be the judge of that. 💕

***

Red-eye

In which Neve gives new meaning to the phrase "Cry it out" and Rook fights gravity with exactly the amount of success you might expect.

Content note: Some mild hurt/comfort, references to blood, angst, and many feelingsy illustrations.

-~-

The veins are starting to fade, but her eyes are still red. Staring herself down in the mirror, Neve Gallus can't honestly tell if it's the Blight or sheer exhaustion that makes it impossible to recognize her own face.

The days since Elgar'nan's fall have been hard for a happy ending: the work of digging friends from the rubble, patching injuries and broken bridges, burying or burning the dead.

Neve's gaze flickers past her reflection towards the slight, sleeping figure on the sofa behind her.

Rook has been there for all of it. Minrathous, Treviso, Arlathan. First to volunteer, last to leave at night. She's never been afraid of heavy lifting.

You showed up. You always do.

...but where am I?

In Dock Town, the ocean always made her feel like she could breathe. Here, the blue light of the aquarium is drowning her again. Cold shadows run restless across her face, almost dancing with the black traces etched into her skin.

She slips out the door alone. Again.

-~-

"Again?"

Rook sags against the wooden railing opposite Hal's fish stall, her shoulders tight even as her face falls.

The older man squints sympathetically. His hands scale the day's catch with expert automatic movements, but his eyes stay with her. "Earlier this morning," he confirms. "Same time, same story."

Every day for the past month. Early, late, in between. As soon as there was a moment they might talk, Neve disappeared. If Eann "Rook" Aldwir had ever been the praying kind, now—not the fall of Minrathous or the rise of the Evanuris—would have been the moment she was on her knees.

I would burn worlds for you, but I couldn't pull you back when it mattered.

What have I saved if I didn't save Neve Gallus?

She runs a hand through her hair, putting on a rosy face to match, and forces a grin she doesn't quite feel. "Ah, well. It's been hard for everyone, but..."

"... mmhm." Hal nods. "Time is what the city needs, maybe. Time, and they'll remember..." his voice fades. Suddenly he is very busy with the mackerel.

... that she loves them. That she always loved them. That she never—she didn't—

"It was Elgar'nan and Ghilan'ain—" Rook can't quite hide her frustration.

"I know." Hal chops a fishhead slightly too aggressively. "They'll know."

But does she know?

From the street, a shout as ropes go up to raise new scaffolding—there's work to do on some of the dockside apartments, newly in danger of tumbling into the sea.

Eann buys a fresh skewer and sinks her teeth in. "If oo fee er--" she ventures, mouth full, eyes already on the next task.

"I'll send her your way," Hal finishes.

But he won't. They both know.

-~-

They both know. Everyone knows. Neve Gallus, protector of Docktown—until she destroyed it.

She takes a long drag from her pipe, staring across the city from her perch above the Lamplighter—one of the only buildings to go unscathed by the massive tentacles of Blight that she, personally, had directed. The elegant cruelty of Elgar'nan's choice wasn't lost on her—if anybody knew how to target Minrathous' weak points. If anybody knew the city's secrets. Set her against the place she loved best and watch it fall.

In the moment, it had been a pleasure.

How do you come back from that?

When Treviso had been ravaged by the Blight, her heart broke for Lucanis—but her relief for her own people had blunted the pain. She remembers the moment Rook showed up on the field, one step behind Neve and Tarquin, one step ahead of the dragon. She remembers her own disbelief: "You came."

Eann had never looked smaller than she did against that burning-black sky, her skin—so pale it was almost blue in a certain light—flushed and uneven, jaw set against her fear. And Neve had never loved her more—a thought she had shoved down immediately, fiercely, completely, as she skewered a nearby Venatori with ice.

They won that day. Parts of it, anyway.

And when Minrathous did fall, it was Neve's fault. Not Rook's.

-~-

"Not Rook's!" Elek Tavor has brought his Threads. He shoos Eann away from the complex dance of ladders and platforms they're erecting to shore up the dockfront. "That's your job, nughead! I need her here!"

Gang members and locals set shoulders together against the weight of newly-cut stone and crumbling Blight, clearing the one from the ruined apartments and storefronts to make room for the other. They look like a training montage or an inspirational poster—if training smelled like clotted blood, and inspiration felt like vertigo.

He winks at her from over a pulley, tossing her a safety harness and a length of rope. "You're too good for us gutter rats."

She straps in, eyeing the higher floors. The corruption still needs clearing before they can fully assess the damage. It's not especially stable, but she'd rather risk her skin than someone else's. "Better a rat with wings, huh?"

"Better you than me."

She doesn't argue. Instead, she climbs -- reaching hand over hand for a better view. The city shrinks and shifts as she pulls herself above it. The Cobbled Swan blends into the paper seller stalls and merchant alleys, already in business again with whatever scraps they each could scavenge. The sea's slate mood gives way to a smudge of sky and stone, reflecting up the cliffs across the channel.

I know you're there.

Tucked somewhere among those caves and crawlspaces is a detective with a shattered heart, blowing smoke rings and tearing herself to shreds. Rook has watched her disappear, slowly but surely, with every day of "recovery." To rebuild something is to see what was broken, to go over the damage in fine detail. To catalogue every blow. But for Neve, it is cataloging her own sins, her own failures, in a neat series of boxes to be checked and confirmed with evidence. For Rook, it has been watching that soft face flinch and flatten with each victory, each moment of hope, as though it were a nail in her heart's coffin.

But Neve still comes to the city for solace. She can't help herself. And so Eann haunts Minrathous, signing up for tasks that don't really need her, checking in on the people she knows Neve loves. Looking for answers in The Case of the Blighted Dream. The Broken Detective. Docktown's Ghost.

She has tried to be patient. So. Patient. But sometimes the most ungenerous part of her thinks, I broke out of my prison. To find you. To have this.

Now I'm losing you to yours.

Distracted by the weight of her thoughts, Rook barely notices when the stone she reaches for crumbles in her hand—until it pulls the harness anchor with it, the whole wall of the second story giving way. There is a sharp jerk, and she is falling—

Falling?

Falling.

But even as her heart freezes in her throat, it is still pulling her across the water. Even as she braces for the impact, her eyes are still half-scanning the cliffside for a tell-tale flash of teal, a smudge of smoke.

-~-

Smoke.

Neve squints suddenly, her pipe drooping between slack fingers. Smoke? By the docks?

No. Dust.

Something is falling.

But the channel is not wide, and she realizes with growing horror that she can hear the sound not just of stone, blight, beams crumbling, but also voices. Shrieking, wavering. "Look out!" "Back up!" "Clear it OUT—"

And then: "Rook!"

Someone is falling.

Rook.

A blinding, burning fear bites into her chest. The pipe clatters to the ground. If she was drowning before, she is choking now, clawing her way to the surface of a dream she has been walking in for weeks. Trading pains of the past for a present that sears her lungs and surges down her spine.

Mages cannot fly, but all that is left of Neve in that alcove as she bolts through passageways and across rooftops is a pipe's worth of tobacco and the shadow of a thought, echoing like a stone dropped in a dry well.

Wait for me. Wait.

-~-

“Wait.” Eann coughs wetly, throat clogging with dust and something unpleasantly, unexpectedly—oh. Blood. Well. She drags herself up on one elbow, waving Elek and the others back slightly, hissing as the movement sends a shock of pain through her body. “Wait, dammit! I’m not—”

“You’re not what?”

Time turns to sludge as familiar brown eyes meet hers, topped by brows knitted together in fury and fear. “Not hurt? Not climbing walls alone?”

Neve kneels beside the shaking elf, hands already moving, telling Eann’s blood to stay inside her body, her bones to know themselves under the weight of stone for seconds rather than minutes. It’s no small feat, and she is immediately sweating. They both are. “Not the Maker's own damned idiot?”

In spite of herself, Rook laughs. Weakly, painfully. “No,” she wheezes. “I am that.”

Neve’s eyes flash and then flood, tears of rage meeting her perspiration as she gingerly eases one hand under Eann’s head, using the other to clear what stone she can. “What were you thinking?”

It hurts to think. It hurts to breathe. But to Rook’s surprise, it hurts more to look up into eyes that are actually seeing her for the first time since the fight for Minrathous. A face that is furious but not masked. She coughs again, her own eyes burning, unsure if her chest is seizing from the weight of stone or just the love of Neve Gallus. “I—”

You look for lost things. Well, I look for you.

“They need you,” she finds herself choking furiously. “I was thinking they need you, and you’re not here, and I—am—so until you come back from your fucking pity party—ow—”

Neve is already on her knees. She can’t fall further. But the red spilling across the stones is more than time can stop, and she knows she needs to do something—quickly.

Eyes on me, Rook. Stay with me.

“Me?” Her rage is half for show, until it isn’t. And her heart is beating half a step too fast, and half too slow. “You think they need me? Look at me! Look at this.”

If it wasn’t for Neve, the stone would be as sturdy as it ever was in Minrathous. Hal’s fish would come out of the water in nets, not dredged from the surface with glassy eyes. She ripped through the Cobbled Swan, she crushed the lean-tos and shacks of the alleyways to little more than crumbs. She is the reason her tiny, tidy apartment stands in ruins and the cats go hungry. Docktown would be better off if it had never known Neve Gallus to begin with.

Rook screams. It is partly words. “I need you!”

And Neve is ripping her best coat into ribbons because she can’t slow time and send people for bandages, for medics—and there is.

No.

Time.

But she feels her face go numb, and her hands are shaking, and her burning red eyes fly up to meet that fierce, clear gaze. She wants to answer, but she has no answer.

Stay with me.

“What was the point—of all that—if—” Rook’s face is flushed, but Neve thinks flushed is better than pale, better than empty, better than gone. She uses the tiniest push of frost magic to calm the angry red of bones and flesh forced out of place. To stop the swelling before it starts. Almost mechanically, she wraps strips of her dragon coat around Rook’s arm and chest, shattering rocks with one hand as her other shields that stupidly precious rose-crowned skull from further damage.

“—if it didn't bring you back?” Eann rasps.

Neve is shaking so hard now that she can’t bind the fabric properly. She’s not sure it matters. “Bring me back for what?! So that I could—I would—” What can she do, anyway? She’s no healer. If Emmrich were here—or Harding—but they aren’t. And I am going to lose you, and I am going to deserve it. “So I could watch you die?”

Sharp, ragged sobs. “So you could be here—with us—” It’s not easy to cry and suffocate all at once, but Eann is making it work. “Not alone—with everything—”

The black traces of Blight on Neve’s skin mingle with sweat and stone, forming a filigree mask across her face. She feels her grip on the air, on the time around her start to slide.

Not yet. “Rook—”

Eann reaches up with her one free hand. Presses Neve’s forehead to her own, Blight and all. Her body is looser now, heavier—she, too, is struggling to keep control. Sound leaks through the barrier around them. Is someone… shouting?

Her eyes are closed. Her energy directed only towards the point where her skin touches Neve’s.

And Neve Gallus, despite her best efforts, is out of time. She winds her fingers through that rosy hair, and lets a deep, heavy sound tear through her throat. Not knowing, not caring what it is.

“Stay. With me,” she whispers. Please.

I’m here.

Around them, into sound and color and light, the city explodes.

-~-

The city explodes. Scraps of sound and light fracture through Rook’s mind, almost artful—a pastiche of pain and motion with occasional splatters of blessed black unconsciousness. Emmrich is there, then Maevaris. The Lighthouse might feature at some point. Definitely there is blood. So much blood. Then black again. And then—

Ow.

Teal-tipped fingers are laced around her hand. The bedspread beneath them is clean. The hands are not.

“There you are.” Neve has not slept in a long time. Her voice catches. “Oh. I—”

I almost missed you. Missed this.

Where was I?

Rook reaches to cup her fingers around the detective’s cheek. Instinctively, Neve presses closer, lifting her shoulder to cradle the gesture.

“You showed up.” Eann finds that smiling hurts more than she expected. She doesn’t care. “You always do.”

Neve lets out a half-laugh, half-sob. “I could have made better time.”

The light plays across her face, still silt-stained and shadowed. Eann rubs some of the dirt away with her thumb, wincing at the not-yet-mended motion of various body parts, ignoring them in favor of something far more pressing. Then she stops. “Your eyes. Neve…”

A flash of something like fear. “Oh, they must be awful—”

“No.” Eann pulls the detective closer. She kisses the eyelids, the cheekbones, the saltworn freckles. The dusted brows. Beneath the dirt, there is only the warm brown of these features she knows so well. Beneath the exhaustion, there are only shades of caramel and acorn and leather in those bright, faltering eyes.

Holding the other woman's rueful, aching, anxious face between her palms, she inspects it with great seriousness. Her own blue gaze holds steady beneath a vaguely crinkled brow.

“Neve, the Blight—it’s… gone.”

And this time Neve doesn’t need a mirror to look for her own face. To recognize herself. Something more like a laugh than like a sob curls through her throat and hangs in the air between them, weightless. “Is that so? Maybe you knocked it out of me.”

“Knocked it out of you!” Rook’s wheeze is its own commentary. “Remind me not to pick a fight with a pile of rocks anytime soon.”

“Maybe just pick fights with me, for a while.”

“Mm.” Rook still hasn’t let Neve go. Their noses bump together. “I don’t only want to fight with you…”

“Later.” Neve pushes back, smirking gently. A promise, not a refusal. “You did very nearly lose that last one. But I’ll be here.”

“What happened—” Eann is serious now, her hair falling earnestly into her eyes. “Neve. It happened to everyone. And I know—it was awful. But we can’t—I can’t—”

Not without you.

Neve pushes the hair out of Rook’s face. “I’ll be here.”

This time, when she shuts the door, it isn’t on her way out.

[mxstellatayte]

hiiii ! could you write a part 2 for the charles and the vibe fic?

YIPPEE!!

i was gonna write it anyways but now i have an excuse to do it!

warnings: this is pure filth, threesome (mmf,) p in v sex, unprotected sex (DONT DO THAT,) mirror sex, carlos is an ass guy, charles is a boobs guy tho, kinda exhibitionism?, creampie, sex under the influence kinda?, it's all consensual though!

all you wanted to do was tease charles. all you wanted to do was see how much you could tempt his resolve before it would crumble. you had no idea it would result in getting eaten out in the bathroom and then promptly realizing that carlos had heard the whole thing and had covered for you and charles.

in exchange, carlos wanted to make even on a bet that he and charles had made at the start of the 2023 season.

monaco. february 10th, 2023.

"what do you think the odds are that one of us wins a race this year?"

charles looked up from the chessboard, his eyebrows furrowing. "what do you mean?"

"i was looking at the red bull and mclaren numbers and our car splits them. we have a fighting chance this year, so do you think one of us will get a win this year?" charles moves a rook, taking one of carlos' pawns.

"it depends. if my entire radio just sounds like 'we are checking, we are checking' and i have to make my own strategy and tyre calls, maybe. if xavi learns basic engineering and communicative skills or gets replaced altogether, i'd say yeah, there's a chance."

"you wanna bet?"

"what are we betting?"

carlos hesitates, then looks up when he hears the door opening. something clatters in the closet before you can be heard cursing quietly, then rearranging the fallen shoes onto the rack. eventually, you come through the doorway to the living room, and, when you see carlos, your face lights up.

"carlos! cómo estás?" (how are you?) you walk over and lean down, kissing his cheek in greeting.

"bien. un poco nervioso para bahrain, pero el carro maneja fantástico este año. y vos?" (good. a bit nervous for bahrain, but the car drives amazing this year. what about you?) you walk over to the kitchen while he's talking and pull out ingredients to make yourself a bowl of yogurt and berries- your favorite snack to have after work before you take your pit bull out for a walk.

"i'm alright. the marketing team made a stupid mistake so i had to do some damage control that took way longer than it should have, but i know martin is going to give them absolute hell tomorrow for it, so at least it doesn't reflect badly on me." your bowl clinks on the countertop as you sit down at the island and take out your computer, your headphones that were previously resting around your neck being slipped over your ears. "i've got some emails to write for an upcoming content creator collab we're doing, so i'll be in my zone. you guys know the drill?"

charles nods. "hermit mode?"

you smile, slipping the second speaker over your ear. "hermit mode."

a few moments pass before carlos speaks again. "are you okay with betting her?"

charles' eyebrows raise. "what do you mean?"

carlos makes his move on the chessboard. "if i win more races than you this year, i get her for a night. if you win more races than me, you can use me for a night. however you want."

the thought of his teammate and closest friend getting to fuck you lights a fire inside of charles, and while he wants nothing more than to agree to the bet purely for the stakes of it, he needs to check in with you first. "can i run it by her and get back to you on that?"

carlos nods. "just get me an answer by bahrain so we can figure something else out if she doesn't want to do that."

italy. february 3rd, 2024.

you had forgotten about the bet. charles and carlos had not.

now, just minutes later, you find yourself with your back once again against the wall, but this time you're staring into carlos' eyes while he fingers you gently, your legs wrapped around his waist and charles leaning against the vanity facing both of you. your eyes unintentionally flick over carlos' shoulder to your boyfriend who is an absolute mess. he's palming himself over his slacks, and you can tell just from the flush in his face that creeps down to his neck and the way his eyebrows are pinched together that he likes what he sees. before you can eye-fuck him the way you know he likes, carlos pulls his fingers out of you and you whine, but he carries you over to the vanity and taps your ass to get you to let go. "spin around, amor. let me see that beautiful ass of yours."

this is a side of carlos that you've never seen before, and it would be a lie to say that it's not hot. without a second thought, you spin yourself around so that your back is resting against his chest and your ass rests against his crotch. "come on, hermosa. bend over." as slowly as you can, you lean forward, resting your hands on the vanity and grinding yourself against him and you swear you can feel his dick twitch inside of his own black slacks. as soon as your forearms are fully resting on the granite vanity, carlos runs his hands down your back and to the front of your legs where he pulls the scarlet fabric of your dress to gather on your left side, the slit opening so that your entire ass is exposed. "no panties?" oh. you forgot about that.

"i kept them for good measure," charles says, pulling them out of his pocket. "you want 'em? you might have to shut her up. she never stops moaning."

"i know. i heard everything. you two are lucky i was the one outside and not anyone else. now," carlos says, taking your panties from your boyfriend and shoving them in his pocket, "do you feel like returning the favor?"

the whiskey you'd downed earlier is taking its effect, and you can't help but bite your lip and nod. normally, you wouldn't be nearly as confident as you are now with someone other than your boyfriend having you in the position you're in right now, but you trust carlos and frankly, you're too turned on to care. charles is in the same room and you're both comfortable enough in your relationship that it's okay. "yes, carlos. i'll return the favor. whatever you want." as you're talking, you can hear carlos unbuckle his belt and unzip his slacks, and when there's finally one layer of fabric between the two of you, carlos reaches into his jacket packet and pulls out a condom. before he opens it, though, you pipe up, your voice embarrassingly breathy and high. "i'm clean and on the pill. don't waste it if getting me pregnant is your only concern."

"are you sure?" carlos says, glancing over at charles. your boyfriend only responds with a shrug and points his thumb at you.

"whatever she says. you're the one fucking her."

carlos doesn't waste a second setting the condom on the vanity, pulling his slacks and underwear down his thighs just enough so that it's comfortable, and pushing into you. you have to bite your lip and cover your own mouth to prevent yourself from moaning too loudly, the stretch from carlos being so different to the one you're accustomed to with charles.

when you look up, carlos' head is thrown back and his hands grip your hips so tight his knuckles are white. it might be the hottest sight you've ever seen. "carlos." your voice is whiny, and you're shocked you can even get his name out.

"hm?"

"fuck me, please."

"are you sure?" his voice lilts in the way you're used to hearing, but this time, there's something slightly different about it. maybe it's the fact that he's currently buried inside of you, his hips flush with your own, or maybe it's the fact that every time you move your head to look up at him, your cunt squeezes around him so perfectly he fears he might cum within three thrusts, but either way, you feel so, so perfect.

"positive. now please. fuck. me." slowly, carlos pulls his hips back before pushing into you, slowly increasing his pace until every time his body meets your ass, you're shoved forward slightly on the counter and your breasts bounce forward, almost falling out of the low neckline of your dress.

"mierda, amor, tienes un coño hecho para mi," (shit, love, you have a cunt made for me,) carlos groans out, pulling your arms back and holding them with one hand while the other goes to hold you up by your neck. the restriction to your windpipe makes your head spin and the new angle has carlos' entire cock running against your g-spot with every thrust. you're able to wiggle your hands free, your left hand reaching back to tug at carlos' hair and your right goes down to rub circles around your clit, making you tighten around carlos' dick, and the combination of the pain from his hair being pulled and your cunt spasming around him makes him tip over the edge.

the feeling of carlos filling you up in turn sends you into your own orgasm, and as you cum, you look to your left, where charles jerks himself off watching you. when you make eye contact with him, though, it's the last straw and he spills into his hand with a quiet groan and his head thrown back.

the three of you catch your breaths and carlos pulls out of you gently, then shoves his cum back inside of you. the forgotten egg vibrator in charles' coat pocket is reinserted into your cunt and you whine at the overstimulation, slightly anxious that charles might tease you again, but he whispers a quiet promise in your ear that you've been good tonight, he won't turn it on anymore.

eventually, carlos slips out of the bathroom and you follow shortly after, walking back down the large hallway to return to the event. later that night, after speeches have been made, hollow promises have been spoken, and many, many bottles of expensive champagne have been toasted with, you make your way back outside, your arm linked with charles' as he calls his car to be pulled with the valet service. carlos walks up and stands next to the two of you, his car already on its way up, and turns to you.

"i'd say the bet is settled, no?"

there you have it folks :D

[harunayuuka2060]

Twst Unveil Event Part 2

*In the Mirror Chamber*

*Yuurin, Jack, Ruggie, Malleus, Silver, Sebek, Rook, Epel, Floyd, and Jade are already there.*

Malleus: Seems that everyone is here.

Sebek: It's a pleasure for us to be in a trip with you, Waka-sama!

Malleus: Yes. Thanks to Yuurin who graciously invited me.

Yuurin: Don't mention it, Malleus-senpai.

Ruggie: Um, Rook? Is that a camera?

Rook: Oui!

Jack: Why?

Rook: To take photos of Monsieur Tranquille, of course!

Ruggie: ...

Ruggie: No, Rook. That's our job.

Jack: Yes. We need to update Leona-senpai every hour.

Epel: When did Leona-senpai become such a worrywart?

Floyd: Ne~ Ne~ Damselfish~ Are we going to have a sleepover~?

Yuurin: Yes. I believe so.

Floyd: You can share a bed with me and Jade~. You'll be our pillow~.

Silver: You can't.

Floyd: Eh~ Why not~?

Jade: Is there a problem, Silver?

Silver: Yuurin needs a good night's rest.

Jade: Ah, now that makes sense. *chuckles*

Floyd: Eh~? But I sleep like a baby lamb~.

Them except Yuurin: We all know that's a lie.

Yuurin: It's time for us to go.

Yuurin: We have arrived.

*The fresh breeze immediately welcomes them.*

Them: *sigh in contentment*

Jade: I like this place. *chuckles*

Silver: It feels like a good place to sleep in...

Sebek: Silver! Don't fall asleep!

Yuurin: I'm glad you find the place relaxing.

Yuurin: Though it's good while it lasts.

Jack: Hm? What do you mean by that, Yuurin?

Yuurin: Here she comes.

*The ground started shaking*

Epel: Eh— Are we having an earthquake?!

Yuurin: No.

"YUURIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Them: Huh?

*A giant buff woman comes charging at them; or more likely towards Yuurin.*

Yuurin: Good morning, Philomela.

Them: That's... PHILOMELA?!!

Ruggie: Yuurin! Move aside!

Philomela: YUUURIN! *sweeps her off her feet and gives her a big, tight hug*

Philomela: Oh look at you!

Yuurin: How are you, Philomela?

Philomela: I am doing GREAT! *laughs*

Them: ...

Philomela: Oh. And these are your schoolmates, no?

Philomela: They look promising!

Them: *all of them smiles*

Yuurin: Philomela, can you put me down?

Philomela: Ah, yes, yes. Of course.

Floyd: Wow. She's as huge as a whale.

Epel: What the— Why would you say that?!

Philomela: A WHALE?!

Philomela: Did you hear that, Yuurin? He called me a whale!

Yuurin: Yes. I heard it loud and clear, Philomela.

Silver: She looks happy. Was that a compliment?

Yuurin: Yes. The best one at that.

The others: Oh...

Ruggie: *mutters* Wow. If it were in any other places...

Jack: *mutters too* You would have been slapped.

Philomela: Have a tour of the place while I assist the other schools.

Yuurin: ...

Yuurin: Didn't you say no one wanted to participate?

Philomela: Well, after making an announcement that Night Raven College will join, different schools have shown their interests.

Yuurin: ...

Yuurin: I see. In that case, we will see you later.

Philomela: *takes her leave*

Floyd: So~ What should we do now~?

Malleus: I want to hear the beliefs and culture of this place.

Yuurin: There are tons of them.

Rook: Can you give us an example?

Yuurin: Hmm...

Yuurin: If you happen to lock eyes with an animal and it starts to approach you, run.

Epel: Huh? But why?

Jack: Is it because it's attacking you?

Yuurin: No. It means a god has taken a liking on you.

Them: ...

Rook: And why is that a problem, Monsieur Tranquille?

Yuurin: Kingdom of Heroes have records of wars and long-time disputes just for this very reason.

Ruggie: Yikes.

Floyd: Oh...

Floyd: There's a bald eagle staring at Guppy right now.

Epel: ...

Malleus: You are being liked by a god.

Yuurin: Oh. A bald eagle.

Yuurin: That's not good.

Epel: *panic noises*

*Later, Yuurin has to convince Epel that it was only a myth to stop him from crying*

Leona: How is everything there?

Yuurin: Not a problem so far.

Leona: Good. That's all I have to say. I'll hang up now. *ends the call*

Ruggie and Jack: ...

Ruggie: In 3... 2... 1...

Ruggie: *Leona is calling him*

Ruggie: *answers*

Leona: No sleeping in the same bed.

Ruggie: Yes, boss. Copy. *then Leona hangs up*

Jack: Aren't we sharing beds already?

Ruggie: Shh. You're going to attract the strict brother energy, Jack.

[uniquethingtastemaker]

*confused screaming*

I just did the math. I had a mental break while replying to a comment on one of my posts.

Riddle's Dreaming of You is 32k words atm (I'll update the Masterpost)

*stunned silence. rapidly blinks, unable to process. tilts head, staring at the screen*

...It isn't 100% done either. Intense progress has been made since I last mentioned it in a comment. Instead of 10 or 7 scenes that I need to work on, I only have 3! We're getting somewhere. I have a majority... or at least a good chunk of every scene, so that's good.

It’s improvement!! Deuce reminds me every day that even small progress is progress (that's a line in the fanfic btw lol. Riddle thinks it)

I knew it increased to 29k, but going over 30k is unexpected

...How long were these supposed to be?? I think I said 20k-ish. Well... that's about 10k over...

For context, the one work I consider to be one of the biggest is Rook x Observant Reader. I just ran the calculations (there's a lot of content in the scrap pile of my Google Doc, 15k for this one). It's currently 46k words. However, I haven't written a lot of the "3rd Act." So... idk how much that's going to add... I originally estimated it to be 40k.

Maybe whatever I estimate it to be, I should add 10k. So... this one might be over 50k. That seems like a lot, though...

Update: It’s not a lot. Honestly, it’s probably going to be like 55k+ or something. Apparently, I wrote 2k words last night for Riddle. It’s 34k now. I changed the ending and added a scene. I swear I’m not delaying it on purpose. I just have no sense of time or how much I write. I’ll make an actual to-do list both for myself and you all lol. I have…

(Short) Describe Riddle’s Overblot Form

(Medium?) “After Overblot” Section Rewrite

(Small) Finish Card Exchange

(Small Fill… probably) [Undisclosed Unbirthday Party Event]

(Medium) Sidebar

(Long Long…ohhh, i forgot about this one) Rose Bushes

(Medium) Tactile Grounding

(Long… also forgot about this) Finish/Rewrite Reactions to Deuce’s Idea

(……Medium) Clean up modified version and execution of Deuce’s Idea

(Medium Small?) Clean up Riddle’s POV

(Long... Long?) Finish the aftermath of Grim's Stunt and Last Gift Exchange

(Monster) Ending scene(s?)… the Monster is back, and I’m not just talking about the word count…

Oooooh, scary~ *wiggles fingers*

Character growth is beautiful and I take it seriously.

Obviously, I don’t make to-do lists that often. I should. I underestimate how much I actually have. I swear that the changes are worth it! I haven’t touched the first half of the fanfic because it’s completely fine. It’s going to come out. I promise. Anyone can come to the conclusion I don’t have a great grasp on my work load based on the evidence above. So, yeah, I just have terrible estimations lol

…I’m not going to even explain the ordering for this. I don’t even know

I hope people are excited! I am. Comment and interact. Curious to see what you all think about my summary section hints lol. You know the drill. Now, I’m going to go write. Wish me luck. Feel free to guess how many words I gain. Although I might hop to a different fanfic because sometimes that happens

[felassan]

Notes on and quotes from today’s new DA:TV coverage content from Game Informer, the video “The Making of Dragon Age: The Veilguard | Cover Story Feature”. The rest of this post is under a cut due to DA:TV spoilers.

First I'll note that the Game Informer video contains spoilers for DA:TV, so bear that in mind before deciding to watch it or read further in this post.

There were no new images, screenshots or videos from the game in the Game Informer video. There was however a series of music pieces playing in the background of the devs talking throughout. I didn't recognize these music pieces (lmk if you did tho pls hh!), so I'm wondering if the music in this video was all-new DA music from DA:TV!! 👁️

Next I will say that there was not much in the way of new information in the video. The devs were chatting about topics, info segments and talking points that have been featured in previous articles & previous coverage on the game. however, the devs seemed really happy and excited, and proud of what they've made, excited to share about it, and that was rly nice to see. :)

For the rest of this post, it is not a 'cliff notes on everything said in the video'-type post. It's just a series of notes on and quotes from the video that particularly stood out to me and that I particularly liked. ^^

"You start DA:TV having chased Solas to Minrathous. You're there to stop his ritual, there to take him down. You're there to find this character, so you're chasing him, you're trying to stop this ritual that he has already said multiple times that he is going to perform before he performs it, because, if he does, the Veil will get torn down, the Fade and the world of the waking will merge, and demons will pour out, pretty much meaning the end of life as we know it".

John Epler: "Solas always feels that he is a tragic hero, but a hero [of the story] nonetheless. So he is coming into this believing firmly that what you stopped him from doing [Rook stopping the ritual the way they did in the gameplay reveal video] was the right thing, that you've made a mistake, but, because now he's trapped, now he can't reach out and actively affect, he needs to work with you. And that allows us to provide a lot of nuance to the relationship, because Solas sees a lot of himself in you, especially the parts of himself that he maybe doesn't like to face, so there is kinda that interesting push and pull between the two characters, Solas and the main protagonist Rook. And you can define what that relationship means. You can continue to be suspicious and hostile towards him. Or you can start to see him and find that common ground, find that connection between the two of you and really develop a different relationship over thee course of the story." Mark Darrah: "This is a good direction to take the Solas story. It allows us to hopefully give a good conclusion to all of the varied attitudes towards Solas that are gonna be coming into this game. People who love Solas, people who agree with Solas, people who hate Solas, people who want to kick Solas off of a building, I think that we give you the opportunity to bring that to a close, but then tell a greater story about The Veilguard and about the world as a whole."

BioWare wanted to tell a story this time where you literally cannot save the world without these characters

The companions have relationships with each other too. "They have friendships, they have rivalries, and lean into that concept, you're not just pulling together a bunch of people who will do whatever you say, you're assembling a family and that becomes the core of what The Veilguard is all about. It's about taking this group, this found family and saving the world side by side with them."

In the game, things and the storytelling are done towards a goal, towards a storytelling goal, "towards the future" [of the franchise it sounds like], not 'just because' or 'just to do them'

John: "The message of The Veilguard is, you’re not saving the world on your own. You need your companions but you also need these factions, these other groups in the world. You help them, they help you. Now, something we wanted to avoid, because, you know, there's always the trope of, 'oh yeah, I would help you save the world but I need you to go gather 200 wood', it's kind of a silly concept, so what we wanted to build is these factions that do want to help you but have realistic challenges, problems in front of them. So narratively, you help them with their problems, they will help you with yours when the time comes, but beyond that each faction has a follower, as well as an ancillary character we’re calling 'agents', who exist as these, face of the faction. We’re not gonna get too deep into those right now, but we didn’t wanna just say, 'here's the Wardens, go deal with the Wardens', we wanted to have characters within that faction who are sympathetic, who you can see and who become the face of that faction, so even if there's moments where the faction as a whole may be on the outs with you, these characters are still with you, they’ve still got your back. It’s a core with what we’ve done with the storytelling in this game. We wanted to make sure all the content you did felt relevant. Everything you do has a purpose and has a tie back into the critical path. Sometimes it's more explicit than others, but there is always a sense that you are moving towards the goal of stopping the elven gods, stopping the end of the world, and it's not just [like how some of the side content in DA:I was]. Helping these people, helping these groups, so that they can help you when the time comes."

In the story and tone of this game, it has the highest of highest and the lowest of lows. At the lowest of lows, "it gets gritty, it gets painful, it gets dark", but there are also nice positive moments in the game and a colorful, optimistic throughline. Corinne: "This identity is something special for the franchise now and for the franchise going forward"

"the depths of Arlathan Forest"

"In the case of Arlathan, what does it look like when you go to the place where the elves had their ancient empire that was run on and fuelled by magic? What does the aftermath of that look like, especially when the gods are out in the world and raw magic is seeping back out from the Fade."

DA has always been a series where in the world, the truth has multiple perspectives

We will journey out from the Lighthouse into the area of the Fade known as the Crossroads, "which is full of mysteries, exploration, branching paths". We will take eluvians to the far corners of northern Thedas

Some of the environments are more mission-focused, "with narrative beat after narrative beat"

"We know what's gonna happen, we know when it's gonna happen, but of course it's influenced by all the decisions you've made as the player along the way"

There are also more non-linear, more open areas in which we will be able to open up new sections of the map, find new pathways, "really leaning into solving mysteries and finding ancient treasures and some of our apex battles, there are some truly terrifying enemies that you're going to encounter when you're left to your own means to kind've explore these larger areas".

"Tevinter has always been a land where mages rule, they are in charge, they make the rules and run the show. So what does that look like? And, as we've gone through DA:O, DAII and DA:I, magic has become more and more present, and part of that is because Solas has been slowly preparing this ritual for longer than anyone in the DA universe is really aware of, but also just, going into these spaces where magic is, by definition, and by the lore, much much more present. It's been fun"

For the first time in DA BW are able to let the visuals speak for themselves (as in, the technology has caught up and they aren’t just saying 'trust us, this [magic thing] is really cool')

They took great care with how they introduce each companion and major story character

Corinne is really proud of what BW have built with the CC. "It is a game where everyone belongs"

A new to DA feature in CC: full body customization with pretty robust diversity. Body shape, body size, body proportions

They invested huge effort into their strand hair technology. There are numerous hairstyles in the game, they know how much the fans care about hair and Corinne is one of these people. They know that the range of hairstyles matters too and that it is not just about quantity. "Making sure we have diverse representation for all types of players."

They took a step back and asked, how are we going to incorporate things like your background in a meaningful way?

They call difficulty levels "playstyles". This is integrated into the CC process. You can select a number of preset experiences that your character will adopt and step into the game with, but you can also customize that playstyle e.g., if you're bad at parrying, you can ease this up

Some of the locations that we will visit are "bustling cityscapes." "We're gonna go right into the heart of the Tevinter empire. We're also going to a city in Antiva called Treviso"

Corinne Busche: "[those places] have a dense populace and we knew we needed to have the tools to support a wide range of NPCs. You will not find NPCs that look alike in this game. Each one is crafted using the same tools that we're giving to our players, with the exception of some of our custom-sculpted characters like the companions. So when you go up to that market vendor in Minrathous, you can make that character. When you see the guards patrolling the street, you can make that character too. You can therefore be inspired by the population around you and go and create that in CC."

The Lighthouse as we know is our HQ and base of operations. Each of the companions has their own sanctuary, their own room within it. These spaces become a reflection of who they are. The more time we spend with them as the game develops, as we work through their arc, their room and their personality will evolve and flourish and become more complete as they trust us and we understand them better

Corinne: "There are moments in the game where two of our companions fell in love with each other and I had to make some pretty challenging choices as it related to the quest we were on, and it broke my heart, it absolutely did"

The game tries to give the player as much agency as it can, and then reflect it back on us. Choice and consequence can be hard to show, but this is a game about agency and about giving us options

We can upgrade gear and enchant gear, this extends to the companions too

The 3 specs for each of the 3 classes are highly distinct

Every attack, every swing of a sword, when you connect you feel it, these have weight

Companion abilities can be queued up one after the other

The devs are really proud of this game and excited about it. Everything that's in the game is in there because someone cares about it. The game really reflects the dev team and it's coming together well, they are really excited for us to get our hands on it soon

[source]

[guacamolleee]

welcome to thedasweekend :D how about "magical exhaustion" from the heavy content prompt list, with your ship of choice?

Thank you for the prompt!!! I'm gonna combine this with the kiss prompt from @seigephoenix. For @thedasweekend

Not gonna lie, this one kinda grew legs and ran away from me. I started with "hm I'll keep this under 500" which turned into "let's do 1k only", then into this...

Set post-Tearstone Island, so spoilers ahead. Angst (with a happy ending!). 2,284 words.

“What the fuck just happened?” Taash’s horrified whisper was loud in Emmrich’s ear, the sky rumbling above them just as Rook blinked out of existence, Lucanis still prone on the ground but breathing.

“I don’t know, but we need to get out of here — now!” Davrin pulled Emmrich by the arm. He resisted, trying to reach the spot he last saw Rook. Davrin tugged him harder. “Come on!”

“Rook, she— The rift—”

“We’ll figure something out. She won’t want you stuck here.”

Neve and Taash helped Lucanis up, gripping him tight as he leaned heavily on one side, gritting his teeth. Taash’s hands were shaking, Neve’s mouth set into a grim line.

They ran, the sky spitting fire above them as Elgar’nan raged at his sister’s death. Emmrich could scarcely remember how his feet carried him — Davrin or Neve or Taash or someone, he couldn’t even recall who, steering him through the Eluvian as his heart lodged itself into the pit of his stomach.

Behind them, Solas stepped out of the rift, lyrium dagger in hand.

***

Bellara. Harding. Rook. His Rook. Just… gone. How could this be?

His companions argued around him.

“Solas is in Minrathous?” Taash was furious. Emmrich could almost see the smoke coming out of their mouth.

“Last I heard. The people are even calling him a hero, defending the city against Elgar’nan’s forces.” Neve's hands were tight around her cup. “Funny that.”

“How did he get out of the prison?” Davrin asked.

“Rook, I think.”

“No.” Taash’s voice was hard. “That doesn’t make sense.”

“It does. Think about it.” Neve placed her cup on the coffee table, legs crossing on the couch. “Rook disappears, then we hear Solas is out and about waltzing in Minrathous. There are reports he’s using a dagger made of lyrium — the one we last saw Rook pulling out of Ghilan’nain at Tearstone Island.”

“He used his connection to Rook, pulling her into the Fade so he could escape,” Emmrich concluded, voice subdued, the icy hands of fear and regret gripping him. The fool he was, spending his last conversation with Rook arguing. Emmrich should have told her he loved her, should have spent the night mapping out apologies on her skin until she was breathless. Would that have made this heartache better or worse? There was little point wondering now, but he could not help himself.

“Yes.” Neve turned to him, face softening. “Emmrich, I’m sorry.”

Emmrich did not answer her.

***

It had been a week now. Emmrich had stopped drinking tea by the third day, needing something stronger to keep him awake. He switched it for a copious amount of coffee, whatever Lucanis had available in the kitchen, taking a pot for himself and spending the day holed up in his laboratory.

He left the Lighthouse only once — traveling to the Necropolis and digging through his personal library, grunting in frustrating at the useless things. Papers upon papers on etheric flows and transfusions, sub-astral navigation, autotelic bonds, and a thousand other things that could not help him now.

It took an hour of fruitless searching before he made his way to the Necropolis main library instead, eyes darting from one title to the next, fingers full of paper cuts as he skimmed through tome after tome for something, anything useful.

And still — he was no closer to finding Rook.

When he returned to the Lighthouse, face in his hands, Emmrich wept. Nails bit into the skin of his forehead, palms pressed into his eyes as he broke down quietly, one shuddering breath after the other stolen out of his lungs. He allowed himself a few useless minutes of wallowing before he went back to work.

Even Johanna let him be, for once, a silent watcher.

***

Sometimes, Emmrich felt guilty for not caring more.

Not for Rook, no. The heavy stone of guilt had settled deep in his gut, desperation gnawing on his bones like fate’s favorite chew toy.

But for Harding. For Bellara.

Dead and missing. Taken from their little group just as easily as Rook had been.

Neve visited Bellara’s room every day, sipping coffee and staring at the gadgets and artifacts strewn about. No one was quite sure what system of organization it followed, but Bellara could always make sense of the mess. Flitting about like the hummingbird her brother called her. The silence was far too loud in her absence.

Meanwhile, Taash rarely left their room now. On the few occasions he would pass by, he would hear grunting, the sound of steel hitting the floor again and again. And when they did go, it was off with Davrin or one of the others, only to come home smelling like blood. He didn’t dare disturb them.

Three souls for the price of one so-called god.

Was it worth it?

Were the scales balanced in whatever cosmic game they were in?

Did the Maker, in all his knowledge and in all his silence, deem this fair?

Emmrich tried not to think about it.

***

One day, he found a letter on his desk, a wisp hovering near it curiously. His name was embossed on the back in Rook's curled, loopy handwriting.

He opened it without thinking.

Emmrich, If you're reading this, then something terrible has happened. I hope you can only forgive me. Know that I didn’t mean for it to happen this way. There was so much I still wanted to do with you. I wanted to celebrate our victory, pop open a bottle of your best Antivan red and get drunk on my couch. And once the hangover wore off, I wanted you to take me home, show me your books, your collections, your bed. I wanted to plant lilacs in your garden. Then I wanted to marry you, exchange our gold in the big Chantry in Nevarra City or our living room, it wouldn't have mattered. Then we'd have a baby. Or two. Or three. My hair, your eyes. It would have been perfect. And perhaps it’s selfish of me to say this, especially now, and I hope you can find it in yourself to forgive me for this too — but I'm glad I went first. I died in love, and I will stay that way forever. Even my last thoughts were of you, I'm sure of it, and I do not have to live in a world where you do not exist. I am so grateful for that. I love you, Emmrich Volkarin. The Veil separates us now, my love, but it is thin. Press your hand against it and know I am always reaching back, my love against yours. I hope that is how you remember me — the woman who loved you, who will love you still, even across death. When your time comes — and I pray it doesn’t for a long while yet — do not fear it. It will be a joyful reunion. With enduring affection, Your Rook P.S. Please make sure they don't set me on fire. Cremation doesn't suit my complexion.

No.

No, no, no.

Emmrich balled the letter in his fist, gritting his teeth, inexplicable anger rising to the surface before he tempered it. He smoothed out the letter, gentle this time as if in apology, reading it again. And again. And again.

Rook was not dead. This letter should have never found its way into his hands, and a steely determination gripped him. He was going to find her.

***

Emmrich had a plan — a breakthrough, one could call it — and the answer was lyrium. A staggering amount of it.

He outlined his plan to the group. Rook was in the Fade and they needed a way to get her out. Among the most reliable ways to do so was to create a Fade tear, a rift just large enough to pull her through in a place where the Veil was thin and where she would likely be on the other side. He had already found a few powerful spirits in the Necropolis willing to help search for such a place. They had always been fond of Rook.

But to create the tear itself, they needed something powerful. Blood was what the magisters of old used to enter the Black City. That was not an option. Neither was Johanna’s method of trapping spirits in her Gloaming Lantern. That left two other things — Solas’ magic and lyrium.

While they did not have Solas himself, and he doubted the man would be willing anyway, both Bellara and Emmrich kept detailed notes on the dagger — drawings, potential schematics, outlines of the etched runes, the etheric flows, materials they could identify.

It should be enough to recreate it — create their own lyrium dagger.

(Ambitious, he thought to himself, and he could almost hear Johanna taunting him about recreating original sin just for a paramour or some other nonsense. But for Rook, he would gladly do so.)

Neve was quick to agree — it was their best bet, and the rest came around quickly. Davrin helped source the lyrium from Kal-Sharok, the dwarves willing to lend their aid, both in Harding’s memory and in return for all of Rook’s help.

Emmrich was immensely grateful and, for the first time in what felt like eternity, his chest lightened by a fraction, a small seed of hope planted.

***

It took another week and a half to recreate the dagger as close as he could — unrefined, unstable, but not useless.

Emmrich gripped it tight, hands shaking so much he was almost afraid he’d drop it. Where would they be if he did? Another week wasted, perhaps. He leaned heavily on his desk, one hand clutching it for balance, the wood almost creaking under his fingertips. He could only stare at the dagger — it was pretty, he admitted, though the blue glow of the lyrium was more subdued than the real thing and it buzzed uncomfortably in his hand like electricity ready to pop.

Unrefined. Unstable. But not useless. Emmrich repeated it in his head until the words lost their meaning and the world began to blur around him. He shook it off.

It would be enough.

He prayed it would be enough.

***

The ritual site.

“This damned place,” Neve said under her breath. “Where it all started.”

Neve, Emmrich, and Lucanis spread out — finding the place where the Veil was thinnest using their magic or, in Lucanis’ case, Spite. Davrin and Taash stayed close to the mages, weapons out, watching for any sign of trouble.

Emmrich climbed the stairs, one hand gripping his staff, the other stretched out, pressing against the Veil. He remembered Rook's letter — he would find her reaching back to him, he was sure of it.

Then — a snag, a place his fingers could nearly pass through, his magic flaring, itching under his skin.

“This way. It’s thinner here!” he called out to the others.

Taash was beside him, readying their axes in case something goes wrong. “You better be right.”

He nodded, grim, then he took the dagger from his belt.

Raising it high, he poured his magic into it, following the lines etched under its surface, willing it to do as he bade. For a moment — nothing, just the buzz of magic in his ear, powerful and potent, amplified by the dagger until he nearly went deaf.

Then it caught, notching into an unseen barrier, digging into the Veil. Emmrich felt it, resonating deep in his bones, making his teeth clatter, and he pulled down with all his strength.

“They’re waiting for you.” Emmrich heard a distant voice, unable to recognize it. “Just take it one step at a time.”

“Goodbye, Varric… and thank you.”

Rook! It was Rook’s voice and Emmrich felt his heart soar, pounding hard in his chest, blood rushing around his ears.

Lucanis came up behind him, the quickest of them all, hearing the voice as well. His breath hitched. “Rook!”

Then Emmrich saw it — something bright, a shape of a woman and a dwarf. “There! A light.”

Lucanis called to the others, hands on top of Emmrich’s before thrusting both their hands into the tear, the dagger flying behind them and hitting the ground with a clatter. They felt an arm latch onto theirs. “We've got something. Get ready,” Lucanis shouted.

Taash threw their axes to the ground, seizing Rook’s arm and pulling. Neve and Davrin were behind them, arms around Lucanis and Taash, pulling at their signal. “Heave!”

The Fade tear resisted, unwilling to give Rook up for a heart stilling second, before abruptly giving way — and the entire group came tumbling down to the ground, Davrin catching Neve as she nearly fell down the stairs.

And Rook.

Rook.

Rook.

She was in Emmrich’s arms, gasping, and he narrowed to just the feel of her, Emmrich turning blind to the rest of the world.

“Rook, darling, oh, my darling.” He clutched her cheeks, drinking in her face, the cuts and bruises from Tearstone Island still somehow fresh. He would have to inspect those closer later — but now.

Now, the universe righted itself again, and he crashed his lips into Rook’s unheeding of the rest of the team that wanted her attention. This he would be selfish in. This he needed more than anything or anyone. The inelegant clash of their teeth, lips smushed together as wetness poured down his cheeks.

“Emmrich, Emmrich.” Her sweet voice grew distant. He panicked as the edges of his vision blurred. “Emmrich!”

The strain of the last fortnight caught up to him, the dagger having drained the last of his reserves. Emmrich swayed and the world tilted around him. The last thing he saw was Rook’s face — though he couldn’t say he minded that one bit.

[unveiling-unguarding]

Let's fix the story of Dragon Age: The Veilguard pt. 1 - Prologue

I have spent the last week-ish just stewing and thinking about all the things that bugged me about Veilguard's story. Things I knew would bug me going in, having seen the gameplay reveal of the intro mission, but thought would fade as the game got over the hump of an awkward start. Nope.

This game, unfortunately, has such massive structural problems that I need to try to rework the basic skeleton of the narrative for my own sanity. So while my first instinct would quite frankly be to scrap the whole premise of what we got, I'll stick to doing some amateur developmental editing.

First things first, Bioware seems to not understand why people have wanted origins back in Dragon Age and are content to give lip service to various backstories without implementing the real reason people loved them - they mattered narratively, were intrinsic to the plot and various subplots, and provided solid character motivation at the very beginning of the story. For example, the human noble origin starts your warden's story off with the betrayal and murder of your parents at the hands of supposed close friend Arl Howe. So now you have very personal motivations to leave your home, become a Grey Warden, and be an active participant in the political landscape of Ferelden. Same goes for each of the origins you can play, each of which introduces the player to subcultures and subplots important to the setting.

Like Veilguard, Inquisition didn't do well with this, but it was fine since the real narrative hook for why the player's character becomes the protagonist is them gaining the anchor and stepping out of the fade in the wake of a world-altering calamity under uncertain circumstances. And most importantly, the game allows you to roleplay how your character feels about the whole thing. Rook, on the other hand (heh), is a character who only gets a short paragraph, functionally identical no matter the faction, about pissing off their higher ups before being recruited by Varric. Supposedly, Rook travels with Varric and Harding for the better part of a year before the game takes place, a timeframe we only learn a couple hours into the game.

This is all coupled with some painterly cutscenes where Varric gives us the lowdown on Solas and his plans. Which is fine, but does the bare minimum and gives our player character no personal stake in the story. We are left to infer our pre existing relationship with Varric (and Harding) and our Rook's reasons for stopping Solas. You can kind of define those reasons later on, but they are rather shallow and the game does not give them their due emphasis. Not to mention this comes at a point in the story I'd argue is way too late.

What should have happened to start the game was a mission that allows us to both define Rook's relationship with Varric and their stake in the story. You could conceivably come up with any number of specifics for this prologue mission, so I'll forgo getting too into the weeds, except to say that it should in some capacity involve Solas' agents that were seen and hinted at during Trespasser. Since the game insists on allowing Rook to be from one of six factions (a seeming holdover from the pivot away from a live service model for the game), the game should start off with a mission about narrowing Solas' ritual location down. Allow us to banter with Varric about the months leading up to that moment. Allow us to elucidate our feelings on what Solas plans and our taking leave from our faction. This would provide a great opportunity for have race or faction reactivity upon learning he was last seen in Minrathous, whether you're an elf or qunari hesitant to go to place that is generally hostile toward people like you or a shadow dragon eager to return home.

This would be a perfect lead in to contacting Neve Gallus for help and the existing opening mission, if you absolutely have to keep it in the game. I am still annoyed about John Epler stating that they wanted the beginning of this game to feel like the ending of a previous game. Why? That's the opposite of how a story should start. A story should start at the beginning, especially when one of their stated goals was to onboard new players to Dragon Age. It hamstrung them into leaving our main character's connection to Varric and the plot nebulous and undefined while they felt the need to shove in extremely awkward and on the nose exposition to tell the player about the veil, Solas, and ancient Elvhenan. Let the beginning of your story breathe, goddamn it.

Next up we'll talk about how the story handles Varric and why it's such a stupid fucking plot twist.

[bg3daydream]

Vacation (Davrin x Rook fic) Davrin's week day 6

One-shot for day 5 of Davrin's week organized by @datvcompanionweeks, inspired vaguely by the prompt "the road less traveled." I'll post it on AO3 too.

Summary: Davrin and Rook enjoy a little camping vacation.

The paths through Arlathan forest might not seem like the road less traveled to some, but for Rook, it was perfect, and judging by his mood during the last couple of days, so it seemed to be for Davrin. There was no need to ask Assan, the griffon was often voicing his squawking approval of this little vacation.

After the defeat of the gods, Davrin and Rook, along with the rest of their team and allies, had spent months helping the places that had been hit and the people who’d been affected, as best as they could.

Now, after things had started to calm down, they'd thought perhaps it was time for them to take even just a week for themselves. Sure there’d be more challenges and more things to help with soon, but for a few days, maybe they could only rest.

And so, they’d decided to camp in Arlathan forest for a week. It might not sound like the most adventurous, exciting of plans, but perhaps Davrin and Rook had had enough adventure and excitement already, at least for a while.

Someday, sometime in the future, they’d set out to explore the whole of Thedas, but for now, the familiar Arlathan forest was enough. It’d felt like a good compromise too, they were close enough so Bellara could reach them if something were to happen and they were needed.

They weren’t going to places too far from Veil Jumper’s camps that it might become unsafe, the woods were still unstable sometimes, but far enough that they might bump into a place of interest for the Veil Jumpers that they hadn’t explored before, and that they’d report back to them.

Also, Emmrich had given them some notes on plants and flowers he’d like them to bring back to him if they found them.

And so, Davrin and Rook had spent the last few days trekking through the forest, discovering new places, though nothing to report back to the Veil Jumpers, collecting plants for Emmrich, and camping at night. Their picnics were more sophisticated and imaginative than what they’d have brought, thanks to having been packed by Bellara and Lucanis, who’d taken into cooking and creating recipes together when they’d free time, while everyone else was happy to test their new creations.

Night had fallen again, and they’d camped in a clearing near a stream of water, the sound of it calming as the day winded down. Rook was lying down on a blanket, looking at the stars above. Assan was near her, already dozing off, tired after a day of running and flying around. Davrin had got up to smother the fire of their campfire into ashes, rejoining her once it was done.

He lay down next to her on the blanket, watching the stars with Rook for a while, before he turned around to throw a heavy, warm arm over her waist, moving to half lie on top of her, his head pillowed on her chest.

He was heavy, all strong muscle, but Rook didn’t think she’d ever mind the weight of him on her. Quite the opposite. She wrapped her arms around him, holding him to her, stroking the back of his neck and his shoulders, then down his back. He let out a content hum, a purr almost, and Rook felt as if her heart were growing in size.

It might be crazy, but she’d go through everything again, every fight and challenge, if it meant meeting Davrin. All of it had been worth it to end like this, with him. He’d said something similar once, whispered in her ear late one night, when she was falling asleep in his arms.

Rook kissed the top of Davrin’s head and he snuggled even closer to her. She smiled, stroking the back of his neck again.

“Don’t fall asleep here, we’ve set the tent.”

“We’re on vacations, I’ll fall asleep wherever I want to,” Davrin joked, making her chuckle, and letting more of his weight fall on Rook as if to stop her from trying to move.

*

Rook didn’t think she’d ever get tired of waking light this, her back pressed against Davrin’s warm chest, his strong arms wrapped around her, while the first rays of the sunrise filtered into their tent. They had to start the trek back to the Veil Jumper’s camp that day, but Rook was determined to enjoy what was left of their vacation.

Carefully, she moved out of Davrin’s embrace, trying not to wake him. Assan wasn’t in the tent and she wanted to check on him. Lifting the tent’s opening, he found him outside, happily digging holes around the camp.

Looking inside the tent, Davrin had rolled over to lie on his belly, hugging their makeshift pillow to him, muscled back and arms on display. He was gorgeous, Rook’d never stop thinking that every time she looked at him.

Rook crawled next to him again, and sitting next to his sleeping form, she began to caress his back and shoulders, her fingers softly tracing first his scars, then the lines of strong muscle, drawing patterns over his skin. She could spend hours just like that. She felt him wake up, but he kept his eyes closed, and he sighed with a content smile, enjoying the brush of her fingers over his back.

She rubbed his shoulders, massaging the muscles, and the moan Davrin let out, though innocent, went right to her core. Rook leaned over, her lips now caressing his skin along with her fingers. She kissed his wide shoulders, between his shoulder blades, and down his back, and Davrin’s smile grew into a grin as she kept peppering kisses all over his back.

Davrin turned around, reaching to cup her face. “Come here…” he whispered, pulling her into a kiss, one of his hands roaming up her side, sliding inside her shirt to stroke her warm skin.

Before Rook knew what was happening, Davrin had flipped them over so Rook was on her back with him above her, and he snorted at Rook’s undignified squeal of surprise. He kissed her lips once more, then behind her ear, tracing a path down her neck to the top of her breasts and making her sigh and whittle under him. He lifted her shirt so he could place kisses on her bare stomach, and Rook's sighs turned into soft moans and he kept going down, down…

*

Later, on a stop during their trek back to the Veil Jumper's camp, Davrin was swimming in a lake of clear water while Assan played on the shore. Rook was at the shore too, sitting on a boulder and admiring the way Davrin's muscles moved. 

“Water’s great!” Davrin said as he swam to her. “Come in here.”

“I'm not sure it's a good idea…” Rook looked at the water warily. Davrin knew she couldn't swim but still, the idea of embarrassing herself in the water wasn't tempting. 

“Come on…” He walked closer to shore until the water only reached his hips, and Rook tried not to get distracted by the droplets that fell from his chest down to his abs, and lower down... "You don't need to go past where your feet touch the ground, I'll even hold your hand."

Rook sighed but got up and stripped down, like Davrin, hiding her smile at Davrin's appreciative smile as she did so. He reached for her hand and walked them both into the water.  Once the water reached her ribs, Rook tugged at his hand, and Davrin stopped walking. Without letting go of her hand, Davrin flopped onto his back to float in the water.

“You’re going to drag me deeper,” Rook complained but grabbed Davrin’s hand tighter when he pretended to let go.

“I am not,” he said, eyes closed against the sun. “But you should try this, just floating. It feels nice.”

“I don’t know…”

Davrin opened his eyes and went back to his feet. “Just try. I promise I won’t let you sink.”

Rook gave the water around her another wary look,  but she trusted Davrin. “Alright…” she finally said and was rewarded with his bright, beautiful grin.

“Just let yourself fall back.” Still holding her hand, he placed his other hand at her back, encouraging her. 

Another reluctant moment and Rook did so, squeezing Davrin’s hand as she tried not to panic when he felt water lifting around her, covering her body, but Davrin pushed her up with the hand on her back.

“There you go, you don’t need to do anything, you’ll float by yourself I promise,” he told her softly, reassuringly, but then he snorted. “What are you doing, lift your butt or it's going to sink you,” he laughed.

“I’m trying!” Rook huffed, squealing when Davrin let go of her back to slap her ass underwater, grabbing it, but he didn’t let her sink, quickly placing his hand under her back again, and she did, actually, lift her butt.

“That’s it, no need to do anything, you just float,” he encouraged her. “You’ll only sink if you start panicking and flailing all your limbs. Relax.”

Soon, Rook was lying above the water…maybe this was not so bad. It felt kind of nice.

“I’m going to let go of you, okay?” As soon as Davrin said it, Rook panicked and began sinking, but he quickly kept her afloat. “Easy Rook, it’s okay, you can do it. You know I won’t let you sink.”

He wouldn’t, she knew it, and yet…Rook took deep breaths, nodding once, and slowly, Davrin began taking his hand off her back, though he kept holding her hand, for which Rook was grateful. She tried to keep breathing and not panic, and as if by magic, Rook found that she was actually floating.

“There you go, see!” Davrin grinned and she’d have celebrated too if she weren’t afraid of sinking. “Your butt is sinking again.” He laughed, slapping and grabbing her ass under the water again.

Rook huffed, struggling to get back onto her feet without sinking into the water, but Davrin helped her to get upright, still grinning.

“I can’t help it if it’s my heaviest part,” Rook said, making him laugh, and she grinned too. “But I floated!”

“You did!” Davrin looked so proud that Rook couldn’t help but give his lips a quick peck. “Now you can float anytime you’re in the water, no panicking and sinking.”

“Only where my feet can touch the ground, otherwise I’ll just…float away.” Rook gave a wary look towards the darker, deeper waters.

Davrin snorted. “You won’t but yes, you need to learn to swim, but floating is a good first step,” he told her. “I’ve been meaning to teach you to swim since I saw you almost drowning in shallow water once.” She smiled when Rook glared at him, and leaned to kiss her forehead. “I’m serious, Rook, for my peace of mind. I’ll sleep better knowing you can swim if you fall into water someday and I’m not there.”

“Alright, alright…” Rook conceded. “But first…I need a break.”

Holding to his shoulders, she jumped and Davrin quickly caught her, hooking her arms around her thighs so she could wrap her legs around his waist, and she kissed him.

“Are you trying to distract me?” He joked between kisses.

“Of course not,” she whispered against his lips before kissing him again. “Just a little break…”

Her lips moved from his to brush kisses across his neck, and she gasped against his skin when one of his hands moved from her thigh to squeeze her ass before Davrin walked them both back to shore.

*

Despite distractions and breaks, by the time they left the lake and resumed their trek back to the camp, Rook did not only know how to float, but also how to kick her way back to shore. It was not elegant or pretty, but good enough for Davrin to call it a day, and if the time spent learning to swim threw them off schedule and meant they’d to spend one more night alone, camped together in the forest, they sure were not going to complain.

*

N/A

Thanks for reading this little thing, if you liked this, please let me know in a comment, and as always, reblogs are more than welcome.

Excuse my English, it’s not my first language.

[amarmeme]

I finally finished the game last night and have a lot of thoughts/feelings left lingering about Lucanis/Rook. I know people have gone on and around on this already, but I am compelled by this fictional mess.

I don't even think we need more from Lucanis, but more from Rook, which is my takeaway from the game as a whole regardless of romance, but I would guess is most highlighted by his romance path in particular.

Spoilers below the cut.

Pretty much anything I have written or will write is going to include some degree of angst. It's my favorite brand of tension.

Case in point: my favorite Austen novel is Persuasion. If that shows anything, it's that I live for inner turmoil, quiet suffering, yearning, unspoken words, and two idiots in love.

I want to get my heart shredded until the love makes it whole. The Lucanis romance has the potential for this in spades, but the execution is just lacking and that's because we never go beyond surface with Rook's thoughts. It feels like this romance is supposed to carry on the backs of the players' imagination, which feels a bit cheap.

I've seen criticism of not enough from Lucanis and also defenses that he's been through A Lot so we shouldn't expect more. I'm actually past that. Yes, more scenes with Lucanis would have been great, but I actually want more scenes from Rook's perspective, even if alone, to fill in the strange gaps.

Before you lock in mechanically, imagine if you will, Rook having a reflective conversation with Varric, or in Varric's mirror. Rook asks if they are imagining a connection, or seeing into things.

What if Rook has a chance to speak with Neve, given she and Lucanis have a clear connection whether they get together or not? Or Harding, one of the other people who appear in Lucanis' mind prison?

I could see this continuing after the romance "locks in" -- companions comment on Lucanis looking happy, them being together, but what about Rook? If they're not ready to comment directly to Lucanis on what this really means to him (since they never kiss, touch, exchange soulful looks, etc.), Rook should be able to ask the companions what they have noticed/what they should do to advance things.

This comes down to my struggle with this game versus past Dragon Age games. It all boils down to the lack of interaction between Rook and others. If Rook could ask their colleagues questions rather than just listening to ambient conversations or helping further their personal quests, it would do so much to make this game as amazing as the past installments.

Rook is so lonely, surrounded by all these people. You have to choose to imagine they are connected and are having these interpersonal conversations about themselves, because they never happen on screen. At least I didn't get any of that in my Shadow Dragon Rook playthrough.

I am completely fine with what feels like one-sided pining, and even angst about what Lucanis actually wants out of Rook, but the game needs some mechanics to put into place to make it feel like Rook isn't just quietly okay with an empty relationship, or expect us to imagine things are happening when the game presents them as very much not.

So much of what is there is perfectly rife for fanfiction, but I expect the logical progression to be clear in the game where it really is just not. I have no idea how Lucanis/Rook get from point A to B to C. It feels like it is missing content, and it could even just be Rook-specific content to smooth it over. As it is now, it feels like an unconvincing story.

Maybe one day I'll play it again as a crow to see if that adds any crumbs, but for now I'm just feeling kinda conflicted for my poor Rook. I love the potential, but am not super pleased with the execution.

[merrinla]

Post-Weisshaupt cut content

Bellara and Taash want to leave the party. Rook convinces them to stay. Varric supports Rook again, remembers Kirkwall, compares Taash to Fenris, and advises to listen less to Solas.

Rook - Bellara

Rook: Heard you were thinking of leaving. Bellara: No! Well. Yes. Maybe.

Bellara: What happened at Weisshaupt... at D'Meta's crossing... Bellara: Even what happened to Minrathous/Treviso? Bellara: Boy. That's... that's a lot. Rook: Weisshaupt was bad, but it would've been a hell of a lot worse if we hadn't been there.

Bellara: The way you lead this team. Focusing on the fight. Always talking about what's next. Bellara: You never stop. And that works-for you, and for most of the others. Bellara: But... I don't know if it works for me.

Option: Doesn't always work for me. Rook: Look, this leadership thing? Being in charge? It doesn't come with a map.

Option: You need to figure it out. Rook: I need your head in this, Bellara. And your heart.

Option: We need it to. Rook: We need you here, and we need you fighting.

Rook: We're fighting gods, Bellara. The only way we win this is to keep them off balance. Rook: We give them time to think, but we've seen what they can do. We can't slow down, not anymore. Rook: Because every time we pause to take a breath? Our enemies gain ground. Rook: But focusing on the fight? That's not a mistake. That's the only way to win. Rook: The fight is what keeps us focused. And it keeps us grounded. Bellara: Even if we're leaving a trail of broken bodies? Rook: I wish I had answers. But I don't.

Bellara: Solas was willing to let thousands of people die. Trading them for the greater good. Bellara: Without hesitation. Because to him, the ends always justify the means. Rook: No. Solas thinks he's the only one who can save the world. Rook: And I chose to save those lives. Even if it cost others. Rook: We've both made hard choices. But that's where the similarities stop. Bellara: The gods are out, Rook. Because of a choice you made. People died. Even if you didn't mean it to happen.

Option: I'm trying to make up for that. Rook: You're right. Elgar'nan and Ghilan'nain are out because of a choice I made. Rook: The why matters, too. And Weisshaupt hurt. But we can't let our regrets slow us down. Rook: I don't regret it. It was the right choice, and I'd make it again. Rook: But the scales aren't tipped in my favour right now, so I'm doing anything I can to make up for it.

Rook: And, yeah. Solas would've killed so many more. Bellara: But maybe that's how it started. How he started. Bellara: Weighing lives on a scale. And justifying everything by which side's a little heavier.

Option: I worry about it, too. Rook: You know what haunts me in the night? That you could be right. Rook: I'm going to make mistakes, and I'm going to get things wrong. Rook: I saw what Solas' ritual was doing, the lives it was going to cost, and I acted. And people still died. Rook: And... I still think it was the right choice. I know it was. Rook: Weisshaupt hurt. And it'll always hurt. Rook: The why matters. But "why" doesn't mean shit if you don't back it up with action. Rook: So we never stop pushing. Rook: And now I'm asking you to stick around.

Bellara: But maybe that's the first step. Looking at lives as numbers. Not as people. Bellara: It helps, though. To know you're thinking about these things, too.

Bellara: I don't think Solas would've come here to talk to me. Rook: He might've. Solas loves to talk. Bellara: (Laughs)

Rook: You staying around, then? Bellara: Yeah. I think I am. Bellara: Thanks, Rook.

Bellara: Not the heart-to-heart I was expecting... but maybe the one I needed. Bellara: I think I'll take a walk, but... I'm around. Whenever you need me. Bellara: Just say the word.

Rook - Taash

Rook: Hey, Taash. Taash: What do you want? Shouldn't you be making a list of everyone who's gonna die if we mess up again?

Option: It's a lot of people. Rook: To be fair, it's a pretty big list. Taash: You gonna keep telling jokes while the world gets covered with blight? Rook: Well, I tried talking about how everyone was feeling, and that didn't help. Taash: Of course it didn't help!

Option: Leaving? Really? Rook: You running out on us? Taash: You gonna keep going with all that vashedan about our feelings? Rook: I'm trying to keep this team moving. And we're dead without a dragon hunter. Taash: We're dead either way!

Option: I know you feel bad. Rook: Taash, I know you're not feeling great right now... Taash: (Growls) It doesn't matter! Rook: Of course how you feel matters. Taash: No! It doesn't!

Taash: Ghilan'nain's Archdemon turned from a dragon into some horrible monster. Taash: The blighted dragons you brought me here to fight might do the same thing. Taash: And you're just telling me how important it is instead of giving me what I need to do it!

Option: The team needed this. Rook: I was trying to get the whole team to pull together. Taash: We're already together! We don't need to braid each other's hair to kill darkspawn!

Option: Bellara needed support. Rook: Bellara was in rough shape. She needed support right then and there. Taash: I need to know what I'm fighting and how to kill it! But we're wasting time talking feelings instead! That doesn't help anyone! Rook: It helped Bellara. Taash: It didn't help me!

Option: We're all hurting. Rook: Nobody came out of Weisshaupt feeling good, Taash. Rook: Davrin watched a lot of Wardens die. Lucanis is beating himself up for missing his shot. Taash: (Scoffs) They're fine. Davrin just needs to punch some darkspawn. Lucanis will get Ghilan'nain next time.

Taash: I don't know darkspawn. Or Venatori. All I know are dragons. If they've been changed... Rook: You don't have to know darkspawn. That's what Davrin is for. Lucanis and Neve are here for Venatori. Taash: At least they got their shot! At least they know what they're dealing with!

Rook: I don't think they see it that way. Rook: You help them, and we'll get whatever you need to handle these dragons.

Taash: I just... I don't want another Weisshaupt. Rook: Me neither.

Taash: We need to do better. I need to do better.

Option: I will get what you need. Rook: Taash, I promise you, we'll get you whatever you need to take down these dragons. Taash: Hey. I'll let you know what I need.

Option: I'm sorry. I messed up. Rook: (Sighs) Listen, Taash, I'm sorry. I'm still figuring out how to lead this team. Taash: Hey. Coming and apologizing is good leader crap.

Taash: You needed me to let you know I'd be there to help, and I didn't do that. That's on me. I'll do better next time. Taash: I will. I promise.

Taash: We can't have another Weisshaupt. We can't do that again. Rook: Agreed.

Option: We're all scared, damn it! Rook: You think you're the only one who's in over their head right now? None of us know what we're doing! Taash: I'm the one who has to stop the blighted dragons! Rook: We all got knocked down. Everyone else is getting back up to keep fighting. Taash: Why get up if I don't have anything to fight with? Rook: You gonna join us, or sit there and complain about it? Taash: What? So I get crapped on because I wasn't crying in front of everybody?

Taash: (Sighs) I'm gonna take some time. Punch something. Get my head on straight. Taash: But I'll be here if something comes up.

Rook: You are not doing this alone, okay? Taash: Okay.

Rook - Varric

Varric: Weisshaupt was a lot. You holding up all right?

Option: I'm sure you heard some of the shouting. Rook: I just talked with Solas. Which really didn't help after the day I've had. You probably heard the yelling. (reference to this) Varric: That little speech of yours left me worried. Where did that come from?

Option: I'm taking responsibility. Rook: The gods are loose because of us. Because of me. We have to stop them. We can't cry over the costs. Varric: What, it's too hard to think about the people you're trying to save, so it's better to just forget them? Rook: It's just reality. Varric: Rook, you can't escape from your feelings by working. Just ask my brother Bartrand.

Option: We have to keep working. Rook: We don't have time to stop and deal with this tragedy, Varric. Every minute we waste, the gods take more from us. Varric: You're not helping anyone by shutting down and focusing on work. You're making your team miserable. Rook: We have to face facts. We're fighting an overwhelming enemy, and people will die. We can't cry over each one.

Varric: You've definitely been spending too much time with Solas. Rook, Chuckles doesn't know what he's talking about. Varric: He never did. Don't take advice from someone who's broken the world twice. Three times, if you count this one.

Option: I'm scared to death. Rook: Honestly? I'm terrified. Ghilan'nain alone wiped out the Grey Wardens in their own stronghold. Rook: It took everything we had to kill her Archdemon, and she got away. No wonder Solas didn't try to fight them.

Option: I can't believe that happened. Rook: I'm honestly not sure how we go on. Rook: I think I'm in shock. So many people… gone just like that.

Option: We lost Weisshaupt. Rook: Varric. Weisshaupt is gone. The Grey Wardens… are gone. I have no idea what happens now.

Option: Varric. We're going to lose. Rook: Weisshaupt stood for a thousand years, and the gods just wiped it off the map. Rook: The Grey Wardens will never recover. I don't know if the world will.

Varric: Weisshaupt was bad. Anyone would be a wreck after that. But you're still standing. Rook: No, that was bullshit.

Rook: Taash isn't the only one who's pissed off after what happened. The Wardens should've been prepared! Rook: They had everything they needed! An army! A giant fortress! They even had an Archdemon trap, Varric! Rook: But they were so high on their own bullshit, they still fell! And took our chances of winning with them.

Rook (Grey Warden): And the Grey Wardens… we were supposed to be better than this. Our big battle finally came. And we failed.

Varric: Well, that sounds like self-defeating crap if I've ever heard it. Varric: How many stories did I tell you about Kirkwall? The Deep Roads expedition, the Qunari invasion, the Chantry… Varric: How many of my stories end with me stuck standing alone in ruins? Too many. Varric: There's no grand plan worth more than the people in the streets. Anyone who says otherwise is lying. Varric: Take it from someone who's worn a crown. The greater good is bullshit. Varric: Nobody fights for the world. They fight for the things in it that matter. So who are you fighting for? Really?

Faction option: The folks back home. Rook (Grey Warden): The Wardens were all I had. I have to do this for them. Rook: (Shadow Dragon) It's going to sound strange to say, "for Minrathous," but there are good people there… in and out of the Shadows. Rook (Antivan Crow): Viago's kind of terrifying, but the Crows are my family. I can't let Antiva fall. Rook (Veil Jumper): There's a lot of people still trying to fix Arlathan. I just want to give them the chance. Rook (Mourn Watch): I don't want to imagine the gods reaching the Grand Necropolis. It can't happen. Rook (Lord of Fortune): The other Lords, I suppose. They should never have to deal with this mess. Varric: That's a start. It's not enough to oppose evil. You have to care who lives to see your greater good arrive. Varric: Yeah, there's folks in Kirkwall I'm looking forward to seeing when this is over.

Option: The team. Rook: This team. Everyone here. This is all I've got, Varric. Varric: Right. Look after the team. You picked them for a reason. Varric: You've got to know you can't protect them from yourself.

Option: I don't know. Rook: I'm not sure I have an answer. Varric: My point is: You better know what you're not willing to lose. Looking away won't save them. Varric: You've still got the team, and you still have allies.

Rook: Bellara is gone. I don't know if she's coming back.

Rook: Taash is… gone. I don't know how to fix that.

Varric: The fight's not over until you give up.

Option: I won't. Rook: I wasn't planning to. Varric: No, you wouldn't. You're not the type to quit.

Option: Right. Back to the fight. Rook: Pick up the pieces and move forward. There's nothing else to do. Varric: Isn't that the truth?

Option: I don't know what to do. Rook: But I don't know where we go from here, or what comes next. Varric: Trust the team. Varric: You picked most of them, Rook. They're your team. Don't forget that.

Option: I'm hearing, "surrender." Rook: So, now would be a great time to retire to the Amaranthine Coast, I guess. Varric: It's never a good time to live out there. Rains more days than not. Varric: As bad as things are, you already have what you need.

Option: Want your old job back? Rook: If you make a sudden recovery, and want to take over for me, I won't say no. Varric: I would if I could.

Option: What about Bellara? Rook: How do I patch things up with Bellara? Varric: Give her some time to cool off, and then apologize. She cares too much to quit. Varric: And it wouldn't hurt to see if your resident dragon expert has any ideas.

Option: What about Taash? Rook: How do I patch things up with Taash? Varric: Let her cool off. Taash reminds me of Fenris sometimes. Has to hit something until she figures out what she's really mad about. Varric: And once Taash is back, maybe see if your dragon expert has any ideas.

Varric: You've got this, Rook. Don't worry.

Varric: You might want to check on Lucanis and Davrin to start. They were a little too quiet earlier. (maybe a reference to this)

[wiltking]

can I have some dark fantasy recommendations 😯 content warnings are appreciated just to know what im getting into, but not a deterrent for me!

i have some go-tos that i always rec but i'll throw in some others i haven't talked about as much to shake things up. also all of these are queer.

the hexslinger series by gemma files - horror + dark fantasy. a tragic story following ex-reverend Asher Rook and his sharpshooter lover Chess Pargeter in a wild west world newly rife with black magic + torn apart by the wills of Aztec gods, doomed by the fact that two hexes can never be together without one of them tearing the other apart by the very nature that gives them magic. there is a lot to this series. it can be overwhelming and morose as hell but its also about how Love Is Not A Weakness and that redemption is possible no matter how far you’ve fallen. (cws: gore, rape, time period specific racism and homophobia)

doctrine of labyrinths by sarah monette - dark fantasy + adventure. follows Felix Harrowgate, a prestigious wizard, and Mildmay, a lowly thief as their lives are uprooted and thrown into an adventure neither of them are prepared to undertake. really enjoyed this series overall. book 3 didn't really work for me but it ended strong with book 4 and stuck with me as a positive experience. its probably the least 'dark' on this list, comparatively. i mostly treasure it for having an extremely messy and flawed gay MC going on an adventure full of grief and rage and painful healing. (cws: rape, csa, incestuous thoughts, suicidal ideation)

the edda of burdens by elizabeth bear - dark fantasy + scifi. always recommend reading in chronological order rather than published order (so start with By the Mountain Bound). essentially about sword-wielding angels of light inspired by norse mythology, and their trials and tribulations spanning thousands of years. Mingan is one of the characters of all time to me and BtMB alone is one of the most dearest and influential books. to me. the writing is visually vivid and stunning. (cws: rape, suicide attempt)

wraeththu by storm constantine - dark fantasy + romance. wraeththu is set in a futuristic apocalyptic world where a hermaphroditic race of people (who all use he/him pronouns) have come into power and eradicated most of humanity. the books follow the lives and struggles of three different wraeththu. this had to have been my first exposure to fiction with weird genitals / sex biology and maybe where my fascination with it can be tied back to. pretty depressing and meandering read overall and my biggest criticisms are that book 2 can be painfully boring at times, and that "correct" androgyny is often reduced to "pale + skinny". its also an older work and not at all trans-inclusive. but if you approach it as if its doing its own thing... it can be interesting. (cws: graphic rape, murder via sex, pedophilia)

the ragged blade by christopher ruz - dark fantasy. this is the story of a tragic, violent man fleeing across the desert with his feral daughter to get away from a murderous magician man he loved, once. It's not healthy, it's not happy, but its extremely unique and well-crafted and i will never not be sad that the rest of this series might never see the light of day because the publisher went under. but even so, very well worth the read on its own. (sadly dont remember if this one needs warnings but i dont think there was anything too crazy)

now for a very questionable rec... the steel remains by richard k. morgan. i have so many issues with this series. the sex sucks. Egar sucks. the last book is absolute dogshit. but Ringil.... oh Ringil. if only the series could have just been about him, and written by someone else. i am pretty much only recommending the first book. maybe the second. but its also terrible to inflict this series on someone when it ends like that. so do with it what you will.

[scuttlingcrab]

Severed Bonds

Summary: Taking place after Johanna Hezenkoss’ untimely demise, the failed Lich begrudgingly helps Emmrich through a panic attack when he returns from Tearstone Island, without Rook, his infuriating paramour. Johanna may despise the decrepit professor, but they’re friends after all, until the end.

Little snippet below, the rest can be found on AO3!

***

The last thing Johanna Hezenkoss remembered before her world plunged into utter darkness was that skeletal atrocity. Volkarin’s toe-curling pet project, spirit of curiosity turned vassal to the most namby-pamby Necromancer in Nevarra. It was so painfully conspicuous he put more dedication and commitment into constructing that creature than his own endeavours. Perhaps even more effort than maintaining their failed friendship. Nearly a decade of ‘overseeing it’ and that’s all he had to show for himself? Such expertise dissipated in a shoddy act of affection. 

And to what purpose, exactly? Did Johanna even need to ask? Unequivocally for more attention, more acclaim, more eyes thrust upon him. As if Volkarin didn’t have enough of that already. Always a sucker for the spotlight, unable to resist even a backhanded compliment, like a Magistar to blood magic. 

In retrospect, perhaps Johanna shouldn’t have been so loquacious during her grand creation’s debut, or spent so long relishing in the look of dread on Volkarin’s decrepit face when his powers proved useless. Something she had hankered for since their youth. Otherwise she would’ve spotted his servant skittering towards her and instantaneously crushed it like the irksome insect it was, stopping it from ever foiling her plans. 

She had been completely engrossed in Volkarin’s desolation, and rightly so, how she missed seeing him in such a state. And how delicious it was, mocking him endlessly, pushing all those broken buttons just to provoke him, edging him closer towards self destruction. He‘d have to face those infantile fears of death sooner or later, Lichdom be damned. She’d be the one to show Volkarin what it truly meant to be afraid. To suffer as she did. 

“I suppose it’s only in our nature as mortals to have forebodings about passing on. Of the unknown. Whether there is much to be found beyond the Fade or not, all the theories and speculations in this world could do nothing to ease the mind.” Volkarin once confessed, whilst hiding behind a book, as he so often did when opening up to anyone. “I hope I can prevail over this… frailty some day.” 

“Whatever helps you lull yourself to sleep at night, Volkarin. Expiring is beneath me.”

“Don’t be so naive, Johanna.”

“I have loftier ambitions. Let it come for me. I’ll be waiting, ready to defy mortality itself.”

Emmrich’s grip on the book tightened as he looked up, his expression growing more grave while he studied her. 

“You would consider Lichdom?”

“Consider it? Ha! I’ve already initiated the groundwork. Best shake a leg, Volkarin – else I'll beat you to it. And whatever will you do then? Will you be content with playing second fiddle to my success when I achieve the impossible?” 

Johanna barked a bitter laugh as the memory faded, at what could’ve been brought to fruition had she successfully coaxed Volkarin into espousing her practices. They would’ve abandoned the Mourn Watch conjointly, and finally, he would’ve seen the world for what it truly was: putrescent, pathetic, and pregnable. 

Only silence greeted Johanna, the blackness still surrounding her as she floated in emptiness. She attempted to wiggle a toe, a finger, to turn her head, but found no accompanying sensations – there was quite possibly not even a body left in which to experience them anymore. What was this current state of being then? Surely her spirit would’ve been released into the Fade by now? If there was truly nothing left of her old form? Or was this worse, the abyss itself? It couldn’t be. No. There were voices, whispers, coming from somewhere, just out of reach. Behind, above, below. All encompassing. The muffled murmurs grew louder as a ray of light poked through the black curtain. And then another, more, soon blinding her completely. 

“... there, something in…”

“...totally devoured, she…”

“...must prepare the w…”

A thick shadow came into view, towering ominously over Johanna. The form took the shape of a person, a silhouette with broad shoulders, yet she could discern no face as her vision restored itself, just a floating pile of tattered dusty robes and gold…

“HEZENKOSS.” Its voice rumbled. 

“Vorgoth.” Johanna hissed back. 

The ghastly figure tilted its hood down at her. Vorgoth had no physical body save for inky swirling mist, which vexed her still after all these years. She stared back with all the fury she could gather, attempting to meet their nonexistent gaze. 

“I will end yo…” Johanna began, but Vorgoth raised their hand. A flash of necrotic energy poured from their fingertips as she once again vanished into nothingness. 

---

Johanna stood corrected. 

She would’ve preferred the abyss to this agony, even with the possibility of the Forgotten Ones lurking in the obscurity, she’d have found solace in the expanse of the void. Besides, there was more than enough time for her to figure out some sort of solution, an escape, with eternity at her fingertips anything was feasible. Defeat was one thing, penitence another, but having to spend the remaining days of her existence bound under the supervision of a Watcher, let alone Emmrich Volkarin himself, was enough to wholly end her. 

When Volkarin first removed the wards that obstructed all manner of sight and sound, revealing only his priggish face in front of her, she roared. In fact, Johanna hollered so ferociously she shattered all the vases and glasses and vials within her proximity in that gaudy laboratory of his. Which to her delight had been a substantial amount. 

Volkarin jumped back in alarm, but quickly contained the outburst. He sealed her in a dome of silence as she continued to rage, throwing out every possible obscenity known to mortal man and all the while, Volkarin stared back at her with that damning look of commiseration. The same way he’d gape at abominations found in the Necropolis or whilst speaking to ill-fated corpses about practically anything. Johanna needed no pity! Least of all from the man who was the source of all her misfortunes. The gall!

He muttered something under his breath as he flicked his wrists about, amending the destruction in a matter of seconds. 

“Haven't you inflicted enough damage already, Johanna?” He said coolly, moving about the room to double-check his handiwork. “We’ll talk properly once you’ve regained your composure. I’ll not allow you to disturb my companions or continue making a spectacle of yourself.”

“Don’t you dare walk away from me, Volkarin!” She shouted after him, but it was no use, he had already moved on, ambling out of the room. 

For days Johanna watched Volkarin come and go from his quarters, evidently unaffected by her presence. He had positioned her skull behind his desk, for reasons unknown, and at the start of every morning he’d pull up a chair, sitting directly in front of her. He’d then go on to release the ward silencing her tongue, staring anticipatively.

“Shall we begin conversing civilly?” He asked, clasping his hands and resting them patiently on his lap, his posture prim and proper, per usual . If Johanna still had her hands, she would’ve shown Volkarin not one, but two impudent digits at this absurd request. Before she could even curse his name and all he stood for, he silenced her again, sighing and rising slowly, as he continued with his busy work.

It wasn’t until the fifth day that Johanna decided to concede to his demands.

“Let’s get this over with.” Johanna eventually groused.

Volkarin raised a singular eyebrow, cocking his head as he observed her from his seat. 

Continue via AO3!

[stayatsam]

onto a big thing about the companions...the roleplaying opportunities for Rook as a whole in the game are super fun, very varied, and i was not expecting the sheer amount of origin-based content i was going to get out of this (if context helps i'm playing a warden mage)

the COMPANION writing is very odd in Veilguard and definitely all over the place. Davrin and Neve are my opinion the ones who most consistently feels like "this is a dragon age companion" compared to previous games, with Davrin''s conflict with Lucanis especially good

i...feel bad. i don't really like Emmrich a whole lot, i was expecting to, but he's not a dragon age character. as i've progressed his questline i'm confused as to why we're chasing this mad scientist in big steampunk goggles instead of doing what's most pressing, like fighting the blight. i feel like Sten in DAO right now: "Why are we doing side quests lets go kill the archdemon!"

his group lines boil down to "we can't do anything about the biggest blight in the world until we solve our PERSONAL problems" which almost feels like the game holding my hand TELLING me to do the companion quests. which is you know, sure! it's a game i'm going to do them, but the dialogue feels off, and his entire character is out of touch with the setting sadly. i wanted to like him but the mourn watch quests remind me of fallout 4 settlement requests. "Rook, there's another haunting on the otherside of thedas we need you to kill"

i don't really feel very strongly about Bellara, not gonna lie. i wish they gave her a little more to chew on, i feel like there's good potential there and she got the short end of the interesting-stick

Harding is a weird one. i like her as a companion, but she feels like a new character wearing scout Harding's skin. i..admittedly don't take her out a whole lot though

i like Taash lots and not just because they're trans, it's cool to get a more inside look on Qunari customs and their family dynamics. their dialogue with Lucanis is probably what makes me like both of them lots.

the thing that does kinda irk me with Lucanis and Taash though is the way Spite isn't taken all that seriously, well overall i feel like. in DA2, Anders is seen as a constant threat by the rest of the party for being possessed, but there's a scene in Veilguard where Taash talks to spite like they're talking to a bad dog and not a literal demon that wants to KILL KILL KILL. this is also why i think Davrin is one of the best written companions since he's the one who reacts as a Thedas-based character WOULD to a demon-possessed assassin. and you DO get to see the two of them make amends despite their differences. the Lucanis-Davrin relationship is well thought out in my opinion

companion writing is overall pretty weak? it's hard. i like each companion individually and don't actively dislike any of them, i'm neutral at worst on a couple. i think what made me mostly resentful was having to hear Emmrich basically summarize "we can't save the world! i'll be too distracted thinking about my mad scientist ex-colleague and everyone else's drama etc. etc." like damn

i think after playing all day today i've bumped it back down to a 7/10...i have a feeling my final rating will probably be 6/10 or stick at 7