#Reaper of Souls

[lil-ol-shipper]

My love letter to Death's Door

First of all, I suck at video games, I don't play them enough nor do I finish or follow through. Picture the worst person playing an RPG fighting game and that's me.

So the idea of me not only completing this game but also falling in love with it is crazy. Even when I wanted to tear my hair out every time I saw that fucking "Death" title card. I fell in love with the lore, characters, soundtrack, and it's humor. God I got so attached to the characters I almost cried so many times in this game. The characters, though they were in a fantasy world with magic and immortal souls, were relatable and had their own quirks that they stood out from each other really well. I devoured everything about this game and I'm still hungry for more. There's so much in this game that it could take one hours to go through all of its nooks and crannies of little easter eggs and details.

No other game has done to me what Death's Door has, which was it made me invested in it as a whole. It was so unnecessarily hard but still easy to play for a measly little shit like me. I get it, sometimes it stays under people's radar as it came out in 2021 and looked like every other indie fighting game. It sure did for me, but I don't what made me buy it I just wanted something new and different rather than play Hollow Knight or Animal Crossing again for the 100th time this month.

I love indie games, each has it's own unique aesthetic and you can tell the aesthetic this game goes for and it hits to a T. I was really sad when I found out that all of their vinyls and concept art that Devolver Digital had on their merch store was sold out :(

I could talk about this game's lore for hours. The same goes for the great soundtrack. No one else I know has even heard of this game. Whenever I try to explain it, they kind of just nod and look at me weird. Oh, you're fine with playing games like Zelda and Diablo IV, but this little crow with a sword and his little green friends make you frown?! What?!

Thank you for coming to my TED Talk (autistic rant).

[bird-knight]

I'm proud of the head but that's as far as it goes. ;-;

[bcamelsamples]

Sample: History of the Crusade (Diablo III)

From 2013 to early 2020, I was a community manager at Blizzard Entertainment, dedicated to the Diablo franchise. The majority of my games career thus far has been at Blizzard, and as a community manager, and one of the most special and important times of my life.

My absolute favorite part of being a community manager was content creation. I loved writing blogs, developing videos, and coming up with really cool, engaging content for players to enjoy. I love Diablo, and I loved sharing that love with other folks who enjoyed the game as much as I do.

While working on the launch ramp up to Reaper of Souls, I was tasked with a lot of preview content generation, and jumped on anything lore related I could grab. I'm also approximately 300% Paladin at heart, so writing about the Crusader and their history was a huge win for me.

I spent time talking extensively to both Leonard Boyarsky and Brian Kindregan, two of our writers and narrative designers on the team. Leonard and Brian are intensely creative individuals who have done tons of incredible work, and getting to channel their creations into a community piece was an honor - and honestly, just a lot of fun!

The original article has unfortunately been taken down from the Blizzard site, but the Wayback Machine snapshot can be found here. As there's no guarantee this will be preserved forever, the text has been copied below.

The History Behind the Crusade

Faithful of Akkhan. Bastions of the Light. Stalwart redeemers of the Zakarum. All of these names could very well describe the newest hero class available in Reaper of Souls™.

Unlike other orders of the Zakarum, the Crusaders bring a distinctly grittier version of a traditional holy warrior to the world of Sanctuary. But where did they come from? What is their role in the Zakarum faith? How will they tackle the looming threat of Malthael on the horizon?

The answers to these questions and many more lay below, so let's kick off our week-long inside look at the Crusader class with some delectable servings of lore!

*****

The Rise of the Zakarum

The Zakarum faith was founded many years ago, sometime after the Mage Clan wars by the prophet Akarat, a wandering ascetic from Xiansai. According to many historical accounts, it was during this pivotal time (in which humanity was beginning to reject magic for the comforts of religion) that Akarat received a startling revelation from a being he referred to as Yaerius, or "son of light" in his native language.

While there is some debate among scholars as to the true nature of Akarat’s prophecy—specifically, whether the "being" Akarat saw was the archangel Yaerius or simply an echo of Uldyssian’s sacrifice at the end of the Sin War—its significance is undeniable. It is said that the vision, manifesting as a magnificent flash of light and energy across the sky, ignited the fundamental belief within Akarat that humans were powerful vessels of light, and that all should seek their "inner light" in order to live good lives.

Upon receiving this revelation, Akarat set out on a grand journey to the cities Kehjistan, spreading word of his findings and encouraging others to embrace the Light he knew existed within them. Although Akarat would eventually vanish from all historical record, his teachings lived on through the people of Sanctuary, serving as the spiritual basis for the Zakarum faith and church. (Fun fact: The name "Zakarum" comes from "Zakara," meaning "inner light.")

*****

Light's Dawn: The Birth of the Crusader

During the reign of Emperor Tassara and shortly before General Rakkis’ historic march to the West, a priest by the name of Akkhan sensed a foul taint growing within the Zakarum church. This taint, unknown to Akkhan at the time, was caused by no other than that of the Prime Evil Mephisto, Lord of Hatred, his darkness steadily seeping from the soulstone which lay beneath the Temple of Light in Travincal.

Determined to redeem his beloved faith, Akkhan sought out the most devout, talented warriors and issued them a sacred mission: find a way to cleanse the Zakarum of decay and corruption once and for all. These warriors traveled to the east, directly opposite the Paladins traveling with General Rakkis, following the rumored path Akarat took in the last days of his life before disappearing.

And so the Crusader order was born.

*****

Amongst the Zakarum: The Crusader's Role

Long time players of the Diablo franchise are likely familiar with the Zakarum faith and may even fondly remember time spent with their Paladin, the playable holy warrior from Diablo II. While Crusaders and Paladins share a devotion to the Zakarum faith, they aren't directly related to one another nor necessarily serve the same goals.

So how exactly do the Crusaders fit into the picture?

Of Paladins Past and Present:

Let's go over what we currently know: a quick overview of the well-beloved Paladin. Paladins are devoted warriors of the Zakarum. Over time since their founding, different sects of Paladins began to form, with separate goals and bases of operation.  This includes the Knights of Westmarch, the Order of Paladins, and the Hand of Zakarum.

During the events of the Zakarum Inquisition, the Hand of Zakarum was discovered to be corrupt and collapsed shortly after the events of Diablo II. The Order of Paladins, disgusted by the corruption of their faith, broke away and fled to the west, eventually settling in Westmarch. The Knights of Westmarch, already established from General Rakkis' conquest and eager to diminish their connection to Mephisto's corruption, absorbed the Order of Paladins and disassociated themselves from the Zakarum faith.

These different orders, some intentionally while others as a result of malevolent misdirection, evolved their arts and practices over the years, eventually developing into the Paladins we see today.

The Crusade Continues:

Unlike the Paladins, the Crusaders are an elite and insular group that has seen very little change since their founding, maintaining beliefs and practices most close to the original teachings of Akarat. Though Crusaders may exhibit similar ability to wield and bend the Light to their will as their Paladin counterparts, their fervor comes from a much more pure sense of righteousness. This is in part by design. During their formation, Akkhan made certain to only recruit those with the strongest conviction and battle potential. He also actively avoided bringing in anyone with Paladin training, fearful of any existing defilement or corruption carrying over into his crusade.

As a result of this focused purpose and very guarded lifestyle, the order itself is actually quite small. In total, only 427 Crusaders were sent east, and over time, their numbers have dwindled to the 341 known today. In practice, the Crusaders remain a loosely organized group, often traveling alone or with, at most, a single apprentice—a partnership which will persist until the Crusader's death. When it comes time for the Crusader to lay down their weapon, generally by falling in battle, their apprentice will not only take up their shield and armor, but their name as well, continuing a legacy set in motion so many generations ago.

*****

Starting the Journey: The Nephalem Crusader

As with the other Diablo III classes, the Crusader is a nephalem, their blood pulsing with same hidden power. Hearing the tales of a mysterious star falling from the sky and having exhausted their search in the East, the Crusader has traveled to New Tristram, hoping to discover anything that might save their faltering faith.

Will you take up the flail and shield in the name of the Zakarum? Are you eager to smite your foes with the pure, unblemished power of the Light? Let us know in the comments below if you'll be rolling out your living, battle hardened tank on launch day!

[books-to-add-to-your-tbr]

Title: Kingdom of Souls

Author: Rena Barron

Series or standalone: series

Publication year: 2019

Genres: fiction, fantasy, mythology, paranormal

Blurb: Heir to two lines of powerful witchdoctors, Arrah yearns for magic of her own...yet she fails at bone magic, fails to call upon her ancestors, and fails to live up to her family's legacy. Under the disapproving eye of her mother, the kingdom's most powerful priestess and seer, she fears she may never be good enough...but when the kingdom's children begin to disappear, Arrah is desperate enough to turn to a forbidden, dangerous ritual. If she has no magic of her own, she'll have to buy it...by trading away years of her own life. Arrah's borrowed power reveals a nightmarish betrayal, and on its heels, a rising tide of darkness that threatens to consume her and all those she loves. She must race to unravel a twisted and deadly scheme, before the fight costs more than she can afford.

[barbie-necromancer]

I never completed Diablo 3 in the Barbarian class So i’m doing that now. Read a study about how women and enbys are less likely to play a man in a video game than men are, so I picked the male Barbarian. Named him Iroh. He specializes in fire and electricity, and is a slut.

Here he is in his Infernal Red and Elegant Magenta looks!

[ufohmy]

Hmm 🤔

[tealfling]

Me seeing a white haired male character anywhere:

[master-muffinn]

Bleach: sitting on their lap in public headcanons

With Ichigo, Renji, Grimmjow and Yoruichi. x reader

Ichigo:

 🍓 I feel like Ichigo would be more fine with you sitting on his lap in a semi-public place, like at the park, library, waiting for the bus/train outside the city or if you are out in the evening together.

 🍓 If it’s too many people around it would be too much and he doesn't like the stares and the whispering!

 🍓 Of course he wouldn't accept it until you have been together for a couple of months at the very least. And you will most likely be the one starting it. Ichigo will be blushing quite a lot in the beginning but be more comfortable after every time. 

 🍓 He would prefer to not do it infront of his friends either, because they probably would make fun of him and that would make him even more embarrassed, but as we know, Ichigo wouldn't exactly let it slide either. 

“Renji, you are just jealous because you are still single!” 

“HUH?! I’M NOT!!” 

 🍓 However Ichigo prefers to be home alone with you and cuddle together without staring, judging eyes. 

Renji:

 🍍 This boy has been watching way too many series and movies by now. Taking inspiration from different romance shows and adding it to your relationship so that he can be more romantic and be the best boyfriend there is! 

 🍍 I can see him being the one who straight out asks you about it when you two are watching movies together and then regret it because it sounded so stupid! 

 🍍 If you accept it, Renji will be so nervous and awkward and be blushing the whole time. He’ll be wondering if you can hear his fast going heartbeat through his chest. ‘Why does it look so easy in the movies???’ If you start talking about the movie later he will have no idea what youre are talking about.

 🍍 Renji would also be more fine with semi-public places while being awkward and blushing most of the time even after doing it for months. He would rather have you on his lap in privacy and cuddle. Then you can have all his attention and no one would disturb you. ;) 

 🍍 If you were sitting on Renji's lap in a semi-public place and his friends would see you two like that, teasing would have a great effect on Renji at that moment.

“SHUT UP ICHIGO!! NOBODY ASKED FOR YOUR OPTION!!” 

“Geez Renji, y/n will go deaf if you scream like that”

Grimmjow:

 😾 This boy is a little complicated. You sitting on his lap is both prideful and embarrassing. He wants you to sit on his lap in the public and show off his amazing s/o and that they are obviously taken. But at the same time he’ll want you all by himself ALONE with no prying eyes. 

 😾 It’s the same with Grimmjow, you’ll have to be the one to start sitting down on his lap first, after that he’ll be the one who will grab you the most. He’ll find your physical affection very comfortable and calming. 

😾 Romance and relationship in general is something he is lacking, which is something he gets to experience and learn more and more with you. In the beginning he probably wouldn't be too fine to be lovey dovey in public, then it would be embarrassing. But the longer you are together the more pride and love he takes in you and your relationship so later on you can basically sit on his lap whenever you want and wherever you want, unless he’s out and fighting or training. Grimmjow will be happy either way and he won't take peoples crap either!

Yoruichi:

🐾 Yoruichi is literally a cat. She has been sitting on your lap in her cat form long before you have been in a relationship. So of course it’s no big deal! 

🐾 It doesn't really matter when or where, as long as she gets your attention and affection, but don’t forget to let her sit in your arms too! Yoruichi loves both and people who staring doesn't affect her. 

“Y/n what we do is none of other people’s business, just ignore them okay?”

🐾 Yoruichi wouldn't mind sitting with you in front of her friends either. Kiskue and the others wouldn't judge. Everyone in that shop is so used to your relationship by now. 

🐾 But don’t forget that Yoruichi also has a lot of energy and likes to mess with people and prank them, so watch out! Like that time when she was sitting in Byakuya's garden with you in her lap and was making out with you in front of him just to get a reaction. Byakuya was not happy.

“You are a disgrace…Leave immediately!”

“What? Are you uncomfortable? Or just jealous, hmm?” 

“...Bankai, senbonzakura..”

Thank you for reading! If liked, please reblog! 💖 Have a good day!

Post made by @master-muffinn

[beakerhoneydew]

Love when Vetinari isn’t even really a character in a book but he shows up for a second to be a bitch. Something’s happening in the city and he’s like “well a thing is happening and I don’t like that 🤨” and then disappears again

[just-bee-lieve]

the ferryman

[crsssie]

linked - grim reaper x reader

You swear the first time wasn't on purpose. You had just logged off the call with Grim and found yourself warm and sexually frustrated, and you swear you were just trying to blow off some of that frustration. You forgot, however, that his soul was literally linked to yours.

Grim had to call off work because he wasn't able to calm himself over seeing your fingers stuck inside of you and the way you moaned his name when you came around them.

He would rather die than admit you had that kind of effect on him.

The second time? When you deduced that he couldn't stare you in the eye because he watched you finger yourself? Was totally on purpose.

You tell Grim good night as usual, and you find yourself annoyed again, an abnormal heat in your abdomen as you frown. You frown, but your lips curl upward when you remember Grim can now see everything you do. So, you rummage through your drawer for lube, squirting it on your fingers as you slide one in, Grim's name slipping past your lips as you slide it all the way in.

Then, you slide a second;

and a third.

You gasp as you speed up, back arching as you feel yourself get closer, Grim's name a mantra as you gasp and twitch around your fingers, pretending they're his instead, crying as you feel yourself cum, legs twitching as you make a mess between them. You sigh in relief when you do, pulling the tissues to wipe your fingers clean as you click on your laptop to text him.

To Grim: Missing you (づ￣ ³￣)づ

Grim sits in his cold shower on the other end, desperate to get the red off his skin. You were going to kill him.

[lowkeyren]

I AM NOT IMMUNE TO EDGY WHITE HAIRED TWINKS

this man has transcended babygirlness

also steam reviews will never not be funny to me LOL

[syl-stormblessed]

if Hayao Miyazaki wants to come back out of retirement one more time Reaper Man by Terry Pratchett is right there

[bcamelsamples]

Sample: Diablo III and Ongoing Support (Diablo III)

This is more a flex of my community management and external communication skills. Still, I though it'd be interesting to talk about my approach and process when it comes to these kinds of things.

At this stage of development (being moved to the Classic Games team), internally we knew Diablo III was unlikely to get more paid content—because the primary Diablo team internally had already moved on to working on Diablo IV. D4 was still unannounced, but not ready enough to talk about yet. This is a hard place to be for your community. Players always want more, which isn't a bad thing; it means they're invested and care a lot about your project.

Writing this kind of communication has to appeal to that passion; you need to empathize with your audience, because you know they're going to be disappointed. Yes, you do need to focus on the positives of the situation—in our case, that the transition to Classic meant we could continue to support Seasons for the foreseeable future. Trying to communicate that "yes, you'll still have fun things to do before we move on to our next project" without explicitly talking about said future projects was a good challenge to tackle. How do you think I did? It was also a good opportunity to reflect on how far our game had come, and celebrate some of the wins that were aimed at the community. Themed Seasons, an effort I helped pitch and champion behind the scenes, were important to me as both a player and a community manager. I also advocated for better transparency, especially with feedback and PTR processes, and the Classic team was very supportive of that approach. It was nice to celebrate those efforts (even if it's a thing I don't really get credit for being involved in and should probably celebrate more).

This is another article which has since been taken down, but the Wayback Machine has been my friend here.

Diablo III and Ongoing Support

Whether your personal journey with Diablo III began today or nearly seven years ago upon our launch, we want to give you an update on our ongoing development efforts with the game. Here’s what you can expect going forward from Seasons and patches.

*****

Ongoing Content & Seasons

Beginning with Season 14, we introduced Themed Seasons. The goal was simple: change the expected gameplay loop and create unique experiences from Season to Season. Whether mixing up where the most rewarding gameplay lives or altering the source of your character’s most potent legendary powers, we want to continue to explore new and exciting ways to change how you play Diablo III.

Since the addition of themed Seasons, Season 16 was one of the most popular Seasons overall, with Season 17 showing similar participation. On PC alone, we saw nearly as many people return for Season 16 as Season 11, the first Season in which the Necromancer was available. We've heard your feedback about wanting new ways to play and to change up your gameplay experience. Based on your positive feedback and increased participation in Themed Seasons, we think we are moving in the right direction. Continue to let us know how we can make your adventures even better!

Our crew is hard at work crafting additional Themed Seasons, a new set for each class, dozens of Legendary powers, and some class balance changes. Quality of life and the occasional gameplay system updates are also within scope, as we evaluate how we can keep bringing new magic to the world of Sanctuary. These updates won’t arrive all at once, so if you don’t see something for your class right away, don’t worry; there’s something coming for everyone.

*****

PTR and Feedback

For Season 16, we tried a new approach to launching and executing a PTR. With only one week of public testing, patch notes were provided in advance and a follow-up preview into the final changes was posted before the patch went live.

This approach was highly successful. In the past, we would lose a lot of development potential to deploying additional PTR builds for incremental changes and, consequently, increase the amount of time it would take to deploy on our various supported platforms. PTR participation drops extremely rapidly after the first week, as does the amount of data and feedback, so we plan to continue to use this condensed PTR format going forward.

We also want to better highlight the changes made as a direct result of feedback. Not all changes happen because of PTR testing. Occasionally it’s from an amazing forum thread we read mid-season and have worked on (and tested internally) for several weeks in advance. Sometimes that “simple” quality of life request winds up being more complex than anticipated and gets punted to a future patch or cannot be implemented at all without unforeseen consequences. Other times someone swung by a designer’s desk at work and a brainstorm happened while they swapped tales about their Season Journey.

While one source isn’t always the reason behind a change we’ve made, we’re going to do our best to call out great feedback when it’s given, as well as further emphasize design intent and inspiration (when applicable) to changes in future patch notes. One thing is certain: we greatly appreciate the feedback and ask that you keep it coming, because inspiration comes from all places.

*****

Being Clear, Being Communicative

One thing we’ve been asked for is to clarify what our plans are, what (exactly) we’re working on, and where the future will take us. This blog is one of our first steps. More frequent presence and interaction from our community team on our new forums, especially around patches and PTR cycles, is another. We want to be able to talk and interact with members of our community around the world on a regular basis about the thing we love that brings us together: Diablo.

We hope we’ve provided you a better idea of where we’re at with Diablo III. In the meantime, we want Sanctuary to feel like home to all heroes, so you can return whenever you have the itch to slay monsters, don powerful Legendaries, and always find something a little new.

[frankbankinternational]

Frank Iero with L.S. Dunes at Aftershock Festival 2024 via RockinRyan for MusicJunkiePress

[arthursfuckinghat]

"But I'm not a good man.. not usually. You see, I was in Blackwater. I kill people. And maybe I shoulda killed you. Should I have killed you, Jimmy Brooks?"