#Sebek Heritage Post

[estcaligo]

Aaaa thank you! I hope you don't mind if I add some more!

my personal Sebek's out of context/reaction images moments:

[coralinnii]

‧₊˚✧ Welcome to the Family‧₊˚✧ 

↳ Getting Culture Shock from Your Friendly Family

feat: Sebek ❋ Silver ❋ Malleus genre: fluff, note: no pronouns were used for reader, established relationships, TWST characters’ age are canon-accurate (so no underage drinking), 

So... I sort of misinterpreted a request and there's just too much to change so I'm gonna have to redraft an entire writing post. But, I felt like it'd be a waste to delete this so I hope you enjoy this random plot.

The culture shock hit the fae the moment your boisterous family opened the doors with bright smiles and excited cheers. 

“You must be Sebek! Come in, come in!” 

Word must have spread because not only your parents, but Sebek ended up being introduced to your aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, grand-aunts and uncles who were visiting your parents that day. Apparently, your extended family tree was ‘coincidentally’ in the area and wanted to drop by to see the man you brought home. 

A simple lunch plan became an all-out buffet with your family pulling out the extra chairs and plates. Sebek insisted on helping with the heavy lifting which your parents adamantly refused. 

“A guest doesn’t do anything!” “That’s right, just relax and have a drink!” 

“Dad, he’s 16.” 

Sebek was in slight awe of the power your human family possessed, not really physical power but rather their charismatic aura that he couldn’t fight against. Sebek came from a good home as well, but this feeling of intimacy and acceptance from a group of humans that owes him no such hospitality is new to him.

It was as if he was reduced to a pampered child and any responsibility or obligation, he had was taken off his shoulders. 

Once the table was set, Sebek’s vision was overcome by a whirlwind of hands, utensils, and food. Without lifting a finger, the green-haired guest had a mountain of food piled up on his large plate. It was a cuisine unlike the Briar Valley’s food he was familiar with, but the aroma was too tempting to ignore. 

The house was full of loud chatter and laughter that brought a sense of homely warmth to Sebek.

Sebek came from a good home as well, but this feeling of intimacy and acceptance from a group of humans that owes him no such hospitality is new to him.

This feeling of being swept away by your family was… strange but not unpleasant.

"So, how are you keeping up with my family?” You cheekily questioned the tall young man, finally alone as the two of you hid in the sanctuary that was your bedroom. 

After lunch, the little ones in the family were taking advantage of your boyfriend’s trained body as they climbed and swung on him like a jungle gym. Of course, you trusted Sebek as he kept his stance and never once did he drop or falter while the children played to their heart’s content. 

“Hmph, as if a bunch of humans could ever be a challenge for a knight such as myself.” Sebek huffed with all his bravado, but you see the gel in his hair slightly wearing off from sweat. 

You smiled regardless. “That’s good, then. I’m honestly surprised that you're so good with kids.” 

The green-haired man smirked with confidence. “Of course, I would not be so easily taken down by such a puny number of opponents.” 

“Please don’t call my cousins your opponents.” 

Sebek straightened his back as he puffed up his chest. “I am personally impressed that your family are not deterred by me, since not many can handle someone of proud fae blood such as myself!” 

You hummed humorously at him. You knew behind those arrogant words, you knew that he was actually nervous about your family being put off by him, be it for his heritage or his abrasive personality. You even swore that his hair seemed a little more gelled up than usual, hoping to look good in front of your family. 

Slowly, you wrapped your arms around Sebek’s broad shoulders, with Sebek instinctively stiffening from your touch. “My family loves you because they can see what I see. Who do you think raised me?” 

Sebek relaxed and turned his head to meet your eyes. His softened eyes reflected in yours as his hidden worries dissipated from your words. 

Both of you felt a mutual pull towards each other, lips leaning ever close to touch- 

Knock Knock 

Sebek well nearly flung you to the other side of your room in panic, his face burning with embarrassment while your face expressed more shock and a little indignation. 

“Mom and auntie said there’s snacks, so come down.” A tiny carefree voice came through the door before footsteps walking away followed after. 

Maybe Sebek was right. Your cousins were opponents, indeed. 

The moment you and Silver step foot into your family home, you weren’t sure who’s the guest and who’s the actual family member anymore. 

Silver was pulled to the center of the sofa with your family crowding him, cooing and praising the handsome man. 

“Such soft hair, you take good care of yourself!” 

“Not only that, you have a strong body too. You must eat well, that’s good.” 

He’s not your boyfriend, he’s our future son-in-law

Silver is fairly used to this kind of energy thanks to a certain easygoing fae but he does internally heave a sigh of relief that your family seem welcoming of him. Being a human from a primarily fae kingdom, he wasn’t sure how he would come across to other humans.

If you ever worry about the potential gawkers Silver would attract with his good looks and personality, imagine that…but with your very own blood-bonded family. 

You and your family had to suppress your bubbling laughter as you watched your little siblings' eyes sparkle at the prince-like young man you brought home. They quickly latched onto the confused knight-in-training, chubby hands either gripping the leg of his pants or raised up high asking for a hug.

“Should I up my game so I won’t lose my only boyfriend?” 

You finally couldn’t stop yourself from laughing when said boyfriend asserted with such a convicted expression that he would never stray from you. 

Finally, you and Silver had a moment to yourself…or at least one as close as you can get while your little siblings run amok at the park nearby. While the adults were cooking up a storm back home, the children wanted to play outside which led you and your boyfriend on babysitting duty. 

“So…” you started the conversation while the two of you leisurely sat under the shade of a hefty tree. “How are you feeling? I know my family can get a little…much.” 

“They remind me of Father in many ways.” Even with some drowsiness in his voice, Silver replied without hesitation. “It was almost like being in a room with multiple versions of him.” 

“Is that a good thing?” 

The fair man looked over to the park where your siblings were yelling and running without a care in a world. He knew they could feel so carefree because they have you watching over them and have a whole room full of people waiting for them with a warm, hearty meal. 

Never alone, never unloved. A big, joyful family.

And these loving people readily welcomed him, a child with mysterious origins and an unfamiliar upbringing. Silver didn't want to come off as unapproachable or disrespectful due to his quiet demeanor, but your family was unaffected in the least and accepted him with open arms.

Silver smiled at you like a man blessed by the heavens. “It’s wonderful. I never thought my life could feel even brighter and warmer than it already is.” 

You smiled back, warmth filling your heart after hearing the man you love equally cherishing the people precious to you.

Perhaps Silver’s sleepiness has rubbed off on you as you felt compelled to rest your head on his side, with Silver immediately laying his head atop of yours.

“Next time, let’s invite Lilia too.” A quick look of panic was shared between you two. “He’s not allowed in the kitchen, though.” 

“Agreed.” 

Malleus, a being of pure fae blood, was the most clueless of what to expect at a human gathering which led to a multitude of questions regarding human customs. It was rather adorable to watch this imposing figure pace back and forth over the most minor of concerns. 

“What is the customary gift to offer your family as a greeting?” 

“I don’t know, wanna try gold bars? Haha…wait Malleus don’t actually-!” 

After calming your boyfriend's nerves, the two of you finally reached your home where your family were excitedly waiting for you and the man you brought.

Of course your family is impressed by the magnificent figure that was Malleus and the inhuman features that the fae worried over were instead adored and admired. 

“His horns look strong but shiny, so sleek.” 

“Such a tall, handsome man! A little skinny, but very healthy and that’s what matters.” 

Mayhap, this lack of fear of yours is an inherited trait.  

Soon, compliments turned to gifts as your family bombarded Malleus (and by extension you, I guess) with things around the house that they think kids your age would like. Free prizes they’ve won, treats the family bought too many of, presents given by other relatives or friends…everything was suddenly in his hands and lap. 

It was almost entertaining watching your boyfriend, who could literally acquire any materialistic goods he could want for, get overwhelmed by all the gifts and trinkets that he could barely carry in his arms.

“Just be grateful, Malleus. At least they hadn’t given shopping bags filled with those dried fruit snacks you mentioned were good yet.”

A sense of calm and peace finally came over your household. Well, your family’s version of calm at least, which is everyone sitting around the living room, chatting while watching a melodrama with that attractive actor your grandmother likes. 

Imagine the confusion and slight concern on Malleus’s face as your mother tried to explain the plot of the whole series. 

“Is he not aware of how his mother is treating his paramour? How can he let this be?” 

“Malleus sweetie, he’s been in the hospital this whole time because of that car accident with his half-brother. That’s why the mother is trying to get rid of the girl before he wakes!” 

You chuckled at the scene of your sweet boyfriend giving his full attention to your mother’s passionate venting, but a pang of anxiety pricked you. 

Your family can be quite boisterous and forward, even by typical human family standards. You never wanted to pry into Malleus’s personal life but you can’t imagine any noble fae behaving like your family do. You are by no means embarrassed by your family, but you’d hate the idea that Malleus was feeling uncomfortable but far too courteous to speak out.

Gently, you called Malleus’s attention with a subtle touch atop his hand. When he turned to you, you motioned him to lean down to whisper into his ear. “If we get too loud, you can excuse yourself. I can cover for you.” 

Malleus felt aghast by your words. Was he giving off any signs of dissatisfaction? That was not his intention at all. 

Yes, your family is unlike most families the young fae heir have encountered. In fact, they are unlike most people he has encountered in general. No one would be brave enough to crowd him so freely, to pull one of the strongest mages of their time around to their whim. 

In contrast to the large, silent halls of his throne room in his castle, Malleus found himself nearly squished into a couch with someone at every direction while chatter filled this comparatively small home. 

How delightful this has been for him to be a part of this lovely family.

Hoping to convey his sincerest thoughts, Malleus encompasses your hand in his, whispering softly to you. 

“I’m enjoying myself, truly.” 

Your mother suddenly perked up, looking away from her phone she was typing away on. “Oh, honey! My friend group is planning on a road trip to this cute retreat. Would you and Malleus want to join us?” 

“Are you…inviting me?” 

If Malleus’s tail was visible right now, do you think you’d see it wagging excitedly?

[irafuwas]

Sebek and Silver - More alike than meets the eye

I know much has been said already on how Silver and Sebek diametrically oppose each other – from their handedness to their hobbies, and from their personalities to their poses in certain cards – but something I feel we also need to focus on is the one unifying point in their story arcs. Namely, their journeys to discover just who they are.

*This post contains light spoilers for cards and story content that have not been released on the EN server yet*

Sebek is infamous for his one-track mind. He dedicates himself to his studies, his extracurricular activities, and his training, all for Malleus’s sake – partly to earn commendation from the men he so respects, and partly to bring honor to his liege’s name. His endeavors are admirable, in that he is diligent, persevering, and earnest, yet rarely does he divulge any of his genuine, private ambitions.

Consider, in fact, that the very reason he sought to enroll at NRC was only to serve as Malleus’s guard, rather than for his own academic aspirations.

Though we’ve yet to learn just why he so fervently worships Malleus, perhaps we can trace this desire for his liege’s recognition back to a broader need to be affirmed of his worth. If you recall his despair at manifesting his magic so late, and how much it bothered him - hurt him, even - when Silver departed for NRC and left him behind, the great extent to which he values magical prowess is clear to see. And if we further consider how he so longs to separate himself from his human heritage – from his magicless heritage, could it be that, even more than the glory of knighthood, he simply yearns to find a part of himself that he – and all those around him – can be proud of, can find worth in?

For what is he without his magic? He, a mere half-blood, born amongst a peoples whose bodies thrum with a power more sacred, more ancient than the air within our lungs and the ground beneath our feet? I feel Sebek is so driven, so severe in his efforts to claim the right to stand by his liege’s side, just so that he one day might finally be able look himself in the mirror and say, “here, here is at least some part of me I don’t have to be ashamed of, that I don’t have to hate.”

And Silver, that sweet boy, how unerring, how remarkable is his selflessness, how his inexhaustible compassion belies the scant 17 years he’s spent awake on this earth! But when one pours out so much of oneself for others as he has done, when all that one does is for the sake of someone else, how often one loses sight of one’s own identity. Indeed, if I were to draw for you a map of the inside of Silver’s heart of hearts, if I were to plot for you his every dream, measure and record every aspect of his being, I scarcely doubt there’d be a single point you couldn’t trace back to his desire to make his father happy.

To that end, consider how we learned in Silver’s latest birthday vignette that Lilia began training him from an incredibly young age – when he had only just become conscious of his surroundings. A child that young cannot make such a monumental decision for himself - the decision must be made for the child. And so, we do not truly know if Silver’s dreams of knighthood are the result of his own personal meditations, or if his father, in his infinite folly, thrust them upon him, burdening the young child with an aspiration that would go on to consume nearly every facet of his life.

With the both of them being so unsure in their own identities, it's why I find it so poignant - and so apropos – that Sebek is the one to rouse Silver from his moments of self-doubt, time and time again. When Silver questioned his capabilities as a leader, when he wished desperately that he could change, that he could be more like his classmates, and when he, in his darkest hour, doubted even the sanctity of his father’s love for him – each and every time it was Sebek who liberated him from his great desolation.

It has to be Sebek - for who better to accompany Silver on his journey towards self discovery than one who must walk down the same path as he? Who better than his best friend, his brother, his reflection – his veritable light in the darkness of his own heart?

[krenenbaker]

Diasomnia Character Songs and Associations

It's finally here! The end of the character songs and associations series! It took a bit longer to get out than I thought it would, but it's now finished.

Here is the seventh dorm, Diasomnia; the dorm of the spirit of nobility. The final of the seven, but also, interestingly, the dorm that started this entire idea.

Notes: Every song is from my liked songs playlist (so feel free to judge me for my taste, haha!) and I only allowed myself to use an artist once for this project. There is also some strong language and mature themes in some of the songs, so be aware if you choose to listen to them. I’ve included: - A song that represents them, - A song they'd listen to, and (for some) an additional song, depending on the character and circumstance

The full Spotify playlist for ALL songs and characters is linked at the end of the post.

Heartslabyul | Savanaclaw | Octavinelle | Scarabia | Pomefiore | Ignihyde

Malleus Draconia

Represented by: Nymphs Finding the Head of Orpheus - Nicole Dollanganger

This song was actually what inspired me to make this series. It just reminds me so much of Malleus. The narrative setting is similar to the ruins he loves to explore, the music itself is somewhat ethereal, and the lyrics reflect the loneliness Malleus often feels, as well as his fear of loss and change.  It's powerful, it's reflective, it's strange, and it's beautiful. Much like Malleus himself.

Listens to: Symphony No. 40 in G Minor, K. 550: IV: Allegro assai - W.A. Mozart, Sinfonia Varsovia, Yehudi Menuhin

Malleus likely listens to primarily classical music, and probably knows how to play many of the pieces he listens to. He would especially enjoy the playfulness of Mozart's compositions, as most Mozart pieces (operas, symphonies, etc.) have a light mood, and are usually filled with jokes. Absolutely perfect for a fae prince!

Lilia Vanrouge

Represented by: Phantasmagoria - Polkadot Cadaver

This song feels very Lilia to me. With a focus on (possibly?) playful scaring, and the uncertain or hidden origins of what people see. There's spooks and startles, but is generally meant to be fun... or that's what's assumed. The Avant-Garde metal genre also suits the unique, fun intensity of Lilia's character.

Listens to: After Life in Purgatory - Lock Up

Okay, I know that 'Lock Up' is grindcore, and not the thrash metal that Lilia canonically listens to. BUT he would totally also listen to music like this. It's fast. It's loud. It's full of screaming. Lilia would love it! (And he'd probably somewhat relate to the lyrics of this song too, considering his past...)

Bonus - Suggests for Music Club: Renewal - Veil

Lilia would suggest something like Veil to play in Music Club, arguing that it's more "gentle" and "approachable" for non-metal fans than some other subgenres, which, yes, that may be the case, but still... Cater would be a bit freaked out.

Silver

Represented by: イジメ、ダメ、ゼッタイ - Babymetal

Silver is an interesting character, being both gentle and fierce simultaneously, which is well-encapsulated in Babymetal's music. The lyrics to this song also are akin to Silver's worldview, and his wish for balance, harmony, and connection.

Listens to: Over the Edge - Sarah Jarosz

I think Silver would listen to softer music, probably a lot of folk, bluegrass, and country music. and, like Jade, he would especially love songs about nature and the outdoors. It just seems like it would suit him!  However, I also think he shares a lot of his father's taste in music, resulting in some very strange playlists...

Sebek

Represented by: Soap - The Oh Hellos

Sebek seems to struggle a lot with his mixed identity, outright rejecting half of his heritage. (I think that's something he will learn to accept at some point in the future, and be able to become even stronger in himself and his identity as a result.) However, Sebek is also a bold, determined individual, and truly cares deeply for those he loves and respects... even if he may not outwardly show it.

Listens to: String Quartet No. 6 in F Minor, Op. 80, MWV R37: II: Allegro assai - Felix Mendelssohn, Quatuor Ébène

Because I think Malleus favours classical string music, I also think that Sebek would believe that he should also listen to similar music (as it is obviously superior!) And while he does enjoy many classical pieces, especially Mendelssohn's compositions, it would probably not be Sebek's preferred music in most situations, even if he does listen to it often.

Bonus - Prefers to listen to: Oscar Wilde Gets Out - Elton John

I'm not totally sure why, but I think Sebek would really like music by Elton John! I think that the softer pop rock sound would be something he would enjoy. Oscar Wilde Gets Out would definitely appeal to Sebek, for the literary allusions and references if nothing else.

[llondonfog]

TWST chapter 7 expectation: everyone focus to be on malleus, why he did this, his past, briar valley lore.

TWST chapter 7 reality: SILVER NO DONT CRY!! LILIA WHYYY, WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU!!

We expected malleus centric. Instead we got father-son dynamic of Lilia and Silver.

AND I'M SO HERE FOR IT!!!!! sorry malleus, fully sympathize and support your breakdown sweetie, #thoughts&prayers but i simply do not have time for you!!! stay out of the story for a while, i need to wail and roll about in my father son duo misery!!!

can we just talk about the fact that silver has been choking back tears IN EVERY SINGLE UPDATE??? like we are talking about one of the most stoic and unshakeable characters in the game, BROUGHT TO FULL-BLOWN SOBBING by lilia's abrupt and impending departure??? (me eyeing all those posts about silver's build up of negative energy and the cost of using his UM and rubbing my hands with horrible glee—)

and that's not even mentioning the absolute insanity that has been lilia's past we've now been exposed to!!! i know it's a bit contentious but i am LOVING asshole general lilia, i am kicking my feet delightedly whenever he goes on his stupid little child-hating rants, ONLY TO PHYSICALLY TAKE THE BLOW FOR SILVER??? TRUE LOVE, TRUE LOVE!!! (on the other hand, you know it's so fucking bad for silver when even sebek steps in to try to soften lilia's rants, my god what is it like for him to see silver so emotionally distraught when silver's been the one to be most secure in his relationship to lilia and his place in briar valley over all whereas sebek still struggles with his human heritage— WHICH WE'RE FINALLY SEEING THE DELIGHTFUL CONSEQUENCES OF HIS BEHAVIOR BEING BROUGHT BACK TO HIM VIA BAUL, UTTER PERFECTION!!!)

so what i'm saying is, ch7 has left me feeling a bit like sisyphus only the boulder keeps getting bigger and there's no fucking end to this mess in sight—

[squishosaur]

I HAVE QUESTIONS !!!! i can assume some of the kids' parents but others i am kinda ??? on. so if you would.... pls tell me their parents.....

also! is silver childless like malleus? or nah? and please tell me thought process behind their names!!!! im so interested in the little kids

YES!!! OKAY!!! UMMM. silver has no kids of his own but i think both he and neige would be really good with kids & would foster them (not together ahdksndndn) but i do not have one fleshed out for him!! i Just made a post with their parents (+ the two i forgot on my original chart) here!! but here is a list again but in text form so it is easier to read + their name origins:

Samia Ashengrotto — daughter of Azul and Jamil, her name means exhalted and is related to Azul's whole "we'll rule the world together" thing lol

Meridian Clover — (eldest) daughter of Trey and Jade, her name came from me wanting to reuse one of my old favorite ocs somehow and also is related to the prime meridian and the ocean.

Angelo Clover — (youngest) son of Trey and Jade, his name comes from angelfish.

Chichima Rosa Bucchi — daughter of Riddle and Ruggie, her name means sweet/precious AND I REALLY WANTED TO NAME HER chi–something. so. lol

Icarus/Polly Shroud — son of Cater and Idia (he goes by Polly as a streamer/musician online) — THE SON OF A GENUIS INVENTOR WHO KILLED A FAMILY MEMBER AND SUFFERED IMMENSELY FOR IT??? i HAD TO... their online name is Apollo because like. he can never be the sun but he wants to touch it... do you get it. PLEASE.

Elio (E‐L10) Shroud — child of Ortho (in a sense that they are an android built by him); their name also has sun motifs like Icarus.

Sahil "Sal" al Asim — (eldest) son of Kalim (I DON'T SEE HIM GETTING TOGETHER WITH ANYONE BUT I SEE HIM AS A FAMILY MAN. I am debating making his other parent Floyd because I like flokali but idk), Sahil's name comes from like. Relating to large bodies of water/the ocean and stuff.

Zahara Kingscholar — daughter of Leona, her name means brilliant because she is idk.

Marie Flamme — daughter of Rollo and Rielle, her name literally just comes from the Aristocats and like. yeahhhh. she's French lol

Anja Felmier-Zigvolt — daughter of Epel and Sebek, her name is just a Scandanavian version of Anna because I wanted to showcase Epel's heritage. I was going to name her after Epel's meemaw but refrained.

Eury "Joker" Howl — child of Ace, Deuce, and Jack; Eury's name comes from Euchre the card game using jokers, hence his nickname— it's because Ace/Deuce/Jack have card names that's all. But I thought I was being smart.

Celeste Schoenheit — daughter of Rook and Vil, Celeste and Soleil are twins so they have sun/moon related names. She's the moon.

Soleil Schoenheit — son or Rook and Vil (twins with Celeste, neither is much older); see Celeste's name thing, he's the sun.

Parthiv Khan — son of two of my ocs based on characters from the jungle book, Khan from Shere Khan because I am basic lol.

[lovelyyandereaddictionpoint]

Since Rook, Trey, Carter and Sebek are in the science club, let's say one of them go through Crewle desk just to get something for potion making and in one of the drawers they found a picture of his daughter framed all nicely and she's wearing the girls uniform of the princess academy with alterations to match with her father

Seeing the picture Sebek will notice about the eyes as faes and half-Fae have those cat like eyes

What reaction they'll have separately?

Rook Hunt

“Ah this must be Professeur Crewel’s daughter!” 

Is able to take one look at the photo and recognize your fae heritage

Other than that he just uses context clues

He’s a hunter so little details just help him out loads

The uniform–princess academy

eyes–half-fae , no wife on record so must be made out of wedlock

Eventually he’ll start dedicating some time to check you out 

Even better if you come yourself though

Visiting or otherwise he’s intrigued 

He doesn’t have many contacts with a princess directly

“Bonjour I am, Rook Hunt at your service, and you Madamoiselle?” 

“It's highly unlikely that you don’t already know who I am and I’d appreciate it if you respected that.” 

“Of course Princesse du Crewel!”

I honestly feel like Rook has a bit of masochistic streak 

Its that thing that he has with everyone he admires (Vil, Neige)

So he’ll purposefully antagonize you 

Now should anyone else try this with you they’re kindly getting an arrow to the face

And should you somehow accumulate a dedicated fanbase to your monarchy then he’s the leader 

I can see him doing this totally outside of meeting you

Threatening new fans to either commit their entire existence to you 

or ..perish

“If you were truly loyal to Princesse du Crewel, then you’d be more than willing to lay your life down. Wouldn’t you?”

Trey Clover

“Oh my! She’s practically a carbon copy of him!”

He’s not going to really mind you at first

Thinking of you as none other than the cute girl that was a daughter to Crewel

“Excuse me, I was told you were the best baker on Night Raven Campus. Is this true?”

“Uhh I’m flattered but I’ve got a long way to go, before I can even be close to that.”

“But you can make a cake right?”

“..uh yeah.”

“Good, bring it to your science club.”

“But it's nearly the end of–”

“I’ll expect a plate and fork brought with it as well. Toot-a-loo.”

'Well can’t skip out on the Heartslabyul hospitality'

And that's how he just finds himself bonded to you

From feeding you on visits 

To catering your spontaneous…parties at the princess academy

I can see him being more of a low-key follower

Being sure to drink in your compliments when you give them

He’s more inclined to offer his cooking and advice if you should need it

The only way he can really pull his weight among your many friends/followers/dogs is by knowing exactly how you want it

“I’ve made it just how you like, (Y/n)! You can always count on me.”

Cater Diamond

“Eh?! That’s Crewel’s kid?!”

Already follows you on social media

Is just shocked your style is so inspired by your father

I can definitely seeing him being a secret kin for (Y/n)

Now that he’s aware of it though he’s going to try and get to you through your dad

“Uh, Professor Crewel?”

“Yes, photopup?”

“Can I get your daughter's number?”

“What?!!”

“Yeah, I just maybe wanted to ask her to follow me back bu–uh-P-professor-what-what are you gonna do with that crop?”

Probably not his brightest moment

When you show up to the school

He’s posting like a mad man 

With exclamation points and emojis all just saying

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!(Y/n)’sAT MYSCHOOL!!!!!!

Sebek Zigvolt

“THIS IS….! A half-human?! An offspring of Crewel’s perhaps?!”

Fancies himself a super sleuth

Surely he’ll need to unearth this deception about his instructor for Malleus-sama’s fate

Its just his own curiosity

So he’ll do his research 

after all its possible since he exists himself

Looking at you he’s intrigued 

Your style and presence is so tremendous it reminds him of his vice warden…almost

“What are you doing?”

You caught him while he was observing you strutting on campus 

“Ah-um-SEBEK ZIGVOLT, knight-guard to the glorious Malleus-Sama!”

“...That's so Zigvolt?”

“Aye!” 

“Then shouldn’t you be with him?”

“Y-yes.” “Then go! What are you doing standing around?! GET TO WORK!”

“Y-YES, MA’AM!” 

He’s not a masochist

He’s not a masochist !

But he gets such a rush when you order him like a commander should 

“Malleus-sama, may I request that I take leave?”

“This is…a shocking development.” “What for?”

“(Y/n) Crewel has made an appearance…and I promised I’d meet them upon their arrival.”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Idk why but seeing Sebek so high on your tier list made me inexplicably happy. He kind of annoyed me when I first started playing, but that was before I read his personal stories. Man I was a fool because he’s now one of my favorites (I’m a first year squad stan and he’s one of my faves of the group). Like he’s so serious as a person but a lot of his moments are actually pretty funny. Anyway this has been Appreciate Sebek Hours and I shall raise a carton of coffee milk to him

[Referencing this post!]

Like coffee, Sebek is kind of a strong and acquired taste.

I totally get why a lot of people are initially turned off by him when he’s so brazen, loud, and obsessive. I know that I personally started TWST not expecting a lot out of Sebek; I couldn’t really take his pastel green Phoenix Wright design that seriously, and I didn’t like his personality since a lot of the early promotional materials marketed Sebek as being defined predominantly by his devotion and worship of Malleus. I’m relieved to see Sebek having character outside of his reverence for his dorm leader and prince.

I feel that since Sebek takes himself so seriously despite basically being a dumb and childish kid himself, it plays off well with other characters that clearly don’t have the same intense viewpoints as he does. That contrast creates a lot of ridiculous and comedic moments like the time Sebek cried because a cookie Malleus gave him got crushed, or the time Sebek threw a tantrum because he didn’t end up on the same team as his lord. He tries so hard to be cool and mature, but it just comes off as either really smug/condescending (ie shouting about how no one can be as majestic as Silver) or weirdly pathetic (ie stumbling over his words when Malleus tells him to be off to his next class instead of standing around and shouting at Ace and Grim) 😹 Sebek really embodies the cringey way real teenagers act sometimes... too much in a rush to grow up and prove himself to those he looks up to, not realizing how his words and actions can come off to others as hurtful or as just plain silly.

I think Sebek’s biggest deterrent is probably his... discrimination against humans (or basically anyone that isn’t fae). I can see why that would make people uncomfortable when they consider his character. Racism is just plain wrong, end of story. However, I believe that Sebek is purposefully written as such so the main story can correct his behavior and show him the error of his ways (similar to how chapter 5 has Vil teaching Epel that his traditional views on masculinity and femininity are outdated).

Actually! What I find really interesting about Sebek is that his situation seems to be poised to address an issue that isn’t often mentioned in popular media, and I think it’s important to discuss it. Soooo, without further ado--

***Content warning: discussion of racism (more specifically, internalized racism) and mentions of war below the cut.*** ***Please note that I am in NO way condoning racism or war; I am speaking on these topics in an analytical manner. My only intentions in writing this post are to theorize and to educate. I am NOT defending Sebek or his actions, but rather critically commenting on how his circumstances may have played into his current characterization.***

We learn that Sebek is half human and half fae from Silver in chapter 5. While Sebek is busy chiding others and (once again) referring to them as “humans” (derogatory), Silver points out that Sebek himself is half human. Then, through Sebek’s Birthday Boy vignettes, we indeed learn that his mother is a nocturnal fairy while his father is a human.

So if Sebek is half human, then it begs the following questions: why does he seem to hate humans so much? Why does he never make mention of his own heritage, and instead chooses to exclusively extol fae?

Two words: internalized racism.

“Hold on!” I hear you saying. “What is internalized racism, and how does it differ from the regular definition of racism?”

Well, according to the Oxford dictionary, racism is “prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against a person or people on the basis of their membership in a particular racial or ethnic group, typically one that is a minority or marginalized”. Internalized racism is when those minorities or marginalized groups turn the oppression inward, which results in hating their own group. In Sebek’s case, this hatred is directed at humans--the side of himself that he seems to resent and be ashamed of.

It’s completely believable that Sebek would end up the way that he is. From what little we know of the Briar Valley and of fae in Twisted Wonderland, we can make many inferences and come to this conclusion. The population of Sebek’s home country is said to be predominantly fae, and they often use magic rather than technology to complete everyday tasks. (For example, if they want to go somewhere, the preferred “mode of transportation” is flight instead of cars.) The Briar Valley appears to be a very traditional, old-fashioned nation that is set in its ways.

Furthermore, it seems that most fae, as diverse as they are, seem to be exclusionary to other races (though we learn in Fairy Gala and FG: What If that, even among fae, there can be conflicts and discrimination; for example, nocturnal and diurnal fae do not get along). We somewhat observe this in Malleus, as he casually talks about the feats he is able to perform, whether magical or physical. At the same time, the tone he takes when addressing his classmates, even fellow third years and peers, is somewhat haughty (referring to humans as “child”/”children” of man as if to imply they are juvenile and inexperienced, outright saying that everyone is “like a baby” compared to him, and brushing off their magic as though it is nothing to him). These can be perceived as microaggressions, or “commonplace daily verbal, behavioral or environmental slights, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative attitudes towards others of a particular group”. The fairies we see in Fairy Gala and even Vargas CAMP! also reflect this, as they chase out humans from their event and/or territory. In Fairy Gala in particular, it’s implied that the fairies will reject or be hostile towards those not perceived as fairies at their gatherings, which is why the boys have to cover themselves with Fairy Dust to “blend in” and pass as fairies. It wouldn’t be too strange to assume that similar exclusion occurs in the Briar Valley, especially considering that fae are the majority and humans are the minority.

I want to take a brief moment to note that the behavior discussed in the previous paragraph is exclusive to fae. Beastmen and merpeople, two other races, engage with humans in a far less antagonistic ways.

We do sometimes see beastmen talk down to humans, typically on account of believing that humans are weak, but the beastmen we’ve observed so far have never attacked others simply due to not being of the same race as them. It seems that beastmen discriminate based mostly on whether or not they believe another person can hold themselves in a fight--it’s a very “survival of the fittest” viewpoint. Interestingly, Ruggie is said to be lacking in physical strength, but commands respect due to his reputation of being Leona’s (someone who is significantly stronger, and considered the “leader of the pack) right hand man. I wonder if hyenas (who appear to be on the lower social rungs of the Sunset Savanna) are also seen as somehow “weaker” than other beastmen, which may explain their place in the hierarchy (as the beastment we’ve seen so far seem to value physical strength).

Meanwhile, merpeople have arguably been the most amicable with humans and by far the most open to the idea of integrating with human society (though it hasn’t always been this way). This goes back to their history, which tells the tale of a curious Mermaid Princess that made a deal with the Sea Witch to obtain legs and explore the world above. That same Mermaid Princess would go on to establish a program for young merfolk to come to the surface to study and learn about land culture. There’s even a special bureau that hands out free potions that give merpeople human forms (1 potion lasts anywhere from 7 to 10 days), so long as those merpeople wish to migrate and/or establish careers in the world above. However, I do want to point out that merfolk DO seem to discriminate within themselves based on traits such as how fast they can swim (as Azul cites being bullied because he had bulky limbs which made him a slow swimmer). Again, this is a very “survival of the fittest” mindset, which I believe makes sense for both merfolk and beastmen, who are “wild animal” based races subject to the whims of Mother Nature.

It is only fae that appear to discriminate against non-fae (specifically humans) so intensely, and on a basis that extends beyond the “survival of the fittest” belief. They live in their own closed-off circles and believe that their own kind are “better than” those outside of those circles. Living longer, fae have more wisdom. Using magic all the time, fae have more skill. No human could hope to compare.

This part is pure speculation, but there have been mentions of a human-fae war in Twisted Wonderland’s history, and I wonder if the Briar Valley played a significant role in that (seeing as Lilia is described to be a decorated war veteran). If so, this may also be more evidence toward the internalized racism Sebek has developed. Regardless of who won or lost this war, if the Briar Valley took part in it, then its fae residents would definitely hold prejudice toward humans, who were on the opposing side. There might have been intense fear that developed concerning humans who have lived in the valley for generations, simply due to being of the same race as the enemies the fae were fighting. Such paranoia could very well have led into racist legal measures being implemented against humans, or fae turning on their human neighbors and reporting them under suspicion of being spies or traitors. This can go right down to what is taught to children in school: view the enemy and those similar to the enemy as outsiders, even hate them, while building up your own country and your countrymen as shining beacons. As horrible and as scary as all of this is, these are all real things that have happened and are happening during wars in real life--and children, being as pliable as they are, can easily buy into wartime propaganda.

UPDATE: Some of the things I said in the previous paragraph were confirmed in book 7. Briar Valley did, in fact, participate in the war, and they even lost their crown princess (Malleus's mother) in the conflict. The human invaders also ravaged the Land of Briar for its natural resources against the fae’s wishes. Due to how the continent is divided up in modern day Twisted Wonderland, it does appear that they were the losers in the war and had to give up their land to the human nations (though this part is just speculation; more on this theory here). I can easily see why the fae in Briar Valley might harbor and perpetuate disdain toward any non-fae, and humans in particular.

When Sebek tells us about his parents, he mentions that “there were many among [my mother’s] peers who opposed her marriage to a human”. In other words, there was a distinct social push against the union of people from two different races (which isn’t that hard to believe, especially seeing how “old-fashioned” the Briar Valley is implied to be and how fae appear to discriminate against other races in general). As offspring resulting from that union, Sebek may have faced considerable hardships in his childhood. He’s not like the other children (most of which, I’d presume, are either fully fae or fully human), he’s an anomaly. I wouldn’t be shocked to learn that Sebek might have been ostracized because of who his parents were. (In book 7, he is discriminated against by his own grandfather who calls him a “human” and derides him for lacking the Zigvolt family’s signature scales.) On top of that, he grew up in a society that seems to heavily favor fae and those capable of using magic--traits that don’t apply to his father.

Another detail which may have contributed to Sebek being looked at differently by his peers is that he was a late bloomer with his magic. It’s probable that others looked down on Sebek because he manifested his magical abilities late in life. Imagine years and years of being surrounded by peers that are just more skilled and talented than you, and they often treat you differently because of that. Whether it’s overt bullying (fighting, name calling, taunting) or subtle snubs (ie excluding him or giving strange looks), they would all hurt and deeply wound a growing child like Sebek who is still trying to make sense of the world and his place in it. Let’s also remember that he has an older brother and an older sister that he could easily compare himself to, and a (retired royal guard) grandfather with a great legacy to live up to. (Side note on Sebek’s grandpa: he is described to be very old-fashioned and discriminatory himself, so it’s possible his ideals rubbed off on Sebek, especially seeing as Sebek says he spent a lot of time in his youth at his grandfather’s.)

Of course Sebek would develop great shame for the half that is looked down on by seemingly everyone outside of his immediate family. Of course he would embrace the “superior” side of his heritage, the culture and air of righteousness that pervades his country. Of course he would shun his “inferior” side, going so far as to make no mention of it to others (note that it was Silver, who is fully comfortable being a full-blooded human raised by a fae, who outed Sebek’s half bloodedness, rather than Sebek himself). Of course he would worship Malleus, the epitome of the power and might that fae can wield. He’s seeking validation in his very VERY confused identity, which is a struggle that many teenagers in real life have to deal with.

I propose that this is how Sebek has learned to cope with the struggles of growing up half human, half fae: by rejecting his humanity and aggressively embracing being fae. All his boisterousness and the acting out he gets up to is him denying a part of himself. He’s projecting it to the world to see and hear--because if he says it enough times, and says it loudly enough, then surely he can convince himself that he isn’t somehow “less than” his fellow countrymen, right? (Or so that’s probably what Sebek tells himself.) It might not be the best way to cope, but it was, perhaps, the only way Sebek knew how to cope. When most of your country looks at you like you’re the strange one, how is a child supposed to fight back? He can’t--so with little to no other options, his psyche turned that hatred inward as a defense mechanism to protect himself and his ego.

This internalized racism helps explain why Sebek’s relationship with his dad seem so... strange (well, at least from the kid’s end). Sebek’s grandfather (from his mother’s side) is a retired soldier and war hero serving under General Lilia. His mother is also said to be highly proficient with magic since a very young age, and boasts strong principles and unbending conviction. Sebek is very proud of these parts of his family while expressing confusion at and criticism of his father, who is, by comparison, unremarkable. He notes that his father buys him sweets and snacks unprovoked, and showers the kids with attention and praise. It’s strange; Sebek constantly shouts about humans and how weak and insignificant they are at school, then in the same breath Sebek can communicate that he doesn’t “understand” his father, but he never directly insults him.

I don’t believe that Sebek hates his dad, but that his odd behavior toward him is a result of cognitive dissonance. Sebek (theoretically) resents his human blood because of how it is looked down on in the Briar Valley, but he cannot find it within himself to resent his father for it. How can he, when his dad has been nothing but doting and supportive to his entire family? Yet Sebek’s pride won’t allow him to outright acknowledge his love for his father, won’t let him show weakness or bend a knee to a “mere” human.

There’s also another angle to Sebek’s cognitive dissonance. How can his father—magicless and utterly unremarkable—be so carefree and content when Sebek has been told his entire life that magicless creatures are second class citizens? How can his father be so genuinely supportive of his children, who are capable of magic without becoming jealous? How can his father be so comfortable with himself, despite not being fae, despite not being able to use magic? By all accounts, the way his father lives and is satisfied with what he already has flies in the face of everything Sebek has been taught by the Briar Valley, and this totally baffles him.

In Sebek’s Union Birthday vignettes, we see just how much he really cares for his dad. When asked who he would pick to be with him on a deserted island (and it can’t be anyone from his own dorm), Sebek replies with Trey. Why Trey, even though he doesn’t seem to have any skills for surviving in the wilderness? Because (as Sebek himself states), Trey reminds him of his father. “No matter what I say to him, he would always talk to me without being fazed whatsoever.” Jack, Sebek’s interviewer, points out that his dad must have a big heart, and that he must be someone Sebek can rely on. To this, Sebek reacts with embarrassment and insists that he does NOT rely on his father, then rushes to move on to the next question.

It’s probably very strange to Sebek that his dad loves him so much, as it is likely a strong contrast to how those outside of his immediate family perceive and treat him. Society has taught Sebek that humans are inferior to fae, and yet here is a human that doesn’t care what he or Sebek is or isn’t. He just loves his family, and loves Sebek, regardless of what everyone else says or thinks of them. Sebek doesn’t know how to react to that, and it’s so off-putting. His dad gives him such pure and unconditional love, and I think that Sebek recognizes that, but he feels too ashamed to express his gratitude and reciprocate that unyielding love (which, I suspect, is due in part to all that internalized racism). It only contributes to his ongoing identity crisis--a crisis that, mind you, has him dividing people in "fae" and "humans" rather than "fae", "humans", "merpeople", and "beastmen. Why? Because Sebek is fixating on the two sides of himself, his "fae"-ness and his humanity... and lost in that conflict is himself and the connections he could have made with others. If you think about it that way, Sebek is not only hurting those around him, but he’s also (unintentionally) sabotaging himself and his relationships. It’s proof that racism is terrible for everyone involved, even the people perpetuating it.

Sebek never feels like he’s enough. He’s always rushing to get somewhere, rushing to prove himself in the eyes of others. He’s the last in the Diasomnia group to go to NRC, he feels the need to compete with and outperform Silver, his magic came to him late… and to top it all off, he’s questioning who he is: fae or human, both or neither? Now he’s overcorrecting, overcompensating, in an effort to be seen as someone worth having around. This is why he loudly declares his fae heritage and shuts down humans. This is why he is so desperate for praise. This is explains SO much about him.

So why did I spend several paragraphs detailing Sebek’s internalized racism to you? Because, as I’ve said earlier in this post, this is something that happens in the real world and it is not discussed enough in a lot of the media we consume.

I feel like Sebek’s dilemma can be very relatable, particularly to those struggling with an identity crisis of their own, be it those of mixed race, those hailing from unconventional family structures, or anything else which may make them “different”. Of course, this is NOT a blanket statement. Everyone does not go through the same struggles, and every person’s experiences are unique. I am only presenting my own speculation on how Sebek’s situation relates to the real world.

I know that I’ve personally gone through an identity struggle that looks a lot like how I theorized Sebek’s to be, so his character really hits close to home 💦 Without getting into too many specifics, I’m considered a minority in my country, and I’ve received a lot of ridicule because of it. I cannot count the number of times I’ve seriously been told that my native language sounds “weird”, been made fun of for my appearance (particularly my eye shape), stereotyped as smart just because of my race, or called insensitive nicknames. It got to the point where I started to resent my heritage (refusing to eat our foods, refusing to speak our language, refusing to learn about our history), which I saw as alienating me from my peers--but it seemed that no matter what I did, neither culture that I was a part of fully accepted me. The people I was trying to fit in with never considered me part of their group, and my extended family thought I was “different” from them since I was not born and raised in our home country. I was disconnected from my peers and my relatives. It felt like I didn’t belong anywhere. I can really understand what Sebek is probably going through, because I’ve lived it myself.

Now that I’m older and wiser, I look back at that period of my life and realize how toxic it really was. I’m reconnecting with my roots and coming to embrace and love the culture I grew up in, and the culture of the family that I was born into--both sides. But here’s the thing: people don’t always identify internalized racism and recognize it as something that is harmful (both to themselves and to the people around them). That’s why I’m hopeful for Sebek, what chapter 7 can do for him, and the important message it can send to the fandom.

ANOTHER UPDATE: 100 parts (and counting) deep into book 7 and yes, I can confirm now that Sebek's internalized racism is being confronted and he's being forced to reconcile with those difficult feelings. I may make a follow-up post on this topic.

It’s so, so easy to dismiss Sebek as a hypocrite (which, don’t get me wrong, he definitely is), but there is likely so much more nuance to it than just “he hates on humans even though he is half human himself” or just “he’s a racist and that’s all there is to him”.

Obviously, racism is wrong and should be condemned, but I don’t believe simply depicting a character as racist is necessarily promoting racism. As long as media is not outright glorifying it, racism can be used as a literary device to deliver an important message (which is, more often than not, an anti-racism one) to the audience.

It’s made pretty clear that no one takes Sebek seriously when he shouts about humans or acts hateful toward them. Other characters consistently either make fun of Sebek for acting so outrageously, or they outright call him out for his discrimination.

To me, this all reads as very blatantly and purposefully setting Sebek’s racist beliefs up to be shattered and proven wrong later. He’s representative of a social problem, and I hope that TWST will use Sebek to promote a positive message when his time in the spotlight comes around.

What message might that be?

To learn to love and accept yourself, and where you come from, in its entirety.

[amxrany]

More Somewhat Angsty Diasomnia Thoughts? Ask and I shall deliver

Didn't expect this post to get a lot of attention fast so to my new followers, hello 👋. Didn't post a lot this week since it was pre-finals plus I'm busy writing for our school newspaper. BUT, I shall make up for it with more angst ✨

A quick realization that Sebek and Silver suffer from identity crisis but in completely different ways. Sebek is more on not knowing where he belongs to because of half fae half human heritage (and probably because of his environment, he degrades his human side, pretty much saying he hates himself). While Silver is more on focusing on not knowing who he is as a person, with his entire being molded to suit other people, he slowly loses himself.

Lilia may have the love a parent must have but his parenting skills are very questionable ( in a sense that he's fit to be a parent, at the same time he isn't). Like seriously you can't leave a 10 year old alone to fend for himself while you're away Lilia 😭. But then again this can also be reflected with how Lilia was raised as well, he was probably left alone to fend for himself as a child, and applies that same thing to Silver as well.

Have you guys ever thought about the possible envy/jealousy Malleus harbors for Silver and Sebek, seeing that they didn't grow up isolated due to status; we can also add the part about Malleus's parents being missing from the picture, which could possibly be the reason why Grandma Draconia chose to isolate Malleus, seeing that they are the only two left in the Draconia bloodline. I mean if we think about it, none of their childhoods were normal, but at least Sebek and Silver get to experience what it's like to be kids. As well as not being treated like an object and just as a regular person, people also fear Malleus which is why nobody approaches him but they approach his guards...

Sebek is literally holding diafam together like glue and I feel bad 💀. I mean he has his own set of issues, but he's also a wildcard on what will be his role for Chapter 7. Seeing that his main motif is the lightining of Maleficent, which could possibly symbolize his devotion for Malleus. BUT he could be the Shield of Virtue to Silver's Sword of Truth, which could symbolize them being each other's half (soulmate behavior) as well as a possible rebellion towards Malleus, seeing that these two weapons (well mainly the sword but the shield does have its uses) were used to slay Maleficent. But what could be the trigger for all that to happen 🤔?

Silver's devotion for his father and master will be put to the test in Chapter 7. Alright knowing that Chapter 7 is brewing something that's gonna wreck this found family to pieces, what if Silver is being forced to make a hard choice, a choice that involves his real origins? LIKE IF WE LOOK AT ENDLESS HALLOWEEN, WE KNOW SILVER LOVES HIS FAM SO MUCH, but what if it all changes due to a hidden truth which leads to betrayal?

In conclusion, Diasomnia needs ✨help✨

[darkscorpiox]

TWST — Diasomnia’s arc predictions (small spoilers from Ignyhide’s arc)

For months, even before the conclusion of Ignyhide’s arc, I have pondered on how Diasomnia’s will be unravelled. In a previous post, I’ve pointed out the similarities he shares with Aurora and theorized that her narrative will be seen in Malleus’ journey before he overblots and become the Maleficient who makes the princess a prisoner of her own dreams. Some fans might say that since he’s so magically strong, there’s no way he would overblot easily, but it can be said the same about Leona who overblot despite not having overused his magic. But if not an overblot form, then what if it’s instead his true fay form? Will we see him as a dragon? That would be cool either way.

I also wonder about the other Diasomnia members, especially Silver and Sebek.

I’ve been curious about the silver/white-haired teen since the introduction of the game’s characters and I heard his line.

“It’s strange. I feel like I’ve met you somewhere before.”

Where have I heard that before? Wait…

“But don't you remember? We've met before. […] Once upon a dream.”

There might be a connection between him and Yuu. Silver is symbolized by a sword and told Yuu was skilled with said weapon. Either Silver will be the Philip to Yuu’s Aurora or the “sword” which will help them in their fight to save Malleus.

Then we have Sebek. He’s a child of mixed ancestry (half-fairy, half-human). Despite his human father’s unconditional love for him, the latter only has contempt for his parent. Knowing the negative opinion of the fay population about humans, it’s no wonder Sebek hates the other half of his heritage. That might be why he idolizes Malleus. Adding the fact that his symbol is a lightning bolt, a certain image comes to mind.

When we’ll go against Malleus, I think Sebek will be one of the obstacles, believing it is his duty to follow his Lord in all of his endeavors, overblot or not. And Silver will be his opponent. Sebek would see Silver’s opposition as an act of betrayal toward Malleus, fortifying his hatred for humans, while Silver would argue that Sebek’s blind loyalty to Malleus is not helping the latter, maybe comparing it to a wall of thorns keeping him from getting the help he needs (for the sake of reference). Maybe Lilia, as the leader like the red fairy, Flora, will convince Sebek to switch side which will lead to this scene below.

Maybe Silver will land the final blow or it might be Yuu.

Speaking of Yuu, at first, I thought they would be in Aurora’s position, but what if it was Lilia instead? I mean, while I love the relationship between Yuu and Malleus, I don’t think they are close enough yet to push Malleus over the edge if anything happen to his first friend. Plus, in Ignyhide’s arc, Lilia had mentioned the probability of not living for long soon. And if anything happens to him, Idia, as his internet friend, would have a more personal reason to join into the battle.

I’m kinda worried that if Yuu could FINALLY get back to their world and it’s one of those one in a thousand years kind of magical circumstance, Malleus would sabotage the process and ruin Yuu’s only chance in their LIFETIME to go home, and that would totally destroy their friendship (possibly beyond repair) and breaking Malleus’ heart, leading to his overblot (does it have yandere vibes?). Maybe Yuu would for the first time fear him.

Oh wow. Whether the cause of Malleus’ overblot will be Lilia or Yuu, we know the feels will be strong.

[megan-is-mia]

I'm so glad the applications are open! I needed my fix of yandere TwT so could I order 25 from Manipulative, 11 from Delusional and 11 from Smothering for Yandere Lilia? I really like the idea of ​​Yan Lilia consoling her darling for something that he caused in her

(Okay so i couldnt decide if i wanted post war MILF or during war MILF... so i gave you both)

11. “I really can’t take it when you cry like that… smile for me, alright? You’re so pretty when you smile.” 11. “Let me see that pretty smile.” 25. “Be good for me this time. I don’t want to see you cry again.” (Fem! Yandere! Lilia Vanrouge x Male! S/o)

The last few centuries or so of Lilia’s life had been rather peaceful. Long gone were her days as a merciless general crushing foolish humans who tried to stand against her mistress the Thorn Witch. Her days now were quiet, spent in a cottage deep in the woods. Her charge Malleus was all grown up and the beloved king of the realm now. Sebek had also grown into a fine young man, eventually quieting down and learning to appreciate both sides of his heritage. She missed Silver most of all, the days she’d spent raising her human foundling seemed to have gone by in a blink of an eye. Lilia could not have beared to see her beloved child’s body slowly wither away with old age as all humans did. So she’d blessed him with a sliver of her own life, gaining him life as long as he wanted it. She often thought about her brood and the exciting days spent at Night Raven College all that time ago. The ancient fae was nostalgic, nostalgic for the feeling of having someone under her care. However for a long time she did nothing with that feeling, just letting it weigh her chest down like an anchor in the sea. Until… he had appeared. Sweet, beautiful (Y/n) was like a siren’s call to her aching heart. He was just what she needed and she could not wait long. So she had taken him, deep into the woods to her cottage. Nobody would find them there, nobody could find them there unless Lilia wanted them too. Oh how (Y/n) had cried as she snatched him from the arms of a pretty young lass with ribbons in her hair. She had cooed over him, petting his head soothingly as he wept in confusion at this situation he had found himself in. He had begged, how he had begged for the fae to return him to his bride to be, the one who he called his true love. For some reason hearing these words made a rage bubble in Lilia’s gut and she had struck the boy knocking him to the floor.

“Oh sweet one, I'm so sorry” she’d crooned, scooping the young man up into her arms as her wrath subsided. “I must have lost my temper there, you’ll have to forgive me” she went on rocking the boy who continued to sob now from pain instead of just sorrow. “I really can’t take it when you cry like that… smile for me, alright?” Lilia wheedled, pressing kisses to (Y/n)’s face and soothing the pain of his cheek which still stung from the force of her palm. With a bit more coaxing the youth’s features finally pulled up into a weak smile with tears still streaming down his face. “Awww, what a lovely sight this is. You’re so pretty when you smile” she said encouragingly. Eventually (Y/n)’s cries subsided as he fell asleep in the fae’s embrace. Lilia gently carried him to bed and tucked him in like she’d done for her charges not so long ago. Many hours passed before the young man finally stirred and when he did the ancient fae was eagerly waiting with food to spoon into his mouth. Without having much of a choice in the matter the boy had eaten the food though it tasted like ashes on his tongue. Lilia found herself unable to keep her hands off him, wanting to constantly shower (Y/n) in kisses and embraces. She wasn't sure what was making her feel this way for the longest time until one day months later it hit her. Love, for the first time in her long life she had fallen in love. The revelation made her want to fly for joy and run off to tell Malleus of the news. She restrained herself however, she couldn't jump to conclusions too quickly. She might love (Y/n) but did he love her? That was something the ancient fae was not sure of. He was obedient at least, willing to do as she told him around the house. The young man didn’t resist her attempts at affection letting himself be squeezed and covered in kisses. Maybe he felt the same way she did and was waiting for her to say something first. With those thoughts in mind she rushed away to find him, feeling as eager as a young maiden in spring. A thousand joyful scenarios ran through her head, all of which came crumbling down when she finally found him. He had run off into the woods and the maiden with ribbons in her hair was with him. Lilia watched the pair from the trees, the two promising that they’d be together once more after (Y/n) found a way to fully escape his captor. The two moved in for a kiss and the ancient fae felt rage bubbling in her guts once more. Next thing she knew she was on the ground with blood on her hands and the sound of screaming filling the air. At her feet was the head of the maiden with ribbons in hair, the girl’s body laying limp a few meters away after being thrown there by Lilia. (Y/n) stood still as a statue staring at the ancient fae. His shirt was covered in blood having been sprayed with the liquid as the fae ripped his beloved’s head from her body. He barely dared to breathe and tears were starting to form in his eyes ready to fall. “Oh sweet one dont cry it's okay, that nasty girl won't hurt you anymore” Lilia said, her voice soft and soothing as she brought her bloody hands up to the boy’s face to wipe at his eyes.

“Let’s just go home okay? Please be good for me this time. I don’t want to see you cry again” she cooed, taking one of (Y/n)’s hands and gently leading him back to the cottage. She cleaned them both off, not leaving even a spot of blood on either of their skin before pulling the young man into her lap. “Sweet one you know I love you. I love you so much and all i want to do is make sure you’re safe” Lilia crooned, rubbing the youth’s back as he trembled like a wet kitten. “Just let yourself love me, it will be okay” she finished repeating her actions until the boy finally stopped quivering. “Let me see that pretty smile, you know how much that smile of yours warms my heart, sweet one” Lilia said, holding (Y/n)’s head in her hands. The boy gave her a weak smile, even weaker than the one he’d given the day she’d taken him. She didn't mind though, and she smiled back before kissing him tenderly. One day soon this would all just be a bad memory for the young man and he’d wonder why he’d ever tried to leave her loving embrace in the first place.

THE END

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To most people she was the dreaded right hand of the Thorn Witch, the merciless general Lilia Vanrouge whose appearance on a battlefield meant annihilation for any humans that tried to fight back. However to prince (Y/n) she was something even worse. (Y/n) didn’t know when or how it had happened but he’d accidentally attracted her attention. When the Valley of Thorns had conquered his home and the rest of his family had been dragged off to meet their makers he’d thought he’d share their fate. However Lilia had taken him away from the rest to be her personal conquest.

In the privacy of her tent, the general was a totally different person. He’d expected her to be just as brutal in private as she was on the battlefield, and that he would be used as a stress-reliever in the form of a punching bag. He was a stress-reliever alright but not the kind he thought he’d be. Lilia would return from her day covered in dirt, remove her armor and it was like a switch had been flipped. “Hello sweet one! Did you miss me?” she’d coo before sweeping (Y/n) up into her arms and peppering him in kisses. “Yes I missed you mommy” he said, internally cringing at that last word as it left his lips. He hated calling her that but she was very insistent on the matter. (Y/n) repeatedly refusing to call her mommy had been one of the few times she’d raised her hand against him in violence. He couldn't exactly recall what she’d done to him but by the end he had been sobbing heavily and more than willing to obey her demands. “Be good for me this time. I don’t want to see you cry again” Lilia had crooned as she used magic to soothe away the pain her prize felt from disobeying.

Back to the present she was currently going on about something that had happened in battle that day. A human had apparently almost gotten the drop on her before she crushed his head into a pulp against a rock. The graphic details were very much unnecessary and (Y/n) covered his ears when it got particularly gory. Lilia let out a light laugh at this reaction of his before giving him more kisses. “Mommy missed you so much sweet one! Especially that lovely grin of yours” she said, squishing the young man’s cheeks affectionately. “Can you let me see that pretty smile please?” she cooed, nuzzling him gently. Obediently (Y/n) pulled his features into an expression of joy hoping it would be good enough for the ancient fae. Apparently it was and she let out another laugh before setting the young man back on the ground and went about getting dinner. Thankfully she left the creation of such things to her underlings now. The few times the boy had been forced to consume Lilia’s own cooking had made him want to vomit all over the place. The fae woman would have her food brought to her then hand feed bits of it to (Y/n) like he was a child.

Once dinner was over Lilia would lay down and read for a spell before finally going to sleep. Most nights she would have (Y/n) snuggle up next to her as she read and she would read it aloud to him like a mother might to their babe. When she tired of reading and finally set the book aside she would pull the blankets up over the both of them with the expectation that the young man would cuddle with her to sleep. At the start he had also resisted sleeping with her, though on this matter he’d given in before she’d been forced to raise her hand. Sometimes as he lay beside the general, (Y/n) wondered why he hadn’t tried killing her yet and escaping from this place. He knew the reason why he didn't lift a finger against her though he lied to himself about it. The young man told himself that he didn't try anything because she would surely stop him before the act even began. The price of trying to kill her would be too high, and not worth the physical harm he’d suffer. The truth was… he had grown attached. Some disgusting, weak part of him depended on the fae and he was sure he’d not survive without her. Maybe… on some level he loved her. As horrible as that thought was, it was the truth and as the thought drifted through his mind his eyes began to water. Before he knew it the lights were back on and Lilia was holding his face with a worried look. “What’s wrong sweet one? Why are you crying” the fae said, soft and gentle as can be. He’d sniffled and shook his head before hiding his face in her chest like a little boy. Lilia hadn't pressed him any further on the matter and merely stroked his hair as she hummed a lullaby. “I really can’t take it when you cry like that… smile for me, alright? You’re so pretty when you smile” Lilia said as the sounds of sobs subsided and (Y/n) lifted his head from her loving embrace. He stared at her for a long time before his mouth slowly split into a huge smile, one full of sorrow and reluctant regret for the feelings that were starting to take root in his heart. “Mommy…” he began then trailed off as he looked off to the side not sure if he wanted to finish his sentence. “Mommy… I love you” (Y/n) finally said before dropping his face back into Lilia’s bosom. He wasn't able to hide for long before his face was being yanked up and covered in kisses by the fae woman. “Oh sweet one, I love you too! I love you so much!” Lilia proclaimed back between copious kisses. “This makes it all worth it, getting rid of your family and burning down that annoying little kingdom of yours” she went on before covering her mouth like she had said too much. There had been a time not so long ago when hearing this confession would have made (Y/n) angry. Maybe even angry enough to try and hurt Lilia. However hearing such things now made him feel nothing. He didn’t care anymore about the place that he had once called home. The only thing (Y/n) a former prince cared about was being a good boy for his mommy. As long as he had Lilia’s love and approval the entire world could go down in a mass of flames and fae conquest… THE END

[bellevuewatreeservice]

Local Tree Care Company Donates Service For Memorial Tree – San Marcos Corridor News

Local Tree Care Company Donates Service For Memorial Tree San Marcos Corridor News Heritage Tree Care has donated time and services to help the River Walk Committee care for the Tree of Honor in Veramendi Plaza. From left are Jean Mooney, Bette Taylor, Sue Cobb, Bobbie Gilbert, Beverly Owen, Robert Cotner, Carmen Imel, Jerry Sebek …

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[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

If ‘shrimp’ and ‘herbivore’ have more of a derogatotive connotation according to your theory, then what about vil’s whole potato thing? I kinda thought it would explain that in chapter 5

[Referring to this theory!]

Yes, I wrote way too much for this and yes, I did research potato and cucumber plants just to write this overanalytical post--

To quickly summarize: Vil calls Ace “Potato 1″, Deuce “Potato 2″, Epel “Baby Potato” and the other Pomefiore first years “Fresh Potatoes”. He has also called Sebek “Cucumber” before.

In some languages, potatoes are referred to as “earth apples”, which ties in with Pomefiore’s whole apple and Snow White vibes. However, that’s not where the importance of “potatoes” ends. If we observe the structure of the potato plant itself and how it grows, I think we can come to a more meaningful conclusion behind Vil’s use of the term.

The potato plant is comprised of two main parts: what can be seen and what can’t be seen. The potato itself grows underground, while the stem, leaves, and flowers are all above ground. I think this can be a metaphor for how Vil sees the “potatoes”. They’re still immature, they still have room to develop--much like potatoes that are still buried in the dirt, collecting nutrients and growing to their full potential. This would also explain why it is mainly first years that Vil calls “potatoes”. First years are young, and most haven’t got their shit together yet. For example, notice that Vil does not call Jack a potato. This may imply that Vil denotes him as somehow being at a different state of maturity than others roughly Jack’s age.

Another anomaly in Vil’s nicknaming is Sebek, whom he calls “Cucumber”. Why is that? Well, besides the obvious (Sebek and cucumbers are both green), I believe this could be referring to Sebek’s own arrogance and standoffishness. He’s seen as being very proud and talks down to his peers because they aren’t in Diasomnia. Heck, Sebek even acts inflammatory and competitive with Silver, who is in Diasomnia. Sebek’s arrogance has definitely rubbed people the wrong way on more than one occasion, and it’s a trait that others, like Riddle, have commented on. Now let’s look at the cucumber. It’s a plant that grows fast, even without care or input from farmers. Similarly, Sebek often acts brazenly, as though the thoughts and opinions of his peers don’t impact him (unless it’s Lilia or Malleus, though sometimes even Lilia is ignored). Vil doesn’t call him a potato; Sebek is something different altogether because Sebek thinks of himself as different/above them (because of his dormitory, half fae heritage, etc.). The cucumber plant, likewise, is typically taller than potatoes--cucumbers are above potatoes. Lastly, try growing potatoes and cucumbers together, and they will fight for nutrients (with cucumbers in particular increasing the chances of potatoes becoming blighted with disease). This circles back to Sebek generally not getting along with his peers, or his arrogance just getting in the way of socializing with his peers normally.

Okay, what about the people Vil doesn’t call any sort of vegetable? You can say that Vil respects them or acknowledges their maturity enough to lay off on the potato name calling--but what about Leona, whom Vil notably argues with? Firstly, let’s make one thing clear: no one, not even Vil, is perfect. Vil himself states that he is always looking for the next best thing, something to elevate himself, to keep improving himself. This is true for every character; they don’t just grow out of being potatoes and then suddenly become “perfect”. Vil not calling someone a potato doesn’t mean he likes them or thinks they’re perfect. In this case, I think it has more to do with age than whether or not Vil likes someone. He may not enjoy engaging with Leona, but Leona is still technically his senior--and while Leona is definitely the type to talk others down regardless of age or status, Vil is not. He’s classier with his disses--

Continuing the potato analogy, let’s now discuss the visible part of the potato plant. A farmer knows that a potato is ready to harvest (without uprooting the potato itself) when the stems, leaves, and flowers all dry out. As we know, Vil has very stringent standards and believes in working hard to achieve one’s goals rather than using magic or other means to get what he wants. He has similar views when it comes to other people, as seen with the various lessons he delivers to the first years and Pomefiore students on etiquette, makeup application, skincare tips, etc. They may complain or whine, but Vil insists that they must do X, Y, and Z in order to achieve some goal down the line. In this instance, he is the potato farmer trying to cultivate the potatoes. He wants to put them through hardships (the lessons) so that they can mature (their stems, leaves, and flowers dry out) and graduate from being a “potato” to being a “person”.

One last thing to note is that potatoes are a very versatile vegetable. They can be mashed, they can be fried, they can be a thickening agent, they can be pureed, they can be lots of different things. This may sound counterintuitive to what Vil does (as he’s usually telling other people how to correct something about themselves), but it’s actually not. Yes, Vil has his own standards and wants others to adhere to them, but Vil doesn’t tell people to erase what or who they once were. He informs Epel that his views on masculinity and femininity are outdated, but he never once tells Epel he needs to forget about his roots as a farm boy, and he never insults Epel’s background. Vil knows a person can be many things at the same time: he is beautiful but also strong and excels academically, and Epel can be cute but also ferocious in his own way. My point here is that the first years have the potential to be whatever they want to be, without necessarily having to sacrifice old parts of themselves to “grow”. or having to completely conform to others. Like the potatoes absorbing nutrients in the ground, they’re taking their pasts with them as they grow and change.

Thus, “potato” encompasses Vil viewing younger students as being immature, but acknowledging that they have the potential to become something more.

***Bonus trivia***: The Japanese word for potato, 芋 (imo), can be a slang term used for many insults, usually to refer to someone else as a “hick”. In this sense, potato can be very derogatory. However, given the type of person Vil is, I don’t think his use of “potato” is meant to be taken this way.

[irafuwas]

I've also always been perplexed by Briar Valley's glaring lack of updated knowledge about their neighbors. I suspect that maybe the fae's warped perception of time might play a part in the matter.

If we consider that Briar Valley has little to no modern technology despite presumably being a very ancient society, and that several decades could feel as short to them as a day or two does to us, they might not actually even be aware of how much time has passed since they last gathered information on the surrounding human societies, nor the great extent to which these societies have quickly changed in that amount of time. Perhaps they even figure that since everything is still exactly the same in Briar Valley as it has been for lord knows how long, then everything in the outside world must be unchanged, as well.

All just my personal speculation, of course. 🤔

Regarding Sebek’s siblings, it’s not confirmed how old they are, but I feel there’s probably a good-sized age gap between them. He said they helped him reel in fish when he was small and he couldn’t keep hold of the fishing pole, and they would cook up the fish they caught together, so I imagine they would be quite a bit older than he is if they had to do those things for him when he was young. And taken with his comment about Silver being his only acquaintance from his generation, then I agree that he’s probably the little baby sibling and his older brother and sister might’ve been teens or adults when he was young.

Either that, or his comment about Silver being his only acquaintance from his generation actually meant that Silver was his only same-aged friend, and there were other kids around but they weren't friends with him for whatever reason.... 🙁 Sebek and Silver vaguely mention other kids in Lilia's Scary Dress Vignette (Silver says, "Out of the children who watched Lilia's dance that night, I heard there were some amongst them who wet their beds." and Sebek says, "It was so horrifying that children and adults alike were shaking in fear, and they fled home where they awaited, shivering, for that nightmare to end.") and I always felt that meant there were other children around? Either that or they were actually just referring to themselves, but didn't want to admit it (Lilia mentions in one of his voices lines that Sebek and Silver always wet their beds on Halloween night).

And I don’t understand why Peepaw chose to raise Silver in such a secluded environment. Trying to think of explanations for it just makes me even more worried about what we’ll find out in Book 7... I’ve considered that maybe Lilia was concerned about how the other fairies would treat Silver if they went and lived in the town (considering how the fae don’t seem to look kindly on humans as a whole), but Silver always only has such nice things to say about fairies, so I’m not sure they were ever directly mean to him? He extolled their kindness during the Fairy Gala ~if~ event, and he’s never mentioned anything about the faeries in Briar Valley treating him differently because of his heritage. Or maybe Lilia was forced to leave town after he brought back an infant Silver from his last expedition, and the Queen punished him by making him go live on his own at the edges of society. She could have even forbid Silver from attending school with fairy children and forced Lilia to raise him as the child soldier that he is. That would be operating under the theory that Silver is perhaps a long-lost prince from an enemy kingdom, or that he possesses some power that is a threat to the Queen’s family. Idk any explanation I can think of for Silver’s bizarre upbringing isn’t a happy one 😞

Anyways, sorry for rambling on your post. I do hope we get a firmer understanding of the Briar Valley society once Book 7 drops. I would also love if we could get a Briar Valley-centric event one day, like how we’ve had one for Harveston with Epel or Scalding Sands with Jamil and Kalim.

Briar Valley's Education System

"I learned all of this in middle school. Briar Valley is superior even in its educational curriculum."

I haven't been able to get this line from Sebek's Lab SR out of my head for the past day, and now you all get to hear about it.

I. The Students

Sometimes I wonder if the following is a plot hole, a 'lost in translation' effect, or if we're deliberately being fed unreliable information and Ch.7 will finally reveal the missing pieces— but how on earth is there a middle school in Briar Valley if Silver and Sebek were the only two children of their generation?

Perhaps I'm taking the terms 'middle school' and 'generation' too literally, but it doesn't make sense to me when we know that Sebek has siblings, wouldn't they have been considered the same generation as him? (The only other possible explanation I can think of is if his siblings are fae, thus potentially much older, and he was the only child from his mother/human father, but I'm not sure if that's already been disproven— someone correct me if so!)

I guess it's possible that Sebek could have been privately tutored or still attended a 'school'-like setting with a private instructor, but the real point I'm striving towards is that there was a supposed public institution for education, and Lilia deliberately did not send Silver off to attend as we know that Silver was homeschooled— why? Wouldn't he have wanted Silver to engage with children his own age, even if that was only Sebek? Which of course, raises more questions to me in particular about what is the real state of how humans are treated in Briar Valley?

II. 'Superior' Curriculum

This phrasing got a chuckle out of me especially with the current Scalding Sands event. I understand that at every opportunity, Sebek will find a way to extol the virtues of his culture and kingdom, but Briar Valley is actually so far behind in its understanding of the world around them. We know from Malleus' lines in the event and in his card that what he believes to be true about the Scalding Sands is information that is practically decades, if not centuries, old. I'll reiterate from a previous post, but it is astounding to me that Malleus is allowed to represent his country with misinformation that could make him look foolish to other nation representatives— however, that's not his fault, but a byproduct of the fact that Briar Valley is so insular despite having such tensions with their neighboring human nations. One would think that they'd be keeping tabs on what the humans are up to, but it's rather strange that they're not after such bloody history.

So, is their curriculum actually superior if it doesn't even teach the most up to date information about the current events in Twisted Wonderland? I'd hardly say yes, especially when being aware of what's going on around you, particularly for those in leadership positions, is of utmost importance. Again, I just wonder if these views of 'superiority' are ones held mostly by Sebek as he tries to navigate his identity, or are still widely held by the fae population of Briar Valley? Is that why Lilia isolated himself with Silver to educate and train him away from judgmental fae eyes?

There's just a lot of underlying tension I think that can be seen in many of the Diasomnia voice lines that make me wonder what life is truly like in Briar Valley, and if we'll ever get to see it through a human perspective.