#TAL Education

[broodygaming]

C2 Spoilers

it drives me NUTS when people say that Taliesin and Matt decided together backstage to kill off Molly. It makes 0 sense and it's ??? just such an unnecessary rumor to spread. People on reddit often spout it like it's just a known fact. Like, as if Taliesin didn't famously complain about having to pull all nighters over a busy weekend to roll and conceptualize a new character cuz he had ZERO backup. As if Molly didn't JUST have a huge lore drop and was clearly building to be a major focus of the next branch of the story. As if Matt didn't have LOADS of lore and planning already done that he had to to redo and reconfigure to fit with the Tomb Takers going and exhuming Molly to continue their plans. Matt said he had this whole thing where Lucien was gonna show up in a different body and hunt down the M9 to kill Molly and take his old body back. He SAID that!

Idk why this drives me nuts. It just feels... almost disrespectful. Like. Y'all. Taliesin isn't a baby. He fucked up. It's okay. He made a dumb choice in the heat of the battle and doubled down and it got his character killed. Things escalated and there wasn't a healer and it's JUST as simple as that. Stop making shit up to justify something that only SEEMS LIKE IT'S ORDAINED because these people are talented story tellers. Blowing all the work they did to reconfigure the story and just HAND WAVING and being like "they planned it ahead of time" is just rude. If it all seems preplanned it's cuz Matt busted his patootie off and reweaved a frayed tapestry into a beautiful work. Happy accidents and all that. CMON.

[somegrumpynerd]

Fun fact: best french word is l'hôpital

[jazzdailyblog]

Alan Dawson: A Drummer's Drummer and Master Educator

Introduction: The world of jazz drumming is filled with numerous influential figures, each contributing uniquely to the evolution of the genre. Among these legends, Alan Dawson stands out not only for his extraordinary skill and versatility as a drummer but also for his profound impact as an educator. His ability to blend technical proficiency with deep musicality made him a sought-after…

[clearholidaysindia]

Suraj Tal Tourist Spot in Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

Suraj Tal is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Nestled between the majestic mountains, this beautiful lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. If you’re looking for offbeat places near Suraj Tal, you’ll find plenty of hidden gems waiting to be explored.

One of the best places to visit near Suraj Tal is the famous Rohtang Pass. This high mountain pass offers spectacular views and thrilling opportunities for trekking and photography. You can enjoy the fresh mountain air and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Another nearby attraction is the picturesque village of Keylong, where you can experience local culture, delicious food, and friendly people. Walking through the village gives you a taste of life in the Himalayas.

For those who love adventure, the stunning Chandra Tal Lake is a must-see. Known as the Moon Lake, it is famous for its unique shape and vibrant colors. This lake is perfect for camping and enjoying a peaceful night under the stars. Overall, the places to visit near Suraj Tal offer a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making your trip to this region unforgettable.

[fables-if]

The Night of Ataegina and Betatun

A high fantasy interactive fiction story based on Spanish mythology, folklore, and paganism. Set in modern-day Spain. Most locations and all the characters are fictional, except the type of fae that will be seen during the story.

Summary:

After leaving Imeria during your eighteen birthday to chase your dreams and college education, you return to the little village in Southern Europe that saw you grow up after receiving the horrible news that Caterina, the old woman that took you in after the death of your family and your adoptive grandma (or yaya, as you call her), is terminally ill and has a few months left.

During your return, Imeria is set in motion to host an ancient festival and masquerade. It’s supposed to honor two ancient Iberian deities, one called Ataegina, ruler of the underworld, and the other one Betatun, deity of fertility. Most Imerians don’t believe in the ancient legends but those who do, like Catelina say that it’s the most dangerous night of the year because the frontier between the mortal and the magic realm is so thin anything can happen. 

Returning home under the threat of Caterina dying is already hard enough, but will you be able to adapt back into Imeria and rekindle old friendships or form new ones? Will you uncover the deep and rich history of your home and the old magic it carries? 

We shall discover it all very soon.

Features:

Customizable mc: Gender, pronouns, and physical appearance

Build friendship or romance with four characters.

Learn more about Spain's folklore and pagan traditions. Uncover your family history and your abilities.

Develop your MC's personality as you go

Two characters are gender locked but you can choose the gender identity of the other two

Your choices can't be undone and will have consequences.

Characters:

Caterina: An older woman, well into her 80s who took in the MC after most of her family died. She doesn’t seem to have a family of her own, or at least that’s what Mc believes. Caterina has a sweet disposition, always up for helping anybody. She raised MC with the stories of the folklore of their village, so she will always know how to honor the traditions of Imeria. MC doesn’t remember very well what she did for a living but she used to do fortune and tarot reading for some villagers and they usually came to her for advice and help. 

Ana: She runs The Golden Apothecary, a small store where she sells traditional remedies. Her family has run the Apothecary forever, and it’s considered a family craft. Ana has golden shoulder-length wavy hair, almond ocean-blue eyes, and a button nose. She’s no taller than 167cm, with a voluptuous body and soft features. Ana is in her late 20s to early 30s.

Personality-wise, Ana is soft-spoken, sweet, and very open-minded. She strikes to accept everyone with open arms, as long as they’re good people. Unfortunately, some individuals mistake Ana’s kindness with weakness, which is untrue. Ana is extremely smart, stubborn, and strong-minded, she’s always kind but only to those who deserve it. She can be a lot to reckon with if she deems you a bad person. Ana dreams of seeing the world but there is something tying her to Imeria.

Supernatural or not (spoiler):

Ana is a Xana, a river spirit that helps those she finds worthy by offering them pure water or gold. Some people believe that Xanas interchange human babies with fairy babies. As a river spirit, Ana can’t be apart from her river or she’ll suffer horrible consequences.  She met Caterina when Caterina was a young maiden and bathed in her river. Ana saw the purity of her soul and gifted her magic. Xanas are mythological creatures that originate from Asturias, a northern region of Spain with strong Celtic influences.

Anne, An or Antón: Anne/An/Antón works on their family farm along with some of their siblings. The Zamora’s farm supplies Imeria with its fresh produce. Everyone knows the family since they’re a happy and amicable bunch. Anne/An/Antón is pretty tall, around 185cm, they have wide shoulders, a big frame, tan skin and are chubby. The shape of their face is round, with little freckles, big green eyes, long eyelashes, and a hooked nose. They have short straight brown hair and are a bit hairy.. Their voice is deep and loud, almost booming, exactly like their laugh. Anne/An/Antón is super extroverted, knows everybody in the village, and has a sunny and sweet disposition. They are super strong, from all the physical labor but their secret hobby crocheting, they’re always making little dolls for the children of the village or making clothes. In general, they’re super well-liked and have a golden heart. Anne/An/Antón is the MC's childhood best friend and neighbor. Unfortunately, after leaving Imeria they didn’t keep in touch. Anne/An/Antón is 25 years old. 

Supernatural or not:

Anne/An/Antón is an Ome, a mountain spirit, and a giant made of rock that turns into mountains after living for many centuries. Their whole family is made of Omes graznidos. Omes Graznidos are a type of mythological creature that originates from Aragón, a northeast region of Spain surrounded by mountains.

Diego, Diana, or Dix: Diego/Diana/Dix is new in Imeria, they have been living in the little village for less than a year. Nobody knows where they came from, they remain a bit of a mystery for everyone. They set up a popular lounge called “The Velvet Moon” in the middle of the village, very exclusive and chic which clashes with the rest of the decoration of Imeria. Still, the young Imerians love the place. They’re 31 years old but look slightly older. 

Diego/Diana/Dix is of average height, standing around 174cm, they’re pretty slender, with a petite frame and olive skin. They have an angular face, with sharp features, long shaggy black hair, and clear eyes that almost seem silver-colored. Diego/Diana/Dix keep mostly to themselves and can be seen riding their motorcycle around the village. They have a limp and can be seen using a cane. As mysterious as they are, they’re pretty talkative once you get to know them, and are very protective of those they love. Diego/Diana/Dix seems to be interested in the MC, since they’re always watching them, and seem to have a secret that they don’t want to share with anybody. They are very self-reliant, have learned to survive by themselves and have a hard time trusting others, but once you have earned their trust, they’re loyal to a fault. 

Rumors say they have a criminal past and are mixed with a bad crowd, but not everything seems as it is.  

Supernatural or not (spoilers):

Diego/Diana/Dix takes the form of a giant spectral dog, with long black hair and a permanent limp, which is called dip by Spanish folklore. They’re supposed to be emissaries from the devil and they suck the blood of the livestock at night. However, not all legends tell the entire truth. 

Bingen: Bingen lives in the forests near Imeria, where he has a small cottage and a little bit of land where he has a vegetable patch. Bingen is a well-known journalist for online newspapers. He’s an ecologist, and his coverage is mostly about the natural world and ecologism. 

Bingen barely sets foot in Imeria, he is auto-sufficient but he comes down to the village to visit Ana and her apothecary, and to buy a few things he needs.

Bingen has a square jaw with high cheekbones, sharp green eyes, and long blonde messy hair, usually kept in a braid. He has a sweet face with a straight nose, and round brown eyes that resemble a little lamb. He’s the tallest of the bunch, 1’90cm, very muscled from all the exercise, and has a big frame. He loves hiking and is very in touch with nature. Bingen has a hard time socializing, preferring being around animals and plants since he understands them better. He, as intimidating as he looks, is a sweetheart and really craves human connection. Bingen is not talkative but expresses his feelings and emotions through his actions. He might have a hard time telling you he cares about you but he’ll help you install furniture or will make you soup when you’re sick. He always shows up when you need him to.

Bingen recently led a rescue of a few teens who got lost in the forest and saved them from a wolf attack, since then a lot of the villagers have respected him a lot and brought little sweet treats to his cottage. He's in between 27-33 years old.

He has struck a friendship with Ana, who frequents the forest often.   

Supernatural or not (Spoilers):

Bingen is a Basajaún a creature that inhabits the forests of The Basque Country, Navarra, and some parts of Aragón. Basajaúns are described as giant hairy men who protect the livestock, and warn shepherds of wolfs during the night. Basajaúns are seen as protectors of the forest but also creatures of great strength and kinda dangerous. 

Rami: A green weasel-like creature, with a long and flexible body, similar to a snake, and little tusks. They’re friendly and sweet and help guide the MC during their adventure. Rami’s fur has healing qualities. 

Extra:

This project is made by an absolute amateur in coding so it's going to take a long time. I have been writing since forever so I trust in my ability to create a good and entertaining story and I hope you guys stay for the ride.

The Night of Ataegina and Betatún is also going to be a surprise gift for a dear friend of mine who absolutely loves Interactive fiction and this project (if I get to finish it;_;) might be the way I ask her out since we both harbor strong feelings for each other. So let's hope she doesn't find out about the project before it's time.

[abr]

Dunque, riassumiamo i mantra:

- l'attentatore di Magdeburgo è islamobofo,

- quello di Trump era repubblicano,

- Salvini con la sentenza a non procedere perché "il fatto non sussiste", ha subito una clamorosa sconfitta - sic tal Giannini su Ripubblica, domani,

- le multine ai novax eran benecomuniste educative e andavano tenute, quelle ai monopattini no e van tolte,

- le auto elettriche subito, senza se e ma, basta sian cinesi e non di Musk,

- le tasse sono belle e fanno il benecomune (imperituro).

Ecco come si sono ridotti.

Meglio Negazionisti che creduloni psicopatici autoespulsi dalla realtà.

[thewardenisonthecase]

Something very dear to me in DAO, when it comes to Sten and then Qun is that, unlike the next games, it doesn't feel like the Qun is portrayed in that much of a negative of a light?

Sure, some of its issues are still adressed. Sten will ask 'how are you a woman if you fight' to leliana, morrigan, wynne and a female warden, and it highlights the gender roles in the Qun, but considering that if you play as a female warden you get ask/told again and again that there aren't a lot of wardens or that people are surprised you're a warrior (cof cof howe mentioning its unusual that bryce would train a female cousland as a warrior cof cof) i don't have much complaints with that. it is what it is. And at least, you can stand up to Sten when he says those things.

I think the only time i was like 'ok that is fucked' was when Sten brought up how the Qun treats its mages, because even when he talked about how everyone under the Qun has a role, he doesn't talk in a way that makes you feel like this is some sort of extremely bad and rigid thing. In fact, Sten makes the argument that its better because then people don't have to spend their life trying to fit in into something they're not (and lowkey, Wynne expressed similar sentiments when she talks about that it's better to embrace the role/destiny that the Maker gave you than fighting against it).

But what really drives home to me about home to me is that, at some point, Alistair asks the Warden how they feel about the other companions and when talking about Sten, there's a possbility for Alistair to say that, in the way Sten talks about the Qun, it doesn't feel as vile as the chantry makes it out. And you gotta keep in mind that Alistair spent a good portion of his life living in the chantry, so for him to say that, for me, is a big deal on how the Qun is portrayed through Sten.

I think about this a lot because I honestly was like wow, besides a few things, the Qun seems lowkey to be pretty good until we got to DAI and there was the whole thing with re-education, and hunting tal-vashoth (which, its adressed in DAO, but i feel like they were much more subtle about it). Like heck, even in DA2, I don't think the Qun itself is portrayed that badly, because 1) the Arishok doesn't do shit to Kirkwall until he's provocked like 3 different times and 2) Kirkwall is a shithole, so when he talks about the city, he lowkey makes sense.

Idk. I really liked how the qun was handled in DAO because of Sten and his perspective, and then in DAI and DATV I was just going 'yikes' most of the time.

[dragonagekeeper]

Dragon Age Inquisition Polls

See choice descriptions from Dragon Age Keep below

Adaar

You are Tal-Vashoth, a Qunari who has rejected the Qun and never even lived in Qunari lands. As part of the Valo-kas mercenary company, you have earned a living by your own wits and the strength of your blade, ignoring the fearful looks you receive from those around you.

2. Cadash

A cast-off "surfacer," unwelcome among the dwarves or most humans, you have scraped by as part of a criminal fraternity known as the Carta, smuggling magical ore known as lyrium. As part of the ruthless Cadash crime family, you spent your life on the streets of various Free Marcher city-states.

3. Lavellan

If Mage:

The Dalish are nomadic wanderers who strive to keep the ancient elven religion and traditions alive. You grew up in the wilderness, a member of the Lavellan Dalish clan and apprentice to its leader and guide, the Keeper.

If Rogue or Warrior:

The Dalish are nomadic wanderers who strive to keep the ancient elven religion and traditions alive. You were raised in the wilderness to be a hunter, relied upon by the Lavellan clan for food and protection.

4. Trevelyan

If Mage:

Born to the Trevelyan noble family of Ostwick in the Free Marches, you were originally intended for a life of privilege—until magical abilities surfaced at a young age and you were forced into a life of confinement within Ostwick's Circle of Magi. Protected but stifled, educated but isolated, the Circle would have been your entire future had the mages not rebelled against Chantry rule.

If Rogue or Warrior:

As the youngest child of the Trevelyan noble house, you grew up in the Free Marcher city of Ostwick and have enjoyed a life of privilege. With close family ties to the Chantry, and many relatives among the priesthood and the templars, you were always expected to follow a similar path in service of the Maker.

[anneapocalypse]

Demands of the Qun, or How the Inquisitor's Choice Answers the Iron Bull's Most Important Question

I was having a chat about the Iron Bull and his personal quest with some friends and one person said in response to something I said that I should make it a Post, so here it is! And a usual disclaimer: this is not about which in-game decision is "correct"--it's an RPG, there's no wrong way to play the game. I just want to talk about the meaning of this decision for Bull's character and for his future.

Dragon Age: Inquisition’s “Demands of the Qun” is, for me, one of those quests where the RPG format of “player character makes major decision for companion character” really works. I do not see this as an example of game mechanics taking away agency from an NPC. I think Bull has agency in this situation.

The Chargers are not Inquisition soldiers. They are mercenaries, and Bull is their commander. If the Inquisitor makes a call he doesn't like, he is free to say "Screw you" and take his people and leave, because they are not soldiers, they're independent contractors, so leaving isn't desertion, it's just quitting. If he were already certain he wanted to leave the Qun, he could simply call the retreat himself, take the Chargers and leave. Similarly if he were certain of his loyalties and willing to sacrifice the Chargers for that purpose, he could do that, regardless of what the Inquisitor says.

He lets the Inquisitor make this choice.

The Iron Bull has had one foot out the door of the Qun for a long time now. But he's gone back and gone back, submitted himself for re-education and done his best to keep serving the Qun, because he believes he needs the Qun. To him, becoming Tal-Vashoth means losing himself, his identity, his purpose, his very sanity, and as the Fade tells us in "Here Lies the Abyss," this is quite literally his greatest fear. Bull could never bring himself to leave the Qun with nowhere to go instead, nothing to give his life purpose and meaning—and no one to entrust himself to should he doubt his own sanity.

But in his work in the south, the Iron Bull has found community and identity and purpose outside the Qun. The very name he has given himself speaks to that, as does his close relationship to the Chargers.

Right from the beginning, there is tension in "Demands of the Qun." Bull remarks that he's gotten used to the Qunari being "over there" during his life in the south. I think Bull has a very potent anxiety when he meets Gatt again on the Storm Coast, and introduces him to the Inquisitor and their party. To me, it very much has the vibes of introducing two friend groups, where you're not only pretty sure they won't get along, but you're also very aware that they know very different sides of you—and neither of them are going to like seeing the other side. Bull's discomfort is visible both when Gatt speaks freely about Bull's work in the Ben-Hassrath, and when the Inquisitor's other companions make disparaging remarks about the Qun. His two worlds have collided, calling into conflict two sides of his sense of self that he has thus far managed to avoid confronting.

And this is likely part of the point. The Qun does not truly respect alliances with any outside the Qun. I wouldn't say for sure that the Qunari set up this whole situation just to test Bull—it's possible they knew exactly how many Venatori would show up, but they couldn't have known precisely how the Inquisition would respond. That, and their desire to root out the Venatori is no doubt sincere. But I do think they are watching Bull's actions very closely throughout this proposed alliance, gauging his loyalty. Gatt tells him outright that many already believe he has betrayed the Qun.

Bull's internal conflict quickly becomes an external one when the Venatori reinforcements show up, and Bull is faced with the decision of whether to withdraw the Chargers or defend the dreadnought at the cost of their lives.

The thing is, Bull is not neutral on this. He tells the Inquisitor what he wants. He wants to save the Chargers. If the Inquisitor says that the Chargers still have time to retreat, Bull agrees. When Gatt tells him they need to hold position, he says in a low, intense tone, "They're my men."

And then, when Gatt tells him in no uncertain terms that calling the retreat will make him Tal-Vashoth, the Iron Bull looks to the Inquisitor.

Again, he is not neutral. He knows what he wants. He is standing there basically begging the Inquisitor with his eyes to save his boys.

So why doesn't he just make the call himself?

Because just as this whole situation is in part a test of Bull's loyalty, this is also a test of the Inquisitor.

What Bull needs to leave the Qun is not simply for someone else to make the choice for him, but to believe that there is a future for him outside the Qun. That he will still be himself, that he will have purpose, and meaning, and that someone else is worth trusting. Bull cannot bring himself to leave the Qun if it means he will be left utterly alone with nothing but his own mind and his deepest fears. And if that's what leaving the Qun means… then in his mind, it would be better to stay.

The Inquisitor's choice will answer that question.

To sacrifice the Chargers leaves Bull with nothing outside of the Qun. He has just watched his closest friends die, and he cannot trust the Inquisitor. With Krem and Rocky and Skinner and Stitches and Dalish and Grim, the new sense of self that the Iron Bull has found in the south also dies.

Of course he turns back to the Qun. He has nothing else left.

But if it's the Inquisitor who makes the call to save the Chargers… Bull can leave. He has friends who care about him. He has purpose. He has someone whose command he can trust. He has hope. None of this makes the choice easy for him. It is quite clearly very painful and difficult, and I don't think there's any way it could be otherwise. But he has a way forward nonetheless. The choice makes leaving possible.

The Inquisitor doesn't force the Iron Bull to become Tal-Vashoth. Instead, Bull implicitly asks a question, and the Inquisitor by their choice gives him an answer.

[tiredfoxtf]

Tango probably has experience dating. He should take Joel on a date. For educational purposes. They hold hands. For educational purposes.

Tango explains that a date can be whatever you want it to be, there is no protocol for it. Romance is kind of an arbitrary concept anyway. Joel still insists on doing traditional couple things.

...for educational purposes.

Tango always had a hard time saying no to people he wasn't indifferent towards. Gem would call him a pushover on more than one occasion because of it, but Tango really didn't mind her friendly teasing. Tango was just an open person. Who is he even kidding, as soon as Joel asked Tango knew he was going to say yes, no matter how much the rational part of his brain yelled at him to decline. He at least tried to give Joel room to back out on his own. But as soon as Android noticed that Tango wasn't saying no right away he insisted on his "proper date". And Tango is so screwed, he is in the trenches, fighting mentally for his life with the rational part of his brain. He knows he does this because it's Joel, he knows that he didn't give a negative answer because he can't say no to Joel, he knows that he is going to be a wreck on this "education date" because had a rent free space in his head and the perspective of holding Joel’s hand even as purely experimental thing made Tango's heart pump the blood too fast. And Tango was overthinking it, he was fixed on the hundreds of different likely and unlikely scenarios that this event will entail. He was so warped up in all of it that he literally had to make a list and then rate all of them on their likelihood of unraveling to somehow calm himself. Unfortunately for him, the ones that he might be afraid the most — that he will confess to Joel practically immediately — was more likely than not.

Joel was looking forward to it. The emotional responses he was getting were not unusual: nervousness and enthusiasm of encountering a new experience, a slight awkwardness of not knowing exactly what he is supposed to be doing and hope mixed with guilt. He knew Tango's inclined to say yes to him, he was really good at noticing at how bad the human was at declining something for his friends. And he knew Joel was kinda using it against him on purpose. He really wanted that date with Tango to happen. So he let himself hope that Tango was somewhat as well. Joel really liked watching Tango stumble on his words as his face was covered in hues of pink and red.

They settled on watching a movie together at Tango's, because Joel really isn't supposed to be in public a lot, as per his job. Which sucks for Joel, he would like to see the movies in theaters for once. But Tango worked hard to make up for it, by setting everything up meticulously book definition of romantic date. Which honestly made Joel incredibly happy. He was expecting to feel more out of place, but Tango did everything to make it feel like he belonged. Just little things like expressing how candles as a light source has been seen as something inherently romantic only for the last couple of centuries, only after they became the inferior to gas laps and electric laps. Only to go on a long tangent about rational use of power and conservation of energy, seemingly forgetting how he got there by taking a putting back on the shelves same 3 scented candles. It was always charming how easy it was for Tango to wander back to something he had extensive knowledge on. Tango initiated a lot of contact that made Joel’s head spin with how much sensory input he was getting, he was holding his hand, he was rubbing his shoulder, he was getting so very close to his casing, he held his hands on his waist, he was brushing his hand against Joel’s cheek. And he made it clear that if Joel wasn't comfortable with something he could back out. But Joel honestly couldn't get Enough.

Everything was going great and according to Tango's insanity induced detailed list. He was a bit dreading that he would be the only one talking or initiating contact, but Joel actually picked up pretty soon. Touching Tango's hands and back mostly. But it was huge for android who literally never engaged in romantic activities. So Tango went at his pace to let him take in everything. But Tango was slowly losing it with every reciprocal move an touch and every compliment or bickering flirt they had fallen into. Honestly it made Tango's stomach twist like he was in love for the first goddamn time, which is so stupid. They decided on a movie to watch. Of course Tango suggested a bunch of classics amongst which were some of his all time favourite romantic comedies and drama. And there were some horror movies too, but he embarrassingly went on to ramble how he didn't get it what was romantic of scaring your partner for some cuddling and generally it's a stupid idea. Which Joel listened carefully and added on some of his own thoughts on the matter. But it wasn't until around half an hour into the film where Tango started to truly panic. Tango was leaning into Joel, holding and making a circular moves on android's knee and Joel had an arm around his torse. Tango could feel his pulse rise when Joel either consciously or to mimic Tango started rubbing circles into his thigh with a thumb. Tango moved his head to the android's neck, he could hear the cooling units pick up. He knew that neck was a sensitive area, he hooked that one up for Joel himself. So he breathed into it, a deep full breath, to let know, to give a chance to say something. But Joel only moved his hand to trace Tango's inner thigh, a little timid and gentle, but it was a non-verbal acknowledgment and encouragement to keep going. So Tango braced his own little caged heart and kissed Joel’s neck. It wasn't big, but it was tender and definitely longer than a slight peck. Joel’s cooling system became louder, because Tango could feel the way heat has become ever so intense. And Tango just couldn't help himself but to kiss his neck again. Okay what. He hasn't planned this remotely. Oh no, he is off the script. If he continues he can do something that would be impossible to explain with "education purposes". So instead of looking into Joel’s eyes, Tango retreated, to his position before. Joel’s hand stopped, but hasn't let go of him. Tango has all the chances to save his sorry skin out of it. Just be normal.

While Joel’s processor runs faster than ever before and all he can think about is a phantom feeling of lips on his neck.

[mllemaenad]

Okay. Hang on. Wait a minute. Just a minute ago you gave me this codex entry:

The official story of the Qunari attack upon the South holds that the "Dragon's Breath" plan to attack the south was a rogue action against official Qunari orders. This is true, but it is not the whole truth. The Salasari, Triumvirate of the Qun, represents the Qunari people: the Arishok commands the Antaam, the military branch that represents the body; the Ariqun leads the scholars and priests, representing the soul; and the Arigena guides the craftspeople, representing the mind. After the Breach wreaked chaos across the South, the Triumvirate suggested caution and sent a Qunari representative to observe and report on the Inquisition. But some in the Antaam and the Ben-Hassrath believed their leaders lacked the will to end the threat. Dragon's Breath was indeed unsanctioned, but it was not unpopular. Qunari who had fought the blood mages of Tevinter had learned to fear all magic. They wanted a fast solution. When Dragon's Breath failed, the surviving Ben-Hassrath spies surrendered. In contrast, the Antaam insisted that Dragon's Breath had failed because it did not go far enough. The bas, they declared, did not merit education under the Qun. They must be conquered or destroyed. When their Arishok, who had fought darkspawn in Ferelden during the Fifth Blight, argued against this demand, his own kithshoks declared him corrupt. They ambushed the Arishok at the war council, leaving him badly injured. And then the bloodthirsty Antaam went to war, a body now bereft of mind and soul. —Excerpt from Marloqun: The Loss of Reason by Seer Rowan of Dairsmud – Dragon's Breath and the Antaam Schism

These aren't "Tal-Vashoth" in the traditional sense. They're not a group of rebels or mercenaries who have rejected the Qun. This is a religious schism. The Antaam insist that "Sten"/the Arishok is corrupt – that he's doing the Qun "wrong" because he's defending the bas, whom the Antaam no longer believe are worthy of conversion to the Qun.

This is more in line with, say, the White and Black Divines: both the Orlesian and Tevinter Chantries will insist that they are Andrastian, and that they are the ones doing Andrastianism "right", while the other Chantry is "wrong".

The Antaam, as I understand what has happened here, should very much believe that they are the true followers of the Qun, and that the people back in Par Vollen are fucking it up royally.

This ... kind of just feels like an attempt to paint them as evil? We don't have to contend with why they believe what they do, or even put together a coherent philosophy for them to follow. They're just ... mean, bad, nasty people who follow the elven gods for some reason.

[pondering-gales-left-orb]

this was originally tags on a re-blogged post but i had so much more to say so here we go

THE QUNARI AND WHY YOU ALL SHOULD BE NORMAL ABOUT THEM

the qunari story and lore drives me insane with how the fandom treats them

because we see them form the eyes of feraldans and orlesians and kirkwallers we never get a look form the inside

we only see what they see and they only see the military side so ofc to them they think they are all rigid and strict! even when you try to know more from the qunari we meet, they only talk about their training and military life which is normal ask any army soldier about his daily life and he wont talk about the flowers he saw walking down the street obv

the three Qunari characters that we see are literally the military convoy dispatched to another kingdom, the fucking president who is also the leader of the military forces, and the secret police guy (not even mentioning the actual straight up army and army general we meet in trespasser) why would they present as anything but scary intimidating and imposing when talked to by strangers??

everything anyone is gonna tell that is bad about the Qunari im gonna tell you you dont know if every single Qunari does these things do they all believe in force conversion? the Full Qun is not taught fully to everyone you only get taught the relevant parts to you and your potential, only the priests know it all, so how many Qunari actually know and agree with the actions of the secret police and conversion army?

the military and police training even in our world includes a great deal of unlearning kindness and care and relating to people and involves a great deal of dissociation but do regular people do that to?? do the Qunari people learn to disconnect the same way a ben-hassrath does? the logical answer is no because why would a baker or a shoe maker or a tailor need this heavy military training?

both Sten and iron bull once they get to know you TELL YOU that you cant judge the qunari based on them only, there are a whole nation of regular people in there that just living their life they do not have the harsh life the military trained have, they laugh around the fire and enjoy life in their own way and its different but not at all at the same time

the fucking arishock himself tells you you cannot inquire about regular qunari life from him because he is not a regular person he is a military man -the leader- he didnt live the life you are asking about he didnt learn the answers you need

when Wynn says to Sten "your people dont seem like music people" and he calls her out on that saying" based on what how do you know that?" and proceeds to tell her that he is not the equivalent of his people not every person is like him and he doesn't represent the nation as a whole they have music and art they have fun they have a beautiful life just not him in that moment because he has a job to do away from all that

in the fade you see his memories of relaxed qunari having fun and laughing and making fun of each other and that's STILL his military coworkers

do you think a regular ass Qunari that's like a cook in a tavern is gonna talk so much about the re-educators the same amount as bull?? do you think they even interact with them beyond childhood education (aka school....the part of the qun they need to be a cook)

all three of them ask you is that bad? is that worth destroying like your people think? do you think they are savages like your people think? compelling you to think beyond them to the people of par vollen

and im sad the fandom doesn't think about these questions critically and just generalizes the military experience on the nation of Par Vollen and by extension the Tal-Vashoth too

for example do you think the baker in par Vollen wants the Tal-Vashoth dead or is it just the military leaders? i bet if you go to a par Vollen vegetable seller and tell him "the Arishok is going to hunt Tal-Vashoth tomorrow" hes gonna blink twice and then say "alright....anyway so are you gonna buy something ?"

the transition of iron bull from Qunari to Tal-Vashoth is supposed to show you that regular people on both sides don't reflect the military goals of the leaders they both just want to live a fulfilling life how ever different that is from what we consider a fulfilling life and we get to see what that looks like to Qunari through the tender moments shown to us like with Sten and the whole charges and the bull story, the ones who want them dead are the military

but no the fandom has decided All Qunari bad All Qunari fascists or whatever as if the military goals of the chantry are better somehow

but then they give andrastian people grace they dont afford to the Qunari even though they are both regular people that follow two beliefs that doesn't consider the small folk in anyway shape or form as anything but fodder to further their ideology but one of them only has their death justified and accepted while the other are allowed to live and are given a plethora of excuses

[degenerateworm]

holaa, me encanta como escribes y queria pedirte tal vez algunos headcanons de pocketcat (el lector le corresponde en sus sentimientos)

I am so sorry my beautiful anon, I am as thick as a brick, and I only speak English. I am very sorry to disappoint, and I'd love to answer your ask precisely, but I'm afraid I only have a basic level of education.

From what little Spanish I know though, and the admitted help of the ever dubious Google translate, I think you are asking for headcanons for Pocketcat with the reader reciprocating his feelings?

Do tell me if I am wrong! And thank you for your request, my friend!

---

Pocketcat, with his ever delusional outlook on life, would absolutely adore a reader that reciprocates his feelings.

This would admittedly put the reader in a safer position with him, as he feels he does not need to force his love upon them in any dangerous ways, rather he would come waltzing up to them looking for kisses that his partner would gladly give.

He purrs so loudly and so hard around you often, even on sight! When you hold him, you can practically feel the vibrations in his chest as he becomes a happy little truck motor.

"Prrr... You know just how to spoil a partner!"

Get ready for SO much purple cat hair on every item of clothing you own!! Nothing is safe from his shedding, not even the inside of your mouth.

And biscuits!

If you ever get him into a state of absolute relaxation, with maybe some pets and kisses to his soft little head, his paws will start to knead on any available surface.

He is rather strong, so you will have to notify him if he starts to push too hard, or if you can feel the prick of his claws through your clothes.

"Oops... Ah, I just got a little too excited..!"

And it wouldn't be Pocketcat without something perverse, now would it?

Pocketcat LOVES to have his hands on you, at any possible time. An arm slung over your shoulders, wrapped around your waist, cradling your cheeks...

And you're just so adorable in his hands, how can he not go further..?

Expect to be pinned against various surfaces often, caged by Pocketcat's large, furry form, with his hands tugging impatiently at your clothes.

"Oh darling... Huff... You're just irresistible! Be a good partner... Huff... Take care of what you caused, hm..?"

---

I won't go into full nasty as you hadn't requested it, but I hope this was acceptable! Thank you for your request!

[flan-tasma]

He didn't love you (Alastor x GN!Reader)

💖~ I think this is the first time I've written for Alastor and it's not that fanon. I don't know, I hope I did well.

I really like the idea of this type of love where they don't really love you, but they have you.

Warning: angst, toxic relationship, Alastor being Alastor | English is not my native language, so if I have made any mistakes in the translation, I am open to corrections | Content in spanish and english!

Spanish:

Imagina a Alastor cuando estaba vivo. Te conoció por azares del destino y no pudo dejarte ir nunca más. No te amaba, no había espacio para un “tú y él” en su corazón, pero tenerte era divertido. Sus palabras serían dulces, cordiales, siempre sabría lo que necesitabas escuchar y te endulzaría el oído para mantenerte a su lado, para que fueras leal como una buena mascota.

Tal vez funcionó, tal vez fuiste su mascota preferida que siempre ladraba cuando él quería y le dabas la pata cuando te lo ordenaba. Probablemente fuiste muy obediente y por eso sintió que te necesitaba aún más. No te amaba, pero sentía la necesidad de llevarte en su bolsillo a todos lados, ponerte un collar que solo él podría quitar cuando ya no te quería. Y eso no pasaría pronto.

Entonces conociste a alguien más, alguien más dulce, sensato y gentil. Alguien realmente gentil, y eso lo mató. Su sonrisa encantadora tembló al verte junto a ese bastardo, sus manos se hicieron puños y su sangre hervía por todo su cuerpo.

Nadie supo lo que ocurrió esa noche, nunca nadie te volvió a encontrar y nunca supieron con quién fuiste. Pero Alastor compartiría ese secreto contigo, esa cena y la despedida definitiva que eran solo suyos, porque definitivamente no serían tuyos. Sintió placer al ver al bastardo triste por tu desaparición, pero ese era el castigo que Alastor eligió para él. Tal vez no estabas tan enamorada de ese hombre entrometido desde el inicio, tal vez tu interés solo fue mera educación y por eso desapareciste sin dejar rastro.

Alastor no lo llamaría un crimen pasional, no te amaba en primer lugar. Pero le pertenecías incluso si no estuviste de acuerdo, eras parte de él aunque no quisieras y él se encargó de ello. Alastor no te amaba, pero prefería verte muerta que siendo la patética mascota de alguien que no fuera él.

English:

Imagine Alastor when he was alive. He met you by chance of fate, and he couldn't let you go anymore. He didn't love you, there was no room for a “you and him” in his heart, but having you was fun. His words would be sweet, cordial, he would always know what you needed to hear and he would sweeten your ear to keep you by his side, so that you would be loyal like a good pet.

Maybe it worked, maybe you were his favorite pet that he always barked when he wanted and you gave him your paw when he told you to. You probably were very obedient and that's why he felt that he needed you even more. He didn't love you, but he felt the need to carry you in his pocket everywhere, put a necklace on you that only he could take off when he no longer wants you. And that wouldn't happen anytime soon.

Then you met someone else, someone sweeter, sensible and gentle. Someone really gentle, and that killed him. His charming smile trembled when he saw you next to that bastard, his hands became fists and his blood boiled throughout his body.

No one knew what happened that night, no one ever found you again and they never knew who you went with. But Alastor would share that secret with you, that dinner and the final goodbye that were only his, because they definitely wouldn't be yours. He took pleasure in seeing the bastard sad over your disappearance, but that was the punishment Alastor chose for him. Maybe you weren't so in love with that meddlesome man from the beginning, maybe your interest was just mere education and that's why you disappeared without a trace.

Alastor wouldn't call it a crime of passion, he didn't love you in the first place. But you belonged to him even if you didn't agree, you were a part of him even if you didn't want to, and he took care of that. Alastor didn't love you, but he'd rather see you dead than let you be the pathetic pet of someone other than him.

[gyldowen-draws]

OC Meme: Dathrash

I was tagged by @ezriell! Thank you so so much for the opportunity to gush about my boy, I've been looking forward to it all day 😋

GENERAL

Name: Dathrash -> Tamassran Eva -> Saarebas -> Tal Vashoth -> Aldwir -> Rook (They've had a lot of names over the course of their life lol)

Alias(es): Rook

Gender: Male-ish (It's complicated)

Age: 29

Place of birth: Qunandar, Par Vollen

Spoken languages: Qunlat and Trade, with some Elvhen

Sexual orientation: Gay

Occupation: Leader of the Veilguard

FAVOURITE

Colour: Purple 💜

Entertainment: Spending time with their teammates

Pastime: Taking care of his plants, reading philosophy, doing yoga

Food: He has no idea how to cook, but will eat pretty much anything (after three years of nutritional slush while his mouth was sewn shut, he views every meal as a blessing)

Drink: Tea! 🍵🫖 (Probably too much of it. This man is pushing upwards of eight cups a day. Please send help.) Recovering alcoholic.

Books: He prefers non-fiction and philosophy. He tried to join the book club but couldn't finish any of the books. He does help edit Bellara's writing though!

HAVE THEY

Passed university: It's complicated? From my understanding of qunari society, they do more of a trade school ting based on your role/job. But he is highly educated and was in the final year of his student teaching before his magic manifested (they're a late bloomer)

Had sex: Yes. They had their coming of age ceremony under the Qun, but didn't have much time to visit the tamassrans after that (too dedicated to their work). After escaping his chians though . . . let's just say he went a lil wild . . .

Had sex in public: If the back alley of some Minrathos bar counts, then yes 👀

Gotten tattoos: No. He's had one bad experience with needles and that was enough.

Gotten piercings: No. See above lol

Had a broken heart: Yes, but not from romance. They loved their job and students, and loosing that and becoming saarebas broke their heart.

Been in love: Not until Davrin 🥰

ARE THEY

A cuddler: Most definitely. The gods did not give this man the body of a giant teddy bear for him not to use it! He's very comfortable with easy and platonic touches with freinds. And with Davrin? Cuddle city bay-beeee

Scared easily: Oh yeah. He's had to become the master of doing it scared, cause he's constantly in over his head and not feeling great about it

Jealous easily: Not really, though he wouldn’t be too happy if someone got too handsy with Davrin. Hating confrontation though, he’d probably wait till they’re alone to bring it up with Davrin.

Trustworthy: Yes. He's very earnest and sweet, so if he gives you his word, he'll follow through or die trying. The only time he's a little chismoso is when he's talking to his plants in Qunlat lol

FAMILY

Sibling(s): None

Parents: None, though he was pretty close to his first tamassran

Children: Eventually he and Davrin settle down and start a family 🥰

Pets: While living in Qunandar, they had a pet tropical bird named Pekapp after it's favorite snack! After Veilguard, Assan and a family of griffons is pretty much all he can handle, but I could see him getting another bird.

And tagging @fret-not, @elfmaid, @soturoayami, @void-floyd-art, and @linposter. Feel free to fill this out, but no pressure! Also if you see this, consider yourself tagged >=)

[voelene]

What languages do the team know ?

I mean, they all speak trade, of course, but let's think about the other languages.

Harding : according to the wiki, Ferelden only uses trade now, the alamarri language abandoned for centuries. But she might speak some dwarven dialect, even as a surface dwarf. She also could have picked up some Elvish words, Avvar, or Orlesian from her travels with the inquisition.

Neve : Tevene is obvious. As she doesn't seem to operate outside Minrathous from what we know of her, I think that's it (I might wrong, haven't read the missing comic where she appears)

Taash : depending on wether she is Tal Vashoth or Vashoth (and what her caretakers taught her in this case), she might speak Qunlat or not. She speaks Rivaini, obviously.

Lucanis : Antivan is no brainer, but he very probably picked up Tevene, having spent some time there for his venatori contracts. He might have been taught other languages during his education (while not a spy, it could still be useful to listen on private conversations)

Bellara : as much Elvish as is possible to know for a modern day Dalish. Apart from that, her drive to learn could have led to other languages, but I can't think of a specific one.

Davrin : some Elvish too. We don't know where he hails from, but depending on his former clan preferred hunting grounds, he might know the related language (same with Bellara)

Emmerich : Nevarra doesn't have a related language in the wiki, but they probably have a distinct language to go with their very particular culture (and they probably have ten different terms to speak about a dead person depending on the freshness of the corpse and how it was entombed). But as a scholar, he very probably knows other languages, at least in their written forms.

I know it's not very important, but I want to know who will react when Lucanis calmly insult someone in Antivan, or who will be able to spy on evil magisters or qunari invaders. I want Taash to go on a tirade in Rivaini for five minutes and everyone being "can you start again in a language we actually understand?", while Emmerich just goes "I can translate if you wish".