#actually I can. he’s a crow. crows hold grudges

[iwritenarrativesandstuff]

I can’t believe Monty out-pettied Edwin in episode 6

[wendichester]

Can I ask for a small imagine/oneshot/drabble of Dean listening to his autistic s/o ramble about their special interest in animals and his s/o genuinely gets so excited that Dean is actually listening to her because in the past her ex-boyfriends always dismissed her rambled or told her to stop because it annoyed them :(

ೀ⋆｡˚ funfact,

summary. dean could listen to you talk for hours. literally

pairing. dean winchester x autistic!reader

wordcount. 427

notes. thank you so much for requesting this lovie! hope you like it 🩷

Dean never thought listening could feel like a privilege.

But then, there’s you. Sitting cross-legged on the motel bed, eyes shining, hands moving wildly as you talk about animal behaviors like it’s the most fascinating thing in the world. To you, it is the most fascinating thing in the world. And to Dean—well, watching you light up like this is becoming one of his favorite things.

"And did you know octopuses can change color not just for camouflage but to express emotions? Like, scientists think they might use it as a form of language!" You pause just long enough to catch your breath before diving right back in. "And crows? Crows are insane! They can recognize human faces, solve puzzles, and even hold grudges! Imagine pissing off a crow and having an entire murder after you for life. That’s so cool."

Dean grins, chin resting on his hand as he watches you. "You got a hit list of crows somewhere I should know about?"

You giggle, rocking slightly as you continue. "Not yet, but if I did, you’d be safe. Probably."

He chuckles, shaking his head. He doesn’t interrupt. He doesn’t zone out. He just listens. And you notice.

Somewhere between explaining the difference between jaguar and leopard rosettes, it hits you—he’s still looking at you. Still engaged. Actually listening. Not faking it. Not zoning out. Not shifting uncomfortably like he’s waiting for you to shut up.

Your voice falters. "You... you’re not bored?"

Dean frowns like the thought is ridiculous. "What? No. Why would I be bored?"

You hesitate, fingers twisting in the blanket. "Most people don’t... like it when I ramble. My exes used to tell me to stop. Said it was annoying."

Dean’s expression darkens, jaw tightening. "Yeah? Well, your exes sound like idiots."

Your breath hitches.

He softens immediately, reaching for your hand, rubbing his thumb over your knuckles. "Sweetheart, you get so excited about this stuff. It’s adorable. And, I mean, you actually know your shit. I’ve learned more about animals in the last ten minutes than I have my whole damn life."

Your face warms. "Really?"

Dean squeezes your hand. "Really. Now, tell me more about those killer crows. Kinda feel like we should be watching our backs."

A beaming smile spreads across your face, and you dive right back in—because he wants to hear. Because he listens. Because for the first time in forever, you don’t feel like you’re too much.

And Dean? Dean just leans back, watching you, thinking he’d listen to you talk forever if you’d let him.

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[yourtypicalhuman09]

Hay 👋 I have a request if you don't mind.

So I love crows. They are very smart and loyal, hold grudges and debts. They can learn to talk and are smart like a 5 or 4 year old human. It also seems that they are getting Smarter. Also dangerous. They gard nests of Robin's from predators and when the eggs hatch they kill and eat the babies. They teach each other and their babies even about who is good and who is bad. They are also known for adopting. I found a video of a crow who adopted a kitten, the crow protects and brings insects and meat to the kitten.

I'd like to ask for a yandere Batfam with a meta reader who turn to a crow.

Imagine it's being a bat!mom or more so a crow!mom. Or maybe a sibling. Imagine them being one of the older siblings.

It's up to you actually.

Ahhhh this is such a cute idea! thank you for requesting this! I'll try my best to write this idea! I've been researching some facts about crows for some deeper ideas and I found that crows are highly social and mostly stay in groups, consisting of family members and other crows who are mutually benefited, where even juvenile crows help their parents raise their young and parents mate for life. Crows are also very goal oriented and understand cause and effect, so they do certain things to get a certain outcome. crows are actually so cool lol! Anyways I did so much research for this on both crows and the batfam time line so I hope you all enjoy!

P.S. I wrote this in 2nd compared to the 1st person i wrote my main fic in because i wanted to play a bit with povs so i hope you don't mind.

Birds of a Feather

(Yandere Batfam x Meta Crowmom Reader)

!!TW!! Choking!! Cursing!! Mentions of Cheating!! Death!! This is an AU!!

You and Bruce met long ago, you were just a young fledgling with no one to call family. You're parents long abandoned you, raising a meta was not what they signed up for, leaving you to fend for yourself in the cruel alleyways of Gotham. You were savaging for food in a nearby garbage bin when you heard a loud

BANG!

The startling noise was followed by the broken sobs of a young boy. You carefully flew over and gazed solemnly upon the tragic scene, having seen the cruelty of Gotham's streets before you understood the gravity of death. you softly placed a wing upon the boy's shaking shoulders offering some comfort in such a heartbreaking moment. The boy had something you never did, a loving family, and it was taken so cruelly in an instant. you sat with the boy for what seemed like hours, cooing a soft melody of bittersweet comfort, until the worried yells of another human interrupted the scene spurring you to fly away. Despite the young boy's cries for you to come back you never did, but he never forgot about the young crow girl who provided a sweet song of hope when he needed it most.

Years go by before he sees you again, you were savaging through the hidden dark alleys of Gotham as usual when you heard the soft voice of a familiar boy. You turn around to see him, he had grown into a striking young man with sharp manly features and clean expensive clothing hinting to immense wealth.

"Do you remember me?"

He spoke softly as if he were in a dream, his eyes filled with a mixture of hope and uncertainty.

"Of course how could I forget... You were the young boy who lost his family in front of his eyes..."

The man closed his eyes, exhaling in relief and ecstasy before opening his eyes once again to gaze at your beautiful figure.

"You don't know how long I've been waiting for this... come home with me."

Your eyes widened and your breath hitched... home?... did you deserve such a thing?... You looked down at your monstrous claws and your dark ragged feathers, you ran your tongue across your sharp dangerous teeth, and you closed your eyes to hide your inhuman black eyes.

"I-I can't... I'm a monster..."

Your eyes shot open when a calloused gentle hand caressed your face while the other held one of your claws.

"You're beautiful... These narrow arched claws, beautiful... these smooth sleek feathers, beautiful... those straight white teeth, beautiful... and most of all, your glossy onyx eyes.... beautiful..."

You couldn't help but cry, no one has called you beautiful before... With nothing more said you went home with him in comfortable silence.

You came to learn that his name was Bruce, a strong name fitting such a strong soul, you couldn't help but always call his name with softspoken adoration. When Bruce learned your name was (Y/N) he wasn't any better, always looking for any excuse to call your name with endearment. It broke his heart to have to keep up his playboy persona while his sweet bird waits at home for him but he did not have a choice. Oh how he longed to proudly announce to the world that his love was a gorgeous crow woman and have a grand luxurious wedding to show your everlasting love. It crushed him to keep the relationship a secret and grit his teeth as other women touched and flirted with him at galas, he wanted nothing more than to be home with you. It was even worse seeing your face at your small private wedding with him, you were so content with something so small even though you deserved the world. The nights made up for it all, breezing through the streets of Gotham and fighting crime with you was the highlight of his day. It was Batman and Crowwoman for life, he made sure you were safe from public harm and hate for being a meta by keeping you a secret during the day and showing you off to the world and fighting alongside you at night. You loved to collect little trinkets for your little nest with Bruce during the day and you milked every moment with him at night, soaring through the skies and fighting crime. Life was great you had a warm home, delicious food, a kind butler, nice clothes tailored to fit you, and a loving sweet husband, but you couldn't stop the creeping loneliness from hurting your isolated soul. You understood why no one but Bruce and Alfred could know about you but crows were naturally social creatures. The crows you spoke with tell you stories of the lively parks of Gotham filled with loud children, laughing friends, warm parents, and the bustling sounds of life. The manor was quiet and dreary during the day despite all of your efforts to make the manor feel homely, it was no job for a singular person. Something was missing... and that missing piece was finally found with the arrival of a certain young boy.

When Bruce brought Richard home and explained the young boy's past you rushed to embrace the boy in your soft feathers ushering Bruce to quickly adopt him. You showered the boy in your love, sending the boy off to school with the best homecooked meals you could make, filling his room up with toys and trinkets, and always spending time with him when you could. When little Dick first became Robin you were hesitant at first, not wanting your precious little bird to get hurt, but once he proved himself as capable you were overjoyed. Now you'd all have family bonding time fighting crime together, with Bruce zooming though the streets in the Batmobile and Dick flying with you on your back. There was even a sweet girl, Barbara, who became Batgirl. The family was growing, but then there was an accident and Dick was shot in the shoulder by Joker, afraid that in the future he might get worse you and Bruce decided to end his career as Robin. But there's something that no one has told you before, parenting is hard, and so after Dick continued his vigilante life with the Teen Titans as Nightwing he and his father had a fallout and he left. You were distraught after Dick left, although you both stay in contact, it's just not the same.

"Baby bird please come home you know your father didn't mean what he said."

"I'm sorry mama but I'm not a kid anymore... I'll come visit you sometime but that's not my home anymore..."

You were inconsolable, your cries only dying down when you slept in the small nest you made in Dick's old room with Bruce cradling you in his arms humming your special song.

You found new meaning when Bruce once again adopted a new orphan, Jason. The little boy was such an adorable ball of sunshine you couldn't help but spoil him rotten with all of life's joys you could provide. You still missed Dick and the Deja vu would hit you hard when Jason flew with you on your back as the new robin, just as Dick used to do... but after a long call with Dick where you cried and confessed that you felt like you were replacing him, Dick assured you that he's not sad or mad but actually happy that you're happy once again with another child to keep you company. Jason made the manor feel so warm and lively with his sweet childlike antics, you couldn't help but adore the child but also worry for him. One day your worst fear came true, during a mission another accident happened, but unlike Dick, Jason didn't survive and Barbara became paralyzed. Your whole world came crashing down the day your sweet little innocent Jason died, this time even Bruce's gentle embraces and comforting words couldn't console you. The manor's crows mourned with you as you sat in front of his grave through rain and snow, your wails and songs of mourning could be heard miles away. The atmosphere in the manor shifted after that, Bruce drowned himself in work and you stopped going with him on missions opting to stay in front of Jason's grave instead. Bruce could only watch you wail and scream in front of Jason's grave through his office window, his heart shattering for their lost child and his heartbroken wife.

"MY BABY COME BACK MY BABY DON'T LEAVE MAMA ALONE PLEASE BABY COME BACK!"

Salvation came with the arrival of Tim, a smart boy who longed for the loving embrace of a family who wanted him. The young boy passed the barrier around you and Bruce's heart becoming another member of the tragic Wayne family. Traumatized by what happened to your last two children you were extra protective of Tim, and thankfully Tim found your protectiveness endearing but when it came too much he was sure to tell you. You and Tim bonded through making new gadgets to use during missions, and although you don't go out on missions anymore, you stay at the manor with Barbara, now Oracle, and watch over Bruce and Tim making sure they're safe. Soon yet another sweet girl joins and becomes the new Batgirl. Cassandra, such a quiet yet smart and talented girl, it was nice having yet another girl in the family. Life was finally setting into a better comfortable rhythm... but nothing can last.

Jason returns and you can barely recognize your poor child. He was covered in scars and his eyes were filled with rage and hatred. The buried sorrow from his death resurfaced with vengeance and your sorrow grew as he accused you and Bruce of replacing him with Tim. You cried and begged him to believe you, that you'd never replace him, and after many arguments and a few injuries due to his lash outs, he finally came to believe you. You wouldn't let him go after he accepted your affection once again, and to be honest he didn't want to let go either. It was heaven being reunited and bonding with your lost child, tracing over each other's scars and reminiscing.

"I missed you mama... I'm so sorry..."

"It's okay baby... it was never your fault... never..."

Once again everything was getting better, and there was yet another member added to the ever-growing family. Stephanie was another incredibly intelligent girl you had meaningful conversations with and worked with during missions. Everyone fit so perfectly into the complete puzzle that was the Wayne family. The puzzle was finally complete and gone was the devastating loneliness you once had, or so you thought... because out of no where came a puzzle piece with such a big impact it could break the puzzle as whole. Damien Wayne... That small boy brought all of your relationship problems with your oh-so-perfect husband crashing down. Bruce, the same man who held you so tenderly whispering sweet words of love and devotion, had cheated on you. You screamed and wailed tearing apart your nest and cawing in hatred and betrayal. You were so distraught, but you never fought with Bruce in front of your children. You tried to make peace with Damien but he only drew his sword and spit out hateful words of how you'd never be his mother. You looked to your other children for comfort but they only gave excuses for Damien and Bruce. They only wanted to keep the family together but in the process they were breaking your heart. You were confused and heart broken, you couldn't understand why the family whom you gave unconditional love and care to were treating you like this. The crows of the manor seemed to be the only ones on your side, they were also confused on how your mate could've betrayed you like this and how your family could take his side. Hatred filled your broken heart and you lashed out, screaming and clawing at Bruce begging for answers.

"WHY WHY WHY WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS TO ME? TO US? HOW COULD YOU!? YOU FUCKING BASTARD! I HATE YOU!"

"I'm sorry... It was a mistake... I'll fix it..."

"YOU CAN'T FIX THIS!...I-I WANT A DIVORCE!"

Bruce went deadly silent after your words, his eyes dead and hollow.

"...What did you say?"

The coldness in his voice and the way his aura shifted dangerously made you feel uncertain.

"I-I said I wanted a divorce..."

You spoke softer, stepping backward in caution as Bruce began to dangerously advance toward you. His large calloused hand shot out to wrap around your throat leaving you to helplessly squawk and flail.

"We are not getting a divorce"

Despite the finality of his words you would never stay with a cheater. You clawed and flailed until he let go due to a particularly deep cut to his arm. Once let go you quickly flew away not looking back. Despite the man's screams for you to come back you never did, but he never forgot about his sweet wife whom he needed back in his arms.

You lived your life once again in the alleyways of Gotham, you always mourned the loss of your once perfect family but they were the ones who betrayed you. With no one nearby, you flew around an abandoned building looking for food until you were suddenly shot in a wing causing you to squawk loudly in surprise and pain. You crashed into the hard concrete below, ripping out feathers and scratching your tender flesh as you fell.

"I'm sorry ma I had to... I was wrong before please forgive me... You're the best mom I could ever have."

"D-Damien..?"

"Shhh ma don't talk too much you're hurt. Bruce and the others are coming they'll help you okay."

You couldn't help but weakly stare at the young boy in shock. Your heart beat rapidly and you nearly peed from fear, Bruce... he's coming... Was he going to punish you for running away? The way he had choked you when you threatened divorce proves that he isn't past hurting you... God you were so scared... You tried to get up to fly away but that only resulted in you flopping heavily back onto the ground and Damien worriedly trying to get you to lay back down and stay still. You tried to get back up but you suddenly felt an excruciating pain in your head and a loud

SMACK!

And everything went dark.

When you woke up you were in an all-too-familiar room... It was you and Bruce's old shared bedroom. You had bandages covering your head, wing, and any other places with injury. You were locked in the room, but that wasn't the only this that caused you great distress. You looked down at your wings and found that your wings have been clipped. You let out a loud distressed scream alerting the other inhabitants of the manor. Bruce and your children burst into your room with worried and disheveled looks.

"My love is everything okay!? Are you hurt!?"

"MY WINGS MY WINGS MY WINGS!"

Bruce only gave you a sympathetic look and moved to hold you in his arms to comfort you. Your children only watched silently as you shook and cried in despair.

"I'm sorry my love but it had to be done... We can't have you flying away my little crow... This is your home I even adopted another child for you to take care of since I know you love taking care of children. His name is Duke you'll love him... We won't ever let you go ever again..."

Bruce cooed and cradled you in his arms as he sang you your special song. The same song that you sang to him when he lost his parents, the same song he sang to you when Dick left, the same song you sang to Jason at his grave, a song of despair and loss now come back to haunt you just as it always has.

Divider credits: popmilky and k1ssyoursister

Author's note: Wow this is the longest I've ever written lol. This was super fun nevertheless and I'm glad that this was my first request. Like I said this is the first request I got but I still have more to write but I will be writing those soon as well as the next chapter of my main fic so stay tuned! Like always thank you all for reading and I hope y'all have a good day/night.

[anxious-witch]

I know, I know we talked about the forest scene with Monty, Edwin and the Cat King to death. But, but. Hear me out.

Edwin was ready to both forgive Monty and thank the Cat King right then and there if they didn't push him, aka crossed a line in the sand for him.

When the Cat King initially informs him of Monty's betrayal, this is Edwin's reaction:

He looks confused, he looks hurt. But he doesn't look angry. Not yet. When he says "Were you just pretending to be my friend" he sounds hurt, but when he sees how Monty is affected, he still looks oddly touched. Especially when Monty says: "At first, yes! Then...no."

I know we joke about Edwin being awful at reading people, but Monty is obviously distressed and Edwin reacts to it. Besides, Monty is his friend. He wants to believe it wasn't all a ploy. But then, Monty makes a fatal mistake and brings up Charles. Immediately, Edwin's expression falls and then it turns angry and says: "Even if it were true, you are a bloody crow!"

We see Edwin forgive Simon, his killer, the person who was responsible for sending him to Hell, in mere minutes, once he finds out why Simon did it. I don't believe for a second he wouldn't have forgiven Monty in a heartbeat if Monty properly explained himself, instead of falling back to his hurt feelings and in turn, trying to hurt Edwin the same way by bringing up Charles. Which is a shame, because they really could have used each other's help.

As for the Cat King, I think it's a very similar story too!

Immediately after Monty walks away, Edwin closes his eyes and says: "I am such an idiot." And the Cat King nods, but you can already see most of the anger Edwin held towards Monty dispersing.

When the Cat King stops him from leaving and says: "I came all the way into this ridiculous forest to save you, I think I am at least owed a thank you," Edwin doesn't seem mad. I'd even go as far as to describe his expression as soft surprise. I think he is thankful, in that moment. And why wouldn't he be? The Cat King did save him from a trap.

It's only when the Cat King brings up a second kiss, implying he should thank him by kissing him, does Edwin grow angry again.

Also, importantly, the way Edwin pushes the Cat King away is almost gentle. Bitchy, and pissed off, for sure, but also gentle. Like, if it was someone who I genuinely didn't want anwhere near me, I'd shove them away by the shoulders, and with much more force. And sure! Edwin isn't a type for violence, but c'mon. We know he is capable if pressed, as seen when Esther hurt Charles.

Edwin keeps his anger tightly locked, only letting it out through his words. He practically spits out "I am not your toy to yank around." But even so, the only tense action we see from his is the way he cocks his head and demingly looks thr Cat King up and down.

Only after the Cat King threatens him, does Edwin get up in his personal space and almost violently(by his standards) shows him the bracelet, saying "This is all that you are. Do you understand?"

My point is, if both the Cat King and Monty essentially told/showed Edwin their actions are somehow tied into his reciprocation of his feelings. Funnily, enough, I feel like if either of them didn't base this interaction on that, and instead rather connected with Edwin emotionally, they would have had a shot at getting exactly what they wanted that night. Monty, Edwin's forgivness and the Cat King, Edwin's thankfulness, perhaps even a sense that he owes him, next time they see each other.

Which is great! Because it shows us sm about the characters, their flaws, and their priorities! But yeah. Talking about shooting themselves in the foot.

I also think that, for all we joke around Edwin holding grudges, he is actually incredible in how quickly he forgives people, as soon as they show the skightest initative for change/goodwill. Part of me hopes he and Monty meet again, just so Edwin can understand his pov, the same way he understood Simon and thr Cat King's but alas. I suppose we'll see

[kiame-sama]

Is Crowley in your au a vengeful crow? I remember reading that crows and ravens can hold grudges if you mistreat them for about 17-20 years and also let their pals in on it, but if you treat them kindly they’ll like you and even bring you little gifts

He's vengeful to everyone except the Human. Usually even insinuating that NRC is lesser than RSA or scuffing his new shoes makes him dislike others for an extended amount of time. He has an ongoing frenemy relationship/rivalry with Ambrose of RSA because of their species (Owl and Crow) and because of their opposing schools. Ace's brother is on Crowley's permanent 'little-shit' list for catching him off guard and headbutting him through a window. Lilia is also on the permanent 'little-shit' list for how often the Bat likes to startle Crowley.

However the Human has done a laundry list of things that- under any other circumstances- would anger the Crow and he takes it on the chin because they are ✨ His Little Human Chick✨

A non-exhaustive list of things the Human has done that would normally earn Crowley's ire;

- Repeatedly ran away from him when he was actually trying to help.

- Cussed at him when he was trying to help (collar them).

- Attempted to stab him with a fork.

- Openly arguing with him.

- Being friendly towards all of the other professors but not HIM.

- Hung up on him multiple times.

- Blatantly ignores his attempts at being fatherly towards them.

- Refuses to call him his preferred title- 'Dad'/'Father'- and only uses his non-preferred title- Headmage Crowley.

- Disregards any and all warnings/advice Crowley gives.

Crowley has the patience of a Saint when it comes to his Human, everyone else had better hope the Crow doesn't hold too tightly to his grudges. He will hold a grudge to the grave.

[obey-me-disaster]

A/N: I'm reposting this cause the tags didn't work the first time <3

Demon brothers x gn!MC

Demon brothers x MC that info-dumps about their familiars

Lucifer

Whenever he feels like the two of you haven't spent enough time together due to his work, he invites you into his office to hang out. He enjoys hearing you talk excitedly about your passions while he does paperwork.

He can't say he has too much of an interest in peacocks, but he loves hearing you talk about the things you love, so he'll let you talk until you've had your fill.

"So peacocks apparently peacocks feathers are covered in tiny crystal-like structures that reflect different wavelengths of light depending on how they're spaced."

"Also, since only male peacocks have the large train of feathers, do you think it played a role in them being your familiars? Since you're the avatar of pride and all of that."

"That's quite the theory you've got there, but I'm afraid I don't know how true it actually is."

"Still, I would love to hear more facts that you have, I can see from the expression on your face that you're dying to do so"

"And before you ask, yes, my feathers have the crystal-like structures, you can have a closer look if you would like"

His ego does grow quite a bit every time you go into one or your rants since he can tell you're talking so much about peacock cause they are his familiars.

He will probably buy you something peacock inspired to give you during one of your info-dumps.

God forbid you start gushing about his familiars in front of Diavolo. The prince will see it as a way to talk even more about Lucifer, and the former isn't sure how much he can deal with that.

Mammon

He has a pretty good base knowledge about crows. Out of all of his brothers, he probably works with his familiars the most. It's canon that he literally uses them to spy on people and gather information.

Still, there are a lot of things he might not know. And even if he knew, he would die before telling you to stop talking.

"Your crows are so cute, did you know that they are considered some of the world's smartest birds?"

"Of course they are! They're the Great Mammon's familiars after all"

"They are also known to gossip with their peers and hold grudges"

"I am well aware of that fact, more often than not they tell me the latest gossip in Devildom"

He would let you hang out with his crows in order to learn more about them.

I also have the headcanon that he can talk with them, so he would literally be a translator for you and the crows

"Feel free to ask them anything, I will translate whatever they say!"

Is pretty smug about the fact that you are so interested in his familiars, even so when you interact with them. He might even give you some accessories made out of his familiars' feathers(of course, feathers that have fallen on their own)

Leviathan

Bold of you to assume he doesn't know already everything there is about snakes already, he is literally one!

"Levi, did you know that snakes can smell with their tongues and a good amount of them have shit eyesight?"

"Henry the 1st used to have a bad eyesight!! They also don't really stop growing. This is more obvious with Devildom snakes tho"

He would honestly be really touched by your eagerness to learn and tell him about snakes since he is pretty much one. He sees it as you being interested in him on a whole new level and gets really excited when you info-dump about them.

Leviathan, on the verge of crying internally "They actually care about me!"

NB! Levi would actually really appreciate it tho. His demon form is that of a snake and he also got a pet snake, so any new info is more than welcome. Especially about how to deal with shedding.

"MC, you've got to help me! You know a lot about snakes, so could you tell me why my tail feels so itchy???"

Satan

Your info-dump session about unicorns is pretty much a 'is it true that they actually do that??' kind of thing

He still touched about you wanting to learn more about his familiars so he is always willing to answear any and all of your questions. He might even take you to see some of them.

"Is it true that unicorns can use magic with their horn?"

"Saying they can cast magic is far stretched. They have some abilities specific to their kind that can be used with or without the horn."

Cats on the other hand? Doesn't matter if he already know whatever fact you want to tell him, he is always more than happy to discuss about them.

Hell, he might be the one info-dumping about cats before you get the chance to do so.

"Did you know that cats can have up to 100 different vocalizations? Dogs only have like 10"

"They are also believed to be the only mammal who doesn't taste sweetness, which I find unfortunate. Still, they truly are amazing creatures"

More often than not Solomon is dragged in the conversations too due to the 'Cat' group chat that three of you have. Not like he minds, he loves cats too.

Asmodeus

He lets you info-dump about scorpions while he does your hair/nails/helps you with you skin care.

"Is you info-dumping about my familiars your way of telling me that you love me~"

Your self care sessions are also info-dump sessions, so you kill two birds with one stone.

"Did you know that scorpions are capable of dissolving their pray from the inside out. They also glow under ultraviolet light??"

"It's only natural that my familiars would be able to do this, they are my familiars after all ♡. Maybe I should use some make up the glows in the dark"

Since you've started to info-dump about his familiars to him, his outfits/nails/accessories have started to have a scorpion motif to them quite often

He also tells you one of the facts you've told him before while he shows off his scorpion inspired accesories. It's his way of showing that he listens to your rants.

"Scorpions can do that, can't they? Remember when you told me this last night?"

Beelzebub

He doesn't really know a lot about his familiars but he has an odd fondness about them. He can't really bring himself to kill them, tho flies tend to leave him alone anyway.

He thinks is really sweet that you know so much about those little guys, so he is always happy to sit and listen to you.

If you feel like info-dumping about flies, feel free to do it whenever you like. He is raiding the fridge? You can help him carry some of the food while you tell him more about his familiars. He is working out? He can hear loud and clear. He might not be the most responsive during some of those moments but he is always listening to you.

He is aware that out of all of his brothers, his familiar is not the cutest or the coolest one, so when you start talking about it, he can't help but feel really loved.

"Beel, did you know that flies can taste food using their feet?"

"It would be pretty usefull to know how food would taste just by touching, not like I would care if the food would taste bad, I would still eat it"

"Also, due to their eyes being compound they can also see behind their back. They actually have a 360° field of view"

"I also have that in my demon form, it came in handy a lot of times"

"YOU HAVE WHAT?!"

Belphegor

Lying on the attic bed while facing the ceiling "Shouldn't your familiar be a bull instead of a cow, since you're a guy and all of that?"

"Just shut up and cuddle me.."

While he thinks cows look comfy enough to take a nap, he does not care about them. But he care about you, so he is more than willing to cuddle up with you while you info-dump.

"Cows are actually pretty nice, they can spend about 10 hours a day lying down and they can also sleep while standing...are you even listening to me...?"

Belphegor, looking on the verge of falling asleep "hmm? Yeah I'm listening.."

Despite looking like he is one second from falling asleep or even downright sleeping, he actually listens to you. He can pay attention to things even in his sleep, how do you think he has really high grades at RAD? so he is listening to all of the cow facts you're telling him.

Anytime you doubt that he has been listening, he will tell you a fact that you've told him in the past to show that he was in fact listening.

"Cows can sleep while standing, right? You're the one who told me, so you should know. Now get closer, I want to use your lap as a pillow."

If you dare to do any kind of jokes about him being a cowboy, he will kick out of the bed.

[ghost-bison]

the doctors and companions as animals that fit their vibe

nine: dolphin. i had a friend who used to say "nine scares me, he looks like a shark" and everytime it would make me grouchy. she was kinda right, though. but i think dolphin is closer. i know dolphins aren't actually that nice, but today we're mostly judging based on looks and nine most definitely has the vibe of a dolphin: gentle eyes, a huge smile, a very loud, fantastic voice, fast, cheeky and excited. oh, and a big nose as well

rose: seahorse. idk, it just fits. it's the fact that they're colourful creatures maybe, and the shape of the jaw, or also how magic they are... can't really explain it! rose just reminds me of a seahorse

mickey: tiger. it's in the face shape and those facial expressions he gets when he stands up to the doctor or anyone who goes against his beliefs, i think

jack: american black bear. not grizzly bear, not polar bear (although i did hesitate with polar bear), american black bear all the way. first, cause he's american so it's funny. second, cause bears are massive creatures and jack is tall and muscular. third, again, the head shape (which is why grizzly bear was out of the way). fourth, both are hug shaped, wild and actually dangerous

ten: fennec. do i really need to explain that one? big brown eyes, cute af, high-pitched voice and funny jaw... yeah, ten is a fennec

martha: zebra. this one i really can't explain! but i'll still try: i'm not really familiar with zebras, so idk how they behave, but they look gentle, and i've heard they're intelligent, sensitive creatures as well. which is what martha is. i think it's also in the pretty brown eyes with long lashes hihi

donna: doe. maybe some of you will be mad i didn't just say fox, or disagree cause the doe is known to be a fearful, quiet creature, and donna is absolutely none of this. but hear me out: she is gentle and when she's not screaming at the top of her lungs, there's something so soothing and ethereal about her. they are both very maternal, and red hair holds -to me- a connection to nature that no other colour does. the doe has huge brown eyes, and donna's eyes, although huge, are blue. but when you look into them, you can see a gentleness that knows no bounds and that is why i chose it as donna's animal. also the little spots on baby deer remind me of her freckles (yes i am in love with her shut up)

eleven: racoon. well... yall got stuck on the giraffe but eleven is a little shit and so is the racoon. i absolutely do not have anything deep or smart to add to this, i just feel it in my gut

river: leopard. fast, dangerous, elegant, and also the colour palette kinda fits. and! the female feline usually does all the work so that's the tea for today

amy: red panda. red hair, round face, big eyes, cute... yup, amy's a red panda for sure

rory: koala bear. they both look like they get screwed over on a daily poor little guys. gentle and slow, the koala bear is rory's perfect fit. also, they have a similar nose shape

clara: elf owl. just like that bird, clara is small, has enormous brown eyes, a cute little mouth and a sorta heart-shaped face. i think it's one of my best choices

twelve: crow. crows are smart, edgy, actually very sensitive and like to hang out with living creatures even though you often see them alone, and they're also annoying af, can't stfu, hold grudges and take their revenge. twelve is mostly all that. also if i remember correctly he seemed to relate to and like crows

missy: peregrine falcon. idk, missy does have a bird face with her long sharp nose and big blue eyes. i even think michelle gomez mentioned it in an interview (like, she compared herself to a bird. maybe i'm delirious). falcons like to prey on small defenseless animals. missy does too

bill: horse. she kinda looks like a horse i think (it sounds mean but in my head it really isn't i promise). at first i said pony but then i remembered my mum saying ponies are dumb, petty creatures. bill on the other hand is smart, sensitive and gentle. she does still have a sharp edge to her, won't hesitate to kick your arse if so deserved, even if you're a 40000000 or whatever y/o time lord who looks like your local knowledgeable cool grandpa. which is why horse is a very nice fit for bill

nardole: penguin. the choice was so easy to make cause the man is bald, bitchy, weird and kinda walks like a penguin. we love you nardole, never change

thirteen: kangaroo. i don't have a clue as to why tbf. it's the sheer adhd, also the colour for some reason fits her, and the fact that they look nice and peaceful but are actually very dangerous, destructive creatures lol

yaz: hare. another one i can't explain. just fits. yaz, to me, didn't reach her full potential as a character, but what i did notice in her was her intuitiveness and how she usually kept her guard up. reminds me of hares. not just that but also the general vibe as well

graham: beaver. graham had this cute quirky little obsession with building a home and with his "fam" and that's what beavers are known for. apart from his blue eyes that differ from the beaver's own brown ones, he also physically reminds me of a beaver. and if beavers could talk i'm certain they would sound like graham o'brien

ryan: labrador retriever. i had a labrador once, they're goofy, awkward, impulsive, friendly creatures. and just as cats show severe signs of autism and adhd, labradors absolutely display symptoms of dyspraxia, which is what ryan has. both are disoriented and clumsy. they also will do anything to protect people they love, and then be like "oh shit" cause they actually can't really fight and keep putting themselves in situations

dan: wolf. idk he just really looks like a wolf

fourteen: coyote. we're staying in the canine family for david tennant. i did want to choose something other than ten's for fourteen cause they have such a different vibe. there's something really pitiful about coyotes that fits this man perfectly. again with the high-pitched voice as well. anyway. fourteen is a coyote

fifteen: panther. fifteen is seductive, pretty, slim and smoothe af. he's also dangerous and yet you still wanna hug him don't you? yeah that's how panthers make me feel

ruby: dormouse. ruby is cute as hell, i think we can all agree on this. i chose this rodent specifically because of its slightly rounder face shape (hamster might have been more accurate but i hate hamsters so much man, ruby deserves better). she's always so stressed and jumpy as well, which is why to me a small rodent was an appropriate choice

belinda: european robin. she has the elegance of a robin, she's adorable, she's fierce and quick and physically reminds me of a little bird for some reason and that is all honestly

[in-your-heart-shall-burn]

Veilguard Character Appreciation: Lucanis Dellamorte

As mentioned on my Emmrich, Taash, & Davrin posts, this is a very self indulgent post for me to ramble about things that I appreciated about the companion characters in Veilguard. I'm planning to post one per character, loosely following the order of the Veilguard Appreciation Week prompts! Please feel free to reply or reblog with your own thoughts if you are so inclined c:

So, with complete honesty, I was convinced I was going to dislike Lucanis. I hadn't read Tevinter Nights and all I really knew about him was that he was called the mage-killer and I was so worried he was going to be this like, extremely intense, broody dude that you'd have to convince that magic was not evil - which thinking back now, I think I was just expecting Fenris 2.0, Crow Edition, haha, and one Fenris is enough in the world. Fenris already took awhile to grow on me, and I've never been hugely a Crow fan, so the combination just didn't seem like my cup of tea.

What we got was absolutely not that. And I honestly was really pleased with Lucanis from the moment I saw him. Firstly, I did not actually expect him to be possessed, but I'll admit that instantly made him 100x more interesting to me. I do think his character stands on his own and would have eventually grown on me regardless, but it was still a really interesting choice.

I think he started to warm on me fully with the way he just so fully commits to taking care of everyone at the Lighthouse. The first quest with him where you walk around Treviso to buy things for everyone and it's just a perfect example of how he notices little things about everyone, it was really well done and it really showed how observant he is - obviously something that means he's good at his job, but also meaning that he manages to find his place at the Lighthouse really quickly.

And yet at the same time he stayed so purposefully separated because of Spite, and that's super interesting to me too. I love how they managed to create yet another character who's possessed without copying any of the things they've done before. Spite and Lucanis have a unique relationship, and the way that they play off of each other reveals so much about each of them.

Like the way that Lucanis sacrifices his own well-being by not sleeping, both because he seems so deeply uncomfortable with Spite controlling him and also to protect the people around him - I mean, I know how much sleep deprivation can affect you, and it's amazing how Lucanis didn't start struggling even more than what's shown in game. But even despite that, he's so hard on himself, and so devoted to the way of the Crows even as he finds out so many things that tied him to them are falling apart.

I love how gentle he can be, with everyone but himself, what with the quiet care he shows through cooking and gifts that just show he noticed. I love how you got to go into the Fade to get to see all the things that were obvious just by looking at him but that he desperately didn't want Rook to know about, and how it turned out that Spite just wanted to free him from his guilt all along.

I also am really, really glad how much they didn't lean into the whole "mage-killer" thing, because I could've seen that going sideways so easily. He has every reason to hold a grudge against mages and blood magic and yet mostly turns his ire on the people who harmed him directly, the job he's been hired for, and well, himself. It makes him such an interesting character to me.

I haven't finished his romance yet, but he was definitely one of the characters who moved most quickly from "I am pretty sure I won't like you" to "oh wow, I need to get to know you right now", just by how damn quietly charming he is.

[yuri-is-online]

Been brainrotting lately and now I present to you what I think is an underused story beat for Yuu. What if “Yuu” isn’t even the prefect’s real name?

Considering that Yuu’s first experience in Twisted Wonderland is waking up in a coffin, wandering around an obviously foreign place, and being questioned by a suspicious man in a crow mask surrounded by people in black hooded robes… I just think most people would not give their real name in such a sketchy situation.

Fast forward to when Yuu is more comfortable with the cast and there is both comedy and angst potential here. On one hand, the reactions to the deception could be pretty funny. (Cue a “woe is me” from Crowley. Of course he can’t find a way home for you when he doesn’t have your real name!) On the other, this could be a great way of exploring the prefect having a crisis. Yuu already lost so much in being taken to Twisted Wonderland, and now in a way even the prefect’s name has been taken.

What do you think?

waking up in a coffin, wandering around an obviously foreign place, and being questioned by a suspicious man in a crow mask surrounded by people in black hooded robes…

Annon, annon, annon, when you put it like that it sounds like Yuu woke up in the middle of a cult ritual of some sort. Which I suppose if you were an edgy Night Raven student idia you might argue that the enrollment ceremony totally is as an excuse not to go

But to be more serious, I have seen a few memes about this concept and I like it a lot σ(￣、￣=) It's a fun character concept, it's not everyday you get a chance to re-invent yourself completely.

That being said, just based off of the few dialogue options Yuu has at the start, I think Yuu is implied to believe that they are dreaming:

Which honestly doesn't make this idea any less valid. If you're dreaming about waking up in the middle of some weird necromancer's rite, why not give him a fake name? It's not meant to be serious anyway. Just go with the flow and hope things don't get too weird (and get offended when your dream doesn't give you magic powers) until it's too late and you realize everyone thinks your name really is that bad joke you made.

If you want to get darker, maybe Yuu really did think they died. A black carriage pulling a coffin really only goes to a funeral, and death has been depicted as an unmanned coach with black horses. Maybe Yuu is only just coming to grips with the fact that they really are alive when they see Riddle overblot and he hurts them. Maybe they now are sitting next to two people who have started to think about them as a friend, a really close one. Maybe they think Yuu is really brave because they charged headlong into danger without a second thought, and won, twice now. Maybe Yuu cries themselves to sleep that night because in a way... you died so yuu could live.

As for reactions, Crowley and the other staff members I think would be the most dramatic, followed by Adeuce and Grim. Jack I can see accepting your reasons and not thinking too hard about it, maybe even respecting your survival instincts, while Epel... well he says he's mad but mostly he's just concerned. He knows what it feels like to have two dueling parts of yourself and trying to find the middle ground. Ortho would be excited, you have a secret identity just like a magical girl/super sentai/anime idol/superhero take your pick really. He certainly doesn't mind getting to know you all over again.

Sebek screams at you for being a threat to Wakasama but it's clear to everyone who actually knows him that he's really just worried about the amount of stress you put on yourself. He would hate for you to have the same issues with self loathing he does. And Malleus? Well he lied to you about who he was because he was worried you would be afraid, even though you didn't know he existed. It would be very petty for him to hold a grudge against you for doing the same.

In general I think this would be something the others would have an easier time understanding as opposed to Yuu's sense of alienation or loneliness at not having magic. Identity issues are common themes in fiction, so I could see them actually seeing it as a problem as opposed to an abstract problem like no government papers (since these kids with one obvious exception don't do taxes.) But it would make for a great way to explore the prefect having a crisis just as you say, in a way it's the perfect example for every problem they might have with being in Twisted Wonderland.

[fatgirlonadate-blog]

21 Days - Day 7

Crows are one of the most misunderstood birds in the animal kingdom. Due to their dark feathers and association with death, they're often seen as creepy and sinister - a bad omen. But, in reality, crows represent wisdom, intuition, and transformation. They're highly intelligent, form unbreakable bonds, and can hold one hell of a grudge. They are a good sign - a good omen. It's actually quite lucky to see one.

Despite all of that, the mechanical crow currently perched outside of your bedroom window can only mean one thing: trouble.

You glare at Mephisto, your frown deepening as you pull on a shirt swiped from Xavier's side of the closet.

The bird continues to watch you with an unwavering stare, his red eyes following every movement as you finish dressing. It's a bit unsettling not knowing exactly how Sylus and Mephisto communicate. Can he see everything Mephisto sees? If so, then he's a pervert and has probably seen you naked more times than you care to think about.

You cross to the window with a heavy sigh, and pull it open. The crow flaps its mechanical wings in response to the movement, but doesn't budge from its perch.

"How did you find me?"

You're not sure if the question is for Sylus or for Mephisto - they're basically one and the same. You had told Sylus that you were going to be out of Linkon City for a while, but you had very specifically not mentioned where you were going. And yet, Mephisto is here.

You resist the urge to pet the damned bird, and walk back to your bedside table to retrieve your phone. You open your messages and tap on Sylus's name.

Kitten: What are you doing?

The message is marked as read instantly, and a notification appears at the top of the screen. Sylus is calling you. You swipe to answer and bring the phone to your ear, "Hello?"

"There you are, Kitten," Sylus greets you on the other line, his voice all razor blades and honey. "Do you miss me yet?"

"Why is Mephisto here?" You ask, getting straight to the point.

Sylus chuckles and you can imagine the cocky smirk he's wearing. "How should I know the answer to that? You know he does as he pleases."

You scoff, and glance at Mephisto who is now sitting on the windowsill and peering into the room.

"Uh huh, sure he does. What do you want, Sylus?"

The sound of fabric rustling comes through on his end of the line, and you hear the muffled sound of a yawn.

"You already know what I want, Sweetie. What are you really trying to ask me? Use your words."

You roll your eyes even though he can't see you. "What are you planning?"

"I'm not planning anything," Sylus replies in a softer, more innocent voice. "Unless you count going back to bed."

You glance at the time on your phone, it's nearly noon. Of course he was still sleeping.

"Why did you send Mephisto to find me? I told you I'd be gone for a while."

There's a long pause on his end of the line. "Maybe he's bored of me and misses you?"

"It's been less than a week since I've seen him, and that's the dumbest thing you've ever said to me."

Sylus laughs, a rich, happy sound, "Oh, have you been keeping count? Have you missed him, too?"

"No," you bite out quickly, "I haven't missed him...or you."

"Careful, Kitten. You'll break his heart."

You try to fight the smile that's threatening to spread across your face, but it's a losing battle. He knows how to make you laugh, even when you don't want to. And as much as you want to hate the nickname, you can't. It sounds so good when he says it.

"Are you going to answer me or not?" you demand, trying to keep your tone harsh.

There's a shuffling sound on his end, and then Sylus's voice is close to the phone again, "You'll be receiving a package today. Mephisto is there to make sure it arrives."

"A package? What kind of package? What is it?"

"I wouldn't want to ruin the surprise, Kitten. I promise it will be worth the wait."

"What does that even mea-"

The line goes dead, and the phone screen dims in your hand. He hung up on you.

"Asshole," you mutter as you toss your phone back on the nightstand and turn to look at Mephisto. You could swear that dumb bird is smirking at you. With a sigh, you cross the room to the window and shoo him off the ledge.

"Message received. Out you get," you huff, and close the window in his face.

Mephisto tilts his head and clicks his beak at you before spreading his wings and flying off to perch on a branch in the yard. You watch him for a moment, wondering where the hell that package is supposed to be delivered, and then head into the living room.

Xavier is sitting on the couch, reading a book and sipping tea. He looks comfortable, relaxed, and so damn beautiful that you just want to squish his perfect face.

"Hey," he greets, setting down his book.

You sit beside him on the couch and curl up against his side. His arm naturally finds its place around your shoulders, pulling you closer. It's a simple gesture, one that's become almost second nature in the last few days. It's nice. You could get used to living with Xavier like this. For the first time in a long time, you've found something that feels like home again.

Your momentary happiness is interrupted as you remember the package. What could it be? You know it's not going to be something normal like flowers or chocolate. Not with Sylus - that's not his style. A strange mix of excitement and unease settles in your stomach as you try to think of what he could possibly want to send you.

Xavier tilts his head toward yours. "Is something wrong?"

You shake your head and try to school your features. "Oh, no. I was just thinking...why don't we get out of the house for a bit? We're a married couple on vacation, after all. Shouldn't we be going on dates?"

"Are you asking me out on a date, Mrs. Shen?"

"Well, that depends, Mr. Shen. Are you saying yes?"

His lips twitch with a hint of amusement. "Of course. Where are you taking me?"

You hum, tapping your chin as if deep in thought. You hadn't actually planned anything - you simply want to get him out of the house so he won't be here when your mystery package arrives. Xavier is the last person you want to know about Sylus. He'll have questions, and you don't have good answers.

"There's a park not far from here. I saw it on my walk the other day. Want to go check it out?"

Xavier nods and gives your shoulder a small squeeze, "Yeah, alright. Let's go then."

The park is within walking distance, and it's a beautiful afternoon. The sky is clear, the temperature is warm, and there's a light Autumn breeze rustling through the trees. Leaves fall to the ground around you like flower petals.

Xavier walks beside you with his hands in his pockets. As you stroll, you take the time to really look at the town this time. The houses are all different shapes and sizes, some old and weathered, others looking brand new, and yet they all blend together seamlessly. They fit. They belong. The people, too, look like they fit here. You pass a group of kids riding bicycles, an elderly couple walking their dog, a woman watering the plants in her front yard, and a man washing his car.

This is the kind of place where couples settle down and start families, you think. It's a bittersweet thought - one that causes a pang in your chest. It's a life you're not sure you'll ever get to have.

Xavier nudges your arm, snapping you out of your thoughts, "What are you thinking about?"

You glance up at him, "Hmm?"

"You're quiet. Too quiet."

"Just enjoying the scenery. It's very...domestic," you say with a shrug.

He makes a face as if he doesn't really understand what you mean. "Is that good or bad?"

You smile at him, and reach up to ruffle his fluffy hair, "It's good. I miss the city - the chaos. But it's nice here. Pretty. The company isn't half bad, either."

Xavier ducks away from you with a laugh and tries to smooth his hair back down.

As you turn into the entrance of the park, you see your new neighbors in the distance chatting away on a bench. The two women are huddled close together, their heads bowed as they gossip in hushed tones.

"Oh god," you breathe out as their eyes land on you. "Quickly! Act like you love me."

Xavier glances at you, clearly confused. "What?"

"The old ladies! Just act normal...no...act like you love me!"

He blinks down at you, his brows knitting together, "I am acting normal."

"Okay, well...act different then! Now!" you order, grabbing him by the front of his shirt. You tug him close and stand up on your tiptoes, your eyes fixed on his.

Xavier looks down at you with a raised brow, and then glances over his shoulder in the direction you are staring.

"They're coming over," he whispers, leaning in closer to you.

Your eyes dart between him and the approaching ladies. Without thinking too deeply about it, you wrap your arms around his neck and lean in and press your lips against his in a rush. Your noses bump together. He freezes, his hands hovering in the air, and then wraps his arms around your waist and pulls you closer.

It's a quick kiss - over before it even started. And you look down, flooded with embarrassment, as you pull away. Your heart is pounding and your cheeks are burning crimson.

"Remember what I said?" A voice chirps close behind you. "The couple that just moved in..."

You're still cradled in Xavier's arms, and you feel them tense around your waist as the two women pass by.

"Aw, young people are adorable. Look at how smitten they are with each other..." The woman's voice trails off as the two of them continue to walk out of hearing range.

You let out a shaky breath, your heart still racing, "That was close."

Xavier doesn't say anything, he's just looking at you, his blue eyes searching your face as if trying to read your thoughts. He still hasn't loosened his grip on your waist.

"Can I try again?" he asks, his voice low and soft.

"What?" Your gaze flickers from his lips to his eyes.

Xavier brings his hand to your cheek, and tilts your face up toward him. He leans down and presses his lips to yours, softer this time. Gentle. His hand slides down to the back of your neck as you part your lips and feel his tongue brush against yours.

You can't breathe. You can't think. All you can do is kiss him back. His lips are so soft, moving slowly and deliberately against yours. He tastes like ginger tea, and smells like clean laundry and sunshine.

When he finally breaks the kiss, you're breathless, and you're clinging to his shirt to keep yourself steady. He rests his forehead against yours and closes his eyes.

"I've wanted to do that for a long time," he says softly.

You're frozen, barely processing his words. Your brain is still in a haze from the kiss. You've been kissed before, but never like that. Never so sweetly or passionately. You're not sure if it was real or not. It couldn't have been, you think. It was fake. Just for show. But right now, in this moment, with Xavier's arms around you and his lips so close to yours, it feels pretty damn real.

He clears his throat, and takes a step back, his hands dropping to his sides.

"So, the park. What do you want to do first?" he asks, breaking the silence.

You blink at him and try to regain some semblance of composure.

"Uhhh, the playground?" You suggest lamely, pointing at the colorful structure in the center of the park.

Xavier's mouth curves into a half smile, and he offers you his hand, "Let's do the swings. I'll push you."

You slip your hand into his, and let him lead you forward. Your heart and your head haven't caught up to what just happened, and your mind is reeling as you try to make sense of it.

The next few hours slip by in a blur. Xavier pushed you on the swings until you were breathless with laughter, and he raced you through the park to the ice cream stand. You know he let you win, but that didn't stop you from rubbing it in his face and insisting that the loser had to pay. He didn't protest.

It was as if nothing had changed. And yet, everything felt different. You couldn't shake the feeling that Xavier was watching you even closer than usual, his gaze lingering longer, and his touch more frequent. Maybe you were imagining it. But maybe you weren't.

As you make your way back to the house, you sneak glances at him from the corner of your eye. He looks the same as always, but something is different. You can feel it.

You reach the front of the house and notice a large cardboard box sitting on the front porch.

"A package came while we were gone," Xavier notes, following you up the stairs.

You glance at the box and then at Xavier, and feel a knot form in the pit of your stomach. It's here. Sylus's mystery gift has arrived - just as he said it would.

Xavier is standing next to you, his eyes fixed on the box. He's staring at it as if he's trying to figure out what is inside.

"Did you order something?"

"Um, yeah. Just some things I thought we could use around the apartment," you lie, your voice pitching higher.

He looks at you, his eyes narrowing.

"Like what?" Xavier asks.

"Uh...I don't really remember. I ordered it days ago."

You pick up the box and carry it inside. Xavier is watching you from the doorway as you place the box down on the coffee table.

"Are you going to open it?"

"Yeah, in a minute. I have to pee. Right now," you reply as you scurry past him and dart to the bathroom.

As if on cue, your phone buzzes in your pocket the moment you shut the door behind you. You pull it out to check.

Sylus: Is the package there?

You curse under your breath. Is that goddamn bird in the house?

Kitten: It's here all right. Sylus: Good. Kitten: Are you going to tell me what it is? Sylus: Open it and find out. Kitten: Just tell me. Sylus: It's a reminder. Kitten: A reminder of what? Sylus: See you soon, Kitten. Kitten: Sylus?? Kitten: Really???

There's no reply.

With a sigh, you exit the bathroom and return to the living room. Xavier is slouched on the couch with his eyes closed. Sleeping? Thank god.

You tiptoe across the room and gingerly grab the box from the coffee table, and creep out of the room as quietly as possible. Once you're safely inside the bedroom, you place the box down on the bed. The package is unmarked and plain. What in the hell could this be?

You quickly pull a pair of scissors out of the nightstand, and slice the tape open.

Inside, there's a smaller black box tied with a red, silk ribbon.

You lift out the gift and set it down on the bed, staring at it as if it's a bomb.

With hesitant hands, you pull off the ribbon and lift the lid of the black box.

Heat instantly rises to your cheeks as you see a pair of silver handcuffs staring back at you. There are no other contents, just the handcuffs and a note.

'Don't forget, Kitten. We're bound together. -S'

You stare at the note. You read it twice. Then thrice. Your heartbeat quickens every time you reread the words.

You put the note back in the box and tentatively pick up the handcuffs to examine them. They're heavy in your hand - not a toy. The realization makes you feel both hot and cold at the same time.

The sound of footsteps approaching the bedroom breaks you out of your trance, and you drop the handcuffs as if they're on fire. Your heart seizes. In a panic, you quickly grab the black box, snatch up the red ribbon, and toss them in the closet.

You turn around just in time to see two things at once.

Firstly, Xavier is standing in the doorway, watching you with a curious expression.

And, secondly, the handcuffs that are still laying on the bed in plain sight next to the cardboard box.

Xavier follows your horrified line of sight and you watch his eyes widen as he sees the handcuffs. A mix of emotions flicker across his face. Surprise, confusion, curiosity, and then something else. Something you're not quite sure you recognize.

Xavier walks over to the bed and picks up the silver cuffs, turning them over in his hands. He looks up at you and raises his brows questioningly.

"You bought handcuffs...for us to use around the apartment?"

Your mouth opens and closes, but no sound comes out. A dozen lies flit through your mind, all of them much better than what you actually end up saying.

"Um, yes?"

[wayward-travelers]

OC trait tag - Sihu de Riva

Got tagged by @pxelbunny (ty again!)

Tagging: @adrayellinaeth @spotofmummery @kaijubluedreams @tallbluelady @houserosaire @lal-ffxiv @allyennah @alannah-corvaine and everyone else interested! (Any OC you'd like, doesn't have to be from a specific fandom)

(Spoilers for Dragon Age: the Veilguard under the cut)

Compassion: 5/10. It's a bit of a mix bag. He'll gladly help people he deems deserving, and his adventures in Veilguard made him kinder in virtue of having to take care of his team to get the job done, but he's an assassin and practical over sentimental. Wouldn't be functional if he started caring too much about other people. So it's really context dependent.

Bitterness: 2/10. There's little point in his opinion in holding grudges. It's time-consuming and energy-consuming and pointing fingers at other people instead of seeking personal improvement is a waste of focus.. Which might or might not be how he rationalized his training to survive it.

Happiness: 7/10. Surprisingly, despite losing two friends in a relatively short time and the weight of responsibilities, he's generally content with his life. Having a solid support system who already knows too much about grief probably helped here. Also the Solas-induced express therapy helped, though he'd rather not have to admit it out loud.

Politeness: 10/10 if need be. Naturally he'd gravitate more toward 4/10, I'd say, but to him, politeness is a mask. It's a set of rules to guarantee having something in common with people you have nothing else in common with, which is especially useful when you meet 'co-workers' from other Houses in times of conflict with said Houses. It's also a weapon in his assassin's arsenal to approach his target more easily and blend in any crowd. He's pretty manipulative in his approach to politeness tbh, but if you manage to get close enough to him to see him drop the mask, he's actually pretty chill about breaking those rules. To a point.

Chivalry: 1/10. And I'm probably being generous here. Davrin's the knight and Rook finds that trait admirable (and sexy), but that's not him and it's unlikely to ever be him.

Pride: 4/10. To paraphrase Lucanis: "Past reputation doesn't mean much when your current contract is still open."

Honesty: 8/10. He'll lie for his job, but only if it can't be avoided. The problem with lies is that you start with one, then it quickly starts piling up and eventually you lose the plot. Better to stick to half-truths and lies of omission if you really have to and otherwise be honest. And he can be brutally honest at times—when he feels like now is not the time for bullshit—but there's no one he's more brutal with than himself.

Bravery: 10/10. That's perhaps the one thing no one could ever say he lacked.

Recklessness: 7/10. Having to lead a team tempered him a bit: risking your life is one thing, risking your friends' life is another. It also helped him realize the virtues of patience and thinking ahead, so he's a better planner than he used to be. But it's still very much a work in progress.

Ambition: 5/10. Prior to the event of Veilguard, he had 0 wish for power. After the events of Veilguard, I think going back to being just a guy after leading the efforts against the gods will often make him feel powerless so he'll start seeking out opportunities to make a change. Which means responsibilities and ultimately power, but it's not really for glory or to be above the rest. Could still be dangerous though, considering his friends are very much his moral compass.

Loyalty: 10/10. It's been drilled into him ever since he was a fledgling Crow: loyalty to your House above all else. Nowadays, his inner circle would likely prime over House de Riva, but everyone else would come third.

Love: 9/10. I'm only rating it at 9 because duty comes first, something understood by both Davrin and him. With that said, he loves with his whole heart and is fairly open about his feelings. Life's too short and dangerous to play shy with your affection in his opinion.

Sense of Family: 20/10. He's an orphan and couldn't trust anyone for the longest time. At this point, anyone he feels is family will be family for life, even if he ends up hating their guts.

Attractiveness: 9/10. I consider him attractive in universe, but he has a baby face that might throw some people off when they realize he's 5-10 years older than most people assume. (Such is my curse irl, and if I have to suffer from it, so will he.)

Agility: 10/10. Sure, he's a mage but he's also a Crow and prefers close-quarter combat so physical training was inescapable and he's good with daggers.

Sex Drive: 6/10. It's definitely here but not his main drive (pun intended).

(Realistically, a lot of the initial motivation for my Rook to join Varric and Harding against Solas could be summarize with a quote from Guardian of the Galaxy: "Because I'm one of the idiots that live in [this world]!" Didn't have much to do with altruism xD)

[incorrect-soc]

Godly Parents: SoC edition

(Lil disclaimer: This is not necessarily PJO's meaning of Godly Parent. It's just basically a "Which God is your godly parent" buzzfeed quiz but with actual information-)

Kaz: Nemesis, Goddess of indignation against, and retribution for, evil deeds and undeserved good fortune. Kaz spent the entire two books and the bigger part of his life holding grudges and planning his revenge on an arrogant man who got away with destroying a bunch of people's lives. He makes it his life mission to make him pay for his crimes.

Inej: Hermes, Messenger of the gods; god of travel, commerce, communication, borders, eloquence, diplomacy and thieves. First of all, Inej is Suli. Suli people are known to be "nomads", travelling from place to place. Second, Kaz hired her to be his spider, to collect and deliver important information, a messenger of some kind. And a detail I particularly liked is the whole thing with the shoes. Hermes most characteristic item are his flying sandals; and Inej is also particularly fond of her climbing leather slippers.

Jesper: Hephaestus, God of the forge, craftsmanship, invention, fire, metallurgy and volcanoes, craftsman of the gods. Yeah, yeah. The obvious reason is in fact because Jesper is a Fabrikator. He literally controls metal. If it's parental issues we're talking about, well, we all know how that went for both of them.

Wylan: Apollo, God of Sun, light, prophecy, philosophy, archery, truth, inspiration, poetry, music, arts, manly beauty, medicine, healing, and plague. "Because of Wylan Van Suns-?" *slap* Shut up, that was literally sarcasm. Wylan's story and latter fate begins because of a music conservatory, and music really played such a big part in his own story as well as his story with Jesper (ehem, piano incident). Also, bit of a fun fact, Apollo is supposedly the creator of the flute so there you go. Another literal thing is that he created a fake plague to help Kaz.

Nina: Hecate, Goddess of the dead's souls, witchcraft and divination. (Matthias would be so happy for the whole witchcraft thing). I don't think I have to elaborate on this one, but just a reminder that Nina can in fact control dead bodies.

Matthias: Hestia, Goddess of the hearth, fire and of the right ordering of domesticity and the family. *Introduces really gut-wrenching line from chapter 40 of Crooked Kingdom about how he finally could go back home*. I know it's kinda ironic that Matthias is from an icy country and Hestia is the Goddess of the fire, but no one said this was a perfect analysis (do I look like Rick Riordan to you?). Matthias was all about family values and homeland really, even if they meant different things at the beginning and at the end of Matthias' story. First it was his bio family, whose death ignited his hatred for the Grisha and his home was Fjerda. But in the end, the Crows became his family, the family he gave his life for, the same way Nina became his home.

[ahamkara-apologist]

Okay I kinda get being dissapointed at how they rushed the Sov sibling reconcilliation with just one conversation after drawing it out for months but y'all...this really isn't the end-all-be-all of Crow's character arc, nor is it necessarily out of line for him. His biggest weakness is that he's a bleeding heart who lets people walk all over him- remember how he decided not to get revenge on Spider despite Spider very literally keeping him as a slave? Or how he killed a psion because he was too empathetic to a hive guardian? As much as I love him, and as much as his love is a terrifying force when weilded correctly, he's soft and weak. He always has been. He was bound to forgive Mara eventually, esp. since they have a psychic twin bond going on.

I think y'all are also forgetting the fact that Mara has had quite a bit of character development over the past year or so and has very notably been more open about her emotions and better about keeping herself out of Crow's life- because she got bitchslapped by the reality of what she'd done to him in Season of the Lost and then got shaken to the core by her confrontation with the Witness in Witch Queen. She hasn't been 'defanged', she realized that the way she was acting qualified her to be a Disciple (aka the worst of the worst, the enemy she'd been hellbent on fighting this whole time) and that in tandem with Crow's rejection upset her deeply enough for her to change her behavior, which hasn't been as apparent until now. Idk how y'all can forgive how Uldren Sov slaughtered hundreds of Awoken citizens and wreaked havoc on the Reef but is changed as Crow without also acknowledging the fact that Mara herself changed as well. It's not as dramatic of a difference because it happened more gradually and without intervention from a Taken Ahamkara and the Traveller, but its still there and is the most apparent its ever been right now. It wouldn't surprise me if the reason why Crow is forgiving her now- apart from the fact that he's a softie and discounting potential Riven bullshit- is because she's proven she's changed by both keeping her distance and being more emotionally open with him, as well as open about how she knows she fucked up. That's the second thing Uldren wanted other than her approval, after all.

Also, it's been like, 2 years of Crow being pissed at Mara and avoiding her, so them starting to make up now is kinda necessary even if it feels a bit rushed. I personally would have loved to see more snark and nettling from Crow's end, bc I love conflict and sibling angst, but it really isn't out of character nor is it throwing away Crow's character arc. It would have if Mara hadn't changed, but she has. And while I myself love storylines where victims don't need to forgive their abusers and can exert their wrath upon them as they wish, the fact of the matter is that how such a situation needs to be dealt with varies immensely on a person-to-person basis, which the writing team has already proven they're capable of understanding. Just look at Calus's and Caiatl's relationship! That ended with no reconcilliation because Calus simply refused to change, while Mara has spent the past year trying to get Crow to feel comfortable with her as an equal in conversations and open up to him more and trying to break her habit of watching him like a hawk- aka, acting like an actual sister rather than the pseudo-mother figure she'd picked up from Osanna. Ofc Crow the softie is going to respond to that, esp. since he's got a psychic connection to her via Awoken Twin Magic and seems to have been walking Uldren's memories as of late. He just genuinely is really fucking bad at holding a grudge.

(And while its easy to go 'oh the writing is lazy and rushed', I also think its kinda sus that Riven specifically talks about the human wish to reconnect with family right after the Sov sibling talk happens. It wouldn't surprise me if she picked up on Mara's desire to reconnect with her brother and pushed Crow towards forgiving her. It seems like she's been trying to pull Uldren's memories to the forefront everytime she talks with him and that could be a big factor as to why he's been reflecting on them a lot recently)

[queenmuzz]

Three Lies and a Truth

"So...Rook," Neve sits back, after lighting up her slender pipe, the smell of elfroot wafting and mixing with the scent of coffee and cinnamon. The entire group is lounging in the dining room, all of them winding down after yet another succulent meal. Emmrich's fiddling with one of Manfred's joints, Darvin is pretending not to notice Assam sneaking a bite of the cinnamon cake. Bellara and Harding are chatting about some plant they'd discovered in the latter's little garden. Taash is stretched out on one of the chaise lounges, busy digesting the hearty meal, and beginning to drowse off. And Lucanis? He's watching Rook from across the table as the scrawny man tears off another shred of cake and stuffs it in his mouth. It's amazing how much food the man can eat, and yet stay as wiry as a stray cat.

He turns his head to the right to face her. Lucanis has noticed that it's easier for him if you approach on his left, where his good eye is, as he doesn't have to turn his head as far to look at you.

"I was wondering," she pauses and takes a puff, "What happened to your right eye?" She notices that for an instant, he tenses up. Lucanis notices too, the way he flattens a crumb of cake between his index and thumb, "If it's not prying. Just curious." There's a moment of tenseness, and Lucanis swears he's going to shut her down, before one of his trademark grins pops up.

"Oh, it's not prying. In fact," He rolls the flattened cake into a ball then tosses it in the air towards Assam, who cheerfully leaps up to snap it up. "Let's make it a game. Winner gets the last of the cake, and the loser has to wash the dishes. I'll tell you, and you have to guess if I'm telling the truth."

Neve sits up, obviously intrigued, and Lucanis cannot help share the feeling. Milo has remained rather tight-lipped on what exactly he has done with the Crows. Viago seems to have grudging respect for him, even recommending him to Caterina to have him break him out of Ossuary. And Lucanis has seen how he fights. Like a rogue, he darts in, and blasts people with magic they don't expect, before darting back. You could hardly tell he's got a literal blindspot, the way he practically teleports across the battlefield, dodging blades, arrows, and magic. And yet, he must have made a mistake, once.

"You're on." She responds, and to emphasize it, she puts out the pipe with a quick ice shard.

Rook rolls his shoulders, as if to get ready for a fight and begins to spill his tale.. "So, Lord Divalos is holding a soiree, and one of his guests, a fop from Olais, is the target. He's apparently some sort of poet that all the ladies and men are going ga ga over. I'm not the one tasked with the hit, I'm working with Teia, to distract some of his fans, to make it easier for the actual assassin to get close. Turns out..." he pauses to pick his teeth with his knife, then uses the blade to check his reflection. Ah, I can see why Viago gets exasperated with him. Lucanis muses.  "Lady Divalos is one of his greatest fans. In fact, she's the one who invited him. So I got my work cut out for me to peel her off the guy's shoulders. Thankfully, due to my charm and my dashing good looks," he says with a grin as he takes one last glance at his reflection, before tucking his knife in its sheath, "and a little bit of liquid courage, I managed to convince her I was an up and coming Antivan poet, and even 'recited' some of my own poetry that I made up on the spot. It worked so well, the next thing I knew, she and I were in her private quarters, busy ripping off our clothes." Lucanis notices that Harding and Bellara have stopped their botanical conversation and are now sucking up the tale, with the latter covertly taking notes.

We're both in bed, about to make mad passionate love when BANG!" He slams his fist down, causing everyone to startle, save for Taash, who is beginning to snore. "The door slams open, and a red faced Lord Divalos rages in, screaming at me, with his sword drawn. Now of course, I'm as naked as the day I was born, so I'm running around the room, avoiding his swipes as I manage to get my pants back on. Unfortunately, he got me good in the eye before I could get my weapon, and all I could do was topple off the balcony into a bush, and climb out of the premises." He grins sheepishly. "Thankfully, the whole debacle caused enough commotion that everyone was distracted by the spectacle, and no one noticed the poet had… accidentally strangled himself with his own silk scarf…”

He smiles with pride as Darvin rolls his eyes, and Emmrich sighs sadly and as the dwarf and elf are wide eyed in amazement.  “So, Neve, truth… or lie?”

It takes Neve a remarkably short period of time to give her answer.  “A lie.  Even without your weapon, as a mage, you could have cast a simple spell to disarm him before he reached you.” Milo gives a sad smile.  “Correct.”  This results in a couple of ‘Awwws’ from the girls, and an inquisitive hiss from Manfred, whose now had his spine realigned and now is participating in his own way in the conversation. 

Lucanis could have called him out without using any detective logic.  There is no Lady Divalos.  Everyone knows Lord Divalos has been happily married to Lord Divalos-Cuttenberg for decades.  

Milo cocks his head back at Neve.  “Want to double your luck?  If you answer this correctly, both today's and tomorrow’s dishes are the wager.”

Neve smirks as she crosses her legs, waiting for him to begin.

“So, there was a brash young up and coming Crow.  House Valsti, if I remember.  He went by the name of Tusino, but always wanted to be referred to as ‘The Silencer’ because he was so quick and efficient with his kills.”  Milo rolls his good eye, obviously not impressed at the title. “So we’re in the bar, and he’s getting drunk and starts boasting about how great he is at the three m’s: Maiming, Murder and… Mating.”  Manfried gives a quizzical hiss, and Emmrich mutters to him that he’ll explain later while Harding stifles a giggle. “Everyone at the bar is getting pissed off at him.  So eventually I speak up and go ‘Oh really?  For a guy who calls himself The Silencer, you never seem to shut up.  Oh that caused him to lose it.  He starts taunting me, telling me I’m weak ‘cuz I’m over reliant on my magic.  So, I challenge the shitheel to a fight, no magic, no weapons, just our fists.  Tables are cleared, bets are placed and we’re in the middle with the bartender acting as the referee.  We’re throwing punches, he gets a few good hits on me, I get a few good hits on him, there’s cheering and jeering, and finally I get a great left hook that breaks his nose.  The asshole can’t take the blow to his ego, so before anyone can react, he grabs a bottle by the neck, smashes it on a table and… uh…” He looks around as everyone aside from Neve, Lucanis, and Taash, now drooling and completely dead to the world, winces.  He smiles reassuringly, “Thankfully, breaking that rule turned everyone against him, and even the House Valsti Crows started beating his ass as I got dragged to the healers. They managed to save most of my good looks, but  Viago still reamed me out for that one” He looks at Neve, “so, what’s the verdict?”

She rubs her chin for a few moments before declaring “A lie. Logically, once he took out a weapon, you were free to hit him with the closest weapon at hand, and someone of your magical prowess would never pass up an opportunity to use it.”

“Awww… thank you for the compliment” he smiles again at her, “and you were correct.  Although Tusino did exist, and had he actually been good at his job, we might have come to blows eventually, instead of him getting trampled by the Antaam.  What an idiot” he mutters.

Lucanis also had deduced it was a lie.  The three scars that go across from the center of his forehead, across his eye, and into his right cheek look far too regular in spacing to be the shards of a bottle.

“Last one, winner takes all.  Three nights of dishwashing, are you up for it Neve?”

“Hit me.”  Even Darvin is paying apt attention now that Assam has begun to doze off at his feet. The girls are hanging on to every word Rook says.

“So, before I joined Viago’s outfit, I was still in training, and trying to impress the ladies and the men with my knife work.  He pulls out the blade again, and twirls in between his fingers, almost mindlessly, like he’s doing a coin trick,  the light of the fireplace reflects off the blade, casting sparks of reflection as it twirls faster and faster between his fingers, before being tossed in the other hand. “So, I decided to do a little magic show, without the magic and began to do more and more elaborate  tricks with my knife, like I was a juggler.  Turns out, I miscalculated a single toss….” and at moment, he tosses the blade up with a flourish, but makes no motion to catch it.  Everyone’s hearts stop as the blade falls, panicking as he continues to not  react, only restarting  as the blade lands in front of him with a THUD, and embeds itself in the wooden board.  This time, EVERYONE winces. Even Neve.  Either of the implication of the pain, or the second hand embarrassment of imagining how he must have made a fool of himself.  All of them cringe…. 

Except for Lucanis.  He just frowns.

He yanks the blade out of the table, smooths the wooden splinter and utters a soft apology to the table.  He smiles softly, and resheathes the knife.  “So, last one…. Truth or Lie?” “Hmmm” Neve muses before calmly stating, “Truth. That sort of overconfidence would be like you, when you were younger.  The eagerness to prove yourself to the world, and others, and most importantly, to yourself.”

Her words hang in the air like elfroot smoke, drifting over to Milo, who observes her passively. “Neve… it was… the truth.”  His trademark grin that Lucanis finds so endearing returns, but not fully.  It doesn’t reach his eyes, not even his good one.” “HA!” the detective laughs as she swipes the plate and waves goodbye. “Have fun with the dishes!” he hears her say as she leaves the dining hall.  She’s followed by the others shortly after, with Bellara still taking notes.  The only ones left in the hall are Milo, Lucanis, and… Taash, now snoring loudly.  

Milo sits still, his gaze focused on his knife, a frown on his face that does not suit him at all, Lucanis thinks.  

“You lied”  It's less an accusation, more a statement.

Milo looks up and at him, his face unreadable.

Lucanis continues.  “I may not know much about you, Rook, but I’ve seen how you work.  You don’t go flashy unless you know for certain that you’ll come out on top.  Something like that is out of character for you, even as a braggartly teenager. So,” he leans forward, whispering conspiratorially “What’s the truth?”  

A strange emotion passes over Milo’s face, as he seems to struggle.  Lucanis hasn’t seen him like this before.  He’s always cocky and selfsure, even before the most dangerous enemies.  He opens his mouth, and closes it.  Opens it once more, and utters one word…

“I…”  he pauses and his hand clenches around the hilt of his dagger, his knuckles turning white. He refuses to look at Lucanis, almost as if he’s ashamed.

“I made a mistake.”  The effort it takes to say this seems to exhaust him.  Lucanis waits for him to elaborate, but he doesn’t say anything else.  Eventually he looks up into Lucanis’s eyes and just sounds broken, as he rasps “Don’t ask me… please”  There’s a pleading in his voice, something timid and scared, like a lost child.  This is a side of Milo Lucanis hasn’t seen, he’s pretty sure none of the rest of the crew, hell even Viago has seen.  He nods, and something happens to Milo.  A door slams shut, and his eyes light up as if nothing has happened.  His trademark smile returns with the incredible brilliance that Lucanis has always admired.   If he didn’t know better, the way Rook’s personality just switched, the man must be possessed. “Welp, these dishes won’t wash themselves,” and he begins to stack the plates.  Lucanis pushes back his chair, standing up in order to help, but Milos waves him off. 

“Nah, don’t worry about it, you made all of this for us, you deserve to rest.”

“But surely you could use a helping hand?”

“This burden is mine and mine alone,” he cheerfully explains, and Lucanis isn’t sure if he is talking about the dishes… or something else. .

The young crow begins carrying the dishes to the back room to wash up, whistling the entire time, but pauses at the threshold, turning to face him.

“But… Thank you for the offer.  It’s sometimes very hard to remember that I don't have to handle it all alone.”  And with that, he vanishes, replaced with the sound of whistling and splashing water.

In the corner, there’s a hollow thud, and Taash’s hand slips off their chest and falls to the floor.

[kedreeva]

How would you rate peafowl in terms of intelligence, in general or socially? Any of your animals outstanding in that regard and where does Bug fall on the scale?

Honestly they have a huge range of intelligence and personality. They're GENERALLY smarter than chickens, not as smart as crows. They do have complex social hierarchies and rules, though, and violating the rules has consequences for social standing. Rude boys, for example, do not get the girls.

They also have long memories for some things- for example if you frighten or anger or hurt them, they remember that and they will likely not trust you again, if they don't outright try to chase you off. My dad once made a swipe at a nosy hen and she never forgot. She threatened to fight him every time she saw him after that. LOTS of people report that their birds can be caught 1 time by a bird net pole, and forever after they will bolt if they see it (and we have the same experience here, and I don't even have to have caught them personally if they even SEE me catch 1 bird with it, that's it. This is why I move them into a coop and turn off the lights to pick them up). I know people who have tried to solve berserker males problems by hitting their birds with brooms or sticks or spraying them with a hose, and what they find is that this makes it a thousand times worse because the male's understanding of the situation is only confirmed- you ARE a rival and you DO want to fight him. And since you (the intelligent human being who understands birds and money and probably a) like this bird and/or b) spent a lot of money on this bird) are unwilling to purposely cause severe injury or death to him, he will always hold a grudge and always think he has a chance to beat you.

They do have some amount of social learning, at least from my observations. When I taught Eris to use word buttons to ask for specific treats, Artemis learned without actually ever being taught. With 12 buttons on the board at the time, she removed the "treat" button and guarded it so she could tap it instead of Eris. More commonly, if one bird thinks a treat or other potential food item is yucky, they will start shaking their head no and clacking their beak the way they do when they taste something they hate, as if they took a bite and it tasted bad- but WITHOUT having actually touched the item. This triggers all the nearby birds to have a look, and they all start shaking their heads and clacking their beaks. Once one of them figures out how to do something - like get up onto the pigeon perch in the rafters they're not supposed to be on - the others will watch and learn how to do it, and start doing it, too. I just recently had to put an extra lock on the barn pen door, because I caught Wendy pulling our emergency latch release for dumbasses that lock themselves into the pen on accident, and the others were Watching to learn. Eris had to be moved out of that pen because she also learned how to let herself out of the pen that way.

Then you have birds like Callisto. Who will come over when you call for treats, and despite that the treat gets held right in front of her or dropped close by her, panics and can't find it to save her life, and you find yourself standing between her and the others to give Callisto enough time to look at the ground for the treat.

Or stan who, every morning, gets let out of the coop and walks calmly over to the fenced door between pens to be let out into the pen. Except the door is open.

So. It's a scale. it's a scale that slides between "mocking me with word buttons I taught her" and "repeatedly waits at an open door to be let out"

[deadboydetectives-confessions]

I am BEGGING my fellow Monty fans to give our bird boy some depth. He is NOT just a woobified sadboy! He is clever and manipulative and selfish and petty! PLEASE stop writing Monty as a poor helpless shrinking violet who was wronged by the narrative. He is so much more INTERESTING than that! No more making him a helpless punching bag so that the other characters feels sorry for him and learn to love him and now he's just a standard good guy. That's so boring and reductive to Monty! Give me the crow boy who was raised by an evil witch and has skewed morals, who has actual agency and makes mistakes! Make him tricksy and underhanded like he actually is in canon. Let him be morally grey! Let him keep hating Charles and the Cat King (crows can hold a grudge like no one else)! Make him a crow fatale who uses every trick in the book to get what he wants. Let him connect with Edwin's sass and smarts and passion instead of them bonding over just being a pair of whumpdumps. PLEASE I am on my knees. Show us the sneaky, ruthless, regretful, messy, complicated Monty that we're given in the show 🙏 (I have yet to see any fics like this but I might have missed them and if anyone has written one/seen one/decides to write one where Monty is more than a punching bag and is still allowed to like Edwin (because Monty loves him and Monty deserves to get what he wants!) please link in the comments and I will name my first born after you)

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