#and all of the different rule sets are interesting

[ooooo-mcyt]

It's also deeply fascinating how the different gimmicks or context for each season sets the tone and culture of the server during it.

Third Life was a uniquely "serious" season when it comes to the depth of the emotional weight put on things, I'd argue. It was the first season, and presumably the last. It wasn't a looping endless death game at the time, it was their only life (well, only three lives) and everyone built real roots. Kingdoms and marriages, things they wanted to genuinely protect, things they wanted to last. There was this thought that if they were to die, that would be the end. There was this thought that if they- and their allies- were to live, they could be happy together. There was this idea that they could live, that there was a world where they keep what they've earned in this place. Which isn't to say emotional stakes don't exist in later series, but Third Life is the one time where permanence and ending were both real tangible concepts to be sought after or feared, unlike now, where there's always last time and next time hovering over the players.

Last Life, on the other hand, was a season of remarkable instability. I've credited this in the past to two core mechanics within the season: the Boogeyman Curse, and the new rule that red names have to leave their teams. These two rules made teams practically impossible to keep. There was the constant fear of betrayal from the Boogeyman, and the constant knowledge that friend could turn into enemy within a second, that the only constant for you to rely on is yourself. Teams were flimsy this season, most people were fundamentally lonely, and distrust permeated most relationships. Beyond the mechanic changes, though, there's also the grief to be talked about. This was the second season, the first time they came back. And with that, came the full reality of impermanence. All their walls and castles and forts and tunnels, even the graves they dug for fallen friends, were gone now, as if they never existed. Nothing in this world is theirs to hold onto, no matter what they do. All they truly have forever is themselves. Last Life is the first time they grapple with this.

Double Life is a server I've talked about a lot because of the sheer cultural isolation promoted by its gimmick. Each player was assigned one other person who was linked to them, who they were forced to rely on for their survival, and, very quickly, an attitude formed that posed soulmate bonds as the most important- no, in some ways the only important- relationship one can have. There was an obligation to be with your soulmate and stay with them and want them and noone else. Alliances outside of soulmate pairs were flimsy, if they existed at all, as the server fell into an isolationist mindset, each soulmate pair an island. People who didn't conform to the soulmate system, people who wanted to choose their own soulmates, or who were alone, or weren't interested in soulmates, were often looked at strangely. With pity or judgment or sometimes aggression. Double Life was just deeply isolating because there was very little community. It was you and your soulmate, and everyone else is the enemy, or at least an outsider.

Limited Life, surprisingly, felt like a series with a lot of freedom. You would expect the constraint of twenty four hours to live to feel like a cage, a limitation, it's literally called Limited Life. But in practice I think you actually got the opposite feeling a lot, because lives were in hours, which meant instead of dying 3-6 times, you could hypothetically die 20+ times. Because of this, I feel like you got a lot more playing around and taking risks and petty rivalries and side storylines in this season, people being less cautious because there was less to lose with an individual death. The fact that you can gain time for killing in this series helped as well, making time feel like a renewable resource, something that's running out in theory, but that you can really just replenish, if you have the competence for it. This made people possibly even more aggressive than in past seasons too, I'd argue, because there was very real incentive to kill, because you will always gain something for it (as long as the kill is legal). This is how we ended up with winding sky paths and tnt falling from the sky every five seconds. Because people were simultaneously more aggressive and less afraid than usual.

Secret Life's another interesting one. I feel like the secret tasks had the capacity to be isolating- and in some cases they were- but I kind of feel like Secret Life had a pretty good sense of community overall, not in spite of, but in many cases because of the secret tasks. Most tasks were funny, tasks were conversation starters in a way (obviously you couldn't talk about them outright, but people would follow someone around to tease them while they're doing their task plenty), tasks typically forced people out of their bases and into going around the server where they'd inevitably talk to people, many tasks even outright involved mandatory interaction with people (often people outside your alliances). And sure, everyone had secrets they couldn't tell, but the non-red tasks (usually) weren't anything harmful, and everyone could have some kind of solidarity in the fact that they all had tasks of their own. And sure, the yellow names being able to guess tasks added some 'tension', but that gave yellow names solidarity with each other and a reason to talk amongst themselves and to the greens. I just feel like Secret Life was an especially social season because of the tasks themselves and how a lot of them mandated communication outside your own alliance.

And then there's Wild Life. This..is another season I think was pretty social, for very similar reasons to Secret Life. The Wild Cards were fun, they gave people something to bond over (because they all have to deal with the wild cards), and they'd often offer an excuse to leave your base and go around the server instead of spending whole episodes working at your own base with your preexisting alliance. People still tried to kill each other of course (particularly when there were dark greens alive to get lives from), but there was also often more focus on the wild cards than on the battle royale aspect of the game. I mean, it took shockingly long for people to even start really killing each other in the finale, I remember sitting through practically half the session and wondering how they were going to wrap it up this session because noone was killing each other for a good chunk of it. This season also had the zombies (both in the super power episode and in the finale), which I think gave some more levity, because even if you die, you're not even gone from the series, you get to pop back up and be silly for a little bit, which I think also lightened the pressure to play too intensely.

I just feel like every season had a very unique culture caused by the gimmicks and context surrounding them and that's fascinating to me.

[bullet-prooflove]

The Green Card: Jesse Van Horn x Reader

Tagging: @caffeinatedwoman @cosmic-psychickitty @kmc1989 @happyfox43 @julius-ceasar

Companion piece to:

Geordie - Jesse makes one hell of a statement when your ex-boyfriend comes around.

Prequel to:

Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll - Jesse tries to convince you not to disrupt your trip during the aftermath of Pittfest.

Song 2 (NSFW) - Jesse tries to chase away his demons the only way he knows how.

Atomic - Jesse reflects on his HIV status.

Blood Orange - Jesse comes to the rescue of your neighbour during an autoerotic asphyxation accident.

Jesse asks you to marry him because of a green card.

He’s been living in the UK for almost two years on a Long Term Visitor Visa and his time in the country is coming to an end. His band are returning to the US to record their new album and there’s already a tour in the works set for the summer. He wants you to come with him, to build a life in his homeland but you need sponsor. As a spouse, he can do that but that’s the problem, you don’t want to become his spouse.

“I know you don’t believe in it.” He whispers one night when you’re tangled up in bed together, the date edging closer. “But right now it’s the only way-”

“Jesse, it’s not that I don’t love you.” You tell him, your fingertips chasing over his grizzled cheek. “But you don’t understand that the idea of it suffocates me. It feels like you’re putting a pillow over my face and pressing down slowly, stealing my breath. I’m sorry Jesse, I just cant.”

“Then I don’t know what we do from here.” He tells you, shifting into a sitting position against the headboard, his fingers raking through his dark curls in frustration. “Because in a month’s time we’re going to be in separate continents and I… I don’t know how we survive that.”

You can’t, you both realise.

Two different time zones. Your work at the university, his recording schedule.

This relationship you have, it doesn’t exist if you’re not occupying the same space, no matter how much you may want it to.

“These past two years.” He whispers, his hands running through your hair as he kisses you for the last time at the airport. “They have been the best of my life.”

“So far.” You remind him, with a smile that breaks his heart. “Trust me there are many more ahead for you, you’ll forget all about me when you go on tour. I’ll just be another story to tell in your biography.”

But he doesn’t about forget you.

Not when he’s high as a kite playing a show in LA, not when he’s balls deep during a threesome in San Diego, not when he’s at a recording studio in Pittsburgh, singing his heart out about the woman he’s loved and lost.

It goes on for a six months until he’s sitting at a signing table, doing a fan meet and greet in Chicago and there you are standing in front of him. You’re wearing his white London Calling t-shirt, tucked into a denim skirt and black fishnets he wants to tear off with his teeth.

“Is that really you?” He asks raising to his feet, his heart threatening to beat right out of his chest as he dodges around the table. His hands come to rest on your shoulders, squeezing lightly as if trying to reassure himself of your presence. “Or has Ferris been slipping shit into my beer again?”

“It’s me.” You tell him, his palms slipping up to your neck, cradling your face between his palms. “I managed to get a position as adjunct professor over at Pittsburgh University. They’re sponsoring my visa for the next year, maybe beyond that if they like me for the tenure track.”

“Oh Sugar.” He grins, his mouth capturing yours as he sweeps you off your feet. “That is the best news I’ve heard in my goddamn life.”

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[fallloverfic]

Thoughts on To Be Hero X Episode 4: The Commoner

Well that was an interesting episode!

Inertia is still such a wonderful song. So is Paragon, Nice's theme. The different animation styles were again beautiful to watch.

I felt so bad for him. He's so defeated. He wants to help Moon so badly.

Blankster's ability to erase memories coupled with punching stuff hard felt really random until you realize that's his whole thing: erasing the knowledge of his past and hiding the reality (of him putting metal in his gloves). Treeman, I assume, got people to believe him into having those specific abilities by making him essentially a cleaner? I guess? I don't know. How specific abilities are brought about is a bit of a mystery. Maybe possibility manifests and trust encourages it to varying degrees of strength.

It was a bit distracting hearing "iron fist" and trying to not think of the Marvel Comics character lol

Lin Ling's fight is so wonderful. He pushes so hard for the person he cares about. And I do love the strong message that anyone can be a hero. Firefighters (as with Firm Man) don't need superpowers to be heroes: they run into burning buildings and rescue people all the time (sometimes when it's dangerous). Someone standing up to someone else threatening to kill someone doesn't need a superpower to stand up. To win, maybe, depending on the circumstances, but to stand up? To say no? You don't need a superpower for that. You can just be a normal person to look a wrong in the face and go, "No. I won't let this stand. I may die fighting it, but I go down doing what's right." Or, to quote J. Michael Stracznyski in “Amazing Spider-Man” #500, "What matters is you go down fighting… and you go down clean.”

It was also really funny when Lin Ling punched Enlighter's shirt off alkdjladjlaj

The audience reaction is very interesting. They expected rules to be followed here. Why isn't the Commission doing something? That's just an ordinary guy, there are rules here. So it seems like people are aware there's an aspect of performance to this. The actors are the heroes, playing along to the tune set by followers. (Or they just reasonably don't think an ordinary dude can win against a guy with superpowers and expect an actual super-powered person to show up and get Lin Ling out of there and save Moon instead). Makes the fact people can get literally murdered all the weirder, though in reality we do have plenty of people who treat lives like reality television. The number of folks who expect laws to be self-enforcing is, well...

It's nice to know those of us assuming it was a fake Moon were right, though it's funny in a way that even the great Enlighter couldn't find her (assuming he tried, though it was a risky gambit: after all, for all he knew, they could have contacted her to make sure she was safe, though he did have the backup plan of revealing Lin Ling's identity). I guess his abilities were brought to a standstill by hers, in that instance? He can find things but she went to a place where nobody knew her?

I know KFC is really big in China, and maybe this has been shown somewhere else, but I think it's really funny X is a KFC mascot.

He really is that younger hot Colonel Sanders from the Genshin Impact promotion.

The ad art is really beautiful (the official twitter posted a fuller shot of it). If anyone reading this has found the actual art that's used for this without the extra stuff, let me know. Lin Ling looks great.

I'm not averse to the title, either. I get the idea is "he's just some guy". I just think it's kind of funny because that's true for... literally everyone lol I assume some of these folks come from money, which probably helped them get trust (easier to get spotlight if you have the time, resources, and connections), but I think it's funny Lin Ling is getting special focus as the True Commoner lol

I feel so bad for Moon, trapped on a deserted island. How horrible. This show is all just "what if we took some of the worst ways this idea (e.g., wishes worded badly) could be acted out and that was reality?"

I like the new outfit. It looks really pretty. Love me a good white/black aesthetic, and his little hair stripe looks even better outside the ED.

This does raise the question: is Moon's power hers or the gun? Do people believe in the gun? Yes, these heroes use equipment a lot of the time, and people believe they can use the equipment to do magical things, but it's... interesting that Lin Ling (and presumably anyone else who gets a hold of the gun) can use it, too.

Also, why didn't he use the gun earlier lol Was everyone just too worried to think about it? Did they assume it wouldn't work because Moon was right there? The alternative is that everyone believed the fake Moon was Moon so hard that the gun only led to the fake (similar to how people believed Lin Ling was Nice so hard he became Nice) but then why didn't Lin Ling use the portal to get to Enlighter that way, or was he still stopped by the crowd telling him not to go?

But... Moon is dead now. The "preview" we saw in Episode 1 happened to be real, because she's in the same pose, same injury. I guess folks wondering if Nice/Lin Ling could see the future maybe have more crumbs for that. If he can see the future, though, why? Where does that play into his powerset? Again, if powers are random and just a matter of "you get what you get" and then the audience gives enough trust to make them stronger, maybe it's just a minor ability of his. It does beg the question if it's a Lin Ling special ability or if Nice could somehow see the future, too. Lin Ling came up with the anyone can be a hero concept, which seems to be foreshadowing. But what did Nice see if he had the ability? Did he see himself unavoidably bringing about Moon's death and tried to stop it? Or something worse?

It looks like E-Soul murdered Moon. Was he hired by Treeman to clean up loose ends? Mr. Shand wanted to wipe Moon's memories before to protect Lin Ling's identity from being shared, but that seems moot at this point. Or does Moon, who knew about Nice and Moon's fake relationship, still hold value as a target to be removed? Or, if this isn't Treeman, does E-Soul hold animus against Moon and Lin Ling for what's happened? Or is he just targeting the person who might be targeting him to rise in the ranks (given E-Soul is #9 and Lin Ling is #10 in the rankings)? Or is that the alternate version of E-Soul in his character trailer who attacks people or something?

Whatever the case, I'm sad Moon is dead. She wanted her freedom, and yet again, didn't get it, had a chance at finally being rescued... and then... that. Consequences and stakes, I guess?

I am still wondering (like I imagine a lot of people) what this from the director meant:

It actually seems to appear when Enlighter is beating up Lin Ling, especially when he says "Die die die", though the pose is more similar to this one:

Why I'm bringing this up at the end instead of in the part where I was talking about the fight: if Lin Ling snaps after Moon's death in Episode 5, maybe that's where the shot on twitter will pop up, maybe as some kind of flashback to, as folks have theorized, the Hero Smile incident. Although people have commented it's likely trolling from the director in line with previous stuff he did on Link Clink (hence why it's Enlighter who seems to be doing it, not Lin Ling or Nice), Nice is smiling in that image, and if there's some weirdness with Hero Smile's abilities that makes you smile like that, well... Plus, Moon being murdered, especially after all that Lin Ling is done, seems likely to make him snap if anything. And maybe go, "Kill them all."

Anywho. Episode 5 looks to be full of things!

More thoughts:

Episode 1, Episode 2, Episode 3, Episode 4 (You are here)

[honourablejester]

I feel like I want to say ‘yes but no’ here, because I think there are actually two different arguments happening.

Going to the quoted tags, I think what they are arguing against is scenes that are randomly throw in purely for shock value. Moments that don’t tie back to anything larger in the story but are purely there to discomfit and shock the audience. Which. Can actually be useful, if what you are trying to do is create a general sense of unease and lack of safety and ‘anything can happen’, but that’s extremely tone dependent and can often just not work.

Which, as they say, is not what OP seems to be arguing for, judging by the examples they provided. Because those examples are there to serve something larger within the story. The mistake they seem to be making is assuming that ‘serving something larger within the story’ is the same as ‘following the info-dumped rules that have been established for the setting’. Whereas OP’s argument, I think, is that people find a visceral demonstration of the rules (or the exceptions to the rules) significantly more memorable than an info-dumped recitation of the rules. It’s not that you can’t flesh out the rules of your world, even if just for yourself, it’s that you should also demonstrate the rules of your world in a way that your audience will find interesting and memorable, rather than just list them at people.

And it doesn’t have to be rules. Which is, I think, also a mistake the quote tags are making. Because they seem to imply that the examples given work within the established rules of their setting, which …

I’m going to focus in on the example of Artax here for a second. Because Artax’ death isn’t necessarily within the to-this-point established rules or threats of the setting. And I suspect a lot of people did feel cheated and upset at it. It does, to an extent, come out of nowhere. The Nothing was established as a threat, but random bits of swampland that drown you faster the sadder you are, and this sadness inflicting a horse of all characters, probably didn’t feel like it had been foreshadowed in any way. The Swamp of Sadness doesn’t fit the rules.

But it does fit the themes. Artax’ death wasn’t foreshadowed because it is the foreshadowing. It is the traumatic, memorable warning shot off the audience’s bows from a story that is going to end after the complete destruction of this world. The Swamp of Sadness is a warning precursor of the complete despair, nihilism and destruction of dreams that the Nothing will cause. And Artax himself, in some ways, is a warning of the future threat of Gmork. That when it comes to fantasy, hope, dreams, it’s despair and nihilism that are the enemies, and that those who succumb to them run the risk of destroying more than just themselves.

Your visceral scenes should be grounded in the story you’re telling, yes, they should illustrate something that you’re trying to convey, but that doesn’t necessarily have to be the rules, in the sense of ‘how the magic works’ or ‘how the medieval iron trade works’. OPs complaint is that so many pieces of advice for how to write sci-fi/fantasy are about how to establish rules that mimic facets of the real world so it will seem more believable, when what you actually need to do is build a coherent tone and atmosphere so that it feels believable. You need to create moments and imagery and scenes that people will engage with emotionally, because humans are emotional creatures, and emotions, as unfortunate as it sometimes is, will hook people to the narrative faster than all the rules in the world.

The tags, though, do also have a point as well that it��s not just a visceral scene, but a visceral scene that serves some purpose. You can’t just slap a human-faced bear in there willy-nilly, there has to be a reason within the story for it.

But that reason does not have to be explained or fit within the ‘rules’. It just means that you, as an author, have to think about the effect you intend this scene to have, and does that effect enhance or detract from your overall story.

The scenes OP highlights are memorable, and they’re memorable for the right reasons, because they enhance something else about the story. The Pale Man highlights that the fairy world has its own dangers and horrors, which brings it back tonally towards the horrors of Ofelia’s real world, and makes it feel less dissonant and unreal. The blood test in The Thing shows the characters attempting to work out the rules of the creature, and viscerally and dramatically proves MacReady right about the nature of the creature, but so very wrong about the identity of the creature. It also, as do many of these scenes, demonstrates spectacularly that we ain’t in Kansas anymore, that shit is going to happen that doesn’t fit the rules of our world, which is an important tonal shift to establish the baseline of the genre. These scenes work, and they serve to bring the audience inwards towards the story, to establish the baseline for disbelief. But I guarantee you that everyone out there has an example of a scene from a movie or story that did feel just fully random and out of the blue and all the more dissonantly jarring for it. Something that threw them out of the story rather than drew them further in.

So you do have to think before you put in your bear about what you want that bear to do for the story you’re telling, and whether or not it will effectively do it.

your dark fantasy novel doesn't need a logic-based magic system it needs a bear with a human face

[mathlann]

Location Reference: Footfall Politics

A continuation of this post, and companion to this one. Most of the information comes from Lure of the Expanse, with supplementary information from Hostile Acquisitions (HA).

The Liege

Footfall is ruled by the Liege, a figure nominated and kept in office by the approval of its biggest power players. Because the title can only be held by those able to defend it, many Lieges in past times were brutal, tyrannical people who ascended to the role through the murder of their rivals. The job is one of a comfortable figurehead however, and traditionally, the Liege's role is only to distribute stone offerings and the supplies brought in by Rogue Traders to the rest of the city. Beyond that, they can exercise very little political power on their own except for whatever their allies among Footfall's many controlling organizations wish to give them. Those same allies are also just as willing to sponsor the assassination of the Liege if they become displeased with the direction of the current regime or a drop in profits. (9-10)

Footfall is also known for the rule that holds that its Liege is subservient to the most powerful Rogue Trader currently in the city at any given time. While it is true that Rogue Traders are afforded a certain degree of ceremony when conducting business on the station, like the Liege, they are bound by the same constraints in actually exercising their supposed authority. Without powerful friends, any attempt to issue orders to the local organizations will be politely ignored, if not prompt a quiet assassination if the Rogue Trader in question is weak enough. (10,16)

The current Liege as of 816.M41 is Tanthus Moross, a career criminal who killed his predecessor during an inter-faction conflict eight years previous. He is an unsettling figure, human eyes set in a stylized death's head of silver, and with a gentle voice that does not match his hulking form. His reign has been unusually long, perhaps because he prefers to spend his ill-gotten gains on business with the Tutors or further improving his augmented form, rather than trying to control the city. (11, 17)

Vladaym Tocara

From Lure of the Expanse, page 12.

In 816.M41, Vladaym Tocara is a Kasballica negotiator, a perpetually unsmiling figure frequently accompanied by armored enforcers as he attends his business in the Liege's court. He's known for being precise and efficient in his adherence to tradition, something that allows him extra subtlety in obscuring his primary purpose. He is a welcoming figure to Rogue Traders open to his business, and offers his vast wealth of information to interested parties should one be able to afford his price.

Politically, Tocara's precise goal is strengthening the formal ties between Rogue Traders and his organization, in order to better corner the market on the trade of xenotech and Halo Artifacts.

Society

Footfall's "highborn" appear in imitation of Imperial nobility. An actual noble from Imperium space would quickly notice how their manner of dress only conforms on the surface level, not the details. Beyond their dress, Footfall's nobles seek to prove their refinement through their consumption of the strange and bizarre. Meals at formal events are more about how exotic one's ingredients are than whether the food is actually enjoyable to eat, for example. Often, it is not. (16-17)

The Narco-tribes are a uniquely Footfallen group, descended from all the various peoples who have passed through the station. Their culture is one that mixes strange drugs, heathen rituals, and violent contests of martial skill, all in different proportions depending on the specific group. Famously, narco-tribe drugs are geared towards altering one's perception of reality in unpredictable ways, an experience visitors can partake in at the Spire of Intoxicants. Most narco-tribesmen are distinguished by the specific patterns of scars and brands made on the faces of their members, and bloody rivalries are common between them. (10)

The Obsidian Emporial is famous bidding house known throughout the Expanse. Entirely managed by a mysterious group known as the Intercessors, the Emporial is a place to sell the rarest of items and information in total anonymity. The Emporial and its Intercessors exercise no formal power, but the convenience of their services is vital enough that the other factions do not bother them, and look away if one of their own disappears due to unpaid debts. (11)

The Seven Witches are one of the few universally feared groups on the station. A collective of wizened, child-sized crones entwined and speaking as one, they are powerful psykers whose visions are taken with deadly seriousness by Footfall's elite. They rarely leave their inner sanctum and few laypeople know much about the witches, except that they curse those with the misfortune to cross them. Rarely, a powerful Rogue Trader will be given direct access to them for a Foretelling, but more often The Seven Witches are encountered indirectly during the fearful occasions that one of their silent, filth-stained guards comes bearing a cryptic, doomsaying missive to the Liege. (11)

Criminal Organizations

The Black Brotherhood are hired thugs and thieves marked by their distinctive black tattoos done in the style of low-decksmen. They know much about the comings and goings of Footfall's many docks, and will demand steep payments in Thrones to tell anyone their information. They work closely with the Kasballica Mission, but are open to hire by anyone with the coin to do so, which often gets them embroiled in conflicts with more powerful players. Their current nominal leader is Calcus Calinnicus, a man known for his vat-muscled frame, taste for narco-drugs, and unbreakable word. He has a surprisingly low body count of 50, only because he prefers to leave his victims alive as a teaching moment, and he reserves the worst of his "teaching" for oathbreakers. (10, 12)

The Kasballica Mission are a shadowy group of crime barons originating in the Drusus Marches within the Calixis Sector. They form one leg of the Quintet, the five largest and wealthiest cold trade organizations within the Expanse, and have the benefit of maintaining a very prominent mission on Footfall in order to give themselves an advantage when working with Rogue Traders. The rainbow-sheened crystal relics of the Egarian Dominion's dead worlds are their current fixation, and they are eager to obtain exclusive contracts with Rogue Traders through either willing negotiation or coercion. Only their most trusted retainers are sent to Footfall to facilitate such dealings, Vladaym Tocara being the most senior. Insiders would also know that the Calixis and Footfall branches of the organization often come into conflict over tithes and influence, something both sides try and keep rivals from discovering. The current self-styled Baron of the Kasballica arm of the Quintet is Armund Deveros, a shrewd man who hides his cunning through boastful bluster in order to catch potential rivals off guard before he inevitably cuts them out of the competition. (10, HA 132)

The Tutors are a group of possibly heretical slavers who fled to Footfall and established it as their center of operations. Within the Red Schola, the Tutors are known to employ methods such as "noetic induction, the breaking of self, torture, ritual branding and hypno-conditioning" to mold their captives into the exact object their clients desire, whether that be "a delicate courtesan assassin sculpted in the image of an Imperial Saint or a cohort of mute, slab-muscled stranglers." The main intermediary of this group is known as The Provisor, a ruthless businessman in red-lined grey robes largely kept alive by the snaking tubes of life-preserving bionics animating his body. (LE, 11-12; CRPG: Heinrix and Jae have a banter about them.)

Religious Factions

The Astral Knives, a clan of void-born death cultists who fled the Calixis Sector ahead of Inquisitorial persecution. Many know them as killers for hire, although their true doctrine is carried out by tarot and omen-led ritual assassinations of corrupt figures in order to maintain the God-Emperor's protection for the warp's many travelers. They are one of Footfall's most influential underground factions, and those wealthy enough to hire them often do so as a form of appeasement. For Footfall's powerful, keeping the Astral Knives steadily employed hopefully keeps the Emperor's Tarot from marking them instead.

Chaos cults are hidden across many parts of Footfall, originating from when renegade vessels were more frequent in visiting the station. These groups are as varied as they are hateful, and often will do anything to further their own agendas.

Drusians in Footfall stem from an especially fanatical branch of the Calixian cult who believe that the present boundaries of the Drusus Marches are heretical, as Drusus' Crusade was meant to carry further still. Known for their fiery sermons and black sackcloth robes, the Drusians often petition Rogue Traders to sponsor settlements on new worlds in the Expanse. They are frequently in conflict with their neighboring factions due to their unyielding beliefs, and carry a special loathing for the Tutors, who have culled their populations for slaves in the past.

The True Path, a group of heavily-prosecuted xenos-worshipers with a confusing and ever-shifting theology.

[creatingblackcharacters]

Hi, I’m writing a fantasy story with a Black lead and I wanted some advice. A lot of what I’ve been reading about writing Black characters has obviously been informed by real world history, but with this being set in a world with a completely different history, I would be interested in if you could point me towards further reading on handling that gap. The real world history will affect my audience’s view of the story, so I don’t just want to ignore it, but I don’t want to make my story’s history similar to reality, even if erasing the gap might make handling things easier. I don’t know how much sense this makes, but any perspective you could offer or anything you could point me towards with regards to Black characters in fantasy would be appreciated!

And for a less vague question, do you have any advice with naming characters? My initial plan with all the characters is to make up names for them rather than using real names, especially since real names are attached to real cultures and the cultures in my story don’t have specific real world analogues, but I’d love to hear other perspectives!

I’m planning to get sensitivity readers once my story is further along in the ‘being a real story’ process, but I did want some input from other people while it’s still in the stage of figuring out characters and worldbuilding and everything, as it’s easiest to make fundamental changes now if there’s something I should be considering. I hope your day’s going well and thank you for everything you’re doing with this blog!

It sounds like you already have your answers, fr 😅 like if you know that real world awareness is gonna affect how the audience perceives your Black characters, then write with that awareness. Maybe I'm not understanding your question, but... Like there's no getting around it lol just write. It doesn't have to be one to one with real world history, for said real world social dynamics to still apply outside of it (it's actually what I'm starting to realize was not quite understood in my poll series). Can you elaborate on your question?

Also, I don't have any advice on naming Black characters in fantasy that I wouldn't have for any other group. Obviously avoid stuff that sounds point blank like real world slurs, but... They're names. You're the inventor of this universe. Tolkien studied other languages and the rules of said languages before investing his own; I'm not sure you're trying to go THAT far but.... You can just come up with names and words and give them meanings!

[lrayasostripes]

Rayas at the RTV Tour, 3

Third week of the RTV Tour, by @rtv-puzzlevision-studios

Note 1: Once again, writing this in first person. Also, no drawings here sadly. Only a card

Note 2: My main Oc is in the spectrum. But as the Tour goes, she might slowly try to interact a little bit. Especially when either trying to make social interaction. She eventually shows she's an empath.

Note 3: Interactions to the inserts are all Bg and not always direct for bigger actions, and as to not break the rules. Interactions with Ocs and RTV characters more obvious.

Note 4: YOu Thought she'll have her drawing in her inner vest pocket? Well... what if she loses it again?

Final Note: Same as last post. Rayas is a participant, and not the same for a future RTV version.

Story

“ALRIGHT, THE VOTES ARE IN!" (ouch my ears) "WE ARE GOING TO THE FILM DEPARTMENT!”

A relief, my drawing has been returned to me now. I'm glad Lucian, or Colores, noted where it was and returned it to me. Whichever was, thank you. (I'm thinking, if people helps the other, they receive something in return. But what/how to repay?)

The drawing is tucked nicely in my vest's inner pocket. That way no once could see it. And besides, won't max out the room on my arms, with my umbrella that I brought, and my new Mr Puzzles plushie. Both items I'm keeping close; the make me feel safe and calm

So... what's next? OH right, the Film Department

"The Film Department makes the CORE of the Headquarters, after all Puzzlevison’s main thing is to create MOVIES and SHOWS for everyone!"

As everyone went further away from the Art Department, ahead, there was another staircase. But unlike the first one, this one appears less risky (Wished the first stair case was more of a square one with solid risers. Even if it takes space, it's the safety necessary. But whom would take note to redesign them?)

"I could of course show you all the different studios we have, but I think you may be interested in a PARTICULAR part of said department.”

But then, we all stopped before anything else, close to the second stair case. Um...

Mr Puzzles stepped aside, and let Swag in charge... Mr Puzzles leaves...

Um... why? And then...

(Oh boy)

But luckily, Swag didn't gave the group a hard time as he lead everyone; let alone, making a smug expression with his sunglasses. Guess... he learned quickly of tour guide etiquette? I hope Chris as well could keep him in line. As for Lucian, ever since he returned me my drawing, I now trust him.

And btw, where did R-Mr Puzzles go?

The whole group walks down the second set of stairs; a tall girl with blonde hair tripped (scammer by @leirom71000) (ouch), but i hope she's okay. I decided to subtly look around the participants while keeping my gaze forward. I wonder how Loyboo (@alelathedragon) is doing. I'm not sure why I'm thinking about him, but I think it's because I'm the first person to wanting to talk to him, even if briefly; and made him less nervous thanks to using the shy Boo gesture. Well, there's a whole variety of people here.

Some Humans, some shapeshifters like the dragon girl (Marie from @fenicearts420) from back before entering the Art Department, an alien with droopy antennae (@alien-star88), a sort of cat with just one eye (Creature by @theclosetcreature)(...Oh boy....), the other TV heads such as the same one with the Kuromi cap and purple teeth bar (Crystal by @kuromipuzzles2000) But... one person caught my attention. A silhouette-like girl with just one eye and the other is shaped like a heart (Nickknack by @runrabitrunrunrun); she has two Mr Puzzles plushies (are repeats allowed?). Never mind, but still... something about her caught my attention.

While the group walks down a hall but before going around a corner, and the fact my hearing is sensitive, I could have sworn listening to what appears to be.... someone talking angrily at someone; and another person. I couldn't make out other than "....narrative," "ruin," "...of chance," and "One more..." Even though, I was one row back from the very front row, I still couldn't make out the words before the Group turned around the corner.

(Also, I also heard a participant talking to her Bob plushie, tee hee (Messy by @messydoodlesyt))

"Ahem"

Right there, Mr Puzzles, holding on to another TV head with a black screen and light blue line and curved antennae with one being crooked, by the jacket..... Um.... (What was her name again-)

“- haaave a TALK with you.”, RTV now finished his sentence, before placing the smaller TV head back on the floor.

Um... Don't know what happened from around the corner, but I rather not ask.

But now, it looks like this new Tv head will join us. Now, introductions?

(wait, why did Swag groaned? Is....)

“Hello, bonjour, assalamu alaikum, hallo!”

Her energy... oh no, is she a social butterfly? I have to be honest, I get overwhelmed too much by anyone with that sort of energy. And she's quickly shaking other's people's hands now; I almost dropped my stuff to a participant in front of me who got their hand shaken and got spooked. And startling three participants who where zoned out.

“The name’s Animsay (Um... hi Animsay. Can I call you Ani?), some of you may know me from a certain site, wink wink, others maybe not. I’m the head of the Social Media Department but we will probably get to that later! Probably.”

OH okay, she's the head of the Social Media Department. Wonder how she manages. But then thinking back at the Art Department, I'm glad my drawing didn't flew into a vent again and ended in the Social Media Department if it got picked next... Because in a short time, I learned, she would probably reveal my drawing to Mr Puzzles immediately if it wasn't for the siblings finding it first; and a large audience as well to see it.

"MOVING ON- if you would start following me again.” Announced Mr Puzzles (ouch my ears) now that he takes back the lead. But... I...

I cannot help but notice his voice, even thought sounding he's cheery, I sort of thought I picked up... he sounds slightly more strained. Did... something happened? Was there something bothering him?

Hm... I think it's best not to show my drawing (I just recovered it) to him if he by chance... Isn't feeling too well (emotionally speaking); and also proving it's not the best time to show fan art. Besides, I'm still self-conscious about sharing my stuff to others.

Animsay seems wanting to socially interact, but I.... I'm not ready. At least the participants in the group of three, the robot rabbit (Bunnybot by @selfshippinglover), the fish woman (Sci by @scimagic), and another with the glasses ("Micheal" by @michaelscorneroftheinternet), seem to get her occupied. And then Animsay moves to talk to another participant, that apparently, used to work for Puzzlevision... Wow. And her name was apparently Mia. (Oh, they know each other. And they hugged as well)

Walking through the long hallway, of the Administration Department (and hoping not to get startled by Animsay. Sorry); several sets of doors on the sides with labels. And further, several windows showing outside. I noticed something big and purple outside, but still cannot make out what it is. We are getting close to a set of doors, that Mr Puzzles has his hands on them, and readying to open them.

“I’m sure you’ve GUESSED by now where we are heading..."

The doors are open. I slowly moved forward to get a better look, even if it means... getting slightly closer to Mr Puzzles. (My Puzzles plushie is at least making me feel comfortable if near the real one). A few steps before stepping outside the studio, I opened my umbrella, just in case, the sun was harsh or a light drizzle. (Hope some would understand no one would like to be under the sun, or getting wet. And the umbrella makes me feel safe).

" The SMG4, now SMG3 castle has gotten a bit of a rework to fit more to it’s NEW crew." Continued Mr Puzzles

Now a few steps outside, along with the group joining. Outside is... It's... a very large courtyard. Grass and planted trees around the edges. Some benches are also there. But in the distance, stands a familiar yet different castle. Purple instead of.... (you know)

Mr Puzzles and I think the group, stopped for a moment halfway into the courtyard. Possibly for everyone to admire the courtyard a little longer before proceeding; and, I'm actually standing next to Mr Puzzles, but I'm keeping my eyes on the remodeled castle.

"This area is often used by employees during BREAKS by the way. It can be accessed from ALL building blocks..." said Mr Puzzles as he indicated the rest of the courtyard. At some parts, there are other buildings nearby, but I focus on the castle on the distance in front of us.

(I wonder if he noticed my presence after finishing talking, and a moderate pause before getting to the castle)

Even with the castle's colors being different... everything is still beautiful.

You know... I wonder if... other than trees, would they also plant a variety of flowers as well. I don't know why, but I'm thinking of white roses... A field of white roses. And it's petals... flying in the breeze... I couldn't help but close my eyes, and (as quietly as possible) hum a tune from the chorus of a Portuguese song from a video game (that also mentions about white roses and full view of its trailer video).

And maybe... the combination of color palettes to the castle, all endless. But little did I realized, Animsay has moved from the middle of the group, to next to me. Now two TV heads are on both sides of me. (And I wanted to again, interact with the Kuromi Tv head or the other ones)

The group start walking.

"Hello," greeted Animsay, and I open my eyes slowly as trying my best not to appear startled. "You like the courtyard?"

I look at her, and I nod politely.

(as long as she doesn't have physical eyes, I feel less nervous)

"Same here. Neat umbrella."

"Thanks." I said

I just hope this interaction didn't get Mr Puzzles' attention. But I try my best to act natural. I hold on to my new plushie in reassurance.

"Oh, you managed to get a plushie of my boss, congrats!" (is she reading my actions or....?)

"Yes." I add that with a small smile, and hugging my plushie.

"Hm... I know it's only for a very short time, but you aren't much of a talker are you?" asked Animsay. (does she know what I have, or is she coaxing me to speak more?)

(Oh boy...)

I'll have to be honest to tell her.

"Well..."

But before I could say anything, I hear a cough from Mr Puzzles. I believed aimed to Animsay, as if saying. 'Now now. Don't overwhelm our dear participants.' I didn't look up to see his screen/face (too nervous).

(I guess now I understand why Swag groaned earlier. Well, I can't blame?)

Animsay takes the hint.

"Oh okay, I'll go back with the others. Ciao."

Well. There she goes. I glance up to Mr Puzzles from under my umbrella, he shows a soft expression as if apologizing if I felt overwhelmed; almost as if he knows Animsay better for being too much. Unsure if he knows about the blue puzzle piece's meaning, or he's soft because I'm holding on to my new Puzzles plushie (or, maybe he noticed my scarred face, and feels pity?) I politely lightly smile. (and not sure where I found the strength to not quickly look away, as if avoiding him. I don't want to appear rude, but looking at faces make me nervous... still to this day, but I have progressed greatly in the past)

Also um... after I turned to look in front, why do I feel like... Has anyone gotten the feeling it's going to be slightly windy, or is it just me?

Now in front of the main doors of the purple castle, Swag and Chris go over to open them. As the doors slightly open, everyone slowly walks to get inside. As I got to close my umbrella, and letting some pass.... something falls off from my vest...

My... Drawing... (I was sure i put it in my inner pocket. Did I misplaced it?)

And in a desperate action, I try to lean down for it, but a gust of wind blows it into the air! Oh... oh no... After I recovered it back from Lucian! And even though I trust him, I'm too embarrassed to ask him. (And did he saw it flew away? or say the face I was making?) Sigh... I don't want a small thing to ruin the tour. I'll move on. I have not crossed the bridge.

Well, moving on.

“WELCOME TO THE SMG3 CASTLE!”, RTV announced, now moving in the middle of the room, next to the crew gang who had meanwhile been gathering while the group fully walked in.

Looking around, it is surely redecorated to fit SMG3's Aesthetic. And, if you all know, purple is a royal color, fun fact. Looking around, and then at the ceiling... the appearance making it look like the night sky.... (I sort of feel tempted to open my umbrella, and dance around and spin, and getting lost into a starry trance-)

I heard the doors close behind, yet I didn't looked back. I knew, my drawing is still flying out there; and I rather not risk slipping out. Oh, Animsay is staying in? ....okay?

Looking back at the center of the castle's lobby, the 'SMG3 Gang' show up lined up; and in uniform (?). Well, hello SMG3 Gang.

(Hm... Tari has no cybernetic arm? I rather not ask)

“Hey! I’m SMG3, but I’m pretty sure ya know that already. I’m the head of the Film Department and also the leader of the SMG3 gang. Me, Tari, Meggy and Boopkins welcome you to our crib- I mean base of operations!”

Hi?.. huh, not sure if I'm looking right, or hearing , but he sounds... tired? (I'm observant). Hm....

(Also, Mr Puzzles really IS TALL!)

But then, Meggy starts to explain more about the Film department, Puzzlevision movies and shows. There's Block C, which I think it's the other building at the courtyard. So... the SMG3 Gang not only act, but also do all the editing and stuff. And then revised by Mr Puzzles (huh...) Well, okay.

(I cannot help but briefly glance at SMG3. And, Tari as well)

“So yeah, if you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask them! Other than that feel free to explore the castle! I know a lot of fans always want to see it, so go ahead.”

Oh that's nice. But um... are there rules about looking around, or what NOT to do?

“You can go anywhere except for the room upstairs. It's, uh, not cleaned up.” Added SMG3.

Oh okay, no going up the stairs. I'll respect that. (Those stairs seem more safe than the first ones, sorry)

Well, we can ask questions to the Gang, go have a snack to the kitchen, rest and watch anime with Boopkins (ha, seem very eager to show mini episodes), use the restroom (is there just one or several toilets...?), and go to play games with Tari in the game room. The storage? Um... why? But... so many people, I don't know where to start, or who to talk to. Besides, I need to get myself busy from thinking about my recently lost drawing (a second time). Let's see... The SMG3 gang are a lot smaller than... well, you know (I repeat, this place is different with its own rules... and people). Hm... SMG3? hm... I don't know. He almost appears tired, yet he's willing to answer questions (poor guy, maybe he's tired because he forgot to clean the upstairs room at the last minute and couldn't get it done?). I could go over and ask Meggy some questions; in the introduction, she and Boopkins seem to be in a good mood today on the tour. Wonder if she's still a coach of sorts. But also... I need to also be careful with my questions; I also noticed but unlike SMG3, she has faint shadow under he eyes. I hold onto my umbrella and Puzzles Plushie for comfort.

She's already answering other's questions, so I shake off whatever nerves I have, and approach. Also, some have Meggy's plushie, so she has fans.

"Um, hello." I greet Meggy. "Meggy?" She notices me.

"Oh hi. Do you have some questions? Go ahead."

"Well. You and the rest act during filming, so um... What sort of roles do you get? I... I mean, everyone gets?"

(I just hope she didn't noticed my hesitation and moments I cut eye contact. Meeting someone face to face is... overwhelming. Especially, someone different. Not new, but different)

"Well, the acting roles can vary. I for the most part, plays the character who always goes into action, and helps others when they need it! Heh. I even still have the skills of a life coach."

I'm glad to hear that. She can encourage the Gang to have their spirits up; and happy to hear she' still same as always. Hm... but recalling that I noticed SMG3 somewhat tired (am I the only one to notice?), is that even true? I rather not ask about that.

"Alright, another question I have. So..." I think about... I fidget my blue puzzle piece tie clip. "About... um,...." I struggle to think of one.

"No worries, the question that you want, it'll happen soon. Keep trying." Meggy assured me, but it feels like... wanting me to rush me (still good old Meggy i think)- wait, I think I got it! But I want to make sure, I don't point out and offend her (I recall... she can be... a little... hasty. Plus, her reaction, can be very different here). No actually, maybe something else... here it goes.

"Alright, do you learn new things from ongoing experience? I'm wondering, like... trying to be someone else's role model with new experiences?" I then add. "I'm... just curious. Because... there's so many people who are different. Like... me. Who could want advice."

Meggy thinks for a bit.

"Well, I do. Though not much goes, but yeah I learn a thing or two. And um... I did said I still have it as a life coach, I'm afraid I'm a little busy. So, trying to be role model may... be put on hold." Well, It looks like she can no longer do more things, despite earlier sounding like her coach persona. Never mind, I'm waiting for the other question. "As for people different like you...? I... don't know. Care to explain?"

Okay, I'll be honest of myself. I subtly fidget my blue puzzle piece tie clip. Hope Meggy catches on about it.

"Well... Um, I... I'm not much of the type to talk or socialize with others; but that's because... I'm already born with it. Believe me that, I tried to look up to other's for guidance for a very long time ago... a role model... And sometimes the fictional ones on TV..."

As I explain from my experience, Meggy keeps listening. She's... understanding everything. Listening to my struggles. And what I did with a combination of everyone's advices and my own. And maybe a teensy lore drop about (but not all of it) the meaning of my scarred eye and that I found acceptance and lived with it.

"And... well, so far in the tour, it's going well for me. I even spoke to a shy participant a while ago. Small, but it's something. That's why... I get curious to learn new things, but making sure I can do at my own. And how I do it."

Meggy nods.

"I understand. You know what... I think you taught me something new." She smiles and lightly laughs lightheartly. "Ha Heh, well, I'll follow your advice then. And I'll keep in mind of making sure you are accommodated. Thanks for letting me know. You are very brave, that maybe you can teach others."

OH? I... what!? I was dumbfounded by that. If i said I couldn't find a role model, then... am I a role model myself and never noticed?

"Oh, and... knowing there's many participants and might not remember their names. What's yours?"

"My name's Ra-"

"Hallo!" Out popped Animsay out of nowhere. This scared me that I accidentally sent my Puzzles Plushie flying and dropping my umbrella; I bent to pick it up. And I think it also startled Meggy and nearby participants. "Hey, Meggy. How's it going with answering questions of others?"

While they are distracted, that's my cue that I'm done asking questions. I pick up my umbrella that is near, and go to my plushie that flew near the stair case. The east wing. (hope no one mistakes it as theirs since all Mr Puzzles' plushie look all the same)

"Ahem?"

I turn around, and it was SMG3. OH boy, the displeased look is making me nervous. And he's standing near my plushie; he goes and picks it up before I could. But before he would say anything.

"I apologize... I came to pick up my plushie... um... Animsay came and... I got spooked badly... I wasn't going up the stairs. I would never go against the rules you set. Oh... and Hi" I awkwardly wave at him.

Then, I got distracted that, with my sensitive hearing, did I heard like a dog whining? And it came up the stairs. I think SMG3 picked up.

"Is there... a dog up there?" I casually ask, the nervousness replaced by curiosity.

"...Yes. But, I cannot bring him out. And if you are curious, I already fed him before you guys came. And, again, not going up the stairs."

"Alright." I answered politely. SMG3 hands me back my Mr Puzzles plushie.

And then, the participant with the horns, red eyes and red ribbons (Grinnanes by @grinnames), approaches him with a large smile; seeing she has his plushie, she's a fan of him. I overheard her name is Grinnames.

Once they leave, I glance at the guest room. The door is open.

So, the guest room is for everyone to relax, and watch whatever anime Boopkins would play. I got to be honest, I used to watch anime, but only the Saturday mornings... English dub edit (4Kids TV, sorry but lol); so... not used to the... larger... variety. I was not aware I was staring from the door's frame as a random anime was playing; a habit of watching something on TV from afar or behind the window.

The mini anime ended there (something about a gang of con artists, I never heard of), and as Boopkins stood up to look for another one, he looked at me peaking from the door. I... felt a bit embarrassed and surprised.

"Oh hello, are you coming to watch anime?"

Well, he's inviting me. Being polite, I agree and come into the guest room. There are a few participants in the room, all mostly chilling, drawing, but also watching anime. And also, the guest room looks slightly different than I remember (again, different place).

"Hello." I greeted the little guy.

"We finished a mini anime episode so... OH! How about you pick one to watch?"

Oh, is he giving me the honors? Well, if there's one anime series I enjoy watching, it's Pokemon.

"Pokemon." I answered. And since Boopkins will show only mini episodes. "Um... the Pikachu and Pichu short from the Pikachu shorts?"

I got to be honest, that short is my favorite. And I hope, Boopkins has it; and still likes Pokemon.

"Hm... Oh yeah, I think I do have it! It's bundled with the Spell of the Unown Movie. Let me set it up!"

Boopkins waddles to look into the DVD case of all the anime he has, and sure enough, he finds it. And now... Settle to sit on a bundle of pillows, set my Puzzles plushie on my lap and umbrella next to me... show time. The anime reminded me when I was young; I love Pokemon. Oh the little adventures of the Pokemon, making friends... having fun... causing minor mischief as they run around the city... As I'm waiting for the part of the playground...

I... didn't realized that Boopkins left, and brought a reluctant SMG3 to the guest room. But where's Grinnames? (hm... not an anime fan? or Pokemon fan?)

"...Fine, what are we watching?" I heard SMG3 grumble a little.

"We are watching a Pokemon short! It's pretty good." But I wasn't expecting to hear... "And she (me) picked just the right one that is an old classic."

I looked over, and... SMG3 looks at me; I, being the one who picked the anime short. He raises an eyebrow while keeping a serious yet tired look. Shrugs and sits next to me... moving my umbrella close to me. (so awkward after the incident with the plushie on the staircase).

But anyways, me and the ones present continue watching the Pokemon short.

As it went, I thought I heard SMG3 mutter, "Decent choice"

:0....

Seeing the scene of the Playground Pikachu and the Pichu brothers playing along with the siblings' friends, it makes me wonder, if there could be a playground built like that (albeit with better safety measures). I would like to go around and explore a playground like that. And, everyone would also want to...

Out of the corner of my eye, the window of the guest room is partially open. And... My drawing flies in! Flying up on the ceiling and not (somehow) falling down; and no one notices it (phew). (I'm sweating imaginary bullets). I was just about to stand up slowly when-

"So... How's the anime binge watching going?" It's Animsay... (did she just got here?)

My drawing flew near a vent and... disappears... Oh boy. Where did it go? (Why do I feel like, it's going to repeat again? and maybe... Lucian won't be the one to find it again this time)

"OH Ani, hi! greeted Boopkins. "Anime is pretty good!"

"Eh, good I guess..." said SMG3. "At least, something okay. Boopkins gave Robo-fox umbrella girl (me)-"

"Ahem?" It looks like Animsay doesn't like nicknames. Well, technically, SMG3 doesn't know my name, so I don't take offense to it.

"Ugh... Boopkins gave the tour participant here the honors to pick an anime short to watch. For once" he mutters the last part.

"We just about to finish the Pikachu short movie. I'm thinking to putting on another mini short; And I think, maybe watch another classic Pikachu short anime."

"Mind if i join?" said Animsay.

"Yes!" Boopkins beams.

She sits down. "I was almost done talking to a half of participants (half?), then got bored and came here. Btw..." I notice her look at me. "Your uniform stands out a lot, because it was the first thing I saw before coming in the guest room. You like stripes?

I have to be honest, I do.

"Yes"

Despite the remaining minutes left on the short movie, I grab my plushie and umbrella, and slowly get up.

"Bye," said Boopkins. "It's nice having you watch anime."

I smile. I leave the guest room.

Now... where did my lost drawing went? In the kitchen, the bathroom, the storage room, the game room....? You know... in either room, I'm sure I'll find it. Btw, 20 minutes passed, so... I guess being here will last an hour or an hour and with an additional half an hour? I better hurry...

Next is.... the game room with Tari I guess. I'm curious what games to play with her. A glance around the castle's lobby as I approach the game room, I see the silhouette-like girl again, standing and not interacting with anyone with a slightly irritated look... Hm... I'll try to speak with her later.

Entering the game room. Sure enough, the interior remains almost unchanged; still with purple hues and different carpeting, but it's still much the same. I see a couple of participants playing on the retro arcade games, and looking to the sofa and big Tv screen, there's Tari, and another participant, playing Super Smash Bros Ultimate...

Wait... Tari doesn't have her special arm now that I remember (this Tari), how is she still playing? And... has she... changed? Never mind, I survey the game room a little to check if my drawing ended up in here... It's not here.

My attention turns back to Tari and the random participant.

"Ha ha! Great play." said Tari to the participant. (is it just me, or i heard a hint of defeat?)

(Hello)

Apparently, I think they won. And if I recall, Tari was super good on video games; but all thanks to her cybernetic arm...

...Was...

Never mind, since the drawing isn't here, might as well get distracted with some games to ease my anxiety to look for it; if I got it back for playing the waiting game and not get in trouble, it'll return to me without consequences again. Now, everyone seems to want to play on the arcade games and with Tari. Is there room for another? Or,... looking how she is, maybe there could be a different game she and I can both play? Maybe later...

"Hello." I greet Tari from next to the couch.

"Oh hi." She greets back. "Want to play?"

"I... yes. It's Smash Bros Ultimate? Because... used to play Melee and Brawl; the latter, with the GameCube controller."

Huh, I talked without the nervousness in my voice.

"Of course, everyone would like to play and challenge me" She smiles, but... I feel, she feels a bit down. Like as if she gets beaten in the game now. And gotten used to it. Her old title of being good at games now limited.

"Well..." I turn to the participant. "Say, how about I challenge you to a match? I'll main Kirby." I want to "avenge" Tari for losing her title, sort of. But also have fun.

The participant looks at me as if pensive with a low brow. But nods shortly. I sit on the couch, set my umbrella and plushie between Tari and I...

3... 2... 1... GO!

One match later, with life stocks of 4, I almost beaten the participant but they bested me; I'm a bit rusted from the game, and first time using a Switch controller. At first, three stocks taken from me, but then I tied quickly. I could tell everyone in the room and some from the lobby got close to see how it went since the tie round was taking slightly longer with no winner yet; and possibly betting I was going to kick their butt. But a bad timed sneeze (but a good timed meme), I missed a combo, dropped my controller, my hair frizzed up (my hair clips somehow staying strong), and my Kirby got sent to space by their main. They won. Yet, Tari and few others clapped at me anyways. And some still reeling from laughing of the sneeze I made. I didn't realized (until much later) SMG3 came to see the commotion, and my Pomeranian like sneeze made him laugh the Mutahar Laugh sound effect (I thought it was another participant with a very ticklish funny bone); I'll get to it later.

GG

"Ha ha, well done. You did played the game before, and you almost won." She smiles brightly at me.

"GG" said someone.

It looks like the participant wants someone to challenge them. They got their win streak alright. Everyone huddles to have a turn. I quickly gather my Puzzle Plush and umbrella before I accidentally leave them.

I think it's time I ask Tari questions.

"Well, I think everyone has a controller. So Tari, do you have any board games or card games to play?"

Tari nods and guides be to a shelf with boardgames. She asks which one, so I scan them... one of them gets my attention: Inscryption.

"And Tari, do you know about the video game version as well?" I asked out of curiosity if she knew.

"Ah yes. The game mechanics, the story, the Scrybes, found footage... and..." Ah, she knows it.

Time for a bit of humor.

"GO Fish"

This earns a soft giggle out of Tari. I think she knows who the Angler character is. Seeing her smile... makes me happy.

The Inscryption game is set, and settling on Leshy's version; there's the Dead cards, Magick cards, and Technology cards, but Leshy's is pretty interesting. Shuffling the cards, and splitting the Squirrel cards, setting Leshy's scale. But of course, Leshy's version has a... dark edge to it, so I helped make the Leshy version less edgy with improvised ways I came up as to make Tari less uneasy. I also improvised an additional mechanic to the candles, of who can snuff all two candles first to win (and a custom DeathCard as a consolation price); sort of like the Kaycee's Mod, and Tari also knows about it and finds it entertaining. And besides, I curiously decided to act like Leshy's narration and character. (Insert Inscryption, "Death Card Cabin" ost)

"The stalwart Snapper, a near impenetrable defense..." or "The amorphous Amoeba. Its sigils are ever changing."

And some of the cards during play, they have sigils; and others post- added as patches, as if they went through the Mysterious Stones as seen in the digital video game (has the Crew Gang played it before and left the sigil stamps on?). Like, some have more than two; limit is 4 sigils. I love that mechanic; I think all the mechanics of Leshy's and P03's are good.

Oh, and since Tari doesn't have her other arm/hand to hold her cards, my Puzzles Plushie is there to hold them for her, easy. She at first was nervous at it, and I admit, it almost looks as if it's looking at you; and a bit distracting. But telling her since my Puzzles Plush is mine and if I'm not the type to make anyone uncomfortable, so my plush is same as I. And as the game went, we also chatted a little; all the while I secretly want to make Tari win. (to secretly to boost her confidence,.... and I want a custom DeathCard, ha ha)

I even talked about the Scrybes: Grimora, Leshy, P03, and Magnificus. That, what if they worked together. Leshy could be the narrator/storyteller, Grimora would write the story and lore of the world and characters, P03 could be the mechanics designer, and Magnificus the one to make the game's art. There could be harmony... they could have made an amazing game. Tari ponders on that... and nods as if understanding.

The game didn't took more than 7 minutes that passed... And note, I think games of any kind brings out my more social side.

"So, I'm curious to ask Tari. Do you also take video game requests to play by others?" Now, because remember the song I quietly hummed in the courtyard that is from a video game? It's time I talk about it. Me and Tari are tied with one "lit" candle left each.

"Well... I think you are the first one to ask that." (Oh? the first?) She answers meekly. "Everyone all wanted to play Smash Bros matches today... what are my favorite video games, and well..." She trails off, but returns to hear from me. "Okay, what game you want me to check out?" She's 2 points on the scale from losing, but I won't let her.

"There's this game that is a Puzzle RPG game, with pixels and everything. The title is called "Lenin the Lion." And it has a semi bittersweet story, about the only albino lion born in a village of normal lions...."

A small skip to avoid spoilers, and saying how the game resonated with me.

" ...The whole game is about learning self-acceptance... And it also has a good soundtrack and art."

And then... Tari wins, but still listening to the topic. She nods. I reach to make a custom Death Card, as the table is cleared so Tari, can play as Leshy, to help me build it with my deck.

"Well, I'm more of a competition type of gamer, but your video game request caught my attention. I think I'll look it up." (YES!)

Cost None (thanks to a Geck); Attack 3 and Health 3 (from an Amalgam); Sigils (from a pre-buffed Amoeba) Amorphous, Sharp Quills, and Unkillable.

(Wow, most of the ones are rare Beasts cards)

Next is... the name-

"You seem like a good and fun person, Rayas. I love the creativity of how to play it, like as if you came up with a new Mod." And finally... the portrait. "Okie dokie, say cheese!"

"GG"

"GG"

Me and Tari shake hands. Ha ha, just like-

"HII!" Loudly saluted Animsay, startling some of the participants; including me and Tari. "Who's winning?" she comes in the game room.

(Oh boy, is Animsay going to keep popping up? or... is she following me?)

"Um... hi Animsay," shyly answered Tari. I politely waved after reeling from the surprise.

"Hey, how come you are not playing Smash Bros with everyone?" She looks at the table. "Oh, what's this? In...scryption...?"

Looking at both girls, I noticed the change in the mood, almost as if... something wasn't meant.... Wait, let me see how to diffuse that. Hm... I got it!

"Hi... Me and Tari were having fun with this tabletop game I asked to play. Would you... like to play?"

It appears Animsay is curious now. And her blue line that serves as her mouth shapes as if smiling. I think it's a yes. Tari stands up to go and play with the other participants, and leaving me with Animsay. But question is... does Animsay know how to play it?

So basically, Animsay, realized she indeed not know much of Inscryption, but she "downloaded" all the info. Ha ha, the loading screen sort of looked like P03's three dots when loading. Looking at her head, she really gives me P03 impression in appearance based on her "face." So, she wanted to play Technology style, and I like it, but um... I like Beasts style... But wait, to diffuse that, why not try Technology and Beasts? Animsay can use Technology, and I'll use Beasts. And maybe include the Mox vessels and Kaycee's Mod items and cards to make it more interesting.

Ha ha, I cannot believe I came up with a new Mod: Rayas' Mod, Nature versus Technology.

The time of playing it against Animsay, it feels like as if she's the Scrybe of Technology, and I'm the Scrybe of Beasts; P03 versus Leshy. Well, my head shape is confusing, it's a fennec fox head, but it has metal parts (but the cog gear on my head is completely natural... and still natural I am); but based on a quote from the Iron Giant, I can choose who I want to be.... Leshy... So far, the game is going well. And, even using my custom Deathcard for a spin, ha ha! (and then Animsay learned my name that way). Some small talk, as usual (because Animsay is a social butterfly, and I'm trying to be polite)

"Hope you didn't mind that before going in, I heard you talk a storm with Tari." said Animsay. "I'm glad you are opening up. When I met you, you only spoke short sentences..."

I nod in acknowledgement and I say, "I also like games, like Tari."

"Ahem? Animsay..." I heard the familiar voice of R Mr Puzzles. I heard almost everyone stop what they were doing, and waited. (creepy...) His tone sounded... ominous, or slightly annoyed? Did something happened out of the Game Room? He comes into the room (I bring my plushie closer to me), but a few feet away from the table me and Animsay are. And Mr Puzzles somehow makes a gesture for everyone to carry on.

"Ah, hello Boss. I was here all along, just playing with the participants. And definitely not making a ruckus, ha ha." Animsay is telling the truth, she's been here playing Inscryption with me the whole time. Hm... is this... my cue to leave the game with no winner, or do I wait to continue playing since we are tied for 9 minutes? (plus, i have a lost drawing to find) (but I'm curious for another Deathcard, whether the Leshy version or the fancy neon blue Technology base if Animsay loses; if the latter, the "Ani-Bot")

"Is that so? Well... Alright! Just checking where you went to. And the tour wouldn't truly go without the Head of the Social Media Department, yes?" He then turns to look at me (...eyes...). "Has she given you any trouble?" (I think he remembers the courtyard ramble)

"No, not at all," I politely answer with a shake of my head. "We are having fun. The game is going well."

He lightly smiles.

(Wow, I directly spoke to him!)

"Well, then," he turns to Animsay (phew). "Just wanted to say, 18 more minutes before announcing the next voting." I heard that.

So, shortly, there was no winner since Animsay quickly went to play one of the arcade machines, but not before we shook hands as a sign of GG. Though, I noticed she looked at my hand a little longer, as if gazing at it; it's probably nothing. And before I left, after gathering my umbrella and Puzzles Plushie, I went to thank Tari that she got to play one game with someone she enjoyed. She smiles.

Now in the Lobby, with the minutes left for the next vote, I'm feeling a little hungry. I went to the kitchen, and hope there's still something left to eat. Once again, I look around the crowd, and the same silhouette girl is just there, dissociating.... and rubbing her head. Hm... but my body is telling me to eat, or I might starve during the remainder of the Tour.

Alright, not all of the snacks and drinks are gone, because I just witnessed the girl with the horns and red ribbons, Grinnames, raid the kitchen!! (slow down). There's some pizza, some donuts, a bowl with many candy, cheese puffs, water, coffee, tea, soda... So glad none of it ran out, because I quickly scooped what I'll eat before she does; and I'm lucky to find the last slice of an All-cheese Pizza (yummy). While eating my fill, I see her starting to cook. What is it she making? And is that allowed, other than not going up the stairs? Hm... I leave my stuff on a table, and go to near the coffee maker and some packets of tea. I look a little longer, and I found a glass container of powder green tea; matcha. This sparks me an idea. If Grinnames is cooking something, I think I would as well.

Managing to find milk, powdered cinnamon, a bit of syrup, and the tool to make the matcha froth (and search on Google ha ha), I start up to making a matcha latte. I have tasted it before, and it was good, very good. And I'm going to make one... I never made matcha latte...

I glance a little, and Grinnames is cooking... something. Not sure what it is, but hope she knows what she's making. I don't think she looked what I was making; busy much? And, for herself, or for someone? OH, for someone actually. After it is done, she leaves it in the fridge. A surprise...?

Well, as for me... i think I accidentally made too much to be just for me.... i find a pitcher, luckily.

Just as I add the powdered cinnamon as the final touch, I could swear it released a strong earthy aroma; it was good based on the smell filling the kitchen. Did I do it right? Shortly, SMG3 comes into the kitchen, smelling the air. He looks around, and finds me, with the finished matcha latte in a large-enough paper coffee cup; and the left over in a medium size pitcher because I'm not always good with measurements, but final product turning out decent nonetheless. I don't know how to describe the expression, but I hope it isn't what I think because I used some kitchen equipment and stuff from the fridge and pantry; or because it seems during the day wherever he goes, I'm always there somehow (not my intention). I look at Grinnames, and she beams with her eyes; so the dish is a surprise for him?

"What... are you doing?" SMG3 addresses me first, he slowly walks to me. His look and tone... I don't think using the equipment and ingredients in the kitchen is allowed...

Grinnames points to the fridge as a the surprise, but SMG3's attention is solely at me. And not in a good way. His eyes look exhausted... tired..

I have to be honest.

"I... made myself a matcha latte... um... I'll clean the utensils I used before leaving, um..." I'm a wreck... But maybe... "But... do you want some?"

SMG3 looks at me, and the matcha latte in my hand. Um...

He finally grabs it. Smells it a little bit, and finally a sip... And, as he closes his eyes, I thought I saw the shadow in his eyes fade very slowly; or maybe my anxiety is making me see things? What does he think of it?

"This latte... It's good, very good." He says softly, and... a soft smile contrasting his usual Evil Cool persona. "I really needed it."

(I... on the first try...!)

"I... Glad you like it," I sort of couldn't help but, thinking of wanting to hug-

I heard a small growl in the kitchen. It was Grinnames. She looks irritated, but why... Oh! I just took SMG3's attention from the surprise dish, unintentionally. She worked so hard on it! Ugh, how to make it up for it? (and making sure she doesn't hold a grudge on me throughout the tour) Hm...

"Um... the latte isn't the only thing. You see..." Indicating Grinnames, she stops growling. "She and I,... have a surprise we cooked." The girl's expression changes to confusion.

"...You did?" the she asks confused, as if she doesn't know what I'm trying to do.

"We did," I "corrected." I open the fridge, and she takes out the mystery surprise dish after getting the message. Now, she looks anticipated for SMG3 to try the dish; a positive glow in her eyes.

The dish doesn't have a physical description, but I hope it pays off. After cutting a piece for SMG3, and me to try as well (out of politeness and curiosity), and a bite...

"Mmm! This dish is out of the park! I tell you, you two outdid it." He gives the thumbs up, with his iconic smirk.

I admit, the physically indescribable dish is delicious (might ask on how to make it with a little bit of a la Rayas style). My matcha, well, my first time and never done it in my life... it's decent. Grinnames smiles.

I'm glad I made her happy again after clearing the misunderstanding.

"Well, thanks for the surprise girls. The latte and the dish, I'm sure the Gang will like it. I appreciate it." He leaves...

(I guess my matcha is part of the surprise then...)

Now alone in the kitchen...

"Do you have brain damage?" Grinnames asks me. Guess she's still confused.

"Um... what?" (don't have brain damage, but does the cog gear on my head makes it look like that?)

"I didn't see you helping me with my cooking. Or did you secretly help me, because you're some sort of mysterious good Samaritan?"

I chuckle lightly.

"Well..." I explained how much she worked on the surprise dish for SMG3 and the Gang, and it was unfair that SMG3 didn't noticed it first. And that I wanted to clear the misunderstanding and made sure SMG3 finds the surprise. Her dish, it's delicious! She understood, and smiles (those teeth...)

"I'm Rayas," I extend my hand for a handshake.

"I'm Grinnames" we shake hands (hello Grinnames)

(I think I made another friend in the tour group)

Well, I think it's almost time for the next vote? Before leaving the kitchen, I serve myself my matcha from the leftover in a paper coffee cup after drinking my first round (offscreen); a smaller one to take to make it last for the Gang. And not forgetting to wash the utensils used, and clean everything, I remember. I grab my umbrella and plushie, and head to the lobby. And, Animsay has not popped up in the kitchen (sorry...).

Hm... the drawing wasn't in the kitchen so...

"Hey"

I look, and it's SMG3. He gestures me to talk to me. He still has not finished the matcha latte I made.

"You got something stuck on your back."

Oh? I reached behind and... It's my drawing! Did it got stuck moments before leaving the kitchen. I hope it wasn't facing for the world to see... luckily it isn't (not sure how one member of the SMG3 Gang will react to the existence of other places... and other Puzzles...). I quickly pocket it (and making sure it is tucked in the right place this time), and I thank SMG3 for spotting it but while being vague what it is. But before turning around...

"I got to say... you aren't so bad."

"Oh?"

"Well... you made me at least like a Pokemon from the anime you picked. The Houndour..."

"Well, the Houndour is a dark type... And there's more with that type."

"Exactly... When you made that Pomeranian sneeze at the game room, Oh I never thought I would laugh my a** off. There are times during filming I don't get to see something really REALLY funny happening to laugh at. The way your head shook and your hair frizzing up were the best."

He was the one who made the Mutahar Laugh alright. Glad I made him laugh. I giggle at that.

"Lastly, other than the dish you and Grinnames made, that matcha latte... it made me feel less exhausted and much calmer. Making myself less tired for the next filming deadlines to come...," he pauses for a moment as if realizing he's bringing up his work, but brushes it. "Besides, I'm sure the Gang will love the dish and latte. They will need it just as I." (awww)

I smile hopefully. And i think now... I can give him questions now.

"I'm glad you are, SMG3. I admit, I was nervous around you after the incident with the staircase... but I think I'm feeling ready to ask. H-Here it goes... What do you think of the tour so far?"

SMG3 ponders for a moment. Scratching the back of his neck (Is that missing texture on his... oh, right)

"... Honestly, a bit weary; and maybe still. I won't get into detail, but as the head of the film department, and as editor and actor, it can get a bit much. Sometimes when getting ready to some big event, you try your best to have enough rest and rehearsed. I think it's the nerves. As of the Tour right now, a lot of people being strangers... I think... I thought this will be like... too much at first. People all from around, and imagining getting more tired as you try to answer their questions. But... the right answer for that..." SMG3 looks at me with a calm look. he sips the final ounces of the matcha. "Not too bad at all. Not everyone here is... weird. It's just being them. Again, thanks for the matcha latte and dish. Um... I called you earlier "robo-fox umbrella girl," so... what is your name?"

"You are welcome SMG3. My name is Rayas." SMG3 smiles.

"Heh, I noticed you aren't much of a talker before, but hey. You warmed up."

Well, he doesn't think it's all bad; but when I saw his tired expression, he probably thought he couldn't go on with it. But if he found the tour not bad at all... I wonder if its because of me, a visitor, going on tour with everyone... I smile at the fact at least I and Grinnames, help make something for the Gang. I wonder if SMG3 figured out, that I'm in the spectrum with the last comment.

As SMG3 goes to throw the cup to the trash, Boopkins shows up and comes to me.

"Hi, I heard the tour group will be leave soon, so since I gave you the honors to pick an anime, here's a little present." Boopkins reaches from a pocket, and takes out an acrylic Pichu Brothers keychain. I'm... speechless. But I thank him and accept the present.

"Thanks... Boopkins" I say before he indicates me to bend down. He gives me a side hug... and then he skips happily elsewhere.

I.... i....

(is this allowed or....?)

And shortly after that, Tari comes over.

"Hello Rayas." she greets me, before she reaches for something in her pocket. "Here, glad to have played with you."

Tari hands me... the custom DeathCard she helped me make after our Inscryption game?

"Um... I... Tari... I don't know what to say...."

"It's okay. Besides, I also made a copy of your Deathcard. The one you have is a token, you earned it!" Tari gives me the thumbs up and she hugs me. And doing my best to keep my stuff while hugging back. Seems things are going well. (but the silhouette girl has not left my mind). She leaves as well.

Meggy looks over, and as soon as she sees me, she smiles and gives me the thumbs up. I smile and follow the gesture.

Um... am I getting an exclusive farewell event? Or have I become a sympathy/empathic magnet? (and maybe a Animsay magnet...?) Well, the least I can do is be polite. I look at the little presents.

SMG3 then comes over after taking the paper cup of his finished latte to the kitchen trash... so, now what?

"Welp, guess I better do some last minute QnA," he then looks at me. "Voting time will be happening soon, so you better get with the group."

SMG3 looks at the gifts. He raises an eyebrow, and immediately puts it together. His eye roll expression is pretty comical. I lightly giggle, as I put the gifts in my vest pocket.

For a moment, I stretch my hand for a handshake; he's the last one to give me a handshake. The hugs might be optional for him, knowing him. He indeed does shake my hand.

Well, seeing him with a smile (despite still looking tired) before leaving to walk around for some participants to gather around him... things seem to go fine.

Everyone starts to gather for the next voting.

"ALRIGHT, (ouch my ears) NEXT VOTE STARTS NOW!” announced Mr Puzzles.

Oh boy, I almost dropped my matcha latte and umbrella and plushie. I expected for it to be loud, but still... After two participants mark their vote, I was about to... when the silhouette girl with the heart eye comes in quickly and leaves in a hurry. Um... As I mark my vote, I saw her grab a bottle of water and went to the bathroom.

A part of me wanted to see what was wrong, another was to leave it... And the other part... I have to go in case there aren't bathroom breaks for the remainder of the tour; y-yeah. So... I waited a little, until I walked to the outside of the bathroom; it appears she's taking long. I was about to knock, when my sensitive hearing heard... something being thrown, and what appears to be... crying? Is she okay...? I lightly knock on the door.

"Hello?... Um...," but I carefully think, and as sounding to not rushing things to the girl on the other side of the door (even if I'm starting to feel the need to go). "Take your time... I... I'm not in a rush."

....No answer.

I think, Lucian picked up the fact I needed to go and went to check; pretty sure he wants everyone ready before heading to the next department. I wonder if he knows her...

His head shows the word, "U ok?"

"I am. But... I think want to wait until whoever is in there leaves. They're.... not sounding well. My... bathroom break can hold."

Hm... is there... something I can do, without her knowing she has my attention, but at the same time make her feel better? I want to avoid being nosy, and I don't want that. Plus, the look she was showing looked hostile... And as for me, I'm sensitive. I look at my untouched matcha latte. And then at Lucian. (I trust him since the return of my drawing)

"Um... would you like some matcha latte?" I asked. (Should have phrased it as gifting the latte as repayment for the recovery of my lost drawing, but my heart was in a different place)

"It's nice, but I already drank something. So no, but thanks for the offer."

Well, if he doesn't, maybe... the silhouette girl would want it?

"Um, okay... could you... give it to whoever is in the bathroom once they leave?," Lucian's "face" shows a question mark. "But I cannot let them know I'm giving it to them, and that I crafted it. Since I don't know how... they'll react towards me. J-Just give it to them. And then tell me what they think of it. Just say, someone (me) offered you the matcha latte, and... um... Uh... Yeah, that you already drank something before... um... C-Could you... please do that?"

......

"I could try, but no promises."

"Thanks, Lucian. And thanks for returning my drawing." I lightly smile. Lucian gives a thumbs up.

I hear the knob move, and the silhouette girl comes out. I quickly go in, but a quick glance from the corner of my eye caught what appears to have been dried tears on her face. Well... the need to go is starting to nag, so... you know...

(Why did I decided to wear suspenders under the vest? Because I thought it would be stylish even when the vest covers them)

I looked around the bathroom, and it appears slightly more furnished. I saw a crumbled water bottle on the floor further away... (what happened?)

Sigh... I just hope I did the right thing at the right time... And I hope I don't get myself in trouble in other's affairs; but my heart... is too big. But at least, she doesn't know; she won't know.

I quickly hurry up to get ready. I fix my vest when my drawing (somehow) falls out of the inner vest pocket. Okay... i just hope it doesn't randomly fly away into the possibly half closed window of the bath-

......!

....... crap.

I hear knocking on the other side of the bathroom. I heard the voice of Lucian. It's time to go.

I exit the restroom after washing my hands (and easing my anxiety as best as possible). And gathering my things. Subconsciously, I chose not to look at Lucian, and the silhouette girl. I'm too scared to see what transpired while I was in the bathroom; or what has yet to transpire. I hug my Puzzles plushie and umbrella for comfort.

I hope everything will turn out fine.

So... I learned, everyone will be heading to the Social Media Department. And Animsay is the head of said department...

Oh boy...

(And I still have a drawing to recover for what's left of the tour.)

Everyone slowly head outside for a moment, basking in the sun for the final verdict. And then I open my umbrella; it makes me feel safe under it. One last look back, I see the SMG3 wave back. Ha ha! I could tell briefly they saw me in the crowd.

Recalling the good things to ease my nerves, I recall all of the good things I did with the SMG3 Gang; and I place a hand on my vest's pocket, where the little gifts are. With the leftover matcha latte of mine and Grinnames' dish, I'm feeling hopeful they will enjoy it. And making another friend in the tour group.

Just, focus on the bright side, and wait for the good things to come.

But if something goes wrong... There's that bridge I'll keep crossing to reach the other side.

___________

Author's notes: I went overkill with this ONE!! More fun and longer than the last. No drawings this time, but a custom Card based on the game Inscryption, with Rayas in it. Plus, for the first time, I directly discussed with someone over each sona's actions. Hope it all goes well for another one.

Well, she lost her drawing again....

The lost drawing in question below...

(Between The Star and AV Puzzles is Astro by @the-masked-astro , one of the participants on the tour) All Ocs/AUs belong to their owners and can be found here Puzzlevision Mass Attack)

Note about the drawing. In the story, her drawing is impervious to getting destroyed/damaged, and the only one who can is Rayas since she made it. So, anyone not from her home or herself, it's like stretching an unbreakable rubber band.

Note, interactions available, but comment/dm first. Plus, if anything, I might slightly change the story here.

[wonder-worker]

[Matilda of Boulogne's] thorough integration into the governance of the realm was not repeated in [Eleanor of Aquitaine's] years as queen of England. Eleanor's coronation followed a new model that emphasized the queen as progenitor of royal heirs and subordinate to the king rather than as sharer of royal power. Though Eleanor acted as regent in England between 1156 and 1158 and in Poitou on several occasions from 1165 on, her writs suggest delegated rather than shared royal authority. In England, her power was limited by the lack of lands assigned to her use and by the elaboration of financial and judicial administration. Whereas [Matilda of Boulogne's] inheritance allowed her to play an integral role in politics by securing the Londoners' loyalty and a steady supply of mercenaries, Eleanor's inheritance provided her with more extensive power in Poitou and Aquitaine than in England. Until 1163, Eleanor withdrew funds from the Exchequer by her own writ, but unlike her Anglo-Norman predecessors, she was not a member of its council nor did she issue judgments from the royal court. Eleanor's counsel and diplomatic activities, in contrast to Matilda's, are rarely mentioned. She did, however, encourage the 1159 Toulouse campaign and supported Henry in the Becket affair and the coronation of young Henry. Eleanor was not a prominent curialis; she rarely witnessed Henry's charters or interceded to secure the king's mercy. She did follow in Matilda's footsteps in her promotion of her sons, cultivation of dynastic goals through the Fontevraudian tombs, and patronage that reflected her family's traditions. For Matilda, to be queen encompassed a variety of functions-curialis, diplomat, judge, intercessor, and "regent." Through a combination of factors, Eleanor's role as queen was much more restricted.

— Heather J. Tanner, "Queenship: Office, Custom or Ad Hoc", Eleanor of Aquitaine: Lord and Lady (Edited by Bonnie Wheeler and John Carmi Parsons)

[crossbackpoke-check]

find a blorbo (nhl tag game)

RULES: Go through the roster of each NHL team and find at least one player that you can root for.

tagged by @bondedpairs!! when i say too many teams to count and here for the narrative um. i may not have lied. this is not an extensive list of my blorbos but in order to make it not ten thousand years long i made up the rule that i had to do it straight from memory :)

anaheim ducks: as evidenced by recent events i DO like mason mctavish and trevor zegras but i have to honor laura and mention troy terry and beloved goalie gibbie*

boston bruins: oh for sure brad marchand… can i say patrice? one of the charlies got traded but i think mcavoy is still there because gryz is gone, brandon carlo is there still i think

buffalo sabres: cozens & thompson, owen power, rasmus dahlin, ukko pekka luukkonen

calgary flames: is chris tanev still here? is markstrom still here?? noah hanifin?? as a last resort i’ll say blasty

carolina hurricanes: aho & jarvy & teuvo teravainen & brent burns is still playing maybe? i know sepe got traded

chicago hockey: the bedsy narrative is compelling but ANDREAS ATHANASIOU MY BELOVED reunited with tyler bertuzzi… that’s the real story. also i like foligno

colorado avalanche: gabe landeskog, whatever ross colton & miles wood have going on, natemac + jo, mikko

columbus blue jackets: have long been on the merzlikins train, have been swayed to the darkside of umich boys (brindley, kent johnson, fantilli, blankenburg who is now on nsh)

dallas stars: seggy! mush! roope + miro and otter and robo and wyjo (rip ty dellandrea) and harls! etc.

detroit red wings: MOST players. dilly larks, moritz seider, jv, raymond, rasmussen, kitty, lyon, etc except for k*ne

edmonton oilers: mcdrai, ofc. nugent-hopkins, nursey, rip vinny & skinny

florida panthers: tkachuk, reinhardt, sasha barkov, verhaeghe (is there still?)

los angeles kings: adrian kempe… kevin fiala… danault… quinton byfield & alex turcotte

minnesota wild: kirill, marat, fleury, brodes, fabes, boldy, moose, middsy, spurge… god’s perfect idiots

montreal canadiens: going out on a limb here to say martin st. louis but also xhekaj (both), slafkovský, suzuki, my austrian reinbacher, yes fine cole caufield

nashville predators: MOST BEAUTIFUL D PAIR IN THE WORLD GRADY SKJEI AND ROMAN JOSI!! juuse, evangelista, isn’t stamkos there and also someone else who absolutely should not be

new jersey devils: nico… tuna (tatar), dawson mercer, siegenthaler, dougie hamilton, yes the hugheses whatever

new york islanders: barzy, zeeker & marty, anders lee, noah dobson lol

new york rangers: mika & chris, lafrenière & k’andre, shesterkin

philadelphia flyers: frosty & beezer and tk and sanny and the new baby michkov and coots and scooty loots and foerster etc etc. you know the Guys

pittsburgh penguins: the two headed monster but also compelled by rutger mcgroarty, and kevin hayes was there!!!

ottawa senators: timmy stü & brady! josh norris! the evolution of shane pinto! ullmark now and brännström and claude giroux and chabot

san jose sharks: ekky, thrun, mario, borde, logan couture, shakir, that other vaguely blond rookie

seattle kraken: brandon tanev, andre burakovsky! grubauer & d’accord also

st. louis blues: jordan kyrou, nathan walker (is still there?), rob thomas? is parayako still there?

tampa bay lightning: hedman, point, they dumped so many guys after the cup run… is kucherov still there or is he in nashville?? anthony cirelli (notable for being made out with by pat maroon)

toronto maple leafs: mitch, jt, willy, alex nylander, kniesy, dewar, et

utah hockey: crouse, keller, tuba

vancouver canucks: quinn, brock, petey, jt, garly, höggy, i want to say dakota johnson, elias lindholm?

vegas golden knights: brandon montour is here now… alex pietrangelo, so sorry to one i can’t remember who loves the lions it will come back to me

washington capitals: full of love and stupidity. oshie, nicke/ovi, pierre-luc dubois, dowd, vrána, milano

winnipeg jets: adam lowry!! josh morissey and kc and morgan barron, also vladdy my beloved

tagging @stillfertile + @colap1nto + @songsandswords + @moregraceful if they haven’t done it yet, i know they follow at least a couple teams. if anybody else wants to play i love adopting blorbos!!

[wantbytaemin]

i want more wino in my user tag however i am SHY to ask more people…..

[sysig]

Still normal don’t even worry about it (Patreon)

[transmasc-rose]

I was talking to Curtis about how certain aspects of Doctor Who would be treated if they were episodes of Torchwood and/or had that rating leniency of Torchwood (imo the limitations of Doctor Who make for better TV than Torchwood in general, but not always) and when I brought up Amy's Choice, Curtis said I should do an episode rewrite and.

Hm. Hmmm. That could be really interesting. Amy and Rory and the Doctor's dynamic would be so... different in a Torchwood rated show, given the things they do with them in Doctor Who, and if they actually used the Dream Lord as an interesting villain (and they'd actually be able to play into the Doctor's worst traits in an adult show! For better and for worse!)...

However I'd have to actually rewatch Amy's Choice, and also decide how much I want to stay faithful to the episode, how much I want to stay faithful to "what would/could Torchwood have done here, and how much I actually want the result to be. Good.

Because "what Torchwood would do" and "what would be interesting" are not necessarily the same things.

(Accidentally wrote a Novel in the tags also. Whoops.)

[airandangels]

I might have said it before but I do like how in Pokémon Horizons Ikue Ohtani isn't just playing Pikachu with a hat on. Captain Pikachu has a distinct voice with gruffer tones than OG Pikachu, and it's generally more serious and less playful. Captain Pikachu doesn't fuck around.

[cheesey-rice]

Ok this is on me for my weakness for little old ladies but 😭. Got pulled over by some older Japanese women trying to explain god or whatever to me and when they asked the are you Asian question I was like my mom's from Taiwan and 😭😭. She said "oh, you mean America? Jkjk 😁" 😭😭😭😭 Ma'am. Ma'am you are from Japan and you want to make the joke about Taiwan being the colony of another country and USA's post WW2 economic interference in East Asia? Ma'Am.

[elf-friendly]

i don't hate dnd because its mainstream i hate it because the people who most want to play dnd are the people that just don't read fantasy

[gingaswag]

In my story I should probably clarify that the angels are like more akin to extraterrestrial beings instead of being like strictly from any one religion or anything