#and turned EVERYONE hostile. all of my companions.

[sonofsin]

oh no. I fucked up

[theprincessandthepie]

replaying dragon age inquisition is just an exercise in “the rebel mages would not fucking do that”

[revelboo]

You works are awesome, but i also wanna remind you not to overwork yourself! :) Have a nice day/night! ;3

Honestly, considering this blog is only 24 days old, it’s you guys I’m a bit worried about. Y’all good? Cause holy crow…

The Weakends Pt 5

TFP Ratchet x Reader- argument

• Putting a tool away, Ratchet glances over at the empty counter, the medbay quiet around him. Who’d have thought he’d miss your questions and companionable chatter? Need it to work. That silence drives home the fact that you’re avoiding him. Have been for days now and it’s worming under his plating, a disquiet that sparks through him, because you belong here. Your loss making him snap at everyone, because it’d be one thing if you were just skulking about the base, but no. Since you got upset with him, you’ve kept far away. Sulking like a sparkling.

• Setting the little trowel aside, you drag one of the mums you’d bought closer and wiggle it free of its little plastic pot. It’s warmer today, sweat slicking your skin as you work. Really, you’re just keeping busy. Trying to distract yourself, because you’re so frustrated you want to scream. Mostly at a certain white and red moron. And yourself. You know you’re both too proud to bend now. Neither one of you willing to back down no matter how silly the argument actually was. Even if staying away feels like you’re punishing yourself more than him.

• The sound of gravel popping under tires lifts your head and you squint in the sun. Bumblebee and the kids back again to pester you into coming in? Lips pressing into a thin line when you spot the ambulance, you yank off your gloves. Surely, he isn’t going to actually apologize? Blowing out a breath, you stand and stretch the kinks out of your back. Your little house is far enough from town and the main road that Ratchet can transform without worrying about being spotted and he does, walking the rest of the way over with a scowl like he tastes something foul. Cocking a hip, you cross your arms and wait for the apology. “Well, you’re not dead or dying,” he growls, optics narrowing at you.

• “Yeah, doing great,” you say, tone tight with anger as your fingers dig into your upper arms. “So, I don’t need a medic.” The ‘I don’t need you’ coming across loud and clear. That open hostility in your stare ramping up his own irritation that you’re so petty you’d made him drive all the way out to retrieve you. And you turn your back to him, bending to roughly seize a potted plant. Ignoring him. After he came to get you? His servos close around your middle, hearing your startled gasp as he lifts you. And then you whip around, chucking that plant at his head. It bounces off, scattering dirt all over him as you glare at each other. “Put me down. Right now.”

• Your heart’s racing, the adrenaline souring inside you as you realize you just hit him with a mum. And he’s not just going to let that slide. His optics shutter, jaw clenching as he vents angrily and you tense for the yelling. The fury. Instead, one of his servos slides over your torso as he adjusts his grip. That servo settling against your breast where your frantic heart is pounding away. Grabbing that servo, you mean to shove at it, but just hold on. Slowly his venting evens out.

• He can feel your heart thumping against his servo, frantic with fear. Of him. He can’t move, snared by that rhythm, knowing he’s causing it. As he remains still, that too quick beat slows. Calming. Your little hands shift on his servo. “There’s work to do. I need my assistant,” he says. Can’t make himself apologize, but isn’t leaving without you either, even if he has to just take you. You’re coming home. And you whisper okay so low he almost misses it, that tension winding through him just unraveling.

Previous

Next

[eggroll-sama]

My Opinions if They Existed IRL

Rant of me manifesting the characters in my life and logically seeing and how I would feel of them. Ranting, Leander hate, shenanigans

Leander

Hate Hate HATE-

I've had terrible experiences with Leander's. I'm sorry to all the Leander fans out there, but I can't stand people like him. I relate with Vere on this one. The artificiality is aggravating.

Will make you feel understood and special, but it's just his charm. He gets off on it tbh.

The type to laugh at jokes he doesn't think is funny to feed the person's ego. His laugh is obnoxious (rich person's laugh + loud cuz he thinks louder = more genuine? No lol), too, so everyone turns to him wondering what's making him laugh sm. He's just being fake

Ah, DOES NOT know personal space. Is super touchy even with strangers and pushes their boundaries.

(More under the cut)

People pleaser, people pleaser. The type to not stand up for you when someone talks smack about you behind your back. Instead would give a polite laugh, maybe add his own opinions on you to make the shit-talker feel understood, then would steer the conversation to smthg else. Take that as you will.

Leaves you in the dark on certain things that will make him look bad. More than likely you find out through other ppl which makes you feel betrayed.

Smiles, even when he's pissed off. When you see his mask falter it's like whiplash, makes you wonder if he's ever real w you cuz he doesn't talk about his neg opinions. Only shares altruistic opinions to make himself look better.

Would not communicate when he has problem with you. Instead, he'll give you a look, no smiles, no facade, just hostility. It's annoying when you're the type to talk things out.

Competitive as hell, with friends, too. If he isn't in the center of attention than he'll get very insecure, and would go into pick-me mode so he can get compliments from others

"I'm not as good as ___, haha."

"No way, Leander, you're amazing, be more confident!"

And he will do this RIGHT in front of you, too (Day in the life of Ais dealing with Leander's jealousy)

Likes to play mediator to seem like the bigger person, but still ends up choosing sides. Your actions aren't matching your words fool.

Would also play mediator so he can get more information from both sides. More knowledge = more power = more control

On a positive note, Leander’s are very good at reading your emotions so would be more attentive to your needs. Also open-minded and would be a good companion if you want to have fun. Unfortunately the type to say yes yes to hanging out even when he’s on a tight schedule and get irritated when it wasn’t as exciting, like JUST SAY NO BITCH GAH DAMN. Prioritize urself.

When you start to distance yourself after he treats you like crap, that’s when he starts to correct himself, but it’s too late atp. Would get rlly salty when he sees you hanging out with other ppl feels like he’s being replaced

Would act friendly with you even after you're no longer close but it’s a facade :DD When he's alone he's brooding.

Kuras

Politely distant.

Kuras is the coworker that's been there longer than you have so you admire him from afar, hoping you'd be at his level one day.

Remembers your name even if you talk to him like ONCE, makes you feel special and seen in a non manipulative way.

Would remember certain things abt you that you surprised he remembers like at all.

Has the sexiest ASMR voice. It's the professional type of voice that’s very well-practiced and you just watch him on the phone not fumbling over there words like :0 They make it look so easy

Being friends with him wouldn’t be one-sided. He would plan a catch-up with you grabbing coffee. Would pay for the bill without asking.

He is a dominant person, but is often perceived as submissive bc his courtesy and gentlemanly behavior. No, no, he’s always in control. He just knows that that being kind in the face of conflict makes you the one more in control of the situation. There’s dominance in self-submission

An amazing listener. Has the ability to give advice to you without making you feel defensive on your stance.

Believes in integrity, but wouldn’t condone being “brutally honest.” Don’t weaponize your excuse of “honesty” to be a jerk towards others. Kinda hypocritical bc sometimes he sucks at being tactical with words, but he tries to understand, which is the difference from ppl that feel entitled to state their opinion in a “fighting for dominance” type of way

Stubborn lol. Stubborn in a “my way or the high way” kind of way. Needs to be convinced with logic or wouldn’t budge that his way of doing things is better. Can get tiring convincing them.

Also is very detail-oriented that every little thing needs to be analyzed before he proceeds. If you’re the type to “wing it” like me, it’ll test your patience but also their attention to detail helps out later on. He’ll hit you with the “I told you so” look

Too hard on himself. Would feel bad for being impolite over smthg minor. PLS REINFORCE HIS AWESOMENESS YOURE DOING GREAT OK.

Would remember something he’s done in the past and hate himself, it’s the catholic guilt. He knows there’s no point in remembering but he can’t help but think of how he could’ve handled something better. Overthinker.

Acts like an old man. Likes little peaceful towns with a good suburban vibes. Loves discovering little stores and Knick knacks. Also gives u gifts out of nowhere for keeping him company.

Mhin

I also know a few Mhins but I like them better than Leander’s lmao. Their quietness piques my interest and I find myself wanting to get to know them more, even if it’s one-sided and low-key an interview. They tend to be very interesting people.

If you gain their favor, than they're so caring towards you. Would seek your attention once in a blue moon like a cat. Sometimes it feels like you’re always chasing them, be it through gift-giving, reaching out, etc. Will get repetitive at times.

Their independence is admirable and partially the reason why you seek their presence so often. You don’t want them to feel lonely.

They’re passive aggressive, it’s low-key cute, but also annoying. Just say what you want to say!

They have self-conscious tendencies, be it their looks or their talents. Instead of being an annoying pick-me like Leander, they start to get more frustrated and depressed, unfortunately. Wouldn’t bring it up unless you do.

They’re also popular romantically but they NEVER realize. Tends to get teased often by people crushing on them.

Is so honest. Mhin would tell you straight what they think about you, which sucks if you have a soft-heart.

So honest, borderline an asshole. Ex. You’re losing some hair? They'd point it out. No hesitation. Very embarrassing if you're with your friends. They suck at thinking before they speak.

The type to trauma dump on you. But if they do, you’re lucky bc it means they trust you.

They are naturally attracted to kind, peaceful introverts. Mhin isn't a sociable person, so it would be a whole lot easier for them if you are also not sociable. Craves kindness and peace.

You can appreciate their quietness. They don’t talk, so their words hold more weight. Great at handling kids cuz they are scared of them.

The type to complain about smthg you did but helps you. ACTS OF SERVICE !!

Their laugh is so rare that it makes you surprised and gaping. But you love it whenever it happens.

DONT FORGET TO CALLLLLLL

[talesfromawannabewriter]

Furry Companion

welp here it is, ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce of the storyline of arc 1 written by @talesfromawannabejournalistand and @kittenfangirl20

also special thanks to @rius-cave for giving me some inspiration for the plot, and thanks to @helluvahazbins for giving me inspiration for the Hellhound character and her appearance from their own art.

@kittenfangirl20 see at end of notes

Lucifer knew there would be a day like this would eventually come. Since the moment Adam woke up in Hell as a sinner and fallen angel Lucifer had vowed have him protected and happy at all times. It was the least he could do after all he did to him. In the beginning it was easy to keep him entertained as he mainly stayed in his room. He stayed in the hotel all the time so he wasn’t worried too worried about it.

But now, especially since they officially got together, Lucifer’s been busy more with his work as King, he can’t be by Adam’s side all the time and Adam was wanting to go out more. Plus Adam needed someone, a companion. Sure he had Angel Dust but that was about it. It didn’t help that the other residents, beside Angel and Charlie, were outright hostile towards him. Lucifer swore that if it wasn’t Hell itself Adam needed to watch out for Vaggie and Alastor and maybe even Nifty but for a whole other reason.

In any event Adam needed a companion, his own hellhound, which is why they were both at a an adoption clinic with the head director walking past kennel after kennel of teens with her going on about the different potentials of each hound. Adam was growing bored and to be honest a bit annoyed at being dragged here by Lucifer. He thought this whole adoption process with Hell hounds was weird, they were treated almost like pets. Yes, they had an animal appearance but they were sentient just like the rest of the demons in Hell. As he was thinking about it in the corner of his eye a movement caught his eye.

There in the back was a young hellhound, who appeared to be female, she appeared to be 12-14 years old. She had the appearance of husky and wolf dog mixed together with dark fur and and long black hair that covered a part of her face. However, when she looked up he saw both her eyes as they flashed red and she growled at him.

Director: sir please stay away from that kennel specifically we’ve had incidents in the past where some male adopters got too close and lost a hand to her. Let’s just say she’s just too unstable to be a good guard for you

Lucifer: come on my dear I’m sure there are plenty others for you to choose from

Adam: yeah you go ahead Luci I think I’m just uh gonna go to the bathroom

Lucifer raised an eyebrow but ultimately shrugged following the lady in charge as she showed Lucifer the other hounds. Adam waited till they were out of ear shot then turned his attention back to the girl who was just glaring at him waiting for him to do something

Adam: um hi

She didn’t respond

Adam: my names Adam, what’s yours?

???: Lydia

Adam gave her a smile

Adam: it’s a pretty name

Instead of a smile she instead bared her teeth and scooted even further deep into her kennel

Lydia: the fuck did you just say!?

Adam: I said it’s a pretty name

Lydia: Get the fuck away from me before I tore open your guts for all of Hell to see!

When Adam didn’t move away from the bars she let out an intimidating bark

Lydia: what the fuck do you want!?

Adam: Nothing I just wanted your name

Lydia: well you know my name now you can go back to your royal boy toy and pick out a good hellhound, just just please go away and leave me alone

Adam stared at Lydia, even though she was telling him to go, deep down inside he knew that’s not what she wanted. Looking at her was like looking at himself when he was in a similar position not just when he revived here in Hell but when he was left abandoned over and over again in his life. Scared, confused, and lashing out at everyone because it was the only way to express how she was feeling. At that moment he knew that he couldn’t let her stay here. Exhaling he stepped away from the bars and crouched a little to make himself appear less intimidating to her. Adam: Lydia, you can say no to this, but…I can take you away from here, would you like that?

Lydia stood up from her cot and took slow small steps over to him. Adam could see her full height being at 5’7. As she got closer he could see her guard was still up until she was standing right in front of him. Lydia stared down deep into Adam’s eyes and even though she didn’t know why, she didn’t feel in danger by this sinner. In fact she felt her walls tore down as she saw nothing but earnestness in them as he seemed like genuinely wanted to help her. Tears started to form in her eyes as she looked down and gave her answer

Lydia: …..yes

alright Kitten, hoped you liked it now it’s your turn

[circeyoru]

Collection of Overlords _ Part 15 = Requested

[Alastor x Soul Owner of All Overlords!Reader]

Part 1 — Part 1.5 — Part 2 — Part 3 — Part 4 — Part 5 — Part 6 — Part 7 — Part 8 — Part 9  — Part 10 — Part 11 — Part 12 — Part 13 — Part 14 — Part 15 (here) — Part 16 — Epilogue

“Now then…” All attention was on the one remaining individual on the platform. 

Valentino finally got back up on his two feet and snapped, “I never gave up on my title! I still hold mine!” He pointed at his former teammates, “It’s those a**h*les that gave up.”

You sighed, “Yes, yes, I know that.” You threw the necklace you’ve taken from Vox at him. “They left of their own accord and you never had a say in it. Even one member is still a group, I guess. So you’re now just the V Overlord.”

Valentino picked up the necklace with neither grace nor elegance, one of his eyes narrowed as he eyed it, “What the f**k’s this for?”

That one thoughtless comment made everyone snap their attention to the lone demon on the platform, their eyes glowing with malice and their forms and aura turning on edge and hostile. Your Cages all glared their beady eyes at the Moth Demon, wanting to tear into his form for such disrespect. Meanwhile, you couldn’t care less because it was practically exacted that he was going to make such a comment.

Before any of your loyal Overlords could do anything to punish Valentino for his actions, Husk rose from his seat with his hand raised by his face. “If I may.” Everyone looked over to him, you gave Husk a nod of approval to continue, amusement and anticipation already bubbling within you. “As a new returned Overlord, I want to prove myself once more.”

“How so? Haven’t you done enough?” Alastor taunted to Husk’s side, his eyes glowed dangerously at Husk’s claims. “Here to challenge my place?”

“Maybe not now.” Husk smirked back, undeterred with his goal. His smirk dropped as he stared down at Valentino and pointed a clawed finger at him. “I want to challenge Valentino for a soul contract.” He turned to you with a bow, “With My Sovereign’s permission and accursed blessing.”

You huffed with a small twitch that showed a smirk.

“He can’t f***ing do that! Contracts can’t be challenged like this!” Valentino screamed profanities. “Dont like just because the Vees are separated now and you just getting minor praise can make you some useful sh*t.”

“You have no right to say that, only Our Sovereign can make that decision.” Zeezi spoke up with her arms crossed over her chest, “You think all your soul contracts you own is yours to keep? Think again.” She growled, “Everything in Hell is Our Sovereign’s possession, including souls of all Sinners.” 

All other Overlords stared down at Valentino as Zeezi laid the last obvious point. “This is the fundamental information all Overlords know. The truth.”

Everyone’s solemn gaze on Valentino made him speechless and for the first time in forever, Valentino didn’t argue or shout anything from his mind. Though his self-control was long overdue since your patience has long ran out. 

“Voice your thoughts, Husk.” You announced since Valentino was knocked in his place. 

“Yes.” Husk bowed to you before appealing to his Overlord companions. “It’s obvious that Valentino doesn’t treat his people kind or well, but this is Hell so what’s the harm. No problem, right? No. Not when it’s about my friend.”

Zestial chuckled, his palm opening as he gestured to Husk. “Cousin? Overlords needeth only dominance ov’r their souls and controleth.  If ‘t be true it’s a meag’r matt’r such as this, p’rhaps thou art foolish to returneth. (Friend? Overlords need only dominance over their souls and control. If it’s a meager matter such as this, perhaps you are foolish to return.)”

Rosie laughed, covering her mouth with his hand from time to time, “If that’s all then, Alastor’s the same right? I doubt he treated you any better but no one came to defend you. Aren’t you being too righteous for a mere Sinner?”

Zeezi snickered, “Maybe he should be redeemed.”

“I have sworn loyalty to My Sovereign.” Husk reaffirmed. “It’s not as simple as wanting my friend to be treated better…” Husk’s hand balled into a fist. “If his soul is to be owned by anyone, I’d rather it be me.”

“If you do own your friend’s soul, I doubt you can maintain your current relationship with him.” Carmilla noted. 

“Why ever not? Niffty is a wonderful gal to be around. Even when I force her in the hotel.” Alastor grinned with his head tilted to the side.

“That’s your business.” Vox mumbled, but the demons heard him either way.

Husk snapped his fingers, “Oh, did I mention his name? He’s Angel Dust, porn star, addict and more. But the most important point is that he is the Princess of Hell’s first client in her Haz- Happy Hotel.” He placed a hand over his chest while gesturing to Valentino, “So isn’t it better for a figure like him to be under my command than Valentino?”

“Deary, your point doesn’t stand. If that’s the case, the most trusted and favoured of Our Liege’s collection should be the one to own that soul.” Rosie said innocently.

“I can leverage with our friendship or former friendship and closer bond.” Husk pointed out.

A resounding clap made everyone’s bickering stop as they all turned to you who was smiling eerily, “Let’s have the star of the talk here then, hm? This wouldn’t end anytime soon if I let you all continue.” With a snap of your fingers, a vortex appeared in the area nearest to you a few meters above the ground. No sooner, a figure was dropped onto the platform. “Welcome, Angel Dust, or should I call you Anthony?”

“Ow ow ow…” Angel slowly got up, the first figure his eyes landed on was you. He didn’t even hide his shock but there was a hint of expectedness in his eyes, his gaze scanned to the right and then left side of you, spotting the other Overlords all staring down at him. His gaze showed shock and confusion when he noticed Husk. “Husk…?”

Husk didn’t say anything but stared back, hoping Angel would understand the situation he’s in and remain calm. With Alastor beside Husk as well, Angel was more keen on staying as tamed as possible, plus he didn’t want to cross you anytime soon or in the future.

“Angel Dust!” Valentino screamed the spider demon’s name. “Get you a** over here this instant!”

Angel didn’t even need to move before a transparent dome in the form of a cage encased him from within. It appeared the moment there was a snap of your fingers. You declared, “There will be no ordering Angel around nor harming him. He’s my guest after all.” You waved your hand in Husk’s direct and he disappeared from his booth to reappear on the platform next to Valentino. “But he’s also the subject of this discord in my presence.”

A contract formed hovering over your open palm, one with a distinctive signature from Angel himself. Valentino bit back his words as he clenched his fists to his side while glaring at Husk from the side of his eyes behind his glasses, unable to move against you. Husk watched with relief as Angel’s contract was now in your hands. 

Different from what you have done with Husk’s contract, you asked Alastor for it and he gave. Of course he was already in on the ploy and have long agreed to set Husk free from his leash, as it was your will. However, with Valentino, you had forcefully taken the contract from him without room for a fight. Such was your power and authority over souls, you could just control everyone in Hell, yet you, to some degree, offer freedom and free rein for them to do as they please. 

Though, one could also argue you allowed all this because you wanted to watch the souls under your suffer and torture themselves in their unique way. 

“What is all this?” Angel questioned as he gripped the bars, looking up at you. “What do you want?”

“Nothing more than to bring back peace within my collection, dear Angel.” You hummed with a small smile. “You can sit back and relax, for you have little to do. All you need to know is there might be a change of ownership for your soul.” Ignoring Angel’s shock look, you focused on Husk and Valentino, “There will be three rounds to determine the master of Angel’s soul. First two rounds are each of your choice, and the last is a secret. Whoever has more wins, will take this contract.”

Valentino turned to look over at Velvette and Vox.

“There will be no assistance of any kind.” You interrupted Valentino’s thoughts. “You are your own Overlord, you don’t share your title any more. You will find that summoning your soul contractees here to do your bidding won’t work as well.”

“Fine.” Valentino dropped his glare, he took out his guns from under coat and his wings revealed themselves. “I’ll deciding the first round.”

“Be my guest.” Husk let Valentino do the first pick.

“Shooting.” Valentino grinned with his guns raised, target boards appeared all around. “Whoever shoots more of those… red things, wins. Uh… In one minutes or something. No… Wait, 30 seconds. We’ll take turns.”

“Easy enough.” Husk nodded.

Valentino chuckled, “You’ll regret challenging me. Fur cat.”

“Husk, back out while you still can.” Angel pleaded.

Husk looked back, giving him a reassured smile, “Look, it’s gonna be okay. This bartender is more than just that.”

“Ready, set… Go!” Valentino without waiting for Husk to get out of the way began shooting, his four arms all raised forward in a cross shape. Then his feet turned his entire body around while he continued shooting, making sure he covered all 360 degrees. 

Husk being quick on his feet and reflexes, flew up into the air, easily avoiding all the bullets. He watched as Valentino shot all the targets in the bullseyes without pausing to aim, no shot was missed. By the time 30 seconds was over, all the targets had a bullet hole. 

“That’s 360 shots.” Carmilla counted. 

Valentino pridefully smirked as he pocketed away his guns. “Let’s see you beat that. Kitty cat.”

“Yeah, sure.” Husk materialized a deck of cards and held a few cards like a fan. “Ready,” He raised his hand. “Set,” He aimed and that made the audiences’ eyes widened while Valentino wasn’t even paying attention. “Shoot.”

Husk flied his charged cards straight at Valentino. He cursed as a impaled into his wings one by one. He has screamed what Husk was doing, but Husk didn’t say a word and continued. Everyone’s eyes glued to the scene in front of them, Valentino unable to skillfully defend himself while Husk appeared to be taking free shots. But all his cards did in fact land on the ‘red things’.

From Valentino’s wings to his hat and glasses, to even the heart shaped decorations in his fur around his neck. All over Valentino’s body was Husk’s magically charged cards that prevented its removal and Valentino’s healing just worked against him as he providede more red things for Husk to target. 

Angel was gasped at the scene, yes Husk did mention he was once an Overlord, but he never imagined Husk was this ruthless and cruel. All he knew was the grumpy bartender at the hotel that jokes and plays around. You grinned while Husk remained indifferent, continuing to launch attack after attack with precision and strength. It was a wonderful decision to support Husk once more.

You turned your attention over to Alastor, though even with your eyes closed, he sensed your gaze and looked away from the scene. You nodded your head at him with a soft smile and Alastor bowed his head. He mouthed, “My pleasure to bring you the best of entertainment, My Liege.”

Note: Designing the fights is a bit hard for me cause I'm not sure how to do it, nor am I good with fight scenes, so bear with me. Husk might be a bit OOC here and later on, but I wanted him to mix some Overlord qualities and his new self together. On another note~ There's finally some Alastor stuff haha.

Circe Y. 

My Works: MASTERLIST

Taglist: (those that don't specify to being in all the works' taglist will automatically be assumed to be in whichever series they comment on)

@aconfusedwonderland @crowleysthings @donustellaron @mistpurpl3 @lucifers-silhouette @fluffy-koalala @snowy-violet @charlottesskiss @plutobots @ray-rook @thealienartist @serenity-songbird @galaxydreamer468 @raynerrold @wen01203 @hikari-michiko @colecreo @myromanempiree @xsamkuro @yourdoorisunlocked @clavelina @jono723 @cursedcattalastor @an-idyllic-novelist @flamiohotman2024 @rea-grace @myromanempiree @veroneverleft @lousypotatoes @crazysuityouth @jellyedkazoo @wat4r @kiraisastay @thealienartist @chefysawesomeideas @wtvbabes @patronizingbitch @koshi-kazu @craftyperfectiontragedy @scr4luv @chrollobb @mysterypotatoink @callmefe @dokukg69 @ratchetprime211 @freejayde @prettyprincess-ily @cgmajor @mook14 @ace-spades-1 @yuuandtheghost @abbiesxox @martinys-world @kiraisastay @umbreon-worshipper @crimsonflameproxy @the-gay-trash-gremlin @ratchetprime211 @soggyb0nes @newkatzkafe2023

[incorrect-kotor-quotes]

I found a new fun thing to do on Malachor. It's very easy to use Beast Control to bring one of the academy's pet Storm Beasts over to your side, then use Stasis Field to keep all the surrounding Sith immobilized (but presumably aware of their surroundings) while an abomination mauls them to death one at a time.

Because I'm the good guy.

So I let him kill everyone in a room, then kited him to the door once he turned hostile again, made him friendly, opened the door, froze everyone, and gave him some enrichment.

"Okay everybody, this is my newest apprentice, his name is Padawan Fluffles. Candy, I need you to escort him back to the Hawk with everyone else."

It seems Padawan Fluffles interferes with the cutscene's ending.

No, Fluffles, no! Bad Storm Beast!

Oh shit Fluffles killed everyone. It wasn't even a close fight, he's got most of his health left.

Sadly, I couldn't get Fluffles through the door into Sion's boss fight, but I highly recommend recruiting this super-secret companion if you have the right power. He’s arguably the strongest companion in the game. Fluffles killed every other living thing in the area, so he’s got plenty of food and a nice open space to roam until I deal with Kreia. I just hope he gets along better with Atton... but I will choose Fluffles if it comes to that.

[snzysimper]

Merry Christmas All!!

I’ve wanted to write a Radio/dust fic for a while but never had any good ideas. Thankfully some anon hate given to @hehkshew was just the creative spark I needed!!

Merry Christmas friend. Together we can keep Radio/dust from dying!!

Haters gonna hate

1400 words

| I am allowed to write what I want and would appreciate you keeping whatever rude comments you have to yourself |

Angel Dust and Alastor. Not two names you often hear in the same sentence together. At least, not in a positive way. Most of the time the two are seen going at it with each other. Angel makes some sort of sexual comment and Alastor says something smart back. Angel always has to have the last word which leads to it dragging on for quite some time.

This of course is in the presence of others. Behind closed doors things are much less…hostile. Their relationship is a bit complicated. They are dating but are more of each other's “boyfrienemys”. In the end there aren't any hard feelings.

Not everyone is quite so fond of their “special” friendship. Charlie was ecstatic to hear that the two were getting along. Vaggie on the other hand, while supportive, was mildly annoyed that two of her least favorite people in the hotel could now team up to drive her insane. Husk was indifferent, Nifty didn’t really care and Sir Pentious…well, he was dead. But that’s not important. This isn’t about him.

“The fuck do ya want Al?” Angel is met by his antlered friend outside of the porn studio. The deer flashes his usual smile. “I was sent by our lovely princess to come and retrieve you.. Is that such a problem?”

Angel rolls his eyes. “I don't need a personal escort just ‘ta come back from work.” Nonetheless, the spider follows behind his partner.

On the walk back, the two make casual conversation. The two almost seem to be enjoying each other's company. “Don’t touch me.” Alastor glares at his companion. Angel Dust playfully pokes his cheek. “Aww, don’t be like that Al.”

“Why can’t you learn to keep your hands to yourself?”

“Oh, trust me. People pay the big bucks for me to put my hands all over ‘em.”

“Repulsive.”

Angel makes a kissy face. “C’mon baby, lighten up.” Alastor growls. “I suggest you remove your hand if you wish to keep it.” The spider proceeds to ruffle the other’s hair. “Be honest, y’know you’d never do that ta lil ol me.” Alastor rolls his eyes. “You’re lucky I care about you,” he says in hardly a whisper. Angel mocks the deers radio voice. “You’ve heard it here first folks, the Radio Demon has a heart after all!!”

Alastor wouldn’t be caught dead saying the ‘l-o-v-e’ word, let alone in the presence of others. “Shut up.” Perhaps they aren’t both enjoying each other's company after all.

The clouds turn dark and cover the sky. A light drizzle becomes a downpour within a matter of seconds. “Ugh, shit.” Angel turns to notice that his “personal chauffeur” is nowhere to be found. He stands in the rain briefly, looking around in every direction. “Al?” He soon finds him under an overhang. That cheeky bastard. “Oh, yeah. Don’t bother takin’ me with ‘ya.” The spider hurries over to the deer.

“Thanks asshole.” The deer laughs. “You’re welcome my dear.” Angel groans. “I fuckin’ hate you.” The deer sustained minimal damage from the rain, meanwhile Angel is drenched. He does his best to shake some of the excess water off of his fur. “Watch it,” Alastor puts his arm up to shield himself from the flying water droplets.

It doesn’t take long before other sinners join them underneath the overhang, seeking shelter. “It appears we may be stuck here for a bit.” Alastor looks up at the dark, cloudy sky.

Angel can’t help but endlessly complain. “I fuckin’ hate this. I’m cold, wet and exhausted. I worked all damn day. I just wanna crash in my room and not wake up till tomorrow.” As he keeps complaining, Alastor gives the occasional “Mhm” to assure his partner that he is listening and offering moral support.

“Perhaps if you didn’t wear such little clothing and covered up a bit more you wouldn’t be in this predicament.” Angel raises his fist. “Why I outta-!!” The deer closes one eye, the other’s cornea turning black. “I wouldn’t try that if I were you.” Angel groans. “Oh fuck you.”

Angel suddenly turns to his boyfriend, almost in a fit of rage. “Wait, can’t you just use your voodoo magic shit to teleport us back?” Alastor grimaces. “I’d rather not risk overshooting seeing as the hotel is quite the distance away. Especially in the rain.”

“Besides, I’d rather the two of us not be seen so closely together,” Alastor quietly hisses at Angel. Angel crosses his arms. “You and ‘ya damn ego. Are you really that ashamed of being seen with me?” The deer looks around before leaning towards his companion. “Not specifically you, although it certainly doesn’t help considering your…profession.”

“Oh, fuck off.” Angel shivers, wrapping his arms around himself. “Fuck it’s cold. How much longer we gotta wait here?”

As Angel continues complaining, he suddenly inhales sharply, his head leaning back slightly before jerking forward and bending at the waist as he sneezes. “hH’EhT-kKT’shUH!! ” He groans as he rubs his face. “Motha’ fuck’a, I swear to god if I’m gettin’ sick I’m gonna fuckin-hHI’ETDd-Zziew!! Ugh, fuck.” Alastor remains silent, seemingly ignoring Angel’s struggles and misery.

Alastor pulls a handkerchief from his coat pocket. “I would appreciate you keeping your germs to yourself.” Angel laughs, accepting the handkerchief. “Aww, you worried bout me antlers?” The deer growls, a warning for him not to push his luck.

Angel takes a step back. “Ok ok, calm down. Geez.” The two sinners seem to be particularly enjoying themselves. “Looks like the porn star finally found someone who thinks he’s worthwhile.”

Angel rolls his eyes, sniffling. It’s hard for him to roam the streets unrecognized. If he’s not being cat called then he’s being thrown a derogatory comment. “Assholes,” he mutters to himself. Considering his job in the porn industry, he’s used to people only caring about him for sexual benefits. Thankfully enough Alastor couldn’t care less about using Angel for sex.

Alastor can’t help but notice Angel’s mild change in demeanor. “Just ignore them, dear. They can’t hurt you if you don’t let them.” He remains facing forward, not making eye contact with Angel or the other sinners.

“Aww, how cute. Is the big bad radio demon trying to make you feel better? Can’t even stand up for himself. No wonder he’s the sub.”

Alastor’s eyebrows furrow slightly. He generally wouldn’t give it a second thought but something about seeing Angel’s face hearing the insults makes him mildly annoyed. “I’d refrain from antagonizing him if I were you. It’d be a shame if it were to escalate unnecessarily.”

“Al, don’t. It’s fine. I’m used to it anyway.” Angel doesn’t sound so much hurt or offended as he does pissed off. This only fuels the fire.

“Yep! Keep telling yourself that! You can’t really think that Alastor of all people would give two shits about you. If you can’t keep an average sinner around, what makes you think you can win yourself an overlord?”

As if almost natural instinct, Alastor casually empales both sinners with a black tendril. They are flung off to lord knows where.

“Oh, damn. Uh,” Angel watches in awe. He’s not quite sure whether to feel touched or terrified. Either way, he blushes, smiling. “Thanks for that, smiles.” Alastor sighs. The two are now alone under the overhang.

“Don’t let them get to you. They know nothing about you or who you really are.” Alastor looks almost embarrassed as he says this. Angel laughs. “Wow, you’re bein’ bold today, ain’t ya? Complimenting me out in public. Damn, maybe you really do have a heart after all…hH’EKk-DdsHIE’uUh!!”

Angel sniffles as he rubs his face again, this time with the provided handkerchief. Alastor sighs. “Come on,” he removes his coat and drapes it over Angel so it acts as an umbrella. “The sooner we get back, the sooner you can dry off.”

The spider laughs. “Aww, you sure are bein sweet to me. You sure you didn’t fall an’ hit your head…II’Hh-GgsSh’EUGH!!” He grimaces, clearing his throat quietly. “Ow…”

Alastor begins walking. “I assure you my love, I am quite alright. You on the other hand won’t be if you are out here much longer.”

Alastor promptly takes Angel by the arm and continues down the sidewalk. Angel blushes. This is about the closest they’ve gotten to holding hands in public. And probably the closest they’ll get for a while.

Angel sighs, smiling. “Thanks Al.”

“You’re welcome, Angel.”

[jiusyn]

being a kafhime truther is being normally deranged and magnifying at the available dialogues to decipher and create meaning behind layers and layers of history we do not know of yet. quite frankly the reason why im still very much stuck in my own head bc of pondering through perspective methods to see why their dialogues and gestures the way they are (other than, ofc, writers and directors' decision)

think abt how 90 percent of himeko's dialogue is filled with direct and indirect mention of kafka during the destination alteration scene. and in a new player's pov, it can be treated as himeko's and kafka's 1st encounter— yet everyone can also notice how tensed and passive aggressive the atmosphere was when kafka appeared and took the floor. [case in point with himeko's reaction and body language: kafka appeared, himeko held her forearm in recognition and side-eyed kafka— shifting her head together with her body in an attempt to ignore kafka.

[bombastic side eye]

[owh girlie did not like it one bit]

[then, the famous tension scene that would make u want to rewind and see what u missed bc why is girlie so mad]

kafka nearing himeko's line of view; himeko glancing at her nails then crossing her arms in guard— again, in an attempt to dismiss kafka and assert that kafka's presence is not something that she can't handle. kafka paused intentionally, eyes looking forward yet the subtle and brief flicker of it, as if awaiting for any acknowledgement from himeko (himeko saying "stellaron hunter" with distaste) and when she did, kafka giggled. and kafka, well, she gestured at himeko as if it really was their first encounter, yet how she smirked at the end with eyes crinkling in the slightest tells otherwise.

march in an attempt to interrupt kafka's unwarranted presence but was subdued with himeko's signal. which makes u think cuz, really, who even lets a stellaron hunter even speak when others would immediately turn hostile against them and apprehend them asap.]

AND THEN...

himeko: perhaps next time you'll be willing to pay us a visit in person and we can continue our little discussion.

in kafka's companion quest:

"in person"

something abt how himeko keeps saying that in her dialogues when kafka's involved makes me think. makes a lot of us think. this then can probably cue us of how owlbert hinted (or even deadass exposed himeko) that they do have had encounters and it piques our interest as to how, why, when, and where in those moments — were they intentional? happenstance that turned to destiny? and so much more.

and how many in those encounters did himeko hoped that kafka would show up in person often than on wanted posters and news media and bulletin boards of her bounty and crimes? than on rumors and words from people's prejudices and opinions that she hears about her?

i can only make out from these dialogues is that himeko knows kafka (and the stellaron hunters) would need her help.

there is, after all, a grace of sincerity when someone shows up in person.

[argisthebulwark]

Time Moves Slow - Vilkas

sfw, gn reader Summary: After returning from Sovngarde the Dragonborn finds that a handful of hours for them has been years for those in Tamriel and reunites with their loved one. Others Linked: Farkas, Brynjolf, Teldryn, Miraak, Cicero

All duties were forgotten as your boots touched ground once more. Vilkas was all that mattered. Bruises ached with every step but you hurried through Whiterun without thinking - it was quieter than you'd expected, shops closed and stalls unmanned. Maybe they'd anticipated another dragon attack. The Gildergreen's branches stood bare and a few unknown citizens cast wary looks when you hustled toward Jorrvaskr. Heart pounding you shoved the hair out of your face, grimacing at the layer of dirt coating your skin before entering Jorrvaskr. The hearth’s fire banished the nervous chill from your bones. Companions filled every chair around the hall, some engaged in conversation and others hunched dutifully over books. The friendly buzz of conversation halted when you entered. You didn't know these eyes. Some held questions while others seemed hostile. "Who are you?" One voice broke the silence and panic set in. You'd only been gone hours. There was no chance someone scrounged up this many recruits in that small matter of time. "Who are all of you?" You'd never felt so lost in your own home. One woman swung an axe over her shoulder when she stood from the table. "Where is Vilkas?" "You know the Harbinger?" The woman's brow quirked up and your stomach dropped. At least she extended a hand toward the living quarters. "He doesn't get visitors. You should see him." Numbly you let the woman lead you through Jorrvaskr. The weapons adorning the walls were polished, portraits you'd never seen hung down the hallway. You swallowed a scream when you saw an accurate depiction of your face after Kodlak's. "Sir, you have a visitor." "I don't get visitors." Vilkas' grunt sounded rougher than ever. Your hands shook when the Companion cracked open the door to the Harbinger's office - there hadn't been a door before. You stared in awe at the scarred wood hung to make the Harbinger's quarters more private. "She seems to know you. Didn't tell us a name." The silence was so harsh you swore everyone in the hall heard your heart. "It'll only take a moment, sir." "Fine." He sighed and the woman snuck you a quick grin. You tried to return it but you couldn't shake the horrible sensation that something was deeply wrong. "Send her in. If it's a new recruit have Jorlyn ready the training yard." "Good luck." With an encouraging pat on the shoulder she departed. You stared at the crack in the door and gathered the screaming mess of your thoughts - Vilkas was behind that door. Had you somehow altered life on Tamriel after slaying Alduin? The World-Eater was surely important to the fabric of time, had you changed something fundamental during a few hours in Sovngarde? "Are you going to stand there all day, or can we get this over with?" All rational words were banished when you shoved open the door. Vilkas' dark hair was shorter than before and streaked through with grey. He flipped through some book and his foot tapped against the leg of his chair. Tears stung at your eyes when you took in the scars you'd never seen before, a clearly aged tattoo on his forearm, a wedding band on his ring finger. This couldn't be Vilkas - but that scowl didn't lie, you'd heard the voice that had whispered sweet promises to you only that morning. "Vilkas." Your voice broke around his name. His black glare finally tore away from the book and for one terrifying moment he didn't seem to know you. His thick brows tightened, mouth in a tight line when he turned to you. "My love?" His gaze softened when he dropped his work. He stood slowly, moving as if he feared approaching you. You couldn't stop tears cascading down your cheeks when Vilkas' fingers finally traced up your jaw, tugging you closer and allowing you to clutch at his unfamiliar armor. His stubble tickled at your skin when he kissed your face, eager hands drawing your body to his. "Where have you been?" His voice shook with each word. Your face stung from tears and Vilkas' familiar fingers combed through the back of your hair, one nervous kiss placed atop your head. "We have so much to discuss."

[eruscreaminginthedistance]

Finally got around to watching some post-embargo vids and I have some now updated Veilguard thoughts.

Stuff I liked:

Character creator is a standout as always. This has consistently been the strong point of Bioware's games in the last 10 years so no surprises there. The pronoun and other gender-related options are a welcome addition.

Companions all seem great. I'm sad we haven't got more Davrin or Bellara content yet, since those are the two I'm most interested in learning about. Their initial introduction in that terrible cinematic trailer didn't do these guys any favours, but seeing them in gameplay footage gives a much better impression of them. It's also exciting to see more companion-on-companion interactions and relationships.

I was put off by the voice acting in the 10 minute gameplay reveal months ago, but what I've heard so far has been much better.

Main menu looks pretty.

As an ME fan, I'm pro dialogue wheel; it's unfortunate that Inquisition turned that whole mechanic into a massive drip. This is less a thing I notice but something I hope, that this game's dialogue wheel will have a more DA2 or ME1 vibe.

Hngnggn vfjddjgfnbhn oooowowo o cloaks.

Stuff I didn't like:

The art style is not redeeming itself. Wolfheart made a very insightful point that it might be a holdover from when Veilguard was going to be a live service multiplayer game, and it definitely does give that impression. Everything is still incredibly smooth and it's clear there was a lot of effort put into making things "nice" looking. It's giving very "everyone's beautiful but no one is horny" to me. I'm on the haters' side with the Qunari; where are their textures?

On that note, oh my god. The UI and the VFX. This must have also been a result of live service elements. As someone who hates playing late-game mages in Origins because all of the VFX gives me a headache this game looks actively hostile. Does literally every single ability require flashing neon lights? Why does the UI look like a World of Warcraft meme? Why does every single interactive object glow? Wolfheart noted that even after turning everything off, a bunch of VFX elements were still present, which is tremendously disappointing. Bioware can miss me with this cocomelon for adults visual style; I just do not need all of these annoying tricks to try and keep my attention.

Also on the UI - idk man. Remember when fantasy games weren't embarrassed about looking fantasy? Remember when all of Origins menus opened up in a little book with parchment pages? Character selection took place in a little castle? I just don't get this Thing Bioware has had since 2 to make DA's game UI look cool and slick by taking all the fun out of its visual elements. I've heard it before but I've got to agree, Veilguard's UI looks like a mobile game. And again, it's so busy it's 100% gonna give me headaches.

The combat is.... I won't call it "bad". I just hate it. See above for one of the reasons why. I think I could write a whole essay on how discomfiting it is. The very very clear push (likely from EA) to have the game resemble big name titles like Breath of the Wild and God of War has taken the game in the direction of just kind of a generic hack and slash; at least DA2 married its action elements with its party mechanics and has its own unique voice. There's something in particular that sets my teeth on edge tbh. I'm watching gameplay of warriors and rogues in combat and they're pretty much indistinguishable from mages. Teleporting, fire and lightning flying about in basic attacks, just a ton of stuff that makes me cringe to look at. There's a complete lack of class fantasy there for me - why would I want to play a warrior that isn't just a big guy with a big sword? Is this a result of story elements? Why is my low level rogue demolishing entire groups of enemies ala Dynasty Warriors? In a world where the distinction between a magic person and a non-magic person is incredibly important, could cost you your life, watching a rogue shoot lightning out of their knives makes me groan. Are Bioware's efforts to make the player feel like the coolest specialist person that ever lived going to be addressed in-game? We'll have to see.

Lack of control over your own companions ala Mass Effect. I don't wanna talk about it it's too depressing.

I've noted this in the past but obviously the tonal departure from low/dark fantasy to classic high fantasy. The character backgrounds for the Rooks pretty much lock you into playing a good guy, which is a huge shame. Even if you want to pick a faction that is canonically shady or morally neutral AT BEST like the Crows, they make sure to tell you that the other Crows don't like you because you're just that good-hearted. In a faction like the Grey Wardens, notorious for taking in criminals of all stripes, you spend your background saving helpless villagers. What are the options going to be like for people who want to play morally grey or potentially evil Rooks? It's starting to look like Bioware isn't going to give you a much wiggle room to define your character out of what they need you to be.

Lip flap looks like a very mixed bag. Maybe it's just the footage but voices and mouths look out of sync.

Can't make a post without reminding everyone that Bioware isn't our friend; they've fired half the people who worked on this game and greedy producers like EA don't deserve our money.

Update: Only just came across this but phasing out inventory management? Yeah welcome back Mass Effect trilogy :/

Neutral opinions:

Other shit like the Darkspawn and overall mob designs have been a problem since DA2 so I don't see the point in rehashing it here, other than to say that I can't wait for the "DLC with the good Darkspawn designs in it" this time around.

Opening scene gives me huge Mass Effect vibes; the bar fight and the music in that scene felt very "Lair of the Shadow Broker", which I guess is a compliment.

Varric still not dead yet. Kill that old man!

Ultimately, I'm putting in prediction now that Veilguard is going to go the DA2 route of having a decent and well-loved story, but with massive issues regarding its gameplay and aesthetic that players will just have to get over in order to enjoy the game.

I'm not gonna be buying on release - first time that's been the case for a Dragon Age game since Origins; the current plan is to wait until the Christmas sales, which gives plenty of time for the fandom to either assuage my fears or implode cos the game is shit. Either that or the Solavellan content is so crisp and juicy I'll have to learn to pirate.

[blackjackkent]

I'm not going to play-by-play the ascent through High Hall to the extent that I did with Hector, but our next relevant stop comes almost immediately, with a sequence I have been quite looking forward to for Rakha.

The Watch Citadel is actually in pretty good shape compared to most of this area, by such challenging metrics as "Is the roof still on?" (yes) and "Are the people inside alive?" (also yes).

Rakha isn't really sure what to expect inside; she half expects Absolutists waiting at first, but as she draws near, she can hear the sound of a man shouting behind the door - making a rallying cry to the others within.

"We have lost much already, and we will lose more before the day is out! But even when the last soul falls, Baldur's Gate will stand, for Baldur's Gate is more than just a city. It is more than a place of opportunity for those of mercantile spirit, more than a place of refuge for those who are lost, more than a home for friends, loved ones, and adventuring souls. Baldur's Gate is a place where anyone can find what they need, if they're just willing to fight for it. Today, Baldur's Gate needs us! Today we fight for--"

The man breaks off into abrupt silence as Rakha and her companions push open the building's heavy doors.

"You're late, friend," the man says warily. His eyes flick to someone at the side of the room. "This is the one you spoke of?"

Rakha is on her guard as well, unsure who this man is or what he might want - but she turns her head and realizes that she knows the person he's talking to.

It's Florrick.

"The very same," the Counselor says. "The champion we've been waiting for. The one who will save Baldur's Gate from ruin."

(A/N: This is such a great scene and I love the emotion in it so much, but also I feel the need to point out that I also love that this is clearly supposed to be Florrick's Ready-For-War outfit and is never actually seen at any other angle than this, but flycam (and common sense) reveals that it is in fact her existing outfit, complete with translucent boob window and thigh slits up to the hip, with a leather hood over it. Practicality Supreme. 10/10, no notes.)

Rakha isn't sure she feels worthy of the term "Champion"; in some ways it feels as if she is simply struggling to hold herself (and everyone else) together long enough for this all to be over. But there's no time to quibble over wording; the Fist officer is staring past her at Karlach, his hand going to his sword.

Narrator: The Fist examines your illithid ally with suspicion. He was not expecting the savior of Baldur's Gate to be accompanied by a mind flayer.

Rakha is trying to determine how she can possibly explain the situation when an entirely unexpected familiar voice speaks up almost at her elbow.

"Appearances may change, but they do not mask the one within. This one I know. Observe with whom it traveleth. Friends. This mind flayer will fight with thee. It will save thy city and thy lives."

It's Withers, as grim and grave and puzzling as ever, looking oddly out of place against the battered finery of this place. She has only seen him outside of their camp once before, when he resurrected her at the Temple of Bhaal. Now he does not look in Rakha's direction at all, but keeps his eyes fixed on the Flaming Fist.

Narrator: The Fist eyes your illithid ally with suspicion, softening to curiosity, his hostility melting at the recognition that there's more beyond those eyes than malice.

(A/N: Even as a mind flayer, everyone can look at Karlach and see that she is a good. <3 )

"My steel is yours," the Fist says, nodding gravely. "And I'm not alone."

And for the first time, Rakha looks around and fully takes in the room and its occupants - and her eyes widen in realization, and in wonder.

It is full of her allies. Everyone she has helped during her brutal and exhausting time in the city is here now, standing shoulder to shoulder and lifting their heads at seeing her approach.

Arabella is here, shimmering with the strange wild magic that has only grown stronger since she struck out on her own. "Never thought I'd be fighting alongside a mind flayer," she says with a grin. "But I'll fight with you - with magic!"

Dammon - warm and good-humored as Rakha has always found him, though he shoots Karlach a brief, troubled glance in passing. "I'm better at crafting steel than wielding it," he says earnestly. "Your friend here is armored and potion-fueled and ready for battle."

He points at the far corner of the room, where Buddy - enormous these days and bristling with feathered muscle - sits inside a bulk of brightly polished, customized armor. Seeing Rakha, the owlbear squawks excitedly, sheathing and unsheathing his claws in rapid flexes.

Florrick, of course - looking far more weary than the last time Rakha saw her, but square-shouldered and ready. "I have marshaled the best the Flaming Fist has to offer," she tells Rakha firmly. "We will fight to the last."

(A/N: Hope you checked them all for tadpoles first.)

Isobel and Aylin are both standing by the fire, closely attached as ever, and both looking grim and serious, although Isobel's expression brightens as Rakha looks over at her. "The Moonmaiden's silver light is a shield in dark times," she says. "Today it is mine to wield."

"And I hold her sword," Aylin proclaims gravely.

Wyll's father has been watching at Florrick's side, and now speaks up, though he spares little attention for Rakha, his eyes solely on Wyll. "Whatever strength I have to lend, I will lend it. I will make my city proud again."

"Our city, Father," Wyll says softly. "Today I fight in your honor."

A low rumble from Rakha's other side - the devil that helped them destroy Raphael. "You can count on me, little rabbit," growls Yurgir. "And your squiddy friend. I thirst for the hunt."

"I have no steel or spell to gift you," pipes up Volo, peering out from behind Yurgir's enormous bulk. "But I hope my words of encouragement and reassurance will bolster your resolve."

Rakha realizes with surprise that Zevlor is here; she last saw him disappearing into the bowels of Moonrise Towers and, if she is honest, she was certain he had died. He seems to register her astonishment, and smiles ruefully. "The journey has been brutal," he says. "But I stand here a Hellrider once more. And I would die a proud man if I died this day."

Keene, from the Guildhall, folds her arms and catches Rakha's eye as she turns. "I want my city back," the Guildmaster says with a savage grin. "And I've brought the toughest bastards from the Guild to get the job done."

Next to her stands Ulma, the leader of the Gur; the woman looks more tired and broken than ever, after learning what happened to the children of her clan, but her eyes glint with fire. "My people have never hunted a monster this large," she says sharply. "They are eager to join the fray."

Halsin claps a hand gently on Rakha's shoulder, murmuring his addition. "All the strength of the lands we healed flows through me - and from me, to you."

On Rakha's other side, Jaheira smiles faintly. Perhaps she feels she has nothing to offer to match the flowery statements of these others. "Nature's servant awaits," is all she says, low and firm.

-----

Rakha swallows. She can't stop here, can't hesitate; there is still so much to do. And yet for a moment she feels struck dumb and still, astonished by the scene before her and what it means.

These people are all here because of her. Because she helped them and because they felt she was worth helping in return. In some cases, because she saved their lives when they could have died. Bitter and broken thing as she is, she has started to crawl her way towards the person she wants to be, and along the way she has found allies beyond just those she travels with.

Her throat is suddenly tight, and her eyes feel damp and she realizes, with a sort of detached astonishment, that she is about to cry.

Narrator: The air is thick with anticipation. All eyes are on you. [INSIGHT] They're expecting a speech, something to stir their hearts and put fire in their bellies for the fight ahead.

No. She can't give a speech - not ever, really, but certainly not now. What can she say that can possibly be worthy of the trust that is being placed in her?

(A/N: I had to do a number of reloads to get this to work the way I wanted. Once again, having the whole crew along for this mission makes cutscenes complicated because the game just picks three at random to be The Companions for the scene, and this moment is EXTREMELY FEELSY if you have Minsc give the speech while Jaheira is also in the party.)

Rakha looks to her side, her eyes pleading as they light upon Minsc. He is a hero, isn't he? Karlach has described him so. Perhaps he knows what can be said to tell these people what it means that they have gathered here to fight, since Rakha cannot.

Look to Minsc, the Hero of Baldur's Gate.

For a moment, Minsc looks puzzled. Then his eyes clear as he realizes what Rakha is asking, and his lips purse tightly in thought. She expects some fierce cry regarding Boo and the battle to come - but to her surprise, he is silent for a long moment, and when he speaks, his voice is low and resonant.

"There was a time when my hamster counted every bootprint that I left behind me," he says. Though he is not shouting, his force of personality even in this calm moment is such that all eyes turn to him at once. "Whether it was in snow, mud, or evil's backside. Boo did this because he knows the heart of Minsc, and he knew that a part of it was all those many steps behind us. In Rashemen. At home."

His gaze drops, intensely studying the cracked tile floor. "Minsc could never count as high as Boo," he says. "So the number of steps soon became too large for him to hold in his head. Too large... and too sad."

Then his head lifts, and his eyes flash, one hand clenching into a fist as he looks around at all of them. "But now Minsc knows the number," he says, and now his voice does lift into a rousing shout. "The number is none! Because Baldur's Gate is my home, and it will not fall while Minsc and Boo still stand!"

The room erupts in cheers. Rakha does not join them, but watches Minsc intently as he lets his hands fall back to his sides. At her side, Jaheira smiles slowly.

"You are still full of surprises, ranger," she murmurs, low beneath the shouting around them. "I could not have said it better. But now that it is said... it is time." Her head draws back, enough to pull in Rakha, and Wyll, and the others standing behind her.

"Swords, not words," she says firmly. "Butt-kicking for goodness."

Minsc's eyebrows lift in a sudden, joyful laugh. Rakha smiles. Swords, not words, indeed. That is where they are all most comfortable, in the end - not with these flowery speeches, but with the work that needs doing.

She glances at the Fist officer at the head of the room, who has been watching this all unfold with a sober expression. "Well said," he agrees gravely. "We'll prepare ourselves. We'll be ready when you call upon us." He lifts one arm to his chest in a salute. "Balduran's grace be with you."

(Balduran, Rakha reflects, is perhaps the least likely person to grant her any grace at this point - but she decides this is not the right time to say that out loud.)

[evilsituation]

ahem. jimmy is one of the most fantastically written envious characters ive ever seen. our worst moments do not make us monsters but dude DUDE the continuous one long really bad moment. you had your out and you couldn't get over it until the very end. its so. ooooough.

just one of the best characters ive ever seen put to fiction

he fucks me up so much he constantly digs himself deeper into his mistakes and comes up with solutions that make them worse. he can't admit any of it.

he is so full of contempt for curly that when he finds out they're all losing their jobs he turns it on Curly to somehow imply Curly is getting a positive out of it while also putting down everyone to imply that they are worth nothing. he's so perfectly flawed I love him. he resents curly because despite them being friends who have worked together for a long time he feels Curly is somehow better than him and in some ways he's right. Curly is kind and helpful while Jimmy is often pretty detached and hostile. Curly is very thoughtful while Jimmy is careless. He's the copilot for a reason. Real Brutus energy coming from him. (btw I hope this doesn't come across as me comparing Jimmy to the rage and resentment Brutus feels regarding being a woman and stuff.) <- i just mean he grows to deeply hate his companion and wants to be better than them or be them.

and in the end his negligence is what sets nearly everything into place and dooms them. he's so careless every step of the way no matter how much he claims to try and fix it. I love him for how much he misunderstands everything and fails LOL. his decision to put Curly first for once and take his own life is a culmination of all his guilt and frustration. I feel sad he killed himself of course and that's a horrible thing to do . but shows him prioritizing someone else for once. he gave curly the cryopod and because his other option was slowly die of thirst I appreciate he made the decision to end it early. I'm happy he finally grew enough to accept his mistakes and save Curly.

however I still cried I love this game and it's messaging. here's to my au called mouthwashing 2 where everyone survived sued pony express for poor working conditions and now live on the beach and get to drink martinis every day :)

[purble-turble]

Love potion universe but nothing to do with the love potion, how was the poly before azure nonsense? I know macaque was exclusive to wukong. Anyone not banging someone else in the poly? (ex- dbk and wukong didn't hook up, or yellowtusk and peng didn't hook up, etc) and who was romantically in love with who? Below I'm putting in my guesses. Tell me how right or wrong I am

Macaque, obvious. Azure is interested sexually in all of them and loves them in different ways but he's in love with wukong, and he thought wukong also had "some romantic interest" but was unhappy about not being his favorite/#1. Wukong also is sexually interested in all of them, but as previously established wasn't even a little bit in love with azure since in an au where he gets love potioned, he becomes obsessed. Safely assumed the only one he's in love with is macaque. Peng has a hate crush on macaque that might be only sexual but might have some romance longing. I also assume that at least sometimes when they're with wukong they pretends it's macaque, because that's really messy, and this situation is completely messy. They are attracted to everyone, but might be in love partly or a lot with azure and/or yellowtusk. Dbk, no clue. You could go the way he's in love with everyone to some degree, or could go the way ironfan was the first person he ever loved, or something in between. He does assume everyone is romantically interested in everyone though, has no clue about the messiness and favoritism going on below the surface (beyond the obvious macaque favoritism). Yellowtusk isn't attracted to anyone actually, but he sees sex as a bonding activity and a way to make his brothers feel good. Only romantically interested in azure, but he knows azure only had eyes for wukong

I love the breakdown you have here anon! Honestly I am pretty much 100% with you on almost everything there.

Especially the bit about Peng.. They definitely are in hate/love with Macaque and use their time with Wukong to sort of pretend it’s Mac too! But also yes, Yellowtusk and Azure are also their favorites.

Yellowtusk I always saw as being sort of in love with Azure, but I also really like the idea you broached here of him being somewhat aromantic as well. Being part of this big poly brotherhood is a good way for him to still be in a relationship without having to deal with the stress of being somebody’s one and only companion (which I think he would hate) which can be a lot of pressure for someone who isn’t fully invested in that sort of thing. Sharing is caring, after all~

DBK I do have some thoughts about. Since in the show, he pretty clearly falls in love at first sight with Princess Iron Fang in the middle of a battle, I think DBK assumed he was gay for most of his life, but turns out he is secretly (even to himself) a bisexual disaster 😂 He likes all the brotherhood and has had a physical relationship with all of them (except Macaque who is only with Wukong but he doesn’t mind that) and up until he met Iron Fan he probably assumed that he was in love with all of them in equal measure. And he DOES love them… sort of. Or at the very least he respects them all and enjoys their company, and that’s probably what that means, right? …Well, it’s only when he gets his world completely rocked by that gorgeous Celestial Maiden that he has an OH moment. Turns out he likes women too… well actually no. Not women. THAT woman. He wants HER. No one else will do. He must win her over- Everything and everyone else be damned.

The rest of the brotherhood is definitely surprised by this development.. DBK probably seemed the most ardent of them all that women weren’t worth his time before, but he meets this one and overnight he’s turned into #1 wife guy… no wonder Azure and those two were so hostile towards him in season 4. It probably felt pretty hurtful turn around for him to abandon them for some woman they lost a battle to all of a sudden, with absolutely no warning.

[mark-seins]

✿ A Second Chance | Ephemer Week 2024: Day 6

prompt: Stars // Sea of Stars

pairing: Hoa Sen Nguyen/Ephemer (Guardian!Ephemer

rating: G

word count: 1223

Not explicitly romantic, but they are currently in a relationship at this point in the story

“I knew I’d find you out here.”

Ephemer blinked, snapping out of his thoughts as he turned over his shoulder to find Hoa Sen leaning by the door frame of the balcony. At this point, Hoa Sen knew that Ephemer wasn’t much of a early sleeper. As long as the stars were bright across the skies; meeting with the slow dancing flowers in the inn’s small garden, Ephemer was up to stargaze. Sometimes he would be up to have late night conversations with Ghost, but for the most part... it was silence and eyes locked onto the night sky.

“Did you have a nightmare?” Ephemer asked, wondering what’s got Hoa Sen up at this hour. Comparing to him, Hoa Sen was a heavy sleeper; just like his small companion Kirby. When waking him up, it takes effort and negotiation with a sleepy dragonkin. It usually works with food, most importantly meat and a strawberry jam sandwich. He’s often known to take many naps when given the chance, and when there is a bed to rest in - he is out immediately.

However tonight was different, as he keeps his gaze on Hoa Sen while he joined him by the balcony, “Nah. I wouldn’t know it was a nightmare anyways since I can talk to my Chirithy now.” He says, leaning on the frame, “I had a hunch that at least one person in the group was gonna slip away and brood.”

Ephemer laughs rather softly, “Surprised your dragon instincts are sharper than your wakeful perception.”

“I may be a sleepy dragon, but I’m as alert as a loafed cat.” Hoa Sen shrugs to one side, “...Is there something on your mind?”

“Huh? I mean. Yes, generally speaking. I would be dead if I wasn’t thinking.” Ephemer tried to give a snark response, only to be met with a narrow look.

“You know what I mean, starlight.”

Ephemer fell quiet. Sighing, only to shake his head as he looked up at the sky.

“It’s ... a bit silly, actually.”

“I’m not going to laugh if that’s what you’re worried about.”

“No no.” Ephemer shook his head again, “It’s not - ... I’m not sure if you would understand...”

“Whatever it is,” Hoa Sen begins, keeping his composure as he leans further on the balcony rails, “I may understand it. I may not, but regardless I’m here to listen even if it’s just a small complaint of our visit in this world.”

While it sounded reassuring, Ephemer still didn’t feel convinced. He didn’t want to think about it... about what had happened in the Observatory. The memory was still fresh in his mind - enough to still remember the details. He had lived far too long enough to forget how short-lived the lives the people around him were. He’d forgotten the fear of it, how something seemed eternal can be taken away so easily. It reminded him of his reckless visit to the moon prior to his formal missions there. Ghost had always reminded him of how precious life is, and how privileged Guardians were to be able to live long.

At first to him, it didn’t really matter. He thought, as long as Ghost doesn’t shatter then his life wasn’t much of a concern. Yet with what had happened by the Yggdrasil tree... He realized many things.

Not everyone has the chance to be like the Guardians of his home. Not all stars get the chance to live as long as other stars. Some die, sooner than their expected outage. There are no altruistic entities like the Traveler in every world that would give these people second chances. He realized that even with a second chance of a new life, you will die once your Ghost is killed. To that end, death was inevitable. Not even immortals can avoid such a natural end to their story.

Supposedly, he understood that. He had to, knowing what risks every Guardian makes in their mission upon a hostile orbital system such as the Solar System. Yet the moment he saw what happened to Mimi, he couldn’t help but feel his feet grow cold. Sure her heart was still in safe hands and she can still be saved, but even then...

Even then, she was gone - just like that. Nothing even hinted to her shattered demise. All she did was what her heart believed and the darkness still overpowered her just like that. Her kindness wasn’t enough. Her strength wasn’t enough. Her light wasn’t enough

Thus he wondered, what would really keep the darkness away? Are the stars he’s looking at now the same as the ones he saw yesterday? He felt ill, and fear, and he didn’t know why other than that Mimi being stricken down triggered something in him that he never felt for a long while ever since he faced the Knight that killed Percy. Helplessness. Dread. The feeling that he was young and afraid, that he has yet to understand how precious life was until now.

Most importantly, Mimi was - is his younger sister. He felt like a part of him that was left from Rigel had been torn away. It was like if Apollo and.. or Wyvern were to die right now suddenly. He couldn’t process it, and the memories strike him down when he least expects it. Mimi is as important to Ephemer as his dads are, but he was afraid he was too late to let her know of such.

He couldn’t open all of this up to Hoa Sen. It would just be coherent, or bluffed over ... because Ephemer is the type to try to make light of things when it gets bad. But this was something he can neither make light of or even talk thoroughly if at all. No matter what he tries to start with, it always ends with a knot in his throat.

So instead, he asks Hoa Sen, “Do you think the stars we see here is the same one we will see when we get to the Dreaming City?”

There was a followed silence which Ephemer knew to be Hoa Sen pondering about that. He didn’t have to answer, but he was so tired of not knowing if it’s even worthwhile to look at a forever changing sky when you know your favorite star will disappear tomorrow.

Then Hoa Sen answered, “I believe so, but the stars we see today won’t be here tomorrow.”

“...Isn’t that scary?”

“To me? Yeah. The stars we see are worlds in some shape or form. To think some of them had reached the end of their lifespan makes me wonder what had happened to the life within. But I only hoped they were all filled with joy, sorrow, anger, and hope...” As Ephemer looked at the sky, Hoa Sen looked at the flowers below, “Stars and flowers go hand in hand. Like humanity, there are many - but some die for another to be born again. But a dying flower can still be saved.”

He gaped slightly, looking towards Hoa Sen as he determinedly faced Ephemer.

“There’s still hope for her to be saved.”

He wondered if Hoa Sen could read his mind at all, or the timing of things helped him piece everything together. Regardless, after hearing all of that... He shared the same determined grin and nodded in agreement.

“Yeah... You’re right.”

[verai-marcel]

Your Hearth Is My Home (BG3 Fanfic, Astarion x Female Reader, Part 4 of ?)

Summary, Notes, Tags, & Part 1 are here.

Part 2 | Part 3

AO3 link is here, darling.

Act I, Chapter 4 - The Discovery

It was late afternoon when you heard someone, or something, trip the alarm spell. The party had left you alone while they investigated the bog south of here, so you had set up a series of trip wires with silver string that would chime a tiny bell on your belt. You had five bells, and the one you had marked as the water path had chimed. 

Pulling out your dagger, you crept over to the water's edge, hiding behind some boulders. Your hands shook nervously and you wiped the sweat from your palms more than once as you approached. You saw a decrepit silhouette casually walking towards the water's edge. It looked like a dried up husk of a man, and you wondered if it was hostile. 

"Thou may approach… I will not harm thee," the skeleton called.

You blinked. Deciding not to sheathe your dagger, you carefully walked up to the strange being and looked him over curiously. He observed you silently in return. 

"What—I mean… who are you?" 

"I am Withers," he replied. "That is all thou needst to know."

The hell it was. "Why are you in my camp?"

“Because this is where fate meant for me to be.”

He did not elaborate, nor did he respond to any other questions. Since he seemed content to stand still and do nothing, you sheathed your dagger and went about the rest of your day. 

When the party finally returned, you immediately asked them about the skeleton. 

"Oh, right. We found him in a crypt we were exploring when we were still staying at your cottage,” Gale answered.

When no one else offered any further information, you prompted them. “...And then what?”

“He said we’d meet again at the proper place and proper time. I suppose that’s now.”

You were a little annoyed by how nonchalant everyone was with a fucking skeleton appearing in camp, but you didn’t push any further. They all seemed physically and emotionally weary from their time in the bog and were barely talking to each other, let alone you. So instead you quietly served their meal and snuck away to the skeleton once more.

He looked at you quietly, clearly waiting for you to speak first.

“So. Fate really meant for you to be here?”

He nodded.

“What about me?”

“Thou, as well.”

You frowned. You didn’t like the idea that your choices were pre-ordained.

“But now that thou art here, the rest is up to thee.”

You also didn’t like that he was seemingly reading your mind. “Thank you for your… insight,” you replied before turning away.

***

You were no stranger to sleeping light; after all, you used to work for a masked lord of Waterdeep. Danger was a constant companion, betrayal a nonstop neighbor.

So when you felt a burning hunger in your belly, your eyes shot open immediately. You were surprised to see Astarion hovering above you, his hands splayed on the ground near your shoulders, his wrist only just touching your exposed skin. You were even more surprised to see that he had fangs, and that they were bared at you as if he were about to bite. 

When he realized you were awake, he jolted back. "Shit."

You sat up, observing him by the dim campfire light. Fangs. Pallid skin. Other memories bubbled up in your mind. The refused food. The dried up rabbit in your yard. His fear of crossing running water. Things you hadn’t paid attention to before, or perhaps, hadn’t connected.

Vampire.

His expression seemed more contrite than anything else, as if he were a child caught trying to steal an apple. Through his touch, you had felt an admittedly understandable hunger, but also a thin thread of fear. Damn your empathy, but you felt a bit sorry for the poor creature.

"If you were hungry, you should have just said so," you finally said.

He had looked so ready to talk his way out that your unruffled acceptance threw him for a loop. All he could do for a full second and a half was stare at you, dumbfounded. 

“Well?” You tugged slightly on the neckline of your shirt to expose more of your neck. “Are you hungry?”

He stumbled a step away from you, looking at you for a moment, then peered around frantically, clearly wondering if this was a trap. But everyone was sound asleep in their tents.

“Well, if you’re offering,” he replied as he regained his wits. He took one last look around before coming closer, kneeling beside you. His gaze seemed honed in on your neck.

You wondered for a moment if you were crazy. Deciding that you were, you reached out and touched his hand.

hungry fear never again—

You quickly moved your hand away. Taking a deep breath, you tilted your head to one side. “Just a few sips, nothing more. Just to regain your strength.”

He flashed you a smile, cocky and coy at the same time. “Of course. Just a little drink.” 

His hands rested lightly on your bare shoulders as he leaned in. The hunger was there, so strong that it made your hair stand on end. Was that what bloodlust felt like? Before you could ponder it further, the tip of his nose caressed the skin on your neck, and you suppressed a shiver. Whether it was from fear on your part, or from anticipation on his, you weren’t sure.

You felt the heat of his breath on your neck. “Ready, darling?”

“Just hurry up.”

He chuckled darkly. “If you insist.”

Then he bit you.

The sting of icy needles into your neck contrasted wildly with the heat of his mouth on your skin. But you weren’t prepared for how much more you felt from him, so much more than a touch on the hand. You had steeled yourself for some emotional transfer, but this was beyond anything you had ever felt before. You felt the clawing hunger that suffused his entire body, a pain far worse than the cold stabbing of his bite. Twisted within the hunger was lust, a craving both arousing and triggering your fight or flight instinct at the same time. And beneath all of that, a deep relief, as if he had been saved from something he greatly feared. The emotion was so heartrending that you wanted to cry. 

Overwhelmed by everything, you lost the strength to sit up. You whimpered as you began to fall backwards.

Suddenly Astarion was holding you, one hand supporting your back, the other cradling your head as he followed you down. He gently set you down on your bedroll before he released you from his bite and pulled away. His face had an inscrutable mask, but you could feel something from the physical contact. He was… Touched. 

He stared at you for a moment, his scarlet eyes glimmering, a bit of blood dripping from the corner of his mouth. His tongue flicked out to clean the blood from his lips, then he reached out and brushed your neck wound with his finger. Slowly, he brought his finger to his mouth and licked the last few drops, closing his eyes and savoring the flavor. 

Then he opened his eyes and stared at you once more with a serious expression. "You've given me a gift. I won’t forget that."

You were silent for a moment, entranced by his gaze. "Do you feel better?"

He nodded. "I feel stronger. My mind is clearer. I feel… Happy."

“Good,” you said, your voice strained with the effort to speak. “Glad I could help.”

He tapped your nose playfully. "You did. Now get some rest, darling. As delectable as you are, I need something a bit more… filling." Standing, he turned and walked away, looking quite a bit more haughty and hale. 

And so you had made another poor decision, dear witch. 

Or was it?

***

The next morning while everyone was getting ready, you made your way to Astarion’s tent. You hadn’t seen him yet, and you wondered if he had managed to hunt something last night.

Is he still hungry?

Just as you were about to call out to him, he burst from his tent, a fucking ray of sunshine. He was all smiles and cheer, especially when he saw you.

“Ah, my sweet little treat. Come to check up on me?”

“I did, but clearly you’re doing just fine.” You should never have worried. But you looked him up and down, just to make sure. “You seem healthy.”

“I am, thanks to you,” he purred, smiling at you a bit too prettily. A tremor of caution went down your spine, as if you were staring down a predator who was lulling you into a false sense of security. He stepped a bit closer to you, his voice dropping to a sultry murmur. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” you lied. You were decidedly not fine; your neck was sore and you felt some fatigue. Any of the others would probably wave this off as a little bug bite and nothing more, but you did not have the strength or stamina of a road-hardened adventurer. 

A question suddenly bubbled up from your mind, and before you could think better of it, you asked, "Did you pick me because I'm the weakest?"

His perfect smile suddenly faltered. "Believe it or not, that wasn't the reason." He looked away, suddenly a little shy. "You… smelled the sweetest."

You raised an eyebrow. "You say that to all your blood donors?" 

He turned back to you. “I’ve had this condition for two centuries, but truth be told?” He cleared his throat. "You were my first," he mumbled. 

You stared in shock, but as he continued to explain himself, you started to believe him. His floundering rang of truth.

“You were delectable. And now I just can’t help but wonder how the others taste.”

As he rattled off his conjectures about everyone’s flavor, you had to wonder: Did he just like the sound of his own voice?

“What about you? Who would you want to taste? Hypothetically, of course.”

You grimaced. “I’d rather starve.”

If you hadn’t been watching him so carefully, you wouldn’t have noticed the slight twitch of his eyebrow. “Come now. This is a mere thought experiment. Pick someone.”

“Well…” you trailed off, looking around at everyone as they got on with their day. You turned back to Astarion. “Probably you, since you’d be the most accepting.”

“Not because you think I’d taste the best?” 

“I wasn’t even thinking of that,” you confessed.

You could see the gears turning behind his eyes as he observed you. You weren’t sure what he was calculating in that head of his, but you were pretty sure you wouldn’t like it.

"So what did I taste like?" you asked out of curiosity.

He stared at you so intensely that you regretted asking.

"You don't have to answer," you quickly added. 

He hummed before he leaned in, his breath on your cheek as he murmured secretly, only to you. "You tasted like the purest, sweetest honey wine."

You turned your head slightly to meet his gaze. With him looking at you like he wanted to eat you right up, you suddenly wanted to run. 

“Erm, right. Well, I better get going then,” you said, quickly turning around and bailing from the conversation like your life depended on it. 

Perhaps it did.

***

While most of the party was away, you began to take down the camp. Karlach and Wyll had offered to stay behind and help you move all the gear to a new campsite closer to the druids’ grove while the others investigated a possible cure.

The two of them were relatively chatty with each other, which left you time to stew over this morning’s interaction with the noble.

No, the vampire.

You replayed the conversation in your mind. His flirty posture. His beguiling tone. It was as if he was luring you in, playing at being attracted so you would feel the same in return. Give something to receive something, you supposed. It all seemed very constructed, and didn’t match the fleeting moments of shyness, which were much more charming to you.

He had nothing to gain from making you fall for him, other than your continued donation of blood. But you would have done that anyway. You liked taking care of your companions. It brought you joy.

Why is he doing this? Does he think I wouldn’t feed him otherwise?

As you spaced out, lost in your thoughts, the others had completed cleaning up their sections of the camp and packed things up. Karlach came up to you, waving her hand in front of your face when you didn’t respond to your name.

“You alright? You seem a bit tired,” she commented. 

Shit. Can’t let them know anything. “I’m good!” you replied, wrapping the scarf around your neck a little more securely before quickly getting everything else ready to go.

As the three of you hiked to the new area, your thoughts kept wandering, and so too did your perception of Astarion. Something wasn’t adding up. He was a noble, a flirt, and unapologetically snide at times. But he had fears, shadows in his heart that didn’t make sense to you.

Unless…

You thought of a lion, caged in a circus. Forced to perform, perceived as mighty, but treated like property, only useful if it played along. A chained beast that lashed out in fear, having only experienced the worst.

Admittedly, you didn’t know much about vampires. But you did know about emotions.

Your heart clenched as the direction of your thoughts turned dark. You had a hunch and you didn’t like it.

If I’m right, then I should handle him with more care. But I hope to the gods that I’m wrong.

------------------------

Chapter Notes: I hope you enjoyed this chapter, I really wanted to bring my own spin to this scene. Let me know what you think in the comments!