#and with her sister (who is still an idol in this. also barbara does not understand how jean is so casual about gender nonconformity.)

[clementinecoastline]

posting something from a little while ago!!! this is my modern au jean! i’ll include my thoughts on her and the lore for her under the read more. also: PLEASE IGNORE HOW INCONSISTENT HER HAIR IS DRAWN. i was drawing for vibes and fun and then made it into an actual ref sheet. it did not occur to me to make the hair match. also next time i’ll make her oxfords dark brown. i know nothing of formalwear and style.

for her design, the entire thing was inspired by a sketch of an outfit i like wearing and it spiraled from there. i think she would definitely wear ‘dad clothes’ casually. a polo. cargo shorts. big dad sneakers. things that are comfortable and practical to her. i don’t think that she really ever considers gender presentation and the like in choosing her clothes. in the end, most people don’t see her wearing casual clothing like this anyways. she’s nearly always in her suit and oxfords, or at the very least wearing a dress shirt and slacks. the most informal her outfit typically gets is ink-stained. she’s nearly always busy with work!

i don’t have all the lore for my modern au planned out yet, to be honest, but i think that jean would be a lawyer and maybe a local politician. she does her best to help the people around her! she does a lot of pro bono work and work at discounted prices and gives a lot of advice. some might say that she works a little too hard. being a lawyer runs in the family - the gunnhildrs have always prided themselves on fighting for justice.

jean’s been working on, well, working less. her girlfriend, lisa, is always telling her to relax a little. when she’s not working, jean likes to work out or spend time with lisa. she’s never really thought about cutting her hair past taking care of split ends and keeping it a relatively manageable length, but lisa has always said that she would look great with an undercut, so... that’s why she has one in the side profile. lisa teases her that it’s ‘very bisexual of her.’ they are both bi.

[beatifulbountyhunter]

Azra Profile/Voice Over (Part 2)

About Azra: I’ve gotten a title from everybody over the years, the title is “Starry-Eyed Wanderer '' probably since I have a tendency to explore and look at things with wonder, like I’m experiencing them for the first time.

About us - History: To look through the eyes of those from the past, understand their experiences, and learn about events from the past, that’s what history is to me! Reading history books from the library helps to pique my interests about certain events. Even when I explore different areas and find ruins or old structures, I also have these lingering questions in the back of my head asking “what happened here?”, “what were these used for previously?” or “what did these look like before time changed them?”

About us - Memories: Memories are something that I learned to treasure very dearly, especially since I don’t really remember much about my life before waking up. There’s this new device going around Teyvat called a Kamera, it captures moments in time and turns them into images. Marjorie gave me one and I haven’t really put it down. I’ve taken tons of photos and put them into my “Memory Book”. That way I can keep the memories alive and never forget them!

About the Vision: Huh? My Vision? It appeared to me one night, when I was reflecting on my time in Mondstadt. I’m still confused about how I managed to get one though. I feel like I haven’t really done much to earn one. But now that I have one, I’m going to use it and make myself worthy of it. Plus I think it’ll be fun, hehe~!

Something to share: Did you know that I have a sister? Hehe~ I can see that you’re surprised! Her name is Thema. If you see someone who’s tall, wearing black, green, and silver clothing, and always taking bounty hunting commissions, that's her!

Interesting things: Hmm…I can’t think of anything at the moment, sorry. Huh? Why does my Anemo glow brighter with a slight golden hue mixed in when I use it? Oh..uh… no reason! Don’t worry about it, okay?

About Venti: V-V-Venti?!? W-well, I first saw him in the plaza performing when Amber was giving me a tour of Mondstadt. I luckily had the chance to officially meet him when I went to Windrise for the first time and we really hit it off! He's someone who I really care for and he really cares about me too! He also cares so much about everyone and makes them smile with his songs and antics! He’s such a great person to everyone he meets, *whispers* and I love him very much! H-Hey! D-Don’t look at me like that!

About Venti: Familiarity: Hanging around Venti is so comforting, like no matter what’s happening there’s peace in that moment that can’t be disrupted. This feeling is so familiar, it calms me whenever it comes to me. Then there’s Venti, himself. It feels like I’ve known him for a long time whenever I talk to him, not to mention that he also looks familiar and he has this air around him that’s also really familiar.

About Jean: Master Jean is a really hard worker, she puts everything she has into protecting Mondstadt and ensuring that everything doesn’t fall apart. Although seeing some of the things she has to deal with on a basis, I wish the townspeople would cut her a break, especially since some of the things they ask her to do they could easily do themselves.

About Barbara: Mondstadt’s darlin’ deaconess, idol, friend, and, at times, healer! Conversations with her are always a delight and hearing her sing is rejuvenating. Though I always feel bad when I get really hurt and have to come see her, she always expresses a great amount of worry and concern. So, to lessen her worries I try to be more careful, and when that doesn’t work I try to visit a statue of the seven before going to see her.

About Diluc: Master Diluc is a very reserved man. He comes off as sorta standoffish towards others, especially toward those from the Knight of Favonius, but he’s a really kind man when you get to know him. Whenever I’m at Angel’s Share, I try to get him to loosen up and crack a smile! It’s rare but when it happens I’m quick to catch it and if I point out that he smiled, he threatens to kick me out but he never actually does.

About Kaeya: He’s…a lot of things. He’s cunning, a sweet talker, and a few other things that can lure people in only to trap them, especially if you are a person of interest to him. Or in my case, a target for his relentless teasing, where he’s often poking fun at me to get a reaction. He has his moments where he’s really kind, but he can be so smug and annoying!

About Amber: Amber found me in the whispering woods after I woke up. When I first saw her, I wasn’t entirely sure if I could trust her, but I was too weak to move so I couldn’t really do much. She took me to the knights and helped me get settled into Mondstadt and introduced me to everybody in town. And although it was scary she taught me the basics of gliding. She’s been with me every step of the way and helped me feel at home in Mondstadt! She’s become like a sister to me!

About Eula: At first I thought she was a very cold person (No pun intended). All her talk about vengeance probably had something to do with the unease I felt.  But when I got to know her more, with Amber’s help, She was actually a pretty nice person. It’s a shame that everyone in town seems to resent her though…

About Noelle:  Nice, determined, and hard working, that’s Noelle! She’s always working so hard with both her duties as a maid and training to become a knight. It's inspiring! But I can’t help but feel like some might be taking advantage of her helpful nature…

About Klee: Klee is very sweet, but she can be quite a handful. I sometimes look after her and it’s both a fun and terrifying time. Fun in the sense that I take her fish blasting and we have fun around the city or go sightseeing around the area. Terrifying that she sometimes manages to evade me and then a second later, I hear explosions and my blood runs cold. This usually ends with her ending up in solitary and me having a talk with Jean, or I’m also put into solitary because Jean finds out about the fish blasting.

About Mona: Stars: When I mentioned my fascination with stars, she immediately took me under her wing, so to speak, and she taught me about the stars as well as constellations and their meanings. It’s a lot to take in, but it’s still interesting to learn about. Sometimes she even goes stargazing with me to show me some of the stars and constellations she taught me about!

About Mona: Divinations: Mona sometimes does divinations on me, though whenever she looks into mine specifically she says that there are some interesting things. She always mentions how it’s like staring into the past, then she also says that sometimes it’s like she’s looking through the eyes of someone else. Afterwards she sometimes feels overwhelmed, but it doesn’t deter her, instead she becomes more interested to decipher what she saw.

About Lisa: Lisa can be very…scary, when it comes to the books in the library. She tells everyone to be very careful as to not damage or lose the books, and to try their best to return them on time. She’s pretty lenient when it comes to late returns, and usually reminds people to return them. Though if something happens to the books, get ready for a really nasty shock to come your way.

About Albedo: Albedo is really hard to read. I can’t really tell what he's thinking, or how he’s even feeling. He just seems indifferent most of the time, but from what I’ve seen he’s really interested in alchemy and finding out the answers of the world. I wonder if I could help him with his experiments or something, maybe it could help me to get to know him more.

About Sucrose: Sucrose is nice, though she’s really timid. I remember when I was first introduced to her, she ran away after saying hi, Albedo told me to not take it to heart since she’s apparently like this when she meets new people. Eventually, we were able to have an interesting conversation about alchemy, and she warmed up to me overtime.

About Rosaria: When I first met Rosaria, she was very cold to me. She always looked at me suspiciously and skeptically. I think she may have assumed that I was a spy or something when I first came to Mondstadt, though overtime I think she warmed up to me. She’s at least not giving me death glares and menacing glances anymore…

About Bennett: Bennett is really sweet! Despite his “bad luck”, he is always so positive and plucky. I remember I saw him at the Adventurer's Guild mumbling about getting some really hard commissions to complete and I came up to him asking if he wanted help to complete them. He tried to dissuade me from doing so because of his bad luck, but I insisted on going with him. So many weird things happened that made the trip all the more interesting and fun. Afterwards he apologized for everything going wrong, and he seemed really surprised when I told him that this trip was great and that I hope we could go on many more.

About Razor: Soooo… funny story about how I met Razor, actually. I was wandering around Wolvendom and got lost. While I was there, I ran into a pack of wolves that looked ready to attack me until Razor suddenly jumped in front of them and saved me from potentially being eaten! It was so scary, but it quickly turned into a very wholesome experience. All the wolves acted like big fluffy dogs, after Razor explained that I wasn’t a threat to them. From then, I occasionally visit to give him food for himself and the wolves and just spend time there sometimes.

About Fischl: The Prinzessin der Verurteilung? Oh, Fischl? Yeah, I know her! She's really nice, although she talks funny, and it’s hard to understand what she’s trying to say sometimes. Luckily, Oz is always with her, which in turn makes it easier to understand her since he always translates what she's trying to say. They make a great duo and everything they do seems like something from a play or a book.

About Diona: Diona’s a nice kid, but she can be very feisty. She’s one of the greatest bartenders in town, but hates alcohol, she’s kinda like Master Diluc in that regard. Sometimes I hear her muttering things about destroying Mondstadt’s wine industry while having a mischievous look on her face, it’s kinda scary.

About Xiangling: Oh LingLing! I met her in the woods near Springvale, she was hunting and exploring around the area for ingredients for new dishes that she wanted to make. While the ingredients are…questionable, the final product always turns out perfect…and sometimes a tad bit spicy.

About Thema (OC): Thema’s my cool and awesome older sister! She's known as a “renowned bounty hunter” by many in other nations. She tends to travel a lot because of her job, so it’s kinda rare to find her in Mondstadt sometimes. I know she might come off as standoffish and cold, but she can be really nice when you get to know her.

About Amira (OC): Before I woke up I faintly heard someone’s voice telling me “Wake up and Enjoy Your New Life,” It was comforting, but I haven’t heard it since then. Although, I occasionally receive letters from someone wondering how I’m doing and sometimes care packages with snacks and little trinkets. And sometimes in my dreams I see someone, a woman, who’s presence seems comforting and warm, yet strangely familiar.

[kalzer]

Genshin Impact - my Idol AU ver pt. 1

Proclaim:

- This is my own version of idol AU. I did take some insperations while wandering through the fandom. Ex: twitter@veechu_ ; twitter@fey_cia ; tumblr@raibzz

- I'm not a native English speaker, and my English is not that good so sorry beforehand

- These are random thoughts about this AU. I have been hyped about this AU for a while now

- I will add when I have more ideas

- I try to write a fic about this AU. However it's in my mother language, and it won't be fast since I'm really busy 😭

- I only ship XiaoVen for this AU, however other couples do have hints

Mondstadt entertainment company

Manager: Jean

Assistances (?): Amber, Noelle

4NEMO

Venti (main vocal)

Used to be in a famous group names Der Himmel with his twin brother

At that time, he used Barbatos as his artist name

Unfortunately, his twin brother had an accident and has been in comma since then (fans do NOT know about this, and the reason Der Himmel disband is still a mystery)

Has talent, like, god-blessed music talent. He can compose his own songs

After a long time of disappearing, he came back to the industry with hope of bringing his songs to fans

Has high alcohol tolerance, but also like to go over that limit

After 4NEMO being successed, members are finally allowed to have a solo album. And in this album, Venti use all of his old songs. The ones that he composed in his darkest time.

Fans can guess some general ideas about his twin brother's situation, but with all due respect, they don't ask

At first, Venti didn't notice that Xiao pays more attention to him since the solo album was out. Eventually, he knows

When he finally finds out his emotion toward Xiao, he writes a love song

However, Xiao misunderstands and starts to avoid Venti ('cause he thinks he's be a way of Venti's love)

Venti grabs Xiao'a collar and says: "this is my love song for you, you dumbass"

Even though he'a scared of cats, he likes to think Xiao as a cat

He likes to make his soon-to-be boyfriend blush

Sings for Xiao everytime he has nightmares

Xiao (rapper)

Likes wearing black or dark clothes

Knew Venti since he was still in his old group, and fell in love since then

Venti's songs cure him in his darkest time

Studies music like crazy to follow Venti's footsteps

An orphan. Lucky that he ran away from human trafficking at the young age

Even though knows that Der Himmel disbanded, Xiao still joins in Venti's old company. Luckyly, he becomes a member of 4NEMO with Venti

Before decide to be an idol, he was popular underground artist with the code name Alatus

Good at chords and rhythm. Become a good pair with Venti at composing songs and melodies. (Mostly play guitar)

Has many tattoos and earrings

After hearing songs from Venti's solo album and roughly guess what have happened, he begins to care Venti more

Is NOT the one who makes the first move, but Xiao unconsciously and clearly shows his feelings

Not good at expressing feelings, but somehow Venti's still figuring it out

The first time Venti confess, Xiao did NOT accept it because he was ashamed of his past. Then, slowly, he finally accepts Venti's love for him

Kazuha (visual, sub vocal)

Becomes an idol because of his long gone friend's wish

Fans know the reason why Kazuha becomes an idol, and he personally not try to hide it

Rich boy but like to be normal, not show off

There is a rumor that his parents works in this industry too. And he becomes popular because somebody supports him behind. Which is NOT truth. He does not have any link with his parents anymore

Aether (leader, dancer)

Brother of popular soloist - Lumine

Has a little bit of sis-con

Kind, easy-going

Becomes famous after his sister mentioned him on TV show

Avoid talking about parents

Soloists

Lumine

Debut at the young age

Go with strong girl vibe, but she can change to other vibes if she wants

Many other idols are her fan: Childe, Xinyan, Barbara,... -> Aether turns on sis-con mode, espicially with Childe

No info about parents relationship

Barbara

(Secret) Jean's younger sister

Go with romantic, girly, cute vibe

Often harassed by stalkers and crazy fans

Always has guards

Also a fan of Barbatos, but somehow she doesn't recognize Venti is Barbatos

Old Der Himmel

Used to be global band, really famous

Same period with L/YUE

Brought cheerful songs, but with national, cultural, and traditional characteristics

Composed musics together

passionate about music since childhood, joined the company together (insperate from AKMU)

Had Zhongli as manager

[apompkwrites]

for the reader impact can you do jean and barbara?<3 thank you!

reader impact || first meeting: gunnhildr sisters

series masterlist characters: barbara, jean genre: fluff summary: a game has been released entitled genshin impact, consisting of otherworldly abilities relying on the basic elements of nature. the game follows the story of an interdimensional traveling twin in search of their other half. along this journey, they meet different characters that live in this world. including you. notes: i've never written these girls before... and honestly i've never written any of the other girls :(( i'm trying!! i hope this is good!

barbara -

barbara doesn't get to stream too often.

or at least, not as often as she'd like to.

as an idol, she still has a lot of responsiblities outside of streaming.

you know, training, concerts, all of that.

but, when she has the time, she loves streaming with her big sister :D

she doesn't do a lot of music streams solely because she needs a break from all of the idol work she does.

she isn't too into pvp based games and, instead, prefers to play more lighthearted ones!

she's a very soft and sweet streamer :)

her chat is normally very sweet as well because of how hard the mods are on how they act.

jean is also a mod on her streams whenever she isn't streaming.

and vice versa!

barbara loves to please her fans, so it's no surprise when she picks up genshin impact from many fan requests!

this game is probably the only she's fine with playing combat for.

once she starts, she absolutely loves the music.

she doesn't do music streams like i said, but she'll still fawn over any ost she genuinely enjoys.

anyway, here she goes starting the game.

she really loves the story so far, despite it starting a bit... sad.

she actually almost cried in the beginning of that.

just thinking about her sister being taken from her was something she hated imagining.

the more she plays, the more interesting the game becomes.

especially because she's following a bard who is, apparently, the god of the city she's currently in.

she feels really bad for him though, considering a close friend of his has seemingly been manipulated.

she doesn't like that she has to steal the lyre from the church...

and she feels even worse when the lyre they were supposed to take is stolen by someone else right in front of them.

but, luckily, they get it back.

and then it breaks...

she's afraid of the part of the game where she needs to actually return it.

and unfortunately, that time comes way too quick.

she meets with the acting grand master at the church, nervously fiddling with her fingers as the game takes over for dialogue.

"this is (name), the deacon/ess of the church."

that nervousness (almost) washes away as soon as she sees you onscreen :0

"may the anemo archon protect you."

"THEY'RE SO CUTE!"

she absolutely loves your voice!!!

be it soft and quiet or loud and excitable, she doesn't care.

you're cute and she wants nothing more than to have you as a permanent part of her team.

but then she's reminded of the fact that she's broken the lyre...

her character holds it out to you, causing to reel back in shock.

"AAAAAARGH!!! THE HOLY LYRE!!!"

"I'M SO SORRY!"

and when you start praying, she'll pray with you.

she just wants to make it up to you :(

after the strange... encounter with la signora, her character passes out.

only to wake up with you right in front of her!!!!!

you look so soft and sweet and--

she doesn't expect you to come to her team immediately because of the gacha system, so she's ready to just save primogems until she can get you.

but!!! she does!

and you best bet that you'll be on her team until this game ends.

jean -

jean, just like her younger sister, doesn't get to stream as often as she would like to.

she multitasks a lot so it's hard for her to put out good content when she's preoccupied by so many other projects.

luckily, the rare occasions she does stream, they're more relaxed.

the only reason she's able to calm down while streaming is that it still feels like she's getting things done.

it also lets her have some fun while working :D

her chat keeps trying to get her to take a break but... she just can't.

the things she does onstream are pretty normal.

she doesn't play games too often.

instead, she likes to do her everyday work onstream :)

like cooking! she absolutely loves doing cooking streams so that she can get two things done at once :D

the times she gets to actually play games are when barbara's home.

she'd rather play co-op games so they can spend time together.

because of that, barbara's the one that actually encourages her to start playing genshin!

it's a rather long game with objectives, so she thinks it'll be the best type of solo game for jean to play.

and! there's co-op so they can play together :))

just like her sister, she gets a bit emotional during the intro cutscene.

she just can't stand the thought.

as the game progresses, she actually finds herself having fun with a more slow-paced solo game.

of course, there are moments where it picks up.

once dvalin/stormterror is introduced, jean finds herself needing to go to the knights' headquarters.

at first she thinks she'll get to explore the actual building.

instead, she gets to go straight to a cutscene.

it pans up and all she knows is that she's in love with your design!

"(name), what's the hurry? i thought we agreed to meet them here."

the librarian in your office is a close second to her favorite character.

that spots already been reserved for you and you haven't even talked yet!

"there have been sightings of stormterror outside the city. once we meet, we must..."

just from how your character is written, she can tell how hardworking you are.

and that's exactly what jean looks for in a character.

she just... relates to you so much??

and her chat agrees.

you two are practically the same person at this point.

she appreciates how straightforward you are and definitely looks forward to getting to know you more :))

[blzzrdstryr]

By proxy

Platonic yandere!Kaeya & child!gn!reader

Wordcount: 2195

A.N.: My first time writing platonic yanderes, hope you'll enjoy.

It's an impulsive decision for the most part - taking you, that is.

Kaeya trudges through the Wolfendom forest, a couple of his underlings, Addler and Otto, following behind as they trail a group of treasure hoarders. Criminal gang must have known that knights are on their tail, there's no other explanation for their sudden fleeing, leaving an already broken camp behind and taking only the most valuable possessions.

It's raining and he silently curses, even if this will give him advantage in battle, but archons, it's so cold. Huge droplets fall on the ground with a resounding sound, drenching everything and turning the forest landscape deep into nigh impassable terrain. Mud clings to their feet, slowing the group down, as the Sun starts to set. Sky turns all shades of purple and red, dimming light throwing the last rays over the Mondstadt as the darkness settles, yet Kaeya and his group still carry forward through the palisade of tall trees.

“Sir”, Otto carefully starts: “It seems that criminals are already several miles away from us”.

Kaeya nods for the knight to continue, already knowing that it will be an ask to stop - the weather is hellish and the rain is one of the heaviest Kaeya has ever had to experience.

“With how strong this rainfall is, the gang's traces will be gone in under an hour”

"All the more reasons to push on and catch them then", Alberich replies, paying zero attention to Adler's slight trembling or Otto's teeth chattering. The group continues on their path through descending darkness, their footsteps hasting despite the clinging and growing fatigue.

Suddenly, as the knights make their way around the cliff, a slight whimper is heard. It's human enough to stop the group - maybe some unlucky civilian got in the way of the gang, maybe criminals left their injured one. Kaeya just nods to the pair, as Otto and Adler unsheathe their weapons, wordlessly understanding the gesture.

Cavalry captain takes a step into the forest pit with a raised sword, all sight and ears, light blue vision on his belt shining and flickering both in caution and anticipation. He walks slowly and quietly, like a cat, careful not to step on the leaves and twigs lying around, and then he sees you.

You are a child, all thin and small in the way that the sick are. There are dark circles under your tired eyes, and the scrapes all over your body. You look already dead. He runs up to you, as he sees your figure swaying and knees buckling, saving you from the fall. Your skin burns Kaeya as he carries you back to the knights - it must be fever then. You blink at him several times, saying something, but your voice is too small and weak to make out anything among the droplets falling, and then you stop, eyes rolling back and head lolling to the side. You blacked out.

He thinks about handing your body to either of the knights and then continuing to run after the gang into the knight, but then decides against it - heavy rain must have blurred all the footsteps they left. Adler almost fails. You escape your delirium a couple of times, babbling words about forest and rain and wolves, and Kaeya, despite his focus on the trail ahead, can't help but listen to what you say. It's childish nonsense for the most part, an incomprehensible product of the feverish mind, yet sometimes you say meaningful things - I thought I would die, I got scared of wolf howls, The rain was so cold.

Some small part of him shrinks and aches at these words, a long buried hurt resurfacing once again. Kaeya frowns and huffs as he tries to get rid of the images of the days long gone in his mind - rainy night, hunger, pain, cold, he will die here. His lips quirk and a humorless laugh escapes him - the irony is painful.

He drops you off at the church, concerned Barbara taking you to the hospital and Kaeya, after a brief report to Jean, goes home, his mind still stuck on the memories of days long past. You will be fine, he tells himself, the church has good healers and the orphanage is nearby. Once you get better, you’ll get sent there, where devoted nuns will raise to be another disciple.

You had a look of a deadman - a strange catatonic serenity was radiating off of you, as you looked at the captain with a glazed yet piercing eyes, both seeing him and through him. It’s cold, so cold, yet no one is here. There are hot tears on his face, wet tracks burning his skin. His tummy is empty and aching, cold bites at his limbs, but Kaeya patiently waits for the adult to return. Father said that Kaeya was their last hope, so sure he would never leave him to die, right?

Cavalry captain barely sleeps through the night, memories and inner demons eating him from inside. When he does manage to doze off, a vague picture of darkening forests and howling winds wake him up, a fervent chanting buzzing in his head - Where is his father? Where is his father? Where is his father?.

Kaeya comes to you the next day, as his shift ends, legs heading to the towering church at the top on their own. Barbara leads him to your bed, your unconscious form lying limply. Idol explains your health issues to him - fever, malnutrition, inflammation, common cold and slight poisoning. The scratches you had yesterday were healed, Barbara says, but the rest of the problems can't be easily fixed with a bit of a hydro.

"Then, what medicines do they need?", Kaeya asks, understanding the unspoken words. The Church of Favonius, despite the large funding it receives from the city's treasury, still lacks a lot of resources and materials. People are free to come and get cured, without having a single mora to pay, which means that most of the remedies disappear at an alarming rate - be it some herbal balm for aching joints or a simple linen bandage.

The idol rustles in the hidden pockets of her dress, taking out a pencil and sheet of paper and begins to write, the list grows as Kaeya’s eyebrows get higher and higher. There are dried Liyuen herbs, exotic Sumeru fruits, specially treated Snezhnayan and Fontaine tinctures and medicines.

Kaeya is taken aback for a second by the sheer length of the final list - most of the items will have to be ordered and shipped and despite his salary of the captain allowing such expenses, it’s still strange to spend so much mora - a complete stranger. Captain contemplates just leaving you there - nuns will take care of you, but the hurt resurfaces again and he sees another person lying on the small hospital bed - little him, scared and confused.

He ends up buying all the listed things, and despite his efforts not to, continues to regularly check up on you when he has time. Sometimes, Barbara says, you wake up from your slumber, enough to utter some confused noises and questions, but then you drowse off again, both sickness and medicine pulling you back to sleep.

Kaeya, to his displeasure, never catches you conscious in time, until he comes one evening, expecting to spend the time looking at you sleeping again only to see you half sitting on the bed. Your posture gets straight the second you notice him too, an expression of confusion and fear appearing on your face.

"Hello", Kaeya starts, slowly walking up towards you, keeping his posture small and voice as friendly as possible:"I am that knight who carried you here, remember?", he explains, seeing the further abashment on you face.

You nod at him, prompting him to continue:"So, I just decided to visit you to ask you how you got in the forest and why were you alone"

"Sister Barbara said that you came here almost everyday," you reply, voice absolutely flat and face having no expression. Kaeya looks at you briefly - it’s rare for children to speak in such a cold manner, you must have something on your mind then.

"Yes, I did" , he says in the same friendly tone.

"Just to know why I was in the forest?" , your voice betrays you, a hint of hurt seeping into it. Ah, that’s why you asked.

"Hm, of course no! I also wanted to see you get better" , he smiles at the end, leaning a bit closer to you. You mull over his words, thinking of their sincerity, and then a later second you say, with much less caution and guard up:

"Well I am better now and…" you get silent for a good minute:"I don't remember why I was there. I think it's because of the fever". Your voice becomes strangely controlled again - you lie to Kaeya, you didn’t forget anything. A part of cavalry captain swells and purrs, recognizing himself in you,

"Do you want to live with me?". He asks instead of trying to get the truth out of you. Your eyes shine and a surprised noise comes out of your mouth at his suggestion - something between a squeak and high pitched yelp.

His apartment isn't the best place to bring the child in - there are far too many bottles and not enough food - Kaeya lives off the takeout from the Good hunter and the skewers he grills when missions call him to leave the city walls. Nonetheless, you don’t look too disgusted with his living conditions, so he considers it a win, as he heads for the tiny kitchen to make you a soup.

It turns out a bit burnt in the end - Kaeya added too much wood to the stove, but you still gulp it down, not leaving anything and thank him for the meal. He makes a mental note to buy you a bed - right now you’re sleeping on a small couch, and clothes to change.

You are a quiet child, too fast to apologize for the smallest mistakes and wary of him when he’s in a foul mood - it gives Kaeya an idea why you were in the woods. Your days together flow slowly and steady with Kaeya falling into routine - he wakes up, makes a breakfast for the both of you, you eat it, as you shyly tell him about your newest interest or finding - a drawing, a strange bug, a shiny rock of unusual colour, then he leaves for work, instructing you to go to the neighbours if you have issues, and leaving a premade dinner for you. Then he comes back, now listening to you talking about your day - you were drawing again, or you played with the other kids, or you were running and catching the butterflies, the now dead insects left for him to look at.

It’s a mundane life, something that Kaeya thought will never please him. There is a large pit inside of him - it was growing and festering with years - Khaenri’ah, father, Diluc, Crepus, that fight. It’s ugly and snarling and thoroughly scorched, a part of his soul that keeps him awake and anxious and angry and sad during bad nights. The pit quiets a bit when Kaeya takes care of you - toys, foods, games, the same way he wishes he was treated as a child.

Crepus Ragnvindr was a nice person, he took Kaeya in, clothed and fed and kept him safe for years, yet there was always an invisible line that separated Khaenri'ahn from Diluc - warmer voice, higher expectations, more praise. Kaeya doubts Crepus noticed this truly tiny gap in treatment, Diluc for sure didn’t. Alberich did his best to ignore it, yet he couldn’t, this difference nagged him at the back of his mind, alienating him in the newfound home.

That must be why he does his best to spoil you - it's new toys and furniture and evening walks around the Mondstadt with you on his shoulders. Soon, a new rumour starts to travel around Mondstadt - about a stray being picked up by another stray. Amber seemingly forgives him for the incident with Collei, Jean gives him a raise the same month, for child expenses, she succinctly says, Albedo off handedly mentions Klee and her desire for friendships, even Lisa gives him a couple of fairytale books, warning him what will happen if he will be late to return them beforehand. Diluc doesn't comment on the irony the next time they happen to meet, but he sees some Dawn Winery workers looking after you, when he is busy with Favonius stuff.

Kaeya, for the first time in years, feels truly happy. He has family again - you and him this time and he's willing to smother you with affections. He buys you things he wishes he had, and teaches you the skills he thinks will help you in life - how to fight, how to lie, how to kill someone with words alone.

It's a strange love he has for you - never seeing you as you - but it's genuine and all encompassing. Kaeya doesn't want little him to suffer again.

[meili-sheep]

Oh my god... Barbara joining in on the torture

Think about it!!! She's a healer!! And- An idol

She deffo sings the Fatui's ear off and like Fischl and her makeup the other 3 rate how good it is

and because she's a healer... and because I like to HC her as having a darker side, not like an emo side but like

she's the deaconess of the church, vision wielder and former 2nd child of the Gunnhilder clan (idk how to spell it ok??)

Even if a Deacon doesn't really have high political power in a church, bc of her idol status and the adoration and respect the citizens of Mond has for Barbara, even the nuns and because her father is in a high rank in the church(a cardinal if i remember) i think she can sway some opinions to a certain direction :] especially because Mond seems to be a tad more religious than the nations we've seen so far and whatever the church does is usually regarded by the people

So if Diluc needs a few opinions swayed... He may ask Barbara to do so

I pretty much don't like the fact Barbara is a damsel in distress type, sure it may be to juxtaposition her and Jean but still. It doesn't really give much flavor and such, Like both sisters are kind hearted people in diff directions and because Jean stands for justice and fairness Barbara should also even slightly juxtapose that too via being able to sway the opinions of the people which doesn't really seem 'Fair'

And she would do that swaying out of good intention, she's kind yes but she should know when something is about to go too far.

So Anti-Hero Barbara anyone???

Oh lords this turned from 'Haha Dadluc's kids torturing Fatui' to 'Barbara needs to be more in depth bc damsel in distress characters are boring'

Also... Noone can point fingers at her for swaying opinions, the citizens of Mond love her and such so like, If the Fatui tries to point fingers at Barbara their reputation will go way down down down, because 'that's the innocent and kind Deaconess of the Church of Favonius! She can do no wrong!'

So Barbara and Diluc protecting Mond in their own ways soliditary

also DPS Barbara supremacy, she also keeps up with Diluc's old workout and can handle it a bit better than the other 3 because healer and water, free cool off!!! Diluc shall now train her to be DPS 😌

She should also teach Diluc and Bennett how to heal more effectively, Bennett for his injuries and Diluc also more his injuries, he may use his new healing abilities for elongating Torture tho... but Barbs probably doesn't mind!!!

Barbara protection Squad... Either of the 3 Bennett, Fischl, Razor, even Diluc would walk her home or in Diluc's case let her stay at the Winery occasionally to let her escape Albert

Fuck Albert, hope that fucker dies. Hope Diluc kills or tortures him, or even let Barbara do it herself(Probably not tho, but maybe she would Heal Albert to make the torture longer idk)

-Leyline!Anon who's crying because I have to still finish the other two essays and the only good idea i have for the one about cause and effect is about writing, like about the butterfly effect and such

So do think Barbara is a lot deeper than people give her credit. I think she wants to be her own person. I think she lives in the shadow of the church and in the shadow and Jean. And being an Idol let her be free of that.

But at the same time, she puts it on the mask of someone she thinks is more likable.

So I feel she really has some identity issues. And honestly again Diluc is the best person to help him. Because on that day Diluc had his whole world fall apart and his whole identity fell apart.

And he was able to find himself again. And he could help her. Really discover who is she and who she wants to be.

And Diluc would totally protect her and so would the other kids.

[probably-haven]

can i just... choir AU..... hear me out because this is the funniest shit.

Bard boy first, Venti is a soprano, no i dont take criticism. He’s actually really good at singing from natural talent alone and he knows it but he also loves attention and you cant get that by staying in line. He’s that bitch who ignores the sign to stop, sings the high notes just a wee bit higher to stand out, add random notes that definitely were not in the sheet music. He’s a prodigy but the teacher is just so fucking done.

then there’s Bennett, He��s probably a tenor. He’s really into it- and he really loves being a part of the class but he’s- really fucking bad at singing, and it doesn’t help that his voice keeps cracking loudly at the worst possible times every time without fail. They were doing one of their performances once and Bennett fell off the raised platform thing and ‘broke a leg’ literally. his chair keeps breaking every time he sits on it. always shows up to concerts at least 15 minutes late and covered in who knows what.

Razor can’t read. He can’t read the notes for the music and he cant read the lyrics for the music, he’s just trying to do everything by ear and it is- not working. He probably howled during a concert because he got exhausted from trying to imitate everyone for the past two songs. Somehow is better at following along when the song is in a different language. they made him a tenor too. tried to sneak one of his dogs into class once. 

Jean has like 5 different extra curriculars and still manages to practice choir more than almost any other kid in the class and is probably gonna burnout before long. She was a soprano during first year but asked to be switched to alto when Barbara was put in soprano because she wanted to be able to harmonize with her sister. 

Barbara is a soprano, as stated, wants to be an idol and is one of a couple who actually practice harder than Jean at it. She studies music theory in her free time which Jean tries to help with but Barbara resists because please Jean has enough on her plate already. The ideal choir student, helps everyone with their stuff and actually memorizes all the different parts so she can do that better, though she has to raise it an octave for the lower parts. Beautiful singing voice. 

Fischl is another alto. She’s... technically good- like she could be good if she just... sang... but every time she does she does it with the most over the top exaggerated voices/accents because she thinks it makes it sound better. A lot of the time when she walks into class tho theres this big ass raven just perched on her head or shoulder and its intimidating as fuck. It keeps following her and she calls it her familiar. It’s only fitting as the prinzessin der verurteilung afterall.

Sucrose is a soprano and sings beautifully, shes another one with a decent grasp of music theory... but she doesn’t have the most confidence in her singing ability so she does it really quietly or sometimes just mouths the words on bad days. Also she tries not to but she keeps zoning out and accidentally missing the sign to stop- a truly terrifying experience as she’s left the only one still singing, though most of these times Venti will quickly resume singing loudly and obnoxiously to take away some of the attention.

Mona is here for the easy A. She’s an alto but doesn’t really pay attention to what any of the notes actually are, alto parts tend to be pretty monotone anyway, so its fine, right? She has more interesting things to worry about like memorizing everyone’s birth charts and reminding the teacher every single time one of their planets is in retrograde. Skips performances if the astrology says its an unlucky day.

Noelle not the best singer but a sweetheart and the unofficial TA probably. She’s a soprano and she always auditions for solos but- when her competition is Venti and Barbara... lets just say she’s still trying. Probably takes professional voice lessons or something to be able to improve. overall takes it way too seriously for an elective. 

Rosaria is an alto and she’s actually really fucking good... if she tried. The songs are stupid and what is this- fucking latin? and she says exactly how she feels about it. probably suggests that the choir sing a Billie Eilish song instead or something- like seriously why are all the choir songs so religious isn’t that illegal or something? she does sing the right notes but ensures that every single word sounds like a chore. She wouldnt have bothered at all but Barbara is oddly convincing

Lisa is an alto as well. Very pretty voice and is good at getting the notes and stuff but she doesn’t look at her sheet music at all- she’s just really good at doing it by ear. She’ll get the packet and be like ‘aww, thanks’ before just closing it and putting it behind her without a second glance and then still somehow manages to get it right.

Amber is a soprano and she loves it, her voice is about average but the energy she puts behind it make her really fun to listen to. not the best voice for a choir but that’s okay because she’s having fun and makes other people have fun Probably the type to randomly start singing choir song during passing period, it helps her remember them afterall!

Eula’s family probably had her join. She’s an alto as well and definitely 100% has voice lessons. Probably assumes that everyone does and talks about them like everyone knows exactly what she’s talking about. Always declares vengence every time someone gets something wrong enough for the teacher to point out... or whenever someone tries to help her. 

I’m sorry but Albedo is tone deaf. He’s a tenor because honestly- mondstadt’s tenor section is doomed anyway with Bennett and Razor. He does very much understand music theory though and has a tendency to suggest changes to the music that somehow end up working better than the original piece- and yet he sucks at performing it. doodles on his sheet music. 

deep breath

Diluc is a baritone... the only one- but to be fair mond doesn’t have a lot of dudes and choirs dont usually have a lot either. Joined choir because he thought he wouldnt be in the same class as Kaeya and he was very disappointed. He does try though since he’s the only one in his section and if he messed up they would know exactly who it is.

Kaeya is a tenor. makes comments about how since tenor is higher than baritone it means that Kaeya is above him. Taking full advantage of the fact that the date to transfer classes passed. He’s actually pretty good at singing but he’s not the best at reading music, which Diluc is quick to remind him of whenever the need for a comeback arises.

[good-rwbyaus]

First, love this blog, and I love Batfamily Emerald a lot more than I thought I would, second what dose Emerald's think with some other batman characters, like Kate Kane, Duke Thomas, Catwomen, Harely Quinn, Taila Al Ghul (The one who's like The batman animated show Taila, not the one who doesn't ask for cosent, yes I'm bitter at the writers), and Alfread? (Sorry if this was worded bad or something)

Well thank you very much for the compliment! I have a lot of fun working on it, and I like these ideas for further expansion on the mythos. Unfortunately my knowledge on some of these characters is a touch limited so you may not get quite the characterizations you expected...

Batwoman: Seeing as the world of Remnant seems to show no real signs of homophobia, let's take a slight liberty and say the Waynes and Kanes have some bat Faunus heritage on Martha's side of the family. (Yes, that means I'm agreeing with the JL/RWBY comic) Kate was kicked out of the Atlas military when her traits were outed, but she holds no shame in who she is. We'll get into Emerald's icons in her old life, but a badass like Batwoman is certainly someone she aspires to be like as a part of the Batfamily. She may be Bruce's kid now, but Kate is the one to give her pointers on how to play the rich girl act for hoity toity social events. Emerald once offered to try and depict Kate's deceased sister with her semblance, to give Kate a chance to say goodbye and get some closure, but Kate said she's "not ready to dive down that rabbit hole just yet..." Likewise, Kate offered to put Em in touch with a good wig maker for her cowl, but Em thought it might look tacky on her.

Signal: Emerald would definitely feel some amount of relief seeing another hero of color is part of the Batfamily, and she and Duke would bond over their street-wise lifestyles before meeting Bruce. Much like Barbara's story of the world's worst knock knock joke, hearing what happened to Duke's parents made Em all the more terrified of having to ever face the Joker. She has teased him for his powers, which in this world may as well just be his Semblance, basically being "a psychic lightbulb", but over time she's learned just impressive his powers really are.

Catwoman: If she had stayed a thief on the streets, Selina would have been her idol and role model. As a Batgirl, Emerald instead delights in every chance she gets to cross paths with the feline felon who feels like she could be the mom she never had. She sees the way Selina flirts with Batman, and she is absolutely here for it. She can also tell Bruce likes Selina too, and will not hesitate to rib him about it and say they should get together. He gives the same standard response about the mission coming before relationships, and the trust required being beyond what he can allow, but she still ships it. The two ladies have interacted solo as well, and get along pretty well, comparing weapons and pickpocketing feats. When Selina finds out what kind of Semblance Em has she is all the more curious, but Em has to stick to her principles and say the thieving days are behind her. She's only half honest about that, but it would feel like a betrayal of Bruce's trust to take Catwoman up on a partnership.

Harley: Harley definitely has wine aunt energy. She doesn't encounter Emerald much, but when she does her personality makes it like hanging out with another teenager. She brings gifts or surprises sometimes, but usually it's something unusual or useless she swiped at random. Emerald was initially really worried when she heard this was the Joker's girlfriend, but it's a great relief to hear that they're "Splitsville, sweetie~" Harley encourages Batman for bringing more girl power onto his team, and compliments her on her outfit. Hearing first hand experiences of what a dumb bastard clown Joker is definitely helps soothe Em's fears of him. Harleen has at one point tried to psychoanalyze this new bat-brat, and gotten pretty damn close, even pointing out some insecurities and problems Em didn't even realize she had.

Talia al Ghul: Emerald first heard her name in passing, in the context of being Damian's mother. Digging deeper into that story leaves her with a whole heap of questions. The idea of Bruce getting so caught up in a relationship with a woman, short lived as the honeymoon phase may have been, that he sired a child was already a hard pill to swallow. The fact that the woman was the next in line for leadership of an ancient assassin group was even crazier. Still, she could see why Bats had taken a liking to her, and where Damian got some of his quirks. Em doesn't fully trust her, especially with Damian himself a bit wary of his mother's behaviors, but she at least gets a kick out of her mysterious attitude.

Alfred: It took Em a while to get used to having someone around who would attend on her and take care of her in such a way. His wry wit did a lot to help her warm up to him, as did his uncanny ability to know when she needed a nice drink or a warm meal. She likes coming to him to ask about Bruce's childhood, and any funny stories he might have about the Robins, but it is from him she also learns the tragedy of the Waynes. the Graysons, and those dark days after the loss of Jason. Em tries not to leave her bedroom too much of a mess in order to make Alfred's work that much easier, but he assures her he will not mind the collateral of her living her life at ease. Because he has known Wayne Manor and its inhabitants for so long, he's another person Em can never fool with her illusions.

[originalwinnercheesecake]

Chain of Iron Theories on the Killer’s 5 victims

tinSo we know that the chain of Iron will have a mysterious killer who will kill 5 shadowhunters. Here are my theories on who will die.

1.) Maurice Bridgestock

Lets start with the obvious first, of course this man will be killed. He is Inquisitor and that is a powerful yet cursed position, take it and you will die a horrible  death. I am hoping he dies pretty early, because I have a feeling until then he will be gunning for the Fairchild family. Remember he and his wife were the ones who really wanted Charles and Ariadne to marry. Charles and Ariadne were originally friends, who both figured that being forced into a hetro marriage was inevitable and that they could both do worse. Charlotte and Henry gave there blessing because they thought Charles and Ariadne were actually in love. Once Charles told this parents that he and Ariadne weren’t they immediately gave him permission to break the engagement and gave their blessing for him to marry someone else (who he doesn’t love either, Oh poor messed up fairchild family). This infuriated Bridgestock. Charles and Charlotte know to avoid him unless it is for official business, done in public, with witnesses. Does Matthew? Chapter 4 is called “The King is Dead”; so maybe the Inquisitor is the “King” listed. The next half of that phrase is “Long live the King” symbolizing the transition of power, so that would mean choosing a new Inquisitor. The most obvious ones to get the promotion is one of the TID dad’s given how close they are with Charlotte and the sway her vote would give. According to the cards it looks like she gives the position to Will (cough Gideon would have been a way better choice cough), we will see how that goes.

2.) One of the Wentworth’s

The Wentworth’s will have importance in the COI.They have been referenced and set up like the Lightwood’s in CWA. We know at least 3 of their names, we know that Martin Wentworth is kind of a thorn in Will and Gabriel’s side. We know that Piers and Rosamund have a... tense relationship with our mains, but do have their own friends and seem close to each other. Honestly with how much this family is mentioned/established I was thinking for a while that it would be just like the Lightwoods in CWP. Like maybe Piers was Eugenia’s ex boyfriend, maybe he had wanted to marry her but bad stuff was happening at home, his dad keeping secrets, and he couldn’t get blessings. Then that snip-bit at the party came out and I read about Eugenia being done with suitors and Piers hitting on Catherine. Piers still may be Eugenia’s ex, and he may trashed her rep and then moved on to courting his sister’s best friend. If so and he dies I will not miss him.

I would say Rosamund is pretty safe. She has a fiance now, and is planing her wedding. Wedding are actually great places for interactions and drama. Rosamund is good friends with Ariadne. Maybe Ariadne will try to bring Anna to the wedding, or maybe Ariadne will have Eugenia ask Anna to accompany her to the wedding, because Anna is less likely to say no to that, and then use that as a chance to “win her back.”

3.) At Least One of The Carstairs Parents

Risa Included. We all care about this family, we all wish their troubles could be over, and tat things and the next two books could be rainbows and sunshine for them. And we all know that will not happen. Terrible things will befall London. Elias is unbalanced from PTSD and weak from detoxing after years of addiction, Sona is weak from a difficult pregnancy/ recent childbirth, Risa is a mundane and lacks the ability to kill demons. They don’t have a lot of friends, all three are old. It is not fair and I hope whoever dies is at least given a good death.

4.) Cecily Lightwood Nee Herondale

I hope I am wrong, please let me be wrong. The family tree and CWP2 epilogue say that she will live through this, but those were written 7 years ago and are no longer accurate. The Second book always has one tragedy that will emotionally destroy us and leave us crying till the third comes out. It is unlikely that all The TID gang will live through another series. Other people have been guessing Gideon, but his branch already lost Barbara in COG2. In a book with so many nuclear families why kill from the same one twice? No it won’t be Gideon. After careful analysis I have determined Cecily is the most likely of the one to die.

First off Cecily didn’t come into TID until the final book and she was mostly squeezed in as a secondary character. That means that CC put less time and development into her and while she probably likes her, is maybe less attached to her. Secondly Cecily is some one very important to Both Will and Gabriel, two people Tatiana hates more than anyone in the world. She also played a key role in Killing the Lightworm, she caused it to wound itself to were Gabriel was able to kill it. For Tatiana Cecily would be three birds with one stone. Another reason she might die is Cecily is the only one of The TID characters who I cannot find any information on what her job/role in the clave is. Everyone else has a job listed, is seen investigating or talking at meetings, Cecily is just a mother, okay the best of the TSC mom’s. But having to take so much time off shadowhunting to raise her children might have put her out of practice, and having such a strong bond with her children, nieces, and nephews would make it all the more heart breaking if she died. One final reason is that unlike her Gabriel does have an overall arch. He idolized a fantasy of who his father was, had that come crashing down, then wanted to become someone different. His wife dying would put Gabriel just were Benedict was when Barbara Lightwood the first died: A single father with three kids, one of whom is coincidentally about the same age as Gabriel was when he lost his mother.

I love Cecily and writing this has made me very say (Please let me be wrong about her dying) but moving on...

5.) Tatiana Blackthorn Nee Lightwood

She will die. Tatiana probably joined Belial willingly, she probably does not see it, but Belial is not her ally. The truth is she is just as much Belial’s pawn as anyone he has tricked. When he is done using her and no longer has any use for her, he will kill her to keep her quiet. She will probably die last, her blood is Jesse’s and can be used as a sacrifice. She dedicated her life to resurrecting her son so she could have him back, and she will die with the knowledge that she has doomed him to Belial’s plans.

Bonus 6.) Charles Fairchild

Charles will not die. I originally I thought he might, but he is actually necessary as a foil/parallel to Matthew. Two brothers who grew up in the same family, yet have personalities and struggles that are literally flip sides of the same coin. Cassandra Clare has said she is planning on “developing” their relationship. She has also said Charles will be away for a lot of the book. So that does not leave a lot of space for this development in COI, and Charles has to make it until COT. I believe that he will disappear. No one will have any idea were he went or why, His parents will send out a search, while that is taking place Charlotte task Matthew with assisting her the way Charles usually does. Matthew will hate it. He will hate the piles of work and stuffy meetings; he will hate having less time to see his friends; and especially the cranky, foul mouthed, horrible politicians he has to deal with instead. As time goes by and the Killer at large Charlotte will become more desperate to find her older son. When she cannot find him her and Henry will start to fear the worst and cry over it at home.

Matthew will eventually start looking into his brothers disappearance, not because he misses him, but their parents are miserable and Matthew is tired of having to do Charles chores.  He might learn Charles and Alastair were “good friends” before and try to force information out of Alastair, Que to him learning one of his brothers secrets. While I do think Matthew will be the one to find Charles I do not think it will be until the end of COI or early COT, when Matthews life has morphed into a much bigger mess than it was before. I also do not think Charles will be in the same... way as he was before his disappearance. There will be a whole new list of issues when the brothers meet again.

[cuebooks]

Warning: This will be a long post.

I got this lovely idea from, @lifewouldbebetteronmars so thank you!

I wanted to do a tarot spread about Alastair Carstairs and Thomas Lightwood’s relationship, so here we go! You can find their post here.

I made it small because my cards are not the most family-friendly, so I apologize. The Tarot deck is The Dark Wood Tarot (shadow deck). Art by Abigail Larson.

The cards are:

Moon (Upside-down), High Priestess (Upside-down), and Strength (Right-side up). It is also Alastair, Thomas, and their relationship in the same order.

How I’ll talk about the spread:

What I agree with and what stood out to me in green. My thoughts will be in blue. My reasoning/source in purple. What I’m iffy about in pink. Quotes in bold. I’ll explain the card’s meaning and then what called to me in the card itself.

Fair warning: these cards aren’t bad, but I find it very peculiar and powerful that these are all Major Arcana cards, and yes, I did use the full 78 cards which is why it is weird to me. Thankfully, I had a signed bookplate by Cassie so I got to put that near my cards and hope that they picked up her energy.

For The Moon or Alastair Carstairs’s part in this pull:

Meaning of the upside-down or shadow Moon card: “Mania, deception, and mental illness. Crossing the line into madness. Unable to find the line between sanity and insanity. Blurred vision. Entrapment. Obscuring the truth. Blaming outer circumstances for inner turmoil.”

A lot of this sticks out to me with the return of Elias, the stress of Cordelia’s wedding/her leaving, and the new Carstairs baby.

“Mania, deception, and mental illness.” This can be a result of stress for when Elias returns, or from an outside source like Charles, or just life in general, but I can easily see Alastair headed for a mental illness. Especially with Cassie saying in the TMI news source live that he does some crazy things, but that could also just be him happier and more open.

“Entrapment.” You guessed it— Elias! Surely with the person that you resent and spent your childhood covering for being back plus not being able to leave the house as often since your high-risk pregnant mother is at home would feel like entrapment to you. Also, entrapped by how he is trying to apologize and show he changed like Cassie said (in the live), but the merry thieves not hearing it (and letter game) probably doesn’t help with his mental health or his entrapment, and he may feel very down on himself for it. Especially, being isolated in a place that doesn’t make you feel especially great is probably not great for your headspace when you just got out of a toxic relationship and the person who fully knows about your father is off making her own life and about to be married. (I’m not throwing shade at Cordelia. She deserves all the happiness in the world I’m simply saying it is probably hard on Alastair too.)

“Obscuring the truth.” Elias is back and I’m sure he’ll still show either drunk tendencies or questions will arise with where he has been, what happened, why he is here now, and so on. Alastair will most likely have to either lie and explain why to keep his past lies undercover or explain in general what has been happening with their father. This may also arise if Sona has a hard pregnancy and Alastair tries to shield that their mother is in pain from Cordelia.

For The High Priestess or Thomas Lightwood’s part in this pull:

Meaning of the upside-down High Priestess card: “Self-indulgent and self-centered. Narcissistic. Obsessed with the self. An exaggerated sense of importance. Excessive need for admiration. Lack of empathy. Distrust and the inability to follow one’s own inner voice.”

“An exaggerated sense of importance. Excessive need for admiration.” This sticks out to me because of the snippet where he wants to go on patrol despite the recent killings; so he wants to do something. He wants to be important and help keep people safe. And the admiration just stuck out to me, but I don’t really have a reason. Maybe now he doesn’t want to just be just the kind friend?

I highlighted “lack of empathy” because healing from a family member— or anyone’s— death can make you kinda hole up inside yourself, so him losing interest in others and being less empathetic I can see happening but with his natural nature trying to help people and always being there I can’t. So I’m at odds on this one. This could also be how he seems to care less about Alastair in the snippets which would make sense, but I think is more from anger and a feeling of betrayal than a lack of empathy. Especially because then he does apologize to Cordelia about his joke so it is still a toss-up to me.

“Distrust and the inability to follow one’s own inner voice.” Cassie has said that he has self-doubts and will learn to not idolize people and in the recent live said that we would see how Barbara’s death affects him and his sister in COI. We know Thomas has insecurities from snippets, how the characters view him, and how Cassie talks about him and his nature, so I think this will definitely be seen in COI. I also think it will be explored in his POV maybe/hope so. Overall, I do think he has a lot of self-doubts. Maybe from not being able to save his sister or simply because, but this gives me a reason to believe we will see more of this and his journey to self-love which I’m always a fan of.

The Strength card or their relationship in this spread show:

Meaning of the right side up Strength card: “Gentle control. Inner wells of power. Stable body. Sound mind. Fortitude and unwavering sense of self. Knowing when to apply pressure and when to release it. Character and resiliency. Effortless action. Recognizing one’s power. Your energetic birthright. Stoking your inner fire and transforming your reality.”

So a lot of things here for me. Thomas we know is insecure and so is Alastair. Thomas with his position of being the ‘kind one’ (said by I believe James?) in the group and Alastair with his heritage (said by Cordelia about why he dyes his hair) and being in London. So with this card, I think it means those insecurities will either be helped by their relationship or explored and helped in this book due to “Fortitude and unwavering sense of self.” So I expect/hope for some good healing and a sense of self since we do know Alastair is trying to become better and change his habits. (Said by Cassie and seen in the letter game). And a sense of self growing in Thoms and him overcoming his self-doubts, learning who he is (including possibly that he is gay and figuring out his feelings) and learning who he is in his friend group, out of it, and after his sister’s death.

“Know when to apply pressure and release pressure” speak out to me because of the ups and downs of their relationship which is less than stellar at the moment— from Paris, to London, to the ball, to the letter game, and to the beginning two chapters of Chain of Iron. But with Alastair not being around them in the beginning he is releasing the pressure and trying to figure himself out, but later, due to snippets, we see they talk. So maybe by then, we’ll see how the pressure or course of their relationship is handled. But this implies, to me, that throughout COI their relationship will be thrown through some loops whether as a couple or as a friendship in general.

“Gentle control [...] resiliency.” are big to me because Cassie has said that both of them (but in different ways) are learning who they are. Alastair with finding himself and breaking old habits like his Tarot Card, The Hanged Man, means. Thomas is learning to not idolize people and to heal/moving forward with Barbara’s death. So they are gaining control of themselves, what is going on in their lives and they are going through it. Being resilient to what life throws at them. And Gentle control because both these boys have honestly tried to help people and control things in their life for their whole life, so it makes sense that their relationship would be controlled by both of them.

“Transforming your reality.” For this ship to happily sail (since we know Alastair does not want to live in the closet all his life thanks to Charles in CoGold) and Thomas to come to the realization that (to our knowledge) he is gay or into men— their realities will have to shift. Coming out to their families and themselves and the world in general. Their lives will change. This is if they come out or want to and to what extent. So of course coming out affects your reality.

Overall:

I don’t think these cards are bad at all. The cards speak to growth and lessons for our boys individually before they can work together. Thomas has to learn that he is important, and needed (like everyone else in the world) and find out who he is. While Alastair has to change some things, help himself and find himself, build some bridges, and get through what is about to be thrown at him (yes, I mean Elias). I’m hopeful and happy with these cards because it seems like they will grow and we’ll get to see a stable, strong relationship in the end. (Due to the strength card). But before we see them together we have a lot of growth needed which is fair because these are teenagers.

If you are still here, THANK YOU SO MUCH! If you have any questions, notice mistakes or want any clarification I’ll be happy to help.

[scrappydooisfoundaliveinnebraska]

Scrappy-Doo Daily Dose #1

Scrappy Doo fan art compilation! Seven Per week!  

All Rights to Warner Bros! No Money made off of this!

1.  Box 00. 507 Scrappy Doo, by Kurrutra.

For those of you not familiar with Pokemon, this is Scrappy as a Herdier! (A Gen 5 Normal type pokemon) I personally saw Scrappy as more of a riolu, but I appreciate this!  2.  Maggie and Scrappy, by Vederick

This is a more AU ish interpretation of Scrappy, going off of a fanmade show concept-which Verdalkan shares in the work’s description. It’s very detailed and energetic in vision, which is why I consider it to be part of the work.  I will include Maggie’s description since it’s not just about Scrappy-it’s about how he interacts with others, too.  

“It was recently brought to my attention that Shaggy has a little sister and after reading up on her a little I realized I just had to include her in this universe...it's not that she's had a particularly interesting or large role before, but that I think she could have one here if played right. In MDI, Maggie is Shaggy's parents are separated. She's been Shaggy's biggest fan since they were little and still remains so. In her first theoretical "episode" of MDI, Shaggy will have not seen her in a while and be desperate to maintain the image of himself that she has in her head from when they were kids (as her clever, courageous protecter). Hah! Reminds me of Be Cool Scooby-Doo’s ‘Night of the Upsetting Shorts’. I know that it’s FRED’s shorts but I can’t help but think of the bad rap that the animated Scooby shorts get. What a trip they were.  He'll of course need the help of his new friends to maintain the charade; so Velma feeds him clues and data under the table so he can triumphantly announce having "deduced" them, Fred will have to (very begrudgingly) fill Shaggy's role on the team (which he'll use to mock him at every turn ), meanwhile Daphne will even pretend to have a crush on him and constantly talk him up to his sister with past tales of his "bravery" (which in turn will cause Maggie to reveal TRUE things about her big bro that will actually end up endearing Daphne to Shaggy [in line with my shipping plan ]).  But they won't just have Maggie to worry about, since along for the ride will be her puppy, Scrappy-Doo. So when Scrappy was being made, the writers were a bit...disorganized to say the least. Joe Barbara-Scrappy’s creator-a very unique, hotheaded man who had a blast at life and cartoons-just had people sit around and chatter until they came up with something that they liked. And with a new character there were tons of ideas! They all agreed that Scrappy was a spitfire, but anyway, one of the ideas was that he would be owned by...Daphne’s niece...yeah I love Scrappy but I think they were getting way too carried away with the sibling’s progeny motif.  That reminds me of this!  (He's not her dog traditionally; it's sort of a "twist of convenience" I'm doing)  Like Scooby, Scrappy will be much more 'dog-like' in the universe (basically human intellect and awareness, but no talking). I think that it’s interesting to have a mute character if the animators can handle the extra pressure of expressing what’s going on in the character’s head and showing what’s going on without using their voice or traditional language. The character is fleshed out by their lack of traditional speech that way. His personality is still very much intact: recklessly brave and overconfident. It's not entirely baseless, though; Well, Verdalken seems unfamiliar with Scrappy’s super strength, but all in all the amount of thought and effort still really pulls me in!  he's been very well trained by Maggie. :O Doggie martial arts??? He also idolizes and adores Scooby as much as she does Shaggy, despite the fact that he'll constantly show him up at every turn of the mystery (not on purpose, just doing his best to follow the "example" he imagines Scooby is setting for him). Not being talkative, I thought I'd have Maggie be the one who verbally expresses Scrappy's disposition, seeing as she shares most of it (like Scooby does with Shaggy); she'll be the one who says "Let me at 'em!" and brandishing her fists when a monster/criminal attacks, while Scrappy growls just-as-eagerly at her side...stronk baby <3 before Shag and Scoob snatch them up and run. 

and other parts of his personality. I <3!

3.  Monster High: Shaggy Rogers,Scooby Doo+Scrappy Doo  by Ezio1-3

I haven’t seen monster high, but I like Scrappy’s AU look. It’s different, but not totally foreign.   Shaggy’s spiky hair is interesting as well!

 I'm drawing the Scooby Doo gang in Monster High! In this, the Scooby Doo Gang become exchange students for Monster High after being requested to help with Monster-human relations. They become popular students at the school for their mystery-solving skills and ability to solve any problems that might happen with their sleuthing skills. Nice take on how to handle real monsters.  Shaggy Rogers and Scooby Doo are terrified at first about going to school for real monsters, but once they find out that most monsters aren't any different than humans, Wow! Like in Ghoul School! they star getting used to life there and become close friends with monsters like Frankie Stein, Draculaura and Lagoona Blue. Scrappy Doo takes an immediate liking to the school  and becomes a personal fitness trainer for many young sports stars at Monster High despite his small stature and young age. I hope he’s unionized!

4.  SCRAPPY-DOO by HaleyKlineArt

This is a very unusual look for Scrappy. I love the eyes.  And the hearts. The hearts makes me smile, because I remember another thing about Scrappy was just how unapologetically affectionate he was (mostly to Scooby). He could fall off buildings and not break a bone on the show and he gave the best hugs too. Usually to Scooby.  Hehe. The collar is a nice touch, and it  just overall gives a really thoughtful feel to Scrappy’s connection.

5. The Little Talking Dog Wizard, by acla13

This may be based on the Wizards and Warlocks episode, where Scrappy is the party’s mage. The headpiece being like Scrappy’s collar is a nice touch.

6. SPLAT!, by Pembroke

See, guys, this is my goal.  Warner Bros isn’t giving Scrappy to us, but I still see this lovely neurodivergent boy all around, and I like talking about him, and defending him, and thinking about him.  So if this is the best we can get right now, we might as well make the most of it.

7. The Secret Origins of Scrappy-Doo

This is something by...me as an alt a few years back, and it’s very ridiculous. If it gets too ridiculous for you, then here’s a hint: Shaggy’s story is being told on April First.

 That’s the end of this Dose! Please help me find more art to share!  

[straightupstrangetimes]

13 Not-So-Scary Movies to Get You in the Halloween Spirit!

Contributed by Kris Rustic, host of Obscure Anomalies podcast

Halloween is around the corner. Everywhere you look a horror movie is playing. For me, I love it. There is just something about being scared while knowing full well you are safe. But not everyone is into that sort of thing. My wife is one, so I tried to find lists of not-so-scary movies but was having trouble coming up with one, so I decided to write my own.

Please keep in mind, I did try to keep the list more kid and family friendly.

13. HOCUS POCUS

300 years have passed since the Sanderson sisters were executed for practicing dark witchcraft. Returning to life, thanks to a combination of a spell spoken before their demise and the accidental actions of Max, the new-kid-in-town, the sisters have but one night to secure their continuing existence. With the help of his younger sister Dani, his high school crush Allison, and a magical cat, it is up to Max to save the children of Salem.

A must see on any Halloween movie list. Full of light-hearted humour, this film is loved by people of all ages.

Watch it: Amazon Rent or Buy

12. CASPER (1995)

Furious that her late father only willed her his gloomy-looking mansion rather than his millions, Carrigan Crittenden makes a plan to burn the place to the ground. That is, until she finds a map leading to a treasure hidden under the house. But when she enters the rickety mansion to seek her claim, she is frightened away by the mansions ghostly inhabitants. Determined to get her hands on this hidden fortune, Crittenden hires afterlife therapist Dr. James Harvey to exorcise the ghosts from the mansion. Harvey and his daughter Kat move in and soon Kat befriends Casper, the ghost of a young boy, who is “the friendly ghost.” But not so friendly are Casper’s uncles--Stretch, Fatso and Stinkie--who are determined to drive all “fleshies” away. It is up to Harvey and Kat to help the ghosts cross over to the other side.

I may get some flack putting Casper this high up on the list, but hey, to each their own. Casper is a fun little film filled with the right amount of supernatural scares placed inside a package that every age can enjoy.

Watch it: Starz; Amazon Rent or Buy

11. THE WITCHES

While staying at a hotel in England with his grandmother, Helga, young Luke inadvertently spies on a convention of witches. The Grand High Witch reveals a plan to turn all children into mice through a magical formula. When they find that Luke has overheard, the witches test the formula on him. Now, with the help of his grandmother and new friend Bruno Jenkins, Luke the mouse must fight back against the evil witches.

Based on the book of the same name, The Witches is a classic. This may be one of the more frightening films on the list but is still children-friendly. Besides, who doesn’t want to save the world as a mouse.

Watch it: Amazon Rent or Buy

10. THE MONSTER SQUAD

The Monster Squad is a club of friends who idolize the classic monster-movies, especially their non-human stars. One day, Dracula, the Mummy, Frankenstein’s Monster, and other classic horror icons, all of which the club idolize, arrive in town in search of a magic amulet to destroy all the good in the world. It is up to the five friends to save the amulet from destruction and use it to cast the monsters into limbo.

One part The Goonies, one part Ghostbusters, and one part Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein, the Monster Squad is a true cult classic that was way ahead of its time.

Watch for yourself and find out if the “Wolfman has nards.”

Watch it: Amazon Rent or Buy

9. BEETLEJUICE

Adam and Barbara are like every other happily married couple -- who just happen to also be dead! Before they died, Adam and Barbara had spent their vacation to decorate and make the house their own, that is, until the fatal car crash. Unfortunately, a new family is moving in, and not quietly as they make plans to redecorate the house with the help of an interior designer. Adam and Barbara try to scare them out, but end up becoming the main attraction to the money making family. They call upon Beetlejuice to help, but Beetlejuice has more in mind than just helping.

While having a special place in my heart for taking place in Connecticut, Beetlejuice is an all around classic starting Michael Keaton and a young Winona Ryder.

Watch it:: Amazon Rent or Buy

8. PARANORMAN

Norman Babcock has the ability to speak with the dead -- and he often prefers their company to that of the living. Norman learns from his estranged uncle that a centuries-old witch’s curse on their town is real and about to come true -- and only Norman can stop it. When zombies rise from their graves, Norman and his ragtag team must summon all their courage and compassion to the limit to save his fellow townspeople. Taking place in the fictional town of Blithe Hollow, this stop-motion film is a beautiful take on the Salem Witch Trials.

I have to admit, I slept on this movie when it first came out. I had no interest in it at all, but then I watched it and became an instant favourite. The humour is a little more blue for a “children’s” movie, but the lesson learned in the end is valuable for all involved. Did I mention it is also well known for being the first mainstream animated film with an openly gay character?

Watch it: Sadly it is not available for streaming on Amazon, Netflix, or Hulu at this time, due to licensing agreements

7. FRANKENWEENIE

Young Victor Frankenstein is a science nerd and an outsider at school, but he does have one friend, his dog Sparky. Sadly, tragedy strikes, taking Sparky away from Victor. Heartbroken, Victor is given an idea of how to bring Sparky back to life. The experiment is a success and everything goes fine, that is, until his fellow students learn of his secret and use it to resurrect their beloved lost pets. Frankenweenie is a heartwarming tale of a boy and his dog, and the lengths we would go to keep our beloved friend.

I consider Frankenweenie to be the sister movie to ParaNorman. Both are stop motion and came out in the same year. The difference is Frankenweenie takes you back to the classic universal horror icons in a brand-new way. Did I mention it is in black and white and has that classic monster movie feel?

watch it: Rent on Youtube

6. NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS

What happens to the Pumpkin King when he tires of being just that, the King of Halloween. Jack Skellington is bored of the same annual routine of scaring the people of the real world. One day, he stumbles upon Christmastown, full of bright colours and warm spirits, bringing a new lease to Jack’s life. He plots to bring Christmas under his control, only to find that the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton can go awry.

Originally I intended only one movie per director, but I don’t think you can begin to discuss family friendly Halloween without Tim Burton, especially because you cannot have a Halloween list without Nightmare Before Christmas. In all fairness, this is the perfect movie to finish out the year with.

Watch it: Amazon Rent or Buy

5. COCO

Miguel dream of becoming a musician, just like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. The problem, his family has a generations-old ban on music. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel steals Ernesto’s guitar and finds himself in the colourful Land of the Dead. With the help of a charming trickster named Héctor and Miguel’s dog Dante, Miguel must find his way back home, meanwhile learning the truth about his family’s past.

All bite. Coco is a Dia de los Muertos movie. I know some of you will complain that it is not a Halloween movie. Truth is, the spirit of Dia de los Muertos and Halloween are close enough for me to warrant inclusion into the list. The scenery and background is gorgeous, the story will tug at the heartstrings, and you will get to learn a little about the culture behind Dia de los Muertos, even if a bit Disneytized.

Watch it: Netflix

4. HALLOWEENTOWN

On Halloween, while Marnie is arguing with her mother Gwen, the kids’ grandmother Aggie comes to visit. Aggie wants to start Marnie’s witch training before her 13th birthday or Marnie will lose her powers forever. But there is another reason for Aggie’s visit. Something dark and evil is growing in Halloweentown, and Aggie wants help to defeat it. While Aggie and Gwen are arguing, Aggie uses magic, which Marnie observes. After Aggie leaves to return to Halloweentown, Marnie, Dylan and, unknown to Marnie and Dylan, Sophie follow her onto the return bus. Soon afterwards, Gwen follows the children to Halloweentown. While there, Aggie and Gwen are attacked by the dark force. Marnie, Dylan and Sophie have to race to get the ingredients to activate Merlin’s Wand to stop the evil and save Halloweentown.

A classic made for TV Disney movie, this film (and all sequels) are a perfect Halloween movie for all ages, and albeit a little cheesy at times. But who doesn’t love the occasional cheesy movie?

3. SCOOBY DOO AND THE WITCH’S GHOST

When the Master Gang Scooby meet a famous horror writer Ben Ravencroft (who may or may not be based off of Stephen King) during their last mystery, he invites them to his small hometown of Oakhaven, Massachusetts to join in the annual Autumn Fest. Ravencroft tells the Mystery Gang about the history of his ancestor, Sarah Ravencroft, who happened to be an evil witch and is supposedly haunting the town of Oakhaven. The gang decides to help the town and solve the mystery of the Witch’s Ghost.

This was tough to pick. We have Scooby Doo and the Ghoul School, Scooby Doo and Zombie Island, I mean honestly any Scooby Doo movie could fit. But I picked Witch’s Ghost for three simple reasons: takes place during the fall, witches, and the Hex Girls, a fictional all-female Goth Rock Band.

Watch it: Amazon Prime, Boomerang Channel on Amazon

2. MONSTER HOUSE

13-year-old DJ is obsessed with his creepy neighbour, Nebbercracker, and his eerie house. After all, rumours of his past have run rampant in the town. But one day, DJ and his friends witness the house come to life. Unable to find an adult that will believe him, and with Halloween vastly approaching, it is up to DJ and his friends to find a way to destroy the house before innocent trick-or-treaters meet their end.

At times, this film is a little on the frightening side, at least for the younger ones. The characters are well thought out and put together. While the animation is not ground breaking, it looks great and fits the movie perfectly. A perfect film for those looking for a fun, clean movie this Halloween.

Watch it: Amazon Rent or Buy

1. GOOSEBUMPS 2: HAUNTED HALLOWEEN

While collecting junk from an abandoned house, best friends Sonny and Sam come across an unpublished “Goosebumps” book. Opening it, they release Slappy, a mischievous talking dummy. Hoping to start a family, Slappy kidnaps Sonny’s mother and brings fourth all of his ghoulish friends (creatures and monsters from the Goosebumps novels) to life, just in time for Halloween. The sleepy town becomes overrun with monsters, witches, and other mysterious creatures. It is up to Sonny, his sister Sarah, and Sam to save their town, his mother, and foil Slappy’s plans.

Goosebumps (2015) is a pure nostalgia ride with a brand new feel and Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween is no different. Trading in some of the humor for a little more horror feel, the movie has a little bit to offer for everyone.

Watch it: Netflix

The truth of the matter is, this list is not perfect and may never be complete, but it is a great starting point to the ever growing list of the Not-So-Scary Halloween movies. I feel in writing this, I have left so many great films off, so I have a list of some runner up films that just barely missed being on my top 13.

RUNNER UPS

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA

Dracula and the classic horror monsters are afraid of humans. In an attempt to take a vacation away from humanity, Dracula operates a hotel way off in the woods. One day, a brave human makes his way to the castle, where the human and Dracula’s daughter “Zing”.

ADDAMS FAMILY (1991)

A man claiming to be Uncle Fester, the missing brother of Gomez Addams shows up at the Addam’s household. The family is thrilled, however Morticia begins to suspect the man is a fraud as he cannot recall details of Fester’s life. With the help of a lawyer, Fester manages to get the Addams evicted from the home. Can the Addam’s family save Uncle Fester? Can they get their home back?

DOUBLE DOUBLE TOIL AND TROUBLE

The Farmer family is in debt and might lose their house. The Farmer Twins discover the somebody mean and shrewd is responsible for all the family problems. The determined twins try to trick at their evil aunt out of her magic moonstone to save their family home.

THE ADVENTURES OF ICHABOD AND MR. TOAD

Two animated adaptations of classic literature adapted by Disney make up this film, which is the only reason it made the runner up list as Mr. Toad, while good, has nothing to do with Halloween. However, in the “Legend of Sleepy Hollow” the gangly schoolmaster, Ichabod Crane, falls for the beautiful Katrina Van Tassel. Caught in a love triangle with Katrina and Brom Bones, Ichabod fears the local legend of the Headless Horseman. Is the legend more truth than lore?

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS MEET THE WOLFMAN

Alvin loves monsters and monster movies, though he is terrified of them. Stuck with Werewolves on the mind, he believes his next door neighbour is one. Reluctantly, Simon helps Alvin investigate the neighbour. Meanwhile Theodore is bitten by a strange dog, and finds his inner “inner monster” and starts behaving like a werewolf himself.

Did I miss your favourite Not-So-Scary Halloween movie? Let me know what it is in the comments below.

_________________________________

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[luxmagnafest]

INTERVIEW: "Reflectif" Artists Reflect on Black Representation from their Upbringing

In one week, Lux Magna will have the pleasure of opening a month long art exhibit at Casa del Popolo, curated by local visual artists Kai Samuels and Joyce Joseph (a.k.a. JUICE); Reflectif is an exposition of art spanning various mediums, by 6 young Black artists coming from across the country.

Team member Mags (who is also a visual artist) spoke with Nafleri, Tyrin Kelly, Joseph Moore, Hasina Kamanzi (OTT), BlazenBlack (OTT) and Simone Heath (TO), about their respective experiences growing up with (or without) Black folk represented in the media and art that they consumed.

When was the first time you remember seeing Black folk represented in media or the arts?

Hasina: The first time I remember seeing Black people highlighted in media was when I went back to Burundi for the first time in 2014. I saw an oil painting exposition that was illustrating what life was like in Burundi pre-colonisation. I didn't realize at the time how influential it would be for me so, unfortunately, I can't recall what was the name of the artist or the name of the exposition.

Nafleri: Having grown up in Haiti, I was surrounded by Black people, so Carnival season was Black people and their joy put on a show. I knew whiteness existed but it was in light-skin Black [people] or missionaries; I wasn't fully aware how much opportunities catered to it. BUT, after arriving in Canada and being taught to be Black, around my second year, I remember TVA played films every Saturday, and during the week they would play the trailer for said movies; I remember once they played Fat Albert and all through out the week I was hype ‘cause it was movies with characters I felt I could relate to. I ended up being disappointed but, I still remember that child's hype. But in Haiti, I remember music, cinema, literature, paintings, sculptures, I wasn’t fully aware of it but I was lucky enough to experience Blackness in art.

Joseph: The first time that I remember seeing Black people represented within the media was The Proud Family. The show had a significant impact on my childhood, as it allowed for me to see various Black characters in a normalized and lighthearted setting on a regular basis.

BlazenBlack: Had to be the detective [Bulletproof] in the cartoon COPS, followed by X-Men’s Storm.

Simone: The earliest Black character I could remember is Susie Carmichael from Rugrats. Pinpointing a first time is hard to say for sure. I grew up in the late 90’s-early 2000’s with a lot of Black shows, a few having more Black-centric protagonists. I can remember watching The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Family Matters and The Cosby Show with my family.

Tyrin: I’m not sure… growing up I became really obsessed with the early jazz scene in America. It was drummers like Philly Joe Jones and Art Blakey that really inspired me to learn an instrument. K-OS is one of the first modern Black musicians that showed me you can make hip-hop and be a rock-star. I fell in love with Atlantis Hymns for Disco and really idolized that whole “B-Boy who makes indie music” persona. In terms of visual art I wasn’t really aware of Black artists that stuck to my memory until high school art class I think. I was really invested in the poetry scene in Ottawa during that time and Saul Williams is another Black artist that really influenced me.

2. Who was your favorite fictional Black character growing up?

Nafleri: Can I answer Jesus? (laughs) I remember reading (I know nada of Christian theology) that Jesus never wrote anything, his partners did, so in the writing of others, I'd see the fiction of Jesus, not that it's a bad thing, fictional characters can be inspirational but… uncles, aunties and ‘em might roast for that one. (laughs). Jokes aside though, growing up I remember Bouki and Malice, which were folk stories of Haiti and in the literary work of Odette Roy Fombrun. I was able to see Black characters that weren't asked to be super, they existed in the complexities of their life. Looking back, I'm grateful to have experienced that.

BlazenBlack: My favorite fictional Black character must have been Piccolo [DragonBall Z] if he counts. If not, War Machine [Iron Man franchise].

Hasina: Growing up, my favorite Black fictional character was Pamela (from the Tea Sisters book series) [Thea Stilton series in North America]. Technically, she's a mouse but she was also very anthropomorphic & born in Tanzania (like me!) so baby Hasina read her as Black.

Joseph: This is a hard question to answer as I can think of many favourites, but if I had to choose, it would be between Alyx Vance from the Half Life video game series or Michonne from The Walking Dead.

Tyrin: My favourite fictional Black character growing up was Radio Raheem from Do The Right Thing. Also Q from Juice. Foxy Brown was also so badass. Those three will forever be cool.

Simone: Probably Raven Baxter from That’s So Raven for a bit. I liked a lot of the outfits she would wear. She was multi-talented and funny.

3. What is your opinion on the current state of Black representation in Canadian media?

BlazenBlack: I don’t watch much Canadian TV, so I can’t speak on shows or movies, but in terms of animations, I can’t even name one off the top of my head. I'm hoping to change that.

Joseph: While I admit that I haven't been consuming as much Canadian media as I would like to as of late, I have found it harder to name many prominent or relatable Black characters within Canadian media off of the top of my head as opposed to American characters. While I appreciate Canada's willingness to represent many different cultures and viewpoints, it would be interesting to see something centered around the regular lives of Black people living in Canada on a larger platform.

Simone: Black representation in Canadian media could be a lot better. It feels as though it isn’t really there or pushed into the background as apart of Canadian diversity. Most of the Black media I consume is from the States. I don’t watch a lot of Canadian television, but from what I’ve seen I don’t recall any Black protagonists, usually side characters with little to no background. I feel like Black Canadian artists/athletes aren’t recognized until they have made something of themselves outside of the country. I’m grateful for people that reach out and organize events like this to have ourselves shown. I also have a lot to learn myself when it comes to being more active in these conversations and connecting with other Black Canadians.

Nafleri: I feel like I can't speak of Canadian media, though this stretch ocean to ocean I've only visited— I can't even say Toronto— Niagara Falls… once on a family trip. Quebec media however, having consumed a lot, hoping to fit in, I know for a fact, there is a big lack of representation. Though I stopped consuming QC media, late high school, my best friend studying in a theater institutions is closer to Quebec's media and we often discuss the lack of representation in his future field of work.

Tyrin: Um, I’m not sure it’s so black and white… if you’re looking at “credible” sources of media, yeah definitely a little convoluted. But in terms of independent media— media environments run by artists  for artists— then I think it’s thriving and it’s all so cool! Like, looking at people I follow on social media or friends and peers that are making cool shit the list is giant. Definitely media representation is positive and important to an extent, and I think in  Canadian media the effort is made, but that’s not what matters. What matters is honesty and published honesty is recognized in every format. I mean, shouts out to: Tau Lewis, Marvin Luvualu António, Moneyphone, Schwey, Elle Barbara, Tati au Miel, Neo Edo, Cole Craib, James Goddard, and all other Black artists who are doing their thing.

Hasina: There is a lot of work to be done but I'm hopeful because I see a lot of creatives doing great things both in Ottawa/Gatineau (where I live) and in Montreal.

Closing thoughts from co-curator JUICE

It's really cool how living Black is very different to other people. I always had this ideology that, because I was navigating spaces where there were a few Black children (or I was the only Black child) while growing up, meeting Black folks outside my environment meant that I could relate to them, just because they were Black. I wouldn't realize that our experiences could be different. Seeing how representation is so different but so important to each individual life, reminds me that, what ever they're doing creatively, you can do too, and you're not alone on the journey.

The first time I remember seeing Black folks was when my mother gave me a Spice Girl doll. Mel B (Melanie Brown) was the first Black doll I ever had and she had an Afro. She was the one doll I spent so much time on; I loved her so much. When I found out she was an actual person, I was shocked, and was interested in what she does, but I didn't have access to seeing what she did creatively (except on those celebrity TV talk shows when my mother would take me out to hair salons) . Later on growing up, I was into 1990's-2000's TV shows. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, My Wife and Kids, and Sister, Sister to name a few. Cartoons and anime were some other things I would watch when I would spend time with my siblings. Codename: Kids Next Door, Teen Titans and Bleach were a few of the earliest shows I would see Black characters. I would be extremely happy whenever they appeared on my screen. This only lasted during the years I moved and lived in Philadelphia. I moved back to Canada in 2008 and my spaces drastically changed. TV wasn't really the same after that.

The shows that depicted the Black characters I loved and enjoyed, weren't available in the country. Sometimes if they were, they would be 3-4 episodes behind from the American releases. At this point, I relied on the internet, or my brother’s video collections to air the shows I missed so much. Black representation was never really viewed as much as I was exposed to in the States. It became non-existent to me. The only time I would see a Black person in media or TV, is when a creative artist becomes popular, and outlets find out they're from Montreal. It was difficult to find representation growing up in this city, I always felt like we were side characters in our own adventures. People don't realize it but it does have an affect on people. It's nice to know that organizations are creating platforms for BIPOC representation, because we exist and we are not alone.

➡ RSVP ⬅

[mxtons]

        richard  madden  !    |        look  at  those  camera’s  flash  for  bellamy  maxton  (  he  +  him  )  !  the  thirty  year  old  television  star  is  famous  for  their  role  as  sir  erik  in  the  hit  show:  royals.  the  tabloids  portray  them  as  being  frivolous  and  pugnacious,  however  they  are  actually  very  insouciant  and  audacious.  seeing  them  always  reminds  me  of  worn  bomber  jackets,  dark  circles  under  bright  eyes,  and  empty  chinese  food  cartons.

hello  !  my  name  is  cait  and  i’m  always  late  to  the  party  so  this  is  no  surprise  !  i’m  Super  Excited  to  be  here  and  can’t  wait  to  interact  w  all  of  you  !  will  i  be  using  icons  ?  will  i  be  using  gifs  ?  who  knows  !  there  is  ...  a  Lot  to  bellamy  (  who  i  refer  to  as  bell  ,,,  he’s  not  Entirely  happy  that  his  childhood  nickname  got  leaked  a  couple  years  back  ,  since  it’s  what  his  sister  calls  him  ...  but  it’s  caught  on  and  he’s  rollin’  with  the  punches  !  )  so  this  is  just  a  general  rundown  !  i’ll  add  more  to  his  page  at  some  point  ...  but  i’m  impatient  so  here’s  the  need  to  know  !  TW  :  ABUSE  ,  ALCOHOLISM  ,  DEATH  .

one.

full  name  :  bellamy  james  maxton  . nicknames  :  bell  ,  maxton  ,  etc  . age  :  thirty  . birthday  :  tba  . gender  +  pronouns  :  cis  male  +  he/him  . sexual  +  romantic  orientation  :  bisexual  +  biromantic  (  not  public  .  ) birth  place  :  glasgow  ,  united  kingdom  . current  residence  :  santa  monica  ,  california  . spoken  languages  :  english  and  broken  bits  of  scottish  gaelic  . height  +  body  type  :  5'10"  /  athletic  . occupation  :  model  /  actor  . martial  status  :  divorced  . accent  :  scottish  ,  west  central  dialect  . sibling  status  :  middle  child  . faceclaim  :  richard  madden  .

two.

grew  up  in  scotland  ,  youngest  of  three  children  .  father  passed  when  bellamy  was  seven  .  his  father  was  his  idol  and  the  day  he  lost  him  was  one  of  the  worst  days  of  his  life  .  ever  since  then  he  had  to  deal  with  an  absent  mother  with  a  tendency  to  drink  herself  to  a  better  day  .  with  bell  the  spitting  image  of  his  father  ,  his  mother’s  fury  was  taken  out  greatly  on  him  .  the  abuse  continued  from  his  older  brother  ,  ignored  and  looked  down  upon  as  a  stranger  among  family  .  before  his  passing  ,  bell’s  father  dotted  on  him  and  spent  more  time  in  his  youngest  son’s  company  ,  something  his  oldest  son  has  never  forgotten  .  only  his  sister  was  kind  to  him  ,  someone  who  has  come  to  be  one  of  bellamy’s  favorite  people  in  the  universe  .

left  the  house  at  eighteen  against  his  own  desires  .  he  jumped  from  one  friend’s  couch  to  another  ,  eventually  leaving  the  country  at  twenty  with  a  friend  who  had  convinced  him  to  leave  .  it  was  an  impulsive  ,  drunken  choice  he  had  made  but  with  nothing  holding  him  to  scotland  and  a  tiny  interest  in  traveling  ,  he  got  a  visiting  visa  to  the  united  states  .

his  temporary  visa  was  to  last  a  month  .  he  stayed  with  friends  in  santa  barbara  ,  california  .  the  warm  ,  sunny  beach  was  his  favorite  part  and  despite  not  liking  the  big  crowds  ,  he  did  like  the  sound  of  the  waves  outside  of  his  window  .  he  partied  every  night  ,  though  kept  to  himself  unless  he  was  drunk  enough  to  socialize  ,  and  slept  throughout  most  days  .  there  came  to  a  time  where  the  guy  he  was  staying  with  demanded  some  type  of  payment  ---  bell  had  definitely  made  his  share  of  a  mess  .  it  was  then  he  dove  into  modeling  .  something  that  was  done  by  accident  ,  a  way  to  get  a  couple  hundred  dollars  ,  turned  into  a  short  lived  career  .

what  started  as  smaller  brands  ,  a  local  sunglasses  ad  and  hand  modeling  turned  into  much  more  .  he  hated  his  picture  being  taken  but  adored  the  feeling  of  becoming  someone  else  entirely  .  plus  ,  the  money  was  amazing  .  he  turned  his  stay  into  a  work  visa  ,  extended  through  the  year  and  went  where  the  money  took  him  .

shortly  after  his  twenty  third  birthday  ,  he  auditioned  for  what  would  be  his  first  role  .  it  was  through  contacts  ,  someone  he’d  met  while  on  location  for  an  ad  he  was  modeling  for  .  he  expressed  his  desire  for  something  more  when  they  mentioned  needing  someone  for  a  smaller  role  in  a  newer  tv  show  .  bellamy  landed  the  role  ,  though  it  was  short  lived  as  the  show  only  lasted  one  season  .  from  there  ,  he  knew  acting  was  what  he  wanted  to  do  .

modeling  has  somewhat  stopped  altogether  for  him  ,  giving  him  more  opportunities  for  roles  .  while  working  on  a  movie  a  few  years  ago  ,  he  met  a  woman  that  would  come  to  be  his  wife  .  they  had  a  whirlwind  love  ,  something  quick  and  detrimental  to  the  both  of  them  .  the  two  of  them  were  engaged  only  a  few  months  before  they  tied  the  knot  .  though  arguably  in  love  ,  they  just  didn’t  fit  and  the  paparazzi  tore  them  apart  (  rumored  affairs  ,  pictures  of  bell  with  other  woman  ,  etc  ...  ),  among  other  things  .  they  weren’t  good  for  each  other  .  a  fuckin  fool  ,  bell  didn’t  sign  a  prenup  and  she  took  a  lot  from  him  ...  he’s  still  bitter  about  it  ...  REFUSES  to  work  on  a  project  with  her  !  this  is  a  wanted  connection  but  everything  just  ended  badly  with  him  ,  they  shit  talk  each  other  ...  anyway  ...

seven  years  later  ,  bell  has  earned  dual  citizenship  between  the  usa  and  the  uk  and  spends  most  of  his  time  in  california  ,  having  an  apartment  in  santa  monica  .  he  owns  a  flat  in  the  uk  where  his  sister  lives  and  visits  when  he  can  .  he  has  a  black  cat  ,  lovingly  named  nightmare  that  guards  his  apartment  while  he’s  away  for  work  .  he  has  a  neighbor  take  care  of  her  ,  this  is  a  wanted  connection  !  

he’s  currently  on  royals  and  has  been  on  since  the  pilot  !  his  character  is  adored  by  fans  ,  mostly  for  his  heroics  and  charm  !  picture  ...  yeah  ,  yes  ,  picture  robb  stark  but  as  a  loyal  knight  to  his  king  !  bell  shares  the  desirable  bachelor  status  with  his  character  but  that’s  about  all  they  share  .  he  does  not  use  his  accent  on  the  show  ,  but  does  use  a  british  accent  .  he  loves  to  fuck  around  on  set  but  when  he  hears  ACTION  he  immediately  goes  to  work  !  publicly  he  would  Never  be  involved  with  a  costar  ...  but  privately  ?  he’s  probably  fucked  a  good  amount  of  them  ...  wanted  connection  !  same  with  people  from  other  shows  !  

personality  wise  ,,,  bell  is  ...  okay  .  he’s  fine  ,  not  the  best  person  to  be  around  but  he’s  never  fake  !  the  only  time  he  really  tries  to  be  different  is  with  the  press  /  in  interviews  but  with  other  people  he’s  himself  ...  which  isn’t  the  best  thing  ??  he’s  nice  ...  to  a  fault  ...  but  he  doesn’t  really  like  the  spotlight  ,  doesn’t  like  small  talk  and  loves  keeping  to  himself  .  not  good  with  emotions  or  soft  shit  ...  a  broken  man  who  Really  needs  therapy  .  of  course  ,  he  does  like  to  party  and  make  a  fool  of  himself  when  under  the  influence  ...  just  depends  on  the  day  !  

three.

wanted  connections  !!

ex  wife  .  explained  above  !

babysitter  for  his  cat  .  preferably  a  neighbor  or  someone  who  lives  nearby  .  probably  not  someone  nightmare  likes  ,  but  they  feed  her  so  she  tolerates  them  .

costars  (  of  royals  or  other  shows  ,  maybe  they  were  on  something  else  together  ??  )  who  he  slept  with  !

costars  he  either  got  along  with  ,  learned  from  ,  they  learned  from  him  ,  or  competitions  ??  someone  he  beat  out  for  a  role  ??

someone  he  was  involved  in  rumors  with  ??  

a  pr  girlfriend  ---  this  will  be  something  that  is  just  now  starting  ,  probably  in  time  for  awards  season  coming  up  !

anything  !!  hit  me  with  ideas  !!

if  you  like  this  i’ll  tumblr  msg  you  for  plots  !  i  also  have  discord  if  you’d  prefer  that  ,  just  let  me  know  !

[martincart]

you said your interpretation of Pigdross was dark and angsty? tell me! :3c

[I’m very sorry to answer your question late, I still don’t concentrate on writing long posts xD]

Oh, wow! I’m glad someone asked something about my future fanfics, even if I’m nervous to tell. I am quite disorderly in telling about my future projects and I apologize if my answer is not what you expected ;;

I’m not sure to tell my whole story because I don’t want to comment so much with spoilers and flatter myself, but basically the whole issue of Pigma and Andross (as friends, allies or couple), although it’s not a drama in its entirety (because I also like to see them in the comic sense), the two have had several problems because of what happened before the war, especially on the side of Andross.

[ WARNING : Spoilers for my future fanfics ]

Pigma and Andross have known each other since they were very young, and Pigma would see for several years how his dear friend and idol would become a socially closed man to one who would do everything for his own life plans, even if that were manipulate, kill and destroy several lives.

For example, when Andross was young and fell in love with Vixy Reinard (a colleague and great friend of the two during his years of study at the university of biotechnology), Pigma could notice the strong love Andross had towards her, but he believed that It would be only jealous to see the woman who was considered “muse” by Andross giving her attention to her love interest, James Mccloud. Pigma believed that Andross could solve all that, but as soon as Vixy got married and left the life of a scientist along with Andross, the future doctor felt his heart broken, with a horrible heartbreak and anger in the now. The pig decided to stay next to his dear friend, without preventing what came years later.

Andross would become a person much more obsessed with his work and even more closed in his social life (except for moments where he really showed affection, such as with pigma, Pepper or with his sister Barbara - I will explain about it later) ). Meanwhile, Pigma decided to work for him, trying to support him in everything he could and keep him upright in his life both in his two lifestyles. For several years, he learned that the monkey still had his heart hurt by Vixy, and now he was only struggling to work for his own good and still feel loved by someone (in part). Pigma knew that, and he tried to keep that horrible feeling from growing bad to worse, but giving him great support as his friend.

Everything would go down when Andross and Vixy met again, and without being able to stand it, the monkey try to finally end James MCcloud’s life with a bomb, ending in a horrible crime that nobody could solve: Vixy would die from that bomb that Andross decided to connect in James’s car, but that Vixy decided to drive that pitiful afternoon, causing his tragic death.Like Andross, Pigma also loved Vixy too much and felt the same jealousy towards James as he did, but he had accepted that the woman would not see beyond in their relationship and accepted the marriage between the two foxes, who were his best friends in his just before the war, and when they had Fox, Pigma was always in the care of Mrs. Mccloud.Upon discovering that Andross was responsible for the bomb, Pigma decided to leave his job as a scientist and went to Papetoon to live with James and Peppy. Hating Andross for killing Vixy. Andross would be away from one of his best friends until he could meet again several years later.

And let’s say, their relationship remains somewhat similar during Lylat Wars: Pigma is still the same clown friend, but an intelligent and faithful ally in the name of his now emperor friend (even though Pigma wants a big reward for all the actions he does especially Andrew’s care) and Andross still acts mostly as the closed man he was, but who has his moments of being a leader and affectionate friend with Pigma and his soldiers. The unfortunate thing is that Andross has also become much more manipulative and cruel over the years, and when he wants, he manipulates Pigma as he wishes (with money, his wise words or “romantic” gestures in the middle). In turn, Pigma still does not forgive several things Andross has done during his years at Corneria, and he can also think of plans behind him for his dislike of the previous reasons I said.

The two are still very good friends, and Pigma will do anything in his work (personal or business), while Andross still appreciates that Pigma wants him as his the person he was, but in turn there is so much manipulation in between that It becomes very difficult to maintain a line of good and evil in both.

Now, I know that I have explained everything as if it were just a friendship between two good friends (with serious problems in the middle) but if I don’t talk much about them as a romance, uh … well, it’s not that I can’t imagine them being affectionate (such as making jokes about how homosexual they are on Pigma’s side or making certain romantic gestures) but with Andross’s personality during everything I’ve told and with Pigma’s not-so-serious personality it’s hard to reveal his feelings each other in the romantic sense. They are rarely open to each other, but with Andross it is always difficult to deal with.

Ah, I know I’ve talked too much! but I hope my answer can help you a lot! If you want to ask more about something specific, my askbox is always open and you are welcome to talk!

[meili-sheep]

ONE MORE!!! ONE MORE WORK AND IM FINISHED!!!!1

Also yes i agree with the Jean slander but there must've been a source of why she's like,,,, That.

you know, Jean "I take up all the paperwork the knights have and then complain about being overworked even though i put it on myself" Gunnhildr.

Fredrica Gunnhildr.

it makes sense right??? because it seems the Gunnhildrs are the opposite of a patriarchy aka a matriarchy and so that phrase "All for Mond" or something has definitely been drilled into Jean's head since she was young because shes the eldest, i also think Barbara is an unexpected child because due to their likely age gap- around 20 and maybe 14-16, which is 6-4 years, probable time for unexpected births, my little sister is only 4-5 years younger and she was unplanned so yes very likely Barbara was unexpected.

And i really dont think Fredrica was a good mom... just look at Jean! She overworks herself constantly and is probably ready to throw her own life away for Mondstadt at any given moment and theres Barbara feeling inferior to Jean and doubts any ability of hers that doesnt make others happy

And Barbara may have been pushed aside by Fredrica because of her focus on Jean instead and so thats most likely why Barbara feels so much lesser than Jean. And I also think that to make really complex shapes with a catalyst is a high skilled thing, it wouldn't seem much on the surface but Barbara's attack particles Glimmer

To achieve that effect she must've had to practice how to make the water she produces from her vision to refract light in such a way that it changes color, sure it may just be a gameplay thing but at the same time its too deliberate and fits her job as an idol so yes im taking that to account.

sure she may be weak in lore but because of her inferiority complex where she most likely pushes down her skills in fighting and defense and such for healing because to her, her healing is more benificial that those other things.

I also have a Genshin oc! His name is Anatoli

to explain more, in my au's, Abyss Barbara and The Pegg twins aus. Anatoli is Barbara's younger twin brother made him to add to the Jean and Barbara's distanced relationship issue

sorry if this has almost all have been about Barbara

I do have a part about diluc tho

Barbara and Anatoli wouldve sought comfort in Diluc due to their situation(emotional neglect basically) and they see a big sibling figure in Diluc, not as a replacement for jean but for the comfort and love they werent really given because barbara and anatoli were both ignored much more

btw Anatoli is his chosen name, no he(sadly) isnt trans its more of a Fischl situation bc he was named Anne at birth even though he was a boy and he got the name Anatoli via suggestion of Barbara during a trip to Snezhnaya

i might explain more abt Anatoli next time

-Leyline!Anon whos very clearly a Barbara kinnie 9and also wants to castrate Albert)

Well let me say the netiher Fredrica Gunnhildr or Seamus Pegg was a good parnet. And well I think Jean does have her problems from that. She still has agency as a person and her dicisous to continue to support the knights after all they did to Diluc is totally on her.

And not making time to be with her sister is also on her. And jean not doing anything to help Barbara feel that there isn't a competition between them is also on her.

Well Barbara isn't my favorite characters (I might have been a little more warm had they kept her original voice) But I do really sympathize with her.

Oh your OC is very Cute though! And very interesting!