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auranova26 · 14 days ago

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Splatoon: Octo Cuentos Lore Bits 2

In the mood to share some more lore and story stuff regarding the world of Splatoon: OC. Let us dive right in:

I've been thinking about the thought of what if the idea of family units wasn't a thing in the Octo Domes? With this whole idea of community that has been pushed to not only ensure survival but a chance for prosperity, the idea of individual family units was deemed unneeded as everyone who was able body had something to do, big or small. Without going into way too much detail, I think means are done to ensure Octoling eggs are conceived and cared for carefully until the new hatchlings get out of their eggs. From there, they are cared for by those who have the skills for childcare to nurture the young ones till they are of the age to then begin their formal education/training depending on observations of the individuals. So yeah, no real mother/father figures. Just people pitching in to make sure every new life has a chance among their fellow Octarians.

Oh yeah, I believe that Inklings and Octolings hatch from eggs rather than live birth. Perhaps as they evolved more, they wouldn't conceive the literal thousands of eggs as their ancestors used to. Maybe in single to double digits. Though even if some did make quite a lot, I figure there is a to make use of the unwanted eggs before they would germinate into a squishy larva. Ya know, power and stuff.

What about those tentacle Octarians? I will go with the idea they are literally cut off tentacles of Octolings. Octopus tentacles contain enough nerve cells to effectively have small brains of their own. So, for the...I'll call them 'Tenta Octarians', they were basically only a thing in in the Octo Domes. While efforts are done to care for the hatchlings and care for the population, there is still much that has to be done. In a sense, the Tenta Octarians were created to help fill the gaps with some menial labor or specific tasks. Yes, they did need to eat as well, but nowhere near as much as the Octolings. Plus, they don't have as long of a life expectancy. Still, despite being what amounted to labor beings, they were still treated with respect by the Octolings.

How does the process work to create them? I figure that once an Octoling was screened and deemed capable to do so, there is a careful procedure to cut off the tentacle. Kept alive and monitored, the severed tentacles would eventually change to become a Tenta Octarian. While not possessing the same intelligence level as Octolings, they have enough to speak, learn things, and perform their tasks.

But back to Octarian Octolings not having families, I think it would be quite an interesting thing for them to learn about once some do move to the surface and interact with Inkadian Inkling culture.

Callie and Marie do actually take more of an active role in aiding Agent 3/Alma during the campaign against the Octarian Army. Well, more Callie since she more willing to get in the heat of battle unlike Marie. But still, Marie doesn't really have to since she is skilled with chargers. While it is recognized that Alma is quite a capable individual, they still feel they gotta do their part to also save Cuttlefish.

How did the Octarian Army train? I figure that practice sessions are a thing. But clearly, they have to be careful with splatting. While they do have respawn machines, those need power and they always gotta be careful with power. While there could be virtual machines to allow for more variety in what scenarios they could face and practice in, again power was a big issue. So eventually, especially as preparations were getting closer to the Great Zapfish heist, DJ Octavio would test the waters with the Salmonids. In exchange for Octarian tech, Octavio would propose to the Salmonids allowing his units to train against them. He was aware they were warriors, so likely they would provide valuable real combat experience for his units. They were actually on board with this idea, even allowing those that fell and their eggs to be taken. Though, there was a strict clause against taking the Golden Eggs, since those were needed to crucially power the new machines their kind were working on ever since the trade deals with the Octarians began. Agreeing to these terms, he first tested things out with the Elites since they have the best training and thus best chance against the Salmonid warriors. If they succeeded, they could then help train other soldiers in separate units to allow for the best amount of experience for everyone. In time, it not only proved a valuable move, but yielded results with getting some power eggs and food for the people back home. Sure, the power egg haul was nowhere near the amount if they just traded their tech for those to begin with, but it was deemed worth it for the other benefits this deal provided.

The Calamari Inkantation in itself is not magic. It just in universe is an incredibly catchy song. So catchy is it, it can spark something in others.

Marina Ida deserted the Octarian Army for a I believe a multitude of reasons. So, with her being this prodigy, there was without a doubt a lot of expectations and pressure that she felt to perform to these expectations. While she did find time to try and engage with what she did love, music, that would always take a backseat should she need to do some drills, work on some machine repairs, design weapons, and so many other things. Sure, she has a big love for machines as well, but I figure she adores the idea of learning the inner workings of any machine that captures her attention. Spending countless hours on one while eventually finding another. While she wanted to do her part, as she is a compassionate individual, she also couldn't help this feeling of not being able to do what she really desired to do. But she didn't have the courage and will to go against the life she had. She just marched on like everyone else. It was by observing all that went down with the NSS assault against the Octarians and then the finale as Octavio was defeated. The song and all she saw finally gave her the willpower to do what she always wanted to do: live her life.

Of course, there was the unintended consequence of her leaving. As Marina Ida was the epitome of Octarians, her desertion would be a major catalyst for many to leave. While some would find success in making a new life on the surface, of course some weren't as lucky: whether getting lost or in the clutches of Kamabo Corp. Not only that, but until Octavio was rescued, society was very much in complete chaos. The Elites did everything to assure the population that all will be fine. While Marina Ida was aware of how some Octolings were starting to appear in Inkopolis, and thus happy for them, it wasn't till the Deepsea Metro incident that she actually realized how much of a ripple affect her desertion had on Octarian society. And thus, the consequences of it. While she doesn't hold any regrets on her decision, she also can't help but feel guilt for those that were not so lucky. It helped to spark her desire to help, but now from the position that she is in considering her influence with being part of Off the Hook and having the backing of Pearl. Of course, while she is noble in her desire to make amends, this, the Chaos vs Order Splatfest, and new direction of Off the Hook would eventually once again pile immense amounts of stress on her that were consuming her internally.

Alma and Cuttlefish basically always butted heads with one another up until after the Deepsea Metro Incident. While he did have other options for the role of Agent 3, Alma was his best choice. But due to her personality absolutely clashing with Cuttlefish, it made the partnership quite a bumpy one. However, Alma in herself didn't hate Cuttlefish or was doing it out of malice, she just truly doesn't fully understand the history behind the Octarians and Inkadians... and personally doesn't care. She just is having a good time and wants some grub. When Cuttlefish was eventually kidnapped, she did take some aspects of this mission a bit more seriously. Kidnapping was not cool. It also helped she vibed more with Callie and Marie.

That about does it for this installment of Lore Bits. Hope ya enjoyed this read into the world of Splatoon: Octo Cuentos. 🤗🎨

#auranova26 #lore dump #lore #splatoon octo cuentos #splatoon au #splatoon oc #marina ida #octarians #octolings #lore bits #craig cuttlefish #agent 3 #alma #alma is basically kinda like sonic the hedgehog in personality aspects #i think quite a lot about the song it doesnt matter #marina just wanted to have fun and live life #splatoon

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auranova26 · 15 days ago

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Splatoon: Octo Cuentos Lore Bits

As I type this, I am being lulled into a trance by this beautiful remix.

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With it, I feel compelled to share some bits of lore I have regarding my AU. Uh, no particular order or thematic, just whatever comes to mind. I am in fact drunk. 🥴

There are effectively five dialects that exist in the world of Splatoon: OC. I guess the term 'languages' could work as well. They are Inkadian, Splatlandian, Octarian, Salmonarian, and Ursine/Alternan. Inkadian is the primary language among those in Inkadia, with Splatlandian being that for The Splatlands people. Octarian is for the Octarians and Octolings of the Octo Domes. Salmonarian is the language of the Salmonids. Ursine is interestingly the human language, as it was Mr. Grizz who would speak this language and 'teach' it to those he had in Alterna. Even named it after his species, the entitled prick. The language would eventually go under a new name and evolution to Alternan after Grizz's death and the liberation of the victims in Alterna from his control.

Among these 5, Salmonarian and Alternan would be the most radically different from the other three. Salmonids, due to the way they are, just created their own language amongst themselves and thus share very little with the others in roots of terms and such. Alternan, as stated, is the human language taken by Grizz and then eventually by the Mammalian Inkfish of Alterna. While it would adapt its own borrowed/influenced terms from the other dialects, it still overall is very different from the others. As for what human language... whatever you want it to be.

Interestingly, Octarian shares roots with interestingly both Inkadian and Splatlandian, despite the divide between both lands.

Inkadian and Splatlandian share enough similarities, but also enough differences to be distinct from one another.

DJ Octavio is more painted as a leader who is trying to do good for his people. Give them hope and uphold his promises of prosperity from the tightrope dance over the abyss of collapse. But, his grudges of the past, with the surface and especially Cuttlefish, do unfortunately cloud some aspects of his decision making. I just don't like this idea of him being portrayed as a villain. Yes, dude can be prideful and such. Yes, he effectively created a militaristic culture for his people that spanned for what can only be about a century. But he isn't some batshit crazy dictator like we have seen in our history who is only in it for himself. The whole aspect of this military culture, in his eyes, was a way to keep a sense of unity and community for everyone. All doing their part to help the Octarians as a whole inch ever closer to that bright future. Even with his rather serious and sometimes intimidating facade, he does what he can for everyone. He doesn't live in opulence; he partakes in rations for food and mandatory blackouts to conserve energy.

The No 9 Gang actually play a role in the story as major supporting characters. Their leader, Inochi, is sympathetic to Octarians and actually has an alliance with DJ Octavio. He and his gang do what they can to provide some form of aid via anything they can provide, information being the greatest asset. In fact, thanks to them, they were instrumental in assuring that the theft of the Great Zapfish went as smoothly as it did thanks to them being able to provide valuable info and aid those who went to get the Great Zapfish.

As far as the water weakness is concerned, I just go with this video done by rassicas:

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A lot of what they go over I just agree with and like. Especially this whole thing regarding osmotic pressure.

While I don't have any designs, I do like the thought that Inklings and Octolings from the Splatlands look very different from those in Inkadia. The thing that comes to mind is more... feral? Tougher considering the climate of the Splatlands compared to Inkadia? If you are aware of the artist opal-owl-flight, I want to look to the general shape ideas they go for the way they draw Inkfish.

Speaking of artists coming up with cool concepts:

Would consider this as a concept existing in Splatoon: OC.

Once again with more artist concepts that I agree with and or want to implement for how I will design Inkfish characters in Splatoon: OC:

Salmonids don't have any sense of malice towards the denizens of Inkadia and the Splatlands. Hecc, they don't even hate Grizzco. For the employees of Grizzco, while they acknowledge them as invaders of their turf, they also recognize them as warriors. Sure, they don't like their Golden Eggs being taken, but it serves as another incentive for them to give their all in battle against these 'invading warriors'.

I go with the idea a lot of bird species survived into the new age of the Inkfish. Ancestors of the dinosaurs outliving the dumb mammals.

It wasn't just Octarians that were mutated by Fuzzy Ooze. Grizz basically carefully chose he saw that society wouldn't care about as a whole if they went missing. Vagabonds, homeless and the like. He considers these 'Mammalian Inkfish' to be lucky to be gifted with this new evolution to them.

Mammalian Inkfish, once fully mutated, possess a skeletal structure. With this, they lose their ability to shift forms like they could before. However, with their thicker skin, they no longer need to worry about water killing due to osmotic pressure and stuff. However, they can drown. But due to the mutagenetic properties gifted by the Fuzzy Oozes strange ingredients, they can hold their breaths for quite some time and can quickly learn how to swim in water.

Mammalian Inkfish are still capable of producing Ink, but not at the same rate as they could before. As a remnant of the osmotic pressure aspect, should they have enough ink stored in them and are in enough of a heightened state, they can use a range of Specials. These can be a Killer Wail Roar, a Splashdown, and even a transformation.

This transformation special of the Mammalian Inkfish equates to them bulking out their bodies into a more feral, monstrous state where they are significantly more resilient to damage and can deal much more pain. But like any transformation, it can only last for so long before their ink supply runs out and their 'osmotic pressure' cools down.

There is the idea about whether Mr. Grizz is even the same bear that awoke those several years ago from the Ark of Polaris. Due to the many experiments he performed with the Fuzzy Ooze and its creation, it vastly screwed with his biology. Was it really he who came up with his plan to ensure a lasting legacy of his kind, or the ooze gaining sentience and using what was once Grizz to spread itself about. The answer is never stated, but I like to think of the horrifying implications considering the fact he can like... melt into ink and reform despite having a skeleton.

Mammalian Inkfish mutate in such a way to resemble bearlike creatures. But not just brown bears, but a variety of those in the gene pool of bears.

NO, Octavio didn't brainwash anyone, especially not Callie. In fact, I'll lay down what I have thought about regarding what would spark the Splatoon 2 arc of Splatoon: OC. Callie fled from Inkopolis due to a number factors that left her angry, sad, and hurt. Just to get away from everything, she would eventually head beyond the peak of Mount Nantai. She didn't have a place in mind, just wanted to get as far away. Likely as there might be soldiers performing reconnaissance, they would have spotted her before she reached Octo Canyon. Being informed of her presence, Octavio would decide to personally go see her, along with some Elite soldiers just in case. And while she might initially have been shocked to see DJ Octavio freed, she wouldn't care much about that. If anything, she might have been ready for a fight as she wanted to be left alone considering her messy state of mind. While yes, Octavio certainly had some grievances with her being part of the reasons his plans failed, his anger was more directed at Cuttlefish than her. Plus, he did recognize how the Calamari Inkantation was still in the minds of many Octarians, including his own with it being such a funky tune he can respect begrudgingly. Instead, he sees an opportunity. By allowing her a place to get away from the stress of Inkopolis and her life, he could then show her the life that was for the people that her grandfather labeled as her enemies. As she stayed in in the Octo Domes, she was treated quite well there. Beyond Octavio's orders for her to be treated well, many just were surprised and excited to see her. Really seeing the conditions that these people lived in, she was utterly taken a back how much many who she met did what they could for her. Even the smallest gesture touched her heart. In return, she did what she could to bring that small bit of spark of joy to those she met. Sure, she did encounter those that she did realize were not a fan of her presence, but she didn't push back at all. Her time here not only was helping her chill out but giving her this sense of support that she desperately wanted and needed. She completely lost track of time and even any connection with the surface. She just liked being here, practically seeing the Octarians as friends and family.

With Callie having forged this bond with the Octarians as a whole, as plans were being prepared to get the Great Zapfish of Inkopolis Square, Octavio would decide to test the waters. With her basically experiencing what life was for he and his people, he eventually finds a way to bring up how it isn't fair how the lives of the Octarians have to be the way it is. They were just like the people of the surface yet were forced to basically live in these barely functioning ecosystems all because of something that happened long ago. If anything, the surface was greedy. One Great Zapfish would certainly be enough to fuel the megalopolis, certainly another wouldn't be an issue to lose. And even then, they had access to a multitude of resources that they could use to make up for any inconveniences, to which Callie would genuinely agree on. She basically turned a blind eye to the fact that he and the Octarians pulled off another heist to steal another Great Zapfish. The ultimate test would come when reconnaissance would spot Marie, with a seemingly new Inkling on her side invading the Octo Canyon. When Callie was made aware of this, she stopped to think for a little before coming to the conclusion that she was likely here cause of the Great Zapfish heist. In fact, to Octavio's delight, Callie seemed angry at the mention of Marie's name. Granted, she wasn't made aware of the news regarding her disappearance, but Octavio was careful about what Callie was made aware of. With her basically sympathetic to the Octarians, Callie would willingly aid them from the shadows to stop Marie and this 'Agent 4' from causing any more suffering for the Octarians. While she had no desire to kill, originally trying to menacingly send anonymous radio calls to tell them to back off from what they were doing if they had any sense of empathy, their continued success would cause her to get angrier and frustrated. Not only what could happen to these people that overall helped her in her time of need, but her resentment towards Marie and her family as whole. This boiling rage that would eventually culminate in the final battle.

So yeah, Octavio basically emotionally manipulates Callie. Not only giving her what she wanted but turning her own anger against those that she considered family. I mean think about it, dude is a leader. They need to be able to say the right words to get people to do things. No need for any dumb brainwash crap.

With that said, Callie did help with designing the new outfits for the Octarian Army, even designing her own outfit to fit in more with them. While she had no rank, she basically was treated like an Elite Soldier due to her own skills being formidable. Even with this unofficial rank, Callie never tried to abuse any privileges this would entail.

One of the driving factors that made Grizz initiate his plans was the fear of death. Unlike Judd and Lil Judd, he was not biologically immortal. And with the heightened intelligence 'gifted' to him via the experiments of the humans, he had the existential dread of not only death, but of having no way to pass on a legacy. With no other bears alive, he couldn't continue a lineage as was natural for all creatures to pass on their genetic material. In a sense, this idea of a new age of mammals/bears, the mutations of the Inkfish was his way to leave a lasting legacy on the world. Though however much of that initial spark is left is unknown considering how much the ooze mutated his own biology.

Salmonids have a folk story about 'The beast that came from the night sky ocean.' Basically, it is a recounting of their kind's first encounter with Mr. Grizz when he had just walked out of the wreckage of the Ark of Polaris. Yeah, his first encounter with life on Earth was the Salmonids. Not the best first impression. Even with the tech of the Octarians, many were slaughtered and feasted on by the brown beast.

Yeah... that is about it. I am super tired and trying to sober up before sleep. I hope you enjoyed this Lore Bit. I'd be happy to elaborate on some stuff. :)

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auranova26 · 11 months ago

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Hsien-Ko and Mei-Ling Lore Bits 4

I had made mention of bringing up some new information that came to mind during my research. And now, I am ecstatic to share! 😄Brace yourself for not only cool additions to their lore, but some Mandarin Chinese script here and there. 🧧

The Igyou Tenshin no Jutsu (いぎょう-てんしん-の-じゅつ) was the name of the art used by their mother and them in the original lore. However, that name is Japanese. After finally getting a translation of this skill (Change Oneself to a Strange Form Technique) then finding a way to translate that into Mandarin, I finally have a name for the art in Cryas Darkstalkers!

異��變形術 (Yìxíng Biànxíng Shù) is the new official name of the art. In English, it means Irregular Shape Change Skill. Also for fun, the simplified script for ya'll: 异形变形术

Jiangshi can enter into a state known as 狂暴 (kuángbào). Basically, translating to 'frenzy', this is a state where a jiangshi is driven into an unpredictably violent rampage for Qì if they have gone too long without feeding.

Hsien-Ko is no different in terms of the requirements to enter kuángbào. However, as she still possesses a conscious, unlike most jiangshi that come into existence. When in frenzy, her body forces her mind to be locked deep away as the desire for Qì takes over.

Even if Qì is obtained, the frenzied Hsien-Ko would still go on a rampage as with her mind locked away, Mei-Ling can't influence Hsien-Ko. The only way to stop her is for Mei-Ling to reattach in her talisman form and bring back Hsien-Ko.

As she is also a jiangshi by nature of the Yìxíng Biànxíng Shù, Mei-Ling does require Qì. However, she doesn't enter into kuángbào via a hunger for Qì. Only via sufficiently strong magic interference can cause her to go frenzy.

When Mei-Ling does get hungry for Qì, she tends to get lethargic and irritable.

Mei-Ling can transform into a form known as 護身符 (hùshēnfú). With her role as 'the mind', she has to help regulate the flow of Qì in Hsien-Ko to allow 'the body' to function at full power while also having control of said power.

While the term hùshēnfú basically translates to amulet/talisman, the specific form she takes on is joss paper, 金紙.

金紙 (jīnzhǐ) translates to 'golden paper. The texture of her form is that of coarse bamboo paper, the traditional material for joss paper. Interestingly, the golden color is a signifier of being an offering for deities.

The script on her form translates to 'keep this on your body to keep you safe'.

While in her talisman form, Mei-Ling has a special enchantment on her granted by the Yìxíng Biànxíng Shù. This enchantment is known as 奇異守護 (Qíyì Shǒuhù).

Qíyì Shǒuhù, or Strange Protection, allows her to be able to perform her function as 'the mind' by granting her hùshēnfú form total immunity from practically any form of magic. The only real way to 'damage' her is to physically break her talisman form to force her back to her true form. Ripping, shredding, and cutting the form are the best ways.

Even when her form is attacked by physical means, Mei-Ling's true form doesn't suffer actual harm. However, she can't change back for some time as her Qì needs to reconstruct the form internally. This can not only leave her vulnerable to genuine harm but means that Hsien-Ko can't be at full strength for the time being.

Mei-Ling did attempt to reverse engineer the Qíyì Shǒuhù to provide Hsien-Ko with this form of protection. Years of tinkering, she eventually had to stop by the pleads of Hsien-Ko.

Despite the fruitless endeavor, her trying to figure out this enchantment did help her eventually craft one for Hsien-Ko that allowed for the phasing of her body through clothing, along with manipulation of it. Something that would be applied to the clothes that she would make for Hsien-Ko in the future.

轉生術 (Zhuǎnshēng Shù) is the final art taught to Xiānshùshī who have been recognized with the title of Shīfu. Translating to 'Reincarnation Skill', Zhuǎnshēng Shù is said to allow the caster's soul to be able to safely depart for the afterlife.

Because the Yìxíng Biànxíng Shù transformed them both to jiangshi, their souls have been tethered to their bodies as a fuel source to allow them to continue living and replace the metabolic functions of their bodies.

The sisters are incapable of passing on via natural causes. The only ways the sisters can truly die is either being killed or allowing their bodies to fully consume their souls. The first option is not a way that either sister wishes to die and the later would lead to their erasure. A true death in a way.

The Zhuǎnshēng Shù is the only means that allows the sisters to pass away peacefully. Once they save their mother and have a final conversation with her after awakening from a long coma, Mingxia bestows not only the mirror and necklace back as a gift to her daughters, but also the knowledge of the Zhuǎnshēng Shù to recognize them both as Shīfu.

As mentioned above, the Yìxíng Biànxíng Shù turned Hsien-Ko in the body of a jiangshi and Mei-Ling into the mind of a jiangshi. The rest of this Lore Bits shall be dedicated to what the Yìxíng Biànxíng Shù did to Hsien-Ko, to Mei-Ling, and to both. First, to both:

Metabolic functions ceased in both sisters. For all intents and purposes, they are dead.

Qì is required to not only satiate their bodies, but to allow for limited bodily functions, like their digestive systems, movement, and brain function.

Neither sister needs to breathe oxygen.

Innately, both sisters are granted the ability known as Qì Absorption. This art is executed by a focused deep breath that allows for spiritual energy to flow from the target into their bodies.

Both have a high tolerance for temperature variance. The only way they can feel hot or cold is via extremes of either.

They possess a sensitivity to the presence of living beings and of stray spiritual energy.

Both have the ability to walk on air for brief periods of time.

They age physically very slowly.

Food can be eaten, and liquids can be drunk and processed by their digestive systems. The energy obtained from this can be used, but since their bodies require Qì to make their digestive systems work in the first place, this can't be a substitute for consumption of Qì, only slow it down.

As for how Hsien-Ko is specifically affected:

Sunlight debuffs Hsien-ko, specifically during the times when the sun is up directly in the sky. The reason for this is that the amount of energy from direct sunlight disturbs the imbalance of Qì she suffers innately from.

Thankfully she is not harmed by the rays of light, but she can feel its effects on her.

Unlike when she was human, Hsien-Ko is incapable of properly controlling her Qì.

Thanks to the innate imbalance of Qì flow in her, Hsien-Ko requires the consumption of more Qì compared to Mei-Ling.

Being 'the body', Hsien-Ko possesses a healing factor. The more Qì she has in reserves, the better her regenerative abilities are.

Despite the lack of full control of her Qì, Hsien-Ko innately has greater physical strength than she could ever achieve with Qì control as a human.

Hsien-Ko's nails have the ability to grow to 152cm (5ft). They are very durable and can be used to slash or pierce particularly vulnerable targets.

Hsien-Ko's body can easily contort into very unnatural poses and directions.

Oddly, her tongue can extend her tongue by 92cm or roughly 3ft.

While the best way to consume Qì is via Qì Absorption, Hsien-Ko can also sap Qì via physical contact. But this is less efficient.

Hsien-Ko cannot enter REM sleep naturally. In fact, she hardly needs to sleep. While initially seen as cool, Hsien-Ko desperately wanted to experience sleep, especially during the times she must be in the coffin. With help from Mei-Ling, she found ways to be able to rest.

The only way Hsien-Ko can enter REM sleep is via talismans crafted by Mei-Ling with the enchantment to allow it.

As mentioned above, Hsien-Ko can enter kuángbào via a hunger for Qì. However, she also can enter the state via being too far away from Mei-Ling for too long or via a disturbance to her Qì at an extreme caliber.

If not in kuángbào, should any talisman be placed on Hsien-Ko, she will be left paralyzed. However, if commands written in Manchu or Chinese scripts are on the talismans, she will be forced to obey the commands against her will.

The only commands she will not obey are ones that bring harm to Mei-Ling, her 'mind' to her 'body'.

Hsien-Ko undergoes the most physical changes to her form. Her skin is now a shade of light blue. Her eyes are that of a golden yellow. Her hair color is now a deep blue violet color, along with a wilder style.

Moss does grow on Hsien-Ko. However, she does strive to get rid of it when grows sufficiently on her body.

Finally, how Mei-Ling was affected:

Unlike Hsien-Ko, Mei-Ling didn't experience many physical changes. Her hair changed style and color to of a more umber shade rather than her original near dark brown color. Her eyes changed to that of a brilliant jade green.

The only giveaway that Mei-Ling is not human to the average individual is her lack of body heat.

Mei-Ling in her talisman form can possess other individuals, the ability of control varying.

Being 'the mind', Mei-Ling has a deep sensitivity to Hsien-Ko's thoughts and emotions.

When she sleeps, often enough she will suffer nightmares, ranging from reliving the night her mother sacrificed herself to the time her frenzied sister nearly killed her.

However, some nightmares are the perspective of Hsien-Ko's fears and memories.

Not only does she serve to stabilize Hsien-Ko's Qì, but also her emotional state as to ensure Hsien-Ko can serve her function in combat. A negative filter in a way.

While she can and does strive to work through this, there are times where she will breakdown and require comfort from Hsien-Ko. In turn, Hsien-Ko does her best to maintain a cheerful mood that is born from her being in a good headspace and not because Mei-Ling had to absorb some of the brunt of her emotions. Plus, to also make her big sister feel better. 🥹

After being comforted, Mei-Ling generally is capable of experiencing pleasant dreams. Assuring both sisters are in a great mood.

Mei-Ling generally sleeps for about 7 hours.

That should end this Lore Bits. Quite a lot to go through, but finally happy to get this out! 😎 Hope you enjoy learning about Hsien-Ko and Mei-Ling of Cryas Darkstalkers. 😊

#auranova26 #cryas darkstalkers #darkstalkers #lore #mei ling #hsien-ko #hsien ko #mei-ling #worldbuilding #shao #lore bits #jiangshi #chinese #joss paper

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auranova26 · 1 year ago

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Cryas Chronicles: Explorers of the Darkest Days

Been on my mind again, so I wanted to finally write something down in regard to this story idea I have been on and off about. As the title suggests, this story is in regard to my OC mythos. However, Crays Chronicles: Explorers of the Darkest Days is meant to be an AU focusing on my OC Norocier as she ends up in a world of Pokémon.

What is the premise you may ask? As stated, this is set in a world of Pokémon. However, this world is like a pseudo mystery dungeon like world in the sense that there are no humans: only Pokémon inhabit this world. While Pokémon do have some semblance of societies, none talk in the way we would assume. Primarily, they communicate as many animals would with varying means to communicate. Of course, with Pokémon there more magical/fantastical means of how they can, but still in the realm of not really 'talking'. With no humans around, there is the interesting aspect that Pokémon don't refer to themselves by the names that we as readers would know them by. And that is a key thing to keep in mind. In the following paragraphs, I'll give a synopsis in regard to the setup of the story and setting.

The colossal known as Eternatus awakens from a deep slumber as an unknown, but powerful source of energy beckons them from their millennia long stretch of rest. Drawn to what had awaken them, Eternatus happens upon a pond of a violet, thick liquid substance that lay before them. While the titan had never seen such a substance before, they can feel the incredible almost intoxicating energy emitting from the alien liquid. In no time, Eternatus feasts on the liquid, voraciously absorbing it into their energy core. Upon the completion of their meal, the creature could feel a great high of energy as the liquid empowered their core. However, as quickly as they enjoyed this rush of energy, something unpleasant was noticed by the giant. The energy levels in them were rising without any sign of stopping. As the continual rise in energy flooded their senses, Eternatus began to feel pain. Seeking to relieve this excess energy, the colossal would unleash beams of energy from their core to help with the extra energy. They have had incidents like this before, so no worry. But this was futile as the chain reaction of this substance with their energy core still continued unabated. In fact, it was getting worse as the energy levels continued to rise to painful levels that the dragon had never felt before. Again, they would unleash powerful beams of energy one after another with greater ferocity. But again, the reaction kept going. Not only was the titan panicking now from the pain, but the energy levels began to force the dragon to assume their true form. Not only was this in response to the unfathomable amounts of energy in their system, but it was also a means to relive themselves of this excess energy that they so desperately were trying to stabilize. However, the form was not only different than what they recalled eons ago, their energy core continued to grow wildly out of control. Dwarfing the hills and mountains in the immediate area, the legendary colossal unleashed a barrage of beams of unstable energy from their core and many orifices. With the ever-escalating energy in their very essence and the many beams tearing through the sky and land, the fabric of space-time was beginning to bend to the cosmic level amounts of energy being unleashed in the given vicinity. And this wouldn't go unnoticed.

From their domain in a realm between the threads of reality, the violent hermit known as Giratina would come to attention as they felt powerful shockwaves come out of nowhere. While these waves would not come to harm the beast, they did cause aspects of their Distortion Realm to be forever damaged and warped beyond recognition. This unprovoked attack upon their domain absolutely enraged the demon. So enraged were they that they immediately sprang into action to not only find the source of the shockwaves, but to make the source pay dearly with their life as retribution. It took mere seconds to find the source: somewhere in the main realm of reality, coming from an incredibly powerful source unlike anything Giratina had ever witnessed or felt in their primordial existence. Despite this potentially dangerous foe, it did not falter the renegade's absolution into making this malefactor pay dearly for what they had done. As they flew through the boundaries of the nexus, they entered main realm of reality to bear witness to their colossal foe. But not only that, but the renegade also caught sight of two other beings they had not seen for aeons and not ones Giratina was particularly pleased to see. The embodiment of the fabric of space and the flow of time respectively, Palkia and Dialga had also come from their homes in the realms beyond. Due to the near cosmic levels of distortion and bending of the aspects of reality going on in this single area, these primordial dragons had also come to not only investigate but put a stop to it before it reached apocalyptic levels. Despite their hatred for their siblings, Giratina set aside their feelings toward Palkia and Dialga in order to take down the current target of their ire. The trio of creation would unite for the first time in countless eons to take down this threat to reality.

Each dragon made use of their primal force of energy at full throttle in order to take down this energy dangerous titan. Palkia with a motion of their arms rend the fabric of space. Dialga roared with such a ferocious battle cry as it disrupted the flow of time. Giratina coated in the shadows of the nexus would attack with deadly force against the titan. However, while their attacks would damage the titan, it did little to stop Eternatus as it continued to unleash beam after beam, crying out in pain as they had at this all but lost control of their body. Despite this, the trio would continue their assault with steadfast resolution. For what felt like an eternity, the trio would continue to fight, here and there dodging and tanking hits from the pained titan. Despite the damage they would sustain, they would fight through the pain and continue to attack the titan. When they all but seemed like they were each at their near breaking point, the foe they all rallied against suddenly stopped. No longer did they hear the cries of pain, no long was there the storm of beams that laid waste to the land. It all just stopped. The trio witnessed the mountain sized titan change form into a relatively smaller form than what they fought against. While Giratina still in their mind sought to kill the creature in front of them, something else beckoned them to leave. It wasn't just the sheer exhaustion and pain that made them leave, but something else they nor their siblings noticed during the fight. As Palkia, Dialga, and Giratina all left for their respective domains to rest and recover, something would fester in all three of them. Unknown to them since the moment they came to fight Eternatus, they had been exposed to a form of energy radiating from the titan's core that begun to mutate, nay... corrupt their bodies. Not only would they be influenced by this intoxicating alien energy, but others would as well as the ripples of space-time during the colossal's desperate attempt to save their life would echo far beyond the immediate area. The giant would once again slumber, their form forever changed.

In another realm far beyond the reaches of the current crisis, Norocier had been going out for a stroll among the trees in a forest in the realm of Umbralus. She was taking this nature walk as a chance to relax from her daily life with her family. Ever grateful to have those she could not only call kin but communicate with in their own way, she did sometimes enjoy a bit of time to now see the wilderness in a new light. No longer was she just another beast out in the wilderness only seeking to survive, but now she was truly living and had been doing so for the better part of the last decade. Finding a nice spot to sit against a tree and allow her mind to contemplate many thoughts, she would eventually find herself dozing off to the sounds of the gentle breeze that snaked through the trees. With her eyes closed and her mind further drifting from consciousness, the Corrian would fall asleep; A nap to relax amongst the foliage before heading back home to her family. But unknown to her now sleeping mind, fate had different plans for her. Having awoken from her sleep, Norocier would realize very quickly something was wrong. The scents of the area were different to anything she ever smelled in Umbralus. As she looked at the sky, the alignment of the stars was not to what she was used to. Not only that, no crystal in sight for as far she can see. Norocier would come to a grave conclusion: she had somehow ended up into another realm while she slept. Perhaps a portal or distortion in space-time caused this to happen. But the matter at hand was not to figure out how she got to this unknown land, but to figure out a way home. Wondering for some time, Norocier would eventually catch the scent of something that caught her attention. While it was a familiar scent, it was one that filled her mind with dread. Upon finding the source, she was beyond all reasonable doubt at what she was looking at: Corriyami.

A general set up for the story. Effectively, Norociir via space-time distortions ends up in a world of strange creatures she has never seen before. Beyond that, she also happens to arrive as this world has been ravaged by the effects of Corriyami that somehow ended up in this world. Likely a result of those space time distortions. While that is an issue, her main problem is getting back home as she has somehow ended up in this alien realm. Eventually, she will come across and fight many of these strange creatures. Some of the ones she faces are those who have fallen victim to Corruption while others have been mutated by it. As she eventually befriends some of these mutated Corrian creatures, Norociir and her pack embark on a journey with several goals: aid those they come across, help her pack as they come to grips with their mutations, and find her a way home. I have more stuff in mind but hopes this gives a good idea of what to expect with blogs regarding this Cryas Chronicles AU story. :)

Art made by @masterartlocked! Give them a big thumbs up for helping make art for this project and just being there for me to throw ideas and get feedback. Thank you Nicole! 🥹

#auranova26 #cryas chronicles #pokemon #explorers of the darkest days #norociir #corriyami #corrian #eternatus #creation trio #au

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auranova26 · 2 years ago

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Hsien-Ko Design Notes and Inspiration

One thing about Cryas Darkstalkers is my desire to not only write and think of the characters differently based on official information and headcanon, but also try to redesign them to fit the world I imagine and their personalities in the mythos. Today, I want to talk about my process and notes regarding the official design of one of the main protagonists of Cryas Darkstalkers: Shao Hsien-Ko!

Compared to her original version, she actually isn't too drastic of a change. Honestly, her original design is already really well done and awesome. However, I had some ideas and thoughts to make her stand out from the original. For the foundation I stuck with the design of her from Vampire Hunter/ Night Warriors: Darkstalkers' Revenge.

If you were not aware, Hsien-Ko basically has two official designs. This version of her and the one from the official art for Darkstalkers Resurrection. I chose the Hunters design as I generally really love the overall idea of the qipao for this version of her. The DSR version goes for a qipao with two flaps, front and back. I am not a fan of that on top of the change to her hat where she has a bell on the top rather than a ball.

Now what about that necklace she wears? Probably the most notable feature of her, I actually do have an inspiration. The idea of the necklace stems from the story 'Monsters and the Secret of Immortality'.

Hsien-Ko's overall design is interesting in that story as she is portrayed as much wilder and psychotic in her demeanor. But I also think aspects of the design are… well too busy. But among the design elements, the necklace caught my eye the most. In Cryas DS, to mirror the… well mirror that Mei-Ling has, Hsien-Ko wears the necklace that her mother wore as a physical memento of her on her journey to save her. The character on her necklace was changed to 邵 (shào), her family name in Cryas Darkstalkers. Now while in the main timeline it is 少 (shǎo), I already was too used to 邵 that I decided to stick with that pronunciation and way the character is written.

The two yellow strings that follow along the side of her breasts and torso were inspired by a piece of art I saw that showed an idea of strings on her qipao, granted they were much smaller elements. I would share the art, but honestly unless it is official art, my art, or art I commissioned, I would rather not share. Even with giving credit, it just wouldn't feel right. However, one piece I will share is this:

The way Casa drew Hsien-Ko here, specifically the way the strings were attached to her qipao were different compared to how I originally did it. I loved the idea and made that official to her.

What about the flower on the flap of her qipao, you may ask? Honestly, I never came across a design that inspired me, it was more so something involving the origins of Hsien-Ko's name in Chinese, 仙姑 (xiāngū). Her name derives from the Xian that is among the pantheon of the Eight Immortals of Chinese mythos, 何仙姑 (hé xiāngū). In tellings of the story, the Xian is said to hold a lotus flower and in general seems to have a strong association with the flower. Because I wanted to still add something more to Hsien-Ko without getting too extremely away from the core of her generally simple design, I thought it would be lovely to add a lotus flower design to her qipao. Not only pretty but tapping more into her Chinese roots. While her old hanfu and dudou have a more traditionally designed lotus flower, the one on her current garb is a more stylized take on the flower, courtesy of Mei-Ling.

Another minor detail, but one I wanted to still bring up. The story 'Lei-Lei (Hsien-Ko) Returns' by Takashi Mibu is another excellent anthology story centering around the Shao sisters. I love the general expressions they draw Hsien-Ko in, really showing off her fangs. But what I wanted to bring up is the trim on her qipao. You can see here that rather than be flat, it is made to have volume. Like a stuffed trim. I liked that and rolled with it.

While initially I somewhat stuck to the general shape of Hsien-Ko's hairstyle in the main timeline, it evolved into something more wild and less rigid. As time went on, while the general idea of her hair fanning out reaching towards the length of her shoulders was still the same, the shape it took on was more claw and fang like. Wild you could say. While not exactly the same, these characters Daisy and Sabrina were ones to sort of plant the seed.

The idea of describing it as wilder, I say I can still somewhat also point to 'Monsters and the Secrets of Immortality's design of Hsien-Ko for that.

Because I genuinely get sick of Hsien-Ko being draw in such small/thin/…. well anime proportioned manner, I wanted to go back to what Vampire Hunter established in official art and her sprites in game: her muscles. Granted, I took it a step further as I altered the general shape of her body to be more muscular and wider build. One could say thicc, I prefer warrior build. I can point to three sources that I think of when I think of her body shape. Kratos from the modern God of War era, a sketch my friend @yourweebmystic made some time ago, and the way an artist who goes by the name Rayluaza draws the character Chi Chi. To show an idea of Rayluaza's way of drawing strong women, I'll share a commission I got from them of my Hsien-Ko. Honestly, Rayluaza did a perfect representation of what I believe for Hsien-Ko in Cryas Darkstalkers in terms of her body shape and build.

That sums it up for Hsien-Ko, but there is more to her than her base state. Let's take a moment to talk about the design elements of another notable power of Hsien-Ko in Cryas Darkstalkers: Xié è De Yōngbào/Dark Embrace.

The Dark Embrace Burst was based on something for one of my OCs in terms of a Burst they have of a similar name: Ebony Embrace. Now that individual is a single person, but Hsien-Ko and Mei-Ling are two people who are closely connected. In essence, like as jiangshis, they are two halves of the idea of this whole Burst. Hsien-Ko is the wild, raw power of it. Her upper clothes tear away only because that is where the shadow attaches to her body when Mei-Ling attaches. The hat vanishes to help accentuate the wild look to her. Seeing her hair full on. The markings? An underlying thing about the Burst is its connection to the substance, Corriyami. Norocier, a Corrian, is a being that was born from the substance. In a way, it is a physical manifestation of those with this kind of Burst would look like if they were Corrian. Now the markings took on different ideas over time. Two sources I can fully acknowledge that helped to steer the course of the markings were these two pieces.

The first is done by the artist tana_taka_3rder and the second is done by my friend @capyguava

A small detail, but still important to me. Initially, Hsien-Ko's eyes in the Burst were more so based on the idea of glowing eyes I saw with the likes of Anti Form and Rage Form Sora.

However, when I saw this art that was made by Alejo, I then went with the idea that their general eye shapes stayed the same. When in most states of mind/ levels of emotion, they had lines to represent their iris. But when sufficiently enraged or in a high state of negative emotion, they disappear to give off a more intimidating appearance.

While art tends to vary between artists about the eye color of Hsien-Ko officially, I stuck with Yellow. I feel the color contrasts well, even compliment her blue skin. Plus if you think about Chinese color theory and beliefs, one of the ideas is that yellow is symbolic with heroism. This is something very prominently used in the Kung Fu Panda series as the main protagonist Po is seen quite a lot with the color yellow. The villain of the first film, Tai Lung, had Yellow eyes. This went well where he felt like a wronged individual. A hero in his own mind. And many scenes with heroic moments or those of triumph feature the color a lot. So honestly, I think it stands Hsien-Ko sticks with that general idea as well due to her Chinese roots.

Oh, I should probably explain the ideas behind Hsien-Ko's human design. So of course I wanted her to look like a Qing woman of the 1730s-1740s since that is the time period she was alive. Skin tone and eye color were for the more typical tones that a Chinese individual could easily have. However compared to Mei-Ling and her mother, she has a bit more melanin to her.

So fun fact, in reality there really wasn't any kind of uniform for a martial artist during those time periods… or even later on in history. They would generally fight in their day clothes. So, while pertaining to the general dress idea of the Qing period, I still wanted Hsien-Ko's clothes to still look comfortable and easy to move around in. The colors scheme just works for her since she has some association with those colors. And even in some sprite art for Hsien-Ko in VHunter, her qipao was red, so a nice nod. As for her hairstyle, that was inspired by the design I saw in the Tetsujin Drama doujin. I think it is a nice contrast to what would become a much wilder hairstyle that grew from her original style.

Hopefully this gives you a good feel for the ideas I had behind redesigning Hsien-Ko. For any artist I credit, please check them out and show love to their art!

#cryas darkstalkers #darkstalkers #hsien ko #shao #chinese #jiangshi #design notes #auranova26 #weeb and alm are super awesome and I love my friends #hsien-ko #I love hsien-ko a lot if you couldnt tell #night warriors #vampire hunter

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auranova26 · 1 year ago

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Fundamentals of Magi Artes and Magic

In Cryas Chronicles (and to an extent Cryas Darkstalkers), magic has been a phenomenon that has prevailed for many eons in countless civilizations across the realms of the universe. Many cultures have described, observed, documented, and spread their own understanding of this peculiar ability that many lifeforms have been able to perform. In the purest understanding, magic is the ability for one to manipulate many forms of energy and the forces in the universe to heed their commands. Some cultures saw this as this work of supernatural forces beyond their understanding while others came to see these abilities with a rational, open mind worth time to study and truly understand. As the eons marched on and people discovered different forms of magic, 'disciplines' or 'elementals' of these artes were understood. While they go by different names, for the sake of you dear reader, here they are in a way you can understand: Fire, Ice, Water, Terra, Lightning, Wind, Dark, Light, Ethereal, Aura, and Astral.

One might be curious as to what these disciplines are. Fortunately, what they are and how they work will be presented

Fire and Ice share the same form of energy that is used to cast these artes: Heat energy. Where the difference lies is how the heat is manipulated. Performing fire artes has the user concentrate heat in whatever manner is desired. Ice meanwhile has the caster move heat away rapidly from an area at a need volume for the desired effect. Many forms of fire artes do take on the look of flames in various shapes and size, but the key feature is being able to concentrate that heat properly. Commonly, ice artes involve freezing particles of vapor and air to create ice crystal of various shapes and size for the need effect, though sometimes just the lack of heat to a certain degree can be more than enough. To a degree, both disciplines are intertwined enough to where some manipulators of heat will learn artes from both elementals.

Water, Terra, and Wind all use the force of gravity in order for the needed artes to be performed. At its basics, these artes require the user to both understand how to manipulate gravity and then the property of the desired substance to then move for the wanted effect. The better their understanding of gravity manipulation, the larger quantity and speed at which the substance can be moved. Due to water, the land, and air being all around for users to use, that is how these elementals got their names despite using the same force. However, there is a big difference between moving liquid particles, solids, and gases around. Practicing this is key to use either water, terra, or wind elemental.

Lightning is an elemental that involves the manipulation of electrical energy. Via this discipline, casters can either cause bolts of the largest and fiercest lightning to the smallest sparks of electricity, or even manipulate magnetic fields for whatever use is wanted.

Dark elemental is a peculiar form of magic that involves the manipulation of energy to vibrate. In essence, the creation of sound waves. While sounds are a constant in the lives of those in the universe, the particular soundwaves crafted by dark magi artes tend to involve inducing emotional response from the victim. Sometimes it can be pleasant or sometimes it can instill dread. It is up to the caster to manipulate sound for what they want.

Light magic is the manipulation of electromagnetic radiation in order cast various artes. While light is something we all see and can perceive, manipulators of light can command the various wavelengths of this energy for many applications. From clusters to concentrated rays of energy, the possibilities are endless.

Ethereal and Aura are an interesting pair of elementals as they use exactly the same energy, and both involve using that energy in the same potential ways. However, where the difference lies is how both source their energy, of which is known as spiritual energy. Spiritual energy exists primarily in a 'soul'. A soul is an extremely condensed cluster of energy that has tightly bonded in a bizarre fashion. Due to this occurrence, the energy that combines into these clusters take on special properties. These properties can potentially allow for the phenomenon intelligent life has come to interpret as a 'conscious'. While this energy is forged in by this occurrence, it doesn't have to just exist in a soul. Should something force the bonds that hold a soul together to break, the spiritual energy can scatter. No longer in its cluster, in time the spiritual energy will eventually convert into other forms of energy. It can last longer if it can inhabit other lifeforms, but in time it will lose its properties and breakdown into other forms of energy. While both elementals are capable of making use of this scattered spiritual energy, the primary draw of their abilities is the ability to maneuver through the bonds of a soul and siphon fractions of the immense well of spiritual energy. The key difference is the soul used: Ethereal draws on using the soul's of others while aura draws from the user's own soul for power. The ethereal elemental can use as many souls as needed, but due to each soul bonding in different ways, their wells to draw from need to be understood before they can cast any ethereal artes. Because an aura caster's soul is innately familiar to them, it is significantly easier to draw from this well. However, improper handling of this flow of spiritual energy can potentially be fatal. Either elemental is capable of numerous feats due to the immense amount of energy but can be dangerous is not properly learned.

Astral elemental is regarded as the oldest discipline of magic. The name of the elemental draws inspiration from the thought that all energy from the dawn of time came into existence due to the birth of stars and the cosmos as a whole. Primordial, raw energy that flows everywhere. In time, this energy and the forces of the universe allowed for the realms that would come to be. When astral artes were figured out and understood better, this allowed others to find their way to other forms of manipulating the forces and energies that exist.

Making use of Magi Artes requires one to train themselves to understand the fundamentals of the chosen elemental's discipline of manipulation. Some are only capable of one elemental; others are capable of many forms. Some individuals are natural gifted to use magic, while others require hours upon hours of training to even begin at a basic level, if they are even capable of doing so. As time marched on, people found a desire to regard certain magi artes into what are known as 'tiers'. The idea is to give people a benchmark idea that artes of a higher tier have much better effects or power, but also require better stamina and skill to even use these magi artes. The tiers of Magi Artes as follow:

Tier 1 = Neophyte

Tier 2 = Intermediate

Tier 3 = Master

Tier 4 = Arcane

Tier 5 = Mystic

Tier 6 = Ultima

Magic Artes require knowledge of the arte, stamina, and the knowledge of the needed amount of energy or force required to manipulate. With practice and experience, casters can use artes of any tier more efficiently so long as they understand their limits and the risks with each elemental. Many magi artes do require the user to be still and focus in order to properly manipulate their elemental of choice, which can be risky depending on the urgency of the situation. With that in mind, some casters found a way around this with the use of Arte Reserves. Inducing a Magi Arte into an object, casters can instantly make use of Magi Artes in situations with practically no time wasted on incantations. However, Arte Reserves are limited and thus users must keep in mind how many are still in stock lest they find themselves in a dangerous situation.

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Consider this a revision of this lore blog here:

I'd rather not completely delete this blog for the purpose of looking back on things and... well cause I don't feel like it. 😅

#auranova26 #cryas chronicles #cryas darkstalkers #lore #worldbuilding #magi artes #arte #magic #energy manipulation #force manipulation #elemental #this will be on the test

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auranova26 · 2 years ago

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These are official ref sheets I have made for Hsien-Ko Shao and Mei-Ling Shao of Cryas Darkstalkers. Very proud to detail not only their full designs, but aspects of their layers of clothing, tidbits about their bodies, and even how they looked when they were young humans! I did quite a lot of research into their looks and designs since they were born in 1730 AD in the Guanzhong region of what is in the modern Shaanxi province in China. That period of time was during the reign of the Qing Dynasty. Hsien-Ko and Mei-Ling are a mix of Han and Manchu.

#darkstalkers #cryas darkstalkers #hsien ko #mei ling #china #vampire savior #jiang shi #han #manchu #shao #auranova26 #hsien-ko #mei-ling

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auranova26 · 2 years ago

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Nǚ Jì Sī and Guì Zi Shǒu

(Credit: @masterartlocked) You may be curious what is with this art and the names? 'Those are Mei-Ling and Hsien-Ko you silly' you might be saying to me. Well, in the lore of Cryas Darkstalkers, there is an interesting turn of events due to following their journey from the beginning. When they first went about their journey, they figured that due to Hsien-Ko's appearance being overtly less human than Mei-Ling, she would need to hide her appearance from the eyes of humans. To do this, Mei-Ling made a cloak for her sister to wear in order to conceal herself in the times they walk through a village. Initially, Hsien-Ko only ventured with Mei-Ling at night to ensure she would not be recognized as being non-human. While a few close calls, they got pretty good at it. This was necessary since they did need to accept jobs of hunting and exterminating the Darkstalkers in order to get information regarding any stories about places of interest in the many vast areas of China.

Slowly over the decades however, an unintended side effect of their exploits would occur. As Mei-Ling was the one being seen and they would retread through places they have been to on many occasions over the decades, people would start noticing this ageless, beautiful mystic. Not only that, but people also realized how she and her hooded companion were effective in their job of ridding their lands of the creatures of the night. With this air of mystery, stories would begin to spread across the roads of this woman being possibly a spirit. More than that.... she could be a Xian. The stories would begin to tell of a Xian whose beauty was said to be unmatched with her elegant face, hair of many lustrous shades of umber, and eyes more brilliant than the finest jade. She was said to have descended from the heavens to finally free the people and Zhōngguó (中國) from the grasps of the demons and monsters that brought suffering and death to their livelihoods. While many names were thrown of this Xian, eventually the name of 女祭司 (Nǚ Jì Sī) would stick. This name of 'priestess' was fitting due to her appearance. Once the sisters started catching on due to hearsay they heard, artwork that began popping up, and even being greeted as such, they had their own reactions to Mei-Ling’s title. While Mei-Ling was incredibly embarrassed and flustered at this effective deification of her (especially with all the myths speaking of her otherworldly beauty), Hsien-Ko found it incredible. She loved the idea that her sister was effectively becoming part of the mythos of different cultures throughout the lands, just like the many mythical beings they learned about in their youth.

The stories didn't stop with Mei-Ling. While her sister was more prominent in these new legends that were unfolding, Hsien-Ko herself would gain titles. The most popular that stuck was 劊子手 (Guì Zi Shǒu), which means ‘executioner’. Due to the fact Mei-Ling did most of the talking, not many people knew what this cloaked individual’s relation to Nǚ Jì Sī was. Some thought they might be a follower, keeping record of the Xian��s many deeds as she traveled the lands ridding the Darkstalker threat. However, due to many stories noticing them dragging a large coffin with them, they believed this individual may actually be quite strong. Some believe they act like an attack dog on a leash, sicked on to the Darkstalkers by Nǚ Jì Sī. The gender of this being has been put into question as not many have heard their voice. However, those who have said it sounded like a woman, full of cheeriness in her tone in one moment and sounding very serious in others. Some wonder if this being is even human. Some believe she may be one that was bestowed great power by Nǚ Jì Sī. Others think she may in fact be a spirit or Xian herself. The more outrageous claims think she may in fact be a demon under the control of Nǚ Jì Sī, repenting for their past transgressions by serving the guardian deity.

When the two learned of this via gossip and art that depicted her (in various ways based on each person’s belief), Hsien-Ko and Mei-Ling had their thoughts. Hsien-Ko thought it was genuinely cool that despite not having her face being shown, she was still effectively becoming a mythical figure, like the being that she obtained her name from. She had a fondness for the title Guì Zi Shǒu. Mei-Ling on the other hand felt some sense of resentment. Considering the spotlight she was receiving despite the fact Hsien-Ko is the one putting in the hard work of defeating the Darkstalkers they faced in their hunts, she felt it was unfair, especially when some artwork depicted her sister as this demon under her control. Part of her wishes she could do something to silence this depiction of her young sister, but Hsien-Ko would calm her sister’s furrowed brow. She explains that if anything, these myths help make their travels easier since humans are more willing to provide aid to a Xian rather than some traveling hunters. And to her, she thinks it is cool that people get creative with these really cool ideas about who she is. She likes the idea of being this powerful enigma to the masses.

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