#because hers is seen as a gift (even if misunderstood and abused)

[pruneunfair]

"My feelings on" part 10: Baby tyrant and how it is the queen of fantasy fufilment.

Hey there, it's been a while since I last did a my feelings on review, today I bring you baby tyrant

Baby tyrant is yet again an isekai story about an abused girl from Korea being pushed off a ledge by her own dad and sent to another dimension as the princess and later empress of the Ermeanu empire. Mabel Gardenia or if we want to get real specific: Mabel Gardenia winter Ermeanu as another one of her last names.

Surpringsly, this wasn't as terrible as I was expecting. Don't get me wrong, it still is pretty mediocre at best and bad at worst and that's not even getting to the.. creepier subjects inolved when it comes to characters and plot armour but it still mostly works because I don't really take it all that seriously. It's clearly meant to be more of a comedy rather than something serious cause one minute they'll be discussions of a potential apocalypse and then next minute it's something wholesome like an outing or Mabel reaching another childhood feat.

Mabel is also surprisingly not so bad either. What makes up for her obivious Mary sue traits is her complete self awareness that everyone around her is absolutely insane. She is fully aware of the fact that her dad, Estevan, clearly favors her to an excessive degree (if you saw my roasting of Estevan post, you'll know why) she questions how the empire has not already fallen to Devlin if they are way too concerned about getting their hands on her old belongings at an auction and she even realizes that her older brother, Oscar, is a neglected child put under way too much pressure for a six year old.

However, there are many problems that I wouldn't just call bad but full on creepy..

Mabel, despite being known as a baby, is still a 20 year old woman in a babies body. They mention this quite a bit in the earlier chapters and it plays into Mabels personality of being mature and cynical for someone her age but then she just.. randomly starts thinking like a baby? For example, when Estevan forbids boys ages 5-15 from entering the palace, Mabel thinks that this includes her brother which is of course not the case. She starts thinking of Estevan as "Daddy" and overall starts to regress mentally despite the fact that we are still supposed to believe she's mentally 20?

And then there are the love interests. We got the likely male lead based on novel art I've seen: The dark and misunderstood Aidan, and the blonde second ML who appreciates Mabel for being there for him: Enrique.

I don't like either of these relationships and let me tell you why. It's creepy both ways because these boys are around 6-8 years old and Mabel is of course, a baby. To give you an idea, in a later chapters when she is 9, Aidan already looks to be a teenager.

So on one side, we got massive age gaps when the characters meet which only gives off weird grooming implications and on the other side, you got the disturbing realization that Mabel is mentally 20 years old and a bunch of young boys are paired up as her love interests...

So yeah, creepy on both sides.

The overpowered baby

So besides the obvious creepy factor: What makes Baby tyrant only good for a comedy you shouldn't take to seriously?

Well, because I'm pretty sure Mabel is the baby Jesus of this world.

She can speak to animals

She can command the weather

She can HEAL people

She absorbs a rock that makes her even more powerful, she has a guardian deity which is like a yellow cat-like Pokémon thing? Owns multiple kingdoms and territories her dad gave to her as gifts, considered a holy figure in a neighboring holy empire called Abelardo and established some hidden alliance with the pope/emperor of that empire. She's literally destined to stop the god damn world from ending and I think I made my my point when I say that Mabel has the most things falling her way.

Hell, everyone save for antagonists also love her, even her brothers mom who is described as strict and expects a lot from her son.

Damn 😭 even Oscar's mom likes his sister more than him.

To be fair this could be because Mabel isn't Pycificas daughter so she has no right to boss her around but STILL! Maybe it's different in the novel too but I'm just going by what I got from the manhwa.

So yeah, this story easily is the queen of all fantasy fufilment.

Keep in mind I'm not saying it's bad to indulge in fantasy fufilment, I just don't think I'll ever see it as something I'm supposed to treat as a serious story.

Conclusion: Baby tyrant has a lot of potential. Instead of Mabel having the mind of an adult, have it kinda like Stewie Griffin. She can be a smart but grumpy baby who thinks of everyone else as an idiot while still having moments of childish innocence since she's still a baby after all which will explain why she starts thinking of Estevan as "Daddy" without being too weird and explain her lack of critical thinking.

keep it less creepy by just.. not making Aidan and Enrique love interests and instead let them be more of new big brother types.

And these are just if you plan on keeping Baby tyrant as a comedy.

[kikitata2]

I feel like I should’ve started talking about this much earlier when I first started to obsessively post about the 2024 remake of Nosferatu. But it’s something that I feel like I needed more time to think about and process it. Even then, I’m not sure if my thoughts here will be thoroughly developed, so perhaps I’ll do a follow up to this post if I feel like I’ll have more to expand on with what I say here.

I’m going to be discussing about my own jumbled and currently unorganised thoughts in relation to the dynamic between Ellen and Orlok as portrayed in the 2024 version. But I do want to state that much of what I’ll say here is just my own personal interpretation and what I got out of it. I do understand that others will have a different take on it, which I think is absolutely fine. If I do get something wrong about certain details, please don’t be afraid to correct me in the comments or reblogs.

I feel, however, that what I will say here is perhaps not as clear or well-thought out as I want it to be. So I hope that me writing down my initial perceptions and interpretations will give me some leeway into following up on it with more clarity soon.

With that aside, let’s get into it.

———————

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Whenever I think about the connection between Count Orlok and Ellen Hutter, a certain thought keeps on popping up in my mind - which became more prominent after my second viewing of the remake at the cinemas. I couldn’t help but keep on thinking how “just because someone may have a better understanding of what you yearn and desire for (as well as all the deeper parts of you that others may not properly understand), it doesn’t mean that it’s a good thing”. And for me, I think that thought served as the basis of what I ended up taking out of the portrayal of Ellen’s connection to Orlok.

I personally feel that between the two (and which I think the film makes this obvious in terms of general/surface-level reading), love is practically impossible for them - mainly due to the abusive and coercive ways that Orlok goes about with the way he tries to get Ellen to submit to him. And though there is perhaps some kind of genuine carnal desire and lust between the two, it didn’t guarantee for me that they were “meant for each other”, in a way. Like for me, I couldn’t really gloss over that. This was definitely made more concrete as a result of my second viewing (no offence and disrespect, Ellen x Orlok enthusiasts).

However, I’m aware that this is me reading into the dynamic of the two based off of what’s made obvious - the Text, in other words. With a film like this, there’s definitely going to be way more to unpack and to take in than what appears on the surface - which is where the Subtext is taken to account. From what I’ve seen in other people’s personal analyses of the movie, there’s a lot to discuss in terms of repression of desire and sexuality (especially in the context of Victorian women and the societal climate of that time period), as well as other themes that others have pointed out that I haven’t mentioned or have forgotten about.

But what stuck out to me a lot was when I saw someone else’s tumblr post discussing something in regards to validation in terms of Ellen and Orlok’s dynamic (which I honestly wished I remember which tumblr user it was because I think some of the points made in their post made a lot of sense). I sort of forgot what it was specifically that much of the post said, but I do remember how it made me feel more haunted by the connection between Ellen and Orlok.

Which I think makes things more sad and tragic in terms of how it all started for Ellen:

Being a lonely teenager, calling out to whoever and whatever to ease her loneliness and sorrow

and then the universe responding by gifting her a monstrous being who both sees and understands all the parts of her that almost everyone around her has shunned and misunderstood, whilst also bringing great trauma to her that haunts her all the way to her adulthood.

It’s scary when the person that ‘validates’ all the repressed parts of yourself is also the person that traumatises (or at the very least, hurts) you.

Orlok sees, knows, and exactly understands Ellen’s repressed lust and desires, which is what makes the way he pursues after her feel more daunting the more I reflect back on this film - he not only violates her, but puts the lives of those she’s close to (Thomas, as a notable example) in heavy danger. All of that, just to satiate his own appetite and lust for her. And yet that undeniable lustful pull between the two exists; it’s a very real thing between them both, even if it’s not healthy and good at all (especially for Ellen, who blatantly expresses the pain and shame she feels with how parasitic and toxic it is).

Now there’s obviously way more to take into account of in terms of how the two could be interpreted way beyond what I just said here. Plus, I feel that I can’t just box up Ellen as being solely a victimised individual, and nor can I reduce Orlok into solely being an abusive figure - whilst those aspects are definitely one of the core parts that make up both their characterisations, it’s not the only thing that exists about them. Again, there’s so much more ground for me to explore in terms of what I have taken in with regard to how these two are portrayed in this remake of Nosferatu.

Now I would’ve ended this post here, but there’s some more that I have to say - especially in regards to how weirdly…personal it got into making this post.

With Orlok and Ellen’s dynamic, it was something that I did often think about whenever I began to reflect back on my general experiences, but never would have thought that it would ever end up feeling personal to me. But as I was thinking much more about it whilst writing this, that’s when it started feeling like I was looking down at shards of a broken mirror - in each piece, held a clear-as-day reflection that gazed back at me.

Their dynamic started to remind me of certain aspects of my life that I will not delve into heavy detail about, but let’s just say it was quite intimidating (and eventually became saddening) at first when my mind began to see elements of those aspects within the way Orlok and Ellen’s dynamic was portrayed here. And it definitely put into more perspective as to why I saw this Nosferatu remake in the ways that I do (and definitely made me feel even more scared and shameful of the divisive and super problematic attraction my brain had developed towards Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Count Orlok). But perhaps that’s what this film is meant to do - create a kind of dissonance between me recognising the horror in what unfolds whilst also feeling the undeniable dark perverse eroticism in it.

It ended up making this post somewhat more challenging to write out than I was anticipating. But I guess that’s what just makes Nosferatu (2024) so impactful for me, even if what I expressed here isn’t enough to truly convey what this film holds.

I hope this post made sense, but admittedly I feel that it’s quite rambling, maybe lacking backbone, possibly misunderstanding some things, and all-over-the-place. Again, I may make a follow-up to this when I feel like the things I have to say are a lot more concrete.

[zalrb]

I have been seeing a lot of discourse on whether nosferatu is a “horny monster-fucker movie” or a harrowing story of abuse, and I think it’s a bit of both, but I lean much more toward the latter.

A lot of people have read it as an allegory for CSA and I think that fits. I get why survivors have said they felt seen by Ellen’s character. the combined fear/horror/disgust, longing/lust, and shame she feels wrt orlock seems very in line with what a survivor might feel for their abuser. I also think LRD portrayed those emotions well. I am not sure how I feel about Thomas making her fits go away or her sacrificing herself at the end tho. Do you think this allegory was intended and do you think the movie does it well?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

So. While I understand why there would be that reading re: an allegory for CSA, I do not think that reading of the relationship and of the movie was what Eggers was going for. This interview with the cast has been circulating

where LRD doesn't consider her character a victim and points out different parts of the movie, the most telling is in the beginning when she tries to initiate sex with Thomas and is rebuffed, that indicates that this is a story of yearning and repressed sexuality and this led me to read an interview with Eggers in which he says:

"She's an outsider. She has this understanding about the shadow side of life that is very deep, but she doesn't have language for that. She's totally misunderstood and no one can see her," he says. "Because of this gift, in her teenage years, she ends up reaching out to this demon lover, this vampire, who is the one being who can connect with that side of her. But then that other, sensual, erotic world is connected to this evil force, which only increases her shame."

and that's reiterated throughout the movie: "you are not of the living world", her possessions/sleepwalking in the beginning have an erotic undertone (and overtone) she keeps asking questions about whether or not people feel these dark emotions that she feels and they simply re-emphasize God and propriety etc. when she's called a child in the movie, I think it's a way to indicate that they don't see her as a woman with agency, so while the story is about a toxic romance (Orlok does kill everyone around her after all) I don't think it's meant to be a story about abuse, I think it's meant to be a story about battling aspects of your nature you don't understand or necessarily want, the professor even says there's evil in all of us and she has to know hers in order to triumph over Orlok and Ellen dying is her know that, succumbing to her own appetite but it's also a sacrifice and therefore good triumphing over evil.

[olderthannetfic]

I've just read an article (in Gazeta Wyborcza) about a very popular series of books among young teens in my country, Poland, called "Rodzina Monet" (Family Monet). The author gained popularity while publishing on Wattpad lol. The article basically said that it's problematic because these books are read by young girls, even 10 years old, and it glorifies violence. Plus it just isn't well written - there were some fragments in the article and yeah it's not well written lmao. A woman in the comments said that her daughter is reading this book and asked if she should forbid it. Since no one answered her, I replied that I don't think forbidding the book is a good solution and suggested talking to her daughter about it, showing her the article and asking what she thinks about it. But I don't know anything more about that situation, for example how old the daughter is. I don't think I'd worry if my child were to read this book, I read trashy stuff too. But I started wondering if maybe there should be some control in such a case? The thing with the books from what I gathered (I haven't read them) is that they are about a 14yo girl, who suddenly lost her mother and grandmother, is sent away to US from Britain where she starts living with her 28yo (handsome) stepbrother and his 3 (also handsome) brothers. She lives in a beautiful villa since the stepbrother is super rich. He's also cold and distant and doesn't understand that she has issues with food (she has some kind of eating disorder). Some of the things he and his 3 brothers do can be described as domestic violence but they apologize, buy her expensive stuff and are all adult handsome men. Yeah it's a young adult fiction. The thing is that it's just not well written so none of the bad behaviours is commented upon.

--

Sounds like typical godawful id trash that people eat up. Making a rule against it will just make it more tantalizing.

It would be far more valuable to kick any worthless partners out of one's life and demonstrate not putting up with shit to a tween girl than to ban her from reading trashy books.

One could always try buying her something better, but IME, people who try that always do it wrong: they buy books that are better written, yes, but the vocabulary and sentence structure are a thousand times harder, there's zero iddy wish fulfillment, and the plot is something fucking depressing and supposedly edifying.

Readers can smell a tryhard "your taste is bad" gift a mile away.

I think it's also important when trying to find replacement trash to understand what the kink actually is. Why is it age gap? Well, have you seen 14-year-olds? They're awkward and covered in zits. Of course the protagonist is young like the readers and the hotties are older.

More importantly, why is it abusive? Absolute idiots will be like "Because society taught girls wah wah wah wah wah", but the actual reason is obvious if you've read trash romance for adults:

It's so the love interest(s) can be in the wrong.

The self inserty protagonist of this type of story has very little power. Not only is she usually younger, but she's poorer, a fish out of water in a new situation, etc. The way she gets power is by the love interest doing something absolutely horrible, realizing they have erred, and then groveling forever. Their guilt is an effective way to manipulate them. And yes, retail therapy is usually the next step from this particular trash classic all the way back to The Flame and the Flower.

You can try giving a teen girl a book about a teen girl action hero who is awesome and whose love interest likes her because of that... But if the reader doesn't feel awesome, she's still going to prefer a book about a loser with a destined, fated love or a misunderstood woobie whom other characters have to grovel to after not initially realizing she was special.

You can't fix self esteem by handing someone a book they don't identify with and telling them their id is wrong. And if self esteem does improve, that doesn't mean the lizard brain is going to switch trash fiction tastes anyway.

One can try leaving other fun books around, but that's about the most that could be helpful.

[dolliswurld]

Am I holding onto middle school regret ? Or highschool angst ?

Recently, my therapist asked me why I refuse to tell people that they suck the energy out of me. Why do I constantly forgo setting boundaries with my friends and family? Well as much as I want to say I have no idea, a little part of me knows where it started. I told her that I have never had an actual genuine friendship without having to compromise my own integrity while also bowing and shutting up to make sure I am appeasing my overlords (my "friends"). From a young age I learned that I will ALWAYS been seen as some form of a bad guy in my life. I am not a bad person, but like all humans I can be morally gray. But that isnt what I experience, I dont get in trouble for doing something wrong, I get in trouble for being a black woman. I am not able to be happy and bubbly because I am darkskin and I am not allowed to be good at anything because I am supposed to be a steorotype.

I have had teachers tell me that I am bullying my bullies, that I take abuse and blow it up. For a while I had to even defend my right to vent, I had to defend myself for seeking advice and community while everyone bitched to me about how I am so wrong. I have had people I trusted betray me by going along with masses.

But I suppose thats life?

It hurts to feel othered, to feel like your consistently being misunderstood. Ill tell you a story, so you can maybe understand me and maybe understand why I refuse to set boundaries, maybe this will give me some insight.

I met this person who we will call Dirty for now, as much as I hate this person I wont put their name out there. Dirty and I started off trying to be in a friends with benefits kind of way, but during that time, I knew what I wanted and it wasnt them. They honestly were a terrible person, someone so deeply insecure that they would lash out and rage whenever they perceived you as "being disrespectful". Now I have been insecure before and my philosophy is to help your neighbor, I cant do the work for you but I sure can be a shoulder to cry on. They took advantage of this.

I am the first to admit I am a broke college student who couldnt keep a job, and I told them this constantly but they insisted on paying for me, "because thats what friends do." It was kinda a insecurity at the time for me considering that I had just come out of a friendship where I was being put down for being broke, and I absolutely hated it ! In October I decided I wanted to go out and have fun, my "bestfriend" was being weird and I didnt want to think about him or his bullshit ever again, so I made my own plans as a means to seperate myself from him. I called Dirty and they also had a friend who wanted to come to the city and party. We shall call this friend Bug. Bug and I shared the same sign and got along fine, she seemed to really adore me.

But Bug--like Dirty--was extremely weird around my girlfriend. They both constantly sexualized her, shes a stud (a masc presenting black woman), shes 6' and very beautiful. She told them this made her uncomfortable, but they never stopped. Instead they tried to make it seem like they were just trying to be her very good friend. Bug would buy her expensive gifts , like weed and pokemon plushies and pretend to be interested in her life. Bug wanted to fuck my girlfriend and Dirty wanted to be loved like I was.

Dirty wanted to be feminine, but they werent tapped into that side of them. Their partner seemed disinterested in them, and I think seeing me and my girlfriend be happy and in actual love made them jealous. I dont want to toot my own horn but neither of them were prettier than me, hell they both looked run down from life. I took pride in my appearance, I still do! I worked hard to lose the weight, learn how to do makeup and keep up with myself in order to maintain my looks. I dont do it for anyone else but myself and thats what they never got.

They were extremely jealous and overtime they let their insecurities take over, I was being watched and then judged by people who wanted parts of me they couldnt have. A joke I would make would turn into a think piece on how I am so terrible--even though the same joke would get a laugh from other people. Their favorite thing to do was ignore me until I started talking about my girlfriend, and keep me trapped like a prisoner on boring facetime calls.

It all came to ahead when I tried to plan a group trip to my home country. I was excited to share this part of my culture with them, Dirty-- as always --seemed disinterested. Bug seemed excited and I tried to get everyone just as hyped. Dirty, instead of telling me that they didnt want to go, chose to me bitchy and nasty instead.

I called them out on this, we had before established a relationship where they told me about myself, so I thought that we had that kind of relationship. They told me when I was doing too much so I could tell them the same ? Specifically I told them they were being bitchy and bratty and if they didnt want to go thats totally fine but the least they could do is not be mean. All hell broke fucking lose. They literally sat there antagonizing me, calling me out my name and saying I was so childish, (their favorite thing to say to me because Im two years younger than their old ass), and they kept bring up my financial situation.

Mind you, I didnt say anything comparable. All I said while I was being accosted was that no one wanted to go to fucking texas for spring break and that they were doing too much, while they were telling me that I shouldnt even be talking cause I am not putting money in. They told me I wanted to run the trip when all I was doing was giving out suggestions. No one, not even my girlfriend was on my side. Bug kept telling me I was wrong because I called them bitchy and bratty but never told Dirty how what they said was even worse. My girlfriend just went along with the crowd, which in my head was the ultimate betrayal.

All of this was so unnecessary. After that, as I always do, I stayed friends with them but kept my distance. They didnt like my boundaries and continuously disrespected them. I voiced this and they just kept talking behind my back, and testing my boundaries. I just got sick of it after a while. Finally Dirty's partner (DP because theyre so irrelevant that they dont deserve a alias) decided to send my girlfriend this long paragraph about how childish we are(I hate this argument, you bitches arent that old and wise and have the thought process of a tiktok comment section.) I completely blew up and cut them all off.

This is all to say that I honestly hate how I pick friends, I hate how people pick and choose who they want to favor and how thats never me. I'm not evil and I try my best to be good to everyone but still I am made to feel like I am the worse.

Honestly, Im so confused. I hate being so confused and it makes me over critique myself. I dont know.

Thats all- A very confused Yodibear.

[makibeni]

Ch. 7 -Someone Waiting for You

Kobeni's hands were wrapped around her drink, locked in a half committed motion, unwilling to bring it to her lips or simply let it go, she stared at the pale white foam. Things weren't going how she'd hoped, she wanted more time to prepare for this but before she had a moment to think Makima had already grabbed her by the hand and pulled her out of her comfort zone. If Kobeni's willpower hadn't have been worn away by walking up to and conversing with her coworkers three separate times that day she may have had just enough left over to sheepishly eek out a vague, non committal rejection. But instead she was here, in a bar after work with Makima, and just Makima, wracking her brain trying to think of what to say to her. It was frustrating, normally she was able to get into a comfortable rhythm with Makima, words seem to flow so naturally between them, it felt like dancing with someone she trusted completely, able to dive with confidence, knowing she'd be swept up and back on her feet. But this was different somehow, she was trying to force herself to speak, to say things without certainty, every breath choked with anxiety, coming out a stumbled, half formed mumble, each failed attempt making the next one seem all the more insurmountable. She didn't want to let this opportunity slip away from her, she had to do something.

"U-um~..."

She tried to meet Makima with her eyes but fell short, barely able to raise her head before feeling the heavy hand of shame push her back down. Was she really this pathetic? Unable to even stammer out a word anymore? She squeezed her fists in a frustrated bout of self directed anger and pouted her lips. Kobeni readied herself for the torrent of abuse her mind was no doubt ready to hurl at her, deservedly so, she thought.

Her eyes went wide and she let out a soft gasp as she felt Makima's hand softly cover her balled up fist reassuringly, a comforting gift of encouragement. It gave Kobeni enough to push past her apprehensions and lock eyes with Makima, who looked back at her with the warmest and most loving smile she'd ever seen. Unable to contain the overflowing tide of emotions, Kobeni's eyes welled up, the dim yellow lights in the bar reflecting through the tears made it seem like a heavenly aura was radiating from Makima, her very own guardian angel. Suddenly she didn't feel that pressure anymore, she finally had someone to help her lift the crushing weight of her worries off her back, someone willing to listen, wanting to help her. What did she do to deserve such kindness?

"I-I'm really sorry m-miss Makima, I wanted to f-find out what kinds of things you l-liked so I could take you s-somewhere you'd have a good t-time, b-but I c... c-couldn't figure out the right words to say or w-what to ask and I was s-s-scared I'd somehow r-ruin things a~and..."

Kobeni swallowed the lump in her throat, hoping that final staggered push had been enough because it was all she had left.

"I see..."

Makima placed her hands under her chin and tilted her head to the side.

"But you really didn't have to go to all that trouble..."

She froze at Makima's words, had she misunderstood her intentions? Did she work herself through all that just to make an even bigger fool of herself?

Then, Makima grabbed Kobeni's hand with both of hers and pulled it close to herself. A few stray tears had escaped Kobeni's eyes and rolled down her cheeks, reflecting in Makima's rippled eyes like twinkling starlight.

"When I said I wanted you to take me somewhere I'd enjoy myself, I simply wanted you to take me somewhere we could spend more time together, the thing I enjoy is being around you"

Kobeni could feel her heart stop when she heard those words, it was something she wanted to hear for so long she didn't even realize it anymore, no, more than that, it was something she needed to hear. Having worn herself out, and feeling like she'd finally found someone who wanted to understand her, Kobeni couldn't contain herself anymore.

"T-than... hank y-yu... s-oh m... m..."

Makima walked over to Kobeni's side of the table and swaddled her with her coat, rubbing comforting circles on her back with one hand and holding onto Kobeni's hand with the other.

"Take as long as you need, I'll be right here for you"

Kobeni wanted to ask why, why was she being so nice to her, so caring, so much more loving than anyone had ever been to her before, but at this point she was truly depleted. Tears streamed down her face as all her pent up emotions came pouring out, and with each pained sob she could feel a weight slowly lifting off her shoulders. She knew that for once, at the end of this long and agonizing road, she'd finally have someone waiting for her.

[burnwater13]

If his “attachment…makes him vulnerable to his fears” then what happens when you have no attachments? Grogu wanted to ask Ahsoka Tano that question. He also wanted to know how she could tell the difference between pain and fear? He knew the pain of loss. The pain of despair. The pain of loneliness. The pain of isolation. But fear? Nope. Grogu was not afraid.

He had a very healthy respect for the fact that he was not the most powerful person in the galaxy. Far from it. He was small. He was misunderstood. He was alone. He had been alone. But when the Mandalorian found him he hadn’t been afraid. He had been curious. Who was willing to risk anything to find him? Why did he matter to a person like that? 

Grogu knew that he could only do what he could do. He didn’t want more power. He wanted more grace. He wanted more kindness. He wanted more friendship. He wanted more love. But only those who lament their lack of power have fear. She could have asked her Master. He was filled with fear and tried everything to gain the power that he thought would help him. 

But power doesn’t lessen fear. It makes it greater, until it overwhelms you. Because you never learn to accept that everyone is limited in some way. Even the Force had limits. It could not create love. It could not stop time. It wasn’t a cure all. Despite the lies every Sith told every other Sith.

Grogu had spent far too much of his life without attachments. Look where it had gotten him! He’d been threatened, kidnapped, abused, and stolen. He’d been traded for power or credits and it always ended in tears. Not his tears mind you but the tears of the people who thought he was somehow a solution to their problems. 

How could he be? Their problems could only be solved when they realized that this moment, right now, this one, was the only moment that mattered. Were they happy right now? Could they smile right now? Could they laugh right now? Could they even appreciated the beauty and vastness of the galaxy that surrounded them and had been gifted to them, right now?  Could they look at another living thing and just be grateful that it existed with them, right now?

Sure, Grogu was attached to the Mandalorian. He was glad the Bounty Hunter had seen something in him and had changed both of their paths for the better. Din Djarin had appreciated that life is short and time is precious and they had this moment to enjoy it and enjoy it they would. And perhaps when Ahsoka had someone in her life who would do the same for her, then she would understand. Attachment gave Grogu hope, not fear. Never fear.

[osir-ethria]

.... Debating on whether or not I should do something other than the Schneeblings...

Well here’s another thing about them anyway.

Whitley loves fashion and designing with a much more creative aspect to clothing. Jacques however found out and called it far to feminine and that he should be focusing business and other things (minus fighting).

Winter would always let Whitley choose the dress she would wear to business meeting with Jacques and tell him about the guests reactions and how many compliments she got because of his choice. She did this in the form of a letter that Klein would hand Whitley because if she was seen anywhere near Whitley he would be reprimanded by their father. She’d first give him a list on what the event was about, how she was to be represented, and if Jacques was there to enjoy himself a little or purely just business.

This helped Whitley with his look when he went out on formal events and got to choose. (This is me saying please change his outfit for once. Maybe inspired by Weiss?)

Even though Winter never directly told Weiss but Whitley was the one who designed her outfits minus the Volume 7 one... I’d have to say Weiss looks good but like, the pounds of hair in that braid is unnecessary. She has a lot of hair but why make it not proportional to the rest of the head. Other than that she actually picked up a few things from Whitley just by studying what she’s been wearing.

After the half of the group that got to Vacuo arrives at the main kingdom they need new gear. The Atlas gear is going to give them a heat stroke. They are trying to decide what to do and they see an obviously emotionally unavailable Winter write a few things down, hand it to Whitley, and tells him to go all out.

Later she explains the whole fashion thing with them and tells them that if they’d trust him with their outfit designs to just list necessities, color schemes, any requirements that’ll help with how they fight, and what style of clothing they are comfortable or uncomfortable with. When Whitley receives these papers from the group he starts crying, they aren’t seeing it as weird and actually trust him with it. Remember, Jacques hated this side of Whitley.

Whitley works with Pietro to design the new gear and everyone loves it. Comfortable, looks good, and does its job. I also remember that the Schnee dust company doesn’t only have dust mines in Atlas even though it was the majority, there are some all over Remnent. (This is from the World of Remnent episode Rooster Teeth did about the Schnee Dust Company.) The Schnees however stay with the refugees instead of going somewhere else so they can help them. They also have enough money to help provide for the refugees like buying tents, getting food and water, and any other necessity. Whitley gets a good feeling from helping and not keeping it all to himself.

Whitley better ask Winter to train him or Winter forcefully teaches him because she can’t handle losing another sibling. This is just with a sword he hasn’t gotten his semblance yet.

He’s smarter than a lot think he should be, the only thing that’s stopping him from being a huntsman is how young he is, like I would prefer if he was around Oscar’s age, and he’s not of the physical or aura capability of a huntsman. You could argue Jaune was like that but Jaune was of the age to go to beacon, had a weapon, and was physically fit to the point he could play it off as maybe going to the school. The only thing he was lacking was skill which was remedied by Pyrrha.

Whitley hasn’t had any of that but I wouldn’t doubt that he’d be a good fit. I can imagine him trying to use his left hand but it doesn’t work out so he forces himself to switch and it works but he wanted to use his left hand for that. He’s not as nimble as Weiss but more so than Winter so he’s slowly forming into a mix. Best part would be he keeps his sarcastic attitude and teasing only being serious in serious situations.

I think all Schnees are brutally honest with everything but understand and feel bad when they hurt someone who hasn’t done anything bad to them or has gotten on their nerves. If they are misunderstood for what they say and they know it wouldn’t be easy to understand said topic they go soft and attempt to explain, Winter and Penny at the Schnee manor in Vol 7.

I also like to think that each of them are slightly gifted in the others area of art. Whitley is better with design, art, and visual concepts.

Weiss is better musical and hearing as well as being able to take quickly to anything she was forced to learn by Jacques or genuinely wanted to know. Weiss and Whitley also share common interest in design from a mathematical stand point because it gets their motors going which was derived from Jacques trying to control them and force how they think, what they do, and what’s going on.

Winter is more about art through movement. She taught Weiss how to dance and is probably the only person who could stand a chance against Yang with Martial Arts. With her being the most controlling of her emotions she could easily do acting which she was forced to do while in school before Atlas Academy.

Whitley learnt how to play the piano from Weiss with videos Klein recorded where Weiss explained how to play. This was an assignment by Jacques to prove she was practicing but Whitley caught them once and asked Klein if he could see the videos. Jacques thought he had the natural talent for the piano, nah he just practiced a lot with Weiss’s help.

Winter hasn’t listened to any of Weiss’ personal songs. By personal I mean the RWBY soundtracks. I head canon that those songs are Weiss describing their journey and how she believes their friends, enemies, and family feels.

I like the idea that Weiss’s songs were used as protest. Now Winter has heard a few she just never put two and two together that that was Weiss singing since she always had a soft pitched opera voice. Well not until she heard someone in the refugee camp blast This Life Is Mine which included the more opera segment. That broke Winter. The idea was on a head canon post but I forgot the name and I’ve liked to many posts to the point I doubt I’ll find it.

Whitley got two copies of Weiss’s songs, using a bit of money for himself and Winter there, and as a bonding activity between them and if they ever feel stressed listen to her music and voice. This is how Whitley realized that Jacques had been lying to him about his sisters just abandoning him and not caring for him at all that they left him, but rather Jacques pulled him away from Winter to ensure he wouldn’t end up like Weiss. This Life Is Mine hits close to Whitley as for Winter as much as she agrees with Whitley that it hits close she knows that Weiss’s song Path to Isolation hits more for her.

Weiss had managed to submit War, Until The End, and Fear to the people who published her songs before everything the evacuation using Pietro. Pietro questioned why and she just gave a quick summary, not explaining everything but just enough. Those publishers got though the portals and with the help of Whitley and the Schnee money got Weiss’s ‘final’ track out.

The songs are played everyday which was new for the Atlesians that survived compared to the survivors in Mantle. No one expected Weiss to be so defiant and see how abusive Jacques was to her and which they can assume the rest of the family. How they weren’t picture perfect.

......... I should stop now. Written to much again. I’ll most likely try to find the post with the idea that Weiss’s song were used as songs of retaliation in Mantle. If I do I’m going to reboot it so here me go, deep diving.

[lucisfavoritedemon]

Teen Reader x Avengers x Deadpool

Reader is in a teen version of the icebox because they got caught stealing with their powers (orphaned). The reader has masterd their Teleportation, telekinesis, and healing abilities. When Wade and Russell comes to the prison they start a start a prison riot/escape with the reader. (Think Black ops 1) The reader decides to finally escape the Icebox by starting a prison riot/escape. The reader then escapes they change their clothes and then hop a train going to Denver. The reader gets a job on a farm. Years later the Avengers decide to come on the farm the r is working on, undercover (disguise) to each "buy a horse." However, their plan fails and all of them gets into a fight with the r. The r loses but they join the Avengers with their powers 

Pairing: Teen reader x Avengers x Deadpool (platonic of course)

Warnings: angst, violence, anxiety, cute connection with animals

Word Count: 1398

A/N: requested by @lunchawx. I hope this is what you were looking for. I haven't seen Deadpool in a while so I'm a little rusty in writing the character, but I hope you like it. Sorry it's also so short. All mistakes are mine.

Enjoy!

I sat in my cell wondering how I even got here. Oh wait, it was because I decided to go against my gut feeling, and my friend’s advice, and used my abilities to steal. I just wanted to prove that I wasn’t just some silly, no good orphan. Turns out that’s all I might ever be to society. Now I’m sitting in a high security cell, and bored out of my mind. 

I thought it was going to be a normal day where I would be let out of my cell to eat then go right back inside. That was till I met these two guys, they talked to me while I ate, telling me of a plan to break out of there.

“Alright, I’m listening.”

“I’m Wade by the way, and this is Russell.” One of the men said.

“I’m Y/n.”

They went over the plan, and I knew it was full proof. They had no idea who they were talking to. I guess the guards underestimated me, and my abilities. The plan was in place, all we had to do was execute it.

The next few days went by as normal. I ate my first meal in my cell, and lunch was with the other inmates. I hung around Wade and Russell while I was out of my cell every chance I got. The guards didn’t think twice about my quick connection to these two new inmates. 

Last meal I ate was always in my cell by choice, but on the day we decided to execute the plan I told the guard that I wanted to eat with the other inmates. He allowed it, and didn’t question me. Little did he know what would soon go down. 

I sat with Wade and Russell like I did at lunch time. This time though, they started a fight with another inmate. Russell continued to fight the others, and Wade turned to me nodding for me to get away as all the guards on duty came running to stop the fighting. I ran as fast as I could. I ran to a closet where the extra guard uniforms were kept. I took one, though I knew it probably would fit properly, but I had to get out somehow. 

I kept walking, and headed for the exit of the prison. A guard started to walk up to me asking for my identification due to the riot going on in the mess hall. I read his mind to find a guard who I knew usually got off duty around this time. I then corrupted his thoughts into thinking that I was this guard, and he let me through. 

I walked out, and immediately headed for the train station. I picked the first train out and saw that the next train was leaving in 10 minutes for Denver. I hopped on and was on my way to Colorado. 

As soon as I got to Colorado, I asked around to see who would be willing to hire a 17 year old. One person was very helpful and told me about a very nice farm on the plains that was looking for help. I hitchhiked my way out of the city and headed to the plains to find this farm.

“I want to see how well you work with the animals first before we discuss anything further.” The farmer stated.

I completely understood that. He didn’t want someone who was going to hurt his animals, he wanted someone who was in it for more than just the money. I walked up to one of the more wild horses, according to the farmer, I put my hand out, sending the horse a calming feeling. It let me touch it, and pet it. This astonished the farmer.

“I have yet to be able to lay a finger on him. He came from an abuse case that animal control brought to me.”

I smiled as I kept petting him, “he’s very sweet. He’s just scared that people will hurt him again.”

“You can tell that just by touching him?”

“I can read his body language too, but yeah. He is just scared. That’s all.”

The farmer smiled at me, “you have a real gift. You’re hired. I’ll show you to your room.”

~*~

It’s been almost 4 years since I started working here. I have helped rehabilitate and rehome almost 100 horses, and each month we get more and more. Today I had a whole group of people coming by to look at the new rehabilitated horses. I was sad to see that the horse, Hades, that got me the job in the first place was part of the group of horses being looked at.

I was brushing him out when a couple of cars drove up to the property. I just kept working as the farmer showed them around. The group consisted of five males and one female which I found oddly strange, but I didn’t question it. Then came time for them to look at the horses.

“Y/n here will show you the best candidates, but I’ll start with Hades here. He was a very abused horse brought here four years ago from an abuse/hoarding case. Y/n here has been working really hard on getting him to warm up to people.” The farmer spoke, before leaving me to introduce the rest of the horses.

“Hades is a special horse to me. He is the reason I am here, and not in the prison system. He’s a good horse, but misunderstood.”

“Kind of like you huh?” A tall, muscular, short blond haired man spoke up.

“I guess.”

Hades suddenly rears up in fear, but also as a warning. He knew these people weren’t really here to buy horses. They were looking for me. I shoved them all away with my powers and hopped on Hades. Two of the men recovered quickly and hopped on two of the other horses and raced after me. One of them seemed to know how to work a lasso, and roped me off. 

I fell to the ground face first. The other hogtied me to keep me there. “I haven’t done anything wrong! I’ve lived a quiet life!”

“You have powers that you don’t understand kid.” The blond guy spoke.

“Maybe we could use them rather than send them back?” The man wearing sunglasses questioned.

“Tony, the mission was to find the kid and bring them back, not recruit them.”

“I got that Cap, but they seem to be doing good in the world. Maybe we could use them.”

“I could be of help. I can read minds and even corrupt. I also can heal if that’s a selling point, but whatever you decide I want to bring Hades with, but I don't want to back to prison.” I spoke up, trying to convince them to recruit me rather than send me back to prison.

Tony looked at this Cap guy. Then Cap spoke up, “fine, but you gotta prove this criminal past is behind you.”

“I’ve been here for four years enjoying the peace and quiet. Isn’t that proof enough?”

“They have a point.” Tony stated.

“Fine. I’m Steve, and that’s Tony by the way. The curly haired man over there is Bruce. The man with the long blond hair is Thor, yes the god. The woman is Natasha but we all call her Nat, and the man standing next to her is Clint.”

“Nice to meet you all I guess. Do you mind untying me please?” I ask very politely.

“Oh sorry kid. We just wanted to be sure you weren’t going to run away.” Tony spoke up, sounding truly sorry.

“It’s fine. I get it. So, was that a yes on me keeping the horse?”

“I don’t mind. Cap?”

“If you really want to, I don’t mind. We have plenty of space for it back in New York. Plenty of land at least.”

“Thank you, and I won’t disappoint.”

“Alright then, kid. Welcome to the Avengers!” Tony smiled, untying, then walking me over to the others.

I hoped my life would be different, and much better than it started out. I had a second chance to make things right, and I finally felt like I could belong somewhere. A place where I didn’t feel out of place. Somewhere with others just like me.

[enneagramwingmiranda]

Stranger Things: The actual enneagram types of Mike, Lucas, Dustin, Will, Eleven, and Max

The Lover: Mike Wheeler [Type 2]

“El, are you there? El? It’s me, it’s Mike. It’s day 352, 7:40 pm, I am still here. If you’re out there, say something… or give me a sign, I won’t, I won’t even say anything, I just… I want to know if you’re okay.”

Enneagram wing: 2w1|2w3 (Helper along with the reformer and achiever)

Core Desire: To feel loved, needed, and appreciated

Core Fear: Being rejected, unwanted and unneeded

Mike is a loyal to a fault going through great lengths to be there for his friends. He was willing to sacrifice himself off a cliff to protect Dustin. He never gave up pursing justice for Will. He also hid Eleven in his home despite the repercussions he may face with his parents and the evil scientists. The hidden motivation behind his actions are to be needed, loved, and wanted. He is very good at intuiting others needs as we see this in his close friendship with Will in season 2 and in his blossoming relationship with Eleven. He sees the good in others and is very trusting which Lucas, a type 6, doesn’t quite understand. He often asserts himself in situations where he is not needed and we see this become a conflict in his relationship with Eleven in season 3. We see him often go into an 8 in stress where he becomes aggressive, outspoken, dominating, and advocating for justice. I believe he leans on both of his wings equally; he shows to have a strong sense of right and wrong but also a innate desire to succeed, be admired, and respected. 

The Intuitive One: Will Byers [Type 4]

"Sometimes the bad guys are smart too."

Enneagram wing: 4w5 (Individualist along with the investigator)

Core Desire: Being accepted for one’s uniqueness 

Core Fear: Being inherently flawed, inadequate, or mundane

Will is the stand out of the bunch not just because of his strong introversion but also his imaginative mind and artistic hobbies. He has never been interested in what his age group has been interested in therefore he is misunderstood by his peers. He also lacked a strong father figure and this has resulted in deep feelings of inadequacy. He desires to be seen and understood by others and it doesn’t help his case that he “died” and lived to tell the tale. I’m hoping to see Will grow more into himself in the upcoming seasons because he is a valuable and important character. His link to the Upside Down proves that. I think he leans on his wing 5 for his intellectual hobbies. 

The Defender: Eleven [Type 9]

“I’m going to my friends. I’m going home.”

Enneagram wing: 9w8 (Peacemaker along with the challenger)

Core Desire: Inner peace and human connection

Core Fear: Instability and separation

Contrary to the life she’s had and the chaotic situations she constantly finds herself in, Eleven is 100% motivated by having inner peace. She is very much values her friends and adoptive family and leans on her wing 8 to protect them. She is a very complex character and this is clearly from the emotional and physical trauma she suffered in her childhood; she is tough but also extremely empathetic and has has the ability to see things objectively rather than emotionally (a true gift of a 9). This is shown in her choosing to spare one of the scientist’s life from Brenner’s lab despite his contribution to her abuse and Eight (Kali) pressuring her to show no mercy. She empathized with Billy and his abuse despite him being a raging bully. 

The Safeguard: Lucas Sinclair [Type 6]

“We have a lot of rules in our party, but the most important is, 'Friends don't lie.' Never ever. No matter what.”

Enneagram wing: 6w5 | 6w7 (Loyalist along with investigator and enthusiast)

Core Desire: To have security

Core Fear: Being without security

Lucas has demonstrated an innate maturity since season 1. He pushes others to practice self preservation. He likes to have a plan in their action and adventure. Lucas is motivated by his desire to be safe so he calls out others in their stupor, so much so, that his friends are nervous to confess their mistakes to him; this clashes with Mike’s agenda as his need to serve, love, and be there for others. Mike’s potential to be compromised by rose colored glasses, poses as a threat to Lucas’s need for security. Max makes it harder for him in achieving security by constantly raising the bar him in their relationship. Despite this, Max’s challenging nature is what is most attractive to him because it somewhat alludes to security. I think Lucas has balanced wings and draws from his intellectual side as well as his adventurous side. 

The Analyst: Dustin Henderson [Type 5]

“You always say we should never stop being curious, to always open any curiosity door we find. Why are you keeping this curiosity door locked?”

Enneagram wing: 5w6 (Investigator along with loyalist)

Core Desire: To be capable and competent 

Core Fear: Annihilation, depletion, and being viewed as lacking in capability

Dustin is the clear intellect of the Stranger Kids clan. He is always learning and storing information, mentally retrieving it up when necessary. He is essentially the one who makes the needed mental connections in their quest for victory. He is awkwardly confident yet insecure. He cares a lot about what others think of him and is motivated by a need to be seen as competent. Dustin’s friends mean the world to him and valuing that security from this support/community shows that leans on his wing 6. 

The Advocate: Max Mayfield [Type 8]

“It's just, I know I can be a jerk like him sometimes, and I do not want to be like him. Ever.”

Enneagram wing: 8w7 | 8w9 (Challenger along with enthusiast and the peacemaker)

Core Desire: Self protection and protecting my people

Core Fear: Being weak, powerless, and controlled 

Max is the toughest one of the bunch with almost bully-like qualities. She marches to the beat of her own drum and doesn’t care what other people think. Her character flaw is that she can be too careless sometimes at the expense of others. She is self aware of that though and does her best to combat it. She is motivated by a need to protect herself because no one ever protected her against the abuse of her brother and step-father. Despite her tough act, she cares deeply for her friends and will do whatever she can to protect them too; She is willing to be vulnerable to bond with them. She does not show to lean on either wing making me think she has balanced wings. She definitely doesn’t like to commit too quickly to anything and keep her options open (7) but also can try her best to mediate (9) when this is required of her. 

Note: In honor of Stranger Things 4 possibly coming out in 2021. See my typing of the Stranger Things adults here: https://enneagramwingmiranda.tumblr.com/post/639047330136522752/stranger-things-the-actual-enneagram-types-of

[aion-rsa]

Cruella: Does Every Villain Need a Sympathetic Origin Story?

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Clearly this isn’t your parents’ Cruella De Vil. This isn’t even your Cruella De Vil. However, there is something fiendishly charming about seeing Emma Stone charge into a ballroom and light her black and white dress on fire, revealing a chic red number beneath that would do Scarlett O’Hara proud. If fashion is a statement, Cruella is here to say the villain has just arrived!

Yet one can’t help but shake the certainty that by the time we actually learn the plot of Disney’s Cruella reimagining, Cruella will be in anything but black and white, or fiery red. Rather Cruella is obviously posturing to take a sideways approach to an old classic. But then again, that increasingly feels like the only direction these Hollywood redos know: the sympathetic origin story for an iconic villain.

To be clear, we’ve only gotten a glimpse of Stone as the new Cruella, and she looks absolutely fabulous in a black leather coat and cane, purring, “I’m only getting started, darling.” There’s a wildness about this interpretation befitting our current era where Harley Quinn is the hero of her own story, and Wade Wilson now leads a Disney franchise. Nevertheless, when I watch Cruella on the edge of tears in the trailer, barking defiantly that she is CRUELLA—and seemingly embracing an unfair reputation that other characters may be placing on her—a nagging question persists in the back of my head: Do we really need a sympathetic Cruella De Vil?

The trend of supervillains getting intellectual property-expanding sob stories is nothing new, be it at Disney or anywhere else in Hollywood. Maybe 25 years ago when folks liked their villains big and outlandish—think Glenn Close in Disney’s previous live-action remake of 101 Dalmatians—it was novel to see the antagonist become a tragic protagonist. But like everything else with modern blockbusters, that all changed a long, long time ago with something called Star Wars.

Back in 1977 when the original Star Wars movie was released, many audience members left the theater giddy about the world George Lucas created. In a galaxy far, far away, every pop fantasy of the mid-20th century—Wizards! Knights! Princesses! Samurai! World War II ace pilots!—was thrown into a massive cauldron that seamlessly blended these elements.

Luke Skywalker’s galaxy felt like a real place of exotic, lived-in locales, all of which captured that dirt-under-the-fingertips, tactile quality so rarely seen in fantasy stories. Sure the characters might be archetypes, but they came with histories which gave their fantasy space battles human density. Old Ben Kenobi fought in the Clone Wars with Luke’s father Anakin, who was “a gifted pilot.” But what exactly was a clone war? And why was there more than one of them? Also, what did a Jedi’s “more civilized age” look like for Luke’s papa?

For more than 20 years, no one knew the answer to those questions, which made them all the more intriguing, and the “lore” of this fantasy evermore mythic. Then came Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, the first modern blockbuster prequel devoted to filling in the gaps left by a beloved classic’s mysteries. That movie’s problems are numerous, but at its core the most persistent, lingering issue may still be the reveal that Darth Vader was once a blonde haired little boy with the emotional range of Beaver Cleaver. Of course everyone knew in the abstract sense Vader was once a child… but did they ever really want to see it?

Additionally, did anyone really want to learn Anakin Skywalker’s reason for turning to the Dark Side is because of a bratty streak that followed him into adulthood? Probably not.

Nonetheless, all three Star Wars prequels made massive amounts of money and rather than becoming cautionary tales of what happens when you attempt to explain away all the mysteries of a beloved character, they were the first steps toward a modern staple of media regurgitation where seemingly every mug, pug, and thug would get their own sympathetic redo.

Since then, we’ve learned on screen that Spider-Man’s arch-nemesis Venom, is really a well-intentioned bloke caught in a bad romance (with his alien space buddy), Batman’s arch-nemesis the Joker is really just a Travis Bickle clone with mommy issues, and Maleficent, the reigning empress of badassery in the Disney Villain canon, was really just a woman scorned by Sleeping Beauty’s toxic father. Even Hannibal Lecter became a victim in Hannibal Rising, and the Wicked Witch of the West starred in the most popular Broadway musical of all time… where it turns out she was the hero in a conspiracy with the Scarecrow to pull one over on Dorothy.

To be clear, some of these spinoffs and reimaginings work quite well. Even if I personally am a bit chagrined at Todd Phillips’ Joker being nominated for Best Picture, Joaquin Phoenix’s sad sack killer clown created the space for a riveting performance that reminded mainstream audiences that movies can still be for adults. In another comic book movie, Magneto’s heartbreaking backstory in the Holocaust was expanded in 2011’s X-Men: First Class, which made an already relatively complex supervillain just that much more compelling in Michael Fassbender’s hands.

Overall, however, this approach has left something to be desired. And to get back to Cruella, her remix as a misunderstood tragic heroine appears to owe most of all to Maleficent. In 2014, Disney made a killing when they cast movie star Angelina Jolie as their very best big bad, a character so evil in 1959’s Sleeping Beauty that she was willing to knockoff a princess simply because no one sent her a party invite. That’s cold. And it’s wickedly entertaining. Hence why Maleficent scared and captivated generations of children.

Some characters are just too good at being bad.

The marketing of Maleficent leaned into this with a melancholic cover of Sleeping Beauty’s Tchaikovsky-inspired theme song, “Once Upon a Dream.” Now in a minor key, the new version sung by Lana Del Rey promised a scarier, more menacing version of the story, which was then confirmed by Jolie’s wonderfully devilish laugh. The big bad was finally going to have her day at the ball.

But when the movie actually came out, we learned that Maleficent was an enchanted fairy who’d been wronged. In the end, she didn’t hate Elle Fanning’s Princess Aurora. In fact, she loved the little royal and tried to save her from the curse she herself cast in a fit of justified anger. Ultimately, the sorceress adopts Aurora as the daughter she never had after disposing of her now abusive father. That’s certainly an interpretation. I guess.

It also proved massively successful in the short term, opening at a staggering $175.5 million in its opening weekend worldwide, and grossing $758 million total. Those numbers also exclude merchandising and home video revenues. If you want to know why we’re getting the punk rock Cruella, look no further.

However, did a lot of folks really like Maleficent? It made all the money in the world based on that devious marketing campaign that promised a shocking tell-all about Disney’s closest approximation to Lucifer, but by the time a sequel limped into theater five years later, relatively few seemed to still care about the misunderstood, freedom fighting warrior fairy Jolie played. Maleficent: Mistress of Evil ostensibly continued the good fight but flopped at the box office with a cume of $491.7 million, barely more than half of what its predecessor made. (Don’t cry for Disney though, as Avengers: Endgame, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, and remakes of Aladdin and The Lion King in the same year made Maleficent 2 look like a clerical error.)

What this whole sputtering franchise reminds us though is that some characters are better left bad, and the mystique of the unknown is an end unto itself. While I enjoyed Phoenix’s take on the Joker, there is little argument the character was even scarier with a PG-13 rating when he manifested out of thin air, like Beelzebub, in The Dark Knight. Or to take a step away from just villains, was Han Solo really any cooler when you learned how he got his name in Solo: A Star Wars Story? Or could you have gone your whole life without knowing thanks to The Hobbit movies that Gandalf and Galadriel were kind of, sort of, just maybe friends with benefits?

The allure of Cruella De Vil is right there in her name: She’s a cruel devil. How could she not be when her entire ambition in Disney’s classic 101 Dalmatians is to skin puppies for their fur coats? Finding out she used to fight the power before hoarding it may make a lot of money, but it doesn’t make her necessarily more compelling.

cnx.cmd.push(function() { cnx({ playerId: "106e33c0-3911-473c-b599-b1426db57530", }).render("0270c398a82f44f49c23c16122516796"); });

The post Cruella: Does Every Villain Need a Sympathetic Origin Story? appeared first on Den of Geek.

from Den of Geek https://ift.tt/3dpItie

[emerald-amidst-gold]

A little exercise (Part 1/?)

(I’m trying out a new process to help me with my writing and to get me out of the block I’m currently in. I find that analyzing preexisting personalities and ones of my own devising help me better understand how characters will interact in my writing. So, I started small and outlined some of Fane’s major relationships. I’m eventually going to go down the whole list from family to Inquisition members, but right now, I just focused on family.)

Relationships:

“Friendships are like roses; you tend to their delicate petals, nurture their roots, and provide them with water, sunshine, and fertile soil to keep them satisfied, all so they may flourish with life and love. But what happens when the rose bush flowers from an innocent bud to a crimson bloom, bringing thorns in its wake? You bleed, you hurt, and you regret ever planting the seeds. So, do I desire a literal garden of people with thorns as sharp as glass? Not at all.”- Fane Lavellan regarding companionship

Clan Lavellan:

“Fane is brash, volatile, and temperamental at the best of times, Spymaster. You do not wish to see him at his worst. Many of our clan and the outlying forests have been met with his ire. Even so, he is not a bad child. None of his actions are vindictive or of ill intentions. Fane is simply misunderstood, like so many others. So, if you must demand more of him, then you must tread lightly. That is my advice to you and your Inquisition.” - an excerpt from a letter from Keeper Deshanna sent to Haven after the explosion at the Conclave regarding Fane’s demeanor

Fane is exceedingly slow to warm up to people, even with those of his own kind. Among Clan Lavellan, Fane was seen as an anomaly; his two toned eyes and stark white hair breeding fear and wariness in his clan members, as well as his unusual physique. What’s more, many of the clan avoided him for fear of triggering his volatile rage which, when at its peak, would render aravels or trees completely obliterated. So, as far as friends go, Fane never had many among his clan; only communicating with his sister, and at times, the Keeper. Fane’s disinterest in cultivating relationships also stems from his desire to keep the evidence of his father’s abuse away from prying eyes and ears. This did not stop him from attempting to bridge the gap between him and his people, however. At a young age, Fane proved to be an adept hunter; stealthy and graceful despite his hulking frame. Sadly, his effectiveness to provide did not win the hearts of his clan, since many of Fane’s methods were unorthodox to the Dalish. When such a simple attempt was ineffective, Fane took one last step to try and wedge himself into belonging; his vallaslin. Despite not believing in any of the elven gods (another pit that distanced him from the Dalish, as Fane is and was not shy to voice his opinions regarding them), Fane opted to have the vallaslin of Sylaise tattooed onto his face at the age of sixteen; only a year after his father’s magical experiments on his body began. Once again, this did not do what Fane had hoped for, since the ritual and implementation of the tattoos barely registered a flinch or grimace from the elf; his mind and body already so scarred and traumatized by the use of magic and physical tools that Fane merely viewed the sacred act as another experiment in which his father’s rules of “No crying, no screaming, no telling anyone” played on repeat within his head. Due to that stoicism, his clansmen simply began to view him as unfeeling and cold, some going so far as to call him a ‘snowy haired demon’. From that point on, Fane severed all association with his clan, and attempts to win favor were replaced with complete indifference. Interactions were kept to scouting missions and group hunts, and such things like gatherings or holidays, Fane spent either alone within the forest or with his sister. It may have been this rift of association that spurred the Keeper into choosing Fane for the mission to spy on the Conclave, or perhaps it was a way to help both Fane and the clan from anymore turmoil. However, when the explosion at the Conclave completely shifts his small world on its axis, Fane is more or less forced to traverse a battlefield in which he is outnumbered in both strength and personalities.

Mhairi Lavellan (Sister):

“First mother, then father..I can’t lose you, too, brother. I have no one else besides you for family.”

“Hmph, don’t be so dramatic, My. Even if something were to happen to me, the clan would still be here for you. The clan’s your family as much as I am.”

“The clan is your family, too, brother. Why do you think they don’t care for you like I do?”

“Because they don’t. I’m a monster, remember? They’re all probably breathing a sigh of relief that I’m leaving.”

“Would you stop that?! You’re one of the people just like any of the others! More than that, you’re my brother! So, don’t talk as if you’re nothing. You are everything to me, Fane. Everything and more.” - a conversation between Mhairi and Fane before he leaves for the Conclave.

Mhairi and Fane’s relationship is much like any siblings; occasional bickering, unconditional love, and patience with each other’s oddities. However, unlike most siblings, whose likeness of personalities tends to breed contempt, Fane and Mhairi are, by all means, anathema to each other. Oil and water. Fire and ice. The sun and moon. All these things describe the two’s odd relationship. Fane, while holding a deep well of his love for his sister, has difficulty showing such platonic feelings, opting for simply watching Mhairi with an attentive eye and merely giving stern guidance to the younger when necessary. Whereas Mhairi is more bubbly and easygoing, wishing to help her brother bridge the gap that he had created with the clan and constantly reasserting to him that he is loved and cherished. Such attempts at reconciliation have only thus far vexed Fane, but the message from his sister is not lost, even if he does not outwardly show it. However, like with the rest of the clan, Fane has kept the actions of their father a secret from Mhairi; the only secret he has ever kept from his sister (besides the information of him being a dragon. Fane himself is unaware of his heritage until after Adamant. Even after he understands this information, he does not tell her until at least around the time of the Exalted Council.). Fane has gone to great lengths to keep the brutal past of his abuse from his sister. Such actions include: hiding his acute sensitivity to magic, which is the hardest since Mhairi is a mage, his night terrors that leave him sweating and hyperventilating in the morning, avoiding any and all physical contact from his sister or others since his body still harbors phantasmal pains from the abuse, and dismissing any questions or concerns from his sister when she zeroes in on his pain. Despite these actions on his part, Fane still gives in to his sister if she is particularly persistent or if she is on the verge of tears. In these moments, Fane will endure the pain on his body for a light hug or give a vague response to a question of concern. In conjunction, Mhairi is always trying to find ways to bring back the person her brother was before the experiments began, much to Fane’s dismay. She will oftentimes gift him with sentimental items such as; flowers (primarily Gladiolus since it is a flower the two have an emotional attachment to), handmade pendants, a history book (knowing that he is secretly curious of outside society), and his favorite foods (mainly chocolates). All attempts are usually met with soft refusal or awkward shuffling on Fane’s part, but internally, the misunderstood elf screams with joy every time such a thing is bestowed upon him by his sister. 

Eloris Lavellan (Mother):

“Cerulean eyes like the deep lakes in the forest. Sunlight glistening off of golden strands like wheat. Shimmering, rippling across the surface with gentle strokes. Calm and patient even when I’d yell. Never scolding. Never hating. Her words hang upon my mind like her hand when she would guide my own across the page. ‘A summer breeze. A winter’s gale. All things are natural if you allow them to unveil.’ Her words. Her lesson. ..You were angry?”

“Yes, I was. I can’t even remember why now. But, she told me it was nothing to be ashamed of. She said all emotions were natural just like the wind and trees. I just had to..let them out.”

“Who was she?”

“..My mother, and that is all I’m saying about it.” - a discussion between Fane and Cole about Fane’s mother. 

Fane’s memory of the relationship with his mother, Eloris, is one of the few things he cherishes, and is one of many things he does not openly share, even with Mhairi. Before she died of a wasting disease when Fane was fifteen, Eloris guided Fane throughout his earlier years, teaching him how to write in both the common tongue and elven, as well as speak and read. Fane describes her as ‘the gentlest soul upon a fragile landscape’ since never once did she harshly scold him or yell in anger at his prickly demeanor, which Fane had even as a child. Instead, Eloris taught Fane the wrongness of his actions with poetry. After outbursts or moments of frustration, Eloris would sit with Fane under a tree or in a clearing, and simply read to him, recounting tales and lessons through elegant scripture. Such a technique had oddly proved effective, calming Fane and cementing delicate lessons of patience and open mindedness, that to this day, while slightly more difficult for him to keep, still connect him with his deceased mother. These tiny memories of his mother’s poetry were something that helped Fane through much of his father’s abuse. So much so, that Fane himself began writing and collecting different forms of poetry after his father’s disappearance, and throughout his time with the Inquisition. This odd fixation also reflects in Fane’s way of speaking, and sometimes his versed tongue has to be deciphered by someone more familiar with him or those who understand cryptic dialogue. At times, it even causes him frustration. Even so, Fane keeps the memory of his mother with him wherever he goes, and secretly endeavors to keep the promise that he made to her. The promise to protect their family, no matter the cost.

(I’m still working on Fane’s father, so he might be the last one I touch on in the list. Anyways, this is just a little exercise to finally cement Fane’s overall character. All of the dialogue is just stuff I thought up on the fly, so take it with a grain of salt in reference to canon.)

[ivy-miranda-2390]

In Defense of Anakin Skywalker (and Hayden Christensen)

I grew up with Star Wars, my whole family loves Star Wars. I was 8 when I saw Episode I and afterwards, I was completely immersed in the Star Wars universe. Ewan McGregor's Obi-Wan Kenobi was probably my first fictional boyfriend and I'm unashamedly still in love with him too.

Episode II: The Attack of the Clones came out when I was 11 and so naturally I was excited to see the continuation of the Star Wars prequel universe. However, nothing could have prepared me for the absolute utter gorgeousness of Canadian actor, Hayden Christensen who was cast to play the adolescent Anakin Skywalker.

My memories of first seeing Episode II are fond because I got to see the movies with my older siblings while on vacation in Myrtle Beach. It was probably my first experience of being accepted among my older adult brothers and sisters or the feeling of 'grownupness' as I like to call it.

So Attack of the Clones has always been an special film to me because I saw it at a time when I was no longer being viewed as a child, but as a growing teenager.

It's also why I've always been rather defensive of the film too. While the film was titled Attack of the Clones, it may as well have been re-titled, "Attack of Anakin Skywalker (and subsequently, Hayden Christensen)". For over 20 years, there has been an absolute and indescribable hatred of Anakin Skywalker and many people blamed both Jake Lloyd and Hayden Christensen's supposed poor acting as the result of a badly done Anakin.

And to be honest even though I had a massive crush on Hayden Christensen and was hardly a movie critic at the time, I felt that at times that Anakin could have been better acted. However, I was young and didn't care about the script or the acting. Yet, for years I constantly defended, Attack of the Clones, Anakin Skywalker and Hayden Christensen. Partly due to nostalgia, partly to being a teenage girl and most of all partly to do with understanding the character of Anakin as being misunderstood, misinterpreted and not being treated as an adult by the elders in his life.

Did Anakin have problems? Yes.

Were most of these problems his fault? No.

Did Anakin ever try to fix these problems and better himself? Everyday of his life.

He had nothing, but he gave everything

 The prequels were written as a timeline of a boy's journey from goodness into darkness. Anakin's life is a story arch of sacrifice and redemption. Life has not always been good to Anakin. He was born a slave with no father. He was raised in the strong love of wonderful mother Shmi Skywalker. While Shmi may have been scared and confused as to how she conceived a child without a man, she raised her son in love and simple contentment.

Chances are Anakin and his mother probably faced terrible abuse in their time as slaves and more than once, Anakin may have been separated from Shmi as leverage for greedy slave owners. Although a slave, Anakin was never a victim. He may have been physically owned, but his heart and mind were free. He was his own person, always thinking outside of the box, building, creating, questioning everything and everyone. Not to mention a little wild and rather reckless.

Even as a child Anakin was a little strange to people. For a slave to have such a hopeful and positive attitude may have seemed bizarre to outsiders, but that was just the norm for him. Shmi once remarked that her son knew nothing of greed. For a boy raised with nothing, all he had were his talents as an inventor and growing pilot. And he used his talents for other people. He built C-3PO to help his mom, he entered the podrace to help Qui-Gon Jinn, he always gave without any expectation of being thanked.

A spirit that refused to surrender

After Anakin is freed and sent to train as a Jedi, that wild spirit was still intact. Much to his by-the-book master's dismay. Anakin didn't have the opportunity to grow up in the strict Jedi Temple that was built on order, rules and tradition. As a child, Anakin was use to being himself and not fitting into anyone's mold. His original dream was to be a pilot, not a Jedi. No one asked him if he wanted to be a Jedi, no one asked him if he wanted to be trained by Obi-Wan Kenobi.

While Anakin may have been grateful for both opportunities presented to him, overtime he may have seen this new life as not to different from the one he left. A life run by others. Telling him what to do, where to go, how to dress, how to behave. He survived as a slave because he dared to dream and imagine and refused to be defined by others.

Now he's thrown into a culture where individuality is looked down upon. He lived through the stifling Jedi order because he still held onto those qualities. He was going to be himself on his terms. He would nod his head and say yes when he needed to, but off the clock he would live by his own rules. Something that Obi-Wan and the Jedi order could not understand. And Anakin is getting frustrated by this.

So now we get to Attack of the Clones (and the Attack of Hayden Christensen). Critics came down hard on both Anakin and Hayden. Constantly complaining about Anakin's constant complaining, his tantrums, broodiness and being a crybaby about everything. Critics blamed the disaster of Anakin Skywalker on the terrible miscasting of Hayden Christensen. The only redeeming quality Hayden Christensen had that saved him was the fact he was so easy to look at.

For years, fans were desperate to know who Anakin Skywalker was. And so the pressure to deliver a good character that could measure up to the icon of Darth Vader may have seemed insurmountable. And so when people got this confused, overemotional 19 year old, who has no experience in love or sex, but is madly in love with a beautiful young women; and who wants to be respected in a highly established culture, without losing himself or conforming, well people were just disappointed. The disappointment can be explained in one of Anakin's most famous lines.

"HE'S HOLDING ME BACK!"

He, being George Lucas who was holding back Hayden's actual talent to create a good three dimensional character. Plus his bad script writing. Poor Hayden was just made to read lines on a page and somehow make this sad character somebody that people can root for. Unfortunately fans and critics ate him alive. It's only in recent years that people have begun to realize that they were blaming the wrong person. And by blaming Hayden, they were completely misunderstanding Anakin as a character.

His most beautiful gift, his most fatal flaw

Of all of Anakin's gifts, his ability to love deeply was probably his most profound and his most dangerous. The Jedi Temple forbade romantic attachments to others and for good reason. When you become attached to or love someone beyond the boundaries of platonic friendship you become afraid of losing them. The end of my review for the Star Wars prequels sums it up the best:

In The Phantom Menace, Yoda warns Anakin about the dangers of being afraid. Fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering. Anakin's most beautiful attribute is also his most fatal flaw. His ability to love deeply. Yet, if you love someone you will always live in fear of losing them. Anakin was created by darkness, but raised in the light of his mother's love. His own love was made manifest by Padme and then by their unborn child/children. However, Love no matter how strong can be weakened and even be destroyed by the evil of fear. If the prequels taught anything about life, it taught how fear (even in its smallest form) can be be our most detrimental enemy. Living alone in fear and not seeking help is a signing of our own death warrants. What might have happened if Anakin had gone to Obi-Wan and seek his help? Would things have been different? The prequels were not meant to tell a happy story. They were written as a timeline of a boy's journey from goodness into darkness. No, they don't have the silliness or humor of the Originals, because there is nothing humorous about someone's self-destruction. Yet, the story of Anakin Skywalker's transformation had to be told in a way that was real and heartbreaking. To take Darth Vader and make him a human who could feel and understand and love could be an insurmountable task. Yet, you only need to watch his death scene at the end of Return of The Jedi to see that the humane part of Anakin Skywalker had always been there. The prequels were made to be built on that final scene of redemption and human love. A husband's love to save his wife became a father's love that could overcome darkness and hate. An extreme love that defied fear and held on to hope. That was the love of Anakin Skywalker.

Anakin could be a bratty and immature young adult. However, to only base a character by his few annoying flaws is overlooking the bigger and better picture. Anakin was an outsider his whole life and yet that never seemed to bother him. He never cared about fitting in. He was content being himself and he refused to let Obi-Wan or the Jedi Order or even Padme change him. He held onto who he was for as long as he was able to. Then the tragedy of losing his wife changed that. The indomitable spirit wasn't broken, it was destroyed. Anakin re-entered a life of slavery for over 20 years.

And he was ultimately freed by one person. An orphan who once had nothing but a talent as an inventor and dreams of being a pilot. A young Jedi with an unbreakable spirit that refused to surrender to evil or fear or pain or loss. A son who loved his father so deeply that he would fight to the death to free Anakin Skywalker forever.

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #315

“can’t breathe to scream  /  suffocating in this dream  /  long way down”

Who was your first big crush? I would probably say this guy in high school named Sebastian. We sat beside each other in Art, and I definitely liked him a lot. Man, my freshman-sophomore years honestly involved a handful of crushes before Jason popped into the picture and I lost all romantic interest in everyone else. Where was the first place you drove after you got your license? N/A Is it a blue sky outside right now? No. All North Carolina has known for weeks on end now is rain. We've had very rare sunny days, but for the most part, it's just gray and gross. Was your last breakup a bad one? Nah, I'd say it ended maturely and with a mutual understanding of "why." When was the last time you were surprised, in a pleasant way? Hell if I know. Is there an ice-cream flavor that you strongly dislike? Which one? Yeah, like strawberry. What was the last sitcom you watched? No clue. ^ Do you have a favorite character in that sitcom? Why is that character your favorite? N/A What does the last group you joined on Facebook concern? I am 90% sure it was this group I joined that is literally just about cute yet dangerous animals lmao, mostly reptiles and invertebrates. "Misunderstood biteybois and where to befriemd them" or some stupid shit like that. Has there been a spider in your house at any time recently? Not that I've seen, no. Do you like wearing make-up? Not at all. I only like wearing it for pictures and then taking that shit off. ^ If so, how old were you when you first started to wear it? I started consistently wearing it my freshman year of high school. Then some time later I just showed up one day without any, shocked all my friends, and then only wore it when I felt like it. What foods are you craving lately, if any? Nothing, really. What were some of your favorite foods as a child? Chicken nuggets of course, as well as spaghetti, peanut butter sandwiches, just the typical stuff that kids tend to enjoy. When you were younger, did you ever have a friend that your parents hated? No. Have you ever talked in your sleep before? That's very normal for me, especially now that I have nightmares like every goddamn night. What was the last song you heard, that reminded you of someone? Well, not a real someone, but "The Ordinary World" by the Hit House is 110% one of Fetch's soon-to-be themes. What has brought you joy today? Nothing brought me "joy," really. When was the last time you won a prize in a raffle? What was it? I actually recently won an art rafle on deviantART hosted by a truly amazing artist, like I thought I had no chance, and she's going to be drawing Moondust!!!! :'''') What is the next non-essential item that you intend to buy for yourself? I'm still paying the bulk of my tattoo in May. Is there anywhere in your town/city that's rumored to be haunted? Oh, I'm sure. When you were younger, did you ever think that a certain place was haunted? Bitch I still do lmao. What were your school meals like? Did you enjoy them? This really depended on the menu for the day. My school lunches were nowhere near as bad as some people make theirs sound, but most things still weren't great. I think school pizzas are the most notoriously bad. What kind of granola bar did you eat most recently? I had a cashew bar earlier today. Do you have any books on your shelf that you've read multiple times? I never reread books. What did your last post on social media concern? That I personally wrote, something regarding subtle racism still being racism, pretty much. How do you feel about people using graphic images as a scare tactic to promote their beliefs? (i.e.: PETA, abortion…) I have mixed feelings on this. Like sometimes seeing the brutal side of certain things is definitely useful in opening someone's mind to things they don't want to see/think about, but then there's that, too: it can just be so invasive and unexpected, and thus very upsetting and even scarring. I'd say I'm most for the "appropriate" social media route: using censorship that the viewer can decide whether or not to remove. But you obviously can't do that in like, a public protest with a sign, so idk. Which is harder for you: writing creatively or academically? Honestly, both are pretty easy for me. I enjoy writing creatively far more, though. Do you think gender neutral bathrooms are a good idea? I think it's fine to have them as an option. When was the last time you voluntarily went outside of your comfort zone? Just talking about stuff in group therapy recently. Would you ever use a dating site that costs money, like Match.com or eHarmony? Have you known anyone who had good experience with such sites? No, and yes. Do you think it’s fair that people are able to make a reasonable salary and live comfortable lives just by making YouTube videos? Yes? It takes charisma and talent in some area (humor, education, etc.) as well as consistency for it to be a reliable career, and just consider how often you hear about creators burning out. That happens for a reason. Entertainment is a valid job category and should not be seen as an unfair joke. Whether you’re in college or not, do you become fearful about whether or not you’ll find a good job? Story of my life. What is something you can only understand if you've experienced it first hand? Deep heartbreak. Do you think it's a double standard that a woman can hit a man and expect to get away with it, but if a man hits a woman it's assault? Obviously. Abuse knows no gender, and hitting another person is just that. I do, however, believe in self-defense, also regardless of gender. In terms of a wedding, put these things in order from what would be MOST important to be perfect, to LEAST important... Engagement ring, dress, hair, venue, ceremony, food, pictures, decorations, honeymoon. This requires too much thinking, haha... but I do know the quality of my honeymoon would be most important to me, given that that's personal time with my new spouse and not a public celebration. I feel like what goes on behind closed doors is more important and heartfelt than how you act publicly. Do you have a go-to small talk conversation topic? Probably video games or music, idk. Define "small talk." Does anyone owe you money? Do you owe anyone money? (Besides credit cards) Mom does. She just a few days ago had to borrow $100 for rent. If someone was going to buy you any practical gift (anything except a house or car), what would you choose? It'd be dope as fuck if someone could pay for Venus' next terrarium, but that's a big purchase that I'd have a hard time accepting. How many people do you know with the same first name as you? At least one, but her name is spelled differently. What in your opinion is the best love song ever written? I'm not sure, but I can tell you that "When It's Love" by Van Halen has always been high on the list for me. Was your mother married when she had you? No, actually. I thought she was until my most recent bday, I think. It was just part of a conversation. How old was the first person you kissed? He was a few months into 18. The first person you were in a relationship with, do you still care about them? Of course, he's a sweet guy. We don't talk or anything, but that doesn't mean I don't care about him. Has anyone ever sang to you? Yes. So, what if you married the last person you kissed? That'd be pretty rad. What are you listening to at the moment? "Long Way Down" from the The Evil Within soundtrack. It's funny, like I've loved the game for many years, but I'm now in a serious semi-obsession phase after watching another let's play of it. Have you read the The Hunger Games trilogy? I only read the first book. I loved it, but just never continued. What is your boss’ (or school prinicpal’s) name? N/A Who is the person you dislike the most? That I personally know, probably a former best friend, oddly enough. Do you text your parents often? If Mom's not home, it's not unusual for us to text. I don't text my dad much because he's not a fan of texting. Do you watch YouTube videos often? Pretty much always. Do you know anyone with celiac disease? Sara, my aunt, and my cousin. Those are the ones I know of, anyway. Do you currently have any alarms set? No. How many cars can fit in your driveway? Barely even two. If someone else is here, they usually just park where the road meets the sidewalk of the cul-de-sac. Do you have the ashes of a family member or a pet? Of my dog Teddy, yes. Have you ever been involved in a car crash? Yes, as a kid. Do you prefer flash or no flash on a camera? Definitely no flash. It's more natural, and especially with people, it obviously prevents red eye. How often do you use hashtags? Just about never. Have you ever had whiplash before? No. Have you ever given another person or an animal a bath before? Pets, yes. I could never bathe another human. Is there a birdbath in your yard? No. Weirdest place you’ve ever had a cramp? Nowhere weird, I think... How many lamps are in the room you’re in? How many are actually turned on? Technically three, if you count my snake's heat lamp. Right now that's the only light that's on. Are there any activities you enjoy doing, but can only do for a short amount of time before you get bored or tired of them? Yeah, reading comes to mind first. Is there anything coming out soon (books, albums, movies, video games) that you're looking forward to? I'm not up-to-date on this stuff at all, not even video games. What is something someone recommended to you that you disliked/hated? I know Girt's recommended me music I haven't been a fan of. We like the same general stuff, but there are specific sub-genres we differ in opinion about. Can you unwrap a Starburst in your mouth? ... There are people who do this to even know in the first place??? What is the last thing you ate? Popcorn. Who is your favorite person to spend time with? Sara. Do you know how to grill a steak? I don't know how to cook, period. Do you have a large dog? We don't have a dog currently, but Mom is looking for one pretty intently. We don't know the size it'll end up being. Do you like walking places? Absolutely not. I can't walk far at all without my legs starting to scream at me because leading such a sedentary lifestyle led to muscle atrophy in my legs. It's incredibly embarrassing. Are you a fan of bands most people don’t know of? That's not uncommon for me. Have you ever sent an X-Rated picture to someone? No. Do you think your voice is higher or lower than average? It's deeper than the average woman's. Do you have a pool? No, but I really, really want one... Given how easily I sweat, I would love to use swimming to strengthen my legs. I could also stop the very moment I feel I need to; it in general sounds like something I could quite easily do. How many times have you been on a plane? Ummm including the trips going back, at least six times. Favorite ice cream flavor? Oh my gooooood, if you haven't tried Ben & Jerry's "phish food"... fucking try that shit. It is innnnnncredible. Do you have a TikTok? Nope. Do you enjoy driving? Fuck no I don't. Your favorite store as a teen? Hot Topic was and still is my fave, ha. Favorite YouTuber? There's this one called Markiplier that I think's pretty cool. How many online accounts do you have? A LOT. My whole life is essentially on the computer, so... .-. Do you tend to always be in some sort of drama? Quite the opposite. Do you collect quarters from every state? No. When was the last time your living room furniture was rearranged? Not since we moved into this place. When you were little did you like watching Cartoon Network, Disney or Nickelodeon more? Disney probably topped Nickelodeon. I didn't watch much CN. Who was the last person to kiss you on the cheek? Either my niece or nephew when saying bye. Have you ever seen a magic show? Yes, as a kid. I even had a magician for my bday once. When was the last time you vomited and why? It's been a year or so. It would've been a side effect of starting a certain med that I didn't stay on because it so consistently made me sick. Where do you usually sit when you eat dinner? Either in my bed (I know) or at the dinner table if Nicole is here to eat with us. What time do you usually go to sleep at night? It's typically around 7:30-8:30, occasionally a bit later. I can't believe as a teen, it was my "rule" that I couldn't go to sleep before 10:30 because it was "too early." Nowadays, I can barely imagine regularly staying up that late. Do you avoid using public restrooms? As best as I can. I've seen some nasty shit. What’s your favorite type of cookie? Chocolate chip. How basic.

[ruffiorocks]

Sansa Stark is misunderstood

Since its come back round to the time GOT last season was on I'm seeing a lot of renewed posts and a lot of revived hate for Sansa Stark. But it's not even justifiable hate!

I just saw a Facebook post where some bloke who fyi stated he "believed in female equality" stated that everything that happened to Sansa (abuse wise) was entirely her own fault and he bet she wished she knew how to fight like Arya while she was with Ramsey! Holy shit!! I can't believe i actually read that and when the bloke was called out for victim shaming he scoffed and insisted he believed in female equality!

People hate on Sansa because she isn't Jon, or Arya or Robb. But here's the thing, Sansa is everything she was supposed to be! She was everything she was raised to be, it's actually Arya who is the odd one for the world this story is set in.

I'm re-reading the first book and it's explained in Arya's first POV chapter what Sansa is like and how Arya is expected to be the same. Arya's first chapter is her thinking about how she is the odd one out. How much of a Lady Sansa is, how the sisters are treated by their mother and Septa Mordane. Even Jon, who gifts her needle, speaks to her about how she should be doing her needle work, and how girls get coats of arms but not swords.

Sansa at the start is exactly what she should be and exactly how she was raised to be. She's still an 11 year old child at the start of the books, and in the show she's about 13. A little Lady who still believes in songs and noble, handsome princes and happy endings. Why is that? Because that is how she was raised. Arya rejects all this as she is the odd one out, but it's not lack of trying on her parents and her Septas part. Eddard is a bit more sympathetic to his children, he knows Bran shouldn't be climbing but knows he can't stop him, so just tells him to not let his mother see. He knows Arya should be acting like a lady , it's the whole reasons he takes her to Kings Landing, he even tells her she will be a Lady and have sons etc and Arya tells him that's not her. After discovering her with needle Ned gives in and gets her a sword master. He doesn't change anything with Sansa, because she is exactly what she is supposed to be, he seems a bit clueless with her because he buys her a doll.

Now, Sansa acts like she is in a song when she is with Joffrey because no one has bothered to tell her that life isn't like a song, she is still a child but being put in adult situations.."Winter is Coming" failed on Sansa, because she wasn't taught that life isn't a song like she should have been. She doesn't understand why her father wants to send her home and destroy her fairy tale with her Prince, so this 11 year old (don't remember her doing it in the show) runs to Cersei who panders to her and complains.

Sansa doesn't get away from the Red Keep because she is watched constantly, she is the Prince's betrothed. Arya only escapes with the help or Syrio, left alone Arya would have been f**ked as well. This doesn't make Arya better than Sansa.

Sansa does everything she can to she Ned's life, she is a child being manipulated by Cersei.

Later Sansa is abused both physically and verbally and humilated for all of the court to see. She's beaten by grown men taking orders from a little psychopath. She can't stand up to them even if she tried. Give her a sword and train her to use it she would still have been f**ked. Put a trained Arya in her place and Arya would be f**ked to, she may kill a few knights but she would still end up being killed.

People forget how Sansa survived! Partly because she knew she had to play a dutiful part and she did. You think Margery was good at controlling Joffrey? Sansa had her own way as well.

People often forget how Sansa saved Ser Dontos life by manipulating Joffrey into making him his fool.

Everyone forgets how she stood up to Joffrey when he said he would give her Robbs head and she said Robb may give her his! No fear of Joffrey at all!

The very same scene she goes to push the little prat off the ledge and is only stopped by Clegane.

Swap her with Arya and Arya would be dead or locked up by then. Joffrey already hated her because of Nymeria. Joff wasn't betrothed to her, Arya may have stood up to him and gone wild as Arya is known to do but she would soon be killed.

Sansa knew that being compliant with the odd defiance here and there was the way to survive. She learned that quickly! A lesson Arya would never have learned if she had remained in the Red Keep.

People cheer Arya for killing people and how she wanted to kill Joffrey, whilst forgetting that Sansa very nearly did!

Sansa also warned Margery and Olenna about what Joffrey was like. Risking a lot if that got out!

She was the one to calm the women during the Battle of the Black Water Bay while Cersei got drunk, all the time knowing exactly why Ser Illyane Payne was there with them.

Sansa was forcibly married to Tyrion, he treated her well whilst the whole time being told by his father to get her pregnant by any means necessary. At least she found common ground with Tyrion, making the most of her situation. Arya would have rebelled and probably killed or locked up eventually for being defiant.

Sansa was nearly raped in the streets of Kings Landing, she was essentially ordered to be raped by Tyrion on Tywins orders. She was stripped in front of the court by Ser Merys whilst being threatened by Joffrey and his cross bow. She was later taken to the Eryie by known creepy pervert Little Finger, used again as a marriage pawn for Robin Arryn, kissed by creepy Little Finger, attacked and nearly thrown through the moon door by her aunt Lysa. She lied to protect Little Finger because she was starting to learn to play the game.

She was betrayed by Little Finger and married to the insane Ramsey. Constantly brutely raped by him and locked up. But she survived! She even had the guts to stand up to him as well, making it clear he was bastard and no royal decree from another bastard was going to change that.

She manages to escape with Theon and make her way to Castle Black to Jon.

Throughout all this time and abuse Sansa has not cracked. She is not the naive little girl she was raised and expected to be. She has learned what the world is really like, something the Starks should have taught her from day one. The books and the show make a point of have the men say that the boys will soon be men and need to learn what the world is like but the girls? Nope!

Sansa has survived all her abuse, and she has watched and learned how to play the game. She convinces Jon to take back Winterfell, she brings the Knights of the Vale, remember Jon didn't even want to listen to her input. He didn't want to listen to what she of Ramsey. It may be seen as harsh but Sansa knew that Rickon was dead the moment he was in Ramseys clutches, Jon was very noble wanting to save him but there was no chance.

Sansa shows how much she has learned and who she has been made into, the person she has been hiding just waiting to come out when she sets Ramseys dogs on him and enjoys watching his demise. Sansa is often condemned for this while Arya is praised for being a little psycho that loves to kill and does often.

Sansa sits by and says nothing when her birthright is ripped from her and Jon is declared King in the North, whilst she is left with Lady of Winterfell. She supports him, and she speaks her mind which is her right and he chastises her for questioning him in front of the Lords, her place is to discuss it in private. Even though she knows a lot more than he does when it came to the Northern Lords, or Cersei.

Sansa worries about the things others don't. She spent her time worrying about feeding her people, making sure their armour was warm enough, running Winterfell. This may seem boring to the viewers in comparison to Arya swapping faces and murdering all the Freys but this is why Sansa does! This is what makes Sansa strong!

Sansa understands politics, something that Jon, Arya and even Daenerys don't understand. Sansa knows how the North works, she knows how Cersei operates. She knows what the people of the North need, how the Northern Lords think. She sees the danger that Dany presents. She knows that will need her help but she doesn't trust her and doesn't want the Northern independence surrendered, something Jon did without consulting his people at all.

Sansa appropriately worries about feeding the amount of Dothraki and unsullied Dany brings with her. Boring to the viewers? Yes but a legit concern. She also worries about the Dragons and Dany petulantly tells Sansa dragons eat whatever they want. She couldn't have just answered the question properly? Maybe reassured Sansa they won't eat the Northerners, or their supplies?

Sansa is the only one after the battle for Winterfell that believes the soldiers need a break! Something they actually could have had, Cersei and the South could have waited a few days. They no longer than the dead to worry about, but Dany is impatient, caring only for what he believes is hers and not for the people. Jon even shuts Sansa down, suddenly he's stopped caring for the Northerners as well and wants to follow Dany like a loyal little dog.

Oh poor poor little Dany, no one loves her in the North. Maybe that's because the North don't trust foreign invaders. May be because she came to Winterfell after their king they had JUST elected gave it up to a foreign conqueror. Maybe because she came with three large Dragons and seemed to enjoy the fear they inspired. (Seriously go back and watch her arrive at Winterfell). Dany was so used to being worshipped like a Goddess, but that's not how things are done in the North. The Lords of Winterfell mingle with their men, celebrate together and don't worship their leaders like Gods. You can see her annoyance after the Battle for Winterfell. Oh no she lost people? Well suck it up buttercup so did everyone else. She didn't have anyone to celebrate with? Well maybe that's because Dany never made any friends! She had people that served her, even Jorah was a servant, Grey Worm, Missandi all servants not her friends. You can tell the difference with deference to her, the Northerners don't act like that, Jon and Sansa drink with the men like they are one of them. While Dany sits waiting to be pandered to.

Anyway, even Arya sees the issues with Dany! Sansa unites her family and out wits Little Finger of all people! She was once again biding her time waiting to strike. She knows how the game in played.

People praise Jon, Dany and Arya for fighting in the battle of Winterfell? Jon was a trained warrior, Arya was a trained assassin, Dany is pretty useless if she's Dragon less, e picked up a sword to fight with Jorah but didn't actually do much. Sansa is NOT a warrior, she did the best thing she could have done for everyone and stayed out of the way. She actually did have a knife and was ready to fight with Tyrion but it didn't come to that.

Sansa is one of the characters that changed the most, spoilt little girl wanting her fairy tale, to abused girl learning to survive, to abused woman still surving, to the Lady of Winterfell who understood politics and the game, to the Queen in the North who gained Northern independence.

But to blame her for all the bad stuff that happened to her? Blaming her for being raped because she couldn't hold a sword? People like that make me sick!

Sansa may not have been the most exciting character, but she learned how to play the game, she learned from her experiences, she cared about her people, she underwrite politics and saw the issues with Dany long before Jon did.

[acathea]

The Ridiculously Detailed Inquisitor Questionnaire that No One Needed

I’m just five years late for this. Taashath edition, impossibly long. @customhawke‘s inquisitor quiz was extremely time consuming to fill out but so fun!

PART ONE: APPEARANCE/PERSONALITY/BASIC FACTS

Give some basics for the Inquisitor:

Name: Taashath Adaar

Age: 32 (By the end of Trespasser, 34.). Born on Drakonis 3rd, 9:9 Dragon.

Race: Qunari

Gender/preferred pronouns: Trans Woman – She/her

Class (warrior/rogue/mage): Warrior

Preferred weapon/spell type: Two-Handed Swords

Specialization: Champion

Romance: Josephine

Give a detailed description of your Inquisitor.

Taashath has coppery, almost metallic-looking skin and bright red eyes surrounded by a black sclera. She has thick, long crimson hair that falls past her waist, which she keeps tied in a simple braid when out on missions. She takes excellent care of it and is very proud of the way it looks. Her eyebrows are dark, thick, and arched, of a red so dark it almost looks black if the sun is not shining on them. Her face is heart-shaped, with high and pronounced cheekbones and deep-set eyes, where subtle crows-feet rest, made more apparent when she smiles. Crowning her head are two large, dark horns that end in an upwards tip, chipped in places from her many fights throughout the years.

Taashath is tall compared to the other races, but stands at a rather short height for a qunari - at 6’9’’ft (205cm). Her body is muscular and toned, shaped from years of fighting and travelling. It’s scarred in numerous places, and it’s why she tends to wear clothing that covers her entire body not to show them.

Does the Inquisitor have any scars/tattoos before the game’s events? If so, tell how they got them/their meaning (for example, what elvhen god does Inquisitor Lavellan’s vallaslin represent, and why did they choose them?)

A horizontal scar crosses the length of the right corner of her mouth to her cheekbone, that she got on a job while still an inexperienced warrior. The debris from the explosion at the Temple of Sacred Ashes also hit her left eyebrow, leaving a nasty mark. Her body is scarred in numerous places due to her life work as a mercenary, notably her arms, and she always makes a point of covering them. Even when it should be too hot for long sleeves.

She wears mostly practical clothing, with little space for frivolousness. Usually in the dark colours of the Inquisition. After the events of the main game, she allows herself some prettier clothing and lighter colour schemes.

OPINIONS. Give your Inquisitor’s stance on:

The Chantry: Taashath dislikes the Chantry and would rather not be called the Herald of their Prophet. She doesn’t have any fond memories regarding priests of the Chantry, but only of the stones they would throw at her and her parents when passing through a village. She is interested in the history of the Chantry. She especially takes time to study it all in her time in Skyhold, but she holds no illusion that most in the Chantry want her dead. She has no issues with the Maker or Andraste, per se, however, even though she doesn’t believe in any kind of higher power.

Tevinter: Taashath has mixed feelings about Tevinter. She knows of the complicated history between the Qunari and the Imperium – but also, she’s Vashoth. Does that really apply to her? Of course, she holds mostly disdain for the way Tevinter controls its people and enslaves everyone they deem inferior. But she’s also intrigued by the culture of knowledge-seeking, were it not corrupted by lust for power.

Ferelden: It’s… brown. And cold. And it rains a lot. Taashath is more used to the warmth of the north, the brightness of it, but she falls in love with the culture and the people. Would she live in Ferelden? Absolutely not. But she doesn’t hate it.

Orlais: Orlais is… a very sore spot for her. For a chunk of her young adulthood, Taashath worked towards being admitted into the University of Orlais, her biggest dream. She wanted to study history and languages and geography. She wanted to walk in the University’s library and devote her life to knowledge. They laughed in her face, refused her entrance and kicked her out. Her experiences in Orlais after that were riddled with anxiety. When she visited the Winter Palace, however, she enjoyed beating the orlesian nobles that looked down on her at their own Game. She doesn’t like orlesians much, except a select few, and visiting the country is always the last thing she’s looking forward to.

Mages/Magic: Magic has always served Taashath well, and she sometimes envies those she encounters who have the gift. She is a big supporter of the mages’ freedom, although she agrees that they need a place where to study their magic – one where they’re not prisoners, maybe. But she’s not a fool, and she knows it can be dangerous – just like the weapons she carries.

Templars: While they never bothered her personally, Taashath is acutely aware of the abuses the Templars perpetuate and how power-hungry they can be, as she heard of the events of Kirkwall. She thinks their abilities may be of some use. Still, their affiliation with the Chantry and their methods don’t align with her moral principles. She would only ally with them if it was the only thing she could do. There must be some other way to protect people from demons other than Templars.

The Mage/Templar War: She believes it was inevitable. Wherever she went in Southern Thedas, she would always hear of the abuses of the Templars – either from apostates who wanted to join the Valo-Kas, or from the people they encountered. When the Chantry in Kirkwall exploded, she was surprised it didn’t have major consequences in all of Thedas sooner, taking another three years for the rebellion to fully take place. She supports the mages’ freedom.

The Dalish and City Elves: She is fascinated by the ways of the Dalish and would trade everything of value she has for the chance of learning more of their history and culture - and Shaevra is more than happy to share her culture with someone who seems to deeply appreciate it. She fails to make the connection between the nomadic way of the Dalish and the life she was living travelling with her parents. In regards to the city elves, she never knew much about them. It was only after becoming Inquisitor that she learned more of them from the servants in Skyhold. Then she sees first hand their living conditions in Orlais, and she feels much pity for them – although she admires their strength and sense of community.

Dwarves: Taashath hasn’t had much chance of seeing how the dwarves live in their thaigs, although she’s very curious about it – again, only after becoming Inquisitor does she have an opportunity to experience more of their culture. She’s more used to dealing with the Merchants’ Guild and surface dwarves. While she doesn’t have a particular liking for them, she also has no issues with them – unless they call her an ox-woman, which has unfortunately happened on more than one occasion.

Qunari/Tal-Vashoth (do they even know the difference?):  It’s… complicated. She’s qunari herself, although she is Vashoth. For followers of the Qun, she is nothing – like she doesn’t exist. For non-qunari, she is just like them, so she’s seen as a violent savage before a person. The only other example of qunari outside of the Qun are Tal-Vashoth like her parents, which she ran from because she believed she’d be better off without them. The others are either the Tal-Vashoth she is hired to kill, or the ones she works with, with whom she doesn’t feel any real connection to. It’s because of her feeling like she doesn’t have a culture of her own that Taashath is so interested in those of others. She feels like a fish out of water and is both interested in the ways of the followers of the Qun and wary of them. As I said, it’s complicated, and the only subject that genuinely makes her head hurt when she thinks about it.  

Humans: In her youth, Taashath used to idolize humans. She wanted to be like them, to be one of them – mostly because she only wished to have a roof over her head and not be thrown out of villages having sticks and stones thrown at them. She used to think that they must have been right about her parents, that they were savages and if only they allowed her in, they would see she was not like them. Now it’s different. Taashath has been hurt too many times by humans. She is wary and distrustful of them – the reason why she was convinced she wouldn’t have survived the events of the Conclave is that she was a qunari amidst angry humans. Of course, she can be swayed to think differently of some humans, but she treads very carefully when dealing with them. She likes the Avvar, though, and enjoys her time in the Frostbacks because of them.

What is their favourite place to travel to?

The Hissing Wastes. She loves the vastness of it, the climate, she loves the oasis. It’s also where she tames her wyvern mount, so it holds a special place in her heart.

Their least favourite?

Val Royeaux/the Winter Palace. It makes her feel anxious – she always has to watch her step and her mouth, always has to make sure she appears perfect in every way. It makes it hard to enjoy the architecture and pretty colours.

Honourable mention: the Fallow Mire. She hated being there, hated the climate, hated the mud and the water and the rain and everything that was there. She was glad to be out of that wretched place.

Describe what your Inquisitor is like before the game’s events–preferably, choose three words that describe best. Then explain why those adjectives are appropriate descriptors.

Quiet – During her travels, Taashath learned what misunderstood words might bring her in human society, and afterwards, it just stuck. She rarely spoke unless spoken to, and she much preferred entrusting her thoughts and musings to diaries and poetry rather than spoken words.

Apathetic – Or at least, on the surface. Taashath forces herself to appear unbothered and undisturbed by anything because, as usual, people will assume the worst when she expresses any kind of positive or negative emotions. This actually drives people away from her, which is… not what she’s aiming for when she does that. This also results in her basically shutting down her emotional side - which is ironically exactly what people expect of a qunari. It’s hard for her to trust people, to let herself go and be who she is – something that she only allows herself in private - and in turn, this created a sort of shell around her that, at some point, became more of prison than a protective measure.  

Level-headed – Taashath takes a lot of time to think things over. What she says, what she does is always the result of careful calculation and pondering. Not just in dealing with people, but with situations that come about as well. This makes her an excellent leader because she – usually – does not let emotions speak for her. There are a few exceptions, though.              

Does your Inquisitor change over the course of the game’s events? If so, how? What events affected their character arc the most?

It’s a mixed bag of feelings. Taashath learns to voice her feelings, her opinions, not to filter herself as much as she was used to and learns how to make friends. But after the events of the main game, the weight of being Inquisitor starts being too much. Every decision she makes leads to major consequences for the people involved - and even those who weren’t! - and they’re not always predictable. Each failure weighs on her even more. Sometimes, she feels herself becoming paralyzed by fear and doubt, and it’s only through the connections she’s made over the years in the Inquisition that she doesn’t break.

Being a lover of history and knowledge, seeing what happened to Ameridan shocked her quite a bit. Not only does she now doubt everything she’s ever read, but she’s also afraid that – with time – the Chantry will do the same to her. That they will erase her from history, make her a human, and rid the records of there ever being an Inquisitor named Taashath Adaar, of the qunari peoples. It’s disturbing, and she feels much pity for Ameridan and what was done to him. The events of the Descent also shake her, but mostly because she realizes there is so much more to Thedas than she realized. She wonders what other things there are still to discover or uncover.

The events of Trespasser truly break her. She fears and dislikes what the Inquisition is becoming, and she feels that everything is slipping out of her control. Even her advisors start making decisions without her, taking actions she wouldn’t have approved of. She thinks that finally, the charade is over and that she will be revealed for the fraud she is. She is glad, in the end, to disband the Inquisition. It was getting too big, too frightening, and something she was not proud of. She feels like a failure, honestly. Losing her arm also does not help, as her fighting style depends on it, and now she cannot even write – the only thing that brought her comfort for so many years. She feels that in some way she’s been stripped of her identity and made into something she doesn’t recognize.  

Solas betraying her was the worst thing. He honestly acted as her mentor, because he was the only one that knew something about the Anchor and how to control it. Taashath feels everything spiralled after he left. When she finds out that not only is he an Ancient Elven God, he is responsible for everything that happened, and what he is about to do will destroy the world, she just really doesn’t know how to cope with it. She is broken for a while. But, like always, she picks herself back up out of sheer willpower. She wants to save her friend, even if it means protecting him from himsef. It’s the only thing giving her purpose, now, the only thing she will not allow herself to fail at.

Use three words to describe your Inquisitor at the end of the game, and explain why they are appropriate. (If there are any that are still the same from the beginning of the game, explain why they are still appropriate DESPITE the game’s events.)

Authoritative – Taashath, through her knowledge of history and nobility, through being a good strategist, learns to use her voice and make herself heard, learns to make decisions and take control of the situation, and to live with the consequences of what she does. She’s also less afraid of not appearing perfect in front of the nobility – she knows who she is, and nothing will change that.

Paranoid/Insecure – She makes decisions. She lives with the consequences. But each day, those decisions and their repercussions weigh more and more on her, with the death count rising, always. She doubts herself, she is afraid she is not suited for the role and that she should pass it down to someone else instead. But she doesn’t do it, because she is also afraid of what someone else might do with the power of the Inquisition. In the end, it was never its fate to last, and she knew that.  

Dedicated – Despite her doubts, her fears, Taashath simply cannot give up. She will do anything it takes to find Solas, to make him see that this world is worth keeping, and to save him from himself – and the people of Thedas from him. It’s her only goal, and she puts everything she has in herself towards it. She will act, even if it means more decisions, and more weight on her shoulders. She can take it.

Life Before the Conclave

What is their combat skill level before the events of the game? Are they already skilled fighters, or can they barely hold their weapon of choice properly?

Taashath’s father was a Karasten, well trained in the way of fighting. He always believed that his daughter should be able to protect herself, given their nomadic lifestyle, and trained her with sticks first and real swords later from a very young age. She is quick and agile, nimble for someone of her stature and the weapons she wields. She’s an excellent fighter, despite it being something that she does only to defend herself and not because she actually enjoys it.  

How well do they improve after becoming the Herald/Inquisitor?

With The Iron Bull’s help, Taashaths learns quite a few tricks. Not just that, but he teaches her how to make training something to actually relax with, something she can do to wind down and keep her body and mind sharp. She does indeed come to enjoy sparring with him, Cassandra and Blackwall (as the other soldiers will not fight her). Losing her arm, her fighting hand, is absolutely the worst. If all else fails, now she cannot even fight. Of course, after Dagna makes her a very flexible prosthetic, she starts training again – as if she had never held a weapon before. She’s not at the level she used to be, but she’s still quite the fighter.

Does the Inquisitor have family they left behind? Friends?

She learns this during her time in the Inquisition, as for a long while she thought they were dead, but her mother and father are still alive and well. Moreover, she’s got a younger sister and brother. Her ex-partner, a Tal-Vashoth mage, also asks for her help in the Emerald Graves and helps the Inquisition as an agent. Taashath’s mother, Asala, was a Tamassran under the Qun. She taught Taashath everything she knows and, when she came out to them as a child, Asala wasted no time in making Taashath comfortable and teaching her about herb mixtures to help her growth. Taashath’s father, Berestaar, was a Karasten. He often had more trouble than Asala in expressing his feelings and emotions, and could appear like a distant father, but he always loved and cared for her daughter and wanted nothing but the best for them.

Hissera is Taashath’s younger sister, a little spitfire that causes trouble wherever she goes.

Finally, Kost is Hissera’s twin. He’s not as restless as she is, and is also a mage.

Hissra was Taashath’s first love, and they lost each other for a couple years before the events of Inquisition. After Taash helps her personally in the Emerald Graves, Hissra joins the Inquisition as an Agent until its disbandment out of loyalty and gratitude to Taashath.

How do they feel about being separated from them?

It’s very complicated. When she was young, Taashath resented having to always be on the run. She hated that they had nowhere to stay, she hated the way people looked at her parents – her. She hated that they did not speak the King’s Tongue well, she hated that they didn’t seem to make an effort to at least appear less threatening. When she was fifteen, before her mother found out she was pregnant again, she ran away and never looked back. She felt that, on her own, she had more chances of being able to build a life for herself in human society – and she was wrong. By the time of Inquisition, she is very ashamed of what she did, the words she said to them, and wishes she could take it all back. She fears they might be dead. She reveals this to Josephine one evening, who in turn informs Leliana and asks her to look into it as a personal favour. They reach Skyhold, and it’s a very emotional reunion. Now she knows she won’t let go of them ever, and bought a house for them to stay in Antiva, near where she and Josephine live.

What is the most important/influential moment of their life before the Conclave?

There are a couple, at least. Running away from her parents was one such moment. Her breakup with Hissra was another. But most definitely her most defining moment was when she got turned away from the University of Orlais. Even after all those years on the road, and having to work as a mercenary to gather the coin because no one would hire qunari for anything else, she still hoped she could make it. She was genuinely convinced that if she argued her points well, they would admit her. After all, the University was the only place elves were allowed to study in, so how far of a stretch could it have been to allow a qunari in as well? It was the moment she gave up on her dream, forever, and resigned herself to a life of mercenary work just to get by.

Why were they sent to the Conclave?

It was just another job with the Valo-Kas. Go there and look threatening, make sure no one started anything. She knew the importance of the Conclave and was interested in seeing its outcome. Still, she knew nothing would personally change in her life. Or at least, she thought so.  

PART TWO: MAIN PLOT REACTIONS/CHOICES

THE WRATH OF HEAVEN/THE THREAT REMAINS

How does the Inquisitor react to the Anchor and the idea of closing the Breach–do they want to do the right thing, are they only along because they are a prisoner, or something else?

Taashath is thoroughly freaked out the entirety of the prologue, even if she tries hard not to show it. She knows she didn’t do anything, but she can’t remember what happened. She’s surrounded by angry humans who blame her for the death of their religious head figure, and she knows how much humans hate and fear qunari. She wants to do the right thing and accepts anyway, but she honestly thinks that she won’t survive the ordeal – Anchor or no.  

Do they take the mountain pass with the scouts to the Temple, or do they charge with the soldiers?

The mountain pass was without a doubt the safest and smartest choice – charging aimlessly to fight a force she does not yet know is not her style at all.

How does the Inquisitor react to being called the Herald of Andraste?

She doesn't like it, and asks everyone not to call her that. Not only because she does not believe she’s the chosen of Andraste or the Maker, but because she’s afraid of what will happen when other people realize she’s neither of those things.

Do they believe it themselves?

Absolutely not. Taashath is an atheist, and she believes Andraste was just a very powerful mage who communed with a spirit. She holds no illusions of being the chosen of any God.

How does the Inquisitor react to Chancellor Roderick’s presence and the threat of the Chantry?

Taashath does not like him, and definitely does not like the way he calls for her beheading every two seconds – but he’s nothing new. She knows how much power the Chantry and its lackeys hold, so she can only hope that he won’t bother her too much.  

Does the Inquisitor decide to approach the mages or the Templars?

Taashath does not want to be affiliated with the Chantry in any way. However, she’s working for an organization that is technically under its banner. Still, she chooses the mages because she figures they can help more with this magic rather than following Cullen’s conjectures.

IN HUSHED WHISPERS

How does the Inquisitor feel about mages and about recruiting them?

She has a deep respect for magic and mages, and is a supporter of their cause. She goes to the mage without seconds thoughts because she genuinely feels they are the only way to help, and if she can help them in return, she will do anything in her power to do so. When she finds out they basically sold themselves into slavery she’s perplexed as to exactly why they would do that – but she also sees that they thought this was the only way they could escape the Chantry. This just further convinces her that she wants to help them and their cause.

How does the Inquisitor react to the idea of allying with Tevinter to gain the mages’ support?

Very practically. She is not allying herself with Tevinter, she is helping the mages and making sure they are not going to be slaves in a foreign land.

How do they react to being thrown a year into the future? Do they believe they can get back? Are they focused on their goal, gathering information? Or are they just freaking out?

Taashath, as usual, is very calm on the surface. She is very freaked out about the whole situation and what she sees, but she’s also very fascinated by how this was achieved. Having Dorian with her also helps, as even if she initially did not trust him, he quickly proves to be a valuable ally. Shared trauma is the quickest way to make friends, apparently. What really disturbs her is seeing how her companions have suffered, and seeing them die for her does a number on her. Her top priority after that becomes making sure there are the least number of casualties possible.

Did they ally with the mages or conscript them? Why?

She allies with them. She’s not about to force people to help her, and she doesn’t want the mages to go from one prison to another. She figures that the only way the Inquisition will survive is if it makes allies rather than enemies, as it already has quite a few of those, and conscripting people is not the best way to make lasting friendships.

What is the Inquisitor’s relationship with Fiona?

She is confused at first by Fiona’s reasoning, but she does not blame her more than what she feels is her right because Taashath is neither a mage nor an elf – there is clearly nuance there that she is lacking the life experiences to fully get. However, as they spend more time together in service of the Inquisition, she becomes fascinated with her stories and her life, and often comes to her for counsel.

IN YOUR HEART SHALL BURN

Does the Inquisitor help Harriet and save all possible citizens of Haven? Why?

Of course! She saved everyone, and was willing to die herself to see the innocent people of Haven survive. Even if she did not like some of them, they had all given themselves to a cause and she is a firm believer that even the most “insignificant” of people has value. Everyone deserves to live, and she makes sure everyone makes it to the Chantry safe and sound.

How does the Inquisitor feel about being a distraction for Corypheus while Haven flees? Are they resigned to their fate? Resentful? Determined to defeat the enemy/survive?

In a way, she figured she would not survive Haven. She is afraid, and while she feels like shaking in fear, she knows she cannot show any weakness at this moment. She is resigned to her fate, and she only hopes the Inquisition will be able to defeat Corypheus. They have Cassandra to lead them, after all. She has closed the Breach, her duty is done, and although she is not ready, she wants to give everyone a chance.  

Does the encounter with Corypheus change their opinion of being Herald? Does it make them believe they are the Herald, lose faith, or affirm to their previous belief?

Nah, it doesn’t. It just makes her believe that she has to stop him at all costs - although she’s fascinated by what he said about the Black City.

How do they react to Solas telling them the orb is elvhen?

She’s so fascinated, and asks tons of questions. She wants to know more about it. She agrees nobody else should know the orb is elven in origin because she fears the reaction of the humans in the organization, and what it might mean for the elves working for it. 

How do they feel about being chosen for Inquisitor?

It’s the first time in the game she actually shows some emotion – mostly, bewilderment. She can’t believe a bunch of humans are making them her leader, and she doubts anyone will follow her. She thinks someone like Cassandra is more suited to leading the Inquisition, and gets a bit teary-eyed when she sees the outpouring love and support the people she helped save show her. She enjoys it - initially.

What do they say are the principle foundations for the Inquisition?

Uncovering the truth, protecting the people, defending the freedom of the people of Thedas – of all its people, not just humans.

FROM THE ASHES

How does the Inquisitor react to Hawke’s presence?

Taashath has read the Tale of the Champion quite a few times, and is fascinated by meeting the Champion herself. She asks lots of questions, and she is surprised to see how mellow and quiet Hawke seems to be – so different from what Varric had written in his book.

Does the Inquisitor side with Varric or Cassandra during their fight?

Varric. He is not responsible for what happened at the Conclave, and she does not fault him for not trusting Cassandra.

How well do they get along with Hawke? Do they agree with Hawke’s decisions?

They get along pretty well. They find much in terms of common ground and Taashath values Marian’s help a lot. Taashath doesn’t know what she would have done in Hawke’s place, so she does not judge her. Marian has had many dealings with qunari of all backgrounds, so seeing Taashath does not really phase her.

HERE LIES THE ABYSS

Who is the Warden contact?

In-game? Stroud. In my personal canon? My own Hero of Ferelden. After getting news from Varric of who is responsible for the Breach, Marian contacts Anthra for help, and Anthra interrupts her search for a cure (close to bearing fruit) because she believes Corypheus is the Wardens’ responsibility. Her wife Everelle follows in tow, and they’re joined by their daughter Fen’na shortly afterwards.

How does the Inquisitor get along with them?

With Stroud, she doesn’t form much of an opinion. He keeps to himself and gives her directions and information, and so she does the same. With Anthra, she is very fascinated by her and asks her tons of questions. She’s read the Chronicles of the Fifth Blight a thousand times already, but she doesn’t pass any chances to inquire about something with the Hero of Ferelden herself. She respects her, admires her, and admires her prowess in combat.

How do they react to finding out the Wardens are being used by Corypheus?

It went against everything she knew about the Wardens. Honourable warriors dedicated to defeating the darkspawn, allying themselves with a powerful one? She did not understand, and was pretty shaken after discovering it.  

How does the Inquisitor react to being in the Fade?

Extremely enthusiastic, despite the circumstances. She takes notes of everything she sees, until it becomes a little too freaky for her liking. She never expected to see the Fade in person.

Do they ever believe the spirit is actually of Divine Justinia?

For a brief moment, yes. And for a second, she started freaking out that if the spirit was truly Divine Justinia, then maybe she was really the Herald and all that other nonsense. She was thoroughly pleased to find out it was all as she believed initially - no higher power to speak of.

How do they react to the revelation regarding the Wardens’ involvement in the Conclave attack?

Disturbed. She had hoped they had no part in what happened at the Conclave, purely out of the respect she feels for the Order, but seeing her memories made it impossible to keep staying in denial.

Do they agree with Hawke or the Warden more?

In-game? Neither. Stroud’s “how dare you judge us” feels like he’s trying to avoid any kind of responsibility, while Marian would never blame what happened on the use of blood magic. In canon? Marian feels pity for how the Wardens were tricked. At the same time, Anthra can’t believe the Order let itself be fooled and forced into slavery by darkspawn. There is nothing to agree with, they all feel it’s a shitty situation.

How do they respond to Hawke’s and the Warden’s fight?

In canon, no fights happen, while in the game, she tries to make Stroud and Hawke realize that fighting while they are held hostage by a Nightmare full of demons is probably not the best decision.

How do they react to learning it was the Divine behind them in the Fade, not Andraste?

She feels relieved that it was not Andraste, sad for the Divine’s death, guilty for failing to help her.

What would the Nightmare Demon have said to rattle the Inquisitor?

“Try as you might, you won’t be able to hide forever. One day, they will all see what you really are. And I will be waiting.”

What is on the Inquisitor’s tombstone (what is their greatest fear)?

“Lost herself.”

Who does the Inquisitor leave behind in the Fade? Why do they choose to do so?

Both in-game and in canon it’s not actually Taashath’s decision, but I’ll explain the canon version: Anthra was ready to give herself for the cause, believing that Corypheus is the Wardens’ responsibility. However, Hawke believes otherwise. She failed to kill Corypheus, so in a way, she feels it’s her fault this all happened. She pushes Taashath and Anthra away with magic and forces them out of the rift before it closes. It’s her responsibility. She will pay the price.

Does the Inquisitor decide to exile the Wardens or have them fight alongside the Inquisition? What is their reasoning behind the decision?

Despite their mistakes, despite the revelation that the Wardens are not as infallible as she thought they were, she is not so stupid as to exile them. Two Old Gods still lie in the Deep Roads waiting to be awakened by the darkspawn, and when that time comes, the Grey Wardens will once again need to save Thedas.

WICKED EYES AND WICKED HEARTS

What is their opinion on attending the ball in the first place? Do they think it’s a waste of time, a necessary duty, or something exciting?

It’s a necessary duty, but one she dreads. She dreads appearing in front of the same nobles and scholars who regularly mock her and call her ox, and she fears she will make a blunder and ruin the Inquisition’s reputation.

Do the companions/advisors believe the Inquisitor will do well at the palace, or is there a fear they’ll be kicked out within five minutes?

Everyone fears the outcome of the evening because they are attempting to stop a murder. But while no one is afraid Taashath will bring shame to the Inquisition, they do have to sit down with her and try to get her to be more warm and friendly - teach her to recognize some of the nobles. Vivienne especially helps in this situation, as she’s familiar with having to appear perfect in front of a group of people ready to eat her alive.

How does the Inquisitor actually fare? Are they the belle of the ball, or do they barely scrape by?

Taashath does incredibly well. It’s like the nobles are at her fingertips, she manoeuvres and manipulates them all. She finds the Game quite delightful, and discovers herself a good player.

Does the Inquisitor gather blackmail information for Leliana? Gather caprice coins and stone halla? Find the Red Jenny caches?

If there was a chance, yes, but she didn’t go out of her way to find stuff that was not directly related to the mission at hand – save the blackmail for Leliana. That was valuable and essential information that would have helped them even after the evening at the palace was over.

Does the Inquisitor fight Grand Duchess Florianne, or expose her?

She exposes her. Taashath fears that a divided Orlais will be worse for the balance of Thedas than Corypheus might be, and she does what she can to make sure there is someone to rule it.

Who does the Inquisitor support for Orlesian rule?

She forces Celene, Gaspard and Briala into a truce. She holds no love either for the Empress nor for Gaspard, and wishes to see Briala and her people thrive. Still, both the Empress and Gaspard have numerous allies and enemies that balance each other out, and her only interest was a united Orlais for what was to come.

She also, not so very subtly, enjoyed the humans having to bow to her demands, for once.

WHAT PRIDE HAD WROUGHT

How does the Inquisitor get along with Morrigan?

She asks her questions, but she is wary. Morrigan seems more interested in the power she can find in the Temple of Mythal rather than stopping Corypheus, and this concerns her. She also sees how her Dalish ambassador and her clash, and she can’t help but take Shaevra’s side.

Does the Inquisitor take the Pilgrim’s Path, or fight their way through?

She follows the Pilgrim’s Path. She takes in as much of the Temple of Mythal as she can, having never had the chance to be so close to Ancient Elven culture. She wants to see everything for herself.

Does the Inquisitor ally with Abelas and the elven sentinels?

Of course. If she could, she would ask them tons of questions, and would love to hear their stories. She is very frustrated that there’s just no time to do that, and she has no wish of fighting them.

Does the Inquisitor weaken Samson’s armour before fighting him?

Yes. Weakening an enemy’s allies is the first thing she takes care of.

Who drinks from the Well of Sorrows? What is the reasoning behind the choice?

In-game, Taashath takes the knowledge of the Well for herself. Ancient history? Culture? There was not a chance she was giving that up. One of the only selfish choices she made during the game, as she knew Morrigan would benefit from it more. In canon? My own Lavellan, Shaevra, drank from the Well, as Taashath would never take that away from her. It’s her people, her culture, and she finds Morrigan’s comments terribly out of place, and a confirmation that she was more interested in the power of the Temple rather than helping fight Corypheus.

THE FINAL PIECE

If the Inquisitor drank from the Well, how do they react to finding out they are now a servant of Flemeth/Mythal?

She regrets it a bit, because she realizes she didn’t think about the consequences - and she always thinks of the consequences. It surprises her to find out Mythal is in a human body, but she’s still fascinated by everything that’s happening.

Shaerva is not bothered by being a servant of one of her gods per se, but again, she is surprised first and angry later that Mythal chose a human vessel. She’s angry with Mythal, because she could have helped them all those years, and she didn’t. She doesn’t know what to make of it.  

DOOM UPON ALL THE WORLD

How does the Inquisitor feel about facing Corypheus for the last time? Do they feel confident? Do they believe they will survive the encounter? How do they cope with the possibility of failure?

Honestly, Taashath believes that this final confrontation will be the last. The Breach, again? Corypheus and his dragon? This has to be it, she thinks. Her biggest regret is not having had enough time for her family, but at least she knows she’s done all she can.

Who becomes the next Divine? Is the Inquisitor in support of the decision?

This is actually the hardest decision Taash had to make - who to support. She, of course, realizes that the Divine being someone who used to work for the Inquisition is extrmely important and valuable. Her heart says Leliana, because of her outspoken support of nonhumans and mages. Vivienne also was a candidate in her mind, and talking with her personal apprentice, Sefridi, she was swayed to her side. It is only after Anthra herself gives her opinion that Taashath finally comes to the decision that Leliana is the best suited to become Divine.

How do they react to Solas’ disappearance?

Confused, sad. She always came to him not just to have stories told, or to have him walk her through the Fade, but also when she had doubts, second thoughts, when it came to the Anchor. They spent a lot of time together, and she deeply respected him. He was very much her mentor. She misses their ritual of greeting the morning on the roofs of Skyhold more than anything.

What does the Inquisitor decide to do after Corypheus is defeated? How do they focus the Inquisition?

There are still rifts out there that need to be closed, and the Inquisition’s work is not done. Corypheus’s mess is not entirely dealt with, so she doesn’t feel like there is any other path for her aside from continuing to lead the Inquisition. She wants them to keep the peace and protect the people of Thedas, though she realizes the organization is getting too big and slipping out of her control. After the events of Trespasser, Taashath dedicates herself to finding and stopping Solas, and try to save him from himself and make him realize this is a world worth preserving.

PART THREE: SIDE QUESTS/WAR TABLE

SIT IN JUDGMENT:

How does the Inquisitor generally judge prisoners?

If there is a way for her to make use of her enemies so that they bolster the Inquisition’s forces, that is what she will do.

What are the specific judgments passed to prisoners in-game?

Gereon Alexius (If Mages Recruited): Execution/Imprisonment/Work With Mages/Made Tranquil/Research Magic

She has him researching magic, especially the time magic he was able to use in Redcliffe.

Florianne’s Remains (If Confronted and not killed): Encloisterment/Recruitment/Farm Work/Exile/Jester

Recruited her. No way she’s wasting that potential.

Magister Livius Erimond: Imprisonment/Execution/Made Tranquil/Remand to Grey Wardens

She sends him to the Grey Wardens, as she is sure they will punish him appropriately.

Ser Ruth: Divine Forgiveness/Humiliation/Imprisonment/Refuse Judgment/Exile with Wardens/Exile to Deep Roads

Refused to judge her.

Captain Thom Rainer: Pardon/Give to Wardens/Servitude

She gives him to the Grey Wardens – she can see he regrets what he’s done and willing to make amends, so she sends him where he was initially supposed to go anyway.

Samson (If Mages Recruited): Serve Inquisition/Give to Dagna/Remand to Kirkwall/Exile/Imprisonment

He serves the Inquisition.

Chief Movran the Under: Banish/Public Display/Arm and Exile to Tevinter/Assign to Abernache

Arms and exiles him to Tevinter.

Mayor Gregory Dedrick: Give to Grey Wardens/Exile/Death/Imprison in Fereldan

She has Ferelden authorities deal with him, as even though the crimes pertain to the Blight, she still feels it’s not her place to make that call.

Crassius Servis: Imprisonment/Returned to Corypheus/Recruited (Informant)/Recruited (Smuggler)

Recruits him as an informant.

Mistress Poulin: Rebuild Town/Released/Put to Work/Execution/Money Confiscated for Trevelyan

She had Poulin use her own funds to rebuild the town.

WAR TABLE

Does your Inquisitor generally use Force, Secrets, or Connections to complete War Table Operations? Why?

She rarely, if ever, uses Cullen’s forces. Only when it comes to something military-related does she call on him, otherwise all the work goes to Leliana and Josephine’s agents.

What does the Inquisitor usually spend Inquisition Perks on?

Secrets. Taashath knows that, to use the Inquisition to its fullest potential, she has to know everyone and everything about Thedas.

FETCH/GATHERING QUESTS

Does the Inquisitor take time to collect the shards? Do they complete the Temple of Pride? Why or why not?

It’s secret knowledge – of course she’s not letting that slip out of her hands. She is, however, horrified to find out how the oculara are created.

Does the Inquisitor complete the Astrariums? Why or why not?

She loved testing her knowledge of the stars and enjoyed completing the puzzles – always refusing any help.

Does the Inquisitor take time to complete side quests/recruit agents? Why or why not?

Unless she was on a mission that required to make haste, Taashath always takes the time to help people in need and spread the word of the good work the Inquisition does. As for agents, she recruits as much as she can, and never turns down help or a chance to gain more influence.

PART FOUR: RELATIONSHIPS/COMPANION QUESTS

GENERAL

Who does the Inquisitor prefer to have in their party? Why?

Cole, Solas and Dorian/Vivienne. They take turns. Cole is a spirit in a very unique predicament, Solas knows much about magic and the Fade, and Dorian is her bestie. She also really loves Vivienne’s company.

Which advisor is the Inquisitor closest to, if any?

Josephine. She helps Taashath a great deal adjusting in Haven and then in Skyhold, and she feels really drawn to her. She also really loves hearing about her time in Antiva and Orlais, but she comes to Leliana when she has doubts about what she’s doing or the Inquisition itself.

Who does the Inquisitor most often turn to for advice?

Solas, mostly. They have this ritual where they will greet the morning, relaxing their bodies, stretching them, it helps her relax a lot and start the morning with a clear mindset. She also finds venting to Dorian very helpful, and the two grow very close.

Who is the one the Inquisitor hangs out with the most in their free time?

Dorian, absolutely. They’re both bookworms and spend their time talking about what new things they’re studying, their favourite scholars and the like. He tries to get her to loosen up a bit, and although met with some initial resistance, the two grow very fond of each other.

Who would be the one the Inquisitor tells their deepest, darkest secrets to?

Cole already knows them all, and she knows it. Her deepest and darkest secrets? Leliana, the only one who will treasure them carefully.

Are there any companions the Inquisitor wishes they were closer to? If so, which ones?

Sera. Taashath feels that winding down with Sera is the best time she has in the Inquisition, but her duties always make it so she can spend little time with her, and she wishes she could be more like the elf - wild and carefree. However, after some time, they find solace in each other and help each other deal with their issues regarding their own heritages.

LELIANA

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Leliana?

She’s the voice of reason compared to Cassandra, and she trusts her from the beginning, purely because she’s level-headed despite what is happening.

Does the impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why?

Taashath always trusts Leliana and considers her a powerful and valuable ally. However, during the events of Trespasser she grows frustrated with the liberties Leliana takes, and her failures as well.

What does Leliana think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

Leliana sees Taashath as a wonderful woman. Knowledgeable, well versed in the fighting arts and a diplomat to heart. Honestly, Leliana couldn’t have wished for a better Inquisitor.

Does the Inquisitor help Leliana find the Divine’s last message for her in Val Royeaux?

Of course she does. Having her advisors be at peace and entirely focused on her work is a top priority.

If so, do they “soften” Leliana or confirm her “hardened” nature?

Leliana doesn’t need Taashath to tell her who she is. She only tries to remind her that there can be space for a gentle heart even when making the toughest decisions.

Does the Inquisitor support the idea of Leliana being Divine?

She swings back and forth between her and Vivienne until she finally decides to support her. The Chantry needs radical change, and Leliana will bring just that. She loves how outspoken she is in favor of non-humans and mages, and she knows she will be a friend of the Inquisition. It’s an all around win for everyone, she believes.

CULLEN

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Cullen?

He’s angry, he’s got a sword, he’s giving her the stink eye. She doesn’t like him.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why?

Not really. She’s apathetic towards him at best, or wishes they could find a better replacement for him, but the soldiers seem to like him, and she only wants the Inquisition to be united.

What does Cullen think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

Cullen knows full well the Inquisitor doesn’t even think him necessary to the operations, and he tries to make her see things differently. When she challenges him on his views and his methods, he realizes he only buried his bigoted views under the false pretence of having “gotten over it”.  

Does the Inquisitor play the chess game with Cullen? Do they let him win, play fair, or cheat?

She doesn’t really like spending time with Cullen outside of work, so no.

Does the Inquisitor convince Cullen to stay off lyrium, or tell him to start taking it again?

She’s not gonna have him keep taking lyrium – it’s going to lead to madness eventually, and she urges him to push through it despite the pain. Genuinely, it’s when she feels sympathy for him. What he goes through cannot be easy, and even though she doesn’t like him and him being free of lyrium addiction would help the Inquisition, it’s mostly for his own good that she pushes him to power through it.

Does the Inquisitor assist Cullen in finding Samson’s base?

Yes. She is disgusted by him calling Maddox “Samson’s Tranquil” like he is some sort of pet, but in the end the only thing she cares about is weakening Corypheus’s allies.

JOSEPHINE

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Josephine?

Taashath thinks Josephine is lovely, and appreciates her efforts to make her feel comfortable. In her opinion, Josie is also a very beautiful, striking woman.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why?

She thinks Josephine is, along with Leliana, the most important asset to the Inquisition. Her knowledge and network of contacts is vital and she cherishes having such a prepared and professional woman by her side.

What does Josephine think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

Josephine is initially nervous about Taashath’s apparent stoic nature, but eventually learns to recognize the subtle tells of the qunari’s feelings, learns to read them, and becomes her confidante. She greatly appreciates Taashath’s interest in politics and eagerness to help.  

Does the Inquisitor initiate a romance with Josephine?

Yes. To be honest, in the beginning, Taashath went to her to vent and relax. She would compliment her constantly in what could be considered flirtatious comments, but to her she was only admiring the woman she was speaking to. It didn’t even occur to her that she was developing feelings for Josephine, as she would never assume Josephine would waste her time with her, and it is only when Leliana gives her “the talk” that she’s forced to think about her feelings and realizes just how much she cares for her.

What is it like? Why are they attracted to each other?

Taashath is interested in Josephine’s work and stories, and she enjoys her quiet company. Josephine appreciates Taashath’s work ethics and driven mind. It’s all professional at first… until it isn’t.

Does the Inquisitor find Josephine an example of her old family crest?

Yes. Taashath takes any chance she has to make Josephine happy, and spends a great deal of time finding that antiquity – she loves collecting old wine bottles as well, and thus she knows where and who to look for when it comes to trinket-hunters.

Does the Inquisitor duel Lord Otranto for Josephine’s affections? Do they confess their love to Josephine when she intervenes, or allow Otranto to marry Josephine?

Initially, she wasn’t going to. If Josephine said they were done, Taashath was not going to force anything on her. However, this caused her a great deal of suffering. She was a mess, and this to her was just reaffirmation that no one would ever love her the way she loved them. She got blind drunk and collapsed on the sofa in her chambers. Ironically, it was Hissra – her previous partner – who found her in that condition and made her realize she had to fight for Josephine. Her yelling “because I love you!” in the middle of the square was probably the most emotional she’s been, and has allowed herself to be, in quite a bit. She poured her heart out for Josephine in that moment, and to have her love reciprocated was… more than she could have ever hoped for.

They get married sometime before Trespasser.

Does the Inquisitor talk to Josephine about her work to help her relieve stress?

Yes. They go on and on about it, and Taashath tries to give helpful advice, or just offer an understanding ear.

Do they enjoy it? Does it continue to occur?

Oh, yes. It becomes a regular occurrence, so much so that Josephine is always ready with wine and appetizers for Taashath’s visit. Yes, those are dates. No, they don’t realize it for quite a while. Everybody else knows but them.

Does the Inquisitor help Josephine reinstate her family’s trade in Orlais?

Of course!

If yes, do they kill the agent from the House of Repose?

No. The agent came to speak, and so did she.

Do they decide to take Josephine’s route of nullifying the contract, or Leliana’s?

Taashath would prefer doing what Leliana suggests because it’s fast and easy, but ultimately chooses to follow Josephine’s route and elevate the Du Paraquettes. Having nobles owe you favours is convenient.

CASSANDRA

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Cassandra?

She is mostly afraid of her, because she understands she’s in a position of power and is very, very angry at her for something she didn’t do. Does not bode well.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why?

They become good work colleagues after the events of the Temple, and sometimes they share book recommendations and advice. However, Taashath does not like how Cassandra pushes for her to believe in the Maker, and her general lack of tact when it comes to asking about Taashath herself prevents them from becoming fully friends, although there is much respect between the two..

What does Cassandra think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

Cassandra is surprised by Taashath’s prowess as a strategist and warrior, and is content with her being Inquisitor, although she disagrees with some of her choices.

Does the Inquisitor initiate a romance with Cassandra?

Nah. Taashath likes Cassandra well enough, but she regards her more as a colleague rather than a potential partner.

Does the Inquisitor find out about Cassandra’s “guilty pleasure?” If so, do they convince Varric to make the next chapter of Swords and Shields for her?

Yes. She finds it all amusing, really. She’s read Sword & Shield herself, and finds it very shallow – not to the level of poetry books that she usually reads. However, she sees how much Cassandra likes it, and sees no harm in nudging Varric towards finishing another chapter.

Does the Inquisitor help Cassandra track down hunt down criminals left unchecked by the Seekers’ absence?

Yes. She has Leliana check their backgrounds herself first, but she helps her in the end.

Does the Inquisitor go with Cassandra to Caer Oswin to find the missing Seekers?

Yes. She sees how important it is for Cassandra, and wants her at peace.

If so, does the Inquisitor support Cassandra’s idea to rebuild the Seekers, or do they discourage her from doing so?

Taashath knows what the Seekers mean to Cassandra, and she sees she’s horrified by the secrets they kept and wants to do better by them- Plus, she believes Cassandra is the perfect fit to guide them, so she lets her go. Her hope is that the Seekers of Truth will now be worthy of their name.

Does the Inquisitor support the idea of Cassandra being Divine?

Nah. Cassandra is not suited to deal with nobles, or politics. She is a firm believer, sure, but that alone is not enough. She would keep the peace at the cost of people’s lives – as much as Taashath’s respects her, she does not trust her with the Sunburst Throne.

VARRIC

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Varric?

She doesn’t ever really know how to respond to his jokes, but he’s an accomplished writer and a good person at heart, and she sees that. For her, it’s good enough.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why?

Varric’s charisma gets to her, too, and she often drinks with him. They share stories and writing tips, and after Taashath has him read some of her own writing, he tries to hook her up with someone who might publish her poems under a pen name, successfully. Sometimes, occasionally, she vents to him, but she deals with things that are so far beyond a normal person’s understanding that he rarely knows what to say, so she tries not to make him uncomfortable. Like Dorian, he tries to get her to loosen up, but it’s actually because of their shared passion of writing that they grow fond of each other and become good friends.

What does Varric think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

Varric’s dealings with the qunari in the past have left him wary of the people, but he also sees Taashath is genuinely trying to do what’s best. He only hopes things will turn out better than they did with Hawke, but Taashath seems better suited to deal with the situations thrown at her than Marian was.

If Varric could give the Inquisitor a nickname, what would it be?

Red. Her red eyes are the first thing he noticed about her, not to mention her red hair and coppery skin, and how she dresses. Red, to describe her, is the first thing that comes to mind.

Does the Inquisitor find and destroy the Red Lyrium sources across Thedas after learning about them from Varric?

Absolutely. It’s vital to her in destroying Corypheus, not doing so would be irresponsible.

Does the Inquisitor help Varric and Bianca find the thaig inside Valammar?

Yes.

Does the Inquisitor blame Bianca for what happened?

Yes. She loves learning more, and knowing more, and figuring out stuff. But lying? Putting people in danger? Refusing to take responsibility? That does not sit right with her.

SOLAS

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Solas?

She's' very uncomfortable with him grabbing her and yanking her arm, but she quickly comes to trust him - especially once she finds out he kept her alive while she was unconscious, and thanks him for his help.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why?

She immediately trusts him with her doubts regarding the Anchor, and often comes to him for advice. She loves walking with him through the Fade, she loves listening to his stories, they have their own little ritual in the morning. She considers him her mentor.

What does Solas think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

He is… surprised. He knows what she really is, where she comes from, what she comes from, and expects her to be nothing but a savage who will not understand the power she holds in her hand. Instead, Taashath reveals herself to be level-headed, reasonable, eager to learn, and interested in everything he has to say. Maybe he misjudged her people.

Does the Inquisitor help Solas find and activate elvhen artefacts to strengthen the Veil?

Yes. It’s part of the Inquisition’s job to deal with the Veil now, only natural that she would.

Does the Inquisitor help Solas rescue his friend in the Exalted Plains?

Of course. She sees how distressed he is, and she only wants to help him.

Does the Inquisitor choose to destroy the summoning stones or fight the Pride Demon?

They’re there to help Solas’s friend, even if the friend has been corrupted. Solas will deal with it when everything is over.

Does the Inquisitor let Solas kill the mages or do they stop him?

She stops him. It was all a mistake, one that was not supposed to happen, she doesn’t want him killing mages who didn’t understand what they were doing. Let them live, and learn from their experience.

How does the Inquisitor react to finding out Solas is Fen’harel?

It’s all a whirlwind of emotions. Some things make sense, others are completely upside down. That she was spending her time with an Ancient Elven God all this time, when she didn't believe in any higher power, shook her to her core.

Does the Inquisitor choose to look for Solas after he disappears? Why or why not?

Of course! She needs to know more, and knows that – deep down – Solas wants to be stopped. And she will.

SERA

Is Sera recruited?

Definitely. A network of spies that uses people no one ever expects to do this kind of work is exactly what Taashath needed.

If she is, does she ever leave the Inquisition, and why?

Absolutely not. Taashath values Sera’s network greatly, and she clearly wants to be with the Inquisition. Why turn down her help, when she gives it freely?

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Sera?

Amused. She doesn’t really know what to make of Sera, but her skill with a bow and her quick-witted nature are a breath of fresh air for her.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why?

They have a complicated relationship. Taashath sees a lot of herself in Sera, and not in the best sense. The way she looks down upon her own heritage, the way she shuts down when something becomes too overwhelming – it’s like seeing a younger version of herself. Taashath tries to help Sera in coming to terms with her own “elfyness”, and Sera ends up doing the same for her. They help each other like that.

What does Sera think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

Sera finds Taashath to be a beautiful woman, and she’s captivated by her. Helps her relax and keep her eyes looking towards the little people. Sera is always watchful for the moment Taashath becomes like the nobles she hates - and yet this never happens. Sera and Taashath remain good friends even after the end of the main game. She has her loyalty.

Does the Inquisitor initiate a romance with Sera?

No. Taashath finds Sera to be too young for her.

Does the Inquisitor complete the Red Jenny War Table missions?

Yes. After all, that’s why she recruited Sera in the first place.

Does the Inquisitor agree to send a presence to Verchiel for Sera?

Yes. She trusts and values Sera’s input, despite what others might say.

How does the Inquisitor deal with Lord Harmond? (Do they ally with him, force him to work for the Inquisition, let him leave, or let Sera kill him?)

Normally, Taashath tries to find a way so that her enemies can become her allies. However, after seeing how Harmond treats people, and seeing how distressed Sera was, she allows her to kill him. People like him would bring no good to the Inquisition, anyway.

VIVIENNE

Is Vivienne recruited?

Yes. Taashath is aware of who the Madame de Fer is, and is very intrigued by her invite.

If she is, does she ever leave the Inquisition, and why?

No. Taashath deeply values Vivienne as an ally and friend.

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Vivienne?

She’s… almost enchanted. The way she handled the confrontation with the noble, the way she got straight to business immediately. Everything from the way she was dressed to the way she acted told Taashath this was someone to keep close. Maybe she even flirted a little bit with her, with no hopes of achieving anything, of course. She’s not that deluded.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why?

Taashath wished Vivienne’s opinions on the Circle were somewhat different, although she still understood where she was coming from. But she comes to respect and regard Vivienne as a dear friend, and often came to her for advice or to vent. Vivienne was always willing to help, and to offer a listening ear. They enjoyed quiet evenings together, discussing politics and drinking fine wine.

What does Vivienne think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

At first, she saw Taashath as a rather weak leader, because of her demeanor. It does not fool VIvienne that a lot of her perceived stoicness is actually a shield. Then, she came to respect her and what she did, and regard her as a friend and valuable ally. Taashath became someone Vivienne could rely on. Does the Inquisitor help Vivienne look for the three tomes for the Circle of Magi?

Yes. It’s not exactly related to the Inquisition, but she always wishes to keep her closest ally content.

Does the Inquisitor agree to find Vivienne the heart of a Snowy Wyvern?

Yes. It’s the first time Vivienne directly asks for her help in a private matter, and she realizes this must be terribly important. Madame de Fer seems distressed also, and Taashath jumps to her help because she finds it so uncharacteristic of her.

Do they actually give Vivienne the heart, or do they give her the heart of a regular wyvern?

There is no reason to give her a fake heart, no reason not to trust Vivienne. After seeing Vivienne’s soft side, she feels more connected to her and was glad she tried to help, even if ultimately the Duke died.

Does the Inquisitor support Vivienne, the idea of Vivienne being Divine?

Not at first. She resonated more with Leliana’s ideas, and she had a mind of supporting the Left Hand of the Divine. After her personal assistant and apprentice, Sefridi Trevelyan, spoke to her in private, Taashath was more willing to support Vivienne in becoming Divine - especially because she is a mage. However, after more careful consideration and a talk with the Hero of Ferelden, Taashath ultimately chose Leliana.

BLACKWALL

Is Blackwall recruited?

Yes. The help of a Grey Warden when dealing with a darkspawn? Yes, please.

If he is, does he ever leave the Inquisition, and why?

No.

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Blackwall?

She is… honestly disappointed. She expected Grey Wardens to be different. For one, he does not offer much in the way of information, the very thing they recruited him for. Second, he is even reluctant to speak of his life as a Warden. But he seems like a good man and gives himself to the cause, so she values his help, although she’s not really sure he’s the best Grey Warden they could have come across.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why? She is hurt that he would lie about it all, when he could have simply joined the cause as a normal warrior. She wouldn’t have kicked him out for that. After some thinking, she figures that he is truly seeking atonement, and that he should be allowed to do that. He’s helped her all this time, after all, even if it was under a false name. She’s not one to not repay favours.

What does Blackwall think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

Surprised that Andraste would choose a qunari. But then he sees that she is a good woman, willing to do what it takes to close the Breach and defeat Corypheus, and vows to do better in regards to his own prejudices.

Does the Inquisitor help Blackwall find Grey Warden information across Thedas?

Yes. The more information they can gather, the better they can understand what’s going on. And it makes Blackwall happy, anyway.

How does the Inquisitor react to finding out Rainier’s true identity?

Very hurt at first. Why would he lie? Why would he not trust her with the truth? And then, angry. What are Leliana’s spies doing? Do they just believe anything they hear reported, not doing background checks? It’s a moment that makes her a bit paranoid, and becomes a little harsher in the way she deals with possible allies.

Do they leave them in Val Royeaux or bring them back to Skyhold for judgment?

She brings him to Skyhold for judgement. He is her soldier, she will deal with him herself. And then, she sees that he truly regrets what he did, and decides after all this is done he will become a real Warden.

DORIAN

Is Dorian recruited?

Yes. Shared trauma through time travel is the quickest way to friendship, as I said.

If he is, does he ever leave the Inquisition, and why?

No. He and Taashath basically become best of friends, always with their noses buried in books, chatting, supporting and confiding in each other. They enjoy their fair share of nights spent talking about life - lots of “I wish I could have” conversations - while enjoying some wine. Always in moderation, of course..

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Dorian?

Distrustful. He’s from Tevinter, and when she meets him she’s dealing with hostile Tevinters. It’s not really the best of introductions, but she’s willing to hear him out.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why? Yes, absolutely. After what they’ve been through in Redcliffe, they spend much time together. Taashath is quick to trust him after their ordeal and comes to him for questions regarding magic and Tevinter – as she’s never met someone from the place besides her ex-partner, and she has no fond memories of the place. As usual, she compliments him on things, sounds flirtatious because she has kind of a way with words, he flirts back because that’s just entertaining. This goes on for a while, until he comes forward and tells her he’s not interested. It’s… awkward, she tells him she’s not interested either. Wait, you’re gay? Wait, you’re lesbian? They laugh a lot about it, and it sorts of become their way of joking with each other.  She finds his opinions on slavery gross, and tells him of her former partner’s experiences in Tevinter. It’s hard for him to accept, but she doesn’t let it go until he realizes he has much to think about.

What does Dorian think of the Inquisitor? Does this change? At first he is nervous. He’s afraid this qunari will punch him down and not trust him, but she demonstrates herself  to be a valuable ally. After what they’ve been through in Redcliffe, he knows he can count on her, and slowly comes to considering her his best friend.

Does the Inquisitor help Dorian find and track down Venatori?

Yes. It’s not only a favour for Dorian, but beneficial to the Inquisition. Two birds and all that.

Does the Inquisitor learn that Dorian’s father wishes to speak with him?

Yes.

Do they tell Dorian about the letter or not?

Of course. It’s not her place to keep anything of the sort from him.

 Do they urge Dorian to reconcile with his father, or do they let Dorian leave without reconciliation?

She understands, and she doesn’t want Dorian to feel like she’s forcing him to do something, but she tries to reason with him that this might be the last time he sees him, and if he wants to try – she’s there for him. It’s personal for her due to her own relationship with her family.

COLE

Is Cole recruited?

Yes. She found him immediately very interesting.

If he is, does he ever leave the Inquisition, and why?

No. Sometimes Taashath doesn’t know what’s best for him, but he feels useful and she finds him interesting. Almost feels a maternal instinct towards him.

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Cole?

His existence is something she didn’t think was possible, and is intrigued by the possibilities. She also finds his way of speaking very soothing.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? If not, why?

As they spend more time together, she comes to appreciate and grows fond of Cole not just as a strange occurrence, but as a person she has grown attached to. Sure, she wants to know more about him, but she’s also eager for him to experience the world as a person, and not just a spirit perusing beyond the veil.

What does Cole think of the Inquisitor? Does this change?

She tries to drown her own light to survive, but she’s still so bright. She is gentle, kind, and she understands.

When Cole helps people, does the Inquisitor encourage their spirit-like methods (such as making people forget him and mercy killings), or convince him there are different ways to help?

She encourages him to seek out different methods of helping, and tries to help him make connections with people so that he can help them better.

Does the Inquisitor urge Cole to forgive the Templar and embrace his spirit nature, or learn to grow by confronting the Templar and becoming more human? Cole – the spirit of compassion – was in pain for what Cole – the boy – suffered through. That boy’s pain was his pain, and was she going to tell him to just forgive and forget? For starving a helpless boy? She encouraged him to do what he thought was best, and this led to Cole confronting the Templar.  

IRON BULL

Is Iron Bull recruited?

Yes. He’s a valuable asset.

If he is, does he ever leave the Inquisition, and why?

No. His contacts are important, and she… gains insight into an actual follower of the Qun.

What is the Inquisitor’s first impression of Iron Bull?

Surprised. At first she thinks he’s another Tal-Vashoth, but is left astonished when he confesses he’s a Ben-Hassrath. Asala told her of Ben-Hassrath, but still, she did not think he would be… so animated. She herself is prejudiced regarding qunari, as during the years she internalized what people said about her kind. She doesn’t know what to make of him, and this makes her anxious. She still recruits him, as his presence offers various advantages, but it’s almost like she’s studying him as well.

Does this impression change over time? If yes, how so? if not, why?

Definitely. He teaches her more about what it means living under the Qun, and helps her reconnect to this part of her heritage that she was so detached from. Their sparring sessions become a little relaxing ritual for her, and she enjoys the company of the Chargers, and admires the family bond he has with them. She envies him, in some ways. In time, this envy turns to admiration, and the two become great friends.

What does Iron Bull think of the Inquisitor? Does this change? She lives outside of the Qun, her parents are Tal-Vashoth – yet she is no savage, purposeless beast. She is a great warrior, a leader – an inspiration to many. He makes sure she knows her people well, makes sure her mental health is kept in check – it’s his job, after all. But after a while, it becomes less of a job and more something that he does out of his own volition, because she cares about her and considers her his friend.

Is the Inquisition approached by the Ben-Hassrath to secure a formal alliance?

Yes. It’s a strange moment for her. It’s still difficult for her to deal with qunari business.

During the attack of the dreadnaught, does the Inquisitor sacrifice the dreadnaught and the alliance, or Bull’s Chargers?

She knows the Chargers. She loves them. She knows how the Iron Bull loves them, and she doesn’t want him sacrificing them because he feels he’s obligated to. To hell the alliance, to hell the contacts, to hell the information – these are her people. The Bull taught her well, but doesn’t realize it. It’s one of the only “selfish” choices she makes in game.