#but truly I just love the abbot so much

[tofu-bento-box]

CAR OF STRAHD.

we now host sessions in our lovely barbarian player’s house!!! this led to me narrating the restoration of argynvostholt while lovingly petting their cat. and victor doing lore drops while petting his skeleton cats. and i’ve been rolling around on the floor method-acting ghosts. so. much. cat. hair. good lord. anyway

so they walked rahadin off a bridge. strahda has imposed a mandatory mourning period over all of barovia, which includes a curfew mandating that all lights must be extinguished by sunset. this is bad on its own but the party also just relit the beacon. so now they’ve just got a neon sign up there reading

“FUCK YOU I STOLE YOUR GIRLFRIEND. AND YOUR BFF DIED LIKE A CHUMP. GIT GUD.”

[ID: bright pink swirly text reading “fuck you i stole your girlfriend. and your bff died like a chump. git gud.”]

stay tuned for the murder mystery going on in the abbey. and the abbot. who is not covering up anything about the victim. it’s such a tragedy, truly (;

[underwaterspaghetti314]

Jeez Louise I want to see the Abbot get redeemed actually. I didn’t at first. I wanted that man to have a most unfortunate end because he’s yet another person using God to justify hate-driven atrocities. But Mizrak showing up and saying “Even moments from the end, a thief repented and was forgiven” has made me want this redemption so bad.

Just once I want to see a narrative talk about an all-forgiving God and actually pull through with it. God can forgive everything if you are truly repentant. I feel like if the Abbot can put in the work to undo his actions and fight back against Erzebet, he could be forgiven. I don’t need him to get everything he wanted. As far as I can tell his relationship with Maria and Tara are beyond over. If he could look with his special eyes he could see that those are dead and rotting at the bottom of a lake. I don’t even need him to live to the end of it (as much as I’d like that. Some redemption arcs love to just be “oh they’re good now but now they’re dead so we don’t need to worry about how that works!” and I’d prefer if that didn’t happen here, but if it does oh well). I just want to see someone fall into Hell’s trap in this show and find a way to escape it.

I also think his redemption arc could be very interesting story wise. In that discussion with Mizrak he said that he could hear the quiet laughter of Hell waiting for him in the shadows, and he’s already resigned himself to damnation when he dies. I think that kind of sad resignation is one of Hell’s greatest weapons. They make you sort of sunk-cost your way into more evil by making you think you’re already a bad person, so it’s no use trying to improve. And combine this with a similar arc going on with the Abbot’s night creatures (literal creatures from Hell who choose good anyway, rejecting Hell with whatever actions they can), and I think we’ve got an interesting arc here. We got the Abbot, a supposedly holy man who believes himself firmly in Hell’s clutches, and the night creatures, quite literally born from Hell but choosing to fight against it anyway.

Everyone surrounding the Abbot has something to teach him about being better if he’s just willing to listen. Mizrak seems more devoted to God (teachings-wise at least), Tara knows more about love than he does, Maria knows more about justice than he does, and the night creatures know more about never resigning yourself to evil than he does. He just needs to get out of his despair and learn from these people already!

Anyway time to watch the second half of this season and see if I’m horribly wrong or not.

[footprintsinthesxnd]

Chapter two: Bike Rides and Turning Tides

Harry Crosby x Maggie Reid / Ken Lemmons x Maggie Reid

Series Masterlist

This story is based on on the fictional portrayal of these men from the MOTA to series.

Summary: As Maggie is still trying to figure out what Ken and Harry mean to her, she realises who is there for her when she really needs them.

Collab with @georgieluz

July 4th 1943, Thorpe Abbot AAF base, 07:00

"Tell me everything," Mads threw herself down into the wooden chair on the opposite side of the table, her coffee steaming in front of her as she waited expectantly. "You avoided me all day yesterday, but I hear you were out on the hard stand with Ken all morning." She winked cheekily at her.

"There's nothing to tell," Maggie sighed, pushing her mushy, scrambled egg around on the plate in front of her. All morning Tatty, Helen and Mads had been quizzing her on her 'date' with Harry Crosby.

"Honestly, nothing happened. Harry just happened to be there, we had a nice chat, he walked me home. Then Ken showed up with flowers and a wrench, and then he left. So yes, nothing happened."

Mads looked a little disappointed running her index finger around the top of her mug before a new idea popped into her head. "But you wanted something to happen, right? I mean you like them right?"

"I don't know, Mads," Maggie groaned, she loved her friend's enthusiasm but right now it was just too much. Her mind was too preoccupied with the thoughts of two different men that Mad's chaotic behaviour was not helping.

"What are we talking about?" Archie and Jimmy appeared behind her, Archie bent over pressing a kiss to her temple as he sat down, stealing a piece of toast off Maggie's plate and biting into it.

"We're discussing Maggie's love life but she's giving me nothing," Mad's pouted.

"Like I said, there's nothing to tell," Maggie corrected her.

"So Harry Crosby truly was a gentleman then," Archie mused, finishing the piece of toast before he took a long swig of his coffee.

"Yes, but there wasn't just Harry. Lovely little Ken Lemmons was waiting outside our hut for her all night with a wrench and some primroses," Mads added, ignoring the glare Maggie sent her way.

"Ken Lemmons hey, who would have thought it, and primroses too. They're your favourites, right Maggie?" Jimmy added, winking at Archie.

Maggie glared at him. Of course, those two had something to do with this. The mischievous smile on their faces instantly gave them away as the culprits.

"They are actually," she replied nonchalantly, trying to ignore the two smirking faces in front of her. Instead, her eyes trailed upwards, catching those of a certain navigator who waved shyly at her across the mess hall.

She waved back, ignoring her friends who spun frantically around in their seats to see who she was waving at.

"Crosby!" The three exclaimed, turning back quickly as a few eyes, including Harry's glanced over.

Maggie's face grew redder as she felt Harry's eyes still on her, she wanted to look back over but then she knew she'd be blushing even more. Her heartbeat quickened in her chest as a pair of legs appeared out of the corner of her eye.

"Good morning, Crosby. Did you sleep well?" Archie asked cheerfully, sipping his fresh cup of coffee with a wide smile. Mads leant back in her chair beside him, smiling sweetly.

"Yes I-I did… thank you," Harry stumbled over his words, eyes trained on Maggie who plucked up the courage to send him a small smile. Harry looked so happy that the crushing guilt began to grow in her chest. Why had she expected the flowers from Ken? She'd had such a lovely evening with Harry, but then Ken…

"Isn't that right, Maggie?" Archie asked, sending a knowing look her way as she felt three pairs of eyes on her.

"Umm… yes, yes of course," she replied, absolutely oblivious to what she was agreeing to, but from the three smiling faces looking at her it must have been the right answer.

"Excellent, I still have the bikes from last night so feel free to borrow those," Archie declared, standing up and dragging Mads and Jimmy up beside him. "Come on Madison, let's leave these two to their fun day of activities."

Mads and Jimmy nodded, following after Archie but not before turning to give Maggie a 'thumbs up'. Maggie made it her mission to scold her when she next saw the nurse, but Harry quickly took the seat that Mads had occupied.

"I hope that's okay with you…b-because if not I can…” Harry began rambling but Maggie grabbed his hand, stopping the blushing navigator mid-sentence.

"Harry, I'm sure it's fine but I maybe…sort of…did zone out and I'm not entirely sure what I've volunteered for," she admitted, biting her lip anxiously while Harry's face relaxed and he chuckled.

"You've volunteered to take me out on a bicycle ride," he smiled cheerfully, "and a picnic."

Harry seemed awfully pleased with himself and Maggie could find it in her to tell him she had a lot of work to get through today.

"Of course, I'd be happy to. How about you arrange the picnic and I'll grab the bikes?" She asked hopefully, shovelling in the last of the powdered eggs on her plate.

"Yes, yes of course….absolutely…I'll," Harry stumbled backwards away from his chair, catching himself before he fell. "I'll get right on that… Yes, I will." His cheeks glowed bright red and Maggie couldn't help the smile growing on her lips as she watched him hurry away on his important mission.

Finishing her coffee, Maggie glanced down at her overalls, noticing the dark oil stains and rips in the fabric. She couldn't go out with Harry looking like this. What would people say?

Pushing herself hastily away from the table, she rushed from the mess hall, hurrying back towards the Red Cross hut, praying that either Tatty or Helen would still be there to help her. She wasn't sure why she was so worried. The first time she'd met Harry she'd fallen on her arse, flailing around on the floor in her overalls, but somehow this time was different. This time she wanted to impress her.

Her boots hammered at the Nissan but steps as she threw open the door, startling Helen and Tatty who were sitting on their beds, chatting quietly,

"Girls!" She exclaimed, "I need your help."

Thorpe Abbotts Base AAF Sector, 09:00

Maggie, tugged at the blue shirt that seemed to stick to her body, praying that she wasn't sweating through the thin material. She'd opted for a shirt and thin summer trousers after the fiasco with her dress last time she ridden the bike. Helen and Tatty had helped style her hair, pinning the front parts of her hair neatly, while her remaining curls hung loosely at her shoulders.

She waited anxiously, checking her watch for the fourth time in a few minutes. Maggie knew she hadn't set an exact time to meet Harry but the apprehension only grew and she began to chew at her cheek.

A dark-haired figure appeared from behind one of the Nissen huts, a wide smile on his face and a wicker basket underneath his arm. He waved excitedly at her, tripping over but managing to save himself before he hit the ground. Maggie gasped, hurrying forward but he recovered, cheeks a little redder but still smiling nonetheless.

"Sorry I'm late, Bubbles was drilling me about the other night," he admitted, placing the basket down beside him, "Don't worry, I didn't tell him too much."

Maggie laughed, leaning back against the bikes, "I do hope so, Harry. I can't have the whole of the Eighth Air Force knowing all my secrets."

"Duly noted," Harry saluted her, allowing his eyes to trail over her. "Maggie, you look… wow you look amazing," Harry breathed as he reached her. His dark eyes shone brightly and his cheeks crinkled as he smiled.

"Thank you," Maggie blushed, pulling at the sleeves of the shirt Helen had lent her. It wasn't normally her style, but then again her style mainly consisted of overalls, or corduroy trousers and boots back home.

The pair watched each other nervously, neither too sure what to say next before they both spoke in unison.

"We should…"

"Shall we…"

Harry chuckled, "Shall we go?"

Maggie nodded, pushing one of the bikes towards Harry so he could secure the picnic basket on the back, before climbing into the saddle.

"So, do you know the area well?" He asked, pushing down the pedals shakily and pulling onto the gravel road beside her.

"Well enough," she mused, pushing her bike ahead of his, "Keep up, Crosby, I don't want you lagging".

The chains in the bike creaked as Maggie's feet came in contact with the pedals, her boots pushing them forward as the rickety metal frame began to move. She couldn't vouch for the safety of this bike, especially considering Archie was just borrowing them, but she appreciated the sentiment and the fact that they didn't have to walk.

Harry grinned cheerfully beside her, his legs slowly pushing the bike forward down the tarmacked road leading out of the base. Maggie was glad that she had chosen to wear trousers instead of a dress after her last mishap with a bike resulting in her blue dress being stained with oil.

Maggie couldn't help but chuckle, watching as Harry threw his head back, allowing the sun to cast its glow over his handsome features, his eyes shining brightly as he glanced over at her.

They neared the exit to the base, turning right and following the road away from the village and towards the lush, open green landscape. The viridescent fields and hills roll by calmly.

Maggie pushed herself forward, keeping up with Harry easily.

"You enjoying the view," she jested, watching as Harry's cheeks grew a dark crimson and he glanced away. "I don't mind if you are, just nice to know."

Harry cleared his throat, "Well, maybe I do like the view actually," he admitted rather sheepishly, meeting his gaze for a few seconds.

"Good," she declared, "Maybe you'll enjoy the view as you eat my dust." She took off down the road, legs pedalling faster than before as the bike carried her swiftly away. She cheered and whooped, ignoring Harry's shouts of protest from behind her as he trailed along, bringing up the rear.

Maggie continued to cycle on, following the winding road down around the perimeter of the base, until the road forked over the river and she stopped at the small stone bridge. Harry appeared from around the bend, his legs pedalling faster than ever as he came to a screeching halt before her.

"Well," Harry sighed, catching his breath with a chuckle, "You sure did give me a run for my money."

Maggie laughed, "Never underestimate an English girl, Croz," she pointed her finger at his chest and he raised his hands in mock surrender.

"I would never."

The afternoon trundled on and Maggie finally found the spot she was looking for beside the river. It's where the river bent around an old tree, following either side of it on its path towards the sea.

She dropped her bike down on the grassy verge, flopping down beside it with a sigh. Harry followed suit, rolling up the sleeves of his shirt as the hot summer sun began to get to him.

"What's Iowa like, Harry?" Maggie asked, picking at the grass beside her leg as she glanced at him.

Harry smiled fondly, "Well it's generally pretty cold in the winter, it snows but it's not too heavy. The summers are my favourite, hot and humid and you have really long summer evenings. The summer evenings are my favourite. It's normally around mid-eighties Fahrenheit."

Maggie chuckled, "You Yanks and your Fahrenheit."

Harry shook his head, "Sorry, it's just the measurements I know." He waited a minute before continuing his story about Iowa. Maggie loved how passionately he talked about his home, she'd never travelled more than four hours from where she was born and yet many of the young men on base were hundreds of miles from theirs.

Harry paused for a moment, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "The State's flag has an eagle on it."

He seemed rather chuffed about that particular fact and Maggie laughed, enjoying his boyish behaviour.

"Well if I'm ever in a quiz about the State of Iowa I have a pretty good chance of winning," she laughed, causing Harry to blush, ducking his head down in embarrassment.

"Sorry, I know I reeled off a lot, it's just things that are familiar to me and…"

"No not at all," she interrupted him, "No I like hearing about your home. I can't even imagine what it must be like to be so far from your home. I'd love to visit the States someday," she mumbled, tugging absentmindedly at the sleeve of the shirt, "I just can't imagine travelling so far."

"Maybe one day I could take you there, to Iowa I mean. You could come to visit," Harry suggested a nervous smile on his lips.

Maggie smiled, "I don't know about that, leaving England. I'd never even left Dorset until the war began, now I've been to a few more places but nothing too far," she admitted, suddenly feeling self-conscious that she hadn't had to brave the trip to a new country to help with the war effort. Even the Red Cross girls had come further than she had.

Harry, sensing her uncertainty, reached forward, grasping her hand in his, "Then maybe this could be your first big adventure."

Harry was right, nothing was stopping her from travelling to the States with Harry after the war. She didn't have to stay there if she didn't like it, and her family would always be here waiting for her.

"Alright Croz, you've got yourself a deal. If this war ever ends you owe me a trip to the States."

Harry laughed at her enthusiasm, "You've got yourself a deal."

All too soon the morning drew into afternoon, and the pair decided to head back, pedalling slowly along the deserted road. The summers sun still hung high in the sky, beating down onto their backs. Maggie was pleased that the shirt she had borrowed was thin and the wind blew through the fine material cooling her easily.

Cycling home was nowhere near as fun as when they'd flown down these roads earlier, and Maggie could see by the way Harry hung his head low that he felt the same. Back on base, everything was loud and demanding, but out here, just the two of them the world was soft and quiet. If only they could say here forever.

"We should do this again sometime," Maggie suggested as they turned up the gravel road, and through the gates back onto the air base. The sign to Thorpe Abbott hanging by the post, and they both nodded to the guard on the gate.

"I'd like that very much," Harry nodded enthusiastically, his smile a little brighter than the gloomy look on his face a few moments before. Maggie's heart swelled as she looked at him, his face crinkling as he grinned at her. There was something warm and safe about Harry Crosby, like she'd known him forever and knew that he'd look out for her. Maggie wasn't sure what it was but it made her smile at him in return.

"Then we will have to arrange it. My sister and I cycled all over the place when we were children."

"I'd like to meet your family someday, I-if you'd let me of course," he added nervously, "They seem like lovely people."

Maggie wasn't sure whether she wanted Harry to meet her family. Life at home was so different from her life on base, here she was strong and independent but at home, she was back beneath the shadow of her perfect sister.

"Sure, maybe one day," Maggie replied vaguely, hoping the answer would settle Harry for the time being.

Pulling up their bikes beside the RAF Nissen hut and propping them against the wall, Maggie noticed a familiar figure watching them.

Ken sat on the bench across the field, fiddling with some spare parts on the table with Billy and Sammy. The two boys spotted Maggie, waving frantically and calling them over. Ken sent her a cold smile and Maggie couldn't help but feel out of place joining their peaceful moment. Harry walked beside her, grinning happily at Ken who greeted them indifferently, his voice low.

"Maggie. Lieutenant Crosby," he nodded, his eyes never leaving the motor he was tinkering with.

"Lemmons," Harry greeted him somewhat smugly and Maggie wondered if there was some unspoken conversation going on between them that she wasn't aware of.

"Maggie, did you go on a bike ride?" Billy asked, squeezing in between Maggie and Harry and looking up at her excitedly.

"I sure did, kiddo. We went on a little tour of the countryside, gotta show Harry here was England's all about."

The two boys nodded enthusiastically and Sammy moved around to join Maggie, both of them wrapping their arms around her to which Maggie did the same. She couldn't help but smile at their affection, but glancing up she noticed Harry and Ken watching her, both with soft expressions and round eyes that made Maggie feel slightly uncomfortable. She coughed, bringing them back to attention and Ken bent his head down, collecting his tools that were littered across the table.

"I should probably be heading back to the handstand, gotta finish up over there," he mumbled, never once looking in Maggie's direction. She couldn't help the guilt that brewed inside her as she watched him and the two boys go all away. How could she do this to Ken? But then again they were just friends, right?

It was strange really. When Maggie was with Harry she felt jovial, and carefree, like she could laugh forever, and she was happy when she was in Harry's presence. Then Ken came along, he was soft, quiet, and gentle and Maggie felt her heart rate increase for a completely different reason. She didn't know what she was feeling, but her heart felt more conflicted than it had the other evening.

Harry stirred beside her, leaning a little closer than he had before and tentatively wrapped his arm around her shoulder. For a moment Maggie froze, shoulders stiffening under Harry's touch but the warmth she felt from him quickly soothed her nerves. She leant into his touch smiling up at him. A pink blush was spreading across his cheeks and the tips of his ears turned a little red.

"I had a nice time today, Maggie," Harry spoke quietly, his lips seemingly moving in slow motion as Maggie processed his words.

"I had a nice time today too," she assured him, "but I'm still better at riding a bike than you, you're like an old man on that bike."

Harry chuckled, shoving Maggie's shoulder lightly, "All right you little Spitfire."

Maggie grinned at the nickname and Harry quickly interjected, "I know you're a Lancaster mechanic but geewiz you were quick down those lanes."

"No, no it's okay," Maggie turned so she could face Harry better, her hand coming to rest on his own, "No, I like the nickname."

Harry's nervousness from earlier disappeared, and he reached out, brushing a loose blonde lock that had blown across Maggie's face. "Good," he mumbled, his eyes looking down at her and Maggie could feel the heat growing in her cheeks. Maggie could feel Harry leaning forward, his breath fanning across her face. This was the closest they had ever been and…

"Maggie?" Jimmy called out, jogging over to the couple with his toolbox in hand. "I'm really sorry to break up whatever's going on here," his eyes darting between the two before he continued, "But Maggie I really need your help. The boys have a mission tonight and we've got a problem with our lead bomber."

Maggie shot up from her seat, dropping Harry's hand a little harsher than she would have liked. She watched as his face fell and she leant forward, pressing a quick kiss to his cheek.

"I'm so sorry, Harry but I have to go," she couldn't decide whether the interruption of their almost kiss was a good thing or not, but she pushed it from her mind.

Harry nodded quickly, the small smile returning to his face, "No not at all, don't worry. I'll see you later."

Maggie turned, quickly falling into step beside Jimmy. She wasn't sure whether she should have glanced over her shoulder and smiled at Harry or not, but her eyes remained focused ahead of her.

Jimmy could sense the tension around the situation and nudged into her shoulder, "Now it's none of my business and I don't know what I just interrupted, but you should know that Ken Lemmons's kid came around asking for you today. Came over to the handstand. I told him you weren't there and would be back later, then he stayed another hour or so playing with June. She's really taken a shine to him and you know dogs are a good judge of character."

Maggie turned, "You're right, Jimmy it isn't any of your business," she snapped, watching as her friend's eyebrows raised and his lips set in a thin line.

"As you wish," he began walking in the direction of the handstand, not glancing back to see if she was following. Jimmy was one of her best friends and despite their stressful jobs she'd never once snapped at him.

"Jimmy, wait. I'm sorry," she ran after him, grabbing his arm so he couldn't keep walking away from her. "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean it, I just…" She sighed, tugging her fingers through her blonde curls, "I just don't know what to do".

It was true, she didn't know what to do. All of a sudden two men were showing great interest in her, seemingly aware of each other and yet they still wanted to be around her. She wasn't sure which was worse, having no men interested in her or having two at the same time.

"It's no big deal," Jimmy shrugged, throwing his arm around Maggie's shoulders and pulling her after him. "Now were not placing bets or anything, but my money's on Kenny boy."

Maggie snorted, shoving him dramatically, "You are no help at all, Jimmy."

"Well, the boys got my vote."

And just like that, everything was back to normal, at least for Jimmy it was. He whistled the rest of the way to the handstand, swinging his toolbox as he went. Maggie remained quiet, her mind too preoccupied to join in with the tune. Every time she thought of the lovely day she'd had with Harry she saw Kenny's disappointed face smiling sadly back at her. The sooner the job on the bombers was done, the sooner she could go and find him. She had to talk to him, to explain herself in some way and…well she didn't know what to do after that, but she had to do something.

Thorpe Abbott base RAF sector, 19:00

"Are 'The Girls' airworthy?" Archie asked, swinging his bag onto his back as he sauntered towards his bomber. His flying jacket hung loosely on his arm and he looked like a poster boy for the RAF.

Maggie smiled, "She's as airworthy as she can be after the beatings you keep giving her, but she'll get you there and back if you treat her right."

Archie nodded, watching as his copilot, Murray, hoisted himself up into the fuselage, "Well, then I know she'll be fine."

Maggie nodded, throwing her arms around Archie's shoulders, "Just be safe okay? I don't want to find out you did something stupid and got yourself killed."

"I promise, nothing stupid Mags," he pressed his lips to her forehead, holding her close for a moment longer before he pulled away. This was the same ritual they had for every mission Archie had flown since they met, and so far it had worked.

Pulling away Maggie cupped his cheek tenderly, "You know you're a real pain in the ass sometimes, but I wouldn't trade you for anyone."

Archie grinned, squeezing Maggie's hand, "I'll be back before you know it." He stepped away, turning and heading to the plane before Maggie could say anything else, before she could protest, begging him not to go. He knew she wanted to and he couldn't blame her, but this was war, it's what he came here to do.

Maggie remained frozen to the spot, unable to move until Archie was back on the hard stand. She hated mission nights more than anything else that this wretched war had thrown at her, mission nights were the worst. She could never settle, could never sleep. Some of the other ground crew would try and catch a few hours shut eye until the siren went off to announce the bomber's arrival back home, but Maggie couldn't bring herself to leave.

She found her usual seat on the nearby stack of crates, settling herself in for a long night. June curled up on the lower crate beside her, nuzzling into Maggie's flight jacket that she'd laid out for the spaniel. Despite the warm afternoon weather, the nights were still cool in July and Maggie knew she'd grow to regret not having her jacket on, but how could she leave June without something soft to lie on?

The Lancaster's began to roar to life, pulling off the hard stand and out onto the runway. Archie saluted her through the small cockpit window as his plane pulled away, she saluted back, a large lump forming in her throat.

Before the tears could begin to fall, a coat was pulled around her shoulders causing Maggie to jump, before she noticed Ken looking down at her, a soft smile on his lips.

"Sorry, didn't mean to startle you."

"No, it's okay," Maggie replied, her voice thick with emotion. She couldn't bring herself to let her voice grow any louder.

"Thought you could use some company."

Maggie nodded, "Thanks Ken." She patted the crate, and Ken wriggled in closely, stroking June's head to which the little spaniel wagged her tail, beating it against the crate beneath her.

The Lancasters were at the end of the runway, lifting off into the sky one at a time. The sun was setting now, the blues of the day drifting into purples and pinks before the fiery orange spread across the landscape. The planes creating dark silhouettes against the terracotta sky. It felt like a bad omen, as if the planes were doomed to go up in flames, but Maggie tried to push the thought away. As they disappeared into the distance the airfield grew quiet, the rumble of the plane's engines disappearing leaving everyone waiting with baited breath for their return.

The hours seemed to pass so slowly that Maggie had begun to wonder if time was frozen until the sun had completely set and the sky grew dark. At some point in the silence, Ken had wrapped his arm around her shoulder, pulling her closer when she shivered at the night's harsh breeze.

June whined sadly, scratching at Ken's leg until he lifted her, placing her onto Maggie's lap.

"It's okay June, Uncle Archie will be back. He always comes back to us," Maggie reassure her and the spaniel looked up, her brown eyes looking sadly at her.

"How long have you known Archie?" Ken asked, leaning his head against Maggie's, his hand rubbing small circles on her back.

The blonde thought for a moment, a smile forming on her lips as she spoke, "Just over a year. We became friends almost instantly. He's all I had for a long time."

Ken nodded, his lips forming a smile as he looked down at the girl in his arms. He wasn't sure what he was doing. Something just seemed to draw him to Maggie, and despite her obvious friendship with Harry, he couldn't help himself. Her head lay gently against his shoulder, her blonde hair fanning over his chest.

Maggie glanced up at Ken, their faces just inches away as she spoke and Ken could feel her breath on his face. "About earlier…with Harry, I mean…it's…it's not what…"

"Hey, shhh shhh, you don't have to explain anything. There's nothing to explain," he pressed his head against hers, nearly pressing his lips to her forehead. The closeness they shared was the most intimate moment that Maggie had ever felt, maybe even more intimate than her almost kiss with Harry that she tried to push from her mind. It didn't seem right, not like it did with Ken. Maggie's heart felt heavy as she snuggled further into Ken's arms. Why did emotions have to be so complicated?

"You don't have to wait out here with me all night if you don't want to. I'm used to waiting on my own, except June of course," Maggie added, her blue eyes drifting up to meet his.

Ken shook his head, "No it's alright. I want to stay with you…if that's okay with you of course," Ken added, scratching the back of his neck.

Maggie lifted her arm, running her finger over his cheek, turning his head to look at her, "Of course, I do, Ken. It's nice to have some company."

"Good," Ken pulled her close, ensuring his jacket was tightly wrapped around Maggie's shoulders, June shuffled up closer to benefit from the warmth of the jacket. "I'm not going anywhere."

Tags: @georgieluz @docroesmorphine @major-mads @violetdaze25 @bcofl0ve @precious-little-scoundrel @blurredcolour @artlover8992 @b00ks1ut @xxluckystrike @hockeyboysarehot @groovin2beats @kmc1989 @ginabaker1666 @hesbuckcompton-baby @vera-keller @blueberry-ovaries

[caputgeratlupinum]

In which I (re) watch Robin of Sherwood

In the dim and distant past (of a few years ago) I started watching Robin of Sherwood. I dropped out after the end of season 2, when *events* happened (if you know, you know).

Anyway, this to say that I started watching it again, and I thought it would be fun to record my reactions to it. I remember it as being a good if slightly silly show, so... we'll see how it holds up.

EPISODE ONE - ROBIN HOOD AND THE SORCERER (PART 1)

We are starting off strong with the Ominous Bad Guy theme that sent me back to the last time I watched this with the force of a hammer (this show has about five soundtracks and they all come up like once an episode).

Our introduction to adult Robin is him running to the top of a... something, I'm not sure if it's a hill or a ledge or what. Anyway he runs there, stops, and screams 'MUCH!'. Which must be wildly confusing if you're not familiar with Robin Hood.

ITVX doesn't let me take screenshots (tragically) but I need you all to know that Guy of Gisborne looks about twelve and speaks like he went to fancy boarding school.

Hi Will Scarlet I have fond memories of you from last time! And I think this might be the first time he's 'scarlet' as in 'bloody' rather than named for his hair or clothes. Also the second Will tells them his name another man steps out of the shadows to introduce himself like he's desperate to get in on the action.

ROBERT! ROBERT! BY CHRIST ROBERT I WILL NOT LOSE MY FISHPOND! 10/10 introduction no notes. Genius move to give the Sheriff an annoying brother in the form of Abbot (??) Hugo.

Sheriff duties: keep on top of the poachers in the forest, and meet with the evil sorcerer baron and his... possessed slave? I'm vague on what position Little John holds here.

Sorry, Sir Evil Baron (yes I know his name is Simon de Bellame. I'm ignoring that), but I don't believe for a second that your wife taking her own life was nothing to do with you.

Did I mention Marian and Tuck are here? They are! I love them both very much.

I can't believe they that they just leave Rat Man and Arthur behind. I demand a spin-off about what happened to them.

'You're like a May morning.' *climbs out the window without another word* I mean to be fair to Robin if I tried that line I'd probably also flee immediately afterwards.

I really wish I could do screenshots because Herne the Hunter's vision of various events with Evil Baron's face over it all, slowly getter bigger and bigger, is truly a sight to behold. Robin honestly took that pretty well.

The classic bridge fight is very enjoyable but I am haunted by the knowledge of the blooper reel where Michael Praed gets hit in the balls. And Robin's dramatic scream as he falls off the bridge is sending me.

Last time I wasn't really sure how to feel about the Herne the Hunter stuff, and right now I'm in the same place. uhh... stag-man. With vague prophecies. I dunno... 'when the horned one possesses me' ok but who are you when he's not possessing you? How does one become possessed by the horned one in the first place (I know none of this is the point. I just have questions!)

If I were one of the merry men, I would find it easier to agree with Robin's Heroic Inspiring SpeechTM if it hadn't started with him explaining how he's been 'awakened' by a deer-headed man.

I feel like Will saying, 'You should have killed him. You'll have to someday.' is setting up for a conflict down the line where Robin has to make a Choice about Gisborne some day, but I don't remember any such plot.

aaand that's it! I didn't mention every single thing that happened, there's a lot happening in this episode. Genuinely had a good time though! Despite my poking fun at stuff, I do actually like this show.

[bnomiko]

Nocturne ramblings, with spoilers

(This is NOT a rant post. Nor specifically a spoiler post. I'm just making observations and babbling shit about some of the characters in Nocturne thus far.)

I did a spoiler-free ramble post, now time for the other side of the coin, just to let loose a bit...

**SPOILERS** ahoy for Castlevania: Nocturne, S1.

Vampires in general

I'm very happy to see some souped up vampires. Let's face it, the majority of them in the original animation weren't exactly impressive. They were basically people with pointy teeth and like 1 special ability. The fact that 2 1/2 humans could walk into a castle and just waste twenty or thirty of them without taking damage (other than Alucard taking a fist to the mug) felt a bit lackluster.

Oh, but there's a LOT of vampires touching sunlight that aren't going up in flames. You can't just hold a parasol over one and expect them not to combust : p

Olrox

I said it before, but seriously, give a raise to whoever did his character design. He's absolutely delicious. Those cheekbones! The dragon's eyes! I want to roll myself in his hair like a bug in a rug then slap those meaty thighs...

I've also watched all his interactions with Mizrak again. I don't understand how the two of them make so much more sense (given that they literally went from "You know my name, tell me yours" to fucking to "I don't love you" to … maybe I do…), than like, canon pairing Richter and Annette, who feel about as compelling as a piece of dry toast.

I truly hope he continues playing a little on both sides of the fence. It makes him so much more interesting than the majority of the characters who are simply on one side or the other.

Juste

I admit I got all excited thinking he was Alucard in a glamour at first, because when you first see his eyes, there's a gold gleam (of course the second he touched the whip I went, "Ahh, it's Juste.")

I'm sure it's more that his eyes appear to be a very light gray and catch any candle/firelight, but I'd rather think that the animators were being cheeky and hiding a reference to the fact that when HoD came out, some fans were convinced Juste was Alucard's son.

Talking about who looks like who's offspring, uh… I almost question if Maxim was doing some sneaking. Doesn't Julia look more like Maxim?? Since they threw out Vampire Killer clause #1, why not throw out the rest of it?

(I mean... really, who would you think was daddy?)

Also… I honestly do feel badly for Juste. He's always been one of the forgotten Belmonts, but maybe he was better off forgotten as I think most headcanons imagined him living a quiet retirement with his wife and their husband, surrounded by a massive stockpile of overly gaudy home furnishings, with little grandson Richter visiting and getting lost in all the furniture : )

Maria

I already made mention of the fact that she's all of 12 in game canon (and apparently 16 in Nocturne), which makes it all the more awkward that her future boyfriend's already made his appearance when she hasn't even hit her teens yet. I mean… how is that going to work?

(Sorry, can't resist reusing this, Richter's reaction is too funny.)

I feel ya, bro.

Tera

I was so young and naive when I read The Scarlet Letter that I didn't actually get what it was about at the time lol… actually took me years to figure it out. And… yeah, that's it. That's my comment.

Emmanuel (the abbot)

This guy will never get the death he actually deserves. It'll probably be something relatively quick, like falling into a pit of lava *shrug*

Drolta

Kind of a shame to off her so soon. Her latex collection was impressive.

Erzsebet

Carmilla?

And of course, Alucard

Okay, I get that he probably just woke up, but maybe a few strokes with a hairbrush before you run out the door, eh buddy?

Compare to Alucard in the mini artbook/manga for SotN (look at those crisp curls!) waking up after his 300 year nap:

I don't mind the "washed out" palette as much as others do. He was pretty much the textbook definition of pale in SotN anyhow.

Actually it would've been really damn funny if he'd showed up in his pajamas, screaming, "I hope I'm not too… wait, what year is it?" *looks at Maria* "Fuck I'm too early!"

[ctheathy]

Good Boy? More like ... Gutter Boy

Lucian Abbot x Reader

NSFW Oneshot

Author’s note: These fics have been chilling in my notes for months. Time to feed the horny folks <3

You went over by a close friend of yours and had a small talk over his self harming tendencies. A habit Lucian has struggled with for years. But the meeting turned out different than expected. He agreed, but at what cost?

Potential ⚠️TWs⚠️ :

Both reader+character are of legal age or aged-up for obvious reasons in this post!

This is a smut fic, read at own risk. dom!Reader+sub!Lucian • You touch his genitalia • Emotional dependency • Climax mentioned

You just stared in awe as the both of you came to an agreement on the topic that left him scarred for years to no end. You felt proud of your friend...

You let out a small chuckle, walking over towards Lucian while gently taking his cold hands into your own warm ones. Your eyes flickered, looking into his own blue ones as you gave his hands a small caress with your thumbs. “try not intentionally hurting yourself as much, okay...? For me?” you softly asked as you looked up at him, your eyes looking a little somber yet hopeful for the request. He froze when you held his hands. You were warmer than a hot cup of coffee, you were warmer than anything he had ever felt. The caress of your thumbs felt so good, he couldn't resist smiling softly.

“F-For you. I'll try not to hurt myself... that much.” He spoke in a shy tone, making your under eyelids rise in response to his reaction to the favour. You felt happier with the moment. “good boy” you said jokingly, booping his nose with your fingertip and letting out a sweet laugh. Your eyes seemed to be shimmering as soon as he agreed to it. But little did you know ... That such small words could have such a big impact on the other. Just the words “good boy” sent shivers down his spine. Your laugh was also extremely adorable, he loved every single thing about you, he wanted you to call him “good boy” once more.

“Call me ‘good boy’ one more time.” Lucian was getting desperate, but he wanted to hold it in. He couldn't ask you to say it for him, that was bad.

“Please.” He whispered to himself. You seemed a little surprised by the sudden request, but you weren't necessarily complaining either. You felt the urgent need to tease him a little. Your hand came in contact with his jawline, as you gently caressed over it with your fingers, your sharp nail teasing his soft skin. “aww~ does somebody like to be called a good boy~?” you chuckled as he was noticeably melting into your touch.

“you surely know what you're into, darling” you snickered as your eyes looked up to him. He shivered in response, he wanted to be teased more. He wanted to be teased by you and you alone. Your nails teasing his jawline was making him feel tingly, and he didn't hate it. He didn't say anything, but he couldn't help but moan a little. “Call me ‘good boy’ again, please, please, please”

A bit of heat noticeably rose to your cheeks by the fact that he was literally begging. But you quickly regained your composure, looking him dead in the eye “why, If you insist... you're such a good boy~” you had such a sly smirk, your thumb stroked in circles over his jawline, almost touching the crook of his mouth. You also used your other fingers to gently caress him under the chin, continuing to mercilessly tease him. Lucian bit his lip in an attempt to stop another moan from escaping. He needed you, he needed you in his life. You were making him feel more loved than anyone he had ever seen. He was trying so hard to cover up his blushing, failing and giving in to begging to be treated like a dog, his legs shaking just slightly. “Oh god, more. I- er, more... please.” He begs in a quiet voice. He looks so desperate ...

Your free hand went over to his locks as you brushed some of his messy hairs out of his face. “oh my. Is affection truly such a foreign concept to mister~?“ you spoke with yet another chuckle, but there was also a hint of genuineness in your words. Your fingernails caressed over his scalp gently, massaging it a little bit. Which only resulted in him letting out a high-pitched moan.

He was so, so, SO weak. Never in his life had he felt so loved by someone, and he was too afraid to lose you. “P-Please... more...” He begged quietly, sounding very desperate. All he wanted was to be comforted by you, he was scared, scared to be hurt again. You were his only lifeline, he needed you to give all this attention to him. It's like he was starving for affection that he never really had.

Your hand that was caressing his jaw slowly went over to his neck, as you gently stroked it with your hand. You just let out a snicker. This was cute. You were basically just petting him as this point, your fingertips and nails caressing him all over his scalp, as you stood on your tippy toes to add on height and reach the rest of his locks. He shivered as your nails hit his neck. He couldn't bear how soft your touch was. You were making him melt with everything you did. He gave off the biggest moan in response, his body leaning into you. He was so incredibly weak, all he wanted to was be your dog, to be your good boy, your pet, your... whatever.

“Oh dear, you look like you're going to collapse” you just pulled him into your chest, your hands all over him. His back... his arms... his shoulders... his scalp... his hair... It was so overwhelming. His moans only got louder and louder, he was absolutely melting the second your hands touched his body. “Oh god... more... PLEASE.” Now this is someone who's addicted to affection.

Lucian wraps his arms around you, burying his face into your neck and giving you a small bite, which you didn't give much of a reaction to. You just continued to stroke and caress his back with your gentle fingertips. You turned your head and whispered something in his ear “mister... allow me to show you a real bite~” your teeth met his ear. Not harshly, but you rather soft nibbling, which only added onto his sensation. He shivered heavily from your nibble. Lucian was almost speechless, he liked the attention and affection you were giving him, and wanted more. He was starting to forget about his past and was getting lost in this moment, this moment with you.

You... you were so good to him.

He turned his head to look at your eyes, your hair getting messy and your face turning as bright red as it could be. “Oh... oh my god...” He says in a trembling voice. “more.” he practically demanded.

“hmm~? More you say?” you sneakily spoke back with an endearing giggle leaving your throat. Without warning, you pinned him to the bed you both were sitting on, leaving him to get the air knocked out of him. He looked directly into those gorgeous eyes of yours and yet... there was a clear hint of sadism in them and for some reason , this only excited his nasty mind even further. “I'm gonna need you to elaborate, my sweet, sweet boy” you spoke in a fake sweet tone.

You were so angelic ... The devil in disguise. He felt so weak right now, but he wasn't going to complain. He needed this, he wanted to be tortured by you, he loved being weak for you.

“Please... please ruin me. I'm all yours.”

“Call me your pet. I want to be your pet.”

“Treat me like a dog... please...”

You looked up curiously. “like a dog, you say?” you stroked him from his forehead into his locks. “you surely know how to work your way into a person's heart, puppy~” you let out a soft chuckle, your fingers stoking over his scalp once more. Your free hand went over towards his neck, as you also caressed your hand over it back and forth. He starts to shake a lot more now due to your words. He's starting to melt. He needed this affection. He needed your hands everywhere. He needed you to love him. There was no hesitation in the feeling.

With every caress he just got more riled up, he wanted more. “P-Please... more... p-please.” He studders, biting his lip once again. You gave him an immediate peck on the cheek before circling around him like some sort of predator with a prey. “My my. Why do you have to be so cute, Lucy~?” you spoke with a little pout, before stopping as you stood behind him, putting your hands on his shoulders. You were so... so close ... he swore he could feel your warm breath against his neck. He was blushing intensely now. All of this was making his emotions go wild, he wasn't this emotional before when he was a bad person, but he can't help that he needs you. He needs your affection, he wants your attention and that's all he wants in the universe. He was already addicted to this feeling, and you're not doing anything to stop that. He needed to be touched everywhere by you, he loved every single moment of your touch.

Your touch was what he lived for in his miserable life.

Without warning, your teeth met his skin once again, his neck this time. You made sure not to hurt him and instead just gently sucked at it, leaving him to shiver with delight as he could feel the heat of your mouth on him along with probably saliva. Your hands were caressing circles on his back, making it even worse. He gave out another moan in response, more lustful. He didn't mind it, what did you expect? You're touching him in ways he's never been touched before. He felt so much love and excitement from you in this moment, no doubt that you wanted more from him as well. He was so attracted to you, and you were so attracted to him. It was quite obvious.

His hips were moving on their own, he was trying to push against your head, he was in heat ...

You added a little bit more teeth, along with the touch of your warm tongue on his neck, but still making sure to not put too much force. He could feel a smirk starting to reappear on your features, making his shudder yet again. Your nails dug into his back in a soft yet teasing manner. It was clear you didn't actually want to hurt, hurt him though. He started to shiver ...really heavily when you dug into his back a little. He felt every single point of your touch, every single inch. His brain was running in circles, he was feeling so many emotions right now and his body was responding to it. He was moving on his own now, his hips grinding up against you, trying to show you that you have full control of him, that you can do whatever you want to him.

He looked back at you with his pleading blue eyes, his body telling you to take him already. He was still grinding on you, he was still shaking a lot due to his feelings, especially now that you were teasing him. You were playing him like a fiddle and he loved it so much. His movements got a bit quicker, he wanted you, he wanted you and only you. You were everything to him right now.

You just let out a snicker at his attempts to grind himself against you before putting your chin on his shoulder. “oh my. What is that, Lucy~?“ you before your hand went over and massaged his neck, your thumb and fingernail stroking over it. “If you wanted to go further, all you had to do was ask” you giggled, turning your head a little so you could look him in the eye. Your hand went down, teasing his sensitive areas but refusing to lay a finger on it for now.

He started moving even crazier now. You were right next to his private area. He was still extremely frustrated, he just wanted it now. But your teasing was making him so much more excited, your hand stroking his neck was driving him crazy. He let out one last moan and said:

“Please... please ...just take me.” He looked into your eyes and his face turned red once again, he really meant every single word. He was begging you like a dog in heat to finally take him. And you didn’t mind it one bit “anything with pleasure for my good boy~” your hand began slow, gently caressing him right on the spot, just doing the bare minimum to see his reaction. Your free hand just continued to stroke his neck with your fingernails, knowing it would mess his hormones up. You stuck out your tongue a little for the extra attention, letting out a chuckle. He gasped when you finally touched his genitals. He felt like there were a billion butterflies in his stomach, he was so excited. He felt so much pleasure, he got completely swept off his feet by it. His hips were grinding on your hand, he wanted you to touch him more. He had that stupid look he always had. Just pure lust that made him feel alive. He had that soft voice of his again, he just couldn't control himself, he was losing control of his body.

Without warning, you just started using your entire hand all at once, making him moan and curse out at the sudden sensation, as it left him trembling. His knees were buckling, but there was no way in hell you were letting go of him now. You were rubbing a bit more harshly right now, making it almost too sensitive for him to bear. But you knew he liked it. For the cherry on top, you just decided to nibble on his ear again, using some more of your sharp teeth this time, yet being extra gentle. He let out a high-pitched moan once more when you used your hand on him. His breath was shaky and he already looked completely destroyed, he had a stupid smile on his face. His body was trembling and twitching, he was clearly feeling a lot of pleasure. And he only let out another moan when you nicked his ear with your sharp teeth, he let out a moan that turned into a scream of pure bliss with tears pouring down his face due to the high amount of sensation.

You just gave him a tiny squeeze with your hand. Instead of being aggressive, you gently massaged it with your palm, not being too rough with him after seeing those tears. “just keep breathing Lucy... you're doing great” you kindly whispered in his ear, giving him a comforting smile. He felt everything, every single thing you did made him moan. His eyes were closed and he looked like he was in another world of pleasure, even at some points you thought he was going to pass out.

He didn't stop shaking and his breath was very shaky, he sounded out of breath, yet he was still crying. His tears kept falling and he was begging you to keep going, to not stop. He needed you so much, he was nothing without you. And you just did as requested, but tried being as gentle with him as you could. Your fingertips were digging a little into his private areas, along with you continuing to rub it in a pleasant manner. You just booped your nose into the crook of his neck, nuzzling it a little as a giggle could be heard from you. Your free hand went over to pet his head and caress his scalp, giving a sense of relief and comfort. You sped up your hand a little, knowing he'd most likely be close by the amount of noises he was making. You wanted to help him release this bottled up sensation His moans got louder and even worse with every touch. He was definitely close now, his heart was beating a million beats per second as he let out one last moan. He was breathing heavily and he was trying to see your face but he just had his eyes closed. He was so close but he wanted to please you.

He wanted to experience this feeling, he never wanted to experience it anywhere else but with you. He cried out your name, wanting you to hear him as his body was shaking. “shh... it'll be over soon, sweetheart” you silently spoke as you send him yet another gentle smile. You continued to massage and caress him from left to right, rubbing him off completely. You gave one last tiny squeeze, making him scream your name once more, he couldn't hold it in any longer. Lucian arched his back, thrusting into your hand a few times as he was panting like crazy. He could feel his eyes roll back as he threw his head back into your shoulder. His body trembled as he let out a large moan once more. Even after that one last squeeze, if he could go for longer, he definitely would. He was completely lost in this feeling, like there was no world outside of it. He was feeling so exhausted by the time he was done, but he was still just shaking with pleasure. He tried so hard to say your name once more, and he barely even managed to form a sentence.

You had him wrapped around your little finger.

He was yours.

[mythrae]

To A Wild Rose

——————————————————————————————————

Summary: Upon entering the wetlands just south of the Blighted Village, Divya realizes she may have feelings for her warlock companion.

(AKA - Wyll has infinite amounts of rizz)

Word Count: 1.7k

Warnings: 18+ (mdni), very minor character death, otherwise some nice cute fluff

Author's Notes:

Click to read on ao3 if u prefer :)

Title is the same as the piece by Edward MacDowell

I included my current favorite arrangement of the piece at the very end, it’s originally for piano but I think the full orchestra gives the piece a bit more life ☺️

Definitely have a head canon that Wyll knows a lot about flowers and their meanings from essentially being royalty

Set early in Act One (pre-Karlach)

“So… Div-yah is how it's pronounced, right?”

“Yes, that’s what they call me.”

“Your name fits you well, I think. You are truly divine.”

“I heard you practicing that one earlier, y’know. Not very original, unfortunately.”

Wyll sighed in defeat, his gaze focusing on the path ahead.

The party had just finished a short rest at the Blighted Village, and were out exploring the wilderness around the town before making their way over to the goblin camp. Unfortunately, for everyone within hearing range, Wyll thought this would be the perfect time for his very public flirtations with their leader.

Divya, of course, had to pretend that his attempts weren’t having any affect on her. She couldn't catch feelings for a new party member that easily.

“Hells, Wyll,” Shadowheart mumbled, “That’s even worse than what you told Lae’zel at camp yesterday.”

“It seems you don’t have much of a practiced tongue,” Astarion smirked, “Maybe I could be of some assistance? I can promise I have a lot more experience than you do.”

“Save it, please,” Wyll shook his head, “The Blade of Frontiers can handle himself.”

“Up ahead,” Divya called back, blissfully ignoring the party’s banter, “Looks like we got company.”

It was hard to make out through all the trees, but she was able to see three figures standing off to the side of the worn down path. Two men, similar in appearance, speaking to an elderly woman. Divya recognized her in an instant as a merchant back in the tiefling’s grove where they met Wyll. 

Auntie Ethel was her name, right?

She heard one of the men raise their voice at her, pointing an accusatory finger in her direction.

Whatever could they want with that sweet, old woman?

She remembered how the woman had doted on her and her party, even gave them a potion on the house after beating the goblins that tried to break down the gate to the grove. Why were these men possibly speaking to her this way?

As the party approached the trio up ahead, Divya was finally able to make out their conversation:

“Lads, for the love of all that is holy, I’ve never clapped eyes on your poor sister!”

“Drop the act, hag.” The red haired man spat. “You was the last to see Mayrina.”

“Just let her go. Please.” The blonde man begged.

Divya was close enough for Auntie Ethel to lock eyes with her, a wave of relief crossing her face as she pointed to the tiefling with a wrinkled finger.

“You there!” She shouted, “Please, help me! I don’t know what’s come over these boys! I just want to go home…”

As the old woman pleased with her, she noticed her face crease with false concern. 

She’s seen this facial expression before, when she was exiled from Elturel. She had begged the members of the monastery to let her stay, that she knew no other way of life, that she wouldn’t survive out on her own. She tried to convince the abbot that she was no devil, that she was as pure and holy as all the other monks she had spent her days with.

He had looked at her the same way when he told her that Ilmater himself would guide her path through the wilderness.

This old woman was trying to deceive these brothers.

“You’re lying to them.” Divya replied, crossing her arms over her chest. “You have seen this girl. And I think you should tell us what happened to her.”

She saw the old woman’s face contorting with anger, realizing she’d been caught in the act. 

“Bollocks!” She spat, “You were supposed to rush to my defense, love! Fat lot of good you are.”

“I don’t defend those that keep the truth hidden.”

“Pah,” Auntie Ethel waved her off, “I’ve had it with you righteous ones. Some advice? You ever darken my door, you best have your tail between your legs and an apology at the ready.”

A dastardly smile crept upon Auntie Ethel’s face, filling Divya's chest with a sickening dread. She had a feeling this would not be the last time they would meet.

“Bye-bye, now!”

As if she was an illusion this whole time, the elderly woman vanished without a single trace, not even a footprint left behind in the dirt.

“Bloody hells…” The blonde man spoke, his eyes focused on the spot Auntie Ethel was just standing in, “She just disappeared! Ain’t seen nothing like that before.”

“She could shoot fireworks out of her backside for all I care,” the red haired man retorted, “She has Rina! Now, come on! We have to find her!”

The two men rushed down the trail as the party watched on. There was a bit of tension in the air – whether they should follow the duo, or leave them be. On one hand, Divya was worried about what they might be getting into if they decide to go after them.

But on the other hand... if their sister is in trouble...

“Well…” Astarion began, snapping the tiefling from her thoughts, “I say we stay out of it. Best not sticking our noses where it doesn’t belong, hm?” He shrugged, turning on his heel until a steady hand from Wyll on his shoulder stopped his rotation. 

“We should at least make sure that they find their sister.” The warlock replied, “Imagine losing your sibling, Astarion. Wouldn’t you be worried sick over it?”

“Not necessarily…” the pale elf grumbled under his breath.

“Come on, now.” Divya said, “At least if we know they found her, then we won’t be "sticking our noses" in anything. Just ensuring her safety is all we're doing. We don’t even have to fight if we don’t need to.”

He sighed (rather dramatically) in response. “Fine…”

As they continued ahead, the forest cleared away, leading the party down to the wetlands by the southern lake. The warmth of the afternoon sun warmed Divya’s skin as she slowed her pace, taking in the new surroundings around her. Considering she had lived in the city her entire life, she had never stepped foot in a place like this. There were sounds from animals she had never seen, smells from flora she had never even heard of. Even the dirt underneath her feet felt different, much softer than anything she had stepped on before.

As she was taking in the new environment around her, Divya noticed Wyll crouching down over a patch of greenery on the side of the trail. 

Curiously, she made her way to the warlock, wondering what could have possibly caught his attention. A tiny animal? A pack that someone left behind? Or perhaps, a clue to where Auntie Ethel might have run off to?

As she knelt down next to him, she was a bit surprised. He was staring at a cluster of small, pink flowers, watching them closely with a twinkle in his eye.

How… adorable.

“What are these?” She asked, “I’ve never seen flowers quite like this before.”

“Ah,” Wyll replied, a small smile curling the corners of his lips, “they’re wild roses. I don’t think I’ve seen one of these since I was a boy. They’re not very common in Faerûn.”

Divya raised an eyebrow as she stared at the blooms, “But… they don’t look like any kind of rose I’ve ever seen.”

“Perhaps you mean garden roses? They’re a little bigger in size, and have a strong scent?”

The tiefling woman nodded.

“Well, these are a bit different. You see,” he continued, his fingers gently brushing one of the blooms, “These flowers have five petals each, while garden roses have many more. Also, these are the only type of rose that will always be pink. Garden roses can be red, yellow, pink… almost any color, I believe.”

“I’m impressed,” Divya smiled, “I never knew you to be such a botanist. How do you know all of this?”

“From my father, mostly,” Wyll replied, “He would teach me how flowers have their own language, and tell me how he used to give my mother all sorts of flowers when they were courting. For example…”

He plucked a single flower from the ground, reaching to tuck the bloom over Divya’s ear.

“... the wild rose symbolizes beauty, and was strongly associated with the ancient goddesses of love.” His eyes met hers as the tips of his fingers gently grazed her cheek, “which I think suits you perfectly.”

Divya felt a hot flush creep over her face as he drew his hand away. There was no hiding her feelings now, it seemed, as she heard him chuckling lightly at her expense. She was caught off guard by his little gesture, his sweet words, his kind touch. She finally had to admit it to herself:

She found herself quite bewitched by her new companion.

“Th-thank you, Wyll.” She finally stammered out, her eyes breaking their gaze from his, hoping he couldn’t secretly read her mind with his warlock powers.

“No, thank you,” He replied with a light chuckle, “Maybe another time I can tell you–”

“I hate to interrupt your lovely musings, Wyll,” Astarion said, “but I believe we are being watched.”

He was peering far off in the distance, his deep red eyes focused as if he was a predator who caught sight of their prey. Wyll and Divya stood, trying to get a peek at what the pale elf saw up ahead. But before they were able to spot it, it was already too late.

All of a sudden, the wilderness began to change. An eerie green glow crept over the wetlands, revealing the true nature of the environment hiding underneath the dastardly disguise. They were standing in a swamp, stinking and insidious, that assaulted the party’s senses instantly.

Divya quickly snatched the flower from her ear and watched with widened eyes as it transformed, becoming nothing more than a blade of tall grass between her fingers.

“Well,” Wyll said, a bit playfully, “at least your beauty’s still standing strong.”

She playfully nudged the warlock with her elbow, looking away from him to hide her flushed cheeks once more.

“Hey Divya, I think we have a bit more trouble than we bargained for…”

Shadowheart was a bit further ahead, her boots in the murky water as she looked at the corpses she discovered. As Divya ran towards the cleric, she realized that they was the bodies of the two brothers from earlier.

"Guess they never did find their sister," she replied, "Which means it's our turn to save her."

"Right behind you," Wyll said, unsheathing his rapier. The tiefling nodded his way as the party ran through the swamp, searching for any sign of the hag along the sandy shore.

Divya did her best to focus on the task at hand, but she couldn't help thinking of Wyll's smile, and how she definitely wouldn't mind seeing it again.

[noahsbookhoard]

📚March 2024 Book Review (Part 2/2)📚

Last post for March and there is only good and really really good books here!

The Tragedy of Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare

Shakespeare famous telling of Julius Caesar's last days, the conspiration against him and the aftermath of his assassination.

In honor of the Ides of March I finally read Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. It's always fun reading a new Shakespeare play as someone who didn't grew up in an Anglo-Saxon culture: every time you fall on one quote and get to say "oh, THAT'S where the idiom comes from!". The fault in our stars, e tu brute... I didn't know they were Shakespeare's before (growing up I've always heard Caesar's last words being "Tu quoque fili" (you as well my son) and that's apparently from a 18th century biography)

Overall it's a good play although it's not my favourite. I especially love Mark Anthony's funeral speech (it is well know for a good reason). Plays are always best appreciated live so if anyone knows a good scene or film adaptation I'd love to see it!

Veiller sur elle by Jean-Baptiste Andrea

Mimo (short for Michelangelo) is a poor yet extremely talented sculptor, Viola is the clever and adventurous daughter of the rich Orsini family. These two that nothing destined to meet will quickly become the closest friends, but this friendship is put to test with the rise of Mussolini.

Mandatory French literature read and second book of my adventures in Goncourt land! This one is a total succes and I'm glad I finally picked it up after glaring at the red "Prix Goncourt 2023" dustsleeve as if it might bite. I was also hesitant because of the period: WWII and fascism can be very interesting themes to explore in a novel but I read one too many where it was token-ish and just a convenient setting. Nevertheless I read very few book about Italy under Mussolini so I gave it a go.

From page one the style took my breath away. It's funny (he describes coming back to Italy as "Welcoming it with open arms" before clarifying that he tripped getting off the train and fell flat, face first on the platform, the image stuck with me) and it's tender, it's hard sometimes but Mimo's life is and it doesn't sugarcoat it.

This is the story of two souls that were meant to met but found each other and never let go. Mimo and Viola can lose contact for years and meet back again as if the saw each other yesterday. There's nothing they can't forgive the other, no matter how terrible. And they will do and say some truly awful things to each other because they are trying to adjust to a world that grows faster and madder every day. But in the end the two friends will always be there for each other, looking after ("veiller sur" in french) each other. It felt like reading about my best friend and me sometimes, it was touching. I appreciated that it never ever was even a mention of romantic feelings between Mimo and Viola, to me it made all the tenderness and softness between them even more endearing that there was no ambiguity in it.

The story is told in alternate between Mimo as an old man dying in a monastery and Mimo as a child then a young man, both are in Mimo's point of view. There is a mystery of sort, too: when the sculptor moved in the monastery he asked specifically to be near her. And this feminine figure is shrouded in secrecy, no one can see her, only the abbot has the key, because she is said to turn people mad. As the story unfolds there are more hints but never any physical description, up until the very end and a really good twist that pulls together the past and present memories of Mimo. I felt like I should have seen it coming. I might have cried a bit too.

A huge book crush, I am currently lobbying at home to have my sister and mother read it. And I hope it gets translated because I want so hard people to enjoy that book as much as I did.

All System Red (Murderbot Diaries #1) by Martha Wells

The diary of a Security Unit Cyborg who overrode its programming and preferes watching soap operas to working. However the scientifc expedition it is assigned to is attacked Murderbot, as it calls itself, will have to involve itself more than it wishes to.

Another serie I started because Tumblr was gushing over it. Also I wanted to get into SciFi which isn't a genre I read much of as a kid. I like my alien and spaceship on TV so there were no reason I wouldn't enjoy it on paper!

In this future projects are handed to the lowest bidder and lowering security is a good way of driving cost down. I could definitely picture it, that's basically how they handle infrastructure and equipment repair at my job! The future is beautiful...

Murderbot is really relatable. I too would love to slack off at work watching series and just checking that things are not going to hell (more than usual) once in a while. It has an interesting balance between the disinterested SecUnit with professional detachment but and the Cyborg who unlocked the emotions its programming had locked down. The awkwardness of the relationship with the human crew was really funny.

I was expecting a full length novel not a novella (my fault entirely for doing my research) so the plot felt very quick. I'll be adjusting my expectations for book 2.

I enjoyed it, it has some really cool character, good world building. I think I missed what everybody found so brilliant about it, and that's definitely on me since this book and several others in the saga where finalist or won the Hugo and Nebula. I'll probably read the next book, as of the time of writing this post it is on the TBR.

The Remarkable Retirement of Edna Fischer by E M Anderson

83 year old Edna Fischer is as surprised as anybody when a wizard comes to her nursing home with an announcement: Edna is the Chosen One, the woman who will save the Kights from the dangerous Sorcerer who rages for months in the land. Armed with her knitting needle and her cane, she will have to face this fight and maybe find it is not so black and white as she thought.

I was drawn to this book for this prompt alone: the Chosen One is not another teenager, it is an old woman in flowery dress and knitted cardigan. This was nothing I had ever read, although there is among the cast of character ye old smart mouth 17 year old. I was also surprised to find it was more of an urban fantasy that the traditional medieval setting but if your hero is an octogenarian you might as well have her fight dragons in a city!

I really liked all the little twists on the genre's cliché: those I had as a reader (the Sword of Destiny, the Big Final Fight...) and those other characters had that helped the main cast (or sometimes caused them more trouble).

Edna was believable as an old woman, healthy but with the difficulty of old age. She is kind, patient, compationate. I would have wanted her as a grandma. Yet she is also determined and won't let people walk on her toes. There is some good ideas to circumvent those mobility issue (Edna would NOT have been able to trek and sleep in camps) that makes also for some very nice companions and side quests.

Some elements were somewhat predictable but still deeply enjoyable. I especially liked that there was some chapter with the Sorcerer's point of view, which isn't usual in this type of novel. It really sets everything up for the ending (i won't say more than that.)

In conclusion a really good read, a nice twist on a genre and the chance to picture YOUR granny fighting a dragon (there is a physical description of Edna but I couldn't help imagining my own grandmother). I think the author is on tumblr? At least that's where I first heard of thos book. If I can find the url I'll add it here.

[snowblack-charcoalwhite]

Quick thoughts after watching The Last Kingdom 2x2 (and some rambling on the side)

I love Hild

Uhtred`s eyelashes are something else

Halig`s 'Do you need to shit or not?' is one of the funniest lines in the series so far. The delivery`s just 🤣

Uhtred and Gisela have a nice chem, I quite like them together

Sihtric is SO likeable

I LOVE HILD

Beocca is breaking my heart (also a little throwback: I didn`t expect him to say THAT to Skorpa back in S1 but YAY)

Uhtred`s got PRESENCE now! Good for you, man

I missed Alfred`s fam💜 Yes, even Aelswith:) Eliza Butterworth, you ARE a queen

I haven`t really formed my opinion on Gisela`s character yet. She`s well-loved in the fandom from what I understand but I`d rather reserve my judgment for later. I mean, she IS likeable, but given how utterly brilliant the majority of TLK characters are she`ll need to be more than that to stand out (speaking of: did I mention I LOVE HILD?)

Disclaimer: nothing in the previous statement implies that I ship Uhtred with Hild and want Gisela to get out of the picture so they could be together or something like that. I just LOVE Hild, ok?

During the episode: Guthred is getting on my nerves. I mean, he`s a good character, completely human and all that, but I`d really like to smack him with a wet rag. After the episode: You know what, dude, I checked the number of the episodes you`re in and let me tell you I`M NOT SORRY IN THE SLIGHTEST YOU MISERABLE RAT

But also: slavery? Finan? FINAN?!

Odda the Younger: dies in Season 1. Me: Oh, who am I gonna hate with a visceral passion now? Abbot Eadred:

Sidenote: I`m 100% with @lonnson about TLK being superior to HotD. Like don`t even try to compare them (not that I`m actually trying to forbid someone to do this but come on). As much as it pains me to say that (because I`m way too invested in this damn dragon show for my own good), IMO the only truly great things about HotD are:

the acting, and TLK is still superior here because absolutely EVERYONE is giving their all, no matter the screentime and the degree of character development. Meanwhile in HotD: Baela? Rhaena (right, they were butchered by the script, but still)? Adult (sorta) Jacaerys (Harry, I expect more from you next season)?

dynamics between certain characters, and once again TLK beats the absolute crap out of HotD here. Plus the best dynamics in the latter are THAT compelling mainly thanks to the acting and not the script

the score. Well, this is the one aspect where HotD prevails for me. TLK score is amazing as well, very organic and atmospheric, but I just can`t resist Ramin Djawadi`s magic, I guess

[hypovile]

so tell me about your character in the strahd game. i wanna hear all about 'em!

Bear with me here ok? Ok.

Teardrop Mar Morto

6’2” 80 year old half-elf, adopted, gravewalker ranger, ex-single father, and all-around pain to be around

In the beginning of the campaign, Teardrop presented himself to be a sort of happy-go-lucky dickhead. Very unserious, but still somewhat charming… or, at least, has the capability to be charming.

Everything started going downhill when he started having beef with one of the other PC’s, Dirk the very dumb and lovable centaur. This is when the second layer of him started to show— a jaded, jealous, and selfish old man who will do everything he can to get what he wants. And, of course, the thing he truly wants is his daughter back. He doesn’t care what he has to do to get her back and has already (in game) given away his arm to the Abbot in order to get one step closer.

(Spoilers for Teardrop under here, other players LOOK AWAY) (they don’t really go on tumblr so it’s a bit pointless to do this but WHAT IF)

Because he’s a gravewalker ranger, he’s bonded to a wraith who just so happens to be his childhood best friend, Rosemary, nicknamed Simon, that he used to be in love with before Rosemary eventually ended up leaving to do something… well, better with his life.

Ever since Wraith-Rosemary showed up when Teardrop was 50, he has done everything in his power to get Teardrop to help him. Teardrop, busy taking care of the most important person in his life, his daughter, refused time and time again.

Rosemary was quickly sick of Teardrops refusals and so he decided to get rid of the problem: Teardrops 10-year-old daughter. Rosemary possessed Teardrop after he fell asleep one night and killed her in his body.

Teardrop still refused to help him for years. But, of course, he eventually gave in and went out traveling to find Rosemary’s body, or what remains of it, and put it to rest.

Then, of course, he got pulled into Barovia with the rest of the party. So. He’s gotta put that on pause for a little while longer! Much to his dismay.

And, even more to his dismay, Teardrop may never leave Barovia, if he gets a say in it!

With finding out that his biological family lives in Barovia along with his … ahh, curious interest … with the devil Strahd himself, there’s not much left for him elsewhere. Except for the ocean, which he still wants to see. At some point.

And obviously I’m leaving quite a decent amount of info out, but… teehee… feel free to ask whatever else you want to, i will say literally anything about Teardrop he’s all I think about theres So Much

[immediatebreakfast]

Light was each simple bosom there, Save two, who ill might pleasure share — The Abbess and the novice Clare

Out of the group of nuns who are both excited, and a little scared for this travel to Lindisfarne, both the abbess, and the novice Clare are brought up as important characters to take into account in this canto second.

These two characters really contrast eachother in both their reasonings to become a dame of the lord, and their own grief in what is behind that decision.

On one hand the abbess, who is the mother superior for this nun group, is quite the interesting character in how she views her religion, and the power that it gives to the people in superior seats within the church's hierarchy.

Her hopes, her fears, her joys, were all Bounded within the cloister wall: The deadliest sin her mind could reach Was of monastic rule the breach; And her ambition’s highest aim To emulate Saint Hilda’s fame.

The abbess wants to become like Saint Hilda to gain the reputation that she has to her name, and her legend. She wants to become a saint through her material actions, and all of the favors that she can do in order to get to sainthood at the eyes of the church.

It's a huge sin to have this ambition because it is deceiving to god to try to become a Saint without actually meaning the good that you do, but the abbess doesn't care. She knows it's a sin, she knows that she is deceiving both the people, and her faith, but she is firm in her ambition, even if she is ashamed of it.

Though, vain of her religious sway, She loved to see her maids obey; Yet nothing stern was she in cell, And the nuns loved their Abbess well.

And she has put so much of her life, and work into this personal mission that at some point I can kinda see her deceiving herself in her own vanity while the people around her recognize her efforts while not being aware of her conflict. The abbess has used her money to make her convent a place of respect, and rest. Decking it out with gems, relics, and ivory; making the poor have resources, and offering the pilgrims housing.

The poem had all of the traits, and the meanings to make a truly corrupt agent of the church, but in her hurry to be seen in the likes of Saint Hilda the abbess somehow gained the love of the nuns she leads.

Sad was this voyage to the dame; Summoned to Lindisfarne, she came, There, with Saint Cuthbert’s Abbot old, And Tynemouth’s Prioress, to hold A chapter of Saint Benedict, For inquisition stern and strict, On two apostates from the faith, And, if need were, to doom to death.

And just like any member of the church, the abbess is going along with her nuns on a journey to see judgement being in action, and a possible execution.

On the other hand, Clare is the novice nun, she has yet not taken the vows to become a full nun, and seems to be drowning in her grief that turned her life into a tragedy.

Lovely and gentle, but distressed. She was betrothed to one now dead, Or worse, who had dishonoured fled. Her kinsmen bade her give her hand To one who loved her for her land;

This poor woman had only one option to escape a very unwanted suitor, and it was to join the church. To make herself absolutely untouchable for him inside the holy walls. On top of having to mourn her actual lover who died recently.

A sun-scorched desert, waste and bare, Nor waves nor breezes murmured there; There saw she, where some careless hand O’er a dead corpse had heaped the sand, To hide it till the jackals come, To tear it from the scanty tomb. See what a woful look was given, As she raised up her eyes to heaven!

Clare is distressed, truly distressed. The poem keeps using that word for her, to exemplify how her suffering has led her to this point, how Clare now has to attend a trial of her almost murderers in Lindisfarne. They tried to murder her while she was mourning, and Clare had no choice but to Glee to the place where (at least) the whims of powerful people where submitted to the power of the church.

The islanders, in joyous mood, Rushed emulously through the flood, To hale the barque to land; Conspicuous by her veil and hood, Signing the cross, the Abbess stood, And blessed them with her hand.

At least Clare ended up under the protection of this abbess while her being is so mentally fragile. I don't even want to imagine how it would feel to be on her shoes, knowing that any step she takes outside of the abbey could be used to either pursue her or kill her.

A horrible tragedy in the middle of the almost fantasy like adventure of lord Marmion's introduction.

[lingshanhermit]

Lingshan Hermit: You are a Buddhist, Yet You Possess Non-Buddhist Views

Are you a Buddhist? Certainly. Ask any Buddhist, and they will unhesitatingly answer you this way. But the real question is, are you truly a Buddhist?

It's an intriguing question. Every Buddhist would never consider themselves as non-Buddhist. They would tell you: I have received a certain initiation, we practice our methods every day, we took refuge with a certain abbot or Rinpoche. I have a stack of refuge certificates. I'm vegetarian. We conduct fire offerings. I recite Amitabha Buddha's name. Aren't all these enough to prove I'm a Buddhist?

According to Buddha's teachings, only when we possess the correct Buddhist views can we be genuine Buddhists. Otherwise, we are merely close to being Buddhists. "Close" means "quite near but not quite there".

You've been a Buddhist for quite some time (five years? Or maybe ten?), yet you still hold non-Buddhist views. This isn't surprising, as you've been a non-Buddhist for a much longer time (here, "non-Buddhist" doesn't refer to the Indian ascetics who cover themselves in ash and roast over fires, but to anyone with non-Buddhist views). Since beginningless time, we might have spent most of our time as non-Buddhists. Even in this life, you might have been a non-Buddhist for the first thirty years. When you think of the future, are you planning just for the next few decades or for lifetimes to come? Do you love your family? Of course. How about people outside your family? Do you love them? Not really. So, do you truly believe that every single one of them has been your son or husband in the cycle of rebirth?

Do you genuinely believe everything is impermanent? Or is it just an occasional thought? Do you truly think all phenomena lack inherent existence? When you look at a TV stand, can you truly grasp that it doesn't possess any of the qualities you perceive? Do you sense the manifestation and emptiness rather than manifestation and inherent nature? In this era, every Tibetan Buddhist would say they understand the union of appearance and emptiness. Yet, I believe most of us, most of the time, see the perfect blend of appearance and inherent nature, rather than appearance and emptiness. Do you genuinely believe that all conditioned things are suffering? Then why do you still frequently seek lasting happiness in samsara? Although every bottle of 'Pukui Oil Control Facial Cleanser' lists its ingredients: coconut-based betaine, sodium chloride, yeast extract from glycerin, glycerin, etc., and openly reveals itself as a mere compound phenomenon, we still perceive it as a bottle of facial cleanser — an entity with inherent existence. Our habits are that powerful. We might not view sandcastles on the beach as real castles, but when it's a stone-built one that can house people, we think it's a real castle. Is there any difference between the two? When stones are piled together, is there something called a "castle" born? Never. Those stones stacked together haven't combined into a new entity. When that castle is destroyed, no "castle" disappears because a "castle" never truly existed to begin with.

If you claim to be a Buddhist, but your logic and mindset behind any decision or consideration are no different than those who do not believe in reincarnation and karma, then you might not truly believe what you think you believe. At least, it indicates you don't possess a genuine Buddhist perspective.

Having non-Buddhist views while calling oneself a Buddhist isn't a grave mistake. In fact, our spiritual practice is essentially a tug-of-war between Buddhist views and non-Buddhist views. A significant part of the spiritual journey is ensuring we don't fall into perspectives like "everything possesses self-nature" and other views that oppose the Four Dharma Seals. In reality, it's nearly impossible not to slip into these views. What's crucial is recognizing when we do, and then pulling ourselves out. After all, we haven't been Buddhists for a particularly long time. Our previous habits—of labeling everything—are immensely strong. We are too accustomed to the views that everything is permanent and has self-nature. It's unrealistic to take refuge one day and expect to become a sage the next. The best thing you can do is to reduce such non-Buddhist perspectives over time.

It's fair to say that for most Buddhists (myself included), about 99% of their views are non-Buddhist. Such views are deeply ingrained because we use them daily. Isn't our everyday perspective centered on the idea of "everything possesses self-nature"? When you see ice cream, do you immediately think it lacks inherent ice cream nature? Of course, your first instinct is to recognize it as ice cream. If you're lucky, maybe a few minutes later, you might contemplate its composite nature. Or you might not think about it at all.

As a Buddhist, there's no need to feel ashamed for having non-Buddhist views. In fact, it's good news. Every beginner Buddhist starts this way. If you don't recognize this, you can't make changes. Now, having realized that your views are not truly centered on "all dharmas lack self-nature", it's evident that we constantly live with the view of "all dharmas possess self-nature". Look around, you see your table, slippers, dirty socks, your cat, and your cup. When you think of them as "my table", "my slippers", "my cat", your perspective is not "all dharmas lack self-nature".

You might argue, "I accept the view of 'all dharmas lack self-nature' and believe it to be correct. Doesn't that prove I possess this perspective?" In truth, you've merely heard of this view from a teacher. The day you no longer need anyone to tell you "all dharmas lack self-nature", and through your own practice, you genuinely feel that nothing is as we define or label it, only then can you claim to truly possess such a perspective. Until then, you've only heard of it. It isn't truly yours.

This article was first published on Lingshan Hermit's blog on April 10, 2016.

Copyright Notice：All copyrights of Ling Shan Hermit's articles in Simplified and Traditional Chinese, English, and other languages belong to the natural person who owns "Ling Shan Hermit". Please respect copyright. Publishers, media, or individuals (including but not limited to internet media, websites, personal spaces, Weibo, WeChat public accounts, print media) must obtain authorization from Ling Shan Hermit before use. No modifications to the articles are allowed (including: author's name, title, main text content, and punctuation marks). We reserve all legal rights.

灵山居士：你是佛教徒，却拥有外道的见地

[grimecrow]

When People Think Canada Is Great

For those that don't know the Canadian Charter Of Rights And Freedoms has a clause anyone can invoke making it so that the law they specify can go against the charter and not be challenged. It doesn't matter what rights are being violated and while it does expire after a while, the government can once again re-invoke it. No court in the land, even our supreme court can overturn it. Quebec loves, loves, loves this clause cause it's what allows them to discriminate against language with it's laws. The only trigger it has is that the people in power have to say they are giving themselves permission to take away our rights. It does not matter how heinous the right violation is though it can only violate sections 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. Wanna see some of those?

Sure there is a drawback where Canadian media will say; "Wow didn't it suck they invoked the NotWithstanding clause?" But that is the full extent of the negativity they will receive and potentially twice as much as the average Canadian citizen can do. Ol' PP (Pierre Poilievre) of the Conservative party here will most likely be the next Prime Minister and no despite what people are screaming he won't be the next Trump no matter how much he loves seeing those MACA hats; he'll be the next Greg Abbot. The only difference being he'll have a rubber stamp and no one that can say no. This is a reminder to Canadians who think they can look down on Americans or anyone else just how truly free and great we are. P.S. This isn't me saying to vote for Trudeau. I'm not, I believe everyone should be able to vote for who they feel is the best. But if any of this scares (or excites) you then I will say this is a good reminder to go out and vote.

[mysaldate]

Haha it's 2am, time to get depressed over the fact I'm a forever dm and will never get to romance the Abbot 🥲

[fandom-took-my-sanity]

Abbott Elementary 2x08 “Egg Drop”

Funny note before we start, my sister said that at her school today (the day after this episode came out) the physical science class did an egg drop. So that's really funny

I want to make a coherent post about this episode, I really do. The only problem is my brain is 95% THIS right now:

LOOK. AT. THEM. That is flirting behavior if I have ever seen it!!!!! I just can’t stand it, any time they interact I am completely normal (I want to rip my tv off the wall and just go insane)

I think that this episode was really good for Janine’s character development. I think that for her to truly start being at ease with not being successful, she has to absolutely fail at something. Not that I want that for her, because I love her of course, but I think a little failure would put things into perspective, and she could grow from it

That little boy who’s egg was his best friend reminded me of little Chidi! I wanted to cry he was so precious. Why are all the kids on this show invoking my Must Protect instinct?

Gregory loosing his mind during the science conversation was so funny. I get it Greg, sometimes people just say the most confusing and maddening things.

Speaking of Greg, I think that he finally feels like he's fitting in as a regular. That bone thing was really funny, and also I love that he cares so much about the garden. We love a man who is a plant dad (yes I did watch enola holmes 2, I don't know why you would bring that up during the plant dad conversation...)

That mom was Ivy from ‘Good Luck Charlie’, right? She looked very cool.

I like that Barb came around eventually, and kind of had a realization that just because she doesn't agree with something doesn't mean it’s wrong. I like that she owned up to her judgement, we love characters acting in a healthy way!

Also! Ava giving sound advice! Love that!

I miss Ashley! As is this show kind of sidelines Ava and Jacob in most episodes, so I do think that it’s hard to throw her into the mix too, but I really love her! (and also I’m a total sucker for good character development, and I see real potential with her. It’s not that she's a “bad” character now, I just think that eventually she can get something out of this job, and strengthen her good traits)

That’s about it, I’m sorry it’s so short this week, there is a LOT going on for me right now, and currently I need to get some sleep. See ya next Wednesday!

p.s. go read ‘you give me fever’ by @madeliefkrans​, because I read it last night and I haven't stopped thinking about it. It’s totally one of the best Abbot fics I’ve ever read!

[bride-of-dracaenca]

First of all: thank you so much to those who made nice comments about the first part of this list (right over here)! I’m glad some people enjoyed my nostalgic rambling, but much more importantly, I loved hearing your thoughts, too! I would see other fans’ own lists, so much.

So without further ado, here is the rest of:

MY TOP TEN BRINKY MOMENTS (FROM THE 1990s): #3-1

(Content warning for one kind of bad word below, and worse, I vaguely mention Cartoon All-Stars to the Rescue which...shudders.)

I remember Tom Ruegger and Peter Hastings, probably the most influential voices in creating Pinky and the Brain, saying something to the effect of, “It goes there sometimes, but we didn’t want to just do the old ‘a jerk and an idiot’ story,” several times. Although I’m actually a big fan of Abbot and Costello, Laurel and Hardy, etc. and the “Vaudeville Comic Duo” thing is indisputably the kernel this franchise grew around, in my opinion, it was deliberately grown into something more.

A while ago, I listened to an Animanicast where one of the PatB Spin-Off writers (Charles M. Howell) mentioned that he thought that Pinky and the Brain were more complex as characters than the old vaudeville duos, and even said he was getting teary-eyed thinking about the characters because they made him emotional. It’s been a while, but I remember hearing another story where one of the spin-off’s writers recounting talking to an executive with a fellow writer about the characters. Supposedly he was saying, “These two mice…they’re REAL,” and he joked that they thought the guy was maybe uuuh losing it, but said actually, he understood what he meant.

I think that’s probably why most of the Brinky moments I hold dear and remembered through the decades came from the spin-off. The og Animaniacs skits were very funny and cute, and my absolute favorite thing about them was their classic Looney Tunes short tone and sensibility. Still, their spin-off is really where the true humanity of the characters and their relationship was able to develop.

…okay, I know what I sound like, here. I don’t actually think that the show was some brilliant work of high art or anything. There are many weaknesses, it was silly and inconsistent (sometimes very much on purpose, sometimes not), it had a famously troubled production with the network not truly valuing it making these things less surprising, blah blah blah, etc. Still, all I’m saying, as I said in part one of this list, is here are the characters being more complex and unique than people might expect or than many people (including me!) usually remember.

More importantly, here’s their relationship being different than people would expect or are likely to remember, and deeper, too.

#3: “The Pink Candidate” and “Inherit the Wheeze” – Pinky Stands Up to Brain

TL;DR below, but a summary: Once the mice get fleshed out as characters, if Pinky has a problem with something that Brain says or does, he just tells him. If he doesn’t want to go along with something, he just doesn’t. Brain doesn’t attempt to “make” him, and he wouldn’t be able to, anyway.

This might seem like a strange choice. Also, full disclosure: this part is much, much more about “The Pink Candidate” just because it was (in my opinion) the much better episode over “Inherit the Wheeze,” and also because American Drug PSAs from this period in general have…real-world related issues imo. Still.

(As far as I’m concerned, above didn’t happen and was just a bad dream.)

I thought back to these when I was trying to figure out why I never really thought of Pinky/Brain as an unequal relationship, at least not in the particular way I think it might been seen as sometimes. Again, they have massive, massive issues; I think these are so obvious there’s not much purpose to my pointing them out, even. But what’s more surprising is that, even though Brain doesn’t seem to either realize or want to acknowledge this, they actually really are PARTNERS, in my opinion. At least, once their characters are properly fleshed out.

This is more depth than they had at first, while their characters were still being worked out; while it’s a great short with amazing animation, “Brain Meets Brawn” is an example of an early story where the dynamic between the two mice is more “just what you’d expect,” and I’ll be honest with you here, there are a few nice moments in the short that are big exceptions but I mostly just don’t like it! “It” being the dynamic between the mice in the short; I very, very much enjoy the short itself – just not the core relationship in it, mostly.

This brings me back to little summary I wrote before rambling. They’re partners. Brain isn’t forcing Pinky to help him take over the world. Brain wouldn’t even be able to!

“The Pink Candidate” is a really great episode for Pinky’s character, and I could go on and on about it. But it actually shows some of the nuance of Brain’s character, too, which is why put together, it shows some of the nuance in the RELATIONSHIP. I just re-watched it and was again really struck: Pinky’s even less of a frivolous doormat than I remembered, and Brain is even less dismissive or pushy. And this depth doesn’t sacrifice the show’s humor; in my opinion it’s a funny ep. – just that fact that Brain ends up on trial partly because he’s in the Splash Zone of Bil Keane’s Campaign of Vengeance against Pinky for saying that The Family Circus isn’t funny, and that that’s a REAL plot point, sends me.

By the way, Pinky’s right: The Family Circus isn’t funny. ANYWAY.

Pinky stands up to Brain (despite actually CRYING during this scene) and gives well-reasoned points for doing so. This is my favorite take on Pinky: both more aware and, yes, “intelligent” than one would think, but also genuinely a good person. One of the reasons he supports Brain’s efforts is because he thinks that Brain’s leadership genuinely would be “what’s best for the world.” If that changes, he doesn’t stop supporting Brain as a PERSON, because he loves him. But he does stop supporting his actions and he stands up to them and says exactly why.

Brain’s actions in this episode get a “condemning with faint praise” framing from me here, but actually, it really does show how different he is here from a shallow archetype. For starters the principles that Pinky gives as reasons to stand up to Brain are ones that Brain just taught him, and Brain seems to genuinely believe in them, even if he’s not practicing them. Brain actually concedes Pinky’s two points to him in their argument scene, and sincerely (if…”wackily” and not very well) tries to address Pinky’s concerns. Obviously, his idea that an absolute authoritarian dictatorship is compatible with democracy is either hilarious or scary depending on the tone of a story, but well, delusional as he is, Brain genuinely seems to think so. Brain’s response, which is basically to have a tantrum and storm off, also isn’t commendable, but by Looney Tunes standards might be downright constrained. He doesn’t belittle, threaten, lie to, or insult Pinky here. He just tells him honestly that he’s going to do it alone and walks away. That’s it.

Of course, Pinky is going to choose Brain’s friendship over the Presidency, just by itself. But again, I like how Pinky’s reasoning here is actually deeper than even just that. Pinky mentions (to the Abe Lincoln statue, lol) that Pinky is only President because of Brain. If Pinky did what they wanted him to, and claimed to not know anything about their “Take Over the World” schemes, it would be an outright lie. Pinky is only President because he knowingly was a part of one of those schemes.

Pinky’s scene in court is also great. “I take full accountability for everything that happens in my administration.” Ironically, Pinky is impeached for doing exactly what a President SHOULD do in this situation.

The little interaction between them in the courtroom scene is nice and telling. When Pinky starts to talk, Brain shouts, “Pinky, NO!” Again, you might expect him to have blamed (or at least implicated) Pinky already or want to be saved here, but he’d rather go down alone. He doesn’t want Pinky to be impacted or take any of the blame. And again I can’t stop thinking about how, though Brain is at fault for Trying to Take Over the World TM, in some ways he’s taking the fall for Pinky here because this happened because Bil Keane wanted revenge against PINKY, and again I’m sorry but The Family Circus really isn’t funny.

Pinky also responds by cutting Brain off with, “Brain, let me handle this,” which shuts Brain right up. I often think of this when people think that Pinky just had no power or say in the relationship. Pinky has lots of issues (including with standing up for himself at times), and they and his strengths are inconsistent in this comedy cartoon. But Pinky CAN advocate for himself and he CAN take charge sometimes. I mean yeah, it’s easier when you’re the President, but this is only one of the times that Pinky puts his foot down or steps up, and Brain listens to him or follows his lead.

(One other thing is Pinky is just…weird /pos. So much that others would find insufferable, he either doesn’t mind or loves, so he wouldn’t want or need to put his foot down about it.)

“Inherit the Wheeze” might be more notable in showing just how much Brain actually does value Pinky’s opinion, despite claiming otherwise: Brain actually calls off the whole plan there, and a big part of it is Pinky’s words. While he doesn’t do that in “The Pink Candidate,” the episode actually ends with Brain thanking Pinky for standing up to him, and reminding him of principles he actually does value, even if he’s incredibly, comically bad at putting them into practice (cue “What are we gonna do tomorrow night?” joke at the end).

Anyway, I could go on and on, but the point here is:

The Family Circus is not funny.

#2: “A Pinky and the Brain Halloween” – Pretty Much the Whole Thing. There.

After rambling on and on too long about the last “moment,” this one is going to be short because it’s just so straightforward. The whole episode almost feels like it’s been written to just say, in big, bold letters:

BRAIN CARES ABOUT PINKY MORE THAN HE CARES ABOUT TAKING OVER THE WORLD.

This episode just makes that incredibly clear-cut. He chooses Pinky outright over, not just losing control of the world (again, he is ACTUALLY ACTIVELY RULING THE WORLD in this episode, and he gives that up), but EVER trying to take over the world again. I think Brain has an “I can do it myself!” attitude towards taking over the world that both seems kind of admirable (see him turning down the Devi-Walt Disney, and ripping up his contract right in front of him!) and also…actually kinda also isn’t, when you think about it (more massive ego stuff at work there), and I could almost see him giving up rulership for that. So he can say he wasn’t just literally handed the world.

But it’s not JUST that that Brain is willing to sacrifice for Pinky, it’s his entire dream, and his supposed goal in life and reason for living.

It's everything.

Brain is also willing to brave He-HADES in the first place. The fact that he briefly is selfish and doesn’t rush to Pinky’s rescue immediately, again, is part of how he’s still extremely flawed in this episode; Pinky made the deal he made, in part, because Brain literally, callously called him worthless. That’s really horrible, but the sheer lengths he goes to for Pinky here show why Brain is a complex (and, imo, pretty great, all things considered) character in the spin-off. It shows how much Brain cares and can demonstrate it through his actions, he just can’t bring himself to say it out loud.

Oh yeah, Pinky also sells his soul to the Devi-Walt Disney here, and that’s NOT because he was tricked. It’s because he thinks it’s a fair trade. ☹

He thinks it’s worth it to give his best friend in the world what he wants. It’s both heartwarming and sad, like so many things about Pinky. But the end is happy: Brain shows through his actions here that Pinky’s reasoning makes no sense.

What Brain really wants is HIM.

;_;

#1: “A Pinky and the Brain Christmas” – “Dear Santa, hello, hah hah, narf...”

I know I know how shocking and original, what a surprise. OK.

So I’ve often thought that if EVERY episode of Pinky and the Brain exploded except for the Christmas special and “Bubba Bo Bob Brain,” I’d be just fine. And if I had to choose between the two, it’d obviously be this one. And honestly, kind of…yeah. If this entire franchise was nothing but a beloved, perennial family Christmas special classic and fond childhood memory that also won a flipping Emmy, I’d still love it. And pretty much, yeah.

It's all about the ending.

I don’t know what I could say about That Scene (plus the coda, where Pinky gives Brain the world ;_; ;_;) that hasn’t already been said. The performances by both Rob Paulsen and Maurice LaMarche here are brilliant, the score is excellent, and of course the rightfully famous Tokyo Movie Shinsha Co., Ltd., animation is AMAZING. Those camera shots, those pans, those tears!

LaMarche’s delivery of “I don’t care about your STUPID LETTER!” is a great moment where the show really clearly and effectively shows the difference between the mice’s for the purposes of comedy vaudeville duo banter and Brain actually being way over the line. He sounds vicious and cruel there, and it’s not funny at all.

Despite that, I always think of what Brain does in this episode. He’s actually ruling the world, albeit for a brief time, here. He has everybody in the world under his control, in part due to the Christmas special rule that for the special’s purposes everybody in the world celebrates Christmas, but anyway.

But all his does with it is to make everybody genuinely happy, while getting nothing back for himself. Not even acknowledgement. People don’t even know that Brain is why they feel like having a Merry Christmas. They just do.

In this one moment, Brain proves that he can be who Pinky believes him to be.  Pinky just described him as this in his letter: someone who “only wants what’s best for the world.” In this one moment, he gives the world a very happy holiday, without getting anything for himself. He made the world a better place.

And it’s all because of Pinky.

As for Pinky’s character in this episode, there I really don’t know how to express what hasn’t already been said. This is part of what makes Pinky one of my favorite characters of all time, why I even think of him as one of the “best,” instead of just the amusing but unthinking sidekick he could have been, instead. Pinky’s letter is really quite eloquent and insightful – and well written! It shows again his utter selflessness, but also his awareness of what’s going on.

And Pinky’s not even crying because he’s mad at Brain, it’s because he’s upset with himself for not getting his letter to Santa Claus. ☹

This whole scene could easily have fallen flat. But the fact that Pinky and Brain get fleshed out into “not JUST an idiot, not JUST a jerk” is what makes this, and the other moments on this list, work for me. If they were that simple, Pinky wouldn’t have been able to write such a letter in the first place, and Brain wouldn’t have cared about it except to think it was stupid.

It’s the way that their relationship follows by not just being “jerk leader and idiot sidekick” who don’t care about, or even hate, each other like people generally expect.

Instead, they love each other. In their own way, they are a family. They come to understand each other very well. They are well aware of each other’s flaws; though Brain is absurdly overly critical and condescending about it, while Pinky wears massively thick rose-colored glasses, even Pinky can be brutally honest with Brain about his flaws (from “Hoop Schemes,” basically - Brain says, “I’m sorry I was such a jerk,” and Pinky says casually, “That’s okay, Brain. I’m used to it.”). But both of them see the good in each other, too. ( “Lets just say that your extra jumbo sized heart more than makes up for your little free sample sized mind,” a jerky way to say it? Yes. Brain’s crummy, tsundere, socially incompetent way of saying he knows that Pinky’s pretty great? Also yes.) They care each other, anyway.

That this scene works at all shows how the mice and their relationship have been expanded into something more touching and human – the heart of the show.