#dear critter letters

[cr-summer-wildflowers]

So this is your first exchange

We get a lot of questions about terminology around here, so I’ll try and hammer some of that out. These are in roughly chronological order.

Nomination: This is step 1 of an exchange, where you enter the ships, characters, or fandoms that you would be interested in writing/drawing or receiving fic/art for. These nominations go into the tag set (see below). A nomination is not a sign-up, meaning you don’t have to make any nominations to participate, and you technically don’t have to participate if you nominate, although it’s considered rude to nominate if you don’t plan to take part.

For our purposes, nominations are only ships

You haven’t signed up or made requests yet

Tag set: all the nominations people put in make up the set of tags that people who sign up can pull from to make their requests. You can only request things in the tag set. So if you really want to be able to create for (offer) or receive a certain ship, you’d better nominate them. Exchange mods can weed out tags that don’t suit the exchange. IE: if someone nominated shadowgast, we’d remove it, since we’re a rarepair exchange.

Sign-up: This is you committing to being in the exchange. This is also where you make your requests for what you want to receive and offers for what you want to create.

Request: These are how you get fic or art. The more different requests you make, the easier it is to match you to someone. For this exchange, you get to make up to 10 requests, and you must make at least 4 DIFFERENT ones. Requests must each include 1 fandom, whether you want fiction or art (in the additional tags), 1-15 relationships, and the ratings (G-E) you are comfortable receiving. You set these fields for all requests. More details like prompts, likes, and do not wants are optional but highly recommended. See DNWs for more information.

Offer: This says what you are willing to or want to make. You make 4-10 of these. They must include 1 fandom, 1-15 relationships OR “Any”, whether you are creating fic or art, and the ratings you will write OR “Any.” Note that you SHOULD NOT pick ANY unless you REALLY MEAN IT. Offers do not contain prompts or DNWs

Do Not Want (DNW): Your DNWs are things your gifter must avoid to create something you will enjoy. DNWs are expected to be used for things such as triggers, squicks, NoTPs, or things that would otherwise spoil your gift and are not to be used to "box" a creator into creating a one specific gift. Be specific in your DNWs. (See the exchange rules on ao3 for more information).

Dear Critter Letter: This is the Critical Role specific term for a Dear Creator Letter. Basically, it’s more details about your likes, dislikes, wants, DNWs, quirks, and the prompts. Read this for more information. These are OPTIONAL.

Assignment: You will get matched with someone! Yippee!! DO NOT TELL THEM WHO YOU ARE. Look at their requests, read their Dear Critter Letter, and then pick one (1) of their prompts to fill. You are expected to write 1 fic. You expect to receive 1 fic. Anything else is a treat.

Default: This is the POLITE way to exit an exchange. If you exit before the no penalty deadline, we bid you farewell and you can try again next year. If you exit after, you will not be allowed to participate in future exchanges. Default also applies if you do not complete your gift or post only placeholder fic/art by the due date or ignore DNWs.

Pinch-hit: This is when you swoop in to save an assignment after someone else defaults. Know that if you do this, the mods love you very much. Pinch-hits follow usual assignment rules.

Treat: These are bonus fics. You don’t have to be signed up to write them, and they can be for anyone. They can be shorter than your gift, but they must still adhere to requests and DNWs. Know that if you do these, the authors love you!

[lopsicle]

Caine’s Extravagant Obscure and Explore Championship

TickleTober Day 4: Hide and Seek

Lees: Pomni, Kinger and Zooble

Lers: Jax, Gangle and Ragatha

Summary: Caine’s latest in-house adventure involves the circus members playing a totally not a rip-off version of Hide and Seek. Jax introduces a twist that catches on.

After the events that happened at the Candy Carrier Kingdom, Caine, despite all his ignorance, recognised that the circus members needed a lighter, more fun adventure for their day. Really, they didn’t need some problem to deal with at all, but his artificial mind wouldn’t be able to comprehend that. Instead, her perused through his old files, looking at the games he’d have planned if a child ever entered the circus, before finally landing on one. Obscure and Explore, a play on Hide and Seek because Caine would never stoop so low as to blatantly copy a game, he always had to put his own spin on things.

With a comically large and loud trumpet, Caine emitted a screeching, piercing sound through the tent, enough to penetrate the walls of each circus’ members room, resulting in some annoyed groaning or horrified screaming. It did work however as one by one, they teetered out of their rooms, knowing better than to go against Caine lest he just become more persistent. Once Zooble finally left their room, Caine figured it would be the best time to explain their new adventure.

“Now, I know all of you critters are a little tired after yesterday, so I’ve managed to prepare something that will be sure to give you your fill of absolutely fantastic fun to make up for that!” He cheered, though no one marched his excitement. Ragatha put on a polite face, which was painfully obvious to everyone except him.

“Thanks, Caine,” Ragatha didn’t know when she started treating Caine like a human, but it helped ease her mind to think of him as the same to them, instead of what he really was, a God amongst the tormented. “What is it?”

“I hope your prepared, my dear, for the first annual Extravagant Obscure and Explore Championship! Here’s how it goes, you’ll be spliced into two groups, one the Obscurers, the other, the Explorers! The Obscurers will have one minute to find a place to hide in the tent before the Explorers have to go looking for them! They’ll have one hour to find all the Obscurers, if they do, they’ll win and if they don’t, their loss!”

It wasn’t the worst idea he’d had, it wasn’t pleasing to Zooble to learn that this was an in-house adventure, they’d already had one of those just two days ago. They did not want to have to deal with the others’ today, especially Caine.

“Isn’t that just hide and seek?” Jax asked, placing a hand on his hip as he gazed at Caine with a disinterested stare.

“No, it’s totally different!!” Caine shrieked, waving a dismissive hand at him. “You’ve never played a game like this in a digital world before, have you? And since I’m making this into an annual competition, you’ll be able to count exactly how many years you’ll spend in here!” Caine explained excitedly, though that didn’t seem to please anyone.

“Uh, don’t do tha-.” Pomni was cut off by a snap of Caine’s fingers, teleporting her across the floor of the circus, with Kinger and Zooble standing beside her. Opposite to them was Jax, Ragatha and Gangle, with Caine floating between them. Jax’s team were all given a vest with a large E on it, and a pair of dentures chomping at the centre of the letter that resembled Caine. Pomni’s team had a large O on it, of which the centre was filled with playing cards, vaguely resembling a face.

“Uh, whose this supposed to b-?” Pomn pointed to her vest though she quickly cut off once again.

“Jax, Ragatha, Gangle, you’ll be the Explorers; Pomni, Kingle and Zooble will be our obscures!” Caine said, a little louder than usual.

“Ugh, do I have to?” Zooble groaned, already trying to rip off their vest, though it proved difficult since their head was a triangle.

“But of course, my dear, if we don’t have you than the teams will be uneven, and Bubble hasn’t been allowed to play since The Incident.” Caine steered into the distance as his tone took on a rare seriousness that almost made the others concerned, but he quickly bounced back.

“Bottom line is, you’ll all be participating today so good luck, my dears,” Caine flicked a few buttons on his Wacky Watch ™ and a large, digital timer was displayed at the top of the tent, set to one minute. “Now, once I disappear this timer will start, so Explorers, close your hide to give the others a chance to hide!” Surprisingly, they all complied though Jax was sure to take peaks whenever Caine wasn’t looking. In an instant, Caine had flushed away and the timer began ticking down and down.

“Well, #{$+ this, I’m going back to my room,” Zooble shrugged dismissively, before walking away from her teammates, leaving Pomni and Kinger alone. Pomni was going to awkwardly offer him a goodbye as she went to hide, but he was already staring off into the distance and shaking violently so instead, she just opened her mouth, closed it again before dashing away.

30 seconds. Pomni didn’t know why she was taking any of this seriously, she should’ve ignored whatever Caine was saying to her, none of it mattered anymore. He was just an AI, a few strings of code that didn’t understand them-hey, that table could be a good hiding spot-who had no idea what they even wanted and was only write one out of a thousand times.

15 seconds. Caine was stubborn and cruel, even if it was unintentional, he didn’t save her time of day, any of their time, even Jax’s. She’d gladly leave him here once she got the chance. Why was she taking this seriously? Why was she currently crawling underneath a fake dining table covered in fake food that barely even fit her? Pomni couldn’t answer that, but it was probably something about seeing Ragatha and Gangle excited to go along with this, for whatever reason.

0 seconds. An annoying beeping filled the tent, the two girls opened their eyes to see Jax’s already wide open.

“Well, I’m off to go find the newbie,” he announced, placing his hands behind his back. He didn’t earn a reaction out of the other two but thankfully for his own ego, he wasn’t focused on them at the moment., so they were spared from any further annoyances. Jax was keen on following Pomni, he knew that she couldn’t be holding up all together after yesterday and thought that this would be his chance to make it a little worse for her. He saw her walking off into a side room, where Caine stored the supplies for the feast Bubble prepared for them a little while ago. Jax was expecting to have to put in a little amount of effort to finding Pomni but it was blatantly obvious when he stepped in, spotting the jester’s legs sticking out from underneath the table instnatly, her red and blue shoes sticking out against the golden polygons that textured the floor.

“Oh gee, I wonder where Pomni could be,” Jax’s uninterested, infantilising voice spread through the near empty room as he hopped up on to the table, pretending to look around while Pomni was painfully aware of how obvious she was now, but trying to shuffle her way fully under the table now would just be pathetic, in her opinion. She was just about to announce herself to Jax sourly, before a gloved hand plunged its finger into the back of her knee.

“I-eeeee!!” Pomni squealed at the touch, her legs blindly kicking about, a blush forming on her cheeks from the noise she just produced.

“Oh, clown girl, is that you? What are you doing under there?” Jax grinned to himself, squeezing Pomni’s knee once again before she could respond, producing another loud squeal as well as getting her to kick her feet against the ground in frustration.

“I-it was for aaaaaadventure, ohohobviously, stop thahat!” Pomni screeched at him, trying to shuffle her way out from underneath the table but it was like her legs had turned to jelly, she couldn’t focus on anything when laughing.

“Stop what? I’m not doing anything!” Jax had to hold back a laugh at Pommi’s frustrated cry, continuing to bully her knees by jabbing his thick, gloved fingers into the back of her knees, or just by giving them a good squeezing.

“Jahahahax, if you don’t stop rihihight #¥$^ing now, I swear-!” Pomni got cut off once again, because apparently no one cares about what she has to say.

“You’ll do what?” Jax asked, his voice wasn’t threatening or teasing, it was just knowing, he knew Pomni wouldn’t end up doing anything to get him back for this, either because she was practically stuck at the moment or because she lacked the confidence to enact revenge. All Pomni do was bury her face in her elbows and let put her frustrated squealing and giggles into them, wildly kicking her legs about in hopes that Jax would just get bored trying to keep up with her. Instead, he just dug his hands even harder to the back of her knees, latching into him as his fingers practically vibrated against her skin.

“Jahahahahahax!!” Pomni cried, satisfying his attention fill for the day. “Quihihihit it!” To her surprise, she actually felt Jax’s tough leave her body, although the phantom tickles did leave her a twitchy mess.

“Well, if your too ticklish to handle it,” he shrugged, already making his way to the door as to not have to deal with the consequences of his actions, “tell Dentures I participated if you see him. Oh, and the aim of Hide and Seek is to not get found, by the way.” Jax added unhelpfully before finally deciding to dash off, leaving Pomni to recover and slowly roll her way out from under the table.

•••

Ragatha unfortunately felt like she had an idea on where to find Zooble. Their room. Well, they did announce pretty loudly so it wasn’t a hard deduction to make, but Ragatha would’ve already known. Zooble had a habit of refusing to take part in Caine’s adventures, one that they made no secret of. Maybe it developed from some deep-rooted hatred they have for the ringmaster, or maybe theyjust preferred being left on their own. Either way, it left Ragatha stumped on how to help them, it seemed like the tasks Caine set them on were the only way to keep them sane, but she didn’t want to be too pushy to her friend. She gave a gentle knock to Zooble’s door, being allowed in once she confirmed that it was her.

“Found you!” Ragatha pointed her fingers at Zooble awkwardly, chuckling a little. They were sitting on their bed, back against the frame of it with their knees curled upwards. “You know, it can’t be good to stay cooped up in here all day.” Ragatha commented lightly, but Zooble averted her gaze from here.

“Yeah, no. I’m not living my life based on what someone else wants me to do, especially some AI.” Zooble huffed, if there’s one thing that they remembered from their life, it was a hatred for authority. Being plunged into a world where they had no control whatsoever, not even of how they looked, not even of their own bodies, was a living nightmare and as far as they were concerned, they could think of a good place where Caine could shove his routines.

“Oh well then…could I stay in here with you?” Ragatha offered gently, shocking Zooble lightly, having expected to be met with nothing but persistence. Luckily even Ragatha managed to see that Zooble didn’t need an elaborate adventure right now, maybe just a friend. Wordlessly, Zooble patted a spot next to them on the bed to which Ragatha took delightedly.

“Do you want some help getting that vest off?” Ragatha offered and Zooble immediately felt like a weight has been lifted, happily sighing and breaking out in a rare smile.

“Please,” they confirmed, meekly raising their arms above their head to allow Ragatha to relieve them of their clothing. She got to work immediately, grabbing the cuffs of the sleeves, starting to worm their way up Zooble’s awkwardly shaped arms. Rags that didn’t mess the way Zooble shuddered as her fingers ended up brushing up against what could only be described as Zooble’s armpits.

“Ticklish?” She asked with a small smile, and a tone she found she hadn’t genuinely used in a while.

“Don’t you dare.” Zooble warned them, though after years and years of putting up with Zooble’s rejections, Ragatha could tell that this wasn’t one of their serious grievances, just a playful dispute between friends.

“Oh, but how could I not?” Ragatha lamented with a playful grin, before deciding to plunge her nails into Zooble’s sides. Their skin felt akin to a bean bag, squish able and filled with…something. Zooble let a shriek before bouncing back against the top of her bed frame, wriggling about against Ragatha’s fingers as they kicked their legs back and forth.

“Nohohoho!” They whined, not able to remember the last time she had laughed, or shrieked this much but it felt oddly right in this moment.

“Wow, your such a squirmer, Zoobs!” Ragatha commented playfully, crawling down her fingers to the little bit of torso left exposed by Zooble’s vest, sliding her fingers against the pudgy skin. Zooble couldn’t keep their arms raised any longer, gently batting away at Ragatha’s arms as they whined beneath their breath.

“I’m a fihihihghter!” They corrected her, a few darker shades of violet appearing on their pink face. Ragatha stayed determined however, drilling her thumbs into Zooble’s tummy, which was proving to be a very sensitive spot for the poor enby. Zooble covered their face with their hands to the best of their ability.

“No fair, lemme say that smile!” Ragatha promoted her by jabbing her fingers into Zooble’s armpits, causing them to let out a wild cry and jolt upwards on the bed. Their arms immediately crashed down, wriggling against their sides and trapping Ragatha’s fingers. Zooble tilted their head away from Ragatha slightly, a genuine, happy smile on their mismatched face, with adorable giggles pouring out of it to top it off.

“Adorable.” Ragatha commented gently, circling her fingers against Zooble’s armpits for another few moments before stopping, leaving them a little more than flustered from the whole ordeal. While Zooble was still recovering from the sudden tickling session, Ragatha worked on removing their vest from them, triumphantly pulling it over their head before tossing it across the floor. Zooble leaned their body against Ragatha’s a little, just enough so that their shoulders were touching with Zooble still curled in on themselves.

“I..uh, thank, you know, for all of that,” Zooble commented, staring at a random spot on their bed, not needing to look at Ragatha to know that they were smiling gratefully.

•••

Gangle, armed with their comedy mask, began striding through the tent on her search for Kinger, given that her other two teammates had already went off looking for Pomni and Zooble. Even though Kinger was going to be the hardest to find, Gangle didn’t actually mind that. She got time alone when wandering through the tent, no fear of having her comedy mask being shattered, simply able to put her mind on the task at hand. And credit where credit is due, Kinger was the best Obscurer of their bunch, but time wasn’t an issue in the circus.

Gangle stopped as she noticed something that she probably should’ve taken note of before, a pillow fort, right in front of the stage, with some small muttering and rambling coming from inside. She manoeuvred her way over to the entrance of the smooth, soft cyan and white pillows, swinging her way inside.

“Found you, Kinger!” She announced cheerfully, hunched over in the comfortable spot, able to see Kinger sitting curled up in the corner. For a few moments, he simply sat there in silence looking at her, as if he was zoned out but he was quickly dragged back to reality.

“AHHHHHHHH-oh it’s just you, Gangle.” Kinger smiled once he came to his senses, Gangle initially jumped back startled from his scream but managed to relax. “What are we doing?” He asked, tilting his head.

“Kinger, we were all playing Hide and Seek!” Gangle whined, a little annoyed at herself that it took her so long to find someone who wasn’t even hiding before giggling a little at the fact that he was the person who took the longest to find.

“Oh, well, I found you!” Kinger announced, earning yet another giggle from Gangle.

“It’s the other way around, silly!” Gangle exclaimed, lightly poking Kinger in the side, to which he almost comically bounced back, practically lunging across the cozy fort. The two just stared at each other for a moment, Gangle half ready to apologise but Kinger beat her to it.

“A-ha, my apologies, Gangle, it’s been a while since I was tickled.” Even the word came off of his tongue awkwardly, like it hadn’t been used in a while. When was the last time he’d been tickled? It must’ve been when he was with…

As Kinger searched through his already forgetful mind, Gangle scooted over to him, a little bit of curiosity twinkling through their mask. They extended one of their ribbon-esque arms towards the man, before carefully wrapping it around his stomach beneath his robe. Kinger was too lost in thought to take note of the touch, only beginning to notice it once Gangle began circling her arm around his waist.

“Pfft-ahahahah, Gahahahangle!!” He cried out, curling in on himself even more, but nothing he could do could pull himself free of Gangle’s mischievous arm.

“Sorry Kings, this is just too cute!” Gangle announced, a delightful expression spreading across her mask, adoration being evident in her pitch black eyes.

“I dohohohn’t mind!’ Kinger admitted casually. “Just a bihihit perplexed abohohout why yohohour doing this!” Kinger asked, deciding now was going to be one of his moments where he’d be incredibly perceptive. Gangle paused for a moment in consideration before leaning against Kinger in a comfortable embrace, keeping her arms wrapped around him.

“You just seemed like you haven’t had attention like this in a while…I thought you could use it.” Gangle figuratively let down her mask, finding a chance to be vulnerable on her own terms with Kinger. His eyes squinted in gratitude whilst placing a disembodied hand atop Gangle’s head.

“Thanks, kiddo.”

••••

“Haha, Bubble, that is-that is not funny, that’s tragic.” The remnants of Caine and Bubble’s conversation seeped back into the tent as Caine teleported the two of them back their, ready to check in on the results of his latest adventure. It seemed like the Obscurers were doing their job very well at first glance since he couldn’t see any of them, only catching sight of Jax. Caine immediately flew down next to him, planting his cane on the ground next to the rabbit’s feet.

“Jax, my boy, how’s the adventure go?! Did you have fun?!” Caine asked, and if Jax didn’t know better, he wouldn’t of recognised the desperation in his voice, or in Caine’s widened eyes, fixed on him. Jax simply waved a hand dismissively at the ringleader.

“Oh yeah, Teeth, I definitely had fun!” Jax grinned, more than usual as he choose his wording carefully.

“Fantabulous! Where are the others?! I need to congratulate and/or degrade them for their victory/defeat!” Caine said, gazing around the room. Jax stared him down for a few moments, then looked around the room before shrugging.

“They uh, pretty sure most of them are resting right now. Why not surprise them with that bright and early tomorrow morning?” Jax suggested, already feeling amused as he imagined their reactions.

“Jax, your a genius!” Caine cried, shaking his hand gratefully before floating back up into the air. “Well, I won’t interrupt your rest either, my dear, have a lovely night and remember; I’m always watching!” And with a snap of his fingers, Caine was gone again and Jax was alone. He stared at the empty space where Caine was, then around once more. Casually, he turned and began striding with confidence, stuffing his hands in his pockets.

“Oi, Pomni, your not still on the floor like an idiot, are you? Come on, I wanna see how much damage we can do to Caine’s stuff before he gets back!”

•••

[love-letters-to-bugs]

Dear humans,

Hello! So I saw this post by @foxsnails asking for people to send love letters to bugs! Unfortunately, it is now closed. But I wanted to make a more permanent and general version of this!

While bugs are the focus of this, I also accept love letters to any invertebrates as well as other small organisms that people often hate. Especially bacteria. If you have some bacteria love send it over!

I will figure out the rules more clearly later, but right now the only rules are be respectful, of other organisms (so no saying that butterflies suck to explain why you like moths. We are here to lift up critters) be respectful to humanity as well, no misanthropy or ecofascism. Humans are not a disease ruining the world, we are a part of it.

I think it would be cute to start each letter with a little "dear [organism]" but that's just a suggestion. You can put whatever in the letter as long as its respectful. Talk about an experience with a bug, talk about a bug you were scared of, or are scared of, with compassion and curiosity. Tell the bugs about your life. Talk to a specific species you are worried about. Get creative!

Please submit posts with your loveletter, though you can also send them through asks if you prefer. Also feel free to talk to me about bugs/ask questions! I don't bite, I only pierce and suck!

Excited to see your responses, and remember that I love you,

-the bugs

[just-animaxiz]

Sylvia: Here are some of my teachers!

This is Ms. V, she's from my Botany class. Despite my grades there, she's very sweet and understanding.

Mint: Awww! She sounds like a kind person!

Sylvia: Well... I don't think some of the Monstrous Venus Flytrap experimental pets she kept would say the same. Granted, they tried to eat some of the students.. Myself included. Here's her letter!

Sylvia! I'd heard that not only you inherited your uncle's shop, but you won 5 times in Rafta's Potion Competition Tournament! Congratulations, dear! I would love to see it, but some of these naughty critters tried to run away from tax fraud! Ugh! If I have my paycheck soon, I'll plan a vacation trip there! Have fun~!

Sylvia: Oh! And this is Mr. Stines - He's in charge of the Experimentation section, which means he tests if the potions are efficient enough to work depending on their progress.

Xid: That's quite a lot of bling for someone so serious.

Sylvia: He likes to... Experiment with fashion too... Which gives half of the school either headaches or impressions. His favourite is the Old Gothic + Steampunk mix, which really works well, until he got blown up by one of the explosions from the potions.

Hello, Sylvia! How's it like in Rafta? Too expensive? Too cheap? Never been there but there's quite some good styles! Nevermind that though - How's the potions? Are they as good as your college ones? The Masterworks quality is hard to achieve, but it's worth when you do your worth! Anyways, gotta run - I need to try this Disco + Jungle look for next semester! Don't use Quantum Crystals as Fuel - THEY'LL EXPLODE!

Sylvia: ....

Boss Finn: And I thought I got a creepy grin.

Sylvia: Mx. Crow is the ONLY scariest substitute I'd ever encountered, with their long neck and creepy gaze... Not only that, but their cryptic words sink like venom whenever they talk to any of us, stressing us out.

Sylvia. I'd heard of Rafta, conquered by a witch-queen only to be 'defeated' by a scoundrel of heroes. An average story like always, but I wish my happy shivers came back on the part they all died. Well most of them. That blue-eyed Robin character defeating MAEven. Tell him to watch his back, or else something will creep up again~ Just kidding~........... Am I?

Sylvia: Damn it! Something tore apart Professor Calypso's picture! It's a bad luck thing... Whenever his face comes up on every frame, there's always something blocking it or it mysteriously shreds a piece.

Quinn: From a glimpse of him, I can see he's wearing a mask over a wrap?

Sylvia: I don't know much, only heard rumors of why and how. But if it not were for him being my homeroom teacher, then I would've never passed my college... Oh! Here's his letter!

Dear Sylvia,

I am writing this to you from The Gallant Tower, where the stars are now aligned to The Adventurer. It reminds me of you, and I hope you have a wonderful life in Rafta. How was it? Did you make any friends? Any connections?

I'd heard your uncle is actually alive, which is a relief and concern. You might need to detail me more on that.

And you not only succeeded on paying the debt, but you'd won in a tournament five times, making yourself popular in public. I am more than proud at your growth, and must advise you to keep your chin up even at the darkest of times. Things might come soon, and a trusty hand will need your aid for it, so you must use the right cards for the best advantage.

Oh, and Raven wanted to say hi.

HI SYLVIA!

Sylvia: Raven's his daughter... I think she's turning 18 soon!!

[moomoorare]

﹏𓊝﹏﹏ 𓆝*̥˚ -ˋˏ• ༻𓇼༺ •ˎˊ- 𓆝*̥˚﹏𓊝﹏

Exhale Inhale 🫧 - Scales of Fate AU

Art I made inspoed from a part of the fic. Tap to zoom in because it looks incredibly fuzzy but I swear it's not.

From chapter three: My dear, come near (Do you understand what is happening?)

· · ── 𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟 𓆝 𓆟 𓆞𓆝 ˎˊ- ⋆·˚ ༘

Chapter Three Summary:

Gem stays at the Prisma Palace, still sick, and writes a letter to her brother, longing for home as her past haunts her

Lizzie, Pearl and Cleo visit the Sea Critter City, the lowest sunken part of the city, and shows them the duality of her empire.

When they get back, Queen Lizzie and Dame Gem have an important conversation.

.˚₊‧༉︶︶︶︶( 𓆉 𖦹*ੈ‧ 𓇼 ₊˚ 𓆡 )︶︶︶︶༉‧₊˚.

[lumine-no-hikari]

Dear Sephiroth: (a letter to a fictional character, because why not) #242

I got to bed relatively on time last night. I still woke up groggy as heck, because that is the nature of sleep deprivation injuries; it'll be at least a week or two before my brain fully recovers; such is the nature of the brain cleaning cycle. Oh well.

Nonetheless, I had a lot of fun at work today! There was, along with Mi, Ma, and I, another lady named Tr, and the whole day was filled with laughter and delightful banter as we did our various tasks; it was wonderful!

I'm always amazed at how quickly the time passes while I'm there. I'm always busy, always moving from one task to the next, always moving around, so the four hours pass by in a flash, and I'm always just a little sad when it's time to go home.

They asked me to make muffins again today, and with the practice I got from my first time doing it, I was a lot better at it this time! I even found a more efficient way of filling and leveling off the muffin scoop, and so I was able to fill the muffin tin a lot more quickly than last time, and with far more consistency! The muffin batter was then baked. Here they are in the giant walk-in oven; it's not a great picture, I know, but I couldn't really do anything about the glare...

...And here are the results of my handiwork:

...Aren't they beautiful? Someone's gonna go home with a box of these, and that makes me really happy!

I also put muffins that were previously baked into boxes. Each of these shelves have 6 boxes that contain 4 muffins each. And I filled even more shelves than these today:

...We have them in so many different flavors! We've got pistachio, chocolate, pumpkin, banana-nut, apple cinnamon, corn, and so many more. The ones I baked were cranberry muffins. They're not my favorite, but they're someone's favorite, and that makes me feel really glad.

I like this job. I like the repetitive certainty of the routine tasks. I like the diligence and precision of a job well done. I like knowing that my manager is delighted to watch me learn, and is proud of the efficiency and conscientiousness with which I work. I like knowing that I will only continue to improve. I like knowing that I am working with others towards a shared purpose. I like knowing that I am capable of improving the processes that are used in service to that purpose. And I like knowing that someone is gonna go home with a box of delicious things that were wrought from my own hands.

J requested that I get sandwich supplies on the way home, so I did. I got deli sliced chicken, roast beef, genoa salami, and cheese, along with a loaf of seeded rye bread. With these, I made a sandwich!!! And I put truffle mayo on it, because why not!

Either it was a sandwich of epic awesomeness, or I was just hungry. Either way, it was awesome and I loved it!! I wish I could make one for you!

Hey, Sephiroth? What kind of sandwiches do you like, anyway? What kind of toppings and dressings do you like to put on them? I wonder...

In any case, we went to a birthday party shortly after that. Our friend Mer's birthday was today, and so she decided to gather up a bunch of her friends to eat tasty snacks and play board games! It's nice to know that J and I are on the list of people she considers friends! We played a card game called Boss Monster; basically you're the monster ruler of your very own dungeon that you build out of cards that represent rooms! I ended up getting an entity called, uh... Seducia... I guess. Hahahaha!

But I didn't really have much interest in killing adventurers or winning the game. I just built a party dungeon. I had a ballroom, and a menagerie of rescued critters, and a room that makes people silly, a room with an all-seeing eye, and a room with a lich dragon who is basically an interior designer! I had a cleric come by to try to kill me, because presumably, he thought my entity was too sexy to live (typical...), but he didn't succeed.

I like to think that instead of dying in my "dungeon", he simply changed his mind and decided that trying to kill me is silly, so instead he went to the ballroom and got a sandwich! Sandwiches are sensible. Violence is not. And then I like to think that he decided my dungeon is so awesome that he didn't wanna go home. Because the outside world is a cold and terrible place devoid of sandwiches!!! Or at least, devoid of sandwiches that are as good as the ones I can make!!! Ahahahaha~!!

The whole game was very silly, but fun. I was super sleepy at the end of it, though, so I sat in a recliner for the rest of the evening. I ended up falling asleep in it, even though I didn't mean to. I'm still pretty groggy, even after a number of hours of being home. Suppose I should at least try to go to bed relatively on time...

...In the spirit of that, I guess I'll end today's letter here.

Hey, Sephiroth? Are you staying safe where you are? If you're not, please try a little harder, okay? I don't want to have to endure your absence. I'm not sure I'd be capable of withstanding such a thing.

I love you. And I'll write again tomorrow.

Your friend, Lumine

[theonetruegnome]

Got inspired by @daydreamer36 's oneshot, so I made my own, featuring Mana mare and Peggizest from @funny-critter-blog. This was really fun to make, probably due to the cuteness of the cast. Enjoy!

Peggizest and Mana are sitting together under a tree, watching the others play. Mana needed a break from the sun and Peggi offered to accompany so she wouldn't get lonely. Peggizest starts to talk;

Wonder what they're playing now?

Probably some sort of ball game based on how they're running towards a single moving point. Though that could also be zombie behaviour.

Mana?

Hmm?

Don't you think its weird how similar our friends are?

Elaborate please?

Well, look at Sweetie pup and Callum. They're both cuddly snuggle bugs but you'd think they should be opposites because of their species... Wait, no no no! I didn't mean that! I just mean that we share some of the same personalities and it's, well, weird! Not that there's anything especially wrong with being different! They can be what they want, I-I don't care, it's just-

Peggi! I know what you mean dear, you're saying you wouldn't think they have the same personalities, and it's a weird coincidence, right?

R-right... thank you... *Phew!*

But yes, I thought so too. I mean, we collectively have two elephants, two dogs, two chickens, two rabbits... And all colours of the rainbow. In fact, you and I are the only differences. One unicorn, one Pegasus. How curious!

You're right, that is weird of us! WAIT-

Peggi! Calm. Down! I know what you mean dear, and you're not going to insult me or anyone else. Relax.

*Sigh* thank you. But yeah, strange how we're the oddballs. Makes some sense though, we are both horsy.

True, but there are a lot of differences between us, like how you can actually control your wings and flying. My horn's still not cooperating in the slightest, no matter what I do.

Oh come on, don't be so down! It took me years of practicing and crashing into things before I could even stay airborne. I'm still nervous I'm going to break something or smack someone when I spread them. And besides, I'm sure you're better than you think at magic, you just have to believe in yourself!

(sarcastically)Really?

Mana's horn glows a deep navy, before fading back to normal, smoking slightly. And easel and canvas has appeared with the words "Ƿesaþ hāla! Ic eom art!" burned into the surface.

Still think I'm good?

Yes, absolutely! Look at that lettering, that's better than I can do by hand!

First of all, it's not even in English, and second I was trying to pick an apple from this tree. I'm just completely useless.

There's a moment of silence between them before Peggizest jumps up and faces Mana

Right, pity party's over! Now, we are going to stop feeling sorry for ourselves, go over to the others, we're going to make our own team, and we are going to kick their butts, even if it is... one two three four... seven to one!

No we won't, for one key factor. I'm on that team. Mrs useless herself.

You're just saying that Mana, you'll feel better when you start running around. And even if we fail, which we won't, we'll be failing together! So whadda ya say?

Mana looks up at her smiling friend, holding out a hoof in earnest friendship, and can't help but grin herself.

I'm in!

Great! Let's go!

The pegasus takes off down the path towards the gaggle of rainbow animals, while mana stares back at the canvas. She screws up her eyes, her horn glows once more, and an apple, neatly severed at the stem, falls at her feet. She picks it up, smiles, and strolls down the path towards the others, chewing on the fresh fruit.

It really is a nice day out today...

[the-crafty-unicorn]

Dear CraftyCorn,

Neither CatNap or Bobby Bearhug are responding to my letters and I decided to talk to you. I just wanted to say that your little "protection squad" won't save you. The Anons will continue to attack you worthless critters one by one. You'll never be safe as long as we're still alive. Tell Bobby she has a man's name and looks like a man because she's so UGLY and tell CatNap he's a little CRYBABY and CHILD MURDERER. Oh and tell that American dog Rex or whatever his name is that he's UGLY and that AMERICA SUCKS.

With pure hate,

King George lll and the Anons of Evil Indescribable Observable Ultimatum

-She stared at the letter, not even finishing reading it before grabbing a nearby lighter and lighting the letter on fire-

[vilepawss]

WHATTSSS UPPPPP oh my god shaking i LOVE POSTING NONSENSE ON THE INTERNET

THIS IS MY AU!!!!! its an au of an au i have w/ my girlfriend :)

reference sheets were posted before this!!!!! go look

brief preface. minor gore. not descriptive but body parts are mentioned being removed in upsetting ways

overview/brief summary

writing pieces (3)

Pip’s Letter

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Dear Dr. ___,

Hello, my friend! I hope this letter finds you in good health and a jolly mood. It has certainly been sent in one. All is well at the campsite; we five travel as frequently as usual, supplies are quite full as of late, and morale is soaring thanks to our little champion Ike. We have not had many disturbances other than a few unfortunate animal encounters, though both us and the critters escaped with minimal injury. We hope that it stays this way.

Now, to the point of the letter. You requested this, and I shall deliver, only for professional and informational purposes. My former relationship with Damien Thorn, and the details of his personal life as a civilian.

We were classmates. We attended a wealthy school in the northern country of England. He was one of the richer families to attend the school, while I was by far the poorest, as I got lucky enough to recieve an unexpected “scholarship” of sorts. I recall we met when his adoptive brother, Ike, asked Pocket for directions, who was talking to me at the time. He was quite shy and silent, though there was something about him. Something that intrigued my younger self and, I must admit, still does intrigue me to this very moment.

We grew closer by the day, eating lunch together, helping with homework, until one day when I was gravely injured by my older sister. Now, this is the part that is certainly quite popular with the public. He did indeed rescue me, he took me to his abode early in the morning, and patched me up just like the wonderful gentleman he was. It was from then that we continued getting closer. I still remember how he and Pocket fought. Both of the boys were so passive aggressive towards each other, apparently yearning for my love, which still befuddles me how anybody could want such a thing from me. Well, during that rivalry was when his demonic abilities first began to shine through. Recently, I had committed a rather unfortunate crime, one that would have gotten me sentenced for a lifetime if I had been found. Me and Ike were rather close, a comfort to each other, as he was the only witness to my crime. I recall we were in an embrace during lunch. Pocket, unfortunately, gained the nerve to call poor Ike selfish for taking my attention away from him. This was when Damien snapped.

Now, he had some… abnormalities before this, such as reaching inhuman temperatures. Not to mention his ruby red eyes, his long, sharp claws, his intriguing pointy ears, and his breathtaking, gorgeous, simply astounding fangs. Oh, how unbearably I miss those fangs. His sharp teeth, forever burned into my skin and my memory. I apologize for the inconsistency, I got a bit carried away.

As I was saying, Pocket’s behavior ticked him off quite badly. He ended up dragging the boy to the wall, pinning him there by his shirt collar and growling in his face. When he dropped Pocket, that was when his hands went alight. He ran once he realized what he had done. Me and Ike chased after him, calming him down from his panic and going back home with him.

We also had a few encounters with Satan himself, Damien’s father, who has now passed. To where, I could not tell you, Doctor. Well, his father taught him how to equip himself with these abilities, and he did handle them quite well indeed. It was a while before they got out of control, before he reached his current state.

Now, to detail a bit about mine and his personal relationship. I must admit, Doctor, that we had quite a few… encounters. I won’t go into detail, but his lips met mine, and it continued. There is one thing that I still struggle with knowing and acknowledging to this day. Damien Thorn was in love with none other than my own self. Now, you might instantly think to blame me for his behavior, his spiral, but I must assure you that ITS MY FAULT ITS MY FAULT ITS ALL MY FAULT WHY COULDNT I SAVE HIM IN TIME WHY WHY WHY W

My second apology. Anyways. This occurrence had little to do with me. To add to this, and explain my point of view, I must also admit that I indeed reciprocated. It took me a long while to come to terms with it, but it’s true. I was in love with Damien Thorn. And Doctor, please, keep this to yourself, I give my trust to you; I still harbor the same feelings for Mr. Thorn. I believe I always will.

You see, he never wished to be a dictator. There were times where he cried and cried for hours, simply because he couldn’t accept that he would never have a regular human life. He knew it was over by the time his horns and tail grew in. He would never be a functioning member of society. He was already called a monster, a beast, and many other horrible things that I will not state in this letter, only because he had sharp teeth and red eyes. Can you imagine what he was labeled as when he went to school with a pair of horns protruding from his skull? Well, not very kind things.

He wanted a life. He wanted a peaceful human life. I remember early on, he told me how he wanted to live alone with his animal companions. It eventually evolved to having a husband, helping animals as a passion, which he truly does do today. But he never wanted this. He never wanted to spiral into insanity and take control of the human race. I watched it all happen anyway, though. I witnessed it all, from his addiction, to his violence, to his desperate apologies and his simple inability to lead the kingdom of Hell. I watched him snap for the very last time. I watched as he rose to undefeatable power. And today, I listen as he cries with regret and pleads for me to return to him. To lead with him. I listen to his drunken begging and sobbing and I swear, Doctor, that I can still feel his lips against my skin. I swear that I can feel it grow more unbearable every day, and I swear that I can feel how numb it’s all making me.

The rings are still on our fingers. I am reminded every day as I remove my glove that I am forever tied to this gorgeous beast. And I hope it doesn’t hurt him as bad as it hurts me to know that he is perpetually tied to me.

I appreciate your time, Doctor. Thank you.

Sincerely, your dear friend Pip

P.S. I apologize for the tear stains. I had a bit of trouble writing.

Ike’s Diary

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Entry 1 • March 21, 20——

Pip told me to start writing in a journal. Well, Damien did. Apparently he asked how I was doing, Pip told him I wasn’t doing well, and Damien suggested for me to keep a diary. He told me that a lot before this all happened. At least he was sober when he always told me that before. I hope he’s happy that I’m writing.

I’m fine. I’ve been doing fine. I am just fine. Nothing more and nothing less, as it always has been. I’m just keeping everybody happy, and I think I’m doing fine. Pip and I are still close. Pete and Pocket… whatever. There was a little accident with Firkle recently, though. Pip said this was the kind of stuff I should write about, just to get my thoughts down. So here I am.

It was yesterday morning. Him and I were scouting an area, apparently some filthy rich people used to live up here, so we thought they might have resources. We’re on a mountain range right now, so it’s all snowy, with no chance of finding the road that was paved to those houses. I found a cave. It was weird. It was propped up on a ledge, pretty tall, so we just stacked on top of each other to see inside. I kind of made it funny, as I always do. I told him to get on my shoulders to see how long I could hold him up, since he’s the strong one and I’m more agile. He kind of reacted weirdly. His face went all red and he kept looking away. He declined at first, worried that we would cause an avalanche, but I persisted. Of course, I had to persist. I didn’t last long, my knees buckled, so he fell backwards. I don’t know what caused the next events. He must have dislodged something and caused a butterfly effect with the rocks, but something shifted, and then everything started falling. Somehow, an avalanche started. Just as Firkle had said. And I didn’t listen. I just made him do as I said. I don’t know why I did that.

We ran down the mountain, kind of at a sideways angle. We were yelling and screaming for Pip and the others to watch out in case it reached them. There was so much rumbling and noise that I barely knew what happened when Firkle got knocked over. I was a good ways ahead of him. I heard him yelp, but that was it before he was gone. Thankfully it was just snow that covered him, but it didn’t help. I turned back to help him get up, but it was way, way worse than just a fall. Apparently a tree, probably it’s roots, had hit him so hard in the face that it not only almost ripped his ear off, but it scooped his left eye clean out of his face. I don’t think he was able to feel anything at first with the adrenaline, but he kept telling me that he couldn’t see. That something was wrong with his vision. Asking me what happened, while I just stood there in shock. I really don’t like thinking about it. I hate it. I know it was my fault.

The pain set in for him once we got back. The avalanche had stopped by then. Pip patched him up, but he was just so disturbed. I don’t think he was fully out of shock, he just kept talking about how something was wrong with his eye and how it stung. Not only that, but Pete was pissed. He still is. He hasn’t said a word to me after this happened. Pocket tried to reconcile it a bit, but he just got yelled at. He called me a stupid reckless kid and told Pocket to shut up and mind his own business. Firkle tried to speak up, but Pete didn’t let him, just told him to rest. I’m really scared I really hope Damien didn’t see any of that. I don’t want him to torture Pip anymore. I don’t want him to torture himself or what’s left of humans anymore. He’s been razing more and more cities to the ground. The busted up TV we have in the house we’re in can barely hold on enough to tell us that Birmingham is straight up gone or the entire state of California is in flames. The reporters don’t call him Damien. They call him “The Thorn”. I don’t like it. Neither does Pip. Pocket probably agrees, but hasn’t said a word about it. Pip yelled at Pocket a while ago when he kept being smug about Damien’s state. Said that he knew all along that Damien was a monster. Pip finally snapped at him when I started crying. But it’s fine. Everyone’s okay right now. Physically.

Dialogue 1: Damien is a Monster

Pip sat quietly at a chair in the living room, buried in a book as usual. They helped keep him sane. He was with Ike, who was dozing off on the nearby sofa, though Pip could tell he had trouble sleeping. Merely being near each other was such a comfort to both of them. The fireplace crackled warmly next to Pip. So warmly. It was yet another thing that reminded him of Damien. Another thing that nudged him closer to the edge and laughed in his ear and whispered cruel things to him when he needed it the least. But it was okay. They needed fire to survive.

Pip glanced up as Pocket entered the room. His prosthetic arm hung loosely next to him. “Pip! Oh, jolly good to see you.” He smiled toothily. Pip’s brows furrowed a bit, but he kept calm. “Evening, Pocket.” He nodded. Pocket smiled and leaned nonchalantly on a nearby table. “So… anything big happening recently? Sorry I haven’t been keeping up, I’ve been quite busy with clothing. Firkle does indeed seem to rip his a lot more than necessary,” he chuckled. Pip’s face remained deadpan as he stared tiredly at Pocket. “Not much that I can think of, no. I’m simply waiting for Damien to contact me again tonight. He’s quite the scheduled individual. Should be around twelve A.M. that he visits,” Pip explained. Pocket frowned. He was still way too attached to this demon. This vile creature. He felt like he had to speak. “Pip… I truly, sincerely don’t understand how you can still feel so close to such a beast. I’d ask for you to explain it once more, but I fear I’d only recieve the same answer,” he mumbled. Ike shifted uncomfortably. He obviously wouldn’t be able to sleep now. Pip tried to stay calm. He had to. Conflict helped no one. “Pocket, my friend. You would indeed recieve the same answer.” He confirmed. “I might restate that in a rather more aggressive manner if you decide to call him a beast again.” He insisted. Pocket looked away. Idle chatter wouldn’t get them anywhere. People only admitted things in the heat of the moment. He stared at the floor as he spoke. “Pip, I must remind you what he has done to me. What he continues to do to me. I’m simply a toy to him. Is that not obvious?” He pleaded. Pip closed his eyes and held in a sigh. “I think that you should be grateful that you are even alive. Damien slaughtered any person who dared mess with him while he was still here. You were one of them. You did awful things, Pocket. Damien is only getting revenge for that.” Pip glared up at Pocket as he stood. The latter man looked exasperated. “Pip- my dear Pip, I must have you understand that he tore my arm from it’s socket! How could you hold any semblance of sympathy for that.. that-“

“Say it.” Pip spat. He hadn’t noticed yet, but Ike was trembling. Pip stood up as he continued speaking. “Call him a monster. Call him a freak. Call him a liar. Call him anything your little heart desires, Pocket, what is it going to get you?” His voice gradually calmed as he spoke, though it was forced. Pocket scowled. He was nothing less than enraged by this situation. He simply didn’t understand why Pip was still defending Damien. “Pip, he is a violent, unstoppable, vicious and ruthless totalitarian destructor who clearly has no remorse for his actions!-“ Pocket yelled, but was cut off by a low noise sourcing from the couch. Ike had began sobbing. He was curled into a ball, his lanky body pressed against the back. Pip’s demeanor fell immediately into one of worry. He rushed to Ike, holding his shoulders and sitting down next to him. “Ike. It’s okay. I’m sorry.” He wrapped his arms around the boy. Pocket stood motionless as Ike racked with sobs and Pip held him. Pip whispered something after a moment, “I’m going to get up now. I’ll be back soon. I’m so very proud of you, Ike,” and he stood up again. He snatched Pocket rather abruptly by the collar of his shirt, dragging him into a bedroom down the hall. Ike could still hear them yelling, but it was muffled.

Pip tried not to yell. He really did. But he simply couldn’t help it. Pocket was being awful. “He HAS remorse. Damien has remorse. He has so much of it, Pocket, you aren’t the one who listens to him sob and apologize and beg for me to go back to the way things used to be! You never will be!” His eyes brimmed with tears. Pocket stared sadly for a moment. He really didn’t want to do this to Pip. He wanted to bring him into a hug and tell him it would be okay. But he had to get his point across. He sighed. “Pip. He is a drunken dictator. He says he has remorse, but he has taken no actions in favor of it. He drinks and he gets into your mind and he manipulates you. He says that he loves you when he doesn’t.” Pocket insisted gently. Pip was silent except for his shaky breathing as tears finally spilled down his face. “He has… he has remorse, he regrets it, he says…” he choked back a sob. “He says he loves me.” He finally broke. He’d gotten used to breaking without holding himself back after many years spent away from his sister. And he broke a lot. He sunk to the ground with a pathetic whimper, leaning against the bed and digging his face into his hands. He just wanted things back to the way they were. It was so tempting to give in every time Damien begged him. Sometimes he took the sentimental route, reaching his clawed hands into the deepest pits of Pip’s heart and awakening memories from when they were younger. Or sometimes he took a rather lewd tone, talking about everything they used to do together and dreaming about what more they could do if Pip just joined him. Lead Hell with him and made everything better again, better than it ever was. But every time, Pip declined. It would never be the same. No matter how much he screamed and cried and begged for someone, anybody other than him to do something, it never, ever would work.

That was when he heard it. A low echo. His eyes shot open. He didn’t even realize Pocket was sat next to him, trying to comfort him with his words when all Pip was able to process was his mouth moving in the shape of words. Probably some fantasy about how great they could be together. He sounded just like Damien. Pip bit his lip, trying to catch his breath as the echo grew louder and formed into a voice. Phillip. Phillip! PHILLIP!

Pip leapt at the yell. Damien was desperate tonight. “Get out.” He muttered. He wasn’t even sure himself whether he was talking to Pocket or Damien. Neither obeyed. “Get out. Please, just get out and leave me alone…” he begged. The room and his mind went silent. He felt one presence vanish, but the other stayed. Physically alone. Mentally accompanied.

Phillip! My dear. I missed you since last night, what- what have you been up to? Damien spoke unsteadily. Pip could practically see the grin on his face. “…Nothing much. I miss you too, Damien.” He murmured. He could feel Damien’s grin grow into a toothy one, showing off those fangs. Those perfect fangs. Oh, I know you do. Sorry I was a little late. I guess I didn’t want to disturb whatever you had going on with that prick! Damien laughed for a long while. For as long as he wanted to. No, I’m just kidding. He’s lucky he isn’t chained to a wall and being used as target practice. I was just busy messing with Sicily. I’ve been watching you, though… my gorgeous boy, why don’t you talk to me more often? Where are you going? Do you hate me? Tell me you don’t hate me, Phillip, my love! Say it! Damien pleaded in his mind. Pip gulped. “No. No, Damien, I don’t hate you.” He mumbled quietly. Pip almost felt a warm embrace in his mind at that moment. A little memory of what it used to be. You don’t! Oh, Phillip. I love you. Come back to me. My dear, are you crying? No, no no… Damien quickly got upset at that. Stop crying. Phillip, stop crying. Don’t cry, please. Damien begged. His voice cracked at the last sentence. Why? Why won’t you come and lead with me? You would be so great. You said you would, Phillip, you promised. I remember it. You said you would, but you were so sure I’d find a partner first! Phillip, you are my partner! I’m still wearing the ring! Please, I have nobody else. Nobody. Nobody! Nobody wants to be with something like me, you are all I have left and you refuse! You refuse every time, Phillip! Pip listened as his pleading voice devolved into a mess of sobs. Pip was silent, almost numb as Damien sobbed, and sobbed, and sobbed. You know I didn’t.. mean to… I-I never meant to kill that imp. That poor imp. Ike… is Ike okay? Please, tell me Ike is okay, Damien asked, his words dragging on. Pip was quiet for yet another moment. “Ike is doing… Ike is…” he trailed off. He couldn’t lie. He took in a shaky breath before speaking. “Ike is crying right now. He broke down when me and Pocket were fighting. I meant to comfort him, but… but then you visited.” He admitted blankly. Now Damien was quiet. No. No. I ruined it again. Why? Why do I always ruin it? Somebody tell me! Phillip, WHY?! He yelled. There was a shattering sound on the last word, presumably a bottle, which was cut off halfway through. Then the deafening silence again.

Damien was gone.

—————————

GAGGDDHHDHX i hope you like it this au has been brewing in my brain for a solid 4 days i will post the refs after this. im not really expecting anybody to read this but ummmm records..??? lols

[sillyseaveerablogs]

Part 1 of Chapter 3 Aug (TдT) Tagging some moots so they can RB this- @misty-zzz @cartoon-angerr @paidexp @thisblogisblank @n1ttnan1t @amberkaiju @vh4mp

⳾*⑅*❀⑅*❀⑅*❀⑅*❀⑅*❀⑅*⳾ It was a gloomy morning. Wind was blowing gently to the extroverted people out on Platera, the Plant Island town. The rain is pouring its insides onto the buildings and the statue of a woman with curtain bangs and a lizard-like tail with leaves and mosses following along. There were three monsters in front of the statue. One of them put up their arms and said to the statue, “Hey Ma, me, Bloom and Terra are going to Airno to see Aether and Sora. Do you accept that, Ma?” Their soft magenta iris glares at the statue’s closed eyes. They then turned to their sister and their friend and said to them, “Ma accept us! I couldn’t believe it.” Terra was smiling with a V-shaped mouth. She is a half-human half-Epic Plant Wubbox with a milk chocolate skin, dark navy blue irises, and green core underneath her black tank-top that is overlapped by her shoulder cut dress with a ribcage around her chest. Her willowy pastel green hair sprouted with Ixoras are blowing by the gentle wind. Bloom, Aether, Sora and Andrea are the daughter and sons to the celestials, that being Lauma Rossa, the Celestial of Plant and Atticus Althorne, The Celestial of Air. Since they’re hybrids, all of them are mixed with their genes. Only Aether is the only one with his father’s looks. Bloom, Andre and Terra decided to celebrate Sora, the youngest of the Althorne family, 15th birthday on Airno, the Air Island town. They finally booked their tickets for travelling reasons. They then go to the marketplace, where every monster sells everything! From Chocolate to meat to anything you want, basically you name it. Terra bought the present to give Sora. Although she still worries about her big brother’s condition. Wilbur. He never contacted her ever since the separation, poor guy, Terra thought. Maybe a letter to him will surprise him.

───※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※─── After the shopping spree with Bloom and Andrea, she immediately goes back into her room, filled with roses and exotic critters. The critters chirped and chipped as she went into the room. She sat on her desk with notes piling on other notes, a pile of notebooks sat at the corner and a pegboard with important things to jot. She picks up the bunny critter and stroke it gently as she plucks a sticky note from her desk drawer and write; Dear Wil, I know it’s been a while since you ran away from us, but I got an announcement to make, WE'RE GOING TO AIRNO TO CELEBRATE SORA’S 15TH BIRTHDAY! Now does that name ring the bell? Anyway, could you bring one of your creations? I say that because Mavi told me that since your creation wants to meet someone outside of you and him, it would make a great oppurtunity to see other exotic monsters. Also you can reject the request if you want to, just maybe a letter to send to me or a card is fine tho. I’m gonna pen off now, it’s night so I gotta hit the brakes. Bye! From your sis, Terra Terra’s face split into a smile. She put the letter into a postcard, and stamped it with a foxglove. She then sprinted to the outside, waved the mail at the bluebird critter; it then took the mail with its feet and flew away from her. ───※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※──────※ ·❆· ※─── Mavi, the EWW was watching the view when the mail fell onto them. They stare at the mail and soon after the mail is supposed to be for Wilbur, They grinned and sent the mail to Wilbur. Wilbur was in his room, creating what seems to be a Zuuker, when Bradley the Brump whisked into his room and yelped, “Dad, Mavi sent you a mail,” Wilbur stood, skulked and grabbed the mail from Bradley’s hand. Brad then ran away to the living room. Wilbur then sat on the chair and read Terra’s mail. His corner of his mouth then lifted afterwards. He then sent Terra’s mail and started writing as a reply. Mid-way through the writing, his thoughts turn to Humbert. Hmm, I should write one for him, he thought, smiling even though their friendship ended when they're teens.

⋘ 𝑃𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝑤𝑎𝑖𝑡... ⋙⋘ 𝑃𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝑤𝑎𝑖𝑡... ⋙ At the Gossamery Town, the Ethereal Island township, a now 17-years-old Humbert is watching his younger siblings, Skia, the youngest sister in his family, playing catch with her other older brothers, Umbra and Nyx, around the playground, full of bright and cheerful double-ethereals as toddlers. As the three siblings run in circles, Humbert notices that Meeb is flying towards him with a postcard attached to his hand. Hum then grabs the post card, thanks Meeb and reads the card. It reads: Hey Humbert,   So sorry about that time I slapped my sister in front of you and ran away from Terra, Walter, Berlioz, you, your siblings and Rumi. I’m just so mad that the stupid f**ka** green bird with three legs manipulated the Colossals that I thought my sister was yelling at me for not doing anything. Glaring at her with my amber eyes, I had enough. I slapped her and I looked at them and I was shocked so I ran away. Again, I’m sorry. Um, is Walter and Berlioz ok? I’m worried about them as I’m writing this message. Let me know as soon as possible, I have to pen off now. Bye.                                                                 Signed,                                                                 Wilbur Knowing Wilbur is still alive, Humbert smiled sadly but genuinely. He felt like writing him a letter as a reply to him. They quickly stood up and chirped to his younger siblings to go home, as the crystallised sun was lowering down to the horizon.

[ravendruid]

Trinket

This work is part of the @percahliaweek event. Day 3 - Trinket [Read on AO3]

It’s springtime in Whitestone, and the trees and gardens bloom with colors and scents that the wind carries for miles. As luck would have it, it is the first clear, sunny day of the season, and Vex’ahlia does not fancy spending it indoors after weeks trapped within the white walls of the castle. Yes, she has matters to attend to. Letters to read and write, accounting of the treasury to do, and a myriad of other boring paperwork she does not want to think about. But it is sunny and warm, the flowers look so beautiful from the tall windows, and the Sun Tree is all dressed in gold. Even Trinket sighs hopefully at her feet, dreaming of chasing squirrels and other critters in the woods or dipping his paws in the shallow stream and hunting the few fish that swim in the cold waters of the mountain.

“Trinket, we’re going out,” Vex’ahlia has made up her mind. She looks for Cassandra first, hoping to spend quality time with her sister-in-law and maybe get to know the girl a bit better. However, a server quickly informs Vex that Cassandra is away for the day and has left no word of her return, so Vex turns to the other remaining de Rolo. 

It’s not hard to find Percival these days. He’s either locked in his office, pouring over paperwork of his own, or down in his workshop working on some grand design that he is determined to keep a secret, even from his wife. Vex’ahlia has tried countless times to ask him about it, but her husband’s mouth is a tomb that not even her brother could pilfer. She has tried tricks—some influenced by their prankster friend, Grog—and even using her best assets to seduce Percival into revealing information, but all she got from it was a night of luxurious lovemaking—a decoy to make her forget about the subject, no doubt.

“Percival, darling?” Vex’ahlia opens the door to Percy’s office. As soon as Percy’s deep blue eyes find her, he knows his wife wants something. 

“Hello, dear. How can I help you?” He asks, setting aside the quill and straightening the papers he has been working on. He won’t get any more work done the rest of the day if Vex’ahlia has her way—which she always does.

“It’s such a beautiful day outside. Why won’t we go for a walk?”

“Of course, dear. Do you have anywhere in particular in mind?” Vex shakes her head at his question, which makes Percy smile. Good. This might be a good chance, then.

The descent from the hill where Castle Whitestone sits is made in silence but for the sound of the couple’s footsteps echoing against the gravel and the huffs and puffs of the bear that tracks behind them. The town is bustling with life as traders and commerce owners share their products, and construction noises are muffled by screams of children playing in the streets. It is a sight to behold. The town that was once filled with such darkness and death is now full of light and happiness. Alive against all odds, like Percival and Vex’ahlia.

Percy leads Vex by the arm to the northwestern part of town, passing by old houses that still need to be worked on and into a section of the Parchwood Timberlands that has recently been cleared off for further development. In the distance are the first signs of a new wall that will protect the new section of the city, an expansion that Percy can’t look at without feeling some sense of pride.

“Do you see this section, dear?” Percival points at the vast leveled-up grounds ahead of them. Vex’ahlia nods and looks at him, waiting patiently. Only in the bright, sunny light does she notice her husband’s scruffy beard starting to come out, as white as his hair.

“This is where the houses for the refugees will be built, correct?” She remembers reading something in some paperwork that passed through her hands a few months ago.

“It was,” Percy’s smile falls.

“Was, darling?”

“The recent numbers haven’t been as promising as we imagined. It seems that more Emonians are keen to return to their homes, or what’s left of them, than we thought, so we do not have a need for new houses at the moment.”

“Oh,” Vex’s sadness mirrors her husband’s. She is happy for those families that get to return home. Some might have to rebuild their lives from the ash like Vex and her brother did, but at least they will be home. 

“Instead, I have decided to do something else with it. Such a great plot of land cannot go to waste, right?” It’s a rhetorical question. Percy knows Vex does not allow anything to go to waste if she has a say about it. 

“What will it be, then?”

Percy doesn’t answer her. Instead, he grabs her arm again and leads her to a large covered square on the ground. He unveils the cover of a stone that reads Lord Trinket’s Public Park. 

“Percival,” Vex’ahlia takes a step back, stunned at the gesture. 

“There will be a statue as well,” He turns to his wife, preening at her reaction. “Do not worry, Trinket and I will make sure they do a wonderful job on it. Right, buddy?” Percy rubs the thick fur atop the bear’s large head, who groans in agreement. 

“Darling, you didn’t have to.” Vex’s eyes fill with tears. She lunges into her husband, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him longingly. “Do you see this, buddy?” She then turns to the bear as she wipes the tears with the cuff of her sleeve. “This park is for you. So we can come play every day, buddy.”

With a loud, happy growl, Trinket turns his back on the couple and starts running around the large plot, quickly finding a muddy pit to roll around in. What is bare today will soon be full of large trees, bear, bee, and butterfly-friendly flowers, plenty of shaded benches, and maybe even a few tables where families can come and enjoy nature. Whitestone is alive indeed.

[cr-summer-wildflowers]

Can we add Dear Critter letters to our sign-ups after they close? I've got all my ships picked out, but I haven't finished my letter yet!

So, I'm double-checking with Capitola, but I am guessing the answer is no because once sign-ups close, you cannot edit them.

However, what we really cannot stop you from doing (and, like, if it's this or you don't sign up...) is attaching a Dear Critter letter via Google Docs and then editing that document. To be clear: you may not change the specifics of your prompts (ships/rating/prompts), but if you absolutely must finish your DNWs after sign-ups close... again, we cannot stop you.

I cannot stress enough how much we would prefer that you be done with sign-ups when they close

🌹

[ask-felix-aberg]

A chara Felix,

They do always say a cup of tea is a great excuse to share great thoughts with great minds.

I have now fully made up my mind extending an invitation to accompany me and leave the castle for a time, as circumstances have occurred (phantom kisses, strange whisperings in our Common Room, and…house elves?) which render it necessary for a respite beyond the walls within Hogwarts.

An unexpected friend and I went down the other day and have succeeded in finding a very charming detached clearing facing the lake; there is a lovely view of the highlands from the spot I had already selected for you, if you come to grace me with your company.

I shall soon have everything in order - tea, sweets, and finger sandwiches, and hope to see you. There are lovely walks round this area: it is a very pleasant change from the busy corridors; for after having some time in the castle, one really longs for country air.

After falling victim to hounding kisses and ominous missives from mystifying cotton-tailed critters, I hope an excursion such as this with a friend will be enough ease your mind, even for a short time. And know that I’ll be on the lookout for potential predacious kisses with you.

As a side note, I will be bring along my little friend, Charlie. He’s a niffler, and I think you will be charmed by him. Oh, and bring your favourite teacup!

Yours, with great an-tea-cipation

Wren

Dear Wren,

I must admit, your letter brought a much-needed chuckle to my day. The thought of escaping the castle and enjoying a cup of tea in a charming clearing sounds absolutely delightful. I could certainly use a distraction from these bunny incidents.

I am eagerly looking forward to joining you and exploring the lovely walks in the area. The view of the highlands and the peaceful country air will be a welcome change indeed. And I must say, I am quite intrigued by your little friend, Charlie.

I shall bring along my favorite teacup, as requested. It will be a pleasure to spend some time in your company.

Hej så länge,

Felix

P.S. I must say, your puns are truly tea-riffic! ;)

[miltheperson]

I REMEMBERED!

Demon- puppet reader-

I imagine them to be hecka tall, or around Julie’s height-

Tail long- horns on fleek- (da fuq)

And because they are SO quiet, they have to whip their tail against the ground whenever they enter a room.

:)

I like to imagine this reader as taller than Howdy, Barnaby, and Poppy! I'd say they're around 9 to 10 or so feet! That's quite tall!

Welcome Home headcanons!

The reader is not quite like the others! Unbelievably tall, beautiful horns, and even a long tail! What an interesting neighbor to have!

Wally Darling

"Hello there neigh...bor... You're-... wow-..."

Poor little fella! He might as well break his back to look up at you if he had any bones! Your size compared to him was a bit humorous, he could just barely reach your knees! You thought he was quite adorable, especially with how puzzled he was by your form.

"You're very... tall..."

You don't really talk and he assumed that was because you were mute, so he'd do a lot of the talking for you! Between the both of you, Wally would usually be the more chatty one seeing as you were more of the quiet type.

"Come on, neighbor... There's some lovely apples over at Howdy's store... Would you like to join me?"

Barnaby Beagle

"Well- hello... there-!"

Your first appearance was... startling, to say the least. The guy would be in for quite a shock! Seeing as he's used to being one of the more taller puppets around the neighborhood. Admittedly, he'd be a little intimidated at first, especially since you're so quiet! It's a little hard to get you laughing at his jokes but when he does, he just feels so proud of himself!

"What's the matter, neighbor? Cat got your tail?"

He'd definitely be very chatty with you, he'd even practice a few jokes of his in front of you. Barnaby slowly warms up to you with time and even seeks comfort in you! You're quite the listener, after all!

"And you know what I said? "I hardly know her!" Haha!"

Eddie Dear

"Jumpin' Critters!"

It was definitely a shock for him when he first saw you, he hadn't even noticed you until he bumped right into you! Your appearance was definitely unique and he's never seen anything quite like it! Eddie would be very curious about your tail, he'd think it looks quite lovely!

"How's the, uh, weather up there, neighbor?”

He’d definitely struggle to make small talk with you, but Eddie would very quickly get over it when he realizes you’re not the chatty type! He’d ask all kinds of questions, even if you’d only nod or shake your head. Eddie would just love to get to know you more better!

“Wanna come deliver letters with me? It’ll help ya settle in!”

Frank Frankly

“Oh, my… goodness…”

They’d definitely feel intimidated at first, but they’d try their best now to show it. Frank would be most fascinated by your horns, they’d want to hold them and they especially like talking to you! They love how they could ramble and rant on and on and you’d listen to their every word!

“And so Julie runs up to me and dumps all these leaves all over me! It took me ages to get it all off!”

You and Frank would become quite close and they’d often go to you when they want to talk or ramble or even just make simple and even meaningless little conversations. They find comfort in your presence and are see you as a safe space, mostly because you’re quiet and only ever make a noise to alert people of your presence!

“Would you maybe want to learn about… Butterflies? They’re my favorite.”

Julie Joyful

“Oh, neighbor, you’re sooo taaaaall!!”

Julie would be absolutely wonderstruck by you. She’d get a little too excited and try climbing you since you remind her of a tree, but she’ll fail either because you place her back down or she slides her way to the floor. She’d think you’re quite spooky… But in a good way!

“I have these pretty little gold things! They’d look amazing on you!”

She would just love to decorate your horns with all kinds of fancy jewelry, only if you’d let her of course! She’d pair those with some nice earrings too if she can get her hands on some! The two of you would usually bond by playing some of her games (you would always win hide and seek!) or you’d pass the time listening to her go on and on while you play around with her hair!

“Let’s play I spy! Wait- no… I have a better game! It’s Let-Julie-Climb-Neighbor-Again!”

Howdy Pillar

“Welcome! There… Neigh… bor…”

Oh Howdy is in for quite the shock! He’s so used to being one of the most tallest neighbors in the neighborhood that it was a surprise to see someone taller than him! Not to mention, someone with such a unique appearance to them!

“GaH! Neighbor! You gave me a heart attack!”

When you’d whip your tail onto the floor, Howdy would always let out a little scream. He’s one of the neighbors who dislike the tail whipping, he could just never see it coming! He won’t lie though, he’d admit that he would find your horns quite lovely looking… He’d compare them to his antennas!

“Hope nothing’s bugging you today, neighbor!”

Sally Starlet

“Wooow! You look… so… so… amazing!”

Sally would be absolutely captivated by you. She would love nothing more than to get to know her otherworldly neighbor! Every time she hears your tail whipping, she’d get so excited and go over to you right away! Sally is just so curious about you!

“Where did you come from?!”

She wouldn’t hesitate to ask you all kinds of questions! Even if you wouldn’t really respond directly, she doesn’t mind! Sally loves your company and would often invite you to watch her rehearsals, she would even ask you to join her sometimes as a silent actor!

“Frrrom the beginning!”

Poppy Partridge

“My… Look at you…”

Poppy wouldn’t know what to think! Such a unique individual you are, she’d think. Poppy loves having you around and she really likes baking with you too! This time, you find comfort in her presence. She’s just so motherly and caring! You can’t help but feel so safe around her!

“Are you alright, dear…?”

Out of anyone, you would be most comfortable being more chatty around her! She listens to your thoughts and even laughs at your jokes, Poppy absolutely adores your voice and loves listening to you speak! She feels quite honored that you talk more when with her!

“My, what a day you had!”

[wamtorical]

September - November 1890

Life was still steady and smooth for the Pence's, and money was as stable as ever. Though Claudia had run farms all her life, the introduction of farm animals was something she never knew she'd needed. Whether the chickens liked her or not, and whether the rabbits she watched all day even knew of her lingering presence, the company was swell while Elmer was busy at work. The incubation of the farm's first chick (whom she'd named 'Sonny') was a tricky process, but having now been introduced to the household next door and a few new faces from the neighboring town, she was learning how to take care of these curious critters down to the outright nitty gritty details.

In other news, Claudia had been keeping her eye on a certain stray cat for a few months, unable to ignore the lack of limb the feline possessed. Despite this, it seemed to manage fine - perhaps the animal was born with one less leg rather than having been victim to other more disturbing conclusions she'd pondered. It came out at night, presumably to hunt rodents, so if you'd wanted to see it roaming the streets you'd have to keep a steady watch for a three-legged, bright orange cat as soon as the clock struck twelve. Naturally, this is exactly what Claudia did.

The next morning, Elmer was woken up by his fatigued-looking wife and a questionable looking cat huddled in her arms. He merely sighed, stroked the newest addition to the family, and went back to sleep. Tibbles found comfort in fresh food and places to nap within the Pence household, but spent most of his days outside - not without causing a little mischief first, of course.

Tibbles - The Pence's three-legged feline ♂

Not long after Elmer left his mother alone with his father, letters started to come in. Through his replies he'd caught her up with everything that had happened since - admittedly not much - and she reciprocated the rush of communication by asking what had seemed like over a dozen questions, most of which comprised various variations of:

"Are the neighbours nice?"

"Elmer dear, how do you deal with the smell of the farm...?"

"Claudia has been feeding you well, yes? Lots of meat?"

"Have you thought about children yet? You know I'd so love to be a grandmother."

Ethel, on the other hand, stayed absolutely silent towards her side of the predicament. This mystery that surrounded her shut mouth attitude was later revealed to Elmer as shame - shame towards the act of adultery she'd committed. And the all too familiar vomiting. Elmer was shocked, of course, but found it hard to find a reason to hate Ethel for something he'd done sooner if he was his mother.

It was no secret to Elmer that Ethel had been seeing other men anyway. Naturally, the situation she found herself in was certainly still absurd, and worry filled thoughts flooded Elmer's brain; was his mother too old to bear children? Was it safe?

At the very least, this had meant they had another heir. Another one of Henry's money props. However, it did beg the recurring question about bearing children that was so heavily encouraged in society, despite their young age. While Elmer was neutral on the matter, Claudia was strictly adamant.

Contrary to what everyone had set in mind, Claudia had thought about the idea of being a mother every day. Still, if Claudia hadn't existed, if she hadn't been born, her mother would still be prospering today. Charlotte had forever reminded Claudia it wasn't her fault, but she was stubbornly positive it was and always would be, even if she couldn't control that eventual outcome. The overarching point was clear; who was to say the same thing that happened to Janet Deane wouldn't happen to her? Who was to say history wouldn't repeat itself?

During the 11 months Claudia and Elmer had lived in Brindleton Bay, both had befriended a small group of friends. There was Ruth and Jeanette who resided in Henford upon Baley, Anne from across the road and Alma from the nearby forest, who out of the four of them managed to somehow be able to conjure up the most helpful of advice that had most likely sprouted from living in a high-maintenance, run down cabin with twin babies (Minnie & Walter Reed) Strangely, the fact all her peers had children of their own only made her long more for the courage to have one herself.

Alma: "... So why haven't you? They can be troublesome little critters, but I assure you - they simply light up your life."

Claudia: "I'm afraid, Alma. My mother ... She had serious complications from my birth. It could happen to me - no, it could happen to any of us. Don't you find that awfully unfair?"

Alma: "You're saying she passed?" Claudia nodded and a frown became prominent upon Alma's face, deep thoughts swimming behind her dark eyes.

Alma: "I'm terribly sorry for your loss, Dear. I guess to me, as long as I birthed my own children, whether I lived or not, I would not truly die. Perhaps I'll pass this week from something as stupid as tripping over my own dress! Or in 40 years as anyone would long to. Either way, my legacy continues on forevermore. Do you see what I'm saying?"

By her 18th birthday on November 21st, 1890, Claudia had made up her mind after weeks of contemplation and treated her husband to a fun, late-night, much deserved, woohoo session. She brushed away the outcomes that could arise from her actions - Alma's words had really touched Claudia. If she now were to bare a child, well, to hell with it! Admittedly, Claudia had drank a few cheeky glasses of alcohol beforehand.

Her attitude, unsurprisingly, was not as careless and confident two weeks later as soon as the nausea began, confirming her lingering worries. Fear had rushed up to the surface again but Claudia recited what she'd been told and let herself relax in the comfort of her husbands presence. Whatever were to happen now, Claudia would have to brace herself. Deep breath in, Deep breath out. At the very least, Claudia's maternal instincts had kicked in and despite her anxiety a part of her was ecstatic that her very own child was inside of her, waiting to come out. If all went well, this would be the best thing to happen to her - Alongside Elmer, of course.

📜 next / previous / first

[burningdarkfire]

dear critter (wildflowers 2024)

Hi! I’m burningdarkfire on both AO3 and tumblr.

The prompts below are in order of preference, although of course I would be excited about anything listed (which is why I listed them!). If you want reference points, I’ve written 50+ critrole fics on my main AO3 account that you are welcome to peruse. 

I read widely and am hard to shock or dismay. In general, I would prefer for you to write something you are comfortable with than tie yourself into knots trying to fulfill my vision. Confident writing is fun to read!

I am not active in discord servers but you can always reach me on tumblr if you have questions. Here is last year's Dear Critter letter if you'd like it for reference.

Details below!

DNWs:

I love reading and writing about trans characters, but I do not want to put the pressure of conforming to my complex preferences onto a gifter. Please avoid any unrequested genderfuckery—there are two exceptions that I will detail in the next section.

I do not want any included or implied character backstory for Essek Thelyss that whumps him to explain or excuse his actions—this includes abuse from his family members, abuse from members of the Cerberus Assembly, etc. Additionally, I strongly prefer that Essek returns to the Dynasty post-campaign and tries to build a home there.

I do not want sprinklings of other languages in the fic—this includes snippets of dialogue, recurring jokes, nicknames, pet names, etc. I know it’s a canon characteristic for some but I prefer not to read it. It’s fine for the narration to indicate that characters are speaking in other languages or if there is a specific purpose to the change in language (e.g., familial titles that don’t translate if they are strictly necessary for the world-building).

Likes:

Explicit fic, including both smut and darkfic

Power dynamics, complicated relationships, codependency, devotion, strong platonic bonds, relationships that defy labels, polyamory, having casual sex or sex between people who are not in a romantic relationship, waking up together, laughing together, descriptions of food and other small aspects of domestic life, found family

Stories that explore the role gender plays in character—the two exceptions to the above "no genderfuckery" are a/b/o and Rule 63

I absolutely adore aromantic Caleb Widogast with my whole heart

Request #1: Campaign 2 Wizard Soups

Astrid/Eadwulf/Essek/Caleb, Astrid/Essek, Astrid/Eadwulf/Essek, Eadwulf/Essek

Definitely my flavour of the year! They're so similar and yet so different—I love to imagine how they might fit (or not fit!) with each other. There's a lot of potential post-canon for complicated feelings—jealousy, nostalgia, missing someone even though they're right there, staking claims on Caleb's past/present/future, budding and re-budding relationships. I don't need Caleb to be present in a fic where he isn't included in the central pairing, but I think his presence or absence is exactly what makes A/E/W contending with each other interesting. I love it when no one knows the answer to "what are we?"  Divergent canons, such as Volstrucker!Bren, are also totally okay and encouraged. I particularly enjoy explorations of the canon where Astrid kills Trent and/or the existence of the Volstrucker continue under her hand. I think there's a lot of opportunity to explore how A/E/W are much closer to the dirty details of running a nation versus an idealistic Caleb—how might they collaborate or antagonize? 

Request #2: Campaign 2 Blumendrei

Astrid/Eadwulf/Caleb, Astrid&Eadwulf&Caleb, Astrid/Eadwulf, Astrid/Caleb, Eadwulf/Caleb

It's my fucking bread and butter and I'll take pretty much anything. Academy days, post-campaign reunion, the most nebulous of timelines or the most obscure of AUs. I'm happy to read about assassination missions, eating lunch together, or an AU with nonsensical white collar office jobs. How did their relationship start—how did it fall apart—how did they reconnect? It can be nostalgic, happy, or toxic. It's fine if not all the characters involved are queer, as long as they're together. The sky's really the limit here!

Request #3: Campaign 2 Wizard Shenanigans

Astrid/Jester, Astrid&Jester, Astrid/Beauregard, Astrid&Beauregard, Astrid/Marion, Eadwulf/Fjord/Jester, Caleb/Lucien, Caleb/Nott, Caleb/Essek/Jester, Caleb/Essek/Fjord, Caleb/Marion

Basically this is the catch-all category for "happy to read more about the wizards"! Again, pretty much anything goes—flirty and fun, serious parallel character studies, "what if" moments in canon that might have turned another way. Non-canonical pairings in the background are okay and even encouraged. If Fjord and/or Jester are involved, I've always held an immense soft spot for Pirate AUs (set in Exandria or elsewhere). My only preference is that Astrid, Wulf, and Caleb remain on good (or just unknown) terms if the fic is focused on them with other partners.

Request #4: Campaign 2 Polynein

M9/M9, Fjord/Beauregard, Caleb/Beauregard

I believe deeply that relationships don't have to all look the same—I would love to explore what Polynein looks like, in the canon world or another! What does it look like with children involved, with marriages, with differing or changing primary partners, when the Nein are scattered across the globe?  Including the Beauregard pairs here as I feel like they're natural fits in this category, but I would also be interested in how you can make them work otherwise!

Request #5: EXU Calamity

Asmodeus the Lord of the Nine Hells/Zerxus Ilerez

I just think there should be more fic about how they're fucked up together and what it looks like for them to be bonded to each other post-game. I'm not particularly caught up on Campaign 3 but would be interested to read what they might be up to in the "current day" of canon (spoilers totally fine) or at any other point in the past or future. Please don't soften the sharp edges of this one.