#i need to look for vampire mods honestly

[simsreaper]

Making potions for her vampire kids so they're not vampires anymore and have a chance at being human.(I'm also sick of the goddamn burning in the sun)

[thechaoticdruid]

[This Bites] (1)

Pairing: Astarion x F! Chubby! MC

Plot: Through some mysterious and very miraculous events, a young woman finds herself literally stuck with a character from her current video game obsession. You can guess it already. It's an isekai type fanfic. Except in this case Astarion is stuck in our modern world.  I was gonna call the MC Tav, but since the actual game character Tav is mentioned I just named her Winnie. 

Content Warnings: Death….sorta, An asshole of a stepdad, MC uses She/Her pronouns, eventual smut and sexual content in future parts. Characters may be Ooc, grammar/spelling mistakes are possible. MC has very low self esteem. Depressed MC.

Chapter One: You are here!

Chapter Two: Here!

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

“Argh I knew something would go wrong with this game!” The female huffed, staring down at her computer. Her eyes scanned over the error message titled ‘Character not found.’ She gritted her teeth in frustration. “God forbid I try mods….” 

The young woman groaned, shutting her laptop and falling back onto the bed. Apparently after finally installing a cheat mod onto Baldur's Gate 3 the game decided to retaliate and locked her out of her save files. She couldn't even create a new character either! The same ‘Character not found’ message seemed to pop up no matter what she did. The girl’s name was Winnie, a college student in her early twenties who was still living at home. Not too long ago Winnie had gotten the game upon release. She'd played it several times since then and even yet was still able to find some hidden secrets she didn't notice the first time. Honestly this game had really helped with her current state. Life had just been dull and miserable. All her friends had moved on and had their own lives now and she really wasn't the best at making new ones. 

She had a dull boring job, did online writing classes and also had to put up with the asshole her mother married. This game had been a godsend for her these past few months. It gave her an escape. A way to be someone else, at least for a little while anyway. 

Not to mention live out her somewhat cringey teenage girl fantasy of dating a walking red flag of a vampire. In this game she felt important. Like she was some badass heroine who was ready to take on any foe.  Not the shy, scared, awkward woman who she saw in the mirror.

Her cat Maddie broke Winnie from her thoughts as she hopped up onto the bed and crawled onto the young woman's chest. Winnie ran her hand over the cat's thick fluffy black fur.  Maddie gave a small mew before purring noisily and gently kneading her claws into Winnie’s chest.

Winnie sighed, scratching the sides of Maddie's face as she was soothed by the feline’s pur. 

“WINNIE! GET YOUR ASS IN HERE!!” A gruff male voice shouted from the other room, causing Maddie to jump and scramble off of Winnie and hide under the bed. 

The brunette haired girl sighed and got up, walking out of the room and cautiously stepping down the hall. 

“Yes, Brian?” Winnie spoke up as she entered the kitchen.  She looked over to see her stepfather stumbling about. Brian was a rather large man with short dark hair and beard. He was well….very unpleasant.

“Where are the goddamn car keys?” He growled out. 

“Dunno, I don't drive.” Winnie said calmly as she leaned up against the wall, “mom probably put them somewhere. Check the coffee table by the recliner.” 

Brian stomped off, a tiny tan fluff of a dog following after him.  He grabbed the keys before walking back into the kitchen. 

“I'm going to the store. Keep that stupid cat of yours in your room! It keeps shitting all over the carpet!” 

“I've told you over and over. Maddie only goes in the litter box. It's your dog that keeps making a mess in the house because you don't take him outside when he needs to go.” Winnie rolled her eyes.

“Don't fucking talk back to me! You're lucky your mother lets you stay here, if it was up to me you'd have been kicked out of here a long time ago.”  Brain snapped, making Winnie flinch a little at his tone.  “Now make sure the trash is taken out before I get back.” He said before stomping out the front door and slamming it behind him.  Winnie flinched once again at the loud sound before letting out a sigh and pulling the trash out of the can despite the fact that she distinctly remembered her mother telling Brian to take it out this morning. 

Winnie took out the trash before coming back inside heading back to her room. Her eyes scanned over her laptop as Maddie crawled out from under the bed.  She walked back over and opened the device, logging herself on before attempting to open her game back up.

[Character not found.]

Winnie groaned before filling out a bug report and then putting her computer up. She needed to get ready and go to work anyway. 

~•~•~•~•~•~•~

A few days had passed and nothing seemed to work. Winnie had disabled and deleted all the mods, sent in about a dozen but reports and still nothing. The only thing left she could try now was uninstalling the game and then reinstalling it. 

Winnie sat on the bed waiting patiently for the game to download though she knew it would at least take an hour. She pulled out her cellphone, noticing a text from her mother. The message was informing Winnie that Brian and her mom wouldn't be home until late tonight. At least this meant she'd have plenty of peace and quiet in the meantime. The young woman spread out on her bed, stretching her limbs before slowly closing her eyes, resting lazily.

Time passed as she slowly dozed off…Eventually she was awoken by the sound of beeping? It was some strange noise that she couldn't quite put her finger on. She quickly looked over to her laptop and her eyes widened as she noticed it seemed to be going crazy. Blinking and beeping.

“What the fuck!?” She exclaimed, grasping her computer and frantically clicking the mousepad. 

Then the screen went black before seemingly returning to the home screen. However, everything on the computer was gone save for one shortcut. Baldur's Gate 3.

The game’s shortcut sat in the very center of the computer, practically screaming at Winnie to click on it. She clicked it and the game opened up. 

Everything seemed to go as normal up until the title screen.  Winnie’s eyes widened in shock as she noticed all of the menu options were gone aside from (New Game).  She raised an eyebrow before clicking on the only option available and waiting as the opening cinematic played. Everything continued as it usually did. Winnie created her Tav, a human druid with an urchin background, then proceeded to hop into the game. 

Winnie did a bit of a speed run, moving through the Nautiloid as quickly as she could. She recruited Us, Lae'zel and freed Shadowheart before reaching the helm and crashing the ship.

Upon reaching the ravaged beach was when things began to get strange. 

The game buffered and blinked a bit, skipping the scene where Tav would check themselves out followed by some voiced narration. Tav was kinda just there on the beach. 

“Oh God. The game is glitching….” Winnie whined. She sighed in annoyance before clicking on the ground where she wanted Tav to walk. Winnie REALLY did not feel like uninstalling the game and waiting another hour to try again so she decided she'd play for as long as the game would allow.  Winnie had Tav wander over towards where Shadowheart would normally be laying after crash, only to find an empty space where the half elf should be.  Winnie groaned assuming it was another glitch before continuing on along the beach. While most things were there like the dead bodies and the intellect devourer enemies, Winnie did not see any sign of Shadowheart at all. Not even near the ruins where she'd be if she wasn't rescued by the player.  Winnie decided to quickly go and look for the other characters, sneaking her way past the little brain creatures and moving down the path where Astarion, the elven rogue companion, would be waiting to ambush the player.  He was Winnie’s favorite. She had a soft spot for sassy morally grey characters with tragic backstories. And he was also secretly a vampire to boot which just added to the appeal.  Winnie had her Tav approach the area before she let out a sigh of relief seeing as the vampiric elf was in his starting area shouting for help like normal. At least the game wasn't completely broken.

“Hurry I've got one of those brain things cornered.” Astarion’s dialogue began as soon as Tav got close enough to interact with him.  “There in the grass, you can kill it can't you? Like you killed the others?” 

“Uh….I kinda actually didn't kill any of them…Heheh.” Winnie chuckled before dragging her mouse over the dialogue choices.

1. [Easily, stand back.]

2. Kill it yourself. You seem capable.

3. Leave

Winnie clicked on choice 1 before her Tav walked over to check the tall grass for the intellect devourer that was actually non-existent. 

Instead a wild boar leapt from the grass and made Tav jump in surprise, giving Astarion the perfect opportunity to strike. He pinned the druid to the ground, pressing a dagger to her neck.

“Shhh…Shhh….Not a sound…Not if you want to keep that darling neck of yours.” The vampire practically purred out.  Winnie blushed, a shiver going down her spine. There was a reason she always found herself choosing the elven vampire as her character’s love interest. Initially when she first got the game she felt he came off as a pompous prick (which he is) but damn he was so fucking seductive. It drove Winnie absolutely mad. Not to mention it helped given he had sweet delicious character development later on in his story and actually could be kind of a sweetheart… To the player at least.  

The romance in this game had to be Winnie’s favorite aspect of it. She was very romantically inexperienced to say the least and this just added to what made the game her perfect escape from reality. It made her feel like someone actually liked her. Winnie prepared to select the next dialogue choice when suddenly she noticed they had changed. 

1. [……….]

2. ………..

3. ……….

4. ……….

She looked up and saw a smirk form on Astarion's lips, his eyes appeared as if he was staring back at Winnie from through the screen. Before she could speak Astarion slit Tav's throat and let them drop onto the ground.

“What. The. Fuck.” The brunette haired female went pale as she stared at her computer screen. Astarion sighed in what sounded like relief?

“Finally, we've done that old song and dance so many times! The novelty has completely worn off.” He stretched out his arms, before wiping his dagger on the ground. “It feels so invigorating to try something new, wouldn't you agree?” 

“Uhh…..What's going on?” Winnie asked aloud. She was shaking a bit in both confusion and a little fear.  Her character was kinda just laying on the ground dead…and Astarion was talking….to her!?

“Oh dear, it seems I've gone and frightened you. Ahaha!” Astarion chuckled before appearing to move closer to the screen, even going so far to place his hand on it…

“Hello darling…”

[reneesghostinthelivingroom]

Wip Masterlist

If you don't see something you've requested here, it's likely because I haven't started the draft or it didn't meet my request rules and got deleted.

The ones here are only requests I have drafts going for. If your request isn't here, I haven't started the draft but I will get to them.

Will try to keep this as updated as possible.

Request Count; 12

~~~

Mean Girls

Request; Poly!plastics x Mechanic!Reader Reader has been a car person since they were a kid, Since their dad owns a car shop, so Reader knows a lot about cars and is always working one. But every day after school reader goes home and work on a car their fixing up and modding (BMW 1 series 2013) and the plastics just watch them work on their car watching their muscles flex seeing the absolute focus in their face, so they do something Regina’s car needed an oil change like 2 weeks ago and while reader was changing the only Regina snatched the spark plug, just to see the reader look all hot again

Request; would you write a poly!plastics x reader where instead of Regina, Gretchen for once takes charge and gets mad at Reader. Another girl tries to flirt with us and it gets Gretchen riled up. At first Regina is surprised by Gretchen’s attitude since she usually lets Regina handle these things, but then joins Gretchen in her scolding. Karen is just like ‘wait? Am I supposed to be angry now too?’

Request; honestly I’d just like to see poly!plastics x simp!reader because I just KNOW all three girls would take advantage of them in a cute way. Karen would definitely ‘make’ them do silly stuff with her 😭😭

Request; love your halloween fic for Regina!!! (hot!) Can you write a Supernatural AU with vampire!poly!plastics x werewolf!reader? Curious how you think that would turn out :)

Request; Poly!plastics x Skater!reader While skating reader ended up breaking their wrist doing some dumbass trick and comes to school with a cast, and the plastics are integrating reader (mostly Regina and Gretchen), mf just says “oh yea i broke my wrist doing a trick” like it’s the calmest thing in the world 💀

Request; Poly!plastics x reader So way before the plastics and reader were dating, reader was dating some girl named Ashley and this chick was crazy possessive of reader and I mean like breathing down their neck every single day, so eventually reader couldn’t take it anymore and broke it off, you would think the story ended there but no their ex was a psycho stalking, vandalizing their car/house, harassing them and their family/friends so reader got a restraining order against her and moved to the next city over and thought it was over, fast forward a couple years readers now dating the plastics yada yada somehow their ex found out where the reader now goes to school and them and boom Plastics meet readers crazy ex (Aaron warned them) and they just watch her stand near readers locker and when reader finally gets to school they just stand there in shock mumbling under their breath “no fucking way..” and here starts the stalking and the harassment again, so fast foward a week and reader and the plastics are at lunch talking about her ex and the reader just says with the calmest face "You know she threatened to kill herself once after we broke up, but that after I called the cops on her for breaking in my house" and the plastics just look at her worried the said good times as she casually goes back on her phone now the plastics are like three times on alert of readers ex now so Ashley tries to break into readers house again (thank god Aaron was there) so now the plastics are way more protective of reader then they were before like walking them to their class, like at least one plastic is with reader at all times and reader trying to make light of the situation legit said "I could've used you guys back in 8th grade when she stabbed me!" reader said joking (she wasn't made the situation worse btw) but Ashley ended up getting arrested and life goes back to normal (somewhat) lore go crazy fr 💀

Request; Can we get a drabble for Gretchen x Reader where Gretchen is talking reader’s ear off about the new student (Cady) and reader is just staring at her beauty. Gretchen eventually notices and is all high and mighty about it “Did you even hear what I said?”

Request; Could you maybe do Regina X Reader where reader is have gender dysphoria (Non-binary or trans masc or gender fluid?) and that sort of makes them feel small and little again :(, and Regina is just there to comfort them and take care of them and stuff?

The Arcana

Request; hi there!! i saw the arcana on the fandom list so could i please (sneakily) request asra x mer!reader? like meeting for the first time maybe? thank you!!!

Little Witch Academia

Request; mentor!ursula callistis x student!fem!reader comforting her after a failed practical exam please comfort and fluff bc i missing her sm rn 😔🫶 thank youuuu!

Request; may i request for LWA ursula x croix x reader where it's reader's first birthday away from home and they felt homesick and sad all day until both ursula and croix notice and they surprise them after class? thank you <33

Billie Eilish

Request; Heyy I really like your work! I was wondering if you could do a fic with billie where she "hates" reader but one night something happens (enemies to lovers) you can make it smut if you like, thank youu

[zr-stein]

Rimworld is a very...special game.

I managed to capture a vampire named Lada, and was attempting to recruit her (as one does). Out of curiosity, I went to look at her randomly generated religion.

Oh, about what I was expecting. They believe in cannibalism. I'll have to convert her at some point because I don't need her-

....HUH?

I'm guessing this happened because I have a bunch of mods installed, but this is so bafflingly funny. This vampire is required by her religion to eat people. She is a cannibal. She is also required by her religion to feel really really bad about it.

I'm honestly halfway tempted to not convert her and just to see what happens.

I'm sure Lada will get along great with the rest of the colonists. Like the super soldier who is genetically predisposed to be aggressive and has to consume drugs to not die, who is also a kind teetotaler who loaths drugs.

[literallykenmaandshoyo]

Hi! Could you make a kanae x reader smut where reader rides him? I think that would be pretty interesting.

Support Class

Kanae x GN! reader

Requested by: Anon 

Proofread: NA

Genre: Smut (PORN WITH PLOT?)

Music: Pirates of the Caribbean Ride Soundtrack 

Warnings: Dom Kanae, sub reader, fluff to smut, riding, hair pulling, Ibrahim is streaming but Kanae leaves before things get wild, asshole Kanae (mainly with dirty talk?), slight yandere Kanae? (he's just in love with you), slight yandere reader?

Summary: You try your best to support your boyfriend. Even if that support means riding him while he games. 

Author's note: Comes back from the dead to write this teasing little Kanae fic~

-Mod Kenma

Kanae is a lot of things. A sneaky bastard was quickly rising to the top of your list. He wasn't streaming but was on Ibrahim's stream, playing APEX of course. It wasn't just the two of them, Kuzuha and Abio were there as well. You never really bothered Kanae during these times, knowing it was his job and honestly preferring to give your support behind the scenes. 

So when Kanae muted and called you over, you knew something was up. "I really need your support~" He whined, turning to you and doing grabby hands. You looked up from the book you were reading and sighed. "What do you need?" You asked, putting the book down. Kanae motioned for you to go to him, so you did. He pulled you onto his lap with ease. 

With his face inches away from yours, he whispered a quiet "Wanna have you near me". Before grabbing your hips and pulling you closer. His lips pressed against yours gently before he returned to the stream. You rested your head against Kanae's shoulder. He was always clingy at the worst times and it was embarrassing. 

You listened to the voices of his friends through his headphones. You liked his friends. Kuzuha, while awkward and stilted at times, was hilarious and incredibly thoughtful. Ibrahim was fun to talk to and the conversation never seemed to die out between the two of you. And Ebio was one of the sweetest people you ever had the pleasure of meeting. 

The last thing you remember before falling asleep was Kuzuha's muffled voice whining about Ebio taking something the vampire wanted. Your eyelid drooped and your hands lazily wrapped around Kanae's neck. You pushed yourself closer to him, chest to chest. Your heartbeat became a soothing feeling to Kanae. He loved the feeling of you pressed against him. 

Feeling every breath you take felt like it was breathing life into him. The brunette would occasionally look down at you, moving hair out of your face or moving you into a more comfortable position. He felt himself jump when your sex pressed against his. Kanae wasn't expecting heat to pool at the bottom of his stomach just by slightly shifting your weight. How was he supposed to pay attention to the game when his cock was semi-hard. 

Kanae moved you yet again. This time, it woke you up. Kanae muted before you could let out a tiny whine, moving your hips. The brunette hissed and grabbed your hips, stopping you from moving. When you became aware of your surroundings, you felt Kanae's hard-on. You kept your mouth shut, not knowing if Kanae was muted or not. 

In your sleepy daze, you wanted nothing more than to sit on your lovely boyfriend's cock and lazily bounce on it. The brunette gently shushed you as you continued to move. "I know honey I know. How about waiting till the end of this round then you can sit on my dick for as long as you want, okay?" You nodded and let your head fall back onto his shoulder. 

You buried your face into his neck, drinking in his scent. It was addicting. He was addicting. It was impossibly hard not to roll your hips and beg till you got your way. The warmth of his body against yours was driving you mad. You focused on his heartbeat, slowly counting the beats, as if they were minutes passing by. 

Soon enough, Kanae said his final words before leaving the stream and exiting the game. You were still drowsy, falling in and out of sleep. What brought you back to reality was an aggressive rut against your sex. You whined in shock and grabbed Kanae's shoulder. 

Your boyfriend chuckled at this, finding your reaction adorable. YOu bit your lip. "Kanae~" You muttered. You truly needed him. If you didn't have him now, you were probably going to cry. He shushed you gently, pulling his sweatpants down, freeing his cock. He also pulled your shorts off, along with your underwear. 

"You can ride me for as long as you want, sweetheart," Kanae murmured, his hot breath tickling your ear. Your back arched as you nodded, desperately needing him. A pornographic moan left your lips as you sat down on his cock. He filled you up in a way you know nobody else could. Kanae's dick reached all the right places without him even trying. 

You lazily bounced on his cock, already drunk on how he felt. You mewed in his ear, whining about how only he can make you feel good. All Kanae did was laugh and grope your ass, helping you move up and down. He enjoyed watching you unravel on his dick, his eyes staring at how borderline pathetic your face looked. 

"Don't stop." He murmured, tugging on your hair. "I don't want you to stop till you pass out from how good you feel." You nodded, ready for whatever the rest of the night brought to you. 

[thewilliamambervein]

So The Decent DLC completely burned me out when it comes to Dragon Age Inquisition. After my impromptu stream last week that OBS fucked up while I was sick, I beat it off stream but I'm no longer trying to beat it before Veilguard is released.

In October I will probably be playing Death Stranding still, but I wanna play some horror games I've never played too. I already mentioned them but Vampire the Masquerade Bloodlines modded and Voices of the Void will be the main go to options. Honestly I still need to look at what I got

So once I beat Dragon Age Inquisition after October I will move onto Veilguard.

[awellboiledicicle]

Bg3 au where its just the gang playing dnd but its a modded game where all the companions are in the party... because for once everyone had free time at the same time [sans Minthara because she started a new job and just asked for her character sheet to be used as an npc].

Tav is a college student playing a high elf monk. Was talked out of naming their character "Punchy McFisto" by the skin of the dm's teeth.

Halsin is the manager at a hardware store and also Tav's dad. All he wanted to do was play a hot elf druid, because his friends from college used to run dnd and he never got to play a hot elf druid.

Jahira is the paint department supervisor at Halsin's store [aka she's the only one that can mix paint worth a damn] and is just playing her old college character because she found a binder with her old notes for the character and missed her. Updated her from scratch for 5e.

Minsc is the fiscal manager for the store and likewise tore his old storage unit apart for his character notes. Worked out how to just transplant his character into the story because he missed him. Only note was "do not judge me for the voice i will give him".

Lae'zel is a classmate of Tav's and took one look at githyanki and went "i'm going to make someone so indoctrinated. How integral are they going to be to the setting? A lot? Oh i need this woman to be so deeply hardline."

Astarion, another classmate, and deeply wanted to play vampire the masquerade. Adapted the character to 5e and honest to god has no idea what the scars he gave his character say. He just thought it'd be a nice hook.

Shadowheart is the youngest child of a v religious family and works as a receptionist at a dentists office. Friends with Tav from HS. "I want to be on a mission from God and it gets worse from there. What's the worst god in setting to be on a mission from while also appealing to my edgy phase. Shar? Sweet. Slap that darkness on me, baby."

Wyll works in the college library and joined because Tav and Dm invited him. His initial plan was just folk hero because it sounded fun and the warlock part and the bit with Karlach came up later.

Karlach also works in the library and is deeply excited to have been invited. Giggles after she makes her character swear because she does the voice and surprises herself.

Gale is the Dm's cousin that owns a local bookshop. Got away with his backstory through sheer power of puppy dog eyes and employing the irl Tara to stare at the Dm. Dm responded with the orb and he was delighted. Has to roll a d100 to determine how bad his arcane hunger is every time they go into a new area.

Dm hosts and is honestly a little overwhelmed juggling all the players because she honestly expected 4 at a time bc of how schedules lined up and now she's doing her best to not nuke the party from orbit by accident when scaling encounters. She does feel bad about the fetch quests later though, if only because she has to track their progress and every piece they have to go back for is another second off her lifespan.

Getting everyone in the discord for Secret Note Passing Channels was a chore if only because Halsin insisted he didn't understand until he found the bear emojis and promptly spammed the main chat with them for a bit. He apologized but Tav still died inside. Everyone calling Halsin hot in character is done to make Tav wilt.

[precious-little-bhaalbabe]

You know your Charlie Morningstar tiefling? Could you share how you made her please?

Sure! I’ve been meaning to give an update on her! I haven’t been playing her as much but she’s a lot of fun!

She’s actually mostly base game! I only used 3 mods! And they’re pretty surface level. All available on the BG3 Mod Nexus :)

I didn’t have it in my initial post of her, but I downloaded a mod to give her goat eyes! Unfortunately I couldn’t mix and match the red and yellow to get the proper look of her real eyes, so it’s just Heterochromia time.

“eyes of the beholder” by labotor

The most important one is probably “Astralities' Fantasy Skintone Expansion” by astralities, to get her actual WHITE skin instead of just very pale.

Then lastly to get her fancy clothes so early in Act 1 I used “Purchasable Camp Clothes and Underwear” by anshela. She looks better in her suit than in the sorcerer robes I think.

Other than that she’s completely base game! You could even go without the mods if you needed to. Go with the Vampire skin tones provided to get her as pale as possible and just do the black sclera Heterochromia red and yellow. That’s what I had when I first created her before using mods!

Stats wise she’s pretty simple. Mephistopheles Teifling cause that’s the closest to a Teifling of Lucifer. Draconic Bloodline Sorcerer as her initial character creation class to get extra Fire Resistance. Use the red scales to mimic her little red cheeks. (Unfortunately I couldn’t find a way to get her little black nose :/) I forget if she’s ACTUALLY red dragon bloodline or if I went Gold or.. I think Brass is the other one? I went based on the spell the draconic blood provided and then made the scales red in character creation anyway.

Starting spells

Cantrips: Mage Hand, Fire Bolt, Friends, Dancing Lights, Blade Ward

Lvl 1: Burning Hands, Color Spray, Disguise Self

Went more for flavor than functionality, wanting spells that reflected what Charlie would choose to learn, wanting more utility spells than offensive. Then spells to represent her firework attack magic. And spells to represent how she hides her true demon form.

Noble background obviously, she IS a princess.

Starting proficiencies: History, Religion, (those two are basically the same for her in canon XD), Intimidation (Big demon form scary), and Persuasion (I honestly would’ve gotten rid of this one if I could. Charlie is so charming and lovely but she is not exactly PERSUASIVE)

One final little tidbit to make up for answering your ask so late: I decorated the spare tent at camp (I’ve always assumed to be Tav’s tent) for her!

[jinx-on-mars-19xx]

The Wicked Spring

⚔️ All Previous Parts Here ⚔️

Dom x Colson (Yungblud x Machine Gun Kelly)

Warnings: ABO (knots, slick, mpreg), Viking/god Col, fae Dom, plot heavy chapter, scared boys, PTSD, evil returns, MF being awful, groping, trying to find alone time, interrupted fun, Cia running off, baby in danger (only for a moment), uncovered secrets, Dom getting sick, mentions of underage sex (Col's past), hurt/comfort ☠️ rating: mature/verging on explicit ☠️ shared ideas by @iamnotanearthlingmotherfucker 🖤

Nothing had changed exactly since Kol'son and Dom had found time for each other again but they had. The world didn't feel so overwhelming when they felt connected, the threat hanging over their heads didn't feel so immense. The siren had finally slept, passing out for so long that his husband had to resort to resting their babes against his chest just to keep them fed. It was strange but he was thankful to see his wife feeling calmer. It had been a few days and the boy had slept for at least one of them but it had been a week since the vampire had appeared and… nothing. Gods it was starting to get on Kol's nerves. He didn't like waiting around for trouble.

He'd finally convinced Dom to leave the bedroom and they'd left the children under Mod and Tom's care. Ciarán was running around their feet, still stuck in his wolf form but he was obviously happy to be free of their home. The Viking was glad to see his mate breathing fresh air and they felt clean and cuddly after a shared bath and a little fun. "I missed you ástin min." He sighed softly, wrapping his arm around his lover's shoulders. Thankfully Dom didn't take the statement wrong and instead smiled up at him, twining his fingers with his daidí's where they rest on his skin.

"I missed me too." The selkie huffed honestly before shaking his head. "But I missed you more. I didn't fink I could get tha' scared anymore. I don't know why I let 'em get in me 'ead like tha'. And now I've broken our son." He didn't mean to be so open but it was surprisingly easy with his husband. Who would have thought such a brute would have a big soft heart?

"You didn't break our son, look at him. He's happy. He's just being a good little alpha." The god wouldn't admit to worrying too, he hadn't seen his little boy's precious face in over a month and he couldn't convince him to shift back. He was sure if he could access the same power in himself he could force it, but he didn't want the kid traumatized. Cia was trotting in front of them, his tail wagging and his nose close to the ground. Honestly he was one of the cutest things the man thought he'd ever seen but that didn't mean he didn't miss his human form.

"He shouldn't feel like he needs to be. We got a bloody alpha already, he can calm 'is fluffy arse down! I don't want 'im growing up too fast." The fae whined, resting his head against his mate's chest as they strolled together.

"Damn straight. I don't think he can help it though. He feels our stress. Let's just hope Kiva and Quinny don't go this hard so young or we'll be overrun." The alpha teased, nuzzling his lover's hair.

"Oh gods no, I can't 'andle fhree teen alphas at the same time. I refuse." Dom giggled, shaking his head and half hiding against his daidí's chest. "'Ey yours at tha' point."

"Sure, as long as you raise the omegas. But it's cute you think I'm not breeding you again soon." The god's voice dropped to a growl and the fae shivered in his hold, almost tripping over himself. He was honestly surprised he hadn't felt the beginnings of his heat yet and that Kol hadn't already started teasing about whelping him. With that promise though they felt so much closer to their normal selves and it soothed something tight in Dom's chest. "Maybe make it an even ten?" Kol'son's hand disappeared from his shoulder and caressed it's way down his spine and the boy whimpered when that strong palm cupped his ass and squeezed.

The siren made a noise like a squeak but at the same moment their son barked and darted off for the tree line, shattering any play his parents were about to get up to. "Shite! Where'd he go?" The fae sighed, at first just from exasperation but when they lost track of the sound of his voice Dom felt nerves make his belly flip.

Kol'son's ears would have twitched if he were in his other form but as it was he tried to still himself and listen. His hand didn't move from it's bruising grip on his wife's ass, if anything he was hoping the pup would come right back and he could resume his attempt to fuck the fae against a tree but- "I can't hear him." He was focusing so hard on that one sense that he picked up the moment Dom's nerves turned to true anxiety when his heart started racing in his chest. He finally released the boy and pet gently up his back before letting go, ready to search out their son but they didn't have to.

"Hi daddy! Miss me?" A soft voice that was so sweet and fake it turned Kol's stomach sounded from the trees before she stepped into view, Cia tight in her hold.

The Viking couldn't help making a face and gagging at what she called him but it turned to a growl when he saw his little alpha. "Megna, put him down." He couldn't keep his voice level, he was honestly surprised he wasn't already ripping her throat out but he didn't want Ciarán to see him that brutal. Yet.

"Daidí-" Dom choked on his words, fear was clogging his throat and rage burning through his veins. His husband stepped in front of him but he couldn't help trying to peek around. He knew he shouldn't have let the babe leave their room. He knew he shouldn't have left.

'I've got it okay? When I tell you to run? Run.' The god's voice floated through his mind and he tried to nod but he couldn't leave their son. Sweat broke out over his skin, all his instincts telling him to do just that and escape but he couldn't. He wasn't sure why he felt that way anyway, he was always drawn to protect his young before himself.

"Aww but he's just so fluffy! Maybe I'll keep him as a pet." The bitch had the nerve to purr and Cia answered her with a snarl right next to her face. The pair couldn't help but feel pride but they knew she would just as soon hurt him as let him go. "Bad puppy. What else would I expect when the two of you are training him?" She huffed, rolling her eyes.

When the wolf went to nip her Kol could see her hand moving to slap his nose and he had to hold his wife back. He wasn't used to his own power and at times it scared him but he attempted to use it, snapping his fingers and praying the babe could escape. The moment happened so fast, almost a blink of an eye but he felt fur against his back and Megna was empty handed. Her bee stung lips pouted and her fox gaze landed on him like prey. 'Run.' He thought to his mate but before Dom could obey, a new voice echoed through the circle.

"I don't think so. Your mate shouldn't leave you alone with a woman, we all know how much a brute you are." It purred through the trees and the Viking furrowed his brow. Why did she sound so fucking familiar? The sound went straight through his body and he was ashamed at how his dick twitched. He thought he knew exactly who was talking, this was the god his mate had been promised to. But why did it feel like someone he'd always known?

Dom swallowed hard and pulled their pup close to his chest as he watched a goddess step up behind Megna. "Áine." He whispered, he couldn't help it. He knew who it was, he could feel it down to his bones that ached in her presence. Nothing about her felt kind or loving. He was honestly surprised she wasn't oozing black goo. He wouldn't bow to her though, he refused to show any respect for someone who could act as she did.

"Damhnaic. Don't worry, I don't want your alphas. I'll get you a puppy though Meg, would you like that?" The woman purred, kissing the human's cheek. She was- Dom supposed- objectively pretty, but not to him. He knew what that threat meant, she wanted their omegas but he'd fight to the death to protect them. Her dark eyes snapped to him, her lips curling in a smirk as she looked him up and down. He could see her entire form through the slip dress she wore but that was normal for his home. If he didn't know how disgusting they both were he might find them attractive but as it was… "You're sickened by us? You just thought that you would die for me, that doesn't sound like you're disgusted."

"I thought I would die to protect me kids from you! Do not mistake me mind when you steal fhoughts from it." The siren was surprised at himself but since his husband seemed to be frozen someone had to deal with them. "I'm sure someone else can bear ya children Áine, even Megna! Can't you jus' leave us alone? We won't come for you."

She laughed at that, a full throated deep sound that danced on his skin and gave him goosebumps. His heart leapt into his throat and choked him. "I don't think so sweet boy, she's human. Besides, you were made for me." Before he could take a breath she had vanished and appeared again in front of them, her hand outstretched to pet his cheek. "I don't like when my toys leave. Besides, she's already starting to bore me but I told her I'd get her revenge."

"Oh? And 'ow ya gonna do tha'? Kill us?" He spat, he swore he could feel his skin vibrating with her so close. His stomach was in knots and he felt nauseous. Even her scent smelled wicked. She should have smelled like fresh spring but instead she held the sickly sweet stench of decay. No wonder their land back home was dying, their goddess was turning bad.

"Of course not. She wanted you broken and Kol'son alone. I want you making me more omegas." She hummed, tilting her head as she glanced down at his belly before she finally looked to his husband. "I can do that so easily. Hello Kol, did you miss me boy?" She shifted her attention to him, her claws petting his cheek.

Kol'son bit his lip so hard he tasted blood. He wanted to shift and grab his family and run but he was frozen to the spot. He could feel his lover's confusion and he hated it. In his mind he was begging the universe she didn't say what he knew she was about to. They didn't hide anything from each other, he'd told his wife about his conquests but… there was no way he could fathom that. He knew it would break his queen's heart. "No."

"It's not nice to lie to your first love. Does your pretty little omega know I taught you everything you know about pleasing a woman?" The Viking growled, she was exaggerating but it didn't matter. As a boy she had taken his innocence and they'd shared an intense night together. He'd always thought about her but how could he know? How could he fucking have predicted this?

Dom felt dizzy, his head was swimming with thoughts he couldn't quell. This goddess had touched his lover before- before- oh gods had she seen his future? Did she know? His skin felt soaked in sweat and before he could stop himself he was stepping back and dropping to his knees to be sick. It wasn't that they'd slept together though, he wasn't that easily jealous or so simple to break. No, it was the fact he knew his poor husband had been so young and she was magic. Gods how long had she been torturing them both? And where were his parents?

"Meg sweetheart, take me somewhere to rest while we wait for the rest of our party? They'll arrive by boat soon. Kol, you should visit our bed later. If you think we had fun when you were young…" She winked, cupping his jaw with her claws and holding him still as shs forced a kiss against his lips. "You taste like bitch. My bitch. Yummy. How sad you've already ruined him. Now be a good puppy and welcome your in-laws. Remember, we're a visiting kingdom and you must be diplomatic." She purred, slapping his cheek but he kept from moving his head. He might not be able to speak against her yet but he wouldn't cower to her either.

Dom felt tears well his eyes as he heard the women disappear. His son was licking his cheeks and trying to soothe him but he felt mad with grief. The moment they were free the Viking dropped to kneel and tried to comfort his mate but he was scared to touch him. Maybe she had broken something between them. "I'm so sorry-" The siren choked out between sobs, throwing himself against the man's chest. "She 'urt you for me." He sniffled while the god just stared at him wide eyed. He'd been prepared to grovel for forgiveness. He'd remembered her mostly fondly all these years and he remembered telling Dom what an experience it had been. The first woman he'd bedded, the only pussy he'd been inside when not bleeding before his wife. He was so ready to say he was sorry but he didn't know how to handle the boy blaming himself. All he could do was shake his head and try to comfort his love and their son. Fuck he just wanted to get them home safely.

Author's Note/Tags: @hollywoodxwhore @jaxbreaker @manicpixiedreamb0y @cole-way-iero28 @iamnotanearthlingmotherfucker 🖤

Eep! A little angst and plot to spice up the story. Our boys are strong though! They can handle it. Just in case you were wondering, yes I'm picturing Halsey for Áine. I hope you're still enjoying the story! 🖤☠️

[azem-ghale]

Sorry no sorry but I hate how Larian made everybody look the same age just about everybody looks around 40 and it makes zero sense , probably because they got lazy and just copy pasted most faces and unfortunately the faces look the same age, hate the fact that they chose to do select a head bullshit instead of sliders nodody with out mods has a unique tav they look the same. Exact same skinny body if you're female tav (don't worry boys you're allowed muscles)

And yes I'm aware some people are older but not everyone some people are younger

And if they did that for the motion capture shit, that's dB they should of done soo much of it, I'd of happily waited longer for someone to do more of it by hand so I didn't have to look at so much uncanny animations and expressions

Honestly you can tell so much if it is just a guy in a room jogging on the spot /faking falling over it looks soo bad sometimes

I'm sick of seeing that racist ass vampire in my face at all times he's the only companion who actively chose to be a bigot before any trauma etc it's why he got jumped in the first place sick of people using his trauma as an excuse for it also no a 39 elf would have that many n wrinkles but that man would 100% lie about his age, and no before some of you start bitching there's nothing wrong with having lines but again everyone looks the same age or older

Poor Wyll gets ignored so much it's like they hate him or something people say oh they are fixing his romance.. They can fix his quest too, you know the one where he gets pushed aside in his own quest

And omg I am so tired of how much dialogue is just edgy or cringy which of funny because those two things can be fun but Larian I just want to have a normal fcking conversation without some weird edgy or cringy shit been randomly thrown in.

Also Halsins romance was pretty gross when they first pushed it out (I'm hoping it changed) because so much of you're dialogue choices were flagged as romantic/flirting even if it didn't sound like that, then he's get angry if you rejected him claiming you treated him like a lover....

If I ever try to play again I need a mod that stops the camera showing my face in dialogue so I'm not forced to watch them react out of charecter every time

[fandomshatepeopleofcolor]

Imagine a version of Twilight where the mormon « ideals » are still being personified by the vampires but subverted to show how horrible and harmful they actually are.

Imagine if Bella was a woman of color who falls i love with this white guy she finds very charming at first. She meets the Cullens who are all very lovely towards her. She notices how different they look compared to the rest of the population and finds out they’re vampires. At first, she’s reluctant but then finds herself even more drawn to them and vampirism. But the more time she spends with them, the more she realized how horrible and cult-like they actually are. Vicious, liars, conniving and of course murderous. She finds out that contrary to what they say, vampirism is not a blessing but a curse. A curse that they are purposefully spreading in order to « create a new world ». They try to convince her to « join » them but she starts straying from them. This infuriates Edward who is ready to do anything it takes to make her one of them. With the help of Jacob -who is not a werewolf or magical in any way shape or form-, she has to fight to save herself and her loved ones from the terrifying Cullens.

The thing about the vampires in this version is that they are not « perfect » and don’t sparkle in the sun. They can walk in sunlight but must not spend too much time in it because it weakens them. They can’t be super fast or strong when walking in sunlight and their senses are less efficient. Also, if they stay in sunlight for too long, they start decomposing and rotting. The only ones that are immune to this are the Volturi, the « original » vampires who can only be killed the same way the vampires can be killed in the original books.

Just like in the original books, when somebody is turned, no matter their ethnicity, they become « white » but they also become very evil. Some of their original features remain but they become mostly unrecognizable. The vampires look somehow « charming » but there’s still something odd about them. In their mind, they’re the epitome of beauty but avoid mirror because reflections can reveal their true, horrifying nature as vampires, must they look at themselves for too long.

But honestly, given that Meyer is involved, it’s probably going to be really really bad.

Ok ok ok so please don't take this the wrong way. but I need you to write this version!!!! like I don't mean in the way that lots of white fans mean it ofc. its like how there's so much creativity in the wizarding school fandom but ppl cling to jkrowling and keep giving her money even though she's a proven racist transphobe. like I wrote my first fanfic like 15 years ago for a fandom that has been largely forgotten and I never finished it and even though I adore that fandom I no longer feel compelled to finish the fic. so I recently looked it up and I'm gonna rewrite it with more characters of color centered and see if I can self publish.

lmk if you need beta! just dm me at @aliciadreaming that's my sideblog for my youtube channel.

mod ali

[thechaoticdruid]

[This Bites] (3)

Pairing: Astarion x F! Chubby MC

Content/Warnings: Sexual humor, suggestive content, animal death, blood, slight angst, no Brian yay!, Winnie freaking out again, fluff,

Quick summary: Winnie gets Star out of the house after being cooped up since his arrival. Vampire hijinks ensue.

Chapter Two: Go Back

Chapter Three: Stay here.

Chapter Four: Lets fucking goooo!

Check out this silly recreation of the chapter in The Sims I did.

•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•

Hiding a secret pet from your parents was stressful enough, but hiding a whole grown ass man in your room would likely be a thousand times as nerve wracking.  Especially with a step douche who had a habit of barging into the room. Luckily for Winnie, her stepfather was never a quiet man, always stomping along the floor in thick combat boots. And her current stowaway was very perceptive. That still didn't cover all her issues. Winnie had searched all over Nexus Mods for that damn cheat mod she downloaded but could not find it again. It was as if the creator deleted it just after Astarion got out. To make matters worse the vampire was likely starting to get hungry. He'd been gazing at her more and more longingly each day since his escape from the computer. She'd need a way for feeding her guest which didn't involve anyone getting sucked flat like a caprisun. Of course she thought about offering him her own blood, but the idea honestly made her uneasy. In fantasy it was very appealing, having an extremely attractive and alluring man suck on your neck, what's not to like? There was the whole sharp teeth tearing into your flesh aspect, but in fantasy there was no pain, no need to worry about death. Just sweet sweet blissful fantasy. But that was not the case now.  In reality if Astarion were to sink his fangs into her neck he wouldn't need to drink all her blood to kill her. She'd probably bleed out from her jugular being punctured alone. 

Winnie stared over at him as he peeked out the window. Night had fallen and he didn't need to worry about the sun. At least not for a while. 

Winnie sighed, “I have no idea how I'm going to feed you if I'm honest.” 

“Since you're so keen on protecting our dear friend Brian I suppose that leaves me with having to go out and hunt for my next meal, well unless you'd be generous enough to offer me your lovely neck.” 

“I don't think that's a good idea, but I guess my arm might be okay…” Winnie lifted up her arm to look at it. 

“You love to take the fun out of things don’t you? But alright, I'm not about to turn down a willing meal.” Astarion's pupils practically dilated at the sight of the veins on Winnie’s arm. His mouth watering at the thought of her warm blood coating his throat and he couldn't help but lick his lips.

“Hold on! I didn't mean right this second!” Winnie hid her arm behind her back, her cheeks turning red at the hungry look he was giving her. 

“Such a tease.” Astarion huffed and crossed his arms.

“I had some things planned for tonight and I can't do them if my head is spinning from blood loss.”  Winnie said before searching through her closet.

She pulled out a large duffle bag and began to unzip it. Inside were some hoodies and other clothing. Grey and black T-shirts, some jeans and a pair of sneakers. “Here, these were my brother's, they’ll probably fit you.” Winnie said before tossing the bag onto the bed.

Astarion made a disgusted sound.

“These are so tasteless and drab!” 

“We’ll get you something more suitable to your tastes later. For now you need to be able to blend in.” Winnie explained. Astarion muttered something under his breath before he started removing his purple doublet and exposing his pale muscular chest. He was so perfect, so flawless. Winnie’s brain honestly turned off for a moment as the elf then proceeded to slide down his pants. Her eyes nearly entranced by a certain large shape in his drawers, her face turning bright red. 

“My eyes are up here, darling.~”Astarion purred, voice husky and soft. 

“A-Ah sorry! I should….” Winnie sputtered before scrambling off into the connecting bathroom. Astarion chuckled a bit, watching the flustered female dash out of the room. He couldn't help but find her rather adorable.  Winnie stood in the bathroom for a few moments, heart pounding as she pressed her back against the door. 

Oh God, why didn't I walk out sooner!?

“You can come out now, my dear.” Eventually Astarion's voice broke her from her thoughts. The human girl let out an exasperated sigh before opening the door and heading back in. The clothes were a little tight around his body, making his muscles quite visible through the light gray tee.  Winnie quickly grabbed a black hoodie and handed it to him. “Here, put this on.” She said, watching him slide the jacket on. Winnie zipped it up for him before leaning up on her tiptoes and  pulling the hood over his head.

“Hey! My hair!” He whined.

“I'll fix it for you later. Right now I don't want anyone gawking over your ears.”

“Why would anyone be doing that?” 

“Ah, right. You see, in this world there are no elves, no magic, no vampires….Just humans really.” Winnie rubbed the back of her head. 

“Really? Gods, how dull. Not that I mind being the only vampire around. That actually sounds rather delightful.” Astarion smirked a bit. 

“Please don't get in any world domination ideas. Just because there aren't any vampires doesn't mean there aren't people who can tear you a new one.” Winnie sighed before peeking out the door into the hall. “Okay, they're asleep. Now come on.” Winnie said quietly.

“Where are we going?” Astarion whispered, slowly following Winnie as they tiptoed out of the house. 

“We're heading out to town. It's probably a good idea for you to get acquainted with the area just in  case something bad happens.” Winnie explained, “plus I feel bad about keeping you locked up in my room for days.” She then took out her cellphone and shook it, causing the flashlight to turn on.

“I thought you said, you didn't have magic here.” 

“We don't. This my fanged friend is technology. It’s a machine mostly for talking to people far away, but also does a bunch of other stuff.” Winnie used her phone to navigate in the dark as they began walking down across her driveway. Winnie’s neighborhood was quiet, each of the houses were fairly spaced out with plenty of trees and brush littering the terrain.  Parked in the yard near her family’s cars was a purple motorcycle. 

“Oh, and this is my trusty steed! Or well it's basically my personal source of transportation. Think of it like a horse but made of metal. To make it even better this won't decide to turn around and bite you!” Winnie said with a smile.

“As wonderful as that sounds. I'm not quite sure about climbing onto some strange metal contraption.” 

“Well…If you'd rather walk….” Winnie said in a sing-songy tone, putting her phone into her pocket.

“Nevermind! Let's go!” 

Winnie climbed on the bike, her hands gripping the handles as she glanced over at Astarion. He looked the vehicle over curiously, nearly jumping up in the air when the girl turned on the engine. 

“Come on!” Winnie said.  Hesitantly he climbed on and immediately clung to Winnie, arms wrapped around her plush waist. 

“Oh, this is rather intimate.~” Astarion took the opportunity to nuzzle his face into her neck, growing a bit more comfortable as he held onto her soft form. Winnie immediately turned bright red, a shiver going down her spine.  She didn't really think this through did she? 

Focus! Do not let the incredibly sexy vampire elf hugging your back cause you to have a crash! 

We are not dying because of horniniess goddamnit!

Winnie mentally scolded herself as she drove off. Not that she disliked his attentions, mind you. She was just very easily flustered, never having been in any kind of romantic relationship, physical or otherwise.  Astarion sighed into her neck, The smell of lavender and cherry blossoms mixed with the delectable scent of her blood was absolutely heavenly.  It took all he had to resist the urge to sink his fangs into her neck and gorge himself on her blood.

Winnie kept her eyes on the road, the headlights of her motorcycle illuminated the street as they zoomed down it.  There weren't too many cars on the road so Winnie could be thankful for that. 

They rode away from the suburbs where Winnie’s home resided, eventually until coming towards a small shop just outside of the city. A large sign that read ‘CornerStore’ sat atop the building and illuminated the parking lot.

“This is where I work.” Winnie said as she turned into the parking lot. She parked up front in her usual spot before turning off the engine and hopping off. 

“Well this seems like a cozy little shop.” Astarion said, getting off. “What exactly could you precure here?” 

“Mostly snacks. Some hygiene products and other things. Just stuff you need around your home really.” Winnie said, leaning up on her toes to fix his hoodie before leading him inside. 

Winnie looked around the shop, thinking about anything she could get which would be useful for her new guest to have in the future. She couldn't get too much however. She only had so much room in the little trunk she had on her motorcycle. 

Bandages would be a good idea, shampoo…. Though he'd likely complain if it was some kind of cheap smelling stuff….

Astarion looked over Winnie as she scanned around the store. His tongue flicked over his fangs as he couldn't help but stare at her jugular. The gnawing pain in his stomach was crying out, demanding to be sated. He backed up as Winnie became engrossed in the products that decorated the shelves. Out of the corner of his eye he noticed a small creature outside the shop. Almost cat-like, but with a longer snout, a ringed tail and tiny black hands.  The creature appeared to be picking around in the trash outside. Not his first choice, but it had to at least be better than a rat.

Winnie kept looking through some hygiene products, wondering what her fanged friend would need when suddenly she heard what sounded like an angry raccoon. She quickly whipped her head around, heart nearly stopping when she noticed Astarion was gone. 

Quickly she rushed outside and glanced over to see a dead raccoon fall to the ground. Astarion stood over it, blood dripping down his chin. 

“Are you fucking kidding me!?” Winnie whisper-shouted. 

“I was hungry…” Astarion shrugged, looking at her with round innocent eyes, mouth still covered in blood. Winnie grimaced, kicking the dead raccoon off to the side and out of sight before grabbing hold of Astarion and dragging him off. She pulled him into the store before making a beeline for the bathroom. She dragged him inside and slammed the door. 

The young woman pinched the bride of her nose, on the verge of tearing her hair out.  

“Please…Just please….Can you not do any vampire shit out where people can see you!?” Winnie said.

“No one was even around to see me. Sweetie, you worry far too much.” Astarion said, making a sassy hand gesture. Winnie crossed her arms and huffed, her eyebrow twitching.  She turned before grabbing some paper towels and wetting them. 

“You have to understand.” Winnie said calmly, “if people find out you're a vampire they'll probably try to kill you or worse cut you open and try to find out what makes you tick. Just please be careful.” She wiped the blood off his face before crumbling up the towels and burying them in the bottom of the trashcan. Astarion crossed his arms and stepped closer to her.

“I am a master of stealth, my dear. And if you expect me to just wait about for my next meal while you flaunt around that delicious neck of yours, I might not be able to control myself for long.” He said, running a clawed finger over her jugular making her shiver. His voice was playful, a bit flirty even, but the warning was still very clear. If she kept him waiting for too long he might not even be able to think before taking a bite out of her. 

“I promise I'll figure out a way to feed you, just give me time…Please.” 

“Oh alright, but only because you're so sweet.” He tapped her nose playfully. “And that little snack should keep me sated for now, ahaha.” 

Winnie washed her hands before leaving the bathroom to continue looking around for some supplies. Astarion followed after her, red eyes inspecting the isles with interest. Some of the objects looked familiar, but somehow still foreign.

A couple of times he'd ask Winnie what something was, and she'd do her best to explain, but sometimes it was difficult. Especially with some technological items that Winnie herself wasn't even completely educated on. 

She picked up a few things she deemed would be useful for hosting her guest, bandages, hygienic stuff and a burner phone. Winnie was about to go pay for the items when she froze, eyes widening in fear. Shit. Becca was working tonight. 

“Darling, are you alright?” The vampire’s voice was gentle. Astarion noticed Winnie’s fear and placed a hand on her shoulder before looking over to what had her tense. At the cash register was a tall skinny woman with long red hair, round red glasses and a face full of freckles. There was a black visor around her neck with a name tag attached along with several different round pins, most notable ones being a colorful pin with a pattern of pink and blue with a purple line in between and a second pin with what looked like a mind flayer on it. She wore a casual blue dress and didn't look the least but intimidating so Astarion was rather puzzled as to what had Winnie's heart pounding so wildly.

Becca was probably the closest thing Winnie had to a friend these days, considering practically all her peers from high school had ran off to start their own lives (the fucking plebs) and the two were able to bond a bit over a common interest in video games. See where this is going? Becca was a gamer. A rather devoted gamer who was always quick to snatch up any of the hot new triple A releases.  Winnie turned back to look at Astarion before quietly whispering, “when we go up to the counter do not say a word, okay?”

“Why?” Astarion asked.

“I'll explain it later, just stay quiet please.” She said before the two walked up to the register. Becca glanced up from the magazine she was looking over and smiled. Astarion held the small of Winnie’s back and stayed close to her. He was still not sure why Winnie was so frightened of this very simple looking woman. Though looks could be deceiving. She could be some kind of shapeshifter in disguise! 

“Winnie! I didn't think you'd be stopping by tonight.” Becca said in a cheerful tone. 

“Hey Becca!” Winnie greeted in a tone as perky as she could muster. “I…Just needed to pick up a few things I was running low on.” She said handing over the items. Becca’s blue eyes looked over Winnie’s face as she scanned the supplies.

She noticed her nervousness, but didn't seem too concerned. Winnie was known to get anxious quite easily. But then she noticed the male standing next to her and hummed. Becca noticed the white curls peeking out from under the hoodie he wore and took a long look at his very pretty face. He seemed very familiar, but she couldn't for the life of herself figure out why. 

“Winnie,” She spoke up in a playful tone, “is this your boyfriend? He is cute.” Becca teased with a wink. Astarion couldn't help but chuckle a bit.

“A-Ah! N-No! We're just friends!” Winnie said, getting very embarrassed. Astarion suddenly snapped his head towards her, a bit shocked at her words.

WHAT?!

Winnie ignored him the questioning looks he was giving her. She leaned over towards Becca. “I'm just helping him out. He's really really shy….” Winnie muttered to her. Astarion stood there arms crossed as he glared at Winnie slightly, eyebrow twitching.

“Oh, okay.” Becca responded, scanning and bagging up Winnie’s things. “That'll be 29.50.” 

Winnie paid for the supplies before walking out, Astarion stomping after her. She put the bags into the trunk of her motorcycle before she finally acknowledged his glaring.

“What?” She asked.

“Just friends? After everything we've been through, you and I are just friends?!” Astarion almost hissed out, but his tone sounded far more hurt than angry. 

“We literally just met a few days ago.” Winnie said, a bit confused. She backed up a bit, flinching at his tone.

“I wasn't lying when I said I fell in love with you over and over! I..I…Did something happen? Do you not like me anymore?” His voice sounded a bit hoarse. Winnie’s heart shattered as she noticed he looked like he was on the verge of tears. 

“Astarion…” She said softly before approaching him. “I do like you. I like you a lot, but you don't really know me ... .The person in the game, the brave strong beautiful adventurer. That's not me.” 

Astarion huffed, trying to blink away the glassiness of his eyes. 

“I fell in love with the sweet person who saved me, nothing else matters!” He took her hands in his. “Please…I want to be with you…” 

“Honey, you don't even know my birthday.” Winnie said with a sad smile. “And I….I'm really not sure. I know everything was probably quite real for you, but to me it was like I was just a spectator. Someone enjoying a good story. Hell I've never even kissed anyone in real life so the idea of jumping into a serious relationship out of nowhere is honestly terrifying…” Winnie said and looked off to the side. The silver haired male took a moment to regain his composure, wiping one of his eyes.

Winnie thought for a moment before looking back at him and gently squeezed his hands.

“Look, I don't have a lot of experience in this, but maybe we could start over? I could court you, maybe?” 

“Oh….Y-Yes…Yes that would make me very…happy…” The vampire blinked away his tears before mustering up a smile. Winnie released his hands, before hesitantly moving in closer. She thought about going in for a hug before she noticed him lean closer, lips puckered. 

Quickly she stopped his mouth with her index finger. 

“I'm…Not ready for that just yet…” She said with a sad smile as he pulled back. 

“Of course, apologies…I misunderstood.” He said feeling a bit embarrassed. Winnie quickly decided to just pull close for a hug before anything else happened. Astarion relaxed a bit, taking comfort in her embrace, and quickly wrapping his arms around her. It was difficult. His relationship had now practically been set back to stage one. 

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

After Astarion had calmed down and the two of them left the Corner Store. Winnie decided to keep her word about beginning a courtship with her flamboyantly fanged friend.  The night was still young and a date was the perfect excuse for Winnie to stop somewhere to look for something edible to sate her own hunger. Unfortunately there was little the pale elf could enjoy at such establishments, but Winnie did have one idea. 

Astarion looked over Winnie’s shoulder, his eyes widened in awe at the bright lights of the city. It was rather beautiful, making the night much more pleasant and allowing him to see so much more color than he usually would at this time.

Winnie eventually stopped, bringing the motorcycle to a halt as they arrived at a large pleasant smelling building. The air was filled with the scent of meat and other savory dishes. 

Winnie got off the bike before quickly adjusting the hood on Astarion's head, making sure his ears were not visible.  Winnie then took her vampiric companion inside before ordering a table for the two.  She sat across from him in a booth, looking down at her hands shyly. 

“I know it might be hard to believe with my charms and devastatingly good looks, but I've actually never been on a date before, not a real one anyway.” Astarion chuckled a bit.

“What about before you were turned? Surely you'd have been on a date then?” Winnie frowned.

“Perhaps, but I can't exactly remember much from before. It might as well not have happened.” He sighed, looking off as a waitress walked towards the table. She was rather beautiful, long blonde hair, blue eyes, a waspy waist and thick curves in all the right places. 

“What can I get you both?”  She asked. 

“Oh, something full bodied and red.”  Astarion said and looked back at Winnie. 

“Red wine and a pinjacolada please.” Winnie said as she glanced up at the waitress, eyes staring enviously at her nearly perfect bodice. 

“Ah and some fried chicken fingers, and um….Can you get maybe get us an extremely rare steak?” Winnie asked feeling a bit clumsy and embarrassed about how her last line was worded. 

“An extremely rare steak?” The waiter looked at Winnie like she had grown a second head. 

“I don't know if we're allowed to-”

“Be a dear, and fetch me something as bloody as possible won't you beautiful?” Astarion turned towards the waitress, his tone dripping with charm, his ruby red eyes almost hypnotic as he gave her a flirtatious wink.

The waitress’s face turned bright red. 

“Y-Yes! Yes of course!” She sputtered, a giddy grin spreading across her face. Winnie felt a twinge a jealousy shoot through her. She understood why he did that, but it didn't make it feel any better. The pudgy female took out her cellphone as Astarion began to ramble on about something. Something about how dull all of the people here seemed, and how abhorrent their attires were.

Winnie began looking on Tumblr, noticing a notification about TheRespectfulBard posting a new BG3 fanfiction. Though something else caught Winnie's eye as she skimmed through the Bard’s blog.  Apparently the bard was also looking for a mod that had been recently removed from the Nexus Mod page. However the modification they were looking for happened to be a mod that added a few new overpowered attacks to the game. Winnie quickly looked through the comments and reblogs to find someone saying the mod was made by a user named ShadowMommy69. 

Oh God…….It was made by a simp…..

“Winnie? Winnie? Are you even listening to me!?” Astarion spoke up, sounding a bit annoyed.

“Ah! Sorry…I got a bit distracted….” Winnie hearted TheRespectfulBard’s post before putting her phone in her pocket. 

“Honestly darling if you can't pay attention I might have to find a way to punish you.~” He teased, his hand reaching over to hold hers from across the table.

“Oh shut up.” Winnie rolled her eyes with a grin, her cheeks burning up. Astarion was just eating up all of Winnie’s overly flustered reactions. They were honestly all too cute. He looked at her with soft round eyes, wanting nothing more to plant kisses all over her pudgy little face. 

“I've got your order!” The waitress from before brought in their food and drinks. Her hips swayed as she strutted over and set them down on the table. Blue eyes roamed over Astarion’s face and body, though he didn't seem particularly interested. The smell of blood from the meat hit him like a truck, making his mouth water. Winnie immediately began to nibble on her chicken, but her eyes were glued on that woman. 

“I hope you both enjoy…. Especially you.~” The blonde said, seductively running a finger over Astarion's chest, making him stiffen.

“Um lady he doesn't like to be touch-” Winnie tried to object, though her mouse like voice was completely ignored.

“I'm getting off at ten just so you know.” She winked at him before wandering off. Winnie glared at her strutting form.

“Creepy bitch…” She muttered under her breath. That skank was so not getting a tip. Astarion cleared his throat before dusting off the front of his jacket, acting as if the waitress had got him dirty.  

“Well, now that that's over. I think I have something to attend to.” His looked down at the streak which was practically dripping with blood. 

Winnie bit her lip. She wouldn't lie. This was a bit gross. 

Winnie grabbed her drink, slowly sucking it down as she attempted to ignore the vampire in front of her, cutting up the steak and sucking the blood off. She couldn't imagine what was probably going through the head of any on lookers.

“Oh my God he is so fucking hot.” Winnie’s ears perked up at the waitress’s voice as she gossiped with her friends.

“Who's girl with him? Think they're together?” 

“Fuck no! Have you seen her? Probably his sister or something.” 

Winnie rolled her eyes and glanced back at her food. She didn't really feel very hungry anymore. She looked down at her stomach. The round, plumpness of it made her feel so disgusting. It wouldn't be long before Astarion realized he had more options. Better looking options.

“Are you alright my sweet?” Astarion's concerned voice brought her gaze back up. 

“I'm fine I guess…A bit tired if I'm honest…” She said tapping her fingernails to the table. 

“Well then, perhaps we should get you home so you can get your beauty rest hm? Not that you need it of course! You're already the most beautiful person here.” The elf said sweetly.  

“Yeah, let's go.” Winnie nodded, the two left their table and Winnie payed for the food at the register. She side eyes the waitress from before who was still gossiping with her friends. Winnie turned ready to head out the doors before she was suddenly snatched up by Astarion.

“I just want you to know once we get home. I am going to make you scream my name.” He said, his husky voice purposely raised loud enough for everyone to hear.  Winnie immediately buried her embarrassed face into his neck. Despite being ready to faint she also couldn't help but let out a series of giggles at his bluntness.

The waitress from before looked over with a shocked and frankly pissed expression. The vampire smirked slightly before tugging Winnie outside.

It was around eleven o'clock when they arrived back home. Winnie got off her bike with a yawn before looking over at Astarion who's hood had once again fallen off due to the motorcycle ride. 

Since they were home though, she saw no point in fixing it again.  

“I think that was an absolutely delightful first date, my love.” Astarion said as the two walked over towards the front door. “Don't you agree?” 

“Shit.” Winnie stopped in her tracks.

“Oh come on! It wasn't that bad! Actually I don't think it was bad at all!” Astarion crossed his arms with a scoff.

“No! Shit!” She pointed at the front door which was cracked open about two feet. 

“Oh, oh dear.” The vampire exclaimed before his companion rushed inside. He quickly followed after her as she zoomed into her bedroom. 

“Maddie!? Maddie!” She called looking under the bed and in her closet before checking the bathoom. Astarion went into the bedroom and inhaled, trying to pinpoint the scent of the sweet little kitten’s blood. Was it nearby? However, his red orbs suddenly shot open at the echo of barking coming from outside. 

“Maddie!” Winnie cried in fear. 

~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~

Note from The ChaoticDruid: Been so hyped to get this chapter out! We have a lead on who caused Astarion to suddenly become sentient and it looks like a Shadowheart lover lol. A Shadowheart simp if you will! Also I know a lot of people would probably think Winnie's crazy for not wanting to jump right into a serious romance with Astarion, but I just feel like there are some things we'd love to fantasize about, but might not be too sure about in real life. Besides the girl is very romantically awkward. If anyone has any ideas on how to hide Astarion's ears better I'm open to suggestions, oh and PLEASE tell me what you think of the chapter! I love hearing all the comments about stuff, really makes my day.

Also fuck, Maddie's in danger! Somebody do something!

Taglist: @astarioffsimpmain , @iamsexytrash , @tiedyedghoulette , @hp-art-studio , @gaymistakeboi @the-disaster-in-waiting

[echoweaver]

Get to Know You - Sims Edition

I was tagged by @hazely-sims. It takes me a while to respond, but I love being tagged.

What’s your favorite Sims death?

I’ve had to do some extreme challenge rules to let my sims die of anything other than old age. I have a difficult time letting my sims take risks that might get them killed. Amusingly, I don’t like that that pets have no other ways to die in the vanilla game because even though I don’t let them die, I want it to be meaningful for me to take care of them. 🤷‍♀️

OTOH, I love ghosts. I’ve added death types for cats and dogs with my Pets mods, and I’ve explored ALL the ghost types ad nauseum to pick ones that go well with those death types. A lot of the most obscure ghosts are the best ones. Vampire Thirst has a beating heart that is really impressive. Mummy’s Curse has neat color effects. Freezing to Death puffs out fog breath. They’re great, and they work seamlessly with pets.

Alpha CC or MaxisMatch?

Almost exclusively MaxisMatch. I used to use a mix, but over time the clash of art styles really started bothering me. Going all-alpha is way more work than all-mm, and I actually enjoy my sims’ lightly cartoony appearance.

Do you cheat your sims weight?

No. I want my sims to have a variety of weights, and I prefer body weight to just be genetic. My second gen heir for the Samples, Lancelot, was pretty heavy, and he was Athletic, so I made him a bodybuilder. Then he passed that physique down to his kids because Sims 🙄. After that, most of my sims have ended up slim by chance. My choice of mate is in-game and almost entirely gameplay driven, so there’s no particular reason partners would be slim or fit.

Do you move objects?

Since I’m very gameplay-driven, you’d think I wouldn’t use it much, but @hazely-sims is right. How can you play without it? If you use the default game restrictions, everything in your house ends up looking like it was place on a grid, which it kinda was.

Favorite Mod?

Good grief. I’m going to set aside NRaas, since that suite is rightly most people’s choice. One mod that’s had a big effect on my game is @flotheory‘s Make a Mess. Toddlers got to be incredibly boring, and EA reacted by creating store content that allowed them to skill themselves and be as unintrusive as possible. That was the wrong choice! Toddlers need to be a big PITA. You need to watch them every minute. That’s a real simulation of toddlerhood!

I also have gotten into more detailed survival simulation with my medieval game. @anitmb‘s Hunting Mod has been a big part of making that fun. Also Ingredients Overhaul and custom harvestables and recipes (psst Plantable Wheat)

First Expansion/Game Pack/Stuff Pack?

I played The Sims and TS2, but not very long. I didn’t learn about fan-made challenges until TS3, and that’s when I really fell in love. So that’s the first game I bought expansions for.

Not very creatively, the first one I bought for TS3 was the first one that came out, World Adventures. That seems like a controversial one, but I love it. I guess the Game Pack equivalent for TS3 would be functional store content. I honestly don’t remember what I bought first.

Do you pronounce live mode like aLIVE or LIVing

aLIVE. Sims isn’t the only software to have a live mode, and that’s always how I’ve understood it to be pronounced. I didn’t even know people pronounced it like LIVing, but I can see how that would make sense for Sims.

Who’s your favorite sim that you’ve made?

I technically haven’t MADE a lot of sims because I’m obsessed with naturally born genetics. I download a lot of sims with interesting faces and load them into my game, then let NRaas StoryProgression pair them off and, using its Advanced Genetics, populate my town with interesting genetic combinations.

Have you made a simself?

Yup! Echo Weaver. Some sim friends over the years have put her in their games too.

Which is your favorite EA hair color?

I am SO SICK of all the TS3 hair presets.

Favorite EA hair?

Another difficult answer. There’s a braided updo that came with one of the expansions that I think looks wonderful on all female sims, but I’d have to look it up. That said, I don’t like repeating hairs in a game very often.

Favorite life stage?

Yeah, adult is where you can do the most stuff. I’m not sure it’s my favorite exactly. I like roleplaying each life stage to build a sim’s personality. My Gen 8 Sample sims are kids, so I’m thinking in kid mode at the moment and really enjoying @olomayasims Void Critters mod. Seems like most of the really fun gameplay for non-YA/Adult comes from mods.

Are you a builder or are you in it for the gameplay?

I can’t build my way out of a cardboard box. Definitely gameplay. I think this is the wrong question, though, since there are way more options than those two. My answer would probably still be gameplay, but the gameplay wouldn’t be nearly as fun if I weren’t building a story out of it.

Are you a CC creator?

Trick question! I mod, but I don’t art. So it depends on how broadly you mean cc? 😁

Do you have any Simblr friends or a Sim Squad?

Definitely have friends! Back in the WordPress days, I made a private Facebook community and invited a bunch of my Sims-playing pals. That was probably a “squad.” These days, I’m here, and I’m friend with folks who read and comment on each other’s stuff. I probably wouldn’t still be here without those relationships.

Do you have any sims merch?

I don’t think I’ve even seen TS3 merch. LOL.

Do you have a YouTube for sims?

I cannot stand watching other people play video games on YouTube unless it’s a tutorial. My play style would be horrible to watch because I go on random tangents to tweak lots and down population in the middle of gameplay. Yeah, I’ll skip that and keep to telling stories with screenshots.

How has your “Sims style” changed throughout your years of playing?

I have gotten increasingly wish-driven and more focused on “emergent” sim personality.

Only year 13 or 14 of playing this game, I’ve gotten into challenges that are world aesthetic in addition to gameplay, such as the medieval history challenge (Morbid’s Ultimate Decades Challenge). That involves buckets of cc, a medieval-themed custom world, and a bunch of social rules in addition to just day-to-day gameplay. I want to feel like my games are different experiences.

Since I have trouble making my sims deliberately take risks, and I don’t think I could deliberately kill an active sim, I’ve looked for ways to add hardship into the game. I want to keep my sims relatively poor. I want there to be ways in the challenge for them to die. I want to have real life obstacles for my sims to overcome.

What’s your origin id?

It’s either Echowever or Echoweaver. I misspelled it initially and tried to fix it when EA moved the site to its newer account system. I can’t remember how that turned out. I think it’s Echowever in some places and Echoweaver in others. 🤦‍♀️

Who’s your favorite CC creator?

Gah. I started to answer this 3 times.

I love cc creators! I’m afraid to list any for fear of leaving anyone out who I also love. You’re all amazing!

How long have you had simblr?

I looked this up for a different meme, and I created this account in 2013. I haven’t been on it consistently during that time. I also took a 3-year hiatus from the game entirely and came back during the pandemic.

How do you edit your pictures?

For most of my time storytelling with this game, I haven’t edited my pics at all. In the last year or so, I’ve added ReShade with a pretty unobtrustive preset. mostly just to sharpen things up a bit and improve light quality. I’ve started editing dark shots in Photoshop Elements to increase the light or remove photobombing gui elements.

Not much overall though.

What expansion/ gamepack is your favorite?

Oof with the hard questions. Probably Seasons. The weather and holidays add a lot of depth and character to the gameplay.

Mmmmm. Who to tag? I’m not sure who hasn’t done this yet. @withlovefromayre? @pudding-parade?

[riddlerosehearts]

BG3 Tag Game

thank you to @nerdalmighty for tagging me!! 💖

tagging @smooti @the-blue-wraith @werevampiwolf @lockescoles and anyone else who wants to participate! no pressure, just tagging a few mutuals who i've seen post about the game.

Favorite romance: well, the only one i really know anything about is gale's romance (i know a few details here and there about most of the others but i haven't actually seen how they play out) so it has to be him. but i love gale so much i would be incredibly surprised if any of the others ever surpassed him. he's so funny but he's also such a gentleman, and all of his romance scenes are just beautiful. every time he calls my tav "my love" i feel like i am going to melt into a puddle.

Favorite class to play: i really need to try more of the classes but i've had so much fun playing my bard!! i love using tasha's hideous laughter/otto's irresistible dance on everything. imagine being a famous bard who's also hailed as a hero that helped defeat the chosen of the dead three, and when people ask how you did it, you get to say you just concentrated really hard on making ketheric thorm fall over in a fit of laughter while everyone else beat him up.

Favorite NPC: oh my god this is such a hard question... i honestly loved ketheric's story, and i also love alfira and rolan!! i'm actually so attached to the tiefling refugees in general, it's always a delight to see any of them again. and raphael is an incredibly fun villain.

Favorite song off the soundtrack: hmm, probably either raphael's final act because it feels so much like a classic disney villain song or wash my pain away, because it's just a beautiful song that makes me emotional.

Tell us a little about your Tav: my tav is a half-elf lore bard named elenion who pretends to be super confident and outgoing but is actually a shy nerdy anthropologist. they're very much high INT low WIS and will make ridiculous decisions if they think they might end up with interesting knowledge or a good story to tell (this is the entire reason they let astarion stick around at first even though he was obviously a vampire, btw). they also fell in love with gale within 5 minutes of meeting him and are best friends with wyll.

Something you wish was in the game: i'm in agreement that i wish there were more interactions between the companions at camp!! they talk about each other a lot, but not to each other so much other than the banter you get while walking around, and i'd just love to see them all bond more. i also wish there were more body type options, so you could make more androgynous-looking characters without having to mod the game.

Do you create fanworks? Share something with us: not currently but i would actually love to make gifs of the game!! and i probably will start doing that sometime later this year, whenever i'm able to get a new graphics card for my PC.

[sasaofastora]

Tag Game for Historical Simblrs!

Thank you @antiquatedplumbobs for the tag!

1. What has been your favorite time period to play in or which one are you most excited for?

So far the 1900s and the 1930s have been my favourites. For the 1900s I just loved Evie so much, and the whole period just felt really peaceful. Then for the 30s, Harry and Maisie were just too cute and it was so nice to have a story the was a little more wholesome after the chaos I put the poor Finch’s through in the 20s. I’m very excited for the 40s! Spoiler alert, I’m already there in gameplay, and I’m so happy. I mainly studied ww2 history at university so it’s fun to be in a period I’m very familiar with. Also just aesthetically I’m excited for the 80s and 90s because that’s my jam. 

2. Do you have a favorite piece of historical cc? (CAS or BB)

I think the last time I did these questions I said the Edwardian dress from @gilded-ghosts’s Stately Set and honestly I think that’s still true. I just love it a lot. However I also want to shout out the Langtree Updo by @twentiethcenturysims because it is just perfect for those Gibson Girl looks. 

3. Who is your favorite sim currently?

It’s my boy John Finch. I’m really worried for him since obviously soon he’ll have to go to war, but I just love that dorky little mechanic. I do also really love Ruth though, who we will be seeing more of for sure. She’s just too cute to deal with. 

4. What is your favorite world?

San Myshuno forever. Definitely going to need to find a reason for the Finch’s to move there one day- maybe in the 70s? Feels like it could fit that vibe really well. 

5. Are you more gameplay or story focused?

Bit of both! I have a general idea of what sort of things I want to deal with in each decade as it comes, so I’ll sort of steer the gameplay into those directions, but then often the gameplay will in turn steer the story. This is sort of why I prefer to do smaller story posts- it just matches more with the way I play. 

6. Do you like to play with pets in your historical saves?

Yes! The Finch family has had several dogs by now, I’m certain they’ll get a cat at some point. Pets to me always just make the house feel cozier 

7. What’s your biggest immersion breaking pet peeve with the game?

Well I was going to say when sims from other worlds appear in places it wouldn’t make sense for them to be in, but luckily just today @aheathen-conceivably brought this mod to my attention which I installed almost immediately. 

8. What’s your favorite in-game historical item? (CAS or BB)

Again I think I’m repeating myself from last time, but the radiator from the Vampires GP. It’s a little thing but I love it and just makes historical builds look better. 

9. What would you like to see as a new pack or asset to the game?

Bands please!!! The music career annoys me to no end- it’s so limited in it’s scope! Actually honestly just more careers in general I would really like. 

10. What pack do you think is invaluable as a historical simmer?

I’m jumping on the bandwagon and saying Cottage Living because I mean, just look at it. But also Get Together for Windenburg and Vampires for some very good items. 

11. Do you have a favorite mod to enhance historical gameplay?

I do now, and it’s that Home Regions mod! I also have one called “no more phone stuff” that I’ve had installed forever not sure where from, and it’s very handy. It doesn’t stop sims pulling out their phones all together, but at least no one is playing Blicblock in the middle of the Great Depression. 

12. What’s your ideal family size for playing?

Any where from 2-4. More than that and I start to get overwhelmed.

13. Do you use poses?

Yuuuuuuup, tons of them. Kind of want to learn how to make my own but haven’t had the time. 

14. Do you use any overrides in your game?

No I had one glitch really badly once and now I’m kind of scared of them lol.

15. Do you, or did you, play off-the-grid during your game?

I tried briefly at the start of the 1890s and it was just really frustrating. They really should be able to do more things even if they don’t have power. 

16. What lifespan do you play on?

Normal!  Finally settled on a setting. 

17. What inspired you to start playing a historically?

As I said I was a history student and I have always been a huge sims fan, so when I found out about the Decades Challenge I felt like I had to try it. I was hooked pretty much instantly.

Thanks again for tagging me, this was fun! I’m going to tag @alainas-sims, @applesaucesims, @jenplayssims, @sims-half-crazy, @sims-through-the-decades, and @simadelics. 

[cyberpunkpizzaman]

Returning to Oblivion

I’ve probably spent more time telling stories about Oblivion than I have actually playing the game. That time I randomly found Dark Brotherhood robes in someone’s basement during a burglary. That time my English teacher spent a good portion of class talking about how cool the vampire questline was. The mess that was horse armor DLC.*

I never even came close to beating the game when I first bought it on Xbox 360. I’d launch it every now and again, sneak around, do some stealing, do some assassinations, and close it down. After I swapped over to PC I ended up buying it in a Steam sale and going all in on mods… racking up maybe 10 hours in the process and never getting past Kvatch (the first phase of the main quest).

I recently came back to the game, and oh man. It’s still so beautiful. And so much of what it does is so very interesting.

Sometimes a game pioneers a new system or a technological innovation that becomes key to the entire experience. It doesn’t always have to the mechanical focal point of the game; I’m talking less about Shadow of Mordor’s Nemesis System than I am about Half-Life 2’s physics engine. It’s not the focal point of the game’s core loop, but it’s a key part of the experience and the game’s designers clearly wanted to show off everything it can do.**

For Oblivion, that system is Radiant AI.

Here’s a recent article from the escapist talking about the system in far more detail than I’m planning to here, digging into the development history and some of the insanity that resulted from the original draft build. On a basic level, the system establishes a set of time and need-based routines for every NPC in the game. Around 7pm, you’ll find most of a town’s residents in the inn, socializing and eating. During working hours, they’ll be manning their shops or wandering the streets chatting with ‘friends’.

What I didn’t realize until now is just how many of the game’s quests are designed to center this system. In the last few hours of playing I’ve had quests say:

“Come back and talk to this person when their boss isn’t around.”

“Follow this merchant after he closes up shop to see where he goes.”

“Search this man’s house when he’s not home.”

“You can find the guard captain in the barracks after dark or patrolling the streets during the day.”

So much of the game is designed to show off the Radiant AI system, emphasizing NPC routines and using that structure to enable interesting interactions. It’s honestly super cool and there aren’t many RPGs in 2022 that leverage systems quite like this one.***

And Skyrim’s Solitude looks like a village compared to Oblivion’s Imperial City.

If you want to finance Todd Howard’s next Skyrim release, all links above head to the Humble Bundle store (and I get a small portion of any purchase you make using them).

* I’m weirdly nostalgic for that controversy in today’s age of micro-transactions and skins…

** I think you could argue the point with Half-Life 2; I’ve heard the argument somewhere that the game existed in large part as a tech demo for the Source Engine.

*** Roguelikes are, of course, another matter. Streets of Rogue and RimWorld come to mind on the crazier end of the spectrum.