#i'll make an orc for you next time

[jacqcrisis]

has...

has Gale...

has he... been smelling....?

HELLO????

[banj0possum]

Hi, I just started reading your works and they are fantastic! I saw on your request page that you do teratophilia, but I don't fully know if you do orc, so I wanted to know before I sent in a proper request. If you don't do orc I'll probably request something with a minotaur instead.

Little Duckling

Yandere!Orc x Gn Reader

cw: nsfw, kidnapping, stalking

⚔️ Valeth was a warrior, a dangerous, bloodthirsty orc. One who had the blood of hundreds in his hands. A scar-ridden man whose company consisted of the vile and ruthless, thieves and murderers.

⚔️ So why the hell were you in here??

⚔️ You looked so small, so weak. A tiny creature possibly from a far land from the look of your wide-eyed, innocent face.

⚔️ He stared at you from across the tavern as you happily scribbled on a notebook with a small glass of some sweet drink you ordered.

⚔️ He could hear the laughs and jeers of the other patrons, some giving you less than decent stares at your body, it made him sick.

⚔️ But why? Why is he suddenly so protective of a tiny, weak, small, soft, cute, adorable, fragile doll of a person like you?

⚔️ ...

⚔️ Shit...

⚔️ He pinches the bridge of his nose and gets up from his seat and walks over to where you're sitting.

⚔️ "You better get out of here before you get hurt Duckling."

⚔️ You look at him startled with the cutest eyes, fuuuuckk

⚔️ You ask why with the voice of an angel; the orc bit the inside of his cheek to stop him from smiling.

⚔️ "You new in Phenonia?" He crossed his arms, glancing at the others in the tavern, all of them looking away from you after meeting his gaze.

⚔️ You tell him you're a traveler in search of adventure. He lets out a laugh, giving you a tusk-filled smile.

⚔️ He offers you a walk back to your inn and you happily agree, skipping and rambling about your travels the whole way. Normally he would tune out someone as talkative as you, words he didn't understand going one ear and out the other, but you, you managed to hook him with your explanations of distant lands and the discoveries you made there. He even asked questions and gave you tips and advice for your future adventures in Phenonia.

⚔️ You reach your inn and you bid the large orc goodnight, shaking his calloused hand and heading inside.

⚔️ He stood there for a minute, looking at the hand that touched yours. He felt his face heat up a bit before he shakes his head, trying to get the image of your bubbly smile out of his head. He heads to his home to get some rest but all he can think about is you in the bed next to him. Its not weird is it? god what's wrong with me????

⚔️ You two ran into each other a few more times, Valeth always using the nickname he gave you; Duckling. He says it's because you remind of a little duckling always waddling and smiling at everyone all the time.

⚔️ He helped you out sometimes whenever someone gave you a hard time. It's like he would magically show up to protect you like a big green guard dog. You would always give him that damn smile and treat him to a meal.

⚔️ When you two weren't together, he would be watching you go about your day in a busy street or from behind a merchant cart or crate. He knew your set schedule like the back of his hand, where you'd go for breakfast, your favorite place to rest after a long day, the spot you would always draw at. He would pay friends of his to keep tabs on you to make sure you're safe.

⚔️ You left a scarf once and he found it with an adorable pin that was for favorite bug made from jewels of your favorite colors. He wanted to give it back to you, but he couldn't bring himself to part with it. he found himself taking in the scent of you from it. He imagined you actually there with him as he stroked his cock while moaning into your scarf.

⚔️ Eventually he had enough of merely watching you and quick hand touches, he wanted to know your touch, he wanted to know your taste, he wanted to know the sound of your moans under him.

⚔️One night after an exhausting day of trying to sketch a bird that kept flying away, you see Valeth waiting by your inn. You smile weakly at him and wave, but he just sighs and walks over to you.

⚔️ You start to get a bit uneasy and ask what's wrong but he reaches in his coat and pulls out a cloth.

⚔️ "Sorry for this Duckling.." He mutters to you before pulling you to him, covering your mouth with the cloth. You black out before you could even scream for help.

⚔️ You wake up in a bed full of warm pelts with someone lying next to you. You gasp, remembering what happened and kicked yourself off the bed.

⚔️ Valeth jolts awake and sees you scrambling to your feet on the floor next to the bed. He gets up and quickly pulls you close as you try to wriggle out of his hold.

⚔️ He tries to calm you down, whispering comforting things to you. You fight the tears threatening to run down your face as you feel his breath on your neck.

⚔️ His hands feel you up and down, rubbing you in order to comfort you, but it only serves as a way to scare you even more.

⚔️ He kisses your neck, licking your sweet spots, his tusks ghosting across your skin like a dull blade.

⚔️ "It's alright Duckling, you're safe, it's going to be okay. But you're gonna stay here with me now alright? I'll keep you safe, I promise."

⚔️ He reaches in the drawer next to you two and pulls out your scarf, he puts it on you, crying your teary face with the soft fabric. You hold the scarf close to you, but you still turn away from him.

⚔️ He sighs and puts his hand at the back of your head, bringing your forehead to his.

⚔️ "You'll understand soon enough Duckie...you'll understand how much I love you.."

⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⋅•⋅∙∘☽༓☾∘∙•⋅⋅⋅•⋅⋅⊰⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⋅•⋅

⚔️ Valeth kept you locked in his home after that, always leaving to keep up appearances that nothing happened. Whenever someone asked where you've gone, he said you just left in search of more adventure as you do.

⚔️ He was as tough and stoic as ever when he went out but as soon as he comes back home to his modest house in the edges of the kingdom and sees you, he becomes a giant cuddle bug.

⚔️ This big battle-scared orc turns to putty when he hugs your small form.

⚔️ He still locks the doors and windows from the outside in fear of you leaving him, but it's ok! You can still write about your travels and such! He brings home things he thinks you'd like. Weird stones, leaves, trinkets, anything.

⚔️ He would do anything for you, and you're reminded every day when he cuddles you close, taking in your sweet smell. Everything. Except being let go of course.

⚔️ Sometimes you refuse to eat in hopes of ticking him off but he just laughs and holds you in his arms like a stubborn baby and spoon-feeds you.

⚔️ No matter how much you kick and scream, he's always stronger than you, always shutting down your tantrums as easy as placing his hand over your mouth.

⚔️ Eventually you learn to live with him and his affections, the pile of junk he brought home is rummaged through and actually paid attention to by you, meals are eaten, albeit with you staring daggers into him, but he couldn't be happier.

⚔️ He never forced you to do anything lewd you didn't want to do, but he would sneak off out of bed to watch you, sometimes touch himself to the thought of the day he finally gets permission to bed you.

⚔️ But now, he's satisfied with you just sleeping with him in his arms, his face buried in your hair.

⚔️ "You're mine little Duckling...only mine..."

Thnkank uouyu anon <3 <3 <3

[thechaoticdruid]

[We'll Protect Each Other]

Paring: F!Tav x Astarion

Plot: While staying at an inn in the Underdark an unfortunate chain of events forces Tav and Astarion to protect one another.

Content Warnings: Fiercely protective Tav, Tav uses She/Her pronouns, Tav is kinda feral and unhinged, blood, gore, threats of/ literal genital trauma, we are going game of thrones up in this bitch, sexual harassment, brief allusions to Astarion's trauma, violence, so much fucking violence, death, Tav is heavily based on my own Tav Winnie. Oh and a little fluff.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tav hummed as she sat at the tavern table, glancing down upon the suspicious letter she'd received last night. 

‘I'll see you soon, True Soul.’

Been a while since she was called that, almost everyone who had referred to her as a ‘true soul’ was dead now so being addressed as such was rather peculiar, but at the same time not completely unwelcome. Tav smirked slightly, the idea of a new foe to face sparked excitement. It had been so long since the human druid had a good fight.  Since the defeat of the Elder Brain she'd been staying in the Underdark, looking after a horde of hungry vampire spawn. Her days weren't uneventful in the slightest, but gods did she miss adventuring. 

Tav's lover was over at the bar getting the two something to drink. Since the Underdark has become home to seven thousand life-challenged individuals this particular inn had made preparations to feed them should any appear at the establishment. He tapped his claws on the table, waiting for the bartender to finish mixing up their beverages as an uneasy feeling coursed through his body. Astarion had felt unfamiliar eyes on him since he'd left to get him and his beloved some refreshments. His blood red eyes darted back and scanned the tavern. Tav was still waiting at their table and mostly all the other patrons there happened to be deep gnomes, all who seemed much more concerned with friendly banter. But then he spotted someone off in the corner. A tall half-orc whose eyes seemed trained on him.  Astarion wasn't exactly sure how he didn't spot the big oaf sooner, usually he was far more perceptive than this, but perhaps his hunger had him quite distracted. The elven vampire tapped on the bar table impatiently wondering exactly what was taking the bartender so long. 

Eventually the half-drow barmaid brought over the drinks.

“Sorry for the wait.” She said softly, “not used to preparing food for our night time visitors.” The half-elf handed him a cold mug of dessert wine and a warm mug of ethically precured lifeblood.

Astarion took the drinks before turning and making his way back.  The half-orc then made his move, walking straight towards him.  

“Have a drink with me, handsome?” The half-orc gave a flirtatious smile, making the elf internally sigh in annoyance.

“No, I think not. My partner is waiting for me, you see.” Astarion gave a forced smile before attempting to make his way back to Tav. A large green hand was placed on his shoulder.

“Come on! Surely you're not talking about the little rat’s nest of hair? Sweetheart, I could show you things that little human wench couldn't even dream of-”

The elf quickly slapped his hand away. 

“Oh, I highly doubt you could show me anything I haven't already done myself. Now bugger off.” Astarion growled out the last part, barring his fangs at the orc before stomping off. 

Tav glanced up as Astarion took a seat next to her. He had a look of discomfort on his face, but quickly bushed it off as he noticed her attention on him.  “I'm back, my sweet.” Astarion smiled at Tav, setting their drinks down before planting a kiss on her cheek.

“You okay, doll? You seem uncomfortable.” Tav put her hand on his shoulder only to receive a small smile as his hand covered her own.

“I'm fine, love. Just a little annoyed by the wait is all.” Astarion squeezed her hand gently, not wanting her to worry. 

“Okay….” Tav said before looked back down at the letter, taking a sip from the wine Astarion had brought her. 

“What's that?” Astarion asked, sliding an arm over her shoulders before taking a sip from his own mug and internally sighing.

Rothé blood….

“Just an ominous threatening letter left by gods know who.” Tav said casually, nearly making Astarion spit out his blood. 

“Ah darling, perhaps you should be a just little more concerned about this?” 

“I'm not afraid. Let them come get me! I've been itching for a good fight for ages!” Tav clenched her fist, a wicked grin spread across her face. 

“Oh Tav, you know what that bloodlust look does to me.~” Astarion flirted leaning closer against his love. “But maybe we should be at least a bit more careful?”

“We’ve dealt with plenty of baddies before, Star. It’ll be fine!” Tav insisted.

“Need I remind you that there are only two of us now since the others have all gone their separate ways.” Astarion sighed, “I just worry for you, my dear.” 

“I know babe.” Tav planted a kiss on his cheek affectionately before saying,”I'll tell you what, once we get everything sorted out with the other spawn we'll recruit some new traveling companions and go after that ring of the sunwalker thing I heard about.” This brought a smile to the vampire’s lips. 

Large footsteps were heard stomping over to the table. Astarion glanced up seeing the half-orc from before approaching them.

“Sorry about my behavior before sweetness. I've just never seen such a breathtaking looking creature such as yourself. So, how about you ditch the runt and i'll take you somewhere we can get you something better to drink…. Perhaps someone?~” 

“Are you daft? I told you to bugger off!” Astarion snarled, glaring daggers at the large male. Astarion kept his arm around Tav in a protective manner, but it was more so for his own comfort truth be told. The half-orc was really making him uneasy. Tav could feel Astarion shake a little. 

“Hey, no need to be like that, I just want a piece of that tight little elven as-”  The half-orc was suddenly silenced by a scimitar pressed dangerously close to his groin.

“You really don't want to finish that sentence, big guy.” Tav said calmly, not even looking up at the green bastard. “You know I’ve been really itching to slit someone's throat lately, but you….I think I might have fun with you…” She said before finally turning her head towards him, a sadistic grin spread across her lips. 

“Y-You better watch yourself y-you little b-b-bitch!” He whined out the last part feeling Tav press her blade harder against his clothed crotch.

“Oh I like this!” Tav breathed out, voice unhinged and full of bloodlust as the half-orc began to shake in terror. “A big stupid creep thinks he can push me around just because I'm small…It's almost cute how pathetic you are. I should cut you open and show everyone what you really are inside. A gutless coward!” Tav stared at him intensely. The wicked grin spread across her lips didn't falter even for a second, until eventually she sighed.

“But it'd be rude to get blood all over Lyn’s nice clean floors.” Tav said, speaking of the half-drow bartender. “So you're going to leave now and never come near my lover again, or I'll cut your cock off and shove it down your throat. Understand?” Tav spat, nearly stabbing the blade of her scimitar through the orc’s pants.

“Y-Yes m-ma’m!” The half-orc said in a high pitch tone. 

“Good boy.” Tav pulled her blade back, “now get the fuck out of my sight.” She growled, causing the green creep to turn and make a run for it, slamming the door on his way out of the tavern. All the gnomes had seemed to halt their chatter and look over to the two lovers.

“Tav…” Astarion muttered in an irritated tone, “I didn't need you to defend me! I had that completely under control!” He fussed, clearly embarrassed because of the scene Tav had caused. 

“I'm sure you did sweetie, but you can't just expect me to sit by and do nothing when some pervert keeps treating you like a piece of meat.” Tav said calmly. 

“Darling that orc was huge! What if you hadn't been quick enough!? What if he comes back!?”

“Honey, I can literally turn into an owlbear.” Tav rolled her eyes. “I know you’re capable of kicking ass, Star. I have no doubt about that. But I don’t protect you because I think you're weak. I do it because I love you.” Tav said sweetly, placing her hand against his cheek. “And sometimes it's okay to need someone to protect you…” She looked down at his trembling hands. Fear began to stir in her gut, worried that he might have been triggered by the situation. Astarion simply place his hand over hers and relaxed into her touch. 

“I know. I love you too…It's just…I want to be able to protect the both of us…” Astarion glanced off to the side.

“You can! Babe, you're so much stronger than you give yourself credit for! You practically carried our team the entire time we were worm brained!” Tav placed a second hand on the other side of his face. Astarion rolled his eyes with a slight smile.

“Gods Tav, you're such a bad liar.” 

“I'm not lying!” Tav chuckled, “I'm pretty sure you have more kills than the rest of us combined! You're so stealthily and quick! The fuckers never saw it coming!” 

“Well perhaps I could be willing to allow you to win this little debate. Granted you continue to list off all of my many talents, or you can just call me beautiful and we can head upstairs for the evening?” 

“You're beyond beautiful, my Star.” Tav purred. 

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

The night was quiet as Tav and Astarion rested on the top floor of the Inn. Both of them snug in their bed. Astarion always had a tendency to curl around Tav as she slept and he tranced. However, tonight Tav lay there, eyes wide open. Her mind for some reason wandering off to a memory brought on by today's events.

“I assume he belongs to you.” The drow’s eyes leered over Astarion lustfully as she spoke about his as if he was nothing but cattle.

“Excuse me? I don't appreciate you talking about my friend like he's a fucking piece of property.” Tav snapped, stepping in front of her companion protectively. Of course she'd see him that way. The drow treat all their men like cattle. The fact didn't make Tav any less insulted. 

“Now now. No need to speak like that. I only wish to make a trade.” The drow said calmly, however her stare seemed to harden a little. “What is your name, spawn?” 

“It’s Astarion but hold on!” Astarion put his hands up as if to keep some distance between him the drow. 

“Astarion, I've dreamt of being bitten by a vampire since I was a little girl.” She purred. Tav shot the drow a look which she ignored, red eyes locked on Astarion’s mouth.

“Let me get this straight, you want to be bitten?” Astarion asked, a look of confusion and disgust filled his face. Normally he would jump at a chance to sink his teeth into a willing person, hells part of him wanted to drain this bitch dry because of how she talked about him, but this drow pretty as she was her blood smelled worse than death itself! Just being in her presence was enough to make him want to gag! 

“To feel my life’s essence slipping away, to dance on the edge of death, yes I want it.” She said, nearly swooning. “I'll even compensate you. A potion of legendary power. It's not for sale, but it's yours if you bite me.” 

“I will have to decline.” Astarion said immediately.

“Excuse me? This is a once and a lifetime opportunity and you're squandering it!” 

“I gave you my answer!” Astarion spat. The drow woman ignored him and immediately turned to Tav. 

“Can't you talk some sense into your obstinate charge!?” She demanded.

“He said no. The hells do you not understand?” The druid snapped.

Gods, Tav couldn't help but think back to her first encounter with Araj the drow blood merchant. This incident today reminded her far too much of it. Except this time it might have been worse. The fucking orc actually tried to put his hands on him.

Tav furrowed her eyebrows and glanced back over to Astarion’s peaceful looking face. She knew he could handle himself in a fight, but the situation was different. These sorts of things really got to him. Tav ran her fingers gently through his hair. She needed to keep safe no matter what. Sleep took Tav eventually and she snuggled into her vampire’s embrace, enjoying the coolness of his skin.  And for a while the two were at peace, blissfully unaware of what lurked in the shadows.

It was probably about midnight when Tav woke up. She whimpered and felt around the bed for her lover, only feeling emptiness in his place. 

“Astarion?” Her eyes slowly blinked open and Tav sat up. She glanced around the room discovering the vampiric elf was nowhere in sight.  She tried to rationalize that Astarion was probably just up and around since he didn't need as much rest as she did, but Tav couldn't help but feel anxiety creep its way into the back of her mind.  She got to her feet before slowly feeling a dagger be pressed against her throat. 

“Nice to see you again, true soul…” A familiar feminine voice spoke softly in Tav's ear, causing her to grit her teeth as she looked back. 

“Araj? The hells are you doing all the way out here?” Tav sneered. 

“I needed to see you again. I require your help.” 

“I told you before, you aren't getting any more of my blood and if you even think of bringing up Astarion so help me-”

“This isn't about him, darling. This is about you. I am on the verge of something extraordinary, but I need one key ingredient. Your heart.” Araj slowly dragged the knife down her throat and down between her breasts.

Tav rolled her eyes before chuckling.

“Sweet, but you know I'm spoken for.” In a swift motion the druid slammed her foot down on the drow's own before grasping hold of her wrist and forcing the blade away from her body.

“You idiots! Get in here and help me!” Araj suddenly shouted, prompting the door to open, revealed two half-orc male’s and a female. 

With them was Astarion bound with silver chains wrapped around his body. Cloth was tied around his mouth, preventing him from speaking, but Tav could very clearly hear him whimpering in pain. The silver was burning his skin! 

“Now cooperate or else! I'll make sure our darling bloodsuck-” Tav didn't even give the drow a moment to speak any further before knocking the blade from her hand and slamming her fist into her face with enough force to knock Araj to the floor. Araj hit the ground with a thud, seemingly knocked unconscious from the blow. The druid’s eyes quickly went back to Astarion who was struggling and letting out muffled cries of pain, but despite this he looked far more pissed off than afraid.  That didn't calm the rage that was stirring deep inside Tav however, and the fact that the same gods damned perverted orc from before was holding onto Astarion's silver chains just pushed her over the edge. 

Without even thinking Tav dropped to the ground transforming into a huge direwolf before letting out a deep bloodthirsty snarl and lunging right for the familiar half orc. Her jaws sank right into his groin, causing him to let out a blood curdling scream.

“Bloody hells! Get that thing off of him!” The female half-orc shouted. 

“But the vampire!?” The other male orc replied.

“He's tied up you dumb fuck!” She shouted before turning to attack Tav. Tav yanked her head back hard, tearing a chunk out of the half-orc’s flesh and trousers. The half orc continued to scream as Tav spat his unmentionables out before he tumbled over and began to bleed out on the floor. 

“That crazy drow bitch better pay us good for this.” The remaining male half-orc muttered before charging at Tav alongside the female. 

Tav quickly dove under his legs before bucking him to the ground with her back and darting right for Astarion. Astarion shook his head as his wildshaped lover approached him with a doglike whine and sunk her teeth into his chains, trying to he them off him. She was only able to allow one of his arms to slip free. Astarion quickly tore the cloth around his head. 

“For gods' sake Tav! Look out!” He shouted, before suddenly the female half-orc slammed into Tav from behind, wrapping her arms around her in a headlock. 

“I've got her! I've got her!” The female orc shouted. Tav growled loudly before turning round and sinking her teeth into the orc female’s shoulder. In the struggle the two ended up tumbling down the stairs and out the front door of the tavern.  The half-orc male was about to run off after his female companion when suddenly he noticed Astarion had somehow slipped free from his bindings. The vampire’s skin was quickly healing from the burns left from the silver, and his eyes almost appeared to be glowing red. He clenched and unclenched his fists revealing sharp claw-like fingernails and the next thing the half-orc knew were icy fangs piercing his throat.

Outside the tavern, Tav and the female orc were still going at it. The half orc threw a punch to Tav's head knocking her back before she took out a blade and took a stab at the direwolf only for Tav to dart out of the way at the last second and take a bit at the orc woman’s leg. 

“You godsdamn mutt!” She yelled, kicking Tav in the face before plugging her blade into her back.

Tav howled in pain and backed up, blood trickling down her back and staining her fur.  She let out a pained whimper as she looked up at the half-orc.

The she-orc smirked triumphantly.

“Not so high and mighty now are you, druid?” She huffed starring Tav right in the eyes. Without another word Tav lunged at the orc with a monstrous growl, sinking her jaws into the green female's head. 

“GODS DAMNIT!!” The half-orc screamed. Tav sunk her claws into her shoulders as she stood up on her hind legs and dug her teeth into the orc's skull.  Then with a harsh whip of her head Tav snapped her opponent’s neck. The druid then released the orc, letting her drop to the ground.

Tav dropped back down on all fours with a sigh, panting a little from the fight. She turned her head and yanked the blade from her back. Luckily in this form she wouldn't actually be harmed. But she was honestly feeling far too tired to stay in her wildshape now. Slowly she transformed back, taking a moment to regain her strength. 

“A-Astarion…I-I need to get back to Astarion…” Tav told herself. 

“I'm afraid you won't be seeing him again.” Araj suddenly stepped out from the shadows, blade in hand. “I am not leaving without your heart!” She hissed. 

“Oh for fucks sake! Don't you ever get tired of being a psycho!?” Tav hissed, she quickly reached for her weapon, but this time Araj was quicker.  She stabbed her blade into Tav's leg making her freeze. 

“What….W-What is this!?” Tav sputtered, suddenly feeling her limbs begin to tingle and go numb. She tried to move, but her body just felt so heavy. 

“A paralysis potion I've been keeping for a rainy day. I'd hoped I wouldn't have to use it. I have no idea what affects it will have on your heart unfortunately, but I can't let you get away.” Araj stopped as she watched Tav whimper and squirm on the ground. The silver haired female wiped her blade clean off the potion before she then undid the buttons on Tav's shirt, exposing her chest.

“Now I'll need a nice clean cut. I don't want to damage your heart too badly.” The drow licked her lips before dragging the tip of her blade over Tav’s chest. “Just close your eyes and it'll be all over…” Tears began to form in the corners of Tav’s eyes, heart pounding so hard she was sure it’d burst right out before that damn drow bitch would even have a chance to cut into it.

“Get away from my Tav.” Astarion suddenly growled out, appearing behind Araj who quickly turned and struck at him with her blade. 

“Not until I have her heart!” Araj hissed.

Astarion ducked out of the way, unsheathing his own blade and taking a swing at her.  His dagger barely nicked the side of her cheek as she dodged, drawing a few drops of blood.

“Gods below, it's even more foul smelling than before!” He made a gagging sound.

“Mock me all you like! It won't stop me!” Araj took another stab at Astarion aiming right for his throat, but he quickly grabbed her wrists and pushed her back towards the ground. Now that he was free of the tadpole his vampiric strength returned and it gave him an edge in battle.

“You know darling, I think I may have had a sudden change of heart. I may just bite you after all.” Astarion said, forcing a grin upon his face. 

“What-” Confusion flickered over her face for a split second, immediately being followed by Astarion sinking his fangs into her neck, but instead of drinking her blood, he tore her throat right out.  

Astarion immediately spat out any of her blood that had gotten into his mouth before watching her drop to the ground, a twisted smile plastered over her face. “I-Incredible….” She choked out before suddenly coughing up an alarming amount of blood. 

 He quickly disregarded her lifeless body and swiftly moved to Tav who was still paralyzed on the ground. 

“My love, are you alright?” Astarion knelt down and cradled her head with one hand.

“I-I can't m-move….S-She got me with a paralysis poison…” Tav croaked out.

“Hang in there lover.”Astarion frowned, looking down at Tav with worry. He immediately scooped her up bridal-style. “I'm going to take you to Dalyria. She should be able to cure this.” Astarion carried Tav back into the tavern. Several of the patrons were whispering to each other. Some seemed deathly afraid of Astarion and his love. The vampire spawn simply ignored them.

“I don't think we're going to be welcome here any longer, Star.” Tav said as Astarion set her down on a sofa near the tavern fireplace.  

“Forget them, darling. We're leaving anyway. Now sit tight while I grab our things.” Astarion said, kissing her forehead before quickly going upstairs to get their packs. Tav sat by the fire, she could see the barmaid Lyn giving her an awfully ugly look. 

Good gods, it's not our fault we were attacked.

Tav rolled her eyes. It didn't take long for Astarion to return with their things.  Tav weakly nuzzled her face into his neck as Astarion scooped her back up into his arms. Tav stared up at him with adoration as he carried her out. 

“You did it, you know.” She hummed.

“What are you on about?’ Astarion glanced down at her.

“You protected me!” Tav exclaimed with a weak smile, “and thank the gods you did. I was sure I was a goner.”

“You give me far too much credit, my love. I still allowed you to get injured. You did a much better job than I.” Astarion huffed. 

“You kidding? You just saved my life Astarion and this isn't even the first time.” Tav insisted. “Look, from now on no more arguing over who protects who. We protect each other and that's final.” 

“You're being awfully demanding of someone who can't even move her arms, my dear.” Astarion chuckled, “but I am grateful all the same.”

He planted another kiss upon Tav's forehead before continuing on to meet up with his sister and hopefully cure his beloved’s ailment.

The two set off, leaving the tavern to deal with three battered corpses and a mysterious trail of blood…

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Note from TheChaoticDruid: Phew! Finally got this thing out! Honestly despite finding her a very shitty person and absolutely despising how she treats Astarion I can't help but find Araj interesting. The whole thing with blood and heck the creepy shit you find in her basement makes me want to know more about her. Kinda went a little overboard with this in terms of violence I guess, but I kinda wish there were more bg3 fics with some action in them. Also, I may have kinda ignored how silver and vampires work in DnD, but BG3 plays fast and loose with lore so I guess I will too. Hope you like it!

[little-spicy]

MOONLIGHT

Sequel to Sunrise Sunset!!!

Summary: After months of being with her Orc husbands the cottage is finished. Not only that but she has a surprise for her two mates as well.

MINORS DNI!!!! SMUT 🔥🔥 Praise kink, tummy bulge, etc.

THE MORNING SUN ROSE INTO THE SKY, the hues of orange and yellow began to fill the forest. As the sun rose, the sunbeams began to fall down onto the young woman as she laid down in the Dewey grass.

Y/N was held securely between her two mates, the light snores coming from both of them and contrasted with the small breaths from Y/N.

It was as if she had woken up from the morning after her wedding night. Feeling warm and secure as could hear the noises of the morning forest.

She tried not to wake her mates up as she got out of their grips and stretched out her bare form. It was another night of insatiable passion from her two mates and most nights ended with her being naked.

She tiptoed over to the river right next to their almost finished home that had been worked on for months. Both Steve and Bucky had told her that they were gonna make the perfect home for them and that's exactly what they promised.

Months of working and building and asking for her opinion on how she wanted the home. It was turning beautifully and she even started to garden so that they could have fresh berries and vegetables.

She couldn't even imagine how her life would of been if she had stayed in the kingdom. She did miss her family with all her heart but the love that she began to have for her mates only grew and grew.

Y/N grabbed soap from one of the bags they had, and dipped into the river to clean herself. The sweat from the night before and the dry seed that laid on her thighs washed away as she rubbed soap over her body.

She hummed softly and was in a world of her own that she didn't realize Steve had woken up. He came up behind her and held her waist causing her to squeal.

"Hush darling, don't want to wake up Bucky." Steve said and kissed her neck. "I love waking up every morning seeing you bare."

He began to nip at her neck and she felt overwhelmed and felt her knees buckle, a wave of nausea hit and she gripped Steve's arm. He could tell something was wrong and looked at her worryingly.

"Are you alright?" He asked and Y/N took a few deep breaths and she turned around to him and smiled.

"Must be me waking up so early." Y/N said, and kissed his cheek. "So what's your agenda today?"

"Well Bucky and I have to finish a few things with the village, and after that we have a meeting with council in a bit." Steve said and kissed her head. "I know Natasha said she wanted to spend time with you, Bruce is so excited for the baby."

Not only was Y/N happy in a blissful marriage but so was her hand maiden. She was six months pregnant and Bruce was ecstatic and so was the whole village.

The birth of a new baby orc was a very important ordeal and Natasha was never more happy. There were many feasts that celebrated the welcome of a new orc coming to the world, and was told that there would be a big ceremony for when the baby came.

"I'll see her in the village, I know Gamora wanted to spend time as well." Y/N said, another orc that she grew friends with.

"Alright." Steve said and smirked, he picked her up and she laughed. "In the meantime let's get you washed up."

Steve kissed her and Y/N touched his cheek and kissed back, moaning as she felt herself grow wet as he growled.

She giggled as he began to rub soap over her body and kissed her body. She leaned her body against his and moaned loudly as Steve decided to slide a finger between her folds, touching her clit and causing sparks to erupt.

"What a way to wake up." Bucky said and the two of them turned around as Bucky smirked, looking down at them.

"Do you want his cock princess?" Steve asked and Y/N whimpered and the orcs chuckled.

"Such a needy princess." Bucky said and came over and picked her up. She squealed and laughed. "Now let me eat my breakfast first."

Bucky sat her on a rock on the edge of the river and began to feast on her folds. She moaned loudly as her mate ate her out, his thick and large tongue ran over her folds and all she could do was moan and try to move but being held tightly by his arms.

"Now here's a real view." Steve said and came over and began to suck her tits. "Are you gonna cum on his tongue, princess?"

"Yes! God, yes!" She screamed and felt her wall clamp over his large tongue and began to shiver in pleasure. She tugged on Steve's hair as she bucked her hips, riding out her pleasure as Bucky drank every drop of her juices.

He hummed as he felt her cum dripping down his chin and took everything he could.

Bucky got up and stared at his mate as she felt dazed and drunk off of his cunnlingus. Steve kissed her forehead and Bucky stroked his cock and smirked at her.

"Now that your wet princess, lets stretch you again." Bucky said and swiftly plunged his cock into her aching and drenched hole.

She moaned loudly and it was music to their ears. She could hear the sound of the water moving as Bucky pounded into her relentlessly.

Steve messed and grabbed her tits with one hand and the other was stroking his cock, entranced as he watched.

"Maybe this time our seed will take, you'll be filled with our children and be treated like a queen." Steve said and Y/N clenched around Bucky and that seemed to make Bucky go deeper as he growled and suddenly picked her up.

Placing his forehead against her and pounded into her, she felt so content and close and felt safe as his arms were wrapped around her.

"I'm gonna cum again!" She screamed and Bucky growled again and kissed her fiercely. Feeling her clench and she could feel her walls milking his cock.

"Yes, Gods." Bucky cried out and pounded a couple more times until he let his cock plug her cunt and let his cum fill in her.

Steve came with a cry as he continued to pump his cock, letting the strips of come fall onto Y/N's tummy and legs.

She let out a shaky breath and could feel his cum on her thighs. She clenched again and Bucky chuckled.

"You are such a good girl, princess." Bucky said and Steve came forward and held Y/N as Bucky slowly slid out, Y/N whined from the emptiness.

"I'll let you relax darling, I'll have my time tonight." Steve said and kissed her damp forehead. She curled into his warm arms, and their hearts warmed at her affection.

"Now let's get you cleaned up." Bucky said and Steve sat down in the water, letting her float softly on the river.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

After finishing the wash in the river, Steve and Bucky walked Y/N to the village and went their separate ways.

Y/N went to her friends, while Steve and Bucky went to talk to the council and discuss issues within the clan.

Y/N didn't talk about it often, but she often asked if her father had done anything since she left with them. She wasn't a fool when her father would most likely try to find her.

She wondered what would happen if her father found her happy with her mates. Would he hate her? Would he kill them?

She tried not to think about it and all she was told was that her father would never dare to. Their home was far beyond the kingdom, and with the help of Okoye's and one of the other elders magic; Ramonda they were protected.

"So when are you due?" Y/N asked and as Natasha sat on the ground, placing her hand on her very large belly.

"In a few weeks." Natasha gushed and smiled happily. "Bruce is so ecstatic, we have a few names in mind but we want to wait til the baby is born."

"This pregnancy is different from ours isn't it?" Y/N asked and Natasha nodded.

Carrying an Orc child was different, it took a little less longer than a normal human baby, especially because the baby was a little larger.

It took only seven months for the orc baby to be born, and throughout that time Natasha also had said before that her sexual appetite and her food intake was very high.

She felt as if she was actually an orc, she told Y/N multiple times that she ate more than she needed. Y/N saw at a few feast how much Natasha could eat.

And to Y/N she understood, she didn't think of it as disgusting, a woman's body was changing and to make sure the baby was okay she listened to Okoye.

"It's true, when I was pregnant with my daughter Meredith, Peter felt like I was a different woman." Gamora added and Y/N huffed and continued to snack on the various berries as she felt self conscious.

Natasha and Gamora could see her solemn face and Natasha took her hand.

"What's wrong?" Natasha asked and Y/N tried not to cry.

"I've been married for months and I haven't been pregnant, Steve and Bucky have been trying, what if-" Y/N paused and looked at them worryingly. "What if I'm barren?"

"Nonsense." Gamora said and Y/N listened to the orc. "Sometimes it takes longer, that's why usually orcs try to find maidens for a mate, they are more fertile. For me it took years for Peter and I to have our daughter. if you want you can ask Okoye."

"Of course, Okoye could give you herbs or something to help." Natasha said and Y/N munched on the berries more and Natasha chuckled and grabbed the bowl of berries. "Let's put the berries away and go."

Y/N huffed and grabbed the bowl of berries.

"I can walk and eat." She grumbled and Gamora and Natasha laughed.

Y/N got up and when she did, the same feeling of dizziness came to her. She blinked a few times and took a breath.

"You okay?" Gamora asked worryingly and Y/N nodded.

"I got up too quickly." Y/N said and shook her head and smiled. "Let's go."

Natasha and Gamora said no more and led Y/N to Okoye and Y/N hoped that Okoye would lead her to answers. But ones that filled her with hope.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

When they reached the tent, Okoye was inside sitting on her soft bear rug and next to the warm fire. The only light in the tank was from the fire and the soft glow of the fireflies in a lantern. Okoye smiled to the women as they came to her and the smell of lavender filled their senses.

"Welcome." Okoye said and the woman nodded to her.

"I've come to talk to you, Okoye." Y/N bit her lip as she felt anxious. "It's urgent."

"Sit with me my child." Okoye said as Y/N entered the tent. "You may leave."

Natasha and Gamora nodded, they knew it was a private conversation. Y/N smiled at them and watched as they left the tent.

"Thank you for speaking with me." Y/N said and looked down at the ground.

"Why do you need to speak with me?" Okoye said and Y/N looked up at Okoye with teary eyes.

"I'm worried Okoye- I've been with my mates for- for almost seven months and I haven't been with child." Y/N explained and touched her stomach. "Natasha is and I'm worried that- that- that-"

"That you cannot have child?" Okoye asked and Y/N said nothing but nodded. "Give me your hand."

Y/N listened and took the orc's enormous hand and Okoye grabbed a dagger. Y/N winced as Okoye cut her hand and Y/N hissed and pulled her hand back.

"What are you doing?" Y/N asked as Okoye held the blade close and then grabbed Y/N's hand and placed it above the fire.

Y/N watched as the fire went from a fiery red to a dark purple and erupted in the tent. Y/N gasped as Okoye sat firmly, smiling as the flame came up.

"What- what does that-" Y/N rambled until Okoye laughed, cutting her off.

"My dear, you need not worry." Okoye said as she grabbed a cloth, placing a remedy on the cloth, and wrapped it around Y/N's wounded hand.

"I don't understand- what did that-" Y/N was cut off as Okoye put Y/N's cloth covered hand on her stomach.

"You are with child." Okoye said and Y/N's eyes widened. "Strong babies in your womb I can sense."

"I am." Y/N cried as the tears fell. Okoye laughed and Y/N went from crying to laughing happily and hugging Okoye's huge form. "Thank you."

"Thank Mother Earth my child, we bless two new babies to our clan." She said and Y/N got up and couldn't help smiling.

Y/N thanked Okoye once more and when she exited the tent, she hugged Gamora and Natasha happily.

Happy that her wish had come true, now all she needed to do was to tell her mates.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

It was much later and night had fallen. Y/N had told Gamora and Natasha as soon as she left the tent and cried for she didn't know how long.

Y/N waited to tell her mates, and wanted to wait until they came to their home by the river. When she went to the tent where the elders resided, Y/N was told that her mates weren't there.

Y/N grew worried but Peter; Gamora's mate told her not to worry and that Sam, a dear friend of her mates would take her home.

Peter said that her mates were running late, and that she would stay by the river with Sam guarding her.

It was unusual but she knew not to question her mates decisions.

So that's where she was, she walking down the path as Sam stayed beside her, talking with her.

"So, are you gonna find a mate, Sam?" Y/N asked and Sam laughed.

"You sound like Steve and Bucky." Sam said and Y/N smiled. "I'm just waiting for the right one."

"That's sweet." Y/N said and Sam nodded.

"When Bucky and Steve saw you and you gave yourself to them, all they talked about was how you were the right one for them." Sam said. "I just want that feeling too."

"And you deserve it." Y/N said and held her hand on her tummy. Thinking of how her life turned out with her mates, she didn't realize that she had arrived until Sam snapped her out of her trance.

"Here we are." Sam said and Y/N jolted and looked forward. She was expecting to see the blanket and lantern lit but it wasn't.

She looked forward and saw lights in the cottage her mates had built. She gasped as she could see lights lit up the front door and how it looked completely beautiful finished.

"I don't underst-" Y/N was cut off by Sam.

"They wanted to get it done as soon as possible, so some of helped with the last touches." Sam said. "I'll leave you with your mates."

Y/N cried as she walked toward the door, she could smell the strong smell of lavender in the air. She opened the door to find her mates in their living room/Kitchen.

Their living room had a beautiful bear rug in the middle and a fireplace that warmed the house. Y/N saw plants hung above the fireplace, and the windows had colorful stain glass, different hues of purple and greens.

"Oh my." Y/N said as she saw her mates with dinner and flowers that were surrounding their home.

"Welcome home, princess." Steve said and Y/N cried and came over to Steve and Bucky and hugged both of them.

"It's- it's so beautiful." Y/N said as she wiped her tears away.

"Here's the best part." Bucky said and opened a door to reveal their room.

The room was had a very large bed for the three of them, their house was big as it was to accommodate her orc husbands. She got into the bed and laid down in it. She had never felt such comfort, the bed was soft and warm.

She closed her eyes, feeling content and felt the bed dip on both sides, she opened her eyes and saw her mates looking at her.

"Do you like it?" Steve asked and looked at the blankets underneath them. "We asked Natasha if she could make quilts and she agreed to surprise you."

"I love it." Y/N said and kissed Steve and then Bucky. "It's perfect."

"We also had two other rooms, you could use it for yourself or use both for a nursery." Bucky said and touched her stomach. "I know we'll have a child soon."

"We know it's taking a while but these things take time." Steve said and growled, pulling her close. "Making the child is the best part."

Y/N teared up and smiled, grabbing both of her mates hand and placed them on her belly.

"Maybe it's sooner than you think." Y/N told them and they looked down at her confused. She gave them a second to process but still there confused face stood.

"I'm with child." Y/N told them and her eyes welded up with tears. "Okoye told me earlier today, we're going to be parents."

Their eyes widened at the realization and touched her gently as if she was made of glass and held her close.

"We're going to be fathers." Bucky said as held then both close and looked down at their mate with such adoration and pride. "Our princess."

Bucky leaned down and kissed her, his hand touching her stomach. She placed her hands on Bucky's face and kissed him back. Steve came from behind and kissed her neck.

"Well I know your already with child, but I'll still enjoy the fantasy of breeding you." Steve said and Y/N pulled away from Bucky and laughed.

"Then what are you waiting for?" Y/N told him, and turned to face Steve. "Breed me."

Both of the men growled and placed her down on the bed.

"You've just awoke the beast princess." Steve said and dragged her to the edge of the bed.

"Have I?" She taunted. "Whatever shall I do."

Steve grabbed the fabric of her dress up ripped it, her naked form revealed to them. Steve then grabbed her underwear from her and could see her slick shining. Steve smirked and pulled his cock out.

Y/N kissed Bucky as Steve began to tease her and slide his cock through her folds. Y/N whimpered at the feeling and bucked her hips up. Steve grabbed her hips, and in an instant plunged in.

Y/N parted from Bucky's lips to gasp out loud and both men felt as if they heard an angel. Steve began to pound into her slowly and she smiled as she leaned up to touch Steve's cheek.

Steve leaned into her touch and kissed her hand, Bucky came up from behind her and held her up and kissed her neck and sucked on her sweet spot.

"You look so good for us princess, such a good girl." Bucky said and Y/N nodded as Steve continued his torturous pace.

"I can't wait til your breast swell with milk." Steve said and touched her breast and she squeezed him tight at the thought.

Steve felt it and that drove him over the edge, he grabbed her hips and began to pound into her relentlessly.

"Yes! Oh god!" Y/N gasped and suddenly Steve flipped her on stomach and continued his pace. Y/N faced Bucky and he cupped her cheeks and kissed her.

Y/N pulled away and saw his cock begging for release, seeing the show Y/N and Steve put. Y/N put her hand on Bucky's chest to push him back, he understood and laid down and Y/N began to devour his cock.

Bucky hissed as her whimpers and moans added more pleasure as she tried to take his cock whole.

Steve felt close to release and knew she was close, he rubbed her clit and Y/N let go of Bucky's cock with a pop and screamed as she felt the wave of pleasure roll on to her.

"I can feel my cock right there in your womb baby, fuck." Steve groaned.

Bucky hearing her scream made him cum right there on the spot and his cum began to cover her tits and neck.

Once Steve saw Bucky and felt Y/N cum that was it for him and he slammed into one last time until he felt his cock convulse in her velvet walls and let out a strangled moan.

Y/N felt weak and Bucky grabbed her and placed her on his chest. He could feel Steve's seed leaking on his thighs as Y/N breathed softly, feeling tired.

"Let's clean you and then we go to bed." Bucky said and Y/N shook her head and held Bucky tighter.

"No, tomorrow." Y/N said and She felt the bed dip and Steve came over with a warm washcloth and she could smell a stew which caused her stomach to grumble.

Both orcs chuckled and Bucky handed Y/N over to Steve and Steve placed her on her back and began to clean her breasts and thighs.

Bucky grabbed the stew and began to feed to her slowly, both men pampered her and she felt so content at that moment.

Steve finished cleaning and placed the used cloth on the side table and put his large hands on her stomach and kissed her neck.

Bucky handed the stew to Steve and he put it next to the cloth and both orcs put Y/N in between them.

Y/N was so tired she felt asleep instantly and both men put their foreheads on her cheek.

"She's going to be an amazing mother." Steve said and Bucky nodded.

"We are going to be fathers, the clan will know in a couple days but for now we enjoy our new home." Bucky said and looked down at Y/N and snuggled into her.

"Let's rest." Steve said and got up from the bed.

Steve went over to the lanterns that lit the dim cottage. He blew them out and darkness filled the room and the moonlight was the only source of light.

Bucky grabbed Y/N and lifted her sleeping body as Steve grabbed the blankets from under them and Bucky put Y/N under the covers.

Steve and Bucky then got under the blankets and held their mate together.

"Goodnight punk." Bucky said and Steve let out a few laughs.

"Goodnight you jerk." Steve said and the two of them shut their eyes and the sound of their mates breathing lulled them both to sleep and the small rays of moonlight kept them safe.

FINALLY FINISHED THIS ONE!!!!! Hope you like it! Like, Reblog, comment if you like this and if you have any requests or ideas let me know! 💕💕

[alice-angel12x]

Where everything begins

Idia + Death! reader pt.2 (Part 1. here)

"Life? So there is a celestial opposite to you?" Leona asked.

"Indeed, for we will need Life's help for Ortho and Vil," Y/n nodded.

"Alright, a quick detour should be alright. It's always interesting to see new places," Azul said.

"And it would be interesting to meet Life," Rook agreed.

"Alright, but how are we gonna get there. Where does Life live Y/n?" Riddle asked.

"Well, I must ask one more time. Are you sure you all want to come?" Y/n asked as the boys nodded.

Y/n smirked as they told the boys to draw close, as they were gonna fast travel to Life. Riddle once again asked Y/n where life lived, and Y/n answered a place beyond twisted wonderland. But Before The boys could back out, they suddenly started floating upwards as a dark portal began to open up.

As they remained suspended in the air, they were suddenly sucked up into the portal. Flashes passed by their vision. Riddle looked to his left to see a... Another... World.

Riddle saw a large city with windmills and a giant winged person standing above it. Its arms stretched out in front of it.

Azul looked to his left to see an old English castle. One he's never seen before when fireworks exploded above the castle. Spelling "Welcome to Hogwarts".

Vil and Epel Looked down to see a world of... Sentient cookies, cake monsters, and other strange dessert creatures. While Leona and Rook flipped onto their backs to look up and saw a world of strange people. A bunch of students was heading toward an H-shaped building, the Sign UA in bold letters.

As they traveled between space, suddenly the tunnel began to waver and twist.

"What's happening?" Ghost Ortho asked.

"It appears Space is rearranging and shuffling the worlds around like a pack of playing cards. I was hoping to just have a simple straight path, but it seems we might have to travel through a few worlds to get to Life," Y/n sighed.

"Other?" Idia asked nervesly.

"Worlds?" Ortho asked with excitement.

"Don't worry, I'll make sure the worlds we rest in a safe. For your sake," Y/n said as they quickly scanned the worlds and universes being shuffled around them.

The first world The group rest in was the world of Sentient Cookies, having a stop at the cookie kingdom. The boys were shocked to find themselves transformed into cookies. Their hair and clothes were made of sugar and frosting.

Idia, Ortho, Riddle, and Epel were happy enough to partake in simple adventures around the Cookie kingdom. Leona found many comfy napping places, while Vil and Rook explore the kingdom and its shops. Azul was too interested in how money works in this world.

The next world was Totally not your standard Isekai magic world. I mean a fantasy world, with orcs, dragons, and Slimes. Vil and Idia were not happy with the unadvanced. Idia with the lack of advanced tech, while Vil did not like the lack of basic amenities or basic hygiene.

So Y/n would point out some unique things about this world. How, yes this world is unadvanced in the technology department, but their potions far surpass Twisted wonderland. Much to The NRC boy's surprise.

"How so?" Azul asked.

"While in Twisted, technology evolved and improved faster than magic. So your world relies on machines instead of spells, so your magic never really evolved," Y/n explained.

"in this world, magic is used for everything, farming, cosmetics, forging, and hygiene," Y/n added.

This was amazing to the other worlders, as Riddle wanted to get his hands on all the magic books. Vil wanted all the potion books and herbs.

Soon this supposedly fast and simple trip became a tour across the universe and dimensions. With each world, the boys always find something to collect. But eventually, they got to the Origin, to Life.

It looked like a large tree, the size of a castle floating in space, and at the top of the tree was a large orb of light.

"Is this Life?" Vil asked.

"This is where Life lives and works," Y/n said as they hurried them to the tree.

As they landed on the great roots all the boys stared in awe. The great size of the roots, look like wide meadows. Suddenly there was a surge of mist that blanketed the ground.

"Step inside my home," said a strong voice.

Everyone looked ahead to see a hollow at the base of the root. Ghost Ortho clung to Idia as a few of the boys began to tremble slightly. Y/n stepped ahead of them, and with a gentle smile lead them toward the hollow. Inside were two spiral staircases that led up the tree.

"Augh! Please tell me we do not have to climb all those flights of stairs?" Leona groaned.

"Who are you, and what brings you?" Asked the strong voice.

Everyone looked up to see a figure standing at the top of the first flight of stairs. The mist obscured the figure. The boys recognized a human torso, but they noticed that the figure's legs were very skinny. With strange protrusion on the top of the figure's head. Y/n simply rolled their eyes and swiftly waved their arm, clearing all the mist.

"Enough Life," Y/n sighed. " We're just visiting, and I could really use your help with something."

"Augh, come on Death, I never ever get to make a grand impression," Sighed the antlered figure.

Life had emerald green eyes, with long flowing brown hair framing his face. The hooved god quickly rushed down the stairs and ran straight to Death, pulling them into a warm hug.

"So this deer God is Life?" Leona asked.

"Indeed, But I can be as ferocious as any other beast," Life smiled as he showed off his razor-sharp teeth.

Not even Leona or any other predator-beast man had a mouth full of dagger-like teeth compared to this Life person. As Life looked over the guests Death brought he noticed an odd one out of the group, the 80-year-old man with this group of young people.

"Umm, who is this gentleman?" Life asked.

"I'm...I'm Vil Schoenheit," Vil said as the old man began to sob.

"Vil! What happened to you? You're only 18!" Life gasped.

"He got too close to Tartarus," Death explained.

"What! Death, I thought you got rid of the underworld!" Life huffed in slight annoyance.

"Well, I can't help that Hades did a good job at hiding it all these years. And I can't do anything about it now 'cause people live on it," Death laughed slightly.

"Well alright," Life sighed and turned his attention to Vil. " We should fix this. Jerry!"

Suddenly a strange transparent abstract being, that was called Jerry appeared and handed Life a staff with a floating orb at the top end. Life smiled and gently grabbed the staff and raised the orb above Vil's head. Light started to emerge from the orb when a small drop of a potion dripped onto Vil's head.

Vil looked down at his hands to see the skin tighten as the wrinkles started to disappear. Vil pulled out his pocket mirror to see his Youthful self staring back at him. All the while Vil cheered in happiness, the boys noticed little blue spirit/ wisp things floating all around Life and the Jerry person.

"Um, Y/n. What are those blue things?" Epel asked.

"Those are souls who have yet to live. When they're ready to live and gain a mortal form, Life will send them off randomly to be born," Y/n explained.

"Wow, so what is this place called?" Azul asked.

"It goes by many names, "The beginning" " The cradle", and my personal favorite "The Great Before," Death listed off.

"Oh, we call it the Youth seminar now, Death. Rebranding and all that," Jerry added, as Life was being covered in spirits.

Many of the spirits gathered and climbed up Life, laughing and all trying to talk to Life all at Once. Like a bunch of small children trying to gain the attention of their favorite parent. Some were even curious enough to gather around the NRC boys.

Riddle, Epel, and Rook let the souls get close and even held a few. While Leona would simply flick them off him, the souls would just laugh it off unharmed. As Idia and Ortho watched, they noticed that the souls would cower away from Y/n.

Death tried to smile it off, but their eyes couldn't quite hide the slight hurt. So Ortho quickly floated over to Death and bear-hugged their torso. Death was surprised but smiled softly as they nervesly returned the action. Death eventually turned to Life and explained the reason behind their trip, and that was to have Ortho reincarnated. Idia, Ortho, and the others gasped in surprise.

"So I'm going to live out the anime dream!" Ortho awed.

"Well, you won't remember your previous life. But we will let you choose a world to live in. So choose wisely," Life said. " But what is this, we're still at the entrance. Please come upstairs for some drinks and snacks," Life smiled as he offered a hand to Death.

Azul, Idia, and Leona groaned as they looked up at the seemingly infinite flights of stairs. Jerry chuckled and altered their form to be a four-legged creature. Who scooped up the boys and placed them onto their backs, as the souls happily climbed on as well.

They slowly began to rise up the flights, as the mortals looked around in awe. Hundreds of strange-looking pavilions, all in different shapes and sizes.

"Um, Mr.Life, if I may ask? What are those strange structures?" Azul asked.

"Oh those are were the souls get their personality," Life explained as he turned and gather 4 souls from Jerry. " You four can be excitable."

The four sous went through the pavilion and came out super happy and bouncy.

"And you bunch can be aloof," Jerry said as they sent the rest of the souls into a different Pavillion.

"Wait so were not born with our own personality?" Vil asked.

"Well to be fair, when you live, your personality can change due to your environment and experiences," Death explained.

"And we arrived at the top, our stop is here," Jerry said as they see the boys down.

The boys turned to see a large table with a king's worthy feast set up for them. "How long was this up here?" Leona asked.

"Oh not long. I asked Jerry to set a spread for you all," Life said as another abstract Pikaso creature appeared. "Thank you, Jerry."

"No problem boss," Jerry smiled.

"Are they just all named Jerry?" Azul asked.

"There used to be a Terry, but he works for death now," Life smiled as Death grimaced a bit.

"I don't wanna talk about Terry," Death mumbled. "Shrouds, you have something to discuss with Life."

The brothers nodded and left with Life to the farther end of the room. After much discussion and conversation, Ortho picked a world he would like to live in. Even though Idia was happy it was a pretty safe and peaceful world, he was still nervous about letting go of his brother again.

Life walked over to a large pool that was right underneath the orb of light. With a wave of his staff, the orb began to glow a pure gold color as the pool began to ripple as an image began to appear with a watery surface.

As Idia and Ortho stood at the edge of the pool, Idia noticed his brother tremble slightly.

"Big brother, I'm a little scared," Ortho said as he fiddled with the pendant that Life gave him.

"I'll go as far as I can with you," Idia smiled.

The two fell forward and into the void of space, as they began falling towards the chosen planet. Idia slowly opened his eyes only to feel like he was actually flying. Ortho soon opened his eyes as he awed the planet they were flying to. The two laughed as they did superhero poses as they flew towards the planet when the pendant began to glow.

"I'll make you proud!" Ortho said with a nervous, but determined smile.

"I know you will, you'll be amazing," Idia said as the two hands slowly were being pulled apart.

Soon Ortho and Idia had to let go as Ortho zoomed ahead to the planet below.

__________________________

Idia suddenly Woke up to find himself back in his dorm. No matter how much he thought back on his experiences, he can't help but think it was nothing more than a dream.

"It's about time you woke up. Come on you still have to help fix Ramshackle," Robot Ortho smiled.

"Ugh, alright. I'll dropbox the blueprints to you," Idia groaned as he slipped out of bed.

"You're not coming outside?" Ortho asked.

"No way," Idia said as he sat at his computer.

"Alright," Ortho sighed as he exited the room.

As Idia began to type away, the memory resurfaced in his mind, as Real Ortho's words echoed in his ears. So muster up some confidence and slowly made his way out of his dorm, to help out in person.

[anxiety-elemental-kay]

And Take Away Its Pain: A Comparison of Masculinity, Trauma, and Queerness in Warcraft and Warframe

First, I want to shout out my friend Silriven at BluSky. (If any of you are mean to her I will Find You.) This thread she wrote recently reflecting on if/how she still likes Anduin as a character was what got me started writing this essay. She talks about the fandom response to Anduin, and the ways both the fandom and writers contradict themselves in discussing the character. The reason I wrote this essay is because I can think of another character and video game that work as a counterpoint to the way Anduin is portrayed.

Even before this specific thread, I made made a thread on BluSky comparing Warcraft and Warframe much earlier because both these games had major update reveals at around the same time. Not only that, but their content served as an interesting contrast between the different games' stories, and my own reactions to each.

The War Within[1] trailer and related announcements were revealed at Blizzcon 2023, around the same time as Digital Extremes, the developers of Warframe, held Tennocon 2023, which included a thirty minute demo of their next major story update, Whispers in the Walls.

For those unfamiliar with either/or World of Warcraft and Warframe, I’ll give a quick summary of the trailers.

In TWW trailer trailer we see Anduin Wrynn sitting by himself in a desert. Anduin is a character the players have known for a long time, and last time we saw him he chose to disappear in response to a trauma he suffered in that expansion’s story. Here his face is dirty, he’s grown out a beard, and his hair is cut short. He has a vision of something that looks like a star calling his name. A second character appears, an orc named Thrall. The two talk; Thrall is calm while Anduin is angry and confrontational. They discuss the visions they’ve been having, how someone at “the heart of the world” is calling out to them. (Anybody who’s kept up with Warcaft's story even a little bit will know this voice is the Titan Azeroth, who lives inside the planet Azeroth.) When Thrall touches Anduin’s shoulder, Anduin has a brief flashback to when the ghost of his father touched his shoulder. Anduin draws his sword and declares “I’m not that person anymore! I have no Light! Not after what I’ve seen, not after what I’ve done!” Thrall replies “You are not your past, Anduin” and expresses his trust in Anduin, who struggles to not cry, and lowers his sword. Both of them experience a much stronger vision of the star calling for them, then Anduin accepts Thrall’s hand, and Anduin pledges to stand with him. They both express confusion at who could be calling out to them. (It’s Azeroth you dinguses!!!) The trailer ends with a cool shot of a giant sword sticking out of the desert, before switching to The War Within expansion logo.

Now, the Whispers In The Walls showcase was a full demo including gameplay, but to keep the comparison as fair as possible, I only talk about the opening three minutes [2]. You can see the whole showcase here.

In the Whispers preview, we open with a cutscene. We start with some spooky eldritch speech, then we shift to someone the player will have heard of before, but never seen, Albrecht Entrati. Albrecht checks a beeping pager, and then an old computer, both out of place against the stylized sci-fi future setting of Warframe. He is followed by his feline companion. He gives his cat some pats, then he sits in a sci-fi casket, where his kitty also curls up. A second character, who we’ll learn later is named Loid, approaches Albrecht with his head bowed and eyes on the floor. Albrecht reaches up to Loid to touch his cheek, and wipes away a tear with his thumb. (Remember this moment, it's important for a point I'll make near the end of this essay.) Albrecht's dialogue is subtitled as (Quiet whispering). Then Albrecht lays down, and the casket closes. Loid raises a hammer as the casket makes loud sounds and lights flash, before he finally brings the hammer down to smash the casket. The screen cuts to black, then the gameplay starts.

Comparing these two teasers at the time, I thought about how Whispers was much more effective at building a story hook by creating mystery. Even if I limit myself to that opening cinematic, we have one character, Albrecht, who we’ve heard a great deal about and is important to the story, but we’ve yet to meet him in-person. The contrast of his 90’s tech and fashion against the more fantastical technology common to Warframe’s universe is stark and creates interesting questions. We’re introduced to this relationship Albrecht has with Loid. I don’t know who these people are or what their circumstances are, but I see genuine love and conflict. I’m already invested in learning more and seeing what happens to them. It’s a great hook! I actually rewatched that opening three minutes a few times while writing this because I have brainworms!

The TWW trailer is about creating a hook based on seeing where beloved characters are now, seeing what’s become of them when the player wasn’t looking. Azeroth the Titan is speaking to the main cast, which is clear to the audience familiar with the game but not the characters for unclear reasons. Anduin is still suffering, unable or unwilling to heal from his trauma. Thrall wants to him to come out of hiding. Anduin agrees to. That’s it. What’s the story hook here? Anduin seems to have gone nowhere in the years since he was last seen, and I have no sense of where his story (or Thrall’s, or Azeroth’s) might be going. I don't even know why Anduin changes his mind and chooses to help Thrall. What, just because there's another big threat to the world? The last one wasn't enough to bring you out of hiding? It’s just stuff happening, a general sense of vague Peril. I can't even get that excited about the shot of Sargeras' sword! Blizz should've thought to address that earlier, like, when the planet got stabbed! That was cool and exciting! Our planet got stabbed by Warcraft Satan! Then it's ignored for years until now, after people kept asking what was going to happen to it. The trailer tries to build a mystery about where the visions are coming from, but it's the Titan Azeroth, the players figured it out right away, there's no mystery. I don't have any reason to feel like the writers care about the story, setting, or characters. I’m left feeling nothing for any of it but a vague sense of disappointment.

Even more, the TWW trailer feels like it’s deliberately avoiding adding any details. Anduin talks about how he’s lost his Light, how he’s “not that person anymore” which is not a bad way to take his arc, but I can’t connect it to when Anduin was enslaved by the Jailer in Shadowlands. I know where his trauma comes from, but the trailer makes no effort to explain or expand on how those specific events affected him. I’m not even going to explain what any of that means to people unfamiliar with Warcraft because it doesn’t matter! In both dialogue and in visuals, the trailer gives little texture or meaning to what Anduin is feeling. In the Whispers trailer, I know Loid is sad, not just because Albrecht is leaving, but that he has to have a role in that departure. I don't know what happened to Albrecht at this point, but the emotional hook is there along with the questions about the story. I care because I believe these two characters are in love. Why should I care that Anduin feels he's lost his Light? I have no sense of what this loss means or feels like. I have no sense of what he's struggling with, or what he might face in the future.

Since those trailers were released, Warframe had its promised Whispers update, and I’ve played the full quest and leveled up the linked faction, which contained more story. While I know I’m being unfair comparing a trailer to a full release, I will continue to do so anyway because 1) I’m a bitter old faggot, and 2) the full story of Whispers makes the comparison between Loid/Whispers as a whole and Anduin/TWW even more interesting/saddening.

This is your warning that I’ll be spoiling the quest Whispers In The Walls. Eventually. I've got some foundation I want to lay first.

I found a tweet thread by Christie Golden, one of Warcraft’s major writers. She links a TIME article about a woman struggling to raise her son to be gentle and kind in a world that encourages anger and violence in men. Golden lists Anduin (among others) as an example of nontoxic masculinity in fictional media. In her replies she goes on to expand on her thoughts.

Here’s the tweet by Golden that stuck out to me: “Too often men and boys who gravitate to the gentler side are automatically perceived as being gay, whether they are or not. ALL men/boys should be able to display these qualities, just like all girls/women can be tough and fearless and athletic if that's who they are.”

What’s wrong with being perceived as gay, Golden?

To be fair, there is a point here about assuming someone’s sexuality based on their personality or behavior. That is nonsense, and assigning traits to someone based on an observer’s opinion isn’t good. I even agree that not all straight characters should be one thing and all gay characters should be another! The problem with Golden’s statement is the implicit bias, being “automatically perceived as being gay” is framed as something bad. Why shouldn’t straight men and boys look up to a gay character? Can they not see themselves in a queer character? Why?

This is another reason why the comparison between TWW and Whispers is so interesting, because Whispers is gay. Sure, there are people who will argue Loid and Albrecht weren’t in love, because no one explicitly says they were together, but if you’re paying attention that’s unneeded. Loid refers to Albrecht as “my Albrecht”, and later, in a diary entry, we hear Albrecht refer to Loid as “my Loid”. There's a moment in the quest where we watch a recording of Albrecht, and he says, “I need Loid to understand why I had to leave. Without him. Why I forced him to destroy the device after I had gone. And why I could never say the words he so needed to hear.”

If you listen to the codex entry “Albrecht’s Notes: The Aftermath” about what he went through after coming back injured from the Void, you get even more. Albrecht describes Loid as “crooning motherly” and how “Loid nursed me then” back to full health. His descriptions, and the voice acting, are entirely earnest. There is no sarcasm or veiled disdain as he describes Loid in these feminine terms. The affection Albrecht both received, and gave, was genuine.

“The agony bit deep, but it was clean. Blameless love bled up from me.

I had decided to live.”

Yes, yes, this section is partly for me to be snappy at the people in the Warframe community who insist Loid and Albrecht aren’t a couple. What I want to demonstrate here is mechanically how Warframe tells its audience these characters are in love without needing to spell it out. Why it’s reasonable (and valid) to interpret characters as queer even if they don’t list their labels on their bios, so to speak.

To bring this back to the character of Anduin Wrynn: while he’s never been officially portrayed as queer, his story, at least in its earliest years, very much was.

Though we don't see much of Anduin in-game early in Warcraft's life, his first story plays out in the supplementary comics and novels. There’s a conflict between who Anduin feels he is and who he is expected to be. He’s expected to become a warrior like his father, Varian, but Anduin finds wielding weapons difficult. He's unable to reach Varian's standards for who he should be. Instead, Anduin chooses to become a healer, in Warcraft terms he chooses the priest class, and focuses on spellcasting and support. At one point, as Anduin is about to leave home to go and train in healing magic, Varian reaches out and nearly breaks his son's arm in his attempt to force him to stay. Varian is horrified at what he's done, and Anduin leaves.

Anduin's story is literally about rejecting the traditional masculinity his father represents to pursue his own, alternative path. We see how the life Varian's lived, a warrior's life full of violence, has poisoned his relationship with his son, how his toxic masculinity was a destructive force. Varian’s story in parallel is learning to accept Anduin’s choice, and learning to understand that his son is still powerful and capable, even if he’s not “strong” in the way Varian himself is. In addition, Anduin is one of the few characters who objects to the war(craft) between the two player factions and wants to find peace between them. Anduin’s story was, in theme if not in content, very much a queer narrative! It's about challenging tradition and finding a path that's more true to who he is and what he believes in.

This was why I connected with the character of Anduin initially. I started playing Warcraft in late Wrath of the Lich King, after ICC came out. When I first met Anduin he had a default human child model, and he said and did basically nothing. Then Cataclysm was released, he got his own teenager model, and a whole questline to himself. Suddenly he was someone with agency, wants, and personality! And then Mists of Pandaria came out and Anduin got to be a major focus of an entire expansion!

Anduin was absent from the next expansion, but the one after, Legion, Anduin returned with an adult model, and his father dies during the story's prologue. While he didn’t get the same focus he did in Mists, in Legion Anduin still had a whole storyline about becoming king, accepting his new role, and making peace with his father's death. It's smaller than his role in Mists, but it's a storyline I enjoyed!

I’ve literally watched this character grow up in real time. It’s a powerful experience!

(Side note: there’s a lot that can be said about Anduin as a monarch, what kind of state head he is, how he treats his people, and is an aspect that largely goes unacknowledged in the canon story. I'll shout out Silriven again, this is a topic she's gone a good job of discussing before. I want to acknowledge this part of his character, but I consider it beyond the scope of this specific essay. I do think making him king, making him someone who extracts taxes and sends people to die in war, does have a major impact on his character, his masculinity, and how he processes trauma. However, talking about monarchy, even a fictional one, is its own topic and needs its own space to explore. It's something to keep in mind whenever discussing any major character in Warcraft who is also a major political leader.)

Through all this I would say I saw Anduin as queer. At no point does he express serious romantic interest in anyone, nor does he appear to be under any pressure to find a partner through either societal or political norms. The themes of his stories made me think he was gay, especially as the only other character he grows close to is another boy. Anduin was a comfort character for me.

This began to change in the expansion after Legion, Battle for Azeroth.

Anduin begins to wear a set of plate armor, looking more like his warrior father, and the role he once rejected, than the priest he chose to be. He leads his armies in a war that he used to be wholly against, a contradiction he never fully confronts. When he punches Wrathion, a childhood friend who reappeared in the last expansion patch, players responded with praise in real life. “Manduin” punched Wrathion, who Anduin claimed was responsible for his father’s death. Which he wasn’t, and can only be seen as responsible through a Five Degrees of Kevin Bacon type web. I'm not sure why Anduin says this, unless the writers wanted to either smear Wrathion or erase the history of friendship the two had previously. Or, maybe they didn't want to bring up any legitimate reasons Anduin might be angry at Wrathion, like abandoning him. If I had a nickel every time one person abandoned another to go on an ill-fated time travel adventure, I'd have two nickels. Which isn't much but it's weird it happened twice.

(Here's a tangent: Imagine if Albrecht ended up in alternate Draenor and/or Wrathion ended up in 1999. Those stories would've gone VERY differently.)

Since I’ve brought him up, it’s time to talk about Anduin and Wrathion.

This topic is. Divisive. In the Warcraft fandom.

Wranduin, the ship name, is something that appeared in fandom mid Mists when the two characters first met. Anduin was curious about who this Wrathion person was and set out to investigate. Long story short, their families had a long history of conflict, and Anduin had every reason to be suspicious and mistrustful of Wrathion. Was openly mistrustful of Wrathion. They continue to hang out together through the rest of the expansion.

This all leads up to a particular moment in the novel War Crimes, taking place after the main events of Mists of Pandaria. Anduin and Wrathion continue to spend time with each other in that book, playing games and discussing politics. When Anduin expresses how tired he is, Wrathion declares “I shall, if asked politely, take you on my back and ferry you to fascinating places, where we will have adventures that will age your father ten years in one night.”

I've never read any of the books myself, but I’ve seen this passage passed around online and it stands out to me. It feels genuine, two teenagers who are close friends but also bad at vulnerability and Feelings, making a connection and finding comfort in each other. I’m not even asking anyone to see a romantic angle to this, just to understand the emotions of the moment. It feels specific to them.

I was in the Warcraft fandom during Mists, I thought their relationship was interesting, and it could make for an interesting romance. Despite ideological differences, they were very much kindred spirits. People born into power who’ve also suffered immense loss of agency. Both were forced to grow up quickly, had their lives endangered at young ages, and both want to protect the world they live in, even if that means different things to both of them. That tension, the clash between their ideals and their personalities, the potential for connection and division both, was what made their relationship so interesting.

Then Wrathion disappeared for several expansions, came back in BofA, and the first thing that happens is Anduin punches him in the face. We never see them in a scene together after this moment ends.

It's worth noting that while Wrathion isn't human (he's a dragon in disguise) his humanoid form makes him one of the very few non-white characters in the main cast. They reintroduce him by having a white man, who was once a friend, punch him in the face. This is an action Anduin has never apologized to Wrathion for.

There’s another Warframe character I want to talk about briefly: Ticker. She’s a trans woman.

She's been in the game much longer than Loid and Albrecht, but like them, her identity is never explicitly stated, but at the same time it's unambiguous. She has a deeper, more masculine voice, has a masculine appearance (Old Mate rank spoilers, but if you know you know) while her body language is very feminine and she uses exclusively feminine pronouns and terms for herself. One her voice lines when you speak with her is “A person gets told a lot of things over the course of a life. Who they are. Who they should be. Amateurs, lecturing a professional.”

She is a trans woman, she has some of the best lines in the game, and I love her.

My greatest disappointment with Ticker is that she isn’t involved in the greater storyline associated with her zone. We do meet other good characters (Eudico in particular is a lady character I adore) but Ticker’s exclusion sticks out to me. Sure, one could point to Smokefinger as also being largely absent, but Ticker’s role in the story is to help pay off people’s debts so they don’t suffer more than they have to. This is something she has to do in secret (to her boss’s boss, not to the player natch) or risk facing harsh punishment herself. This could tie directly into the area’s larger story about a workers' union violently revolting against its hyper-capitalist overlords. Why isn’t she in Vox Solaris DE??? By the way, the player sides with the union.

(Side note: Blizzard is an American studio, while Digital Extremes is Canadian. I can feel a potential discussion of these two countries, labor unions, and these two games, but like the point about monarchy in Warcraft, that needs its own space. There's definitely things to talk about, but I'd need to do real research before I could begin to approach it.)

So looking at Ticker, then looking at Whispers, this update shows growth to me. Warframe is showing two men in love[3], both characters and their identities are treated with respect by the narrative and other characters. Yes, this isn’t the same as depicting a canonical trans woman, but I’m inclined to be patient and kind when I sense that creator(s) are earnest about portraying experiences that aren’t theirs. We all have internal biases we need to uproot, it’s a journey that will last our whole lives, and one that will inevitably end incomplete. We can all and always learn to improve our art, as well as our compassion and understanding of other people. For me, forgiveness for earlier depictions that were poor or problematic is easy when I believe the creator(s) are making a sincere effort. We all make mistakes, and we all grow. Hopefully DE will add another canonical trans person to their game who will have a bigger role.

I’m hammering this point home because I have never felt this level of sincere effort from Blizzard.

I know I’m comparing an middle-ish game studio to a massive AAA company, and I do not care. Whether it’s because of the writers’ cowardice or a producer’s mandate, Warcraft takes only small steps to be inclusive, while Warframe is genuinely trying. (DE also updated skin shaders specifically so darker tones would look nicer in their new lighting system!) It's things like this that make Golden's talk about Anduin being an example of nontoxic masculinity ring hollow. Only one of these games seems willing to engage with marginalized stories, with people who live outside of the strict roles we're assigned. The concept of "nontoxic masculinity" cannot exist if one is unwilling to engage with queerness. Allowing men to embrace more gentle behaviors also means not shaming anyone for being gay. Allowing men to do and be things that aren't the pinnacle of traditional masculinity means understanding and embracing that men can and will engage in more feminine behaviors or roles, and this doesn't diminish their gender identity. These concepts are linked.

(I know this is a very binary way of framing these concepts, but let me tell you, Blizz is NOT ready for that discussion.)

Warcraft has added gay characters or made some existing characters gay, but never anybody in the main cast, nothing that would get a major spotlight. Anduin could’ve been an easy solve for this, whether he started a relationship with Wrathion or someone else, it doesn’t matter! Having a major character in a game as large as World of Warcraft would've meant so much. Instead they hide their queer characters in secondary roles, in supplementary media, and made them into easter eggs in the game. Never major characters, never the focus of the story. Nothing they would, for example, show off at a major convention in 2023.

Moving away from talking about queerness for a moment, something that struck me watching the Whispers demo again is that DE isn't afraid to make their new character flawed. I don't want to say unlikable necessarily, because I did like Loid right away, but he's also rude to the established character traveling with us ("Resume your duties, construct!) and then dismissive of the player. He's supposed to wait for an "operator" to arrive at the labs, and thinks it's obviously not the player. By the end of the quest (which I'll talk about in a moment because yes it's relevant) Loid comes to accept that the player is the one he's meant to work with. When you level up the related faction in the full release, Loid eventually tells the player that his role was to care for Albrecht, and it would be his honor to extend that same service to the player. This arc is sweet and feels earned because Loid started so abrasive, the writers weren't afraid to make him abrasive, and even by the end I wouldn't say he's flawless. In fact, in the next update, Dante Unbound, DE has hinted that Loid will have to confront the established character he was rude to in Whispers. Loid feels like a person who's going through shit, in the way that people go through shit. Not with grace, but trying his best anyway.

I bring this up because one of the long standing issues with Anduin as a character, which has gotten worse as time goes on, is the unwillingness to give Anduin flaws. I wonder if this connects back to the point about the lack of specificity about his feelings or experiences in TWW trailer, why Thrall's simple "You are not your past" feels so strange, and why the trailer seems reluctant to acknowledge Anduin's anger as a problem. Anduin has, for a while, been positioned as a moral core for the game, the character who is primarily interested in peace for unselfish reasons. Part of the reason I enjoyed Anduin as a character in Mists was because, sometimes, he got to act like a shitty teenager. He'd be sarcastic or smarmy or do something objectively dumb, like run off to fight a major enemy of his nation on his own. This is especially true when interacting with Wrathion, which includes Anduin using the taunt "You're what, two years old?" To which Wrathion replies "Two in DRAGON years." It's very endearing! Look at these brats, they're believable teenage friends to me. Yes, Anduin is one of the few peace-seekers in the story, he tries so hard to be good and kind even to his enemies, but in moments like these he still feels like a person.

We could look at TWW and say Anduin is demonstrating anger issues, which would be interesting because, like in the example of almost breaking Anduin's arm, this was something Varian struggled with. Except it doesn't feel like the trailer recognizes this as a flaw. The moment goes by and is quickly forgotten. I can look at Loid in Whispers and I recognize where his bitterness comes from: he felt abandoned and so pushes others away. The one detail I did like in TWW trailer was the comparison between Thrall touching Anduin's shoulder, and Varian's ghost doing the same in the past. That moment felt like a trigger for Anduin, reminding him of that moment when he was so vulnerable, but also of his grief for his father. (Nevermind we had that story in Legion about Anduin coming to terms with his grief. Let's ignore that.) It's the most sincere moment of the trailer, but it doesn't follow through! As soon as the second vision dissipates, Anduin takes Thrall's hand and pledges to help. Why? Again, "because there's another big cosmic threat" isn't a good enough reason. What does he feel in this moment? Why did he change his mind now?

Nontoxic masculinity doesn't mean "flawless person". I would still say Loid is a good example of nontoxic masculinity, regardless of if or when he does engage in more toxic behaviors. I'd say as a character Loid is a better demonstration than Anduin of nontoxic masculinity because he's capable of self-reflection, realizing he did something bad, and correcting himself. One interpretation of events in the story of Whispers (because much of Warframe is open to interpretation) is that the local eldritch horror was feeding off of Loid's resentment towards Albrecht, and this was fueling its assault on the labs. Only in reminding Loid of Albrecht's feelings for him, specifically in a way Loid had been deliberately avoiding, can the player begin to take down the bad guy of the quest.

This is a great time to move to my last point about Whispers’ full story: the ending.

I know we can talk about ludonarrative dissonance about two games where the player regularly enacts mass murder and trying to square that with certain story themes. Listen. Hear me out.

In Warcraft, the solution to the final boss is always kill them. (Or arrest them in the case of Garrosh in Mists. In truth this was only a stay of execution). Part of this is the limit of always putting an expansion’s conclusion in a raid. There always needs to be a big fight in a specific kind of setting with specific player expectations. I wish Blizz played with this more; maybe we can only seal away the bad thing? Or maybe the goal is to hold something off while an NPC does a magical ritual that saves the day by some other method? I’m sure there are possible, creative solutions other than “hit bad guy (or his toes if he’s big) until bad guy falls over”.

How does the player save the day in Whispers in the Walls? I’m going to cover this in detail because it’s one of my favorite moments in the whole game.

You spend much of the quest fighting off The Murmur, constructs summoned by the local eldritch horror, called the Indifference (among many other names[4]) which is trying to break into the labs the quest takes place in. The final encounter, the story's climax, has the Indifference possesses a Vessel, one of many unfinished biomechanical giants Albrecht created and left scattered around his lab. The evil Vessel moves in to attack the player, who then possesses a Vessel themself.

The player’s Vessel holds up a hand, and we see a button prompt.

I'm stealing a point from another Tumblr user because it's great. Go read their post and the replies if you're curious about this particular moment!

This button prompt isn’t unusual. There aren’t many quick time events in Warframe, they're not a part of regular run and gun gameplay, but they do appear. If you’re like me, you’ve gone into the accessibility options and toggled button mashing off because wrists hurt. This prompt isn’t unusual to see for me.

But if you didn't use that accessibility toggle, you'll still get this specific prompt. It will be unusual that you're being asked to hold to interact with the scene, rather than the usual smash a button to make thing happen.

So you hold the button, the player’s Vessel reaches out, and when I first played I got excited because I think I’m powering up a big blast to destroy the enemy Vessel!

Then this happens:

I encourage everyone who can to watch the video for the full effect, but I’ll still describe it here:

The background music is ominous, and as you hold the button there's a heartbeat sound. The player's Vessel slowly reaches toward the enemy Vessel. When then the prompt button disappears, the scene goes quiet. The player Vessel gently holds the enemy Vessel's face, mirroring how Albrecht did to Loid at the beginning of the quest. As the music changes to a calming vocal track, we see the enemy Vessel's face change, drop from aggressive to lonely longing. The camera backs away as the two Vessels slow to a stop, posed to echo that "memory of love". The camera switches to Loid, who holds a hand to his own cheek, then looks back at the Vessels. He understands the connection too.

This kind of thing isn’t unheard of for Warframe either! I'll keep additional spoilers to a minimum, but a previous main story quest, The Sacrifice, has similar themes. In fact, my favorite moment from that quest involves a monologue by a major villain about how he is literally unable to comprehend the idea of empathy or compassion. He doesn’t understand why the player character, in a moment of vulnerability and understanding, is able to do what he couldn’t, with all of his violence and brutality.

“And it was not their force of will - not their Void devilry - not their alien darkness. It was something else. It was that somehow, from within the derelict-horror, they had learned a way to see inside an ugly, broken thing —

— and take away its pain.” [5]

In a story where the primary antagonist is a mysterious entity called “The Indifference” we don’t defeat it with force. With hate. What’s the opposite of Indifference?

It’s old man yaoi love. We defeat Indifference with love.

I don’t feel like I was cheated out of a cool moment. I suspect some people did. It’s not like Whispers didn’t have cool moments! I’m not even going to argue that this moment was uncool, just that it brought up different and unexpected emotions in me! It was an interesting and affecting twist on how we expect these encounters to go. It’s moments like these that tell me that Warframe's writers, for all their flaws, are putting genuine thought and emotion into their game. They’re thinking about characters and themes, trying to follow them through even with the scattershot way that video game design demands writers work.

Writing this description reminds me of a moment in Shadowlands, the expansion that traumatized Anduin. It takes place in (surprise!) the Shadowlands, the afterlife of Warcraft’s universe. Thrall, the second character we see in the TWW trailer, meets his mother in Shadowlands. She died when he was a baby, and now that he meets her in these weird circumstances, they begin to create the bond they couldn’t have before. In particular I found this conversation they have touching. A mother who didn't get to know her son, and a son who never knew his mother, finally get to connect. “I knew who you were the moment I saw you,” Draka tells him, “Do you really think I would not recognize Durotan's eyes?"

“Come, I wish to know more of your life, all of it,” she says to him, sounding tired.

It’s such a sweet moment, and bonus points for focusing on Draka, a woman who was functionally fridged prior, who now gets to be a character with personality and (some) agency in Shadowlands. It’s such a perfect demonstration of everything that could’ve been interesting in Shadowlands, what was and is interesting in Warcraft’s story, and what’s so often set aside or overlooked. Can they continue to have a relationship when the current conflict is over? Questions like this are interesting, but Shadowlands doesn’t engage with them at all, and it's poorer for it.

In Warcraft, trauma is aesthetic. Pain is aesthetic. It doesn’t matter what caused Anduin’s suffering in TWW trailer, all that’s important is that we know he’s suffering. We know he's important because he’s a main character and he’s sad about something. But, like, not sad in a way that would make him cry. That part is critical because we all know boys don't cry, right? That bias feels implicit in much of Warcraft's emotional moments. How much more touching would Thrall and Draka's reunion be if Thrall was allowed to cry at finally getting to meet his mom?

Loid does cry, at the beginning of Whispers' quest and during the story of the faction associated with the update. His emotions, and thus his story, feel more genuine and engaging for allowing him that vulnerability.

Warframe wants to engage with specific traumas, how they can make us bitter towards others, perpetuate our own and others’ pain. The point of pain is to understand it, because in understanding, that pain can be taken away. Warcraft has no interest in taking away pain, and it has no interest in understanding it. It’s not about emotional connection, because that requires a vulnerability and a capacity to self-reflect that Warcraft has no interest or courage to engage with. Pain is aesthetic.

Whispers is setting up a longer story arc for Warframe. At the time Whispers was revealed, Warframe was celebrating its 10th anniversary, and the previous main story quest wrapped up the storyline the game told from its release. In this way, Whispers is again an interesting comparison to Warcraft’s The War Within. TWW is also meant to be the start of a new story arc that will last several expansions. I know which story I’m excited about, and which one I feel nothing for.

Loid was a character I met for the first time last year, he immediately felt like a person, and I was emotionally invested. As a player I so badly want Albrecht to finally say the words Loid needed to hear. Anduin Wrynn is someone I’ve known for years, but is now a cardboard cutout. I don't feel compelled to follow his story because... what could it be? Warcraft doesn't seem interested in any conclusion or goal for him. He just is.

I have a lot of complicated emotions about World of Warcraft, as a game and as an influential piece of media. I played the game for many years, and it was an important part of my life. In many ways I’d say it's still a part of me, even after I stopped playing the game itself. Part of writing this essay was following up on some thoughts I shared with friends on BluSky, but part of it feels like exorcising a demon, or bleeding out poison. Part of me grieves for Warcraft, what it meant to me and what I thought it could have been. In Warframe though, I've found a place of comfort and compassion. In between all the space ninja nonsense and vast quantities of horrific violence the player commits, Warframe offers growth, and a way to let go of what hurts us.

—

I'll take a moment and shout out an excellent video essay by Shaun on Youtube called Andrew Tate: How to be a Real Man. It's a great resource for a more general discussion of masculinity in the real world. The video is a criticism of Tate and his approach, why it appeals to some men, and further dissects what masculinity means, and what nontoxic masculinity means. (Is it an inbox full of pictures of Aragorn?) It's a good dissection of masculinity as a concept, and one I'd recommend if you're curious about the topic of toxic/nontoxic or negative/positive masculinity.

—

Yes not only do I have my paragraph long asides I've now also added footnotes. This isn't a peer reviewed journal, you're not my mom, I do what I want!

[1] One of Warframe’s major quests is also called “The War Within” which might be confusing to a reader who knows Warframe. Don’t worry about it, I’m talking exclusively about the upcoming Warcraft expansion here.

[2] For bonus points, if you haven't played Warframe, go to 20:55 on the demo video. You'll see a logo and release date for Whispers In The Walls, hear the live crowd cheer, and the creative director will start to speak... until she's interrupted by something in the game. What you see and hear next is almost exactly as it is in the final release, including the music, minus an extra line of exposition from Loid. This wasn't just a stunt for the convention. I fucking LOVE Warframe.

[3] To be honest this is part of a personal measurement I use to gauge how queer friendly a work is: if they have queer women do they also have queer men? A good example of why I use this is Mass Effect. That franchise always had queer women and an option for lesbian romance, but only in Mass Effect 3 did they add one (1) queer option for a masculine Shepherd. I am a (nonbinary) lesbian so on the one hand I don’t want to dismiss all queer women in media as “pandering” and queer men as “valid”. It’s more of a guideline to estimate how willing a piece of media/creator is to transgress heterosexual norms. Depicting men who love men is seen as more transgressive than two women in love by the gaming community at large. The reasons for this are complicated and they all suck.

[4] hey kiddo

[5] I wanted to avoid spoilers for other Warframe story quests, but The Sacrifice is, again, an interesting point of comparison for Anduin's story. The Sacrifice is, largely, about a character coming to terms with his grief over the death of his son. If you see the whole video I link there, you'll see the player presented with three options: Wrath (We use this memory. It fuels our wrath), Acceptance (We accept this memory and move beyond its reach), and Emptiness (We return this memory to the Void and find peace in our emptiness.) I just wish Anduin's grief over Varian was, at any point, treated with this level of nuance and care.

[hottakehoulihan]

This is a rant/musing/meandering about Worm fans WRT Wildbow. I think it's time I at least once made myself an unsubtly dissenting voice, since silence indicates agreement to so many. Move on if you like. This is probably mostly for me.

I'm white, from the USA, grew up with thrift store clothes and scavenged pencils but got to visit the dentist when needed, and was raised in the same ethnocentric, homophobic, fatphobic, ableist, Puritan-influenced culture that most of us were. I try to routinely examine and correct my biases and blind spots. I am trying to see what I might be missing, with as open a mind as I can manage.

I reread Worm (fourth readthrough, but my retention is meh) these last few months actually looking for any evidence at all I could find of the various phobias (all of them, it seems, and also the vaunted hates-drug-users) that some folk like to assert Wildbow has. I didn't find much that didn't--IMHO--more closely fit an accurate description of how the characters (including Taylor, who is literally a child that grew up in an even less-enlightened environment than most of us) are biased. This, coupled with an unfortunate shortsightedness of methodology (do NOT use dice when you write your story. It seems like a good idea to naive youth, but We Do Not Live in a world where you can just let RNG dictate that your [insert bad thing] is committed by [insert group that is already stereotyped as doing that bad thing]. (Though sometimes that's gonna happen in real life too, and art depicting things that happen in real life is Not Always Bad you just have to be careful about context and tone.) Also, try not to accidentally/subconsciously follow Hayes code-influenced patterns. ...though that's hard to do when you're making almost EVERY character a morally grey one) is all the support I see.

Whew, that was a weird parenthetical juxtaposition. Should I rewrite? Nah; it's already taking too much time.

Seriously, how many actually 100% goodguy fleshed characters does Worm have? Arguably zero. Even Yamada and Legend, by dint of having to work within the confines of their structures, made concessions to evils. Dinah made her ruthless calculus decisions just as Cauldron did. Taylor's famously grey self-justifications were agonized over no more or less than Parian's. A perfect character would be a blemish, arguably. (I'll just take Amy as my woobie; after more than a dozen years of emotional abuse and neglect by her kidnappers, she deserves a bit of consideration and rehabilitation.)

And just like I'm willing to assume that Gregor's somehow flawed, like he offscreen asserted that there are acceptable civilian losses when you're doing crimes or assaulting Cauldrons, and that's clearly bullshit because there's no actual evidence Gregor is anything less than perfect but it's easier to assume evils (and more fun to talk shit) than not, I figure a bunch of folk are trying to fit in by agreeing and priming their confirmation biases accordingly.

And this is without, even, considering the millions of other words in non-Worm stuff. You're gonna read Pale and tell me this same junk?

...though, well, perhaps my cutie Biscuit, and a thing Louise said about addicts essentially vanishing from the lives of their loved ones, might count as being against habitual recreational narcotic use. I'll think about that over my next bottle of wine.

I like reading light novels, and fluffy fanfics, and similar, even though usually the characters involved seldom have what you might call facets. When the retired orc warrior who started a gnomish coffeeshop moves on to her next volume, I'm there, and I don't care if I never find out that she once had to choose between leaving baby goblins to die in a fire or saving a teammate from a spike trap.

I've read so many stories where there's no such thing as an 'ism', or rather there's just no example of representation, because every character is two steps away from being an AFGNCAAP (Ageless, Faceless, Gender-Neutral, Culturally-Ambiguous Adventure Person)

I think Wildbow is serious about trying to always be a better writer in the approaching-MFA sense. I see efforts to portray believable behavior of real "human" (whether human or not) characters from multiple backgrounds, in a world that scans as plausibly diverged from the same sort of ugly we live in today.

I do not see any more latent phobias of any sort than I see in pretty much anything else available to read, from fanfic to bestseller lists to "new favorites" lists at the local library. In fact, I see markedly less, to include some (fuck 'em) commenters complaining about shoehorned-in wokeness.

It's weird to me that, given the body of work and the literal black-and-white facts about who and what exist within, and the extra time and effort the author made and makes (too much, IMO) generously engaging with the fans, the default is to diss the author for not doing even more. In their first work. Of which half the concept and much of the worldbuilding dated from grade-school practice. And it's still great.

And I'm saying this about a story where a significant number of the villains are literally white male nazis, torturemurderers, and literally inhuman terrorists. You wouldn't expect people to be demanding a lot of nuance if you were an outsider to this story. But Worm delivers, IMO.

This is not in response to anything recent; I've been chewing on this for years prior to even joining tumblr or creating this username.

tl;dr: Are you sure you're not talking shit about Wildbow just to fit in with the other cool snarksters and feel cool and cynical and superior? Instead of sincere? Because I went looking, and, respectfully, I think you're wrong. And it's a bit ugly and sad.

[eighthdoctor]

i would love for you to talk about war crimes vs atrocities :chin-hands:

so i'm gonna talk extremely dispassionately for a bit about wars and why we have them before zooming in on gor specifically.

a war is a way to solve a problem.

sometimes the problem is "i'm a bag of dicks and think my country should have more territory" but still. a problem.

usually (unless you are a bag of dicks) a war is not your first approach to problem-solving, because wars are expensive on every possible level. financially. logistically. the longer your war goes on, the less your people like it--fewer willing troops, and also greater risk of getting overthrown and replaced by someone else. you're going to have food problems sooner or later. much easier if you can solve your problem some other way.

so: wars not typically the first solution to the problem.

however a war isn't one-sided. there's someone else here. and with some NOTABLE EXCEPTIONS which all are war crimes for reasons i'll get to, the other party ALSO needs to agree that a war is the best solution to the problem of "someone just invaded me". (as opposed to, say, surrendering.)

ergo: wars (and all fights) are between two (or more) parties who have both agreed this is happening.

you don't need a discussion beforehand, you don't even need to be able to speak each other's language. but if someone at the bar pulls out a knife, you have options other than jumping them. if you DO jump them you have now agreed it's fighting time.

okay so what about that surrendering option. in a bar yes, there are many options other than "fight or give up", but if someone has lined up their army on your border, you really are down to (1) fight, (2) unconditional surrender, (3) negotiate.

#3 requires us all to come to some basic agreements but it's also frankly the most common. MOST instances of country-level posturing do not result in war, they result in another treaty.

#2 (and also #3) can happen at any point after #1 starts. (tbf, it's also possible to start negotiations and then go nah bro, fuck you.) but let's say we start fighting, then go "wait shit, actually we can't win this".

in order for surrendering to be a good option here, the consequences of surrender have to be better than continuing to fight.

this is the root of most war crimes, not geneva.

because let's play out some warcraft scenarios (and put in a cut):

scenario 1: I surrender to the swarm of zombies overrunning my country. this does nothing to change the zombie behavior bc the Lich King is nuts, and we all get killed anyway. the NEXT country over watches this and goes "ah, no surrender then" and fights to the bitter end, making the conquest so much harder than if surrender had been an option.

this is why even a powerful army respects surrender--sure, you'd only lose 1-5% in the battle, but why lose even those when you could lose 0%?

scenario 2: I "surrender" to the orcs but don't really mean it, the moment they let their guard down I reveal my secret weapons/magic/whatever and slaughter them all. unfortunately the rest of the Horde is watching, now knows we cannot fucking be trusted, and next time an Alliance force is outnumbered, the surrender is not respected and we're back to scenario #1.

(scenario 2.5: I wear a recognized neutral flag such as the red cross in order to gain access to the enemy's base of operations and conduct sabotage. the enemy now refuses to let the red cross enter their zone of control. if this gets bad enough, forces may start shooting the red cross on sight. this is why using the red cross is a war crime.)

okay back to azeroth.

scenario 3: I don't fucking trust orcs, even when they've surrendered to me, so I'm going to slap them all in camps and keep them on starvation rations. I'm shocked and appalled when I learn that the orcs are now doing the same thing to our surrendered forces, and pitch a fit when my commander tells me to shape the fuck up.

a lot of war crimes boil down to "if I do it to them, they're gonna do it to us" and drawing a line based on palatability of that. If we mistreat our POWs, they're going to mistreat theirs--and as established before, surrender is an important concept, so "just don't take POWs" isn't really going to work.

scenario 4: I attack a group of civilians in order to provoke the Alliance into a battle they're not ready for. this works (and I win the battle) but now the Alliance is freely killing every Horde race they come across and in about 6 months my army won't have any food.

this one is tricky because different eras/cultures define 'civilian' differently. but in general, there are combatants and there are non-combatants, and if I start killing noncombatants, so is my enemy, and if this spirals long enough we all starve.

there are a lot (a LOT) of armies that won because they used scorched earth, either as the invader (Sherman's march to the sea) or the defender (Russian defense against Napoleon). but there is generally a line of acceptability here because again, if I'm killing your civilians (and destroying your food), then you're going to start killing mine. which is presumably part of why we're at war in the first place.

scenario 5: I destroy a city that has strategic military value but also is full of civilians without giving the civilians time to get out.

hopefully everyone can see what the immediate response to this is going to be. (Sylvanas. of course they're going to try to destroy Lordaeron. that's the logical response.)

at any rate: there are acceptable targets, which have opted in to this stupid problem solving ritual we're all playing. and then there are unacceptable targets, which are either opting out (neutral states) or are unable to opt (both sides' civilians). if I kill your civilians unnecessarily, you're going to kill mine, and then my surviving civilians are going to go "actually we'd like a different leader now thx".

scenario 6: since civilians are off the table, I dress my raid party up as Horde civilians and off we go into Horde territory to blow up some fortifications. (6.5: same thing but we're in Horde uniform.)

this is the same issue as scenario #2 but in a different hat. armies--historic or modern-are Large. I won't know everyone on sight. if I don't know everyone on sight, I need to trust that the people in my uniform are who they say they are. I may have basic preventative measures (code words, ID cards) but if I cannot trust new people I'm going to stop letting people into my fortress. and then eventually we lose, which is unfortunate, but simultaneously I'm pulling the same trick on you, and everyone spirals into paranoia.

now. spying is acceptable and you can wear whatever you want. but you go in, you spy, and you leave, and any blowing up happens while everyone is in uniform.

this is one of the things that distinguishes 21st century warfare, is the regular use of civilian identity to conceal military action. what happens if ANYONE who 'looks new' could be an enemy actor? not what I wanted to happen, that's for sure.

scenario 7: I tell my subordinate to remove enemy agents from the city (this is fine). my subordinate removes enemy combatants AND enemy noncombatants and generally makes this into a cull (this is not fine). we are BOTH at fault: my subordinate obviously manifested reasons to kill a bunch of civilians, but I was nowhere in sight.

armies need to have Someone To Put Blame On. by being in charge, you are saying you are that person. therefore, if your subordinate fucks up badly enough, it is your fault for not stopping them.

scenario 8: there's this new super explosive mineral that can power weapons (this is not a war crime). after mutually using it on each other, everybody decides that the amount of collateral is a colossally bad idea and mutually stops using it (obviously fine). however I think this is stupid and secretly keep supplying my soldiers with it (THAT'S THE PROBLEM).

hopefully we can all see where this one went wrong: if we both agree to Not Do A Thing, and then i Do The Thing, my enemy is not only going to do it in return, but ALSO decide that I am untrustworthy and my odds of negotiating an exit to this go WAY down.

scenario 9: I still don't trust orcs. these ones aren't fighting but I put them in camps anyway. when they rebel, I unilaterally start killing them even when they surrender. I say this isn't a war crime because we're not at war.

which it isn't! this is an atrocity. in real life we've defined this as a war crime because, well, nazis, but this IS an area where Geneva matters.

the difference between this and scenario 5/Teldrassil is that Darnassus is not, perhaps obviously, part of the Horde and so therefore attacking it constitutes an act of war. if Sylvanas had thoroughly lost her mind and wiped out Orgrimmar that wouldn't be a war crime, it'd just be insane.

the orcs are stateless, which complicates matters--if you stick your own civilians in camps and murder them, that's just being a dick. murdering people from another country is an act of war (and potentially a war crime); murdering stateless people has been a war crime irl since the 40s (it's those nazis again) but may not be one on azeroth.

scenario 10: after our last battle, we made a peace treaty. years later, I now know my enemy is preparing to attack me again, so rather than wait for a declaration of war, I go start it first.

declarations of war matter. it's not just being honorable and shit, it's giving everyone time to clear the civilians out and make sure that most of the people dying actually signed up for this. it's telling the opposition why you're declaring war and giving them the opportunity to pick a different option.

furthermore if you signed a peace treaty, a declaration of war is your opportunity to explain that this isn't you breaking your word, the other party did so first. this is important because at some point you'd probably like to sign another peace treaty and nobody is going to listen to you if you just demonstrated you do not give a shit about things you signed your name to. they're probably going to require that you give up a whole lot more than they would've otherwise because of the odds that you're going to be a shit in the future.

okay so in sum. wikipedia has different core principles but mine are:

meaningful surrender (#1, 2, 3)

demarcation between combatants and noncombatants (# 4, 5, 6)

trustworthiness/keeping your word (# 7, 8, 10)

you can also sort of derive the latter two from surrender--if I can't trust you to not kill me, I'm not going to surrender in the first place (trustworthiness), and if you're not demarcating who is and isn't a combatant, what even is going to happen once I've surrendered? but for comprehensiveness, let's take those three.

and go to a reblog because this is fucking enormous.

[oubliette-odette]

The Reluctance of Love Pt. 30

Hey guys! I was away out of town for a couple weeks and was out of service during that time so I'm finally here with a few chapters ready to post. Which is perfect because I'll be out of town again for the next two weeks and I'll make sure that I get a post out for you so you don't all suffer. Things are getting gooood.

Orc Male x Half-Elf Male, Fated Mates, Forbidden Love, Slow Burn Part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 Content Warnings: violence, light torture All orcish is from orcishdictionary.com, created by Matt Vancil.

I stood in the center of the Great Hall, surrounded by men that I had grown to despise for their pathetic neutrality on every decision. I had told them everything my father had done, sparing nothing. I shook with anger, but Selhar stood beside me, barely more than a boy, yet holding himself with the stature of a grown man. Him being there made everything feel far less frightening. We stood, side by side, in the center of the room while the Council circled around us, each keeping their own judgements to themselves while they studied and stared at us. The room was silent as they took in the information I had given them. It took everything in me to not scream back at them to just believe us as I held each of their gazes.

Suddenly, like a large exhale, all of them seemed to erupt with questions. It was clearly a division between those who believed me and those who found my tale preposterous.

“Do you understand what you are accusing?” Councilman Orin rose to his feet. I detected exasperation in his tone and I felt my body go rigid. I remembered he was one who had always admired my father and the two worked close together often. “I understand that since the death of the Duke’s Consort, there has been a change in you. I do not see a benefit in bringing your familial problems to this Council. You understand that if you succeed in removing your father from his role, what it will mean for Berdusk? And what it could mean for Triel if what you say is true? This would mean an entire upheaval in two bodies of government. These are not accusations to be given lightly, son.”

“I certainly would not bring these accusations if I did not intend to do that exact thing.” I said, my voice quivered as I bit back my emotion. “Something must change. An upheaval is necessary. Do you understand what you would permit to continue if nothing is done?” I raised my head and looked directly at Orin. “You would be permitting a radical group to exist beyond our control and persuade this and neighboring lands and it would be that radical group - the Red Hunters - that would begin determining who would be able to travel between roads without trouble, who could trade with us and who could not. What belongs to us would belong to them. Their hands would forever be in all of your pockets and making choices that do nothing for our people.”

Another man rose, he was older and hunched, but his glassy eyes looked kindly down at me, “I cannot deny that I am entirely unbelieving. The Duke and I have often been opposed in our opinions, but I always respected his leadership as long as it was in the interest of the citizens of Berdusk. I believe we all can agree that in the years following your mother’s death, he has not behaved as he used to. I’m not opposed to his removal, but I believe we all find ourselves unprepared to handle what this could mean to Berdusk.”

“Precisely!” Another interjected. “What is to be done if the Duke is gone?”

“Are you not able bodied to lead the people without a Duke?” Selhar asked, his exasperated tone went over their heads, but I caught the way he looked over at me with a roll of his eyes.

“But the Hilmars have led and protected these people for generations.” Orin responded, he looked at me, a dark gleam in his eye, “To lose their duke and the entire way of life would bring utter ruin.”

“You say Commander Gideon has been investigating the Duke as well?” The kind, glassy eyed councilman spoke again.

I nodded, “He is not currently here since the Duke suspected his disloyalty, but we have convinced a number of his guards to speak on his behalf…those that have been forced under my father’s instructions to go against their creed.” I gestured to the line of guards that stood at the door behind me. They all remained silent, but stood stoically and alert. “I also have the means to contact Commander Gideon, should we find it is safe for him to return.”

I turned to a hunched man who sat before me, he was buried in a large book, frantically running his knobby fingers down the page before frantically turning to the next.

“Treasurer,” I gently spoke, drawing the man’s attention. “What have you found in your research?”

He shook his head, sighing. “Gentlemen, the Young Lord is correct. There are withdrawals made by the Duke once a month with no notation, which is well… I-I don’t know how such a thing passes through my clerks.” He removed his spectacles and looked up at me, “And just as you said, there are also payments that are received from Triel that are given right before each of these withdrawals, which are noted as a trade for goods…but I don’t believe goods were ever traded?”

Many shook their heads, “I’ve not been aware of any trades between Triel.” One said.

“It appears that the evidence is stacking against the Duke.” The old councilman sighed. “But Councilman Orin - though I am reluctant to admit - has made a point. Our people expect there to be a Duke in this land…there is no easy way to dismantle what has always been. Young Lord, what do you suggest be done now that the truth is out?”

I nodded. “I understand the burden this places on you and the rest of Berdusk. It is my intention to take his place as Duke.”

Selhar stiffened next to me and whirled his attention on me. “Altan.” He hissed.

I raised a hand to calm him, “I know I have been…reluctant to bear the responsibilities that were always mine. I have watched my father rule in silence, but no more. He speaks with poison on his lips and has held back the progress of Berdusk for too long. Our people deserve to thrive with a leader that believes in the spirit of unity, and honesty. No more walls, no more secrets. We can bridge Berdusk better with the surrounding communes.”

“Ah,” Orin interjected. “I’m beginning to see the whole picture.” He looked to the other Councilman. “This pup wants to free his orc lover and bring its people to our town. Is that what has spurned your interest in ruling all of a sudden?”

The room grew uncomfortably still and I felt my face begin to burn. I had expected this turn to happen, I had never been good at subtlety. And I certainly had been far from subtle the moment I met Drunrag.

“I won’t deny that I have a personal interest in seeing Drunrag released from wherever my father has imprisoned him. And I won’t deny that I wouldn’t invest my influence to foster alliances with outside leaders, but I promise you my choice to do this didn’t come from a place of selfishness. My mother, the late Duchess Telmira, taught me that every individual should be treated with dignity, no matter how different they may be from our understanding. Because what we do not understand is not something to fear, but to learn from and the way we grow is often doing the thing we fear the most. We cannot progress without these connections. The Duke has separated us and choked our people from alliances that would strengthen us.” 

I took a breath, “To be truthful, I don’t want to be Duke. If it were truly up to me, I would dismantle this entire government and start over.” I glanced over to Orin, “It would be easier to just run away and never take responsibility for what I’ve brought to you. And yet, that’s not what I was raised to do and it would be on my conscious if I chose that path. We are all currently facing an uncertain future, but I believe uncertainty is the best place to begin building something we want that’s better than where we were. Uncertainty is just another word for possibility. And if we can build bridges and repair what’s broken, imagine what Berdusk could be. A homeland to traditions old and traditions new. A caretaker to friends and strangers alike.”

“That’s a very optimistic perspective, son.” Orin snidely remarked. “What makes you think people will want this change?”

I hardened my stare, “Perhaps they don’t…but I think people are allowed to change their minds if they want something different. But they won’t know until we give them that opportunity.”

The Council exchanged looks of concern and skepticism. It wasn’t a surprise to see such reactions, I had resisted and ignored my responsibility for a long time and had gone to great lengths to make my dislike known to everyone and now here I stood, sputing flowery words of hope and connection. I certainly wouldn’t trust them if I were them. What I was suggesting was entirely new, foreign to Berdusk. I held each of their gazes and tried to return an expression that exuded confidence and faith in what I said. 

“Lord Altan.” Orin said again. “Are you prepared for the consequences that will come from this?”

“Are you prepared to no longer have my father’s money lining your pockets?” I retorted.

The look of disdain on Orin’s face could not have been more satisfying. “How dare you!?”

I folded my arms and smirked. “Change will come whether we want it or not, it does not care how we feel about it. I won’t lead Berdusk into ruin, and I will see that whatever ‘privileges’ my father has given some of  you is returned to the people. I’m not really here to be liked by any of you.”

The glassy-eyed councilman nodded, “Well, I do not wish to hold back this spirited young lord, I see great potential in him, but we still have the current Duke Hilmar to concern ourselves with. We must try him for his crimes and come to this answer ourselves. Do you disagree?”

I shook my head, “I do not.”

A guard behind us cleared their throat and announced, “Duke Hilmar left early this morning. He didn’t say where, but he appeared to be in a hurry and in a dark mood according to some of the staff here in the Great Hall.”

“Running away perhaps…” Someone mumbled.

The councilman talked amongst and over themselves, struggling to know what to do next.

“A decision cannot be made until the Duke has been tried for his crimes.” One finally said.

“Have guards sent to seek him out, find him!” One yelled.

“If he doesn’t return in three days, we must concede that he is guilty.” Another declared.

“Young Lord, permit us to hold any further discussion until the Duke is found?” The glassy-eyed councilman asked.

I bowed my head, “Granted. Thank you gentlemen, I look forward to seeing this through.”

“As do I.” He replied with a weak smile.

The meeting seemed to awkwardly end as everyone eyed one another with wide expressions and vacant smiles. Admittedly, I had done the equivalent of dumping ice cold water on all their heads and left them with barely a solution. Was I really the best I could offer Berdusk for a better future? I had to believe that my mother taught me what she did for more than just being the pawn of someone else. Change would come slowly, but it would change. And I prayed that it would eventually lead me to Drunrag and he would stay by my side to the long, bitter end.

Selhar grabbed my hand next to me, “Are you mad?” he whispered as he began to pull me away. “You didn’t tell me you would do this.”

“I had to.” I said. 

“But…” He bowed his head. “You told me you wanted to travel, to sing and make art and meet people. What about Drunrag?”

I felt my smile fade from my face, “Those dreams would mean nothing if I ruined your dreams, Selhar.” I placed my hand on his shoulder. “I had to do what needed to be done. I will not regret this.”

He nodded, but couldn’t meet my eyes.

We began to walk down the hall when I suddenly felt a faint burning in the pit of my stomach. I stopped and placed a hand on the flat of my stomach and wavered. This feeling, so familiar, so painfully vivid in my memories. I stumbled back and leaned against the wall, my breath suddenly becoming shallow and desperate. I placed my other hand on my chest, feeling the quickening in my heartbeat.

Lordhovid. It was back.

“Altan!” Selhar reached to catch me, his eyes wide.

I held him back, my eyes unfocused as I felt the burn begin to spread. “Selhar, I need to get out of here.”

“What? Why? What’s happening?”

I looked up at him, but flinched as a wave of feverish heat punched into my loins. I bent down and gasped for air. “I’ll explain later, but I need to leave…” I reached into the pocket of my tunic and found the crumpled letter from Gaius Gideon. “Here. Take me here.” I shoved the paper into his hands before I gasped again and collapsed to the ground. The heat was unbearable, worse than it had been before. And through the pain and fog, I could feel the tight, unyielding pull in my gut that tied me to my beloved.

Want to be updated on new chapters? DM me to be added to the tag list! I'm so sorry that I missed you guys last chapter!

@eltrolodecadadia

@sizzlinghideoutcoffee

@carjis

[topbanana-art]

Finally making an OC info post- by no means is this all of them, just ones that are most active and/or live in my head rent free.

First up- Rhys (DnD 5e - Rime of the Frostmaiden)

20 years Old, Half Orc, Half Elf (sweet baby angel) , He/Him

Fighter- Echo Knight

Absolute Ray of Sunshine; Rhys is from Icewind Dale; more specifically the Nomadic Reghed Tribe of the Elk.

He's unfamiliar with the outside world and even includes settlements in his own country

He's a Himbo basically a big dog.

This campaign lead him to leaving his tribe for the first time after an unfortunate accident which turned him into a small 'painted child' and searching for his missing sister. (both these are sorted now!)

*Rhys found an old oil painting of this child, blacked out and next thing he knew he was that small elf child. Her skin and clothing having the texture of painted canvas, and bleeds paint.

For a good chunk of the campaign he was just a totally normal elf- whose shadow didn't match with the body

---

Dhalas (DnD 5e Annalor)

36 Years Old, They/Him, Triton

Drunken Master Monk

Chill surfer dude vibes

Part of a travelling circus, They're a balancing act

Extremely laid back, Dhalas talks like they fight- dancing around, seemingly without rhyme or reason and occasionally clumsy.

---

Foxglove (BG3)

138 Years old (tweaked her age a lil), She/They, Drow

Arcane Trickster Rogue

Guild Artisan Background- Locksmith & Apprentice Finesmith

Chill and sassy, that Tav who talks their way out of shit.

Skews Towards Chaotic Good

Presents Androgynous most of the time

Must lockpick everything- she's not actually super interested what's inside, she just wants to see the workmanship of the locks and trashtalk how bad they are.

Yeah she's smooching the vampire. (and Halsin)

Naturally cares for others, even at the cost of her own wellbeing.

Has a Phobia of anything touching/going near her eyes- so the start of the game is A Time for Fox.

---

Arslan Dhoro (FFXIV)

21 Years Old (as of ARR), He/Them

Xaela AuRa

Dragoon - White Mage Main (All healer classes tbh)

Stoic, Resting Angry Face Himbo

He struggles to show emotion but he's just pretty shy and cautious about opening up to others.

From the Azim Steppe, he left in his early teens with his father after the death of his mother, to explore the world beyond the Steppe.

His Father Died in his late teens, attacked in Coerthas thinking he and Arslan were Dravanians.

He's extremely soft and protective for the Scions/his friends

---

Shiv (DnD 5e Saltmarsh- campaign completed)

Awful, terrible lesbian

68 years old, She/Her, Halfling

Celestial Warlock - Unicorn Patron w/ a Baby Phoenix familiar, Toby

A piece of shit. Is an absolute asshole and wont let you know she cares.

Lowkey magical girl

Ex-smuggler, who's patron is literally 'I can fix her', 'she can be a better person'. Part of the 'Beyond Skeletons' Pirate crew, she's the medic of the crew.

---

Pymmyr Tathnel (DnD 5e)

Pym

85 Years Old, He/They, Drow

Gloomstalker Ranger

Emotional Support Blink Dog, Princess Liquorice

This boy is scared all the time

Doesn't talk much, but speaks in a soft voice

Has disordered 'Sleeping' and Eating :)

His plague mask has tinted lenses to help ease the strain with how bright the surface is

I wont tell too much about them as a lot of their info is spoilers to other players. But this sad Drow just rocks up in my head on the regular.

---

Erebus (Anima Beyond Fantasy)

AKA- My first TTRPG character! circa 2011-2 I think???

Real name Sho Yoshimitsu

22 Years Old, He/Him

Duk'Zarist Nephilim

Assassin

Textbook 'strong silent and intimidating hot man'

But basically a big soft boy if you break past the mile thick ice

Tragic backstory™ , used to using his body for the job

He really enjoys cooking!

Also hopelessly in love with a small soft summoner, Caelum (the one hugging him), They're RedxBlue gays

---

I think I'll leave it there for now!

I may add more later, I hope it was interesting?? and I'm still pretty shy with yelling this much about my characters haha.

Thanks for reading if you made it this far! 💜

[gi-nathlam-hi]

Ugh the Celebrimbor and Annatar stuff this episode was SO GOOD! Tell me where is Elrond though, I feel like I haven’t seen him since episode 2🥲 hopefully the next couple of episodes will make up for the Elrond lack.

I’d love to hear your more in depth thoughts about this season so far sometime, no pressure of course! But you always have such balanced and knowledgable opinions on this show. I’m liking the season so far, but have some major problems with it still and have come to the conclusion that it’s probably never going to be what I want it to be, and that’s ok! I do love the community around it though, and reading everyone’s thoughts and theories, and I love your blog!

I'm super late to responding to this but holy god yeah. Just in general the Eregion plotline is carrying this entire season. Though the Numenor plotline is doing a lot of interesting things, too! Thank you so much for the ask.

Under the cut for potential spoilers (I am not being super specific in this at all though, but I want to be safe!)

As for some Season 2 opinions, I'm trying to withhold a lot of judgement until we reach the finale, but there have been some things they've done/lines they've chosen to use which are rather...how shall I put this...lore breaking? I will probably have to do a rewatch of the series and take notes. There are certain moments which stand out to me (most of them being in the uh. Really, really, really bad Rhun plotline. I want to like the Stranger & Poppy and Nori, I really do, but it's just...not. good). A couple lines said by Cirdan and moments in the Lindon-focused episode also come to mind. It's frustrating because the writers seem to grasp so many things about the lore and Middle Earth and Tolkien's themes -- and in general they do a good job! But there are a few moments where they miss the mark so widely that it's honestly lore-breaking - much of that has to do with choices they're making regarding the nature of Ainur and uh, the rings, but again I think I'll have to do a rewatch and take notes on the parts that really irk me to be able to explain myself properly. My criticisms in that regard are mostly vague right now.

But I love what they're doing with the dwarves. I adore what they're doing with orcs. I love the characterization of Elrond (though I have no doubt that a huge chunk - at least 70% if not more has to do with Rob being the one who's playing him). And of course the exploration of gaslighting and abuse within the Eregion plotline is so well-written that it's astounding to me. I love that they are being so clear that Sauron is a manipulative, truly evil asshole. They're not making excuses for him. They're not trying to romanticize things or soften things, neither do they try to excuse his behavior in interviews and bonus content either. Sauron sucks. He's a manipulative abuser and I'm so relieved that this is the direction they went with him. Sure, he's sexy as hell while he's doing it, but...how else can I put this...they're not turning that sexiness into an excuse, you know? It just makes it that much more unsettling and scary how sexy and charismatic he is.

Also from a production perspective I'm so pleased to see just how much more time, budget, and allowance was given to the props and costuming department! The thing is -- it's not that the costumes last season were bad, necessarily, but it was painfully obvious that the (immensely skilled, if you look at the roster!) costuming department simply wasn't given enough time and budget to make anything competitive. And while I hate that the show has been forced into competition with other fantasy shows (House of the Dragon, cough cough), it's simply a reality that people are comparing the two, and House of the Dragon's costuming had, thus far, simply been far superior in terms of tailoring, structure, and quality of fabric. They're not really super comparable (Game of Thrones has always gone for prop/costuming realism -- taking more direct inspiration from historical fashion, vs the Rings of Power's art department clearly taking inspiration from Romantic and Baroque art). I'm really pleased to see that they've stuck to their art direction while being obviously given the appropriate time to create something of higher quality. The difference between the fabrics and tailoring from S1 to S2 (as well as the wig quality, holy shit), is just astronomical.

This season in general just feels like a massive upgrade to season one. I loved season one. I didn't really think it was very good, but it was fun. Whereas season two I'm slowly transitioning into "this is good. this is well made" (with the unfortunate exceptions of Rhun and certain moments in Lindon, but that again comes down to writing which bafflingly continues to be a weak point. I say baffling because now the writers have proved to me that they are capable of writing some truly incredible stuff via the Eregion arc. So I simply don't understand how we got the Eregion arc alongside uh. Some really glaringly awful writing in the Rhun arc. And it's such a shame because the art direction and production in Rhun is so good. I wish the writing lived up to it).

I'm a bit nervous for the time budget for the finale, but I'm withholding judgement until we have it in our hands.

Anyway thanks for giving me the opportunity to ramble! I have more thoughts for sure, but this is what comes to my mind off the top of my head lol.

[vera-king-hrfl]

Heat of the Night part 7

Collab with @crowwolf ily bby!

The rugby game was supposed to be in this part, but we took a minute to research because I know fckall about that sport, so I waffled for about 2500 words. Next time! 😅

CW: homophobic slurs, mild violence, attempted assault.

A few nights later, Cal is at Creature Comforts, a bar designed to cater to those with alternative ancestry, with some friends, playing darts, drinking beer and chatting. Cal is currently tossing against Max, a half-orc who plays rugby as well, for a team in the Outer City. The young tiefling is losing. Badly. 

"What are you doing, Cal? I'm gonna take your whole week's pay if you keep throwing like that." Max goes to pluck the darts from the target, none of which had struck anywhere near the center. 

Cal forks over a few coins, shaking his head with a sheepish grin. "Sorry, Max. I'm a little distracted this week. Besides, it's not like I could beat you anyway. I'll just sit the next few out."

The huge green man, who towers over everyone in the place except for Cal and Dammon, is surprisingly soft-spoken for his rather fearsome appearance, his deep, gruff voice a pleasant rumble that cuts through the raucous din. "That’s alright, kid. I'll let you off the hook. Is there anything you want to talk about?"

Cal walks to the bar with Max to get another drink, then leans against it, sipping from the bottle, and shrugs. "Nothing dire, really. I just met someone."

The big man grins, showing teeth that put Cal's fangs to shame. "So. Too late for us, then?" 

The tiefling chokes, then wipes his chin. "Us? I... um... I didn’t know you felt that way..."

Max laughs with a hearty gusto that makes Cal relax a little and shake his head. "Just messing with you Cal; you're not my type. Besides, we'd just break the bed. You've gotten bigger in the past few years."

"Yeah, sideways, maybe." The tiefling snorts and pats his own belly, looking pointedly at Max's rock hard chest and stomach. 

Max chuckles again. "You could always come work out with us at the yard; I'll get you into shape in no time. But I don't think you need it. I bet your boyfriend loves the fluff."

Cal grins, blushing a little. "Yeah he seems to. But he's not my boyfriend yet; we've only been on two dates."

"Dates? Wow, I haven't been on one of those in decades. I just find a nice lady with a fat ass and ask if she wants me to jiggle it for her. Works more often than you'd think, as long as she doesn't run screaming when I walk in the room." He nods at someone across the room and slaps Cal on the shoulder, making him grunt and stagger a bit. "Talk to you later, Cal. Looks like Darys wants to be humiliated. Take it easy, kid."

"Yeah you too, Max." Cal stays where he is for a few more minutes, then approaches a table where Dammon and some other men are trading bawdy stories. "Hey Dammon, can I talk to you for a second?"

The handsome blond tiefling nods and rises, following Cal to a marginally quieter corner. "Sure, Cal. What's up?"

"Do you think... would it be weird if I invited the guy I'm seeing to our game this weekend?"

Dammon raises an eyebrow, his blue eyes sparkling with interest. "I didn't know you were dating anyone, but yeah, you can invite him. We're playing the Rivington Roeths; Max's team. Those guys are all pretty cool. What's he look like, so I can make sure he gets a good seat?"

Cal blushes a bit. "Oh, well... he has black skin and white hair, about yea high." Cal holds his hand at the level of his chin. 

"I see..." Dammon’s grin makes Cal blush a bit deeper red, but he's smiling too. "What’s his name?"

"Ryldinn."

"Hmmm dabbling in the dark, are we? Not that I blame you; most of those drow are kinda kinky." The paler tiefling winks conspiratorially. "Ask me how I know." Dammon’s attitude is infectious, and Cal ends up laughing with him.

"Yeah, yeah, I've heard that you like to visit the Caress."

Dammon chuckles, then sighs dreamily, closing his eyes for a second. "Mmm yeah, you haven't lived until you've been tied up by the twins. But anyway, sure, that's no problem. I'll have them comp two seats so you can sit with him during breaks if you want. Just have him say that Dammon has it covered. Can't wait to meet him. You hanging around for a while? Shop's closed tomorrow."

"Nah, been a long day. Besides, I lost all my beer money to Max already. It’s nice out so I'm just going to walk home."

"Alright, Cal. Get some rest. The Roeths go hard."

Cal grins. "I know. But I need to win back some money. I bet Max I could stop a drive."

Dammon whistles softly. "Bold. Well, lemme know if you need a loan later, alright?" They hug, briefly, and Cal lets himself out onto the street, pulling out his comm and staring at it for a second. He doesn’t want to bother Ryldinn if the drow is busy, so he settles for a written message. 

Thinking about you. 

He grins, cursing himself for a fool with a crush, and slips the device back into his pocket before beginning his walk home. It's shortly after ninth bell and the streets are sparsely populated in this neighborhood, with only a few people out walking dogs, strolling, coming home from work. It's quiet. Peaceful. 

Right up until it's not. 

"Hey there, cutie, what's up?" The loud, intoxicated sounding voice is coming from an alley to Cal's left as he walks past, and at first, he just ignores it, concentrating on his own thoughts. 

"Hey, I'm talking to you! Guys, come look what I found."

The note of hostility gives Cal pause, and he backs up a little to look down the alley. The voices seem to be coming from one street over, the speaker out of sight for the moment. The tiefling hesitates, then another babble of voices joins the first and he starts moving down through the darkness between the buildings. 

"Awww what have we here? Look at this pretty little faggot!"

"Hey, stick around, beautiful. Whatcha got in the bag?"

A pause, the response inaudible to Cal at this distance. 

"What if I don’t wanna let go of you? You gonna do something to me?"

"I think he wants to suck your dick, Barret."

"That right? You wanna suck my dick, fairy? Come over here. Maybe if you do it good I'll let you go."

Suddenly, three human men appear, dragging someone smaller into the alley, and Cal speeds up in time to see a petite man with white hair being shoved against the wall and pinned by the biggest of his attackers. Thick fingers grip the smooth dark face, and the man lowers his head. "Come on, princess. Gimme a little kiss."

"Hey!" The men turn at the shout, the big one releasing Ryldinn for a moment as Cal draws near. The drow tries to extricate himself but his ponytail is snatched by one of the others and he's pulled back as the leader addresses first his captive, then Cal. 

"I didn't say you could go." He lifts his chin and squares his shoulders. "This isn't your business, buddy. Move along."

"I'm making it my business. The fuck are you doing? Let him go."

The guy, a big man with overly processed blond hair and acne scars, who Cal assumes is Barret, steps closer. "Hold him, guys," he says, glancing back before crossing his arms and sneering at Cal. "What’s it to you, foulblood? You sweet on this little piece?"

One of his companions, a skinny guy with a prominent nose, snickers. "Maybe he's a queer too. You a queer, hellspawn?"

Cal smiles, baring his fangs. "Yeah I am. Got a problem with that?"

Barret steps closer, but the skinny one seems to have second thoughts and catches at his arm. He's whispering, but Cal's big ears catch it. "Hey man, you sure about this? He's a tiefling."

Barret snorts. "He's a fag, how tough could he be? Just keep that one here and I'll deal with him. You looking for a fight, cocksucker?"

Cal tilts his head until his neck cracks rather loudly. "Unless you want to let him go, then yeah. One for one. You can have the first punch. But I promise you don't want it."

Barett chuckles and glances back at his friends, briefly. There's a brief glimmer of hesitation in his eyes, but he obviously doesn't want to lose face in front of his minions, so he steps to Cal and raises his fists. "You got this coming, devil." The tiefling doesn’t bother trying to dodge. Barret is strong for a human, and his hit connects smack on Cal's jaw, but his heavy facial bones absorb the impact and he's barely moved. He lifts his hand, rubbing at his jaw and grinning. "My turn."

The "oh shit" is visible in Barret's expression now, but to his credit, he doesn't try to escape. Cal doesn't even bother hitting the guy, just lashes out, taking hold of the guy's head and shoving. The big human goes flying, careening across the alley and colliding into the brick wall with a loud smack, then tumbling onto his back, lying there groaning and holding his head. 

Cal turns to the others. "Next?"

"Uh..." The other two, Skinny and a chunky shorter man, look at each other for a moment, then Ryldinn is released and walks quickly to Cal, standing somewhat behind the bigger man. "Yeah, alright, you can have him. We're going. Come on, Barret, let's get you some ice." They help the man to his feet and the three of them stagger down the alley in the direction from which the tiefling had come. Cal watches them until they're out of sight, then turns to the drow, who seems to be a little shaky.

Cal reaches out and gently takes his arms, looking him over. The smaller man is dressed professionally tonight, tailored slacks and a snug waistcoat over a crisp blue linen shirt, his hair escaping from a neat tail at the back of his neck. There's a bulky messenger bag depending from one shoulder. "You alright, Ryldinn?"

The drow smiles a little, then steps forward into Cal’s arms and nods. "I am fine, Cal, just a little shaken. Thank the gods you showed up. What are you doing here?" He pulls back, and Cal cups his cheek with a smile. 

"I'm on my way home. Wanted to walk. Come on, let's get back to the street. How about you? This isn't really a safe neighborhood."

They emerge back onto the sidewalk on Ryldinn’s side of the street, and the drow starts fixing his hair and smoothing his clothes while he answers. "I am here for work. A few books I needed were being offered by a widow selling off her late husband's things. I suppose she is lonely; I spent longer than I intended having tea and talking with her. I live not far from here; I wasn’t expecting trouble." He reaches up to touch Cal's jaw, gently. "I'm sorry that man struck you. Does it hurt?"

Cal chuckles. "Not really. I'm tougher than I look. Dense bones. Don't worry about me; I asked for it. Can I walk you home? It would make me feel better."

Ryldinn smiles brightly, his little kitten teeth sparkling in the street lights. "I think it would make me feel better too. Thank you, Cal."

The tiefling smiles back and takes the slender dark fingers, kissing them briefly before resuming in the direction Ryldinn indicates. "I don't know if you got my message earlier, but I wanted to tell you. We have a night game tomorrow against Rivington, and you said you were interested... so if you're not busy..."

The drow squeezes his hand. "I would love to. This is my final task this week, so I should be free for a couple of days." He sounds a little nervous for a moment. "What kind of people go to games like that?"

"Oh, all kinds. But don’t worry about anything, alright? Most of them know about me; they won't give you any trouble. Just mention Dammon at the gate and they'll have seats for you."

"He is a member of your team?"

"Yep. He's the captain. He's also my boss; owns the shop I work at. He's a tiefling too. Really nice guy, known him since I was a kid. I think you'll like him."

"I'm sure I will, if he's anything like you. Turn here."

They cross another street and are suddenly in a much more gentrified, but far from wealthy neighborhood, with cute little shuttered shops and cafes. "This is nice," Cal says, looking around. "How long have you lived here?"

"Oh, around ten years now. I stayed with a friend until my Common was good enough to be on my own. The people here are nice and tend to keep out the intolerant."

"So you live alone now?"

"Mhm. I enjoy my privacy. The friend was Astarion, if you can imagine. It was a little chaotic. He still drops in now and again to irritate me, but I spend much time alone."

Cal grins. "I guess that guy could be an annoying roommate. I live with my sister. She's a pain sometimes too, but it's not bad. We're both out a lot." Ryldinn slows before a charming three-storey building and turns down the walkway. It's a little darker here; the dense landscaping blocking some of the light from the street and the windows. "This it?" Ryldinn nods. "Alright. I guess I'll get going, if you're sure you're alright."

"I'm fine." Cal nods and turns to go, but Ryldinn tightens his grip, and he pauses. "My hero." He moves closer with that precious little grin, and Cal's breath catches at the invitation there. "Will the knight in shining armor kiss his princess goodnight?"

Cal swallows, "Oh, absolutely," then wraps Ryldinn in his arms and presses his lips to the tender mouth. The kiss is chaste at first, but then Ryldinn moans softly and parts his lips, and Cal can't help himself. He pulls the drow closer, up against him, and probes with his tongue. Ryldinn meets him, sealing his mouth to Cal's and letting their tongues slide together. The drow inhales sharply at the feeling, sliding his hands up Cal's chest and around his neck, pressing his tight little body to Cal and bringing one leg up to curl around one of Cal’s. It feels incredible, and Cal risks wrapping his tail around the firm thigh, drawing another little whimper from the trembling drow. A small hand drifts down his chest and stomach, slides over the covered crest on his hip, then wraps gently around his tail where it rests against his leg, and this time it's the tiefling who groans quietly. Ryldinn’s mouth is sweet, soft and a little shy, his kiss unpracticed, almost clumsy against Cal’s lips, as if this is something he hasn’t done frequently or recently, but he's certainly enjoying it as well, from what Cal can detect. He kisses the lovely man for a few minutes, but then has to pull away before embarrassing himself. He blows out a breath, chuckles, and kisses Ryldinn on the forehead before pulling him in for a hug.

"That was amazing, sweetheart. Thank you."

Ryldinn giggles softly into his chest. "You’re telling me? I've never kissed anyone with a forked tongue before." He looks up, still breathing a bit rapidly. "You'd better go before I drag you upstairs. Are you going to be alright? Your face..."

Cal smiles and cups his cheek again. "I'm fine. Like I said, I'm pretty tough." He takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly, trying to calm himself, then chuckles. "And yeah, I'll go, before I'm tempted to let you drag me. I'll see you tomorrow, alright?"

Ryldinn nods. "Tomorrow. Goodnight, Cal."

[tiddiesoutwhenthetisout]

recent doodles (in between losing our shit in overcooked so we don't actually lose it)

random bulshit incoming

Pyrhhus

context: we have what we call our own "fanon pyrrhus" based on the idea that he is "an achilles without a patroclus". we play this super random game where we make a story, leave blanks for characters, then randomize. the storyteller improvises depending on these, and what happened was... the demon lord hector was being attacked by pyrrhus, took one look and said "yk what, i'll adopt you. i'm done being a demon lord (because the party sucked so hard he didn't think it was worth it). let's go back to my wife and kid."

and for the first time pyrrhus felt genuine love and care and went from the snarling boy (bottom right) to the cutie on the left. and in our succeeding games he has dissociative identity disorder as a running gag. he turns feral when he feels threatened (words said, things seen, etc.) but generally he's a really sweet guy especially when he has granny (thetis), but a father figure whether isolated or not is essential lest he's just feral.

in one story, his father threw him into the dungeon (yes it's achilles) because he didn't want the child. so little pyrrhus had to eat monsters to survive. his grandfather peleus turns out to be the leader of an orc gang hanging out in there so at least he has a sweet side, but they don't live together because pyrrhus is rebellious and defensive with his autonomy and capability. also, this one plot definitely wasn't a crack rework of dungeon meshi lol-

then here's ANOTHER redesign of

Patroclus

because i can't get him right orz. the "looks like heracles" thing was because he resembled my image of heracles before i tried to salvage his hair. i couldn't erase anything bc we did not have an eraser lmao. i think this will finally work, but i just have to tuck that stray lock of hair away from his face next time. also, i'll attempt facial hair again but in smaller amounts (i put stubble on him in the next pic). i'm just incapable of drawing more "masculine" features rn but i'll practice at some point... 💀

that's achilles below patroclus. the dark left eye was an accident, but honestly it *would* be interesting if he had one pitch black iris from his mother and the other green is from wherever the fuck he got it. i took the headband thing from his hades design too hahaha (idk my ancient greek culture okay)

also, yes, they do have matching ear piercings. i might try to digitalize these again later on when i'm in the mood.

i have to learn how to cartoonize stubble oops

also, curly/wavy hair is so fun to draw with these simple shapes, huh : 0 i'm the type of person to draw hair with fine strands except when i'm deliberately aiming for that anime style (i just want to learn how to color like them help).

i was going to yap about the stories we've done so far but i realized maybe i should turn that into an entire new post. or maybe draw stuff for them 🤣

also, like DnD this game would probably be fun with a lot of people. you could do this for any fandom too so that's the best part of it.

[risualto]

I was tagged by @orime-stories to make some OC kisses in this picrew! Thank you.

Names and lil stories under the cut.

I'll tag (sorry if you've been tagged already; I'm not sure who's done this yet) @captainofthefallen @rannadylin @ariela-of-aedyr @hopelesshaunts @queen-scribbles @gwiriwyll @haledamage @marumigamer @quaxorascal and @bragganhyl! Tbh if you see this and you want to make some kisses, please make them and tag me so I see them, though.

Top left, we have my now-retired D&D baby, Montgomery von Calliston Radcliffe, kissing his lovely wife, Lorelei Valier. This is probably a relaxed kiss in the kitchen of their party's keep, early enough in the morning that no one is awake to start shenanigans (and before their accidentally acquired child wakes up and accidentally has a wild magic surge).

Top right is a currently-active D&D baby, Odelle, kissing her half-orc bestie, Pashka. They're not dating, but they've slept together in the past and have a very physical friendship. There's no feelings or obligations between them except to stay safe. This was a goodbye kiss the last time Odelle left the monastery. She's promising to come back.

Middle left is a @speakergame kiss featuring my Speaker, Yoshiko Nakamura, and the dryad-next-door, Azalea Mirin. Probably takes place a while in the future after Yoshiko has accepted her lesbian heart and gotten around to asking Azalea out (or accepting being asked out by Az, not sure which yet).

Middle right is my Everything Bad!Watcher, Lila, kissing Xoti <3 murder girlfriends go brrrrrr. Probably takes place after killing some cultists, but honestly might also be the blood of the town guards...depends on the day, I guess. They love each other, but not the idea that there are solutions other than violence. Featuring a little Gaun-like glow in the background.

Bottom left and right are both my primary WoL, Rihnkiki "Inky" Rihnki, kissing her boyfriends. Urianger's kiss was a surprise because he wasn't expecting to turn around and see Inky on the table before they left to meet up with Thancred; Thancred's is a lazy goodnight kiss while they're waiting for Urianger to finish reading a chapter of his book. I couldn't get green hair in this dollmaker (and idk how to photo edit), so these are from an AU where Inky's hair turned white post-ShB, I guess. Just consider Urianger's kiss mirrored, because otherwise you should be able to see their archon tattoo and Inky's scar.

[quicksilverdrabbles]

Team Dragonborn: *walking down a road near the river in Whiterun*

Lucien: You know, Dwarven Oil is known to have some very good regenerative properties to magicka if you ever decide to make some Magicka potions of your own. We can try to see if we can find any the next time we're in a dwarven ruin.

Morana: That would be nice. There are alot of spellswords among us now, I could distribute them to you and the others.

Lucien: Oh, how generous!

Inigo: *squinting at the words and drawings in the sign language book Lucien gave him* Lucien, I do not think these gestures are accurate to what Morana is saying.

Lucien: How is that?

Inigo: The book says she just called you a very rude word.

Morana: *shakes her head* I didn't.

Lucien: Oh dear.. That was the only book on Imperial Sign Language I could find in the Arcanaeum. I'll have to tell Urag it's incorrect... *blinks, remembering how frightening the Orc is* ... Ahaa.. or, uh. Someone else can tell him.

Taliesin: That 'library' is a joke. Half of the books there are ones you could find in an average general goods store, and the other half is just pure nonsense. Only very rarely do we actually find anything of use.

Kaidan: And that's only after we get the book back from whatever dungeon it's ended up in.

Xelzaz: I'm of a mind to agree.

Lucien: It's... Certainly different compared to the libraries in the Imperial City.

Morana: Urag is very nice. He's patient when we can't find anything we need and have to ask for more... *her hands slow to a stop, her gaze fixed on the river*

Xelzaz: Hm? Is something wrong, Morana?

Morana: *suddenly bolts away from the group, ditching her satchel and notebook and using a wind spell to jump halfway across the river and catch something in her hands midair, plunging into the water shortly after*

Kaidan: MORANA?!

Taliesin: What the hell is she doing?!

Xelzaz: *runs after her, wading into the water and going under to see where she went*

Morana: *tilts her head, spotting Xelzaz in the water. Her hands stay clutched around whatever she was holding as she attempts to swim back to shallow water*

Xelzaz: Oh, for the love of.. *swims forward and grabs the back of her armor, pulling her back to shore and emerging from underwater* What in the world were you thinking?!

Morana: *her hood and mask comes undone as she pops her head out of the water, revealing a bright smile.* Xelzaz, look! *holds out her hand and reveals a blue dartwing dragonfly, now dead* I haven't been able to find any in ages! We can make more Fear poisons now!

Xelzaz: Surely there were more ingredients with Fear properties available to you?! And stop using your voice, you're still healing from the last time!

Morana: *pouts, finding her satchel on the shore and putting the dragonfly in it for later* I have Namira's Rot, but we haven't encountered a Daedra for Daedra Hearts in weeks and Powdered Mammoth Tusk is hard to come by. And I'm horrible at fishing, I can't get Cryodilic Spadetails.

Inigo: My friend, your mask has fallen off.

Morana: Ah! *looks around, trying to feel through the water for it*

Xelzaz: I'll find it, you go back to the others and dry off before you catch a cold.

Morana: Thank you, Xel.

Xelzaz: Yes, yes, don't mention it.

Lucien: Oh goodness, you're completely soaked. All for one dragonfly?

Morana: I'm gonna go get the rest of them once they come back. I was excited and scared more off.

Inigo: Hehe, that was very funny to watch. I was tempted to jump in with you.

Lucien: And what on earth are you two doing?

Kaidan and Taliesin: *kneeling on the ground clutching their chests, overwhelmed by the sight of Morana's smile*

Kaidan: Fuck, that was so cute.

Taliesin: What can I do to see that again?

Morana: *tilts her head, a confused expression on her face. She snorts, breaking out into quiet giggles, lifting a hand up to try and hide her smile* You guys are silly.

Inigo: *staring at Kaidan and Taliesin, now laying on the ground with red faces* My friend, I think you are going to kill them at this rate.

[talesofsonicasura]

Like I said in this post, I do have some ideas with rapper!Reader. Here's one of them.

Stereos and Truck Horns

A peculiar music shop lays at the far edge of Jasper's city limits called "Newsground Jam". No one knew when it been fully established but the place is known for various music and odd customers. Although the giant robots that lurk in Nevada better watch out. The shop owner has ways of handling troublemakers. And will the damn truck stop being nosy!

Optimus Prime is Reader's guardian since he accidentally got into a fight with the Decepticons when they were in the vicinity. The guy feels guilty about putting them on the enemy's radar hence the arrangement. He and Reader are gonna clash for a bit at the start due to difference in opinion.

They don't really care about the Autobot/ Decepticon civil war. All Reader wants to do is enjoy life and make an earnest living. Newsground Jam is neutral ground so either side can visit if they don't cause trouble. You can say it wasn't viewed positively by Team Prime but these are the rules.

This leads to all sorts of shenanigans especially when Reader's "crew" tend to pop up at random times. Friendly oddballs such as basketball loving old school robots, pint sized maddening mercenaries, whacky rappers and even dangerous soul stealing killers. Every visit to Newsground Jam is guaranteed to be quite an experience.

(Reader's gender is preferred gender or neutral to suit preferences. They become close to Optimus but you guys can interpret their bond as whatever. Reader is relatively the same age as the Autobot leader, basically an adult.)

Here's what to expect:

Reader is a bundle of sass done with everyone's shit. Try to baby them and expect to be bitten in return. Danger isn't anything new to them. Optimus has difficulty understanding that.

Cybertronians fully experience humans being space orcs. It's absolutely terrifying especially when one of them can become an eldritch horror through rap music. Humans are crazy in their own ways.

Beep boops is a cheat sheet to speaking Cybertronian. Ratchet doesn't understand how this little blue haired human is so fluent in it. Boyfriend just wants to rap and has no clue why the Autobots are fixated by his comfort language.

Soundwave constantly visits as he is a little too invested in Reader. Convict and a few others aren't willing to share their rapper like usual. Reader just wants to manage their music shop than deal with this nonsense.

A blanket burrito war between an Autobot Leader and a completely done rapper ensues. Pure hypocrisy since both suck at taking care of themselves. Team Prime are both surprised, relieved and scared as this goes on.

Do NOT attempt to intimidate or piss off Reader. Megatron learns that the hard way when the "puny fleshie" turns into an a reality bending eldritch clown monster and proceeds to beat the shit out of him. They are pure neutral chaos who just wants a break.

Reader curses an alien god into submission, Vehicons follow them like lost ducklings and Breakdown gets put into forced medical bed rest at Newsground Jam. Everyone is so confused about the weirdness this human carries everywhere. There's a betting pool on whether Reader's an eldritch god or not.

That's it for now! Until next time folks, I'll see you back in Nevada. Now transform and roll out!