#interpret their encounters that way

[thedanceronthestreets]

The fact that we're now officially no longer delusional for thinking trent might be in love with ted... i need to go lie down

[lucabyte]

Hmmm just gonna spit this headcanon out in text post form since A. I don't think I could exposit it well enough in image form and B. It's not actually textually/thematically substantiated and I don't like actually staking my stuff on just vibes alone*

But anyway. I'd say it's pretty evident that all the islanders forgot their names, right? King obviously. Because why the hell else would he do that, but also Siffrin No Middle Names No Last Name.

They're 'pretty sure' they've 'always' been 'Just Siffrin' 'as long as they can remember'. It's a pretty cruel twist of the knife to say that they don't even get to keep their birth name as a memento, which is why I'm saying as such.

My utterly unsubstantiated claim is I think it'd be cute to say that Sisyphus *is* the name Siffrin initially picked, assuming the myth of King Sisyphus is recontextualised as idk, just a play or something in the setting. But I like the idea of Siffrin going 'oh shit 🫵 he's just like me fr' at a tortured fictional character long before the irony kicks in.

As for how Sisyphus -> Siffrin. I think that chronic mumbler and emotional doormat Sif just did not correct people who misheard the name during their time travelling, and went through enough places with incompatible phonologies (pronounceable sounds in the language) without ever really writing it down that it just got kinda. Changed until it was unrecognisable, and Siffrin just went with it until the earlier pronunciations slipped out of their swiss-cheese brain. And they just kinda don't remember any of that.

Also, something something the horrid realisation that Siffrin also named themselves after a King. Just not as blatantly.

*(though I think there's something here about Siffrin, a guy from a belief system that seems to thoroughly disincentivise autonomy and self-motivated choice continuously having their hand forced to make changes/choices they don't want but have no choice but to... It's not solid enough to really back this up tbh, but it informs it.)

Anyway.

[thegroundhogdidit]

i still stand by my take that no immortal character should have a monosexuality but the one exception is louis de pointe du lac the only way that man is ever fucking a woman is if his man is also a woman

[anistarrose]

what I mean when I say I'm tired of people making found families into nuclear families:

among other things, it's kind of annoying when people act like the romantic couple are automatically the "most obvious" candidates to adopt a kid; or act like a pair of people in a romantic relationship can't happily co-parent a kid with people outside of that romance

what I don't mean when I say I'm tired of people making found families into nuclear families:

people using "siblings" or "parent and child" as a shorthand (or even non-shorthand) for characters' relationships sometimes

[too-much-boobus]

wondering whether all the people around me are proship in the toxic abusive yuraoi way or the I WANNA TOUCH KIDS I WANNA DIDDLE KIDS ITS OKAY TO LIKE WATCHING ADULTS TOUCH KIDS BC THEYRE NOT REAL I LOVE PEDOPHILIA YUMMY YUMMY IN MY TUMMY way because ive been getting increasingly confused and worried at all the proship posts everyone rbs since ive joined tumblr. U GUYS. MEAN IT IN THE FIRST WAY RIGHT? U DONT LIKE DIDDLING KIDS RIGHT??? 😰😰😰😰 and hardcore noncon and incest???? RIGHT???? AM I GOING CRAZY?? AM I IN THE WRONG HERE?? I DONT THINK I AM. ive had friends who were the second type before i just. 😕 i just wanna talk😕 everything was so clear cut on twitter but here everyone seems to agree with proship rhetoric and all the red alarms in my head are blaring i need to know if u guys r only saying this shit because of the people who consider ANY problematic stuff blacklisted or if u really think fiction cant affect reality in all cases. THATS NOT RIGHT RIGHT? ITS NOT GOOD TO WATCH ADULTS DIDDLE KIDS? RIGHT? BECAUSE THESE R PEOPLE I TRUST AND YALLRE MAKING ME QUESTION EVERYTHING. WHAT IS HAPPENING?1?1??1??1?1???1?!?😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[wildfairies]

i don't understand the urge to write hate think pieces about video game characters/their writing on here like at all

[12pt-times-new-roman]

I missed the first hour of combat but — C3E62, let's go!

"We built this for you!" oh honey.

Bor'dor has the lucky feat.

"In the aura of this oddly dunamantic energy emanating from Ashton—" Is this the first time Matt has confirmed that Ashton's abilities are dunamantic in nature? I know it's been obvious from our standpoint for a while now, and it was implied to the party by Caleb's mention of dunamis, but is that the first time it's been acknowledged in-game?

As Laudna starts to get flashes of memories eventually leading to Delilah, her ribcage cracks open to release a hound of ill omen modeled after the Briarwoods' undead hounds.

The dome above the temple begins to glow as a voice echoes from above. "Leave or be judged." A winged celestial being — a Dawnborn Angel — descends, with a flaming sword in one hand, to the middle of the chamber.

As far as I can tell, this is a home-brew. The Judicator seems to be modeled on a planetar (same AC and similar abilities, though likely a lower CR), but the "dawnborn angel" resembles nothing I can find.

Prism refers to herself at the Matron of Ravens' daughter. Now, her calling the Matron "mother" makes sense given the goddess' titles and namelessness; but being a shadar-kai and a wizard who has a "complicated relationship" with the Matron while calling herself the Matron's daughter is definitely cause for concern.

Deni$e has 3-4 rogue levels.

"The Judicator does not back down, it does not feel fear." It's also an "entity trained to hunt those of arcane persuasions." All I can think of are cybermen from Doctor Who.

The summons get the HDYWTDT on the Judicator!

A mid-combat break?? Is this gonna be a C2E86 situation where the entire episode is combat?

An angel, a demon, and an earth elemental walk into a bar...

Orym climbs the demon's back and sits on its shoulders like he's mounting a horse, which it begrudgingly allows.

Ashton speaks to the now-uncontrolled earth elemental in primordial. "We gotta get these people out of your home. Can you get me up there?" With its reaction (read: because Matt is giving the party some leeway here), the elemental grabs Ashton and attempts to huck them up to the angel with a nat20 (what the FUCK is the count on this? this pendulum has got to swing in this half, yeah?), because "the spirits of the forest have taken over where the arcana has failed."

The barlgura grapples the angel and brings it to the ground.

THERE'S the Chop Suey joke, finally. "When angels deserve to dieeee...."

Deni$e has a barbarian rage ability called "spirit of the mountain"? I can't find any barbarian subclass with this ability, and it's not a dwarf thing, so is this a home-brew barbarian subclass?

Bor'dor gets his second HDYWTDT on the angel with a 5th level inflict wounds. He holds its head, kisses its forehead, and says, "enough."

A second Judicator, the one that was patrolling the city, approaches the temple, but turns around and leaves at the sight.

It's so interesting to think about the way this battle would be interpreted in different campaigns. In C1, this would've been a heroic tale of villagers rising up against their oppressors and succeeding; in C2, it would've had underlying tones of national, material, Exandrian politics rather than theological ones, but still would've had that tinge of objective victory; and in C3, it is inundated by theological rhetoric and the politics of the gods, and mired by uncertain, subjective success.

The Judicators' masks are not worn, they are fused to the skull. (Again. Cybermen.)

Eventually, Abadeena's magic, alongside the spirits of the forest and the magic of the villagers, reduces the temple to rubble.

Orym is reconciling, trying to bring together conflicting goals, and Laudna clocks it with a pissed-off expression.

One by one, the remaining "captives" begin to follow the first into the forest, exiting the township and heading to the north, except for a single child. "I'm... I just wanted to feel like I belonged to something, you know, I—" And Abandeena responds, "Do you understand why this was wrong?" With that, they feel the final weight lifted, the hillside and village finally free.

Laudna approaches Abadeena. "Be careful not to become what you despise." She looks back with a genuine honesty. "Sometimes, you must do things you wish weren't yours to do for the betterment of your people. I'm not proud of everything I've done, but don't think your words are lost on me." "There's a thin line between being a savior and an oppressor." "Well. Thank you for being our saviors... we hear, of the Loam and the Leaf, thank you. For your deeds, whatever we can do, you have it." She casts some healing, and allows the Bells Hells to sleep in her house for the night because she can't cast scrying today.

Ashton asks for a private word with themself, Abadeena, and Prism. Nothing comes of it yet, as the village begins to gather toward the city center. They cook, swap stories, and sing.

For the first time in a long time, the village is free to give their thanks to the eidolons and to each other.

Bor'dor can't stop thinking of the face of the angel as they died, and he doesn't know whether he did the right thing. "Something is happening, and faith is shaken."

Prism is trying to view all of this with a skeptical, academic, objective mind, but she can't help but second-guess her subjective experience because everyone's happy and everyone's sad. She feels that this was a net good, but feels that compromises her objectivity.

Ashton believes that, leaving everything out of view out of consideration, this was a net good. They go with Prism and Abadeena behind a tree. ("It's time to get sexy now! It's our turn!" Talisein please)

There were tithes taken from the townsfolk. The temple was wealthy enough; these were not taken by the arbiters of the temple, according to Abadeena. She drags it to the city center, and Prolef begins to redistribute the wealth taken by the temple back to the townspeople.

While that exchange was happening, Orym finds Laudna. She remarks that the townspeople are ignorant of the greater evils in the world. They both agree that this ship is sinking, but this town doesn't know that; they agree that they are frustrated at their ignorance, their bliss, and lament that they have to get back to their people.

Laudna and Orym are so angry, but they can't articulate why — it feels to them like they just put themselves in great danger, when there's so much more at stake than there is in "this piss-ant town dealing with their piss-ant squabbles... I don't know why I'm so angry about it." "You've known more than your fair share of shit... I don't even think... I'm having trouble believing there's anything we can do. I just keep stepping forward because it's what I've always gone, but I don't know if there's anything we can do." "Ashton said something quite profound to me the other night, when were taking out watch around the campfire. Profound especially for them. Right now, if we try to change the world, it's just going to seem like an impossible task, it's just too much. But we can try and change that which we do have control over, our immediate surroundings. Save our friends." "I don't know how much time we have left on this planet — feels like it could all go soon, in a week. But I just wanna make do with the time that I have with the people that I care about, and I want to find them, I want to find them again." "Then let's find them. It's the only directive we have at the moment, the only thing we can control." Orym takes her hand. "I don't understand why you bounced down through history to be here with me right now, but I sure as hells am glad you are here." "I've seen a lot of shit, Orym. That's why we're still here." "And more coming." "We've shown we can take it. Let's just get the fuck out of this town."

Abadeena escorts them back to her cottage. She smiles, and reveals her first name: Joan. Whether the Bells Hells decide to kill her or trust her, she thanks them for trusting the village, agrees to help them on the path toward home, and offers them answers.

If the temple comes back, she does not believe this town is the only one rising up. They have a coalition binding together townships of the Loam and the Leaf, keeping them away from the influence of Vasselheim.

Prism asks if she's ever heard of Predathos or speculated on its nature, asks if Predathos is an elemental weapon against the divine during the Founding. Abadeena knows nothing about Predathos except for Ludinus' speech and the Bells Hells' knowledge, but she does recognize the confidence with which Ludinus spoke and the way his words influenced the people of her town. To them, the eidolons have a symbiotic relationship, as it has been for all those who lived on Exandria before the gods coopted it.

"The lands of Exandria hold to them innumerable eidolons that are tied to the forces of this world, of the titans that first shaped it. With the titans long-gone, they persist however they can, oftentimes among the rules of the gods who now rein. So they are echoes, shades, the remnants and the memory of the titans, of the great elemental queens and kinds of this world, the ones who originally sculpted it." Prism questions whether Predathos is more intelligent, more vengeant, than a simple "black hole."

Orym says to Prism that they don't know anything, and Prism retorts that she's trying to help by way of being really good at learning things. The only thing Orym has to go on is the track record of the people trying to release Predathos, which Prism agrees is "damning."

"Prism... I don't understand the gods, I don't know anything about the titans, I don't know eidolon from eyeliner. I believe that... I'm a widower because of the people who want to bring this about. So it's hard for me to wrangle with the other side." finally

Ah. So this encounter was not designed to pit the Bells Hells against the gods or against the titans, but it was designed to force them to reckon with the fact that they know nothing, nothing about what's happening around them, and further to force them to seek out information about the things they don't know.

AH. Abadeena does not wish to destroy the gods, but to return to a state of Exandria in which the gods and the Primordials lived in balance. Mortal races are an invasive species just as much as the gods are, but there was a point in history where they, the primordials, the eidolons, and the gods existed in conjunction with one another.

She also notes that the primordials, the eidolons, do not feel a threat from Predathos — and that the Matron of Ravens offers no warnings of Predathos, no insight, if she saw it coming at all.

Ashton and Laudna: Ashton doesn't think that the Hishari have anything to do with anything — that is something that they'll be asking of the Bells Hells "once everything quiets down." They are so angry right now, and Laudna notes that she and Orym feel the same. Ashton's worst nightmare was their very first divine intervention. "The gods saw me, a god saw me, I was not invisible. It was not hungry, it wasn't fearful, it wasn't — it was a messenger, it was sent, and it told me what I really didn't want to hear: that it doesn't fucking care, that I might as well be fucking gone, that I was a mistake."

Bor'dor goes out to look for Orym, but rolled a 4, so Orym — from his perch on a high tree — takes pity on him and (after Liam asks whether Bor'dor is a half-elf or not) reveals himself.

With a 19, Bor'dor impressively climbs the tree and joins Orym.

"Do you believe in god?" "I mean, it's beyond question. The gods have shaped the history of this world, they have dropped miracles from their seats on high and caused irreparable damage — and unmistakable good. I don't know that I care — I care about you and me, and I care about my family across the ocean." "My life is vert small. I wake up, I work, I go to sleep. My beliefs have been black and white. These people told just o go into a church and fight something that I can't fathom, and int he moment, where I felt victory, I didn't see a divinity or radiance or whatever the fuck you call it, I just felt sadness and compassion. Did you see the way it looked? There — why did we have to do that? Why is that what happened? And then I wonder, also, why — that woman, Abadeena, has no fucking clue what you people are talking about." [...] "I know, I think, barely more than you do, that people who are so determined to bust something out of our moon that it's worth killing a lot of people to get there. Do I believe in the gods? Yes. Have they had a ton of bearing in my life? No." "So you get to Ludinus, and then what? We just killed an angel, we saved a woman who has no clue about the fight that she's fighting. This village has no clue, they're fucked either way — what are we doing here? My life is very small. What are we doing here?" "I think that, um... Ashton, Laudna and I have friends that we were with, got pulled away from, and I think we've got a one in 2000 chance of stopping more people I care about from getting killed." "Okay. Let's do that, then."

Bonding over shit jokes and laxatives. Ah, the quintessential Critical Role experience.

But still, Bor'dor extends a hand. "I go where you go."

I'm just saying, my "multiple tables running at the same canon time concurrently, exactly like the way Pathfinder Society specials run" theory gains all the more merit.

Laudna stays up with Prism reading through books, and Marisha manifests Beau through Laudna. (Someone write an essay about how each of these players manifests specific aspects of a character throughout each campaign. Tag me when you do, if you do it before me.)

In the books, there are tithing ledgers, as well as deals and plans between the temple and the Silvercall Mill about buying out portions of the neighborhood. These plans were awaiting approval from others in the network — discussions about finding land for temples of the Wildmother and other deities hat wasn't already controlled. It's a lot of discussion about calculated expansion by Vasselheim and Othanzia.

With an arcana check, Prism identifies the runes on the Judicator as having an original draconic base, an arcana script that is divine and protective in nature but in some cases near anti-magic. It didn't present itself in battle, but the Judicator has the ability to dispel existing magic — its old magic, possibly related to the anti-magic cone displayed by the Mage Hunter golems that Ludinus employed.

Also in these papers is a discussion of Vasselheim sending forces to leyline nexuses. Prism notes that the leylines are stationary except for certain celestial events, of which the apogee solstice is the largest — nexuses stay where they are placed until the next apogee solstice moves that nexus, resulting in people gravitating to that area for the time between now and the next apogee solstice. It's about resources.

Prism has been away from her home for a decade. She believes that these past few days are validation for those ten years spent at the Cobalt Soul (or elsewhere), and stifles a personal smile.

In the morning, they are met with the smell of breakfast prepared by Abadeena. She offers to create a scroll for Prism so that she can copy the spell into her spellbook. (Again, because she's an Order of Scribes wizard, Prism can copy spells much more quickly than the average wizard.)

Ashton approaches Abadeena about the magic in their head. "It seems to bend the world... I have dreams, sometimes they're inhuman, sometimes I'm other people but I'm not... you ever seen anything like this?" "Like this? I have not at all... however, if you are to continue to travel, maybe speak with the spirits. Maybe things that are older than all of us combined have better insight than this frail form." ooooooo something something the Luxon is older than the world and so it makes sense that they might be some kind of primordial force. it makes sense that they might be a primordial titan that existed "before the gods" because the primordials also did.

Finishing breakfast, they enter the scrying chamber, and Orym enters unannounced — having taken a point of exhaustion from a sleepless night.

Again, Chetney giving each of the Bells Hells material gifts is a fucking genius move by Travis, because they all have scrying targets now. Whether intentional or not, it's genius, and it really goes reflect the themes of this campaign.

They see snow. Snow, falling, across a mountain range. They see Deanna first, with a prominent symbol of the Dawnfather — then they see FRIDA, a rosegold bipedal robot — then, the familiar image of Chetney, trekking behind with excitement and distance — then Imogen and Fearne, following behind, as FCG wheels up alongside them, all trekking through the snow. Prism and Orym recognize the smoky sight of Kravarad, and recognize that they are not far from Uthodurn. They see Imogen grasp her cloak and look back, as if she's making eye contact with the basin, with the scrying censor — Laudna shouts her name, but the image dissipates.

Regardless, they recognize that the other half of Bells Hells is on another continent, on the other side of the world.

Orym asks if there's anyone nearby who can transport them, and Abadeena notes that "those in Vasselheim could, if you had their favor." Yet she does know someone, about 5 days travel's away from Hearthdale, who could transport them: Hevestro, hierophant of the Emerald Tree, a powerful archdruid whom Abadeena once trained under.

So Team Issylra has two options: go to Vasselheim, a longer journey but with more people who could help, or go to Hevestro and count on the good will of a single archdruid.

Abadeena can scry two more times, and Prism can scry once, making for a total of 3 more scries. (Ahh, now I see why this episode is 5 hours long.)

Scry 1: Dariax. He's chewing on his nails with a dirty, scarred face, with a look of concern, sitting in a dark space they can't quite make out. He plays absentmindedly with the compass around his neck, thinking. A blue hand catches his holder, he gives a nod and stands with his spear — Dorian, also looking a bit worse for wear. "That's the bag of dicks—" "That's our bag of dicks!"

Scry 2: Bor'dor's Home / Brother. "Don't take your clothes off!" (Orym: "C'mon, let it happen.") "There, you see a vision of a homestead, modest but well-furnished, not quite the home of a farmer or a person who keeps cattle or sheep. It's an unfamiliar space to you (Bor'dor). You're uncertain whether this dagger is calling a connection to a place of import or a particular answer to your question, unfortunately."

Abadeena copies the scrying spell onto a scroll, which Prism copies into her spellbook.

Now, the Bells Hells must decide between two things: going to Vasselheim and trying to convince them to help, or taking their chances with the dangerous journey through a canyon to Hevestro's homestead. Orym's gut says the latter.

Matt confirms that no one in the party would know anything about the waters between western Issylra and eastern Wildemount, and that it would take a number of weeks to traverse it by ship. For the record, based on Exandrian timezones, geology, and cosmology, there could be an ocean the size of the Pacific in that space.

They decide to go toward the gorge where Hevestro lives, and Abadeena grants them a wind-based, cougar-shaped eidolon that will escort them. "If you meet others of the Valley Coalition, tell them of what has been done here, and let them know that we are ready to help them as well."

[ceramicbeetle]

a lot of people seem to use Entry #61 as 'proof' for the crux of the "Brian didn't care about Tim, he was Taking Advantage of Tim's conditions and Forcing him to work as part of totheark" thing, but honestly when you think about it there's no possible way Brian could have possibly orchestrated that series of events, like you almost have to interpret that as a baffling group of coincidences

[moe-broey]

OKAY. I. FINALLY HAVE DONE IT. IT TOOK A LOT OF TESTING AND TROUBLE SHOOTING AND FIGURING OUT BUT I THINK I HAVE IT

My Askr and Co. team!!!!!!! Sometimes I switch one of them out for story stuff (full immersion lmfao), but!!! It's them it's the OGs 🥺🥺🥺

Alfonse is still pretty much the same, but since the Dragon Flower limit was increased, I feel he no longer needs Fury! Which, removing it does synergize better with Florid Cane anyway, beyond the Canto gimmick (having an Atk/Spd bonus if kept healthy).

Biggest thing I needed to figure out though was who I was giving the special skills to (from an extra Acsended Mareeta and Felix). I WAS tempted to give them to Alfonse (head empty he means everything to me) but I came to the conclusion that Ruptured Sky works too well on him. I even think it's fun from a storytelling standpoint, where he's consistent almost to a fault -- can result in him being reliable, or juuust missing the mark (he's still adaptable as well though!). PLUS! Both are speed based skills, and even With my speedy Alfonse build, AND even with all those Dragon Flowers, Sharena outspeeds him at lower investment.

So it did come down to trying to decide which would work best between Sharena and Anna.

Sharena absolutely needed to be completely revised, since I realized I accidentally doubled up on Null Follow Up on her weapon and B slot (and her C slot was a wimpy Threaten skill lmfao). Ultimately I felt Felix's kit synergized better with Alfred's Arcane I gave to her -- espp Bulwark keeping her healthy! In this way I think I accidentally made her a tank. Especially with all the stat bonuses coming together, on top of a damage reduction special. Really my ONLY bit of grief here is she no longer has her special attack voicelines........... I'm SO sad about that 💔💔💔 (HOWEVER. IT. IS REALLY FUNNY.)

She's just standing there..... Menacingly........... (quite literally with the Menace skill too from the Summer Dimitri manual that's up for grabs. I'm not so sure if it Suits Her storytelling-wise but tbh it's funny. GO GIRL START KILLING‼️‼️‼️)

As for Anna! I actually haven't touched Anna's build in years, she's not a unit I ever use outside of the once a month free orb and sometimes for story... last I left her was with Life or Death 3, Vantage, and a Spur skill. I wanted to keep in line with this initial build though... bc I feel like it suits her.

Outside of this one time (very early on, before I really put a lot of thought into things) I Never use Life or Death (I'm too cautious HAHAH) so I was comfortable giving her a Life or Death 4 I had laying around. BEYOND THAT. IT WAS. SUCH A NIGHTMARE. To figure out What the rest of her kit should be. A Lot of trial and error, testing, troubleshooting, everything. Because the BIGGEST THING is I wanted to keep Nóatún on her. She gets INSANE movement from it, and I felt like if I could Just Get This Right, I could pull off something as gimmicky as my Hit and Run Canto Alfonse. You have to trade SO much power for that movement, and she's already made of glass and paper the way I'm building her (but I am SO committed to this idea bc it's EXACTLY how I conceptualize her character in my mind -- strong starter, hard hitter, high movement = speedy and lots of experience on the battle field!! And SOMETHING in her C and Seal slots to communicate teamwork and commanding.)

EVENTUALLY. WHAT I THINK WORKS. Spurn helps her Not Die As Much/As Quickly (thank you damage reduction), and I think the balance between Oath/Solo skills gets the idea across.

BUT ALSO. THIS. THE MOST FUCKED UP THING I DESPERATELY WANTED TO SHOW OFF IT'S SO FUCKING GOOD!!!!!!!!!

LOOK at this. LOOK at how STUPID this is. How by giving Alfonse Odd Tempest HE IS. SO POWERFUL. HE MAKES A KILLER OPENING (EXACTLY AS HE ALWAYS SAYS HE WILL‼️‼️‼️). Reposition into Canto into look at him fucking go. He's fucking gone. Halfway across the battlefield. AND ANNA HAS FANTASTIC SYNERGY WITH THIS!!!!! Being able to get That One Extra Space thanks to Nóatún!!!!!!!! (Unfortunately this was a terrible matchup and she died instantly, but this is more for demonstration purposes 🫡)

I am a little sad that Sharena gets left on the back lines when this works out but. I think she's still doing her part. Esp since I'm testing out Ardent Sacrifice on her, where I typically exclusively only use Reposition and always have a healer. On top of eating hits, she also covers for her allies as well! Making sure they're okay :)

Finally! Takumi! I. Have no idea how he fits in here tbh I don't even know how Pathfinder works. But I love him so much so dearly and he's here because he's a highly respected veteran member of the Order of Heroes. Also everyone say thank you Alcryst for fucking finally giving him a usable weapon and decent skills (I have gone through SO MANY ideations of base Takumi builds and they have NEVER been on the level of stronger units he was ALWAYS WOEFULLY OUTCLASSED. Which is DEVASTATING bc I really like using base forms sometimes!!!!). I'm SO happy he's finally on par w stronger units now!!!! OH. AND. THE MAJOR THING ABOUT HIM ACTUALLY. Is once he gets the ball rolling he is procing Deadeye every fucking turn. Just like in Fates... 🥺🥺🥺 (killing and maiming and violence complete with a cheeky attitude and bravado!)

[akkivee]

so i heard the stage did a retelling of every division’s get together story!!!! i wonder if you would consider that a reboot of the stage lol

[tuesziday]

Every time I click on a review/critique/deep dive and hear a woman's voice, I breathe a sigh of relief because the odds of there being surprise slurs sprinkled throughout the video goes down significantly

[dontmixpaintinyourcoffee]

This one goes out to all the bitches who love some good Safehouse Era Horror. It's me, I'm bitches. I want Jon and Martin to be fucked up and eldritch but I want them to be fucked up and eldritch and loved

(Notes under the cut because I can't help myself. Heads up, I do go into some detail of how Jon gets injured so I can explain my thought process for how I designed his scars. All canon-typical and fairly clinical in tone.)

Here's how I picture Safehouse Jon!

He doesn't need glasses anymore by this point, so he should just be wearing empty frames, but I drew this before I settled on my glasses headcanons. This drawing looks better with the reflection anyways.

He hasn't gotten a haircut since before his promotion to Head Archivist. He doesn't love the weight of it on his neck, but he also uses it to fidget, and he really doesn't want to go through the whole process of cutting it. He's disliked haircuts since he was a kid (People: Bad. Small talk: Bad. Touching: Bad. Loud sounds: Bad. People talking all at once: Bad) and since his time with the Circus he's only grown more reluctant to go and get it done.

At this length his hair is naturally pretty curly but he is. Not taking care of it. I actually put a lot of effort into trying to make it look brittle and tangled (I have a lot of experience lol, my hair is quite thick and I've always hated taking care of it. Yes I am also projecting my feelings about going to a hairdressers onto him why do you ask.)

The various scars were a bit of a strange task, but anyone who has seen my takes on The Bad Kids knows I'm not averse to selective realism in my fiction. Easiest one was the neck, I always pictured Daisy making a vertical cut based on "through the voice box". The larynx is longer than it is wide, so I think Daisy would go for the method that dealt damage across the largest total surface area. Yes I am aware that I'm speaking the same way Martin does when he explains his corkscrew.

The worm scars were easy because I barely drew any. There are a few marks on his cheek, but they're just surface bites. I picture most of his encounter with Prentiss showing on his legs, particularly on the right side, with enough damage there that he starts using a cane after the incident to keep weight off his right leg. More research to be done on this particular detail.

Finally the burn on his hand from Jude. This was the weirdest one to figure out just because of the nature of the injury. How do you quantify the damage done to an epidermis by a living manifestation of sometimes-boiling wax that can heat and cool at will? I settled on it being a second-degree burn that healed supernaturally fast, containing the damage to the space Jude had direct contact with. He'd probably have some mobility issues there as well. I know there are ways to help with mobility and pain after a severe burn, but I don't know how much of it Jon would actually. Do. Like I said, definitely further research to be done on these last two.

Hey so I'm gonna ask you to stop and consider the horror of the watcher. The helplessness. The guilt. The inherent terror of being a spectator, a participant by proximity but not by action. The horror of not being able to look away, of being a bystander. Jon forgets to blink sometimes. But wouldn't it be so much worse if there were no eyelids at all? That's how I interpret the description of The Archivist being "All Eyes" :D

I love a good Many-Eyed Jon, so I whipped up my own interpretation here. I think the more he Becomes the more he starts to resemble the thing from the dreams. He has a lot more control of it in S5, but it still creeps up on him and he has to consciously go back to a human shape.

[homunculus-argument]

One worldbuilding thing that's always fun to do is take something you've encountered in the real world, and apply something similar with the same logic into your own. Like those sayings that have two halves, but people usually only know the first half and misunderstand the saying - like "birds of a feather flock together (until the cat comes)" or "great minds think alike (but fools rarely differ)." So I came up with a few for The Book I'm Not Writing:

Hungry dogs are loyal dogs (until someone else feeds them) - neglecting and mistreating your underlings may work as a short-term tactic for making them obey, but it's also a guarantees that they'll betray you at first chance.

The mouth of an idiot is as loose as the strings of their purse (so be there when gold may drop out) - just because nine out of ten things that someone says are completely useless doesn't mean you should dismiss them altogether. They might still know useful things, even if they can't tell it's useful.

Blood makes a foul dye (it stains, but it won't last) - here "foul" is often interpreted as "brutal" or "gruesome", when it's meant as "of low quality". Using violence as your way to establish dominance and maintain authority because it's easier than building networks of mutual trust and respect is as stupid and short-sighted as using blood to dye clothes because it's cheaper than proper pigment.

A fool will starve to death while waiting for grain to grow (but it is also a fool who'll slaughter an ewe an hour before it lambs) - Immediate problems require immediate solutions, but you'd better make sure that your drastic emergency solution is the right one.

A blind horse will go as you guide where a half-blind one dare not (both through the darkness and down a cliff) - an agent who doesn't know the purpose of their task will obey blindly, where one that knows some part of it might disobey out of distrust, but neither is as reliable as one that does see the big picture, can draw their own conclusions from the information they gather, and adjust their plans accordingly.

[ochibrochi]

spontaneous magic manifestation was NOT mentioned in the parenting handbook 😬

I know this isn’t how magic in dc works, but the fact that Damian’s ancestry includes some pretty powerful magic users is… INTERESTING 🤔? Drabble under the cut!

I wanna preface that I'M NOT SAYIN' that Damian should/does have magic powers, but there’s still so much unexplored potential with Damian's character, and the thought that he has a dormant adeptness in magic is somewhat compelling to me. Most importantly it would FREAK! BRUCE! OUT!!!!! What is this, magic puberty 😭??

By DC laws, anyone has the ability to learn magic, but it is also possible to be an innate ability. The Al Ghuls are no strangers to the occult-- Ra's has had increasingly been portrayed as a magic user, and the recent establishment of his mother being a sorceress/witch?? Even Talia dabbled in a bit of magic, I think. There is a catch that their power is suggested to be due to Lazarus exposure, but for arguments sake let's say the Al Ghul lineage is inherently proficient in magic (and Lazarus exposure simply enhances it).

I can't recall "magic" being a part of Damian's training/upbringing (I'm still slowly catching-up on Damian comics so apologies if I miss any canon examples of magic use). Not sure why Talia wouldn't want her little "heir to an ancient assassin empire baby" to learn magic, but it would at least give reason to Damian not knowing about his magic potential, or lack of interest in it.

Through the power of pseudo storytelling, what if Damian's encounter with Mother Soul could have triggered a manifestation of magic that was once dormant; like a pressure cooker waiting to explode with energy when it hasn't been given a safe outlet.

I've yet to read a satisfying arc where Damian truly gets to contemplate his Al Ghul roots outside of "dad is good guy, mum is bad guy". Damian's initial character growth stems from him running away from, and renouncing his association with the League (i.e. "I'm nothing like you, mother and grandfather!").

The most recent thing I've read was Robin (2021), and whilst Damian is much more cordial with his mother, there's still an emotional distance and sense of distrust/resentment (for good reason, even if the context was some cartoonishly evil writing). But there is a silver-lining that they still appear to be fond of each other, in a melancholy kind of way.

Realizing he's "genetically" primed for magic would be especially confronting to Damian. There's no denying his Al Ghul blood, forcing him to confront a facet of himself he can no longer ignore or reject. A family that he likely has to approach for help/guidance.

Damian is put in a position of acknowledging this power could be used for good, to be stronger, to fight crime, balancing it with the implication that what he possesses could be rooted in dark magic (Lazarus enchantment).

If he decides to embrace it, would that be too much of an endorsement of the Al Ghul's dark occultism? Can he separate the two ideas? What if he can't control it? What if he accidentally hurts someone? What if has the ability to save someone where his other skills fall short?

Ideally, I'd love for this hypothetical story to lead into Damian exploring his Al Ghul heritage more intimately, historically, and spiritually (à la RSoB: Year of Redemption adventures). Another little coming-of-age self discovery journey.

I have my own little personal thoughts on what Damian decides to do with his magic powers, but I'd like to leave that open to interpretation... By the end of it I hope that he will at least find some forgiveness over resentment, and a balance between accepting that side of his family a little easier. It is finally a sense of inner peace :)

Any thoughts? Did I get any characterisation wrong? Let's talk over on my DC blog @arkhamochi! I'm currently trying to read all Damian-centric comics until I catch up with the current run. I'm hungry for discussion and analysis!!!!!!

[esotericalchemist]

𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭 - 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐬 °❀⋆

TikTok - Masterlist - YouTube (subliminals)

The descendant in astrology represents the qualities we seek in others—traits that, while often admired in partners, reflect parts of ourselves that remain unexpressed or unexplored. Unlike the ascendant, which embodies our natural style of self-expression, the descendant reveals the energies we are instinctively drawn to in relationships, qualities that can feel foreign yet enticing. These traits act as a mirror, encouraging us to grow by balancing our inherent characteristics with complementary ones, ultimately fostering a fuller sense of self. By understanding the dynamics of the descendant, we can unlock hidden aspects of our personality and integrate qualities we might otherwise project onto others, paving the way for more authentic, harmonious, and enriching connections.

𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Aries rising and Libra on the seventh house cusp, relationships serve as a reflective surface where Aries risings encounter parts of themselves they may not fully recognize or embrace. Aries, ruled by Mars, is naturally independent, assertive, and action-oriented. When Libra, ruled by Venus, governs the seventh house, Aries risings are often drawn to partners who seem graceful, diplomatic, and harmonious. These Libran qualities contrast with Aries' direct, individualistic nature, making them appear as qualities to seek in others rather than to cultivate within.

For example, an Aries rising might feel that their partner is overly focused on maintaining peace, interpreting this as passive or even indecisive behavior. In reality, these perceptions are a reflection of their own potential for diplomacy, patience, and cooperative energy. Through relationships, Aries risings are encouraged to integrate the softer, more relational qualities of Libra, creating a balanced approach to both self-expression and partnership. This dynamic allows them to find harmony between their personal drive and the relational needs of those they connect with.

Venus through the Houses (ruler of Libra):

Venus in the 1st House (Aries): Relationships influence self-image, drawing partners who boost confidence and charisma. The individual learns to balance their assertive nature with charm, making them both dynamic and appealing in relationships.

Venus in the 2nd House (Taurus): Partnerships emphasize security and shared values, attracting stable, dependable partners. Relationships bring out a deeper appreciation for self-worth and financial harmony, grounding love in mutual support.

Venus in the 3rd House (Gemini): Communication and intellectual connection are central, attracting witty, versatile partners. Relationships thrive on curiosity and exchange, helping the Aries rising cultivate adaptability and open-mindedness.

Venus in the 4th House (Cancer): Love feels nurturing and centered on home life, attracting partners with strong family values. Partnerships foster emotional stability and deepen the need for a secure, comfortable home environment.

Venus in the 5th House (Leo): Relationships are passionate, playful, and expressive, drawing romantic, warm-hearted partners. There’s a strong emphasis on joy and creativity, encouraging Aries risings to embrace shared affection and adventure.

Venus in the 6th House (Virgo): Love is practical, with a focus on service and shared routines, often attracting supportive, reliable partners. Relationships bring out a nurturing side, encouraging commitment and care in everyday life.

Venus in the 7th House (Libra): Harmony in relationships is central, with partners often embodying balance, grace, and mutual respect. Partnerships help the Aries rising cultivate patience and diplomacy, showing the beauty of equal and supportive love.

Venus in the 8th House (Scorpio): Relationships are transformative and emotionally intense, drawing deep, passionate partners. This placement encourages the Aries rising to explore vulnerability, trust, and emotional intensity in love.

Venus in the 9th House (Sagittarius): Partnerships bring a spirit of adventure and growth, attracting partners from diverse backgrounds or interests. Relationships expand their worldview, fostering openness and curiosity in both love and life.

Venus in the 10th House (Capricorn): Love is serious and ambitious, with a focus on long-term goals and stability. Partners are often mature or goal-oriented, challenging the Aries rising to blend personal success with relational stability.

Venus in the 11th House (Aquarius): Friendships and shared ideals play a central role, leading to unconventional partnerships. Partners encourage individuality and freedom, fostering relationships that emphasize personal growth and unique bonds.

Venus in the 12th House (Pisces): Relationships are compassionate, sometimes spiritual, with a subtle, mysterious quality. Partners may inspire empathy and self-reflection, pushing the Aries rising to explore deeper emotional and spiritual realms.

𝐓𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐬 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐨 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Taurus rising and Scorpio on the seventh house cusp, relationships are a profound mirror reflecting Taurus's unexamined potential for depth, emotional intensity, and transformation. Taurus, ruled by Venus, gravitates toward stability, comfort, and predictability, preferring a grounded approach to life. With Scorpio ruling the seventh house, Taurus risings are drawn to partners who embody intensity, mystery, and a sense of emotional depth. These Scorpio qualities often feel foreign to Taurus, who might initially view them as either alluring or intimidating, depending on their comfort level with vulnerability and change.

For example, Taurus risings might see their partners as "too intense" or "too secretive," especially if they themselves are hesitant to delve into the complexities of their own emotional world. In reality, these traits are mirrors of the Taurus rising’s own potential for emotional depth and passion, parts of themselves that may not be fully integrated. Relationships with Scorpio on the descendant push Taurus risings out of their comfort zones, encouraging them to confront themes of trust, shared resources, and emotional resilience. Through these partnerships, they learn to balance their natural need for security with Scorpio’s transformative energy, finding strength in vulnerability.

Mars through the Houses (ruler of Scorpio):

Mars in the 1st House (Taurus): Relationships have a powerful impact on self-image, drawing strong, assertive partners who encourage Taurus risings to assert themselves more boldly. Partners inspire them to develop confidence and embrace a more dynamic, self-assured approach.

Mars in the 2nd House (Gemini): Partnerships emphasize shared values, security, and finances, attracting partners who challenge traditional views on resources. Taurus risings learn to balance financial stability with flexibility, allowing for growth in both material and relational realms.

Mars in the 3rd House (Cancer): Communication is intense and transformative, with partners who bring emotional depth to conversations. This placement encourages Taurus risings to confront vulnerability in dialogue, pushing them to express hidden feelings openly.

Mars in the 4th House (Leo): Relationships bring powerful connections to home and family, drawing partners with strong roots or intense family ties. Partners encourage Taurus risings to examine and transform deep-rooted emotional patterns from their family environment.

Mars in the 5th House (Virgo): Love is passionate and sometimes dramatic, with partners who inspire creativity and self-expression. Relationships challenge Taurus risings to take emotional risks, moving beyond comfort and embracing intensity in romance.

Mars in the 6th House (Libra): Partnerships may focus on daily routines and mutual support, with partners who are practical and dedicated. This placement teaches Taurus risings the value of commitment in everyday life, bringing purpose and depth to routine interactions.

Mars in the 7th House (Scorpio): Relationships are deeply transformative, with partners embodying intensity, passion, and emotional honesty. Taurus risings are encouraged to embrace vulnerability and explore the depths of their emotional landscape through these connections.

Mars in the 8th House (Sagittarius): Partnerships revolve around shared resources, intimacy, and transformative experiences. Partners encourage Taurus risings to explore the unknown, fostering growth through deep trust and emotional exploration.

Mars in the 9th House (Capricorn): Relationships bring expansion and higher understanding, with partners who value personal growth and exploration. Taurus risings are pushed to broaden their perspectives and embrace transformation through new beliefs and ideals.

Mars in the 10th House (Aquarius): Partnerships are connected to public life and career, with ambitious partners who challenge traditional roles. Relationships inspire Taurus risings to pursue their goals with drive and to balance personal ambitions with relational commitments.

Mars in the 11th House (Pisces): Relationships often have a social or friendship-based dynamic, with partners who share ideals and dreams. Partners push Taurus risings to embrace both independence and emotional depth within social and group settings.

Mars in the 12th House (Aries): Relationships are infused with compassion, mystery, or spiritual themes, often drawing introspective partners. Partners inspire Taurus risings to explore subconscious fears and hidden desires, leading to healing and personal transformation.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Gemini rising and Sagittarius on the seventh house cusp, relationships reflect Gemini’s unexamined potential for expansiveness, optimism, and philosophical growth. Gemini, ruled by Mercury, thrives on curiosity, communication, and mental agility. However, with Sagittarius, ruled by Jupiter, governing the seventh house, Gemini risings are often drawn to partners who embody qualities like adventure, wisdom, and a larger-than-life perspective. These Sagittarian qualities can feel foreign to Gemini’s adaptable, detail-oriented nature, and may initially appear as traits to admire in others rather than cultivate within themselves.

For example, a Gemini rising may find that their partner seems overly focused on “big ideas” or is prone to risk-taking, feeling that their partner is “too impulsive” or “too idealistic.” In reality, these traits are reflections of Gemini’s own latent desire for exploration and a broader worldview. Relationships with Sagittarius on the descendant encourage Gemini risings to see beyond the surface, drawing them toward more meaningful connections and life philosophies. Through these partnerships, Gemini risings are invited to integrate Sagittarius’s quest for wisdom and depth into their lives, balancing curiosity with purpose.

Jupiter through the Houses (ruler of Sagittarius):

Jupiter in the 1st House (Gemini): Relationships greatly influence self-image, drawing optimistic, growth-oriented partners who encourage Gemini risings to adopt a more expansive view of life. Partners help them embrace both curiosity and a sense of adventure in their approach to self-expression.

Jupiter in the 2nd House (Cancer): Partnerships emphasize shared values and emotional security, attracting nurturing, supportive partners. Relationships help Gemini risings develop a deeper appreciation for security and emotional abundance, balancing material stability with generosity.

Jupiter in the 3rd House (Leo): Communication and shared learning are central, with partners who inspire creativity and open-mindedness. These relationships foster a love for new ideas and self-expression, helping Gemini risings expand their intellectual boundaries.

Jupiter in the 4th House (Virgo): Love feels grounding and rooted in home life, attracting partners who bring stability and growth within domestic settings. Partnerships encourage Gemini risings to explore inner peace and cultivate a strong foundation in family and personal beliefs.

Jupiter in the 5th House (Libra): Romance is adventurous, warm, and often playful, with partners who value creativity and shared experiences. These relationships encourage Gemini risings to take joy in self-expression and to pursue love with both spontaneity and balance.

Jupiter in the 6th House (Scorpio): Relationships may focus on mutual improvement and growth through daily routines, attracting passionate and transformative partners. These partnerships push Gemini risings to explore depth in everyday life, balancing curiosity with emotional resilience.

Jupiter in the 7th House (Sagittarius): Relationships are inspiring and expansive, often drawing partners who embody freedom, optimism, and adventure. These partnerships encourage Gemini risings to pursue higher understanding and explore the world through a philosophical lens.

Jupiter in the 8th House (Capricorn): Relationships have a transformative quality, with partners who value trust and shared resources. This placement challenges Gemini risings to explore deeper emotional bonds, bringing depth and a sense of growth through intimacy.

Jupiter in the 9th House (Aquarius): Partnerships revolve around shared ideals, adventure, and intellectual exploration, often attracting unconventional or broad-minded partners. Gemini risings are encouraged to seek wisdom and embrace a progressive approach to both love and learning.

Jupiter in the 10th House (Pisces): Relationships may tie into public life or career, drawing partners who are compassionate and inspirational. These partnerships encourage Gemini risings to balance personal aspirations with a vision for greater purpose and compassion.

Jupiter in the 11th House (Aries): Friendships and shared dreams are central to relationships, attracting partners who are independent and enthusiastic about mutual goals. Gemini risings find inspiration in social connections, broadening their aspirations and embracing bold, future-focused relationships.

Jupiter in the 12th House (Taurus): Relationships often bring themes of compassion, mystery, and healing, with partners who value introspection and emotional depth. These connections push Gemini risings to explore their inner world, embracing a compassionate and intuitive approach to love.

𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Cancer rising and Capricorn on the seventh house cusp, relationships serve as a mirror for Cancer’s unexamined potential for structure, resilience, and ambition. Cancer, ruled by the Moon, is naturally nurturing, emotionally sensitive, and protective, often prioritizing the personal, private, and intuitive realms of life. Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, governs the seventh house, bringing a desire for stability, responsibility, and grounded commitment in relationships. Cancer risings are thus drawn to partners who appear mature, dependable, or disciplined—qualities that may feel difficult to embody but provide a balancing counterpoint to Cancer’s emotional and sometimes fluctuating nature.

For instance, a Cancer rising might feel that their partner is “too focused on work” or “overly practical,” viewing them as serious or reserved. Yet, these traits are a reflection of Cancer’s own unacknowledged need for stability, structure, and boundaries in relationships. Partnerships with Capricorn on the descendant encourage Cancer risings to develop inner strength, learning that true emotional security can be built upon a foundation of commitment and long-term vision. Through these relationships, Cancer risings integrate Capricorn’s qualities of resilience and steadiness, finding that relationships rooted in mutual responsibility are deeply supportive and fulfilling.

Saturn through the Houses (ruler of Capricorn):

Saturn in the 1st House (Cancer): Relationships strongly influence self-image, attracting responsible, mature partners who encourage Cancer risings to adopt self-discipline and emotional resilience. Partners challenge them to embody strength and stability within themselves.

Saturn in the 2nd House (Leo): Partnerships often focus on security and shared values, drawing partners who emphasize financial stability and loyalty. These relationships teach Cancer risings the value of self-worth and lasting commitment in both love and resources.

Saturn in the 3rd House (Virgo): Communication is practical and intentional, with partners who value clear, grounded dialogue. Relationships encourage Cancer risings to cultivate patience and reliability in communication, enhancing mental discipline and focus.

Saturn in the 4th House (Libra): Relationships influence home and family dynamics, attracting partners with a strong sense of stability and balance. Partners encourage Cancer risings to build a solid, structured foundation at home, balancing emotional needs with a harmonious environment.

Saturn in the 5th House (Scorpio): Love is serious and transformative, often attracting partners who value depth and emotional commitment. These relationships teach Cancer risings to move beyond surface-level affection, embracing maturity and vulnerability in romance.

Saturn in the 6th House (Sagittarius): Partnerships may focus on shared responsibilities and daily routines, drawing partners who are reliable and committed to mutual improvement. Cancer risings learn the value of discipline in everyday life, making relationships stable and supportive.

Saturn in the 7th House (Capricorn): Relationships are serious and grounded, with partners who embody stability, ambition, and reliability. Cancer risings are drawn to committed, long-term relationships that emphasize mutual responsibility and enduring connection.

Saturn in the 8th House (Aquarius): Relationships often involve shared resources, trust, and transformation, attracting partners with a strong sense of integrity and resilience. Cancer risings are encouraged to explore intimacy with care and emotional depth, establishing trust over time.

Saturn in the 9th House (Pisces): Partnerships bring shared ideals and intellectual exploration, with partners who value wisdom and personal growth. Cancer risings learn to broaden their perspectives, incorporating stability and open-mindedness into their relationships.

Saturn in the 10th House (Aries): Relationships are often connected to public life or career, with partners who value success and achievement. Cancer risings are encouraged to balance personal and professional commitments, finding ambition within partnership.

Saturn in the 11th House (Taurus): Relationships often center on shared goals and social networks, attracting steady, supportive partners who encourage long-term aspirations. Cancer risings learn the importance of loyalty, patience, and shared ideals in partnership.

Saturn in the 12th House (Gemini): Relationships are infused with compassion and introspection, often with partners who value emotional growth and healing. Cancer risings are guided to explore the subconscious, learning to release fears and embrace emotional maturity.

𝐋𝐞𝐨 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐀𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Leo rising and Aquarius on the seventh house cusp, relationships serve as a mirror for Leo’s unexamined potential for independence, innovation, and a broader sense of community. Leo, ruled by the Sun, is naturally expressive, warm, and focused on personal identity and creativity. With Aquarius, ruled by Saturn in Vedic astrology, on the descendant, Leo risings are often drawn to partners who embody traits such as originality, objectivity, and a more detached or humanitarian outlook. These Aquarian qualities contrast with Leo’s need for attention and personal expression, appearing as traits that are easier to admire in others rather than embrace within themselves.

For example, Leo risings may find that their partner is “too detached” or “unpredictable,” viewing them as someone who prioritizes ideals over personal connection. In reality, these characteristics reflect Leo’s own potential for broader vision and individuality, beyond personal validation or recognition. Relationships with Aquarius on the descendant encourage Leo risings to explore qualities of independence, non-conformity, and open-mindedness, helping them balance their personal drive with a sense of shared purpose. Through these partnerships, Leo risings learn to cultivate both their expressive selves and a broader, more inclusive perspective.

Saturn through the Houses (ruler of Aquarius):

Saturn in the 1st House (Leo): Relationships influence self-image, attracting grounded, steady partners who encourage the Leo rising to embody greater responsibility. Partners help them balance charisma with a sense of duty, enhancing self-discipline.

Saturn in the 2nd House (Virgo): Partnerships often focus on shared values and security, attracting practical, supportive partners. These relationships encourage Leo risings to value consistency and develop a realistic approach to financial and emotional stability.

Saturn in the 3rd House (Libra): Communication is a focus, with partners who value fairness, diplomacy, and structured dialogue. Relationships teach Leo risings patience and the importance of thoughtful expression, encouraging open-mindedness and respect.

Saturn in the 4th House (Scorpio): Relationships bring transformation and depth to the home environment, drawing partners with strong emotional resilience. Leo risings are encouraged to explore inner stability and deepen emotional bonds within the home.

Saturn in the 5th House (Sagittarius): Love is serious yet expansive, with partners who value wisdom and personal growth. Relationships encourage Leo risings to balance passion with responsibility, embracing commitment within joyful, shared experiences.

Saturn in the 6th House (Capricorn): Partnerships may focus on shared routines and responsibilities, attracting dedicated and disciplined partners. Leo risings learn the importance of mutual support and duty within daily life, bringing reliability into love.

Saturn in the 7th House (Aquarius): Relationships are grounded, often unconventional, with partners who value freedom, individuality, and ideals. Leo risings are drawn to connections that balance commitment with personal autonomy, embracing progressive relationship dynamics.

Saturn in the 8th House (Pisces): Partnerships emphasize emotional depth, trust, and transformation, attracting partners with a reflective or spiritual side. Leo risings are encouraged to explore vulnerability and face emotional complexities, developing resilience in love.

Saturn in the 9th House (Aries): Relationships expand perspectives, drawing partners who value exploration and personal growth. Leo risings find inspiration in these connections, embracing new ideas and a broader worldview through partnership.

Saturn in the 10th House (Taurus): Relationships are often tied to career or public image, with partners who are steady and reliable. Leo risings are encouraged to balance ambition with stability, creating partnerships that support mutual long-term goals.

Saturn in the 11th House (Gemini): Partnerships center around shared ideals and social circles, attracting partners who value intellectual exchange and friendship. Leo risings are guided to embrace collaboration and community in love, balancing personal desires with shared aspirations.

Saturn in the 12th House (Cancer): Relationships bring introspection and emotional healing, with partners who are compassionate and sensitive. Leo risings are encouraged to explore their subconscious fears and hidden vulnerabilities, fostering spiritual and emotional growth in love.

𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐠𝐨 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐏𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Virgo rising and Pisces on the seventh house cusp, relationships reflect Virgo’s unexamined potential for compassion, intuition, and surrender. Virgo, ruled by Mercury, is detail-oriented, analytical, and practical, focusing on order and precision. With Pisces, ruled by Jupiter in Vedic astrology, governing the seventh house, Virgo risings are often drawn to partners who embody qualities such as empathy, idealism, and a more intuitive or spiritual outlook. These Piscean traits contrast with Virgo’s need for structure and clarity, appearing as qualities they admire in others but may initially struggle to fully embrace within themselves.

For instance, a Virgo rising might feel that their partner is “too emotional” or “impractical,” viewing them as sensitive or even escapist. In reality, these characteristics reflect Virgo’s own potential for emotional openness and spiritual connection. Relationships with Pisces on the descendant encourage Virgo risings to explore their capacity for empathy, imagination, and surrender, allowing them to find harmony between their logical approach and a more holistic, compassionate outlook. Through these partnerships, Virgo risings learn to embrace both their practical nature and Pisces’s softer, intuitive qualities, creating a more balanced and fulfilling approach to love.

Jupiter through the Houses (ruler of Pisces):

Jupiter in the 1st House (Virgo): Relationships greatly influence self-image, attracting compassionate, expansive partners who encourage Virgo risings to embrace self-acceptance. These connections challenge them to balance practicality with openness, fostering a more holistic sense of self.

Jupiter in the 2nd House (Libra): Partnerships emphasize shared values and harmony, attracting partners who appreciate beauty, balance, and mutual support. Relationships teach Virgo risings to find value in comfort and emotional generosity, balancing pragmatism with a sense of abundance.

Jupiter in the 3rd House (Scorpio): Communication and emotional depth are central, with partners who encourage honest and transformative conversations. Relationships foster deeper connections through vulnerability, helping Virgo risings to trust their intuition in communication.

Jupiter in the 4th House (Sagittarius): Love feels nurturing and idealistic, with partners who value home, family, and philosophical growth. These relationships encourage Virgo risings to build a foundation of emotional security and wisdom in the home environment.

Jupiter in the 5th House (Capricorn): Romance is mature and grounded, drawing partners who inspire responsibility in love and creative pursuits. Virgo risings learn to balance joy with discipline, finding fulfillment in commitment and shared goals in romance.

Jupiter in the 6th House (Aquarius): Relationships focus on mutual service and shared routines, with partners who value practicality and community ideals. Partnerships push Virgo risings to embrace teamwork and the well-being of others, creating relationships based on mutual growth.

Jupiter in the 7th House (Pisces): Relationships are deeply compassionate, with partners who embody empathy, intuition, and idealism. Virgo risings are drawn to meaningful, supportive partnerships that encourage spiritual growth and emotional openness.

Jupiter in the 8th House (Aries): Relationships often involve shared resources, trust, and transformation, attracting dynamic, passionate partners. Virgo risings are encouraged to explore vulnerability and resilience, deepening their emotional bonds through trust.

Jupiter in the 9th House (Taurus): Partnerships emphasize shared beliefs and intellectual growth, drawing partners with wisdom and stability. Relationships inspire Virgo risings to expand their worldview, balancing personal ideals with shared values.

Jupiter in the 10th House (Gemini): Relationships may be connected to public life or career, with partners who value intellectual growth and adaptability. Virgo risings learn to harmonize their professional goals with relational commitments, fostering growth in both areas.

Jupiter in the 11th House (Cancer): Partnerships center on shared ideals and social connections, attracting compassionate, nurturing partners. Virgo risings are guided to embrace empathy and emotional support, bringing mutual care and understanding into friendships and partnerships.

Jupiter in the 12th House (Leo): Relationships bring themes of compassion, spirituality, and introspection, attracting partners with a deep, reflective nature. Virgo risings explore hidden fears and subconscious desires in relationships, leading to healing and profound self-awareness.

𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Libra rising and Aries on the seventh house cusp, relationships serve as a mirror for Libra’s unexamined potential for courage, assertiveness, and self-reliance. Libra, ruled by Venus, naturally gravitates towards harmony, diplomacy, and balance, often seeking to create peaceful connections and valuing partnership as a central part of life. With Aries, ruled by Mars, on the descendant, Libra risings are drawn to partners who embody strength, independence, and decisiveness—qualities that can feel challenging for the typically relationship-oriented and collaborative Libra to fully embrace.

For example, a Libra rising might perceive their partner as “too impulsive” or “self-centered,” feeling that their partner’s assertiveness or directness disrupts the harmonious dynamic they value. In truth, these traits are a reflection of Libra’s own potential for boldness and authenticity, qualities they may avoid expressing openly. Relationships with Aries on the descendant encourage Libra risings to find their inner strength, learning to set boundaries, make clear decisions, and assert themselves when needed. Through these partnerships, Libra risings are invited to blend their natural diplomacy with a more assertive, self-assured approach.

Mars through the Houses (ruler of Aries):

Mars in the 1st House (Libra): Relationships have a strong impact on self-identity, attracting confident, assertive partners who inspire Libra risings to take charge and express themselves more openly. These partnerships challenge them to balance charm with courage.

Mars in the 2nd House (Scorpio): Partnerships emphasize security and shared values, often drawing intense, resourceful partners. Relationships encourage Libra risings to develop resilience and depth, helping them navigate power dynamics and assert their own worth.

Mars in the 3rd House (Sagittarius): Communication is dynamic and often direct, attracting partners who are adventurous, candid, and expressive. Relationships push Libra risings to engage in open, honest dialogue, learning to express their opinions confidently.

Mars in the 4th House (Capricorn): Relationships influence home and family life, often attracting partners who are responsible, grounded, and ambitious. Partners encourage Libra risings to cultivate stability at home and to approach relationships with maturity and determination.

Mars in the 5th House (Aquarius): Love is passionate and spontaneous, drawing partners who value creativity and freedom. Libra risings learn to embrace self-expression and autonomy in romance, balancing joy with assertiveness and personal space.

Mars in the 6th House (Pisces): Partnerships may center on shared responsibilities or daily routines, attracting partners who bring dedication and practicality. Relationships teach Libra risings the value of mutual support in everyday life, as well as the courage to handle challenges together.

Mars in the 7th House (Aries): Relationships are bold and often intense, with partners who embody decisiveness, passion, and independence. Libra risings are challenged to assert themselves and embrace directness, finding strength in both self-reliance and partnership.

Mars in the 8th House (Taurus): Partnerships have a transformative quality, often involving shared resources, trust, and intimacy. These connections encourage Libra risings to explore vulnerability, resilience, and the courage to engage in deep emotional bonding.

Mars in the 9th House (Gemini): Relationships broaden perspectives, attracting partners with a passion for exploration and intellectual growth. Libra risings are encouraged to embrace spontaneity, take risks, and expand their worldview through partnership.

Mars in the 10th House (Cancer): Relationships influence career or public image, often attracting ambitious and supportive partners. Libra risings are inspired to integrate their personal goals with their partnerships, finding balance between their ambitions and relationship responsibilities.

Mars in the 11th House (Leo): Friendships and shared ideals are central to relationships, with partners who are confident and socially engaged. These connections encourage Libra risings to embrace a bold vision and expand their social network with confidence and purpose.

Mars in the 12th House (Virgo): Relationships bring introspection, compassion, and deep healing, often drawing introspective or spiritual partners. Libra risings are encouraged to explore inner strength, confront subconscious fears, and embrace vulnerability in love.

𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐨 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐓𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Scorpio rising and Taurus on the seventh house cusp, relationships reflect Scorpio’s unexamined potential for stability, loyalty, and appreciation for life’s comforts. Scorpio, ruled by Mars in traditional Vedic astrology, is intense, transformative, and thrives on emotional depth. With Taurus, ruled by Venus, governing the seventh house, Scorpio risings are often drawn to partners who embody qualities such as patience, reliability, and groundedness. These Taurus qualities provide a balancing counterpoint to Scorpio’s complex, sometimes intense approach to life, appearing as traits that Scorpio risings admire but may struggle to fully embrace within themselves.

For example, a Scorpio rising may feel that their partner is “too predictable” or “overly focused on material comfort,” viewing them as grounded yet perhaps lacking in intensity. In reality, these qualities are a reflection of Scorpio’s own need for stability, security, and a deeper sense of personal peace. Relationships with Taurus on the descendant encourage Scorpio risings to slow down, value simplicity, and cultivate patience. Through these partnerships, Scorpio risings learn to balance their natural intensity with a more nurturing, steady approach, finding fulfillment in a lasting, secure relationship.

Venus through the Houses (ruler of Taurus):

Venus in the 1st House (Scorpio): Relationships have a strong influence on self-image, attracting partners who are affectionate, grounded, and patient. Scorpio risings learn to integrate warmth and balance with their intensity, creating a harmonious sense of self in relationships.

Venus in the 2nd House (Sagittarius): Partnerships focus on shared values and material security, drawing partners who value stability and generosity. Relationships teach Scorpio risings the value of abundance and loyalty, balancing their depth with a sense of optimism.

Venus in the 3rd House (Capricorn): Communication is practical and reliable, with partners who bring structure and patience to discussions. Relationships encourage Scorpio risings to communicate with consistency and patience, embracing a steady, grounded approach in love.

Venus in the 4th House (Aquarius): Love feels nurturing and deeply rooted, often tied to home and family, with partners who offer stability and shared ideals. Scorpio risings find emotional security at home, learning to blend independence with a sense of belonging.

Venus in the 5th House (Pisces): Romance is idealistic and deeply emotional, attracting compassionate, creative partners. These connections encourage Scorpio risings to explore love through creativity and imagination, balancing intensity with tenderness.

Venus in the 6th House (Aries): Relationships may focus on shared routines and responsibilities, attracting partners who are dependable yet dynamic. Scorpio risings learn to incorporate mutual support in daily life, valuing practical service within a passionate relationship.

Venus in the 7th House (Taurus): Relationships are grounding and steady, with partners who embody loyalty, patience, and stability. Scorpio risings are drawn to committed, secure partnerships that bring out their softer, nurturing side.

Venus in the 8th House (Gemini): Partnerships often involve shared resources and emotional transformation, attracting curious, communicative partners. Scorpio risings explore vulnerability and trust, blending their intensity with a lighthearted, open-minded approach to intimacy.

Venus in the 9th House (Cancer): Relationships expand worldviews and bring emotional depth, often drawing nurturing, philosophical partners. Scorpio risings are encouraged to open up to new perspectives, balancing deep emotional bonds with intellectual growth.

Venus in the 10th House (Leo): Relationships may connect to public life or career, with partners who are ambitious and supportive. Scorpio risings find inspiration in these partnerships, blending personal ambition with loyalty and stability in their public and private lives.

Venus in the 11th House (Virgo): Partnerships often center on shared goals or social circles, with partners who value service and practicality. Scorpio risings are guided to embrace friendships and community within relationships, balancing passion with a sense of social commitment.

Venus in the 12th House (Libra): Relationships bring compassion, mystery, and introspection, attracting partners with a reflective, sensitive nature. Scorpio risings explore the spiritual side of love, learning to release fears and embrace emotional peace within partnerships.

𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Sagittarius rising and Gemini on the seventh house cusp, relationships serve as a mirror for Sagittarius’s unexamined potential for curiosity, adaptability, and open communication. Sagittarius, ruled by Jupiter, is naturally philosophical, adventurous, and driven by a need for meaning and expansion. With Gemini, ruled by Mercury, on the descendant, Sagittarius risings are often drawn to partners who embody qualities like wit, versatility, and intellectual agility. These Geminian qualities contrast with Sagittarius’s broad, idealistic approach, making them seem like traits to admire in others rather than to cultivate within themselves.

For instance, a Sagittarius rising might view their partner as “too detail-oriented” or “always changing,” seeing them as intellectually curious yet perhaps lacking in the depth or consistency they value. However, these qualities actually reflect Sagittarius’s own potential for embracing life’s variety, engaging with new ideas, and seeing multiple perspectives. Relationships with Gemini on the descendant encourage Sagittarius risings to balance their expansive nature with a grounded, communicative approach to partnership. Through these connections, Sagittarius risings are invited to refine their beliefs, listen to others, and engage more mindfully.

Mercury through the Houses (ruler of Gemini):

Mercury in the 1st House (Sagittarius): Relationships impact self-expression and worldview, attracting intelligent, communicative partners who challenge Sagittarius risings to listen actively and consider other perspectives. These partnerships encourage balance between personal ideals and open-minded dialogue.

Mercury in the 2nd House (Capricorn): Partnerships emphasize shared values and stability, drawing practical, supportive partners. Relationships help Sagittarius risings find value in consistency, learning to balance adventurous impulses with financial and emotional security.

Mercury in the 3rd House (Aquarius): Communication is lively and often unconventional, with partners who bring fresh ideas and innovative thinking. Relationships encourage Sagittarius risings to embrace open-mindedness, exploring intellectual freedom and flexibility in communication.

Mercury in the 4th House (Pisces): Love centers on home and emotional depth, attracting partners who value introspection and empathy. Sagittarius risings learn to blend intellectual curiosity with emotional understanding, creating a secure and harmonious home environment.

Mercury in the 5th House (Aries): Relationships are playful, dynamic, and full of shared creative pursuits, drawing passionate, lively partners. Sagittarius risings are encouraged to explore self-expression and spontaneity in love, balancing intellect with romance.

Mercury in the 6th House (Taurus): Partnerships often focus on shared routines and responsibilities, attracting reliable, practical partners. Relationships teach Sagittarius risings the value of commitment in daily life, finding balance in supportive and steady companionship.

Mercury in the 7th House (Gemini): Relationships are stimulating and mentally engaging, with partners who bring versatility, wit, and intellectual curiosity. Sagittarius risings are drawn to connections that value open communication and shared learning, fostering a lively and flexible approach to love.

Mercury in the 8th House (Cancer): Relationships are intense and transformative, with partners who bring emotional depth and a sense of mystery. Sagittarius risings explore the psychological aspects of connection, learning to balance intellectual curiosity with emotional vulnerability.

Mercury in the 9th House (Leo): Relationships broaden horizons, attracting partners with a love for travel, philosophy, or personal growth. These partnerships inspire Sagittarius risings to merge personal beliefs with intellectual exploration, creating bonds that are adventurous and meaningful.

Mercury in the 10th House (Virgo): Partnerships often influence public life or career, attracting practical, goal-oriented partners. Sagittarius risings are encouraged to balance ambition with communication, creating connections that support mutual achievement.

Mercury in the 11th House (Libra): Friendships and shared ideals are central to relationships, with partners who value harmony and social engagement. Sagittarius risings are guided to balance individuality with shared dreams, fostering open-mindedness within a social network.

Mercury in the 12th House (Scorpio): Relationships bring introspection, mystery, and emotional depth, often attracting intuitive, reflective partners. Sagittarius risings are encouraged to explore hidden fears, cultivating compassion and a deeper understanding of the emotional side of love.

𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Capricorn rising and Cancer on the seventh house cusp, relationships serve as a mirror for Capricorn’s unexamined potential for emotional depth, nurturing, and vulnerability. Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, is disciplined, ambitious, and focused on achieving stability and structure in life. With Cancer, ruled by the Moon, on the descendant, Capricorn risings are often drawn to partners who embody qualities like sensitivity, warmth, and an emphasis on emotional connection. These Cancerian traits contrast with Capricorn’s reserved, pragmatic nature, appearing as qualities they admire in others but may initially struggle to embody within themselves.

For example, a Capricorn rising might see their partner as “too emotional” or “overly sensitive,” feeling that their partner’s need for emotional security disrupts their structured approach to life. However, these qualities actually reflect Capricorn’s own unacknowledged need for comfort, intimacy, and emotional expression. Relationships with Cancer on the descendant encourage Capricorn risings to soften their guarded exterior and embrace the nurturing, receptive side of themselves. Through these partnerships, they learn to balance their natural drive for stability with a more open-hearted approach to love and connection.

Moon through the Houses (ruler of Cancer):

Moon in the 1st House (Capricorn): Relationships have a strong impact on self-image, attracting nurturing, empathetic partners who encourage Capricorn risings to embrace self-compassion. Partners help them balance ambition with emotional warmth, making them more approachable and in tune with their feelings.

Moon in the 2nd House (Aquarius): Partnerships emphasize shared values and security, often attracting partners with humanitarian ideals and a strong sense of community. Relationships help Capricorn risings find emotional security in material stability, balanced with open-mindedness and generosity.

Moon in the 3rd House (Pisces): Communication is compassionate and sensitive, drawing partners who value emotional connection and open dialogue. These partnerships encourage Capricorn risings to embrace empathy in communication, creating deeper and more intuitive exchanges.

Moon in the 4th House (Aries): Relationships bring focus to home and family, attracting partners with a protective or passionate nature. Capricorn risings are encouraged to nurture their inner foundations, creating an emotionally supportive and secure family environment.

Moon in the 5th House (Taurus): Love is grounded and affectionate, with partners who value stability and sensuality. Relationships inspire Capricorn risings to embrace romance and enjoyment, balancing their serious nature with warmth and appreciation for life’s pleasures.

Moon in the 6th House (Gemini): Relationships may focus on shared routines and daily responsibilities, with partners who value intellectual engagement. Capricorn risings learn the importance of balance in everyday life, combining practical support with open, adaptable communication.

Moon in the 7th House (Cancer): Relationships are deeply nurturing, with partners who embody compassion, warmth, and sensitivity. Capricorn risings are drawn to caring, supportive connections that help them explore emotional vulnerability and foster mutual care.

Moon in the 8th House (Leo): Relationships have a transformative quality, often involving deep emotional bonding and shared resources. Partners inspire Capricorn risings to confront fears and trust in intimacy, balancing intensity with emotional resilience.

Moon in the 9th House (Virgo): Relationships expand perspectives, attracting partners who value learning, growth, and philosophical discussions. These partnerships encourage Capricorn risings to balance their pragmatic outlook with intellectual and emotional openness.

Moon in the 10th House (Libra): Relationships influence public life or career, often bringing harmony and balance to professional pursuits. Partners help Capricorn risings incorporate empathy and collaboration into their goals, finding success through cooperative relationships.

Moon in the 11th House (Scorpio): Friendships and shared ideals are central to partnerships, with emotionally intense, loyal partners. Capricorn risings are encouraged to embrace shared dreams and deep connections within their social circle, balancing ambition with meaningful friendships.

Moon in the 12th House (Sagittarius): Relationships bring introspection, compassion, and spiritual growth, attracting partners with a philosophical or reflective nature. Capricorn risings explore emotional depth and healing, learning to trust in the unseen aspects of love and connection.

𝐀𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐋𝐞𝐨 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Aquarius rising and Leo on the seventh house cusp, relationships serve as a mirror for Aquarius’s unexamined potential for self-expression, passion, and loyalty. Aquarius, ruled by Saturn in traditional Vedic astrology, is naturally independent, intellectually driven, and values freedom and innovation. With Leo, ruled by the Sun, on the descendant, Aquarius risings are drawn to partners who embody qualities such as warmth, creativity, and an open-hearted approach to life. These Leonine traits contrast with Aquarius’s more detached, collective-oriented mindset, appearing as qualities they admire in others but may feel hesitant to fully embrace within themselves.

For example, an Aquarius rising might view their partner as “too dramatic” or “self-focused,” seeing them as expressive yet perhaps overly individualistic. However, these qualities actually reflect Aquarius’s own potential for bold self-expression and authenticity, traits they may resist due to their focus on the broader picture. Relationships with Leo on the descendant encourage Aquarius risings to tap into their own creativity, embrace personal joy, and celebrate life with a greater sense of presence and confidence. Through these partnerships, Aquarius risings learn to balance their intellectual approach with a more heart-centered, playful view of love.

Sun through the Houses (ruler of Leo):

Sun in the 1st House (Aquarius): Relationships significantly influence self-image, attracting confident, expressive partners who encourage Aquarius risings to step into the spotlight. Partners help them balance intellectual ideals with self-assurance, learning to embrace both individuality and self-expression.

Sun in the 2nd House (Pisces): Partnerships emphasize shared values and emotional security, often attracting compassionate, supportive partners. Relationships teach Aquarius risings the value of emotional openness, helping them to balance stability with empathy and self-worth.

Sun in the 3rd House (Aries): Communication is lively and direct, with partners who are bold, opinionated, and enthusiastic. These partnerships encourage Aquarius risings to engage actively in dialogue, fostering openness and confidence in self-expression.

Sun in the 4th House (Taurus): Relationships bring a sense of warmth and grounding to home life, attracting partners who are stable and nurturing. Aquarius risings find security in their relationships, learning to balance intellectual pursuits with emotional warmth at home.

Sun in the 5th House (Gemini): Love is playful and expressive, with partners who are curious, witty, and adaptable. Aquarius risings are encouraged to embrace romance and spontaneity, balancing their intellectual side with a sense of fun and light-hearted connection.

Sun in the 6th House (Cancer): Partnerships may center on shared routines and responsibilities, with nurturing, caring partners. Aquarius risings learn the importance of dedication and mutual care in everyday life, creating supportive and practical relationships.

Sun in the 7th House (Leo): Relationships are passionate and deeply engaging, with partners who are confident, expressive, and loyal. Aquarius risings are drawn to connections that value authenticity and heart-centered love, embracing warmth and commitment in relationships.

Sun in the 8th House (Virgo): Relationships have a transformative quality, often involving deep emotional intimacy and trust. Partners encourage Aquarius risings to embrace vulnerability, developing resilience and self-assuredness through emotional connection.

Sun in the 9th House (Libra): Partnerships broaden perspectives, attracting partners who value intellectual growth, balance, and adventure. Aquarius risings are inspired to explore new beliefs and expand their worldview, finding a harmonious approach to love and learning.

Sun in the 10th House (Scorpio): Relationships often tie into public life or career, with passionate, ambitious partners. Aquarius risings are encouraged to integrate emotional depth into their public roles, creating partnerships that support both professional and personal growth.

Sun in the 11th House (Sagittarius): Friendships and shared ideals are central to relationships, drawing partners with a strong sense of vision and adventure. Aquarius risings are guided to balance personal aspirations with mutual dreams, embracing growth in community and love.

Sun in the 12th House (Capricorn): Relationships bring introspection and spiritual growth, attracting reflective, disciplined partners. Aquarius risings are encouraged to explore their subconscious, finding strength and healing in love through introspection and compassion.

𝐏𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭, 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐠𝐨 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭

With Pisces rising and Virgo on the seventh house cusp, relationships serve as a mirror for Pisces’ unexamined potential for practicality, discernment, and commitment to service. Pisces, ruled by Jupiter in Vedic astrology, is compassionate, intuitive, and often idealistic, with a natural focus on spirituality, empathy, and creativity. With Virgo, ruled by Mercury, governing the seventh house, Pisces risings are drawn to partners who embody qualities such as reliability, analytical thinking, and groundedness. These Virgoan traits provide a counterbalance to Pisces’ flowing, sometimes elusive nature, appearing as qualities to admire in others but that may feel challenging to fully integrate within themselves.

For instance, a Pisces rising may feel that their partner is “too critical” or “too focused on details,” seeing them as practical but sometimes rigid. In reality, these qualities reflect Pisces’ own potential for focus, organization, and thoughtful planning. Relationships with Virgo on the descendant encourage Pisces risings to develop discernment, appreciate routines, and engage in purposeful action. Through these partnerships, Pisces risings learn to balance their natural empathy with Virgo’s clarity and attention to detail, fostering healthier, more stable connections.

Mercury through the Houses (ruler of Virgo):

Mercury in the 1st House (Pisces): Relationships significantly influence self-image, attracting thoughtful, supportive partners who help Pisces risings ground their ideals in practical actions. Partners encourage a balance between intuition and logic, enhancing their self-expression with focus and clarity.

Mercury in the 2nd House (Aries): Partnerships emphasize shared values and security, drawing independent, assertive partners who value both personal growth and financial stability. Relationships teach Pisces risings to appreciate stability and assertiveness, helping them set boundaries and recognize their self-worth.

Mercury in the 3rd House (Taurus): Communication is practical and steady, with partners who bring groundedness and patience to discussions. These partnerships encourage Pisces risings to embrace reliability in communication, creating a thoughtful approach to relationships.

Mercury in the 4th House (Gemini): Love centers around home and family, often drawing communicative, adaptable partners. Pisces risings find intellectual connection at home, learning to balance emotional depth with open, flexible communication.

Mercury in the 5th House (Cancer): Romance is nurturing and creative, attracting sensitive, emotionally aware partners. Relationships encourage Pisces risings to embrace both the joyful and serious sides of love, balancing creativity with emotional grounding.

Mercury in the 6th House (Leo): Partnerships often focus on shared responsibilities, with partners who are reliable yet expressive. Pisces risings learn to balance self-expression with duty in daily life, creating relationships that are both supportive and inspiring.

Mercury in the 7th House (Virgo): Relationships are practical and service-oriented, with partners who embody discernment, reliability, and humility. Pisces risings are drawn to stable, down-to-earth connections that help them bring structure and purpose to their lives.

Mercury in the 8th House (Libra): Relationships are transformative and focused on emotional depth, drawing partners who value balance, intimacy, and fairness. Pisces risings learn to explore their own depths, finding harmony in trust and shared resources.

Mercury in the 9th House (Scorpio): Partnerships bring exploration and growth, with partners who are deeply insightful and philosophical. Relationships inspire Pisces risings to expand their worldviews, merging idealism with depth in love and learning.

Mercury in the 10th House (Sagittarius): Relationships may connect to public life or career, attracting ambitious, growth-oriented partners. Pisces risings find a balance between personal goals and relational commitments, fostering growth in both professional and personal life.

Mercury in the 11th House (Capricorn): Friendships and shared goals are central to relationships, with partners who value loyalty, stability, and long-term vision. Pisces risings are encouraged to cultivate mutual ambitions, finding strength in shared ideals and community.

Mercury in the 12th House (Aquarius): Relationships bring introspection and spiritual growth, attracting reflective, humanitarian partners. Pisces risings explore inner fears and spiritual dimensions of love, fostering compassion and emotional healing.

TikTok - Masterlist - YouTube (subliminals)

[cozycottagetarot]

The First Time They See You

🎥 Reading Contents:

First Impressions

Their Immediate Thoughts

What They Think About You

🎞️ Extended Reading Contents:

How You Make Them Feel

What They Tell Others About You

Impact on the Future Relationship

This reading is for entertainment purposes only! Take only what resonates be it all, some or none! ✨

LINKS: Reading Masterlist | Dividers | Ko-Fi | Patreon | Patreon Masterlist | Paid Readings | Paid Readings - $10 and Under - Open 🥂

Pile 1

First Impressions

Cards: Eight of Pentacles, Queen of Pentacles, Page of Wands, The Forgotten, The Founder

For some reason, the first thing that popped into my mind was We Built This City on Rock and Roll. I’m not sure if that resonates with someone here, but it feels relevant—maybe you give off a bit of a rebel vibe, or it’s reflected in the way you dress or carry yourself. Something along those lines.

When it comes to first impressions, the one you leave on your person might not necessarily stick—and that’s not a bad thing. It could simply be that while you remember meeting them, they might not, or the other way around.

I get the sense that your person sees you as someone who’s done well for themselves. They likely think of you as someone who works hard to get where you are. You might give off an air of enjoying life’s luxuries, though not necessarily in a flashy way. It could be more about appreciating the little luxuries, the small joys that bring comfort or happiness.

They might also see you as someone who’s open to adventure. A scene keeps playing in my mind: you’re chatting with someone, maybe in a store, and your person is off to the side, casually observing. It’s like the way you’d notice someone having a conversation—not really focused on them, but still aware of their presence.

Their Immediate Thoughts

Cards: Nine of Cups, The Sun, The Hanged Man

Your person will really like you. I think they’ll see you as someone who radiates joy or has the ability to bring happiness into people’s lives effortlessly. You might have this knack for lifting their spirits or brightening their mood. There’s something about you that will subtly shift their perspective as well—like a little spark of insight or inspiration. Part of me feels like this could have something to do with the way you’re dressed.

I also sense that this encounter will happen in passing—a brief, fleeting moment. Even so, they might think something along the lines of, Wow, this person is... Perhaps you have a super eccentric style, or maybe it’s just something about your personality that makes you stand out in an unmistakable way.

It feels like this will catch their attention. Their immediate thoughts might be something like, Huh, this person is different, or even, Oh, I really like them. Those are the kinds of impressions I’m picking up here.

What They Think About You

Cards: The Acolyte, The Sentinel Rev, The Catalyst, Amanita - Conduit, Pau D’Arco - Metamorphosis

Your person may think of you as someone with feminine qualities—exuding a nurturing, gentle energy. They might also see you as a bit whimsical, especially in terms of your appearance. That said, I feel like they could struggle to fully interpret or "read" you. There’s a certain complexity to you that they might find intriguing or even a little puzzling. For example, you might come across as someone who is wise and mature, yet youthful in appearance. You could also give off the impression of being a student—someone who is curious about others, always learning, and dedicated to personal growth.

There’s definitely a sense of playfulness they might pick up on, too. The imagery that comes to mind is something like a mystical or enchanted vibe—mushrooms, fairies, gnomes, that sort of whimsical, otherworldly energy.

They might also notice that you seem to be someone who’s always changing. For instance, maybe your hair is dyed one color, but your roots are showing in a different shade, signaling transformation and evolution. It could also be something they pick up on just by overhearing you talk about yourself—how you actively seek change and growth rather than waiting for life to happen to you.

Your person might think you’re someone unafraid of the unknown. They could see you as someone who thrives on challenges, always seeking the next thing to conquer or explore. There’s also a sense that they might perceive you as confident and self-assured. Depending on the context, this could even come across as arrogance or self-centeredness, but it seems more tied to how much power or presence you have—and your awareness of it.

They might also view you as someone artistic or deeply connected to nature. Mystical energy keeps coming through strongly, and I think that’s a key part of how they’ll perceive you the first time they see you.

If you made it this far, thank you for taking the time to read this post! 💚

✨Curious about how you make them feel? ✨ What whispers might they share about you with others? 🤫💕 How will that first glance shape your future connection? 👀💞 Dive deeper with the extended access tier on Patreon for the full, in-depth reading 🔮✨—or read "How You Make Them Feel" as a free member! 💌🌟

Pile 2

First Impressions

Cards: Eight of Wands, The Stars, The Devil, The Painter, The Gambler

This is so amusing. I feel like your person’s first impression when they see you is, are you the thing that will save them or the thing that will ruin them completely?

I think you come in very quickly, leaving your person all wide awake and alert. You’re this beacon of light and hope for them, but at the same time, there’s something so mysterious and forbidden about you. Pursuing you, or even the idea of having you, feels thrilling, but it also carries an edge of danger. That’s the vibe I’m getting here from the cards.

It’s like you have the power to show them a whole new world, and that world could be incredible, or it could be devastating. Either way, they seem willing to take the risk and dive in. Honestly, I don’t sense any hesitation from them—none at all. They’re completely enthralled by you, and that’s their first impression.

It’s like… wow.

I think they find you incredibly beautiful. In fact, I’d say they’re very physically attracted to you, and that plays a significant part in it. For some reason, I’m also getting that you might come from different cultures, which could add to the intrigue.

But more than anything, there’s just this overwhelming thrill. You’re so addictive and so enticing—it’s like, oh my gosh. That’s all I can say: oh my gosh. Pile 2, what the heck? Your person is going to be all in for you from the start. That’s their first impression.

Their Immediate Thoughts

Cards: Ace of Cups, Six of Wands, The World

I think doing this pile is definitely going to be a highlight of my day. I’m getting that your person’s immediate thoughts are something like, they just want to eat you up. That’s the phrase I keep hearing, and it feels like your person has such a bold and playful personality—it really comes through in this reading. They see you as someone who probably has a ton of romantic attention. It’s like you’re this irresistible catch, and people are all over you. That’s what keeps coming through: you’ve got so many people chasing after you, and honestly, I can’t see it any other way.

So yeah, their immediate thought is that you’re an absolute catch. You’ve got so much going for you—you’re stunning, beautiful, and it’s something I keep circling back to throughout this reading.

Your person also seems to think you’d be an amazing lover, and they want to be your lover.

What They Think About You

Cards: The merchant, The Pilgrim, The Alchemist, Rue - Protection, Ginkgo - Breakthrough

You seem to have a very magnetic aura, and because of that, you don’t let people in very easily. You’re discerning about who you allow into your energy field. Your energy feels heavily protected, and that’s something people notice about you right away. They might sense—or assume—that you’ve got a deeper layer to you, and I think that’s part of what they initially find so alluring. There’s something about you that feels guarded but also captivating.

I think they see you as someone who’s very confident and aware of your worth. You’re not the type to settle for less than you deserve, and that confidence is magnetic in itself.

At the same time, they might think you’re a bit lost or lacking direction in where you’re headed. There’s this sense that they could see you as someone who might be a little self-destructive at times—or at least that’s a perception they could have. It’s almost like they imagine you as someone who builds yourself up but then occasionally tears it all down.

That dynamic—of being both powerful and a little risky—is part of what they find so intriguing. They sense there’s some level of risk in being with you or around you, and that’s a big part of the pull they feel toward you.

If you made it this far, thank you for taking the time to read this post! 💚

✨Curious about how you make them feel? ✨ What whispers might they share about you with others? 🤫💕 How will that first glance shape your future connection? 👀💞 Dive deeper with the extended access tier on Patreon for the full, in-depth reading 🔮✨—or read "How You Make Them Feel" as a free member! 💌🌟

PILE 3

First Impressions

Cards: Knight of Wands, The Star, Ace of Pentacles, The Witch, The Diviner

Your person sees you as someone who is very energetic, optimistic, and motivated, with a go-getter attitude toward the things you set your mind to. Their first impression might be that you’re someone who comes up with a lot of great ideas and has the potential for successful outcomes—though what “success” means might vary. Rather than defining it specifically, let’s just say they see you as someone likely to achieve positive results.

They also view you as someone very hopeful, someone who tries to see the best in situations without ignoring potential risks. You seem to strike a balance, focusing on the positives while still acknowledging the negatives. Depending on the context, you might come across as slightly impulsive, but overall, they perceive you as charismatic and confident.

There’s a mystical quality about you, too. They might feel like you have all the answers or that you’ve got the path ahead of you figured out, which leaves them a little mystified. At the same time, you might seem like you’re in your own world, unconcerned with what others are doing and entirely focused on your own goals—what you need to do to get from point A to point B.

They might also pick up on an earthy, natural vibe from you. There’s a sense that you could have an interest in nature, architecture, or even herbalism. These impressions might come across subtly, but they add to the idea that you’re someone who knows a lot about those kinds of things, or at least gives off that impression.

Their Immediate Thoughts

Cards: Ten of Swords, Six of Swords, Page of Swords

This won't resonate with everyone, but I’m picking up on an image of someone wearing a shawl and a lot of bangles or bracelets on their wrists—depending on how they express themselves. Glasses might also come to mind, along with imagery of a greenhouse or a guest speaker at an event. Of course, this could be very specific and apply to just one person.

Your person might perceive you as someone currently in a "solo era." It feels like you’re focused on healing, recovery, or just regaining balance after a draining experience. This could suggest you’re not actively seeking social connections right now.

Alternatively, if you’re working on a project or an idea with long-term potential, they may see you as someone who prefers to handle things independently. This could lead them to think you’re not particularly looking to collaborate at the moment. They might also believe you’re already in a relationship, which would tie into their perception that you’re either unavailable for social connections or preoccupied with your personal work.

Another thing they could sense about you is that you’re someone who has "breakthrough ideas," particularly in environments like school, work, or professional settings. They might see you as a person who consistently comes up with fresh, innovative concepts.

Overall, they view you as someone transitioning—leaving something behind and moving toward something healthier. It feels like "recovery mode" is a recurring theme. Whatever you’re moving on from, they think you’re navigating it with purpose.

What They Think About You

Cards: The Warrior, The Botanist, The Mascareri, Horsetail - Patience, Cacao - Initiation

Their thoughts align with an image of someone deeply connected to nature. They might imagine you working with plants, exploring nature, or pursuing hobbies like painting, pottery, or other creative, hands-on activities—perhaps even as a profession.

They might see you as someone who strives for perfection, but they could also feel that you hide your authentic self behind a mask of this perfectionism. At the same time, they view you as nurturing, patient, and willing to put in the necessary effort to see something bloom, even if it requires isolation.

Wherever they encounter you, it seems like they see you in your element—whether it’s creating, strategizing, or working on something meaningful. There’s a serene and calm energy about you, almost like a "green witch" archetype, embodying a sense of harmony and trust in the process of life.

They might feel that you have a strong connection to the Divine, as many of the cards reflect this theme. There’s a sense of familiarity they might feel with your soul, as if they intuitively recognize something deep about you.

It’s possible they see you as a teacher or mentor in some way—someone they watch and learn from, whether intentionally or by circumstance. This observant nature suggests a level of intrigue on their part. They might think: “I know this person’s soul,” and this thought could leave them feeling both curious and captivated by your essence.

If you made it this far, thank you for taking the time to read this post! 💚

✨Curious about how you make them feel? ✨ What whispers might they share about you with others? 🤫💕 How will that first glance shape your future connection? 👀💞 Dive deeper with the extended access tier on Patreon for the full, in-depth reading 🔮✨—or read "How You Make Them Feel" as a free member! 💌🌟