#it's just. Lahabrea actually trying again. It means everything to me

[sword-and-lance]

((yup I'm not entirely done and I wasn't joking about the Nereus/Lahabrea elaboration deserving its own post 8D

these two idiots (affectionate) I stg, like

it actually took a fair bit of time for them to even realize that oh yeah I do get the warm fuzzies about this person in THAT way don't I

and while Nereus was actually pretty willing to run with that, if a bit cautiously because this blowing up in his face like the other relationships he tried having would be kinda bad if he still had to work with the guy

Lahabrea was just. um. kind of scared actually even if he couldn't even admit that that's what it was to himself

I mean of course there's the whole specter of what if someone just uses me again hanging over him but also even if that wasn't the case--

after something that outright horrible happening to him, like

it leaves something awful and grievously wounded and angry in your chest that lashes out not just at other people but yourself, too, so he wasn't even convinced he deserved that chance because he (thought he had) fucked up so. BADLY. in his last relationship that he nearly got his own kid stuck into a fate possibly worse than death

despite supposedly being one of THE smartest people

and given that Ancient society was, um, clearly not good with mental health stuff, and given that he couldn't even actually talk about what happened for obvious reasons of having to admit to murdering someone, that all had to be terrifically isolating, too, on top of all the self-blame

and that nasty combination of bad feelings basically going at him 24/7 made him want to run from even a hint of a relationship because did he really deserve it after that and what if what if what if, and yet

he was also just as painfully lonely as Nereus was after all this time and (while he probably considered it selfish of him at first) he just...wanted just one single thing that was his, after sacrificing damn near everything of himself to the star, to the Convocation, to everyone and everything else until he truly had made himself a bit miserable as a human being

(He just liked to think he was above that sort of thing when L O L no you are not sir, and he nearly had a wholeass mental breakdown over it at one point even)

and Nereus was actually genuinely kind, if a bit prissy and vain outside of work, and even when Lahabrea's harder more jagged edges bit into him he never really blamed him for it--didn't like it, sure, no one likes being on the receiving end of someone being angry or distant or just plain difficult, but never got too pissed and seemed to realize it was coming from a place of immense hurt

(I mean the guy's a healer, it's generally pretty obvious to someone like that when someone's just lashing out in pain, rather than just being mean for the sake of being mean)

and he was just quite willing to sit there and listen when Lahabrea wasn't being too...mentally shut down about the whole thing to be functional about it, and yeah it took fucking AGES and slow, painstaking work to get the man to actually open up about anything, but

damn if Nereus didn't manage it anyway at some point

and Lahabrea got to know him better too and realized that yeah Nereus is in fact just Like That in some ways but also that he's a rather sweet man, especially towards the people he loves

(And he...struggles to actually show that same softness in return, after so damn much of his life was basically building layer after layer of personal armor until what was the armor and what was him started becoming less and less distinguishable)

(but even if he can't really bring himself to do too much in public without feeling like his everything is screaming at him to knock it off, he does try in private--even if he was never really shown how to do it, he is still willing to try, as awkward and hesitant as he can be about vulnerability inherent to intimacy)

(not just emotionally, though that's a major part of it, but also physically--I headcanon he has a bit of a scar across his neck from when Athena actually tried to kill him back, hence the weird under-robes that no one else seems to wear, and he is actually really self-conscious about it)

(In fact that caused a bit of a spat between them when he first revealed that mark on accident early on, because Nereus was a bit sensitive to wow do you even trust me to DO MY JOB at the time and wasn't happy that one of his closer professional cohorts was uh, not asking him to help. BUT ANYWAY--)

As for Nereus he was basically just extremely lonely and felt like he didn't entirely fit in, especially since every other person of the Fourteen were from the city at the time (least until Azem wandered in) and he was basically from the Beach Boonies--and while the settlement he was in was actually pretty chill with his propensity for indulgence, the city really very wasn't and it made him wonder more than once if he was actually a good fit for the post

or even still being in the city at all tbh, for a while there

...and then it turned out that part of that particular brand of impulsivity was mostly because he was just. very very alone and didn't like it, and so it got tempered a fair bit when he actually started to be with Lahabrea proper (and Lahabrea himself being very you stop that? helped lol); he felt like Lahabrea saw him for who he was rather than what, and accepted it and even loved it, and it really did chill him out a bit as a result

they really did just both want to be seen and heard and loved for who they were, rough edges and all, and even if it makes Nereus nervous and Lahabrea straight-up anxious to try and do that, it gets juuuuust slightly easier as time goes on and it's just

genuinely pretty healing for the both of them

and in a world that wouldn't sit with big complicated damaging feelings that might never go away, that really did just mean everything, to the both of them))

[charlottedabookworm]

#20 - Anon

feat Yrys

for my one WoL who doesn't actually have a longfic, Yrys is getting a lot of fills this month. anyway, pandaemonium abyssos (6.2) spoilers in general for this but mostly I'm just sitting here wondering how I set out to write something sweet and it mostly ended up angsty

“...Pandion.”

He stares out into the depths of Pandaemonium, tracking the flashes of aether as the surviving wardens resumed their duties. “I forgive you.”

At his side, Lahabrea stills. Shock drifts off of him like salt off the sea breeze.

Yrys laughs. When he turns his head to meet his father’s eyes, his lips quirk up. “I forgive you, father.” He murmurs once more and he means it. He means it for the Pandion here, now, who loves his father and hates him in equal measures. The man who will refuse to say a word to his father until it is too late; until their world has ended and sacrifices made to preserve it and the man Pandion will speak to will not be his father at all.

I forgive you, he thinks as he looks at his father. I forgive you for what you are going to do.

I forgive you for the scars you will leave on my friends, for the burns that still mark my body, for the world you will callously try to destroy. I forgive you for trying to kill me again and again and again.

I forgive you for dying before I could remember who you were for me.

He does not forgive his father for how he treated Erichthonios. Yrys understands now, far better than he did; he knows why his father did what he did, and he knows that he tried. He also knows it wasn’t enough for his brother, for himself, and he does not forgive him for that. It doesn’t matter. 

And it doesn’t matter that Lahabrea thinks he does.

I forgive you, he thinks and he hopes the memory of this brings his father peace in the aetherial sea.

His aether twinges, tugging him back to the portal anon, and he swallows. Looks at his father, sane and living and trying, and he gives into an urge he hasn’t given into since he was a child. 

Yrys pulls his father into a hug, fisting his hands into the back of his robes and burying his face in his shoulder. Lahabrea’s mask digs into his chest and he doesn’t care; he breathes in clean robes and the scent of fire aspected aether that has clung to him for as long as he can remember and-

“Pandion?” His father’s arms flutter awkwardly for a moment before they settle across his back, a hand soothing up and down his back seemingly instinctively.

“I never stopped loving you,” he whispers into his father’s shoulder. Once upon a time, when he’d realised, it was his greatest shame. “Even when I was so angry at you I could barely think- you’re my dad. He won’t tell you, so I will: I love you.”

“I know,” his father says back, holding him tight like he’s a small child, tucking his head under his chin and-

He wants to protest. He wants to scream, like the child he feels. He wants to run away because you die thinking I hate you.

Instead, he clings to his father. 

He clings to the last embrace his father will ever give him until his aether twinges again, more painfully, and Yrys swallows back the bitterness that rises in his chest at not being allowed more time. Instead, he clutches even tighter for a heartbeat, just long enough to whisper another: “I love you.”

Then, he pulls away.

Erich is staring at him, wide-eyed, and it takes everything in him to smile at his brother. He crosses the space between them in three strides and yanks his brother close, scrubbing a hand through his hair just to hear the instinctual protests. “I love you, little brother,” he tells him, pulling back enough to meet his eyes. “You’re so much more than you think you are. Never let anyone convince you otherwise.”

“You-”

Yrys presses a kiss to the kid's head and pulls back, smirking like he doesn’t want to cry. “Go bug me, yeah? He misses you.” I miss you so much.

“Pandion-”

“I have to go,” he says, shaking his head. The tugging in the centre of his chest is painfully insistent and he breathes through a wince. Forces a smile for Themis. “You’re the greatest of us all, Elidibus” he tells the man who will become Zodiark’s heart, who will slowly lose everything that makes him bright and brilliant. “The Convocation is lucky to have you, Themis. Look out for them for me?”

Solemn eyes regard him carefully before a sad smile flickers across his lips. Themis, Elidibus, nods. “Of course, Azem.”

He breathes-

Glances over them all, one last time, committing them to memory-

Aether surges-

Yrys lands in Labyrinthos, crystal clutched in his fist, with the overwhelming urge to cry.

[catte-bard]

Those Halcyon Days Ch. 1

MAJOR SHB SPOILERS AND 5.3 SPOILERS

First chapter of my big Amaurot writing project done! Essentially, just a super indulgent fic about my Azem. Leading up to her defection from the Convocation and the eventual sundering of the world. I will try my best to keep it updated periodically.  

@ffxiv-writers​

AO3 Link

“You are in trouble, dear Azem.”

Persephone looked up from her work at her guest. Then glanced at the wall chronometer. “Good afternoon, Halmarut.” 

“Is that all you have to say for yourself?” The man placed his hands on his hips. “You missed this morning’s assembly.”

Though she caught sight of the little smile on his lips. He feigned disapproval but he did not come here to scold. Her old mentor tried to be the formal and serious member of the Convocation that he was expected to be. But the man could never hide the soft spot he had for her.

“I’m sure the Convocation will not fall apart because of this absence.” Persephone answered back, turning her attention back to her work. She plucked a quill from its inkwell to quickly scribe something down in an opened notebook. “Asides, I’ve just returned from my travels and am weary from them. If I am to subject my mind to another one of Lahabrea’s long-winded speeches I would rather do so with a well-rested one.”

“Must you antagonize the man so much?” Halamurt shook his head. “You know he called for you to be censured for missing this meeting.”

And Persephone rolled her eyes. “Yet you wonder why I must antagonize him.”

Her and the Speaker never got along. That wasn’t to say they hated each other, nay for there have been some times where they could be kind and respectful to each other. But they simply clashed with each other more than the other Convocation members. Halmarut once told her that was because the two of them were so alike. However, offended by the claim, she dismissed it.

The man sighed as he walked up to her desk. Curious of what she was working on and being unabashedly nosy about it. “The Convocation awaited what you had to report from your travels. Six moons—that’s the longest you have ever been away from Amaurot. We were all worried and curious to know what kept you away for so long. Usually your expeditions are half that time.”

Her lips pressed into a thin line, a frown hidden behind her mask. “I’ve been busy.”

Her response was vague and she should have known better to use such with Halmarut. It only made the man pry even more. 

Halmarut canted his head. “Busy? Have you come across anything unusual?”

The tone in his voice implied that her response might mean something depending on how she answered. She looked up at him. “A few rogue concepts...” She carefully said. “Odd things but nothing to worry about I’m sure. Perhaps, something created by a few rambunctious younglings who were too ashamed to tell anyone about. They didn’t give me too much trouble if that’s what you’re worried about.”

That was a fib.

Much had occurred during her travels that made her think. Yes indeed she came across many rogue concepts—though more than usual. She had not wanted to share the concern with Halmarut, not wanting to frighten him, but part of her even wondered if it were people actually creating such things.

With such concepts, usually the perpetrator was some youngster and their friends getting carried away with creation magic. Or someone who had fallen too deep in their cups. 

But something had been different about these. They had been too twisted and grotesque looking to have been born from the mind of someone. Unless that person were simply twisted themselves? Nonetheless the beings she faced were less like concepts and more like beings born straight from someones nightmares. 

It left her feeling anxious and restless. 

But until she knew for sure what was going on, she did not want to worry the Convocation or the public. Later on she would discuss it in private with the Emissary. See what his opinion on the matter was and if it should be brought forth at the next assembly.

Halmarut was quiet as he puzzled over her words. Seeming to internally debate something. His fingers drummed against the stop of her desk—a nervous tick of his he did when something was nagging at his mind. Something on his tongue he wanted to say but held back.

Persephone was a bit curious herself now. Wondering if something had occurred in her absence. “Master Halmarut?” She called, pulling him from his thoughts.

So lost in thought was he that he startled at the sound of his voice. 

“Is everything well?” She asked.

“Ah.” The man cleared his throat. “Just a...small concern. But nothing you need fret about right now; it still merits investigation. That aside, you should have brought your matter forth to the Convocation or at least the Bureau—you know what little tolerance there is on rogue concepts.”

His own vagueness surprised her. But she supposed that was fair since she was omitting details as well. 

Persephone shrugged. “I did not think it important to report straight away if I had it handled.” It simply had never been her way, she always sought to deal with certain matters on her own. Much to the Convocation’s exasperation no doubt. “The concepts were destroyed as per protocol and no one was injured. I saw no reason to report it right away.

“Though rest assured, the Convocation will be getting the full report of my travails tomorrow.” And she gestured to the paperwork before her. “I am working on that now if that’s what you truly came to pester me about. If you do not wish to scold me again then perhaps you should leave me to it?”

At that Halmarut grunted. “Well initially I had come to ask a favor of you. But if you are so set on shooing me out the door.”

“Go on.” Persephone encouraged with a wave of her hand.

“I was hoping you’d be free tonight to help me with some of my classes at Akadaemia.” He told her. “It’s getting to that part of the year and the students are beginning to have a glazed look in their eyes. A surprise visit from the esteemed Azem might reinvigorate them a bit. I’ll even throw in dinner as payment for asking you to work late after just returning home.”

A glance at the wall chronometer. 

And Persephone supposed she would be done with her work well before Halmarut’s evening classes. So long as none of their other brethren decided to come pester her about other tasks. Though she supposed if she spoke of a prior engagement it might keep their requests at bay.

And asides, she had oft helped Halmarut teach his classes before. She always enjoyed herself. And there was a nice thrilling bit of nostalgia about returning to the lecture halls of Akadaemia.

“I suppose I’ll be able to make it.” She told him.

And Halmarut beamed at her. “Excellent!” He exclaimed. However, he quickly sobered and cleared his throat. “I will be waiting for you. And dear Azem, do try to make the next assembly we call. Myself and Elidibus may have patience with you but the others may not.”

She smiled. “I will try.” Was all that was promised.

With that he bowed his head in farewell and walked towards the door. However, he paused midway. “Ah! Actually there was one last thing, my dear girl.” He called over his shoulder.

Persephone looked up expectantly.

“I do believe Emet-Selch was on the hunt for you earlier.” He told her. “Do be careful when you come across him. He seemed rather upset to learn you had skipped this morning’s meeting.”

It had been another three bells after Halmarut’s visit. And fortunately, Persephone had not had to entertain any more guests. Which left her to finish her long and grueling report about her six month forey. Along with a very sincere sounding apology for her absence at the previous assembly. 

Her fingers ached from writing so much, and halfway through she made a mental note to herself to look into a concept for a quill that wrote by itself. It would certainly make things less tedious. And would lessen the occurrences of wrist cramps.

She even had to remove her mask. For it was starting to feel heavy and stuffy while she worked. It was odd to say but she felt she could work with a clearer head without it on. Being within the private safety of her office, she supposed it was fine as well. 

She stared down at her report in silence. Truth be told, there was much more to her prolonged absence than she had told Halmarut. Much more worrying concerns. 

But she could tell the man had his own pressing matters to worry about if his early comments were anything to go by. It seemed Amaurot had gained some of its own troubles while she was away. She only hoped it wasn’t anything as bad as what she discovered out there.

She read over one of the journal entries she had included in the report.

A shocking amount of plant decay was observed north of the city where the rogue concepts dwelled. An entire forest dead and dying as if disease had swept through it. It’s unlike anything I have seen before. It is natural for plants to wither and rot in nature. But this is to a starling degree. 

It seems less like natural rot and more like a corruption. The native fauna that had once dwelt there had long since fled. And I do not blame them. 

Annona theorized that perhaps the presence of the rogue concepts caused the rot. Their unnatural energies warping their surroundings. I will look into it further after we’ve made sure all the concepts have been destroyed. 

The locals worry about the rot. They are a farming settlement and worry that this rot might spread to their crops. Even made a fuss about cleansing ourselves before setting foot inside the city again whenever we returned from studying out there. 

Whatever it is, it has the people scared. I understand their fear. They work closely with plants, and this isn’t a familiar disease. This is something different. 

Days had been spent in the forest studying the rot. Weeks and months had been spent trying to revive it. And yet despite their efforts, nothing refused to regrow there. It seemed that whatever disease or corruption tainted the area had seeped down into the soil. 

She had begun to hate the place. And never liked venturing there alone to collect samples. A wrongness simply had fallen over it. She didn’t dare say cursed but...

It seemed nothing would grow there again. A troublesome prospect. Which is what brought her back to Amaurot. Unfamiliar with such a situation she thought perhaps Halmarut or the rest of the Convocation might have thoughts to weigh on the matter. 

Many of them were much older and wiser than she was. Perhaps, this was something they knew of? She had brought back a few samples for study just in case.

Deciding that what she had was satisfactory, she stood to gather up her report, however the moment she did so she felt a wave of dizziness overcome her. 

“Steady…” The woman mumbled to herself as she braced her hands against her desk. And the realization that she’d been working hours without break suddenly hit her.

“I’m turning into Elidibus.” Persephone scolded herself. Incredibly ironic since she was the one to often scold him about self-care whenever she discovered her colleague working late into the night.

Unfortunately, she didn’t have much by way of food in her office. Usually, just a few bags of tea. Though there were also those honey cakes she brought back with her from her trip. A rather sweet old man had offered them to her and her companions as a reward for ridding their home of beasts. 

And they were the sweetest and most delectable things she had ever tasted. She could nibble on a few until she had to head over to Akadaemia Anyder. Halmarut had promised her a dinner after all. So it should be enough to keep her hunger at bay until then.

She went looking through her things, managing only to produce one teabag and left pondering over which bag she had packed the cakes in. So engrossed was she in her task that she had not heard someone enter her office until she heard them speak.

“There you are.” Came a very dry greeting.

She startled. Not expecting a visitor and also very aware that they’d caught her without her mask on. Not a terribly heinous thing but still very improper and very embarrassing for someone of her standing to be in such a situation.

However, through her panic she recognized that voice. Her bashfulness fading as she turned to meet the stern figure of Emet-Selch. He stood there, arms crossed over his chest. And though his mask hid his disapproving expression, Persephone could tell his sour mood from the way his lips were pressed together in a firm line. 

“Emet-Selch.” She smiled politely. “What a pleasant surprise.”

His fingers drummed against his arm. “The first day you’re back already you’re causing trouble for yourself.”

“Come to scold me too about missing this morning’s assembly?” She asked and strolled over to him. “What a terrible way to welcome me home.”

Ah he was doing this then.

“You know our assemblies are mandatory for each member.” He continued. “You cannot simply skip them whenever you feel like it.”

“I had important work that needed tending to.” Persephone countered, placing her hands on her hips as she came to stand before him. 

And the man sighed. “Were that the case you should’ve sent word. The Convocation would have proceeded with another topic of discussion or rescheduled. By not doing that you’ve wasted—” 

But he let the words die on his tongue. He knew it mattered little to her. For she was Azem, head-strong and stubborn Azem. Reining her in would be like trying to control the wind. 

The Architect took in her bold, challenging expression and he sighed. “Troublesome. You are so very troublesome all the time.” He shook his head. However, his exasperation soon melted into a gentle smile. “But I suppose you are my troublesome problem, aren’t you?”

A cheeky response was on her tongue, however she had not the chance to speak before the man leaned forward and kissed her. A deep passionate kiss, filled with longing and desire. Speaking all the words he could not. 

Now this was the welcome she was hoping for.

Persephone smiled against his lips, worries forgotten and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. Pulling him closer to her. Taking delight in the familiarity of his body, his scent, his warmth. 

His hands knew not what to do with themselves. At first holding her face, then her shoulders, and the wandering down to her waist. Simply enjoying being able to touch and hold her again. 

Eventually, she had to gently push him away, reminding herself that they were still inside the Capitol. And it would not do to have any of their colleagues coming across them being intimate in her office. While there was no actual rule stated that Convocation members could not be romantically involved, best not to test anything. 

Better to show restraint now before they were caught. One of the older members would probably scold them. And how embarrassing would it be to have their relationship dragged out before the Convocation and shamed. 

Persephone laughed lightly, placing a hand against her beloved’s chest to keep him at bay. For he leaned back in for another kiss. “You’re going to get us in trouble.” She warned. Who knew what other unexpected guests she would get today. 

“I cannot help it.” He excused. “I missed you. And I have not gotten to see you all day. You were not at this morning’s assembly.” And he then seemed content to simply hold her with his arms wrapped around her waist.

“And here I thought you would be angry with me.” She smiled, recalling Halmarut’s warning about Emet-Selch’s mood.

“I was certainly not happy to see you skipping an important assembly.” He admitted, wrinkling his nose. “For I thought you had found some sort of trouble again.”

“Do you think I’m that troublesome, Hades?” She feigned offense. 

Hades. 

It felt good to call him that when they were alone. With the Convocation and the public it was always titles—always so formal. To call him by his name felt like a special intimacy reserved just for her. And she missed doing so.

“Indeed I do.” He unapologetically said. “You and Hytholodaeus will drive me to madness one day.”

“It’s good practice for honing your patience most esteemed, Emet-Selch.” She playfully patted his chest and wiggled out his arms.

He was reluctant, but set her free so she could go back over to her desk. 

“You know you did worry me while you were away.” She heard him say, echoing Halmarut’s earlier concern. “It is unlike you to be away for so long.”

“Worried I wouldn’t come back to you? Run off with some handsome, roguish fellow instead?” She teased. And looked over her shoulder, offering him a gentle smile. “Did I not promise you that I would always return to you? And here I am.”

The man never liked her traveling away from home. Especially, since he was not permitted to go with her. His seat requiring him to remain in Amaurot. And so he worried. About the risks she took and the dangers she faced. It didn’t help his worries either that there had been times she’d been met with many close calls. 

And from the way the man pursed his lips, her answer did not satisfy him. “Everything is fine. I just came across a few...peculiarities that merited some extra attention.” She ran her fingers across her neatly stacked report.

 “And am I to be privy to what these…peculiarities were?” 

She felt him hovering behind her. 

“In time.” She reassured. “I wish to bring the matter up with Elidibus first before talking to the Convocation about it. Do you know if he is in his office today?”

“No, I actually saw him leaving as I was on my way here.” Hades told her. 

A surprise as the young Emissary always seemed cooped up in his office. 

Very well...She supposed she could wait until tomorrow to deliver her report to him. As well as a few honey cakes to soothe away any ire she had earned for missing the assembly. 

“You’re scowling.” She heard him say as he came up beside her. He gently took her chin in his hand so she’d look at him. “Worry about this another day. You’ve been working for most of this one. I’ve not seen you in six months, dear Persephone. Let us go home and make up for that lost time.” 

His words were soothing and tempting. Spoken with a warmth he always seemed to reserve for her. A special soft side of the Architect no one else knew existed.

And she smiled, reaching up to place her hand over his. “Unfortunately, my work is not done for today yet.” She gently told him. “I did promise Halmarut I’d help with his classes this evening.”

At that, she saw Hades’ lips draw down in displeasure. “Must you work the first day you return home to me?”

“Oh Hades, it won’t be long. It’s just one class and Halmarut isn’t prone to being long-winded like a certain Speaker we both know.” She leaned into him. “After that I am yours for the rest of the night.”

Asides, Akadaemia had the proper tool she could use to look at the forest samples she had brought back with her. She didn’t have time to study them like she wanted when she was afield. 

A mere grunt. 

She gave him a peck on the lips in appeasement. “I’ll make it up to you. Anything you want.”

“I will hold you told that.” Hades murmured and she thought she saw the corner of his mouth twitch up.

Persephone nodded and turned to collect her things. Halmarut would probably be expecting her soon anyway. “I see you back home then?” She said as she placed her mask back on her face. 

“Where I will be waiting for you as always.” Hades bowed his head. “With a very special surprise too as a matter of fact.” 

“Oh?” She raised a brow. 

“Yes,” Her beloved said as he accompanied her to the door, “But unfortunately, you have work to do at Akadaemia Anyder so I’m afraid you will have to wait to see what it is later. Neither will I be offering any hints.”

Oh how very cruel and smug of him! But fair she supposed. And Persephone could not help a laugh.

“Mm I shall be anxious with anticipation all night.” She said. “Oh!” A sudden cry of alarm coming from her just as they were about to leave her office.

“What?” Hades frowned. 

Persephone shot an accusatory stare at him and point at the potted tree by the door. “I thought you said you were watering Daphneae!” 

Daphneae being the pet name she had given to her beloved plant. It had been vibrant and green when she had left. Now it looked withered and dying. She knew Hades was no green thumb but still...

The man shrugged his shoulders at the sorry state of the tree. “I have.” He defended. “I’d even consulted some of Halmarut’s tomes but the thing seemed intent on dying. Perhaps it was just old?”

Persephone looked from him to the dying tree. Hades was not fascinated by botany like she was. But he’d never purposely sabotage her plants—he knew how dear they were to her. And tended to them with the same amount of care as he had for her. 

If he said the plant simply refused to thrive, then perhaps it was true?

“I suppose it’s fine.” She mumbled. Though that wasn’t true. Daphneae had been a gift to her when she had been accepted into the seat of Azem. It was very dear to her. But all plants died eventually, she guessed. “Plants can be replaced.”

How odd though…

No.

She quickly stopped that thought just as it occurred. It was a mere coincidence is all it was. An entire forest rotting in the west had nothing to do with her pitiful little tree dying in her absence. 

Still the sight of those poor withered leaves took her mind back to that dreadful place. So dead. So haunting. She would have to dispose of it later, looking at it would only bring her sadness.

Shaking her head, she looked back up at Hades. “I’ll see you later tonight then?”

He smiled—that special smile he only used for her. And placed a hand against her cheek. “I’ll see you tonight.”

[gegenji]

Musings on Post-5.3 Roadmap

So, I’ve had a fun little thought on how the plot of Final Fantasy XIV is going to go moving forward for a while now.

This latest patch did add some wrinkles and new information, but ultimately I think it actually makes my little story path I see in my head all that more... interesting, from a personal literary sense?

I’ve mentioned it on some Discord channels, but I figured I should really just put it down “on paper” as it were. To share, to discuss, and maybe come back to it down the road and see how close or wildly off the mark I was on my ideas.

This will involve some revelations from the most recent patch, of course, so I will be putting the theory beneath a Read More along with tagging the entire post as spoilers. Since it’s only been... a week and a half? Since the patch dropped.

So, my little theoretical roadmap comes in three parts. One for the rest of Shadowbringers, one for the unnamed Garlemald expansion that is supposedly coming up next, and one for the third and “final” expansion before the FFXIV main story ends and all that follows is just fun support stuff to keep the game alive (and bringing in money) for however long afterward.

So, to keep things tidy, I’ll split this diatribe into three parts to match.

Part One: Shadowbringers

With all our heroes back on the Source, I believe the rest of Shadowbringers will mostly wrap up the situation involving the Sundered members of the Convocation - like Fandaniel the Fantastical shown in the ending cutscenes of 5.3. Mostly since I believe somewhere it was mentioned that this expansion would wrap up the whole Ascian plot. So I don’t see these Sundered Ascians lasting past this expansion, as that would be counter to the aforementioned goal.

So I imagine that these Sundered Ascians may get some attention, but it’s hard to imagine them having the power and presence of the Unsundered like Emet or Elidibus. Unless - and this is what I think may happen - they pull an upgraded version of the Ascian Prime fusion that is done in the Aetherochemical Research Facility (or ARF, as many lovingly call it). This could serve as the final battle against the Ascians, providing a tangible combat threat for the WoL and their allies as well as handle the Sundered Convocation members in one fell swoop.

And since Elidibus took the station crystals with him when he was absorbed into the Crystal Tower on the First, there’s no way to elevate any of the other fragments of the Convocation members to their positions. Ascians effectively handled.

However, while that handles the Ascian situation, it doesn’t close the circle on Zodiark and Hydaelyn. Zodiark just loses its main core of people who are seeking to release him, as well as the main driving force causing the Rejoinings. That does not mean Zodiark is out of the picture, though, as there remains one very tangible individual who I see playing a major role in the Original Elder Primal’s release.

Zenos. (Not a huge surprise, I know, but bear with me!)

Part Two: Kingmaker

This expansion is dealing with the Garlean situation. The Populares as a united unit has been apparently dealt with offscreen given the ending cutscenes of 5.3. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s some manner of ragtag band of freedom fighters or something that has been trying to cobble together a presence enough to get Zenos off the throne.

This would be our heroes’ “in” to entering Garlemald. Allying with and supporting this group of rebels against the Empire. Bringing in all the “good” Garleans we’ve encountered before, as well as introducing some others. Showing that Garlemald isn’t entirely full of cartoon villains but a nation of varied thoughts and opinions. It’s just the people in charge still adhering to the thoughts and principles instilled in them by the Ascians. The Ascians are gone, but their machinations still continue in this fashion.

The overarching plot involves getting the Populares reformed, fighting with Zenos’ forces, and - ultimately - putting Gaius on the throne instead. Putting him in the position to rule he had always wanted, but after being kicked down and having to make this climb back up. And perhaps senpai will finally notice Nero and he’ll end up as Gaius’ head of scientific endeavors while Cid remains with the Alliance (and perhaps joins the Scions as well in a more official fashion).

With Gaius on the throne, Garlemald would be in a position for peace with the Alliance and the war would finally end.

However, Zenos - as we have seen - doesn’t really care about the throne in the first place. He just wants to have his Grand Battle with his Best Friend. And the ending of Shadowbringers and the entirety of this Garlemald expansion has been setting up for this great battle. He has just been using his forces to entertain the Alliance and his Friend until he can get everything ready.

In the ending cutscenes of 5.3, it was implied that Zenos and Fandaniel were trying to goad Elidibus into showing up. There’s some ideas as to why, but my personal guess is to teach Zenos one of the few Ascian-related things he still doesn’t know how to do.

Rejoinings.

Either during the final patches of Shadowbringers or during this expansion, Zenos is going to figure out how to do this. Perhaps not as cleanly as the Unsundered did it in the previous Calamities, but he is going to. And that has been his goal during all this: to provide that one last Rejoining that will allow Zodiark to break free from His confinement.

Why? Shinryu 2.0. His goal is to harness the power of the Original Primal and seek to bend it to his will for a realm-clashing battle of the gods between him and the Warrior of Light. Whether he succeeds or his hubris finally comes back to bite him and he ends up a puppet of Zodiark, the now-deposed Crown Prince is still going to get what he wants.

And that’s the Warrior of Light having to do the same with Hydaelyn. The two have their great clash, and the Warrior of Light overcomes Zodiark-Zenos. Likely due to the power of friendship and Hydaelyn more willingly giving Her power to defeat Zodiark than Zenos’ forcing himself to replace Elidibus as Zodiark’s core.

This battle drains both Zodiark and Hydaelyn, finally removing the two Old Primals from the game. Things seem like Happily Ever After...

Until the Sound returns.

Part Three: Terminus Reborn

This is the big kicker: Zodiark actually never got rid of the source of the problem that caused His creation and sealed the end of Amaurot. He was simply holding it at bay - a task taken up by Hydaelyn after the Sundering, and perhaps aided by the problem itself also being split across the reflections. But with both Original Primals gone, and enough Rejoinings in place, the Terminus begins again.

This is where I see a literary parallel happening here. The Warrior of Light - also known as Azem, the wanderer and gatherer of stars - has been gathering people to them this whole time. The Scions.

And while they may not be exactly the same, and certainly don’t have the power, knowledge, or resources of the Convocation - due to not being Ascians, not having the station crystals, and not being in a similar position of power - there is enough of a similarity that one could compare the Scions to a New Convocation of sorts. Perhaps even taking up similar roles in the group dynamic - such as Cid fulfilling a Lahabrea-style position or something. Or Tataru being the Emet-Selch. Or even being identified as the counterparts like in the Scions of Light/Darkness in FFXII.

However subtle or obvious they make it, the full circle is here. The “new Convocation” has to deal with the threat of the original Convocation. From a far more perilous position and unable (and very likely unwilling) to just do a repeat of the past by summoning a new Zodiark analogue.

So the Warrior of Light does what they (and Azem) do best. They travel the world, gathering the help and knowledge of people all over to find out a way to defeat the problem. If there are any parts of the Star (would it still be called Hydaelyn at this point with Hydaelyn gone? Who knows) that have been left unvisited, this is the expansion it happens. New World, Meracydia, etc.

Through this, the true cause of the Sound is discovered (perhaps a previously unknown side-effect of Amaurotine Creation/Primal summoning) and a solution is found and implemented, saving the world. And showing the Sundered races having surpassed the Amaurotine they were fractured from by solving the problem they could not.

Expansion ends, and then all the future content is more or less just fun side stuff or other mini-conflicts that take place on the Star now that the threat of the Ascians, of Zodiark and Hydaelyn, and the Terminus are all resolved.

==========

And that’s basically my thoughts on where I could see the plot going, based on what I’ve seen and what thoughts I have had based on the information that’s been provided. And some adjustments and additions/omissions based on the Discord conversations I mentioned at the very start of all this.

What do you think? Seem plausible? Too far out there? Do you see things unfolding in a different way?

I’d love to see what others think - both of my idea, and their own ideas for how the plot of FFXIV will continue and ultimately conclude.

[themadchemist]

(emetspersephone) I know we haven’t chatted personally, but I wanted to say hi!! I am curious about your ship headcanons. Basically, gush about your babies for me!

Omg hi!! Hope you're doing well and having a nice day!

I'd love to chat! So hit me up anytime! 😄

And thanks for asking about my nerds ship 💙

I'll start by introducing Anais since you probably don't know much about her.

She's my Amaurotian WoL and childhood friends with Lahabrea. They even attended Akadaemia Anydr together and became scholars but she specializes in pharmacy and healing magic and was dubbed The Alchemist before becoming Azem.

Now, onto the ship, Anabrea (for the lack of a better name XD):

They only realized their feelings for each other when they were students in the academy but they didn't admit it because they were scared of ruining their friendship. Anais ended up confessing first because she couldn't keep it in any longer (and because she's the opposite of Lahabrea's calculating calm) and ruined his big plans for confession (it would've taken him hundreds of years to do it.) but all worked out well in the end.

Anais is a self proclaimed culinarian. She always drags Lahabrea to the kitchen with her (sometimes even wakes him up in the middle of the night) to try whatever new recipes she came up with. Lahabrea complains most of the time until he he tastes the food. He complains even more if he doesn't like it.

They're pretty much the only ones that actually listen to the other's ramblings on magic theory and science and shows interest in what they're saying. And they do it all the time. (much to Emet Selch's dismay whose lunch time is always interrupted because of these discussions).

Lahabrea is much taller than Anais (I imagine him being pretty tall in general) and since he's a little shit, he always puts things on the higher shelves just so he laugh at her attempts to get them. He regrets it when she interrupts his work just so he can get her something.

Anais enjoys taking care of him and spoiling him. She truly believes that he deserves all the care and love in the world and would do anything to see him smile (she thinks it's adorable but doesn't dare to say it out loud).

Her gestures are both big and small. Helping him with his work, making his favorite food, trimming his hair, getting him new books on her travels, surprising him with big plans for his days off, (creating energy potions), etc...

His gestures aren't as big but he would anything for her, (except lending her Ifrita to do reckless things). He created a traveling companion for her that she can ride and is capable of casting healing spells to help her with her work (it can also cast basic fire spells for her to start the fire and he's working on making it capable of mixing potions for her but it's still a work in progress.) Aside from that, his gestures are mostly small but meaningful, like checking on her supply of materials and restocking on them whenever needed (she always forgets to do it) and checking if she has everything ready before traveling, making her tea when she's working, even doing the dishes sometimes and etc... And all is greatly appreciated. He may not show it with words and grand gestures but Anais knows him well enough to understand that this is his way of showing his love for her and she loves and accepts him just the way he is, just like he loves and accepts her despite her shortcomings.

They may sound cute and all but they actually bicker almost all time, 95% of it is thanks to Anais' inability to be serious and Lahabrea's inability to keep his mouth shut and not say anything sassy.

Of course that doesn't mean that they don't have real fights but they're rare, they're both really patient with each other, and even when it happens they make up immediately. The only one that they couldn't work out was over summoning Zodiark and sacrificing Elidibus as the heart. They didn't see each other afterwards.

That's all I have for now (I had more but Tumblr decided to not save it and I had to type what I remembered again so yeah...). Feel free to ask about certain scenarios or details or anything!

Again, thanks for asking and have a nice day!! 💙💙

[autumnslance]

Lmao I got three I'm particularly curious about for you on the character meme. Thancred, Lahabrea, Igeyorhm. XD Feel free to do as many or as few as you'd like of course!

You asked for it. We’ll start with That Damned Rogue. The Ascians will be below.

This of course got long, so behind a cut it goes:

Thancred

First impression: I started in Gridania and took like 2 years to finish ARR 2.0, was already spoiled on the possession angle (I spoiled myself, no big), and had just @erickgage‘s affectionate joking summary of Thancred being the guy who shows up 5 minutes late with Starbucks to all the early battles. So I didn’t really get to meet the guy ‘til the Waking Sands.

And honestly, he was stereotypical generic bland anime prettyboy competent guy. His 1.0/ARR model is…just sorta there. He was a flirt, also generic as heck. Really didn’t register too much, until I finished 2.0 finally and then went hard on the MSQ through the patches and into HW and StB 4.0, when I finally caught up to content.

Impression now: Godsdammit.

My first replay through the game was on PunchyCat, starting in Ul’dah, which meant I got to meet Thancred much earlier. I was immediately amused by his nickname for Nanamo, and Papashan’s assessment of the witty Archon. I was more into the lore, getting the first lorebook and reading the short stories on the main site, and playing through all at once instead of piecemeal over months/years made things make more sense. Thancred hits a lot of tropes I commonly like in a lot of characters, so he jumped up to being a favorite.

Gunbreaker suits him as a tank job (thank goodness he can stop trying to tank warmachina as a rogue, ffs Thancred), and tanking in general suits him when it comes to fighting for those he cares about.

I’m interested in the ShB story mentioning why he wears white in all his gear iterations; I’d previously made a post about his color choices and that aspect of character design, but having a lore explanation for his affinity for that color was interesting. I didn’t think his HW model suited him, honestly; way too rough mountain man hobo. His model in ShB is closer to his ARR model, but different enough, and imbued now with actual character, that he’s a bit more visually interesting and while still pretty typical handsome anime protagonist in appearance; his true personality just comes through a lot more.

I’m still forever mad about the unintentional character ‘ship with Aeryn, tho. It took a 3rd playthrough for it to happen.

For myself, mind, when I got into playing and learned his canonical age, it was at the time the same difference between myself and my younger brother. My assessment of the Scion “family” with Thancred being the middle child (esp his behavior pre-HW) maybe helps that. I’m getting to a point, really, where I look at the characters under 35 and think “OMG disaster children, all of you.”

Favorite moment: Oh goodness. There’s some good ones.

‘How was I supposed to know all my girlfriends would track me down and show up at HQ all at the same time: a master class in how to not to deal with multiple paramours by Archon T. Waters.’

His dramatic reappearance and duel with Ardbert in HW 3.1.

Taking out his frustrations by soloing the Coerthas cyclops boss so we can get on with the Tournament and fight Raubahn. (Side Bonus: pre-tournament when he jokes about fighting for the other team to even up the odds, and then: “It looks to be a veritable who’s who of the Eorzean Alliance. The only question is: who came to watch and who came to fight? Hmm…Nanamo. Definitely Nanamo.”)

Making sure Urianger knew he was still part of the team post-Soul Surrender climax.

“All right, which one of you triggered the obvious trap?” Also learning he can hold his breath for 10 freaking minutes–but still gets to be jealous of the WoL, Lyse, and Alisaie for their kojin blessing.

That dramatic teamwork with Urianger to knock Ran’jit down the pit in Rak’tika.

That frickin’ Trolley duty and it’s aftermath with the completed checklist of anime death markers and then just sitting there battered and bleeding and smiling and then giving Ryne a name and a headpat and “You’re family.” Bastard.

Idea for a story: Have you seen my Ao3 account? *grumbles*

Unpopular opinion: While he likely used drinking as a bad coping mechanism at times in ARR’s patches, I doubt he ever really went to blackout, as losing control to that extent, after having been controlled and probably losing a lot of time while possessed, would be awful. We see him drink a few times, but I don’t think he is/was an alcoholic.

I also agree with @ahlis-xiv that his flirtatious persona was mostly adopted. While he probably does have a healthy libido and enjoys time with paramours (that Urianger keeps a handy list of), there’s a lot that’s likely exaggerated, allowed to be assumed, and otherwise used as a cover, given his specializations. It’s also noteworthy how he’s mostly acting the same even after being lost in the wilderness, right up until our foray into the Antitower. The wit/humor gets toned down a lot, but the flirting is cut out entirely after that. He still charms some ladies in the First, based on incidental dialogue, but that seems a general reaction to him being a handsome hero type rather than any intentional flirtatious act on his part.

Favorite relationship: Thancred and little sister types. I do wish we’d seen more of his relationship with Minfilia outside of informed moments and the short stories. I feel like he has a semi-older-brother relationship with Lyse, too, given their antics in the 2.0 patches (particularly the “Hoary’s fighting the WoL, come watch!” and Thancred not even considering how one of his girlfriends would see him sending Lyse to retrieve an item until after and going “oh yeah, whoops”). And now there’s Ryne, and she is totally running things if you watch their background conversations/body language. But that’s kind of where Thancred likes it; find a girl who needs a protective older brother and do what she asks and whatever she needs.

I do have a special place in my heart for the expanded broship with Urianger that Shadowbringers gave us, though. I’ve already spoken on that one.

Favorite headcanon: Everything people assume about how he spoils the nutkin. And really, focusing on taking care of and doting on a pet would be good therapy. Goodness knows he needs it.

Also I assume he and Hilda hooked up at least once during the HW patches. Part of that expectation and cover, sure, to immediately flirt with the pretty, tough, half-elezen guard captain. But also, he spent however long mostly alone, and then only with the Vath and a nutkin for company; the guy was probably touch-starved and lonely and just needing a connection to another person he could relate to (that wasn’t a bug).

Otherwise, again, have you seen my Ao3? Ugh. Damned snarky smart rogues…

————

Lahabrea

First impression: Laughing Organization XIII-wannabe is obvious villain. Wonder what their deal is.

Impression now: So much lost/wasted potential thanks to being stuck as the ARR villain when it was so hastily rewritten and acted, and so little was decided on the Ascians and their motivations yet. A lot of what we learn now retroactively makes him more interesting. The fact he was a workaholic who looked at the workaholic Scion and went “ah yes; that one will do, perfect” makes me laugh.

Favorite moment: I like his interactions with Elidibus. And I am actually fairly fond of his theatrical reveal in Praetorium about the Ultima Weapon, the Heart of Sabik, and casting Ultima.

Idea for a story: Maybe stuff while he’s possessing Thancred. Maybe stuff between then and the Reactor. I dunno; I’ve been enjoying a lot of others’ stories about our first Ascian antagonist.

Unpopular opinion: Dunno if this is unpopular, but some of the retroactive information is to excuse why he seemed so much less powerful than other, later Ascians, but I do think the Speaker could be quite devious and powerful, if he had better writing around him. He suffers for being from ARR.

Favorite relationship: I am not ashamed to admit I am a Lahabrea/Igeyorhm shipper and Hades Ex seems to agree with me so there.

Favorite headcanon: The Speaker likely also had a good singing voice. Another thing good about possessing a man whose primary cover was a bard–excuses to indulge that.

————

Igeyorhm

First impression: Wannabe-Organization XIII also hires women, cool. Wonder if she’ll get to do anything?

Impression now: I’m sad so much got cut from HW; as great as it was, a lot got left on the editing room floor and it shows in spots–particularly where the Ascians connect with the plot. We learn much about her retroactively as well, including how she worked for/with Lahabrea thanks to being the one to wreck the Thirteenth, and change Ascian policy on how to bring about Rejoinings. I still wanna know more about her.

Favorite moment: You beat the whale, good job–thanks, that’s my key now. It’s such a perfect dick move. Excellent timing and taunting. 

Idea for a story: Maybe some of her inner thoughts working for/with Lahabrea. She was a raised up shard, so does that mean they found the scattered pieces of her original soul and force-merged them? I doubt it, since Emet-Selch mentions raising up those who are a piece of the previous office holder, but I wonder if it came with imbuing the new title-holder with some of those memories and knowledge. Perhaps she wonders if some of her interactions/feelings/whatever with Lahabrea are her own, or her tapping into her previous life’s memories. Something to think about, anyway.

Unpopular opinion: I dunno, she shoulda gotten to stick around longer? Or been allowed to do a lot more? Should have been much more of a presence in HW, but I don’t think that’s unpopular so much as unconsidered.

Favorite relationship: Lahabrea is really the only one she gets significant interactions with. Though I wonder about her interactions with the other few women in the Ascians.

Favorite headcanon: See above with the story ideas, really; she didn’t get a lot of time onscreen so there’s a lot of room to make things up, and retroactive info from ShB to make her more interesting, or at least her situation as an upraised Ascian.

[biscuitinferno]

Late Night in Eulmore

Rating: M  (Just to be safe)

Summary: Not being able to sleep, the Warrior of Darkness takes a walk around Eulmore but runs into an Ascian.

Pairing: Emet-Selch x Warrior of Light/Reader

Word Count: 2641

Patch 5.0 Shadowbringers spoilers below cut. 

You turn over and heave a sigh, desperately trying to ignore the wild legs of the young elezen next to you. All of the Scions had been given quarters to sleep in that evening after Vauthry’s flight, but it ended up being only two rooms the people could spare. Which led to sharing beds. Which was not a problem-- or wouldn’t be a problem, if it wasn’t for the fact that Alisaie kicks in her sleep and Ryne talks in her sleep. How Y’shtola was sleeping through Ryne’s murmuring when right next to her was something of a mystery in itself. 

You scowl at another well placed kick and finally with a groan slip out of the bed. You are exhausted, but no matter how well your eyes stuck together, it was impossible to fully succumb to sleep with Alisaie's assault. You shuffle in the darkness, patting around until you find your boots and slipping them on before creeping out of the room. 

For some reason you find yourself wandering to the main square of Eulmore. At this time of night, most everyone is in bed. A few sleepy guards nod to you, the only stray citizens wandered from the night club. But other than that… empty. 

It still disorients you, how bright it could be even while nearing the middle of the night. You make your way over to a large balcony looking over the glassy sea. A slight breeze picks up and brings the scent of salt with it. It is not as refreshing as it was in La Noscea. Here it smelt stale, stagnant… A testament of the hundred years of the tide being hindered by the wall of light.

“Couldn’t sleep, hero?” Emet-Selch seems to materialize from thin air, stepping up to your side. 

You give a groan. “Surprise; it turns out Alisaie kicks in her sleep and Ryne talks. And with the days events…” You trail off, not wanting to think of the scene where Vauthry sprouted wings. “What about you? For your insatiable appetite for sleep, one would think that you would be at it by now. Don’t tell me you got kicked out of the room.”

He smirks and raises a glass of presumably wine to his lips. “That boy Alphinaud was kind to offer, but I doubt any of them would enjoy having to share a bed with me. Least of all Thancred.”

The thought of the face Thancred would make having to sleep next to the Ascian makes you chuckle a little. “Indeed he would not. But you can’t blame the man,” You refocus on the glass he swirls in his hand. "Where did you get that?"

"Hmm? Oh, the wine? Found it stashed away and out of sight. Figured no one would really miss it in all of this commotion," he smiles. "What? Do you care for a glass too?"

You roll your eyes but hold out your hand. He stares at it for but a moment before he understands. He hands it over and watches closely when you take a sip.

You hum and take another sip, longer than the last. "That's not bad," you report and hand him the glass back. "What was the vintage?"

With a flick of the wrist, the bottle appears into his free hand. "From before the flood," he murmurs after scanning the label. 

"Ah," you reply and lean against the railing. He makes a quiet snap and out of the corner of your eye you see him hold out a spare goblet. You raise a brow at him and watch it warily. 

He gives an exasperated sigh and rolls his eyes. “Come now hero, I believe we are far past the point of thinking that I would try to outs you by means of poison. It is the same thing as what I have. Must I give you the glass that I have partook from to ease your apprehension?”

Your mask falls and you laugh genuinely for him, taking the glass he offered. “Nay, I only was trying to get a rise from you and have succeeded.”

“Hmph,” Emet-Selch twists his lips into a pout. “I will have to return the favor in due time.” 

You give him another smile where he responds with his own. The silence that follows is comfortable, both of you indulging in the fine drink and cool air. More comfortable than you would ever have expected to have while in his presence. How far you both had come. You could recall when he had first introduced himself, you had to restrain yourself from closing the gap and tearing him to shreds. But now, after quite some time together sharing adventurers and knowledge, you had come to consider him a… 

Friend didn't seem right. Neither did companion. So what could he be considered as? He was an Ascian, so the first thought would be: enemy. But that didn't quite fit either at the moment. This was quite confusing. A small part of you wanted him to be similar to Lahabrea, who was easy to hate. But Emet-Selch made it quite hard. Scathing sarcasm and bitterness that was actually really charming, exasperation with every breath, but fascinating stories at every turn. You could listen to him speak of history for hours on end. You honestly didn't want him to be your enemy, though you had a sinking suspicion that this would all end with him being it.

“I never really expe--” 

“Hush,” he cuts you off and goes on the alert, eyes and ear scanning the area. You seeing his wariness go on guard too. Could it be sin eaters? You scan the horizon, looking for anything moving in the blinding light. You had neglected to bring any of your weapons or armor, for you only intended to take a short walk.

He plucks the wine out of your hand and both glasses disappear with a snap. With no other warning he grabs you by the arm and pulls you into the shroud of a large heavy drape, crowding you against the wall. 

“What the hells are you doing--”

“Shhh,” he bids again, pressing a silk covered finger to your lips. You still your attempts of escape and listen closely, finally hearing voices approaching. They are loud and lively, most likely citizens fresh from the bar. 

“Emet-Selch,” you warn him with a hushed tone. "They are just citizens."

“Citizens who stare and point at me all while whispering to themselves. I do not like to be gawked at,” he breathes in return. “Especially not by drunkards.”

You give him a dirty look, but he is intently watching the sliver of light between the wall and drapes, waiting for the people to pass. The come close at last, laughing and giggling about some matter or another. A guard joins them shortly, scolding them for being out so late and that they should retire for the night. They voice their complaints, but wander off grousing the whole way.

When they finally get out of ear shot, you had thought Emet-Selch would push away but instead he lingers. You fingers absently curl around the fur of his coat, which had been placed there to steady yourself when he had grabbed you. With his proximity, you become acutely aware of everything about him. His slow breathing, the heat of his body, the weight of his bulk as he practically pressed you against the wall, the scent of his cologne starting to surround you… the faint sound of a heartbeat not your own.    

All things you had noticed before to a small degree, but not so vividly. You had never been this close to his person before, instead keeping a polite distance during your conversations. 

Your nose is practically buried in the fur of his coat causing each breath you take to be completely full of his fragrance; dark, rich, spicy, simply-- intoxicating. Twelve have mercy on you, this was a man who knew how to wear cologne. 

It was tasteful too, just enough so at a distance you may chance to get a whiff of it, but would have to be close to get the full experience. You longed to lean in further and take a sample directly from the source-- his neck is where you assumed he had dabbed it. Hells take him for smelling so pleasant. 

He shifts, pushing closer-- dropping his head. "I can hear your pulse race, hero," he murmurs, lips brushing the shell of your ear. "Does my closeness set you on edge? Do you despise me? Do you want to tear me apart with your bare hands?"

Your breath catches and even though you try, no response comes.

"Or could it actually be that you are... enjoying this?" He asks after your silence. Your eyes widen and your fingers dig harder into his coat. You try to lie to yourself, saying it's only the pleasant perfume…  

He catches your chin with silk clad fingers, tilting your burning face up. The light is dim, only one beam lighting the space, but it is enough to see his features, draped in shadows as they were. He was smirking again. Always smirking.

“What would your Scion friends say if they saw us like this?” he wonders aloud, his tone making it clear he is pleased with himself for catching the Warrior of Darkness so off guard. “Do they know you secretly pine for your own enemy?”

You attempt to shove him away, but it does little to move him. “Get off Emet-Selch,” you grind your teeth and push harder, tapping into that unrelenting strength. And yet he does not budge. It startles you how he can withstand your power and made you wonder just what kind of incredible strength this Ascian holds to resist your efforts.

He chuckles and presses even closer, wedging a knee between your legs and effectively pinning you against the wall. “I think not,” he leans his face close to yours and you realize just what he intends. You freeze. You could turn away, or you could…

He pauses there a breath away. “You have such a beautiful soul, hero,” he murmurs, lips threatening to graze your own. You shiver when he rests a hand on your waist, squeezing gently. “It is such a pity it was torn asunder. So broken, so… incomplete.”

Emet-Selch closes the slight gap to just barely brush his lips against yours. Electricity zaps straight through you, heat bubbling up immediately. He pulls away to observe your very bright face. 

"Oh hero," a dark smile twists his lips.

As quickly as it had began, it ends. Emet-Selch pushes off of you, leaving you quite flustered. It was unfair of him to tease you so and it made you want to smack the smirk right off his face. "Now. Off to bed, hero. You have an early start in the morning, don't you?" He taps the end of your nose playful.

You catch him when he turns to leave the shroud of the curtain, jerking him back by his fur collar. "You don't get off that easily, Ascian," you pull him closer, feeling emboldened by his forwardness.

He chuckles. "What? Craving more? I was only trying to get a rise out of you, and I succeeded." 

Him throwing your own words back at you has you faltering and blushing wildly. "You--"

"Incapable of taking a little teasing, are we?"

You scowl and jerk his collar to pull his face down to yours. Your lips crash together, yours moving across his in an attempt to coax him into response. He stiffens above you before you can feel him relax, his mouth curling into a smile against yours. He begins to return the kiss with equal fervor, re-wedging his knee between you legs and pulling you flush with an arm around your waist. He easily dominates the kiss, nibbling on your bottom lip to make you gasp. He takes advantage and dives right in, making your squirm in his arms.

He breaks away-- his forehead resting against yours, his third eye pressing into your skin. He steals gentle kisses here and there, waiting for your breath to return. Your fingers curl, one hand threaded through the fur of his collar and the other lost in the silk of his hair. You find yourself licking your lips while collecting your thoughts, savoring the taste you had gotten.

Your eyes open and they are met with gleaming golden pools. Looking into them you find something achingly familiar, yet it was impossible to understand what it truly was. A half finished thought that would never be completed. It slips from your mind quickly, as if the concept never existed.

“Well now,” he clears his throat, his voice a touch hoarse. “This is most unexpected. Care to move this somewhere more private?”

You regain your senses and push him off. This time you are able to, and you know it is only because he allows it. He chuckles lightly. "Relax, hero. It truly is far past your bedtime and you have much to do tomorrow; talking to citizens, restructuring city ordinances, gaining loyalties. Run along now and let yourself slip off into sweet slumber," he sighs blissfully, practically sings the end to you.

He draws back the curtain, giving you a clear exit, but you catch yourself hesitating. He notices too. "Unless… you are reconsidering my offer?"

You scrunch your face up to hide your flush and stalk past him into the blinding light. You pause to regain your bearings and turn when he emerges from the drapes, a smug smirk etched in his lips. 

"Goodnight, Emet-Selch," you say politely, giving an equally polite nod and turning back toward the residency section of the city.

"Goodnight, my dear," he calls after you. You stumble and whip your head around, cheeks heating up again. That smirk has only seemed to grow. He has his wine glass again and raises it your direction before taking a sip.

You flee quickly, returning to your quarters in all haste. Once in the dark room again, you kick your boots off and flop back into your shared bed with Alisaie. Thankfully, her legs have stopped kicking for now. You heave a sigh and grumble quietly to yourself. 

"Is something amiss?" Y'shtola calls softly. You can just see her head poking over Ryne's sleeping form.

"Ascians," you grumble back. 

"Ah," you can almost hear the hesitation in her voice. "Do try to not let their words affect you over much."

It's his actions that are more concerning, you tell yourself silently. He claimed only to speak the truth. Does that also reflect to those things that are not words? Your cheeks warm, remembering how he spoke of your soul. He truly must think so then, right? "Goodnight, Y'shtola," you end the topic there.

Another pause, and then a soft sigh. You can hear her settle back into the bed. "Sleep well."

You settle into your own, letting yourself get comfortable. Your mind wanders, it inevitably going to Emet-Selch. His eyes, his voice, his smirk, his scent, his… kisses.

You groan and force your mind to stop conjuring images of what it would have been like if you had accepted his offer. With his age, and the multitude of empires he has personally cultivated, it is guaranteed he would be an expert lover with a full arsenal of tactics to make one writhe. You cover your head with the blankets and start to go over the list of things tomorrow would bring, if only as a distraction from the small ache forming inside you. It works slowly, the boring ideas for tomorrow making you feel drowsy. You sigh and get comfortable, finally slipping off into sleep.

But in your dreams, Emet-Selch is the only thing on your mind.

[draw-you-coward]

Hi! How is everyone? I wanted to talk about the Scions. Specifically, the Archons. Major spoilers for Shadowbringers!

I think what really helped me come to these conclusions was seeing all of them actively work together. specifically, seeing urianger in a context where he’s an actual character and not a deus ex machina! (side note: he’s honestly amazing in this expansion and i. love him??) I hope they keep this dynamic whenever it’s realistically possible!

So mostly, I want to talk about how the scions individually react to possibly groundbreaking events that have the possibility of changing their worldview. im speaking mostly about emet-selch’s “hydaelyn and zodiark were the first beings akin to primals” revelation. or more specifically, their separate reactions to that revelation. i think it’s very telling on how they each individually digest information. we, the players, may arrive to our own conclusions at our own pace, but we have to remember that for these characters, this is their world. their world view, being shattered. they all, to some degree, react negatively. they just show it differently, even if it’s not all that obvious.

i think that shadowbringers overall did a very good job of establishing their individual character dynamics, or more importantly, the idea that their major strength is also their major weakness.

let’s start with thancred. right away, his major flaw is apparent. in fact, a lot of people have gotten (rightfully) mad at him for it, although i think when he gets over himself and turns it around, it’s a lot more subtle. but i digress. with thancred, what he does with information he doesnt like is look at it, says “okay, i dont like that,” shoves it to the back of his mind to not think about, and tries to focus on whatever he wants to focus on in the immediate present. of course, it manages to bleed through regardless, and that’s where his doubts come from. and because he refuses to confront them head-on to deal with them, he has a very difficult time letting them go.

the actual first time when this comes to mind for me isn’t with ryne, it’s with the word of the mother in 3.X. (yes, it’s there with lahabrea too, but executed in a less clean manner, and people have already talked about that to death.) what he first sees is minfilia, the girl he’s attempted to look after primarily because of a sense of guilt, the girl who means the world to him, and whom he feels like, we know now, that he has never been sufficient enough for. (that theme of him feeling like he isn’t good enough is repeated multiple times with him, and it makes me wonder if it’s because of his manner of thinking.) but minfilia’s different now, in a strange and new and maybe not altogether comfortable way, and she’s drifting away from him now, and he can’t catch up to her to make up for all his regrets. he realizes this, realizes what’s going on, very, very quickly. in fact, i’d say that out of all of them, thancred is the one who is the quickest on the uptake. but he shoves his logical side away, and reacts emotionally, because he doesn’t want to acknowledge what he knows is true. in shadowbringers he does the same thing; he acknowledges minfilia’s words, and it is clear that he dwells on them despite himself, but he wants to react emotionally, in the moment. he is a very, despite his apparent distance, emotional person.

when he finally begins to get over himself accept the situation, it is in the tone of someone who is moving on from the loss of a loved one. he talks about how they met, how she grew up, what she liked. this is because he’s finally coming to terms with what he knew this entire time: that the real minfilia, his minfilia, died in that tunnel. the version of her that he is clinging onto in heavensward, in shadowbringers, is not her and all she used to be. it is not the “word of the mother” or the “oracle of light” or whatever she has turned into. it is but “minfilia,” but a memory, and he’s finally let it go enough to see it as such.

woo! okay. so moving on to how this works out for him in the best. honestly i dont think people acknowledge this enough, but he displays it time and time again? thancred is the one that is best equipped to deal with the present. to confront problems head-on without worrying about what may or may not happen, and without getting lost in the possibility of failure. he is by far the scion with the best ability to keep a level head. this is most apparent, to me, in aumarot. everyone one else is confused and lowkey freaking out or what have you, and thancred is the only one who has decided that no, what they really need at the moment is not to panic. what they need is calm, and confidence. and he is that. and you know what? he was right. and i think for me at least, he’s the biggest reason why I calmed down some at that point in the story.

next: y’shtola! I have less to say about the other scions, mostly because i wasn’t following their character arcs as closely or at all, but I do love them still!

y’shtola is the one who most visibly is struggling to handle emet-selch’s revelation. (you can talk to her now, at the time of the quest, or check your quest journal for confirmation of this). where thancred realizes things in a far more round-about manner--that is to say, figures them out, shoves them to the back of his mind, and tries not to think about them--she takes them by the horns and tries to confront them head-on. this gives her, in a way, tunnel vision. she is the loudest about her opinion, and the most direct. when emet-selch makes them by association question hydaelyn, she is the one who speaks up to defend her and their belief system. she is stubborn. it takes her a while to eat through something enough to 100% accept it.

but because of this, her conviction and belief in anything is strong. when she truly believes in something, she believes in it the most. she is the strength when the storm is finally over and she’s had time to build herself up. she isn’t afraid to force other characters to see the flaws in the way they are viewing things, or confront them when she knows she is in the right. yes, she can be harsh sometimes, but she is sorely needed. someone has to be sure of something here! in this way, she too is comforting. when thancred is calm, you know something is bad. when yshtola is calm, you know that whatever you have to worry about is surmountable.

urianger! my poor often-shafted elf giraffe man. he’s the one i had the most trouble puzzling out, so i may be completely wrong! but i’ll try my best :>

urianger is the one who has had this constant theme of showing up at the last moment to present something that he has thoroughly and completely thought about so he can be entirely certain of it. urianger’s way of dealing with things is to listen, listen some more, maybe go digging, and finally, only come to a conclusion when he knows every bit of information he can. he’s willing to work with ascians, he’s willing to go double-dipping in terms of sides, he’s willing to risk his friends’ trust. he is willing to take a long, long time to achieve a goal and know things only in full, and he has the patience to do so. he has the patience to deal with thancred in shadowbringers, to listen to what the exarch tells him to do, to bear with the whole plan, even as he sees things objectively keep getting worse. he’s not easy to rile up, he sees things as a whole instead of in parts... all of this really makes him a good teacher! it makes him a kind man. but.

he waits a little too long. what happens when you finally kill vauthry and emet-selch ruins everything? urianger’s carefully-laid plans go awry. suddenly, everything has gone wrong and he has no backup, because he never thought to make one. he has such conviction that his passivity is for the best that he stands by, barely intervenes, and decides to let things run their course even when warning signs are flashing in front of him. when things go wrong he fumbles, and doesn’t know what to do, because he isn’t used to that happening. up until shb, he’s taught himself that the path of inaction and support is the best one to take, and i am glad that he is finally being confronted with the realities of that. even with thancred and ryne; he can clearly see that their initial dynamic isn’t healthy, but he does absolutely nothing active about it. in the end, it is his very opposite force--entropy, chance--that fixes things with them. it’s interesting he became an astrologian, i think, because divination is something so abstract and vague that it allows him to stay in his comfort zone of not doing much to change things. fate is a fickle mistress, yes, but he leans a little too heavily on how things should be that he fails to see that everything in the present is in flux; that it is, in fact, dependent on the uncertain.

okay, that’s it! i think the three of them complement each other nicely with their respective strengths and weaknesses, and that’s why i hope they’ll keep that dynamic in the future! of course, if you disagree or want to correct me, please feel free; this is purely my own opinion, and i am very much putting myself in a position to be (respectfully) disagreed with by posting this. on the other hand, if you want to elaborate on something or add something, please also feel free! i’d love to hear your thoughts.

<3

nae

[arthachbroin]

So, TFW you find a ship ask meme and decide to fill it out for Brona/Emet anyway because you’re that starved for ship talk. Most of it’ll go below the cut! (source)

ULTIMATE SHIP MEME!

General:

Rate the Ship -   Awful | Ew | No pics pls | I’m not comfortable | Alright | I like it! | Got Pics? | Let’s do it! | Why is this not getting more attention?! | The OTP to rule all other OTPs

How long will they last? - A long time, one hopes!

How quickly did/will they fall in love? - Brona started crushing the moment Emet showed up after Il Mheg, and by the time Mt. Gulg rolled around she was hopelessly in love. Emet had a lot more issues to work through, and even if he found himself attracted to her, there was the whole “Kore” thing to deal with and also the tempering. But the feelings were there, if complicated, and it was only after he (hopefully) comes back that he was truly able to reciprocate entirely.

How was their first kiss? - It was right before the conversation at the Ladder, and pretty desperate and passionate and full of pent-up want and need on both ends, though for different reasons. Their second was a lot softer and sadder, and halfway a goodbye.

Wedding:

Who proposed? - Emet, because Brona is a bit insecure at times and probably wouldn’t think he’d say yes, so Emet would do it and then Brona would cry and say yes.

Who is the best man/men? - Lahabrea I MEAN UH. Aside from him I can’t think of anyone on Emet’s end, so possibly Urianger? He’s who Brona is closest to in the Scions. Or Bran, male WoL friendo!

Who is the bridesmaid(s)? - WoL friend Lulu, probably, and the rest of the lady WoLs in Brona’s squad. Any of the girl Scions who want in, too. Probably Ryne!

Who did the most planning? - Emet, because he’s into that kind of thing and he wants to spoil the shit out of Brona, and he’s also probably a little bit controlling in a harmless way?

Who stressed the most? - Emet is definitely a bit nervous, but Brona and her insecurities probably end up screaming internally until it actually happens.

How fancy was the ceremony? - Back of a pickup truck | 2 | 3 | 4 | Normal Church Wedding | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Kate and William wish they were this big.

Not crazy over the top, no, but you try telling me that Emet wouldn’t go at least a little ham. He’s ridiculously theatrical and a former emperor several times over, after all. If he wants to spoil his wife he’s going to. Brona’s a little flustered, but appreciates it.

Who was specifically not invited to the wedding? - Well, I mean, Elidibus probably. 

Sex:

Who is on top? - Brona, most of the time. Emet likes to let others take the lead, but sometimes he’ll take his turn because she deserves to be spoiled sometimes. 

Who is the one to instigate things? - Both of them, they’re horrible.

How healthy is their sex life? - Barely touch themselves let alone each other | 2 | 3 | 4 | Once a couple weeks, nothing overboard | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | They are humping each other on the couch right now

They’re not constantly at it, no, but...pretty often. Very healthy sex life, they enjoy it and it’s nice for both of them.

How kinky are they? - Straight missionary with the lights off | 2 | 3 | 4 | Might try some butt stuff and toys | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Don’t go into the sex dungeon without a horse’s head

Not aggressively Weird, but oooh definitely a bit kinky. Emet is very experienced and very much one for experimenting and Brona, though she hasn’t done much before in comparison, is very interested in trying things.

How long do they normally last? - I DON’T KNOW HOW SEX WORKS I DON’T KNOW HOW TO ANSWER THIS ONE.

Do they make sure each person gets an equal amount of orgasms? - Oh yes, Emet likes to make sure Brona is happy and satisfied, and Brona’s used to making sure her partners are satisfied before she is, so together they end up pretty even.

How rough are they in bed? - Softer than a butterfly on the back of a bunny | 2 | 3 | 4 | The bed’s shaking and squeaking every time | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Their dirty talk is so vulgar it’d make Dwayne Johnson blush. Also, the wall’s so weak it could collapse the next time they do it.

They don’t get that crazy rough, but they are both definitely at least a little rough together. Emet doesn’t like it that violent, but he does like it a bit rough, and Brona...finds she’s pretty good at delivering, and she enjoys it.

How much cuddling/snuggling do they do? - No touching after sex | 2 | 3 | 4 | A little spooning at night, or on the couch, but not in public | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | They snuggle and kiss more often than a teen couple on their fifth date to a pillow factory.

They’re awful. Terrible. Brona’s insecurities and the fact that she almost lost him forever just after falling for him, and Emet being--- well, with everything he’s dealt with, they’re both more than a little clingy and affectionate with one another.

Children:

How many children will they have naturally? - Two, twins, once everything is over for good and they have the time and space--- it’s an accident, though, and they panic a little because of more than a few reasons, but Brona wants to be a mom so badly and they keep them. Their names are Morgan (the girl) and Gawain (the boy).

How many children will they adopt? - None officially, but they’re fussy with their friends’ kids, definitey.

Who gets stuck with the most diapers? - Emet, because Brona’s very good at bribing him.

Who is the stricter parent? - Brona by a little bit, they both have a bad habit of spoiling their kids rotten because they’re just so overwhelmed with love and the fact that they have babies.

Who stops the kid(s) from doing dangerous stunts after school? - Emet is far more overprotective because babies with baby souls, but Brona’s fussy, too. Though Emet is also more likely to enable Shenanigans.

Who remembers to pack the lunch(es)? - Brona definitely is better at remembering little things like that.

Who is the more loved parent? - Oh, the twins adore both their parents, but Emet just a little more sometimes because he’s more of an enabler for the crazy stuff.

Who is more likely to attend the PTA meetings? - Brona. We don’t trust Emet doing that kind of thing, he’s not allowed to start up with other parents, he would be the worst.

Who cried the most at graduation? - Both of them would be messes.

Who is more likely to bail the child(ren) out of trouble with the law? - Brona, if just because Emet is 50/50 chance that he’s in trouble with them.

Cooking:

Who does the most cooking? - Brona, mostly because Emet is used to either not eating, Creating food for himself, or not cooking because Emperor. Not that he doesn’t know how, he’s just used to not and would forget.

Who is the most picky in their food choice? - Emet does trend towards being a little more picky, but both of them aren’t that bad.

Who does the grocery shopping? - Brona, for sure.

How often do they bake desserts? - Often! Emet is very much a sweet tooth, and Brona would happily oblige.

Are they more of a meat lover or a salad eater? - Well, my heacanon is that Emet only really eats seafood meat-wise, no red meat or poultry (don’t ask why, it’s just one of Those hcs), so he’s a bit picky there, but otherwise both of them are pretty much in the middle.

Who is more likely to surprise the other(s) with an anniversary dinner? - Emet, definitely. He likes big grand romantic gestures.

Who is more likely to suggest going out? - Emet, again. Spoil Brona rotten, that’s his modus operandi.

Who is more likely to burn the house down accidentally while cooking? - Neither one of them are that bad.

Chores:

Who cleans the room? - Brona, probably, Emet can be a little lazy sometimes.

Who is really against chores? - Emet. Why bother??? He can just snap the mess away, come on, does he haaaave to? Also he’s definitely a little used to other people doing them.

Who cleans up after the pets? - Most of Brona’s pets are seedkin, so she keeps them taken care of, but if they get anything else that’s on Emet so they’re his responsibility, dang it.

Who is more likely to sweep everything under the rug? - Emet, definitely, the lazy butt.

Who stresses the most when guests are coming over? - Neither one of them are really stressy about guests, mostly.

Who found a dollar between the couch cushions while cleaning? - Emet because he’s a nosy little shit, too.

Misc:

Who takes the longer showers/baths? - Emet, oh my god, he’s horrible, he loves long hot baths, the shit. He enjoys the finer things in life because it takes the edge off, and that includes hot baths.

Who takes the dog out for a walk? - They don’t have any pets that require walkies, really, but Emet loves cute shit so he’ll probably spoil Brona’s friends’ pets if they let him.

How often do they decorate the room/house for the holidays? - Brona isn’t crazy into the holidays, but Emet hasn’t celebrated Eorzean holidays before, and he gets a kick out of them, so he’s definitely very much the one that gets into it.

What are their goals for the relationship? - Mutual healing from their traumas, and just...enjoy the time they have with each other. Show one another they’re loved and cherished for who they are, that they deserve to be loved.

Who is most likely to sleep till noon? - Emet, no question.

Who plays the most pranks? - They love teasing each other with little silly things, so both of them, and they’re equally likely to start it. 

[illegiblewords]

I posted about this in the past, but 1) can’t find it 2) got new followers since, so going to try again in case there’s interest.

Since the FFXIV month of writing prompts has wrapped up, I figure now might not be a bad time to let writers know about the kink meme.

For folks who don’t know--despite its name, kink memes are not necessarily raunchy. The basic premise is, on the kink meme you can anonymously (or not) request a story within a fandom. Can be a romance, can be gen, can be erotic, whatever. If there’s something you want to read but don’t feel like writing yourself, you’re basically putting that idea (or prompt) up for adoption. Writers who watch the kink meme pick up the concepts that spark their interest. The prompt giver gets a free story that they wanted to see. The prompt’s writer (or filler) gets a high likelihood of making someone happy and knowing their work stands a solid chance of getting seen.

The biggest rule for the kink meme is no shaming. On the one hand this is because raunchy stuff is allowed. On the other it’s because the nature of the beast is, by necessity, for people to feel comfortable asking for and providing stories. For that reason there needs to be a no-harassment policy in place.

Even if a prompt makes you uncomfortable (heaven knows there have been times stuff seemed icky to me), when it comes to kink meme you just gotta scroll past it. Make a prompt that you prefer instead!

The format for kink memes (in many fandoms) goes sort of like this:

FOR PAIRINGS

TITLE LINE: Character A/Character B, Roughly 1-4 Words On Premise, Content Warnings (If Applicable), State if Alternate Universe/AU

PROMPT: Description of what you want to see. Can be elaborate or simple, long or short, really whatever. Just be clear and keep in mind you’re trying to appeal on some level to writers.

FOR GEN/NON-ROMANTIC

TITLE LINE: Character A + Character B (or just Character A if applicable), Roughly 1-4 Words On Premise, Content Warnings (If Applicable), State if Alternate Universe/AU

PROMPT: Description of what you want to see. Can be elaborate or simple, long or short, really whatever. Just be clear and keep in mind you’re trying to appeal on some level to writers.

Some examples so people can see how formats work:

WoD/G'raha Tia, Embarrassing Jokes

Saying the Crystal Exarch’s real name is a good way to get him weepy, but lewd comments from the Warrior of Darkness about his “Crystal Tower” gets a similarly dramatic (if different) reaction.

F!WoL/Emet-Selch, Post-Canon Happy Ending

Without going against what happened in the game as much as possible, I just want to see a story where Emet-Selch survives and romance with the Warrior of Light happens. Female is preferred and I’d like her to be Midlander if possible, but if the writer has a different idea in mind that’s okay! I’d just like a happy ending. I don’t mind if there’s angst, comedy, fluff, horror, or sex. Anything would be great!

Yotsuyuu/Yugiri, Witch and Spy

Alternate canon, Yugiri infiltrates Yotsuyuu’s inner circle as a spy and feeds information to her allies so they can overthrow the Garlean occupation. However, while fulfilling her mission Yugiri catches sight of a softer side to the Witch of Doma. Despite everything, the maiden from Sui-no-Sato finds herself entering a romance with the tyrant.

No noncon or dubcon. (Noncon = Non-consent/Rape, Dubcon = Dubious consent)

Can end happily or tragically but court intrigue would be great!

Gen or Emet-Selch/Reincarnated!WoL, Ascians win

The Warrior becomes a Lightwarden. The First falls and is rejoined to the Source. In the end, Elidibus and Emet-Selch are able to complete the Rejoining and perform the exchange needed to get their brethren back. The Terminus Event doesn’t resume and the Ancients who gave themselves to Zodiark are not corrupted or otherwise worse for the wear. It’s the best-case scenario for the Ascians.

Except Lahabrea is dead while Elidibus and Emet-Selch have been so wrecked by solitude, hardship, and the horrors they themselves committed that they can no longer relate to the world they’ve returned to. They are celebrated as heroes by a populace with no idea what it cost or how long it took.

Maybe the Warrior is reincarnated and maybe not, but if they are I actually think things become more interesting if 1) they remember pieces of their past lives 2) the Ascians opt against vilifying the Warrior, or even saying what they did. There’s no point. It’s over. The world is whole again. The sacrifice has been made.

Tataru/Wedge, High School Sweethearts, Cannibalism, Modern AU/Darkfic

Tataru is the most popular girl at Eorzea High, and shy Wedge has been working up the courage to ask her out with encouragement from his friend Biggs. He doesn’t care that the other students seem to have a deep and abiding fear of her, his lalafell heart belongs to her and no other. However, things take a turn for the dark when it comes out that the reason Tataru is single to begin with is because she’s enjoyed all her past lovers with some fava beans and a glass of chianti if you know what I mean.

Bonus Points if Wedge, upon realizing Tataru’s taste for human flesh, offers to be the Mrs. Lovett to her Sweeney Todd and helps supply her with deliciously seasoned corpses instead.

Extra Bonus Points if Nero knows and is desperately trying to tell people but no one believes him.

...

But yeah haha, it’s pretty fast and loose.

Other common tendencies in kink memes include stuff like if you see a prompt you like but it wasn’t yours and you don’t want to write it yourself, it’s good to reply to the prompt with “Seconded”, “Thirded”/“Also Seconded”, etc. because that lets writers know if something is in-demand and could get a bigger audience.

The last really important thing, when a writer begins to fill usually at least one version will be shown in replies to the initial prompt. It’s okay to link to Ao3 or somewhere else at the end if that version is more polished, but you want the prompters to see what you did!

If anyone is interested but has questions feel free to let me know. ^^

[wingstriker]

I've tried to keep myself quiet about this, but I've gotten tired of hearing people talk about Nero being evil or Nero is going to backstab us sometime in the Omega raid storyline. I don't think it's going to happen, and if anyone was paying attention, the likelihood of it happening is probably around 1% or less. Why do I believe this?

#1 Nero is not evil.

If you keep saying he's evil, I think you need to re-examine your definition of "evil". Yes, he was our enemy, but just because you are enemies does not make them automatically evil. Please stop seeing things in black and white.

War is war, and he was a high ranking soldier (and engineer) in the Garlean military. Killing people in a war is not being evil, it's doing your job or defending yourself. The Warrior of Light has killed many people as well, so if anyone is evil for killing another, well congratulations, the Warrior of Light is also evil by your own definition.

He restored the Ultima Weapon and called it his opus.

Nero genuinely enjoys working with technology. In the cutscene after you defeat Ifrit for the first time, he's wearing some sort of device on his left wrist to measure Ifrit's strength.

Livia sas Junius: "That meter of yours is too old to give any reading worth a damn."

Why would Nero carry around an old aetheric meter if he wasn't a lover of technology? He is a highly ranked engineer, and he could have easily built a newer version.

There was no way he could refuse to work on the Ultima Weapon. It was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to work with an ancient Allag weapon, and learn all its secrets. The Allagans themselves didn't know of the danger that was sleeping within the Heart of Sabik, and most likely Nero didn't know of it either. It wasn't even active until the Weapon had absorbed Ifrit, Titan, and Garuda. Proof:

Lahabrea: If you are to prevail, the hammer of Darkness must needs be brought to bear upon the shield of Light. Lahabrea: And so it shall, for the Ultima Weapon is host to a power of which you are as yet ignorant. Gaius van Baelsar: Speak plainly, Ascian. Lahabrea: The Heart of Sabik. It is the Weapon's core─an enigma whose surface even the vaunted scholars of ancient Allag failed to scratch. Lahabrea: The magic within has lain dormant for eons. Gaius van Baelsar: Of what magic do you speak? Lahabrea: A spell without parallel. Ultima. Lahabrea: I sought the life force of the primals for no other reason but to quicken the core. For the true power of the Ultima Weapon lies within its now-beating Heart! Gaius van Baelsar: Lahabrea... What have you done? Lahabrea: No more than was necessary...for my god to be reborn. Gaius van Baelsar: Damn you, Ascian!

Nero can’t be fully blamed for this just because he helped restore the Ultima Weapon.

Nero was evil in Crystal Tower.

Um... How? Was it because he was smug about joining in the expedition for the opening quest for Syrcus Tower? Was it his "evil" laugh while walking around with his aetheric meter after we cleared Syrcus Tower for the first time?

Try to understand the situation from Nero's point of view. At this point, it's highly doubtful he can ever return to Garlemald. Remember the XIVth Legion was acting on their own with no support from Garlemald itself. Furthermore, they failed to capture Eorzea, and all the other high ranking officers (Gaius, Livia, and Rhitahtyn) are dead. At best, Nero would be demoted. At worse, he may have been executed to set an example.

Why is this important? It means that, whether he likes it or not, Eorzea is his home for the time being. He has no future with the Empire as it stands. So he needs to find money, basic necessities, and a place to sleep in order to survive. And in case it wasn't obvious before, Nero's pretty good at surviving.

It is out of necessity that he joins in on the Crystal Tower expedition because he has no where else to go.

He was laughing evilly and acting all power hungry in Syrcus Tower. He wanted to master the darkness.

Well yeah, but did you really expect him to act any different? If anything, he was excited from the readings he got because he found something interesting. It's true that had he figured out how to master the darkness, he could have easily backstabbed us then before heading back to Garlemald with his accomplishments.

But that didn't happen. Just because it was a possibility doesn't matter. Also, just because Nero sought to master the darkness does not make him evil.

Warrior of Darkness: Light, Dark, it doesn't matter. What matters is how you choose to use them.

Is Nero dangerous? He can be. But look what happened to him in Syrcus Tower. He tried to prevent Unei from being taken into the World of Darkness and got taken himself. He spent his time there defending Unei and Doga to his own detriment without a weapon, and looks like a half-crystallized person when you see him again. The clones display complete trust in him. Unei keeps his aetheric meter after he dropped it, and gives it back to him before urging him to leave.

And when it's obvious he can't keep up with G'raha Tia and the Warrior of Light while running to the exit portal, he urges both of you to leave and to always remember him.

Nero: I failed to master darkness. I'll not suffer watching a green boy master the tower. Nero: Do what you will with it. But remember me, son of Allag! Nero: I am Nero tol Scaeva, the man who'll yet outdo Allag and Garlond! G'raha Tia: That was what you hoped to─ Nero: Go, damn you!

Are those the actions of a man who's "evil"?

Most of his work has terrible consequences. Ultima Weapon, for example.

Remember the Ultima Weapon was supposed to be the Empire's answer to dealing with the primal threat. As far as we know, they have not been blessed with individuals touched by the Echo. As such, you can see the Ultima Weapon as their solution to dealing with primals.

He suggested they use Omega Weapon to counter Shinryu and look how that turned out!

In my opinion, he gave that suggestion for two reasons:

To get to see the Omega Weapon in action.

In a way, to pay back a life debt he owes to Cid and the Warrior of Light for rescuing him from the World of Darkness.

Essentially killing two birds with one stone. Neither Cid nor Nero had any idea that there was something more to Omega, and to place the full blame on Cid and Nero for everything the Omega Weapon decides to do isn't right because Omega made that decision. Which is, by the way, what Nero was trying to explain to Cid in a rather backhanded sort of way. He's not so good with people, remember?

And if you don't think Nero is trying to pay back his life debt, please take a closer look at both the dialogue and the actual interactions.

Nero tol Scaeva: But sentiment aside─have you a better solution? Or do you mean to send in your vaunted hero there, as you always do, and pray the world is not engulfed in flame?

Nero also lets the Warrior of Light use his Red Baron reaper. If you ask me, this would be similar to Cid letting the Warrior of Light pilot the Enterprise.

Also, Nero didn't shirk his duty when Omega showed up again. He joined the Ironworks as a consultant. Just because he acts unpleasant doesn't mean that he's bad and evil.

But Nero always makes Cid angry!

Last I checked, making Cid angry is not being evil. It can be annoying and irritating, but that doesn't make him evil. And if anything, Nero is actually getting a kick out of Cid's reactions since nothing he does seems to please Cid.

Nero has changed throughout the game, and to ignore these changes just because he doesn't act like a goody-two-shoes means that you are missing the point.

[catte-bard]

Those Halcyon Days Preview

Working on an Amaurot fic in between ffxivwrite prompt. It’s something that’s been on my mind since like 5.1 and with new lore we got from 5.3 I’ve finally been invigorated to get started on it. 

But it’s like the title says. Just a little preview to pique interest. Plan on really getting to work on it next month.

“You are in trouble, dear Azem.”

Persephone looked up from her work at her guest. Then glanced at the wall chronometer. “Good afternoon, Halmarut.” 

“Is that all you have to say for yourself?” The man placed his hands on his hips. “You missed this morning’s assembly.”

Though she caught sight of the little smile on his lips. He feigned disapproval but he did not come here to scold. Her old mentor tried to be the formal and serious member of the Convocation that he was expected to be. But the man could never hide the soft spot he had for her.

“I’m sure the Convocation will not fall apart because of this absence.” Persephone answered back, turning her attention back to her work. She plucked a quill from its inkwell to quickly scribe something down in an opened notebook. “Asides, I’ve just returned from my travels and am weary from them. If I am to subject my mind to another one of Lahabrea’s long-winded speeches I would rather do so with a well-rested one.”

“Yes, I believe that is why you were summoned to the assembly.” Halmarut stated as he walked up to her desk. Curious of what she was working on and being unabashedly nosy about it. “The Convocation awaited what you had to report from your travels. Six moons—that’s the longest you have ever been away from Amaurot. We were all worried and curious to know what kept you away for so long. Usually your expeditions are half that time.”

Her lips pressed into a thin line, a frown hidden behind her mask. “I’ve been busy.”

Her response was vague and she should have known better to use such with Halmarut. It only made the man pry even more. 

Halmarut canted his head. “Busy? Have you come across anything unusual?”

The tone in his voice implied that her response might mean something depending on how she answered. She looked up at him. “A few rogue concepts...” She carefully said. “Odd things but nothing to worry about I’m sure. Perhaps, something created by a few rambunctious younglings who were too ashamed to tell anyone about. They didn’t give me too much trouble if that’s what you’re worried about.”

Halmarut was quiet as he puzzled over her words. Seeming to internally debate something. His fingers drummed against the stop of her desk—a nervous tick of his he did when something was nagging at his mind. Something on his tongue he wanted to say but held back.

Persephone was a bit curious herself now. “Master Halmarut?” She called, pulling him from his thoughts.

So lost in thought was he that he startled at the sound of his voice. 

“Is everything well?” She asked.

“Ah.” The man cleared his throat. “Just a...small concern. But nothing you need fret about right now; it still merits investigation. That aside, you should have brought your matter forth to the Convocation or at least the Bureau—you know what little tolerance there is on rogue concepts.”

Persephone shrugged. “I did not think it important to report straight away if I had it handled.” It simply had never been her way, she always sought to deal with certain matters on her own. Much to the Convocation’s exasperation no doubt. “The concepts were destroyed as per protocol and no one was injured. I saw no reason to report it right away.

“Though rest assured, the Convocation will be getting the full report of my travails tomorrow.” And she gestured to the paperwork before her. “I am working on that now if that’s what you truly came to pester me about. If you do not wish to scold me again then perhaps you should leave me to it?”

At that Halmarut grunted. “Very well... I will leave you to it then. But first I came to ask a favor of you.” 

“Go on?” Persephone nodded.

“I was hoping you’d be free tonight to help me with some of my classes at Akademia.” He told her. “It’s getting to that part of the year and the students are beginning to have a glazed look in their eyes. A surprise visit from the esteemed Azem might reinvigorate them a bit. I’ll even throw in dinner as payment for asking you to work late after just returning home.”

A glance at the wall chronometer. And Persephone supposed she would be done without her work well before Halmarut’s evening classes. So long as none of their other brethren decided to come pester her about other tasks. Though she supposed if she spoke of a prior engagement it might keep their requests at bay.

And asides, she had oft helped Halmarut teach his classes before. She always enjoyed herself. And there was a nice thrilling bit of nostalgia about returning to the lecture halls of Akademia.

“I suppose I’ll be able to make it.” She told him.

And Halmarut beamed at her. “Excellent!” He exclaimed. However, he quickly sobered and cleared his throat. “I will be waiting for you. And dear Azem, another thing—do try to make the next assembly we call. Myself and Elidibus may have patience with you but the others may not.”

With that he bowed his head in farewell and walked towards the door. However, he paused midway. “Ah! Actually there was one last thing, my dear girl.” He called over his shoulder.

Persephone looked up expectantly.

“I do believe Emet-Selch was on the hunt for you earlier.” He told her. “Do be careful when you come across him. He seemed rather upset to learn you had skipped this morning’s meeting.”

It had been another three bells after Halmarut’s visit. And fortunately, Persephone had not had to entertain any more guests. Which left her to finish her long and grueling report about her six month forey. Along with a very sincere sounding apology for her absence at the previous assembly. 

Her fingers ached from writing so much, and halfway through she made a mental note to herself to look into a concept for a quill that wrote by itself. It would certainly make things less tedious. And would lessen the occurrences of wrist cramps.

She stared down at her report in silence. Truth be told, there was much more to her prolonged absence than she had told Halmarut. Much more worrying concerns. 

But she could tell the man had his own pressing matters to worry about if his early comments were anything to go by. It seemed Amaurot had gained some of its own troubles while she was away. She only hoped it wasn’t anything as bad as what she discovered out there.

A shocking amount of plant decay was observed north of the city where the rogue concepts dwelled. An entire forest dead and dying as if disease had swept through it. It’s unlike anything I have seen before. It is natural for plants to wither and rot in nature. But this is to a starling degree. 

It seems less like natural rot and more like a corruption. The native fauna that had once dwelt there had long since fled. And I do not blame them. 

Annona theorized that perhaps the presence of the rogue concepts caused the rot. Their unnatural energies warping their surroundings. I will look into it further after we’ve made sure all the concepts have been destroyed. 

She had included a few of her journal entries in the report. Days had been spent in the forest studying the rot. Weeks and months had been spent trying to revive it. And yet despite their efforts, nothing refused to regrow there. It seemed that whatever disease or corruption tainted the area had seeped down into the soil. 

It seemed nothing would grow there again. A troublesome prospect. Which is what brought her back to Amaurot. Unfamiliar with such a situation she thought perhaps Halmarut or the rest of the Convocation might have thoughts to weigh on the matter.