#like speaking of easter eggs / hints... | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

jade0716 · 8 months ago

Text

Manon and Dorian are Mates: A Thesis

Now that we have more info on mates from CC, and with the speculation that the novel after the next acotar is a TOG one, I wanted to make a master post with all the evidence that I compiled that Manon and Dorian are mates. I even added dissenting opinions for the potential ones that could have other explanations because why not be thorough and impartial. AND I highlighted the ones in red that I felt like are absolutely evidence of mateness.

Here's hoping Sarah was dropping hints for a manorian spin off!!

TOG:

I. Pg. 8 “On his black doublet, an emblazoned gold rendering a wyvern occupied the entirety of the chest. His red cloak fell gracefully around him and his throne”.

the Adarlan colors being red (and gold) and the symbol being a Wyvern. This may be coincidence since in the beginning SJM was planning a Celeana/Dorian end game but I think SJM chose to make the Crochan capes red to parallel the first time we see Dorian in TOG . Manon then bonding with Abraxos who is a wyvern is the icing on the cake.).

Also keep in mind the Adarlan colors are crimson and gold. The Crochan color is red (crimsons is a shade of red) and manon is canonically known for her gold eyes. She radiates Adarlan’s colors.

Bonus: Dorian’s favorite color is white re Kaltain in TOG and she has white hair and alabaster skin. Not really mate evidence but definitely soulmate evidence.

Dissenting Opinion: The red cape was just a coincidence and red feels like the obvious color for witches given it is the color of blood. And the King of Adarlan/Erawan chose to breed wyverns because it was the symbol of house Havilliard.

QoS:

I. I know that the Valg eyes are why Manon was able to scare the Valg prince away in Dorian and pull him out of the possession. What interests me is:

Pg. 420, Roland was only able to regain control for a second after speaking to Manon before the demon took back over. I’m not going to quote this cause it’s the whole scene but go reread if you want. Dorian is able to beat the demon down and essentially say screw off while talking to Manon. Is it possible Dorian was able to regain control for a longer period of time because of a bond with Manon?

Pg. 463 “step away, get away. The demon prince inside him yanked so hard he took a step. But not away. Toward the white-haired witch”. Are we sure it’s the demon that was yanking him?? Especially since he was yanked towards her instead of away from her even though the demon wanted him away???

her name continued to ring in his head even after the demon took back over:

Pg. 469 “the words soon faded, swallowed up by screaming and blood and the demon’s cold fingers running over his mind. But those eyes lingered- and that name. Manon. Manon”

Pg. 518 “he could not remember a time when the demon had not been there inside of him. And yet- Manon.”

Is this a classic SJM easter egg similar to how we thought the bargain between Rhys and Feyre was the reason for the pull between them? Could she be trying to mislead the reader?

Dissenting Opinion: Manon's valg eyes and his want to be killed is why he remembers her name. He regained control longer because Dorian is stronger willed than Rolland.

II. Pg. 463, Dorian seeing Manon for the first time: “He’d never seen anyone so beautiful”.

Sarah uses the “most beautiful person ever seen” repeatedly for her mated couples when they first meet. This could be writing style but it seems like a pattern in how she writes her mates meeting. I read ACOTAR and CC before TOG and when I read this line I was like yep they are mates seen this before.

Pg. 188 ACOTAR “standing before me was the most beautiful man I’d ever seen” - Feyre when seeing Rhysand for the first time

Pg. 536 ACOMAF “you’re the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. I thought it from the first moment I saw you on Calanmai” Rhys about seeing Feyre the first time

In ACOWAR Lucien about Elain “she was the most beautiful female he had ever seen”.

Pg. 346 HOSAB “Ruhn found himself staring at the most beautiful female he’d ever seen” Ruhn seeing Lidia the first time.

Dissenting Opinion: Manon is canonically one of the most beautiful females in the world, especially because she is a witch designed to attract men.

III. pg. 492 “She stepped closer to the prince’s horse. ‘Dorian’… Sapphire eyes snapped to hers”..he remembered his name when she said it without looking into her Valg eyes. interesting.

IV. pg. 511 “Manon couldn’t tell why that thread kept yanking, why it felt so urgent, but she pushed them hard, all the way to Rifthold”. A thread is pulling her urgently towards Rifthold to save Dorian. Using the terms thread and Manon not knowing why it feels so important is so incredibly mate for shadowing.

Pg. 184 ACOTAR “go, a voice said, tugging at me. Go see.”

Pg. 412 ACOTAR “I was pulled from sleep by something tugging at my middle, a thread deep inside”. A THREAD.

Dissenting Opinion: Sarah does multiple times in TOG reference a tug pulling her main heroines to do things so this could just be the gods/fates pulling the thread.

V. pg. 640 “Dorian didn’t know what awoke him”. Some force awakens Dorian, he then goes out to his balcony and sees Manon outside.

Similar to Feyre being pulled to Rhys, Pg. 412 ACOTAR “I was pulled from sleep by something tugging at my middle, a thread deep inside"

Pg. 640 Manon says “she didn’t know why she’d bothered to go; why she’d been curious”. Manon Blackbeak, maneating witch, for no apparent reason, decides to go check up on a human man. Need I see more?

And again, her name echoes in his head (pg. 641) “through the darkness of his memories, through the pain and despair and terror he tried to forget, a name echoed in his head”.

EOS:

I. Manon saving Dorian from the yellow legs (duh). She says her “instincts took over her” when she saw someone “taking her kill” ... then proceeds to rescue said kill.

Pg. 44: “I have no doubt the Yellowlegs will try to claim his head. Stop any one of them who dares take it.”

Pg. 84: “And when Manon had spied that Yellowlegs sentinel perched inside the tower, readying to claim this kill for herself... a century of training and instinct had barreled into Manon. All it had taken was one swipe of Wind-Cleaver as Abraxos flew by, and Iskra's sentinel was dead.” WHAT INSTINCT? THE INSTINCT TO CLAIM YOUR KILL? Cause you actually rescued him afterwards not killed him sweetheart.

Clearly it wasn’t to claim the kill for herself. So what was it? Instinct? Helping the witches? She didn’t know of Dorian’s magic at this time, so how would saving Dorian help the witches? Seems like the instinct was from something else.

Pg. 85: “Some ancient, predatory part of her awoke at the half smile. It sat up, cocking its ears toward him”. Ancient and predatory? Mates.

II. The one million times Dorian protects her even though she starts off on Erawan’s side and he has no reason to be so protective:

Pg. 87: “Manon crashed to her knees. The king was instantly at her side, studying her for a heartbeat before he roared down the stairs, “NO!””

Pg. 369: ““No.” The word ripped from Dorian’s lips before he could think. But then it came out, over and over, as the wyvern and rider sailed closer to the ship. The witch was unconscious, her body leaning to the side because she was not awake, because that was blue blood all over her. Don’t shoot; don’t shoot— Dorian was roaring the order as he hurtled for where Fenrys had drawn his longbow, a black-tipped arrow aimed at the witch’s exposed neck. His words were swallowed by the shouting of the sailors and their captain. Dorian’s magic swelled as he unsheathed Damaris— “. This lowkey makes me chuckle like what is he gonna do with Damaris against a bunch of fae warriors lol.

Pg. 395: “Dorian didn’t feel like mentioning that he’d been the one who’d jumped into the water. He’d just … acted, as Manon had acted when she’d saved him in his tower. He owed her nothing less”.

Pg. 438: “Ice danced at Dorian’s fingertips as he slid beside Manon, still chained by the bed” when the bloodhound shows up on the ship.

Pg. 574: "That hunger shifted into something icy and vicious: 'You once asked me where I stand on the line between killing to protect and killing for pleasure'. His fingers grazed the seam of the scar across her abdomen. 'I'll stand on the other side of the line when I find your grandmother". Earlier in EOS Manon asks him why he didn’t make the bloodhound suffer, that there is a line even when it comes to their enemies. Apparently not when someone harms Manon.

III. Dorian’s magic reacting every time she is in danger or threatened:

Pg. 369: “His magic felt it before he did. A sense of awareness, of warning and awakening” when she comes in injured on Abraxos.

Pg. 369: “His words were swallowed by the shouting of the sailors and their captain. Dorian’s magic swelled as he unsheathed Damaris—“

Pg. 396: “Manon’s voice was flat and cold as death. “Tell Aelin Galathynius not to bother using me for negotiations. The Blackbeak Matron will not acknowledge me, either as heir or witch, and all you will get out of it is revealing your precise location.” His magic flickered. “What happened after Rifthold?”

Pg. 438: “Ice danced at Dorian’s fingertips as he slid beside Manon, still chained by the bed” when the bloodhound shows up on the ship.

Pg. 441: “Manon froze entirely. And didn’t particularly care as the Bloodhound lunged for her throat, teeth bared. It was not flame or wind that snapped the Bloodhound’s neck. But invisible hands. The crunch echoed through the room, and Manon whirled on Dorian Havilliard. His sapphire eyes were utterly merciless.”.

Pg. 457 ““If you were me,” Aelin murmured in a tone that had Dorian’s magic rising, ice cooling his fingertips. Aedion’s hand slid to his sword. “If you were me.” His magic flickering when Aelin RAISES HER VOICE at Manon (like come on this is mates shit).

Pg. 498-499: “ "As far as I recall,” Dorian went on with a sly grin, “you two—” The attack happened so fast that Aelin didn’t sense or see it until it was over. One moment, Manon was seated at the edge of the fire, the marshes a dark sprawl behind her. The next, scales and flashing white teeth were snapping for her, erupting from the brush on the bank. And then—stillness and silence as the enormous marsh beast froze in place. Halted by invisible hands—strong ones.” The fact that Dorian was mid sentence, not paying attention, and doesn’t even move a finger to protect her.

Even Aelin comments on it, Pg. 499: “But Dorian’s magic held the beast still, frozen with no ice to be seen. The same power as the one he’d wielded against the Bloodhound. Aelin surveyed him for any tether, any gleaming thread of power, and found none. He hadn’t even lifted a hand to direct it. Interesting.” IT IS INTERESTING AELIN. I also find it interesting that Aelin says the same power he wielded against the bloodhound, which was also to protect Manon. Granted I know Aelin is observing him bc his raw magic is so different from other forms of magic, but I still think it’s interesting that Sarah had Aelin comment on how he didn’t even react or move and his magic protected her.

Dorian about his magic sensing Rowan and Aelin’s bond, pg. 131, “His magic had felt the bond between Aelin and Rowan—the bond that went deeper than blood, than their magic, and he’d assumed it was just that they were mates, and hadn’t announced it to anyone.” Obviously later we find out it was because Aelin and Rowan were mates. So his magic canonically can sense a mating bond.

Also Rowan on Pg. 357 “I wanted to chuck you off a cliff, yet I bit you before I knew what I was doing. I think my body knew, my magic knew." His magic knew when he tasted her they were mates. Similar to how Dorian's magic has been acting? Like it knows something he doesn't?

VI. Pg. 575 “Manon thought the king tasted like the sea, like a winter morning, something so foreign and yet familiar it at last dragged that moan from deep in her.” The so foreign yet so familiar is so mate coded. Especially bc...

in HOF the Wastes are described as having winter mountains and near the western sea

Pg. 71: “To take our host to reclaim the Wastes from the mortal pigs who now dwell there." A fierce, wild thrill pierced Manon's chest, sharp as a knife. Following the Matron's gaze, Manon looked to the horizon, where the mountains were still blanketed with winter.”

Pg. 68: “Manon herself had never set foot in the former Witch Kingdom, had never seen the ruins or the flat, green expanse that stretched to the western sea.”

So it makes sense that the Wastes would smell of winter morning and the sea. They also call the wastes the “Frozen Wastes”, further implying a wintery sent.

VII. Pg. 577 “ Wondered what he’d say if she told him she’d wanted to sink her teeth into his neck and find out what he tasted like”.

Rowan on Pg. 357 “I wanted to chuck you off a cliff, yet I bit you before I knew what I was doing. I think my body knew, my magic knew. And you tasted …” Rowan loosed a jagged breath. “So good…”

Manon in HOF Pg. 33: “The common, watery taste of the man, laced with violence and fear, coated her tongue, and she spat onto the wooden floorboards.”

Manon in QoS Pg. 463 “I’ve been with plenty of men. You’re all the same. Taste the same”.

Manon has not shown to be particularly interested or intrigued by the blood of men aside from just to hunt and feed until Dorian. We also have Rowan describing how good Aelin tasted when he bit her and how he thinks "his magic knew". Is her attraction to Dorian’s blood because of this similar mating bond logic?

Dissenting Opinion: She just wants to taste Dorian's blood because she's attracted to him and so his blood is more enticing to her. She does say that the blood of the men at the Ferrian Gap distracts her in HOF, so obviously she sometimes does crave man blood.

KOA:

I. Again, we see Dorian’s magic reacting to her in a way instinctually

Cyrene attacks, pg. 78 “As Manon whirled, Dorian’s magic surged, already lashing at the unforeseen foe”

Pg. 130: “Despite who walked ahead of them, behind them, Manon smiled slightly. He surprised her further by saying,"I've been tunneling into my power since they appeared. One wrong move from them, and I'll blast them into nothing." This is so touch her and you die vibes I love it. This isn’t his magic acting instinctively I just wanted to include as another instance of him being protective of her using his magic.

Pg. 227: “ “I care.” His temper rose to meet hers. And he decided to hell with it—decided to let go of that leash he’d put on himself. Let go of that restraint. “I care about more than I should. I even care about you.”

Same scene: Pg. 228: “Dorian smiled slightly, and fell asleep once more, letting his magic warm them both. When they awoke, something sharp in his chest had dulled—just a fraction…Where that edge had dulled in his chest, his magic now flowed freer. As if it, too, had been freed from those inner restraints he’d loosened slightly last night. What he’d opened up, revealed to her. A sort of freedom, that letting go."

This is right after he says he’s been trying with Vesta for days to get his eyes to change color and it hasn’t worked but one time with Manon and she warms his heart enough to let his magic go free.

Pg. 143, Dorian goes to Cyrene to learn how she shifts…

“Is that what you do to summon the change: first think of what you want to become?” “With limits. I need a clear image within my mind, or else it will not work at all.”

Followed by Pg. 286 when Dorian is trying to shift… “Who do you wish to be? “Someone worthy of my friends,” he said into the quiet night. “A king worthy of his kingdom.” For a heartbeat, snow-white hair and golden eyes flashed into his mind. “Happy,” he whispered, and wrapped a hand around Damaris’s hilt. Let go of that lingering scrap of terror. The ancient sword warmed in his hand, a friendly and swift heat. It flowed up through his fingers, his wrist. To that place within him where all those truths had dwelled, where it became warmth edged with sharpest pain. And then the world grew… He made to touch his face, but found he had no hands. Only soot-black wings. Only an ebony beak that allowed no words past it. A raven.” In this scene Dorian thinks of Manon, which makes him think of happiness and very similar to the scene where she made his magic flow before, his magic begins to flow through him and he shifts, for the second time due to Manon warming his heart, into not just a bird, but a black beaked bird. I repeat, BLACKBEAK bird. It’s safe to assume this is because he pictured Manon, and as the spider said you have to have the picture in your head when you will the shift for it to happen. The image he had in his mind was Manon. This one I honestly think is crazy and such strong evidence of mateism , especially bc it happened TWICE in this book.

Manon fighting the Matrons, pg. 474 “Dorian’s magic writhed, seeking a way out, to stop this.”

When Maeve glamours as Manon to seduce Erawan, Pg. 639: “icy rage, pure and undiluted tore through Dorian as Manon stood before the Valg king.. Dorian focused upon his breathing, on the stones beneath him, anything to keep his magic from erupting at the desire on Erawan’s face” (also important bc when she glamoured as Aelin his magic didn’t do this!!!)

II. Pg. 225 ““Which do you like the best?”… “I like the ice best,” Dorian admitted at last, realizing he’d let the silence drip on. “It was the first element that came out of me—I don’t know why.” I know why!!

HOF pg. 230 “If Manon was ice and Asterin was fire, then Sorrel was rock.”

QOS pg. 68 “Asterin had always been that way—and that wildness was exactly why Manon had chosen her as her Second a century ago. The flame to Sorrel’s stone … and to Manon’s ice.”

III. Dorian refers to Manon as his equal, pg. 536 “she would be his wife, his queen. She was already his equal, his match, his mirror in so many ways”.

SJM is very consistent about mates being equals and being mirrors of each.

Quote from Tampon in ACOTAR: “High Fae mostly marry,' he said, his golden skin flushing a bit. 'But if they’re blessed, they’ll find their mate—their equal, their match in every way.” This is almost verbatim what Dorian said about Manon. Also want to note that ACOTAR (2015) ,where the idea that mates are equals really starting being engrained in the reader, came out 3 years prior to KOA (2018). Sarah was writing the ACOTAR trilogy concurrent with the later half of TOG. So for her to have Dorian use those words to describe Manon, she had to have known what she was doing. When KOA was released there were already three acotar books out that beat this idea into our head so i can’t believe this is a coincidence. I think Sarah would notice how that phrasing sounds exactly like how she describes mates considering how important the bond is in her books.

Feyre to the Suriel: “How can I possibly be his mate?' Mates were equals- matched, at least in some ways. '

Rowan about discovering Aelin is his mate pg. 678 EOS "His equal. His friend. His lover. His Wife. His mate."

Dissenting Opinion: This is just SJM's writing style, and I’ve also noticed SJM reusing some phrases for her couples across the series *ehem* nessian and sartaq/nesryn “I wish we had time”

IV. Also in this scene Dorian talks about wanting to “claim her” as his wife/queen... Pg. 538 “the temptation that his every instinct roared to claim. Not the body, but what she had offered…” This could just be SJM writing style (fair argument), but nevertheless "his every instinct to claim" is VERY matey especially with the instinct part and because "the claiming" is a thing. Some examples:

HOF Pg. 158: “the bite so strong and claiming that she was too stunned to move”

EOS Pg. 352: “You are mine,” Rowan breathed, and she felt the claiming in her bones, her soul.

EOS Pg. 422: “A claiming, mighty and true, that she understood he so desperately needed.”

Dissenting Opinion: This is just SJM's writing style. Just because the word claim is used doesn't mean they are mates.

V. Manon screaming his name when he almost dies pg. 133 "Manon bellowed his name, and Crochan arrows fired... Manon screamed his name again, but he couldn't move... Then there were iron-tipped hands gripping his shoulders, and gold eyes glaring into his own".

This reminds me of in HOF when Manon shoots Rowan with an arrow and Aelin screams his name

Pg. 477 QoS... "Aelin's scream echoed down the Ravine" when Rowan is shot.

Pg. 655 EOS Aelin admits to Maeve she knew Rowan was her mate, "The moment the arrow when through his shoulder. Months ago"

This is also parallelled by Dorian screaming for Manon when she is in danger in EOS:

Pg. 87: “Manon crashed to her knees. The king was instantly at her side, studying her for a heartbeat before he roared down the stairs, “NO!””

Dissenting Opinion: Aelin tells Rowan she saved Manon because Asterin screamed her name the same way she screamed Rowan. So technically by this logic Asterin and Manon could be platonic mates. And maybe Manon just screams Dorian's name because she cares about him not anything to do with being mates. (Counter Argument- but then why did Dorian scream her name in EOS so aggressively when he didn’t even know her then??)

Edit:

Also want to comment on Manon being the scariest individual in the world, and yet repeatedly both Dorian and Manon comment about how he is not afraid of her. Across the SJM universes this is seen as a huge mating bond sign (“Aelin terrifies everyone, but not him [rowan]” ; Feyre not being afraid of Rhys).

ALSO want to mention that Manon had “never allowed another male atop her” during sex before Dorian. To me this is incredibly telling bc it indicates that Manon sees Dorian as an equal by allowing him to dominate her. Yes, Manon is attracted to his domineering manor, but you’re telling me never in 116 years she’s done anything but ridden a male, and Dorian walks in and she’s like yea tie me up and get on top of me�� I mean I would to but you see my point. Additionally, them being incredibly attracted to each other could be a mate indicator as mates are obviously aggressively attracted to each other bc of the “animalisticness” of the mating bond.

Lastly, you’ll see above that there are lots of times where their “instincts” cause them to act or are pushing at them to act in relation to each other. Instinct is mate coded af, especially when they’ve had that instinct since they first met. It wasn’t something that grew over time they always had it.

Debunking arguments against them being mates:

I. Mates are only fae.

Manon is part fae, so she could have a mate.

E.g. Bryce is half fae half human also and mated with Hunt (who confirmed in HOFAS is the product of two angels and not fae); Lorcan is a demi fae and can have a mate (believed to be Elide who is human but unconfirmed); Aelin is demi fae prior to forging the lock and is mated with Rowan.

I also cannot find anywhere there is a rule that you must have XYZ amount of fae blood to have a fae-like mate, just have to have some fae blood. But we don't really know what percentage of Manon is fae vs Valg. Given she is half Ironteeth and half Crochan, she likely falls around that 50% fae line which is just as much fae blood as Lorcan, Bryce, Aelin, etc.

II. The Crochans believe in Mates

It’s not confirmed whether the Crochans do or don't have the traditional fae mating bonds, however we learned in CC2 it was proved that you can have a “true” mating bond as long as one person has fae blood, E.g. Bryce (half fae/human) and Hunt (Angel).

pg. 139 EOS the Crochans "... had adopted the Fae habit of selecting mates- if not a true mating bond, then in spirit".

pg. 139, EOS Manon's grandmother says about her father "But he did not love her- not with your mother as his true mate, the song of his soul". This sounds to me like her parents were believed to be a true fae mating bond not just "in spirit".

Pg. 316 HOSAB "Angels have mates. Not as.. soul-magicky as Fae, but we call life partners mates in lieu of husbands or wives". Sounds like the Angels have a mating bond "in spirit" similar to the Crochans. Except that Hunt then truly "fae mated" Bryce, and he doesn't have any fae blood.

When then find out Hunt and Bryce are "true mates"; Pg.492 HOSAB "It means that he's going ballistic in the way that only mates can when the other is threatened. It's what happened then and happened now. You're true mates- the way Fae are mates, in your bodies and souls".

III. Fae can have non fae mates.

We see Bryce/Hunt in CC that are different species and have a traditional fae mating bond.

Rhys/Feyre and Nesta/Cassian feel a pull to each other when Feyre and Nesta are human, which then clicks into place as a true mating bond.

There is also Elide/Lorcan and Gavin/Elena in TOG that are “mates” (unconfirmed since the humans never became fae). Fae queens Mab and Mora also give up immortality for their human "mates".

So it is canon that you can have inter species mates or human mates, it just may never "click" into place if they are human.

via Hunt and Bryce, we do know the bond can completely click (souls and scents merging, etc.) between "magical" species once it is accepted, but we do not have this evidence with fae and human bonds.

I also don’t believe Dorian is entirely human. But that is completely my speculation

Pg. 933 KOA " 'I am human.' It warmed in his hand... 'I am human," he repeated, to the stars now visible above the city. The sword didn't answer again. As if it knew he no longer needed it." Yes he is human but he can be other things too. Similar to Aelin's quote about being a human in a fae body below. They identify and choose their human moral side, but that does not mean there are parts of them that are not human.

Aelin KOA Pg. 723: "I am human, deep down, Faerie Queen nonsense aside. I had human parents, and their parents were human, mostly, and even with Mab's line running true... I'm a human who can turn into Fae. A human who wears a Fae body".

On par with the theme of "Be grateful for your human heart" (Rhys, ACOTAR)

Also curious as to whether he does or does not have valg blood from his father. Because he could also have fae blood (distantly) from Elena/Brannon/Mala (Valg + Fae= Witch?)

IV. The mating bond would have clicked when they fucked… I think we all know this ain’t true anymore (cough cough Nesta and Cassian). You can have sex but if you do not accept the bond it will not click.

Rowan also says on pg 396 HOF "Sometimes, mates can be together intimately before the actual bond snaps into place"

V. Wyrd/Urd/the Mother/Fate (aka Sarah) gets to decide whose mates and who isn't

The only thing Sarah has been clear about is that she can basically make anyone mates that she wants as long as one person has fae blood. And even then, there is very much a "fate like force" aka Wyrd/Urd/The Mother that is working to pull the strings of fate and make people mates.

Hellas speaks to Lorcan and Hellas's consort, the goddess Annieth, speaks to Elide. Lorcan and Elide are never confirmed mates as Elide remains human and yet there are still signs she is his mate even as a human.

Rhys's mind has able to find Feyre's when she was still human years before they met. Yes he has demati abilities but finding Feyre's mind is because they were fated to be mates.

Adias says about Hunt and Bryce mating bond HOFAS, Pg. 551 "I think that was left to higher powers. Whatever they might be".

There is no special "biological formula" proven necessary for a mating bond. To the best of our knowledge so far, the only thing we can be sure of is it happens when fate demands (and when one person has at least some fae blood). Therefore it logically makes sense why the Mother/Wyrd/Urd would manipulate fate to ensure that Dorian and Manon were mates because they needed Manon to get into the witch mirror and raise the witch forces. They needed Manon to unite with Brannon's heir to defeat Erawan and destroy the keys, whether that be Aelin or Dorian. A mating bond would ensure that.

Also Wyrd/Urd means fate/personal destiny in nors mythology —> https://www.mimisbrunnr.info/ksd-web-of-wyrd and https://norse-mythology.org/concepts/destiny-wyrd-urd/ (read these if you want to theorize about acotar)

In conclusion, I think they could be mates but it won't fully snap into place (they won't fully merge souls, scents, etc.) unless Dorian is somehow Made. The only evidence of interspecies true confirmed fae mating bonds is Bryce and Hunt, and while they were able to fully "click" without Hunt being fae, it is very unclear why this is other than "high powers". We do know though that human Elide was very likely Lorcan's true mate, but we were never told of any clicking between them on that fae physiological level. So it is safe to assume that for a mating bond between a human and fae it will not "click" into place unless that human is turned fae.

HOWEVER, I do think it is possible because of Dorian's raw magic, he could be a rare exception to this rule similar to Hunt. So maybe it just has not clicked because Manon and Dorian have not accepted it. Which would also make sense given the nature of their relationship through most of the series, them denying their feelings to each due to their emotional unavailability.

Dissenting Opinion: But we also don't know how the angels were created by the Asteri, so maybe Hunt is "made" and not actually an exception.

Anyway, there's my evidence. There was some more evidence that I had and then removed because even though I think it is proof of a deeper connection I didn't think it was mate related (e.g. Abraxos taking Manon to Dorian when she says take me somewhere safe, I came to the conclusion that that showed Abraxos's awareness in protecting Manon).

Here are the links to some other tumblr posts on them being mates. I did look at these when putting this together so full credit to those individuals :)

#manorian #manon x dorian #manon blackbeak #dorian havilliard #togcouples #dorian x manon #throne of glass #they are mates and I will not be silenced

99 notes · View notes

acourtofquestions · 4 months ago

Text

Empire of Storms Part 1 thoughts, theories & a VERY VERY long post of rambling:

(+ this title as a spoiler warning; heads up to my fellow fans & first time readers (esp. those semi-tagged in this post), I address a lot of Part 1 & possibly up to Chapter 52 of EoS;-) I am ALSO on my first read just finishing said 52 so no spoilers for me past that as I go through Fireheart as well plz, & thx!

I will also be posting a far shorter better edited version of this post next :-)

Oh good gods this book is going to destroy me in the best way possible😅😅🤦‍♀️😭😁😬😆🤣🙃❤️‍🔥🖤🫶

Long writing/reading (I HAVE LOTS OF THOUGHTS & FEELINGS & NEED TO SCREAM IN WIVERN FANGIRL NONSENSE! So, this post will probably jump around quite a bit between chapters, thoughts, theories, reactions, & randomness; read/skim at your own rambling risk😅 also in advance for missed autocorrects I TRIED😂) “round up” for Part 1 of EoS. & yes I have been reading a LOT (whilst VERY busy😂😭), so this blog’s posts are in desperate need of a catch up & will probably only grow more hectic as alas, my library & brain demand to know what happens next NOW😂. You have been warned this post & blog is about to be more incoherent than usual! — And as I said this post is LONG (If your thinking I’m kidding; legit I think this is 20 something pages long; consider it here for historical purposes… & I had a VERY long drive with no books😂)

— NOW —

The organization of parts is interesting, we go from Nightfall, to The Fire-Bringer, to Fireheart. It feels like a full circle from night to day; from learning to being, and showing Aelin’s claim (not from Elena, not from her powers, but from her). The heart of Terrasen, the fire for the world (esp. against the Valg). … It’s also scaring the heck out of me with her self-sacrificial tendencies & the VERY intense vibe (from the first few chapters this story advances into a “final chapter vibe” yet it’s only the first few; it’s reminding me of Deathly Hallows almost? — which is esp. confusing CAUSE I STILL HAVE 3 BOOKS LEFT… and we’re already this intense😬😅soooo MAAS PLEASE DON’T YOUR DARE HURT A HAIR ON ANY OF THEM!!) P.S. for this note; it’s also making my shipping fuel go from 180 to infinity cause she’s his Fireheart🥹 (If only “worried over liking the ship” HoF first read me could see me now😂 @ goddess-aelin 🫶YOU WERE SO RIGHT👏). And generally it’s just been cool to see how the entire story & series has shifted so much (yet kept its heart ;-) !

So, Generally speaking: I’ve loved the first half of Nightfall & The Fire-Bringer (As I’ve loved the series). From the pace & many perspectives, to the plot twists & Easter egg style hints, and the writing with straight-up foreshadowing & full-circle series arcs (many of which have had big moments interwoven & reaching peak within this book). There has been some great character development (many beautiful lines/moments) a lot of raw emotion (crying, laughing, and all of the above), & entertaining interactions as my favorite piece of this book has been all these stories finally crossing paths (& within that developing relationships, friendships, families, courts, enemies, allies, etc.) for the “New World” that’s coming.

Nightfall:

“Elena sent up a final prayer on a pillar of smoke rising from the valley floor that the unborn, faraway scions of this night, heirs to a burden that would doom or save Erilea, would forgive her for what she was about to do.”

Elena I don’t know if I can forgive you for what you’re about to do😅😅 the plan here is long coming, as Lysandras “theory” further confirms:

"The more it seems like this was all planned, laid out long ago. Erawan had decades before Aelin was born to strike decades during which no one with her powers, or Dorian's powers, existed to challenge him. Yet, as fate or fortune would have it, he moves now. At a time when a Fire-Bringer walks the earth." It was all horrifying, impossible, but—so much of their lives defied logic or normalcy. The shifter next to him proved that. "Morath is unleashing its horrors," Lysandra said. "Maeve stirs across the sea. Two goddesses walk hand in hand with Aelin. More than that, Mala and Deanna have watched over her the entirety of her life. But perhaps it wasn't watching. Perhaps it was ... shaping. So they might one day unleash her, too. And I wonder if the gods have weighed the costs of that storm. And deemed the casualties worth it."

& previous lines on “all the players in the unfinished game” (I’m getting S&B Ruin & Rising vibes (for those of you Grishaverse fans; which btw one of these days I need a whole post about parallels & these two series, cause just the stag and lord of the north alone. I AM INTRIGUED & do love both fandoms ;-) + I think the crows would fit so well & it would be wonderfully & utterly chaotic🤣).

So, my general concern is this theory & warning everyone keeps giving Aelin about “the price”; from Rolfe’s tattoo map & warning question: “"That was the price of my power. What shall yours be, Aelin Galathynius?" She didn't reply to him before storming out. Though Deanna's voice had echoed in her mind. The Queen Who Was Promised.” To clever Elide’s question: “Was that the price for the humans they'd once been-magic that was somehow immune to what flowed naturally in this world? Or had the choice been taken from them, as surely as their souls had been stolen, too?” to crucial warnings like Brannon: “We burn not just within our magic, but also in our very souls. For better or worse.” & the danger continuing to grow like that of the FULL Deanna scene:

“And she said to him, in a voice that was deep and hollow, young and old, "Every key has a lock. Tell the Queen Who Was Promised to retrieve it soon, for all the allies in the world shall make no difference if she does not wield the Lock, if she does not put those keys back with it. Tell her flame and iron, together bound.”

She is the one, she has to get the lock, and she will have to pay the price for both (her ancestors & the darkness created in centuries of Erawan); one that will be heavy (one Elena failed to do; and I somewhat worry is because while she did sacrifice herself, her friends, her people, her kingdom, even letting Brannon fall to ruin (Brannon; the only one who ever successfully sealed it, because he sacrificed her mother, his love, “My mother died to forge that Lock!”) she did not let Gavriel “that which she most loved” fall; she tried to do it alone & was left with no option but to leave it to someone else; another era, another heir); now Aelin carries every thread, plot, battle aligning; the power she wields & sheer force of it, the weight of her crown & every choice it comes with, the price it will demand (the one she has spent a lifetime running from; “my crown is just another set of shackles”; the one Mala may have been shaping her to be able to make even through experiencing tragedy & turbulence in decisions over & over again). The warning in every choice; including the person she loves most (Rowan’s fear of “The people you love are just weapons used against you.”) “This thing between them, the force of it, could devour the world.” Her terror in that; struggling to allow them to go for the front lines while she survives, no longer alone & no longer able to take it all on, but struggling to let them in on the “master plan”. Struggling because even as she does, it weighs on them too: “Aelin was trembling, a hand on her friend-face so white and drawn that any harsh words he'd reserved for her were unnecessary. His queen knew the cost. It had taken her so damn long to trust any of them to do anything. If Aedion roared at her now, even if he still yearned to ... Aelin might never delegate again. Because if Lysandra hadn't been in the water when things had gone so, so badly…” And they do see it; the on-growing burden on Aelin’s shoulders & how she’s carrying the weight of it; both as a queen (despite her current lack of crown) another long-coming plot; as spoken by Chaol: “There she was, that queen looking out at him, a hint of the ruler she was becoming. And it knocked the breath out of him, because it made him feel so strangely young-when she now seemed so old.” And turning her desperate & weary; heavier slowly: “Since Rowan had gone, since word of Rifthold's fall had arrived, Aelin had been half present. Distant.” line after line “She'd grown quieter the farther north they'd traveled. Perhaps weeks on the road had sapped her.” They fear for her “And he wondered if Aelin was somehow watching the archipelago, and the seas, and the skies, as if she might never see them again.” for the price of such powers “We have yet to see the full extent of Erowan’s darkness. And I think we have yet to see the full extent of Aelin’s fire.” & They try to help “After tonight, depending on what the lords reported he'd try to find her a quiet place to rest for a day or two before they made the last leg of the trek to Orynth.” desperate to stop it “"She's not some unwitting pawn." He'd defy the gods, find a way to slaughter them, if they threatened Aelin, if they deemed these lands a worthy sacrifice to defeat the Dark King.” to protect her “Rowan at her right, Aedion at her left, Lysandra at her back; nothing and no one would get to their queen.” all the while they know they cannot as Rowan’s line painfully says: “This was war. These lands would endure far worse in the coming days and months. His queen, no matter how he tried to shield her, would endure far worse.” (Also the key word endure, frequently used for the “lost children of Terrasen” as I call their grouping). To even Aelin’s own words “She was a liar, and a murderer, and a thief, and Aelin had a feeling she'd be called much worse by the end of this war.”

This is where I fear Nightfall will come to rise in Fire-Heart:

I say all of this to say I get concerned when Maas feels the need to start a book with such warning; in both the price, and person paying it… Aelin is too much like Elena… Celaena has lost too much to lose anyone else (“And she would not add another name of her beloved dead to her flesh.” — “"We'll get her back, Aelin." "I can't bury another friend." "You won't."”)… and carrying it so heavily I worry she may overpay her share on their behalf’s. And between that & the many conflicting & star aligning forces of Rowaelin I worry the conflicts may grow; originally it was him not feeling “enough” for her because he’s a Prince not a King, he has no money no land no army (thankfully we are done with that piece because he can give her everything🥹 of his heart and that’s all she needs). We have the inevitable Maeve’s vendetta. We have my growing fear with the Carranam bond getting drained; like it almost did with Deanna. And the quotes all warning that their world may lead to another being destroyed, one or the other; “This thing between them, the force of it, could devour the world. And if they picked it, picked them, it might very well cause the end of it.”

… and though this isn’t due to Nightfall I am just concerned (I try to avoid spoilers (and continue to do so); but I already know it’s got a cliffhanger) and I have read enough Maas books (and just fandoms in general) to fear the 1-2 punch of “THEY’RE ALL GONNA DIE😱 — PSYCH😜 THEY ARE ALL FINE😅 — JUST KIDDING EVERYONE YOU LOVE IS DEAD!☠️” + the amount of possible brainwashing between Valg, Wyrdstones, and now gods… I’m just nervous (& still not 100% sure someone isn’t already secretly possessed).

MY DO NOT KILL LIST IS GETTING TOO LONG: From ASTERIN (scared me half to death SARAH) & Manon + 13 (obvi💁‍♀️), Abraxos & Fleetfoot & Evangeline (had to break my “no Google” rule to assure the latter twos safety *phew*), Aelin & Rowan (DON’T YOU EVEN DARE), Lysandra, Aedion, Dorian (HE’S BEEN THROUGH ENOUGH; STOP HURTING HIM), Elide (just let her be happy & home & make Marion proud dammit), Chaol (he’s not even here & I’m still a little mad BUT STILL) & Yrene (she hasn’t even fully come in yet & I don’t care I love her already) + Nesryn who babe, you know I love you, but I need more history & perspective to trust you fully (you seem cool, but I’m worried the lack of knowledge about you means your gonna lie or die, & it’s just too soon after Sorscha), Emrys (your safe in Mistward; STAY THERE), Sam (beloved, you’re still on this list; even though I know how it ended, & really do LOVE Rowaelin, I just still miss you; & want a Multiverse of happy endings for EVERYONE).

— HOWEVER —

I hope Fire-Heart will bring:

More Manorian; and let’s be honest ALL the ships (+ it could get realll literal with the set-up right now😂 the ships are LITERALLY sailing🤣) of course I CAN NEVER HAVE ENOUGH ROWAELIN (though Fire-Bringer was great 🥵 THEY FINALLY SAID I LOVE YOU🥹👏) & I am SO HERE FOR Lysandra & Aedion! … also what’s up with Elide & Lorcan? (Her last name + his first name TOO SIMILAR😂)

More interactions in general between all the characters from ships, to friendships, to even enemies (who often also become friends😂) honestly might be my fav part about this book so far; seeing it all line up & crossover; (from aforementioned Elide & Lorcan), (to previous & hopefully again soon) Manon & Aelin, the FULL team with THE THIRTEEN (Asterin & our crew would be absolute chaos & I would love every second of it), Sorrel too! AND VESTA! Petrah Blueblood (I find her VERY interesting as a character), Elide & the “lost children of Terrassen” finally meeting; maybe some more Ren & Bane updates (cause I wonder about them & what their up to) to Abraxos & Fleetfoot (PLEASE I NEED THIS… just don’t eat eachother😅😂) & yes I do STILL miss Evangeline & Fleetfoot; though I am happy they are safe; while the fire trick was cool it was SO not sustainable, & I do trust Murtaugh… and these full circles; Ansel’s (presumed) reintroduction & the TAB throw-backs/crossovers (plus NOW Crochans?). —

Exploring things of the sort; what is the other side of the “Crochan’s tale”, what is Elide’s true bloodline, how does the new Mala knowledge effect Aelin & Dorian?

Who are the Cadre (& learning more of their history; both with Aedion & Gavriel (that blood oath better not pass to children), Lorcan (Elide is already helping there thankfully) the other twin because I already stan Fenrys, and really Rowan because who are they really? Despite the “blood oath” reasoning they spent centuries together there has to be more to it). I want to get to know the twins & their whole Yin & Yang balance; also what is Fenrys power? (why does Rowan let him go after Aelin in the water instead, he must be pretty dang powerful & more so than Rowan to be her best option in his eyes)! What other histories does Rowan have (are the “witches” one of them)? What else is Maeve (I will never trust her) hiding?

Why is Erowan this way (who really killed Aelin’s parents)? Are we POSITIVE the Ilken aren’t the creatures Elide saw in the basement (wow that sounds extra ominous😂)?

Will Chaol show up (how is his team & the southern allies coming along)?

What is the limitation to Lysandra’s powers (can they find a way to trick the Terrasen flower into “blooming”)?

Is their further crossover between these series (ACOTAR & CC)?

Explain further how certain things work such as mates (Rowan has two? Celaena/Aelin too maybe? & what that means for others)… And just a lil’ fluff (Rowan & Fleetfoot, the team all together, shenanigans & some side plots for funsies) maybe?…

I theorize Fire-Heart will:

Confirm Rowaelin as mates (they practically have already but I want to hear the words). Plus plenty more of them just being them (their every moment is so detailed & precious). Maybe even some more moments with Prince of Doranelle vibes ;-)

Show that there are multiple Carranams (possibly a dyad between Aelin & Dorian. Rowan & Aelin being the mates balance; making Aelin & Dorian the “friendship / rulers / fates” balance). & Without a limit to their power; the danger of over-draining others (Deanna causing Rowan to feel “thunder steal his magic” is CONCERNING & Dorian’s magic is hungry for it).

Confirm that Aelin can use shadowfire, moonfire, & power without limit. Explore her other gifts such as water & healing. Possibly introduce her as a powerful enough wielder to use all the forms (as briefly referenced as a possibility among others before).

Confirm Lysandra & Aedion as mates or at least a couple. (Also use it to explore Aedion’s history & introduce the Bane or at least their set-up).

Bring back the Mycenians since Lysandra & Aelin’s masterplan worked (THE DRAGON THEORY WAS RIGHT)!

Set sail on Manorian in a way that is explanatory/foreshadowing. (Possibly tap into Dorian’s immortality? & power exploration explanations. And go into Manon’s ability to forge a new alliance of peace between MANY groups; not because I’m suggesting the sexist “get married” nonsense so many are giving Aelin, literally just that she could speak on behalf of many groups & since Darrow has brought diplomatic debates into this war it could be an asset).

Introduce Ansel, and perhaps loop back to the Red Desert (unless the Silent Assassins have disappeared). Showing all of Celaena as we see all of Aelin (letting Rowan know even more of her, healing those wounds as he & her family fully accept her; hopefully doing the same thing for them; going through more history). & Similarly with Rowan; possibly saving the Cadre’s lives through it (or at least stopping Lorcans “execution”).

Tie in the spider silk, between Abraxos’s wings (Manon’s “stealing”), & Aelin’s Red Desert history deals. If not in this book than KoA.

Explain Maeve’s obsession with Aelin & vendetta against the family.

Aelin reclaiming her crown by having the heart of her people (we’ve seen “the future”, there is a woman with hair like moonlight; I think this is Manon. The people chant for her, she is their Queen and that is her court; including the witch).

I think Aelin (like Manon & the other golden eyed 13) are Valg proof. She has the golden eye ring of the Ashryver eyes… in that case maybe Aedion too?? (Hopefully🥺… I mean why else would history write a poem about it?) … While I’m at it let’s make Lysandra’s shifting immune too (protect all my bb’s)!😂

Reveal the Wyrdstone Elide carries as THE Lock (between her last name having the word lock😂 or “loch” I guess, the magic not being immediately recognized as a Wyrdkey by Lorcan, & Kaltain’s promise/importance with an explanation for the “living gate” term). Then when she reaches them so does the thread of fate (once again).

Go to Ellywe & both heal/break my soul (all this travel has made it inevitable; though it is cool to see more of the continents of this fictional world etc.)!🙃

Not something I truly believe but one I wonder on; is there a relation between either Rowan & Manon (history or hair color related😂) or Aelin & Manon (some sort of blood relation; the gold eyes & power levels?).

Not theories but things I think need to happen ASAP: STOP WEARING THE WYRDKEY as a necklace AELIN I DON’T care if it’s a “family heirloom” IT’S A BAD IDEA (have you not seen Harry Potter? — sry for another reference, but seriously DON’T WEAR HORCRUX LOCKETS folks)! Tell Elide the full truth; Celaena = Aelin (at least Lorcan is getting close). Commit to immortality (I’m looking at you Aelin & Aedion; esp. Aelin… ROWAN NEEDS THIS; the only time I will ever encourage a woman to “settle”😂)! Address the very long list of “things for later/back burner” because I can’t keep track😂 & they are all WAY too important😅, dangerous😬, and THE LIST IS LONG SO HURRY UP Y’ALL😁!!!

— NOW ONTO THE “ACTUALLY” READ “BIG PORTION😂 —

The Fire-Bringer:

A lot of reactions have random posts; per usual many of the opinions change with hindsight, but I like being able to look back & enjoy it for the first time so (while I do try to give an update) I’ll probably leave the posts up :-) hoping to get a few lil (by that I mean pages jk sry not sry lol I warned you) notes I’m pondering on in here though…

I love the Little Folk’s little but magical role:😊 when (not if; I’m gonna will it into reality with terminology) this gets an adaptation I can’t wait to see them! — I really love the fan art & its many different takes for what they may be all the way from fairy’s, to wisps, to “baby-Groot”-like characters! … I also wonder if they could help out with that “rulers flower thing” possibly, same as pondered for Lysandra (I think these “little things” will be keys to helping Aelin with “dum-dum Darrow” (as I’ve dubbed him; cause I’m angry! & it may be only a 1st read impression as of right now, but he’s also given me 0 reason to like him).

The Oakwald forest: EVERYONE IS SO CLOSE yet SO FAR! (At least Manon has finally made it to the team… well kinda… she better actually MAKE IT past the ship drop-off… if you can call it that?😅 this is why I need to type fast & go read!) If Tower of Dawn manages to match this pace of “just-missed, kinda-crossover” I see why the tandem read would work! It’s quite fun (& semi-irritating/anxiety-inducing but in a good way😂).

Speaking (writing?😂) of Manon: TALK ABOUT IMMEDIATE CHAOS, each of her chapters have been SO intense. I might have cried with her the most so far; I legitimately almost lost it over Asterin’s almost execution & The Thirteen (I AM VERY GLAD THEY FINALLY LEFT THE MATRON & got out so they can please be safe now; or at least they already are in my mind; though last we saw them it was all chaos, they were running (a win) & the shadows seemed to confirm them getting out (another good sign) while Asterin being dragged off screaming isn’t great I think she was shouting for Manon because she didn’t want to leave her… & I refuse to accept any other answer) only problem is Manon is not with them; & she really needs to be😅😅😭 instead of half-dead in the woods, hunted by a banshee-hound-thing? Abraxos honey, thank you for taking care of mother🥹😂 at least she is with the team on the same-ish side now. So, hopefully Abraxos will go grab the rest of The Thirteen while he drops Manon off? I NEED THE WHOLE GANG; I mean Erawan & Maeve are screwed in that case. Esp. since most of them are Valg proof golden eyed; & also have you seen these gals fight? … Honestly, I think they are one of the great shows of good writing in these books; because these characters could easily be read as villains & psychopaths to be hated, yet they manage to be a compelling, interesting, group of female badassery & sisterhood, that really captures your heart (pun intended). HOWEVER, I say all of this Spoiler-free while not oblivious; I have 2 &1/2 books left (wow that’s numbers too small I’m gonna get sad😅😂) I know people say this ending is a hard, & a book of cliffhangers… So, if this is “just” the beginning it can only get crazier😅 (I just don’t want to know; I want to think this will be like ACOTAR with no deaths as long as I can believe it) & even with the Matron’s probable on-it’s-way “dispatch”, they managed to hide Asterin for years. My main concern is Sorrel & Vesta as they’ve been given enough time to love them, yet not enough time for a full arc, I can’t have any red shirts & I’m a little worried for them (but I just wanna love them as long as I can🥹).

I’m so glad I was right; from day ONE I’ve been wondering about Aedion & Lysandra cause *coughs* I mean their first scene together ever… she’s changing his shirt… and now the whole “wandering off to give Rowaelin time” which while a fair-ish excuse it is also a little ;-) ;-) … and now that he’s said he’s gonna marry her “Because I am going to marry you," he promised her. "One day. I am going to marry you.”… I’m counting it (why is it giving New Girl CeCe & Schmidt?😂)

But in all seriousness ship-ness aside I appreciate their friendship; the understanding of each-other with a healthier trauma bond (for all they cannot say, yet carry so heavily; all the shame & fear Aedion is wrestling with; & the steady acceptance Lysandra gives) I loved them both as is, but together is something precious & nice to see develop (while staying slow, taking time, surety of respectful). While at times it feels fast, it makes complete sense (esp. as we don’t get their perspectives as frequently, & with the knowledge that mates can be pretty immediate; even if it’s not “said”; it tracks).

Though it hurt (& was also kinda healthily valid) to hear Aedion be angry with Aelin, it also says a lot about how much he cares for Lysandra (as Aelin often can “do no wrong in his eyes”) to be angry in the first place “And for the first time, he hated his cousin. He hated Aelin for asking this of Lysandra, both to defend them and to secure the Mycenians to fight for Terrasen. Hated the people who had left such scars on the shifter that Lysandra was so willing to throw her life away. Hated ... hated himself for being stuck in this useless tower.” While also knowing it’s not her fault, it is her choice, but it also had to be (he at least knows that & does cut her slack). “He was shaking now, that rage indeed taking over. But Rowan snarled at him, low and vicious, "Save it for later." Aedion growled right back at him. Rowan gave him a cold, steady look that said if he so much as began to hint at what their queen carried, he'd rip out his tongue. Literally. Aedion shoved down the anger. "We can't carry her, and she's too weak to shift." "Then we wait here until she can," Aelin said. But her eyes drifted to the bay, and to the city beyond, still cheering. victory—but very nearly a loss. The remnants of the Mycenians, saved by one of their long-lost sea dragons. Aelin and Lysandra had woven ancient prophecies into tangible fact. "I'll stay," Aedion said. "You deal with Rolfe." "Fine," he said. Aelin groaned, getting to her feet, but stared down at him before she took Rowan's extended hand. She said softly, "I'm sorry." Aedion knew she meant it. He still didn't bother replying.” & knows (because Lysandra makes him better; as she already reminds him with her knowing compassion): “"That man has endured enough, Aedion. A little kindness wouldn't kill you." "He stabbed Aelin. If you knew him as I have, you wouldn't be so willing to fawn over. "No one expects you to fawn over him. But a kind word, some respect-" He rolled his eyes. "Keep your voice down." She did- but went on, "He was violated, and even if you cannot draw up forgiveness for stabbing Aelin against his own will, then try to have some compassion for that." — Aedion snarled at her. Lysandra snarled right back and held his stare with the face not trained or built for bedrooms, but the true one beneath—wild and unbroken and indomitable. No matter what body she wore, she was the Staghorns given form, the heart of Oakwald Aedion said hoarsely, "I'll try." "Try harder. Try better."”)

& Then moments like him asking her to come with him to meet Gavriel, & she simply does. Or that she trusts him to carry her home, vulnerable & tired. I think they give a lot of what the other needs while growing to be who they are themselves. Plus Lysandra deserves to be a leopard princess, sister-in-law(ish) to Aelin. “Princess Lysandra Ashryver sounds nice, doesn't it?” YES IT DOES!

Speaking of Lysandra (who is seriously one of my all time favorites; I relate, I adore her, and really it just doesn’t get better then all of these characters) I WAS RIGHT ABOUT LYSANDRA BEING A DRAGON!!! GENIUS!! And also LYSANDRA WAS A DRAGON!!!!!! I love her & Aelin’s plotting (which also gets kinda Kaz Brekker vibes sometimes; she is so brilliant, & the fact Lysandra just piles into the shenanigans; I love them). TALK ABOUT POWER! Also what fun genius for mythology… winning the people’s hearts… etc. …if only she could turn into a flower… and making that moment the first perspective we have from her in this book was so fun! Shoutout to @ asexualzucchini for fandoming about this with me (heads up again cause I know your on a first read too; THIS POST HAS SPOILERS for Pt. 1 ;-)

ELIDE & LORCAN; a team-up I was NOT expecting, yet find SO intriguing. From highlighting Elide (which is well deserved) esp. in her truest strength; smarts (her & Annabeth Chase would’ve been besties) and as something even Lorcan sees & values greatly, extra fun as in combo to his physical strength it’s a pretty perfect team (& a helpful combo for storytelling because you see his perspective which is of course very different then spoken threats from Rowaelin perspectives ONLY; & of course once again while I’m curious to learn more on the Cadre; esp. since Lorcan often to me just seems angry to have “lost” his friend). And I do love the boundaries they respect (even as an unknown dare I say “anti-hero”? Lorcan still has some clear moral lines (& I generally appreciate that in the Maasverse that everyone except the worst of the worst can agree where those are) he also keeps his word a VERY intriguing piece of his character), also the representation they give (go team disability represent!) + small girlies hanging out w big brooding boys (there’s my “kitty” style reference for you Aelin lol). Also funny cause eventually they’re gonna end up in the same place😂 P.S. him calling her MARION (gut-wrenching), Crochan history (very curious), etc. IT’S JUST ALL SO INTRIGUING! … Now if we could only have an empowering crossover so she can go talk to Feyre & realize she’s already intelligent, powerful, & capable, & not being able to read has no effect on that!! (while we’re at it & I’m on a crow comparison kick; go hug Wylan please).

Another team up I didn’t expect but surprisingly loved most was Dorian & Rowan’s roadtrip through Rifthold (new movie adaptation idea?😂):

Dorian, Dorian, Dorian where do I begin? — I love him. I think he might be the most morally grounded character (odd as that sounds for someone that was recently possessed). He would be a good king, because most important he’s just a good man. My heart breaks for him, he’s seen a lot without time or space to deal with it (it’s just adding up; “The latter, Dorian realized, usually happened when even the heat and sun couldn't drive away the shadows of the past few months—when he awoke with his sweat feeling like Sorscha's blood, when he couldn't abide even the brush of his tunic against his neck.”); yet he still gives everything he can to his friends, his people, his country (& Rowan gives & takes care of him too (another Aelin paralell/foreshadowing; “"You're not going to believe me," Aelin went on. "What l've just said, you're not going to believe me. I know it--and that's fine. I don't expect you to. When you're ready, I'll be here.”) ; “He wasn't sure whether to thank the Fae Prince for noticing or to hate him for the kindness.” — Because Rowan knows; “"You're going to hate the world, Dorian. You are going to hate yourself. You will hate your magic, and you will hate any moment of peace or happiness. But I had the luxury of a kingdom at peace and no one depending upon me. You do not."”); and somehow Dorian just remains good and kind even when the world is not. He may carry more, but it is never an excuse for him; he sets aside his pride, humbled, un-selfish, caring, and really trying. (remarkable enough that even Rowan notices & takes note; “I have known many kings in my life, Dorian Havilliard. And it was a rare man indeed who asked for help when he needed it, who would put aside pride.”) And I also appreciate that he is cared for in this, seen for who he is; respected in it (FINALLY said quite well in: “Rowan knew most underestimated the sharp intelligence under that disarming smile. Knew that Dorian's value wasn't his godlike magic, but his mind”)

And getting the friends & care he deserves, like Aelin who kept her word “I came back for you. "You both came back,"” (he is her friend, she does care for him) as it’s shown because she went so far as to send Rowan (someone she would NEVER risk; “"I will save him," he murmured. "I wouldn't ask this of you unless it was ... Dorian is vital. Lose him, and we lose any support in Adarlan." And one of the few magic-wielders who could stand against Morath. Rowan's nod was grim. "I serve you, Aelin. Do not apologize for putting me to use." Because only Rowan, riding the winds with his magic, could reach Rifthold in time. Even now, he might be too late. Aelin swallowed hard, fighting the feeling that the world was being ripped from under her feet.” (When she says “losing support” she pauses; because really it’s about losing Dorian her friend, remember she’s always coming from the mindset of “she will not write another name on her scars” almost to the level of her “I will not be afraid mantra” fading in from QoS in this first EoS quarter) so she wouldn’t risk him even in leaving her side (which props to Maas for breaking a typical VERY possessive YA trait; even at the cost of a promise-ish from the last book; “Next time we need to save the world, we do it together. Deal.”). & keeps keeping that promise to save him; not only to keep her word, but keep her friend. Along the way he so easily becomes Rowan’s friend, thawing the ice by just being a decent guy (that says a lot for a centuries old Prince of stoic brooding). I love the genuine respect they have for each other; the time they take (even short as it is) to have a mini-boat therapy session because they needed it; it says a lot about the two of them as good men; the way they help each-other, plan & train together (Dorian even has time to understand Aelin’s time away with a new compassion😅😅 “Honestly, Dorian had no idea how Aelin had survived months of this--let alone fallen in love with the warrior while she did. Though he supposed both the queen and prince possessed a sadistic streak that made them compatible” & even see Rowan get a taste of the Celaena Sardothien world & find he has similar sass). vice-versa you also see someone valuing Rowan’s strength, strategy, personality beyond warrior or prince, without any of this “male pride chest-puffing instinct”. And the way despite the change in new healthier friendships you also have the original ones growing with them “"And will keep changing," she said, squeezing his arm once. "But... There are things that won't change. I will always be your friend." His throat bobbed. "I wish I could see her, just one last time. To tell her... to say what was in my heart." "She knows," Aelin said, blinking against the burning in her eyes. "I'll miss you," Dorian said. "Though I doubt the next time we meet will be in such …civilized circumstances." She tried not to think about it. He gestured over her shoulder to her court. "Don't make them too miserable. They're only trying to help you."” It helps both him and them; like the team they need to be & are finding a way in: “"We'll figure it out." She loosed a breath. "But your being king is the first step of it."” Like the Queens & Kings they have been becoming for a world slowly building; starting with the fact he is one of the good men that do exist (like Nehemia & Celaena said) and as already shown: “Ten years later, and they were all sitting together at a table again--no longer children, but rulers of their own territories. Ten years later, and here they were, friends despite the forces that had shattered and destroyed them. Aelin looked at the kernel of hope glowing in that dining room and lifted her glass. "To a new world," the Queen of Terrasen said. The King of Adarlan lifted his glass, such endless shadows dancing in his eyes, but--there. A glimmer of life. "To freedom."” esp. as he helps raise up women in positions of power to do so as well! (We love a King ally)

Much like Aelin growing into a queen you see the shift as Dorian becomes a King. “Never again. Never again would he be weak and useless and frightened.” (From a quote I appreciated and found Nesta paralells in). “To her surprise, a king smiled back.” And I just hope somewhere along the way Dorian also finds his happy ending much like our queen is slowly finding a way too (like Rowan said; “You will find your way, too, Dorian. You'll find your way out.”); I think Manon is promising, I think he finally has a real family, & he’s learning his power which is good; his already Kingly skills also come in handy, they needed a diplomat. And for two characters I love so much, a genre that rarely shows good friendships between so many characters and guys having emotions and bonding beyond a love interest trope… I just loved it! p.s. thanks again @ mysterylilycheeta for fandoming about this one with me (and many others :-)

Now speaking of Dorian quotes (plus I needed a transition lol) much like Dorian I do sometimes miss Chaol; “"You know," he said, "sometimes I wish Chaol were here to help me. And then sometimes I'm glad he's not, so he wouldn't be at risk again. I'm glad he's in Antica with Nesryn.”while also being glad he’s off somewhere else… not just ‘cause of the injury (I actually hope they don’t make that THE “problem”, at least in the sense of making him “useless”. While healing in a magical realm is a useful skill, representation of disabled characters in the read world is also really important & still super kick-ass & powerful)… So, I’m glad he’s gone not for that but for the fact I think his mentality would conflict right now (& while Aelin isn’t always right; & does sometimes need a check as Aedion aforementioned & does this at least better thank Chaol in timing & how) + most of the time ya kinda need to just “keep calm & trust the process” because while “the gods may have some “masterplan” & only Aelin can outsmart & outplan them (you just have to let her go for it)… and hopefully Elide will be there to help soon!

Now speaking of good friends, & the rest of this post from “threads of fate”, to really loving characters, friendships, relationships (even most of my favorite quotes) it’s time to address THE SHIP because there is ROWAELIN. TRULY WHERE DO I START? I love them. They are perfect. Nothing can break them (Nothing better try). I love the peace & hope they hold for the other (they want more together, for each other; to live.). The balance they carry; especially when one is down, the other lifts them up (even rapidly flipping; I’m a few Chapters into Part 2 (spoiler sentence)🚨 & there’s the moment where it goes from her being on fire & him waking her from her nightmares, to him so panicked to save her he’s freezing the room & she’s soothing him). The way they are so alike, & shown even more so (as I’ve briefly mentioned) in this book (Rowan having some Celaena moments, her taking on a leader & diplomatic role, learning to control water & him teaching her to heal, exploring each others histories & a growing team of friends for & with them) & VERY different (they are the balance even in what they do share; for instance a scene I think on frequently: when Rowan leaves to go get Dorian, and Aelin cannot let him go. Right there she uses very specific words; she does not ask him to stay instead she says she cannot let him go; because she knows asking him to stay (like Lyria had begged) would kill him or telling him “he’s leaving her” would utterly destroy them both. And he does the same; he distracts her (knows what she needs) takes a moment for them (stops the clock) kisses her and then leaves before she opens her eyes in a flash, so she does not have to watch him leave (again), or (be the one to) walk away from him (he knows she already used all of her will to even have him go in the first place, she cannot ask anything more or she will not ask at all), or run again. They both are feeling the same thing, while understanding the differences they have experienced, they take the notice to love the other the way they need & the only way they can). Part of it stems from something I’ve adressed on the blog before, the honesty they share; and desperately needed. Or have discussed with other fans in beyond that the fact they trust, they can have it all on the table, and respect what has to be kept. Part is the fact they are the others soulmate (waiting for those words: “mate” to “officially” & finally seal what we ALL know by now😂). Another being the threads of fate every character keeps seeing; they are VERY tightly bound beyond separation; for better or worse a tangled knot that can not be undone.

The way in that they would fight by the others side, live & die together, for each-other. They would save the world for each-other (like Rowan jumping in front of the moonfire because he knew her fiery soul; “"No!" The word was a roar, a plea, and silver and green flashed in her vision. A name. A name clanged through her as he hurled himself in the path of that fist, that moonfire, not just to save those innocents in the city, but to spare her soul from the agony if she destroyed them all-Rowan.” — “"If you had destroyed that city, it would have destroyed you, and any sort of hope at an alliance."”) It goes beyond taking a bullet for the other, it goes to taking a bullet from the other (you see that side a lot in HoF). They would save the other for the world (like he says, the world needs alliances; because he knows it needs her, his queen). Or the other from the world; “And as his face became clear, his tattoo stark in the sun, as that fist full of unimaginable power now opened toward his heart-There was no force in any world that could keep her contained.” Together, to whatever end. They would even destroy it for the other; “But if it was death separating us … I would find you. I don’t care how many rules it would break. Even if I had to get all three keys myself and open a gate, I would find you again. Always.” They deserve something that’s an always, known, world & gods defying. And while I appreciate the way they defend each other, I also appreciate the way they defend their friends together; it may be them to whatever end, but it’s also not just them against the world (more so for the world?) they may be capable of destroying the world for each other, still they choose to give everything to save it. They choose each other, they continue to do so, to accept, to be honest. “Even if this thing between them ... even if he knew it was not mere lust, or even just love. This thing between them, the force of it, could devour the world. And if they picked it, picked them, it might very well cause the end of it.” they have a powerful love (one that is quite literally more powerful together). I love that scene too, the carranam; the way he steadies her (he knows why the manacles scare her, knows how to help her breathe despite it; “she is not afraid”), trusts her (she could kill them both, but he believes in her, always has, even before she believed in herself) gives her his power (talk about a feminist ally😂 he literally uses his power to give her more power), and she blazes the world (better & worse); she trusts him enough for the irons (something she may have killed someone else for), she trusts his trust in her (it empowers her metaphorically too), trusts him to save her from herself; trusts him which as this line shows; “"You trust nothing. She met his eyes. "I trust you."” is almost a miracle in itself. I love the easy rhythm they fall into like breathing, simple domesticity (even among war), natural understanding (soulmates), gentle unconditional stubborn & unchanging love that simply is. & is accepted as such. Learning more of their history in parallels & new perspectives, tales & legends, chaos & opposites (especially opposed in power) FIRE & ICE and remains the “meant to be” Carranam; though one of a kind it also understands itself in being love among grief, giving it the ability to see & soothe the unhealthy internal monologues… in a way that’s honestly kinda healing to read; I love their quotes, I love their scenes, I love their characters, I just love them.

It’s been fun to see more Aelin as Aelin, (and I’m not meaning “The one in green smiled, but for all its delight, all its wicked mischief ... It was a softer smile, made with a mouth that was perhaps less used to snarling and teeth-baring and getting away with saying hideous, swaggering things. Lysandra, then. The two queens faced Rolfe.” Lysandra twin-swap scene 😂) the way Celaena is now recognized as a part to play; “You met Aelin when she was still pretending to be Celaena” — “Because it was Celaena who sat here-for whatever purpose, it was Celaena Sardothien in this room.” from the way Rowan helped & accepted her all along. Rowan has always been her protector, her guard, her best champion, fiercest warrior & love, her dearest friend, her everything. It’s the one that saw all & loved anyways “to have one person who knew the absolute truth about her--and didn't hate her for it.” — “I see you, I see every part of you. And I am not afraid.” he is not afraid of her; the first time she’s ever had that… Something she desperately needs as someone so fear-based… She went from being a child who was never not afraid; she was taught to fear her power, fear the secret coming free, because she would be persecuted; because her people would not love her for what she was; she was protected against it and taught her powers weren’t to be trusted. She spent so long burying herself… Arobynn taught her that; created a world of only that for her to exist in, only to survive never to live. And as I’ve said before I LOVE SAM, I truly think he would have accepted her without flinching (I love & believe in the many soulmates for many lives theories; he was Celaena’s) but over & over again the saddest four words of almost they never had time. Thinking someone would love you “even if” is different that getting to experience it, she was still afraid he would turn her in or turn away, he would judge her as she judged herself, or didn’t know “how dark she could go”; like he was too good and she would drag him down. And here is Rowan: the one person who could stop her (the dark comfort she takes in knowing he could save the world if she endangered it; “That is how I was able to stand before the King of Adarlan, how I was able to befriend his son and his captain, how I was able to live in that palace. Because I did not give that rage, those memories, one inch. And right now I am looking for the tools that might destroy my enemy, and I cannot let out the monster, because it will make me use those tools against the king, not put them back as I should--and I might very well destroy the world for spite. So that is why l must be Celaena, not Aelin--because being Aelin means facing those things, and unleashing that monster. Do you understand?”) and doesn’t think that of her; “For whatever it's worth, I don't think you would destroy the world from spite.”

To the moment on the beach that strikes me again & again; Aelin in her rawest state (inner child & traumatized immortal), sobbing, unclothed (a very important detail not because of the rest of Chapter 38 spice but because of the psychological component; she is stripped down to her core at her worst, most vulnerable, visibly terrified uncomfortable state; it’s more like a nightmare of giving a speech & realizing your the only one without clothes), on fire (no hidden power or sense of control), unleashing an entire storm (after almost destroying the world; her world; even against her will); because she is Aelin Ashryver Galathynius “the rightful heir of fire” and Queen of Terrasen; she has been “Adarlans Assassin” & a “King’s Champion” Lillian, Elentiya, Celaena… all of these names… and yet, she is still afraid. And she cannot stop it; she is trying & failing, feeling every step backwards for every step she takes, she is running to nowhere, she is lost. And then there is Rowan. Rowan, who walked to the creak to see her, and went loudly so she would know & not be afraid. Rowan who knows when she needs to let off steam (literally) & has been burned & still does not turn away from her. Rowan who now is “silent as death” because he knows her mind is already screaming enough for the both of them. Rowan who follows her; over & over, unflinching, returning, staying, seeing, & still believing in her (even before she believed in herself; even when she cannot). She is begging for anyone that listens to take the job & all its “blessings & burdens of power”, wishing for a bottom to the endless abyss of her power, drowning in it; helpless in her own strength, because she does not trust herself (how can she when she can’t even be herself; not just Celaena; but Deanna), trying to run from herself. And Rowan who sees, hears, knows; and only cares about her. Choosing her. Loving her. Telling her those words. Arguing against the voices in her head for her; making her feel for a moment that maybe somehow she’s worth it (or at least too lucky to care even if she’s not). Because he has every reason to go; he knows what he could lose (even as they stand there; he is still shaken & terrified; he just saw a god steal the woman he loves from her own mind; he has no idea how to fight that & bring her back) He has lost that; felt it for centuries The world may be the price, they may be the price, they are in the middle of a war waged & waiting for hundreds of years; and he does not care. He only cares about her; better & worse. And she is not alone; never again. Reminding her that she can be both, staying on the road. As he says (a quote that made me cry): “You and I will learn to manage your power together. You do not face this alone; you do not decide that you are unlovable because you have powers that can save and destroy. If you start to resent that power… I don’t know where we go on that road.” And when she voices it, that fear (that brought me to tears); you’re just crazy for loving me.“"Because I'm the only one arrogant and insane enough to ask Mala Fire-Bringer to let me stay with the woman I love. Her flames turned to pure gold at the words-at that word. But she said, "Perhaps you're just the only one arrogant and insane enough to love me."” He simply, firmly, undoubtably, says no. … And when the times comes; when he creates a snow storm of his own (& destroys half a forrest😂) she just laughs, holds him closer, kisses him again. As she says; “who would not look at those flames with any ounce of fear.” as anyone else would have. They aren’t afraid of each other, they aren’t afraid, not together. “But Rowan had caught her each time she had fallen-first, when she had plummeted into that abyss of despair and grief; second, when that castle had shattered and she had plunged to the earth. And now this time, this third time ... She was not afraid.”

And because they are equal, because they will go to whatever end, because they pull each other back over & over whenever/wherever they drift. (And while I love Lyria, I believe she was one of his soulmates) I don’t think anyone ever understood him so well in return… Rowan loved Lyria. Lyria wanted him to stay for good reason, but he was not able to tire to rest to settle; she did not understand the warrior; just as he couldn’t understand enough not to be. Where peace was never quite had, the warrior that could not rest; there is Aelin. Who just goes to war with him, for him, for them. She is his hope, his queen, his love, his world, his fireheart🥹, & his everything (& thankfully NOT because of the blood-oath; “"How does she do it?" Aelin asked baldly. "With Rowan, it's not ... Every order I give him, even casual ones, are his to decide what to do with. Only when I actively pull on the bond can I get him to ... yield. And even then it's more of a suggestion." "It is different with her," Gavriel said softly. "Dependent on the ruler it is sworn to. You two took the oath to each other with love in your hearts. You had no desire to own or rule him." Aelin tried not to flinch at the truth of that word—love. That day ... when Rowan had looked into her eyes as he drank her blood ... she'd started to realize what it was. That the feeling that passed between them, so powerful there was no language to describe it ... It was not mere friendship, but something born of and strengthened by it.” glad they clarified that to give consent). I’ve said this about them before and I’ll say it again there is something healing in how wholly they accept and understand each other (to the point you would think they are reading minds), how evenly matched and equal they are. They are two of the best matched characters I know of; at times even to a fault (but even that is taken in stride). Aelin and Rowan are everything they have ever been with the other. This isn’t a comparison, there’s something beautiful to each of them (I’ll even still say that to Dorian & Aelin, the way their friendship came to be, and re-reads what might have been) there is just the fact that this is different and I think it’s a special kind of something. And the fact in the matching for the other they can go to the ends of the earth together; whether it be as Queen and Prince (though he would make a good king ;-) or assassins, gentle souls trying to rest, never at rest but trying for peace, fae and shifters fire and ice, warriors, martyrs, saviors, villains, Kings Champion & Maeve’s Cadre, friends, mates, whatever it may be “to whatever end”.

I especially love them in the little things… all these moments that show everything I’ve said and more.

The detail in Rowan knowing the other side to Aelin keeping him at the beach, and it not taking away from the moment. He knows, he accepts it. They know the layers, they don’t pretend otherwise, they don’t run or fight it, they just sit with it. The way he held her & grounded her during the sea battle, believing in her even as she lost her balance in power, the way she came back from Deanna for him, the way she held on to him through the storm. She reminds him what he is; that he is everything she needs, she doesn’t take the bullshit, she doesn’t give up; she lends a hand, or lets him follow, or defends him. And they finally said it; I love you. — Actually better than that, worlds best quote award of: “I love you. There is no limit to what I can give to you, no time I need. Even when this world is a forgotten whisper of dust between the stars, I will love you.”They finally chose this, them; and the world needed it (I will go down with the ship of them as queen and king). … So, my shippers heart is happy, I want more, I’m happy they’re happy, I want them to stay happy. They are the best brightest threads of fate & for a book I’ve loved to see tie together, the Rowaelin ship has been pretty perfect.

And some random notes I keep wondering on:

The color green in this series… From Lysandra’s eyes (the one marker she keeps in each form; funny as it’s also Terrasen (her future Courts) color, to Rowan’s pine green (& often “home” like Terrasen descriptions (once again)) to the green roofing of Rifthold, or tiling of the desert, the stolen wax stamp rings, Terrasen’s color, etc. … it’s just used to tell a lot of story & I find it a fun note!

On the subject of these “fun notes” I’d also like to Mention Maasverse “deals” in wording; I find it so interesting how carefully phrased (like a genie) things need to be, yet kept to their word they are. I feel like there’s some loopholes within some plots right now using that clause (if only there was Mort to prove it!)… I miss Mort…

There’s all of Lysandra’s shapeshifting, the character in that, her character all together. And then moments like Rowan reaching her to fly, to have her own wings. And introducing more powers outside of fae.

Fenyrs possible… winnowing? Whatever reason it was that Rowan sent him to save Aelin instead of himself (obviously meaning he was more capable because Rowan would save her any means necessary).

And these aforementioned threads of fate are pretty brilliantly done, I look forward to continuing to enjoy them. From Oakwald to 10 years ago to the detail of plans (Aelin going to the temple, for Brannon & the Dragon, & her territory claim… etc.)… SO MANY!!!

Especially because of YOU!..

— Final, biggest most important book/fandom thought yet: —

THANK YOU to the Maasverse!

As someone who doesn’t know anyone reading these —one of my favorite things to do is talk about them with other fans— I’m thankful to still have that; I’m thankful that tumblr has that; and thankful that y’all are so welcoming, kind, talented, & lovely! (Limiting full tags as this post is ridiculously long and no one should “have” to read it😂)

There’s a long list of you, to name a few (others please know you are still on the list, loved & appreciated)!! @ archerons-elain @ highladyelenna @ iwantavaldezinator @ romantasyreader28 @ antvwinderbaum @ shadowhunters77 @ chaos-on-stand-bi @ theauroragalaxy @ impossibelle @ aelin-fire-heart @ autumnbabylon @ headboymalfoy @ somebooksbelonginthesinbin @ idfendyr @ winged-artistic-wolf @ batter-upp @ cheap-spirits @ just tsteffs50cts @ xxvalkyriesxx @ captain-of-the-gwynriel-ship @ lynnsthoughts @ maevecrom @ stingy-swann @ mothlvrtothemoon @ wannaberachelgrxxn @ sweetokami @ avymiir

& so if I missed any, like I said just know you are so appreciated🫶 … and sorry I get confused sometimes (as this is technically a secondary blog to @lavendarneverlands lol😂). It’s always me though🤣

30 notes · View notes

randaccidents · 9 months ago

Text

Twenty-seven songs are yours Yet you still want for more?

I made some lyric posters for CCCC! (cause I was bored in class lol) They came out a lot like actual posters and Im honestly quite proud of them.

[I have not tested them as phone wallpapers yet BUT feel free to use these as phone wallpapers! Otherwise ask permission (shovel)]

Tiny things Im happy about (cause I wanna yell about stuff, itll go into the read more but theres Easter Eggs in there about stuff that literally writes itself but I couldnt fit in and hints to some of the deeper symbolism I used):

I started this because I wanted to make something really skeletal and visceral for Heart and Mind and it just went from there

Yes that is the Entire Reason why I used realistic body elements I had to separately import that heart in

Each of them has an element represents them - its the only element that is in front of the lyrics

Speaking of, Whole is special in their represented element (hint: Whole is only a medium for songs)

Having to make up something for Soul and Whole thats, yknow, a body part (or not in the end for Whole)

The lyrics in each poster is something that the character has said about themselves, said in reference to themselves in the songs or represents a view that they hold (mostly)

Speaking of I believe I represented almost every song/motif possible? I know I skipped Taken for a Ride - I think thats the only song not represented in at least one poster actually. huh. It is in the post though (I did that before I realised I didnt include Taken for a Ride)

Does this make the posters album posters instead lmao

The lyrics are also in order of song appearance!

The names of some of the fonts I went through are: Give you Glory for Soul, and Kollektiff for Whole. If the fonts weren't too small I wouldve kept them qwq the joke literally writes itself

Speaking of fonts, Souls final font is literally empty, zoom in and youll see that its made of only lines and no fill

The electric and acoustic guitar are flipped in the Whole poster. Thats cause uhhhh I planned it I dont have to make amends hahaha (I done fucked up thats why and Im lazy to fix it now)

Ironically, Heart and Mind were the easiest posters

Soul was meant to have a grey background but it was so fugly I just couldnt let it sit

Whole was a last minute addition, there were only supposed to be three in this series

I started Whole's poster expecting to lack lyrics. I have been proven VERY WRONG he has the smallest font size (and I thought Soul had a lot)

Whole is also the only one with coloured lyrics; HMS have their lyrics in black/white/grey

Mind has the least lyrics about himself (cause he spends so much of his songs dissing Heart lmao)

Canva doesnt have noose images :( /j/j/j

I absolutely forgot some of the tiny things but Im just happy about it and want to dump it out :) Maybe someone else would appreciate it too

57 notes · View notes

silly-little-gooses · 1 month ago

Text

Karma: The Long Lost Taylor Swift Album

The long-lost album ‘Karma’ is potentially one of the biggest Taylor Swift conspiracy theories out there. But what is it? Where did it come from? Could it possibly be true?

It is believed by some that Taylor created an album called ‘Karma’, set to release in 2016 (all images above are fan-made or photo shoots). This album was set to be after 1989, but was scrapped to create reputation after the Kanye West and Kim Kardashian drama.

If you’re unaware of the drama, here’s a quick summary. In 2009, Kanye interrupted Taylor’s acceptance speech at the VMA’s. But after that, she forgave him and they were friendly up until February of 2016. That’s when Kanye released a song called ‘Famous’, where he says the lines “I feel like me and Taylor might still have s€x/Why?/I made that b*tch famous.”

Taylor spoke out about this lyric and said she did not consent to it. In July of 2016, Kanye’s wife, Kim Kardashian, released videos on her Snapchat in which Taylor seemed to approve the lyric over the phone. Taylor then stopped making public appearances and deleted all social media for the rest of 2016. This sparked the creation of reputation.

EVIDENCE OF KARMA

In the ‘The Man’ music video, a wall of graffiti is shown. Spray painted on it are the words reputation, Speak Now, 1989, Red, Fearless, and Karma. The first five are albums that are her Taylor’s Version re-recordings, but Karma seems out of place. There is also a picture of a scooter with a cross over it, referencing her leaving Scooter Braun and her old record label. There is also a sign that says “MISSING: IF FOUND, RETURN TO TAYLOR SWIFT”, referencing her stolen albums that she didn’t have the full rights to due to Scooter Braun. This all makes sense, except Karma, which is in the very middle.

Taylor started wearing a lot of orange during 2016-2017, which is believed to be the color that represents the Karma album, similarly to how pink represents Lover, gold represents Fearless, purple represents Speak Now, etc.

In the Look What You Made Me Do music video, she wore an orange outfit while swinging in a bird cage, which may have hinted at the “in the vault” status of Karma. Also, LWYMMD features the lyric “All I think about is karma.”

In Taylor’s 73 Questions interview with Vogue, she said “Karma is real.” Many think that this is an Easter egg. For example, in Taylor’s “30 Things I Learned Before Turning 30” essay for Elle, she hid a lyric of her song Daylight, which would be released in the future as part of the Lover album.

Taylor had been consistently releasing albums every other year up until 2016.

2006 - Debut

2008 - Fearless

2010 - Speak Now

2012 - Red

2014 - 1989

In 2016, she didn’t release any music to continue the pattern. This leads people to believe that Karma was meant to be released, but was scrapped to create reputation, which would release in 2017.

Some people believe that Taylor may release Karma (Taylor’s Version) as a part of her Taylor’s Version series.

Some people think she will simply release it as an album by itself, perhaps TS12.

Do you believe in Karma?

#taylor swift #karma #karma taylor swift #reputation taylor’s version #1989 taylor's version #karma taylor’s version #conspiracy theories #goosey rants

15 notes · View notes

sumendi-blog · 6 months ago

Text

I decided to make this post with all the info/hints/spoilers/etc for "what we do in the shadows S6" because yes, as much I'm disappointed I'm staying to the bitter end

■I TRIED THAT EVERY INFO GOES WITH IT'S SOURCE

■IF SOMEONE WANTS THEIR URL/TUMBLR DOWN, MESSAGE ME PLEASE

■SOME BIG SPOILERS

Will update with interviews and future trailers...

Edit 19/05 -> Harvey (Guillermo)"teases" about the final episode

Edit 20/05-> Mark (Colin Robinson) gives his opinion about the ending/Matt Berry (Laszlo) speaks about his character.

Edit 3/06-> Not really a spoiler, but confirmed that WWDITS was cancelled unexpectedly in S6

Edit 7/06-> Zach Woods will appear in S6, rol unknown

◇CHARACTERS

×Baron Afanas (Doug Jones) confirmed to return for 4 chapters

...............................................

xHarvey confirmed the appearance of his stunt, Josh Maloney, so we can assume that Guillermo will have action/fight scenes

Source: Harvey Guillen's instagram (stories)

...............................................

×Miguel (Frankie Quiñones), Guillermo's cousin, confirmed to return

...............................................

xJulian Richings could be Laszlo's father

...............................................

×Jack Copland could be Laszlo's creation/Frankestein

vimeo

...............................................

xZach Woods in S6, rol unknown

◇SCENARY

×There will be scenes in the Richmond-Adelaide Centre, Toronto

...............................................

×There will be scenes in Leslieville-Toronto

...............................................

xAn area that looks like the suburbs/seaport

Source: Harvey Guillen's instagram (stories)

◇MIX

-We can assume that Laszlo created his own Frankestein stealing parts from the cementery, maybe to be the new "familiar"?. In the same episode (maybe?), Nadja brings Laszlo's father back as a ghost.

-Matt Berry, when asked about his character "Daytona", he said that "he might be back" not taking him too seriously though

-Harvey hinted that Guillermo will embrace his Van Helsing blood, having a new dream

-Harvey teases the final episode as an "emotional one"

-Mark gives his opinion about the series ending, Matt Berry says that there's "a lot of science" moments from his character in S6 (we already know one of them at least is going to be his Frankestein). Harvey...says all over again the same things about his character.

- WWDITS cancelled unexpectedly after S6

https://x.com/TheShadowsOOC/status/1800281991792734251

#what we do in the shadows #wwdits #wwdits s6 #wwdits s6 spoilers #wwdits spoilers

43 notes · View notes

alec4hardy · 14 days ago

Text

The psychic Steve Connelly really added a bit of mystical element to the show, I've seen many says "What's the point of that psychic guy?" Well, many fiction enjoy writing about overlooked prophets.

However, this character's main purpose seems to extend beyond that. Besides reinforcing the narrative themes of " the killer is among us" and " the truth will shatter relationships" he also indirectly reflects the other characters' states of mind—people often turn to the supernatural when they’re desperate.

The show hinted that he is a fraud. (I know Chibnall once said this is an open plot, but hear me out ):

He speaks with uncertainty most of the time, relying on "cold reading" (commonly used by mediums). For example, he mentions "names with the letters R or S" (take a look at the characters list; everyone fits that description) and "playing the piano" (which he even got wrong). Hardy confronts him, this is a seaside town, there are boats everywhere; 'About boats' is just a lucky guess.

The only time he speaks with certainty is when he says, "She says she forgives you about the pendant."

But we later learn that Hardy didn't need to be "forgiven" at all, because it wasn't his fault. Connelly must have looked up news about Sandbrook beforehand, leading him to mistakenly believe this was a solid fact.

Interestingly, Hardy himself should know this deep down than anyone. Logically, he shouldn't just never believe these supernatural things from the start; after this line, he should feel very certain that Connelly is a fraud.

However, after Hardy falls at the end of S01E06, after Hardy collapses while chasing the suspect, his heart problem becomes apparent, and he is about to be reassigned. This is when he calls to meet the psychic.

Either he was genuinely so disoriented that he started to believe his own lie, that the pendant incident was actually his fault, or he was truly at his wit’s end...

I've always wanted to discuss faith in this show.

Although it's called Broadchurch and there is indeed a church, it seems that the only character who practices religion is Beth's mother, Liz, who wears a cross necklace and is a church deacon. There don't seem to be others.

In S01E04, Joe comments on Jack, saying, "I didn't know he was religious." to which Miller retorts, "Didn't know we were."

Later, in a conversation with Alec Hardy and Ellie Miller, we learn that people here might go to church for weddings and funerals, and attend Midnight Mass on Easter, primarily for Easter egg hunts. But people don't really believe in it, so it's a very fragile and easily broken thing.

Mark in his anger and sadness exclaim: "Your God left my son for dead!"

In a deleted scene, even Tom provocatively says to Paul, "Won't God protect you?"

Interestingly, in S01E04, one morning Joe suddenly says he wants to take the kids to church; if you think about it seriously, I find it definitely suspicious.

As for whether Alec Hardy believes, Ellie Miller once asked him, and he made a joke, clearly indicating he doesn't.

However, we can infer from what Alec Hardy's mother says, "God will put you in the right place." that she likely believes, so we can assume young Hardy was influenced by that.

I think he might have believed at one point, but at some moment that faith let him down, perhaps because of his mother's death.

In the official novel, there's a passage:

‘You have no concept of faith, do you?’ says Coates. ‘I didn’t muscle in. People turned to me. Straight away. People who wouldn’t normally even think about religion. They asked me to speak. They asked me to listen. They needed me. And you know why? Because there was a fear that you couldn’t address, a gap you couldn’t plug. Because all you have is suspicion, and an urge to blame whoever’s in closest proximity.’ Hardy folds his arms against the tirade. ‘Look, you can accuse me, you can take samples, you can belittle who I was in the past. But you don’t get to belittle my faith, just because you have none. People need hope right now, and they’re certainly not getting it from you.’

He waits for Hardy’s reaction like he’s expecting some kind of conversion. Hardy keeps his arms folded and his mouth closed. He will not give Coates the satisfaction of knowing how shaken he is.

The words echo in his head for the rest of the afternoon. It is not true that he has no concept of faith. He has always believed in evidence and procedure. But where do you go if they fail you, as they are now? What happens then?

If Hardy were a different sort of man, he would pray for a miracle.

Hardy actually has his beliefs, but some things just can't be undone.

We often say that Alec Hardy is emotional, while Ellie Miller is evidence-driven (like her keen awareness of the the wood floor in S2) (Millardy is the best team!)

Alec Hardy's investigative process is filled with intuition and emotion — he often perceives through feelings and drives the case forward with emotions, making suspects anxious until they slip up.

So to say he completely disbelieves such things isn't entirely accurate; he literally sought out a psychic for help.

Here's a little detail — he never outright says the psychic is a fraud — even though, as previously mentioned, he should be the one most aware of this.

The phrasing is interesting; he tells the psychic, "I have to find this killer and prove my case in court. I deal with facts. All you're giving her is fantasy."

Because evidence is incredibly important. Sandbrook nearly failed because of the lost of the pendant, and in S2, evidence was deemed invalid one after another, reinforcing this point.

Ultimately, everyone did things that exceeded their beliefs: Paul threatened the psychic and participated in Joe's exile, removing his priest's collar;

Thus, the true Broad Church is revealed at this moment: it's the people, it's the community.

I know many viewers are deeply frustrated with the so-called courtroom plot in Season 2, which can be said to be completely fake; it is both important and unimportant. This courtroom is not real; it serves more of a dramatic purpose (the entire region exists within Thomas Hardy's fictional country).

The trial is not just about Joe; it's about the entire community. In the end, the result does not follow the court's decision — Joe is still expelled from the community regardless. This means that if you believe in "Broadchurch," you will find that what truly matters is not the court, but rather the "the wrathful God of Broadchurch."(There used to be a post, but it has been lost. Here is the screenshot:

Court result? The court's verdict will disappoint everyone, while people's connections and separations, love and hate, community and life, the past, present and future are what truly, truly matter.

At the end of S3, as Paul prepares to leave, the Broadchurch's church will be gone, but the broader "church" still exists among the people.

The last time they gathered like this was during the S2 trial.

I like seeing Hardy there too; the last time he came to church, he was filled with scepticism, sitting alone at the back, with his fake wife in front of him.

But this time, it's pure, with no agenda; people are just here to listen to Paul speak. Daisy sits beside Hardy, children are with their parents.

Paul quotes from Hebrews: "Let us consider how we may spur one another on, toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing. But encouraging one another."

#Broadchurch #It's about people #that psychic guy #my thoughts #analysis

14 notes · View notes

kitsunefox1108 · 2 years ago

Note

I really like your wirting! I've been really wondering if the scenario here is that the self-aware Yandere Sephiroth, he'd probably still go crazy and mad. But as if he most interesting in fem!player!reader (she is «goddess» for him). Suffering from an existential crisis, he begins to destroy all the "fake", acts more violently in the "game" (causing those events that should not have happened even opening additional scenes that should not be in the game, the AI acts pretty tough taking off all the xp for one minor blow, plus creepy looking right at the player!) Kind of like trying to get into fem!reader world or move her into FF's world. Probably through the "weird" dialogues in the game Aerith (also breaks the 4-wall, but not like Sephy) is trying to keep and save fem!reader from Sephiroth by gently hinting to "delete the game" before it's too late.

Reader: Wow... new scary Easter egg! Stop! It's strange that there's no information on the Internet about these Easter eggs... And it's starting to look like Creepypasta...

Sephiroth behind her back: Hello dear, how about hugging and kissing your dear "lover" who has come such a hard way for you...

Reader: (chuckles) i'm in danger(It's my frist request and sorry my bad english 👉👈 love ya!)

Hello! I confess honestly, I myself do not speak English very well, and often improvise, because this is not my native language. But I understand what you mean, so it's okay! ________________________________________________________

In this case, you will really think that these are easter eggs, but when you google anything that could be connected with this, what you see in the game, your thoughts are simply: what? what the fuck?…

You might think that you downloaded a fan image of the game, maybe that's why there are additional cutscenes, but Aerith's hints scare you. She often speaks not to Cloud, but to you. Saying "it all seems like such a strange game! Doesn't it, Cloud? We need to stop Sephiroth before he destroys this entire universe!"

You are a little scared, but your interest in the game does not disappear, which is why you continue to enter the game and try to find the "new content" that you came across in the game.

However, now Sephiroth, seeing you face to face, speaks to you. No more with Cloud.

"You think it's all Easter eggs, don't you? Whether I disappoint you or not, we'll see you very soon. Darling." and now you realize that it was a big mistake.

However, when you feel a touch on your shoulder, and you realize that someone is standing behind you….

Run.

#self aware final fantasy #self aware au #yandere sephiroth #sephiroth x reader #yandere final fantasy vii #final fantasy vii x reader #yandere final fantasy #final fantasy x reader

246 notes · View notes

dbdplayer2000 · 3 months ago

Text

Thx to the ppl who reacted to my last post!!

I looked a bit further in their relationship but there is literally nothing?? Yeah Rebecca's a rookie of S.T.A.R.S and Wesker a captain and both are geniuses but there is no real interaction between them, he simply shoots her and never mentions her again in any game... Why didn't the devs make him shoot Chris and abduct Rebecca?? He recognized her in RE0 but with no sign of attraction

But when it comes to RE0, the Wesker Mode?? It's just random again putting them together idk if i should take that as a hint that he feels more for her but maybe they just wanted give her a cool edgy Outfit and be like heyy!! Buy that game! You can play as Wesker if you finish the game!

Can't just grab if the devs have a thing for that couple or making Wesker a weird perv or atleast hinting at that?? But there is literally nothing which is undeniably canon... Especially since the pic is not even developed (is there any hint he took the photo?) Many people also say it's just an easter egg and that probably would also make sense..

The most interest he shows in a S.T.A.R.S member is definitely Chris... That's why putting the pic in his (and maybe the other captains) desk is still extremely random too me, he even never said anything positive about or towards her

But sooo many people taking it as canon and even making fanart... Definitely a weird ship with a creepy and questionable basis

Maybe I have too dig deeper to find some official Statements about that but I can't speak Japanese lol

#albert wesker #resident evil wesker #resident evil #rebecca chambers #resident evil 2 #resident evil 0

15 notes · View notes

watchnrant · 9 days ago

Text

Agatha All Along Episode 9: Easter Eggs & References

Episode Title: “Maiden, Mother, Crone”

A Timeless Archetype Reflecting Agatha’s Dark Evolution

Triple Goddess Symbolism: This episode title isn’t just poetic—it’s a deep dive into the mythological Triple Goddess archetype, channeling the Maiden, Mother, and Crone phases. Lifted from “The Ballad of the Witch’s Road,” it acts as a mirror to Agatha’s own evolution, her passage through these stages marking the highs and lows of her power. The Maiden represents her early, untainted years; the Mother speaks to her nurturing (and at times manipulative) instincts, especially toward Nicholas; and the Crone embodies her spectral, almost ethereal presence, a culmination of wisdom and loss. Agatha’s journey here isn’t just about magical power; it’s a raw reflection of what it costs to survive, grow, and evolve in a world of supernatural forces.

Agatha’s Brooch: The brooch is Agatha’s constant, practically her emblem through this transformation. It’s more than just an accessory—this little piece of metal represents the phases she’s lived through. As she transitions into her Crone phase in the episode’s finale, the brooch ties her spectral form to her past selves, showing her continuity and evolution. It also hints at her new role with Billy, bridging her connection to both Nicholas and her potential mentorship with him. The brooch isn’t just jewelry; it’s Agatha’s personal timeline, a piece that signifies her journey across the borders of life, death, and whatever lies between.

Agatha’s life in 1750 (57 Years After WandaVision’s Salem Flashback)

An Origin of Power Born from Sacrifice and Survival

Opening in 1750: A Study in Survival The episode’s opening in 1750 sets a gritty, raw tone that peels back Agatha’s origin story in one intense moment. Her desperate confrontation with Rio, the embodiment of Lady Death, as she fights for her unborn child’s survival is more than just a plea—it’s the birth of her ruthless philosophy. Cloaked in that iconic purple, Agatha is utterly isolated, her resolve hardening as she stares down Rio, demanding her child’s life at any cost. This encounter shows her willing to embrace sacrifice as the price of survival, a mindset that will shape every decision to come. Here, Agatha’s brutal belief takes root: survival isn’t given, it’s “earned” through dominance. Nicholas’s future may be doomed, but his fate is born from her relentless determination to protect her legacy, however twisted that might become. This dark origin story transforms Agatha into someone who sees power as not only her right but her birthright, carved out of sacrifice and survival.

Nicholas Scratch – Origins and Magical Creation

A Son “Made from Scratch,” Rooted in Agatha’s Ambition

“Made from Scratch” This isn’t just a name; it’s Agatha’s own brand of bravado. Naming Nicholas “made from scratch” feels like Agatha planting her flag in the ground—a declaration of her strength and belief in self-made power. She’s built herself up from nothing, and in Nicholas, she tries to embody that same fierce resilience and independence. It’s a nod to Agatha’s refusal to bow to natural limitations, bringing her in line with iconic creators like Frankenstein, who pass down a dark legacy to their creations. By conjuring Nicholas from her own force of will, Agatha stakes her claim on a brand of strength that’s earned, not given, setting the tone for her uncompromising philosophy on survival and power.

A Cycle of Moral Compromise and Loss In creating Nicholas, Agatha doesn’t just birth a child—she begins a tragic lineage steeped in sacrifice and a brutal interpretation of love. Her fierce devotion to him, bringing him into existence “from scratch,” is both a triumph and a tether that binds them in a cycle of protection and betrayal. Agatha’s drive to shield Nicholas at any cost drags her into morally murky waters, where her love, however genuine, becomes deeply flawed and even toxic. Her relentless ambition and willingness to sacrifice for him are both her strength and her downfall, ultimately warping their relationship into something tangled and tragic. Nicholas becomes the vessel of Agatha’s power-driven love, and that inheritance, burdened with her ambitions, costs her everything she’s fought to preserve.

The Burden of Legacy Nicholas isn’t just a symbol of Agatha’s magical prowess; he’s a living testament to the high stakes of her philosophy. By choosing to rely entirely on magic to bring him to life, Agatha sets herself on a path where her ideals of resilience bleed into ruthlessness, and her belief in self-sufficiency isolates her. This “made from scratch” mindset reveals a core fear of vulnerability, pushing her deeper into survival mode, even as it chips away at the legacy she hoped to solidify through Nicholas. Agatha’s story becomes a paradox—a journey of power and resilience that ultimately consumes the very future she tried to build.

Coven and Boundary Stones

Agatha’s Intrusion and the Power of Ancient Wards

Ancient Protective Magic and Agatha’s Betrayal These boundary stones are no casual set piece—they’re an ancient magical defense, glowing with an intense protective energy that feels practically alive. When Agatha crosses these enchanted markers, they flash blue before shifting to a murky yellow, signaling her disruption of the coven’s defenses. This color shift isn’t just a cool visual effect; it’s a deliberate cue that Agatha’s power doesn’t harmonize with the coven’s—it corrupts and overpowers it. It’s a visual metaphor for her philosophy of survival, one that thrives on consuming and dominating, setting her up as an intruder within sacred spaces. In this moment, we see her belief that survival is achieved through force, a sentiment that foreshadows her inevitable betrayal of the coven.

Isolation and Power The boundary stones mark a powerful line in the sand between community and the path of isolation Agatha is destined to walk. Her decision to cross these stones symbolizes her sacrifice of connection and morality, isolating her from the rest of the magical world to secure her own survival. This action speaks to the core theme of power as a double-edged sword—one that, while securing her position, severs her ties to anyone who could have stood beside her. Agatha’s power creates barriers as much as it fortifies, trapping her within her own world of dominance and distrust, as she crosses the threshold from community member to the solitary figure whose survival depends on sacrificing others.

1756 – The Stolen Bell

A Bell Rings, Marking the Start of Agatha’s Ruthless Legacy

The Birth of Agatha’s Legacy of Deception Fast-forward six years after Nicholas’s birth, and we see the seeds of Agatha’s dark legacy sprout in a deceptively simple act—a stolen bell. Nicholas, still young and likely unaware of the depth of his actions, swipes this bell from a witch, luring her right into Agatha’s trap. Agatha, as ruthless as ever, uses this opportunity to drain both the witch and her coven of their power, solidifying the bell’s significance in her legend. The bell makes its way into “The Ballad of the Witches’ Road,” a symbol not just of Agatha’s manipulation, but of the role Nicholas unknowingly plays in his mother’s quest for dominance. This is the start of a brutal legacy, one where Nicholas becomes a pawn in Agatha’s relentless pursuit of power.

Corruption of Innocence Nicholas’s involvement in luring witches highlights Agatha’s impact on him—she’s passing down more than just power, but a skewed morality that slowly corrupts his innocence. He becomes a tool for her, mirroring Agatha’s own moral compromises and hinting at the inevitable cycle of manipulation she’s set in motion. This twisted dynamic between mother and son foreshadows her later relationship with Billy, as Agatha nudges him toward a morally ambiguous path, echoing her hold over Nicholas. It’s a chilling legacy—Agatha’s influence doesn’t just consume power; it pulls those closest to her into a shadowed, morally complex world.

The Ballad of the Witches’ Road – Origins

A Melody Born from Innocence and Bonding

A Dark Inversion of Maternal Love “The Witches’ Road” begins as a haunting, almost lullaby-like tune shared between Agatha and Nicholas—a mother-son moment rooted in something innocent, maybe even tender. But Agatha’s twisted sense of morality seeps into the melody, reshaping it into something insidious. Lyrics like “all that’s wrong is right, and all that’s bad is good” become a chilling reflection of Agatha’s own warped philosophy, transforming this once-simple song into a weapon. Much like a siren’s song, the ballad lures unsuspecting witches straight into Agatha’s trap, using the lure of music to seal their fates. This transformation of their shared melody into a dark tool of deception highlights how Agatha’s influence corrodes even the purest connections, inverting love into something deadly.

Nicholas’s Disillusionment and Departure As Nicholas matures, he starts to see through Agatha’s philosophy, questioning her cold, power-driven worldview. Agatha’s obsession with survival through dominance alienates him, driving a wedge between them that eventually pushes him to leave with Rio. Her relentless drive, intended to protect him, ironically leads Nicholas toward the very fate she feared. The ballad’s evolution from an innocent, intimate creation to a manipulative tool underscores the tragic unraveling of their bond—Agatha’s love is genuine yet twisted, and in trying to shield Nicholas, she ultimately loses him.

Connection to Nicholas’s Room This origin story of “The Witches’ Road” also explains a key detail in Agatha All Along Episode 1: the singing award in Nicholas’s room. Within the fabricated reality crafted by Wanda’s spell, Agatha includes a singing award, a subtle nod to their shared creation. This detail isn’t just set dressing—it’s a poignant reminder of her complex attachment to Nicholas and the remnants of their past. Even in a constructed world, Agatha clings to fragments of their history, suggesting a longing that’s equal parts nostalgic and haunting. It’s a small but powerful addition that speaks volumes about her character and the bittersweet weight of her legacy.

“Use Your Purple”

A Moment of Magic That Defines Agatha’s Identity and Resilience

Empowerment and Survival When Nicholas asks his mother if she can “use her purple” while they’re surviving out in the forest, he’s pointing straight to the heart of Agatha’s identity. Her signature purple magic isn’t just a parlor trick—it’s the core of her power and, more importantly, her lifeline. This phrase underscores Agatha’s reliance on her abilities not only as a symbol of strength but as a necessity for survival. Flashing back to Agatha All Along’s premiere, we see a young Harkness bargaining with Rio, begging to “get her purple back.” This line reveals how deeply Agatha’s connection to her magic runs; it’s more than just power, it’s her resilience, her armor. Her purple magic is both her weapon and her protection, symbolizing her fierce determination to reclaim her full potential even in the face of threats. This attachment to her powers isn’t just about dominance—it’s survival, empowerment, and identity all wrapped into one.

Dandelion Seed and Locket

A Fragile Keepsake, Capturing Love’s Fleeting Connection

Symbol of Fleeting Connection The dandelion seed Agatha keeps tucked away in her locket isn’t just a token—it’s a piece of memory, a connection to a time when she and Nicholas shared a rare, simple joy together along the Witches’ Road. Agatha All Along Episode 9 dives into this memory, showing us the origin of that seed, captured from a moment where they blew on dandelions together, back when Nicholas was still alive and Agatha hadn’t yet crossed the line into her darker path. The fragility of the dandelion reflects the delicate, transient nature of life and love, making this locket more than just a keepsake; it’s a bittersweet reminder of what she once cherished, even as that part of her life slipped away.

Cycles of Life and Loss This tiny seed becomes even more powerful in Agatha All Along Episode 8, where Agatha uses it in the final trial on the Witches’ Road. The dandelion serves as a symbol of life’s unending cycle—birth, decay, and rebirth, echoed in the cyclical, haunting reality of Agatha’s life. It embodies the innocence she’s lost and the brutal choices she’s made. The seed is a fragment of her past, a physical connection to Nicholas that speaks to both their bond and the inevitable erosion of everything she held dear. This delicate keepsake captures the beauty and tragedy of their connection, a symbol of how life itself can be fleeting, just like a dandelion drifting on the wind.

Agatha as the Architect of the Witches’ Road Myth

Building a Legacy of Entrapment Through Deception

A Legacy of Entrapment and Power When Rio—Lady Death herself—claims Nicholas, Agatha is granted a fleeting six extra years with him. But when that time runs out, her world shatters. Grief and rage ignite a relentless killing spree, with Agatha transforming the myth of the Witches’ Road into her personal lure, a haunting siren song she crafted through “The Ballad.” What started as a melody she once shared with Nicholas morphs into a deadly weapon, a means to draw covens close under the guise of unity, only for her to drain their powers and fuel her own. We see Agatha singing the Ballad with covens across centuries, expanding the legend of the Witches’ Road, a place shrouded in both danger and allure. This myth becomes her calculated weapon, channeling her heartbreak into something chillingly powerful.

False Coven and Manipulation Agatha positions herself as a “guide” on the Witches’ Road, drawing witches in with promises of mentorship and unity, only to betray them and siphon their magic. Her manipulation builds an infamous reputation as both a predator and a master witch, painting her as a Faustian figure who gains power at a brutal cost. Agatha’s path reflects an endless cycle of betrayal born from grief, as her need for survival and strength overtakes her moral compass. She’s not simply a villain; she’s a complex character, a tragic figure who, devastated by loss, becomes ensnared in her own web of deception and power.

Building the Myth Through Deception With each coven she encounters, Agatha deepens the legend of the Witches’ Road, crafting it as a place of legendary power, veiled in both glory and danger. But beneath that lore, it’s all just a tool—a way for her to gather strength, to reinforce her philosophy that survival and power are there for the taking, if you’re willing to pay the price. This deception, which turns her into both a cautionary tale and an unstoppable force, captures her essence: a character whose manipulative edge isn’t just for show, but a survival strategy born from love and grief. In trying to shield herself from the pain of loss, Agatha becomes the very force of betrayal and dominance that once stole her son away.

Agatha’s Ghostly Return

A Spirit Bound by Guilt and Unfinished Business

Bound by Unresolved Guilt After sacrificing herself to save Billy (Wiccan) in Agatha All Along Episode 8, Agatha reappears in Episode 9 as a ghost, bound to the mortal plane by unfinished business and unshakable guilt. Her spectral form, unable to fully interact with Billy, symbolizes her limited influence—she’s present but powerless, still tethered by her attachment to Nicholas and the unresolved issues that won’t let her move on. This classic ghostly trope hits hard, casting Agatha as a spirit stuck between worlds, haunted by choices that were never truly selfless. Her sacrifice wasn’t just for Billy’s sake; it was also a calculated move for her own ends, adding another layer to her complicated, morally ambiguous motives.

Conflicted Mentor In this ghostly state, Agatha is visibly older, with fully white hair and a costume that channels her original comic appearance, drawing a direct line to her spectral guide role in the Scarlet Witch (2015) comics. There, she returned to aid Wanda, dispensing guidance steeped in her own regrets and hard-won wisdom. Episode 9 embraces this legacy, recreating Agatha’s earliest look with a twist. Ironically, while fans might have expected her to show up with a mere white streak in her hair (a nod to the modern, Hahn-inspired design), here we see a fully aged Agatha, embracing her transformation into the Crone archetype. This aged appearance and ghostly presence hint at a deeper, more complex role, setting her up as a mentor for Billy. Yet, as with everything Agatha, her motives remain murky, with a mixture of genuine care and lingering ambition. Her ghostly form captures this tension—she’s a guide caught between love and influence, weighed down by the choices of her past, making her an enigmatic mentor who’s anything but straightforward.

An Unlikely Partnership and the Formation of a “Coven of Two”

Agatha and Billy’s Alliance Blurs Lines Between Mentor and Manipulator

An Alliance Rooted in Darkness Ghost Agatha’s proposal to team up with Billy (Wiccan) brings a new layer of intrigue, forming what she calls a “coven of two”—a partnership steeped in shadows and layered motives. This alliance feels like a nod to the Scarlet Witch (2016) series by James Robinson and Vanesa Del Rey, where Agatha’s ghost walks alongside Wanda on the Witches’ Road, serving as both ally and spiritual guide. Here, Agatha fills a similar role for Billy, who, through his chaos magic, has inadvertently created his own version of the Witches’ Road. Agatha’s mentorship is anything but straightforward, laced with moral ambiguity and tinged by her own dark history. This pairing mirrors the balance of guidance and danger seen in Wanda’s journey, positioning Agatha as both mentor and potential corrupter on Billy’s path.

Legacy and Redemption Agatha’s offer to partner with Billy hints at a redemption arc that’s just as layered as it is uncertain. This partnership could pull Agatha closer to a semblance of redemption, but it’s equally possible she’ll lead Billy into her morally gray world. Their dynamic holds a compelling mix of power and complexity, bringing to mind anti-hero duos like Loki and Sylvie, where mutual interests clash with deeper emotional ties. As the episode closes with Billy’s line, “Spirit as my guide… let’s go find Tommy,” we’re left with a question mark hanging over their alliance—will Agatha steer him toward growth, or drag him further into the mystical murk of the Witches’ Road? The potential of this “coven of two” is as enticing as it is treacherous, leaving us to wonder which path Agatha’s influence will ultimately carve out for Billy.

Billy Maximoff’s Role as “Love Persevering”

A Legacy of Grief and Power That Reflects Wanda’s Enduring Love

Emotional Legacy Billy stands as a living testament to Wanda’s undying love and the grief that fuels it—a continuation of WandaVision’s unforgettable line, “What is grief, if not love persevering?” Agatha’s reveal that it was Billy’s own chaos magic that manifested the Witches’ Road redefines his journey as something he unintentionally built himself, an echo of Wanda’s raw, powerful abilities. His powers, like Wanda’s, are both a product of love and a force capable of immense destruction, casting him as a character locked in an emotional tug-of-war between creation and devastation.

Moral Dilemma and Growth Agatha’s manipulative guidance along the Witches’ Road nudges Billy into morally gray territory, subtly framing the deaths on this path as justifiable casualties. This not-so-subtle influence is eerily reminiscent of her dynamic with Nicholas, pushing Billy to grapple with the weight of his own powers. His sense of guilt, coupled with Agatha’s skewed mentorship, fuels a tension that drives him toward a journey where right and wrong aren’t as clear-cut. Billy’s path becomes one of navigating his emotional legacy while confronting the responsibility—and consequences—of wielding such unpredictable magic.

36 notes · View notes