#pure chaotic energy indeed

[youcouldmakealife]

2024 Writing Wrap

Well, my goal for 2024 was 225,000 words, and I did exceed that, so I believe that is what we call a success. Never mind that my ~secret goal was 250k and that the 225k goal was just in case anything came up. And it did. So that is technically still a success! So I’m trying not to be grumbly about it.

What I’m not grumbly about at all is how, exactly, that final word count broke down by project (actual numbers below).

I don’t think the COTT and SAIT word counts could be closer than if I’d been intentionally trying to balance them. Which, I cannot stress enough, I was not. I was actually expecting a 2:1 COTT v SAIT ratio, mostly because, well, SAIT hasn’t been easy to write at times, and I was fully prepared for that to continue. But then something happened. I won’t investigate it too closely — gift horses, etc — but the floodgates finally broke, and a character that was so reluctant to speak honestly about himself and his life that it left him (and me) mute was suddenly willing to talk.

(We all know what happened. Robbie Lombardi happened.)

So, coming into this year I set myself a 13 part (approx 27.5k) goal for SAIT, and a 60k goal for COTT. They both ended up around 75k. Add in the SOTWs&Ms, which ended up around 65k combined (goal was 60k), and on all counts, I beat my individual project goals, and absolutely smashed the one for SAIT.

Considering this year I also got the TOTI paperback done and published the final installment of Between the Teeth, I think it was a pretty productive year, particularly considering I was finally diagnosed with Audhd in January, and have spent a lot of time and energy processing that, reframing a lot of things, and adjusting my work style to better accommodate my neurotype.

It's all been a big learning process, though one slightly derailed by the arrival of COVID and the…refusal to leave of COVID…and a fraught one at times, but it’s really been a relief to look at things like ‘this doesn’t work for me because my brain isn’t wired that way’ versus ‘this doesn’t work for me because I’m lazy/not trying hard enough/not living up to my ‘potential’, ad nauseum. It’s been…good. Tough, and emotional, and sometimes exhausting, but good. And I think that might be the other reason that Georgie started to speak again: how the fuck was I supposed to write him starting to move forward when I was still masking? How could I?

Meanwhile my other project was literally ‘okay, what if I worked through some of this by making my ADHD and my autism kiss? What if I did that?’ And COTT has been an absolute delight for me as a somewhat chaotic way for me to examine how these totally different beings co-exist. Throw in me shoving a ton of common romance tropes, gleefully undermining them (sometimes even intentionally! Though COTT can indeed be marked down as yet another failure in my quest to write some proper hate sex), a whole lot of ‘look, he actually gets me’ that is probably a liiiittle too close to home (and, I think, the home of most ND people), and everybody Doing Their Best (even when it fails, even when it doesn’t look like it, even when they aren’t rewarded for that), it is probably the closest thing I’ve ever written to pure Id fic, and I’m including the fucking Scouts here.

So thank you for all being very patient with me working through my ~stuff via narrative, and I’m really glad some of you (Audhd, autistic, ADHD, and otherwise) see yourselves reflected in Holden and/or James as well. Every single thing that annoys about them is probably something I do. (Uh. Off the ice. I don’t throw dirty hits. And I sadly don’t have a hockey room either.) I love them both a lot and I genuinely think my loving them, with all their faults (that are often my faults), has made my relationship with myself better, because I too am Always Doing My Best, even when it doesn’t look like it. And sometimes I forget that.

Okay, enough of the navel gazing, time for numbers!

These may seem slightly different than the word counts on, say, AO3, but at the end of each writing day I log my process. It’s always a little inflated -- some of it ends up on the cutting room floor, some of it applies to works currently still in progress, etc.

But, end of the year, here’s the breakdown*:

*rounded up/down to the nearest thousand, but that was the extent of the rounding, they're just naturally handsome numbers

Cards on the Table: 75k

Still Always in Tandem: 75k

SOTW/Ms and Extras: 82k

(Comprised of: SOTWs: 34k, SOTMs: 33k, Extras 15k)

For a combined total of 232k, squeaking in a mere 7k above my 225k goal.

But wait! There’s the misc (includes some Gritty work, last minute BTT additions, the bracket challenge, and other things that don’t fit the categories above), which adds an additional 13k.

So, in fact, it all adds up to 245k. Which is pretty damn close to 250k in my humble opinion, especially considering I spent a full quarter of 2024 sick. So I think we can call this year a success, at least on the writing front.

[utilitycaster]

I don't really have a conclusion to this thought but I'm thinking about @kerosene-in-a-blender's discussion of the Exandrian creation story being similar to that of Sky Woman, and frankly it's not terribly different than the biblical story, ie, there was something there already (indeed, something elemental; a watery abyss and a barren, chaotic desert). Even the most widely accepted scientific concept of the creation of the universe and the creation of life on earth is one in which something already existed, even if that "something" was only an immense amount of energy. Indeed, I think you can make the Exandrian creation myth fit that: beings of endless potential and light (pure energy) solidifying into something finite and no longer endlessly mutable, interacting with an existing primordial chaos and making something new.

I don't want to dismiss the choice to anthropomorphize what already existed on Exandria; but I think it is also short-sighted to fail to notice that Matt anthropomorphized that which created mortal life as well.

[cocomochicakes]

FIRST (F!Tav x Rolan)

A/N:: So I decided the Tieflings of this game don't get enough love so here you have pure, unadulterated PWP.

(And if you wish to be tagged for updates, please comment below!)

WORD COUNT: 13,913

RATINGS: E

WARNINGS: Adult language, Crude Humor, Explicit Sexual Content

PAIRINGS: Rolan x F!Tav

SPECIAL TAGS: @themeghanlodon @mushi42

READ ON AO3

SUMMARY: It's been three years since the Great Mindflayer Invasion in Baldur's Gate and though the companions have all gone their separate ways, Tav remains in the Gate working as a traveling alchemist who studies magical plants and their uses for potions all while getting closer to a certain grumpy Archwizard. When a normal night at Elfsong becomes heated, Tav and Rolan become closer than they thought.

Elfsong Tavern is in full bloom as dusk turns to twilight and the patrons of Baldur’s Gate fill the hall with their grand stories of adventures both inside beyond the gate. A bard strums his lute and plays for patrons, his song among the chaotic din of clattering plates, tinking glasses, and the laughter and merriment from many an adventurer. Off in a far corner seated in an alcove upon a plush set of chairs Rolan and you are seated. It’s been 3 years since the fall of the Netherbrain and the reconstruction of Baldur’s Gate back to its former glory. After your companions had departed to the next steps of their own journey and you decided to remain in the Gate and settle into a life as an alchemist and apothecary with the knowledge gained from many of your travels. Tonight was like any other end to a tenday for both you and Rolan as you had often been contracted by him to bring him ingredients for spells and research and tonight you had suggested the two of you indulge in an evening away from work after a week filled with absolute mayhem within Sorcerous Sundries.

Rolan seems to be distracted as you tap your tankard to his, hoping to get his attention. “Oh forgive me, I got distracted. What were you saying again?” his voice is alert and attended to your presence finally. You smirk at him and tease, “you were just about to compliment my fantastic self on how incredible I am for all the merchandise I was able to deliver on such short notice.” You got up from your seat momentarily to do a small twirl and pose as a mighty hero before sitting back into your chair.

Rolan chuckles at your antics. He’s grown over the years to be a tad soft though most people see the Archmage of Ramazith Tower as quite stoic and grumpy at times, though if anyone knew the truth, they most likely would never believe it. He smiles at you setting his drink down before leaning in on his hand. "I was indeed. I simply can't help myself when confronted with such beauty and grandeur as yourself," he replies.

You know he’s playfully teasing you as he always seems to. “But aren't I? I am grand and wonderful and you are blessed to know such a magnificent woman as me.” Your words are light and you gesticulate how incredible you are with a twirl and sway of your tankard before taking a deep swig. Rolan can’t help but laugh at your now most likely inebriated antics. "Yes... Yes, you are indeed grand and wonderful. I do feel quite blessed to be in your presence, oh great one..." he says with a sly smile.

Your gaze meets his and there’s a palpable energy between the two of you and you know the alcohol is taking effect as your banter begins to get more flirtatious between shy glances. “Hmm and because I am so grand, I feel like I should give you a reward.” Your voice is like honey to him and he sees you lean in close to him from across the small round table. The alcohol is definitely taking effect as Rolan doesn't seem to be aware of the intimate situation he has found himself in "And what sort of reward would that be, oh great and wondrous one? You have my complete attention," he asks, leaning in slightly with a flirtatious glance and another sly smile.

An eyebrow lifts and you walk your fingers up one of his arms before bringing a hand to his chest as you lean close to his ear. “What kind would you like?”

Rolan shivers at the touch, biting his lip as his eyes look up at you in surprise. Your touch is foreign to him outside of the occasional brush of hands but it stirs something within him, a false sense of bravado to which spurs more banter. "I wouldn't want to presume," he says softly. "I am but a humble creature in comparison to your greatness. But for you, I am at your mercy. Any sort of reward would be a pleasure."

You smirk and slot yourself between his legs as he sits on the stool and towers over you and he blushes deeply, breathing rapidly as he finds himself in a new and unexpected position.

 "And... And what do you plan to do here? Oh wonderful one?" He glances around the room, noticing only a few other patrons who take notice of the sight unfurling in a corner of the room but then quickly look away and resume their own conversations.

You bring yourself close to his lips to where you can almost taste the alcohol in his small, unsteady breaths. “Perhaps a kiss would suffice?” you say without a hint of hesitation, your eyes looking between his and his slightly parted lips.

He swallows hard, eyes glancing between your lips and eyes, and leans in closer. "Perhaps... But I could not possibly..." He takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. The alcohol is clouding his judgement and his body feels suddenly warm as he leans forward even further, his lips just millimeters from yours. You can feel his breath on your lips as he hesitates. The air and din around you still.

You feel his hesitance, his reluctance and push it from your mind, closing the gap between your mouths to place a small, soft, gentle kiss on his lips before parting. The kiss is short but sweet, leaving an instant impact on Rolan's brain, muddling any thoughts he had in that moment. His lips begin to feel warm and his heart starts beating wildly, his breath coming in sharp, quick gasps. He glances up at you with wide eyes, his lips still parted slightly from the kiss. Awe.

You smile at him I think that is a perfect reward to bestow.

Rolan seems overwhelmed by the feeling the kiss left behind. His breath still coming in quick gasps, as he can't seem to control it. The warmth in his lips is still present, and his eyes are wide and shining "That was... amazing," he finally says softly, his words barely perceptible to your ears through the din of the tavern.

You glance down shyly and look back up to him. “We could....do it again.”

He’s looking at you with a longing gaze, biting his lip softly as he nods "Yes... Yes, I think we should. Just... Just once more." He looks around again, ensuring no one else is looking before pushing the small table between you slightly forward, inching ever so slightly closer, his warmth radiating into your vicinity. He meets your lips this time and again the kiss is soft and sweet before he parts with you. Your gaze is half-lidded and wandering to his. It stirs a beating in your heart, sending it racing inside your chest.

The second kiss is every bit as good as the first, leaving Rolan wanting for more. His lips are still parted slightly from the kiss, his eyes half-lidded with a dreamy gaze as he takes in the sight of you before him. He glances around the room one last time before leaning forward again, this time more bold, and initiating a third kiss however this time, his kiss is more passionate. His arms wrap around your body in a tight embrace, pulling you close. The kiss becomes increasingly more passionate, leaving Rolan dizzy with both pleasure and surprise as his tongue and lips slide against yours. His breathing is shallow and quick into the kiss, and his heart is racing like a whirlwind as his mouth opens further to allow your tongue to slide with grace against his. He’s slowly losing control of himself and his desire as he kisses.

You moan into his mouth as you feel every movement of his tongue and lips against yours. It’s euphoria, pure bliss where your mind is blank. Tabula Rasa. Rolan moans softly in response, his mouth opening fully as he gives in to the sensation. Your tongues are dancing eagerly and every motion of yours seems to send ripples of pleasure through his body and leaving his hand desperately grasping at your back. You slowly part from one another, your chests heaving as you gaze into one another's eyes, your lips both swollen and flushed. He stares at you, the feeling still washing over him as he feels completely and utterly enraptured. In that moment, Rolan sees only you. He breaths deep, his mouth still feeling warm and tingly from the kiss. He looks down at your lips, eyes still longing and yearning for another taste of them mingled with drink on his tongue.

In your haze, you forgotten you are in public until you hear a whistle come from across the room paired with a few catcalls. Your face flushes. Rolan looks up from you and glances around the room, realizing where the both of you are. His blush deepens as people's eyes are looking over at the two of you, clearly having witnessed the very-heated kiss between the two of you. He glances back down at you with a sheepish smile and shakes his head. "Perhaps a bit too much for a public place, eh?" his voice carries a hint of embarrassment for what has just transpired between you two.

You laugh in return at the awkward situation you’ve found yourself in. “Probably not the place to be giving this kind of show I suppose…” your voice trails off as you cast your gaze to the side. Rolan chuckles in response to your comment, his cheeks still flushed and his lips still feeling warm from the kiss. "I'm not sure there's a place for this kind of show at all," he replies playfully. "It would require a private room and a proper bed."

Your eyes go wide and your whole body flushes in disbelief that mentioned a private room and bed and perhaps just implied he wishes to sleep with you. He notices the sudden change in your demeanor, and his eyebrows raise in curiosity as he glances down at you, quickly realizing exactly what he just said. He tries to play it off, his gaze going up and down your figure and flitting about the tavern in panic.  "I wasn't... I was... well, not joking, but..." He trails off, he says, clearly embarrassed at his accidental slip of tongue, tucking his top lip between his teeth in shame.

Your face is bright red and your heart is hammering out of your chest and you say something that you believe may be the result of a bit too much alcohol:

“Unless...you want to...”

Unless you want to.

Rolan's eyes go wide while he processes your words to their entirety. Unless you want to. Though you seem to follow up on his joke, everything suddenly stops feeling so playful. His heart begins to beat wildly, and he struggles to respond to what you said. His head is spinning, repeating your words again and again, his gaze is blank as he stares at you.

He finally seems to snap out of his panic, takes a deep breath and speaks though he can barely get the words past his lips. "A-Are... Are you suggesting..." He pauses again, swallowing hard and unable to meet your eyes. This surely can’t be what he thinks it is…can it?

You bashfully look down and your hands are playing with the hem of your blouse, twiddling a stray thread between your fingers. ”I mean...if you wanted to...I wouldn't say no to it. Bedding me that is.”

Your eyes glance up from your sleeve to quickly meet his before returning to the thread on your sleeve. Rolan's eyes snap up to you, his heart hammering so hard he can feel it shaking the wall of his chest. His mind seizes. You want him to bed you? Him. You. Bed. Touching. Sex. His tongue lays heavy in his mouth and he can barely get out a single sound.

 "I... I..." He pauses. No words seem to come to him strong enough to defy his tongue, so he simply nods his head in your direction and makes a small sound of agreement.

You note his inability to speak and the way his eyes are wide and jaw has slacked. To break the tension, you take a swig of your drink and clear your throat starting to believe that perhaps he doesn’t truly see you the way you had originally assumed.

 “Unless you don't want to but I'm just offering...I quite fancy you, Rolan. I think you're grand and enjoy when we meet up like this. And...I've always wondered what it would be like...with you.” Your eyes are softly gazing at him, your cheeks flushed. It’s embarrassing and exciting all at once, your heart is beating almost in your ears and your stomach is filled with butterflies hoping he does indeed feel the same way.

Rolan's breath catches in his throat, so overwhelmed by your words and the offer that he feels unable to respond. His cheeks are still flushed with the blush that is starting to fill his face and he can’t bear to make eye contact with you for fear he might combust. He opens his mouth to finally respond, but again he finds no words. Instead he just nods his head once again, nodding furiously and saying yes to you, before he finally has the courage to bring his eyes up, never letting his gaze leave yours.

You chuckle and cast a coy gaze at him. The man with so many words is speechless for once. “Then if you'd like...we can go back to my place and...get comfortable.” It’s an offer you’ve wanted to ask him time and time again but never had the courage to do and a part of you is thanking the bit of alcohol you’ve had tonight for helping you be able to speak the words that have been mulling in your head for months.

His face continues to glow red with embarrassment, as he feels like he has been utterly disarmed by your words and your offer. Yet, a smile creeps onto his lips, his gaze never leaving yours. "Y-Yes... I think I would very much like that." You feel your heart soar and the butterflies in your stomach rise into your throat as you realize that perhaps he does indeed see you the way you see him.

“Then let us head to my apartment. It's not far from here.”

Your words are more confident sounding than you currently feel in asking a man back to your abode. You glance to him and Rolan nods his head once again, feeling his heart beating wildly and his breath coming in short gasps as he realizes this is all really happening, that you’re intending to do more than simply spend an evening in your apartment together playing cards. The flirtation and the passion between you and him that has existed for months was all finally culminating to the moment he wanted so badly, one he would never admit he had quite literally dreamed of to some much embarrassing results. He stands from his seat, reaching out his hand to you, his tail flitting nervously behind him. A slight laugh escapes your lips as you grab his hand and lead him from the tavern, ignoring the catcalls and whistles from behind the both of you.

Rolan doesn't care about the catcalls and whistles either. He feels too caught up in the moment; too caught up in the anticipation and excitement of what's to come. You hold his hand as you lead him along the street to your apartment, neither one of you saying a word as you walk between drunken citizens singing sea shanties and other citizens from the Lower City.

When you arrive, you unlock the door and take off your shoes in your quaint entry. It's a small studio apartment on the top floor with a window garden and bookcases lining the walls filled with books that overlooks the street below and has a grand view of the night sky and ocean. He glances around taking in the sight of your apartment and notes how cozy it is filled with plants and books of all kinds.

Rolan follows you inside, taking a closer look at the various pots and climbing flowering plants that adorn a small table and the copious amount of well-read books littered about in stacks. The apartment is surprisingly comfortable, making him feel more at ease than he has the whole night. He notes to himself that your abode is very much like what he had always guessed it would look like. His eyes scan the titles before he looks over at you, smiling softly at the sight of you inside your own home for the first time.

“I know it’s not much...but when you travel as much as me, you don't need a lot.”

Rolan gives a modest laugh as you finish your sentence, he nods, and then looks around a bit more. The book collections, the plants, the apartment itself all shows an interesting side of you that he has not yet seen but one he always imagined. Once again his gaze meets yours, and he can't help but smile "I think your place is... it's wonderful. It's a nice home."

“I'm glad you like it. Would you like some tea? You're unsure how one is to begin this sort of thing with a man.”

You tuck your hands behind your back waiting for his response. The moment of hesitation gives Rolan a moment to gather himself slightly, his breath once again coming in short bursts as he stares openly at you. He nods his head, not quite able to take his eyes off of you. "Tea would be... wonderful, I think."

Rolan watches as you put on a kettle and grab a jar filled with a peculiar bright flower. It’s a rare floral tea you obtained from your trip to Chult on an expedition the previous year. It's fragrant, soft, inviting.

He smiles quietly as the scent of the flowery tea fills the room.. He can't help but sniff the air and let it fill his lungs. The scent is inviting and relaxing, much like a fresh rain upon flowers, and makes him feel at ease again after the rush of emotions from earlier. He glances around the room again, a soft grin spread over his face, as he waits patiently for the tea to brew and walks to your small table.

As you pour the tea for the both of you, Rolan notices a book left open on the table next to a small bag of yours. His eye catches your book on the table, and he glances over to it nervously, wondering if he should be prying into something that could be private. He hesitates briefly, but then he is unable to resist the temptation of reading. It was only out in the open after all. He steps closer to the table, and glances over at it curiously.

It's your journal and in it, you have been documenting a variety of flowers and herbs along with sporadic notes, which appear to be the titles of books.

As he glances down at your journal, his eyes linger briefly on the title written at the top. "Field Study of Plants and Herbs." He looks down and sees that each page contains various notes and studies you've made from your travels. He smiles softly, looking up to you. "Are these from your travels?" He asks softly, the journal's cover close to his face now.

You smile and set down the cups of tea as you sit with him. “Yes...I've come to find many of the plants I've worked with have properties of not only healing, but also as potent poisons. Some even require a source of magic to grow...I've been working to document them for future potions. Most of which you yourself have seen when I come into Sorcerous Sundries.”

The journal contains so much information from your travels, and Rolan is in awe of the detail of your notes and studies. From the way you describe the plants, it seems like you've done a lot of experimentation and research on them even down to the most minute of details. "That's amazing, I had no idea the plants and herbs in these regions would have such properties,” he dexterously flips a page and scans another, “Are they found in many places?". He briefly sets the book down and grabs the tea you have gifted him, taking a slow sip and savoring the delicate taste.

“Unfortunately not...most require specific circumstances to thrive and maintain their magical properties. Some species are elusive and only found in the most difficult places to reach. However, that's what makes my work rewarding. Being the first to find them and make use of their properties.” You take a seat at the table and smile fondly as he admires your work.

Rolan smiles back at you, your passion and determination for your field making him feel a wave of admiration for you. You seem like the type of person that would seek out the impossible, and do what others couldn't. He takes another sip of his tea and sits down next to you, tucking his tail around the leg of the chair. "That's very admirable. I doubt many people could be able to say they've done what you have in the pursuit of knowledge and magic."

You blush and grasp your tea with both hands, tucking your knees to your chest. “It's the nature of being an alchemist I suppose. I just...I want to learn all I can so at least someone can make use of it.” You gaze wanders to the farside of the room where an alchemical elixir is currently distilling amongst a menagerie of glass vials, tubes, and beakers.

Rolan follows your gaze over to the far side of the room, taking in the sight of the various bottles and potions that litter the table. His eyes linger on the elixir, as he watches the liquids inside it change as it brews "Is that another potion you're making? Its color is very different from anything I've seen before" he chimes, his curiosity piqued by your setup.

“It is,” your voice is confident and warm, “I'm working on a substance which can be used to reduce magical sickness in those who can't appropriately expel the Weave from their body or who end up taking on too much of it. Namely for young Wizards and Sorcerers in training. It's made with Sussur bark I obtained in the Underdark. Would you like to see?”

You take a sip of your tea and tilt your head as you ask him the question. Rolan turns in his seat, his eyes darting towards the bottle of the brewing potion. He leans closer from his chair as he can't help but stare at the liquid inside it, fascinated by the change it goes through. "Would I like to see? I would be thrilled."

You set your tea down, get up and he follows you over to your alchemy table and you grab a small vial of prepared liquid. It shimmers and glows when the vial is turned, briefly emitting a shimmering blue hue that illuminates the vial as the liquid tosses and swishes inside. “This is the purest form of Sussur extract. Upon ingestion, it can almost completely eliminate the ability for one to use magic. It could be used defensively or for medicinal purposes. Think about the children who are practicing magic and intake too much of the Weave, causing severe illness. Being a wizard I’m sure you perhaps have had a few magical mishaps yourself. It could solve the problem with a single drop.” Your eyes glow beneath the agitated liquid, a sense of wonder and awe at the concoction you’ve managed to synthesize.

Rolan leans forward to get a closer look at the liquid you hold between two fingers, the glow it emits mesmerizing him. He stares openly and in awe as you describe the effects of it - even more so at the concept of people who can't properly manage their use of magic. He turns his attention back to the liquid and gives it a cautious experimental sniff as you remove the lid - it smells strangely sweet, like honey.

“Sweet isn't it?” You reinsert the cork before explaining its origins further. “It's a beautiful, mesmerizing flowering tree but very dangerous to get to as many creatures call its roots home. As you near it, it also completely dulls your ability to use magic so the only way to get it is with your bare hands and a sword.

Rolan nods his head in admiration. Your knowledge is something to be marveled at and he begins to wonder how you managed to attain it to begin with.

“This Sussur extract is certainly unique,” he says, admiring the small vial, "I'm starting to think the entire Underdark is built to be as hazardous as possible to outsiders."

You smile mischievously, quirking an eyebrow. “Oh indeed it is. The denizens aren't exactly...friendly to humans like myself. I don a drow disguise much of the time I'm down there. Pays to look the part for safety you know?”

Rolan's eyes light up at the mention of drow disguise "You disguise yourself as a drow? How do you even manage that? Doesn't that mean dressing up as a drow and speaking Common with a drow accent, all while trying not to betray the fact that you're not an actual drow?"

You chuckle at his idea. “Sort of. I can't cast much magic but I do know…” your words cut off as you wave your hands and utter a phrase and before his eyes stands the image of a female Lolth-sword Drow “..Disguise Self. Handy isn't it?”

His eyes widen and his mouth opens slightly as he takes in the illusion before him. He stares in awe at the drow's attire, her features. It really is a flawless disguise. He feels the heat rise to his cheeks slightly as he stares. He clears his throat and glances back up at you as you do a small twirl with a curtsy at the end.

"That... I can't even put it in words how convincing that is. I've always heard Drow have an eerie beauty to them, but I've never actually met one."

You do another twirl, much slower this time. “Surprisingly neither have I. At least a live one anyway.”

Rolan watches you twirl, his heart racing for a moment. He is very intrigued by you in this moment, your appearance and overall aura just making him feel... something strange. You're like an enigma and it only makes him want to know more about you. He smiles "So you've never actually met a live Drow? As in…you’ve seen dead ones?"

You dispel Disguise Self as you speak. “No, not a live one. I've come across the corpses of male Drow routinely and many Duegar and Deep Gnomes but never a living Drow. Most reside in Menzoberranzan and I tend to steer clear of the area lest I be caught. My disguise can only go so far,” your tone is serious but he is intrigued by even the notion that you’ve wandered the Underdark alone.

"Menzoberranzan, the city of spiders. I've heard of it, and I too would avoid that area if I could. The Drow have a very well-earned reputation for being evil and ruthless" Rolan says, clearly fascinated with your experiences.

You hum, placing the vile down as you lean on your desk. “I think this is partially true. They are a matriarchal society who uses men as breeding stock and only allows 2 sons per family. They sacrifice any more than that, deeming them a waste of resources. I've come to learn that these sons, or even adult male Drow who disobey their Houses, may be sacrificed to Lolth herself and become monstrosities. However, there are Seladrine Drow that I've heard of, peaceful drow that wish to be accepted by those above and who do not share the evil inclinations of their Lolth-sworn cousins. I’ve even heard rumors there are two who sell their intimate services at Sharess’ Caress from a few adventurers.”

A moment of hesitation precedes his next question as he processes the facts you’ve stated. "Do you know why a society like that even exists? Why they follow Lolth so devoutly?"

Again you hum in response before explaining, “Most people don't. The only reason I know is because there are rumors that the legendary Drizzt Do’Urden is a Seladrine.”

He nods his head "I've heard the tales of Drizzt and the heroic exploits. If there are truly Drow that possess these traits, how do they fare in the Underdark among their more aggressive race? Wouldn't they be looked down upon as outcasts?"

“Precisely. Which is why I ensure my eyes are red when I travel to gather supplies in the Underdark. Red eyes are a hallmark of Lolth-sworn Drow.”

Your explanation makes absolute sense. The Underdark has proven to be an unforgiving environment, one that does not tolerate any weakness or kindness. Those that do possess these traits, like the Seladrine drow, must either adapt or pretend to be cruel or be killed by others for their weakness. It makes sense then that they would blend in with the other Drow to stay alive.

“Hence why this bark and extract are so precious...many die trying to get it.” Your gaze turns somber for a moment and Rolan notes that you probably knew many alchemists and apothecaries who lost their lives attempting to get it.

"That extract and the bark from the tree itself must be incredibly rare, and I'm sure it can be used for a number of purposes. It's no wonder your research is so important - I can't imagine the amount of lives you would save in just making such a small amount of this extract. I can understand now why you travel and risk so much." His voice is soft, almost reverent as he speaks.

It brings a smile to your lips that he understands the magnitude of your work. “I find the rarest of plants and bring their essences back to this humble abode to synthesize the best potions, elixirs, and tinctures money can buy. Many of which you yourself have handled and are the first to see in use.”

Rolan stares at you, listening intently as you enter your passionate explanation. You seem so... happy. Your passion and energy is evident as you speak about your work and the ingredients you find and he is honored to learn you entrusted him with some of the first potions of their kind for study and use. He smiles back at you, tail swaying contently, admiring your charisma and devotion to your field. "Your work is astounding, the sheer amount of patience and dedication must be immense."

You smile at him brightly. “It's no different than yours researching magic and magical items, creating scrolls, finding new methods to manifest the Weave. My area just involves plants.”

Rolan chuckles at your reply "You make it sound so trivial. Your work involves hunting down the most dangerous ingredients you can find, risking your life in such a hostile environment that is so far beneath the comfort of civilization. I merely sit and read scrolls and research ancient texts; my work is far less taxing and exhausting than yours."

“You make me sound like a hero...I'm none of that. I just enjoy the rush of it all.”

Rolan shakes his head and smiles. "That is the exact reason why I say you are, in fact, a hero. You put your life on the line when you could just as easily go into a less dangerous and hostile profession that pays the same. But that's not what you desire - you need a challenge, a rush. You are like a thrill seeker, chasing the excitement and adventure that comes with your work and I am honored to be witness to many of your creations."

You blush as he gets closer to you. His words feel more meaningful than any compliment you’ve ever received as his words are not simply those of admiration but respect for your passion.

You can't help but feel the heat of your blush as it paints your cheeks, your gaze cast shyly away from Rolan as he steps closer to you. Your reaction is so adorable and endearing to him that he feels himself beginning to blush as well. Your eyes meet his and the two of you just stare at one another, the silence only becoming louder as the heat intensifies. The only noise is the pounding of your heart in your chest.

“Rolan...I think you sell yourself short on what you do. I think what you do is fascinating.”

Your eyes linger on each other, neither of you able to break away in some kind of awkward yet heated stalemate. The silence is palpable, and the heat rising between your bodies is intense as neither one of you can keep our eyes off each other. You comment makes the heat rise even more in his cheeks and he feels himself becoming more flustered and self-aware of the situation at hand. He nods his head slightly, not knowing what else to say. Finally, he musters up the courage to speak, as his eyes dart from your lips to your eyes "You really think so?"

“I do,” you grab his hands, “You've done so much for this city with your research and skills. Not to mention how you took over three years ago. I find it rather impressive…”

Your hand feels so soft in his and the touch of you feels like electricity - sending a shiver down his spine. He smiles bashfully at you, unable to hide how flustered he is. He clears his throat and nods his head "I've never done it for the purpose of the city's benefit. I've simply worked to further my magical knowledge. And..." he pauses, his eyes narrowing slightly as they look away, "I've never actually had anyone praise me so much before."

You're staring up at him through soft eyes. “A pity...you deserve more.”

His breath catches in his throat for a moment, the feeling of your soft gaze making him feel nervous and excited at the same time. He looks down at you again, your smiling face catching him off guard. He's never felt this strongly towards someone else before. He finally responds, trying to remain as composed as he can. "Perhaps you are right about me selling myself short, but I could say the same about you. Your talents and dedication deserve recognition."

“I don't do it for the recognition...I do it because it makes me happy you know?”

Rolan smiles, finding that he understands you completely. He nods his head in agreement "I know...I think a lot of people would be shocked to know that's why I do what I do. I could sit and read magical texts and scrolls all day and not be bothered by it in the slightest. I enjoy researching magic. It makes me feel excited, thrilled, and it gives me a purpose. I think more people need to follow their passions like you and I do. That way... a lot of people wouldn't be so unhappy."

“I agree. I love discovering new things, it only for the sake of knowledge.”

Rolan listens to every word you say, nodding his head. You seem so passionate about your work, as a researcher. “That is certainly something you and I have in common” he says, heat rising in his cheeks. He smiles at you before elaborating, "I think the two of us are very similar. We both strive to gain knowledge, to understand something new and unknown to us. I suppose that's why we get along so well..."

You blush as you lean against his chest and hug him. “I suppose that is…”

Your words trail off softly as you feel your chest against his. He wraps his arms around you, pulling you in closer. Your body is like a furnace and his heart is pounding loudly. He's never felt like this before - so nervous and excited all at once. Rolan looks down at you as your bodies touch, your soft body and beautiful face the only things occupying his mind right now. He wants to stay like this forever.

“Rolan...what I said earlier. I really do fancy you a lot.”

He freezes mid-sentence as you speak, feeling you tuck yourself into his chest further. He's been waiting for these words, dying to hear them from you. He wants to believe you mean them, that they're genuine. You tilt your head up away from his chest and he stares into your eyes, which seem to have a spell on them that won't let him look away. The silence is loud as you both stare at each other, neither of you wanting to break this intimate moment. His heart beats faster with every second that passes and he swears you can feel it too.

You’re gazing at one another, closer and closer you get, lips a mere breath from touching.

The two of you are so close to each other now. You feel like you can breathe in each other's energy. Rolan's mouth is millimeters away from yours, as the two of you hold each other tightly. You feel as if you have finally found something real...something pure. Your lips are so close, you can practically taste each other's breath. Your hands grip each other tightly, as if you never want to let go.

“Rolan...tell me you want this” you gaze up at him with pleading eyes, your hands gently grasping at his robe.

His breath comes in shallow, quick breaths as he gazes down at you. You look up at him with such intense desire that he feels his heart stop. He wants this, he needs this. Your lips are so close and he wants nothing more than to finally meet them.

Your eyes flicker to his lips.

At the hint of your eyes flickering to his lips, Rolan leans down slowly. Your eyes meet before closing and your breath hits each other's tongues. It's happening; you feel so alive in the moment. Your breath catches as your lips touch and you feel like you may never recover. All other noises from the street below drown out as you both finally kiss, your hearts pounding. Rolan's hands are gripped tightly around you, as if he cannot bear letting you go.

Your kiss is soft and sensual. His lips press to yours as he pulls you into a deep embrace. Your kiss turns passionate, his tongue sliding against yours and you can't help but moan into it.

The moan surprises him and his breath catches in his throat once more. He pulls you in closer, kissing you more intensely. He wants this kiss more than anything, you're like a magnet that he can't pull away from. The kiss grows more and more passionate, your lips sliding against each other, bodies pressing tightly together. With each breath, heat flows throughout your bodies, each one taking in the other's energy.

You move your hands to grasp at his back and bring him closer. You can't help but want more of him as he feels as though he's devouring every inch of your soul in his kiss, a price you would gladly pay to feel more of him in this way.

Rolan responds to your touch, moving his hands to hold your body tightly against his. Your body presses against him and he wants you all over him, his breath is short and fast as he loses himself in you. He moves to kiss you more, wanting to consume you with everything he has. His tongue explores your mouth, sliding along your teeth and lips, as he tries to make sure you feel him in just the right places while your hands hold him close. He kisses you deeply, he’s lost entirely in this moment with you.

You slowly break the kiss your chest heaving as you look up at him, your eyes are glassy and your lips swollen, chest heaving  and mouth slightly agape. “Rolan...I need you to know something.”

Rolan looks down at you, breathing heavily himself. His eyes meet yours, as he's waiting for you to finish your statement. He wants to know what it is you wanted to say, whatever it is - he has a feeling it won't change the way he looks at you.

“I...I've never done this before…” Your eyes wander away from his bashfully as he holds you at his chest. His heart is pounding out of his ears as he tries to register your words.

Rolan feels his breath catch in his throat. He stares at you for a moment, not sure how to respond. “You've never done this before? You're a talented, gorgeous woman who could have any man she wanted - and he was the man you chose.” A rush of elation and pride washes over him, as if that one fact is enough to set him over the moon.

You sheepishly look away from him. “Perhaps it was foolish of me to wait but...I have had opportunities but turned them down. I only ever wanted to do this with someone I cared for and for the last two years....I was hoping that would be you.” You jolt into him and bury your head in his chest in embarrassment.

Rolan's heart leaps in his chest. Your words make his heart ache and smile all at the same time. You've been wishing this for years? That's a powerful fact to hear. That means that out of anyone who's wanted you, I'm the lucky one? Rolan can't help but smile bashfully, as he pulls you closer to him still. His lips graze your head, as he holds you close. The feeling of your body against his is so warm and comforting, like home.

You mumble into his chest. “Rolan please say something oh gods I'm so embarrassed....”

He chuckles softly, wrapping his arms around you tighter, bringing your body against his. He nuzzles his cheek against your hair and whispers in response, his voice soft and comforting. "There's no need to be embarrassed. I never would have wanted this to be with anyone else. It's... it's almost as if I've been waiting for this moment my entire life."

You look at him clearly still embarrassed. “I knew going into this that you perchance had more experience than me since you're extremely handsome and you're well...the Archmage of Ramazith Tower. You've got all of these things and I'm just the adventuring alchemist girl who makes interesting potions.”

Rolan chuckles, shaking his head as you continue your sentence. “You're such a shy, sweet girl, and it's endearing, you know that?” Rolan can't help but smile at everything you say. He strokes your hair gently and lets his hand slide down your back. "Oh... oh, my dear. First of all, you are not just a mere 'adventuring alchemist' - you are an extremely talented woman with the most creative mind I've ever seen in a mage. And secondly..."

You look into his eyes finally as he gazes down at you softly, awaiting his reply. Your heart is racing

His gaze holds yours intensely. Your heart is thumping against your chest, trying to burst out. He finally responds, pulling you in until your lips are almost touching "Your intellect is what drew me to you, yes... but it's your personality that made me want to stay. You're kind and sensitive, with a playful streak and a fiery nature. You care about the world in the most empathetic way, and you always try to do what's good and right, even if it's at your own expense."

You feel your heart flutter.

“You think all those things of me? Truly?”

Rolan's smile widens as he gazes at you, his lips an inch away from touching. You can feel his breath softly brushing against your lips "Truly... I've never known anyone who compares to you. You're more than talented, more than beautiful... you're truly the most incredible person I've ever met."

“Then Rolan...” your words become quiet briefly before steeling yourself and speaking confidently, “…show me. I want to be yours.”

Rolan's eyebrows arch higher in surprise, as he stares at you. But his eyes linger on your lips. In this moment, he can't help but want this, to be yours. To be with you. After a moment, he pulls you in for another kiss, this one more powerful and passionate than the last. You feel his hands grip you tighter, as his lips hold yours with intensity. He kisses you deeply, slowly at first but picks up quickly. His breath catches in his throat as he feels his body responding to yours.

You feel him grasping you tightly in his embrace and you wrap your arms around his neck to pull him deeper into the kiss. His kisses make your lips tingle and your body flush with heat. As you kiss him, you guide him back towards your bed while pawing at his robes.

He allows you to guide him. Your hands on him are like a spark that sets off a wildfire in his body; he cannot hold back the heat that builds within him as you guide him to the bed. The intense kisses make his heart race, his breath heavy and frantic. He can't believe this is happening. He cannot believe that you are here with him now. Your kisses make him want you all at once, the desire to give himself to you overwhelming.

You feel the back of your legs hit your bed and you bring your hands to his chest, grasping tightly at the fabric of his robes. You want to touch his bare skin, feel his skin against your palms, against your bare breasts. A desire to simply touch him consumes you.

As your hands grip the fabric of his robes, he cannot hold back a low groan. The sensation of your caress sends chills through his body, igniting a longing within him that he cannot control. He wants to be closer to you, to have you so close that no air exists between your bodies. The rush of your warm breath grazing his neck sends shivers creeping up his spine, all of it making him desire you more than he ever has. His hands move to grasp your hips closely as he keeps kissing you deeply.

You break the kiss and look at him with your cheeks flushed and eyes glazed with a look of palpable lust. “Can you...take your robes off? I want to…feel you.”

Rolan's face flushes, his breath ragged and quick. Your words sounded so innocent but were meant for something much more suggestive. After a long moment, he can only manage to nod as he begins to remove his robes, your eyes glued to every inch of exposed skin he reveals. Once he is completely bare, you can see the scars that cover his entire body. There are some long and deep scars while others are shallow and speckled. He stares back at you, his body pulsing with energy and desire. He wants you more than he's ever wanted anything.

As he stands there in only his breeches and boots you can't help but marvel at his bare torso. You run your fingers across the planes and edges of his chest, feeling the hard points of the ridges his Tielfing body possesses and ghosting over his many scars. His body is fascinating and it entrances you.

Your touch sends shivers all over his body. He moans softly as you caress his bare torso with the tips of your fingers, tracing the ridges like a map of his own flesh. Your fingers are soft and playful, and your touch is hypnotic. He lets out a deep shuddering breath, as every inch of his body responds to you.

Something inside you stirs and you bring your lips to his chest to feel the sharp edges of his Tielfing markings. They're rough and calloused near smooth skin, the texture feels odd against your lips but still pleasant. The sensation of your lips on his Tielfing markings has a strange effect on him. It is as if all of the nerve endings in his body are waking up, coming to life at the touch of your lips. His body shivers and his breathing grows faster as each second passes, his breath heavy with anticipation. He closes his eyes against you, the desire to feel you in every way possible growing even more. He reaches down to pull you in closer so that your bodies are pressed together, your lips grazing his skin like a delicate kiss from flames.

You kiss his chest going lower and lower, down the expanse of his chest and abdomen and you stop briefly as you approach the edge of his breeches before looking up at him in awe. You haven't been intimate with a man in this way yourself, but you have ready many a romance novel and seen plenty of erotic art to know what you could do for him in this position.

The moment of hesitation makes him laugh softly, as he knows exactly what you're thinking. At first, he can only watch as you hover near the edge of his breeches. But he's also incredibly aroused by your boldness and curiosity, knowing how much further you're willing to take this - something that makes his chest flutter and his breath catch in his throat. You are clearly a curious woman who likes to explore things and take things to their limits. You are more than he could have ever imagined, and it makes him want you even more.

You look up at him expectantly as his hands come to graze your cheeks, one of his thumbs rubbing against your bottom lip affectionately. He can only admire how incredible you look kneeling before him, your eyes sparkling with wonder.

The feel of his hands on your cheeks makes your heart race. You stare back into his eyes, seeing the hunger within them. You feel his breath heavy in the air, each second that passes only adding to your excitement. You can tell that he wants you badly, and the fact that he's taking the time to hold you in his gaze and caress your cheek makes you feel incredibly wanted and desired. The rush of emotions from within you feels like fireworks, your heart beating out of your chest with every moment that passes.

“Rolan...can I..?” Your words still in the air, your gaze meeting his.

He stares back at you, his breath shaky as he waits for your words. Your touch has him dizzy and his heart hammering in his chest. Your eyes are bright, your words just out of reach. There's not much thought behind it - he knows very well what you're going to ask. He can't help but nod slightly, his tongue slipping out to lick his lips. He wants this, wants you.

Upon seeing him nod, you carefully unlace his breeches noting his arousal as you do. Your cheeks are alight. This is your first time seeing a man so intimately, the blood beneath your skin heating your body as you knew what you were about to do. Your fingers ply inside the band of his breeches and undergarments and slowly pull them down over his manhood, your breathing is heavy, hot.

The sensation of you pulling down his breeches has a sudden effect on him. His body shudders and his breath catches in his throat as you reveal his shaft to the air around you. Your fingers brushing against his bare skin make him tingle all over, his body aching for your touch. He tries to maintain his composure as your hands work your way down, each passing second only adding to his aroused state.

Cautiously you reach a hand out and give him an experimental grasp and stroke to him. Rolan gasps and bites his bottom lip with a fang in response to your touch. Your hand is so soft against the hardness of his arousal. He wants to thrust his hips against your hand but he stills himself to allow you to explore him. Your experimental grasp sends a jolt through him, your touch the first to ever to do so. It’s cautious, gentle, curious. It’s fascinating his skin is so soft yet so firm beneath your touch as you work your hands up and down his shaft, noting the peculiar ridges upon it.

Slowly your hand works as you bring the other to his thigh to balance yourself. You've never kneeled before a man in any sense before and the sensation it brings you to kneel before him and see him panting and breathless stirs a growing feeling between your thighs.

The sensation of you kneeling before him is a rush it gets his blood pumping and sends sparks all over his body. His breath is still heavy and his eyes are glued to yours, every breath you take sending a jolt of excitement through him. He can't help but shiver slightly, your touch making every inch of his body sensitive and responsive as if sparks danced upon his skin. His heartbeat quickens and his breathing grows faster with every second that passes, every stroke of your hands upon his erect member. You touch him and caress him in a manner that sends shivers down his spine with anticipation and in his mind all he can think is more.

You feel him shiver and it fills you with pride knowing you are the one making him feel like this. You cast your gaze upwards and in a quick movement, take his manhood into your mouth. He cries out and throws his head back as his shaft of his cock caresses your tongue and you hum in satisfaction. The way the ridges of his member caress your tongue as you suck him, lick him, and slide him in and out of your mouth and between your lips is a sensation that makes you want even more of him. Rolan is panting and moaning as your movements grow quicker and you feel his fingertips and claws playing against your scalp, encouraging you to continue your exploration while his tail begins to whip wildly behind him.

The sensation of your lips and tongue caressing him sends a wave of heat from his loins out the rest of his body. He can feel himself beginning to lose control and his pleasure beginning to peak. You're breathing heavy against him and you can feel his hips rocking against your lips and you know he’s most likely close to release.

He stops you with a gentle pat to the head and tap to the cheek, picking up your head up to look at him. His heart nearly stops entirely as he looks at you and sees how erotic you look. Your pupils are blown out, cheeks brightly flushed, lips swollen and plump as a strand of saliva connects your mouth to his most intimate parts. It's so lewd that even he could never have imagined such a sight with you even in the confines of his wet dreams.

A wave of hot embarrassment flashes over him as his heart races at your expression. Your flushed and reddened cheeks send his mind whirling as he takes in this moment. When you look up at him, the moment of pause is overwhelming. Your lips are still wet with saliva from your exploration, the scent of you filling the air and making his head spin all over again with desire. He can't help but reach back into your hair, wanting to maintain this close contact between you two.

“Did I...do something wrong?” You ask, your brows knitted in concern.

He shakes his head slightly, keeping his gaze on your eyes as he moves his fingers through your hair "No, no, quite the opposite." He swallows hard, feeling his face still flush from the moment. "When you..." He sighs, not sure how exactly to describe it, "When you took me into your mouth like that... It was... It was incredible. I almost…came in your mouth." His cheeks redden with his admission.

You blush and look away, not realizing how incredibly lewd you look to him in that moment and how aroused the sight is making him.

The combination of your position and the visual alone is enough to drive him wild. The blush covering your cheeks and the way you look away, not even realizing how beautiful you are in this moment, drives him crazy with desire. He pulls your head back to him and stares you down, his eyes burning with a hunger as he keeps working his fingers through your hair and his voice wavers. "It was the most glorious sight I could've ever imagined, to see you so... open and submissive like that."

Your heart is pounding and your breathing is quick as you stare up at him. He brings his hands to the sides of your face and motions for you to stand before him, allowing him to kiss you once before he gently begins to run his hands over your still-clothed body.

As you rise from your position on your knees, he cannot look away from the sight of your body. Even covered by your clothes, he cannot help but stare at the way it shapes your form. He traces your curves with his fingers, and you can feel the heat emanating from every inch of his hand. Your breath comes quicker and heavier as you feel his hands wandering, exploring you.

A confidence stirs within you seeing him naked before you. You back away from him slowly and begin to unlace your bodice, one strand at a time, letting it fall to the floor before sliding your blouse over your head and tossing it somewhere behind you. Rolan is taking in your every action and sees your shy smile as your hands creep to your chest bindings. With a simple snap, they unravel from your chest, falling to the ground around you. His eyes grow wide in awe.

The sight of you revealing yourself to him sends shockwaves throughout his body. Your skin is pale and smooth, without a hint of blemish. Your breasts are perfect. Your shape is incredible. All the time he's thought about you in this way, all the times he's wondered what you might look like in such a state, all these expectations are blown away by the reality of you in that moment. He swallows hard, his eyes still glued to you as he struggles to contain the heat that is coursing through him. Oh how he wants to touch you, to grasp at the soft curves of your body and claim them as his.

You’re standing before him shyly now unlacing our own breeches and kicking your socks away, shedding the last bit of clothing left upon your body. Rolan can only stare at you jaw slack you stand before him, all of you, naked in the glowing light of the moon and the glow of the candles in your room. You glance away embarrassed at your nakedness and cross your arms in front of your breasts to cover yourself. A heat rushes through you as you realize you’re bare for him to see.

His eyes are wide as he gazes upon you in your naked state. Your body is perfect, and even the slightest movement triggers a response in him. His eyes are glued on you and he cannot help but let out a low growl from the sight of you. The way you cover your breasts triggers something deep inside him, the urge to claim you even more intense now. His breath is heavy and his fingers twitch, wanting desperately to touch you.

Your eyes quickly meet his when you hear the low growl he emits. It makes your skin prickle with gooseflesh and heat pool between your thighs. You're now an arm’s length away from him but you can feel the heat his body is emitting and can see his tail turned up in attention.

He reaches out and grabs your arms, his grip firm and strong as he moves them away from your breasts. He wants to touch you, to have you completely vulnerable and submissive before him. His eyes burn hot as he looks you over, wanting to see you covered in every inch of his affection. He glances down at your body briefly for a moment, eyes burning, before he moves his hands back up. "Look at me, please."

You cast a shy glance to him as you allow him to move your hands from covering your breasts.

The way his eyes are glued to you sends shivers up your spine, your eyes flicking between his gaze and his mouth. You can feel your own breath grow heavier as you notice his eyes moving slowly down your body again. He glances at your lips as he speaks. "It is all so perfect. You are perfect."

“Rolan...”You trail off finally having the confidence to press your naked body to his in an intimate embrace. He's looking down at your form and he wants nothing more than to make you his in that moment. To take your maidenhood and be the first man to claim the affection of the rare and delicate flower that you are.

The way your body presses into his makes his flesh prickle and a wave of heat rush through him. You look so small in his arms, he can't help but wrap them around you and pull you closer. The desire he feels is burning hot, his body shaking slightly. Your body is so soft, so perfect. The way he can feel you heat against him. He stares at you, his eyes burning, his breath still heavy. He wants to claim your body, to make you all his.

You look up at him as you break the embrace and scoot onto the bed behind you, bringing his hand with you and guiding him on top of you.

When you guide him onto the bed, he cannot help but get excited at the way your body is moving his way. He is on top of you with his weight balanced on his arms, hands still cradling you to him while his arms cage you in. The way he is staring at you is making you shiver, and you can feel the way his body is moving against yours. This is an incredibly intimate moment, and he is loving every second of it. You see the look in his eyes, the desire, and the hunger.

As he cages your body in further, you bring your hands up to his hair and loosen it so it falls in a curtain around the both of you. A smile plays on your lips and you give him a soft, chaste kiss, spreading your legs wide enough for him to slot between them. He sees your gaze looking over the planes of his face as you hold it in your hands. “Rolan...I'm ready.”

The way your legs move apart for him sends a jolt through his entire body. Seeing you spread your body and your most delicate parts for him makes his heart hammer in his chest. It's the most beautiful and arousing sight he could've ever imagined. He is breathless with desire, his hands gripping yours tightly as he can feel what has to happen next. "Are you sure?" he hisses, his eyes bright with want.

You nod in response. “Yes, I'm sure. I want you.”

This response sends more heat through him. His eyes burn hot with arousal. He moves slightly closer, his breath still heavy as he gets close to your face. He pauses for a moment, his mouth almost hovering against yours. He can feel himself wanting you even more now. He stares into your eyes and you can see the desire in his. His own cheeks are blushing, his body trembling and hot. The moment between you two is so heavy, so intense, and so erotic. "Are you ready?" he finally asks again.

You nod once more. “Yes…” Your answer is breathless

That sends another shiver through him. His lips part slightly as he moves down and kisses your neck, feeling your lips pouting slightly in response. He moves down further, kissing down your neck, down to your chin, down to your lips. He kisses you deeply, his hands moving down to your sides and tracing your figure. The sensation of your body beneath him is so sensual and exciting. Every inch of your skin and flesh is covered in heat and warmth, and your body is burning in a way he's never felt before. His kisses become harder, more frantic, and more intense.

He's kissing at your breasts and neck, a hand of his wandering to one of your breasts to knead it in his palms and caress at your nipples with his fingers. You whimper and cry out into his touch as he continues to kiss and explore your body. He is consumed, enthralled by the sounds his touch elicits from your kiss-swollen lips.

Each time your body reacts to his touching you, he is overcome with a rush of excitement. Every sound, every whimper, every moan, every movement you make is something that drives him wild. His body is trembling now as he continues to kiss you, his hand caressing your breast, his breath heating the skin beneath his kisses on your naked flesh.

His fingertips wander your body and you feel them making their way down the plane of your belly before sliding between your thighs. You feel his fingers tracing at your most intimate of parts and you can't help but moan into the intense pleasure he's plucking from your body as he traces between your folds gently.

The feeling is overwhelming, you feel as if every bit of your body is singing in pleasure.

“Ah! Rolan!” You yelp as you feel his fingers slowly slide inside of your body and hook against you. He begins slowly pumping in and out of your womanhood, his thumb rubbing at the sensitive bundle of nerves above. You've never felt such pleasure and your breathing is becoming ragged as he continues to tease at your body, the sound of your arousal squelching around his fingers and your pants echoing off the walls.

Rolan is kissing at your neck as he ensures you're properly prepared for the act that is about to come. He begins to feel the ring of muscles of your center tighten and he carefully removes his fingers and gazes at your breathless form lying beneath him.

He cannot help but gaze at you with adoration and desire, his eyes burning hot as you lie beneath him. Your body is writhing with want, your breath coming in quick, and the folds between your thighs are slick with your arousal.

You look at him and plead breathlessly. ”Please...”

His breath seems to catch at the word you use. His eyes become almost predatory as that is all that he needed. Rolan positions his hips to yours and slowly slides himself inside of your body, stretching you around the shaft of his cock. At first it's a searing burn, tight and tense but then gives way to a pleasant sensation of fullness. Rolan stills when he hears you cry out in pain beneath him. He pauses upon hearing your small cry of discomfort, not sure if he should continue. For a moment, he remains still as he looks down at you to gauge your reaction, his eyes searching your face for any sign he should stop.

Your eyes have tears in them but you look up at him to reassure him you're okay. “I'm okay...just adjusting.”

That's all he needs. His body begins to move, his breath heavy and his pace slow at first but gradually gaining speed and rhythm. He slowly thrusts into you and every glide of his body in and against yours makes you arc your back in pleasure. You can feel every inch of his body inside yours, the sensation of his manhood stirring heat between your thighs. Your hands come to wrap around him and grasp at the flesh of his back as he thrusts into you. You can't help but moan as he makes you feel sensations your own fingers have never granted you with every thrust of him into you.

His thrusts, once languid and slow, gradually moving harder and faster against you. Your legs instinctively come up to wrap around his hips and you cry out when he begins to hit a single spot inside your body over and over at this new angle. You know he's losing himself to you as he grunts and growls into sporadic kisses against your lips and neck, his tail thrashing wildly, bed frame rocking into the wall. “Ah oh gods Rolan I can't...it feels so good I'm- ngh!” Your words are broken by the pleasure tightening between your legs.

Rolan is lost to his urges and he begins to growl deeply, his teeth gritted, fangs on display as he ruts into you. His body is hot, flushed, filled with desire to complete you. You can hear his ragged breaths mixed with primal sounds resonating deep in his chest. It's a sound that makes your womanhood throb with want and your body shudder with a deep primal need for more.

You're panting hard and the sensations are too much, you feel the coil inside you tightening quickly ready to snap and you call out to him, your release is closing in. “I-I think I'm going to come! Please don't stop!”

He hears your pleading and continues his pace and suddenly he too feels his own climax rapidly approaching. It's all so much, the heat between your bodies, your sweet cries of pleasure and the wet sounds of skin meeting skin, the desire to fill you with a part of himself. He's holding out until he hears you cry out, your hips suddenly thrashing against him wildly, your hands clawing at his back as your climax rips through your body violently. The sensations and noises you're making have him speed his thrusts up before his hips stutter inside of you and he can feel your orgasm milking him for every ounce of spend he can give. He groans low and bites down on your shoulder as he fills your womb with his seed, slowly rutting himself into you as he comes.

You lie there together, panting in the afterglow of your mutual climaxes.

He continues to lie on top of you, his eyes closed and his breath heavy. He's still inside of you and still shaking slightly, all the heat coming off of his body. He lifts his head away from you, his eyes opening slowly. He gazes into yours, his eyes burning hot as he looks down at you.

You look up at him eyes half-lidded, lips parted in a small smile as your chest heaves.

Rolan leans down and gives you a kiss, his body still trembling slightly. You can feel his heart still thumping in his chest as your mouths meet. His tongue moves to trace at your lips, and his breath is still heavy from the intense pleasure. His kiss is sensual, comforting in the haze of your lovemaking. As he kisses you, he wraps his arms between your body and the bed and brings his tail to wrap around your calf. He's clinging to you intimately and you feel your heart skip a beat.

He pulls you even closer to him, pressing his chest against you, the both of you sticking together slightly as the light sheen of sweat on your skin cools. He’s holding you tightly, his body still trembling, but slowly regaining its composure. You can feel the heat and the pulse coming off of him. Your bodies, your souls are still connected in this moment of deep and genuine intimacy. It's a beautiful thing, and he knows that even from the way you look at him. He presses his body against yours and his tail snakes around your leg, brushing against you softly as he remains inside of you.

He breaks the kiss and asks how you feel, carefully bringing himself to hover slightly above you. You respond with a soft, love-drunk smile. “I feel...like I'm floating.”

He chuckles softly, his tail slowly slipping down your leg further. He nods at your response, his eyes still locked on yours "And I feel like I'm on fire. But in a good way." The warmth of the moment lingers with both of you as you lie there, staring at one another. You can see the desire in his eyes, but his breath is calming now, his body relaxed a bit more.

He notices you grimace briefly and chirp in discomfort. He's still inside of you but the mixture of your arousal and his seed is starting to uncomfortably seep out from you. Rolan notices this too and pulls out gently, trying his best not to make too much of a mess. His breath is still heavy and his face flushed with desire. He lies down next to you in bed as he puts his arm around you, his tail wrapping around you again. He stares at you, his eyes sparkling with a mixture of desire and affection. He's still breathing deeply and his body is still hot from your lovemaking.

You turn towards him and place a hand on his cheek to stroke his face and his claws gently scratch your back. The moment between you is indeed one of pure intimacy, as you lie wrapped in each other's arms, his hand still caressing your face, your nails gently scratching his back. You two share a look, your eyes locking softly as man and woman. The desire between you is still hot and heavy, your bodies still hot and flushed, and the moment fills you both with warmth and happiness.  He can't help but smile softly, his eyes on yours as you look at him. He's still wrapped around you, his arm still snaked about your body and his tail is wrapped around you like a heavy rope tying you together. This moment is so perfect and intimate. He looks so soft and adoring, a hard contrast to his normal grumpy persona everyone else sees. It makes you chuckle and he's curious what has you giggling. He sees you chuckle at him and raises a brow, curious about what is making you laugh so.

“You just are so different right now...everyone thinks you're this grumpy, stoic wizard but not to me.”

As you say this, he can feel himself blush slightly. He shifts a bit in the bed, embarrassed. He feels as if he has just been seen naked, in a way. This is the kind of intimacy that makes him feel extremely vulnerable with you. For a moment, he looks aside in embarrassment but then finally meets your gaze again, smiling softly.

“I quite like this side of you...it's nice.”

His blush deepens at this response. He sighs and looks down, then back up to your eyes with a shy smile. It's rare that someone gets through to him this much, especially with his shell of sarcasm and grumpiness. It's nice to know you enjoy this side of him.

You snuggle closer to him and he wraps his arms around you and kisses the top of your head.

He can feel his heart racing at these moments of intimacy and affection. The warmth of you being in his arms is one of the most calming things he has ever experienced. He presses himself into you and you can feel the heat coming off his body, he's definitely still flushed from what happened between you two. He kisses your head and wraps his arms around you tightly, holding you close to him.

“Rolan...thank you.”

Your simple words cause him to blush deeply, his cheeks feeling like they're on fire. He smiles slightly and pulls you in a little bit closer to him, his body still feeling a bit warm from the intimacy between you both. He closes his eyes as he pulls you against him and speaks softly, his breath a little shaky. “No... I should thank you for tonight. It was... something I needed.”

“Something you needed?” You picked your head up to look at him curiously.

He sighs softly, his hand stroking your hair. You look soft and beautiful in his arms, a very comforting contrast to his rough and gruff exterior. “You know, I haven't... let anyone in like this. No one... not in a long time.”

You smile and nuzzle close before speaking. “Then I'm glad you were my first.”

Your words almost catch him off guard with their intimacy. He chuckles softly and his body is still trembling slightly, the arousal still lingering from between you both. He kisses your back gently and holds you closer to him for a moment longer.

“I was nervous...that I wouldn't be good enough for you since I was a you know...virgin. In truth you have a lot of my firsts now…” Your face turns read once more as your words trail off.

A smile spreads across his face when you admit this, his eyes beaming at you with affection. His hand runs lightly across your back and he nods in agreement with you. The idea of being your first means a lot to him not simply because he was your first intimate experience but because you trusted him enough to choose him.

“I'm glad it was with you. Perhaps I sound silly but ever since we met...I wanted it to be you.”

Your words are like music to his ears. Hearing this brings him another smile, one that is soft and heartwarming. He continues to caress your back softly, his heart swelling with emotions.

You sigh softly. “In truth I'm not sure where we go from here....we are both adults and I know you've got your own goings on. If tonight is all I get with you then... I am happy. You fulfilled a wish of mine and for that I can't ask for more. If that is the case I do think I'd be sad I ruined out friendship by being selfish...”

Your words make his heart sink, his breath catching in his chest as he hears you say this. He realizes that, in the heat of the moment, you may have gotten the wrong impression. He shifts his body a bit, moving onto his side so that he's now facing you fully. He speaks in a calm and soothing voice, one that has no edge of sarcasm or anger to it at all. He speaks to you with all honesty. “I... I want you. To keep seeing you. I... do not want it to end like this.”

Your eyes snap to his.

Your heart stops and your eyes widen.

“You want...to keep seeing me? Truly?” Your eyes are watering and it feels like your words are caught in your throat.

He raises a hand to brush the hair out of your face and his eyes are a mix of passion and intensity, but also affection.

“Truly.” It's an honest and solemn answer. He brings a hand to your cheek, and his eyes still hold the same fire and adoration. He nods at you a few times as he continues to hold you tightly, his words still being honest and genuine.

“As in...to court and be a...couple?” the words leave your mouth uncertain.

He smiles softly and his cheeks are burning up. He nods his head frantically a couple more times. This feels real, like he's finally let himself be vulnerable with you in these moments after he closed himself off for so long. You spring into his chest and he feels you start to cry as you bury yourself into him,

Your tears are the last thing he expected, but the instant he feels your body shaking and trembling his arms are wrapped tightly around you, holding you close to him. He rubs your back gently as you cry, his hand a soft and calming sensation compared to his usual stoic and prickly exterior.

You mumble softly, “Thank you.”

He rubs your back gently and holds you closely, his heart filled with a warmth he has never felt before. It feels so good to be this close to you, a woman he can be honest and open with instead of using sarcasm and grouchy behavior to keep people away. He lets you cry into him, he doesn't mind the tears and the only thing he wants to do right now is hold you.

Your tears dry and you bring your face to his and he sees how wonderful you are and how much you truly care. “I was so worried that tonight was going to be it for us I just...I am so happy right now.”

He smiles softly and wipes a tear from your cheek with his thumb. The idea that you thought tonight could be the last time you see him breaks his heart. You see his expression, his eyes shining with a hint of tears. How could he let you feel this way? He pulls you in a bit closer to him and holds you tightly.

“I'm sorry for crying,” You wipe your tears away,“I just...feel overwhelmed. Good things don't happen to me often.”

He shakes his head and caresses your face. You see that he is still a bit emotional, that this whole experience means a lot to him. He is used to keeping people at a distance. And you're right there in his arms, crying, vulnerable, but he feels no desire to pull away. No sarcasm, no anger, just the desire to caress the woman standing before him now. He leans forward and kisses you gently, and then he holds you tightly again, not allowing a single inch between you two.

You feel him wordlessly comforting you as you curl in on him and fall asleep in his arms. The silence doesn't feel awkward or uncomfortable. The two of you are in each other's arms and have just made love. It's a beautiful thing, this intimacy. You begin to feel yourself drifting off to a comfortable sleep, the feeling of his body still pressing against yours keeps you secure and safe. You can't sleep any better than this, knowing you have his strong and protective arm protecting you. You fall asleep, your heart still beating with joy from this evening knowing that your first would not be your last.

[moirindeclermont]

Welcome Bridgerton folks!

Seventh Episode of "Sweet Dream": more Colin be unhinged and also a lot of frustration for this one.

As always, I do hope you enjoy it.

---

They were caught. Colin though didn't look like he was not enjoying the attention. As soon as he saw with the corner of his eyes Pen's mother, he drop on one knee, kissing Pen's hand in the process.

"For god sake's, Penelope Featherington, are you going to marry me?" He said not too loud, while Pen could only look at him with tears in her eyes. She nodded, before trapping him a in a crushing hug, and this time she could kiss him without having to stand of her tip toes.

There were shouts and explanation to give. Anthony was not particularly happy. Not because he doubted his choice, but because he could do with less chaotic energy from him - Kate explained.

And since that day, they could only see each other in presence of a chaperone.

Which was a bit frustrating for both of them, since they got so used to each other while dreaming.

And since that day, they could only see each other in presence of a chaperone.

Which was a bit frustrating for both of them, since they got so used to each other while dreaming.

"Maybe we need to... Touch before??" Suggested Pen, meeting the receiving end of a look from Colin that could only be defined as pure lust.

"don't talk to me about touch, young lady. I'm not to the point where I bribe your maid, but I could"

And now that he said that, it seemed a really good idea indeed.

" I'll let you bribe Rae if it means having you in my room," said Pen before her mom took notice of something happening.

Colin swore. "You are playing with fire, young lady.."

Pen was feeling bold.

"I like playing with fire."

"I see. Tonight?"

She nodded. Oh, this engagement was going to be a fun one, for sure!

Tbc

[weepingflowerbonkcop]

I'm trying to finish these headcannons before moving on. I'd be more than happy to answer any questions about the headcannons. Enjoy reading!

Warnings: Wild being Wild, nothing else.

What the Chain thinks about a Modern! Reader using slang/meme references:

Part 2

Sky

• Sky has some basic education for Skyloft. I'd say he finished high school standards for them, but elementary in our standards. He's still pretty smart but just doesn't show it as much as Four does.

• Sky didn't know what to think of when he first heard modern slang.

• He's one of those people that pretend like they know what you're talking about. Reader would be talking casually and Sky would nod his head, listening intently even if he really doesn't understand.

• He likes it when reader goes to talk to him, but sometimes he'd like subtitles to exist.

• He goes to Four and Wind whenever he doesn't understand a word, hoping that they'd be able to give him some indication/translation of it.

• Memes on the other hand - he's actually pretty good at understanding them. He might not find all of them funny but he does manage to catch what they're about.

• He's that person that hears a joke and goes into a full detailed interrogation of the joke. Something like, "Yeah nah, the bro took his cuzy out to the pub. After he met this nice sheela and got a nice rootin' only to find out the day after it was no sheela." Him not knowing what's going on just goes, "So, you've told me before that a 'she - lah' is a girl, yes? And you've also said a 'bro' is a shorter term for brother. So, what does 'cuzy' mean and what does the root have to do with the story?"

• After you do a break down of the slang he just lights up with a 'ooh' and does a little giggle to himself.

• It's cute but ruins a good story when you have to go into another full explanation of said story.

• He's also an 8/10 at least he'll laugh at memes even if he doesn't find them funny.

Wild

• Thinking about him losing his memories some of his schooling had also been lost since his resurrection.

• I believe Wild is the most adaptable of the Heroes. He had to be adaptable out in the wild in order to survive.

• So, he'd be the quickest - next to Wind - to catch Modern! Reader's slang.

• He would also interpret it into his own day to day talking. His Hyrule is more flexible in my opinion to different ways and languages than other Hyrules.

• Him along with Wind and Four are your main translators to the others. So, when someone is in doubt they run to Wild to ask about a certain word or abbreviation then run back to reader and continue the conversation.

• However, Wild does radiate chaotic energy and sometimes whenever the others try to learn, he'd casually tell them the complete opposite of what it means for shits and giggles. An example, "Wild, what does 'Yo - lo' mean?" "You only lick once." The person would thank him and run back to you, "Indeed only one lick." "What the -"

• This annoys the living daylights out of Twilight, Time, Warriors, First, Calamity - basically all the serious Links.

• Wild appreciates memes from Modern! Reader's world. In fact he sometimes tries to recreate them with readers guidance.

• Other times he would try and create an entirely new genre of meme little does he know he already is with some of his really cursed selfies on his Sheikah Slate.

• Overall 10/10 best boy cause he gets it and screws with people that don't.

Hyrule

• In my honest opinion I don't think this boy had any type of schooling. Most of the things he knows comes from pure experience. He might've been taught more about magic, curses and things more related to the fae since he was raised by them, but no school system like ours.

• Hyrule much like Twilight thought it was just an accent rather than the modern day and age talk when he first heard it.

• Someone had to sit him down though to tell him it's not.

• Hyrule learns from Wild about the terms and their meanings as Wild starts using them more frequently in his own speech. So, Hyrule starts picking up that habit as well and sooner or later you got two four in actuality people talking like anyone from your world!

• I believe he would purposefully go to Legend and start telling him some of the slang that he's learned through either you or some of the others. It's similar to a kid running up to their parent to show them a picture that they drew. Legend actually appreciates this and finds it cute but wouldn't admit it.

• He does surprisingly catch on to memes quick.

• His brain works in mysterious ways as well so he'd instantly understand Modern! Reader's references.

• He does go and have little back and forths with Wind when referencing memes that reader uses the most. It's turns into a challenge between Hyrule, Wild, Wind and Four of who is right with Modern! Reader as the referee.

• He genuinely believes its interesting to hear how different the people in Modern! Reader's world talk in comparison to any of their Hyrules.

• Overall he's an 8/10.

[daphnefisherofficial]

bugna: TAKIPSILIM | destiny's twilight

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Pairing: MCU Moon Knight System (Marc/Steven/Jake) x Avatar Fem!Reader

masterlist | previous | next chapter

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN - SHARED BURDENS AND UNEXPECTED ALLIANCES.

The air around you feels charged, crackling with a palpable tension, thick and electric as though the cosmos itself is waiting for answers. The revelation Jake Lockley had just shared was a storm, and you were at its center. As the weight of it bore down upon you, you couldn't help but feel a surge of mixed emotions. Anticipation gnawed at the edges of your consciousness like a ticking time bomb waiting to explode.

Your own memories had always been a mystery, a fragmented tapestry of experiences and secrets, but this new twist in the narrative had the power to change everything. You needed answers, and there was only one entity capable of providing them.

"I wish to speak to Khonshu," you said, your voice trembling with a strange mix of trepidation and determination as you spoke directly to Jake. "Summon your god. I need to hear the truth from him, to explain all of this to me."

His face is etched with anticipation, knowing that you've just asked him to summon his patron god, Khonshu, to enlighten you about a revelation that has shaken the foundation of your reality. The revelation that he knew you long before you, Marc Spector, and Steven Grant ever crossed paths. Your heart pounds like a drum in your chest, a chaotic rhythm that matches the turmoil inside your mind.

“As you wish, preciosa”, Jake nodded solemnly, his eyes never leaving yours as he understood the gravity of the situation. He closed his eyes and began to invoke his patron god’s name in a low, rhythmic voice. You could feel a slow shift in the atmosphere as the world seemed to sigh. And then, in a moment of pure mysticism, the air around you seems to ripple as a figure begins to materialize at your side, responding to the call of his avatar.

Khonshu, the ancient Egyptian god of the moon, was a sight to behold as he stood before you in all his divine splendor. He was imposing, a towering presence in his celestial form as he filled the vicinity with otherworldly radiance. The silvery light of the moon bathed his ancient robes in an ethereal glow, cloaking his spectral figure as his hollow eyes shone with intensity and celestial wisdom beneath the chiseled features of his bird skull. 

"Mira, daughter of the moon" he said in a voice that resonated with power and ancient knowledge. "You seek my presence?"

“Yes indeed, Khonshu”, you nodded, unable to tear your gaze away from the god's luminous form as his aura possessed tranquil power that put you at ease. “I wish to speak with you, as I have questions that only you have the answer to”

“Then state your purpose, child”, Khonshu nodded slowly as his former and present avatars, Marc, Steven and Jake, watched the awaited conversation unfold between the two of you. “What questions do you seek answers to?”

"Is it true what Jake said?” you whispered, reverence mingled with fear in your voice. “Did he know me before we ever met? Before I ever met Marc and Steven?"

Khonshu's gaze shifted between you, Jake, Marc and Steven, his eyes a swirling pool of cosmic energy that seemed to penetrate your very soul. 

"Yes," he admitted, his voice tinged with regret. "The night where I enlisted your help to move the night skies and find the constellation leading to Ammit's tomb did indeed happen. You played a crucial role in ensuring that my avatars will keep their lives."

"Why can't I remember any of it?" you asked, your voice filled with frustration and a hint of anger as the revelation sent shivers down your spine. “I do not understand why this was kept from me.”

“The memories of that time were concealed from you, Mira, through a powerful curse”, Khonshu raises an ethereal hand, his expression solemn as he gestured for you to be patient. 

“A curse…” your voice quivers as you take a deep breath, a thousand questions flooding your mind. “I remember Mayari telling me that it was the god Set who cast it on me, as punishment for me and Darius aiding you, Anubis and the Ennead against him”

“I’m afraid that is not what happened, Mira”, Khonshu intones, his voice like distant thunder. “Your patron goddess lied to you for reasons even I couldn’t fathom yet–”

“Lied to me?” you took a few steps back, an incredulous expression starting to paint your face as you resumed your restless pacing, with your three astral companions watching you helplessly as you succumbed to the seeds of doubts planted and slowly blooming in your mind.

“Explain your words, Khonshu”, you implored, your heart heavy with uncertainty.

“The curse was placed not by Set, but by the moon goddess you serve as an avatar”, Khonshu sighed, the truth finally escaping his lips. “It was Mayari who erased your memories of saving and sharing your life force with Marc, Steven and Jake.”

The name of your patron goddess hung heavily in the air, and you immediately felt as if the world you thought you knew had been turned upside down. Mayari was your patron goddess, the divine being who had guided your steps and granted you her powers. The mere thought of her intervening in your life like this was incomprehensible. Her suspected betrayal was like a knife twisting in your heart.

“But why?” you demanded, pressing further as Khonshu’s words greatly confused you to no end. "Why would my goddess do such a thing?"

Khonshu's expression remained pensive, his gaze steady as he sighed, "I’m afraid only she can answer that question, child."

A surge of anger and frustration consumed you, its molten tendrils wrapping around your core like serpents seeking prey. Your vision blurred as the moon goddess you had long served, escaped your lips as a desperate plea.

“Mayari, aking diwatang pinaglilingkuran”, you spoke, invoking the name of your patron goddess. “Sinasamo kita”

Mayari, my goddess to whom I serve. I summon you.

You reached out to the divine connection that had always existed between you, attempting to summon your divine mentor to explain herself. But to your surprise and dismay, she refused your call. It was as if the moon goddess you served, the deity to whom you had given your loyalty and devotion, refused an audience with you. 

"Mayari, pakiusap" you whispered again, your voice tremulous with mounting desperation. “Bigyang tugon mo ang aking pagsamo”

Mayari, please. Answer me and my divine summons to you.

The level of frustration climbed as it slowly clawed at your chest, its unrelenting grip threatening to consume your being. Your plea met deadly silence as the cosmic presence of your patron goddess remains elusive, shrouded behind an impenetrable veil and refusing to grace your presence. The celestial deity, usually your guiding light in times of darkness, had abandoned you when you needed her the most. A sense of betrayal seeped into your soul, gnawing at the very fabric of your faith.

“If Mayari refuses to shed some light into this, I will find a way myself”, you implored the Egyptian moon deity as he watched your struggle, turning to him in pure desperation. “You've sworn to help me, Khonshu. I'm calling upon that oath now”

“Indeed, I gave you my word”, Khonshu replied, regarding you with a quiet intensity. “What do you require of me, Mira?”

"As you know, I’m currently weakened by the new moon”, you inhaled deeply, focusing on the words you were about to speak. “Lend me your celestial prowess and strength, and I will use your moon magic to perform a spell to recover my memories of that night, and every memory I have lost."

“I will help you, Mira”, Khonshu's voice resonated within your mind, his words a whispered breeze. "But to grant you my full strength, there is a condition that needs to be fulfilled."

A sense of foreboding washed over you as you regarded the moon god's words. Khonshu was not known for his leniency, and his conditions often came at a heavy cost. You hesitated, then asked, "What is your condition, Khonshu?"

"To empower you as you seek, the others who once served as my avatars must return to their rightful place," Khonshu replied. "Marc Spector and Steven Grant - they must resume their servitude and come back to me. They must become the Moon Knight once again."

You recoiled at the suggestion, your heart heavy with reluctance. The proposition was heavy with implications that weighed upon your conscience like an anchor threatening to drag you into murky depths. You may not know the entirety of Marc, Steven and Jake’s history as Moon Knight - the weight of the mantle that they had carried, their struggles and sacrifices, and the scars they bore. But the mere thought of subjecting them to eternal servitude to a moon god, even if it had been their past, went against everything you have believed in and stood for. 

You wish to protect them from such a fate.

"I cannot agree to that, Khonshu”, your determination unwavering despite the struggle to keep your voice steady as tears started to gather at the corners of your eyes. A silent tension hung in the dark corners of your mind, the cosmic weight of the moon god's gaze piercing through the veil of your thoughts. 

“I will never ask this of them, nor will I subject them to that kind of torment”, your voice spoke again with finality, resolved to find another way.

And then, something astonishing happened, something you had not anticipated, nor even thought possible. Marc Spector, who had been watching silently from the sidelines, stepped forward. He stood tall, his eyes glowing with a resolute determination.

“I’ll do it, Mira”, Marc's voice was laced with a quiet resolve. “I’ll go back to being Khonshu’s avatar”

Stunned, you felt your heart skip a beat as you realized what his agreement implied. He was willing to make this sacrifice, to reclaim his former life as the Moon Knight and restore his connection with Khonshu. All in the name of granting you immense power to unlock the memories that had been concealed from the dark recesses of your mind for so long.

"Marc, no," you pleaded, your voice quivering with emotion. "You don't have to do this. I can't let you do this for me."

“I kept recalling that night when I was unable to protect you”, Marc's response was unwavering, his astral form stepping in front of you as his palms made contact with the soft skin of your cheeks. "And I swear to you - that will never happen again. If serving Khonshu will grant me the power and strength to protect you, then so be it.” 

But before you could voice your protest, Steven Grant chimed in. His hands grasped your shoulders firmly despite hovering as a corporeal form as he nodded in agreement with Marc’s words. 

"We wish you to remember your past, love. We're in this together, Mira, all of us"

You felt your heart ache with a mixture of gratitude, admiration, and a nagging sense of guilt. Even Steven was willing to bear the burden of servitude to the moon god so that you could gain power and remember your past. His and Marc’s selflessness and courage humbled you.

"But I can't let you all agree to this," you whispered, tears welling up in your eyes. "You have your own lives, your own desires. It's not fair to you, to any of you."

“We've already been through worse, mi vida”, Jake added his voice to the chorus this time, his tone carrying a sense of determination as his soft smile melted your heart. "I hope you trust us when we say that we can handle it, sí?"

The tears you’ve tried so hard to hold in streamed freely down your face, now realizing the depth of their commitment to you. Despite your protests and reservations, they were willing to give up their autonomy, their freedom, for you. It was a testament to their loyalty and their desire to protect you.

“If you are to accept this, it must be a collective decision”, Khonshu's spectral form shifted, and his gaze seemed to bore into Marc and Steven’s souls. "All three of you will be bound to me in servitude. Do you accept this, Marc Spector, Steven Grant, and Jake Lockley?"

The three alters exchanged a look, a silent conversation that transcended words. Then, as one, they nodded.

"We accept," Marc said, his voice resonating with a newfound determination.

Steven and Jake echoed the sentiment, their voices overlapping in a haunting harmony. "We accept."

Khonshu's presence seemed to expand, enveloping the rooftop in a shroud of ethereal energy. "Then let the oath be sworn."

Respecting their decision, you closed your eyes and reached out to the astral plane, summoning your moon magic. With a burst of ethereal energy, you began to return the corporeal and astral forms of Marc Spector, Steven Grant, and Jake Lockley to their shared body. The three personas coalesced seamlessly into a single entity before your very eyes, all co-conscious in their shared mind.

"I swear," they intoned in unison, "to do my duty as Moon Knight, to protect the travelers of the night, and above all, to safeguard Mira’s life at all costs."

With those words, the transformation began. The familiar threads of Khonshu's ceremonial armor, a blend of ancient Egyptian motifs and protective gold breast plates, wrapped around their shared body once again. His white-clad hood and mask slid into place, concealing his features, and his eyes glowed with an otherworldly light, radiating power and purpose. Marc Spector and Steven Grant had become the Moon Knight once more together with Jake Lockley, a defender of the night, bound by an unbreakable oath.

You took a step back, feeling a mixture of awe and trepidation as the Moon Knight stood before you, a living embodiment of divine power. It was a sight to behold, but it also carried a heavy burden. You knew that the man beneath the mask, the alters within, had given up a piece of themselves for this power.

With the weight of this new alliance and purpose, you opened a portal using your mystic arts prowess to your residence in Surrey. You turned to the Moon Knight, speaking softly as you have officially extended an invitation to your home to Marc, Steven and Jake.

"Come with me then”, you said softly, your right hand outstretched for them to take. “We have work to do."

Resolute and determined, the Moon Knight took your hand as the two of you went through the portal together.They were unmasked for a brief moment, nodding in pure understanding as their voice carried a sense of unwavering commitment. 

"After you, Mira."

END OF CHAPTER EIGHTEEN.

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[ogradyfilm]

Recently Viewed - Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One

[The following review contains SPOILERS; YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!]

Objective. Obstacle. Solution. Complication. Rinse and repeat until the goal is achieved. Over the course of almost three decades, the Mission: Impossible series has refined its formula to near perfection. The latest installment—the cumbersomely titled Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One—does it again, but bigger: the stakes are higher, the stunts more awesome, the locations more numerous, and the pace more relentless.

Beneath its surface-level spectacle, however, the film is also surprisingly intimate. The plot, after all, is rather basic and busy—with our intrepid heroes pursuing a vaguely defined McGuffin from set piece to explosive set piece—and shootouts, car chases, and train top brawls, no matter how immaculately framed and impeccably choreographed, can only carry a story so far; it is the characters that keep the audience invested in the action.

For perhaps the first time since the original movie, Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt feels like an actual human being (M:i:III’s awkward, unconvincing attempt to portray him as an average Joe between assignments notwithstanding). Make no mistake: he’s still a cape away from being an outright superhero; he jumps a motorcycle off a mountain, survives injuries that would reduce a mere mortal to pulp, and is explicitly stated in dialogue to be the one person on Earth capable of thwarting the villains’ schemes. But director Chris McQuarrie manages to find the chinks in our protagonist’s durable armor; Hunt doesn’t stick every landing, is frequently outmaneuvered by his foes, and occasionally fails to save his friends. Here more than ever, it is evident that his success relies more on luck than skill or cunning; indeed, the relative inexperience of rookie operative Grace (Hayley Atwell) serves to highlight the utter absurdity of his propensity for improvisation.

Hunt’s vulnerabilities aren’t just skin deep: he is fiercely protective of his allies—even at the expense of the mission. To him, casualties and collateral damage are totally unacceptable; while the Secretary is heartless enough to simply disavow knowledge of their existence, the loss of an agent would (and does) haunt Ethan for the rest of his days. This unwavering loyalty manifests as intense fear—and Cruise’s steely conviction absolutely sells it.

The supporting players are equally compelling. Of particular note is Henry Czerny’s Eugene Kittridge, returning to the franchise following a twenty-seven-year absence; the incomparably charismatic actor, who could recite a grocery list with gravitas, makes bloated, unwieldy exposition sound as musical as Shakespeare’s sonnets. His adversarial relationship with his subordinate likewise enriches the central conflict; Hunt is too well acquainted with his boss’ jingoism to trust him completely, and Kittridge resents Hunt’s tendency to “go rogue” at the slightest provocation—but each man nevertheless grudgingly respects the other, and they will immediately put aside their differences should the situation require cooperation.

Pom Klementieff delivers the real standout performance, though, lending depth and complexity to what could easily have been a generic minion. As the maniacal Paris, the actress—best known for her comparatively subdued role in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy—projects a wonderfully chaotic energy; this is a baddie that thoroughly enjoys her violent work, relishing the wanton destruction left behind in her wake. But something resembling a conscience lurks within her cruelty and savagery, and its gradual emergence is the film’s most delightful twist.

These memorable minor antagonists compensate for the otherwise uninspiring heavies. As the enigmatic mastermind pulling the strings from the shadows, The Entity is adequate enough, propelling the narrative from Point A to Point B… but as a purely digital construct, it inherently lacks screen presence and personality. That’s where Esai Morales’ Gabriel is supposed to come in. As the AI’s handpicked flesh-and-blood avatar, he succeeds in providing Ethan with a physical foe with whom to trade blows… but there simply isn’t a whole lot of substance to him beyond this superficial function; essentially, he’s as anonymous and forgettable as the literally faceless computer program to which he’s pledged his fealty. And considering Hunt is implied to have a personal vendetta against him (owing to an encounter in their mutually mysterious past,  briefly glimpsed via poorly integrated flashbacks), this is a glaring flaw.

I assume that Gabriel, at least, will be further developed in the upcoming sequel, currently scheduled for a 2024 release. Fortunately, this is the sole thread that remains unresolved; unlike Across the Spider-Verse, which abruptly ends mid-scene, Dead Reckoning Part One arrives at an organic conclusion—the only “cliffhanger” here is the mangled wreckage of the Orient Express. And that sense of closure makes the wait for the next chapter significantly more tolerable.

[sadboi-in-a-sweater]

Sadboi's Incredibly Strange Multifandom Adventure - Chapter 15: This Was Truly the Stardust Crusaders of All Time

The group stepped through the breach once more, the colors of Townsville fading into a swirl of cosmic energy. They emerged in the next world, a place that looked like it had been plucked straight from the pages of a manga. The buildings stretched tall, the streets bustling with people in flashy outfits. The neon lights painted the sky in a rainbow of colors, and the air was alive with the sound of laughter and music.

Sadboi took in her surroundings, trying to deduce where they were. Sadboi's recognition of different manga was weaker than it was with other media, but that didnt't deter her. Eventually, she came up with an answer. "Is this… the world of Jojo's Bizarre Adventure?" She exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement. She pondered aloud, "This is the place with all the stands, yesyes? I don't know about this world much, sorry."

The French Narrator nodded, his smile unwavering. "Indeed, chère amie. Welcome to Morioh." He gestured to the bustling street. "But alas, our mission here is not to admire the scenery."

Sadboi nodded. "Ah-Huh. All I know is to steer clear from any strangers from 'round here doing any strange movements or saying weird phrases. You never know what might happen."

The French Narrator chuckled. "Bien sûr, mademoiselle. But fear not, for we have a quest that calls to us, a disturbance in the fabric of this world that only our unique blend of heroism can mend."

The group looked around, their eyes scanning the vibrant streets for any sign of trouble. It didn't take long before they noticed a commotion down the block. People were running, their faces filled with terror, as a shadowy figure loomed in the alleyway. Sadboi quickly used her vibesense to figure out who it was.

"It's… it's a Stand!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with a mix of excitement and fear. "And it's not friendly! You might not be able to see it, but you can sure as hell feel it!"

The French Narrator's eyes grew wide, and he nodded gravely. "Merci pour l'avertissement, Sadboi. Nous devons agir rapidement."

They rushed down the street, the vibrant sounds of Morioh fading into the background as they approached the shadowy figure. It was indeed a Stand, a manifestation of pure energy and will, and it was wreaking havoc. The locals were panicking, their vibes of fear and confusion only fueling the creature's power.

"We need to work together," SpongeBob said, his eyes focused on the creature. "We don't know what we're up against, but if it's messing with this world, we can't let it win."

Sadboi nodded firmly. "Right. Let's get to it." She looked to her friends for reassurance, and they all nodded back, ready to tackle this new challenge.

The Stand was unlike anything they had encountered before. It was a monstrous beast, a twisted amalgamation of steel and shadow that towered over them, its eyes glowing a malevolent red. The very ground trembled as it stomped closer, each step a declaration of its intent to destroy.

Sadboi's vibesense went haywire as she tried to get a read on the creature's emotions. It was a cacophony of anger and hunger, a maelstrom of malicious intent that made her head spin. She took a deep breath, trying to focus, keeping the overstimulation at bay.

"I think I can communicate with it," she said, her voice shaking slightly. "But it's going to be tough."

Squidward, ever the skeptic, raised an eyebrow. "How do you plan on doing that? It's not like it's got a mouth to talk back."

Sadboi looked back, "I have my ways."

They watched as she approached the Stand, her cubehead pulsating with a gentle blue light. The creature roared, but she remained unfazed, her eyes closed as she focused on the chaotic vibrations it emitted. She began to murmur something under her breath, a strange mix of English and what sounded like computer code. The creature paused, tilting its head slightly as if trying to understand her.

"It's okay," she said, her voice soothing. "We're not here to fight you. We just want to help."

The Stand's roars grew quieter, and it took a step back, the shadows around it rippling in confusion.

"Sadboi, be careful," Twilight called out, her horn glowing with a protective aura.

But Sadboi was already deep in communication. Through her vibesense, she was connecting with the Stand, trying to understand its rage and pain. It was a creature of pure instinct, born from the darker corners of its user's heart.

"You're lost, aren't you?" she murmured, her voice filled with empathy. "You're not supposed to be here."

The Stand's eyes narrowed, and for a moment, it was as if the creature understood her. Its form shifted slightly, the shadows coalescing into a more coherent shape.

"I can help you find your way back," she offered, extending a hand. "We just need to work together."

The group held their breath, watching as the Stand contemplated her offer. It was a risky move, but they had seen the depths of Sadboi's kindness, the lengths she would go to help those in need.

Finally, the creature let out a low growl, and the shadows around it began to dissipate. The ground stopped trembling, and the air grew still. With a final snarl, the Stand vanished into the alley from which it had come, leaving behind a trail of sparkling dust.

The townspeople looked at the group in amazement, their fear slowly turning to admiration. "What… what just happened?" one of them stammered.

Sadboi turned to them, her eyes still glowing faintly. "It was just a misunderstanding," she said with a small smile. "It's okay now."

The French Narrator clapped his hands together. "Magnificent, Sadboi! Vous avez encore une fois prouvé la force de l'amour et de la compréhension."

The group looked at each other, a mix of relief and disbelief on their faces. They had just faced down a creature from the pages of a manga, and they had done it without throwing a single punch.

As they walked away from the scene, a young boy with spiky hair and a strange, star-shaped birthmark approached them. "Are you guys okay?" he asked, his eyes wide with wonder. "That was some crazy stand action!"

Sadboi blinked at him, her vibesense tingling. "You can see it too?" she asked.

The boy nodded eagerly. "Yeah, I've got one too! It's called Star Platinum!"

Her heart skipped a beat. "J-Jotaro?" she stuttered, recognizing the boy from her favorite series.

The boy grinned, his teeth glinting in the neon light. "Jotaro Kujo," he said, extending a hand. "And you guys must be the Multiversal Protectors I've heard about."

The French Narrator stepped forward, his eyes gleaming. "Oui, c'est exact," he said. "Et je suis sûr que notre chemin ne s'arrête pas ici."

Jotaro looked at them, curiosity sparkling in his gaze. "You guys are here to fix the mess with the Stands, right? Well, you're in luck. I know a thing or two about that."

Sadboi felt a rush of excitement. "You can help us?"

Jotaro nodded. "I think so. But we've got to be quick. There's something big happening in this city, and I think it's all connected."

The group exchanged glances, the gravity of the situation sinking in. They had stumbled into the heart of a crisis, and it was up to them to save the day once again.

But with Jotaro by their side, they felt a renewed sense of purpose. They had faced the unknown before and come out on top. Together, they could conquer any challenge the multiverse threw their way.

They set off down the neon-lit street, their hearts filled with hope and the echoes of the townspeople's cheers fading into the night. The adventure was far from over, but with every step they took, they grew stronger, more united. And as they ventured into the unknown, they knew that they would face whatever came their way as a team.

Jotaro led them through the bustling streets of Morioh, his eyes scanning the environment with the precision of a hawk. "The Stand activity has been increasing," he said, his voice low and serious. "Someone, or something, is stirring up trouble."

Sadboi nodded, her vibesense tingling with the myriad of emotions around her. The city was alive with energy, but beneath the surface, she could feel a darker current flowing. "I can feel it too," she said. "Something's not right here."

"It's Dio," Jotaro murmured, his face tightening with resolve. "I can feel his presence. He's behind all of this."

Sadboi's eyes widened in shock. "Dio?" she echoed, the name sending a chill down her spine. The infamous villain from Jotaro's world was a force she had only encountered in the safety of her screen. "But how? He shouldn't be able to affect the multiverse like this. I mean, the time stuff yesyes, but not quite…spatial?"

Jotaro's gaze remained steely. "Time and space are connected, Sadboi. Dio's power has grown beyond our understanding, and we need to put a stop to it before it's too late."

Sadboi is having a mental 'oh god' moment, but is keeping her cool externally. "Okay, okay," she says, rubbing her brain cells together, "so we need to stop Dio. Got it. But where do we start?"

"First, we must gather information," the French Narrator interjects, stroking his mustache thoughtfully. "We must discern the extent of his influence and the nature of his newfound abilities."

They decided to split up into pairs to cover more ground, with Sadboi and Twilight opting to investigate the local arcades for any signs of anomalies. The neon lights danced across their faces as they stepped into the first arcade, the sound of electronic beeps and the clinking of coins filling their ears. Twilight's eyes lit up at the sight of the games, while Sadboi remained focused on their mission. The game machines were as equally alluring to Sadboi, if not more so, but she stayed focused on the mission at hand.

As they played a few games to blend in, they overheard whispers of strange occurrences and malfunctioning arcade cabinets. A group of teenagers nearby were complaining about their favorite machine, "The World" being out of order. "It's like someone's messing with the code," one said, and Sadboi's interest piqued. Of course, the name was the same as Dio's stand, so she felt obliged to investigate either way.

They approached the machine, Sadboi placing her hand on the cold metal exterior, her vibesense tingling. "It's definitely got something," she murmured to Twilight. "It feels… corrupted."

Twilight nodded gravely, her horn glowing a soft blue. "We should check it out," she said, her voice a mix of excitement and caution.

Sadboi nodded and turned to the teenagers. "Excuse me," she began, her voice a little shaky. "Do you know what's wrong with the machine?"

One of them, a girl with pink hair, looked up at her. "It's just been acting weird," she said. "The screen goes all glitchy, and sometimes it feels like there's something alive in there."

"Ah-Huh." Sadboi murmured, her mind racing. "Could it be…?" She didn't voice her suspicion, but the connection to the digital realm was clear.

The pink-haired girl nodded. "Yeah, it's pretty eerie. None of the other machines are doing this."

To Sadboi, this felt a little too obvious. As if it were meant to be found.

The two friends shared a look, and without a word, Sadboi inserted a coin into the machine. The screen flickered to life, displaying the title "The World" in a font that looked eerily familiar. The game's intro played, but with glitches and corrupted images. Sadboi kept her vibesense up as the machine started.

"It's definitely a trap," she murmured to Twilight. "But we have to find out what he's up to. Let's approach with much caution."

The arcade game sprang to life, the glitches smoothing out as the machine booted up. The digital world of "The World" unfolded before them, the pixels stretching and distorting into a recognizable scene: the quiet streets of Morioh, yet something was off. The buildings looked decayed, the people on the screen were frozen in place, their expressions twisted in silent screams.

Sadboi murmured, "This isn't just a glitch. This is something someone would write a full-out creepypasta about." Sadboi kept her guard up, as well as her vibesense.

"Agreed," Twilight responded, her horn glowing a bit brighter. "But we can't ignore it. It's too suspicious."

They ventured deeper into the game, the pixelated world around them growing increasingly sinister. The buildings twisted into nightmarish shapes, and the once-lively streets were now desolate and eerie. The air was thick with a sense of dread, a stark contrast to the cheerful ambiance of the real Morioh just outside the arcade.

"This isn't right," Twilight whispered, her horn pulsing with a blue light. "We need to find the source of this corruption."

Sadboi nodded, her vibesense picking up a malevolent presence growing stronger as they progressed. The game's graphics grew more distorted, the colors bleeding into one another in a sickening display of digital decay. The digital citizens of the game began to glitch out, their forms flickering erratically.

As they approached a seemingly innocuous alleyway, the screen in front of them shimmered, revealing a hidden path. "This way," Sadboi said, her eyes narrowed in determination. They stepped through the flickering pixels, the alley's walls closing in around them. The air grew colder, the shadows deeper.

They walked through the digital corridor, the walls of the game world pulsing with a sinister energy. "This feels like it's leading us somewhere," Twilight said, her voice hushed.

The path grew narrower, the light from their bodies casting eerie shadows on the pixelated ground. "Be ready," Sadboi murmured, her vibesense on high alert. They turned a corner, and the alley opened up into a vast digital chamber. In the center stood a figure, his silhouette unmistakable despite the corrupted visuals—Dio Brando, his digital form twisted and monstrous.

Twilight gasped, her horn's light flickering. "Sadboi, this isn't good," she whispered.

Sadboi's vibesense intensified, "I'm getting to the bottom of it."

The digital Dio turned to face them, his grin menacing. "Ah, so the Multiversal Protectors have come to play," he taunted, his voice echoing through the corrupted code. His stand, The World, loomed behind him, a grotesque shadow that seemed to pulse with power.

Sadboi's eyes narrowed, and she gritted her teeth. "What have you done?" she demanded, her fists clenching at her sides.

Dio's laughter was like the cackle of a thousand hackers. "I have merely shown these poor creatures the true nature of their reality," he said, gesturing to the glitching NPCs. "And soon, I shall do the same to all the inhabitants of this sad little world—and the rest of the multiverse."

Twilight's horn glowed brighter, and she stepped forward. "You won't get away with this," she said, her voice steady.

Dio's eyes gleamed with amusement. "You think you can stop me? I have transcended the limits of your understanding. I am the master of time and space!"

The digital world around them grew increasingly distorted as Dio's power grew. The very fabric of the game seemed to warp and bend under his malicious influence.

Sadboi took a deep breath, her mind racing. She knew they couldn't face Dio in a straight-up fight—not yet. "We need to find a way to purge this corruption," she murmured to Twilight. "We have to get to the core of the game."

The unicorn nodded, and together, they began to navigate the treacherous digital landscape, dodging the glitches and corrupted pixels that sought to hinder their progress. They leaped over digital pits that dropped into endless voids and sliced through walls of code that tried to close in on them.

As they approached the heart of the game, a massive digital crystal pulsed with an eerie light. It was clear that this was the source of the corruption.

"We need to destroy it," Sadboi said, her voice tense. "But be careful. It's probably protected."

Twilight nodded, her horn glowing with a fierce determination. "I'll create a barrier," she said. "You find a way to dismantle the crystal."

Sadboi nodded and set to work, her vibesense reaching out to probe the crystal's defenses. It was like trying to solve a Rubik's cube in the dark, but she could feel the patterns of the code, the pulse of the malicious energy that kept it alive. Twilight's barrier shimmered into place around them, a dome of light that pushed back the chaos of the corrupted game world.

Within the sanctuary of the barrier, they worked tirelessly. Sadboi's hands danced through the air, fingers typing invisible commands into the fabric of the digital world. The crystal flickered and spat digital sparks as she hacked away at its defenses. Twilight's horn emitted a soft, steady glow, the barrier holding firm despite the increasing pressure from outside.

The digital Dio watched them from afar, his laughter echoing through the game's code. "Your efforts are futile," he sneered. "You cannot comprehend the power I wield."

But Sadboi was in the zone, her fingers moving at a blur as she dissected the corrupted code. She had faced the digital before, and she knew the patterns of its madness. The crystal began to crack under her digital onslaught, the malicious energy within it pulsing in erratic waves.

Twilight watched anxiously as the barrier flickered, the strain showing in the lines of her digital avatar's face. "Almost there," she encouraged, her horn's light fluctuating with the effort of maintaining their protection.

Sadboi's eyes were locked on the crystal, her vibesense probing deeper into its corrupted core. With a final flourish of her hand, she typed the last command. The crystal shuddered and then exploded in a burst of light and code, sending the digital world around them into disarray. The barrier flickered and collapsed, leaving them in a sea of glitches and pixels.

For a moment, everything was chaos. Then, as the light faded, the digital world began to repair itself. The buildings grew less twisted, the NPCs less terrified. The air grew warmer, and the colors of the game returned to their natural state.

Sadboi looked over at Twilight, who was visibly relieved. "Good job," she said, giving a thumbs up. "Your barrier held up nicely."

Twilight sighed in relief. "Thanks to you," she said. "That was intense. How do you even do that?"

Sadboi shrugged. "It's just coding. Like drawing, but with more ones and zeros." She looked around the now-calm arcade. The glitches were gone, and the game was back to normal. The pink-haired girl from earlier walked by, looking surprised. "I guess we fixed it," she said with a small smile. "But I think we should report our findings to the others."

They exited the arcade and made their way back to the meeting point, discussing their encounter with Dio. As they approached the group, they saw SpongeBob and Squidward engaged in an intense conversation with the French Narrator. "What's going on?" Sadboi asked, her heart racing with anticipation.

The Narrator looked up at them with a furrowed brow. "We've had a development," he said, his French accent thick. "While you two were busy playing games, Dio has made his presence known in a more… tangible way."

Sadboi responded, "It wasn't just playing games, we managed to patch out one of his influences in there."

The French Narrator nodded, his eyes lighting up with curiosity. "Ah, very resourceful. But it appears our foe has expanded his reach. He has taken over the local television broadcast, spreading fear and chaos through the airwaves."

Patrick's eyes grew wide with horror. "He's turning everyone into mindless zombies!" he exclaimed, pointing at a nearby TV that played static intermittently.

Sadboi's gaze sharpened. "We need to get to the broadcast center," she said, her voice firm. "We can't let him control the minds of the people here."

The French Narrator nodded gravely. "Indeed," he said. "But it won't be easy. His digital influence is strong, and he's likely prepared for our arrival."

Sadboi nodded, "He most likely will be, but we can't let that deter us." She turned to the group, her gaze determined. "We have to stop him before he does any more damage. We need to work together and pool our skills."

Squidward, his tentacles twitching in annoyance, "I don't do 'teamwork'."

But the gravity of the situation sank in, and even he knew they had to act fast. "Fine," he grumbled. "But if I see any glitches, I'm out of there."

As the group of heroes make their way through Morioh, they could feel the digital static clinging to the air. The once vibrant and bustling city was now a shadow of its former self, with the citizens moving in a robotic fashion, their eyes glazed over. The TV screens mounted on the buildings flickered with Dio's malicious laughter, broadcasting a loop of chaotic images that sent shivers down Sadboi's spine.

"This is… terrifying," Patrick whispered, his usually cheerful demeanor replaced with a palpable anxiety.

Sadboi nodded in agreement, her vibesense picking up the fear and confusion emanating from the mind-controlled townsfolk. "We have to be careful," she warned. "We don't know how much he can influence people outside of the game."

They moved through the streets, avoiding the lifeless gazes of the affected citizens. As they approached the broadcast center, they could see the digital corruption seeping out of it, distorting the very fabric of reality. The building looked like it was melting into the pixelated abyss, the air around it crackling with malicious intent.

"Patrick, stay close," Sadboi instructed. "Your power might be the key to breaking the mind control."

The starfish nodded, his eyes wide with determination.

The group approached the entrance, which was guarded by a group of corrupted security bots. Their metal forms were covered in a layer of digital decay, and their eyes glowed with the same malevolent light as the crystal they had encountered earlier.

"We need to shut these down," Sandy said, cracking her knuckles. "But be careful, they might be tougher than they look."

Sadboi nodded, her fingers already typing away on an invisible keyboard as she hacked into the bots' systems. The bots' movements grew erratic, their programming fighting against her invasive commands. "I've got this," she murmured, her vibesense guiding her through the corrupted code.

With a final flourish, she sent a burst of digital energy at the bots, causing them to short circuit and collapse in a heap of scrap metal. The door to the broadcast center slammed open, revealing a hallway that was a chaotic mess of tangled wires and glitching screens.

The group moved swiftly through the corridor, dodging the digital tendrils that reached out to grab them. "This place is a nightmare," Squidward said, his tentacles squelching in distaste.

Sadboi's eyes darted around, searching for any signs of a trap. "Keep your guard up," she warned. "Dio's not going to make this easy for us."

They reached the control room, where Dio's digital form loomed over a console, his hands buried in the code. "You dare to interfere?" he growled, his eyes flickering with rage.

The French Narrator stepped forward, his mustache quivering. "You will not corrupt this world!"

Dio sneered. "Your bravado is adorable, but ultimately futile," he said, his digital form shifting into something more monstrous. The room around them grew darker, the walls closing in as the very fabric of the digital world distorted and contorted.

SpongeBob, unfazed by the looming threat, took a deep breath. "We're not gonna let you get away with this, Dio!" he exclaimed, his porous body beginning to glow with a soft light.

Dio's digital eyes narrowed. "You think your simple-minded cheer can overcome my power?"

Sadboi stepped up beside SpongeBob, her vibesense pulsing. "We're not simple," she said firmly. "We're here to save this world, and we're not going anywhere."

Dio's digital form grew, his digital muscles bulging. "You think your little 'vibesense' can match The World?"

"We're more than just 'little' abilities," Sadboi retorted, her blue color deepening into a neon pink as she felt the anger rise within her. She stepped closer to Dio, her hands glowing with digital energy. "We're the ones who are going to save everyone from your twisted games."

Dio chuckled, his monstrous digital form growing more menacing by the second. "You think you can defeat me?" He waved a hand dismissively, and a horde of corrupted digital minions surged forward, ready to attack.

The group stood firm, each member poised to use their unique abilities to combat the incoming threat. Twilight's horn glowed with a pulsing light, and she began to weave an intricate spell. "I've got this," she said, her eyes focused on the incoming minions.

The digital monsters rushed forward, their glitched forms a blur of pixels and malice. But as they reached the group, they were met with a wave of pure magical force from Twilight's spell, sending them scattering in all directions.

"Now's our chance!" Sadboi shouted, leaping into the fray. Her vibesense led her to the core of the corruption—a massive digital crystal that pulsed with the same dark energy as the one they'd encountered in the game.

Her fingers flew through the air, typing commands that only she could see. The crystal shuddered, its surface crackling with the strain of her digital onslaught. Meanwhile, the others battled the minions with a mix of brute force and clever strategy. Sponge Bob bobbed and weaved, his glowing fists punching through glitchy foes like they were made of paper. Squidward, surprisingly agile, dodged and squirted ink, confusing the digital creatures. Sandy swung her lasso, sending them flying into the walls of the control room.

Patrick, his starry eyes blazing, focused his power on the citizens watching the broadcast. The static on their screens flickered and then disappeared, replaced by a clear picture of the heroes fighting back. The citizens' eyes cleared, and their robotic movements stopped. They looked around, confused but free from Dio's control.

"You think you've won?" Dio roared, his digital form distorting even more. "I will never be defeated!"

But Sadboi was in the zone, her eyes never leaving the crystal. "You're just a bunch of corrupted ones and zeros," she murmured to herself, her vibesense reaching deeper into the digital heart of the monstrosity. "You don't stand a chance against us."

Her words were punctuated by the sound of digital cracking, as the crystal's core began to give way. The room was bathed in a pulsing light, and the air was thick with the smell of burning circuits. Dio's form flickered, his digital flesh stretching and warping as he strained to maintain his hold on the crystal.

But Sadboi was unrelenting. Her fingers danced in the air, inputting a series of commands that would dismantle the crystal from within. "It's over," she said, her voice filled with a mix of triumph and anger. "Your game ends here."

With a final, deafening crack, the crystal shattered into a million digital shards, the light around them dimming as the last of Dio's power was expelled from the room. The monstrous form dissipated into the digital void, leaving only the echo of his frustrated screams.

Sadboi sighed, the tension in her shoulders releasing as she watched Dio's digital essence vanish. The room grew quiet, the only sound being the soft hum of the control room's machinery and the panting of her new friends. The TV screens across the city flickered back to life, displaying a message of apology and a promise of normalcy to the citizens of Morioh.

The group looked around, their expressions a mix of disbelief and relief. "We did it," Sandy exclaimed, slapping her gauntleted hand on the console. "The city's free!"

Sadboi looked around, gazing for their own stand user, Jotaro.

"Where is he?" she asked, a hint of concern in her voice.

The French Narrator stepped up to one of the screens, which now displayed a live feed of Jotaro standing atop a skyscraper, his hat fluttering in the breeze. He looked unscathed but focused, as if waiting for his next move. "It seems Jotaro is keeping watch from above," he said, a hint of admiration in his tone.

Sadboi nodded, a smile spreading across her face. "Good," she said. "We need to keep an eye on the city. Dio might try to come back."

They made their way to the rooftop where Jotaro was standing, the wind playing with his hair. He nodded in acknowledgment as they approached, his stern gaze never leaving the horizon. "It's done," he said, his voice a low rumble. "But we can't let our guard down."

Sadboi looked around, the city of Morioh stretching out before them, the once-glitchy world now restored to its vibrant self. "What now?" she asked, feeling a weight lift from her shoulders.

The French Narrator adjusted his monocle, "Now, we celebrate. And prepare. Dio's influence may be gone, but the battle for our worlds is far from over. We must stand as a united front."

They descended from the rooftop, the citizens of Morioh slowly returning to their lives, the fear in their eyes replaced with curiosity and whispered thanks. As they walked through the bustling streets, Sadboi couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging she hadn't felt in a long time. These people, these friends, they understood the gravity of the situation, and yet, they didn't look at her with fear or disgust, only respect and camaraderie.

The French Narrator led them to a quaint little cafe, "Here," he said with a flourish of his hand, "we shall celebrate your victory!"

The group piled in, the warm light and sweet aroma of freshly baked pastries enveloping them. The chatter of the townsfolk was a welcome change from the digital screams they had just left behind. The French Narrator ordered a round of drinks, his French accent a peculiar but comforting sound in the otherwise silent tension.

Sadboi took a seat at the round table, her mind racing with thoughts of the battle. She felt a gentle nudge and looked up to see Patrick offering her a warm cup of tea. "Thanks," she murmured, taking a tentative sip.

The others began to share their experiences, their laughter and stories mixing with the clinking of silverware and the sizzle of a nearby grill. Squidward, despite his usual stoic demeanor, couldn't resist adding a few dramatic flairs to his tale of fighting the digital monsters. "And then, I whipped out my trusty… ink sac," he said, pausing for dramatic effect, "and blam! They were toast!"

Sadboi found herself laughing, the tension of the day dissipating. The warmth of the tea spread through her, and she felt the beginnings of a bond forming with these unlikely heroes.

As they sat in the bustling cafe, Sadboi couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging she hadn't experienced in a long time. The warmth of the tea in her hands and the laughter of her newfound friends filled her with a comfort that she hadn't felt since before the accident. She listened intently as each of them recounted their own battles with Dio's minions, their voices a harmony of triumph over adversity.

However, Sadboi felt the pull of the multiverse yet again. Her thoughts drifted to the countless worlds she had yet to visit, the stories she had yet to paint with her presence. Her eyes wandered over to the TV screens in the cafe, each showing a different corner of the vast media landscape she had come to love.

"Guys," she said, her voice quiet amidst the cheerful din, "I think we have to keep going."

SpongeBob looked at her, his eyes wide with concern. "But, Sadboi, we just saved Morioh!"

Sadboi nodded solemnly. "I know, Sponge Bob, but there are so many more places out there that need us. We can't stop here."

The French Narrator leaned in, his eyes gleaming with understanding. "You wish to continue your journey, to right the wrongs across the multiverse?"

"Yes," she said firmly. "We've come so far together, and I believe we can do so much more."

The group exchanged glances, the weight of their decision hanging in the air. It was clear that they had all grown attached to each other, but the call to adventure was too strong to ignore. One by one, they nodded in agreement.

"Alright," Sandy said, sipping her drink. "But first, let's enjoy this victory. We've earned it."

As they savored their drinks and basked in the warmth of their newfound friendship, the TV screens flickered again. This time, the images were not of chaos, but of news reports from across the multiverse, showing the destruction wrought by other malicious beings seeking to conquer worlds.

The French Narrator's expression grew solemn. "It seems that the fate of many dimensions hangs in the balance."

Sadboi's gaze sharpened. "We can't ignore these cries for help."

The group pushed aside their empty cups, a shared determination setting in. They had found each other in the most unexpected of places, and together, they had the power to make a difference.

Patrick's starry eyes lit up. "Where to next?"

The French Narrator gestured to the screens. "The multiverse calls," he said dramatically. "But where it leads us, only fate knows."

Sadboi stood, her sweatshirt fluttering around her. "Then let's not keep fate waiting."

They filed out of the cafe, the chatter of the townsfolk fading behind them as they stepped back into the digital street. The city of Morioh was safe, for now, but the battle was far from over. The group looked to each other, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them in the vast, interconnected tapestry of worlds.

The sky above them shimmered with the promise of adventure, and Sadboi took a deep breath, her vibesense tingling with excitement. They had proven themselves in the world of Kamen Rider, in the Mushroom Kingdom, and in the digital realms of "Sonic the Hedgehog." Now, they were ready to tackle any universe thrown their way.

With a nod to her friends, she opened a portal with a flourish of digital code, revealing a swirling vortex of color and light. "Let's go," she said, stepping through the gateway.

The others followed, their hearts racing with anticipation. They had no idea what lay ahead, but they knew that together, they could conquer anything the multiverse had in store for them. As they disappeared into the swirling colors, the citizens of Morioh watched, whispering tales of the brave cubehead and her band of heroes who had come to their aid.

[wizard-spider-man]

"Wards Against Absence and Lacking Of" by Sevritus Arenuius

**This ancient tome, bound in otherworldly leather and adorned with intricate runes, shimmers with an unnatural glow. Indeed this book holds the great secrets to safeguarding the very essence of existence.**

**Penned by the long lost mad-man-mystic Sevritus Arenuius, its pages are the amassed collection of mad scrawlings, experiments, and rituals of the one (or many, it is hard to say,) who dared to pursue the darkest questions of the cosmos.**

**Seeking a means to shield reality from the insidious forces of the void, Arenuius embarked on the dangerous task of unravelling the mysterious workings of existence itself.**

**In the fathomless void that lies beyond the veil of creation, a malevolent presence lurks, an existential threat that predates the dawn of reality itself. The antithesis of all that is, to consume the very fabric of existence, eroding the foundations of the multiverse until nothing remains but emptiness.**

**And yet, many things seem to take on the definition of such a thing. This was a simple but profound realization.**

**Absence.**

**It was this looming peril, that drove Arenuius to abandon the comforts of the known world and pursue the most forbidden realms of knowledge he could find. Truth it would be that his own home world died as a result of his descent into madness.**

**The tome carries weight of the lives of countless, some even bound to its very pages. A cruel fate for the departed.**

**Risking his very sanity, Sevritus pursued the lore of ancient civilizations long forgotten, deciphering cryptic texts and unraveling the mysteries of eons past, all in the pursuit of a means to ward off encroaching oblivion.**

**These bygone realms were said to wield arcane forces that defied the natural laws of the natural world. Whispers spoke of civilizations that harnessed the very fabric of reality itself, bending it to their will through intricate rituals and esoteric knowledge.**

**Other societies thrived on the mastery of these mystical arts, their ways of life inextricably intertwined with the ebb and flow of cosmic power. Yet, for all their supposed might, they ultimately faded into obscurity, leaving behind only fragmented accounts and enigmatic relics, or in some cases just trace essences from moments in time.**

**Beyond the veil, the enigmas that dwelled within the void were enough to chill the blood of even the most resolute truth seekers. Yet, it was the very horror of the unknown that fueled Sevritus' relentless pursuit, for only by unraveling the secrets of absence could one hope to stand against it.**

**Just as the deepest trenches of the ocean remain largely unexplored, harboring unspeakable horrors in their lightless depths, so too does the abyss beyond existence, beholding terrors that defied comprehension. The inky blackness that enveloped these realms was a palpable presence, a malevolent force that seemed to devour all semblance of hope and reason.**

**To dive too deeply into such mysteries was to risk losing one's grip on all they hold dear.**

**This tome hums with otherworldly energy, the mana binding it together being anchored to the pure quintessence of numerous dead realities.**

**Through years of relentless study and experimentation, Arenuius unlocked the secrets of these ancient magics and cosmically, each work of spellbinding more potent than the last.**

**One such powerful enchantment, was crafted by tapping into the primordial energies that birthed existence itself.**

**Drawn from the teachings of a mysterious Conclave, an order of star-seers and cosmic scholars, the Hymn of Aurelia harnesses the raw potential of creation; the Celestial Glow.**

**The Celestial Glow is an energy directly funneled from the mythical, chaotic all-spark that creates a Universe. When it was discovered, it was that one Universe's Dominant Magical Essence.**

**In the darkest depths of the Obsidian Spheres, a dimension of shifting causalities; a grim civilization of shadow-wreathed sorcerers practiced forbidden arts, channeling the very embrace of cosmic terror into their dark rituals.**

**Yet, through these paradoxical rituals, their mastery of cursed tongues and eldritch glyphs allowed them to harness the pure energy of stars, weaving spells of brilliant mystical starlight. The life-affirming power born from the very heart of existential dread. Grass would grow, trees would bloom. Until the Obsidian King returned the verdant spheres to darkness.**

**The Radiant Glyphs of Obsidia would bring the light of life to the darkest of shadows, curing the worst wastelands, and restoring the most corrupted plains.**

**Beloved and revered throughout a prosperous realm of evergreen, the benevolent witch Elara dedicated her life to the pursuit of healing and renewal. Her enchantment, a masterwork of divine sorcery, drew upon the boundless love she held for all living things, channeling that pure, nurturing essence into a blanket of rejuvenating magic.**

**Wherever Elara trod, withered landscapes bloomed anew, and the infirm found themselves suffused with vitality, a testament to the transformative power of selfless affection. The people loved her, and they destroyed their world mourning her.**

**The Veil of Elara Verenia could heal the deadliest of illnesses, the greatest of plagues, and the strongest of pains.**

**Yet, for all its power, the tome is a double-edged sword, for the knowledge contained within its pages is a burden too great for most to bear. Arenuius himself, it is said, succumbed to the weight of his own revelations, mind shattered by the cosmic truths he had unearthed.**

**His final words, scribbled in a frantic hand upon the tome's innermost pages, speak a truth too terrible to comprehend, a reality-shattering revelation that drove him to the brink of madness.**

**Many, very many things in this reality came from the Abyss. The essences that these beings, Absence, was present in all of them, no matter where in the multiverse Sevritus would go. This truth reduces his final pages to runes and cyphers, and unintelligible language potentially from the Beyond.**

**While not inherently malevolent, the careless or ill-informed use of the wards and enchantments detailed within this tome could unleash catastrophic consequences, unraveling the delicate balance of reality itself once again.**

[painting-aphrodite]

•

Venus ingresses into Taurus

(Written on 17.03.2023 20:45 GMT)

After just over 2 weeks of a heated, rushed and action oriented Venus- passing through its fall in Aries, it shall now embody its natural home found in the characteristics of the sign Taurus.

Taurus rules over the throat, neck and ears. The BULL, safety, Possessions, material gains, firmness, practicality, stability, foods, tangible matters, nature and esoterically the Mother of Earth.

Ruling over occupations related to singing, reciting, eulogising, architecture, finance, banking, agriculture and all routine based work.

These topics will be highlighted and gained from. Happenings which transpire during Al Zuhra’s transit in this sign can be much more long lasting. Comparatively while it was in Aries, things started or initiated may have not come to fruition.

Do expect some unconventional realities to be unveiled on the humanitarian scale along with personally. Those colours exerted by Venus on the mundane front such as Peace talks, balance, politics, relationships, leisure, pleasures of society, amusements, women, artists, creative displays, laziness, decorations and food.

If someones Venus is badly placed in the chart - this influence may bring stability during this brief transit. Dependent on aspects. However enough energy is present to bring some positivity.

Virtue - the gain or loss of it is intimately tied to Zuhra.

Ibn Arabi stated Al Khayyal ( imaginative faculties is how this is translated into English but this is not the entirety of what Al Khayyal represents) is the faculties which Venus has dominion over. What we “ imagine” something to be is indeed how it will start to be, if ones nature is chaotic, jealous, obsessive, materially hungry then this exactly how the world may play out. Whereas if one imagines the celestial realms through the right structure ( Venus ( imagination) needs boundaries ( Saturn) without which it is purely leisure in escapism), once this is mastered one can then also transform the old associations through a very practical, down to Earth and acceptable routine.

Inbox me for consultations.

• Painting Aphrodite

[mochilorddrakeinferno]

I think I've misplaced it, unfortunately! But essentially, it was just kind of looking throughout the series and noticing the trends around the way that Star and Wish power tend to behave. The Stars' whole deal is giving their light and energy out into the world. They lend their power to people, magic, and machines without complaint. They give up their forms to create the celestial bodies. And, most prominently and significantly, they grant wishes. The Stars answer the wishes and prayers of people, maintain the propagation and form the very essence of life, and preside over the cycle of the universe itself. And as per Paper Mario, their power ultimately comes from the wishes of ordinary people. The wishes of people and the Stars that grant them empower one another, in a way they create each other. This is, to me, the most beautiful aspect of the Mario world's cosmology. It is positive emotion, and the will to help one another out, that runs the cosmos. But what, then, is the opposite of that power? We do have an answer! The Ztars are... well, let's be real, mostly irrelevant in a direct plot sense. But despite only appearing explicitly in a handful of Mario Party games, their lore is no less fascinating. It's said that a Ztar exists wherever there is a Star, just as darkness follows light. Where the Stars thrive on light and hope, the Ztars are gloomy icons of sadness and regret. We don't know a whole lot more than that. But much like antimatter in our own universe, the Ztars are a suspiciously quiet presence for something that's supposed to be equal. Where are the Ztars hiding exactly, and why are the Stars so much more prevalent. My working theory/personal suspicion for the disparity is that it's a "wolf you feed" type of scenario. We know the Stars thrive because the people of the universe give them power. The Ztars, however... their adherence seems much more limited, if indeed any truly exists at all. What would feed the Ztars, anyway? Well, for that, let us turn to SMRPG and Paper Mario, the genesis of the lore of the Stars and Wishes. The Stars are ultimately the decider of which wishes get granted, and most of Bowser's wishes don't make the cut, because they are selfish in nature. Wishes about yourself aren't intrinsically selfish, we see wishes for snacks or personal success are totally fair game. Rather, I think, what makes a wish selfish in the eyes of the Stars is when it benefits oneself at the expense of another. So, I theorize, that is where the Ztars would draw their power. And where do we see a frowning star guided by, and known for empowering, selfish wishes? The Dark Star from Bowser's Inside Story, although not technically explicitly a Ztar, provides a perfect case study of what we would expect them to behave like. It is weakened and sealed by the power of the Star Sprites. Where the Stars maintain the world in relative tranquility, the Dark Star seeks to consume it in darkness. Where the Stars give their power freely, the Dark Star obsessively hunts down the one who stole its power until it is once again complete. It hijacks DNA, steals forms and power to suit its needs, and takes what it wants. I feel that Chaotic Love maps quite similarly onto Pure Love in this lens. Where it is an enforced and arranged marriage that brings the Chaos Heart into being, it is a wedding of true and mutual love that takes it out once and for all. Where the Dark Prognosticus binds the future to one unerring path, the Light Prognosticus champions possibility. Where Count Bleck's all-consuming malaise of despair and vengeance tears open the Void, it is hope and trust that sees it sealed. Where Dimentio's ego and disregard for life in equating himself to the inevitability of prophecy is his undoing, it is the humility and kindness of the heroes that is their strength. There's more I could go into about the themes of this across the series, including the consistent thread of the power of love being able to defy fate and the possibility of the Shroob Planet being linked to the Ztars, but does that answer/explain?

Is there control over the Chaos Heart's Power?

I was pondering again about the ending of Super Paper Mario and conjured a question;

We know that the Chaos heart is the catalyst to destruction of all universes, wiping out every person, including presumably the weilder of the Heart-

We also know the fact that Dimentio knew the Chaos heart's power would be used to do this based on the Ch8-3 exchange.

But when he takes control of the Chaos heart, he intends to to create a "perfect world" to which he is "king"-

If he knew the Chaos Heart would be used to wipe out existence, including possibly himself, how would he have even thought he'd been able to make that perfect world in the first place (unless his perfect world was to have everything empty and destroyed-)

Is it said at any point that the wielder of the heart can actually choose what the outcomes are? 

Or am I missing any information- 

Thanks!

[classpectingshitposts]

bard of void, i come on here every so often and go GYEHEHEHEHEHE for an hour and then forget this blog exists until it crossed my dash again.

...I have never seen somebody type a laugh like that before. I’m not sure whether that’s a good or not so good thing anon.. But regardless, welcome back to the land of classpecting and randomness

~Mod Astrid

[ja-stuff]

mentiong their ex in front of their s/o during an argument (break-up???)

Note: I made this in a rush got no time to proofread, my college papers are piling up and I did this during my 30-minute break lmao~ I still hope y'all still like it :> I'll make it up for its part 2 and the other updates! I'm sorry T_T

word count: 1, 864

character: Haitani Ran

tw: break-up/space with no closure and clearing misunderstanding lmao, hurtful words

genre: light angst

“You’ve got too many friends of both sex, or maybe you have more male friends.” Ran jokes continuously with you, but you didn’t like it one bit. “Asuka never had male friends… maybe she did but it’s not like she always hang-out with them. God, she’s so obedient.” he chuckled after saying those words which made you sigh. You know that he’s going to mention his ex after the first words, but you just let him continue as he pleases.

You’ve always had the heart to participate in any charity events, your energy is known to be the type to attract people and make them feel the positivity you always emit around them, making these kinds of events the suitable work for you. On the other hand, just like how any other person’s attracted to you, Ran also became addicted to your overwhelming presence when he saw you at a park before, love at first sight indeed. A few more days of stalking you, he’s sure that you’re the one he’s willing to give you more than anything you have and keep you by his side for as long as he breathes, your pureness and innocence makes him more attracted to you that he’s willing to keep you away from everyone and protect you from the chaotic world.

Now, Ran always has the duty to pick you up at your house to drop you at your workplace then pick you up again after your work is done. This was his routine since he started to date you, and you really didn’t mind it. You’re comfortable with him around despite knowing what job he has and you know that Ran can be obedient with you and would listen to you when you told him to stop. Like right now.

“Stop the car.” You interrupted Ran from his Asuka ‘rants’ that made him stop blurting more words. You can feel his eyes staring at you while you keep yours straight on the road. “Why? Are you hungry? Wanna stop at that convenience store over there? You’re going to eat again, bubs? But we just had our breakfast at your house. Asuka doesn’t eat much like you—“

“I said stop the car, Ran.” you still keep your eyes on the road. “Wait, what happened to ‘bubs’, bubs?” he asked with a nervous chuckle bringing his eyes back to the road. Ran's not used to you calling his name since you’re the one who always calls him the cute names. He waited for you to say something about it but this time you didn’t bother correcting yourself.

“Just pull-over.” Pointing your finger at the bus stop.

“No! I— I mean why?” he asked and looked at you again, you can feel him getting confused just by how he looks at you. “Just ‘cause.” Ran raised a brow when he heard your answer, he knew that you were not the type to be short with your words, and this Y/n with him right now is a little unfamiliar to him.

“ Wait– A–are you angry with me? What’s with the m–mood, love?” he asked, starting to feel a little nervous.

“Yes, I am.” You answered, not even planning to spare him a glance. You’re trying your best not to look at him, ‘cause if you do, you know that you’re going to snap at him and won’t be able to control your emotions.

“Why? I didn’t do anything?!” Ran raised his voice, feeling wrong with the situation where he forgot what had happened before you started acting that way. His head was full of random events of his teasing with you but none of those thoughts included his talks about his ex, 'cause he simply thought that you won't be affected with it. What a dumb man.

“Are you sure you didn’t do shit?” You asked. Your voice is overflowing with coldness, but your smirk made Ran’s brow furrow.

“Yeah! What’s wrong with you babe?” Ran calmly said but his voice was a little tense because of how he became a little irked with your reaction and how you responded towards him. He looked at you but was surprised when he met your eyes.

“No. What’s wrong with you!” your icy glare piercing his heart with how angry they looked. Fights are rare since both of you make up even before the argument heats up, but Ran knows for sure that a fight that cannot be soothed immediately is occurring, he just couldn’t put his finger on why you’re acting up.

“Hey— why’re you raising you—“ he questioned you, concerned orbs looking at you. He knew that putting more fuel into your burning emotion would make it worse. At least he knows that. His eyes shifted to you and the road, his voice came out soft but was interrupted when you spoke.

“Cause I want you to know that I’ve had enough.” you blurted as you kept your eyes on him, digesting his reactions from hearing your words. “Ran, I hate you. I really do.” This time your voice sounded more like a whisper, as you breathed heavily.

“I hate that you’re so insensitive and always play as if you’re joking every time you mention her name. I fucking hate you.” You lowered your gaze and stared at your hands, biting your inner cheeks as you held back your tears.

“So this is about how I always mention Asuka’s name—“ he casually said, he’s aware that he has been mentioning her name for quite some time now, but Ran thought that exes are just exes. He didn’t know that you’ll get affected by it.

“Yeah. And I am saying if this relationship always keeps on mentioning one of your exes, then we’re better off seeing each other.” you continued, ‘Shit. Shit. Shit.’ he cursed at the back of his mind, his heartbeat started to race when he heard your last words. He sure was jealous of how close you are with lots of your friends, how you’re easily flocked by men/women that he thinks are a threat in your relationship.

“You’re— you wanna break up with me?” Ran stuttered as he asked you, but when you didn’t answer him, he fell silent before he decided to clear the misunderstandings by trying to explain himself ‘cause that’s the only thing he knew that would make things better. He slowed down the car when he noticed that the park where the event you’re participating is only a few blocks away. He knew he needed time to be with you before sending you to work safely.

“Hey, bubby— hey, listen to me okay? Let me explain—“ You looked up and panicked a little, you never planned to listen to him ‘cause you knew that would make things worse for you. It’s not like you never wanted to hear the explanation, rather you just don’t wanna listen to it now as you know well to yourself that you needed to get away from your boyfriend and heal the wounds he inflicted on you from the past months. You didn’t let him finish with what he was trying to say and spilled all your emotions at the place.

“Explain what? You’re always finding reasons to get you out of this kind of situation. Do you think I’m that dumb to not notice your acting as if what you said and did are only jokes? Ran, I am getting tired, it’s been three months since you started doing this— now I am thinking that you don’t want this relationship and as if you’re doing those things on purpose, that you’re just tormenting me, provoking me and pushing me to my limits of cutting you out of my life.”

“Bubs, I am sorry— but that’s not how it is. I was just jealous—“

“To the point of hurting me emotionally and mentally? I am losing my confidence every time you mention her, Ran. I am deeply hurt hearing another person’s name coming from your mouth, and knowing that person was the one you once shared intimacy with before– If I did this to you what would you feel then?” At this point, you’re already crying, which made Ran stop the car a few houses away from the park. His conscience started to beat him up as he quietly cursed himself. Never had he imagined hurting you this way. You’re his sunshine and you exist to shine brighter than anyone else, he only wanted for you to experience the best things and make you smile, but now he’s seeing tears coming out of your beautiful eyes and he hates that he is the cause.

“I’d get hurt… but bubs please let me explain— no. Let me make it up to y—“ He removed his seatbelt and was about to envelop you into a hug for comfort but you put two hands out and stopped him.

“Ran, I want some space.”

“No! I don’t want that! Please? Anything but tha—“ his voice raised again, trying his best to change your mind. You’re there but it started to feel like you’re not. Ran’s feeling the phantom walls you never had before be built in front of him.

“But I don’t want anything. I should get going…”

“I don’t want to—“ feeling the walls starting to get higher and higher, scared Ran. Believing that the only way to break it would be closing your distance was his last resort.

“Ran, let go.” you were surprised by his sudden hug, he started sobbing which made you melt, but this is not the time to be swayed by this emotion you are feeling. You wanted some time to think, that’s why you only asked for space, it’s not like you wanted to leave him, but you also wanted him to do it as well.

“No, we will talk somewhere— let me explain please?” You try to push him back, but that only makes him cling to you tighter.

“Ran, ple–”

“Please? I don’t want you to leave me. I can’t—“ your tears started to fall again as you kept on pushing him away.

“Do you think I wanted to leave y–you? You pushed me like this, y–your actions gave me the idea of this kind of r–resolution, so you should just deal with it and give me the s–space that I need.” Your voice almost begged him to stop and let you go, but Ran didn’t budge.

“Y/n… I’m sorry please…”

“Let me go.”

“Don’t please? D—don’t go, my love” this time he pulled away but was about to kiss you when you turned your face away, and removed the seatbelt. His hand was about to reach your arm, but you swatted it away.

“We’ll talk once I feel like it. Take care.” you opened the door and looked at him once more

“Y/n— Y/n! Please— d—don’t! S—stay with me, I am b—begging you, love! Don’t do this to me— I love you— *screams*”

You walked out of the car and straightened your clothes, you wiped a few stray tears away before plastering a smile and running towards the direction of the park. You ignored Ran’s screaming from inside the car, and a few beeps he made from letting out his frustration at the steering wheel.

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

Thank you for reading! Hoped you liked it! Oh! Here is my master list ^^ stay hydrated and keep safe loves!

Please support/ donate something for me on Patreon and Ko-fi as well! (I’ll be posting the commissions and other requests! I’ll give my best with all of your support! )

[nightsister-juisid]

Who would imagine the character I hated the most in the beginning of the season, is now the one I hold close to my heart and appreciate the most

When I was introduced to Daemon for the first time I thought of him as the most basic, stereotypical villain the show will have. I never read the book before, let alone knowing the whole lore of GOT. Seeing him in the throne, just so full of himself, and his weird interaction with Rhaenyra just made me believe he was going to be another jealous brother trying to steal everything from his family. Without any morals, without following rules. A pure bastard.

However, after his story plot fighting in the narrow sea, witch such impressive action scene of him going against a whole army all by himself, made me become interested in his character. He became, from a villain, to a gray character. And a badass. He gained all my respect when he won against the triarchy: Full of blood and mud. A true warrior leading the battle from the front line. He was, indeed, an epic character.

And then we had him coming back from his exile. His armor bright, his hair short and adorned with an improved crown. Daemon comes back with a different energy, a new aura. He’s not the stereotypical villain as before. He returns as something more complex. And sweeter. Chapter 4 shows us how close his bond was to Nyra and how they gravitated always back to the other.

He was listening to her, giving her advice. The little stares, the shared cup, the gentle treatment made one wonder what were his intentions.

And finally, the brothel scene. The pinnacle, of what I can define from a personal perspective, of the feminine dream made man. The female perspective only accentuates that and we finally have this, gorgeous character giving in for the one who should be his enemy. In such a sinful place, in secret, with everyone watching but they both lost in themselves. (And who doesn’t want a bad guy losing himself all for you?)

Daemon got me completely in that chapter. And since then he made me a fangirl for him too. What a wonderful and well written character, full of layers and complexity. Now I do know who’s Daemon: A loyal brother, a loving husband, a pure chaotic energy turned into a human, a wise and skilled warrior, a gentle lover, a quick assassin, a charming prince. But even if he’s a loyal character to his own ways, he’s still unpredictable and intriguing. Meanwhile, Matt Smith owns the scene the moment he appears on camera.

A very lovely character indeed. I adore Daemon a lot.

[fanficshiddles]

Bargaining, One Shot (Slight spoilers for Ep5!)

Summary: You get pruned and think you’ve died, but when you wake up you find President Loki staring down at you. You beg him to help you. So he makes a bargain with you. In return for safety, he wants your body. 

Warnings: Dub-con

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Your eyes fluttered open, expecting to see some kind of bright light or angels, perhaps. Or maybe you’d gone to the depths of hell, so would see demons and fire everywhere. But you were surprised, and confused, when you opened them to see dark clouds above and a man with black hair and a weird horned crown popped into view, looming over you, with some others surrounding him.

‘Oh dear, is she dead?’ President Loki asked.

One of the others he was with nudged your shoulder with his foot. Making you groan as you blinked hard to focus.

‘Apparently not.’ Loki chuckled.

You rolled round and got up onto your hands and knees, looking up at the men surrounding you. There was then an almighty roar from not too far away. You looked over and saw the most terrifying monster in the clouds.

‘You’re not a Loki, are you?’ Loki asked you.

‘A what? Loki? What do you mean?’ You frowned.

Loki sighed and rolled his eyes. ‘Clearly not. Waste of our time.’

‘Do we kill her, sire?’ One of the men asked, making your eyes widen.

‘No, Alioth will get her soon enough.’ Loki sneered and turned around to leave with the others.

You quickly put two and two together that Alioth was the name of the terrifying cloud monster that was getting closer and closer.

‘WAIT!’ You scrambled towards Loki. ‘Please… Please, don’t leave me here.’ You begged.

He turned back to face you, raising an eyebrow. ‘Why should I help you? You’re not one of us, no one but Loki’s survive here.’

‘Please… I’ll do whatever you want, anything, just please don’t leave me here. I beg you.’ You cried and was literally begging at his feet. You looked up at him through teary eyes. ‘I’m scared, please.’

Loki tilted his head as he stared down at you. Then he tapped his lower lip in thought for a moment, before a wicked smirk spread across his lips. You noticed he was then actually looking at you rather thoroughly for the first time.

‘I suppose, having a woman around could be rather useful.’ He hummed. ‘It has been so long since I’ve felt the soft lips of another…’ He reached down and brushed his thumb against your lower lip, making your lip quiver at his meaning.

Though the thought of doing sexual favours in return for safety didn’t exactly sound like a bad idea in this situation. Besides, he was rather good looking. And considering you’d thought you had died, the chance at survival was too great to pass up.

‘Please.’ You whispered again, pleading him with your eyes.

You knew he was dangerous, it was obvious. The fact that he and the others with him were even alive in this place. Even at first glance you knew it wasn’t a safe place to be.

He stood up straight and slid his hands into his pockets again. Then he nodded once. ‘Come with me.’

You scrambled up to your feet and followed as he started heading off quickly, it was hard keeping up with his large strides, but you managed. The others were staring at you weirdly, not sure whether to trust you or not. Since they didn’t trust anyone, really.

The monster was getting closer, making you shake more and more in fear. But Loki was completely calm as he led the way. Then eventually, after what felt like hours but was actually just a few minutes, you came to a large circular hatch in the ground.

Some of the others opened it up and started climbing down. Loki looked at you and motioned to the ladder. But you were frozen, the thought of going down there and being trapped god knows where…

‘Suit yourself. You can come down and take your chance with me, or you can stay out here all alone with the monster. But no one apart from Loki’s ever survive here alone.’ He said darkly, smirking a little.

He went towards the ladder, but you quickly moved forward after hearing another roar from the monster. ‘I’ll come down.’ You blurted out quickly.

Loki grinned and motioned for you to go first as he took a small step back. You hesitantly began to climb down the ladder and Loki followed. When you reached the bottom, you turned around and were faced with even more people that you assumed were other Loki’s. They all had various weapons aimed at you, making your eyes widen.

‘Hey, hey, hey! Back off, she’s no threat. She’s mine.’ Loki growled at them all roughly when he got down the ladder behind you.

They instantly backed down, obeying their King.

Loki gripped your upper arm firmly and led you through the other Loki’s, he started spouting some green energy from his hand when one of them tried to get over to you. You gulped hard, just what exactly had you gotten yourself into?

He took you through to what you assumed was his private bedroom. It was just as weird and dark as the other room. But this one at least had a bed.

Using some magic, Loki locked the door without a key.

‘Well now.’ He said as he shrugged off his black jacket, leaving the rest of his clothes on. But he started rolling his sleeves up his forearms. You weren’t sure why, but you felt the green waistcoat and tie really suited him, like it was his colour.

‘Are you going to hold up your end of the bargain?’ He growled low, licking his lips.

You felt your own mouth go dry as you looked down and saw a bulge in his trousers. Not knowing for sure what he might be capable of, and holding up your end of the bargain, you walked over to him and sank down to your knees.

A smirk tugged on his lips as he gazed down at you. You were so nervous as you reached up and slowly started palming at him through his trousers. God, he felt so big. You were kind of scared to see for sure.

‘Come on, pet. Don’t keep me waiting, it’s not too late for me to chuck you back outside to the monster.’ He said in warning as he narrowed his eyes at you.

With a gulp, you began to free his cock. And when you did, it didn’t ease your nerves at all. You felt his piercing gaze upon you as you tentatively started stroking him, slowly becoming bolder and bolder as you got used to his rather intimidating size.

‘Don’t be scared. This beast doesn’t bite much, unlike the one outside.’ He chuckled.

You licked your lips and then looking up at him, you leaned forward and took him into your mouth. His eyes fluttered and his mouth parted in a throaty groan when he felt your warm mouth engulf him.

‘That’s it, good girl.’ He growled and reached down to slide his long fingers through your hair.

You felt a delightful shiver run down your spine at his praise for some reason. You hollowed your cheeks and tried to suck him down as far as you could, pleasing him that you were trying. But what you couldn’t take down your throat you made up for with your tongue work.

His hand in your hair suddenly tightened, and to your shock he started fucking your mouth roughly. Giving you no option but to take him down your throat, making you choke on him. You put your hands on his lean thighs for support and was pleasantly surprised with how muscular they felt beneath the fabric. But you didn’t get long to think on it as your throat started to hurt.

‘Your mouth is simply wonderful. Oh, yes. I think this was a very good bargain indeed.’ He snarled.

When he was close to cumming, he eased up and just rested on your tongue. You didn’t want to disappoint him, to have him toss you out. So you moaned around him, causing vibrations to dance all over his cock. And you moved your tongue along the underside of him, doing everything just right. So when he came, he came hard, shooting down your throat. You did your best to swallow all of his cum, some dribbled down your chin but that only made him lust after you even more.

After his loud moaning and grunting, he took a few deep breaths to compose himself. But his eyes were still full of dark lust as he pulled out of your mouth.

‘Get on your hands and knees.’ He demanded gruffly, his cock bobbing, still aroused.

You were slightly startled when he waved his hand and suddenly you were completely naked. But you didn’t get time to dwell on it, because he moved behind you as you did as you were told and got into position, you gasped when you felt his fingers sliding against your cunt. ‘Ohhh, pet.’ He cooed and rubbed over your clit, making your body jump. ‘It seems this bargain is not only satisfying for me, but it seems it is for you too.’

You hung your head down in shame at how wet you were just from sucking him off. But Loki’s firm grip in your hair suddenly tugged your head right back, making you gasp.

‘No, no. Do not hang your head in shame. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying sucking your King off.’ He growled seductively into your ear, then licked up the side of your neck, making you whimper.

He let go of your hair and instead wrapped his hand around the front of your neck as he lined up with your sopping wet cunt. In one smooth thrust, he was inside of you, filling you up completely. His hand around your neck controlled your breathing, only letting you do so when he deemed fit.

You had never been so aroused in your life. It was evident with the obscene noises coming from between you both as Loki pounded into you.

Your own orgasm hit you like a train crash, you’d never felt anything so animalistic and purely chaotic in your life. It felt so rushed and needy, but it was the most mind-blowing orgasm you’d ever had. Not long ago you thought you had died, and now you felt like you were dying all over again but this time in over pleasure. With Loki laughing wickedly over you from behind as he spilled into you from his own orgasm.

He collapsed on top of you, knocking you down to the cold hard ground on your stomach. But you didn’t care much, feeling his heavy weight on top of you didn’t bother you either.

‘Mmm… This is a good deal indeed.’ He murmured as he nuzzled his nose into your hair. ‘I give you my word, that I will keep you alive and safe, pet. If you keep your body available to me, always. Can you do that?’

Your mind was so fuzzy, you could barely even think straight. But you nodded and managed to squeak out your answer. ‘Yes… My King.’

[somethingclevermahogony]

The Cosmos of Kobani, Its Creation, and the Awakened Cycle of Reincarnation Day 28 Kobani Worldbuilding Question

Pictured Above: The Kishic Interpretation of the Path of Reincarnation

Pictured Above: An Approximation of the Solar System of Kobani. Kobani is signified by the Green dot. Note that this is by no means at scale and the 5 planets of the solar system should have far wider orbits and by far smaller in comparison to the central star.

Understanding the Cosmological makeup and function of the universe in which Kobani resides is impossible without first understanding the magical and divine aspects of the universe and its ultimate creation. For the purposes of this post I will be using the terms used in the Kishic faith to describe the mechanics of the universe.

Most of what humans know about the greater universe and its magical elements come from the testimony of spirits and the ancient dragon, Huwara, the story teller. Most human religious traditions can in some way be linked back to Huwara. 

The Hierarchy of Divine Beings

1. Shobiash, Law, and End.

The River of Creation known by the people of Kishetal as the Shobiash has always flowed through the Endless Void that is the Chaotic Nothing, its source and its end, if they exist, are only be known by those beings who wander its far shores. The greatest of them are Law and End, who oversee that which is, that which will be, and that which must be. 

The River is all, it is existence, matter, energy, and time. All mortal things are born from the River, and all mortal things one day return to it. Worlds, universes, pantheons, they have emerged and sunk back into the golden eddies. The current universe, that of Kobani and the other celestial spheres emerged in the same way and will, in time, return.

Whether the river should be considered a deity in and of itself is a point of bitter contention among the various religious traditions of Kishetal.

The River and the Elders, Law and End, are beings or things which are ultimately beyond human or even godly comprehension. The River is the collective energies of all potential things and all potentials that have already occurred. Infinite universes exist within it. Law and End are less true beings or individuals as they are concepts, ideas, universal laws given form, if their chaotic and incomprehensible nature can indeed be called Form. Terms like water are inaccurate when describing the energy which flows through the Shobiash but is the analogy of choice for most of the cultures of Kobani.

2. The Primordial Gods

The first inhabitants of the current universe emerged from the current; they were beings of pure energy, of unshaped magic, incomprehensible and uncomprehending. They are known as the Bricklayers or the Primordial Gods. They took the remains of past universes from the Divine Waters of the Shobiash and, from them, shaped first the Great Bowl of the universe, the walls of which hold the Divine waters at bay. The Primordial gods lack physical form and indeed can be understood almost as the conscious will of some small part of the river itself. These beings are far more abstract and dynamic than mortals, the Heavenly or Noble Gods, or even spirits. Many are asleep or else inactive in their existence, only occasionally communicating with the Heavenly Gods who act as both their children and stewards. Primordial Gods are entirely unconcerned with the happenings of mortal life and have no part in its creation or the cycles it experiences. The Primordial Gods are responsible for the formation of most major celestial bodies, such as the stars and planets.

3. The Heavenly/Noble Gods

Gods are beings responsible in part for the shaping of the physical world. The Heavenly Gods are the arbiters and keepers of order and natural law, most notably the Awakened cycle of reincarnation and the proliferation of life on the mortal and spiritual worlds (this will be explained further below). They are not moral judges with the exception of the Deity of Death, who has some say in judgment as it pertains to the continuation of the soul through the cycle of reincarnation, though to what extent is seemingly unknown to all but Death itself. Gods are necessarily far more magical in nature than even spirits. As a result, they are far more dynamic and flowing in their form. All gods are born of the Shobiash, whether spontaneously or through the efforts of other gods, be they of the Heavenly variety or the Primordial. Gods cannot die except by their essence being forcibly returned to the Great River or with the ending of the Universe. The appearance and even number of gods are in constant flux as a god, through choice or circumstance, may split into multiple entities or else recombine into a greater entity. However, their essence and soul are static. As an example, a god such as Fepata may be simultaneously seven beings while still being of one essence and soul. This is part of why so many gods appear in various religions across Kobani. The sheer magical energy which radiates from these beings when in their whole forms is intensely powerful; most of the lingering “wild magic” in Kobani is the result of multiple gods visiting the planet while in their whole forms. As a result, the gods rarely venture outside of their spheres and take little interest in the matters of mortals, with a few exceptions.

While the worlds of the Gods do exist, the most powerful and respected deities reside in or on the star known in Kishetal as Re (Sun).

The Gods of Kobani revolve around the star known as Re, but it may be that in the vast universe in which Kobani resides that there are many such stars with their own gods.

The Awakened Cycle of Reincarnation

The Awakened is a term used to refer to the five races which stem from a singular primitive species which developed and evolved naturally on Kobani. These primitive beings were exposed to powerful magic by the gods and, in addition, were given mortal souls who could not only continue the process of reincarnation through the mortal worlds as all living things do, but could now also ascend out of the mortal worlds, with the soul eventually moving through the mortal and spirit worlds and coming to rest in the worlds of the gods. It is not entirely clear why the gods created the awakened races, though it is believed that mortals in time come to serve the gods with the collective experience of several lifetimes allowing for a better understanding of being and reality.

The Awakened Races of Kobani include

Humans: The most populous of the awakened, incapable of using magic themselves but capable of communication with spirits. Humans are also unique in their ability to produce offspring with spirits which are inaccurately referred to as Demigods.

Giants: Massive humanoid beings, like humans, they are incapable of using magic themselves; however, much like a demigod, their physical form is supported by magic, allowing for their bodies to reach massive sizes without the biological or physical limits and drawbacks which should affect them. After the Calamity, giants are rare and much reduced in size, though still far larger than the typical human. 

The Hillfolk: Small fur-covered beings capable of minor magic. The Hillfolk were once a numerous nomadic race that roamed Kobani, but their numbers were greatly reduced by human oppression and then the Calamity. A few small bands still exist, but they are typically confused for forestfolk.

The Stonefolk: About human-sized but broader with larger eyes and powerful arms, well suited to their preferred underground environment. The stonefolk were the only group that regularly interbred with humans, and indeed they were eventually bred out of existence. All modern humans of Kobani have some stonefolk ancestry. 

The Forest Tenders: Slender and tall green-skinned beings. The Forest Tenders, as their name suggests, preferred the forest and often dedicated themselves to its care. Though the most magically capable race, their child-like intellect and emotional capacity largely limited the Forest Tenders from expanding past their groves and forests. The Forest Tenders were annihilated by humans and stonefolk prior to the Calamity and are now extinct.

Note that on the other mortal worlds, there may be other sapient races. A mortal born a human does not necessarily need to reincarnate into the same race so long as it is sapient.

 Unlike the Unawakened, these new beings, the Awakened, would retain their memories and experiences as they reincarnated. However, such memories would become dormant until reaching the worlds of the Gods, where a soul would then become the amalgamation of all of its past lives and experiences. The exception, it seems, comes from the judgment given by the Deity of Death. If a lifetime is considered wicked or undeserving, or if the soul wishes to forget that lifetime, they could be born again in the same world as the previous life, with their past experiences in that world vanishing from their collective soul. Upon a being’s death and after being judged, the soul is transported to the next world in the cycle and given new life. As a result, a sudden increase in deaths in one world will inevitably lead to a burst in new births in the other worlds. As such certain actions, such as the destruction of souls by humans before the Calamity, can have drastic effects on other worlds, and indeed a single war or similar event may have rippling effects through all of the mortal worlds. 

Not all souls will follow the same path or go through worlds in the same order. While the people of Kishetal believe that souls are first born or created on Kobani, this is not necessarily true and a soul may begin its journey on any of the four mortal worlds.

The souls of the awakened are unique in their ability to travel between all three kinds of world. Animals and plants may only reincarnate within the mortal worlds; spirits will reincarnate on a spirit world and may then return back to the mortal worlds via holes or warps in reality created by the gods or between spirit worlds but cannot ascend to the realm of the Gods. Gods themselves have no soul as they are undying and, in essence, are the personification of souls themselves.

The Cosmology of the Solar System of Kobani: Myth and Reality

Pictured Above: The Kishic Conception of the Cycle of Reincarnation. Green planets in the outer ring are the mortal worlds, blue planets in the middle ring are spirit worlds, and the golden planets alongside the star, Re, are the worlds of the Gods.

The people of most of Kobani’s cultures are under the impression that the 12 worlds, or celestial spheres as they are sometimes referred to as, all exist in the same solar system as Re. In actuality, the sun, Re, sits simultaneously at the center of twelve separate solar systems, magically bending space and time. The scientists and philosophers of Kishetal and other Green Sea civilizations are aware of 3 out of the 4 other planets in Kobani’s solar system but believe that these are in fact the other mortal worlds, which the people of Kishetal call Sebani, Robani, and Mobani.

The Kishic conception of the solar system

It is a common belief in Kishetal that the solar system, which they believe holds all worlds in the cycle, consists of three Great Walls, which separate the disparate worlds from each other.

Devami: The Wall separating the First Realm; home of the four mortal worlds, Kobani, Sebani, Robani,and Mobani; from the rest of the universe. Note: Ko, Se, Ro, and Mo originate from an archaic form of Shabalic. Each refers to a time of day; Kosa: Morning, Sesa: Noon, Rosu: Evening, and Mosa: Night. These terms have largely fallen out of use in Kishetal and only exist in compound words. Bani is the Kishic word for world or planet. Ami originates from the Shabalic word for wall, Amiha. Dev comes from a Kishic word for other or foreigner.

Bisami: The Wall separating the First Realm from the Second or Spirit Realm, home to the 4 spirit worlds, Kobashi, Sebashi, Robashi, and Mobashi. Bashi originates from the Kishic word for spirit, babashi.

Shinami: The Wall separating the Second Realm from the Third Realm, Home of the Noble Gods and its four worlds, Kochani, Sechani, Rochani, and Mochani. Chani originates from the Shabalic word for god: Chan (Chani pl.) The Kishic equivalent to this is Kan (Kani pl.)

The Actual Solar System of Kobani

The Actual solar system of Kobani consists of 5 planets, each with its own satellites. The closest planet to the star, Re, and the smallest, is known by the people of Kishetal as Sebani; the second farthest planet is referred to as Robani; and the planet which lies beyond Kobani is called Mobani. There is a fifth planet and, beyond it, several dwarf planets that are unknown to the people of Kobani. Beyond that still is an extensive asteroid belt. Kobani is largely protected from asteroids by the Unknown planet and Mobani, though there have been instances in Kobani’s ancient past where the planet has been struck. 

The Unknown planet and Mobani are both primarily formed from gases, while the three interior planets are rocky. Kobani is the only planet with life. Kobani’s satellite, known in Kishic as Son, is the largest moon in the solar system.

Sorry this post was late, its been busy. I am currently working on a post discussing sexuality and gender-identity in the civilizations of the Green Sea and that should be up in the next few days.