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kresnikcest · 10 months ago

Note

V pls tell me abt the crossdressing cd

SO THE CROSSDRESSING CD. (yes i'm a week late, school is exhausting)

Now. mind you. this is probably not canon. like 99% not canon. definitely not.

you can listen along here, which I highly recommend tbh. My recap is based on a now-deleted CN fansub by user shinro (I did try to check JP definitions in some places but definitely do not take me as a reasonable source and I did localise some things).

CW for the typical stuff you'd expect out of a forced crossdressing-and-getting-hit-on gag from a decade ago. also extremely one-sided parent/child flirting but neither party knows they're related.

okay so, the party (Ludger, Elle, Jude, Leia, Alvin, Rowen, Elize and Teepo) enter a new FD and find themselves in a locker room. They gradually deduce that they're in a women's locker room in Spirius, and are almost caught by two female employees, but Leia gets the guys to hide behind the door, and then lies to the employees that she's accompanying Elle and Elize for a Rieze Maxian goodwill visit, but they forgot Teepo and were coming back to grab him.

The employees fangirl a little over Teepo because Fractured Ludger in this dimension is a popular agent who wears a suit with a similar design to Teepo. Somehow, Fractured Ludger is still in debt in this world, so his nickname is "the Prince of debt". Prime Ludger is not happy about this.

Fractured Ludger normally doesn't visit the HQ, except for today. The employees start worrying about being able to meet him before the groupies get to him, and Elle leverages the party "knowing" Vera to keep them quiet about them being there. The employees leave them alone to go try and see Ludger.

Rowen figures that since Fractured Ludger is a celebrity here, Prime Ludger will naturally draw attention, and since they're in a women's locker room, which is conveniently empty bc all the female agents are off trying to meet with Ludger... obviously the only solution is to dress Ludger like a girl.

Jude and Alvin immediately abandon Ludger to his fate, while Leia and Elize are very happy to help Rowen.

leia: rowen, i finally found a makeup bag. rowen: thank you very much, leia. leia: i also found a wig and a sewing kit. rowen: that's perfect, place it here and we'll get started. ludger: can someone please stop rowen? elle! elle, you don't want to see me crossdress, right? elle: i... ludger: exactly, you don't want to see that happen! rowen, how about we find some other-- elle: i want pictures!

Short time skip, everyone is super impressed with Rowen and Leia and Elize's work. Ludger is too tired to argue.

(Ludger's outfit is described as a long pink dress and a white shawl, and a tied up wig. Elize also manicured his hands. You can see it in fan art 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Yes I have these links saved.)

Anyway, Ludger now sufficiently disguised, the party leaves the locker room. Well not before Elle gets her pictures.

elle: let's take a picture! ludger, give me your ghs! ludger: you were serious?! elle: is that bad...? ludger: uh. ugh... fine. elle: yay! now to open the camera... *snap* elle: got it! and next... ludger: do you really need to keep taking pictures? elle: i want to make it your lockscreen! ludger: stop it! give it back! elle: no! if i give it back you're just going to delete it! until we get back to the prime dimension, i'll take care of your ghs! ludger: elle...

Ludger decides they need to get out of the Spirius building first to find the Catalyst.

elle: ludger! it's so rare to see you this pretty, you should sound the part too! alvin: she's right, you have to act like a proper lady. ludger: you should act like it's none of your business! elize: but, we put so much effort into our preparations... ludger: ugh. *falsetto* i understand. is that better? jude: ludger, look out! ludger: uh, i'm sorry-- niisa... julius: ah, pardon me. hm? you are... outside personnel, aren't you? this floor is forbidden to unauthorised staff. ludger: uh. that's right, my apologies, julius-san.

(obligatory fan art.)

Leia lies that they forgot something in the building. Julius says they should have asked the management for help, to which Rowen and Jude say someone did help them, but then they got lost after finding it.

julius: still, that's strange... and this young miss here seemed like she recognised me. ludger: but you're a famous agent! julius: famous? ludger: er... everyone says you're great! elize: and um, we really were only here to get my doll... teepo: there's nothing strange about that~ julius: that doll... but of course. whenever he comes to visit the company, there's always people trying to sneak in like this. ludger: um... julius: you must be fans of ludger, aren't you?

Elize denies it and Teepo says that Ludger is copying him, but Julius just tells them they don't need to deny it that strongly. Ludger begrudgingly agrees in his regular tone of voice, so Alvin covers up for him and pretends he said it 😂 Julius doesn't seem to believe him... but...

julius: never mind, after seeing the face of this beautiful young lady, i won't question you any further. ludger: what.

Actually, he'll take them all to the front door, and he'd like to talk to fem!Ludger specifically... Don't worry, he only wants to know fem!Ludger's feelings about his little brother, nothing else. It's an older brother thing.

While Ludger suffers in the background, Jude and Leia remark that Fractured Julius has the unexpected temperament of a sister-in-law. (And yes that gender is right, they say 小姑).

Alvin wonders if Julius has figured out this is Ludger crossdressing, but Julius casually talks about how he had told Fractured Ludger he could help with his debt, but that Fractured Ludger had insisted on taking care of it himself. Ludger continues suffering in the background.

Julius explains that the job Fractured Ludger got was testing out products in the Suprisingly-Super-Convenient-Goods room (it's a room in Spirius you can visit in-game). They have a tendency to explode.

Anyway, it turns out the reason why Fractured Ludger is super popular is because of one of the SSCG room's inventions, a suit that's meant to soothe people's nerves and let them do the best they can. Everyone who wears that suit, no matter the person, have become incredibly popular, Fractured Ludger included. Julius chalks up the party illegally trespassing in search of him to be the result of that suit.

So, he's kind of worried about the whole thing, since Fractured Ludger once ran away after getting his heart broken...

(Ludger is suffering in the foreground.)

They finally reach the ground floor, but Fractured Ludger's been grabbed by his fans and lost in the crowd. a young Spirius agent asks Julius for help. Julius explains the party are his guests and offers fem!Ludger the chance to meet Fractured Ludger. Prime Ludger understandably does not want to meet his own self he's supposedly crushing on, but Rowen and Leia cover for him by saying they just didn't know Ludger was that popular. Julius walks off to investigate the situation, leaving the young agent with the party.

julius: please, wait a moment here. i'll ask after checking out how things are going. employee: after? mr. julius, didn't you just agree to help-- and he's gone. elle: hey, oji-san! 20-something year old employee: "oji-san"... uh... what's up, kiddo? elle: are all the people here ludger's fans? employee: yep. elle: ludger's amazing...

The nameless not-ojisan agent dives into the crowd to help fish Fractured Ludger out, and immediately disappears into the crowd of fangirls.

The party catch sight of a purple aura in the crowd, and wonder at the sheer power of the Teepo-patterned suit... Then Jude asks if they're not just seeing the glow of a Divergence Catalyst?

ludger: the famous me is a divergence catalyst... which means the future me could never be popular... elle: isn't this ludger only popular because of the suit? ludger: in other words, there's no way for me to be popular on my own merits.

Julius returns, and offers the back door of the building as a way for them to escape the crowd, and besides, fem!Ludger still wants to meet Fractured Ludger, right? Ludger says it feels different seeing how popular Fractured Ludger is, but Julius assures him it's just the effect of the suit, and it's a better effect than Ludger blowing up.

julius: ah, be careful not to walk into someone. ludger: what-- [ludger walks into someone] bisley: ah, pardon me. ludger: ah, no, i should be the one-- uh. jude: mr. bisley... julius: mr. president. what are you doing here?

It's Bisley, who's here to see the results of the SCCG's invention. Bisley asks who the party are, and Julius says they're his guests. Bisley wonders why it seems like they recognised him... Julius says it'd be odd if they didn't, considering he's the CEO. Bisley is still a bit suspicious... but...

bisley: never mind, after seeing the face of this beautiful young lady, i won't question you any further. jude: beautiful... alvin: ...young lady-- ludger: huh. you--you mean me? bisley: indeed. if you don't mind, allow me to guide you out of the building instead of julius. ludger: n... no, i wouldn't dare trouble the president of the company to act as a guide. bisley: don't be so courteous, i'd like to know more about you. ludger: *suffering* julius: please, stop it, you're confusing her. bisley: you truly are a most elegant young lady. ludger: no, i uh... actually i was interested in ludger...

(obligatory fanart)

The young not-ojisan agent from earlier finally retrieves Fractured Ludger from the crowd, and balks a little at the presence of the CEO. The party ascertains for sure that the suit is the Divergence Catalyst, so Rowen sets up a distraction by pretending to feel faint, and he and Jude and Alvin retreat to another room.

Fractured Ludger asks what the party were saying about his suit, and explains that he wants to change the design. Teepo objects that he can't change the pattern, so Fractured Ludger figures he'll just change the colour then, then asks what the party are there for. Leia says they're here to see the Prince.

fractured ludger: they call me the prince but it's "the prince of debt". it's not really a nice nickname to hear. and this beautiful young lady is...? ludger: huh. me? fractured ludger: have we met before? ludger: maybe... every day in front of the mirror. fractured ludger: hm? i'm sorry, i didn't hear what you just said. ludger: i was just saying you have the wrong impression, i'm from rieze maxia after all. bisley: rieze maxia, you say? then you must be a part of the goodwill delegation? ludger: y-yes! bisley: i had no idea, if i had known a lady like you would be attending the goodwill party, i would have certainly gone myself. ludger: mr. president, you flatter me-- bisley: it's no flattery ludger: *suffering* (how much longer do you guys need, save me already!)

The fire alarm goes off. They speculate something exploded in the SSCG room. Bisley takes Julius to meet with security (I think) to evacuate the crowd, and instructs Fractured Ludger to evacuate the employees. Prime Ludger offers to take the suit off of Fractured Ludger so its powers won't interfere with the evacuation. Fractured Ludger relents, and also says that fem!Ludger's safety is more important than some suit, and to get to safety first.

Rowen, Jude, and Alvin return, having created a smoking mist and then pulled the fire alarm. Spirius has already evacuated the room, leaving them all alone with the Divergence Catalyst.

Jude asks if Ludger isn't going to change clothes, since with the Key of Kresnik, he's going to return to the Prime Dimension still dressed the way he is. Ludger panics and demands his clothes back from Elle's bag. Rowen laments the self-consciousness of youth, and Ludger asks if Rowen would be comfortable if Gaius saw him crossdressing. Rowen replies that (I think) whatever shame he feels would be accompanied by the knowledge of his skills at disguise. Jude says (I think) that whatever anyone's preferences for crossdressing, it's still embarrassing to be seen by others.

Ludger changes back and destroys the Catalyst. They return to the Prime Dimension.

leia: but ludger, you were really so pretty! like a model! you were even popular with julius and bisley! teepo: and you were popular with Fractured Ludger too! ludger: i'm not happy being popular with guys. and it seems like nova still rejected me anyway... elle: but i used ludger's ghs to take some pictures! leia: that's right! we still have pictures! elle: ta-da! elize: ludger's so pretty~ teepo: he's like a supermodel! ludger: delete that already! elle: no way! it was so hard taking such pretty pictures, deleting them would be a waste! elize: ludger, could you send those pictures to my ghs? teepo: if you don't, we'll call you "the prince of debt"! ludger: spare me already...

Rowen says he needs them for future reference. Ludger is adamant nothing like this is happening again.

rowen: you never know what might happen. haven't you heard of the saying about "covering all your bases"? ludger: in that case, shouldn't everyone be prepared to crossdress? alvin: i can’t. rowen: i can’t either. ludger: how can you be so sure?! rowen: because i have a beard. alvin: because i grew a beard. ludger: a beard... jude: ludger... what are you looking at me for? ludger: nothing... maybe i'll just grow a beard too...

#not an mtl not a tl but a secret third thing #ceci n'est pas une traduction #ng #x2 #ans

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talesofourworlds · 2 years ago

Text

This goes hand in hand with that one post I made about an Ivar AU a while back. I'm just gonna dump my dumb Walter is Milla's handmaid Xillia AU here because I've also put a lot of thought into it. Under the cut because Xillia spoilers and because of length.

Much the same as that Ivar AU I talked about, this is a roleswap AU. So Walter is born into the role of being Milla Maxwell's handmaid in the village of Nia Khera. He takes his duties very, very seriously and throws himself into intensive training for the role from a young age. He's as loyal and dutiful as one can expect from Maxwell's handmaid, but Walter is, to put it simply, very intense about his role.

There's not a day that goes by where he's not seen with a serious face and focused intently on his duties. As a result, Milla feels quite a different way about Walter than she would about Ivar. She thinks of Walter as incredibly difficult to be around and gets frustrated with his need to constantly look out for her. After all, Milla is more than capable of taking care of herself. She has the Four. Unlike Ivar, though, Walter is more than willing to extend his duties to protecting the people of Nia Khera if Milla asks if it of him.

Walter lacks Ivar's ability of beastcraft. So in this AU, he wouldn't be able to communicate with the wyverns the party needs later in the story. Instead of beastcraft, Walter has the ability to manipulate mana around him to do as he sees fit. He specifically utilizes this ability to craft wings made from highly condensed wind mana. Walter is something of a prodigy because of this. He isn't on Rowen's level of being able to use spirit artes, but is still more than capable of performing spirit artes. He's mostly wind based, believing himself to be blessed by Sylph in particular. He also can utilize water based spirit artes and is a skilled martial artist.

Also unlike Ivar, Walter does not refer to Milla by Lady Milla. He instead simply calls Milla 'Maxwell,' due to her position as the Lord of Spirits. He respects Milla a great deal and feels that he only should call her by her title out of that desire to respect.

When Milla goes to fulfil her mission at the beginning of the game, prior to meeting Jude, Walter is tasked with protecting Nia Khera. He obliges, of course, without question. Naturally, he's pissed as all hell when Milla returns to Nia Khera with a pair of strangers and discovers that she's lost her ability to summon the Four. He immediately blames Jude for this, aggressively going at him until Milla calls him off and explains the situation. Similarly to Ivar, Walter cannot stand Jude for being so close to Milla. He thinks it's an insult, especially with how casually Jude talks to Milla and how he seems to have just waltzed into his charge's life.

One thing that does stay constant is the line about how a handmaid is born, not made. Walter utters this with particular disgust when he tells Jude this. Naturally, he's taken aback when Milla basically tells him to back off from Jude. He complies with her wishes, but glares daggers at Jude for a long while afterward.

Naturally, when they have a moment away from Walter, Jude immediately asks Milla something along the lines of 'Is your handmaid always so scary?' And Milla just sighs and confirms it.

Walter is also pretty unwilling to trust Alvin. Something about his general manner from the word go rubs him the wrong way. He lets that much go in their first meeting in favor of focusing on being pissed at Jude for existing, but boy howdy as the story goes on he has more and more reason to be suspicious of him.

When Walter is tasked with staying in Nia Khera after that first meeting with Jude, he's a tiny bit reluctant. He tries to persuade Milla that he should stay by her side and help her complete her quest himself rather than letting a stranger do his job. In the end, he agrees to stay behind. For a while he does as he's asked. After all, he's always done what Milla asks of him. However, the longer he's attending to Nia Khera, the more agitated he becomes over the idea of Milla trusting Jude to stay at her side more than him. So he leaves Nia Khera in pursuit of Milla.

This eventually leads to him finding Milla after the incident at Fort Gandala. Of course he's pissed that Milla is hurt and, much the same as Ivar in canon, fights Jude. Eventually Jude beats him and Walter has to accept that, for now, he has to do what Milla tells him again. He's very grumbley and glares quite a bit at Jude before accepting his duty to protect the key of the Lance of Kresnik. When he realizes how important this job is, he vows to take it as seriously as he does anything else.

And eventually he crosses paths with the party when they're trying to get to Fennmont again. Unlike Ivar, Walter isn't convinced to be at the location of the boar because of a letter he received. He knows how important his duty to protect the key is, but he noticed something seemed off when he was making his way back to Nia Khera. He tries to explain that the Spirit Climes seemed to not have changed, but that's when the boar attacks.

The party can't get to Fennmont the way they planned. Walter takes the opportunity to suggest he simply Fly Milla to where she needs to be, but when Rowen remembers that Xian Du is known for having wyverns they could make use of the plan is thwarted. Remember, Walter doesn't have Ivar's beastcrafting abilities. Frustrated, Walter leaves in a huff.

This next particular bit I'm uncertain on and is subject to change, but this is what I've got so far.

When it comes to the battle that happens in the marsh Walter isn't tricked into believing he's doing a good thing by using the key. Walter does end up being there because he's concerned for Milla's safety, and in the confusion of the battle Alvin ends up separated from the party. Walter, still absolutely not trusting Alvin because of his bad gut feeling about him, fights Alvin here. The fight is interrupted when Gaius shows up, and in the confusion Alvin is able to knock the lance's key out of Walter's possession before slipping away again. The battle with Gaius still happens, but Walter scrambles away before Milla can see him there.

And Alvin grabs the key when the rest of the party is distracted fighting Gaius and tries to get to the Lance. But he actually hesitates a moment. His hesitation leads to Walter revealing himself, interrupting the battle because Walter is so devoted to protecting the key. However, since Walter is still weak from his earlier clash with Alvin, Alvin is able to overpower him.

And everyone stares in disbelief as Alvin activates the Lance. The while thing with Exodus occurs and the party is divided in the chaos that follows the Lance being fired, of course, and reconveens after Jude has met Muzét and everything else happens. Walter, of course, is also there. And he doesn't trust Alvin for a second. Especially not after the stunt he pulled in the marsh. Of course, Alvin explains everything when he's made to and adds that he just wanted to go home. But he hadn't expected Gilland and everyone to come through like they had.

Walter plays a decent role in the missions that follow, actually earning the respect of the Chimeriad where Ivar failed to. However, he still is infuriated by how close Jude has gotten to Milla. Especially so after catching sight of the pendant that Milla gave Jude much earlier. So Walter puts his all into the Zenethra attack and is devastated when Milla dies when everything is said and done.

With no one left to serve, Walter is left angry and adrift. He ends up fighting Muzét well after Milla's death because she can't leave anyone who was onboard the Zenethra alive. And she nearly kills him. However, Muzét realizes she can use Walter. She convinces him that it was Jude's fault that Milla died. And desperate for something to cling to, Walter believes her.

"Kill Jude, Walter. Then all will be as it should be."

"It won't bring Maxwell back."

"No. But won't it feel good? Doing in the human who is responsible?"

This leads to the final showdown between him and Jude and the rest of the party. However, in his weakened state, Walter isn't able to put up as good of a fight as he would otherwise. When he ends up losing, Elize and Teepo suggest leaving him because of how much of a jerk he's seemed to be.

But Jude refuses. In fact, Jude heals Walter, who does try to resist and tries again to hurt Jude but isn't able to because of how hurt he is. Naturally, Walter is confused because why the hell would someone he's tried to kill have sympathy for him.

And Jude, being the do-gooder that he is, explains that he can't just let Walter die when he only was trying to uphold his duty to Milla in the past. And explains how he understands how Walter must have lost his sense of purpose without Milla. After all, Jude felt much the same way after Milla died.

Due to how bad of a state Walter is in after this fight, even with Jude healing him, he doesn't end up joining the Chimeriad's final stand in the endgame. But he is the last survivor, technically speaking, since the Chimeriad accepted him filling Jiao's role. So when everything is said and done he's offered a position as Gaius' guard permanently. Since he has nothing else to do, and the people of Nia Khera don't need a protector so much since the little village is significantly smaller, he agrees. He doesn't ever quite end up becoming friends with Jude, but does respect him a bit more than he did to start.

No idea how things would play out with Walter in Xillia 2, but that's another thought process for another day.

#ooc #mun rambles #Fierce as the Raging Sea (Walter)#Walter: Handmaid to Maxwell #Forbidden Texts (spoilers)#From the Earthen Historia (headcanon)#This took much longer to finish than I ever thought it would #And I rambled all over the place #Anyway I hope this AU makes even a lick of sense to anyone else #I just like the idea of Walter and Ivar roleswapping

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yume-x-hanabi · 6 years ago

Text

Gaius Comparisons #3

@goldenangelwings it’s been three years, but I haven’t forgotten this little project :)

Part 1, Part 2

For each scene, I will post the localization script and highlight what is not similar to the original and add a retranslation or explanation of what the original said in [square brackets] next to the line. I will then make my own commentary about the scene under it.

Scenes analyzed in this post: The Xailen Woods Temple scenes

Gaius: You've come.

Wingul: So in the end you've chosen to trust that man. You're more naive than I thought, Maxwell.

Milla: Tell us what your purpose is for bringing us here.

Wingul: We will stand and fight against those invaders. If you intend to challenge them yourselves, we won't attempt to stop you. […then that’s fine]

Gaius: But first, there's something you need to tell us. I want you to tell us what you know about the schism. [”~that you’ve been hiding”]

Jude: What's that? [“The schism?”]

Milla: Two millenia ago, I cast the spirit arte schism. It created a new world and sealed it away. That world is yours. It is known as Rieze Maxia. [“Rieze Maxia was born as a sealed world from the spirit arte schism I cast.” Means basically the same thing but she’s talking directly about Rieze Maxia, none of that “hey guess what, that’s your world lol” stuff.]

Leia: Did Milla just say that she created the entire world?

Teepo: Wow! She's like a goddess or something!

Milla: It was for protecting spirits and humans.

Gaius: Rieze Maxia is sealed. That implies the existence of another world outside the schism, does it not?

Milla: Yes, and that world is called Elympios. I was gravely mistaken about the Lance of Kresnik's true purpose. Exodus convinced Nachtigal it was a weapon, but all along they were plotting to create a device that would dispel the schism.

Gaius: Dispel the schism? To what end?

Milla: I do not know. I wonder if perhaps they were looking for a means to siphon mana back to Elympios.

Alvin: No. All Exodus ever wanted was to go home. Back home to Elympios. It's all we've wanted for more than twenty years, since we became trapped in Rieze Maxia. We needed to find a way to either break through the schism or dispel it completely.

Milla: But in order to dispel the schism, they would have to find a way to eliminate its creator.

Leia: I see. So that's why Exodus kept trying to kill you.

Gaius: It doesn't add up. What is Gilland's master plan?

Elize: I'm confused. I still don't understand. [“What do you mean?” I’m confused about the localization’s choice here. Her sentence doesn’t flow with Gaius’ at all.]

Rowen: Gilland's actions are not going to get Exodus home any faster. [“Exodus’ aim and Gilland’s actions don’t match.”]

Alvin: He didn't need to bring the whole Elympion army. And unifying Rieze Maxia? That was never our original intention.

Wingul: Gilland must intend to make use of Rieze Maxia with the schism intact. But for what purpose? [He doesn’t say the last line.]

Alvin: That's it. The Otherworld Reactor Plan.

Jude: What?

Agria: Huh? The hell's that?

Alvin: Most folks know it as the Spirit-fuel Plan.

Leia: That sounds bad. [“Fuel?”]

Alvin: I remember my cousin telling me about it when I was still a kid, back on the other side. Something about capturing spirits and using them as fuel for spyrixes.

Presa: So you're saying Gilland's ultimate goal is to corral all the spirits?

Jude: But that doesn't make sense either. If all he wants is spirits, then why bother with the lies? Unless... He's planning on trapping us in Rieze Maxia for our mana lobes!

Gaius: He seeks to use the people of Rieze Maxia as a power source? The man is insane.

Alvin: Gilland most likely returned to Exodus HQ on the ocean. The Elympion army is with him, so getting there by boat won't be easy.

Wingul: Well then, perhaps we could commandeer one of the flying ships they have docked at Kanbalar.

Leia: Oh, yeah right, because that sounds easy! [“Did he just say something so enormous with no hesitation?” Same feeling.]

Rowen: It may indeed be our only option.

Gaius: Very well. We attack tomorrow.

Jude: Wait a minute, Gaius! Aren't we going to team up on this? I mean, we both want the same thing, so--

Gaius: It's not a social gathering. [“You can’t be serious.”]

Agria: Just how stupid are you, anyway? [“Don’t misunderstand!”]

Gaius: It was Maxwell who created the schism and trapped us all inside of it in the first place. Imprisonment is not so easily forgiven. It's entirely possible we may end up fighting each other again. [“I cannot remain indifferent knowing that.”]

Presa: I'm sure you can understand why we're not ready to get all buddy-buddy with you.

Wingul: Like I said, do what you want. Just make sure to stay out of our way.

Leia: Can you believe it?! The nerve of those guys! [“What the heck was that?”]

Commentary: It’s pretty faithful. Just some wordings. There’s just Elize’s line that’s pretty awkward, but the rest is fine.

Gaius dude why are you getting angry at Milla for the schism when you were the one claiming strong rulers must make decisions for the weak. That’s basically what Maxwell did. Well he doesn’t know about the circumstances that lead to it I guess... Still, that sounds a bit hypocrite XD

[Milla & Jude scene]

Milla: Justice is a complicated concept. It means different things to different people.

Gaius: And what is justice to you?

Milla: Heh. I thought this wasn't a social gathering.

Gaius: Answer me, Maxwell.

Milla: It is the power of will that resides within one's heart.

Gaius: Hmph. In this we are both in agreement. Those with this willpower bear a responsibility to this world. The strong must protect and guide the weak. [“The strong must fulfill their responsibility with that willpower. Therefore, I must protect and guide the weak.” Similar, but a bit more personal.]

Milla: Gaius, weakness isn't an affliction of the body, but of the heart. The world will always have weak-willed people, but that in itself isn't a bad thing.

Gaius: Then we must protect the weak until they can become strong. That is our duty. [“~I think.” Just stating his opinion.]

Jude: We?

Gaius: Yes. All who are strong must look after the weak. It is the only way to ensure that future generations will have sufficient strength, as well. [“It’s not just me.”]

Milla: So that's your solution to the problem I posed in Fezebel Marsh.

Gaius: As I told you then, I can chart a new future for mankind if I just have enough power. But if a man like Gilland takes the stage, a man who can only use power for his own gain, then mankind will be doomed to repeat the same mistakes.

Milla: I see. But I'm afraid it's not up to me to approve you answer. Your concept of justice is your own. It's not my place to interfere.

Gaius: Heh, as you say.

Jude: The two of you sure are alike.

Gaius: How so? [“I’m like Maxwell?”]

Jude: No matter how extreme her words are, I think there's always truth to them. I get the same sense from you.

Gaius: Do you want to be like Maxwell?

Jude: I wouldn't mind it, although I know that's impossible.

Gaius: I see.

Jude: We should probably get some rest.

Milla: Yes. The showdown’s tomorrow.

Commentary: King Gaius, expert at interrupting sweet Milla/Jude scenes XD

This is the first conversation where they both agree with each other. The music reflects that, too--it’s quite peaceful. None of that debating and arguing like their first two meetings. Here they’re having an almost friendly late night conversation.

Note how this is a continuation of the Fezebel discussion (which itself was a continuation of their first talk in the castle). They intellectually challenge each other in a way no one have so far. Despite their antagonistic relationship, there’s a lot of respect between them.

Jude at this stage is still considered one of the “weak,” but Gaius asks him if he wants to be like Milla--if he wants to become “strong.” If he achieves that, that would be a good illustration of what Gaius talks about here.

Rowen: How do you intend to hijack a ship that's docked in the sky?

Wingul: We'll use the wyverns in the castle.

Milla: You have to get there first.

Gaius: I have no intention of sneaking into my own castle. [“I don’t need a scheme to reach my own castle.” Same idea. What a badass.]

Wingul: We shall march up the main road and reclaim it.

Jude: What? You can't be serious! [“That’s too reckless!”]

Rowen: Indeed. At the very least, you should split into two groups. Create a diversion. [Without the last sentence. Actually he doesn’t really finish his sentence, because he realizes what they’re doing and starts thinking.]

Agria: Keep your tactics to yourself, you old fart.

Gaius: Jude, do you know what you have to do?

Jude: Of course. I have to help Milla win. It's that simple. [“That’s what I have to do.”]

Gaius: Then let's go.

Wingul: *long stare*

Presa: There's a path leading into the city off the side of the temple.

Teepo: Hmph! Why can't we all stick together?

Muzét: Hehehe, what shall we do?

Milla: Let’s see.

Rowen: We can take that side path from the temple into the city, then move along the roofs to the castle. From there, we can both capture the flying battleship and retake the castle and its soldiers. Meanwhile, Gaius and the others will create their diversion. [Same thing, but he words this as an explanation of Gaius’ choice.]

Leia: Sure would be nice if they let us in on their plan for once.

Milla: Anyway, lets go.

Jude: You got it. [Simply “yes”]

Commentary: My thoughts exactly, Leia. They’re totally counting on you, they’re just too proud to admit it.

Another pretty faithful scene. Just some wording here and there.

Presa & Agria

Presa: What do you want?

Jude: Um… It’s about Jiao.

Presa: He’s dead. Did you think he somehow survived that?

Jude: …

Elize: …

Agria: Know what I heard? I heard he died protecting a spoiled little brat and her stuffed dolly. A fitting end for a foolish old man. [“The brat with the doll.”]

Elize: How could you?!

Teepo: Don’t you talk that way about him!

Agria: You got a problem with me saying the truth?

Presa: That’s enough, Agria.

Agria: It’s not even close to enough! The lives of the Chimeriad belong to His Highness! But that old fool threw his away for some sniveling brat! [just “brat”]

Presa: That’s true. But his sacrifice did give His Highness a chance to escape.

Agria: Hmph. He was an idiot right until the end. Always giving me candy when he saw me, like I was some sort of little kid. He just needs to die already!

Presa: He did.

Agria: …

Presa: With Jiao gone, the offensive might of the Chimeriad has diminished sharply.

Agria: Bah! I’m all the offensive we need! That goes for you too, grandma! No one’ll miss you when you kick off. [“Don’t worry, grandma. It’s the same if you die.”]

Presa: I’m relieved to hear that. [“Really? I’m counting on you.” in a flat tone]

Agria: Just you watch! I’ll protect His Highness all by myself! Ah ha ha ha ha!

Presa: I’m getting a headache. How am I supposed to relieve this stress when there’s no one left to talk to or have a drink with?

Elize: So, that’s it? [“Then, Jiao…”]

Teepo: We’re never going to see Jiao again. [“…we’ll never see him again.”]

Commentary: Agria has a… particular way of processing grief.

She’s not as colorful in her insults in Japanese, it’s more her speech pattern that reflects her rudeness.

Rowen & Wingul

Rowen: Wingul, there's something I would like to ask you. Am I correct in my understanding that you led Auj Oule's armies at Fezebel Marsh? Using boosters to move through the marsh was a brilliant strategy.

Wingul: Are you mocking me? That strategy played right into Gilland's hands.

Rowen: You aren't the only one who failed to see through Gilland's facade. I share the same shame.

Wingul: I didn't realize someone who turned his back on his duty had any honor left to lose. Is that what you're doing here? Some sad attempt to return to the battlefield and erase your shame? [“…who fled the frontlines”]

Elize: How can you say that?! [“That’s mean!”]

Teepo: Don't you make fun of Rowen! He's a great guy for someone who's so old!

Wingul: You were a skilled tactician in your prime, I grant you that. But how much of that skill remains today? Former Chief of Staff Ilbert. Care to play a game?

Rowen: A game, you say?

Wingul: A mock battle, using a real military map. But of course, I would understand if you were reluctant to see how time has ravaged your talents.

Jude: You don't have to buy into this. [“Rowen…”]

Rowen: I accept.

Wingul: This board lets us control data from historic battles and see different ways they might play out.

Rowen: And what battle is this data from?

Wingul: Twenty years ago, on the Fezebel Outback.

Rowen: The Battle of Fezebel.

Jude: The struggle between the armies of Rashugal and the former King of Auj Oule.

Wingul: Correct. It was a tragic battle, in which both armies suffered heavy casualties from a giant tsunami. It was Ilbert the Conductor's one and only draw.

Rowen: And you wish to recreate that battle now?

Wingul: This is no recreation. If I had led Auj Oule into battle, we would have won. That is what I will prove here today. Formation: Icthys! All troops, advance! [“Agai Fish Scales”]

Jude: The core of the Rashugal army is being pushed back!

Rowen: Left and right troops, spread out to the wings! Surround the enemy's vanguard!

Milla: It's no good. The vanguard is unstoppable. What is this power?

Wingul: That's Gaius' unit, their first time in battle. You won't surround them so easily. [it’s Gaius’ first battle, not the whole unit]

Rowen: Both wings, advance! Circle to the enemy's flank!

Wingul: Planning to launch a counterattack from my flank? Such a boring and predictable response. I'll simply attack while your troops are changing course! This battle will be won before the tsunami hits!

Jude: The enemy is turning faster than Rashugal!

Teepo: Look out! [“Rowen’s gonna lose!”]

Rowen: All troops, maintain forward movement! Your goal is the high ground behind the Auj Oule army!

Wingul: What?!

Elize: Rashugal's army is assembling on the hill. [“~and stopped moving”]

Rowen: It's over. It is impossible to defeat a defending army on high ground in so short a time. Soon the tsunami will come and engulf the plains. You will have no choice but to retreat.

Wingul: Hmph. And this is what you call a victory?

Rowen: I am satisfied simply not to lose.

Wingul: I see. Thank you for the match, Conductor. We will settle this in a different way. [“I enjoyed your melody, Conductor.”]

Teepo: Hmph! Sore loser!

Milla: You did great, Rowen.

Rowen: It’s because I failed in the past. If only I had used this strategy back then.

Elize: I think it’s great you learned from your mistake!

Teepo: You’re still growing! Even at your age!

Rowen: Indeed. And I still have a great deal more growing to do. I may even grow out of these clothes on day. [“I might even grow taller.” Same thing.]

Commentary: these two ;A;

The game was great; I wish there’d been more sidequests like that.

Wingul manages to be arrogant while speaking perfectly respectfully. I really love his Japanese speech pattern (and his voice in both languages) ♥

#tales of xillia #king gaius #the chimeriad #translation talk #gaius scenes comparisons

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ruination-fangs · 7 years ago

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Recollections of Eden Prologue

* aka Asteria’s fourth chapter

now with pictures!!

Sorey seems to wake up unaware of where he is or why he's there. He recalls several scenes - an island in the sky, a group of people facing off against Van, a large crystal-like flower, and several faces in shards of glass. Suddenly he remembers "everyone," but not what happened to them.

Ludger, Tear, and Stahn are there, but silent. Sorey calls to them and tries to approach them, but apparently is stopped by some force he doesn't understand. He's surprised to see Zelos, Veigue, and Elize nearby. When Sorey says he's glad to see them, Elize only mutters, "If I don't... go...". Again, Sorey is stopped from interacting with them.

Frustrated with not knowing where is he or what's going on, Sorey suddenly remembers something about Mikleo, and Mikleo appears. Sorey greets him and says he's glad to see Mikleo is okay, but Mikleo doesn't know what he's talking about. He asks who Sorey is and how he knows him, because this is the first time they've met. Sorey supposes it's a joke, but Mikleo is serious. This upsets Sorey, and a moment later Mikleo apologizes, saying he has to go. Sorey asks him to wait, but Mikleo disappears.

Mikleo wakes up in a fancy room, realizing it was a dream. There's a knock on the door and Rowen comes in. They wish each other good morning.

Rowen notices that Mikleo looks unwell, and asks him if something happened. Mikleo explains his unsettling dream. Rowen agrees that it is odd, and suggests that he write his dreams down or talk to someone about them so he doesn't forget, but Mikleo says he's not going to worry about it anymore.

Anyway, he correctly guesses that Rowen came to tell him to hurry up and get ready. Today is the festival commemorating the founding of Entelestia, and a rare opportunity to listen directly to Empress Lazarus speak. This is the first time Mikleo has been invited to such an official event, and he's glad to have Rowen with him. Rowen, too, considers it a great honor to be able to attend as Mikleo's servant.

Mikleo would like some time to clear his head, though, and asks Rowen to prepare some tea, as he can't start a day without the tea Rowen makes. Rowen says his words are too kind and leaves to start the tea right away. Left alone, Mikleo still seems troubled.

Standing in the woods, Kyle pants and wonders if he "lost them." He remembers coming back from the future, and then walking through the forest, but he’s not sure why he ended up being pursued. His surroundings feel wrong to him as well. Before he figures out what happened, he hears someone coming and hides.

Cheria tells Colette not to run in the forest, even if she is impatient. Colette apologizes; she's just worried the anniversary festival might have already started. Cheria knows she's looking forward to it, but warns that it's dangerous to proceed blindly through the woods. Colette agrees that they should get out of the forest first. Shongreiss* is supposed to be huge, so Cheria thinks they should be able to see it if they can get a good view. Colette heads over to a brighter area to look.

Overhearing them, Kyle wonders what the anniversary festival is and fails to notice them approaching until too late. Colette trips and falls right on top of him. She apologizes, and Kyle starts to freak out about an injury on her hand. He decides they should leave the forest and find a highway to look for help, and takes off with Colette. Cheria tries to interject, but Kyle rushes off before Cheria can tell him she knows healing artes.

On the road, Kyle stops Jude to ask if he knows of any local doctors. Jude says they could probably find one in the capital, Shongreiss, though Kyle has never heard of it. But upon inspecting the injury, Jude sees that it's small and heals it himself. Colette thanks him while Kyle stands amazed.

Cheria finally catches up. For a moment she’s relieved to see Colette healed; then she starts scolding Kyle for dragging Colette away like that. Kyle apologizes and explains that he panicked, and Colette argues that since it all worked out there's no need to be mad. Besides, she's the one who caused it all by falling down. Cheria relents and asks Kyle if he's okay; he's fine, so Cheria decides they should be on their way.

Hearing their concern that "it" really might start without them if they don't hurry, Jude asks if they're going to the anniversary festival too. They are, but they're a little behind schedule because they got lost. Jude introduces himself and offers to show them the way. After Colette and Cheria thank him and introduce themselves, Jude asks who Kyle is and says he can come too if he's going to the festival. Kyle somewhat nervously confirms that he is - a festival sounds like fun, after all - but after Jude starts to lead the others away he repeats the names he's heard as if unfamiliar with them. Wondering about the time period he's in, he decides he might learn something if he goes with them.

When they get there, Colette and Cheria are in awe of how big and pretty Shongreiss is. Cheria thinks the castle protruding from the middle is fitting for Lady Lazarus, while Jude notes that there are already a lot of people around. Kyle lags behind, gawking at the size of the city.

Raven gets his attention and asks if this is his first time in Shongreiss. Kyle says he's never seen anything like it. When Raven asks if he's there for the festival, Kyle admits that he actually hadn't heard about it until today. Then Colette calls to him and he hurries to catch up. After he's gone, Raven sighs about being young and going sightseeing with cute girls, before turning more serious and wondering about Kyle having just now heard of the festival.

Inside the capital, Jude points out the plaza where the empress will appear. It’s already filled with people and Cheria wonders if they’ll be able to get close enough to see Lady Lazarus. They get distracted by someone squealing over Lord Mikleo, and see Anise glomp on to him. Mikleo apparently remembers her and tries to shake her off while Rowen simply chuckles about how popular Mikleo is. At Mikleo's urging, he then asks Anise to quiet down, because if she makes too much noise she'll attract attention. Anise apologizes, to Mikleo's relief. Still, Rowen says, it's impressive that she managed to find Mikleo. Anise claims it's because they're destined for each other.

Cheria recognizes Mikleo, and Colette remembers her talking about him once before. Meanwhile, Rowen "senses danger." Fearful that if too many young women come after Mikleo they'll get surrounded and won't be able to leave, he asks Anise to hold them back. The only one he can entrust this job to is someone like her, who cares so deeply about Mikleo. Picking up on his ploy, Mikleo asks Anise if he can leave this to her. Anise excitedly swears to stop his fans come hell or high water. In return, she hints that she'd like to be invited over for some of Rowen's tea sometime. Rowen promises he'll prepare a tea she likes, and then leads Mikleo away.

Anise rushes off to tell Colette and the others to stop staring, because Lord Mikleo is busy. Kyle asks who Mikleo is, prompting a startled reaction from Anise, who can't imagine that someone wouldn't know of him. She explains that he's got money and status, and he's smart, plus gorgeous. Cheria adds that he's very popular among girls, though this is the first time she's seen him in person, and Jude puts in that he's also quite a scholar. Anyway, Anise insists again that he doesn't have time to talk to the public right now. Kyle points out that Anise is part of "the public," too; Anise agrees that technically she is, but claims she doesn't count because she's so cute. Jude accepts her explanation halfheartedly.

They're interrupted by a cheer and confetti, and wonder if the festival has started. Nearby, Magilou is finishing up a greeting to the people of Shongreiss from Magilou's Menagerie, and the crowd is loving it. Cheria is impressed, having never seen a magic troupe before. Unfortunately, it seems the act is over. Colette wishes she could have seen it from the beginning, and suddenly Magilou appears, lamenting that they missed the special show she went to such lengths to put on. The others are confused about how long she's been there, but she shrugs off the details and asks Colette if she'd like to join her troupe, because her senses are screaming that Colette has some kind of special talent. Colette is curious about this "special power," but Cheria warns her away, saying that there's something suspicious about Magilou.

Cheria brusquely decides they don't have time for this and should leave; when Jude more apologetically explains that they need to go find a good place to watch the festival from, Magilou starts teasing Jude the "stud" about already surrounding himself with women. Anise and Kyle, still unmentioned, are a little upset about being left out. Magilou goes on that a face that cute shouldn't be stuck in a corner and ignored, flustering Jude so much that he runs off. Colette apologizes to Magilou before following with Cheria. Magilou calls out to them to wait, then decides she must have gone a little too far.**

Raven watches the magic troupe too, thinking about how many people there are to take advantage of at festivals, and how this one keeps getting more and more showy. He wonders if there's going to be any big announcements.

Rowen rushes Mikleo on, saying that they're out of time, until Mikleo runs into something and stops, apologizing. It turns out to be Elize. Rowen asks if Mikleo is okay, and then, turning to check on the girl, notices she dropped her "doll." Elize thanks him for picking it up and then goes quiet. Rowen asks again if she's hurt, but Elize just stammers a negative, apologizes, and runs away, not stopping when Mikleo asks her to wait. He muses that the whole exchange was weird, almost like the girl was scared of something. Rowen doesn't respond.

Velvet stands silent as the townspeople cheer for Lazarus. A priest announces that the ceremony will now begin, starting with a speech from the empress. Lazarus says she is proud of the people of Entelestia for keeping the peace for so long. Everyone prays for "her" - or rather, the country out of love, so that they will be able to keep living and meeting like this. She entreats everyone to join her in a prayer for eternal peace and good fortune. The priest and the crowd, including Colette, echo the prayer.

Jude thinks it's a nice sentiment. He and the others comment that it's all thanks to Lady Lazarus that they can live such tranquil lives, and everyone should treasure that fortune. In the midst of noticing how excited everyone is, Raven sees Velvet watching and is stunned by her ~unbearably amazing style~ and ~sinfully outstanding figure~, before something surprises him.

Meanwhile, Rowen also thinks it was a wonderful speech. Mikleo agrees, and they know everyone there will strive to protect the peace Lazarus prays for. Rowen goes on about the hopes of everyone in Entelestia, but breaks off when he senses something wrong in the audience.

Suddenly Velvet pushes through the crowd, telling the citizens to get out of her way. She's stopped by a soldier telling her not to defile this sacred place, and warning her that if she gets any closer to Lady Lazarus they'll arrest her. Still, Velvet orders them to move and threatens not to show any mercy. As promised, when they try to stop her she takes them out and makes her way to Lazarus.

Lazarus calmly asks who she is. Velvet refuses to answer, insisting that Lazarus is about to die anyway, and then demands she show her face. She does, surprising Velvet, who dismissively notes that the empress everyone worships is just a kid.

When Lazarus chides her for ruining the festival, Velvet says Lazarus is the one ruining everything, and by getting rid of her she's taking her world back. Lazarus remarks that it's too bad she can't seem to find the beauty in their wonderful world, and remains silent as she attacks.

Suddenly a glyph appears, and purple chains encircle Velvet. Lazarus tells her to sleep for a while.

Mikleo is surprised at the binding arte, as this is the first time he's ever seen one. Rowen muses that that must be the power of Lord Lazarus; or else...

Velvet mutters Lazarus's name as she falls unconscious. Lazarus asks the soldiers to take her away. In the audience, Colette is still a little alarmed. Cheria wonders if Velvet will be executed for daring to point a blade at Lord Lazarus, but Jude doesn't think she'd do that. The crowd continues to murmur.

Van appears next to Lazarus, commenting on how dangerous that was. Lazarus asks if he knew about that "criminal" and tells him to covertly thin out the security. She says Van sure is a shrewd fellow, using her as a decoy.

Velvet wakes up in a cell and asks where she is. The guard responds that it should be obvious, and says she should be grateful to Lady Lazarus for showing mercy and leaving her alive. Velvet is not impressed at her "mercy," which she claims is just part of her deception.

Velvet: Look... Right now... this bright world, full of light and carefree laughter... It’s all fake. With her death, I'll expose everything. The world she built on these lies...!

* as far as I can tell, the capital’s name (シャングレイス) is a combination of the german schön, meaning beautiful, and the english grace. I cannot for the life of me find a way to localize it that looks good

** i don’t understand anything magilou says

#tales of asteria #mikleo (toz)#colette brunel #kyle dunamis #jude mathis #raven (tov)#velvet crowe #translations #magilou called jude sexy #i'm still not over it

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hxtties · 7 years ago

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Random headcanons/facts about HP OCs that’ve been determined so far

The Ravenwood family typically gets sorted into Ravenclaw. Rhosyn, eldest sister is the first one to be sorted elsewhere, as she was sorted in Slytherin. Her great-great-great grandmother Helena was sorted into Hufflepuff.

The Ravenwood twins were originally triplets. Rinoa, Raine and Rowen. Raine was killed by a werewolf when they were six and the surviving two have been very wary ever sinve. They’ve since grown protective of each other and Rhosyn is almost over protective of them both.

Rowen was named after the founder of the house she was ultimately sorted into.

Yes, the theme naming was a deliberate part on their parents.

Something Ravenwoods value greatly is loyalty. Which may explain why one of them ended up in Hufflepuff to begin with

Rinoa is the more serious twin, but not by much. While attending Hogwarts, they usually wear differing makeup or occasionally something more distinctive such a ribbon or bow in the hair, so they can be told apart.

Nina is the first witch in her family line to attend Hogwarts. Her parents moved to Britain for business before she was born. She has an older brother, who attended and graduated Durmstrang

While she does take pride in where she was sorted, Nina also strives to live up to the values of said house and remain humble.

While she doesn’t care for the ideals that a lot of hr fellow housemates may, Rhosyn owns the fact that she was sorted into Slytherin and prefers to focus on what she feels should be ideal for them: ambition and cunning. One of her ambitions as a Slytherin is to reverse the house’s decay and show that they can be truly great.

That said, she does tend to focus more on her own self-interest, regardless of whether or not she’s ultimately altruistic in a pasrticular goal.

Rowen is utterly smitten at the sight of Beauxbatons students. Despite this, she ultimately ends up in a relationship with Nina.

Rhosyn’s specialty is alchemy and potions, Rinoa’s is herology, Rowen’s is herbology and charms. Nina’s is charms (it was one of the things she and Rowen first bonded over), Nadia’s was charms and transfiguration. Rhosyn and Nadia are well skilled in apparition and the other three intend to take the course when able.

Rhosyn made it a point to focus heavily on Defense Against The Dark Arts as well, feeling that it’d only be pragmatic. She strongly encourages her sisters take it seriously as well. Ironically, her favorite professor of the course was Lupin. Of course her least favorite, as everyone’s should be, was Umbridge. Lockhart was just written off as a dolt from the get go.

Speaking of which, nobody cared for Umbridge. Nobody.

#outofhotties #I'm stopping now cause I've spent way too much time on this post #Headcanon #headcanons #hc: Rhosyn Ravenwood #hc: Ravenwood Twins #hc: Nina Selander #hc: Nadia Beaumont

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profesh2death · 6 years ago

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Lean into the Joy: an Interview with Cheyenne Barton

This is Cheyenne Barton.

She is a freelance illustrator based in Seattle, Washington. I first found her by pure happenstance, browsing bullet journalling videos on YouTube. I was immediately charmed by her warm, inviting voice and the tiny rose illustrations and bubble lettering in her “journal with me” videos. I quickly discovered that she was more than just a creatively inclined individual with a YouTube account: she has a successful freelance illustration business that sells prints, stickers, and commissioned artworks.

She has also recently experimented with painting landscapes, which she shares on Instagram and sells on Etsy.

While her creative career began as a pastime, she has transitioned into full-time work as a freelance illustrator, which she balances with her acting career (she studied theater in undergraduate school). Absolutely inspired and dumbfounded by her work ethic, I was excited to have the opportunity to ask her how she does it all.

"Structuring the day is a weak point for me,” she admitted, but she tries to be at her desk and working by 9:30am six times a week. Her daily work consists of managing her online store, cutting stickers, sending out orders, and working on personal projects and commissions. Because much of her illustration work is done digitally, she tries to “get out of the house” as much as possible. Her work day ends around 6pm, and, when she’s involved in a theatrical production, her rehearsals begin soon afterward, stretching until 11pm. She says she likes the flexibility freelance work affords her in this respect: "If I get a late start to my day or if I'm burnt out, I can take a day off and get an early start the next day."

Still, she warns about creative burn-out: “As a freelance artist, you never stop working.” She tries to take at least one day off a week to recharge and enjoy herself before getting back to work.

Aside from the day-to-day grind, Cheyenne has big plans for the future. She hopes to study abroad in Sweden sometime in the next few years, and in the long term, she aspires to illustrate articles for newspapers and magazines, or to design book covers for a publishing company. Right now, she is mainly focused on expanding the products her business offers to enamel pins, postcards, and notebooks. Ultimately, she says, “I just want to keep creating cool stuff to sell directly to my audience because I like having that immediate relationship to people who enjoy my content.”

So what did I learn from Cheyenne Barton? (No matter how much I admire her work, I promise I didn’t spend the whole interview just geeking out.) For starters, she gave me the advice everyone in art school has heard a million times by now: "Make the type of art that brings you joy and fulfills you," not what’s “marketable or employable.” “You want to ideally spend your days doing the type of work you want to do,” she pointed out, although she admitted that I might have to have a “day job” for a while.

Cheyenne emphasized the importance of sharing creativity with others however and whenever possible. “Keep putting it out into the world, don't hoard it.” With a popular Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube channel, she is a master at sharing her work, and has created a large social media following from the ground up. She thinks that “what makes you different and your work different is the best selling point.”

She often finds inspiration in the words and work of other creators, and recommended I read Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert and listen to the Creative Pep Talk podcast (both of which I am currently doing, and would recommend as well!).

Cheyenne’s career gives me so much hope for my own future. While she has been doodling her whole life, she only began getting “serious” about illustration her junior year of college (less than a decade ago). And yet, she has already fashioned a flexible creative career that not only allows her to fuel her passion, but pays the bills, too.

Ultimately, she said, it’s all about the feeling you get while creating. “That joy is magnetic,” she explained, “and it attracts the people who want to see your work.”

“Lean into the joy and lean into the love.”

(Big thanks to Cheyenne Barton for the interview, and Stephanie Rowen for the push to reach out! You can find Cheyenne’s work on her Instagram, Twitter, and website.)

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