#she's shrewd and quick with her wit

[invinciblerodent]

Even though I'm barely 5-6 hours into this playthrough so far, playing a character like Iona, who is genuinely cunning and insightful (she has to be, with her 17 cha and her insight- and persuasion proficiency), is already proving to be such a fun way to do the Astarion romance.

I was just reviewing the "stargazing" scene I recorded today, and I felt it in the moment too, but especially in retrospect, it's so clear that her genuine charisma just always keeps him slightly off-balance.

He goes systematically through the routines, the tried and true methods (doing something that's generally considered romantic like stargazing, draping himself onto a bedroll in a casual, but inviting, seductive pose, weirdly negging her about her chin?? which is honestly just funny??, standing just a touch too close, giving her a taste of interest but withdrawing immediately, etc.), only.... none of them seem to stick.

At one point he clearly thinks he has her, when she all but purrs about how they should get to know each other, and he seems to take it at face value, ready to pull back to keep her interest, but then.... she laughs???? And tells him she was joking???? His face, for a split second there, it looks so.... blank. The smirk melts off immediately.

This weird look, there for less than a second, is so telling. Especially with the following line being a hollow laugh and a "Hm? Yes! Of course, me too."

(C'mon, we both know you were not joking. I can see the "....shit" behind your eyes.)

Then he excuses himself immediately, and you can almost hear the "WHAT the absolute FUCK was THAT." rushing through his head.

Like... he sees that she's toying with him, calling his bluff, and yet, she doesn't push back, and does it in such a playful manner, one he might even call.... nice??? Is she being nice to him, for failing to seduce her??? Hells, she finds the empty flattery funny, rather than insulting???

Even early on, it really seems as if he's trying to hold onto his playbook, but with a character like her, whose charisma is natural rather than learned, it just... falls flat, it doesn't work. But it also kind of does, because she seems... entertained? Interested? It's frustrating how he can't seem to get a bead on her, yet there's also a little something about this weird uncertainty that makes the game... almost fun for him too. For the first time in a long time, she's not just a target, but she meets him halfway, if not a step ahead.

Her reactions are actually unpredictable, even this early. He tried and failed to trick her, and instead of being furious, it's as if she's egging him on. Instead of "stop that", she's saying "you can do better".

So far, Iona thinks that the reason for all this flattery and coyness is literally just that he's a man with a slightly over-inflated ego, who finds her attractive and wants to get into her pants, but thinks her simple enough to believe his pretty, practiced words. It wouldn't be the first time, and it wouldn't be the last. And she's willing to entertain his game, because, well, why not, you know? It's not like he's bad to look at, or like she's looking for a relationship (she just got out of a 35 year one by setting her house and husband on fire for gods' sakes), sleeping with another be-tadpoled adventurer would just be a bit of mutually beneficial, convenient fun.

It'll not be until the Shadowlands and the whole mess there that she realizes it wasn't "mutually beneficial" at all. That he told her pretty lies, but not because he wanted her to spread her legs, but because he wanted to be important to her- so that she'll protect him.

Gah, this relationship is going to be so fun to roleplay. I'm already having such a good time with it.

There is a Lous and the Yakuza song, "Masquerade", that I keep thinking about with them. Especially the part where it repeats the line "Before you'd speak to me/take off your mask" in French and Spanish in a kind of back and forth, which I feel really works for them.

[superpowereddonut]

Favour for a Friend (Sirius Black x Reader) - Part 3

Pairing: Sirius Black x Female!Reader (No use of Y/N or a name)

A/N: set at Hogwarts, fake dating trope

Warnings: Male character verbally intimidating reader

Word count: 1892

Read Part 1 here. Read part 2 here. Read part 4 here.

*****

The following morning at breakfast, she once again sat next to Sirius, who just gave her a sleepy smile and wordlessly filled her goblet with orange juice. Her heart fluttered at the sight, and she couldn’t have stopped her answering grin if she wanted to. His silken black hair was loose, reaching his shoulders in messy waves that - unlike James’ - managed to look charming rather than unruly. His storm-grey eyes had brightened when he looked at her, though they were still slightly clouded by tiredness. He had never been a morning person. She fondly remembered a time during their third year when James had tried to convince all of the marauders to try out for the Gryffindor quidditch team and Sirius had waxed poetic about his love of lie-ins and vehement hate for anything that disturbed them. She let her gaze wander, taking in his rumpled shirt, loosely-done tie, and the heavy silver signet ring he wore on his left pinky - glinting slightly in the morning sunlight as he spread a thin layer of honey on a piece of toast and placed it carefully on her plate. She blinked, snapping her gaze back to his face in surprise. He just winked back at her. “How did you know I liked honey on toast?” She asked. 

He shrugged, “You’ve had the same breakfast everyday since first year. You’re a creature of habit.” His tone was casual but she noted a slight pink tint to his cheeks. She bit back another smile as she turned to her plate, feeling her own cheeks heat. Sirius knew her well enough to make her favourite breakfast? He had even taken the care to cut the corners off, obviously having noticed that she never ate them. She felt her chest tighten as she realised that he had been paying so much attention to her, even though until yesterday they had been sitting two seats apart. 

She took a bite of the toast, relishing the sweet honey coating her tongue as she looked up, only to freeze as she met Lily’s sharp stare from across the table. It was obvious from her pointed expression that Lily had witnessed the entire interaction - and clearly had something to say about it. Luckily she was spared any shrewd remarks as James’ voice suddenly cut through the morning chatter,“Wormtail! How nice of you to finally remember that your friends exist!”. Peter smiled good-naturedly as he strode towards their group and sat on the other side of Sirius. “Morning all,” he called down the table, ignoring James’ comment.

Remus smirked at him, “Oh come on Wormtail, you can’t disappear for three days and then act like nothing happened!”

“I didn’t disappear! I’ve been in class!” Peter cried indignantly.

“And yet outside of class we haven’t seen you at all, mate,” James pointed out. 

“I’ve been… busy.” 

“Yeah, busy trailing after Dorcas like a lovesick puppy,” Sirius sniggered.

Peter whipped around to glare at him. “You’re just jealous of our relationship!” he said pompously, “It isn’t my fault I’ve found someone who loves me while you're still stuck in your immature bachelor phase!”

She felt, rather than saw, Sirius stiffen as the words seem to find their mark. Despite his swaggering demeanor, she knew Sirius was always better at dishing out snark than receiving it, - especially from his friends. “Au contraire, my pathetic, infatuated friend,” Sirius drawled, swinging an arm around her shoulders, “I’m in an incredibly mature relationship with our very own Gryffindor prefect.” She leaned forward then to catch Peter’s eye, wincing apologetically. To his credit, while quick to lash out, Peter was also quick to move on, and Sirius’ announcement had seemed to distract him from his defensiveness immediately. “Really?” He asked, mouth agape, “You two are dating?”. She looked to Sirius, but he didn’t seem inclined to explain the ‘fake’ aspect of their relationship, still stung by Peter’s earlier remark. Peter seemed to take her silence as confirmation though, and a large smile lit up his round face. “Well congratulations!” he exclaimed earnestly, “Though I must say, it’s about time. You two have been dancing around each other for ages.” Sirius was taut as a bowstring beside her, and she shifted uncomfortably. A quick glance around the table showed that their friends were all in varying states of surprised amusement, particularly Remus, who caught her eye and grinned. Peter, however, ploughed on, oblivious to the tension around him as he began helping himself to tea. “I mean, we all knew it would happen sooner or later, but I for one doubted Sirius’ ability to - well - be serious, if you’ll pardon the pun.” 

Sirius had begun to look a bit panicked, and she thought for a second that he might actually hit Peter just to get him to shut-up, but before he could, James - possibly thinking the same thing - smoothly cut in, redirecting Peter by asking whether he would be taking Dorcas to Hogsmeade that weekend. She loosed a breath as the conversation shifted and flowed around her, before looking up at Sirius. She nudged him gently with her elbow and he blinked, turning toward her. “You okay?” she asked quietly, “You know Peter, he’s always completely ridiculous with that imagination of his. Last week I heard him bragging to Dorcas that he’d come face to face with a real werewolf in the forbidden forest.”

Her words didn’t seem to comfort him much, and he remained moody through breakfast. She reached up to where his arm was still draped over her shoulder and absentmindedly played with his fingers, alternating between twisting his signet ring and running her thumb along his. She could feel Lily’s gaze like a brand on the side of her face, but ignored her and focused instead on the tension slowly melting out of Sirius as she fiddled with his hand.

*****

After breakfast, she hadn’t seen much of Sirius, as he had a double period of transfiguration while she had divination. But he had still walked her all the way to her classroom on the opposite side of the castle from his own, and carried her books the entire way. She had been grateful that he had seemed lost in his own thoughts, or he might have noticed the way she kept sneaking glances at him throughout their trek up and down the moving staircases. She was certain Lily would’ve noticed and probably tried to talk to her about it, but thankfully her best friend had headed straight to her own class in the dungeons. She was putting off that lecture as long as possible.

After being choked by thick, perfumed fog in the divination classroom for the better part of two hours, nothing sounded better than spending her free period in the sunshine by the black lake. So, while her classmates hurried off to the library or their next class, she ducked behind a tapestry to take her favourite shortcut to the grounds. Before she could even get outside, however, a brash voice echoed through the corridor behind her. 

“Hiya sweetheart! Bin hopin’ to run into ya!” She bit back a groan and turned around, her teeth grinding together at the sight of Lucas Davis swaggering down the hallway toward her. 

“What do you want?” she ground out. 

He tsked. “Aww come on gorgeous, that’s no way to say hello. I feel like I haven’t seen ya in ages.” It had been less than 48 hours since he had last harassed her. But up until then, his passing comments in the hallways between classes and imposing presence in any moment of peace had been near-constant. Honestly, she should have been expecting him to corner her soon, but with Sirius flirting and doting on her, Davis had slipped her mind completely.

“I’ve been busy,” she dismissed, “you know, spending time with my boyfriend and all.”

A muscle twitched in his jaw but he continued smiling confidently, moving even closer, “Yes I’ve seen Black glued to your side recently.” He made a show of looking around the empty hallway. “But I ain’t seeing your overprotective shadow now.” 

She backed up a step, but he didn’t seem to notice, still striding forward. His intense gaze was now locked on her like a predator sizing up prey, and she fought the urge to pull out her wand. “Yeah, well, he’s meeting me here soon,” she bluffed, “and he’d be pretty pissed off to see you talking to me, so I suggest you clear off before he gets here.” 

Davis just scoffed, now crowding her against the stone wall behind her. He was too close, barely a foot away, and her every muscle locked up as dread settled in her gut.

“Just because you have a boyfriend now, don’t mean we can’t be friends.” he crooned, his voice dropping into what he probably thought was a seductive tone. It made her skin crawl.

“I’m not interested in being friends with you, Davis, and I’m pretty sure I’ve made that abundantly clear. I’m dating Sirius, and that’s that.” He simply continued leering down at her in that predatory way. God it’s like he can’t even hear me, she thought, patience waning. She sucked in a deep breath and pushed him backwards.

“I. Don’t. Want. You.” she clipped. 

His cocky grin was replaced by a look of pure rage and she felt her heart jump to her throat. Up until now she had always been careful not to piss Davis off, always keeping her rejections just shy of harsh. Some part of her had known that underneath all that ego, he had a darker fury that she didn’t want to tempt.

“Listen here you little-”

“There you are, mon cœur!” a booming voice cut through the moment, making Davis jump back as though burned. “I’ve been waiting for you outside!”

Relief swept through her so suddenly she could’ve wept. There was Sirius, strutting towards them from the other end of the hall, dark eyes fixed on her. His charming grin turned sharp as he looked at Davis but she didn’t even spare the creep a glance as she rushed to Sirius’ waiting arms. As she reached him, one of his hands immediately sought out her waist and the other settled gently on her cheek. He leaned forward ever-so-slowly, his eyes darting between hers as though searching for a hint of doubt. Finding none, he closed the gap between them, pressing his lips to hers. She melted into the kiss without hesitation, sighing slightly when he pulled her more firmly into him. He used the opportunity to sweep his tongue into her mouth, and she went boneless, barely aware of her hands reaching up to thread through his silky black hair and scratch lightly at his scalp. A deep groan rumbled through his chest at the movement, and the sound had goosebumps appearing all over her skin. Everything beyond Sirius faded away, until there was only his warm body and his mouth, tender against her own. When they finally separated, Sirius’ pupils were blown wide and he was breathing hard, air hitting her aching lips with every harsh exhale. “I thought the situation called for it.” He rasped, low enough that she would have missed it if he hadn’t practically said it against her mouth.

“Definitely.” She breathed.

They turned in unison to where Davis had been standing, but the hallway was now completely empty.

[loverlylight]

Okay, I know this has been said before but I absolutely love how Ella's I Want song is so blatantly about her rightful righteous fury. She doesn't just want to be free from her stepmother, she wants her stepmother to suffer and die, to be paid back in kind for what she did to Ella and her loved ones and for Ella to be able to revel in it. And yet with that justified anger she's still so sweet and caring with her friends, like she is utterly adorable when she realizes she'll get to see Justine and Lucy again, and she's also so shrewd and quick witted and just... augh I am not finding the words but I just love Ella Ashmore so much!

[blurbfics]

There'd Better Be a Mirrorball | Azriel x OFC [part four]

Summary: Time skip. Cassian decides Eowyn could benefit from a little extra training. a.k.a., let the slow-burn begin

Word Count: 3k

Warnings: swearing, sexual implications, male/female sparring, shy!Azriel, use of the word "ginger" to refer to Eris

Minors, do not interact.

a/n: thank you so much for accompanying me in this journey! let's figure out where this story is headed together, shall we?

part three

Masterlist

"I just kept hoping, I just kept hoping

the way would become clear.

I spent all this time

tryna play nice and fight my way here.

See, I've been having me a real hard time

but it feels so nice to know I'm gonna be alright."

Alabama Shakes, This Feeling

CASSIAN POV

He knew, from the moment he woke up, that today would be a good day.

Knew it when he woke up with his mate’s lips wrapped around his cock, knelt with her ass up from between his legs as she looked up at him, her gray eyes lit with knowing mischief as she roused him in his second favorite way of waking up (second only to his gaining of consciousness from between her thighs, a game they liked to play– how long until Cassian realizes he’s being suffocated by his mate’s pussy?)

Knew it when he went down to breakfast, to find his usual porridge, the gruel made better when his mate added those tiny dashes of cinnamon and allspice she’d been obsessing over since Eowyn began to introduce a myriad of spices she assured didn’t carry empty calories and made everything taste better.

But getting punched in the face? That solidified his assessment for the day.

The sound of bones hitting flesh was not an uncommon sound in the training ring. After all, that was what they were there to do. But the sound of Eowyn’s small but fierce fist connecting with the side of his jaw echoed through the ring with such a thunderous smack that everyone stopped what they were doing and focused only on them.

When he saw Eowyn’s wide, almost fearful eyes, the only part of her face revealed from her coverings, the only thing he could do was grin in reply. “Think you can do that again?” He challenged, moving his jaw side to side to relieve the familiar ache.

Instantly, the fear disappeared as she remembered that this was what they were here for and she had done absolutely nothing wrong.

It had been a few months since the young priestess had joined their little group of Warrior Priestesses, as he liked to call them. Although he had to admit he was rather partial to his mate and her friends, Eowyn had been quick to sneak her way into his limited list of favorite people. The girl was strong, both in character and when it came to the constant drilling they did. She was determined and always hyper-focused, never hesitating to repeat a motion or new move again and again until she got it right— did so, with little to no complaint, as well.

She was funny in a strange way, sharing that dry wit that he always came to associate with his mate, one of the reasons he believed the girls got along so well. And she was incredibly smart. He had no need to see her septganiums to know that, she simply oozed a certain sense of knowing. One had only to take a look at her deep dark eyes (in the rare and far between occasions she didn’t cover her entire head, that is) to see that shrewdness in her eye, as if she was in on a joke with the world at everyone else’s expense.

But most of all, she was fast.

The first time he’d seen her and Azriel go at it during their hand-to-hand combat sessions (as she was the odd-fae out when the females paired off to spar), he hadn’t hesitated to insert himself, practically trembling with excitement as he proposed a trade with his brother. Azriel could train with the three Valkyries, as they were honing in their sword-fighting and everyone knew that swordplay was Az’s area of expertise, while Cassian gave Wynnie a whirl, he had said, winking at the priestess whose only reply was to jut out a hip and rest a hand on it in an endearingly sassy way.

He hadn’t missed the way his brother’s jaw clenched in annoyance despite his otherwise unmoved face, as he merely nodded once, stilted, and left them to spar. He also hadn’t missed the fact that he could often feel his brother’s penetrating gaze on them whenever Cass had to physically adjust Eowyn’s elbows or whenever he landed a slightly-too-hard blow upon the young priestess (who actually took the jabs with much more grace and sportsmanship than others he knew— I’m looking at you, Rhys— he called out into the open void of his head in case the High Lord was eavesdropping).

But today of all days, Eowyn’s training had paid off. Months of hard training and half-taunting her had culminated into the perfect moment where she had landed a concise and heavy blow to his jaw, in a manner much too fast and skilled for him to catch immediately.

He had never been more proud of her.

Surprise gone, she smirked at him from under her covering, eyes glinting with mirth, “I’m about to drop you like a sack of potatoes.”

Grinning back, he got in position, wings ruffling slightly and beckoned her to try.

—

Although no one had the remotest intention of allowing any of the Valkyries near the upcoming Blood Rite, Cassian and Azriel had decided that the obstacle course from the previous year had been an invigorating and perfect team-building success.

The Valkyries, both the new and the slightly more experienced, continued their tradition at the end of each training session to attempt to cut the ribbon, not so much as the true Valkyrie rite of passage, but out of respect and tradition for their predecessors. The obstacle course had been something that was itching at Cassian’s brain again and he was looking forward to seeing what this batch of Warrior Priestesses could do.

Thus, he had dragged Azriel over to the kitchen table that same night to begin to brainstorm possible courses for the girls that didn’t overlap with what they had done before. Thankfully his brother was an endless pit of ideas, some more fatal that others, but all so concise that Cassian knew Azriel had been planning this for much longer than he thought.

Yawning behind his mug, Cassian inspected his brother before taking a sip from his lavender and chamomile tea, yet another addition to his routine influenced by Eowyn. The reminder of the young female brought a sudden idea to his mind.

���What do you think of Eowyn?” He asked his brother casually, trying to remember if he’d ever seen the pair interact beyond the basics of training.

Azriel, to his credit, didn’t choke on his own tea, exactly, but Cassian— not the most observant by nature but also not an idiot— noticed the way his brother seemed to tense, his breathing halting before painstakingly exhaling out the smallest hint of a shudder, his eyes suddenly fixed on the fruit at the center of the table.

“What… do you mean?” Azriel asked slowly, clearing his throat.

Cassian chuckled lightly, a little confused as he looked at his brother in a way to say what do you think I mean? Just exactly what I asked.

“She punched me in the face today,” Cassian stated obviously, as if that hadn’t been the talk echoing through the mountain all day long. His brother looked up at him and blinked, face blank. 

Cassian took that as encouragement to continue, although he found himself slightly concerned at the fact that he had to spell it out for him. “She’s skilled. And she works hard, wants to work hard,” he emphasized. “I mean she hasn’t said anything to me, but I think some extra training would do her good.”

“You want her to train more?” His brother seemed to gather his composure, and although his strange behavior sparked a little tendril of interest in Cassian, he let it go for the moment.

“I want you to train her more,” Cassian corrected, placing his clasped hands on the table in a manner he’d seen Rhys do one too many times.

“Why don’t you do it?” Azriel bristled.

“Because I have courier duties with what’s-his-ginger-face.”

“And you assume I have nothing better to do with my time? Weren’t you assigned that job specifically because I was too swamped with work?”

“But all that shit with Briallyn is over and done with, and we haven’t heard a peep or anything related to Koschei in months,” he took another sip of his tea, making a mental note to send Eowyn some flowers or something. He’d quickly gotten addicted to his night tea, almost as much as the fancy roasted beans she liked to grind together and brew for him and the other girls whenever Nesta had them over for lunch. “That is, unless you want to take back your place and deal with that pompous asshole?”

Cassian thought about it. “Actually, that does sound better.”

“No,” Azriel spoke with such finality that Cassian could only stare at him. Azriel cleared his throat, “you know I can’t stand that prick.” He looked away and sighed, “alright, I’ll train her.”

“If she even wants to,” Cassian chuckled. “I know you don’t stay here as much as you used to, but you should consider coming back here if she agrees. And don’t start with that ‘I don’t want to intrude’ bullshit. Wynnie hangs around here all the time and we barely even see her.”

“That’s because she’s always in the greenhouse.”

“And how would you know that?” Cassian couldn’t help but prod, disregarding his earlier decision to leave things alone. Azriel only motioned to his shadows, an eyebrow raised.

Cassian continued, although with no small amount of doubt at his brother’s nonchalance. “You know, it’s actually been pretty nice having her around. Granted, she’s always talking to herself, but she’s got good taste,” he brought the tea cup up in mock salute.

“You don’t have to convince me, I already agreed to train her” Azriel rolled his eyes.

But there was more there. Cassian knew his brother, knew him better than anyone other than Rhys, who could quite literally enter his mind, and he knew there was something there, something simmering under the surface.

He only hoped no one got burned in the process.

“Alright, alright,” he raised his hands in surrender, “we’ll ask her tomorrow then.”

—

As he settled down for bed after taking a long and quite enlightening bubbly bath with his mate, he listened as she shared the details of her day with him. Nesta’s back was to him as she sat on the bed, hands expertly plaiting her hair into a long loose braid as she recounted her day, asking him about his own as they had come to do as part of their nightly routine since they solidified their mating bond.

He shrugged as he told his wife about his day, tactfully avoiding his plan to reconstruct the obstacle courses that she and the priestesses hated so much, but recounted everything else, including his idea to have Azriel train Wynnie.

He noticed, as he noticed every fluttering eyelash and breath his mate so much as took, the way she tensed up slightly, back still to him before she swung her finished braid over her shoulder and settled into her side of the bed, eyebrow raised questioningly at him.

“What?” He asked immediately, “you don’t think it’s a good idea?”

“I think it’s going to complicate things, that’s for sure.”

“What do you mean?” He frowned, “has she complained to you? Am I being too hard on her?” He asked, suddenly thinking back to his interactions with Eowyn and trying to decipher if she ever expressed any discomfort or displeasure by the training. But damn, it was so hard to tell without being able to see her face properly.

“No, it’s not that,” his mate assured, immediately, knowing her mate well enough to know he’d spiral into a hole and start overthinking his friendship with all the priestesses while he was at it. “It’s just that..” she trailed off slightly, gray eyes turning up to think about her words, “you know… Gwyn hasn’t spoken a word to Azriel since you let it slip that he hated the dagger she gave him-“

“I apologized for that!”

“-yes, but she hasn’t spoken to him for two months. And Azriel has barely even noticed,” she huffed. “But do you know who Az can’t seem to take his eyes off?”

He knew this. Of course, he knew this. He had felt Az’s eyes on them on more than one occasion, and he knew well that his brother seemed to have a thing for unattainable and uninterested females.

He only frowned, not needing to answer.

“And Gwyn has noticed. Of course she’s noticed, she watches him like a hawk.”

Cassian settled into bed, pulling his mate into his chest. “You think there’s something going on between Az and Wynnie?” he mumbled to her.

“No,” Nesta said immediately, settling further into the spot between his shoulder and neck that she’d claimed as her own. “Wynnie wouldn’t do that to Gwyn.”

Cassian hummed, mind turning before coming to a decision. “But we can’t meddle in their business, Nes. I think Eowyn would really benefit from more training and I can’t do it myself, otherwise I would.”

“I know,” his mate sighed sleepily, “I’m just saying it’s going to be a proper mess.”

—

After training, a session no less grueling than the rest, but not quite as backbreaking as the obstacle courses they were going to face in the next few months, he called Wynnie over after her daily attempt at cutting the ribbon.

The practice had become a staple in their daily training, and every day the priestesses would stand before the ribbon, swords raised in their preferred manner of combat and would slice the swords down with precision, if not quite the necessary finesse required to cut the ribbon clean off.

“I know, I know, ‘it’s all in the wrist,’” she huffed when she approached them. 

Despite his own suspicions that his brother held a special interest in the young priestess that went beyond a trainer/trainee status, he hadn’t truly considered why until his conversation with his mate the previous night. After his mating bond with Nesta— no, after meeting Nesta, even while she was still human— he hadn’t bothered to look at females in any other way that wasn’t purely platonic or inconsequential. 

He knew Eowyn was a rather pretty fae, of course, even despite the scars she kept well hidden, but he’d never seen her as anything other than his mate’s friend. As his friend.

She was of average height, neither too tall nor too short. Her clothes were no different from the rest of the priestesses, if perhaps only darker tones, and she often wore what he thought were skirts but were only very loose pants that allowed for unrestricted, if only heavier, movements. She also lacked the circlet and stone placed upon the center of the forehead that most, if not all, priestesses wore, even over their face coverings.

He’d seen her face only a handful of times when he "accidentally" walked in on the females having their bi-weekly lunches, and although he couldn’t pinpoint every feature exactly, not wanting to be caught staring at her, he knew she was pretty and had possibly the darkest eyes he’d ever seen.

And perhaps it was that. Her eyes. So dark and expressive and full of knowing that had his brother in a trance, for when she approached Cassian and Azriel wearing only a mask-like covering over only the bottom half of her face— her eyes shining bright from the exercise and dark hair pulled away into two braids down her back, a few stray hairs rebelling against their captivity, his brother only stared and didn’t say. A single. Word.

“So, what do you usually do after practice?” Cassian asked casually, feeling the need to ease them into a conversation that truly shouldn’t be all that difficult to have.

She gave him a weird look, one eyebrow raising slightly, “Unless I’m needed at the library, I like to go to the greenhouse while the sun is still out and tend to the plants. Then I go back to the library and work,” she looked at him questioningly, “why?”

“How would you feel about a little extra training?”

She snorted, “you’re kidding, right?”

“I’m not,” he said seriously, glancing at his brother from the corner of his eye to see if he had anything to add, but his brother’s gaze only remained fixed on the young priestess, taking in the unfamiliar sight of her dark hair. “We think you could really benefit from a few extra hours of one-on-one training and-“

“Am I doing that badly?” she asked, eyebrows furrowing, “I thought this was all just to create a routine. To destress and gain strength and all that.”

“It is” he assured immediately, “and on the contrary, you’re doing great. We can see how hard you’re working and all the effort you put in, and we just wanted to offer you some—“

“You come back to the ring sometimes. At night, when everyone’s in bed,” Azriel spoke up, if perhaps a bit softer than was normal for him. “Do you have trouble sleeping?”

If she was surprised that he knew about her late night prowling, she didn’t show it. Her dark shrewd eyes scanned his face before meeting his eyes. “Sometimes,” she replied in the same tone.

“This could help you with that, if our group training isn’t enough,” Cassian added.

She considered their words for a few seconds and crossed her arms over her chest, finally nodding slowly. “How would it work? I just stay here and train with you both for another hour or..?”

“Well, it would just be Az, mostly. Maybe if I get a day off, I could stop by for a bit” Cassian clarified, “and we can work around whatever routine works best for you. If you’re needed at the library on any day, you can just let us know and we’ll figure something out.”

“To start, would you be willing to stay for another two hours, maybe three times a week?” Azriel asked.

She considered it for a second and then sighed, “alright. I can’t say I’m looking forward to getting my ass handed to me by the Lord of Shadows, but that should work out fine.”

Cassian snorted a laugh, glancing over at his brother to see his lip barely twitch in amusement and his ears turn red. Lord of Shadows, huh? Maybe not so unattainable and uninterested, after all.

“We start tomorrow,” Azriel said, a smile barely grazing his lips, hazel eyes shining bright.

part five

taglist: @lilah-asteria @a-courtof-azriel @honk4emoboyz @feyretopia @mrsjna @buttermilktea11 @bravo-delta-eccho

[phyripowritesthings]

originally I wrote this for lietweek, it just ended up being not as much about Liet as I wanted, but it's still a fun little fic! bc I'm always amused picturing characters interacting with whoever they're alphabetically next to, and this is an especially interesting bunch :)

.

Liaisons

characters: Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Moldova and Monaco

word count: 2193 summary: A series of silly snapshots of the European meeting table around the letter L, AKA Lithuania is surrounded by teenagers.

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“It’s quite busy around here, isn’t it?”

Lithuania watches as Luxembourg sets his briefcase down and takes the seat next to him at the meeting table.

“I suppose so,” he replies, and Luxembourg smiles, pulling papers out of his case.

“It’s good to see you again, Lithuania.”

They haven’t met many times before, pan-European meeting not really having existed before the Second World War, but Lithuania recalls Luxembourg being quick-witted yet polite, so he nods.

“It’s good to be back.”

Latvia and Liechtenstein arrive at the same time, chatting quietly about something, which makes Lithuania smile. It’s nice to see Latvia relaxed after all these years of tension. He even pulls Liechtenstein’s chair back for her, which makes her laugh kindly as she sits on Lithuania’s other side.

“Good afternoon, Lithuania,” she says.

“Good afternoon.”

“Liech!” Luxembourg says, reaching around front of Lithuania and pulling an exaggerated sad face. “You’re so far away.”

“Finally,” she just says, laughing again and meeting Lithuania’s eye with amusement. They must have gotten quite used to each other’s presence, these past fifty or so years. Lithuania turns to Luxembourg and raises his eyebrows.

“And am I not good enough?”

Luxembourg narrows his eyes at him, probably trying to figure out if he’s joking. Lithuania smiles.

“We’ll see, I suppose,” Luxembourg says haughtily. It’s only ruined a little bit by Netherlands patting his head as he walks by.

-

Liechtenstein, somehow, knows all the gossip of the continent. While Lithuania can’t say he has any real interest in the personal lives of his fellow nations, Latvia apparently does, and so does Luxembourg, so he gets quite a lot of it during meetings, anyway.

Honestly, it reminds him of Poland’s incessant gossiping, and in its own way, that’s quite comforting after all this time. As long as Poland doesn’t expect him to remember any of the gossip.

Even Moldova, who seems to be getting taller every time Lithuania sees him, has started to join in from Luxembourg’s other side over the years. Luxembourg had been much dismayed to learn that Monaco was now also far away. No one really knows where Malta is, most of the time.

“I heard Belarus broke your fingers,” Liechtenstein is telling Lithuania now. Really? That rumor again?

“Nah, that’s old news,” Latvia says, unimpressed.

“No, it’s—that didn’t even happen, Lat! Poland was exaggerating.”

Latvia just looks over at him, expression never changing, and Luxembourg is laughing.

“I never hear anything interesting about you, Lithuania,” Liechtenstein laments.

“I suppose I’m just not very interesting,” Lithuania says, which gets him a shrewd look from beneath her blond fringe. He’s suddenly quite wary of her, tiny as she is.

“No, I’m sure Latvia has plenty of stories about you,” Luxembourg puts in from his other side, and Latvia actually grins.

“No, he doesn’t!” He’s surrounded by younger siblings, Lithuania realizes—he could even count Latvia as his own brother if he felt like it, although it seems less relevant now. All the gossiping suddenly makes sense. It’s probably a good thing Belarus is all the way over there… Even if she’s next to Belgium.

Luckily, Slovakia has finally set up his projector at the front of the room, and so Latvia doesn’t have time to say anything incriminating as they all fall silent to listen to his presentation.

-

“This feels familiar,” Luxembourg tells Lithuania.

“I don’t know. I’m missing Liechtenstein.” Lithuania ducks away when Latvia tries to poke him in the side. It’s the first time they’re in an EU meeting, both of them, and although the meeting table is smaller, the nations present seem to be making up for it by being even louder than is the norm.

Lithuania catches Estonia’s eye from where he’s sat, as usual, between Denmark and Finland—at least when England’s representing the whole UK—to find that he’s actually putting headphones on to drown out his neighbors basically yelling at each other. Estonia just shrugs. He’s always been good at ignoring the ruckus around him. It’s because he’s so damn old, Lithuania thinks, which also explains a lot of things about Monaco.

“No way! Malta’s here,” Latvia says, as the elusive nation enters the room.

“Oh, right.” Luxembourg sounds almost disappointed, and he shrugs when Lithuania shoots him a questioning glance. “I’ve gotten quite attached to Moldova, I guess. But at least I don’t have to sit next to this guy anymore.”

He gestures over at Netherlands, who just sends him a flat look and says, “Like Malta will ever show up again. You’re stuck with me, Lux.”

Luxembourg sticks his tongue out at his brother in a move that seems so at odds with his sophisticated persona that it makes Lithuania laugh out loud.

When that causes Luxembourg to stick his tongue out his way, he says, “You’re lucky Liechtenstein isn’t here.”

She likes to remind all of her alphabetical neighbors that she’s older than them; a few times, Monaco has even joined in, scolding them for the silliest things. Lithuania thinks Moldova does weird things on purpose, because it amuses him.

“Welcome, everyone,” Belgium calls, just as Malta takes a seat. “And welcome, new members—Denmark, please shut up.”

-

Just as he almost tips forward on to the table, Lithuania is startled by Liechtenstein shaking his shoulder. He blinks at her, and she smiles.

The meeting is running very late. Even though Lithuania is sure he has spent much longer stretches of time awake in his life, most of those times weren’t spent in a warm room, sitting in a moderately comfortable chair. It’s much easier to keep your eyes open when you’re on a battlefield, or under siege. Some time ago, Germany announced a break, although Lithuania can’t say now when exactly that had been. Right now, Latvia is in Montenegro’s seat, talking to Netherlands—probably about poetry, which, oddly enough, they’ve bonded over.

“Should I get—” Liechtenstein starts, but Lithuania gets startled again by a hand on his other shoulder, and then Moldova is leaning over next to him to slam a cup of coffee on the table. He grins and flops down in Luxembourg’s chair. The nation is all gangly limbs now; Latvia has been complaining that Moldova is taller than him since 2006.

“You look like you could use some caffeine,” he says.

“Thank you, Moldova.” Lithuania inhales the scent of coffee gratefully.

“Excuse me,” Luxembourg says indignantly from behind him, “what are you doing in my chair?”

Moldova swivels to him, still grinning.

“I’m expanding,” he replies, and he spreads his hands. “The Moldovan Empire, what do you think?”

“It’s really not all that it’s cracked up to be, you know,” Lithuania tells him. Moldova blinks.

“Being an empire?”

“Hm. Just… Being big.” He’d take having to drink many cups of coffee over a battlefield any day. A hundred years ago, he might have felt differently, but Lithuania knows the value of peace.

“That’s not what Bulgaria says. He keeps telling me about his glory days.”

“Yes, well.” Lithuania sips his coffee and watches with quiet amusement while Luxembourg wheels Moldova out of the way.

-

In the middle of Austria’s speech, Lithuania finds a slip of paper pushed in front of him.

Latvia says you’re good at English. Can you please look over my speech? Okay if not. Moldova.

The note is in Russian, and Lithuania can see Luxembourg squinting at it, but he has no idea whether the nation actually speaks Russian. He scribbles an answer, telling Moldova he’ll help during lunch break, and slides the note back towards Luxembourg, who passes it to Moldova.

When the break comes, Moldova nervously hands Lithuania a hand-written draft of his speech.

“It used to be that we just fought each other,” Lithuania tells him, smoothing the paper down. Sitting on the table, Moldova kicks his legs out.

“Yeah, no one ever asked me to do that. I looked like I was ten.”

Lithuania chuckles. “Alright, fair enough. I’ll warn you; America keeps telling me my English is old-fashioned.”

“That’s alright. I tried asking Romania for help, and I think he quoted Shakespeare at me.” He frowns. “It was that, or some kind of magic spell.”

“You never really know,” Lithuania agrees. He looks over the speech, correcting some mistakes and helping Moldova with some phrasings and pronunciations. He’s aware that, unlike most other European nations, his English tends to sound very American. Since he was the one who taught the language to both other Baltics and Ukraine, they’ve picked up a lot of the same quirks. Russia was not a fan of that, and Lithuania is a little proud that Moldova might be next on that list.

Moldova insists on buying him lunch as a thank-you. It’s nice, to be able to help.

As they head back to the meeting hall, Moldova briefly hooks his arm through Lithuania’s.

“Thanks!” he says brightly, and rushes to his seat.

-

“You know, we should go out sometime,” Lithuania hears Liechtenstein tell Latvia as everyone is entering the room. “Me and Lux and Mona used to, but it got so busy.”

“Oh yes,” Luxembourg agrees as he walks over to them. No one is sitting down yet, clustering around in small groups.

“I don’t think we’d…” Latvia trails off, and Liechtenstein smiles earnestly at him.

Moldova and Monaco, who have linked their arms together for some reason, approach their little group. Luxembourg laughs at them, and they both kick his shins. He swears under his breath.

“We should go out again,” Monaco says, evidently having overheard as well. “It’ll be… What do the humans call it? Team bonding.”

“Monaco, that’s very nice, but I don’t think we would… Fit in,” Lithuania says. She looks up at him while Moldova fidgets next to her.

“Oh, nonsense!” she says, waving a perfectly manicured hand. “Luxembourg does great karaoke, do you know?”

“Oh no,” says Latvia, while Moldova squints speculatively up at Luxembourg, “I had enough karaoke to last a lifetime in the nineties.”

“Yeah, Estonia went a bit overboard,” Lithuania recalls.

“Still!” Liechtenstein enthuses. “We could go to a bar!”

Moldova says, “I’ve never been to a bar.” And, in response to everyone’s looks, “I looked like I was ten.”

He still doesn’t really look old enough to go to a bar, but then again, neither do Latvia or Liechtenstein, who both proclaim immediately that they want to take him to one. Lithuania shares a concerned look with Luxembourg as the three of them conspire.

“Well,” Luxembourg says, “she is older than both of us.”

Monaco just huffs, somehow elegantly.

-

“You look bad,” Estonia says as Lithuania passes in front of him. Denmark and Finland both look up as well.

“Oh, you’re one to talk,” Lithuania says reflexively, not stopping on his way to his seat. He hears Finland laugh over Estonia’s indignant splutter.

France, just sitting down, says, “I think you look very handsome, Lithuania.”

He doesn’t, but it feels nice anyway. Apparently, the amount of alcohol his tiny alphabetical neighbors can put away in an evening, is enough to make even his head ache. He knew this about Latvia, of course, but even Liechtenstein, even Monaco could out-drink him.

Next to Latvia at the table, the Italy brothers are yelling at each other, as per usual, but Latvia seems perfectly fine, scribbling in a notebook while Netherlands leans over next to him and listens with interest. Luxembourg, with his head resting on the table, seems to be trying to shield himself from both his brother and Moldova, who is chipper as ever and playing cards with Monaco. Monaco is wearing sunglasses, but Lithuania isn’t sure whether they’re a fashion statement or a protective measure. He does think Moldova might be cheating at their game by looking at the reflection of her cards in the glasses.

“Team bonding, huh?” he asks as he sits down, and Luxembourg glares up at him with one green eye.

“Damn… Eastern Europeans,” he grumbles.

“Hey now, I’m fine,” says Liechtenstein, walking over.

“Yeah, and I’m not,” Lithuania adds miserably. He wishes that stereotype was true right now.

“Alright. Sorry.” Luxembourg winces when his brother pats him on the head as he passes, like usual.

Latvia starts explaining his latest poetry to Liechtenstein.

“I’m changing my name,” Luxembourg says. “I want different neighbors. Not you, Lithuania. You can come along.”

“That’s nice. But what better options are there?” The question is mostly a joke, but Luxembourg lifts his head and looks around the European meeting table appraisingly, causing Lithuania to do the same.

Belgium and Belarus are already bent together and probably gossiping again; Austria looks terrified. Finland is still laughing at Estonia, somehow—and good riddance, Lithuania thinks—while France is leaning so close to Germany that Germany is nearly falling into Greece to avoid him. On their other side, Poland is having a conversation with Portugal and Romania that looks far too conspiratorial for Lithuania’s liking, and Russia is frowning at the three of them.

“You know,” Luxembourg says eventually, “I actually kind of like it here.”

“Yeah,” Lithuania agrees. “Let’s not tell Malta, though.”

[inspirationallybored]

Ask time!!!!

Your intro said you lien Percy Jackson so…. Who would your OCs’ godly parents be in pjo?? :3

Thank you so much for the ask!

Dude, I'm so glad you asked! I have been waiting for this.

(This turned into a long winded yap lol)

SF first (this one's complicated as they don't have any supernatural abilities, this is solely off of their personalities)

Mahika would be a daughter of Psyche. She understands people, she feels love, she would do anything to keep them safe, to make them feel safe, even if it hurts her. She feels, she doesn't judge. She wants something for herself too, but not at the cost of her loved ones. She does get influenced by people, is easy to play with, but once you truly understand her, you can't hurt her.

Pedro would be a son of Persephone. He is a dreamer, an idealist who becomes a realist. He seems naive and innocent and childlike, and he would like to be that way, but he understands the reality too. In a way, he uses that childlike charm of his too.

Ziah would be a devotee of Artemis. She isn't made for bindings. She is caring, and loves with her whole heart, but she needs her freedom. In a way, to let her free is the closest bond you can share with her.

Alfie would be a son of Asclepius. He, like Mahika, wants to help people. He wants to show people the light, a better life, to heal them. He is an idealist through and through.

2. BRT (this one is relatively simple as they have powers)

Kai is definitely a child of Poseidon. Not just because they control water, but also because of their impulsive nature, unpredictable mind, and also kind of vindictive (I'm bringing some Epic! Poseidon characterization here). They have their own wave to travel, and no matter how much they try, they cannot be restrained.

Aka would be a daughter of Mars (not Ares). She's smart, definitely, but not shrewd or clever. She works by her heart and intuition more than mind games, and she's fiercely loyal. She would have some connection to Hephestus (fire powers, maybe a legacy).

Alia, on the other hand, is a daughter of Hephestus through and through. She's a creator, and she loves her creations. There is no pride, but if someone insults her mind, they're done for. She's definitely not someone who understands people and the matters of the heart even though she tries to (so does everyone though lol).

Laia is where things get trickier. She would come off as a daughter of Apollo or Aphrodite (because or her power to persuade anyone), and then Athena (because she uses her brains more than brown and has hubris). However, she would actually be a daughter of Hermes because of all of that. She's quick witted, has a silver tongue, prefers trickery, yet stands by what she believes in.

(Fun fact: She was initially based on one of my pjo oc, Luna Caceres, who is a daughter of Apollo and a protege of Athena. She later became her own person though)

Atanea is another example of this. She would be considered to be related to Athena (and no, not because of her name), being the Strategos and all. But by heart, she's a child of Aphrodite. She stands by her heart, loves unconditionally, and acts by her heart too. She would, however, also have some connection to another god, specifically Chronos, the Lord of Time.

(Yeah, so Chronos and Kronos are two different deities in Greek mythology. Kronos was just the Titan of Harvest and ruler of Cosmos before Zeus. Chronus was Time itself. Both have a scythe though. Pjo merged the two.)

Cleofas would be a son of Morpheus (god of dreams and illusions), and blessed by Apollo. He can create illusions make people live in a dream, while he himself seeks the same dreams he fulfills yet condemns. He is a charmer, bright as the Sun, he draws everyone. Yet, he is more than he seems.

Acacius comes of as a son of Ares. He holds the essence of war in his core. However, he really isn't anything like the deity he is associated with. So, to know his actual godly parent, we'll have to look at who he was, before being turned into a shell.

SPOILER HERE!

Alperen would be a son of Hades. He is connected to the earth, loyal to those he cares for, doesn't really care about the politics of the world, but would stand for what is right. He is a silent warrior, and a lovable idiot at heart at the same time.

[manygeese]

Look, I love Percy Jackson. I love the movie and board game Clue. Without further ado, I give you

PJO/HoO CHARACTERS AS CLUE PLAYERS

Just gonna do the 7 for now, maybe Yvette and the other npcs later

LEO AS WADSWORTH

Wadsworth is nothing if not a theater kid. He’s got oodles of whimsy and the energy levels to match. And he’s annoying and sassy as hell. Who else is as dramatic, quick witted, and hyperactive as Wadsworth? Leo freaking Valdez. Nobody else’s knees could take all that running around a murder mansion trying to find a murderer. Therefore, Leo Valdez is Wadsworth.

PIPER AS MISS SCARLET

Miss Scarlet is a businesswoman. It just so happens that her business is sex work (and secrets). She’s a murder suspect, she’s a girlboss, her coping mechanism is making jokes, she’s Piper McLean. Not only does Piper’s role as a daughter of Aphrodite fit Miss Scarlet’s profession, Piper would be just as shrewd and stealthy, use everything to her advantage like Miss Scarlet. Therefore, Piper McLean is Miss Scarlet.

FRANK AS COLONEL MUSTARD

Colonel Mustard is a military man, as you can tell from his title. Frank is the son of the god of war. And while the Colonel isn’t particularly good at war (cough war profiteer cough), who better to cast Frank as? I can also see Frank being so caught up in the moment to say some of the stupid things the Colonel does in the movie. Colonel Mustard has some A+ lines. Therefore, Frank Zhang is Colonel Mustard.

HAZEL AS MRS PEACOCK

Mrs. Peacock is a tad bit kooky. Her favorite dish is monkey brain soup. Her husband is an American official. She faints a lot and screams even more. She may or may not be a murderer. I can’t put my finger on it, but Hazel just oozes socially awkward/oblivious and would definitely pull the sort of stuff Mrs. Peacock does in the second ending especially. She’s got that supposedly harmless but actually a serial killer swag. Therefore, Hazel Levesque is Mrs. Peacock.

PERCY AS MR. GREEN

I’m gonna be honest, this is probably the weakest connection but I’m going for it. Mainly because I cast Annabeth as Mrs. White and there’s this one scene in the movie where he offers to show her a supposedly impossible sex position. Percy as Mr. Green + Annabeth as Mrs. White + one weird ass scene=Percabeth. Honestly, I can’t see any of the Seven doing stuff like Mr. Green does it and Percy was the last one I had to cast so. Percy is Mr. Green.

JASON AS PROFESSOR PLUM

He’s gay. He’s timid. He’s named after the color purple. What more could a guy want? Although Jason doesn’t have amazing POVs, I know when a character is meant to be another one and this is a match made in heaven. Professor Plum even sort of looks like Jason’s description in the books. I can SEE Jason as Professor Plum in the movie, I can HEAR him saying “MrS. pEaCoCk WaS a MaN?????” or some dorky shit like that. Jason’s gay, a lil shy, and he loves the color purple. Therefore, Jason is Professor Plum.

ANNABETH AS MRS. WHITE

Mrs. White was tragically widowed… five times. In the immortal words of the woman herself, “Husbands should be like Kleenex: soft, strong, and disposable.” Annabeth has the cunning to get away with five (ALLEGED) murders. Annabeth has that weeping widow, secret murderer energy. She lives a lavish life due to her husband’s being cut short. Also, Mrs. White is one of the funniest characters in the movie, and some of her lines are things Annabeth would say ironically so I’ve connected the dots. Therefore, Annabeth is Mrs. White.

Let me know if you want me to elaborate or cast Nico, Reyna, or anybody else :) I can also draw them as their characters if this gets enough notes soooooooo lemme know if u want that

[ciaraattong]

Dark & Cold MBTIs

The world of Dark & Cold is a mosaic of trauma, intrigue, and resilience, conveyed by a cast of deeply complex characters. Each character’s actions, beliefs, and emotional struggles offer a fascinating lens through which to explore their Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). In this post, we’ll delve into the personalities of the main cast, assigning MBTI types- including whether they are Assertive (A) or Turbulent (T)- and explaining the reasoning behind each assessment. Whether you’re a fan of character studies or simply want to understand the souls behind the story, this is your guide to the psychological heart of Dark & Cold.

Photo by Hassan Pasha on Unsplash

Ericia Charlotte Avington – ISFJ-T (Turbulent Defender)

Ericia embodies the ISFJ archetype through her quiet resilience, deep sense of duty, and guarded compassion. She endures horrific abuse with stoic silence, motivated by a belief that secrecy and obedience are necessary for survival. Despite her trauma, she remains empathetic, especially toward her mother and Marie, and is introspective about her pain and the world around her. Ericia’s actions are rooted in a desire to protect herself and others, even as she suffers in isolation. Her ISFJ traits are heightened by her ability to persevere and care deeply, even when it is dangerous to do so. As a Turbulent Defender, Ericia is highly self-critical, anxious, and deeply affected by her environment, often struggling with self-esteem and easily shaken by external pressures.

Rowan William Wright III – ENTJ-A (Assertive Commander)

Rowan’s outward charm and diplomatic approach mask a deeply strategic, manipulative, and calculated mind, aligning him with the ENTJ type. While he presents as charismatic and sincere, his wit and ability to maneuver situations to his advantage reveal a leader who is always thinking several steps ahead. Rowan’s calculated pursuit of Ericia and his efforts to build alliances with her family show his ability to plan and adapt. His willingness to use both charm and cunning to achieve his goals, combined with his optimism and respect for tradition, make him a complex ENTJ-one who balances leadership with a shrewd understanding of people and politics. As an Assertive Commander, Rowan is decisive, rarely second-guesses himself, and is comfortable taking charge of situations, displaying a self-assured and dominant personality.

Henry – ENFJ-A (Assertive Protagonist)

Henry’s leadership qualities, loyalty, and empathy point to the ENFJ personality. He is likely a natural leader within the palace, able to rally others and provide guidance in difficult times. Henry’s observant and supportive nature, combined with his ability to inspire trust and keep confidences, make him a unifying force among those around him. His belief in loyalty and his principled approach to relationships further reflect the ENFJ’s drive to lead with integrity and emotional intelligence, ensuring those in his care feel seen and supported. As an Assertive Protagonist, Henry is steady, composed, and able to guide others without being easily rattled, acting decisively and maintaining a strong presence.

May – ESTP-T (Turbulent Dynamo)

May’s personality is a striking blend of confidence, boldness, and intelligence, fitting the ESTP profile. She is quick-witted and sharp, able to read situations and people with remarkable clarity. While she is kind and attentive, May is also wary and untrusting of others-her experiences have taught her to judge actions fairly and to rely on her own instincts. She is assertive and knows when to stand up for what’s right, but she can also be selfish, prioritizing her own interests or survival when necessary. This balance of practicality, skepticism, and quick thinking makes her a dynamic force in the palace, always ready to act decisively but never naively. As a Turbulent Dynamo, May’s assertiveness is tinged with underlying anxiety and self-doubt, making her both bold and vigilant, always on guard.

Avie – ESFJ-A (Assertive Consul)

Avie’s emotional intelligence, friendliness, and supportive nature align with the ESFJ type. She is adept at reading and responding to the emotional needs of others, offering comfort and encouragement when it is most needed. Avie’s optimism and loyalty make her a valued friend, while her ability to foster harmony and connection reflects the ESFJ’s nurturing, community-focused mindset. She is sensitive to the moods and struggles of those around her and uses her emotional insight to uplift and unite her circle. As an Assertive Consul, Avie is confident in her social abilities and rarely feels overwhelmed by emotional demands, providing a reliable and positive presence.

Olivia (Queen Olivia Avington) – INFJ-T (Turbulent Advocate)

Olivia’s keen intuition, instinct, and protective nature suggest an INFJ personality. While she is outwardly submissive to avoid her husband’s wrath, her actions are guided by a deep, strategic understanding of palace dynamics and the emotional currents beneath the surface. Olivia’s maternal instincts, empathy, and ability to anticipate danger for herself and Ericia reveal her strong intuition. Her belief in self-sacrifice and her capacity to quietly maneuver within a hostile environment are hallmarks of the INFJ’s visionary, protective, and quietly influential nature. As a Turbulent Advocate, Olivia is deeply affected by anxiety, fear, and a sense of helplessness, often worrying about the safety of her loved ones and feeling the weight of her environment.

Charles (King Charles Avington II) – ESTJ-T (Turbulent Executive, Unhealthy)

Charles’s authoritarianism, need for control, and cruelty are classic ESTJ traits taken to a destructive extreme. His dark traits-sadism, manipulation, and emotional detachment-are manifestations of deep frustration, madness, and pent-up anger stemming from his own emotional distress and insecurity. Charles projects his pain outward, using power and punishment to mask his vulnerabilities. His rigid adherence to dominance and order, combined with his inability to process his own suffering, make him a tragic example of how negative emotions and insecurity can corrupt leadership and authority. As a Turbulent Executive, his volatility and emotional instability are pronounced, and his assertiveness is driven by inner chaos rather than true confidence.

Carter – ESFP-A (Assertive Performer)

Carter’s emotional intelligence, adaptability, and supportive nature point to an ESFP personality. He is attuned to the feelings of others and able to adapt quickly to changing situations, providing comfort and protection where needed. Carter’s practical approach and willingness to act in the moment make him a valuable ally, while his empathy ensures that he responds to the needs of those around him. His belief in duty is paired with a flexible, people-focused mindset, allowing him to navigate palace life with both heart and agility. As an Assertive Performer, Carter is confident, steady, and comfortable in his ability to handle whatever comes his way.

Gaya – INTJ-A (Assertive Architect)

Gaya’s silent resilience, intellect, and strategic support of Ericia align with the INTJ type. She is quietly observant, processing information and planning her actions with care. Gaya’s intellect is evident in her ability to manage challenges and protect Ericia without drawing attention to herself. Her resilience is not loud but steadfast, and her belief in compassion is expressed through thoughtful, calculated actions that ensure the safety and well-being of those she cares about. Gaya’s approach is logical, future-oriented, and deeply effective, even if she remains in the background. As an Assertive Architect, Gaya is quietly confident, rarely doubts her own judgment, and handles adversity with calm determination.

Seth – INFJ-A (Assertive Advocate)

Seth’s intelligence, diplomacy, loyalty, and belief in justice fit the INFJ profile. He likely operates as a quiet advisor or confidant, using his insight and empathy to guide others through the complexities of palace life. Seth’s idealism and commitment to fairness drive him to support those in need, while his patience and adaptability help him navigate the slow pace of change. His actions are motivated by a desire to create a better world, even within the constraints of a corrupt environment. As an Assertive Advocate, Seth is guided by strong principles and a desire for justice, but is not easily overwhelmed by setbacks, maintaining a calm and steady influence.

Marie – ISFJ-A (Assertive Defender)

Marie’s nurturing, protective, and sacrificial nature is the essence of the ISFJ personality. She acts as a maternal figure to Ericia, offering wisdom, comfort, and unwavering loyalty. Marie’s belief in love and protection at all costs is demonstrated by her willingness to risk-and ultimately lose-her life for Ericia’s safety. Her gentle, empathetic approach and steadfast sense of duty make her a beacon of hope and care in an otherwise harsh world, embodying the ISFJ’s quiet strength and devotion. As an Assertive Defender, Marie is unwavering in her support, rarely faltering in her duties, and faces danger with calm resolve and self-assurance.

Which character’s MBTI do you relate to most? Which character shares the same MBTI as you? Share your thoughts in the comments!

All character insights are based on Ciara Attong’s "Dark & Cold." For a deeper dive or to indulge in your own analyses, check out the full novel and experience these personalities firsthand.

[amelikos]

Some character notes and episode notes for HZ093, writing them down for future reference.

Quick summary of the ep.

First half of the ep: Liko and Roy go to Chaba Town to meet up with a Gurumin fan (Nyabiko), who is said to have witnessed the Black Rayquaza. Upon learning that Liko and Roy are from the RVT, Nyabiko challenges them to a battle, which Liko accepts. The battle begins.

Second half of the ep: The battle continues but it is interrupted by Uruto, who was being chased by wild Pokemon for entering their territories. Liko and Roy manage to calm down the agitated Pokemon by playing with them, which makes Nyabiko realize that they are not bad people like she thought they were. Nyabiko admits that the eyewitness report she provided was false and apologizes. Liko and Roy become friends with Nyabiko and continue their journey, leaving Chaba Town. 

--

Quite a few things to say about this ep.

I liked the little bits that expand on the world. Liko and Roy commenting on Chaba Town. Liko noticing the smell of tea leaves and thinking of Masquernya’s favorite flavor. Pokemon helping people in their work. Nyabiko bringing up the fact that there aren’t many tourists coming here, etc.. Nice details of worldbuilding. Chaba Town seems like a rural place so it also speaks of how far Gurumin is spreading. As long as someone has an Internet connection, anyone could know her even if they don’t live in a big city. 

Liko and Roy.. Really liked their moments in general, their relationship feels so cozy to me. Roy is like a Precure boy to me. His closest friends are girls, he hypes up the girls in his life. It was really cute when he reassured Liko that she could keep up with another Gurumin fan, and when he was happy she made another Gurumin friend. Liko saying that she and Roy didn’t take the wrong path at the end too.. She considers that they are walking the same path together. I like how both of them are on the same page and can understand each other’s intentions so easily? Roy immediately followed up on Liko’s suggestion to calm down the Pokemon and worked together with her. They are so attuned to each other. Also, something kinda funny about the way Roy is the one who keeps revealing to others that they are part of the RVT. He kept going on about Rayquaza being his dream and just blurted out that he was part of the RVT. I wonder if that could lead to a dangerous situation if someone realizes that they are part of the RVT. 

Liko’s battle style was great in this episode too. Liko was able to accurately analyze Gaogaen’s style and patterns during the battle. Liko’s ruthless tactics during battles is something I never get enough of (using Gaogaen’s fire to make Flower Trick explode), and I like that side of her character. The fact that a kind and empathetic character has such a shrewd and cunning style is so interesting. They are really leaning into that side of her character in this chapter and the fact that Masquernya is a Magician Pokemon. Liko’s knowing smile when she had a trick up her sleeve reminded me so much of Friede, too, who reacted similarly when he was battling against Spinel in HZ044. Both Liko and Friede are the type to use their opponents’ moves or strength against them, which is a really compelling aspect of their characters. In both cases, it was a testament of their strong bond with their Pokemon too. Liko and Masquernya could communicate without words (which Nyabiko acknowledged during the battle and thought that it was proof of the deep bond between them), and so did Friede and Cap. 

Nyabiko in general was super cute. Her design was great. In fact, it was so good that I’m hoping we see her again some time. She did appear in the opening, so maybe?? It’s fun that they are exploring oshi culture in Horizons, too. Lots of jargon they use is from fan culture. Nyabiko recognizing Liko’s username and referring to her as the legendary NyahojaSuperFan makes me wonder if Liko is somehow a legend in the Gurumin online fandom? 

Nyabiko is the type of fan who reads others’ comments and she even bragged about Gurumin reading her comments, thinking it would make Liko a bit jealous but it didn’t work.. Liko didn’t understand where she was getting at, and was genuinely happy for her. Either way, Nyabiko is a good kid at heart. She cares about Pokemon and she is knowledgeable about the Pokemon territories in her area. She admitted her wrongs when she lied about seeing Rayquaza and misunderstood the RVT and she was even willing to change her username because she copied it from Liko’s, thinking it’d make Gurumin notice her. It did stand out to me that Nyabiko was jealous and wanted to be noticed by someone she admired.. It made me think of Spinel, since my current reading of him is that he is jealous of Amethio and wanted to be noticed by Gibeon. So I’m choosing to read this episode in this additional, specific light regarding Spinel too. 

I thought there was interesting stuff that deepened Dot’s character in relation to her Gurumin persona? She told Nyabiko that she had no intention of giving Liko special treatment as Gurumin just because they are IRL friends. In a way, Dot is keeping her Gurumin life in the professional sphere and won’t let her friendship with Liko affect her relationship with her fans in a way that would make it look like she gives preferential treatment to someone above others? She intends to treasure every fan, not just Liko. I’m sure Liko would prefer it that way, too. 

On Liko’s side, I thought it was cute that she was able to gush over her hobbies with someone else. Her relationship with both Dot and Gurumin is really fascinating to me, too. She admitted that even though she is friends with Dot, Gurumin makes her nervous in her own way. She makes a separation between them, but not really at the same time? She knows Dot is Gurumin. She doesn’t get nervous or embarrassed around Dot anymore, but Gurumin affects her a bit in such a way. Just like how Dot separates her life as Dot and her Gurumin persona, it seems like Liko is doing the same to some extent (separating Dot and Gurumin in her mind).. But it’s not completely separate either, both sides are blending together in healthy ways? Liko is a friend to Dot and a fan of Gurumin and acknowledges that Dot is Gurumin, and Dot is friends with Liko and her IRL experiences affect her content as Gurumin, but she is still going to treat all her fans equally.

Something I also thought about is that Liko and Dot react differently to potential lies? 

This is not the first time Dot believes information that is false. Spinel tricked her multiple times before when he published false sightings about Liko in HZ015 to make it harder for the RVT to find her, and when he lied about a Rayquaza sighting to Dot in HZ027. Something really interesting about the manipulation of information/truth in this series. Either way, Dot believed these things and felt genuinely frustrated for being fooled so easily. This time, she was desperate for information too and even commented on the fact that she “bought it too easily” when Nyabiko admitted to lying, though she didn’t hold it against her. Perhaps she was more willing to believe in a fan of hers? Either way, I think it’s interesting that Dot, who’s been lied to many times previously, still chooses to extend her trust and is willing to believe others despite everything. She would have reasons to distrust them, yet she still chooses to believe in people’s honesty. Dot is the one who is more familiar with the Internet and probably knows that it can be used to spread misinformation. As Gurumin, she is relying on people for their information about Rakurium sightings, so she is hoping she can trust them. 

I think it’s interesting in contrast to Liko too, because the first episodes of Liko And Roy Set Off showed that Liko is a very cautious person. She wasn’t willing to trust Amethio at all and immediately thought something wasn’t right. It took time for her to trust Friede and the RVT too, and she wasn’t going to be convinced by them just because Friede saved her from the Explorers. I think it’s a neat contrast between both Liko and Dot. Dot was shown to easily believe others’ words, while Liko had moments of cautiousness which highlighted the fact she doesn’t easily give out her trust. 

I thought it was pretty interesting that the first episode which involves clearing the RVT’s name involved calming down agitated Pokemon? It is reminiscent of HZ004, which was the first episode in which Liko met Roy, and when Roy met Friede for the first time. In that episode, Hogator ate food which belonged to the Pokemon in the forest, which made them angry. Eventually, Friede managed to appease them and Liko and Roy gathered berries for all of the Pokemon who eventually forgave them. The solution clearly wasn’t attacking the Pokemon. Similarly here, the Pokemon didn’t do anything bad and just needed to be calmed down. The first thing Liko, Roy and Friede did together as a trio, which was helping Pokemon in need/calming down agitated Pokemon, is happening again and the situation reflects who the RVT are at their core and is instrumental in helping clear their name. This time, Liko and Roy have grown enough to know how to handle the situation without Friede, too. They both knew what to do and were on the same page. 

I feel like we could be getting more situations like this which are reminiscent of early chapters? This show loves its parallels, after all. The beginning of Mega Voltage had lots of callbacks to the show’s premiere, too. Dot is not traveling in person with Liko and Roy yet, just like in the first two chapters. She was interacting with Liko and Roy back then, but it took her time to come out of her room. I think it will be a bit similar in this chapter, too. 

I thought the premise of the episode was simple and the kind of classic setting we could see in Pokemon. Going to a town, meeting someone, battling someone, solving a problem that involves Pokemon. But because it’s Horizons, even those kinds of simple premises work well and generally feel deeper? The character we meet isn’t someone completely random, she is a Gurumin fan, so she is connected to Dot and adds more to her character and her Gurumin persona (all these little details about Gurumin’s fanbase, etc). The battle was actually a conversation that allowed both trainers to understand each other better (Nyabiko noticing the strong bond between Liko and Masquernya who could understand each other without words, and Liko knowing that Nyabiko is a real Nyabby fan because she paid attention to her behavior around her Pokemon and could see she really loved them). The Pokemon problem is instrumental in having Nyabiko realize that the RVT aren’t bad people and that they do care about Pokemon, which shows that Liko and Roy are getting back the truth of the RVT one step at a time. The premise is simple but it’s connected to the overarching narrative, so we get a sense of why it matters. In general, Horizons wants the viewer to constantly remember that there is a story going on because everything feels connected to it.

Overall, it was a chill episode. Lots of cute stuff with the Pokemon. I liked seeing the secondary Pokemon, I hope they keep appearing regularly. Masquernya being jealous was fun, that trait of hers never really goes away. Pagogo being friendly with literally every Pokemon is a very endearing trait, too. I am still curious about Uruto, this time he is the one who ditched the group and Roy didn’t try to stop him. Roy singing for the first time in a while was cute too, btw. Just lots of sweet stuff and interactions all around.

Also, all the clips we’ve seen from Mega Voltage so far seemed to be showing stuff up to this episode. Some of the bits from the Liko promotional clip (which released a while ago here) that we had yet to see before this week appeared in this episode, so going forward we should be seeing new stuff. 

[caswensworld]

…so I gave Carlos a little sister. Idk, I thought it was some good way to honor Carlos and Cameron. I don’t know what came over me but I like what I came up with

Side note: I do love how Peder confirmed that not only will the Rise of Red have a tribute to Cameron, they’re gonna have it in the beginning of the film!

Christa De vil is the teenage daughter of Cruella De Vil and Carlos little sister. She's a sassy, chic bad girl with a heart of gold and an eye for fashion...and trouble

Long, wavy hair, split into a dramatic black and white gradient like her mother. The top half is black, fading to white at the bottom. This is a deliberate choice, a rebellion against her mother's side-by-side split. Dark brown eyes, sharp and intelligent, with a glint of mischief and defiance. Tall and lean, with a surprisingly muscular build from years of back-alley brawls and self-defense. 

Christa is the epitome of 'bad girl' cool. She's confident, outspoken, and unafraid to challenge authority. Her wit is sharp, her insults are cutting, and her style is impeccably curated. Beneath the sassy exterior lies a shrewd mind. Christa is a master manipulator, using charm, intimidation, and her sharp wit to get what she wants. She's a natural leader, able to rally people to her side even when they initially resist. Despite her tough exterior, Christa has a strong sense of loyalty and a deep love for her brother, Carlos. She's fiercely protective of him and would do anything to keep him safe. This compassion extends to those she deems worthy of her trust, but she's quick to turn on anyone who betrays her. Christa has a natural talent for fashion, inheriting her mother's eye for style and design. She dreams of starting her own label, a testament to her creative spirit and ambition. Her street-style outfits are legendary on the Isle, inspiring countless imitations. Christa is unafraid of anything or anyone. She's fought her way to the top on the Isle, earning the respect of both her peers and her enemies. She never backs down from a challenge, and she's always ready to fight for what she believes in.

**Background**

Christa grew up in the shadow of her infamous mother, Cruella De Vil. While her mother was obsessed with furs and dog-napping, Christa found solace in fashion and the company of her older brother, Carlos. She spent her childhood witnessing her mother's cruelty and learned to navigate the treacherous waters of the Isle of the Lost. She honed her street smarts and fighting skills, becoming a formidable force in her own right.

She never succumbed to her mother's darkness, instead forging her own path. She never developed a fear of dogs. She used her mother's fashion sense as inspiration, but she rejected her cruelty, choosing to express herself through creativity and compassion.

When Carlos was sent to Auradon, Christa felt a profound loss, but she refused to let it break her. She channeled her grief into her fashion, using her designs to express her own rebellious spirit and to honor her brother's memory. She built a crew of loyal followers, a motley crew of outcasts and rebels who admired her strength and embraced her unique style.

**Other Relevant Information**

Christa has a deep understanding of the Isle's underbelly and its hidden networks of power.

She is a skilled fighter, using her agility and street smarts to defend herself and her allies.

She possesses a keen eye for detail, a talent she uses to her advantage in both fashion and manipulation.

[aldrawsstuf]

Zodiac Signs as Deities (Part 2)

Libra the Just is the seventh Lord of the Zodiac and the goddess of Unity, Justice and the Sky. She is a goddess known for her fairness and wisdom.

Her ardent followers learn from her to pursue equality and justice in everything. All beings, whether they be heavenly or mortal, are required to follow the laws that she established. The gods and goddesses alike gather to the court of the sky to seek the advice of the goddess of justice. Her judgment is definitive and her insight unparalleled. She is a sympathetic and compassionate goddess who is always ready to hear the cries of people who have been wronged, despite her harsh and unbiased exterior.

She is the guardian of the oppressed and the pursuit of justice. Libra extends her power over the world of mortals since she recognizes that justice is not always administered equitably in this domain. The goddess will not stand with those who try to exploit the laws to control and oppress others.

Scorpio the Oathkeeper is the eighth Lord of the Zodiac and the goddess of Blood, Oaths, Secrets, and Death. A God who values in loyalty and faithfulness.

She imparts to others the idea that life and death are but two sides of the same coin. Scorpio also holds the view that all actions have repercussions, whether positive or negative, and that one should be ready to deal with these effects head-on. Her domain is the realm of the Dead, which is connected to the land of the living by rivers that meandered over the world. Rivers of life and souls flowed into and out of her realm, nourishing the spirits of the dead and leading the spirits of the living to their eternal resting place, respectively.

Though she has a terrifying reputation among mortals, she is actually a reasonable goddess who, provided they have lived honestly and kept their promise, grants people who have passed away a pleasant afterlife. And yet, as a warning to the living, those who have sinned greatly or betrayed others are punished for all eternity in her domain.

Sagittarius the Keen-eyed is the ninth Lord of the Zodiac and the god of Wildlife, Hunting, Exploration and Prophecy. A god who constantly seeks adventure.

His philosophy encourages his disciples to live fearlessly and wild lives. His sphere of influence transcends the wilderness and reaches into the hearts of individuals who are willing to go in search of adventure and the truth. Small conversation and idle banter are not Sagittarius the Keen-eyed's style. Instead, his brief but impactful words guide his devoted like lights in the night sky. His wisdom comes from innumerable experiences, both happy and sad, so when he talks, people pay attention.

He rewards people who follow his teachings with a keen eye and a quick wit, gifting them the ability to navigate even the most treacherous of terrains. He, however, will punish those who desecrate the wildlands or disrespect the creatures that dwell within them.

Capricorn the Steadfast is the tenth Lord of the Zodiac and the god of the Land, Time and Order. He believes that order is the foundation of society and prosperity.

He teaches his followers that regularity and toil are necessary for gain. He is often called the Father of Time by his worshippers, for it is he who tames the wild forces of time and space, bringing order to the chaos. He gave mortals the ability to carve out a life from the endless cycles of nature, creating cities, roads, and fields.

He blesses people who work hard and live honest lives, granting them health, wealth, and prosperity. However, he also demands that they respect the natural order of things and use their gifts wisely. Those who disrupt the balance, whether through greed, laziness, or hubris, soon find themselves the target of his wrath.

Aquarius the Shrewd is the eleventh Lord of the Zodiac and the god of Knowledge, Illusions and Magic. A god who loves knowledge above all else.

He instills in his people the value of using, studying, and comprehending the environment they live in. He established the laws of magic and is the patron deity of magicians. He taught mortals how to wield magic and granted them the capacity to do so. His dominion is large and complex; it is a magical and illusionary world where the boundaries between reality and fiction are blurred.

He rewards those who share their knowledge with others, who strive to push the boundaries of what is known and unknown. He also punishes erudition when it is used for selfish or malevolent purposes, as he believes that knowledge should be shared and used for the greater good.

Pisces the Dreamer is the twelfth and final Lord of the Zodiac and the goddess of the Ocean, Dreams and Love. A goddess who is known for her whimsical nature.

Love, she tells her followers, is as erratic as the deep ocean's waves. Invoked frequently when pleading for divine intervention for matters of the heart, she is revered as the patroness of lovers. The domain of dreams and nightmares is likewise under her authority. She shares the jurisdiction of the seas with Cancer, but her domain lies in the deep, uncharted waters, where the most potent dreams and nightmares dwell.

She cautions against being too attached to any one person or object, but she also honors those who seek love with ardor and determination. Pisces understands that love can bring both exhilarating highs and crushing lows, and that it is in the nature of the sea to ebb and flow.

[storyofwhoiam]

Allimafrity "Allima" Walzyhl

[Tiefling, 40-70, warlock (Pact of the Tome), cis woman, she/her, bisexual, fc Gina Torres]

Allima’s infernal heritage is unmistakable. She has large, straight horns; her deep black eyes, lack any visible sclera or pupils; a four-foot long, thick tail swings behind her, and her pointed canine teeth contrast with the sophistication of her attire. Allima dresses in fine, well-tailored clothes, often complemented by exquisite jewelry. Every detail of her appearance is meticulously calculated.

Her father, Zsulaw Walzyhl, was a shrewd courtier and diplomat. The Walzyhls were determined to rise in status, and Zsulaw instilled these ambitions in his daughter from an early age. She learned from him that charm, intelligence, and connections were the keys to advancement in the world.

Her quick wit and sharp tongue can be disarming, but they also serve as a shield against her insecurities. Despite her confident, often flirtatious exterior, Allima harbours deep fears about her status which fuels her relentless drive to secure her legacy. Although Allima is ambitious and willing to manipulate circumstances to her advantage, she is not cruel for the sake of cruelty. Her primary focus is on her personal advancement, but this ambition is tempered by a desire for genuine love and loyalty.

The Walzyhls' expectations propelled her forward but also set a high bar for her success, a burden she felt acutely. She cultivated relationships with influential courtiers, including diplomats, scholars, and politicians. Her connections provided her both status and scrutiny. Allima sought out the Archfey, making a pact in return for power. In exchange for magic and influence, Allima performs occasional services for the Archfey: the Archfey’s whims often pulling her in unpredictable directions.

Her ambition made her paranoid, and she became increasingly distrustful of even her closest allies. Allima’s relentless pursuit of power also caused her to overreach at times, resulting in costly mistakes and enemies she underestimated. Allima’s eventual downfall came when her influence grew too visible. Enemies, jealous of her rise and wary of her manipulations, conspired against her. She was arrested on fabricated charges. It took several years for her to escape imprisonment and go on the run.

[rriavian]

Hello.

You know, if you wrote a book about your version of Corintheus based Dreaming analysis, I would love to have a paperback edition of that ( i love paperback 💖)

Anyway, i probably have told you quite a number of times that, my favourite moment of Baiting the Trap is Corinthian nibbling Dream's earlobe in the library right before Lucienne. Also, i have stated it enough times that,one of my favourite Corintheus prompt is Lucienne's reaction to the Corinthian-Dream dynamic.

So my question is:

When Lucienne was asked to be dismissed from the Library right after the above mentioned scene- what was her immediate range of feelings? Was she hurt that Dream allowed someone as disobedient as Corinthian to be so shamelessly invading his personal space before her presence? She is the most loyal most sacrificing subject of Dream realm. She deserves to be treated with dignity and decency. And being compelled to watch a private kinky moment like that isn't quite decent for Luci. I am not sure if I could make it clear. In my mind, Lucienne is ace. I assume she wouldn’t be comfortable to witness anyone’s unwarranted private moment. Let alone Dream's. The closest analogy is : an elder daughter being bound to watch her ever so dignified father's new shrewd gf trying to show off a glimpse of what they do in their private moment. So, was Lucienne hurt? Or angry? Or shocked? Or confused? Or all together?

Eventually, what was her personal thoughts about Dream- Corinthian relationship when she overcome the initial shock?

I have two more supplementary questions. I will send them eventually. Answer whenever you want to. Or feel free to not answer at all, if there is an upcoming fic shading light on this plot.

Much love💖💖

<3 oh if I wrote a book there would be so much I’d put into the analysis!

That moment in the library is definitely one of my favourites too, and one of my biggest narrative regrets is that there hasn’t (yet) been more Lucienne in the series. Her reactions to the dynamic are very important narratively, and very very interesting given her relationship to both Dream and the Corinthian. So I was happy to get a question about it! This is also something I’d thought about when I was writing so will probably come up at some point, but at the moment my answer shouldn’t spoil anything :)

The aftermath of the scene in the library links directly to the one between Dream and Lucienne in Courting the King, where there's a bit of tension before it’s resolved. There was worry when she left, some anger (at the Corinthian), but no confusion. I don’t think Lucienne was hurt—maybe a little bit of wounded pride—because while protective of Dream/the Dreaming she also respects his right to decide how to run his realm/respond to an insult against him. I think they both verbally negotiate where the boundary of that is. There’s a balance there and I think Lucienne’s stubbornness can, like any strength, work against her in certain situations.

There’s a wonderful parallel in how both her and Dream are incredibly alike in how they can be very stubborn, very prideful, so in many ways they’ve always understood each other.

What happens in both this scene and the one in Courting the King is that they are examples of Dream’s way of being like ‘I respect you greatly but you need to let me handle this’. It’s not an insult against her capabilities, or her role, nor a dismissal of the worthiness of her opinions (Dream is quick to rebuke the Corinthian when he precedes to insult her). It’s a demonstration of Dream taking his own responsibilities very seriously (I am the King and I will deal with this) while also making it clear that this is additionally a decision of personal agency.

Dream doesn’t need someone to step in and take away his choice of whether to accept what the Corinthian is doing or to punish him for it.

The privacy of the moment is definitely a factor in his decision too. Dream knows very well that the Corinthian is trying (and succeeding) to get a rise out of Lucienne. He knows that the Corinthian is using it as a way to finally feel like he’s won, to get pleasure from the context of how disrespectful it really is, to find a sneaky way to achieve what Dream is still denying him. That links something else too - while allowing this change to a sexual relationship is a decision that Dream has made (and the myriad of reasons within that is an analysis in itself!) that doesn’t mean it’s one any one else has agreed to see, that they’ve agreed to be made a part of.

The Corinthian tried to make Lucienne a part of it here, and Dream dismissed her to protect her, to make it clear that this fight was to remain private.

It was very much done out of respect to allow her dignity. To treat her with care. Dream is refusing to be remiss in his duties as King, as her friend, as someone who loves her dearly, by allowing her to be used as a pawn in a power play. And so Lucienne wasn't hurt because she understood why Dream did what he did even if she doesn't know all of the reasons why.

Lucienne being ace is definitely a reading I like! I’m also ace so that’s an interpretation I very much lean towards, though in some ways I read Dream as ace too haha.

As for her thoughts on the relationship, I think that will need to unfold as the series continues, but right now I think Lucienne is looking at Dream like ‘I support your right to choose sexual partners/forgive criminals even when it’s obvious you have terrible taste in men’. She’s pretty convinced that the Corinthian is going to betray Dream/the Dreaming again and—as shown in that scene in Courting the King—is being very cautious about keeping an eye on his behaviour in the Dreaming.

You are wonderful as always and I hope you enjoyed reading this <3 Feel free to send any questions at any time! Some might take longer to answer than others but I do love answering asks about these things :)

[practically-an-x-man]

Ophelia Octavius

(picrew is @hexaes', moodboard by @negative-speedforce, faceclaim is Rhea Ripley)

Full Name: Ophelia Jo Octavius Pronouns: she/her preferred, fine with other pronouns (cisgender bisexual female)

Nicknames: Olly (usual nickname), Ol's (from Peter 2, Peter 3), Argonaut (hero name) Pet Names: ?

Relevant Tags: #ophelia octavius, #catch and release fic, #amadeus the cat

Birthday: November 13, 1987 Age in Chapter One: 30 (time-displaced)

Universe/Fandom: Spider-Man movieverse, originates in Raimi timeline movies

Physical Traits: 5'11", sturdy powerlifter's figure (well-built but not chiseled muscle), tan and olive-toned skin. Curly black hair, shrewd dark brown eyes, arched brows and high cheekbones, and a lopsided smile. Wears round glasses with purple rims. Has detachable actuators - four tentacles, articulated, made of steel-blue metal. Has a segment of Van Gogh's Starry Night tattooed on her left hip, and a large burn scar on her right shoulder. Often seen wearing a long blue coat, black tank top, dark jeans, and bright purple Converse.

Character Traits: intelligent, quick-witted, sarcastic, adaptable, driven, self-destructive at times, workhorse, somewhat morally grey

Relationships: -Family: Otto and Rosalie Octavius (parents), Harry Osborn (stand-in brother), Norman Osborn (stand-in uncle) -Friends: Peter Parker (1, 2, and 3), Curt Connors, Max Dillon, Michelle Jones, Ned Leeds, other Spider-Man characters -Romantic Partners: Peter Parker (3) (currently); Morgan (formerly), Rick (formerly), Lyla (formerly)

Additional Information: - She is on the autistic spectrum - She has a doctorate in biomedical engineering from MIT - Despite creating her own actuator tentacles, she did not take up the mantle of Doc Ock. Instead she goes by Argonaut: a type of octopus - Her actuators are named Jason, Castor, Idas, and Pollux - members of the mythological Argo's crew - She has no innate powers of her own and instead relies on her inventions and intense physical training - She can be found across the multiverse, with a tragic series of canon events in each universe - At the time of her death, she was working on optimizing a source of renewable energy - Eventually, has a pet cat (black sphynx) named Amadeus - After a battle with her multiversal self (a vengeful, obsessive variant known as Charybdis) leaves her with a compound ACL/MCL tear, she's left with a permanent knee brace on her left knee

[usagirln12003]

Emily Davis: Hogwarts AU

Emily Davis is a Pureblood witch that was born on the 15th of December 1986 and started attending Hogwarts on the 1st of September 1998, being sorted into Slytherin House.

She has a Black Walnut wand with a Dragon Heartstring Core.

Her Patronus is Non-Corporeal.

Her favorite subject is Transfiguration and her least favorite subject is Potions.

She was one of the Slytherin Prefects of her year.

Emily is described by her fellow Slytherins as intelligent, resourceful, and persuasive. According to her friends, she loves fashion, dislikes not getting her way, and dreams of getting a job as style editor for the Daily Prophet.

With a passion for fashion and a clear sense of style, Emily believes keeping up appearances is important and enjoys being the center of attention. She's not afraid to drop some serious cash on a piece of designer clothing, and also not afraid to let everyone know it. Still, Emily is more than just looks. She also has a shrewd mind, a penetrating wit, and a power of persuasion about her. These attributes have helped her both achieve ten O.W.L.S. and attract a large group of friends who enjoy her company despite her often sharp tongue.

Emily displays a tough exterior, but there are traces of a hurt, vulnerable person beneath. While she's not always quick to vocalize her feelings or own up to her mistakes like her personal involvement in the tragic prank that happened at the end of her fifth year, she does still show sadness over the disappearance of her friends Hannah and Beth, particularly when she comes across their "missing" posters. She even references how she and the others joined the search for the twins after their initial vanishing, further showing that she cared for them. Josh has suggested that Emily's harsh bravado is merely a front that belies her lack of confidence. What's clear is she doesn't like feeling powerless, so when things don't go her way, she gets to work to change the situation to better suit her. Despite her strong-willed nature, she looks to others to attend to her needs, particularly when she's feeling exposed to danger.

According to Josh, Emily's greatest fear is failure. Chris shares this fear, but while he displays this trait with inaction, Emily manifests it in forms of aggression. This is most evident with regards to her feeling over the breakdown of her and Mike's relationship. After the two split up, she was upset to find her ex-boyfriend dating her close friend Jessica. Emily felt hurt and betrayed and responded by entering into a hasty relationship with Matt. Her decision to continue her studies despite having lost the interest primarily comes down to a few motivations: give off the appearance that she is over her breakup, shame Jessica amongst their friend group, sow discord between Jessica and Mike's budding romance, and possibly win Mike back.

This mindset leads Emily to commit several mean-spirited and manipulative actions throughout her sixth year such as instigating a fight with Jessica when they first meet up at the Hogwarts Express, lying to Matt on the way to the castle, and generally belittling those around her. As the events of this year occur, Emily is quick to take action, but unable to put aside some of her base instincts. As the end of the year spirals out of control, she continues to lash out at others particularly Matt even when he's trying to help her. The culminating act comes when Emily is attacked by a strange creature and the group begins to panic over what effect the bite will have on her; Ashley demands Emily leave the school, but Mike goes as far as to pull his wand on her. Ashley ultimately learns that the bite is harmless, but in an act of violence, Emily directs her aggression against Ashley and strikes her. When fleeing from the creatures later on, Emily even tries to gain an advantage and trip Ashley up so she can get to safety.

Overall, Emily possesses what can be considered a narcissistic attitude. She contends that she is "never wrong" and whenever challenged, she has a talent for redirecting conversations and digressing in order to get a one up. Her fear of failure leads her to exploit others to accomplish her goals: she benefits if they succeed at the given task, but if they don't, she has someone to blame besides herself. Despite this, Emily proves to be a very capable individual when she's pushed. While isolated and forced to rely on her own abilities, she displays physical strength, feats of agility, excellent problem-solving skills, and a cool-headed focus during a time of crisis. However, when she rejoins others, her old habits are quick to resurface.

[absylphe]

eefsdroppe

I Know That She Likes Me

She Had Better Like Me Given What She Did To Me

(That Was A Joke I Am Joking)

(I Am Obviously Beyond Pleased With How Things Have Been Going)

I

Mmm

I Am Not A Groupie I Have Never Been A Groupie I Never Even Listened To Any Of Her Music Before The First Time We Visited One Another

I Can Not Even Really Listen To It Unless It Is Very Quiet Given How Sensitive My Auricular Dishes Are

I Just Keep Having This Very Stupid Image Of Those Silly Short Form Video Scenarios Where Some Absolute Square Of A Girl Is Standing In The Front Row Of A Concert Reading A Book (Why Are They In The Front Row If They Are Not Even Going To Pay Attention To The Acts On Stage) And The Singer Makes Eye Contact With Them And Is For Some Reason Charmed By This Frumpy Little Nobody Who Is Ignoring Their Art In A Disrespectful Way

Not That I Ignore Lanota's Art

Sorry This Whole Thing Has Gotten Away From Me As It Usually Does

So Much Of The Time She Is So Real

She Has Such Soft And Pretty Hair And She Looks So Serene When She Sleeps

She Is So Goofy And Quick-Witted And Affectionate And Far More Insightful Than She Is Willing To Put On Display At All Times

You See I Need Everyone To Know How Much Attention I Am Paying All Of The Time For Example So They Know How Smart I Am But She Is Always Paying Attention And Only Rarely Capitalizing On That Knowledge When It Is Most Advantageous

(I Suppose There Is Something To Be Said About The Difference Between Being Raised By A Lusus That Is Basically Friendly Cattle Bred To Be Stupid And Complacent And Being Raised By A Lusus That Is A Shrewd Perfectionist Ambush Predator)

She Is Not Afraid To Be Imperfect

But Sometimes When I See Her On Stage I Feel So Small

It Is Just A World I Am Not A Part Of

I Think It Would Be A Bit Pathetic To Describe My Heightened Hearing As A Disability But The Fact Of The Matter Is That It Does Prevent Me From Participating In Many Of The Sorts Of Events That Her Career Includes And Those Are Such A Big Part Of Her Life

She Puts So Much Work Into Crafting Her Image And Perfecting Her Music

And I Know That She Loves Me Even Knowing I Can Not Fully Participate In Her Full Vision

But I Still Feel Like That Dorky Hypothetical Person Reading At The Concert At Times

Maybe I Am Just Getting The Jitters Because Of The Egg

I Want To Stay With Her Forever If She Will Let Me

But I Know Better Than To Bank On Forevers

I Am More Than Happy To Be Confident That I Have A Handful Of Tomorrows Left With her

And Tomorrow I Will Still Have A Handful Of Tomorrows

And Perhaps If I Play My Cards Right I Will Never Befall The Misfortune Of Running Out Of Tomorrows