#storytelling prowess.

[warriors-ideas]

Fireraven AU where after Firestar becomes leader he invites Ravenpaw and Barley into ThunderClan. Barley refuses but insists that Ravenpaw should go bc he needs to confess to Firestar. He does, the two become mates and Ravenpaw finally gets his warrior name! Suggestion: Ravenwing, Ravensong, Ravencry

🔥🐦‍⬛

[theblob1958]

this one's gonna be good for sure

[mango-tek]

Every now and then this post of mine makes the rounds and I remember that there was a time where I didn’t think dream was a sack of shit. It’s wild what 3 years can do

The betrayal at L’manburg 2020 colorized

[blueheartbooks]

"The War of the Worlds: An Epic Extraterrestrial Odyssey"

H. G. Wells' timeless classic, "The War of the Worlds," unfolds as an enthralling tapestry of science fiction and societal reflection. Published in 1898, Wells catapults readers into a gripping narrative where Earth becomes the battleground for an interplanetary conflict of catastrophic proportions.

The tale begins in suburban England, where an unnamed protagonist recounts the sudden and ominous arrival of massive Martian cylinders, heralding the onset of a ruthless invasion. Wells masterfully weaves a tale of fear and survival as humanity grapples with the unimaginable – technologically advanced, malevolent aliens with their dreaded heat-ray weapons.

What sets "The War of the Worlds" apart is Wells' ability to transcend the confines of genre and delve into the social and psychological impact of an otherworldly invasion. The narrative serves as a poignant commentary on the fragility of human civilization, challenging our collective hubris and highlighting the vulnerability of our technological prowess in the face of superior extraterrestrial forces.

Wells' descriptive prowess vividly paints scenes of devastation and chaos, capturing the raw emotions of a populace in the throes of an existential crisis. The author's exploration of the survival instinct and the breakdown of societal norms during times of crisis remains eerily relevant, resonating with readers across generations.

As the narrative unfolds, the protagonist navigates a landscape transformed by alien dominance, encountering both the best and worst of human nature. Themes of resilience, adaptability, and the consequences of unchecked imperialism emerge, prompting readers to reflect on the broader implications of human actions and their impact on the world.

"The War of the Worlds" stands as a seminal work that has not only influenced countless science fiction stories but has also become a cultural touchstone. Its enduring legacy is evident in the numerous adaptations across various media, attesting to the timelessness of Wells' exploration of fear, survival, and the indomitable spirit of humanity.

In conclusion, "The War of the Worlds" is a literary masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences with its riveting narrative, thought-provoking themes, and timeless relevance. H. G. Wells' exploration of the extraterrestrial unknown remains a literary triumph, inviting readers to ponder the delicate balance between humanity and the vast, mysterious cosmos.

"The War of the Worlds," H. G. Wells is available in Amazon in paperback 11.99$ and hardcover 19.99$ editions.

Number of pages: 185

Language: English

Rating: 9/10                                           

Link of the book!

Review By: King's Cat

[blueheartbookclub]

"The War of the Worlds: An Epic Extraterrestrial Odyssey"

H. G. Wells' timeless classic, "The War of the Worlds," unfolds as an enthralling tapestry of science fiction and societal reflection. Published in 1898, Wells catapults readers into a gripping narrative where Earth becomes the battleground for an interplanetary conflict of catastrophic proportions.

The tale begins in suburban England, where an unnamed protagonist recounts the sudden and ominous arrival of massive Martian cylinders, heralding the onset of a ruthless invasion. Wells masterfully weaves a tale of fear and survival as humanity grapples with the unimaginable – technologically advanced, malevolent aliens with their dreaded heat-ray weapons.

What sets "The War of the Worlds" apart is Wells' ability to transcend the confines of genre and delve into the social and psychological impact of an otherworldly invasion. The narrative serves as a poignant commentary on the fragility of human civilization, challenging our collective hubris and highlighting the vulnerability of our technological prowess in the face of superior extraterrestrial forces.

Wells' descriptive prowess vividly paints scenes of devastation and chaos, capturing the raw emotions of a populace in the throes of an existential crisis. The author's exploration of the survival instinct and the breakdown of societal norms during times of crisis remains eerily relevant, resonating with readers across generations.

As the narrative unfolds, the protagonist navigates a landscape transformed by alien dominance, encountering both the best and worst of human nature. Themes of resilience, adaptability, and the consequences of unchecked imperialism emerge, prompting readers to reflect on the broader implications of human actions and their impact on the world.

"The War of the Worlds" stands as a seminal work that has not only influenced countless science fiction stories but has also become a cultural touchstone. Its enduring legacy is evident in the numerous adaptations across various media, attesting to the timelessness of Wells' exploration of fear, survival, and the indomitable spirit of humanity.

In conclusion, "The War of the Worlds" is a literary masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences with its riveting narrative, thought-provoking themes, and timeless relevance. H. G. Wells' exploration of the extraterrestrial unknown remains a literary triumph, inviting readers to ponder the delicate balance between humanity and the vast, mysterious cosmos.

"The War of the Worlds," H. G. Wells is available in Amazon in paperback 11.99$ and hardcover 19.99$ editions.

Number of pages: 185

Language: English

Rating: 9/10                                           

Link of the book!

Review By: King's Cat

[trapangeles]

Bishop Lamont's 'Go Time' Music Video: A Powerful Reflection on Social Issues

In a thought-provoking and impactful release, Bishop Lamont's "Go Time" music video takes center stage as an emblem of the artist's dedication to addressing critical societal issues. Through his artistry, Bishop Lamont delivers a message that cuts to the core of our collective consciousness, shedding light on mass shootings, black-on-black crime, and the complex relationship between law enforcement and the black community.

The "Go Time" music video offers a platform for Bishop Lamont to candidly express his thoughts on the escalating issue of mass shootings, which have deeply affected communities across the nation. His lyrical prowess and visual storytelling combine to create a compelling narrative that underscores the urgency for change.

In the video's introspective moments, Bishop Lamont delves into the painful reality of black-on-black crime—a concern that often goes unnoticed amidst the clamor of mainstream media. His poignant verses and evocative imagery serve as a reminder that every life lost is a tragedy, regardless of the spotlight it receives.

Furthermore, Bishop Lamont addresses the fraught relationship between the black community and law enforcement. With unflinching honesty, he reflects on the instances of police shootings involving black individuals and the subsequent lack of accountability. Through his lyrics, he speaks directly to the frustration, fear, and call for justice that resonate within marginalized communities.

"Go Time" isn't merely a music video; it's a societal commentary that amplifies voices often sidelined by the mainstream. Bishop Lamont's ability to interweave complex themes with his artistry is a testament to the power of music as a catalyst for change and awareness.

As viewers immerse themselves in the "Go Time" music video, they are compelled to reflect on the pressing issues facing our society today. Bishop Lamont's words and visuals prompt conversations that need to be had, making it impossible to ignore the call for empathy, understanding, and transformative action.

Have you been spending all your money and time on making music and shooting videos, but still not getting any exposure? Tired of just spinning your wheels? You know to get exposure you need to get featured on blogs, radio stations, playlist, and get your music e-mail blasted out to the masses. Need help getting all that done? Then check out the Package we’ve made available for you below!

Like & Listen To Our Spotify Playlist

trapLAXradio On The Air Now!

The Latest Music, Videos, News, Entertainment……

[mythvoiced]

@tenderpulsive | the GBEP

---

Eunjae is careful in their observations.

In a field such as theirs, allowing their mind any sort of leniancy, allowing themself even just a tad of ease on the job would mean a life lost, blood on the tracks. They can't afford to be carelessness, similarly to how they can't afford to have their attentive stare be too intrusive - the souls they speak too are not the kind you can be that unapologetic too, after all.

But there is no good enough excuse that would warrant their taking this necessary habit into an unnecessary context.

There is no need to chew on the same chip for moments on end - a tasteless mass between their teeth at this point - just because too preoccupied with staring Calum down as he answers.

Calum is not naive. Anxious people are not naive. The naive trust too easily and to be trusting is not something that combines well with anxiety - as far as their humble take on it goes.

But there is some...thing... something about the way he answers that has them wonder how readily he could answer like that if forced to deliver the same response in the face of the worst case scenario they'd painted. Making universal truth-statements like that, because yes he is right, is always easier when the heart hasn't been gutted first.

Or maybe they've grown too jaded, maybe a part of them needs to see something in an adult that would justify their avoidance, their cynicism.

Eunjae watches Calum punish his lips with his teeth for the pause in his words and their hands drop. As if stilling an automated response to a scenario, as if they're hardly more than an AI running an algorithm no one had asked of them, not one meant to appease and put at ease, but one... designed to do what, exactly?

"What good are memories for if that's all you have?"

Or if you don't have them.

Their eyes narrow and they lean forward. Has Calum lost? Could Calum handle loss the way he handles Eunjae? Would Calum be devastated and angry or devastated and sad?

They tilt their head.

"Memories aren't always a good thing, you know. Are you going to rely on them? Will you live to create memories? If I asked you, choose, you can either call your wife now - and you can't do it ever again if you miss this chance - or you can relive your wedding as if you were truly there, what would you choose."

[dizzybizz]

ok i straight up dont go here but this post made me recall the dream i had today where i saw mads mikkelson in a grocery store

We all are insane over this show and I love us.

It's have been four days already. We are only six days into this year guys.

[writeouswriter]

Nowadays movies can cost millions and have the most state of the art effects in the world and still not hold a candle to an 80s movie with a budget of $20 and a few pieces of cardboard and slime because they don't have the earnest whimsy and sincerity to make me believe, they don't trust their own storytelling prowess or the audience's ability to suspend disbelief and fill in the gaps

[ask-whitepearl-and-steven]

This one goes out to Black Pearl AU by @revolver-d!

Not only is this idea a fantastic concept with a timeline split, but the art is absolutely mind-blowing. Every time I read this comic, my fingers start itching with inspiration, and I hope to one day achieve a similar cleanliness of flow and paneling!

Warning: This comic is on the darker side, and involves heavy themes of torture and loss. Only YOU can regulate your online experience!

Read it here on Tapas or on tumblr!!

Thank you Black Pearl AU for your bottomless pit of inspiration and the absolutely unrivaled storytelling prowess!

[unboundprompts]

do you have any tips for writing mermaids? i love your work ^-^

How to Write Mermaids

-> Things to Think About and Consider When Writing Merpeople and Mer Fiction

-> How to Write a Mermaid (anc writing resources)

These are just some suggestions! Feel free to pick and choose based on what best fits your story.

Physical Appearance

Tail Variations: Instead of a uniform tail type, consider different adaptations: sleek, dolphin-like tails for fast swimmers; large, strong tails with iridescent scales for deep-sea mermaids; or frilled, flowing fins like a lionfish for camouflage. Some might have tails resembling eels or sharks, giving them a menacing or streamlined look.

Scales and Coloration: In deep-sea areas, mermaids might have dark, bioluminescent scales with patterns that mimic the stars or the sea floor. Shallow-water mermaids might have brighter, coral-like colors to blend in.

Scars and Symbols: Scars from battles with sea creatures, markings from coral, or even bioluminescent tattoos could add depth.

Eyes Adapted to the Ocean: Mermaids’ eyes might be unusually large, with reflective layers to enhance night vision. They could have vertical pupils like a cat’s or even multiple layers of eyelids, including a transparent one to protect them from salt and silt.

Webbed Hands and Clawed Fingers: Webbed hands would enhance their swimming ability, and clawed fingers might be used for self-defense or hunting. Some might have retractable claws or spines to protect themselves from predators.

Culture

Language and Communication: Consider how sound works underwater; it travels faster and farther but differently. Maybe they use gestures, a sign language, or even musical calls to communicate. Their language might be melodic or full of trills and hums that are difficult for land creatures to understand.

Beliefs and Myths: Mermaids would likely have their own stories, rituals, and superstitions. Maybe they worship ocean gods, the moon, or view shipwrecks as holy places. They might believe in omens from ocean currents, the arrival of rare sea creatures, or changes in the tides.

Social Structure: Decide if they live in schools, pods, or solitary. A royal family, councils of elders, or a group of shamans could govern them. Do they form alliances or rivalries with other sea creatures or even human sailors?

Hierarchy and Elders: Older mermaids or those with powerful magical abilities may hold significant respect and authority. These elders could be responsible for rituals, storytelling, and maintaining the balance of magic within their community.

Seasonal Gatherings and Ceremonies: The ocean has its own rhythms—tides, moon phases, migrations—and mermaids might gather for ceremonies tied to these events. For instance, they could honor the arrival of certain fish schools or perform rituals under a full moon for strength and unity.

Jewelry and Artifacts: Mermaids might decorate themselves with jewelry made of shells, coral, pearls, and items retrieved from shipwrecks. Certain pieces may symbolize rank, magical prowess, or family lineage, with specific stones or materials believed to channel energy.

Tattooing and Body Art: Many mermaids may tattoo themselves with ink made from squid or octopus, using markings that indicate status, clan, or achievements. Bioluminescent tattoos or body paint could glow at night or during important rituals.

Magical Abilities

Special Senses: Consider heightened senses, like echolocation, the ability to detect changes in water temperature, or a heightened sense of smell for tracking prey or sensing danger. These would add to their unique oceanic identity and give them a slight advantage over surface dwellers.

Control over Water and Weather: Some mermaids can call storms, manipulate tides, or create currents. This might be a rare gift, often feared for its destructive potential. Using such magic could leave them physically or mentally drained.

Healing and Transformation: Certain mermaids could have powers to heal wounds or diseases with seawater, or transform sea creatures into protective spirits. However, each healing might weaken them temporarily or require offerings to the ocean in return.

Song and Illusion: Siren song is a classic power; mermaids could enchant, hypnotize, or create illusions through melody. Overuse might leave them voiceless or mentally scarred, with some even risking losing themselves to the song forever.

Shape-Shifting: For those able to take human form, transformation might come at a great personal cost. Perhaps they can only transform for a limited time, or their time on land drains their magic, forcing them to return to the water to recover.

Physical Depletion: Magic use might be physically taxing, aging a mermaid slightly or sapping their strength. Frequent magic use could make them appear older or leave permanent marks on their body, like scars or discolored scales.

Price of Blood or Offering: Magic might demand a price—whether in the form of a personal sacrifice or a blood offering to the ocean. For powerful spells, mermaids may even need to leave behind something they value, such as memories, emotions, or treasured artifacts.

Risk of Transformation: High-level magic could alter a mermaid’s physical form temporarily or permanently. They might grow extra fins, become partially transparent, or even lose their voice after certain spells.

Mental Toll and "Ocean Madness": Overuse of magic could lead to a condition known as "Ocean Madness," a state in which mermaids lose touch with reality, becoming isolated or forgetting their own identity. This is particularly feared among mermaids, as it might mean permanent exile or being lost to the ocean.

Forbidden or Dark Magic: Some magic forms might be considered taboo or forbidden due to their dangerous nature. Practicing dark magic, like curses or soul-binding, could bring severe consequences, both in physical tolls and social exile.

Character Motivation and Conflict

Relationship with Humans: Decide whether mermaids are fascinated by or wary of humans. Some might be drawn to them out of curiosity or romantic allure, while others might distrust them due to pollution, fishing, or old tales of betrayal. Their interactions with humans can reveal a lot about their personality and worldview.

Desire for Land or Home: Consider what might tempt a mermaid to leave their watery home. Do they long to experience human life, seek revenge for an oceanic wrong, or retrieve a lost artifact from a shipwreck? This longing could add depth to their character.

Struggles with Transformation: If your mermaids can shift between human and mermaid forms, consider how this affects their identity and relationships. Transformation could be painful, rare, or come at a high price, adding dramatic tension and giving their character arc extra weight.

Quest for Authority: In a hierarchical society, some mermaids might crave power or authority, seeking to rise through the ranks or challenge an elder. Such ambition could lead them to take risks, learn forbidden magic, or ally with powerful sea creatures.

Personal Pride or Legacy: Some mermaids might want to establish themselves as legends, known for feats of bravery or wisdom. This could involve dangerous quests to recover lost artifacts, hunt rare sea creatures, or explore dangerous parts of the ocean. Their pursuit of legacy might set them at odds with their peers, especially if it leads to recklessness.

Torn Between Worlds: A mermaid who can transform and walk on land might struggle with a dual identity. If spending time on land slowly diminishes their powers, they could grapple with the desire to stay connected to both worlds, fearing losing either part of themselves.

Conflict Between Duty and Desire: Many mermaids might feel a sense of duty to their family, tribe, or ocean gods, conflicting with their personal desires. They could be pressured to fulfill a prophecy, protect a magical artifact, or avoid contact with humans, even if it clashes with their true passions.

Past Mistakes or Betrayals: A mermaid who has broken societal rules—whether by consorting with humans, using dark magic, or violating clan boundaries—might feel guilt or face exile. Redemption could become a strong motivator, pushing them to right their wrongs, often at great risk or personal cost.

Haunted by Family Legacy: If a mermaid comes from a family of notorious outcasts, warriors, or traitors, they might struggle with the burden of redeeming their family’s name or rising above that legacy. This could lead them into difficult choices about loyalty and personal integrity.

Hunters and Captors: Humans might hunt mermaids for their scales, powers, or knowledge, forcing mermaids into hiding or guerrilla-like resistance. A character driven by a desire for vengeance against humans could lead to morally complex actions and choices.

[actually-safer-to-kiss]

Kafkaesque

Summary: On the flight back home, Spencer and Reader exchange books to read, and Spencer is surprised by your selection.

Couple: Spencer Reid/Fem!Reader

Category: Funny, fluff-ish

Content warnings: Franz Kafka (i like him but whatever)

Word count: 1k

The team is on the jet heading back to Quantico after yet another successful case was solved. The tensions of a stressful arrest started to quell as only clusters of city light started to become their only view for the rest of the flight. Morgan has already passed out listening to music, taking up two seats for himself, while Hotch, Emily, Rossi, and J.J. stay occupied by playing poker. Their banter filled the cabin along with the sound of shuffling cards, and actual chips were exchanged instead of poker chips.

You and Spencer, on the other hand, decided this was the perfect time for reading. You had been discussing the idea of exchanging books to get each other’s opinion, since you two are the only consistent readers among your colleagues (and also because Spencer’s banned from playing poker for cheating (again)).

You only briefly got to start each other’s selection before landing, but now there was plenty of time to cross some of the short stories of Sherlock Holmes off your TBR. Considering you were reading in the same space, you expected this to be more of a challenge. Because Spencer is a fast reader. A notoriously fast reader. To the point where Hotch has prevented him from reading while questioning witnesses. The speed at which he combs through books knocks off their focus. You’ve seen it yourself, so much that it’s not as funny as it was when you started here.

Nevertheless, you explore the world of Sherlock Holmes. As you turned the pages, you marveled at the intricacies of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s storytelling. The deductive prowess of Holmes and the vivid depiction of Victorian London transport you to another time and place. Andrew Scott’s charismatic portrayal of Moriarty in the TV adaptation flickered through your mind, though you wisely kept that observation to yourself. Last time, Spencer gave a passionate lecture on the discrepancies between books and television adaptations, citing difference in attention spans, and you had no desire to open that can of worms again.

Amid the familiar hushed ambiance of the cabin, you felt a familiar sensation—the piercing gaze of someone fixated on you. It was a feeling you had grown accustomed to, whether it was the malevolent eyes of criminals from afar of the intense scrutiny across an interrogation table. You tore your attention away from the pages of your book to meet Spencer’s eyes. His expression was contemplative, yet he was less than a third through the book.

“Wanna trade already?” You asked, breaking the silence.

“No, no,” Spencer replied, his lips pursed as he continued to study you.

You raised a brow. “Any questions I could answer?”

“How did you come across him?” He held up your book, “The Complete Short Stories” by Franz Kafka.

“Oh,” you shrugged, “just those angsty high school years, you know?”

Spencer’s nose wrinkled at that. No, he, in fact, did not know what you meant. Because he wasn’t old enough to have angsty high school years. And if he did have any at all, they would have been during college—neither period of his life he cared to recall.

“You’ve seriously never picked up Franz Kafka?” You asked him. “You? Spencer Reid? The equivalent of a human encyclopedia?”

“Only some of his short stories were used for college lectures.”

“Okay.” You feigned a laugh. “So what’s the problem?”

“What was your childhood like, Y/N?”

Your face widened in shock before a sly smirk emerged. “Are you seriously profiling me because of my favorite author? That’s absurd!” The urge to playfully smack him surfaced, but the goodness of your heart made you resist (also because this isn’t your book you’re holding). “Kafka enthusiasts come in all forms, you know. Like everybody else.”

“He’s your favorite author?” Spencer chuckled, still very surprised.

You nodded. “And what about it?”

“You’re just so… happy all the time.”

You cocked your head to the side. A small laugh slipped out as you said, “Oh, I’m sorry, Dr. Reid. Should I have brought ‘The Adventures of Strawberry Shortcake’ to help maintain your image of me?”

“No! I mean…” Your shared laughter briefly interrupted his train of thought. “It’s just not what I expected from you.”

“Hm.” You settled back in your seat, opening the book to where your thumb rested between the pages. “Maybe you don’t know me as well as you think you do.” You’re ready to get back to reading, but you still look at Spencer.

His eyes sparkled, and the curiosity of something becoming more complex than intended makes his brain run for miles. “Perhaps I don’t.”

As the jet continued its steady course back to Quantico, you and Spencer settled into cozy companionship, growing more familiar with each trip. The ambiance remained peaceful, with the faint hum of the engines serving as soothing background noise for your literary exploration.

You find yourself engrossed in the world of Sherlock Holmes once more, relishing in the intricate puzzles and razor-sharp deductions. Andrew Scott continued to dance in your mind from time to time, a testament to the power of well-crafted adaptations (excluding season four. You never told Spencer there was a fourth season).

You were also increasingly aware of Spencer’s presence beside you. Instead of the prickling sensation of having eyes on you, his knee brushed lightly against yours, sending tingles through your body, along with zero doubt it was accidental, considering this guy hesitates to shake hands. He still took the time to look at you after some moments of reading, as if he were deducing what certain Kafka works in that book could mean to you exactly. He flipped through the pages—actually reading—like he would find the answers.

You heard him swallow. “So, uh, why is he a roach in this one?”

“Because that’s how he feels.” You knocked your knee against him this time. “Just keep reading, Spencer. We’ll discuss it after.”

You watched him bite his lips closed as he tried to suppress a smile.

[multific]

A Warrior

Din Djarin x Reader

Summary: You are awaiting his arrival.

As you sit on the edge of your chair, eagerly awaiting the return of the Mandalorian, your mind races with anticipation. 

The sound of his ship approaching grows louder and louder, sending a thrill of excitement through your veins. 

You can't help but wonder what adventures he has been on, what dangers he has faced, and what treasures he may have acquired.

You were also thrilled to finally see your son.

When he sent word of his arrival home, you could barely contain your excitement.

You cooked all of his and Grogu's favourites as you waited for them.

Finally, the familiar whirring of the ship's engines fills the air, and you jump to your feet, rushing to the window to catch a glimpse of the Mandalorian's arrival. 

The ramp lowers with a hiss, and there he stands, clad in his iconic armour, a stoic figure against the backdrop of the setting sun.

As he strides towards you, you can't help but feel a sense of awe at his presence. 

The Mandalorian is a legend in his own right, a warrior of unmatched skill and determination. 

You can't help but feel a surge of pride that he has chosen to return to you, to share his stories and his victories.

That he chose you.

As he enters the room, you can see the weariness in his posture, the weight of his battles etched into his features. 

But there is also a glint of satisfaction, a sense of fulfilment that comes from a job well done.

He hands you Grogu as you smile at your little one and hug him. 

You also offer a smile to your Mandalorian before you offer him a seat, pouring him a drink as he regales you with tales of his latest exploits.

You knew he wasn't the hugging type.

You hang on to his every word as he talks, captivated by his storytelling prowess and his quick wit. 

The Mandalorian may be a man of few words, but when he speaks, his words carry weight and authority. 

You can't help but feel privileged to be in his presence, to witness firsthand the legend in action.

As the night wears on, you find yourself drawn deeper into the Mandalorian's world, his stories of adventure and danger. 

"You need to sleep Djarin. You must be tired."

"Put the kid to sleep first." you smiled at him as you left so he could finally eat and drink.

Soon, Djarin came into your shared room. With his weapons safely put away, he joined you in your comfortable bed.

He let out a long sigh.

"Finally home, the kid missed you."

"Only the Kid?" you asked as you turned on your side to face him. He was lying on his back as he let out a low hum. 

"Maybe, I missed you too Meshla."

"Would be weird if you didn't miss your wife, Djarin." his arms moved as he pulled you closer to his body, with his armour also gone with his weapons, he only had his helmet on.

You felt his warmth fill you under the covers.

"I hate leaving you." he admitted.

"I know. But we do need credits to survive."

"I'm sorry that this is the life I can offer."

"Don't be. I was well aware of all of this when I met you and then later we married. If I wanted comfort and luxury I would have married Boba." Djarin pinched your side as you let out a laugh.

"Please, don't let yourself worry about that. I love you, and it is all that matters."

"Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum." (I love you) he whispered before he finally allowed his body to relax and fall asleep.

The Mandalorian may be a warrior, but in your eyes, he is a true hero, a beacon of hope in a galaxy filled with darkness.

And he just happened to be your husband.

Taglist: 

@castellandiangelo @imagines-by-a-typical-fangirl @manduse @jacalineiscomingforyou 

@mandoloriancookie @deliciousfestsalad @lilliumrorum @asgards-princess-of-mischief 

@fallout-girl219 @dracaryxzs @snowtargaryen 

~Masterlist~

ˇAO3ˇ

/YOU DO NOT HAVE PERMISSION TO TRANSLATE, TO STEAL OR TO REUPLOAD ANY OF MY WORKS TO THIS OR OTHER PLATFORMS/

[multifandomloverthrowaway]

What Sky’s Character Should Have Been

(And why her and Viktor needed to be canon.)

This is LONG, and just my opinion. Please be nice!

In storytelling, each character, each scene, and each literary device is crucial for the advancement of the plot. If any is over or under utilized, the story remains cluttered or incomplete. That being said, it truly is a tragedy how horribly the characters, especially the Zaunite characters, came to be treated in season two. The characters and arcs set up in season one are butchered, and Viktor’s story is particularly disappointingly miswritten by the authors and misrepresented by the fandom, and we see this in the narrative and to a certain extent even fan treatment of Sky.

Sky is a ghost. Her presence, while tangible in the story, is not fully realized to the audience. We do not get to know much of her besides her interest in Viktor and a small flashback indicating that they knew of each other in their youth. Thus her existence and her death are ultimately unsatisfying; we do not know enough about her to be able to connect with her, and so she is ultimately only perceived to be an object to propel Viktor’s descent, even though we do not know much of his feelings towards her either. This is an unfortunate misuse of her as a supporting character, especially when it has a good potential reason to exist other than to solely be Viktor’s love interest.

Before understanding what Sky can represent, let us first define her in the context of the setting, particularly in relation to the characters that she supports. I have touched upon this in more detail in my Viktor character analysis posted, but for the TLDR:

It is clear that Jayce and Viktor are foils to one another. The difference in their opinions on Hextech sets them up to be a parallel to an important aspect of the class struggle set up in season one: Even when the oppressed are “good enough” to compete with their privileged peers, the resultant treatment by the oppressor between both is starkly different. Where the privileged will be lauded and commemorated, the oppressed will only be served minimal acceptance and approval. Thus, their characters and how they interact with one another, as well as the characters of their immediate mutual contacts and their own corresponding interactions, should serve explore this struggle further, especially when it comes to Sky, Mel, and Heimerdinger.

So Sky, like Viktor, should show how Piltover can misuse Zaunites against their hometown. However, to keep her character separate from him, unlike Viktor, who loses himself getting out of this trap and back to Zaun, Sky must be lost to trap itself. She must show just how inhumanely far Piltover will go in exploiting Zaun to maintain its subjugation over the latter. Like we see with other innocent Zaunite background characters that are killed by Piltover on the battleground, Sky must represent those that are killed in softer, more covert methods: through the extraction of Zaun’s finest intellect and the resulting false diplomacy. We must eventually see how Piltover indirectly kills her for being Zaunite, even though we know she is killed by Viktor and the Hexcore.

Sky then needs to have a fleshed out background that indicates of her optimism, grit, and innocence. It does not have to be as in depth as that of the main characters, but the audience must be shown the following:

Her academic prowess that indicates how she can capture sponsors and spin her botany research to help Zaun into something that Piltover thinks it can also benefit from. From which councilors or patrons does she benefit? How and why?

Her motivations for Zaun. What does she view an ideal Zaun to be? What would its relationship with Piltover be? We know she wants to make it better by creating natural greenery, but why does she choose to do so in Piltover? What pushed her to apply to the academy?

Her relation to Viktor, the only other known Zaunite at the academy. Did they interact more than that one time in the river? Were they friends or mutuals? How did Viktor help her get a position as his assistant and why? We know she is fond of him, but what about the other way around? What are their experiences at the academy like? How do they interact with casual prejudice? Do they stick up for each other? Do they find support in each other?

We must see her struggles to successfully obtain funding and traction for her own research due to Piltovan pushback and prejudice. (In this case, she must be in the same research group as Jayce and Viktor, but no longer their assistant as a decade is far too long to remain as such. She will be tied to Jayce’s name but not under him or Viktor.) This needs to be shown to contrast Jayce’s ease in becoming a councilor and gaining enough authority to push out Heimerdinger to further his and Viktor’s research. We need to see her project take the back seat because it is not the project that Jayce is directly tied to. We must see her have to to be careful and planned in who she talks to, how, and what she is able to get from them. This would provide a perfect parallel to Mel and about how being outsiders provides challenges when it comes to change; one being born into power with an imperialist upbringing and getting past Piltovans gracefully to a councilor position to invite it, and the other having no power and so relying on the street smarts and a resource seeking mindset from a more impoverished background to scavenge for it… yet both using the same methods (smooth talking, strategic connections, etc.) to do so.

We need to also know her relationship with Zaun and her perception of Piltover. She must be shown to nurture her feelings about the unfair treatment of her home into a more determined and optimistic view of potential equality and diplomacy, and their growth over time with her and Viktor’s research and their duty to represent Zaun. We should see her friendship with Jayce. We should see her interact with Mel and Heimerdinger. This not only lets the audience sympathize with her by empathizing with the struggles she faces above and her defiance in face of them, but also contrasts Viktor’s internal anger about Zaun and Piltover that he lets fester with his growing ailments and erasure of academic and technical contributions. This contrast sets her up nicely to symbolize the “good that could have been” in the relationship between Zaun and Piltover, and thus by extension, between Viktor and Jayce - hence her initial role as their assistant, and something that is cast aside as each character grows more towards their goals rather than the partnership.

This also sets her up to personify Viktor’s humanity. We’ve seen them meet. Let us see them study together, build things together, perhaps even fend for essentials together. Let us see how and why Sky fell in love with the Viktor from her youth. Let us know of Viktor’s endearment of her as we see him choose her to be his assistant. Let us see how they interact after facing prejudice from Piltovans and band together. Let us see her meet him when he’s on the hospital bed. Let us see her and Viktor be protective of and vulnerable with each other as they face the enemy. Let us see them bond just like we have seen him do so with Jayce. With Sky, we can see Viktor’s insecurities and his empathy like no other character can; in her we can see what makes him human.

This is integral to Viktor’s character and his arc. Whereas Jayce can actively work towards a future for his life with Mel and his career outside of Hextech, Viktor does not have the same luxury due to his illness. He cannot pursue anything but Hextech because his life and the lives of his people are on the line due to Piltover’s control. And that is precisely why when Sky loses her life due to the technology, it isn’t just Viktor that kills her. It’s Piltover’s waste, Piltover’s luxuries, Piltover’s unfulfilled promises that do. And Viktor realizes that after. Sky, in all her optimism, is fundamentally what Viktor could have strived for had he not let his anger and urgency spiral. As a mirror to Mel and Jayce, Sky is not just Viktor’s past but also his hopes for the future. And he realizes that he and Zaun has lost what could have been.

By giving Sky agency, we see just how much she could have done for the plot. But seeing how much the story fumbled Viktor, it’s not surprising to see her get “fridged” twice. I hope I did her justice!

If you’ve read this all, you deserve all the desserts. Thanks for reading!

[barrenclan]

Oughggh Cormorantleaf…the fact that Redstar was going to name him Cormorantclaw but he gets to be Cormorantleaf instead is getting me. He was going to be named for his fighting prowess, the skill that kept him alive for so long and the only thing he was valued for in Defiance. But now instead he gets to share his name with the guy that he loves, and they get to head towards a brighter future together. No shade to Redstar of course, she’s doing an incredible job given the circumstances, but I think Cormorantleaf suits him so much better. Especially since it’s the name that he chose :)

Incredible storytelling as always!!

In all honesty, I think that all warriors ceremonies would be benefitted from the cat being able to name themselves; like you say, it's hard to know how you might affect someone, even unintentionally. Redstar would've only intended to represent Cormorantleaf's strength and determination, but it's not how he would have thought of it.

I went through a TON of waffling over the names Pinewing and Cormorantleaf, so know that those were decided only after much deliberation. Believe me, I sorted through every single suffix related to birds and plants.

Pinetalon, Pineflight, Pinefeather, Pinesoar, Cormorantbranch, Cormorantblossom, Cormorantpetal, Cormorantstem, and so on, and so on...