#the duality of spider demon

[corpusdiem-seizethedead]

Angel: I’m too tired to slap you. Bash your face against my palm, would ya?

[itsabouttimex2]

Hi would it be alright if I request a yandere Platonic Noodlefam Headcanons please with a cherry on top 🙏

MK sets an impossible precedent for you to match. He’s stronger and far more skilled than you, serving as the mentee to the illustrious Monkey King, inheritor of compliant golden-hooped rod known as the Ruyi Jingu Bang.

When Pigsy and Tang see that one of their kids is constantly under attack from demons and monsters, it’s only natural for them to be worried about the other. MK becoming a local hero who regularly endangers himself also means that it’s entirely plausible for his friends and family to fall into the crosshairs of his enemies.

So your fathers; legal and surrogate alike, start to place new restrictions on you. No going out before or after designated times, no going out alone, they get to vet all new friends, so on.

You already weren’t allowed to date, but after their run-in with the Spider Queen teaches them that enemies will even try to seduce them to their demise, the two double down on that deal.

Sure, there were always rules to follow, but never on this level. You never minded rules like “text when you get there”, “be back before ten,” and “don’t leave Megapolis”. Those made sense, and you made sure to abide by them. And your diligence and responsibility have not only not been acknowledged, but instead tested with more rules than ever before.

This quickly breeds resentment from you to MK, because you very accurately surmise that it’s only because of your brother’s antics and adventures that your personal life has grown suddenly stifled and restrictive.

MK, obviously, is devastated. He just wants to keep you, his family, and everyone else safe, and seeing you blame him for how you’re getting treated kind of breaks his heart. Still, he doesn’t dare argue with Pigsy or Tang, in part because he actually does agree with them.

He’s your big brother, after all. Is it really that bad that he and your fathers want to keep you safe? Sure, it can get a bit lonely and frustrating for you, he won’t try and deny that. It must suck to be kept inside most of the time, especially when he runs all over and gets into incredible adventures. MK gets to cause trouble and stop evildoers on a weekly basis, and the most exciting thing you do is deliver the noodles that he was supposed to be dropping off. (The noodle cart is tagged, and so is your phone. They can’t ever be too careful, after all.)

MK is the “fun, happy kid” and you’re the “good, quiet kid”. You dutifully tend to your surrogate father’s noodle shop, biting back resentment as it swells in your chest. MK sneaks out with Mei to visit arcades and bust skulls.

A hard worker, a good listener, a skilled chef… these are all the great things that you become over time. But also, you’re bitterly jealous, overworked, and slowly grinding down to nothing with all the effort you put in.

Eventually, the exhausting duality of being put on a pedestal and held to it with shackles takes it’s due toll. All of it leads up to a massive burnout or breakdown, which shifts the dynamic severely.

If you end up burning out and end up fatigued and unmotivated, you get grilled a little too hard by your fathers, both terrified that something might be wrong or that someone might be hurting you.

It’s them. They’re the ones hurting you, but you can’t really say that. Since you can’t answer their questions honestly or explain what’s wrong, they have no idea about what they should do. Pigsy settles for treating you like you’re sick, forcing you to take several days off to stay in bed. It’s a bandaid solution, but it does accomplish something by giving you time to recuperate from the prior mentioned burnout.

Breakdowns are treated with more care and more severity. One little straw breaks your back, and then MK is getting a vicious/distraught earful about lending his duties to you without your permission, and Pigsy for allowing him to do so. Tang gets off easier on account of not being personally involved in the noodle shop’s affairs, but you call him out for calling himself your father and still allowing these things to happen.

The responses are… split, to say the least.

MK will genuinely apologize for the strain he’s been putting on you and admit that he hasn’t exactly been the greatest brother. He’ll give you a big hug and drag you to his room to hang out, ignoring your complaints and protests. You’re upset that he���s been going out too much? Then the solution is to spend more time with you! (It’s not, but at least he’s trying.)

Pigsy won’t stand for it. One of his kids, yelling at him? Absolutely not. Go to your room and calm down. (He’ll whip you up a bowl of noodles while you’re off stewing/sobbing.) Once you’ve eaten and cooled off, he’s open to an actual conversation- the end result is most likely him appointing Tang to take you out once a week or so, giving you an actual break from the monotony. Once again, not the best solution, but it’s definitely an improvement that lifts your spirits.

Tang validates your concerns by listening to them and comforting you, but doesn’t try to solve the problem at all. He offers to be your shoulder to cry on, but also acknowledges that what MK runs off to do is usually important, and can’t be avoided. But! He’s always here for you, dear. Now, come sit with him and have a bowl of noodles. Maybe he can read to you?

It’s not always so bad for you, thankfully. You’re still allowed to leave, under admittedly strict rules, for one. Pigsy also provides you a steady job, whether working with him in the kitchen or running deliveries. You interact with customers regularly, so not only are you never too lonely, they also allow you to keep in contact with customers they trust.

It could be worse. It could be better.

But it’s good enough to feel like home, to feel safe and loved, and that’s what makes it so hard to leave.

[msweebyness]

Weeby, Sparky, and Artzy’s Code Names Guide!!!

Hey, y’all! This is a helpful little tool for you guys! Whenever we’re talking about characters in the context of our AU’s, we use code names to distinguish! Here’s a guide to those! @artzychic27 @imsparky2002

Updates will be added as new content is released!

KEY:

Class of Heroes

Class of Villainy

Monstrous Youths

Ghoul Squad

DC/Arkham

Marvel

MiracOlympus

Animal AU

Akuma AU

BATRACULOUS

LaNd BeFoRe TiMe Au

Barbie AU

(Extras: Were!(Name)= WereMiraculous, Phantom!(Name)= Phantoms of Paris, Shady!(Name)= Shadyverse)

CHARACTERS:

Marinette: Marilan, Mari De Vil, Maridoll, Marideath, Iron Gal, Jestress, Heranette, Maribug, Miss Fortune, LADYBUG BAT, Princess Mariliese, DuCkYnEtTe

Adrien: Adripunzel, Jafardrien, Average Adrien, Haydrien, AdriQuin, Thunder, Zeusdrien, AdriCat, Chat Blanc, CAT BAT, JulAdrien

Alya: TiAlya, YzAlya, SpectrAlya, Alynis, Whirlwind, Enigma, ThemAlya, Alyfox, Lady WiFi, REPORTER BAT, Alyarinne

Nino: Fairy GodBro, Honest Nino, FrankenNino, Nino Jekyll, Mr. Marvel, Mudslide, DioNyno, Shellno, Bubbler, SONIC BAT

Chloe: Chloéstasia, Lady Chloe, Chloepatra, Chlophaba, Diamond Demon, Dagger, Chlolios, ChloBee, Queen Wasp, Chloetta, CHARISMA BAT

Sabrina: Sabrinocchio, Madame Sabrina, Zombrina, Invisibrina, Duality, Miss-Appear, Hestibrina, SabriHound, Vanisher, SUPPORT BAT

Max: Maxiro, Maxdrome, Max Steam, Maxtian, Nuit Panther, Max Luthor, AtheMax, Ponyax, Gamer, TECH BAT

Kim: Kimules, Kimton, WereKim, Kimzilla, Croc King, Spider-Bro, PoseiKim, MonKim, Dark Cupid, Prince Kimiel, POWER BAT

Alix: Aladdix, Alix Khan, Alix Gorgon, Winlix, Caracal, Widow, Hermlix, Bunlix, Timebreaker, PenelAlix, SPEED BAT, CeRaLiX

Mylene: Snow Mylene, Mylensula, MyLeaf, Mylentasma, Nightmare Weaver, Bullseye, DeMylenter, Mousylene, Horrificator, Rolene, EMPATHY BAT

Ivan: QuasiIvan, Ivan Oogie, Ivan Bumble, Ivan Kong, Venom Bringer, Capitaine France, HephIvan, Oxvan, Stoneheart, Prince AntonIvan, STRENGTH BAT

Rose: Roselle, QRC (Queen Rose Candy), SkeleRose, Rose Frankenteen, Thorn, Miss Marvelous, AphroRose, Rose Piggy, Princess Fragrance, Rosiana, PeTrOsE, LOVE BAT

Juleka: JuleBeast, Juleficent, Draculeka, Jubella, Feline Shadow, Doctor Odd, Julemis, JuleClaw, Reflekta, Julexa, STEALTH BAT, ChOmPlEkA

Nathaniel: Sleeping Nath, Nath of Hearts, Nath Goyle, Nathra, Colossus, Rage, Nathdes, Goathaniel, Evillustrator, Nathpunzel, ARTIST BAT, NaThFoOt

Marc: MarcElsa, King Marc, MothMarc, Marcoyle, Myzan’r, Discord, Marcsephone, Marckerel, Reverser, Prince StefMarc, SpArC, WRITER BAT

Zoe: CinderZoe, Zoe of the Southern Isles, NeferZoe, Rouge, Inevitable, Zolene, ZoWasp, Sole Crusher, Princess Zonika, PUNK BAT

Luka: Maestro Luka, DiabLuka, VampLuka, DracuLuka, Shadow, Chi Punch, ApolLuka, Snakeka, Silencer, MUSIC BAT

Kagami: Kagamerida, Kagami Yu, DracoGami, Kagami Hollow, Naginata, Kamakiri Kānjo, KagamAres, Komodogami, Riposte, PRECISION BAT

Ondine: AriOndine, LeOnDine, Ondine Blue, LagoOndine, Sea Enchantress, Shield Maiden, Onditrite, HerOndine, Syren, Ondette, SWIMMER BAT

Aurore: BlueRore, MimRore, Astrarore, Whirlpool, Geode, Zephrore, Swanrore, WEATHER BAT

Mireille: Miremba, Mireides, SliMireille, Echo, Multiply, Boreille, Mireillnguin, MOON BAT

Jean: Jeanzco, Jeanatoa, OperJean, Spellbound, Mariner, ThalJean, Jeacaw, SONG BAT

Lacey: Lacey Bell, Lacey Gothel, Flamecey, Wildmorph, Lightning Run, Nikecey, Cheecey, PARKOUR BAT

Denise: Demolition Denise, Doctor Cabello, Denisquatch, Wonderer, Battlemonger, Gaianise, Bisonise, BUFF BAT

Simon: Simon Pan, Minister O’Connor, SiClops, Speedster, Crimson Warlock, SimOuranos, Simval,TECHNO BAT

Cosette: Robette, Cosettewether, CosetTaur, Voltage, Deathcall, Irisette, Aidette, Hedgette, INCOGNITO BAT

Ismael: IsmaGenie, IsmaScar, IsmaCat, Krypto-Kid, Bizarre, IsmaPan, Ismacoon, MAGIC BAT

Reshma: Reshmabela, Reshma Hook, Spider Resh, Sapphire Beetle, Lady Oc, Nyxma, Reshmaphant, GEM BAT

Austin A: Austin LeBouff, Austin Whistler, Austin Gorgon, Star Quartz, They, Ausglaia, GLAM BAT

Austin B: Austin Deavor, Austin Trollson, Roulette, Mystic, Mnemostin, BAT BITE

Austin Q: Austin of Motanui, Austin Screams, Cosmic Lord, Mako, Tethstin, SHARK BAT

Austin T: JasAustin, Sheriff Austin, Austin Grim, Jade Lantern, Lunar Soldier, Ausmonia, BAKE BAT

DJ: Collector, DJ Cipher, GJ, DJche, Malleable, Trash Panda, PRANK BAT

Spinelli: Spinelli Bunchoy, Spinelli De Spell, Spinellisk, E Voila, Uomo di Sabia, Terpsinelli, GRACE BAT

Victoria: Lightning LaSalle, Vicnifico, Mertoria, Inferno, Electra, Anantoria, HOOP BAT

Gerard: GerEVE, Dr. Grundlershmirtz, Marsh Gerard, Voltaic, Professor Chill, Coerard, GENIUS BAT

Mindy: Mindy P. Sullivan, Mindy Sanderson, MindOgre, Buteos, They-Hunk, PolyhyMindy, HARMONY BAT

Gia: Sergeant Griswold, Gigo, Jersey Gia, Peridot Shot, Blizzard, GiAlke, G.I. BAT

Mason: Agent M, Emperor Mason, Mason Bogie, Emperor, Ms. Extraordinary, Daskalson, INFO BAT

Rochelle: Clopchelle, Rocifer, Gnomechelle, Artemis, Chief, Rocheme, BLACKMAIL BAT

Lotta: Launchpad Jameson, Peg Leg Lotta, Faunta, Power Up, Harbinger, Lotbe, STUNT BAT

Kendra: Kendralice, Kaadra, Yowdra, Groove, Green Imp, Kendrotus, UPSIDE DOWN BAT

Ayesha: Ladyesha, AyeshAngel, Heavenly, Rainbow Surfer, Euprosesha, SPIRIT BAT

Dot: Dot Thatch, InvisiDot, Badass, Speck, Cliot, SECRETARY BAT

Petra: Petra Porter, Petracorn, Karma, Rascal, IaPetra, Petrobie, SKETCH BAT

Roxie: Roxgara, Rocksie, Stellar, Infinite, Nemoxie, REBEL BAT

Anthony: SalAnthony, DaemAnthony, Umbra, Bloodsucker, Anthonatos, SHADOW BAT

Candace: Miss Candace, Conjuring Candace, Equilibrium, Saber, Candomia, CHEER BAT

Eri: Eri Skellington, KitsEri, Hex, Amethyst Witch, HecatEri, MACABRE BAT

Staci: Rayci, Snakeci, See-You, The Master, StacErebus, COMBAT BAT

Margo: Fix-it Margo, CalaMargo, Vanquisher, Fury, MargEos, CRAFT BAT

Brecken: Brecken Hood, Brecken Horseman, Oak, Multiple, Cybelecken, CRITTER BAT

Soo-Yeon: Soo-Lin Lee, Dokk-Yeon, Blood Bro, Magnetite, Soo-Eurus, SNIPER BAT

Parker: Parker Hopps, Pondker, K.O., Ares, ParKratos, SOLDIER BAT

Aggie: GoGo Findlay, Faegie, Platinum Tide, Specter, Atëgie, SKATER BAT

Mona: Tow Mona, Gryphona, Hurricane, Mind Warp, Monapheus, DIRECTOR BAT

Evie: Evie Poppins, SirEvie, Lady Mars, Screech, EratEvie, MELODY BAT

Eloise: Eloislin, Roboise, Liz, Illuminate, Metoise, MATH BAT

Anais: Anais Lemon, Batnais, Gear, Critter, UrAnais, SCIENCE BAT

Jesse: Prince Jesse, JessEel, MAPT Jesse, The Weeping Boy, Jessemene, Midnight, MalevoLyricist, MANAGER BAT

Missy: Flounssy, MisShark, MAPT Missy, Rancor, Quick Fire, Misclepius, Lissy the Unicorn, DIVER BAT

Lila: Lila De La Cruz, Lila Porter, Harpy Lila, Hell-La, Cerebral Queen, Mind Bend, LiEris, Foxla

Felix: Casslix, Felix Darling, Jack O’Ripper

Jess: Jessahontas, Deputy Jess, Jessdigo, Akicita Igmu, Grey Bat, Jesslanta, GREEN LANTERN

Fei: Fei Shang, Feisper, Lady Wu, Sonar, Feipolyta, BEAST GIRL

Socqueline: Socquelinace, Miss Soklinebryglk, Buzz, Socquelinacles, SPIDER-GIRL

Aeon: Wall-Aeon, Deputy Aeon, A.E.O.N.(Adaptive EmotioIntelligent Organization Network), Swarm, Holo, Princess Aeon of Sparta, VISION

Lucien: Prince Lucien, HercLucien, Lucien Van Helsing, Gal-Yant, Vengeance, ZeLucien

Emani: Yosemite Pulateur, Emani White, Spyware, Violet Influence, Dolmani

Sasha: Sasha Oogie, Sasha Bumble, Frostbite, Eilethasha, Crystallight

Kiran: KirAnna, Prince Kiran, MothKiran, Aura, HypKiran, Sandboy

Bustier: Calinora, Fairyline, Empoustier, Witch Caline, Miss Mystery, Gorgana, Lachestier, Zombizou

Mendeliev: Yendeliev Sid, Fairy Godteacher, Headless Mendeliev, Witch Olga, Ant-Woman, The Professor, Atrodeliev, Kwami Buster

Winters: Aswanters, Professor Polymorph, Threaded Thespian, Clothers

Grotke: GroTiger, Soulshock, Nocturne

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reblogs!

[grudgetta]

for the bingo; vaggie x angel dust?

i love watching them beat each other up and also kiss tenderly the beautiful duality of spider moth demon angel love

[trendingtattoo]

Spooky Tattoo Designs: Unveiling the Meanings Behind the Ink

As Halloween approaches, the allure of spooky tattoos intensifies, drawing individuals seeking to express their unique personalities and embrace the darker side of creativity. While some may view these designs as mere aesthetic choices, they often hold deeper meanings and symbolism, reflecting personal experiences, beliefs, and cultural influences.

Skulls and Skeletons:

Skulls and skeletons are among the most iconic spooky tattoo designs, often representing mortality, impermanence, and the transience of life. They can also symbolize overcoming challenges, embracing change, and finding strength in the face of adversity.

Bats and Spiders:

Bats and spiders, often associated with darkness and the unknown, carry a range of symbolic meanings in spooky tattoos. Bats can represent mystery, transformation, and the ability to navigate the unseen realms. Spiders, on the other hand, can symbolize creativity, resilience, and the intricate web of life.

Black Cats and Ravens:

Black cats and ravens have long been associated with witchcraft, superstition, and the supernatural. In spooky tattoos, they often represent intuition, psychic abilities, and connection to the spiritual world. They can also symbolize independence, adaptability, and the power of the unseen forces.

Ghosts and Ghouls:

Ghosts and ghouls, creatures of the night and the realm of the deceased, evoke a sense of mystery, fear, and the unknown. In spooky tattoos, they can represent confronting personal demons, embracing the darkness within, and exploring the depths of the human psyche.

Witches and Vampires:

Witches and vampires, figures of enchantment and supernatural allure, carry a range of symbolic meanings in spooky tattoos. Witches can represent wisdom, transformation, and the power of nature. Vampires, on the other hand, can symbolize immortality, sensuality, and the duality of human nature.

These are just a few examples of the many spooky tattoo designs that exist, each with its own unique meaning and symbolism. The choice of design is often deeply personal, reflecting the individual's beliefs, experiences, and cultural heritage. Spooky tattoos can serve as a reminder of our mortality, a celebration of the macabre, or a symbol of strength and resilience in the face of darkness.

[spidermannotes]

Based on the Superior Spider-Man 32 & Amazing Spider-Man 9 Skottie Young's interlocking variant set.

Marvel Peter Parker Animated-Style Statue

Product Description

A Gentle Giant LTD release! As a teen, Peter Parker had the worst of both worlds. Disrespected as a teenager and demonized as a superhero, he still found a way to make both halves of his lives work. Now, Gentle Giant LTD has captured that duality in this all-new animated-style sculpture of Peter Parker! Based on the Marvel cover artwork of Skottie Young, this approximately 4-inch statue features art-accurate sculpting and painting, and is limited to only 3000 pieces. It comes packaged with a numbered certificate of authenticity in a full-color box. Sculpted by Casen Barnard!

Available at Amazon. Direct link here.

[cljordan-imperium]

OC Desert Game

I was tagged by @ceph-the-writing-spook

I'm going to tag @writingpotato07, @careful-pyromancer, and @saltysupercomputer (no pressure). If you've already done it, can you tag me in the comments, offline life got be tied up so I'm still shuffling through my feed y'all. Anyone else who wants to play along is more than welcome.

How to Play: Using this picrew, make a dessert relevant to your OC in some way or another. One they’d like, one that represents them, one they’d make for someone else...The possibilities are countless.

For mine, I did my 4 Horseman. From top left going clockwise: Deacon (Conquest), Olly (Famine), Cruz (War) and Abriella (Death).

Deacon's favorite color is red. It is the color of passion and blood, when someone is angry, they are said to "see red". He is the Horseman of Conquest and often leads legions in battles against the former Princes of Hell.

Famine is closely tied to death. Crops wither and die, leading to livestock death, and eventual death of the top being on the food chain. Eventually all that are left are the spiders and the bats and beasts who feed upon the carcasses of the deceased beings. Olly can bring both Famine and bountiful harvest, as with all the Horseman the duality of his being is why his cupcake is green.

Cruz is the Horseman of War. He is the most stoic of the Horsemen. He is quiet and subdued in all things. His armor is flat black with no adornments, his fighting leathers are the same, as is his training gear. So his cupcake is similar. It is simple and basic, vanilla, with just enough chocolate to make it decadent. On a marble plate with a crown to denote his dual position as the King of Imperium and Caligo.

Finally Abriella's cupcake. She is a dichotomy in and of herself. She is girly in some things, yet she is the Horseman of War and a strong warrior in her own right. Her two puppies, Dalton and Derp, are the key to her heart and get away with almost literal murder. Even when in heels and an evening gown, she is just as lethal as the other three Horsemen. Her mother a full angel, her father a demonic nephilim, her powers and those of her brothers are dual but hers are special because of a long ago prophecy. The Queen of Imperium and Caligo, she is also the Princess Royal of Heaven, and unlike her brother she has accepted her title there.

[adiabolikpastel]

In your universe are there other mythological/supernatural creatures besides the demons, vampires and ghouls that already exist in the canon? I mean, in your AU are there angels or witches? I remember in one panel of the Young Blood manga there are silhouettes of two dragons so it would be cool to add dragons to your story! I can imagine Karl, Burai, Ajax and the king of the wolf clan riding their own dragons.

Oh, and I'd love to see Yui in your universe, especially if she's with Carla or even Shin!

But of course! There are so many different walks of life all through the many universe. One definitely has more than the other - but that's mostly because the story allows it to be so. I’ll explain those under the cut.

I love the idea of the big Kings having dragons~ riding them into war. Though it does then bring up the level of… power? Or rather - is the Dragon in that form because it wants to be, or because that’s all I can be. Cause as we know Karl and the boys have forms they can assume.

Oooooo makes me want to create some Dragon OCs! They can be super like regal and look down on everyone! I might just do that for the big war!! I def want to expand on the Wolves too.

Tormented Reverie

In this universe there is only the addition of angles - or a guess more specifically gods that oppose the demons. Yuki is the child of a Goddess - not that he knows this - but I plan to have that be a huge part of his story. Yuuki's story though is more by the canon book - so nothing out of canon happens for her.

Tormented Reverie: Another Daydream

I am not sure if I will add in anything here. I know that Kanaye has interacted with other OCs that weren't just vampires - so that, to me, opens the door to that. Since this is a sequel to Tormented Reverie, there are for sure gods.

Excruciating Duplicity

This. This is where things have become unhinged. All of the OCs I have in this AU are outside of the norm. So if there were ever going to be things outside of demons - it would be here. Callista and Rose are both demons - so they don't really meet what you are asking. But for clarity; Callista is an Adler (Eagle) Demon and Rose is a Lupin (Rabbit) Demon.

Skye is a siren, which is the first true creature that is not some kind of demon. The new Sibling OCs I have are ... kind of in the air atm. I had originally placed them as Spider Demons. This is because the whole idea of being trapped in a web and having two of them.

Quick quick quick Mun Note: every story in both universes are meant to mirror their title. For example; Excruciating Duplicity's story lines will have themes of duality as well as something extremely painful. Where as Tormented Reverie stories have angsty fairy tale type themes.

So, yes I had originally wanted them to be spider demons - but now I'm toying with the idea of like them being not simply demons, maybe not even spiders. I kinda like the idea of snakes too - they can also wrap and entrap their 'prey'.

[marveldcnerdys]

Sentry vs. Superman: An Exploration of Power, Morality, and Inner Conflict

Introduction: Symbols of Heroism and Power

Superman and Sentry stand as towering symbols in their respective comic book universes — one a timeless beacon of hope and the other a cautionary tale of overwhelming power and psychological struggle. Superman’s bright optimism contrasts sharply with Sentry’s tortured existence. This polarity represents not just two characters but two fundamental approaches to what it means to be a hero.

While Superman’s journey revolves around living up to the values instilled by his adoptive Earth parents, Sentry’s life is a turbulent struggle with his inner demons and the consequences of his unchecked might. In both cases, readers witness different takes on the responsibilities that come with god-like power.

Chapter 1: Origins of Power — From Humble Beginnings to Living Gods

The Man of Steel’s Journey Superman, as the last son of Krypton, is instilled with a strong moral foundation by his adoptive parents, the Kents, in Smallville. His upbringing shapes him to believe in justice, compassion, and self-restraint. Stories like Superman: For All Seasons explore the burden Clark Kent feels while trying to live up to his potential without letting power corrupt his compassion.

In Superman: Birthright, Superman’s origin is revisited with a focus on his discovery of his alien heritage. His Kryptonian powers, derived from Earth’s yellow sun, could easily set him apart from humanity. However, Clark chooses to embrace his humanity, viewing his strength as a means of service rather than dominance.

“I’m here to help. That’s all I’ve ever wanted.” — Superman, Superman: Birthright

This sentiment is the core of Superman’s identity. His immense power could allow him to rule, yet he instead serves, embodying humility despite his god-like abilities.

The Sentry’s Creation and Dark Legacy In stark contrast, Robert Reynolds stumbles upon his powers by accident. He consumes a super-soldier serum that grants him “the power of a million exploding suns.” In *The Sentry* (2000), this moment is a catalyst for Sentry’s psychological descent, as his sudden transformation thrusts him into a world he’s unprepared for. Unlike Superman, who had years to grow into his abilities under the guidance of supportive parents, Sentry is alone in his struggle, forced to contend with the overwhelming force within him.

The Void, Sentry’s darker alter-ego, personifies his fears, anxieties, and the violent potential of unchecked power. The Void’s presence haunts Reynolds, lurking in his subconscious and manifesting as a destructive force whenever he falters.

“I thought I could be a hero. Instead, I’m a prisoner of my own power.” — Sentry, Sentry: Reborn

This inner duality makes Sentry’s story one of tragic isolation, exploring the price of superhuman ability when burdened with self-doubt and trauma.

Chapter 2: Powers and Abilities — The Depth of Their Strengths

Superhuman Strength: Limits vs. Limitlessness Superman’s physical feats have reached legendary levels in DC canon. From lifting the Book of Infinite Pages in *All-Star Superman* to bench-pressing the Earth for five days straight in *Action Comics #13*, Superman’s strength seems boundless. Yet his strength is as symbolic as it is literal — a testament to his enduring willpower. Superman doesn’t seek to flaunt his power; instead, he uses it to bear the world’s heaviest burdens, both physical and emotional.

“With great power comes great responsibility,” a philosophy often attributed to Spider-Man, also applies to Superman, who seeks not just to wield his power but to wield it responsibly.

Sentry’s strength is portrayed as equally, if not more, vast. In *Siege #4*, Sentry’s raw power allows him to tear through Asgard and even kill Ares. This display showcases the difference in their strength: while Superman’s is often controlled and intentional, Sentry’s is chaotic and devastating, amplified by his emotional instability. Sentry’s strength is dangerous because it is tied directly to his mental state; when he falters, his power becomes unpredictable, and when he unleashes, he loses all restraint.

Durability and Vulnerability Superman’s invulnerability is legendary. He has withstood supernovas, taken blows from gods, and survived battles with otherworldly beings. However, his Kryptonian biology leaves him vulnerable to Kryptonite and magic, a crucial reminder that even Superman has limits. His vulnerability to magic introduces unique strategic challenges in cross-universe matchups like this, as Marvel’s powers often involve mystical elements that could potentially harm him.

Sentry’s regenerative powers are unmatched, bordering on resurrection. In World War Hulk, Sentry regenerates after near-atomic destruction, making him nearly immortal. However, Sentry’s greatest vulnerability is psychological; he constantly fears the Void, which threatens to undo everything he tries to build as a hero. This instability makes his durability both a blessing and a curse, forcing him to endure not only physical pain but the emotional torment of his past misdeeds.

Chapter 3: The Inner Struggle — A Battle of Beliefs and Inner Demons

Superman’s Ethical Compass: The Reluctant God Superman’s self-imposed restraint makes him a “god who chooses to be human.” His moral beliefs often create a divide between him and other superheroes, who may view his unwillingness to kill or act with unbridled force as naïveté. However, Superman’s ideology is his greatest strength. In *Kingdom Come*, his beliefs are put to the ultimate test as he faces a world where heroes have become authoritarian. Superman’s response is to lead by example, reaffirming that true strength lies in restraint and compassion.

In All-Star Superman, one of his most poignant acts of heroism isn’t a battle but a simple interaction with a young girl contemplating suicide. Superman’s compassion and patience illustrate his understanding that sometimes the greatest heroic act is simply to be there for someone in need.

“Your doctor really did get held up in traffic. It’s never as bad as it seems.” — Superman, All-Star Superman

This scene epitomizes Superman’s belief in hope, showing that even in the face of immeasurable power, he remains grounded in human empathy.

Sentry’s Torment: A Prisoner of Power While Superman’s struggles are often with external threats, Sentry’s battles are internal. The Void, his shadowy alter-ego, represents everything dark and violent in his psyche. In Dark Avengers, we see the Void emerge in full force, and Sentry loses all sense of control, becoming a destructive force that threatens friend and foe alike. This split personality is symbolic of Sentry’s fractured mind, which constantly questions his own worthiness as a hero.

In Sentry: Fallen Sun, we witness the aftermath of a life spent in conflict with oneself. Sentry reflects on his life and realizes that, despite his intentions, he’s caused immense harm. This introspective struggle portrays Sentry as a tragic hero who is unable to free himself from the shackles of his own power and insecurity.

“I don’t want to be the Void… but I don’t know how to be just a man.” — Sentry, Sentry: Fallen Sun

This tragic duality makes Sentry a figure of both pity and terror, embodying the idea that absolute power can be as much a curse as a blessing.

Chapter 4: Philosophical Differences and Ethical Dilemmas — Hope vs. Chaos

Hope as a Core Principle Superman’s guiding principle is hope, a belief that drives him to constantly seek solutions that preserve life. His famous quote from *Action Comics* captures this sentiment well: “There is always a way to win without killing.” Superman’s hope inspires those around him, as he becomes a beacon for other heroes and humans alike. In *All-Star Superman*, his belief in redemption is highlighted in his interactions with Lex Luthor, where he tries to show Luthor that power doesn’t have to corrupt.

Sentry, however, embodies chaos and fear. His hope often falters under the weight of his insecurities, allowing the Void to take over. In *Siege*, Sentry’s descent into madness leads him to become the very thing he once feared — a destructive, mindless force. This trajectory shows that hope alone cannot sustain a hero if self-belief and stability are lacking.

I’m a hero one day, a monster the next. Maybe I’m both.”  — Sentry, Dark Avengers

Chapter 5: The Hypothetical Battle — A Clash of Philosophy and Power

Physical Feats and Power Clash The initial confrontation would be an awe-inspiring display of superhuman abilities. Superman’s heat vision, super strength, and speed would challenge Sentry’s physical resilience and energy manipulation. Sentry’s advantage, however, lies in his molecular manipulation, which could theoretically allow him to dismantle Superman at a subatomic level. If the battle were to escalate, Superman’s vulnerability to magic and Sentry’s ability to manipulate matter could make Sentry’s attacks extremely effective.

Psychological Warfare and Philosophical Conflict However, the battle would likely pivot on their psychological differences. Superman’s calm, strategic mindset could allow him to exploit Sentry’s instability. Superman, understanding the value of inner peace, might recognize the Void’s influence over Sentry and attempt to talk him down, appealing to the hero buried within Reynolds.

If the Void emerges, Superman’s moral resilience might prove to be his saving grace. His compassion could potentially reach Reynolds in a way that pure power could not, destabilizing Sentry enough for a non-lethal resolution.

Conclusion: A Reflection on Strength and Humanity

Superman and Sentry are powerful yet vulnerable in ways that reflect the complexity of their character journeys. Superman’s strength lies in his unwavering ideals and the restraint that comes from viewing his powers as a gift meant to uplift humanity. Sentry’s power, conversely, is tainted by doubt and the internal chaos of his dual existence. Their hypothetical clash would be more than just a physical battle; it would be a symbolic conflict of stability versus instability, hope versus fear, and humanity versus despair.

While a definitive victor might never be crowned, it’s evident that both Superman and Sentry represent unique interpretations of what it means to be a hero, each grappling with the burden of power in profoundly different ways.

[tokensbossh]

Marvel Symbiote Spider Man is a must-have toy for collectors

In the vast universe of action figures, few characters evoke the kind of excitement that the Symbiote Spider-Man brings to the table. Picture this: a sleek, black-clad hero with a distinctive white spider emblem sprawling across his chest, gripping fans' imaginations since his inception. This action figure, standing at 6 inches, is part of the Marvel Legends Series, and it represents the darker side of Spider-Man—a thrilling exploration of duality in a single character.

Marvel Symbiote Spider Man is a must-have toy for collectors (1) The Symbiote Spider-Man first debuted in The Amazing Spider-Man #252 back in May 1984, when Peter Parker found himself in a predicament—a living alien costume that not only enhanced his powers but also influenced his behavior. This intriguing storyline transformed the web-slinger into a darker, more complex version of himself. It’s no wonder that collectors are drawn to this particular figure, as it encapsulates the moment Spider-Man faced his inner demons while battling outer foes. Fans are particularly captivated by the figure’s design and articulation. The Marvel Legends version boasts multiple points of articulation, allowing for dynamic poses that capture the essence of this multifaceted character. Whether you're recreating iconic battle scenes or simply displaying it in your collection, the Symbiote Spider-Man action figure is bound to impress.

Marvel Symbiote Spider Man is a must-have toy for collectors (3) But wait—there's more! This figure comes with a treasure trove of accessories. Imagine having four alternate hands at your disposal, perfect for those crucial web-slinging moments or for striking that quintessential Spider-Man pose. It's these thoughtful details that elevate this figure beyond mere toy status; it becomes a homage to an iconic comic book character. In the world of collectibles, the value of a well-crafted figure can skyrocket, especially one that resonates with both nostalgic fans and new collectors alike. The Symbiote Spider-Man is often accompanied by enthusiastic reviews on platforms like Amazon and eBay, where it's celebrated not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for its craftsmanship. With prices fluctuating around $22.99 to upwards of $175, depending on exclusivity and condition, it's a must-have for anyone serious about their Marvel collection. Despite the character's dark narrative, the Symbiote Spider-Man resonates with fans for its complexity. The interplay between good and evil, hero and anti-hero, captures the essence of what makes superhero tales so compelling. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual fan, adding this figure to your collection feels like a nod to the layered storytelling of the Marvel universe. Read the full article

[britesparc]

Weekend Top Ten #654

Top Ten Magic Users in Superhero Fiction

I’m a bit busy this week so I’m going to try to do this quite quickly. Seriously, I had to deal with an unexploded bomb on Friday. I’m not even joking, although the truth may not be as exciting as the headline.

Anyway, after what feels like quite a while of me not being too bothered about TV programmes, there are a ton on the go at the moment. And by “on the go”, I mean, “stuff I want to watch that I’ve not started yet”. Kaos, Rings of Power, Only Murders in the Building, and – as of next week – Agatha All Along (I kinda feel bad about The Acolyte; I really did want to watch it, and who knows? Maybe one more viewer was all it needed to save it from cancellation). Anyway, Agatha: as may have been apparent to anyone who’s read a few of these blogs, I’m quite into the MCU. And as WandaVision is not only one of the best – if not the best – of their TV programmes, but is easily one of the best things they’ve ever done, I’m pretty excited for this semi-sequel/follow-up.

And so, to celebrate, I’m going all supernatural by looking at magic-users such as Agatha title character Agatha Harkness. Witches and wizards, yeah? Although, as it’s me, we’re inevitably going to get into questions of how “magic” is “used”. Oh, but here’s the wrinkle: I’m not just after yer common or garden sorcerers here. You won’t find any of the Istari, let alone Simon. No, today I’m specifically talking about the use of magic within a superhero setting.

Having magic users in superhero stories has always interested me. Because the main characters – Superman, Iron Man, whoever – are so fantastical anways, what added wrinkle does Actual Magic create? I don’t just mean the fact that the seemingly-invulnerable Superman is actually incredibly vulnerable to magic; I mean, if you’re (say) Batman, how do you deal with wizards in the world? Is it a threat, is it a tool? And then there’s just how “regular” heroes work alongside magic-users; I love the whole “magic with a kick!” sequence between Spider-Man and Doctor Strange in Infinity War (and then the way Peter works out the geometry of the Mirror Dimension in No Way Home). And that’s before you get to characters like Wonder Woman or Thor, who aren’t really magic, but kind of have magic infused into their power set (also, how do “gods” square up against magic in this setting?).

So lots to think about. Mostly, I guess, I like the way a superhero team book can have a street-level hero like Daredevil rubbing shoulders with aliens, wizards, and people with supreme power sets. It’s this mix of styles, genres, and tones that I love about shared superhero universes. So I think it’s all interesting!

And with no further ado, my favourite super-wizards. Sort of.

Raven: I could wax lyrical about how her spooky, demonic brand of magic sits alongside the powerset of her teammates (super-strong alien princess, shape-changing green dude, incredibly sexy acrobat); I could talk for ages about the duality of her personality, how her innate goodness struggles with the fact she’s literally a monster; but let’s be honest, the real reason I love her so much is because of her dry, sardonic, miserablist personality. Also has one of the best lines in a team-up comic: “I’m not a goth; my father is a demon. I like all kinds of music.”

Loki: whether it’s the historically more villainous character from decades of comic books; or the more nuanced, troubled, self-doubting younger version he became in Journey Into Mystery; or the phenomenal saga-spanning arc steered by Tom Hiddleston’s performance in the MCU – Loki is cool. A bastard with a genuine grievance, a wounded soul lashing out, a selfish, vainglorious little bugger who – I guess? – has a heart of gold. Plus his brand of tricksy magic is awesome.

Zatanna: straight out of the gate, I wanna say, I love her costume. Yes, I know, you can argue that it’s cheesy or even sexist; but I think it rocks. Anyway, she’s really cool, a terrifically strong and capable magic user, able to mix it up with the big guns in the Justice League, but arguably finding a bit more nuance with the weirder, messier characters on the darker fringes of the DCU. And her magical gimmick of talking backwards produces some great, and often hilarious, speech balloons.

The Scarlet Witch: Wanda’s arc in the comics is really interesting, and has sort of been reflected in the MCU. Starting out as a villain – a daughter of Magneto – she eventually joined the side of the angels, had a romance with Vision, and then went, well, doolally, with the iconic, infamous House of M and “no more mutants”. Her brand of reality-distorting chaos magic is both strange and incredibly powerful, making her distinct among other witches and wizards. Over in the MCU, her arc across Civil War and Infinity War was terrific and tragic, given further nuance and depth in WandaVision, before becoming a really creepy baddie in Multiverse of Madness.

Doctor Strange: I’ve not read loads of his comics, but I’ve always enjoyed both his superior, somewhat arrogant demeanour – he always seems to be so much smarter than everyone, with his knowledge of the arcane and mystic far above the trivial concerns of lesser heroes – as well as his seventies-style love god aesthetic. In the films, he’s been one of the most visually interesting heroes, with a sardonic sense of humour.

Doctor Doom: would be higher, but a bit like Strange, I’ve not actually read loads of comics that focus on Doom (just ones where he’s part of an ensemble). But it’s the combination of Doom’s abilities that’s intriguing; he’s a technical genius with an Iron Man-esque suit of robotic armour (and capable of creating lifelike duplicates); he’s the king of a sovereign nation, granting him diplomatic immunity; and he’s also, like, a wizard, who’s literally ventured into hell. Can even RDJ do justice to such a multifaceted character?!

Doctor Fate: so many doctors, so little time! What is it with the mystic arts and a PhD? Anyway, what I like about Fate is that, unlike Strange, he really does harken back to a mysterious and mystical past; he’s the custodian of an ancient art of magic that feels archetypal. Plus he has a tremendous sense of style; the Helmet of Fate is iconic and, frankly, fabulous. Pierce Brosnan did a fine job playing him in Black Adam, a film which was quite interesting when it didn’t feature its title character.

John Constantine: again, lower than maybe he would be because I’ve not read a lot of his solo stuff, just his team-up appearances. But, man, what a character: an absolute swaggering douche who also somehow manages to be a great hero. He looks like an alcoholic detective (and also, famously, like Sting); he smokes like a chimney; he’s earnestly self-destructive. But he knows a spell or too and, well, he’s just so damn cool. For what it’s worth – and I’ve not seen it in ages, truth be told – I really liked the Keanu Reeves film.

Black Adam: see, this is where I might be getting a bit tenuous; Black Adam (along with his fractionally-less-interesting stablemates such as Shazam/Captain Marvel, etc) definitely has magic, his whole powerset informed by it; but does he use it, or is it just the source of his powers? I mean, he literally says a magic word to transform into Black Adam, so I guess he counts? Anyway, I love his characterisation, someone who straddles the line between villain and anti-hero so well. His arc in Countdown, and his subsequent massacre of an entire nation, is tragic and powerful.

The Spectre: again, a character where I’ve sort of ummed-and-ahhhed over their use of magic. The Spectre’s whole deal is inflicting ironic punishments on evildoers; he’s basically God’s judgement. This is a great hook; it’s pushed further by he fact that he has to bond with a human soul, so there’s this whole angst thing where the bloke who’s also the Spectre doesn’t really like what he’s having to do. It’s a really great concept (and could have made for a cool indie movie adaptation about 25 years ago). And, I mean, he definitely uses magic, right? He once turned someone into a candle and lit them. Batman can’t do that.

[the-mortuary-witch]

LILITH

WHO IS SHE?

In Demonic and Jewish culture, Lilith is the first Eve or wife of Adam, she refused Adams’ advances and attempts to subvert her power, independence, and inherent equality. She is the Queen of Demons and and the wife of Samael, from whom came the succubi. She is the Infernal Moon and Queen of the Infernal Sabbat. She does have an angelic aspect as well, that of being a protectress of mothers and children (duality). Her nature is that of feminine fertility, seduction, and the cycles of the Moon, and perhaps one of the reasons she is considered “evil” being her ability to seduce, to take what she wishes, and disregard those who displease her. She is feminine strength and individualized focus. As Samael (the Serpent) is considered, according to gender, to be the Daemon of Wizards and Warlocks, Lilith is the Patroness and Queen of Witches.

Lilith is the great mother and is also associated with fertility. Food offerings to Lilith should be ritually consumed without delay. Any offerings that are not consumed should be disposed of in a way that shows respect for the spirit of Lilith. For example, the offered food could be left outside for the animals to feed on, or it could be buried in the earth.

BASIC INFO:

Appearance: Lilith's appearance can vary depending on the artistic depiction or interpretation. Generally, she is portrayed as a beautiful and seductive figure, with long dark hair, large expressive eyes, and a seductive and sensual presence. She is often depicted as being bare-chested or wearing revealing clothing, and is often shown as a powerful seducer or seductress. Lilith's appearance is often designed to portray her as an alluring and alluring female figure, who is confident and unapologetic in her sexuality and independence.

Personality: Lilith is typically portrayed as a powerful and dominant figure, who is unapologetic in her sexuality and self-expression. She defies the conventional conventions of society and proudly flaunts her individualism. She is often interpreted as a symbol of the dark feminine, and is therefore linked to concepts such as passion, sexuality, independence, and freedom. She is also associated with independence and strength, and she is not afraid to take risks or speak her mind. Lilith embraces her power and sexuality, and revels in the freedoms that come with it.

Symbols: sword, pentagram, scythe, moon, dragon, snake, crossroad, dark moon, and pentacle

Goddess of: love, demons, beauty, wisdom, life, rebirth, fertility, motherhood, inner-strength, illumination, mysteries, spiritual initiation, the night, and The Evening Star

Culture: Demonic and Jewish

Plants and trees: apple, poisonous plants (like belladonna, hemlock, and mugwort), sandalwood, rose, dandelion, red hibiscus, witch hazel, lilac, and patchouli

Crystals: amethyst, black onyx, rose quartz, garnet, obsidian, clear quartz, red jasper, jet, black moonstone, labradorite, red carnelian, tigers eye, amber, bloodstone, black tourmaline, arsenopyrite, and melanite garnet

Animals: black cats, snakes, owls, dogs, spiders, bats, and goats

Incense: frankincense, dragons blood, jasmine, sandalwood, rose, and black amber

Colours: red, black, purple, blue, green, silver, and gold

Numbers: 3 and 666

Zodiacs: Aries and Scorpio

Tarot: The Devil

Planets: Mars, Pluto, and Venus

Days: Monday, Friday, Beltane, Samhain, Walpurgis, Halloween, and Yule

Parents: N/A

Siblings: N/A

Partner: Samael, Asmodeus, Lucifer, and Adam (formally)

Children: unnamed succubus’ and incubus’

MISC:

• Venus: is associated with love, beauty, sexuality, fertility, and femininity, all of which are key aspects of Lilith's spheres of influence.

• Scorpio: the zodiac sign Scorpio is associated with intense energy, power, and transformation, which are all key aspects of Lilith's spheres of influence and her connection to the underworld and the occult.

• Shadows: Lilith is also associated with shadows and the darkness. In many traditions, the Underworld and the realm of the dead are associated with shadows and darkness. This is a reflection of Lilith's role as a Goddess of the Underworld and death, as well as her connection to the occult and the metaphysical realm.

• Feminism: Lilith is the patron Goddess of feminists and feminists organizations, because she is a symbol of strength, independence, and sexual empowerment.

• Stars and crescent: symbolizes her connection to female power and divinity.

• Her rebellious personality, fierce, and independent nature.

• Connections to the dark and mysterious forces of the night.

• Emotional disposition: Lilith's temperamental disposition and personality could also stem from her emotional temperament and internal feelings.

• Snake: she is sometimes depicted as half-woman, half-snake. This symbolizes her connection to the animal kingdom and her fierce and mysterious nature.

• Moon: often associated with Lilith's connection to femininity and the cyclical nature of the female body (menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, etc).

• Purple: also a colour that often symbolizes Lilith's connection to her status as the great Goddess of femininity and female sexuality.

• Crown: Lilith is often depicted as a powerful and majestic Queen, clad in a crown and regalia. This symbolizes her status as a Goddess of power and leadership.

• Bow and Arrow: Lilith is sometimes depicted with a bow and arrow, symbolic of her power and strength and her ability to hunt and kill her enemies.

• Apple: a traditional symbol of knowledge and wisdom, which aligns with Lilith's connection to knowledge and learning.

• Goat: Lilith is also often associated with the goat, which represents her connection to the animal kingdom and her passion and fury.

• Rose: the rose motif is often used to represent Lilith's connection to beauty and her association with love.

FACTS ABOUT LILITH:

• Role: Lilith is the "mother" of demons in Jewish folklore and is said to be the first woman, created from the same dust as Adam but before Eve.

• Origin: she is said to have been banished from the Garden of Eden for not following Adam's commands, and was cast out for being unruly and unwilling to submit.

• Name: Lilith is named after a Hebrew word for "night" or "dark" and is often associated with the night and the Underworld.

• Symbolism: the demon Lilin (also written Lilith, Lilitu, or Lillit) was originally used as the personification of night and darkness.

• Association with night: Lilith is often associated with the night and the darkness, and is believed to be the source of nightmares and evil dreams.

• Connection to demons: she is also believed to be the mother of many demons, including the succubus and the incubus.

• Relationship with Lucifer: Lilith is often associated with the fallen angel, Lucifer and in some versions of the story, they are depicted as being lovers.

• Connections: she is connected to the night demon Pazuzu as his female counterpart, and also to the night demon Lam(a).

• Beliefs: in Jewish mythology, Lilith was originally seen as a demonic figure responsible for infant mortality and miscarriages. The story of Lilith was used to reinforce the patriarchy's view of women as inferior and powerless.

• Evolution: Lilith has gone through many different interpretations and versions, but her status as a symbol of women's empowerment and liberation has been a consistent theme in modern times.

HOW TO INVOKE LILITH:

To work with  Lilith, you should approach her with respect and humility. She is a powerful goddess and has been known to punish those who do not treat her with proper respect. Offer prayers, libations, and offerings to her, and speak to her with respect, awe, and humility. She is a goddess of darkness and femininity, so you can use the darkness or moonlight in your rituals to create a more intimate and sacred environment. You can also use black candles and other symbols of femininity to further connect with her.

PRAYER FOR LILITH:

"Mother Lilith, Lady of the Night, I humbly come before you in search of wisdom and knowledge. I seek enlightenment and freedom, and I am ready to release my fear and self-limiting beliefs. Please guide me on my path, and open my heart to the love and power that you bring. Let me find strength, passion, and purpose in my life, as I strive to live more intentionally and truly.”

"And now I bid you farewell, Mother Lilith. I acknowledge the blessings you have given me, and I thank you for your guidance and teachings. Hail to you, and may we cross paths again in the future. So be it, Hail Lilith.”

SIGNS THAT LILITH IS CALLING YOU:

• Strong connection or attraction to Lilith.

• A desire to explore or study Lilith's teachings.

• Wanting to explore your own sexuality and find power and empowerment in your femininity.

• A desire to challenge the patriarchy and embrace your own unique identity.

• Desire to explore your own dark side or find strength in your shadows.

• A feeling of being guided by a force outside yourself.

• Feeling of being called to a higher purpose or feeling like there is more to your life than just everyday existence.

OFFERINGS:

• Black candles, black stones, or black crystals.

• Honey.

• Champagne.

• Seductive perfume.

• Fancy jewelry.

• Tea.

• Exercise. 

• Having passionate sex.

• Swords and daggers.

• Pomegranates.

• Dark chocolate.

• Dragon’s blood.

• Flowers and herbs: lilies, red roses, sage, basil, mugwort, and rose.

• Dancing.

• Red wine.

• Clay.

• Depictions of owls, snakes, cats, dogs, bats, dragons, and spiders.

• Mirrors.

• Apples.

• Red or black silk.

• Poetry

DEVOTIONAL ACTS:

• Respect the rights and autonomy of women and females.

• Honour your feminine side and your sexuality.

• Nurture your creativity.

• Embrace your dark side and your primal nature.

• Embrace your sexuality and your desires.

• Learn to balance your masculine and feminine energies.

• Be independent and strong.

• Do research on Lilith’s origins.

• Be unapologetic and free.

[musicofdoom]

Mark Linkous: A Life of Dramatic Resilience and Beautiful Music

In the world of music, some artists possess a unique ability to turn their personal struggles and hardships into the most beautiful and poignant melodies. Mark Linkous, the creative genius behind the band Sparklehorse, was one such artist. His life was marked by dramatic ups and downs, but through it all, he crafted some of the most hauntingly beautiful music of his generation.

Mark Linkous was born on September 9, 1962, in Arlington, Virginia, and grew up in rural Appalachia, an environment that would later influence his musical style profoundly. He began his musical journey at a young age, playing guitar and experimenting with various instruments. Linkous' early years were filled with the sounds of folk, country, and rock music, which he would later blend into his own unique sonic tapestry.

In the early 1990s, Mark Linkous embarked on his musical career, adopting the moniker "Sparklehorse" for his solo project. His debut album, "Vivadixiesubmarinetransmissionplot," released in 1995, received critical acclaim and marked the beginning of his ascent into the indie music scene. Linkous' music was characterized by its ethereal beauty and melancholic undertones, making it a perfect soundtrack for moments of introspection and contemplation.

Despite struggling with personal demons and mental health issues, Linkous continued to create music that resonated deeply with listeners. His 1998 album, "Good Morning Spider," delved into themes of addiction and isolation, but the haunting melodies and poetic lyrics offered a sense of catharsis and connection to those who listened.

Throughout his career, Mark Linkous collaborated with a diverse range of artists, from Tom Waits to PJ Harvey, showcasing his versatility as a musician and his ability to create music that transcended genre boundaries. These collaborations enriched his body of work and brought new dimensions to his sound.

One of Linkous' most notable collaborations was with Danger Mouse (Brian Burton) on the album "Dark Night of the Soul" (2010). This project featured contributions from several prominent artists, including David Lynch and Julian Casablancas. The album's dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere and Linkous' haunting vocals made it a masterpiece that left a lasting impact on the music industry.

Behind the beauty of Mark Linkous' music lay a dark and tumultuous personal life. Struggles with substance abuse and depression haunted him throughout his career, and he often used his music as a medium to confront and cope with these demons. The song "Sad and Beautiful World" from his album "It's a Wonderful Life" (2001) encapsulates this duality, offering both melancholic introspection and a glimmer of hope.

In 1996, tragedy struck when Linkous overdosed on a combination of drugs while touring in the United Kingdom. He suffered a heart attack and fell into a coma for two weeks. His near-death experience left him with lasting health issues, including limited mobility, and influenced his music profoundly. Despite the physical challenges, Linkous continued to create and tour, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his craft.

Mark Linkous' life was a rollercoaster of dramatic highs and lows, but his ability to channel his pain and struggles into beautiful music was nothing short of remarkable. He left behind a legacy of haunting melodies, introspective lyrics, and a profound impact on the indie music scene. Mark Linkous' music, under the guise of Sparklehorse, continues to inspire and connect with listeners around the world, serving as a testament to the enduring power of art to heal and uplift even in the face of adversity. His life may have been marked by dramatic challenges, but his music will forever be remembered for its extraordinary beauty and emotional depth.

[its-kall-the-clown]

Please 12 or 27 for SilkTea it’s such a comfort ship to me plsss. ;-;

Yo. Anon. You and me would totes get along because it's my comfort ship too (っ˘з(˘⌣˘ ) I went with 27 because it had more potential some romance fdshgljdfs

Consider this a continuation of THIS

Huntsman is the definition of a tsundere jkdfgjsdfg

prompt list

All The Things You Don't Deserve

Rating: PG

Sandy was just cleaning and re-dressing Huntsman's wounds. Something he had done a few times now while he had Huntsman under his care. They always did it on his bed, it was more comfortable for them both anyways. Sandy also always reserved this task for the end of the day so Huntsman could then go to bed and rest comfortably with fresh clean bandages.

But today it was different. They were more stiff than normal, even when he applied the herbal salve that always had the spider melting under his touch he remained as stiff as a rod.

"You alright?" Sandy asked the spider demon under his care who jump at his words, which is odd because he has been tending to his wounds on his back for the past ten minutes and hasn’t gone anywhere. Were they so lost in their head they forgot he was here?

It wouldn't be the first time. Huntsman had a habit of just zoning off, at first he thought they were sulking, but after studying after the first few times it happened he realized that Huntsman’s fist was always tight and his jaw would be clenched tight and his eyes would sometimes dart back and forth like he was looking for something.

It's then that Sandy realized that Huntsman suffered from panic attacks.

He could never quite figure out what was triggering them, sometimes it was loud noises, sometimes it would be if Sandy stood behind him too close. And sometimes none of it triggered it.

“I’m fine.” they bite out bringing Sandy back from his musing.

“You sure?” he presses the palm of his hand against the spine of the spider's bareback. They shiver under the touch and he can feel their heart beating quickly. The rapid beat snapping back and forth inside the demon's chest.

“Because your heart is pounding right now…” he reaches around and presses his hand against the exposed chest over the huntsman’s heart. It leaps under the contact picking up its pace. Their breath hitches but they shut their eyes tightly and the spider demon turns their head away, refusing to even look at him.

Sometimes Sandy wonders if he’s the only one feeling this attraction. He thought he was picking up signals? Seeing signs that they were interested too but then it would disappear beneath the surface and Sandy would begin to doubt what he saw.

He sighs and retracts his hand when Huntsman keeps his lips sealed tight.

Sandy wasn’t going to get anywhere tonight if he continued to press. Maybe he would never get anywhere and he was only harassing the spider demon in ways that were not welcome. He finishes his task, using fresh gauze to wrap up Huntsman’s wounds and then he helps them back into the oversized shirt that he would sleep in.

He pulls away after that, creating space for his patient. He never wanted to crowd them or make them feel like he was forced to do anything.

Plants always did better when they had space to grow, and Sandy thinks that advice works just as well on people as it does on plants.

“I’ll let you rest.”

He’s rising from the side of the bed ready to turn in for the night. Before he can even get a foot away from the bed there is a hand on his wrist holding him in place.

“Where….where do you sleep? When you leave me here…” Huntsman asked, frowning at the sheets like they offended him. There is a slight plum blush that dusts his face. Once against making Sandy think there was a signal for him.

“I sleep on the sofa,” he explains. Ready to pull away again for the night but the grip around his wrist tightens again keeping his feet anchored in place.

“That doesn't sound very comfortable…” they squirm in place, looking adorable in one of Sandy’s shirts that act as a sleep gown on the Spider demon. He waits for them to continue, they clearly have more to say but he isn’t sure what yet.

Huntsman huffs and scoots over a little bit.

Sandy blinks and he watches them scoot over again, creating even more space on the bed. Not once has he let go of his wrist.

Huntsman looks at him with his multiple eyes, then looks to the empty space he’s created.

And then it clicks.

An invitation.

Well call Sandy selfish but he wanted the invitation to be hand-delivered and read out loud for him so there could be no room for misinterpreting. He smirks a lazy smile and leans over the bed into Huntsman’s space, he prompts himself up with a hand on the mattress.

He leans into Huntsman’s space, getting as close as the spider would allow. He smiles brightly at them and waits. He could be patient. If there was one thing he was good at, it was waiting.

The spider's face scrunches up, emotions flashing across his face faster than either of them have time to process. Looks like he needed a little push to get the words out.

“Well...goodnight.” he fakes pulling away, not even needing to go through with it because both hands grab his arm now.

“You can sleep here….you know if you want.” they offer finally and Sandy smiles brightly.

"Only if you're comfortable with it." Giving huntsman a way out if he wanted.

"It's fine…." Huntsman scoots over again giving half the bed to him.

"Pardon the intrusion then~" the be dips with his added weight and he finds himself under the covers of his bed. He will admit that the sofa wasn't as comfortable as his bed and he lets out a content sigh to be under his covers.

He pushes his luck and throws a protective arm over Huntsman's body as soon as they are comfortable under the covers. He tries not to laugh when he hears them let out a little squeak under his touch.

"Goodnight~"

--------------------

What. The. Fuck???!

Huntsman could only feel his heart beating erratically in his chest.

He already was struggling with keeping his heart rate down around Sandy. But now???

What the fuck was he thinking? Inviting Sandy into the bed with him?

Idiot. His brain must be broken, or maybe the tea Sandy has been feeding him has actually been poison and it has been affecting his thinking powers.

Yes, that must be the answer.

Today's experiments had been... inconclusive. He still couldn't figure out what about Sandy made his heartbeat like this. He couldn't tell if he was afraid of them? Felt safe around them? Hated him? Liked him??

No definitely not that last one.

So maybe inviting Sandy into the bed was another experiment. If he had more time with them maybe he could figure out why this unmanned feeling kept rising in his chest every time they were around it kept bubbling up and every time he touched him his body stopped working.

He had to figure out what Sandy was doing to him so he could stop it.

So here he was, stiffly laying in bed, in one of Sandy's oversized shirts that fell to his knees and the object of his problem.

He could hear Sandy breathing behind him and he curls his knees to his chest making himself as small as possible. He catches himself on the weak action and uncurls himself.

He would not be made weak. He would not submit under whatever Sandy was to him.

He was strong! A hunter! And he would conc-

An arm is thrown across his body interrupting his thoughts like a collapsing bridge. The large blue arm brings Huntsman closer, pressing his back to Sandy's chest as they mutter a goodnight.

He lets out a little surprised squeak and he feels rather than heard the low chuckle from Sandy's chest. That damn hand finding it's way to his hip again where it rubbed gently through the fabric.

He realizes once again he's being played with. Just a teddy bear to be used for the larger demon.

"Your not playing fair…" he growls out flexing his claws in his fist and there is another low rumble of a chuckle against his back.

"All's fair in love and war.." they explain the words vibrating down his back and into his soul.

Something clicks. And it's so loud in his mind it makes him stop breathing. Dangerous thoughts fill the spider's head and he's terrified of every single one of them.

He's faced countless dangers, killed enemies twice his size, and endured injuries that would drive a normal person mad.

None of that scared him.

But the thought of being loved was petrifying.

"Which…"

"Hmm?"

Huntsman licks his lips and shuts his eyes tightly his body is shaking, all the dangerous ideas filling him up and shaking him around like an eight ball.

"Which .. one are you playing…" he asked, this time his knees did curl into himself. He didn't have much time to hide because he's being turned around with large gentle hands and the bed dips from the shifted weight.

Sandy is above him. Arms on either side of his head, boxing him in as they hover over him like an empty threat.

His breath hitches when Sandy's eyes meet his. They are like two gems, sparkling in the low light and as precious as sapphire.

"What do you want me to play at?" They asked, their voice taking on the husky tone that makes the hairs on the back of Huntsman's neck stand up.

Once again his heart is out of control. Beating frantically against his will in his chest like a trapped hummingbird. With Sandy over him...something akin to anticipation grows. He realizes that Sandy is waiting for him to answer.

It was all on him. Everything was in his court.

He licks his lips again, opening his mouth with a few false starts before his jaw clicks shut again.

"I don't ….I don't know." He admits and Sandy gives him this sympathetic smile.

They lean forward and Huntsman's breath hitches again, he shuts his eyes waiting for what would come. He feels the most gentle and delicate kiss pressed to his eyelids. Each one of his four eyes is gently kissing. Not a single one was left out.

He lets out a little whimper under each one. The duality of his brain confuses him.

It's too much. It's not enough. He wants more. He doesn't deserve it.

He thinks Sandy will kiss him for real, he can feel the breath against his lips, hovering slightly over him. He opens his mouth with a little desperate gasp.

The kiss never comes and he opens his eyes to see Sandy pulling away.

"Let me know when you do. I can wait."

The cold he feels when Sandy pulls away and lays back down goes bone-deep.

Huntsman just lets his body sink into the mattress. His heart is pounding and his eyes feel heavy. Not because they were tired, the touch of Sandy just lingered...if he closed his eyes again he could feel the weight of his lips on them.

He wants that.

He realizes how desperately he wants this. He wants to be treated gently, he wants to be held gently and treasured like he's valuable and kissed softly and melt under the heat that was Sandy.

He turns his back to Sandy’s, curling himself protectively.

He wants it. He wants it so bad his body physically aches for touch. He must have some sort of disease to want to be touched so badly.

He wants it and yet….he knows he can’t have it. His wounds were almost healed and he would be returning to his queen soon. He would leave this wonderful little world.

A world of tea, warmth, and cats. A cozy world of tender touch and kind eyes.

It was a wonderland, and he was Alice, eventually, he would have to leave too. He hides his disappointment to the realization in between his ribs. He tucks it away and locks it uptight.

He didn’t deserve to let the feeling flourish.

[you-cant-spell-subtext-without]

I’m back on my bullshit and we have GOT TO TALK about 13x08 The Scorpion and the Frog; which serves as a good example of why you should not ONLY watch spn episodes with Cas (partially because of that scene I shamefully blogged about earlier - no I will not link that cursed post here).  The episode title comes from a fable in which the villain is the scorpion.  Interpretations of this fable note its uniqueness lies in the concept that “the scorpion is irrationally self destructive and fully aware of it.”

To quote the scorpion, buddies -  “it’s in my nature.”

Anyway, this episode is subtextually predicated on exploring Dean Winchester’s nature and specifically - his bisexuality, and I’m not only saying that because it opens with Dean in his Bi Colors Plaid (that also he wore on his burger date with Cas).

Let’s get started, after the cut!

Season 13 on its face gives me absolute whiplash because it starts widow arc-reunion-TOMBSTONE and then Jack yeets himself off to Chuck knows where so Cas can go out Looking For Him Because Otherwise He Will Definitely Kiss Dean there is no other option for the writers at this point.  Sigh.  Here, have another shot of Dean anxiously cleaning his gun as he always does when Cas has Gone Off For Reasons -

Anyway, this feels like a filler episode at first, but as always they bury the ENTIRE damn world in it and I am here with my dossier to Unearth It.

Lets start with Bart (demon of terrible nicknames and microagressions) meeting the brothers at Smile Diner to talk about some spell or whatever. 

(I am not thinking about the Cherry Pie meta I AM NOT)

THEY HAVE THE AUDACITY to start with these lines immediately introducing the theme of duality, a thread throughout this episode.

BARTHAMUS

Everything. I've been following your careers a long time. You're a real pain in the pitchfork. And the halo. Natural disrupters. We have that in common, you and I. DEAN

Mm. Yeah, we're twinsies.

***MORE DUALITY!  But as we know, Dean does not like Bart because He Is A Freakin’ Demon

DEAN

Well, see, here's the thing. When a demon tells us to jump, we don't ask how high. We just ice their ass.

UMMM excuse me Barting Bacting Boices?  What is that sexual gaze?  

Then we find out that Bart has 1/2 of the spell.  They need the other 1/2.  Oh, a spell with two parts, you say? [ I am going to scream :) ]

***Also, Dean eats the pie Bart ordered.  I cannot begin to explain to you the state of unwellness that I am in regarding how important this is. DEAN NEVER GETS TO EAT THE PIE, remember?  But in This Filler Episode, Dean eats the pie. While Sam looks at him with a very quizzical expression.  Pie -> what Dean wants but never actually gets -> Dean actively eating this pie.  Dean is coming to terms that maybe he can have what he wants.

***I am reminding you again that this is post widower-arc, post-reunion, and especially post-Tombstone.  Anyway-

Now we get to Smash and Grab.  Not literally even though I want to Commit Such Conduct at this point.  We are introduced to two one off characters named 

Smash (human/female presenting) -  can crack any safe built by man 

and Grab (demon/male presenting)-  expert in bypassing supernatural security.

Reaching or no, you can’t disagree that when spn introduces one off characters - it is almost always a Narrative Parallel or Mirror.

So we have a human and a demon (and Dean Winchester, a human who has been a demon)

who are experts in cracking open/bypassing something that has been secured and guarded (breaking down walls, if you will).  

They also use fake names identifying them as Tools to be Used ( Dean Winchester, the Michael Sword/daddys blunt little instrument)

BONUS:

Dean himself is literally used as a tool in this episode.

So yeah.  Smash and Grab are physical representations of Dean’s duality.  Human/Demon.  Femininity/Masculinity.  Dare we say something else, too?

Anyway, Dean is paired with Smash and Grab; Sam is off to idk negotiate weird artifact purchases lawboy style with Luther Shrike, a man who cannot die so long as he never leaves his house (I cannot even begin to unpack this shit; please just sit there and think about it.  I’m not even going there here.  I CANNOT DISCUSS Luther Shrike RN).

Speaking of things I cannot discuss without halgdhsag;lsa - Smash has very Specific boots (a look overall, really).

DEAN

Hey, Winona. The '90s called. They'd like their shoes back. SMASH

Shh.

***That’s right girl - do not take his shit; he actually LOVES them and is therefore Overcompensating for it with this little jab.

***Dean’s pop culture references and particular attention to the details here Should Not Be Overlooked.  90s! Winona! Ryder!

ANYWAY, then Dean and Smash bond over a caffeinated beverage -

[While Dean is doing a spell, Smash opens a can of drink, takes a mouthful and burps loudly. ] SMASH

Ahh. DEAN

You're weird.

***This scene makes me literally insane. (even aside from Dean living on something named NERVE DAMAGE as a KID.  They could have called it anything. You’re saying this wasn’t a Choice)  

She chugs a swallow of the drink and burps.  Something stereotypically associated with masculinity.  Not feminine.  Dean’s reaction is that she is “weird” - because she is not acting in a way stereotypically, J*hn Winchester brain-rot patriarchy bullshit-tily associated with Being Female.  But also, says the stupid show, they like the same soda.  They are The Same.  She shares the soda with Dean.  HIS FACE WHEN SHE DOES -

Other similarities are addressed throughout the episode (they are working for demons because they have no choice; they don’t discuss feelings/emotions, they both sold their soul, they both This Thing - 

DEAN

You know, we could help you. SMASH

No, you can't. I gotta take care of me.

etc. etc.) Smash is absolutely dean-coded.

****Also it’s textually established that Smash thinks Dean is attractive -

GRAB

[looking at Smash] Oh. You said he was just a pretty face. SMASH 

Shh.

***But Grab flirts with him too.

DEAN

I will kill you. GRAB

I bet you say that to all the girls.

***sorry, Grab - you won’t get far with Dean, but only because as he mentioned in the beginning of this episode - 

Drowley rights.

Now Dean has to put his hand in the mouth of this stone lion thing and all of a sudden he is acting....very-not-like-Dean.

[Dean looks again and takes a deep breath.] DEAN

I… how about this? What if I cut myself, put it on, like, a little piece of paper? We'll just wad it up and throw it in the mouth, okay? Okay. 

***Dean Winchester, who has been to Literal HELL, who has been torn apart by hellhounds, who has battled the devil and angels and God’s sister - all at the expense of his own life is now - afraid of spiders.  Well, technically he has always been afraid of spiders, but why isn’t ‘he being performative about it At This Time??

***Come to think of it, this sends me right back to how Jackles was playing Dean in 12x11 Regarding Dean THE episode dissecting Dean’s performative masculinity [one day I will clean up and post that analysis sitting in my drafts like a sad hamster]. That makes sense actually, because -> -> ->

that episode and this one are both written by Meredith Glynn.  Girl get in I want to torture you affectionately with a barrage of questions.

So here we have Dean and he’s not performing for Reasons, and he’s scared he’s genuinely scared of putting his hand in this stone lion-gargoyle-pig-creature’s mouth and then -

Smash gives him a push.

She gives him a push.  I cannot stop thinking about how she gives him a push.  A push to go do this thing that he is scared of; his fear being something he was hiding under his performative masculinity. Smash - dean coded dean mirror who does not perform femininity and is ‘weird’ -  she   gives   him   a     p u s h.

***linking here for the jackting joices that follow.

Now, let’s circle back to Smash’s story; why she is working for Bart in the first place -

SMASH

You think I wanna be here? Like I have a choice? SAM

You made a deal. SMASH

Wow! You think? SAM

You sold your soul. SMASH

And if I could take it back, I would. 

there is no reason for this picture here other than I needed you to see the jackting again

***How does the story end for Smash?

DEAN

Take care of you. [Dean glances down at the box, and then at Smash. She sees that Dean has put a lighter on top of the bones.]  BARTHAMUS

Alice, chop chop! 

[Bart indicates she should get his bones]. SMASH

Yeah. [She grabs the lighter and sets Bart's bones alight. Bart screams as he bursts into flames. ] 

***She accepts help and breaks free from the narrative, literally burning it down. The female presenting but not female-performing “weird” ooc representing a side of Dean breaks FREE because she makes a choice.  The lighter Dean drops? It’s a push.  And she goes with it.

Alice reclaims her story.

(Also, Grab gets ganked.  The male presenting ooc; the performative masculinity side; the demon; the darkness; the not-humanity - gets ganked).

Guess what Dean says to Alice when they say goodbye?

DEAN

Hey, Alice. Stay weird.

[I know the peace sign is probably just a Charlie throwback but I’d still like to say duality.  Two. ]

Dean’s not just talking to Alice.  He’s talking to himself; because the walls have been breached and for once Dean isn’t as scared of being different.  Maybe, just maybe, he’s going along with the push.  That’s exactly how the episode ends - with Dean feeling a little more hopeful, a little more at peace; a little more Considering he is capable of not only loving Cas but also not hating himself for it. 

[until the knowledge that Mary is still alive and the guilt of allowing himself ANY happy thoughts instead of looking for her miserably rears its ugly head in 13x09 and round and round we go but for NOW at least -> ]

DEAN

I'll drink to that.

(oh look Dean is just wearing his henley.  It’s almost as if a layer has been peeled back).

tagging @im-shaking-like-milk​ and @deanwasalwaysbi​ for letting me ramble on to them while writing this; and @lilac-void​ because you are always so kind about my stuff :)

[screpdoodle]

Duality - Chapter Select

(Thought I'd make a more organized chapter index for the series, that way it's easier to navigate)

* Cover Page/Blurb * Prologue * Chapter One - The Diabolical Ways of the Deciduous Demon Outside my Window * Chapter Two - The Idiosyncrasies Caused by the Troll Agenda * Chapter Three - The Plan to end all Plans (at least the plan to sink the ship) * Chapter Four - The Meddling of the Undead is a Pain in my Side * Chapter Five - The Spider Caught in the Fly's Web * Chapter Six - The Tick, Tick... Boom * Chapter Seven - The Aftermath of an Almost Victory * Chapter Eight - The Irony of the Situation is Palpable * Chapter Nine - The Garden of Secretive Secrets * Chapter Ten - The Grumbletown * Chapter Eleven - The Directions are Merely an Afterthought * Chapter Twelve - The Great Escape

More chapters will be added as the book is updated You can also read it on my Wattpad and AO3 if you prefer those sites for stories