#the saga of the mantle

[queer-ragnelle]

The Saga of the Mantle | More quotes at Arthuriana Daily

[diltonsstrangescience]

You may recall. From the tags of a certain post. That I was hesitant to predict, one way or another, whether there would be a fifth use of fake agent doubles before the end of my book of comics. (I think it has all the comics from this AU.)

Based on the ratio of comics with and without these plans, it seemed too statistically unlikely to predict that it would happen again within the last two.

Based on the absolute nonsense that happens throughout these comics, as well as the frequency of highly improbable callbacks (i.e. snakes, cows, ventriloquism), using fake doubles again in the eleventh hour would be just the kind of stunt they would pull, and I’d be a fool to be surprised by it the fifth time it happens.

So I did not predict one way or another. And I was STILL WRONG ON BOTH COUNTS!

In the very last comic in this book, the P.O.P. agents did use fake versions of themselves as decoys again! But not the physical mannequin-like dummies they’ve used every time previously. They’ve UPGRADED! They’ve got NEW FANCY PROJECTO-IMAGE TECHNOLOGY! That’s a whole different category of decoy! Similar to previous techniques, sure, but different enough that it still somehow managed to catch me off guard!

After how much unnecessary overthinking I’ve invested into this whole fake doubles thing, this was the PERFECT satisfying conclusion. What a twist!

[weirdmarioenemies]

Name: Malibut

Debut: Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga

SCIENCE FACT! ⬆️ that's not a fish

Can you tell what you're looking at here? I feel like this sprite is rather busy. Well, it is a red cartoony octopus, wearing a blue nightcap and a brown eyemask, lying on a pillow, with a snot bubble on the top of its big lips. If you encountered this for the first time and got confused, hoping that its name would clear things up... Nope! I'm sorry! This gets a name implying Evil Flatfish!

I don't think about flatfish nearly as much as I should! They are so awesome and silly! To them, they are normal, though! A halibut will look at a human and recoil in disgust, for what self-respecting creature keeps its eyes in one place its whole life? It's unethical to not let them explore! Malibut's design has absolutely nothing to do with halibuts, but I can Halibut Headcanon. Its sleeping mask is brown and mottled, and can be easily interpreted as a halibut itself! A flatfish as a sleeping mask sounds like something a semi-parody mermaid would have on Cartoon Network. I think it is something a funny octopus could do, too!

Oh no! All my exclaimation points have woken it up, and it checked the clock, and it has to be up for work in seven minutes, and that's not enough time to fall back asleep and rest anymore. And boy is it mad! I should compliment it to make it feel better. First of all, I like the purple star on its pillow. Very nice. But most of all, Malibut actually has a good Japanese name! It is named after a sea urchin. I swear it works!

This is the Japanese sea biscuit, whose common name is Tako no Makura, meaning Octopus's Pillow. How whimsical! It is the pillow an octopus would rest its bulbous, squishy mantle upon. Is it unethical to use a living creature as a pillow? Well, keep in mind I headcanon this octopus to also wear a halibut on its face all night. It's rude! It puts the Mal in Malibut!

[mamawasatesttube]

i feel like playing kon-el-themed eleven truths and a lie again!!!

[fuckyeaharthuriana]

Arthurian non fiction recommendation list

I don't talk much about non fiction arthuriana because I usually don't read much of it but I have an immense love for some specific arthurian non fiction books.

I am not really interested in historical Arthur, but I love to see the evolution and addition of arthurian elements in literautre through time and space. For this reason, my absolute favorite is the series "The Arthur of the..."

Here are some:

Arthur of the Welsh (the one I always take with me! It has information of the triads, early Welsh texts and poems, Culhwch and Olwen and the Mabinogion arthurian texts)

Arthur of the French (in particular has a section about Arthur in modern French movies and fiction!)

Arthur of the Italians (this I did not check as I read the texts in Italian, but I know it has information on the Rustichello da Pisa text, the Tavola Ritonda and i Cantari, the ones with Gaia as a character)

Arthur of the Low Countries (one of my favorite because it has full summaries of some Dutch texts that are impossible to find in English like Walewein, Moriaen, Walewein ende Keye, Roel Zemel)

Arthur of the North (has some summaries of some really hard to find stuff arthurian like Ívens saga, Erex saga, Parcevals saga, various Nordic ballads, Hærra Ivan Leons riddare)

Arthur of the Germans (another good one! It has info on a bunch of German texts that are hard to find like Wigamur, various fragments, Tristan traditions)

Arthur of Medieval Latin literature (for the older stuff, like Geoffrey of Monmouth, Nennius and Life of Saints)

Arthur of the English (if you are really into Malory)

Arthur of the Iberians (I have not fully delved into this, but the chapters seem to be about the reception of arthurian matter in Spain and Portugal)

Basically, different authors tackle the arthurian traditions (more or less obscure) from different areas and time periods.

In general, if you like Welsh arthuriana anything written by Rachel Bromwich will be your friend, especially "Trioedd Ynys Prydein: The Triads of the Island of Britain".

For general information:

The Arthurian Name Dictionary (Bruce) - this used to be online, not anymore, but you can still access it through the archive here

The Arthurian companion (Phyllis Ann Karr)

The Oxford Guide to Arthurian Literature and Legend (Alan Lupack)

The Arthurian Encyclopedia (Lacy)

The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Arthurian Legends (Coghlan)

If you are looking for more translated texts you can check here for free downloads, but if you would like books, here are some:

The Romance of Arthur: An Anthology of Medieval Texts in Translation (Wilhelm)

This book contains translations of:

Culhwch and Olwen Roman de Brut Brut Some Chretien de Troyes Some Parzival excerpts The saga of the mantle Beroul's Romance of Tristan Thomas of Britain's Romance of Tristan Lanval The Honeysuckle Cantare on the Death of Tristan Suite du Merlin Prose Merlin Sir Gawain and the Green Knight The Wedding of Sir Gawain and Dame Ragnelle De ortu Waluuanii nepotis Arthuri

The Book of Arthur: Lost Tales From the Round Table (Matthews John)

This book contains translations of:

(Celtic Tales) The Life of Merlin The Madness of Tristan The Adventures of the Eagle Boy The Adventures of Melora and Orlando The Story of the Crop-eared dog Visit of the Grey Ham The Story of Lanval

(Tales of Gawain) The rise of Gawain Gawain and the Carl of Carlisle The Wedding of Sir Gawain and Dame Ragnelle The adventures of Tarn Wathelyn The Mule without a bridle The knight of the Sword Gorlagros and Gawain

(Medieval texts) The knight of the parrot The vows of King Arthur and his Knights The fair unknown Arthur and Gorlagon Guingamor and Guerrehes The story of Meriadoc The story of Grisandole The Story of Perceval Sir Cleges The Boy and the Mantle The lay of Tyolet Jaufre The story of Lanzalet And some final notes

[truevedicastrology]

Unraveling Mars Across the Astrological Houses 1-12

In the realm of Vedic Astrology, the cosmic dance of celestial bodies paints a unique tapestry within the twelve houses of your chart. Each house, a stage for planetary performances, unravels a saga of influences. Mars, the celestial warrior, graces these houses, igniting diverse flames that shape one's essence. Let's embark on an odyssey through the cosmic abode of Mars, unwinding the enigmatic energies it bestows upon each house.

#1 The Martian Incarnation in the First House In the inaugural house, Mars orchestrates a symphony of war and aggression. Aligned with Aries, Scorpio, and Leo, this celestial warrior molds individuals with an innate inclination towards assertiveness. While viewed as a double-edged sword, the Martian presence ignites an indomitable spirit, fostering drive and self-reliance. The pulsating energy may, at times, manifest impulsively, a testament to the intricate dance between strength and restraint.

#2 Mars' Stint in the Second House As Mars graces the second house, financial realms become a canvas for its assertive strokes. Ventures burgeon with calculated risks, unveiling a heightened awareness of one's worth. The duality emerges – a prowess in wealth accumulation juxtaposed against the specter of aggression and competitiveness. Mars in the second house, a financial maestro, beckons a narrative of both prosperity and caution.

#3 The Enigma of Mars in the Third House Nestled in the third house, Mars births assertiveness and boundless energy. A harbinger of curiosity, individuals become swift responders, navigating life impulsively. Independence becomes a beacon, steering the ship of self-control. Yet, the paradox unfolds – the boon of ambition accompanied by the bane of impulsivity. Mars in the third house, an enigmatic force, grants vigor, demanding a delicate balance.

#4 Mars' Homely Vigor in the Fourth House In the fourth house, Mars dons the mantle of a domestic force. A patriotic fervor, a love for the home, and an independent streak mark its presence. The warrior's link to the land roots individuals deeply, fostering both independence and combativeness. A complex interplay unfolds – self-reliance and ambition converging with potential aggression and impatience.

#5 The Fiery Canvas of the Fifth House Within the fifth house, Mars paints a portrait of fiery spirit, impulsive nature, and quick temperaments. The canvas reveals a penchant for challenge, drawing individuals to conflict-laden arenas. Energies surge, propelling assertiveness and focus, yet pitfalls loom. Negative signs cast shadows – anger, conflict, and potentially dangerous inclinations. Mars in the fifth house, a dynamic brushstroke, depicts both vitality and caution.

#6 Mars' Work Ethic in the Sixth House Positioned in the sixth house, Mars becomes the driving force in the realm of work and service. An individual emerges, resilient, driven, and dutiful. Work ethic becomes an emblem, and competitiveness a potent ally. Yet, lurking beneath are shadows of over-competitiveness and relentless perfectionism. The sixth house echoes with the paradox of ambition and stress, demanding a nuanced understanding.

#7 Mars' Assertiveness in the Seventh House In the seventh house, Mars radiates with assertiveness and confidence. Ambition drives a thirst for achievement, entwined with an individual's maturity and chart dynamics. The pendulum swings – a testament to both beneficial leadership qualities and impulsive tendencies. Balanced management of impulses becomes pivotal, lest they cascade into destructive behaviors.

#8 Mars' Determination in the Eighth House As Mars graces the eighth house, determination and focus come to the fore. A relentless pursuit of goals defines this period, where hard work intertwines with assertiveness. Yet, the delicate equilibrium trembles – the risk of veering into aggression and impulsive realms surfaces. A thorough exploration of individual placements is imperative to unravel the intricacies of Mars in the eighth house.

#9 Mars' Influence in the Ninth House Ninth-house encounters with Mars bring forth a tapestry of beliefs and emotions. Attractions to power and authority emerge, adding complexity to professional and personal landscapes. A compelling trait arises, juxtaposed with potential insecurities. The ninth house dances on a tightrope, balancing a robust belief system with a rebellious streak, navigating a journey through philosophy and self-discovery.

#10 Mars' Ambitions in the Tenth House In the tenth house, Mars signals a symphony of ambition, competitiveness, and an ardent desire for success. A canvas painted with determination unfolds, portraying an individual driven to leave an indelible mark on the world. However, caution is advised – the penchant for aggression and excessive competitiveness lurks, posing potential conflicts with others.

#11 Mars' Vision in the Eleventh House Nestled in the eleventh house, Mars orchestrates a vision of energy, assertiveness, and a commitment to the greater good. A leader or pioneer emerges, propelled by an unwavering desire to make a difference. The dichotomy of strength and challenge surfaces – a surge of energy, passion, and initiative intertwined with the shadows of anger, aggression, and impulsiveness.

#12 Mars' Passion in the Twelfth House Mars takes residence in the twelfth house, unveiling a passionate and determined individual unafraid of confronting challenges. A leader in the shadows, creativity intertwines with self-expression. Challenges arise – struggles with self-confidence and hesitations in taking worldly actions. Yet, strengths surface – a reservoir of passion, drive, and intuitive prowess. The twelfth house echoes with the complexity of self-expression and an innate talent for healing.

Follow our Facebook page Mage Magic Touch for personal consultations https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565561190268

[rebelfell]

I love your writing so much it's giving me so much joy. I was close to dropping out of the Eddie fandom because I couldn't enjoy the current trends of writing him but you write him so well I'm falling in love again. Do you have any writers on here that inspire you or that you would recommend to follow if that's ok.

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Oh. Oh, anon. The way I wish I could print this out and hang it above my mantle. And I don’t even have a mantle. Thank you so much, truly.

I think I would have to tag every single writer in this fandom to accurately portray who inspires me. There is such a wealth of work about him, there’s something for everyone out there.

Whatever version of Eddie you want to read, he exists, and it’s not a matter of anyone’s version being better/worse, but what speaks to you.

I am gonna list some of my favorites, because I deeply want to give people their flowers, but my brain is also mashed potatoes and I hate for anyone to feel overlooked/left out.

So this is BY NO MEANS a complete list.

My sideblog @madeofmunson has pretty much everything I’ve read and my blathering recs. I’m gonna link this post I made last year, in which I babbled about some of the stories that really impacted me as I entered the Eddie fandom.

A number of them are what I would consider to be modern classics in the fandom, so I doubt you’ve missed them, but just in case 😘

And the rest are going under a cut because I am a loquacious so and so (if you couldn’t already tell)

@aphrogeneias writes such a fun, silly, goofy Eddie, but WATCH OUT because he’ll hit you with the feels out of nowhere. rockstar!eddie and his assistant make my knees weak on the regular.

@bettyfrommars has it out for me, specifically. They ruin me over and over and KEEP GETTING AWAY WITH IT (partly because I keep going back but that’s neither here nor there)

@br0ck-eddie is the undisputed reigning champ of soft, sweet eddie. They put out all of these little vignettes that make me feel so warm and gooey inside like I’m literally butter in the microwave.

@jo-harrington’s mind is WILD. I don’t even know how they come up with some of their concepts and I can only imagine what it’s like to create whole universes in your head from nothing.

@lesservillain fucks my brain up every time they post. I learned a whole lotta stuff I never knew about myself from their omegaverse fics 😳 Namely what the omegaverse was…

Read Red String and thank me later.

@littlexdeaths I want to put in my pocket and carry around with me all the time. They will start with just a little blurb and the next thing you know you’re swept away in the current of a whole saga and desperate to find out what happens next.

@lonelysatellites is a devastatingly good writer. I still think about Safe Hands and Bruises and how they altered my fucking brain chemistry. Actually, now that you mention it…I might need to go re-read them…again…

@mrsjellymunson is a radiant ball of light. They write stories that are just FUN and silly and sexy and they deserve only the best 💖

@somnambulic-thing is…an enigma. They have the capacity to write something so emotionally devastating I have to lie in bed and stare at the ceiling for 10 hours about it. Or they will write something that is so silly and lighthearted it makes your belly ache with joy and love.

And then go and write something that is BOTH.

@the-unforgivenn is literally the sweetest soul who ever lived, I think they were a piece of candy in a past life. They write a great Eddie and a great Corroded Coffin (specifically Gareth) became they really nail that band banter/dialogue.

@trashmouth-richie makes me horny and makes me laugh and makes me horny all over again. They write with a real razor sharp wit and confoundingly good smut 😵‍💫

@urhoneycombwitch is so creative, so skilled. They create the kinds of Eddie’s that burrow under your skin and make their home there. Roomate/neighbor!eddie have my heart.

@word-wytch just received a lot of the brunt of my flailing about one of their chapters, so if you haven’t read Don’t Stand So Close To Me - DO IT.

Seriously there are still so many more 😭 But I gotta stop or I’m never gonna actually post this. If you’re reading this and your name isn’t here, it so would be if I had infinite time ♥️ Yes, you.

I did not even touch on my Steve writers???????? (see @stuffedwithsteve for them)

[kirbybecomesastarwarrior]

Okay everyone it's that time again lore drop...

Before the events of Nightmare's defeat... Sir Arthur and a scouting party were sent on a crusade to find the legendary sword Excalibur. But in reality, the scouting party was ordered (by Sir Uther) to secretly murder Sir Arthur. (Why you may ask a lot of reasons)

(This contains some lore from the Kirby light novel Kirby: Meta Knight and the Knight of Yomi)

But the aforementioned cave: where Excalibur was said to be located. Contained a rift to Yomi (created by Morpho..), the would-be assailant (& Sir Arthur) are pulled into the underworld... They are all scattered about the land of the dead...As the story goes: those who are in the land of the dead for three days become... permanent residents.

Being strong-willed enough Sir Arthur was able to retain their physical body and soul... however, he was horribly lost in the lowest level of Yomi (where the most devious monsters dwelled...)

Sir Arthur had been lost in the land of the dead for 120 years. Everyone had assumed he had died... However, this did not go unnoticed by Morpho... who wanted to make a deal with him...Seeing that he had endured for so long... (If they were lucky)could be just the soul (Sir Arthur's) they need...

Not only was he able to get his ticket back to the living world but also... Sir Arthur was able to find something he had long lost... for you see...he and the scouting party weren't the cave's first visitors.

(not sure if I should still @kirbyoctournament but Celty is here so I'll do still :3 )

Guess whose fault it for for Morpho Knight roaming about in the living world!

Sir Arthur is eventually able to tell them (which is what transpires above). Sir Arthur hid this well (until this point) but there was only one person he could not fool, his boy...

Man of the House part 1 (cut song) from Epic the musical

Spoiler Warning: keep reading for content & drawn images

(Sir Arthur got a cracked Warp Star syndrome, like Lady Celestine!)

Meta Knight & King Dedede: From One King to Another "Man of the House"

When I first came up with this I was trying to figure out... "who on earth is Meta Knight singing" and "Who's going to sing the backup vocals..." then I realized this would be the perfect chance to showcase King Dedede & Meta Knight's friendship. This is after the whole redemption arch of King Dedede near the end of the story arch... after the Forgotten Land Saga.

For those who are not that familiar with the KBASW lore. Meta Knight's story arc is meant to end with him becoming the new leader of the GSA. It ties the anime lore and makes it a major part of the story... along with Sir Arthurs deal with Morpho Knight~

Being an astral born without a warpstar (proof that he was a monster created by Nightmare...) was going to be killed the moment he (Mt) was born (by Sir Uther of course the little rat). But one lone Star Warrior believed otherwise, stopping the execution and convincing the Ancients to spare the infant.

Sir Arthur gifted his original red cape to Meta Knight to give him hope that he could be a hero too! MK was trained & raised by Sir Arthur... so he's more than just his mentor... his hero... his dad. Making it all the more heartbreaking to see Sir Arthur growing weaker by the day...

This is where the whole emotional meat & potatoes are in Meta becoming the leader of the GSA lie...( his dad is growing weaker and everyone is looking to him to take up the mantle) At the point of the story, everyone sees his potential everyone except himself...

That's where King Dedede comes in...

King Dedede gives Meta Knight the final push he needs to make him realize he is worthy and deserving of the position. After Escargoon leaves him, he sees Meta Knight as an irreplaceable person. However, this happens... but despite ensuring Meta Knight's departure from Dreamland he still does it.

Reminding him that he managed to help a raggamuffin like him become and grow into an acceptable leader surely he'd be as incredible as the leader of the GSA. Giving him the reassurance he needs to go after it.

It's a really meaningful conversation because Meta Knight and King Dedede have been helping each other grow throughout the series. Throughout the story, they realize how similar they are to each other... and ultimately become one another's rocks.

They're basically two growing kings coming into their roles. That is all I'm going to reveal before I spoil anything else.

Hope you guys enjoyed it the aske box will get reopened tomorrow!

[fastestmanalive333]

If I made a DC Movie Universe

Phase 1 Superman: Legacy to kick off it will be a superman movie, heroes are referenced but this is a superman movie.. the villain will be metallo cause we're all tired of lex and zod

Batman: Lonely Place of Dying (introduce Tim Drake, Dick will already be Nightwing)

Wonder Woman 1944 (introduces the JSA, Steve and Etta Diana will help found the JSA, the villains will be Villainy Inc and introduce various of Dianas rogues)

Justice League International Movie(introduces Wally and other heroes and expands on the universe)

Flash Movie(Wally West the villain being Vandal Savage and will adapt the Savage Velocity storyline, Wally will deal with the weight of the mantle, linda will be introduced along with the McGees)

Phase 2

Superman Last Son (an adaptation of the Last Son storyline and will introduce Chris Kent)

Hal Jordan GL Movie based on Sinestro Corps War

Batman: Knightfall (an adaptation of the Knightfall storyline and will introduce Bane and Azrael)

Supergirl: Earth Angel HBO Series (Linda Danvers series, an adaptation of Peter Davids run, Kara makes a cameo at the end)

Wonder Woman: Gods and Mortals (this will take inspiration from Perezs run while being its own thing while the villainy inc were the villains of the first film for this one the villain will in fact be Circe, it'll show Dianas relationships with Donna, and her daughter Lyta.. and wanting to save her husband, old and ailing Steve Trevor)

Young Justice (Introduces Superboy, Wonder Girl, and Impulse, it will be self contained while adapting Peter Davids run)

Hellblazer (Mostly Based on Mike Careys run and self containedl)

Teen Titans(60s' esque series based on the fab five everything aesthetically looks 60s but there's modern technology villain will be Mr Twister)

Blue and Gold HBO series (literally a buddy cop)

JSA (After the Events of Wonder Woman Gods and Mortals the JSA Return and get back together, their history uncovered, it will have them come face to face with a villain they long thought dead Per Degaton)

Martian Manhunter Movie

Infinity Inc Movie(introduces the Infinity Inc team and Huntress.. the illegitimate Daughter of Batman this will adapt the Generations saga)

Titans Together (fab five movie, the court of owls will be the villains being an illuminati type organization)

Justice League of America(Based on Morrisons run)

The Atom (Will Feature Ryan Choi as Atom, and adapt his run, he will go on a quest to look for Ray Palmer)

Phase 3

JLA vs Titans (brings both teams face to face with one another as The Titans are framed for conspiracy the villain is revealed to be Checkmate run by Loren Jupiter the Black King who seeks destroy all superheroes after the death of his daughter Lilith in Titans Together, ends with the disbanding of both teams)

Batman: No Mans Land (an adaptation of No Mans Land introduces Cassandra Cain, Helena reveals herself to be Bruces daughter)

Wonder Woman: Gods and Monsters(so ends the ww trilogy brings Diana face to face with Ares whom after the disbandment of the league seeks to cause a global war beyond anything the worlds seen this will bring Diana, Donna, Cassie, and Lyta together)

New Gods Movie (will introduce the New Gods the main characters will probably be Scott and Barda)

Flash: The Return of Barry Allen(after the disbandment of the justice league and Titans Wally plans to propose to Linda Park, but things seem to get distrupted as his old mentor seems to have returned but how? spoiler it is really Thawne.. in the end tho wally and linda will marry)

Green Lantern: Blackest Night(an adaptation of blackest night)

JLA: United Parts 1 & 2 (Based on Final Crisis, all heroes will be brought together to face off against darkseid, Linda Danvers and Batman will be the two big sacrifices)

Superman: Brainiac(after JL United Brainiac appears to collect earth, Pa Kent will die,

Phase 4

Nightwing and Flamebird(HBO Series, Chris Kent will return him and Thara will become Nightwing and Flamebird)

Superman: New Krypton (an adaptation of the New Krypton saga)

Huntress (batman may be dead but his legacy lives on in his daughter the Huntress)

The Flash: Blitz (Wally and Linda are now expecting twins, this will introduce Hunter Zolomon and be an adaptation of Blitz ending Wallys trilogy) Green Lantern: Wrath of the First Lantern(will introduce simon baz and adapt both rise of the third army and wrath of the first lantern concluding the trilogy)

Aquaman: King of Atlantis(Will be based off Peter Davids run)

Superboy (HBO Series, will feature Conner Kent)

Dr Fate (will feature Kent Nelson)

Hawkman & Hawkgirl (HBO Series, will be based off Vendittis run)

Blue Beetle: Graduation Day(Ted Kord and Jaime Reyes team up)

Nightwing (HBO Series)

Green Lantern/Green Arrow: Hard Travelling Heroes (will feature Hal and Ollie)

Black Canary (HBO series) Teen Titans(Will Show YJ taking on the footsteps of the Fab Five and becoming the new teen titans)

Batman Incorporated(Introduces Leviathan.. an organization that seeks to destabilize society, Huntress and Nightwing band together to form Batman Incorporated)

Magog(HBO Series)

Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow? (an adaptation of whatever happened to the man of tomorrow.. superman retires in the end)

Kingdom Come(years have passed as the final battle of the universe has come... )

[kte-alxxndr]

Voiceless | Threads of Eternity

Tommy Shelby x Reader

The True End

In the tranquil moments that followed, the Shelby family embraced the serenity of their newfound life. The twins, mischief dancing in their eyes, grew up amidst the rhythm of sewing machines and the warmth of a loving home. Y/N, ever the creative soul, found solace in her craft, designing intricate patterns that mirrored the tapestry of their family's journey.

As the Shelby legacy expanded, so did the bonds that tied them together. The twins, each with a unique spark inherited from their parents, ventured into their own paths, leaving imprints of the Shelby resilience in every endeavor.

The echoes of the past, though softened by time, lingered in the Shelby family's collective memory. They bore witness to a love that defied odds, a tale of redemption, and the resilience that defined the Shelby name.

Tommy, now a patriarch with a mantle of wisdom, navigated the challenges of the legitimate world with the same cunning that once ruled the streets of Small Heath. His gaze, however, always returned to Y/N, the woman whose love had transformed the trajectory of his life.In the dimly lit corners of the sewing shop, Y/N continued to weave dreams into reality. Her hands, seasoned by time and marked by the stitches of countless tales, crafted garments that whispered stories of love, loss, and triumph.

The Shelby family, their journey etched into the fabric of time, stood as a testament to the enduring power of love. As the sun set on Small Heath, casting golden hues upon the cobbled streets, the Shelby's found comfort in the threads of eternity that bound them together.

And so, in the tapestry of life, the Shelby saga continued – a tale woven with threads of resilience, love, and the indomitable spirit that defined the legacy of the Peaky Blinders.

Voiceless: Threads of Eternity Masterlist

A glimpse of Y/N and Tommy's earlier life.

A Chance Encounter

Woven Destinies

Faded Unwoven Threads

The Entwined Threads of Destiny

The True and Final End: A Shelby Tale

Voiceless Masterlist | Previous Chapter

[mylordshesacactus]

why is the underworld saga so ahsoka-coded (but no longer you and monster especially)

My kingdom for video editing skills of any description honestly because we could DEVASTATE this goddamn fandom

Like for those of you who are tragically unfamiliar with the EPIC concept-album project (go listen to the entire thing immediately), don't tell me this ISN'T Ahsoka Tano's character arc.

And then try to tell me that Monster isn't Ahsoka swallowing bile and taking up the mantle of Fulcrum, of the Rebellion's intelligence network, despite the terrible things it demands of her--the way it strips her identity as a Jedi away, choice by unforgivable choice--because someone has to do it and she is better able to fill that desperate need than anyone else.

And it would be selfish, surely, to value her own clean hands more than the billions of sentient lives that will suffer and die if the Empire is allowed to go on without resistance.

EPIC underworld saga, or: Ahsoka Tano coming to the devastating realization that the choice may very well come down to her soul, or the freedom of the galaxy. And she only has the right to sacrifice one of those things.

[fandom-oneshots-etc]

Requests are OPEN🎉

Dear All,

Requests are now OPEN! Please feel free to send in your requests. I have listed the characters that I write for below the ‘keep reading’ line. A few things to remember:

I do NOT write ships like Buddie etc. I only write Reader-Inserts.

I only write for characters mentioned in the list as well as any that have been added under the Additional Characters sections on my Masterlist.

I have not yet written SMUT fics, but I am not opposed to doing so.

I do not currently have an uploading schedule, but I will try to get any requests done ASAP.

That’s all there is to say, so feel free to request!

Thanks,

Emily xoxo

Complete Character Masterlist

9-1-1

Eddie Diaz

Evan Buckley

9-1-1 LONE STAR

Carlos Reyes

Judd Ryder

TK Strand

AVENGERS

Bucky Barnes

Loki Laufeyson

Peter Parker

Steve Rogers

Thor Odinson

Tony Stark

BRASSIC

Vinnie O'Neil

CASTLE

Javier Esposito

Kevin Ryan

Richard Castle

CHICAGO FIRE

Kelly Severide

Matt Casey

CHICAGO PD

Antonio Dawson

Jay Halstead

CHRONICLES OF NARNIA

Edmund Pevensie

Peter Pevensie

Prince Caspian

CRIMINAL MINDS

Aaron Hotchner

Derek Morgan

Spencer Reid

FATE THE WINX SAGA

Riven

Sky

FRIENDS

Joey Tribbiani

HARRY POTTER

Draco Malfoy

Fred Weasley

George Weasley

Harry Potter

Ron Weasley

James Potter

Remus Lupin

Sirius Black

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL

Troy Bolton

LETHAL WEAPON

Martin Riggs

OUTERBANKS

JJ Maybank

John B. Routledge

Rafe Cameron

Topper Thornton

RIVERDALE

Archie Andrews

FP Jones

Jughead Jones

Reggie Mantle

Sweet Pea

RIZZOLI & ISLES

Frankie Rizzoli

SHAMELESS

Carl Gallagher

Kevin Ball

Lip Gallagher

SHERLOCK

Mycroft Holmes

Sherlock Holmes

SONS OF ANARCHY

Chibs Telford

Happy Lowman

Jax Teller

Juice Ortiz

Opie Winston

Tig Trager

SUPERNATURAL

Castiel

Crowley

Dean Winchester

Sam Winchester

TEEN WOLF

Derek Hale

Stiles Stilinski

THE ORIGINALS

Elijah Mikaelson

Klaus Mikaelson

Kol Mikaelson

THE VAMPIRE DIARIES

Damon Salvatore

Jeremy Gilbert

Matt Donovan

Stefan Salvatore

Tyler Lockwood

TWILIGHT

Carlisle Cullen

Edward Cullen

Emmett Cullen

Jacob Black

Jasper Hale

Paul Lahote

Seth Clearwater

YOUTUBERS

Colby Brock

[the-antiapocalyptic-man]

How did the clone saga happen in the destroyerverse?

First draft, and I left out or glossed over some stuff I’d like to use (like Kindred and some of the other Gwen clones) but basically:

Dr. Miles Warren, devastated by the loss of Gwen Stacy, resorts to experimental cloning technology (based on Dr. Octavius’s research and funded by a grieving Harry Osborn) to revive her. Otto, now a disembodied consciousness hiding out in pieces of his tech rigged up in Warren’s cloning lab, hijacks the project to generate a new body based on his ultimate foe: Spider-Man. A pair of successful Gwen and Peter clones (both with Spider powers due to cross contamination) escape the lab after coming to consciousness and go on the run. Warren generates a new clone, Kaine, to track them down and return Gwen while incapacitating or killing “Peter.”

Curious about the implications of “Spider-Gwen” and aware of Dr. Essex’s “Chimera” Thesis, Warren goes rogue from his benefactors and begins generating experimental “Chimera Spiders” based on whatever genetic material he has on hand. Unbeknownst to Harry, the secret ingredient Warren is using to generate fully adult clones on the fly is actually inert Symbiote bio-material (their “flesh” for a given value of the term) requiring some kind of stabilizing agent that Warren had yet to perfect by the trail stage. Spider-Man (i.e. the real Peter) confronts the escaped clones, assuming simply recreated his original bio-accelerant process in a new spider, only to be shocked to find Gwen and himself under the masks.

The clones escape when Kaine makes his move, distracting Peter. Pete goes to the foremost expert he knows on cloning for help: Dr. Miles Warren. Warren uses Pete’s visit to perform a covert bio-scan in hopes of locating the stabilizing agent needed for the clones as a protein in Pete’s body, unaware that the scan sets off Pete’s Spider-Sense and prompts him to return that night as Spider-Man to investigate Warren’s office. Tracking down Warren’s cloning facility, Pete is attacked by The Jackal, all of the existing clones accidentally released in the struggle. Otto—seeing his chance—bonds his consciousness to a Chimera of himself and Peter, considering it the “Superior” option.

The clone “Peter” returns to help Pete fight and unmask Jackal, Dr. Warren escaping the chaos. After the battle, Pete and the clone have a heart to heart and bond over shared memories. The clone picks the name “Ben Reilly” for himself and sets out to live his own life, fighting crime as the Scarlet Spider. Kaine, discovering the power to activate the inert Symbiote flesh in his body, becomes "Chasm" and sets to hunting down Jackal. Gwen is eventually picked up by Harry and the man pulling his strings: Norman Osborn, now with almost none of his human self left and a body strung together from Goblin formula, symbiote matter, and OsCorp bio-cybernetics.

Doppleganger, Guardian, Spidercide, plus new versions of Tarantula, Scorpion, and Spider-Woman (a female Peter clone) all escape into the wider world as well, all operating as super-criminals barring Spider-Woman, who takes up the mantle for Jessica Drew when she retires to raise her child.

[boyduroy]

lads...

this is the best money I've ever spent

guys I think I just found my new side quest

[acourtofmishapandmistakes]

A Court of Ice and Shadows: Chapter 3

OC Character x Azriel

Summary: Set after "A Court of Silver Flames" (ACOSF), this story follows original character Lene, an elite warrior of the Hesker Clan from the Winter Court. Tasked with diplomatic duty in the Night Court, Lene's mission is to help retrain the Valkyries and help squash potential uprising in the Illyrian camps. As she navigates centuries-old animosities and discovers herself beyond the icy confines of her homeland, Lene must confront her past and decide who she wants to become.

Click here for other parts: Chapter 1, Chapter 2

Characters: Featuring original characters alongside core characters from the ACOTAR series.

Disclaimers: All characters and settings pertaining to the core ACOTAR series belong to Sarah J. Maas, with additional material created for the purpose of this fanfiction

Content Warnings: None.

Note: Some words used in this story are of Norwegian or Scandinavian origin. I do not speak either language, but adapted the researched words to fit the narrative. For notes regarding any of these words, see the end of the chapter.

Chapter 3

The ancient forests enveloping Hellingdom Manor teemed with towering pine trees, their branches perennially adorned with a thick mantle of snow, save for the fleeting thaw of summer. Lene knew every whisper of the wind through these trees, every hidden path beneath the snow. During the stark, dark days of late winter, when the sun seldom pierced the cloud cover, she would delve deep into the woods. Here, amidst the silent sentinels of nature, snow owls soared silently and snow foxes darted, their playful kits trailing behind, weaving through the dense underbrush. These woods, steeped in centuries of secrets, held a sacred place in the hearts of the fae females of Hellingdom, echoing with the whispers of their foremothers.

Hellingdom itself was originally founded as a bastion for the Hekser clan, a venerable lineage of female warriors dedicated to serving the High Lord of the Winter Court. These warriors, led by Lene’s forebears for millennia, not only fought bravely but were also immortalized in grand tapestries that depicted their fierce battles and noble sacrifices.

Long before the seven courts were established and the land was scourged by the Daglan terror, the fae of this region sought sanctuary in the craggy mountains. There, they honed ancient abilities to manipulate snow and ice—mystic skills now lost to the ages. The clans prospered, sustaining themselves through trade and a unified front, traditionally under male leadership.

The saga of the Hekser began with Freydis and Lova, two mated fae females who boldly defied their clans' leaders by refusing to sever their bond. In an era when such a union was scorned as witchcraft, Freydis and Lova remained steadfast. They secretly met at the base of Vindvokterfjell Mountain during the winter solstice—a time when darkness reigned for two solid weeks. There, hidden from prying eyes, they affirmed their commitment and lived in seclusion near the mountain for nearly fifty years.

Their quiet existence was forever changed when they stumbled upon Silje, a newborn girl, frail and abandoned in the woods. They named her and raised her as their own, and as the years passed, other children—lost or left—found their way to Freydis and Lova's door. The couple's family swelled to include over fourteen fae children, each one cherished and nurtured.

Decades later, a fae woman, ousted by her husband under accusations of witchcraft, sought sanctuary with them. She had heard of the "Vindvokterkind"—children rumored to have been left at the mountain as offerings, only to thrive under the guardianship of the mountain. These children, observed by nearby villagers as they frolicked through the forest, were testament to the sanctuary's legend. After recovering under Freydis and Lova's care, the woman returned to her clan, spreading the tale of the compassionate duo who defied societal norms to create a haven of love and safety.

As time marched on and Freydis and Lova aged, they passed their legacy to their daughters, who continued the tradition of compassion and resistance. When High King Fionn rose to unite the fae against the Daglan, he enlisted the aid of Freydis and Lova's descendants. Trained by his side, they rose as formidable warriors, particularly the women, who later named themselves the Hekser Clan, or "The Witches."

After triumphing over the Daglan, the Heksers gained fame as trainers of warriors and staunch allies of the Winter Court's High Lord, fiercely defending the honor of female fae. Although the original cabin succumbed to flames during Fionn’s downfall, taking Freydis and Lova with it, their daughters resurrected it as Hellingdom Manor, a beacon of refuge for all seeking solace.

Lene, a descendant of one of these resilient daughters, was now charged with perpetuating this legacy of sanctuary and empowerment. Although the Hekser and the Valkyries of the Night Court had fought side by side, a fateful decision during a war six hundred years prior had confined the Hekser to their court, leading to the Valkyries' tragic fall. Lene’s mother often shared these stories, her voice heavy with regret, wishing she could have joined their sisters in that fateful battle.

Lene cherished the rides through the dense, snow-laden forests with her mother, Solveig, who would share the storied legacy of the Hekser clans. Solveig's voice carried a deep pride as she recounted their ancestry, instilling in Lene a profound respect for their heritage. Together, they would explore the carvings left by the children of Freydis and Lova in the mountain walls—vivid depictions that chronicled the epic tales of their foremothers.

In her younger days, Solveig and Brynjar had roamed the deep ravines and towering peaks, uncovering secrets long before Lene's time. Now, with Brynjar aged at an impressive 800 years, his days of swift galloping were behind him. Normally, Lene might coax him into a brisker pace, but today, with hours to spare before her meeting with High Lord Kallias, she allowed Brynjar to set a leisurely pace. The soft crunch of his hooves breaking through the pristine snow created a rhythmic serenade, punctuated only by the occasional yips from Lumi, who was eagerly exploring every nook she came across.

It would take just an hour's ride to reach Lysdal, the vibrant city where Kallias’ castle stood imposingly against the mountainside. The city that High Lady Viviane had worked so hard to protect when Amarantha had risen to power. This hour of tranquility in the woods was a double-edged sword for Lene; it provided a peaceful respite yet also too much time to dwell on the uncertain reasons behind Kallias’ summons. With each step Brynjar took, Lene’s mind raced through myriad possibilities, none of which did anything to ease the growing knot of anxiety about the impending, mysterious discussion with Kallias.

Lene had often ventured into Lysdal alongside her kin and companions. The city served as the nearest hub, a pulsing heart of commerce where they sourced the necessities that the manor couldn't provide through its sporadic specialized deliveries. For the grand occasion of a seventieth birthday—a milestone marked with particular revelry among their kind—the women of the clan would descend upon the city. They would indulge in nights of unbridled celebration, their laughter spilling into the streets as they danced and drank under the stars. As dawn approached, packs of giggling, inebriated fae females would weave their way back through the forest, their steps light and unburdened by fear. For they were not merely merrymakers; they were warriors, sharp and unmatched, and the woods held no terror for them.

Lene's own seventieth had seen her twirling on the cobbled streets of Lysdal, her laughter mingling with that of audacious fae males, who were quite taken by her vivacious spirit. In a moment of boldness, she had playfully suggested they continue their festivities back at the manor. However, her plans were swiftly curtailed by a friend's prudent intervention, who steered her away with a knowing smile. Lene was well-acquainted with the company of men, versed in the secluded nooks of the forest that offered refuge from the watchful eyes of the world. 

Yet, the whispers of past liaisons, hidden behind fallen pines or within the sequestered embrace of snow-shrouded caves, were far from Lene's mind as Brynjar crested the final hill. Below them, Lysdal stirred into the crisp morning, nestled in the formidable shadow of mighty Skogtind Mountain. The city itself seemed to dwell in a perpetual twilight, cast by the mountain's vast presence, imbuing every stone and street with a sense of eternal dusk.

The quaint cottages dotting the city’s outskirts were home to esteemed reindeer breeders and hardy farmers whose lives rhythmically pulsed with the land. The heart of Lysdal, however, was a marvel of architecture—buildings masterfully sculpted from the ancient ice and stone of Skogtind. These structures mirrored the intricate frost patterns that adorned every available surface, weaving a tapestry of frozen lace that caught the light with every turn.

Encircling Lysdal stood the Ice Wall, a colossal structure both awe-inspiring and chilling, erected centuries ago and imbued with ancient wards. Carved deep into its icy facade were the sagas of the Winter Court, each story a frozen testament to its rich history. More than just a barrier, the wall was a spectacle in itself; however, its true power lay in the palpable cold it radiated. This frigid aura permeated the air, sinking into the bones of any who dared approach, a stark reminder of the city’s fortified, mystic strength. 

Brynjar halted at the crest of the hill, and Lene's gaze swept over the landscape before her, finally settling on Kallias’ castle, Iskronen. Carved into the side of Skogtind, it jutted out like a formidable iceberg, its walls of solid ice infused with magic to prevent melting. The structure rose as though it were composed of icicles set upside down, with a central spire that scattered shafts of blue and purple light across the town square whenever sunlight filtered through. Lene had always found the castle’s grandeur slightly ostentatious—why did one family need such an edifice if not as a mere symbol of their stature?

"Pa," Lene called softly to Brynjar, coaxing him forward. He had just taken a step when Lumi burst from beneath him, scampering down the steep, icy hillside with joyful abandon. Her paws flailed against the slick surface, failing to find purchase. Both Lene and Brynjar watched as the hapless fox collided with a pine tree at the hill’s base. Lene shook her head, her fingers pinching the bridge of her nose, while Brynjar simply snorted and continued down the hill with far more caution than Lumi, who shook off the snow from her unintended stop and bounded ahead through the frost-laden fields.

As they neared the city, Brynjar guided Lene through the farms to the imposing ice wall. Two Winter Guards, recognizing her by the subtle gray fabric and white lining of her parka, embroidered with the Hekser insignia—a frosted yew tree at the base of Vindvokterfjell—nodded and waved her through. Each guard bore a Winter Court broadsword at their hip, quite a sight, had Lene not been able to bring them to their knees with just a simple swipe of a sword or knife.

Upon reaching the city’s gate, Lene commanded, "Buga," and Brynjar obediently knelt to allow her to dismount gracefully. She held the reins loosely in one hand, knowing well that Brynjar would either remain steadfastly beside her or follow faithfully without needing guidance.

With a couple of hours to spare before her meeting with Kallias, Lene decided to explore the bustling open market, where merchants were just beginning to display their wares. As she meandered from stall to stall, Brynjar, an imposing presence, trailed behind her. Fae children craned their necks to gaze up at the giant elk, their fingers pointing excitedly.

Spotting a small fae girl whispering to her mother about how soft Brynjar might feel, Lene lifted her up to his neck. The child’s fingers delved into his thick, wiry coat, and Brynjar turned his head to regard Lene, his expression one of mild resignation. "How the mighty have fallen," Lene mused silently, a wry smile touching her lips as she considered the warrior mount now content to be adored by children.

Lene's fingers trailed delicately over the soft fabrics and blankets displayed by local vendors, appreciating their craftsmanship even though it paled in comparison to the wonders woven within Hellingdom Manor. After her great-grandmother assumed the role of matron, she had decreed that residency at the Manor didn't necessitate a warrior's life. This freedom had cultivated some of the Winter Court's most skilled craftsmen, chefs, and artists. In Hesker, excellence wasn’t just encouraged; it was expected, cultivated in every task undertaken.

Allowing herself a small indulgence, Lene purchased a floral tea blend for her grandmother, touted by the merchant as a direct import from the Spring Court, famed for its sleep-enhancing qualities.

Eventually, Lene made her way toward Iskronen. While Lysdal’s beauty was undeniable, few knew of the intricate ice caverns and frozen tunnels that burrowed deep into Skogtind Mountain, winding beneath the city. She stabled Brynjar at the mountain's base before descending the icy steps into the labyrinthine tunnels. Guided by the ethereal glow of fae lights, she ascended the ice-carved steps and passed through the castle's formidable walls.

Emerging inside Iskronen, Lene was momentarily blinded by the kaleidoscope of light refracting through the ice, casting rainbows that danced across the floors. Despite the chill implied by its icy construction, the castle's halls were surprisingly warm—a marvel of magical engineering designed to counteract the perpetual frost. Shedding her hood, she was approached by two Winter Guards.

"Good morning, I’m here to meet with the High Lord; he summoned me last night," Lene announced, extracting the summoning letter and its glass tube from her parka to hand to the guard.

"High Lord Kallias is currently with other guests; I will inform him of your arrival," one guard declared before turning sharply and striding away. The formality always seemed stark to Lene, no matter how familiar she was with court customs.

Her musings were abruptly interrupted by the sound of giggling. A pale, white-haired boy rounded the corner, his laughter echoing through the hall as he playfully sent a gust of frost in his pursuer's direction. Close behind was a child Lene hadn't expected to see—a young fae with darker skin and midnight black hair, his striking violet eyes almost hidden under his curls. But what struck Lene the most was the small wings protruding from the boys sweater. Illyrian wings.

"Good morning, Bo!" Lene greeted as the white-haired boy, Kallias and Viviane's son and the celebrated young pride of the Winter Court, rushed to her. He embraced her warmly.

"Good morning, Lene," Bo replied, his voice muffled against her neck. Meanwhile, the little Illyrian retreated, only the tips of his wings visible from around the corner.

"Who’s your friend?" Lene asked, setting Bo down.

"That’s Nyx," Bo pointed.

Nyx, Lene realized, recognizing the name as belonging to the heir of the Night Court, son of the famed Feyre and Rhysand. Likely, this was who occupied Kallias' attention.

"Nyx," Bo called out in mild frustration, "We aren't playing hide and seek anymore."

With a dramatic sigh, Bo trudged over, grasping Nyx by the arm and pulling him into view. Nyx shuffled his feet, his curls falling over his face shyly.

"This is Nyx, he’s my friend and he’s also a kid," Bo explained earnestly.

"It’s a pleasure to meet you, Nyx," Lene said, extending her hand with a gentle smile.

Nyx glanced between her hand and her face before hesitantly reaching out. He quickly withdrew his hand after touching her icy fingertips. Lene chuckled, “I’m sorry for the chill, it’s in our blood.” 

Nyx’s quiet smile peeked out beneath his unruly curls as he listened silently. Bo, ever the spokesman of the duo, announced, “Mama and papa are with Nyx’s mama and papa.”

“I see,” Lene replied, her gaze lingering on the shy Night Court heir. “Have they been in there a long time or just a little while?”

“They’ve been in there forever,” Bo exaggerated, stretching the word to emphasize their boredom.

Nyx shuffled his feet, his attention fixed on his shoes.

"Nyx doesn’t really like to talk to strangers much, and he doesn’t like talking to grown-ups much either,” Bo confided to Lene, who offered a gentle smile in return.

“Well, that’s alright. I’m a new friend, but I’m certainly not a grown-up,” Lene joked lightly, her youthful spirit belied by her centuries of life—a trait she felt she inherited from a mother who herself refused to age.

Bo’s attention swiftly shifted as he eagerly grasped Lene’s hand. “I have a new sword, and it’s a metal one!”

Lene feigned shock, “That must mean your papa thinks you’re ready to learn how to fight,” she teased.

The conversation was suddenly punctuated by the familiar clip of heels against the hard floor. “No, he does not!” Viviane’s voice rang out before she appeared around the corner. The epitome of poise and grace, Viviane was draped in an emerald velvet dress that matched her jewel-adorned neck, her hair elegantly braided up.

Bo groaned at his mother's intervention. “Bo has strict orders that that sword is for looking at, not playing with,” Viviane clarified, approaching to envelop Lene in a warm hug, the scent of raspberry and frost emanating from her, with a hint of something more potent.

Lene’s eyes widened as she noticed Viviane’s slightly swollen stomach. Viviane, hand resting protectively over it, simply acknowledged, “Oh, that.”

“Yes, that!” Lene exclaimed, gesturing to the obvious pregnancy.

Viviane chuckled, caressing her belly. “Number two, on the way.”

“How long have you known?” Lene asked, pulling Viviane into another hug.

“The healer thinks no more than three months,” Viviane replied, her laughter light.

“Well, congratulations! I must not be paying enough attention to the news up at the manor,” Lene remarked.

Viviane took Lene’s hands gently. “No, we haven’t shared it with the city yet. Given how quickly this came after Bo, the healer cautioned us about potential risks. But so far, the little one seems very content.”

“I’m astounded,” Lene admitted, genuinely surprised. Bo was barely ten, and the prospect of another heir so soon was almost unheard of.

Viviane laughed softly, “You and me both. Believe me, if I had known I’d fall pregnant this quickly after Bo, and knowing how challenging his birth was, I would’ve resumed the tonic.”

Lene smiled, feeling a stark contrast between their lives—Viviane with her growing family and Lene, still under her grandmother's watchful eye.

“You’ll have to excuse my mate,” Viviane said as they approached the heavy oak doors of the meeting room, breaking the brief silence. “He’s never been one for punctuality.”

“It’s no problem. I’m early,” Lene assured her.

With a reassuring smile, Viviane led Lene towards the doors. “Don’t be silly. It’s 10:08, and if I don’t keep him on schedule, who will?” With a gentle push, Viviane opened the doors to reveal Kallias and the figures Lene assumed were Feyre and Rhysand, all turning at their entrance. A flutter of nervousness gripped Lene’s stomach as she stepped into the light.

Notes:

Buga: “Bow” in Swedish

[rebeccalouisaferguson]

Warning: This article contains full spoilers for Dune: Part 2 and Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning.

In case you haven’t noticed, Dune is on top of the world right now. The much acclaimed and very lucrative second installment, Dune: Part 2, wraps up Denis Villeneuve’s take on the first book in Frank Herbert’s iconic science-fiction saga, setting the stage for the all but inevitable next film to tackle the second book, Dune Messiah. As IMAX theaters continue to fill up with Dune fans eager for a close-up look at Shai-Hulud, studio executives all over Hollywood will certainly be looking at what happened here to see if they can replicate Dune’s success with future projects. Beyond “letting directors make the movies they want to make” and “audiences are getting tired of formulaic franchise movies with dull visuals,” there’s one other element that stands out as a bit easier to implement…

The obvious answer is to cast Rebecca Ferguson in your movie.

Looking back at Ferguson’s Lady Jessica in both Dune Parts 1 and 2, she stands out not just as the best performance among an incredibly stacked cast, but also as a critical part of the film’s press tour through her chaotic energy and memeable personality. How did this Swedish sensation secure her place as the MVP of the Dune franchise? Let’s take a look.

That’s Mother (of the Messiah)

Over the course of both Dune films, which run about five hours in total, we run into a wide array of colorful characters played by a murderer’s row of Hollywood’s current top talent. However, many of the characters are either exclusive to one installment, go long stretches of the runtime without being seen, and in some special cases like Anya Taylor-Joy’s appearance as Alia, are clearly setups for films yet to come. Even Zendaya as Chani, who is credited as co-lead in Part 2, is restricted mostly to a handful of dream sequences in Part 1. However, the one character relationship that exists as the strongest throughline from the beginning of Paul Atreides’ journey all the way to its culmination in this first story is that of Paul and his mother, Lady Jessica of the Bene Gesserit.

n a film where many of the emotional beats can get drowned out a bit by the expansive backdrops and dour atmosphere, the foundational scenes of Part 1 illustrating the contradictory relationship between mother and son stand out as some of the film’s best. Jessica bore Paul out of love for his father, Leto, consciously choosing to grant him a son when she was instructed to do otherwise, and she cares for Paul’s safety above all others. At the same time, she is also a cunning manipulator who has been training Paul in the superhuman abilities of her order against their wishes, and grooming him for a dark destiny that the young Atreides spends much of the two films hoping to avoid. Jessica is simultaneously driven by a genuine love for her son and a desire to facilitate his rise to power, and Ferguson walks the razor-wire line between these two aspects with pinpoint precision.

This continues into Part 2, where we see Jessica step into an even more overtly villainous role as she schemes her way into assuming the mantle of Reverend Mother of the Fremen. Her relationship with Paul becomes more antagonistic as she sets in motion the events that will lead to his accepting the role of Lisan al Gaib and challenging the Emperor, to the point of even being deemed a traitor to the Bene Gesserit despite ostensibly doing what they wanted by bringing the Kwisatz Haderach into existence. That Jessica has any sympathy from the audience – despite being a eugenicist and megalomaniac who usurped the religious leadership of an indigenous culture so her son could claim dominion of the universe almost purely out of her own vanity – all comes down to Ferguson imbuing her with inner life and dimension that makes us feel like we understand her even when the script doesn’t actually give us every detail about her motivations.

From her recurring role as Ilsa Faust in the Mission: Impossible movies to portraying main villain Rose the Hat in Mike Flanagan’s Doctor Sleep, and now playing Lady Jessica in the Dune films, Ferguson has always been at her best when she takes on characters with a darker edge to their persona that she can contrast with her natural charm. Although Ilsa is more heroic than the other two, all three of these roles intrigue the audience, and the other characters they interact with, through seductive ambiguity, something Ferguson is better at than most of her contemporaries. But what makes this all the more interesting is that she’s seemingly an entirely different person off-camera, and one who is just as important to Dune’s success.

Princess of the Press Tour

As with all things, the true measure of a film’s success in the modern age is how many memes it spawns on social media. From one filmgoer riding a homemade sandworm at his local AMC to jokes about Stilgar’s somewhat overzealous dedication to his prophet, there’s no shortage of humor from fans sharing their responses to Villeneuve’s latest epic. However, one member of the cast is bringing her own brand of comedy to the party, and that’s none other than Rebecca Ferguson, who has taken to promotional interviews with an energy that can best be described as somewhere along a spectrum between “unconventional” and “frankly chaotic.” Not that there’s anything wrong with her having a goofy side to her; on the contrary, the impression she’s made on social media indicates she’s become a true fan favorite because of her behavior.

At a time when press tours are increasingly filled with inane questions and too many influencers at the expense of journalists, clips of Ferguson’s interviews where she reveals just how little of a filter she has have been one of the unsung joys of Part 2’s release. From admitting she still hasn’t read the novel even after making two movies, to texting Denis Villeneuve mid-interview to ask him the answer to a question she didn’t know, to even referencing MGM’s history of the casting couch after learning about the Dune popcorn bucket, Ferguson’s refreshing honesty and hilarious affability have stood out from the crowd amidst so many celebrities who have had much of their personalities sanded down by media training. These and other clips have been making the rounds online, keeping Dune-related media in the cultural conversation.

Given that many lesser films make “the mother of the main character” into a thankless role, Ferguson jumping in and stealing the show both on-screen and off is a reminder of how strange it is that so few Hollywood films have taken advantage of her talent. It also brings to mind how boneheaded of a move it was for the Mission: Impossible franchise to kill Ilsa off in such a haphazard way in Dead Reckoning. Now, to be fair, Ferguson has indicated she wanted to move on from the franchise after three installments, but there had to be a better send-off for her than to die mid-film in an incredibly hamfisted manner. We’re still interested in whatever happens next with the M: I franchise, but it’s a shame that an otherwise fine movie in Dead Reckoning is marred by how one of its star players was treated.

Regardless, it’s Mission’s loss and Dune’s gain, and paves the way for Ferguson to take on even more roles in the future. As Dune: Part 2 continues to gain accolades and box office momentum in part because of her contributions, hopefully the rest of Hollywood will follow in Villeneuve’s footsteps and clue in that this is one star worth investing in.