#to muster the energy to get on my pc

[wolfehunt]

i want to write so bad and i feel awful that i’ve not been around much

[boyybites]

Been chilling today and not really able to muster up any energy to get on my big boy pc so have a laptop doodle of a dragon I'm thinking of keeping

[an-odd-idea]

On this episode of “I Can Fix Him” : music and a little bit of choreography thoughts for Ilia Malinin

I dunno, he’s just fascinating to me, I’m like annoyed about him sometimes but also very fond of him, and I would like him to earn those PCS

I’m not a choreographer, and I don’t skate, but I watch enough figure skating to enjoy making up imaginary choreography in my head, so this is what I’m doing. Just vibes, basically, so don’t take it very seriously lol

If he wants to continue his streak of skating to music from shows that he’s only technically old enough to watch (well, he’s older now though) I think he should skate to music from House of the Dragon, if he’s seen it. If he hasn’t, then no, but let’s go with it for now

The music is his vibe, but it’s a little bit bigger than what he’s used in the past, to push him a bit but nothing too wildly different. He doesn’t need to do Swan Lake or anything (in fact, Ilia, please do not)

Overall, I’d like to see less crazy arm choreo than the Succession program, more defined, decisive movements, especially in the opening of the program, before and between the first couple of jumps. Sort of like, do you remember Junhwan Cha’s 21/22 short program where he’d do some moves, then stop (not actually come to a stop, but be traveling quickly but not moving his body for a moment)? Kind of that vibe- goes with the music and keeps it interesting without lots of arms all over the place

(Also maybe that would sort of force him to work a lot on his skating skills, which would be nice. Sometimes really good crossovers and nice changes of direction to cool music really are nicer to watch than all the arm-waving someone can muster)

Now here’s where we get crazy, though- make that boy do a spiral. Not a 0.5-second arabesque- a real, honest-to-God spiral and HOLD it. He has long legs, it would look really impressive if he did it well. It can be a Kerrigan spiral if it must, but he HAS to straighten his knee. Maybe Kerrigan spiral actually is best because he has more to do and only really one arm to contend with so he doesn’t feel so awkward holding one position for a while. I’m thinking maybe free arm in front of him and he sort of grabs something in the air, that’s skating choreography basics lol

(This is my thought process: I was listening to “Reign of the Targaryens” and that moment at 0:28 just sounds like the start of a spiral. I would do a spiral there, and I can’t even do a spiral. Also the people love spirals, and it’s extra rare and exciting when a man does a spiral, so he could get some good will from a lot of skating fans who are currently kinda “meh” about him except for the quad Axel)

Thing is, I doubt Ilia would want to do a spiral, and if he doesn’t want to, it will probably not be a very good spiral, so backup plan is a spread eagle, but he needs to HOLD that, too. Whatever it is, it has to be a sustained gliding type move and he has to hold it for a good long time, this is non-negotiable

Moving on from spiral fantasies, thing is, I haven’t seen the show myself, so I’m not sure which pieces of music you’d need to include to focus on a particular aspect of the story or a particular character, so I’m just throwing sort of general stuff at the wall

If- IF- it makes narrative sense, “Rhaenyra’s Welcome” sounds like decent music to start on. It’s interesting, but it still starts out slow, so there’s room to build, and he doesn’t have to use up a ton of energy trying to match it. It’s dramatic and slow-building, so he can take his time setting up his jumps and the music will help sell it anyway because it’s suspenseful but there’s still quite a lot going on underneath. Also these phrases with the long strings and then moments with just drums and something that sounds like maybe a hammer dulcimer in between are just so good for that kind of thing. Like picture, and we can cut music or have something repeat or whatever so he has enough to time to get ready for it but not too much time because he only has four minutes to do everything, quad Axel at 0:20 in the original music, right on the end of that phrase, everybody loses their mind, you know the drill, but the music keeps going slowly but relentlessly on, oh boy! what’s going to happen next?

We’d really need to do some music cutting and pasting magic to get him into maybe quad Lutz at what’s originally 0:29 because if you just play the song that’s not enough time, especially between the hardest jumps anyone’s ever done, so let’s pretend we have the Music Cut Fairy on our side because it’s a perfect moment, and the contrast will be good because the end of this phrase is up while the last one was down, and it has a sharper feel with the drum (Lutz is the sharpest jump, it’s fitting)

Or if that isn’t feasible or if we just like it better, 0:35 is also a really good spot, and the drum right before would be really cool

And so on and so forth. The point is, this kind of music will make things seem really big and cool and kind of gives the skater a little boost in the performance aspect (by sort of tricking your brain into thinking things are cooler than they are, but hey, all program music does that in some way or another- might as well choose music that does it in the way most advantageous to you)

Those are my thoughts, I could figure out some more, but it’s all just vibes and a few sort of snapshot moments anyway, so I’ll leave it there

[yuuana]

Music Monday #234: ATEEZ - MATZ release: December 2023 genre: Kpop, K-hiphop cw: jump scare: kidnapping, flashing lights, violence

Oh no, not Jagu being a completely predictable simp for her best boys. Yup, all month long, one per week, ATEEZ is releasing music videos for the unit songs produced for WILL, so guess what I'll be doing for the next four weeks, too. XD ATEEZ spoils ATINY so much, how can I not want to shower them in love right back?

Because Seonghwa has such an angelic singing voice, for the first few years it was one of those "secrets" that would catch new ATINY by surprise that he initially auditioned to be a rapper. It was a talent of his we didn't see until late in Mingi's hiatus, but like a cat in a bag, once it was out, there was no putting the genie back in the bottle, apparently, as we've steadily gotten more and more appearances of rapper!Seonghwa. And I for one am not going to complain about that.

So given that this is a two rapper subunit, shouldn't really be a surprise that MATZ is more rapped lines than sung. There are sung interludes but the bulk of the lines are delivered in varied rap rates - Hongjoong's delivery leans towards speed while Seonghwa's delivery is purposefully slower to contrast. Given the lyrics, even before the MV's release, there was theorizing that this song was less about lore and more about calling out saesangs for their shameless behavior (putting trackers on idol's vehicles, selling supposed idol phone numbers), especially since this was the one track on WILL that did not pass broadcast muster (presumed for the line about the "carnival," a reference for a make of KIA vehicle). On the other hand, the chorus is definitely a reference to the way these two do have an almost magical chemistry; there's good reason fandom calls them pirate king and pirate queen. ;)

Despite the energy of the track, the video has a muted blue tint over most of the scenes, a coldness that makes this feel very Halateez. There's a story going on between the performance scenes, but even most of the story scenes are cross-pollinated with the performance. There's not much dance by the two members for this one and yet Hongjoong in particular is constantly in motion while delivering his lines. It makes it hard to sit still while watching him, to be honest, so be careful to do some warm ups before getting into any head banging. ;)

As for lore implications.... Hokay, so according to comments in their behind the scenes for WILL, the second half of the album is supposed to signal the unspooling narrative's return from the Z universe (aka Halateez) to the A universe (aka Heroteez), which would put this in A. On the other hand, from comments in the MV behind the scenes video, it feels like MATZ is actually still Z cluster. Or maybe in a 'verse that's halfway between the two clusters? The faceless background actors feel more in keeping with the "the disease is human emotion" that we've seen as the throughline of Z cluster, but the mere existence of a music shop kinda flies in the face of that, sooo ... as per usual, more questions than answers. And if we are returning to Heroteez for the next segment of lore, who knows when we'll get answers.

As noted previously, THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL is out now for streaming wherever you prefer to do your Kpop listening and for physical purchase at a large array of shops, including domestic US stores that report to Billboard - WILL debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, in fact. I even picked up a copy (Diary version) via Wal-Mart...and got a very lovely San PC for my trouble, so count me a happy ATINY.

Want to see Music Monday deep dives more often? Sponsor a song selection! For the low, low price of one (1) KoFi, I'll write up the song of your choice. ANY song of your choice. Yes, even that one that's been played to death. Yes, your obscure faves too. With sponsors, I can stop skipping weeks and falling further and further behind in the releases! Sponsor a current CB for the next open Music Monday slot or sponsor a throwback for a Thursday feature! But seriously, if you've been enjoying my selections and analyses, we (me and the foster kittens) would love a KoFi in thanks. DW | Twitter | Mastodon | Bluesky | Ko-fi | Patreon | Discord | Twitch

[matsur1]

Warnings: Shinichiro x f!reader, angst, death, depression, suicide [kind of?] andddd idk what else- but if there's more then pls lmk<3

word count: 1.2k words!

A/n: This is a one time thing (for now I guess?-) that I did bc I was inspired by a tiktok, also can't tell if this is a sad ending or a happy ending💀 anyways enjoy reading!! SORRY IF SOMEONE ALREADY DID THIS PLOTT AKJSHDUFADF IF SUM1 ALREADY DID PLS LMK SO I CAN DELETE THISS (cz they might think I stole their plottttt) tiktok inspiration link: https://www.tiktok.com/@sohndehr/video/7101730597776772379?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7080717004572182017

You were in your father’s shop as usual, doing duties as he told you to. You listed down all the things found in your father’s shop until you heard a voice.

“Um, excuse me miss,” he had an appealing, mid-low voice. 

You turned around to see who the customer was, and you replied, “Ah yes, is there something you need?” The black-haired man hesitated and stuttered, “Can I get your numbe- I mean- uh- do you guys have any motor parts available?” You chuckled at his stuttering and “mistake”, but you decided to say, “Mhm, we do.”

“Oh okay, can I take a look at them and see which ones I could buy?” He once again asked. “Sure!” you stated.

While you led him into the motor part section of the shop, you decided to tease him a bit, “By the way, I don’t mind giving you my number at all.” He blushed and denied, pretending not to know what you were talking about.

Later on, when he was done paying for the things he bought. He mustered up all the confidence he had and smugly asked you, “So, where’s that number I was supposed to get? Don’t tell me I gotta pay for that too!” You giggled at the humor he had and gave him a little paper with your number written on it. You both then told your goodbyes, and both your day went on with a big smile on your faces.

After giving the black-haired man your number, he immediately texted you that night as soon as he finally finished with all the things he needed to do. He started the conversation by texting you, “Hey! It’s me from the shop. I forgot ask you your name earlier. My name’s Shinichiro Sano! You can call me Shin in short.” The both of you from then on got to know each other even more. Not to mention, he also kept bragging about his siblings. 

Finding out that Shin came back to his homeland, Japan, made you sad but he promised you that he’ll go back to the Philippines along with his siblings next time! And of course, time came when you both officially became a couple!

One day he sent you a message. Reading, “Hey y/n! I know it’s been months since we last got to see each other in person. And trust me I miss you very much!!! I’ve been working hard to save up money so me, Mikey, Emma, and Izana could visit you there! Mikey keeps getting mad at me because I tell him about you all the time. I’m certain that even though I haven’t told Emma and Izana about you yet, they’d love you!!!! Won’t let them steal you away from me though. Anyways, just a bit more patience princess. We’ll be able to see you very soon!!!!! Love you always and keep safe, alright? I’ll see you soon.

Love, Shinichiro”

And that letter was no exception to Shin’s letters giving you a smile that reaches the ears and butterflies in your stomach. You were very excited to meet his siblings too, of course! You had a strong feeling that you’d get along with them very, very well! You sometimes would even have a hard time sleeping at night, not being able to hide your excitement. Even during the day, your father would always tease you for always having so much energy, asking you what you’re always excited for. 

And that excitement didn’t last long, after a month of Shin sending that letter to you. Today, you also got another letter sent in the mail. You got excited, thinking it was from Shin. Checking the letter only to see it was from Shin’s grandfather. Written down was, “Hello dear y/n, I’ve heard a lot about you from Shin-chan. You truly are a kind woman to our Shin and we’re always grateful for that. He never had a girlfriend once in his life and knowing that his first girlfriend is a respectful woman like you makes me happy for him,” You smile at the kind words given by his grandfather, until… “However, I’m sorry to be the one telling you this but, Shin has passed away. I wish to invite you here in Japan and attend his funeral. Make sure to kindly ask your parents for permission first. I’m really sorry y/n. We hope to see you here. I’m sure Shin would also want to see you one last time.” You weren’t expecting this at all. After all, he promised right? He promised he’d see you again in person. Tears kept dripping down. Your father noticed you and asked you what the matter was, but no words were able to leave your mouth. Nothing but the cries of a woman in love losing her partner.

After you were finally able to calm down a little, your father allowed you to go to Shin’s funeral.

Finally, you reached Japan. Shin’s grandfather got Shin’s friend named Wakasa to pick you up from the airport and bring you into the Sano household. The bus that you rode with Wakasa was pretty empty and quiet. You look outside the window, sorrow taking control of your eyes. “So, you’re Shin’s girlfriend?” he politely asked. After seconds of waiting, he got no reply, so he decided to break the silence once again, “He kept bragging about you to basically everyone he meets up with. He always goes “My girlfriend’s like this and that.” Wakasa chuckles, trying to remember the countless times Shin bragged about you. "He never shuts up.”

You feel tears cloud up your eyes once again, but you decided to wipe it off, not wanting to cause a ruckus inside the bus. You sniff, “Aren’t you sad about his death? Aren’t you his friend?” You curiously ask. “Well, of course, I am. But I know Shin, and he wouldn’t want his loved ones to sob gallons of tears for his death, maybe a whole bottle would be acceptable for him, but never a gallon. He’d surely get mad.” He replied trying to make you cry less. 

You finally arrive at the Sano household. Slowly walking over to the casket, you saw Shin’s picture. His innocent smile wanted to make you sob right then and there but you pulled yourself together, remembering what Wakasa had told you. You were able to hold back your tears, not until you saw Shinichiro peacefully resting inside his casket. He was wearing a black suit. A suit you were supposed to see in yours and Shin’s wedding. But instead of a wedding, it was at his funeral. 

You fell onto your knees. You heard other people crying but what caught your attention was two little voices that seemed like Mikey and Emma. You heard a little girl ask, “Mikey-nii, who is that girl?” 

“Shin-nii’s first and last girlfriend,” Mikey replied in monotone. “Oh… that’s, sad… They were just two people that are in love...” Emma muttered.

In the end, you still cried about a gallon of tears. And those tears lasted for months. You decided to lock up yourself inside your room, never having any appetite nor energy to go out. You just couldn’t find any motivation anymore. No matter how many reasons this world could give you, it was different without Shin. Until the time came, you knew it was your turn. 

“Shin...” you whispered, then your eyes slowly shut off. You saw a vision of a blurred black-haired man. Slowly, your visions were finally able to identify who it was. 

“We meet again, my princess.”

© Matsuri

[danwhobrowses]

One Piece Chapter 1062 - Initial Thoughts

And we're back

Once again Oda dropped a bomb and dipped for an extra week but now we're back to await answers

This is the second time I've had to write this XD My PC froze so I had to restart it

but still, let's get this Vegapunk arc going!

Spoilers for the Chapter, Support the official release also

Oh we know whose technique that is, seems that Blackbeard's crew were indeed in Whole Cake Island, ara ara

Picking up right where we left off, Franky and Usopp are still fanning out on Vegapunk, while Sanji and Brook are in the 'pretty lady' mindset

Robin however does point out that Vegapunk has been referred to a dude for much of the story

As fans theorised, 02 is simply not Vegapunk's main body, this is Vegapunk Lilith

Interesting to choose biblical since Lilith is sometimes deemed the second human to be created; after Adam but before Eve

Lilith however reminds the crew this isn't a rescue and demands they hand over their loot, which of course Nami takes offense to

Lilith though claims that the crew is surrounded, with her squad of cyborg sea monsters

Franky's still fanning out while Usopp is between panic and fanning, Zoro however remains unimpressed

Lilith though is contacted by 'Shaka' who reprimands her for looting - even if its for getting more funds

Seems both are aware that this is the Straw Hats, but Lilith believes that our idiots actually have money XD like her cute devious face though

Shaka though notes that Zoro and Robin are calm in the situation, meaning they know they can take her

But I wouldn't call the others idiots, they may end up surprising you

Zoro's willing to play it cool with Lilith though, since he wants something from them. Likely a means to help Luffy's group reunite but you never know

Shaka has interesting stock in the Straw Hats too, asking Lilith to bring them over

Shaka is Punk-01 'Logic', fitting for the name

Over to Luffy's squad and Bonney's in a sharing mood, seems she was here a long time ago when it was just a minor lab

Bonney is indeed after answers from Vegapunk about Kuma...who is her Father!

I mean, it explains a lot and yet so little, no wonder she and Akainu are acquainted and she hates him

But still, Bonney princess of the Sorbet Kingdom, I guess this puts the age question out of the Void Century, unless she used her ability on Kuma too, guess that would be a way to 'commit every crime' per his title

Also we can't dodge the fact that Kuma fucks. Hope he put a ring on it given how he carries that bible around

Jinbe is of course angered by this (not sure if he knows it's Kuma she's talking about but he may've had a dynamic with him as fellow warlords)

It is at least enough for Luffy to try and remember Bonney's name better

Bonney meanwhile realises she forgot to tell Luffy about Sabo - meaning she must know about their brotherhood - but expects she'll have a chance later

They reach the ground floor and it looks like a city from the Jetsons, with a Mecha/Kaiju battle overhead and a lot of Vega branding, plus SSG at the top

Naturally, with all the Steve Irwin energy he can muster, Luffy decides he's gonna ride this gigantic beast...but ends up firing into its mouth

or, not? He goes straight through. The group then see a parfait and go for it (despite Jinbe's warnings it could be a trap) and go through that too

Bonney surmises that these must be holograms, and not Luffy's suggestion that they died and are now ghosts XD food not being real though triggers a Sanji-esque flaming reaction from Luffy

Jinbe suggests that the mech is also a hologram, stating that nobody could make something that big (of course unaware of the mecha that saved the Sunny) but also wonders why the climate is different from the Winter Island climate

This prompts a new Punk to arrive, stating that they made a climate air con. This Punk looks a bit like Uta too, except gigantic and like a sheep-girl-thing, also Jetpacks and rocket boots

Luffy thinks this is another hologram and goes to hit it to test, but when he makes contact he's surprised that the Punk hits back

Fortunately, he's hit into a machine that makes food, and the three gluttons go wild for it

Do you think Vega Cola would make Franky more or less Super?

Seems this Punk is also aggrieved by lack of funding, as well as engineers being unable to follow their blueprints. They're so angry that they punch a hologram too

Seems this Punk made special gloves that can touch holograms, which does feel a little like they're making Kizaru deterrents...

Seems the Punk feels that their Holograms are 'real' in a sense, but like Luffy often does tells others to figure out how they feel, before introducing themselves as Vegapunk too

Bonney doesn't buy it, but this is Punk 06: Atlas rather than the main guy, 'Wrath' is also its sign which is why it's shown to be frustrated and aggressive

Dunno what animal tail that's supposed to be either

Luffy meanwhile remembers the name Vegapunk...not by Bonney who told him last chapter but from Coby back at Water Seven XD

Meanwhile in the New World, CP0 are back in play

This time it's Lucci, Kaku and Stussy, all with their masks on the table, as Kaku tries to explain to Lucci the Vegapunk situation

Vegapunk has took a trick from Nagato and split themselves into Six 'satellites' so they can multitask

In numeric order we have Shaka, Lilith, Edison, Pythagoras, Atlas (even though their dress and name plate said 06) and Yoke (or is it York? Maybe relative to Captain Yorki Brook's old captain??)

Their sign is Logic, Evil (probably a nod to Lilith being mother of demons), Flair (kinda hope he's just a plagiarist), Wisdom, Wrath and Desire

There's also a Seraphim Kuma on the ship, deemed a 'problem child' that they're taking back to Egghead

but this is only a front for their actual mission: Kill all the Vegapunks

Lucci does wonder if this is tied into Lulusia, but Stussy does slyly note that it's not their job to ask questions

Unlike Lucci though, questions is all we have to ask!

The Vegapunk stuff isn't surprising, but I still like it. Seven different Vegapunks are running around with different personalities, skills and agendas, which can blend well with the different personality types of the crew and Bonney.

Speaking off, Bonney has perfectly blended into the group, not that I had much doubt, but she has the seriousness Zoro, Jinbe and Robin issue but the silliness that Luffy, Usopp and Chopper exude. Revealing her to be Kuma's daughter is a surprise, but it does add to her and Kuma's mystery.

And Oda is slowly putting all manner of threats in the way; CP0 and a defective Kuma Seraphim on their way to kill all the Vegapunks, which will likely bring all of the plots post-Reverie to light when it comes to the Straw Hats. It'll be interesting how Lucci and Kaku rate against Luffy and Zoro now, part of me wants them to be weaker just so we can get Kaku vs Usopp but another part of me feels like Lucci and Luffy should be on similar levels. With CP0 unraveling in Wano too, I wonder if this leads to a bigger fallout, but really I'd be happy if they simply don't squash Tashigi and Smoker if he's here, give Smoker and Tashigi a big win instead.

We still have Shaka to physically meet and 3 more Punks to entirely meet in this arc, but I'm liking what we're seeing

Plus since there's multi Vegapunks I'm going all in on calling it the 'Vegapunk Arc' rather than Egghead Island, let's manifest it!

[medicinemane]

God it's crazy how much better the browser version of duolingo is than the mobile version is

Actually pleasant, not worrying about mistakes because you're not limited to making 5 mistakes unless you pay them, actually felt like I was learning and having it stick, basically just duolingo from a couple years ago instead of now where it's clear they really really want you to use plus... oh I'm sorry, super (yay rebranding for no reason) less by adding value to that and more by making the base experience suck more in the name of motivation

Only problem is where I get 29 xp on mobile, I got 13 xp on desktop, which you'd think wouldn't be a problem, but oh yeah they made it so you have to earn 1000 xp every month which like... thanks so much for that

So I guess mobile for keeping up bullshit extrinsic motivators like streaks and badges that they super promise they've done science to prove this is the best way to do things, and pc for when I can muster the energy to actually learn

Even just typing it in and of itself is better at memorizing it, cause typing is a physical thing and so my fingers can remember Cad atá sa bhosca and my head can follow their lead to type that out and know that mean's What's in the box? and that it takes an h on bosca

Just need to make myself sit down and learn on the good version of duolingo, just bang out a ton of Irish

[djregular]

Working On Something New

Decided to participate in the Lumen Jam with a game tentatively titled Comrade: The Allegiance. If you aren’t the particular sort of poisoned that I am, you might not already recognize that the naming convention is very purposefully referencing the World Of Darkness series of TTRPGs, originally published by White Wolf (now by Onyx Path, and the newer joints by...Renegade, I believe?). 

With Lumen being a game meant to emulate the feeling of video games (specifically looter shooters like Destiny, Borderlands, etc., see its flagship game LIGHT, and the mech combat game Nova), I had the notion using it to make a WoD inspired game does two things:

Pays homage to the Beat ‘Em Up video games (see: Streets of Rage, Final Fight) that I played a lot of around the same time I was first introduced to the WoD TTRPGs.

Gives more than sly wink at the way that I actually played a lot of the WoD TTRPGs as a kid.

Many of y’all know that the WoD games emphasized dark themes in each of their core books, and player characters that had to wrestle with inner turmoil of some kind, usually very unique to that particular core book. (Vampire: Slowly losing one’s humanity, Werewolf: Raging against the dying of your kind and the ruining of your world, etc.) More often than not though? A lot of my most memorable times playing the games were coming up with ways to justify treating PC groups like an Urban Fantasy riff on Scooby’s gang, with each of us playing a different character type, and figuring out how to make them all get along. Or at least put their differences aside long enough to deal with a common enemy. Comrade: The Allegiance tries to recapture that energy.

The Premise: You are a small group of various supernatural creatures and supernatural adjacent humans who have decided to put your differences aside to make your city a safe place to live. One day, a powerful seer in your community foretells of a hostile invading force that only you can beat back.

Sound good to you? The rough draft is ready for playtesting, but I’m trying to make it slightly prettier before I put it someplace for people to download. Hit the jump to see the bit of fluff that opens up the book. 

Preface: Protection “Getting tired, leech?” Somehow, underneath the rough and guttural rasp of Stands-in-Flame’s voice, Christian could detect the hint of a smirk. 

“Just catching my breath.” They both knew that was a lie, though if he had actually needed to draw breath, his multitude of broken ribs would’ve made it difficult. 

The hordes of vampires from out-of-town descended upon their city as soon as the sun went down; Christian and a handful of unlikely allies joined together to meet them at the city outskirts with whatever resistance they could muster. Despite advanced warning from a powerful and well-regarded seer of the coming danger, none of them could manage a united front from their respective communities: Most of Stands-in-Flame’s fellow werewolves wouldn’t deign to stand in the same space as a vampire without coming to claws and fangs, let alone working with them. When the Mage of the crew tried to recruit their coven, they got them all to agree on one thing��that it was a trap. The Hunter? She didn’t even bother trying. As far Christian, he wasn’t particularly well-liked by his own kind already, so the vampires weren’t in a hurry to stick their necks out on his behalf. 

All this motley crew had was each other, but so far that had been enough. Barely. This was the first lull in the assault since it had started, and they had hours to go until sunrise. Along with the numbers, the invaders were well-organized, well-outfitted, and seemingly possessed with an unyielding ferocity. The last wave was particularly brutal—they brought out an APC, complete with a grenade launcher, which is what put Christian on his back. He struggled to get to his feet, but as he faltered, a massive arm of muscle and black fur held him steady.

“You’re not done yet…Christian.” Not leech, or parasite, but his given name. And this was the first time that a werewolf had touched him without the intent to turn him to dust.

“No, I don’t suppose I am.” He looked up at his unlikely companion in battle, and though she stood two feet taller than him, the past few hours of defending their city had brought them shoulder-to-shoulder.

“You two need a minute? I’m sure me and Frank Castle can go play cards while y’all make out, or whatever.” Tracy snorted as they waved their hands in strange patterns, and seconds later a perimeter of protective runes surrounded them all. For her part, ‘Frank Castle’ slung an assault rifle over their shoulder and peered out at the horizon through a pair of night vision binoculars.

“We got more comin’. And it’s not just vamps.” On cue, an unearthly tritone of howls echoed in the distance. Stands-in-Flame’s hackles raised, and she growled.

“Not friends of yours, I wager.” Christian chuckled through a grimace, as he channeled blood into knitting his ribs back into place. “Well, let’s give them a proper welcome.”

[zippdementia]

Part 94 Alignment May Vary: A Clashing of Fates

The Mountain loomed in the background, the mighty Jarlberg. The armies of the New Alliance, made up of a conglomeration of races from elves to ice barbarians to the common people of the Sword Coast, marched through the ice and snow, chanting battle cries to keep their spirits high. They felt a mighty army, but the sight of the Mountain caused a shiver to run through their ranks. 

The Mountain seemed a god fallen to earth. Around it a black cloud swirled, and as they drew closer they could all see it was no cloud, but winged demons. Two flanks of armed foes stood on either side of the mountain, ready to flank their army. The Yuan Ti were arranged on the left, and it seemed the entire race was present. Imoaza could not see the leader, but she knew that somewhere in that mass was her son, Xaxus, whose name meant “The Serpent Who Would Eat the World.” 

To the right were the Undead, a huge number of them, all the Undead that had attacked Vraath Keep, bolstered to twice that number by all those who had died in that battle. Leading them was a giant of a woman, dead as the rest, but filled with more rage. She wore a bloodstained mask, and Milosh recognized her. It was Sierra, wearing the mask that seemed to transform her into a more powerful fighter. Karina would have known the mask: it long ago had been worn by Shando to make him El Ultimo Santo. 

With a mighty cry, the two armies, both made up of former friends, former foes, and even family, began to advance.

This is a massive battle. On the one side is Abenthy’s army, made up of over 6000 undead, 2300 Yuan Ti, 1000 Demons, and nearly 1000 monsters deserted from the Vraath Keep forces. They have champions, as well. Sierra, wearing the mask of El Ultimo Santo, leads her fellow undead. A Balor has been summoned from the Abyss to assist Abenthy with bringing the realm of Chaos into the physical plane. It leads the demons, all of them flying units. Xaxus leads the Yuan Ti, and there are a couple of other special units yet hidden. Directing it all is the will of the Three Who Are One, having taken Abenthy’s form. He does not seem to be present, but his power moves this armies like pawns on a board.

The New Alliance is only half the size of Abenthy’s army.  Comander Feluver leads it, and has brought a contingent of 2000 wood elves. Waterdeep, followers of Karina, and Baldur’s Gate refugees add another 3000 to this number. The tribe of Ice Barbarians has helped prepare the army for fighting in the snow, while adding 55 of their own number to the fight. And finally, 15 adult dragons, three each from the metallic colors, have come to add their prodigious might to the battle.

What the Alliance lacks in numbers, it makes up in legendary heroes. Immerstal the Red is here, lending his fire magic. Verrick comes with all the power of a death knight, bound to Milosh. Breath Giver has become the leader of Watergate and wields the power of the Blackstaff. Her brother, Orcaheart, is a mighty Ice Barbarian warrior who once (as he reminds him) beat Milosh in a one-on-one combat... with a little help from his sister. Hecate is poised like a knife at the heart of the Yuan Ti, hidden among their ranks and unsuspected in her treachery. Daymos and Jade are present, not fighting, but using their psychic energy to disrupt Abenthy’s control over his army. And of course the PCs themselves: Imoaza the Yuan Ti Weave Seer and Warlock; Milosh the Half Orc Mercenary from another world, choosen by Primus himself to be a champion of order; and Carrick, human Paladin of Primus, infused with the knowledge and wisdom of the Surveyor.

The idea for this combat was inspired by Tyranny of Dragons. I never was satisfied with how the final battle in that campaign is described. The DM is just sort of left to “figure it out” and all the promise that PC actions were going to matter and have a mechanical impact are left behind. It’s a little better written in the rerelease of the campaign, but the major issue is still not resolved: no good mechanics are given to help simulate a battle of the proportions described. 

So to play out this combat, I wanted to fix that problem. I turned to DMs Guild and read a number of mass combat rules, including old 1st Edition D&D rules written by Gary Gygax himself. Most did not meet muster. They were either too complex or clunky, or too nebulous.

But then I found the aptly named “Simple Mass Combat Rules” by Christopher Heatherington. As of this writing, Chris has only done one other release on DM’s Guild, but I know he’s active because he responded to my praise for his Mass Combat Rules. I want to repeat that praise here, and encourage anyone who ever wants to run a mighty army vs army battle in D&D to use these rules. They are good enough I think Wizards of the Coast should officially adopt them.

I won’t go into the details of the rules here, except to say that basically every creature in an army adds to its value, and those values are compared to figure out how much “life” each army has. The higher value army always has 20 life, and the lesser value army has life equal to a percentage of that, based on their army’s power (in this case, 15 for the New Alliance). Each round essentially comes down to two rolls. One is a commander’s roll, to compare how well each army fights. Another is a morale roll, to see if either army breaks its spirit. Affecting these rolls with pluses and minuses are the actions of the PCs, who get to direct the armies and take actions themselves in combat. The focus stays very macro, so you aren’t usually running individual combats (though you can, if you feel it is a key moment).

Below, I’ll take you through the major steps of our battle, and describe how it all plays out.

The First Clash

The Yuan Ti army stays where it is, but the Undead march forward to meet the New Alliance. The PCs work to come up with a plan of attack with Breath Giver and Comander Feluver. They decide to send the Waterdhavians charging against the Yuan Ti, while the Elves and the rest of the Alliance will try to destroy the Undead. Verrick and Orcaheart are assigned the task of taking down Sierra, which they grimly (Verrick) and excitedly (Orcaheart) accept. Immerstal and Milosh lead the charge against the rest of the undead, keeping the troops in line and their morale high. Carrick hangs back with Breathgiver, assisting as medics on the field.

The first clash against the undead El Ultimo Santo has all the intensity of a raging inferno. A circle in the middle of the armies is formed, as even the fearless undead pull away from the raw destructive power of the battle. El Santo is a beast of pure reckless force, crater the icy ground with each blow of her maul like fists. Verrick wields all the unholy might of a Death Knight, and brings it against Santo, sending waves of necrotic energy spiraling around them, refreezing the slush that their boots make of the arena. Faced with such power, it is impressive that Orcaheart shows no fear and holds his own ground, picking the perfect moments to move in and strike against El Ultimo, while she is distracted by Verrick’s furious blows. After a half hour of fighting, the three are still locked in deadly combat.

Meanwhile, the Waterdhavians advance upon the Yuan Ti, but this seems to have been predicted by the clever snake people. They send hails of arrows and blasts of powerful magic raining down on the hapless army. Still, the Waterdhavians charge, seemingly into a suicide run.

However, there is a method to this. The distraction caused by their rush has allowed one very special person to leave the main army and travel undetected across the snow at high speed, using her mastery of the weave to disguise her presence. Invisible, Imoaza steals across the ice, until she is behind the Yuan Ti army. Then, dropping her spell, she assumes the appearance of a non-descript Yuan Ti warrior and blends in with the mighty army, seeking her son, and vengeance.

Mortal Combat

With battle broken upon the two armies, Abenthy seizes the advantage early on. The Waterdhavians are getting crushed under the ranged might of the Yuant ti and their magic. Imoaza has merged with the Yuan Ti army, but pressing through to find Xaxus is like trying to dig through solid rock with your fingernails. The Yuan Ti stand tightly packed and are observant of anything breaking the order. Imoaza has to be careful, but she also needs to be quick: the Waterdhavians are suffering more death every second. Each moment she delays is a moment of failure.

While Imoaza seeks to complete her secret mission, Abenthy moves two assets into position on the field. The demons break off from their perches on the mountaintop and fly towards the main Alliance army, seeking to rain fire and death upon it. They are met mid air by the Allied Dragons, who tear through the demons with mighty blasts of their breath weapons and flashes of claw and tooth. A group of the demons breaks away and lands at the back of the Alliance, led by the leader of the demons, a mighty Balor known only as The Forgotten Death. Milosh and Carrick and Breathgiver come together to lead the rear defense, but the undead are closing in from the front. Immerstal adds his mighty magic to the fray as well.

While all this is going on, Abenthy send his second asset into the field on a secret mission of its own. It is a mighty Dracolich, and it soars silently towards the Alliance headquarters, where it hopes to find the source of the psychic power holding him back: Daymos and Jade. It will easily eliminate the two distracted psychics.

But before it can reach its goal, a mighty roar of sadness splits the sky as the Bronze Dragon Argent, the PC’s companion and mount since the adventure on the Moving Ice, spots the Dracolich and recognizes its essence. It is his mother, the Bronze Dragon Sauros, who so long ago promised aid to Karina and was eventually slain by the Red Hand. Argent, wailing with sorrow, turns from the battle against the demons and flies at his mother, determined to end her suffering. The two dragons clash mid air and begin a deadly, sorrowful dance.

In the midst of these developments, Verrick and Orcaheart finally deliver the killing blow to El Ultimate Santo, though Orcaheart takes a mighty blow, crushing his lower spine, to leave the great beast open. Verrick kills Santo and as he falls, his mask splits in two and Sierra, her undead body broken, is released from his hold over her soul. Santo makes one last statement: “Finally, El Ultimo Santo may go to his rest.” Then the mask falls into dust and soon is lost amidst the snow. Both Sierra and the long suffering soul of El Santo find their rest.

Desperate Measures

With El Ultimo slain, Carrick and Milosh realize they have to press their advantage. However, the undead have no fear. The death of their greatest warrior does nothing except leave them free to attack the ailing Verrick and the downed Orcaheart. MIlosh pulls the two out of the conflict and gets them to safety, fighting off hordes of the undead to break through to the Alliance camp.

“Brother!” Breathgiver ran out of a large pavilion as the soldiers carried the limp form of Orcaheart into the camp. She rushed to his side and took his huge hand in her tiny one.

“Sister,” Orcaheart said, his voice thick with pain. “I have fought the battle of my lifetime and I fear it is to be my last. Do not cry, you need to be a leader now. You are the Blackstaff.”

“I am also still your sister,” she said, angrily wiping the tears from her face. “And it is not your time. There is still work to be done.”

Breathgiver summoned her powers and laid her hands upon Orcaheart. He gasped as the pain was torn from him, as wounds closed and bones mended. He moved his legs slightly. Breathgiver bent and kissed him on the forehead.

“Your fighting days are over,” she said. “That much is true. You will walk, but stiffly, and will never be able to match another in combat as you once did. But there is more to life than fighting, brother. When this battle is over, peace will reign, and I will need your strength by my side to help me rule.”

Orcaheart looked at Milosh, who had dragged him from the fight. “Go,” he said. “You are the only one to have ever defeated Orcaheart in a fight. Now your friend needs your sword arm at his side. Alas, my sister speaks wisdom. I can do no more for you in this battle.”

While this is happening, Carrick is still behind in the mass of swelling undead and Milosh plunges back into the fray to try to reach him, Verrick following him as his bound companion. The three end up separated, fending off wave after wave of the undead, slowly losing their own fighters to the horde. Finally they all end up reunited, back to back, each covered in the blood of the slain.

“They are growing in numbers!” Carrick calls out.

“Our own allies are swelling their ranks,” Milosh answers.

But that isn’t all of it. Carrick reaches out with his divine granted senses and realizes that the army is being restocked continuously by a host of corpse flowers, the disgusting plant like undead that destroyed the Witchwood. He tells Milosh of his discovery, and the two realize that they must take what remains of their army and do everything they can to reach and destroy the Corpse Flowers.

“I will make an opening for you,” Verrick says, and plunges into the middle of the horde.

Milosh looks up and sees dragons falling from the sky, their wings burned to a crisp. The demons screech insanely.

“We are out of time,” Milosh says.

While all this is going on, finally Imoaza finds what she is looking for. Xaxus sits upon a palanquin set astride a mighty Tyranasaur-like creature, long bodied and long tailed, with a face mostly made up of teeth. At his side stands Hecate, seeming completely subservient.

Imoaza thinks fast. “A message from the front,” she cried out, getting Xaxus’ notice. “The One who is Three sends new orders.” Xaxus ushers Imoaza, not recognizing her in her disguise, up onto his platform to give him the news directly. Hecate’s eyes widen, and Imoaza realizes that she, somehow, has realized who she is.

“What is the message?” Xaxus asks.

Imoaza leans close. "Thank you for bringing me my army." 

For a moment, she drops the disguise. Xaxus’ face pales as he recognizes his long lost mother. But before he can react, Hecate blasts him in the back with her gun arm and Imoaza summons Black Razor Alpha to her, and stabs deep into Xaxus’ heart. 

Around them the Yuan Ti go silent, staring up at the sacreligious murder of their mortal deity, the Serpent Who Will Swallow the World.

“What now?” Hecate asks.

“Now we see if the Yuan Ti believed your prophecy about the dragons.”

When All Else Fails

Imoaza stood in front of the full might of the Yuan Ti army. They stared at her and she felt suddenly that she teetered on the edge of a precipice, not a physical chasm, but an edge of time. On one edge, she saw the Yuan Ti throwing themselves like rabid animals against the forces of the Alliance, destroying many of the citizens of Waterdeep, so many dead that the snow turned red with the blood of humans, dwarves, and elves. The Yuan Ti were killed to the last one, the race ended in their rush to meet Dendar the Night Serpant.

That was one path. The Yuan Ti would be forever remembered by history as a powerful race, one which had fought to the bitter end, one which had never been conquered.

One that never thrived again.

The other path showed the Yuan Ti as a peaceful race, peaceful and simple. They were not rulers. They did not conquer or seek power. History forgot them. But they survived. They worshipped the path of the metallic dragons, sought balance in life, and sustainability in living it. They surrendered their armaments and faded into the background of civilization.

And they survived.

Imoaza looked out over the crowd of Yuan Ti watching her and for a moment doubted herself, wondering how she could possibly ever convince the Yuan Ti to be a peaceful people. Then she felt a hand on her shoulder, and turned her head to see Hecate giving her a slight nod of support. She remembered her daughter as she had been, the most bloodthirsty Yuan Ti of all, chasing her across the very planes of existence. If she had changed, had found peace, then so could her race.

Imoaza turned back to the crowds, raised her hands and magnified her voice, and began to speak.

Many things happen on the battlefield. 

Argent and his undead mother, Sauros, let out a mighty roar as their battle ends, the two dragons peeling away from each other, trailing blood in the sky, as they fall behind the mountain and are lost to sight. We make a roll for Argent, a die roll to see if he survives.... which I’ll reveal at the end of the post. 

And the Balor, the Forgotten Death, lands in the midst of the Alliance army, seemingly invincible, and begins carving a path to its leaders, Breathgiver and Feluver. Immerstal pulls on his last resources to hold the Legendary Demon General at bay. Do they survive? It will come down to a roll....

Verrick rushes into the the center of the undead army, where he unleashes his final attack. It is a powerful blast of fire that tears out of him, ripping out of every pore of his body and blasting the undead around him into smithereens. He thinks of Karina as he unleashes his power. We make a die roll for him, too...

Regardless, MIlosh and Carrick know there is only one chance they will get to have this advantage, and they lead a desperate charge through the hole Verrick has made. But already Abenthy is reacting, using all his willpower to draw the undead into an impenetrable line in front of the corpse flowers, knowing that while they exist, he cannot lose this battle. Milosh looks to Carrick as they charge and thinks of sacrifices.

“I’m sorry,” he says, and unleashes a divine blast, a power given to him by the Inevitable, the power that is prophecied to be able to strike down Primus himself. It rushes out of him, and many of their own soldiers die in the blast as it expands out to 60 feet. It tears through the final stand of the Undead. It washes over Carrick, bringing him to his knees... but Carrick stands again, and together with Milosh, they rush the Corpse Flowers, and begin cutting them down.

This is the turning point in the battle. With the Corpse Flowers cut down, the Yuan Ti army in confusion, and the demons outnumbered by the dragons and the remaining alliance, it seems that the heroes have won through!

But Abenthy has only been stalling for time.

From Above

A roar froze everyone in the midst of battle, causing even the Balor to pause mid strike, and turn towards the mountain. Tentacles were erupting all over the mountainside, ripping through space. And emerging...

... no, thought Carrick, covered in the stench-ridden blood of the corpse flowers. No, we have come too far to fail now.

But failed they had, for the battle had only all been a delay, a tactic designed to weaken them in time to summon forth the Tarrasque.

And not just the Tarrasque. Even as the great beast emerged from the portal being ripped in the side of the Jarlberg, the clouded skies split open and a rumble rolled across the battlefield.

Carrick knew what was coming. Abenthy himself was entering the battlefield. Given the power of a god, he was coming to smite those who had been foolish enough to defy him. Carrick fell to his knees, feeling hopelessness wash over him, as the god’s voice split through the sky.

But it was not Abenthy’s voice. It was a battlecry:

“FOR ALDRIC, AND THE GREEN COMPANY!”

Carrick raised his eyes once more skyward, in time to see, not a god coming to smite them, but ships. Dozens of ships, breaking through the atmosphere. And, at their head, one mighty vessel which looked remarkably familiar. The surveyor’s ship, which had taken them across the planets and into the very Abyss itself. It had once been unnamed, but now bright gold letters crossed its hull, spelling out a name Aldric would have been proud of: The Anope.

(DMs note: for those who have forgotten, which is probably everyone except my players, Anope was Aldric’s horse back when he first joined the party)

Then a very familiar voice came cascading over the battlefield:

“Seem to be in a tight spot, gentlemen!” came the cry of Roger Krisp, “What you need is a little help and maybe some of my patented cereal! Captain Krispies! Sure to put a pep in your step! And it comes with prizes. And today, that prize is anti-armor bombardment! Cover your butts!”

And as he spoke, the ships opened fire, launching enough missiles, energy blasts, lasers, and bombs to destroy the rest of Abenthy’s army and even finally take down the Tarrasque.

Who lives? Who dies? I said I’d say at the end of the post, but I maybe kinda sorta lied. I’ll share next time, though, when I’ll also share our final battle against Abenthy, which takes place in a very strange and unique battlefield, and we reach the long awaited conclusion to our campaign.

Thank you so so much for reading this far. We’ll see you at the finish line.

[bnha-hcs]

Can i request some fluffy hc for Midoriya, Bakugo, Kirishima and Todoroki for a s/o or crush thats always sleepy? Thank you!!

I spent 50000 years trying to figure out what was wrong with my left mouse click on my laptop and finally gave up and stole the mouse from my pc aslkdajlsk anyways i hope you enjoy!!

(PS don’t ask why i had extra to say about bakugou it just kinda hit me and I still wanted to add it so aslkdjalk)

Midoriya Izuku:

He’d probably do the best with an s/o that’s always sleepy tbh bc he’s already ready to go the extra mile for them at the drop of the hat so if they even thought about needing anything he would already have it for them then and there. He’ll always ask if they need something like coffee, tea, energy drink to kinda help them stay awake during classes or doing dates and what not. He’ll even be ready with a blanket and pillow in case they fall asleep at any given time. He is truly the mom friend and no one knows it more than his own s/o.

Speaking of dates, Midoriya would have no quarrels with just taking a day to nap or relax with his s/o. They might find him fidgeting because he’s the type to feel a little guilty just napping all day, but after a few dates of the caliber, he’d get used to it and be able to truly enjoy dates with his s/o in that fashion. He especially loves all of the sleepy affections that pass between the two of them. Get ready for a lot of sleepy and sloppy kisses, snuggles, and hugs.

If he can he’ll offer to be his s/o’s pillow if they’re out and start to doze. It’s hard for him to spot it at first when they’re really starting to struggle staying awake, but he gets a real keen eye for it before long. He also probably has the largest collection of photos on his phone of just him and his s/o when they’re sleeping with their head on his shoulder and he will literally show every single knew picture he gets to anyone he can. It’s a mixture of embarrassing and endearing to his poor s/o. 

Bakugou Katsuki:

Tbh he wouldn’t have a clue how exactly to handle it??? They’re sleepy all the time?? Cool,,, wyd. Alaksjdka he’d be a little clueless and honestly would just end up having to shake his s/o to make sure that they’re staying awake for everything. He gets a little annoyed if they fall asleep during times they aren’t supposed to but when they’re doing literally anything else he doesn’t really mind or care. 

If anything it kinda works out for the both of them because Bakugou is definitely someone who is loud enough to keep anyone awake and alert, but if his s/o is happily dozing with their head on his shoulder he’s surprisingly more docile,,, until someone says something stupid, then he’s still more apt to yell something at them. Even then, it’s still a little less biting and loud than it usually is. The fact that his s/o is sleepy all the time also helps with the fact that Bakugou is kind of a loner, so the two of them can have a comfortable silence without having to worry.

It’s most likely a routine between the two of them where his s/o will be quietly napping next to him, and Bakugou will be reading, watching hero videos, or doing schoolwork. Bakugou is very much like a cat, where he likes existing in the same room as his s/o, but the two of them don’t need to be interacting very much for him to be satisfied. He appreciates that he can come back to them after training rounds and decompress with a few snuggles. He’ll never admit it either but, he finds the sleepy and sort of aloof nature them to be endearing. When they wake up from a nap and give him a sleepy smile as they see him, it makes him melt. 

Extra: Anytime Bakugou finds himself especially angry or upset he tends to seek out his s/o if they’re in their room. He’ll barge in after making sure they’re there and they’ll be waiting for him sure enough,,, As soon as his s/o raises their arms sleepily, sitting upright in their bed seemingly fresh from a nap, he’ll waste no time finding his place in them, quickly nestling his face in the crook of their neck. 

Kirishima Eijirou:

Will one hundred percent tote his sleepy s/o around with him everywhere. More often than not he’s pretty oblivious about his s/o’s plight and it takes them telling him to slow the hell down for him to stop and realize that they need a second. There’s a lot of him going on and on about stuff and his s/o sleepily listening to him and just smiling and nodding bc that’s all they can muster. Kirishima is such a high energy boy that I’m very sure that he’d tire out his s/o pretty fast. 

He will be that boyfriend that if his s/o falls asleep on him that he’ll gladly carry them to their bed no matter where they are. It’s funny to think about though, if his s/o falls asleep on him while they’re out somewhere on a date, because he will carry them all the way back to campus and drop them off at their room and do it with a big ol cheesy smile. Whenever his s/o wakes up he tells them thanks for letting him practice on being a hero by carrying them all the way back to their room. They can make him flustered by telling him that he’s already their hero and he’ll probably hug them so hard they won’t be able to breathe. 

Will also be one hundred percent down to spend the whole day napping but only every once in a while since he does like to be a very active guy. His s/o can convince him pretty easily though because he’s still a big ol softie in his heart. One kiss on the cheek and he’s pretty easily convinced,,, On the flip side, Kirishima’s favorite thing to do is to smother his s/o with kisses until they wake up laughing. Last time he tried to tickle them awake he got kicked in the stomach bc it surprised them so much. 

Todoroki Shouto:

Absolutely clueless at first and isn’t sure why his s/o is sleepy all the time and at first he thinks it’s because they aren’t getting enough sleep and has a whole sit down with them and talks with them about getting proper amounts of sleep?? His s/o almost cries laughing before they tell him that they’ve just always been this way so he shouldn’t worry too much. He silently worries about them even after they tell him everything is okay. Asks them if they need anything from time to time just to make sure. 

He doesn’t really mind his s/o’s sleepiness all the time, and in fact finds it kinda cute. As long as it doesn’t interfere with their ability to fight he thinks it’s fine so he does his best to aid them in anyway he can. He’s not easily flustered so when they fall asleep on him in public he doesn’t really mind. Others in the class will gush about how cute it is though when they both end up napping on the bus or in the common rooms together. There’s probably a 1-A discord chat with a sub chat that’s just sleepy pictures of Todo and his s/o. He has one of the pictures as his background on his phone. Every time there’s a new picture he’ll set the new one as his background pic. 

At some point he woke up his s/o from a nap by using his ice powers and it scared the ever loving piss out of them. He told his s/o he wouldn’t do it again, but if they refuse to get up he’ll playfully use it as a threat. He’s a little adverse to sleeping the whole day but doesn’t mind napping with his s/o every so often. He’ll trace patterns on his s/o while they fall asleep and kiss the top of their head when he needs to leave before they wake up. Loves reading while his s/o sleeps next to him and will occasionally lean over to kiss their forehead/cheek bc he absolutely loves their adorable little sleeping face. 

[kiruuuuu]

Glaz/Echo oneshot in which Echo refuses to apologise for something, uh, unsavoury. (Rating T, chaotic nonsense, ~1.4k words) - written for @magehir​!! 💞💞

.

“You pissed into my closet.”

Echo immediately loses track of the complicated equation he was working out in his head and feels the sudden urge to bang his head against the tabletop. Looking up, he’s presented with an inexplicably disgruntled Glaz looming over him and glaring. All that’s missing are his hands on his hips to complete the nagging housewife aesthetic. “Are you nuts? I did no such thing.”

“You’re very welcome to come home and smell it yourself. Is that why you were gone so early this morning? Because you didn’t want to be forced to clean everything?”

“No. I was gone early because that’s the time we go to work, Timur, though I suppose I can’t expect you to know this seeing as you’re never on time.”

“What?” Indignation warps Glaz’ features into an even more alluring grimace. There’s no way Echo would ever admit it, but Glaz looks stunning when he’s angry. “I’m always punctual!”

“I highly doubt that, considering you always get up more than an hour later.”

“That’s because you take forever with your stupid hair. You get up with messy hair, comb it, and then very carefully mess it up again.”

“Not true. I don’t take that long. And besides, it’s not stupid.” He chances a quick glance around to look for the nearest reflective surface just in case there really is something wrong with his hair. When he comes up empty and turns back to their argument, Glaz seems even more unimpressed. “You were late today. So there’s that.”

“Yes. I was late because I had to throw all my clothes in the wash because they stank. Because you, as I said, pissed into my fucking closet!”

“Don’t pin this on me, are you sure you didn’t do it yourself?”

“Of course not! Why would I do that?”

“Well why would I do that? Just the fact that you’ve been yelling at me for five minutes is reason enough not to.”

“Maybe it’s payback for the time I threw up all over your favourite trousers. You do have a vindictive streak, you know.”

“But I already forgave you for that. That’s long settled.”

“Yeah, because you made me buy you a new pair.”

“Which you chose based on which ones made my ass look best.”

“Can you blame me? Have you looked in a mirror while wearing them? Wait, I have a photo somewhere…”

And while Glaz is tapping away at his phone, Echo heaves a sigh and turns to Mute next to him, intending to complain some more when he realises that everyone in the workshop is staring at them, except for the young Brit who nonchalantly keeps tinkering with one of Smoke’s gas grenades. Zofia, in the process of pouring herself a glass of water, apparently abandoned her previous activity halfway through without setting the bottle down, and has created a small flood on her side of the room. No one around her seems to have noticed.

“Haven’t argued in public before, mate”, Mute murmurs distractedly as if he could read minds.

That actually explains a lot. Echo considers addressing the room but figures a statement like this is normal or maybe a reassuring at least neither of us has threatened to break up yet wouldn’t improve the situation. Not with how appalled Mira already seems to be.

When Glaz shows him the evidence, accidentally navigating back to the gallery and revealing about a hundred secretly snapped photos of Echo, he can’t even muster up the energy to be angry.

.

“I don’t ever want to argue in front of other people again”, Echo says without interrupting his head massage. Glaz is curled up on top of him, petted into a content, catatonic state, and so it takes him several seconds to reply.

When he does, he stretches first, pressing closer to him and rubbing his cheek against Echo’s chest. It’s so freaking adorable he considers abandoning the topic in favour of just snogging until they can’t breathe but freezes when Glaz sleepily mutters: “Shouldn’t have pissed in my closet then.”

His irritation is back full force. “I didn’t fucking -”

“How do you know?”

“- what?”

“Really, how do you know? We both can’t remember much after Dom got the gin out. How can you be so sure it wasn’t you?”

“You know what, maybe it was Dom. He did stagger home later, but that doesn’t disqualify him.”

“Don’t pin this on other people now.”

“He’s a perfectly viable option! I admit that it’s unlikely you yourself did it, but that doesn’t -”

“Besides, you’re Asian. You already don’t deal well with alcohol.”

Echo’s eyes begin hurting from rolling so hard. “Seriously? We’re doing stereotypes now? Then explain to me how I managed to drink more than you did. You’re Russian after all, you should have vodka running through your veins.”

“But just because I’m Russian -” Glaz stops mid-sentences, re-evaluates and seems to belatedly understand. He turns in Echo’s embrace so they’re eye to eye. “I take it back. I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine.” Echo purses his lips in anticipation of a kiss, maybe some more, a sweet locking of lips turning sloppy, or even just Glaz pushing a hand under Echo’s shirt to run his finger over warm skin, but instead Glaz just looks at him expectantly. “Hm? What is it?”

“Don’t you also have something to apologise for?”

“What do you …”

“My closet.”

Due to the ensuing fight, they miss most of the film they were watching and restart it, only to get caught up in a discussion about whether they’ll order or make food, with both of them being too lazy to make anything but too indecisive to agree on any takeaway. After realising they still have leftovers, they gorge themselves on an adequate amount of stir-fry rice and end up much the same as most evenings: Echo gaming at his PC and Glaz stretched out on the couch, sketching and letting the TV entertain him in the background.

“Why do you always argue with me?”, Echo wants to know over his shoulder during a particularly long matchmaking queue. Frowning, he corrects himself: “Why am I the only one you argue with? You rarely do with your team or your friends.”

Glaz doesn’t even look up. “Because with you, I don’t feel like I need a filter.” And when Echo doesn’t respond, he adds an amused: “I know you’re blushing.”

.

“Honestly, it’s a good thing you can keep up with Glaz in drinking or else the Russians would’ve long lost what little respect for you they still have”, Bandit announces cheerfully and slaps down a Draw 4 card.

As usual, it’s only the two of them left in the game, due to Echo’s superior skill in strategy and probably Bandit’s cheating, the other guests having congregated in the kitchen and leaving the two of them to battle it out. “What do you mean?”, Echo wants to know and increases his hand size to whopping 10 cards with a sigh.

“You’re terrified of mistreating him in front of them, so they think you’re proper whipped. Which, if you ask me, isn’t even far from the truth.”

How very dare he. Just because Echo convinced his guild to adapt their raid schedule to Glaz’ liking doesn’t imply - “Why do we even still invite you over?”

“No idea, especially after I was so drunk last time that I ended up pissing in Glaz’ closet.”

Echo’s eyes snap up in disbelief. He opens his mouth, ready to tell this little sack of shit exactly what he can do to himself, but it’s at that moment that Glaz enters the room again. Perfect timing. He waves him over with a: “Timur! Come here. And you, Dom, repeat what you just said.”

Bandit’s genuine amusement shifts into mild concern. “Please don’t. I just told you I wouldn’t take the blame for you, didn’t you listen? No amount of money can make this right – if you urinated all over Glaz’ clothes, you should just admit to it and apologise.”

And while Glaz starts yelling at Echo about bribing others to be his scapegoats, while Echo is utterly dumbfounded and merely gapes at the audacity, Bandit puts down another Draw 4 and winks at him.

[queenofshenanigans]

When the first thing you've written in months turns out to be 1000 words of childhood trauma for a DnD PC what do you do? Post to Tumblr, obviously.

Warning: child endangerment and emotional abuse.

Rexxentrum, according to Emil and Johanna Meyer of the Rexxentrum Meyers, was the center of everything. The capital of the Empire. The home to the King. The political seat of power. The heart of arcane study. The cultural hub. Rexxentrum was the place where world-changing decisions were made, destinies decided. Most importantly, Rexxentrum was the headquarters of the Cerberus Assembly. Magic, not the King, ruled the Capital and if you didn’t have magic, Emil and Johanna Meyer of the Rexxentrum Meyers were known to say time and again, you were no one. 

<i>I am not no one.</i> 

The thought played over and over as a tall, slender girl with bright red hair twisted in a simple braid stood in the center of a luxurious study, body tense, hand outstretched, eyes narrowed as she channeled every bit of determination and energy a twelve-year old could muster into keeping the three dancing lights she had conjured steady. She could feel the bead of sweat trickling down her nose. Her hand twitched to wipe it away. At the last moment she stopped herself, knowing from long history that if she deviated even a moment from the spell, it would drop. 

That couldn’t happen. 

“Just a little longer,” she whispered, barely audible even to herself. She had been trying to keep track of the time, <i>forty-five, forty-six</i>, and if she could just concentrate for a few more seconds the spell would fade naturally, as intended. She’d never held the spell this long before; thirty-two seconds had been her personal best. If she could make the minute mark–

The cold washed over her like a ghost had plunged its hand into her chest, the blue-white light hitting her just above the heart. She let out a cry, the dancing purple and green globules flilcered. Once. Twice. A third time…the spell dropped. The cold spread, and she could feel the cool-hot burn of frostbite as tears welled unbidden in her eyes. She blinked rapidly, trying to push away the hurt and keep the tears from falling, and she was mostly successful. One tear slipped out, burned a hot track down a cheek burning with humiliation.

“That’s five points for me.” The voice was cheerful, smug, female. 

Amelie had a quick vision of punching that pretty, smiling face. That would only get her in worse trouble, she knew that from experience too, so she shoved the impulse into the same box she shoved all those impulses. The box was getting pretty full, but she managed to wrangle her anger into a low simmer, and looked up at the other girl. Past her, to the one who mattered. 

Her father. 

“Very good, Charlotte.” Emil Meyer had a warm, paternal voice that had praised many a student during his years as private tutor and instructor at the Academy. 

Amelie had never heard that voice directed at her. 

“Your father will be very proud of your progress. Please, give him my regards and tell him I will be in touch to discuss more advanced lessons for you.” A pause. “With a more appropriate opponent.” 

Amelie’s stomach clenched with humiliation, and she bit her lip hard to keep it from wobbling. Crying only ever made things worse. 

“I will, Professor!” Charlotte Wagner was Amelie’s age, tall and willowy, with silvery blonde hair and striking green eyes. She was not, despite Emil’s praise, a very talented wizard. But her father worked for a member of the Cerberus Assembly, Amelie knew, and therefore Emil Meyer had a vested interest in keeping the family happy. 

Charlotte gathered up her belongings, and as she was clasping a cloak that had to have cost upwards of one-hundred gold, she grinned at Amelie. It was not a nice grin. The urge to punch was creeping back. 

“Don’t worry Amelie. I’m sure this time you’ll pass the practical exam.” Her laugh made Amelie’s already aching head hurt more. “See you in class!” She flipped her hair over her shoulder, and skipped her way out of the room. Amelie heard her laughing as the door closed behind her.

The laughter faded, leaving only a cold, tense silence behind. 

After a long, uncomfortable pause, she made herself look at her father. He was tall, with a distinguished head of dark red hair, the slightest hint of silver at his temples. His face was handsome, almost regal, his eyes the same color blue as Amelie’s own. His face, despite careful attention, showed small signs of aging: slight lines around the eyes, mouth, a dark spot high on his forehead. That face had never once, that she could remember, smiled in her direction. 

“I–”

“Enough.” His voice was cold, callous. He sneered at her, and even though he was across the room she could feel that sneer all the way down to her soul. “A cantrip, Amelie. That little twit took you out with a cantrip your brother could cast when he was half your age.” 

She tried again. “I’m–”

“I don’t want to hear it. I can’t even look at you. Useless.” The words cut deeper than Charlotte’s spell had, but she managed once again to keep the tears in. Locked in the box, nestled next to the urge to punch Charlotte. “Get out of my sight. I don’t want to see you until you can keep goddamned dancing lights up for a minute.” 

Amelie tried to speak, could only nod. As she turned to leave–run away, a voice in her head mocked. It sounded like Charlotte–his voice rang out again.

“Amelie.” 

She paused, hand on the doorknob. It trembled. 

“If you summon that bird again, I’ll have Petyr cut its head off.” 

She didn’t have to look over her shoulder to know he was deadly serious.

Emil Meyer never made empty threats.

[pegasus-ghost]

Exhausted.

You know that feeling when, you’re just done with extremely busy work during the day, that the only energy you have left to muster is lying down and do nothing?

Why is that?

I’ve been super busy at work these past few days.

I didn’t even remember to check my paycheck that came in today until it was night time.

Didn’t have time for lunch because I wanted to finish all my work so I can log off by 5pm.

And once I was done with work, the only thing I have the energy left to do was just to do nothing.

On top of mindlessly scrolling TikTok.

Just shutting off my brain and do nothing.

Sad life, isn’t it… but these bills gotta be paid.

I’ve been wanting to write more. But work has been stressing me out too much these days, working over the PC monitor for hours during the day. I don’t wanna be spending hours of the time I have left typing away in front of the pc too.

I need to turn myself off, and get off the PC.

Maybe I need a laptop. So I can write wherever and whenever.

[calliope-love-corner]

Last second

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

“Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, FUCK-” I chant to myself, throwing off my pile of blankets and all but launching myself out of my bedroom door. I slide on my socks down the hall and catch myself at my desk, reaching down for a moment to power my PC on. 

“Fuck, fuck, I’m literally so fucking stupid-” I mutter to myself. I was late to my writing course, and it was presentation day, and my story was FAR from ready, and I had all the time in the world to get it under word count, and I totally didn’t. I grab my headphones and sling them around my neck before rushing to the kitchen to grab a monster from the fridge. I crack it open and take a swig, then set it on the table to grab something to eat from my pantry. Chips would have to do for breakfast. 

Of course, though, as I turn to sprint back to my PC, i hit my energy drink over with my elbow. time seems to slow as i reach out to try and catch it before spilling all over the floor. I wont make it in time- i realize that quick- so i quint in defeat, waiting for the devastating spill and heavy aluminum clink of the can rolling down to the kitchenette floor. It never comes. I peer one eye open, and the can is precariously tilted on it’s side. I open both eyes now, and catch sight of a silvery thread in the morning light, anchored firmly to the side of the can by a few more creeping lines of web. I follow the taut line over the counter in awe, and see Annabelle, perched on my countertop, the thread of webbing caught between her fingers. She smiles at me. I let out a dumbfounded but relieved laugh. 

“Morning.” She greets.

“How long have you been there...?” I ask, reaching slowly out to grab the can. 

“A little while. You’re late.” 

I stand up straight. “Yeah, I- I know. My alarm wasn’t persistent enough.” 

Annabelle hops off the counter and flicks the web off her fingertips, letting it drift to the floor. “Better get going then. You have some writing to edit.”

Ah. right. that. I blink myself back to focus and take my champion’s breakfast over to my desk, taking a swig of my drink before setting it safely on my side table, far from any tech. I open up my document, which is ALARMINGLY long considering it’s supposed to be flash fiction, and set to work. Annabelle puts a playful hand on my head and very briefly messes up my already nightmarish hair. I bite back an affectionate smile. focus, Cal. 

“Be sure to take breaks. You present last today, which should buy you some time.” 

I shake my head, amused and impressed. Somehow- SOMEHOW- she pulled a few strings somewhere along the line that left me presenting last. I dont know how or why she did the things she did but I know that this one was for me. 

“...thanks. Really.” I can only muster, looking over my shoulder a moment as she starts out the door. She winks at me. 

“Don’t mention it. Back to work, then.” 

I nod, and hear the door click open and shut as my hands start to fly across the keyboard. 

[charger-batteries]

New Nintendo Switch 2 release date, specs, leaks and more

Even with the PS5 and Xbox Series X finally out, anticipation for a Nintendo Switch 2 (or Nintendo Switch Pro) is still red-hot. According to recent reports, the next Nintendo Switch could be a beefed-up version of Nintendo's beloved hybrid console with new features and 4K gaming support.

Nintendo's next Switch likely won't deliver things like ray tracing or 8K gaming, but a more powerful Switch could help the company better compete with the latest next-gen consoles. And some rumors have pegged the Switch 2 as sporting some truly wild features, including potential dual-screen support.

Nintendo hasn't confirmed the existence of a new Nintendo Switch model, but the latest rumors indicate that a new Switch is all but inevitable. Here's everything we know about the New Nintendo Switch 2, including its possible release date, specs and features.

Latest Nintendo Switch 2 news (November 29)

The new GPD Win 3 gives us a taste of how a Switch Pro could work, with smooth 60 fps gaming on the go.

Taiwan's Economic Daily News reports that Nintendo is including a Mini-LED display on the Switch 2, and is gearing up to launch the console in 2021.

New Nintendo Switch 2 release date

Citing a Taipei-based report out of the Economic Daily News, The Edge Markets reports that a new version of Nintendo's popular hybrid console could arrive by early 2021. That was quickly followed up by a Bloomberg report that suggests that the new Switch could arrive next year complete with 4K support and an expansive new games lineup.

A subsequent Bloomberg report claims that developers are being asked to make their Nintendo Switch games playable in 4K, adding further weight to the possibility of an upcoming hardware upgrade.

Economic Daily News later reported that Nintendo was still planning a 2021 launch, and has been visiting companies in Taiwan to obtain displays for the new console.

Here's a look at when every version of the Switch has launched so far. Looking at these days, it's possible we could see an updated Switch by 2021 to coincide with the system's four-year anniversary.

Nintendo Switch: March 3, 2017

Nintendo Switch (upgraded battery): August 2019

Nintendo Switch Lite: September 20, 2019

Nintendo Switch 2/Nintendo Switch Pro: 2021 (rumored)

New Nintendo Switch 2 price

While there's no official price set for Nintendo's next Switch, it seems safe to assume it'll cost more than the $299 base model — and certainly more than the $199 Nintendo Switch Lite. In an interview with Gamesindustry.biz, Japan-based games consultant Serkan Toto predicts that the Switch Pro will cost around $399.

New Nintendo Switch 2 specs

The Switch Pro's rumored specs have varied based on different reports, with some claiming that the next Switch will be a modest upgrade and others hinting at a significant power boost for Nintendo's console. A sketchy, now-deleted 4chan post (via Inverse) suggests some major changes, including a custom Nvidia Tegra Xavier processor, a 64GB SSD, 4K video support, and two USB-C ports. This post also claimed that the Switch Pro would be a TV-only console, and won't be playable in portable mode.

Economic Daily News also claims Nintendo is set to include a Mini-LED display in the Switch 2, which is a big leap up from the 720p LCD display included in the original. Utilising Mini-LED tech would mean better responsiveness, contrast, and energy efficiency, all of which would be more than welcome on a new Switch.

However, a forum post on Korean website Clien (via TechRadar) suggests that the next Switch might not be a huge generational leap. The poster claims that Nintendo is working with Nvidia on a custom Tegra processor based on Nvidia's Volta architecture, and won't include the Tegra X1+ chip that many had expected the console to feature. As a result, 4K support may not be feasible for the Switch Pro.

The current Nintendo Switch packs a custom Nvidia Tegra X1 processor, a 6.2-inch, 720p display and 32GB of storage. In August 2019, the console saw a minor refresh, which bumped the battery life from an estimated 2.5 to 6.5 hours to 4.5 to 9 hours. In our own Switch battery tests, we found that the new model lasts nearly twice as long for games such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

The Nintendo Switch 2 may also feature Nvidia DLSS 2.0 support, according to an Nvidia job ad spotted by Wccftech. The posting seeks a software engineer on the Tegra team to work on "next-generation graphics" and mentions gaming consoles by name. Considering that the Switch is the only Tegra-powered console out there, it's possible that Nvidia is conducting work on a CPU for a new model. DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) is an AI technology designed to boost framerates in games, which could lead to much smoother performance if it makes its way to the Switch 2.

But improved specs could just be the tip of the iceberg for the Nintendo Switch 2. A series of code found in the Switch's April 2020 firmware update reveals what could be support for a dual-screen console, suggesting that the next Nintendo Switch may be a two-display device.

This wouldn't be a first for Nintendo given the company's popular Nintendo DS and 3DS handhelds, but we'd be curious to see how dual-screen support would play into the Switch ecosystem. Perhaps you'll be able to play in handheld mode while beaming certain content to your TV, similar to how the Wii U operated.

There are also some recent mobile GPU breakthroughs that point to a promising future for upcoming handheld consoles such as the Switch 2. Samsung and AMD are expected to be working on a new Exynos 1000 chip with AMD graphics built-in, which could give the Switch 2 a massive power boost if Nintendo decides to opt for that CPU over the aging Tegra X1 found in the current Switch.

One of the most recent notable mentions of the Nintendo Switch 2 comes from the developers of Eiyuden Chronicle, a throwback role-playing game that's currently on Kickstarter. As spotted by Nintendo Life, Rabbit & Bear Studios mention "Nintendo's next generation console" as one of the platforms the developer plans to release the game for. While the studio was transparent about having no inside knowledge to Nintendo's plans, the company noted that porting the title to the relatively underpowered Switch while building it for next-gen platforms would be an expensive endeavor.

New Nintendo Switch 2 features

If Nintendo does make another Switch-like console, it seems safe to assume that it'll once again allow you to play in TV, tabletop and handheld modes. But some recent Nintendo patents hint at some other interesting features that could either make their way to the new console or serve as a complementary device.

Nintendo recently patented a unique health-tracking device, which would be able to track your sleep, monitor your mood via microphones and sensors, and even change the odor of a room. Interestingly, the patented device has its own dock (much like the Switch), and seems designed to work with health-related games a la Ring Fit Adventure. It's too early to tell whether such a device will even come to market, but it will be interesting to see if Nintendo ups its fitness-tracking game in time for the next Switch console.

What we want from the Nintendo Switch 2

If the Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Pro does become a reality, there are a handful of features we'd love to see that could make it a compelling high-end option for Nintendo fans.

1080p handheld gameplay: The Switch's 6.2-inch screen is limited to 720p in handheld mode, meaning you can't experience titles like Super Mario Odyssey and Pokémon Sword and Shield in their full glory. The ability to game on the go in 1080p would be a big reason to upgrade to a Switch Pro — if the console can muster 60fps at 1080p, even better.

4K or 1440p support for TV mode. Considering that 4K consoles are out there and that the PS5 and Xbox Series X will support 8K content, it'd be nice to see the Switch Pro get a resolution bump. The new console would likely need a beefy new dock to support 4K or even 2560 x 1440 resolutions, but just imagine how glorious it would be to play Breath of the Wild in 4K.  

Better ergonomics. We recently got our hands on Alienware's Concept UFO, which is a Switch-like portable gaming PC that features standard controller-sized buttons, triggers and grips. If Nintendo can devise new Joy-Cons that are bigger and more ergonomic without being too massive, the Switch Pro could be the most comfortable way to play on the go.  

True Bluetooth support. While the current Switch features Bluetooth 4.1 for connecting wirelessly to Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers, you can't pair other Bluetooth gadgets (like headphones) to the console without an adapter. Nintendo, I just want to be able to pair my AirPods to my Switch without any extra fuss — make it happen!  

Why we want a Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch is an absolute joy of a system backed by some of the finest games Nintendo has ever released. But its hardware is starting to show its limitations more than three years after release, largely when it comes to ports of major third-party games.

Kotaku's Ethan Gach recently got his hands on the new Switch port of The Outer Worlds, which reportedly "looks so bad on Switch I'm tempted to tell even people who have no other means of playing it to stay away." Based on Gach's screenshots, the port looks incredibly blurry, and suffers from framerate drops. Gamers have had similar issues with ports such as Pillars of Eternity and Wasteland 2.

While Nintendo games such as Breath of the Wild and Animal Crossing: New Horizons are optimized to look and run great on Switch, the console seems to be running into a AAA games problem. And that could prove especially challenging for Nintendo, especially with a new crop of third-party games built for PS5 and Xbox Series X that may be more graphically demanding than ever.

Nintendo doesn't necessarily need a system as powerful as Sony's and Microsoft's upcoming console (the Switch has done just fine against PS4 and Xbox One), but a significant power boost could make the company's hybrid console even more appealing for fans of big third-party franchises.

Should I wait for a Nintendo Switch 2?

Considering that the Switch 2 is still a rumor at this point, we wouldn't count on it coming out just yet -- at least not anytime soon. The Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite are at the top of our list for the best handheld gaming consoles, and we expect them to continue to get supported for years to come. So if you've yet to jump on the Switch bandwagon, you can do so with confidence that it won't be replaced anytime soon.

Plus, if there is indeed a Switch 2 or Switch Pro, chances are it'll work with your existing Switch game library. Nintendo has a history of supporting its handhelds through multiple iterations, with the Nintendo DS/Nintendo 3DS family supporting the same game library for more than a decade. Given how popular the Switch is, we expect Nintendo to take a similar approach for its current console.

[all-good-things-dot-dot-dot]

All Good Things… The Good With the Bad.

All Good Things… The Good With the Bad. #Blog #Bloggerstribe #AllGoodThings… 24th June 2020 Hello, Chaps and Chapettes,

(Source: https://www.keengamer.com/articles/guides/list-of-common-fallout-4-pc-errors-and-how-to-fix-them/ ) It might have seemed like I stopped for a little bit there, huh? In actual fact, I have still been writing, but more or less in the background rather than doing a full-on post like this. Does that mean I’ve been “neglecting my duties” or “forgetting the challenge” I set myself to write for thirty minutes a day? Well, sort of. I cannot lie. Let’s see if we can analyze what happened here and correct the error, shall we? The main hiccup was actually on Friday where I did not write anything at all. I did end up writing that blog on Saturday and followed it up with the actual Saturday blog which I wrote and posted on Sunday, but by then I was already going back on several guidelines that I’d set myself. The first was to ensure that I wrote thirty minutes a day, this was missed on Friday, and the second was to have a break on Sunday.

I’ll come back to Friday in a bit and how I’ll resolve that in the future but I also want to talk about why Monday and Tuesday also didn’t happen. Monday was an oddly exhausting day. The heat has been creeping up this week, today being the hottest so far, but Monday was still cool. I had to take a nap after work and then when I did sit down to write, what I wanted to write was not one of these. Instead, I wanted to work on “Scoundrels”, a story about colorful ponies living in apocalyptic times. They swear, take drugs, shoot guns, it’s fun to write. The reason I wanted to write that, was because on Tuesday I attended an online workshop by a fellow writer who goes by the codename “Somber”. I know there’s non-bronies who read this on my Tumblr so, to summarise, they wrote a particularly famous FanFiction called “Fallout Equestria; Project Horizons”, millions of peeps have read it. It’s also a spin-off from an equally successful story called “Fallout: Equestria” (written by another fanfiction writer, KKat). Somber has a background teaching English so a class on Creative Writing was practically extra studies for my university course!

(Art by me, see https://derpibooru.org/images/2200843 )

The workshop was brilliant. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to workshop my story as we ran out of time but I didn’t feel too down about this. I made friends with a few other fellow writers and so could happily learn and share ideas with them. This ran on quite late and by the time it had ended, the clock was telling me I wouldn’t wake up for work if I didn’t attempt to sleep. That, neatly, leads me to today. As you can see, although I’ve had a busy day of work, walking to and from the shops and watching “Game Night” with my brother, I still managed to find the time to write this. That’s because tonight I had the time. That’s important. Friday, the time wasn’t there. I had to be there for a friend who was in need and since my chat, I have it on good authority that their life is looking up. Sunday was father’s day and I wanted to see both dad and stepdad, which I accomplished. Both men had a great day and felt loved, which was another mission accomplished. Sunday night was blitzed by a migraine and it took two paracetamol two hours to put those fires in my brain out. Monday, as said, was a very tiring day. But I also spent time writing something, even if it wasn’t this. So there was still something completed by the close of the day. Tuesday, there was work, I had my mother pop over for something, I had to cook dinner, and despite all of this still managed to make Somber’s workshop and find writing allies. Do you see where I’m going with this? Basically, just because you don’t get done what you wanted to do, do not look at it as a wasted day. Even a rest day is a success, so long as it is used to let you prepare for some harder work ahead. You are not failing if you didn’t hit that word count, or forgot to do something you wanted to do, or missed that walk to slim down the spare tractor tyre your gut has become. Even little accomplishments are still a win in the grand scheme of things and believe me they make all the difference. And sometimes, if someone you know, care about, or love is in need of you, then you should down tools to help them. Let me reiterate that it should be somebody you care about or at least someone who will return the favor along the line. There are people, even family, who can be a drain on your time, resources, and energy. I learned that the hard way last week (see my blog about bullies). Follow your head in these instances, especially if it is aligned with your heart. Most of all, I want you to take this away with you. Did you wake up today? Do you know how many didn’t get out of bed? Pulled a sickie? Or gave up? You didn’t so in that sense you’re already winning. Now go treat yourself to some cake, champ, you earned it. Stay safe, stay happy. All good things, Love, Scaramouche. X Oh, eerrrr, still here? Okay, let me square with you. Thirty mins just ran out but I wanted to include this; I am writing a spin-off of that “Fallout: Equestria,” series too, as I mentioned, called “Scoundrels”. I did have a lot of the story already up in my FIMFiction library, but I have unpublished it. Here are my reasons; I didn’t like how confusing it was. It felt like it started in the middle of a story. I had made choices as a writer that took the story in some strange directions. I made the plot too complicated. I made some of the good characters unlikeable. I made it too long while not much/ too much happened. So, I am holding onto what I wrote. I want to rewrite it, so that story that you may or may not have read does still exist and isn’t a waste of time, it just needs surgery. When it’s ready, you’ll be able to see it again. Until then, here’s a sneak peek at “Scoundrels”, the ponies of the apocalypse story I will be writing, have edited and polished before I publish it as fanfiction. Enjoy!

(Artist: Brainiac - see https://derpibooru.org/profiles/Brainiac ) ~ Scoundrels Written by Scaramouche “War,” a voice, masculine and gravelly, haunted my hangover. “War never changes.” It wasn’t much, but it was enough to stir me from where I’d attempted to make my early grave. My snout had the telltale feeling you got when you accidentally snorted water while submerged in a pool... Or hit too much Dash. I pushed my hooves out around me before my eyes were able to open and felt tiny canisters rattle away from me wherever I moved. My ribs hurt, telling me I hadn’t found a nice or even barely comfortable place to flop. The information fed back to me from all my senses came to the conclusion that I’d bucked up again. Daring to wake, I cracked my eyes open for as long as I could muster and fluttered the lids ‘til I could make out the shapes of a flickering square of light in the night-time room. Black and white images flashed through the screen of ponies dressed in armor and uniforms, those in the foreground attempting an escape with their wounded while the “best and bravest” continued to fight, to injure, to die. The image changed to Wonderbolts tearing over a coal cloud that once belonged to a shining city. I realized it was Manehattan, the place I’d hailed from. I knew from the shadow of a building topped with a huge pony head choking on the fumes. The Pegasi just seemed like haunting crows over that havoc. After the Manehattan skyline lingered for a few seconds, it switched to a shot taken behind ponies hiding from the invisible foe in a shady tunnel. Their silhouettes were huddled and perpetually expecting the worst of what was to come. Image after image along with the low, tedious voice seemed to mingle with the throbbing headache I’d gained. It reminded me that as gloomy as these images were, they were only the precursor for the apocalyptic times that came after them. I watched, laid lazily on my side among spent stims I’d used to forget the woes of the new world. I couldn’t help thinking that those dumb saps who had lived nearly a hundred years ago never knew how lucky they were. They could still trust the folks either side of them and that was more than could be said for most ponies this side of a century. “... But out of the devastation that arose from the wars, a few were able to reach stables that could house and shield them underground.” The narrator of the scenes kept going with his spiel regardless of whether I was listening or not. I looked about, but it quickly became apparent to me that the voice was just that. A recording from a stallion no doubts long gone now. There was nopony else in the place but for me that I could see. Nonetheless, he persisted. “Your family was part of that group and took refuge in Stable Thirteen.” On-screen, a snap of the giant cog that had once locked up this subterranean vault could be seen. “No, they weren’t, pal,” I grouched, squinting about the area still while battling with some persistently annoying amber locks of mane in my eyes. Something in this place was still trying to live, based on the squealing of a harmed fan spinning in the walls. Thanks to the projection lamp, I could see the tiles that dripped from the ceilings as age and erosion pulled them down. Wires knotted into nooses hung out from the ceiling gaps. Across dirty, rusted floors, the corpses of chairs lay on their sides and backs, stricken by the last unknown executions that had taken place here. Near me and my graveyard of used drug containers, a card crate lay on its side in a beaten state. “You are the first generation born in this stable to have not known the-the-the--” Apparently, I still wasn’t to know what “the” was. Above me, the box that had created this depressing light and sound show for me fizzed, crackled, sparked, then died. All light failed and draped a veil casually over me and space. Yet, this wasn’t as terrifying to me as might have been to somepony else. I sighed, relaxed, and let the gentle black patch encourage my head to heal. The festering stable was dead, the complaining sounds of the vents now a memory, and it was good. It was calming. I could maybe forget everything and fall back into a graceful slumber with it. After all, a ship in the harbor is a ship that’s safe... Of course, fate intervened. “Breeze! Breeze, where are you?” The voice was distant, but it was growing closer. “Gypsy Breeze, I swear on the spirit of Celestia, if you don’t get your ass into gear…” Fresh, battery-powered light began to dawn around the edges of the forever-open doorway into the corridors, confirming that the calling, living voice wasn’t far from finding me. “Buck,” I grunted to myself and pushed back the pain sloshing side to side in my cranium. I had to get myself up before they found me and the evidence littered around me. My legs complained but lifted me, allowing me to stand and let my brain cease paddling about in my skull. I swung a hoof out, brought it down, then my face immediately met the oxidized floor once more as a giggling Dash inhaler tripped me and twirled away. “Breeze?” They’d heard my tumble. “Buck,” I hissed painfully and scrambled back up, firing up a spell. I knew the caller in the halls would see the light but hoped I’d be quick enough. Despite the magic throbbing behind my junked-out eyes, I gathered all the emptied Dash I could see in the enchanted light. Catching as many as I could levitate, I shoved them into the deteriorated box, managing to slip the last of them away when a blinding orb swung through the door. I covered my bleary eyes and snarled out at a feeling only a vampire pony in the baking sun would understand. “Gypsy!” The dazzling sprite squeaked. “That’s my name— Buck, Hayfever, could you drop the light of that thing? My bucking eyes are about to explode…” mercifully, the beam lowered to ground level, allowing me to partially see the mare I knew behind it. Her sunset orange wings were spread in preparation to once more admonish me while the expression on the pegasus remained concerned. “You split from me again, Breeze. Ottawa said this stable is particularly dangerous, we shouldn’t be going off alone when--” “Ottawa was wrong,” I skulked somehow towards the door and waved my hoof back the way she’d come from. “I caught a terminal back up that way and… I dunno, something about the water talisman failing? Either way, the pony meant to fix it shuffled out the main door, and never came back. After that, the rest of the dwellers overthrew the overstallion and let themselves out of their own accord. Probably likely that nopony’s been here since.” If I’d have sounded more sure of myself in that last comment, I might not have seen doubt spread across her freckled, gold-lit face. “No, somepony has been here before us,” she suggested, “I found the mattresses pulled out of their rooms and laid together in the atrium. There was waste and broken gear that could only have come from outside too. Could be scavs, could be raiders, either way, we don’t want to take our chances.” “It could have easily been the Stable Thirteen ponies too,” I countered, “especially if they were going back and forth in and out of here, not wanting to--” I interrupted myself, as a false step kicked something, which ricocheted off of the metal wall and swirled unfortunately into the light of Hayfever’s torch. It only took her a second to realize what it was and I was already cringing guiltily when the light raised back accusingly at me. “Gypsy Breeze, you silly mare,” she scolded as well as any experienced mother could, “Using? Again? I thought you were beating this.” “It’s not mine,” I played the part of a lying teenager as best as I could, “it’s from those raiders you were bitching about--” “Oh, so now we believe in the raiders?” She had another quick examination of the inhaler and sighed, ruffling her wings in irritation as she walked past me, ensuring her hoofsteps echoed her annoyance. “When I agreed to hide your troubles from the rest of Helping Hooves, it was on the promise that you were going to make an effort to quit from them. Not so that you could privately indulge in the stuff.” She collected my saddlebag, discarded on a spineless chair, and was about to toss it to me when she had second thoughts. At my protests, she flipped the flap open first and rifled through up, digging out what she had expected to find almost instantly. Five more full inhalators of Dash were plucked out and tossed into the void of the room before she was comfortable returning my near-empty sack to me. “I’m not doing it to be an ass to you, Gypsy,” she said as I mournfully took the bag and slipped it back on. “As mayor of Helping Hooves I have a duty to look out for everypony and that includes you. But if you’re going to endanger lives this way, I’ll have no choice but…” I waited for what kind of penalty she’d place on me. Yet, all she could do was gaze at me, not mad, just disappointed. I gave a low groan, both out of the pain of coming down and the guilt of letting down a mare who was just looking out for my best interests. “Can we just get out of here?” I pleaded, “the air in here is making me feel sick.” “You sure it’s just the air?” She thrust a hoof forward, directing me on the way to head next. “But you’re right. Let’s just get the spark batteries Ottawa needs and high-tail it out of here…” To be continued...

(Source: https://thegeek.games/2020/03/24/fallout-3-war-war-never-changes-retro-2008/ )