#vox machina take my energy

[lynmars79]

They've added various fun meta moments really slyly into The Legend of Vox Machina; Grog "blacking out" while he gives a decisive and excellently strategic plan being one example. Those moments came from Travis finally going off to make a decision while the rest of the party waffled, but staying in character to do it.

There are some moments that don't translate well, and so have to be completely redone (most of the combat scenes). And that has me looking toward the final battle of campaign 1, the dice rolls and reversals, the mechanical decisions, the "Nine" and realizing what that means, that we cannot get in the adaptation, as mentioned on other posts.

(My thoughts on that counterspell might be a magic item that Scanlan gets one use of and has to make a choice in that moment, similar to the resurrection MacGuffin in Honor Among Thieves to take the place of the spell; at least that's one way I can think of to make it clear what he's giving up if things even go the same way in the adaptation to allow for it.)

But that all got me thinking of another major meta from "Vecna, the Ascended".

Remember, Campaign 1 was filmed live. This was before the pandemic changed things, and the cast actually went in to the Geek & Sundry studio late Thursday nights to play. All their guests, crew, and many Critters sat up and watched with them, with no idea how long the episode would be, when break would happen - just watching and stressing.

During those weeks of the last 2 episodes of campaign 1 there was a "Thanks Vox Machina" tag going around social media. Guests and friends of the series made videos (often in character if they'd played at the table). Art, long blog posts, all sorts of tributes.

And during the final battle itself, the Twitch chat was spamming "Vox Machina take my energy."

I don't know if there are clips of the chat from that night anywhere; the show stopped showing the chat long before that point. There were occasional other comments, fewer than usual haters, support and comfort for the players as their rolls happened. But all through the episode, over and over and over again: "Vox Machina take my energy."

The combined force of the Critters, wishing and hoping and praying for 5 hours at a studio in LA (and an apartment in New York, as Ashley was filming Blindspot then) as the cast and their guests rolled dice.

In world, Mercer briefly describes the divine temples of Vasselheim glowed with the energy of all its believers' prayers and spells as the Titan walked through the city near the end. And then the cheers and shouts of the people as they realized VM had won. So there's a way already to make it work, in theory.

Which makes me wonder if we will see something in TLOVM that reflects those 5 hours not just from the characters' perspective, but also the Critters who sat through that battle with them, hoping to see their heroes succeed one more time.

[utilitycaster]

Ok I'm probably going to regret reinventing 17th century European religious philosophy here but:

Ludinus's issue with the gods as stated to Imogen and Fearne (and I will state right now that we know he was lying or deliberately misleading at points in that conversation so I don't exactly take him at his word, but let's assume he does mean this) is that they did not prevent the Calamity. I have the following questions.

Does he have any loyalty/feelings about the Titans given that they would have killed all the people in the era of the Schism, ie, the gods averted that Calamity? My guess is no, which means that whole avenue of discussing the Titans was something of a dead end.

How should Calamity have been averted? The Prime Deities during the Age of Arcanum largely let people do what they wanted, which is what led to one of those mortals releasing the Betrayer Gods. Should the gods have struck down Vespin Chloras before he actually did anything, Minority Report style? Can the gods even predict based on the actions of a single individual or small group, because my guess is they can't, particularly since within the current stream of gameplay they absolutely cannot [ie, the reason the Changebringer can't tell FCG to stay or run is because Matt Mercer is the Changebringer and he doesn't know how people will roll; you do need to consider the medium here]. But if they could: so you think they should strike down mortals on the basis of thoughtcrimes? Or control them? In that case, why is Aeor a problem? There's a lot you can argue is justified once you permit the gods to override free will and kill people over mere potential for catastrophe.

On that note, Laerryn both was an unwitting architect of the Calamity (shorted on energy and then killed the Tree of Names, which served as a core planar defense system) but also averted the worst of it. Did the lives she saved by preventing the rise of Rau'shan and Ka'Mort outweigh the lives she took by destroying the Tree of Names? How should the gods have reacted?

Should, perhaps, the gods have all sealed themselves away earlier - perhaps post-Schism? If so, then the issue isn't the Divine Gate, now is it? Should the gods intervene or not intervene? Should they remove themselves or no? It feels like the issue isn't that they distanced themselves so that they can do less in the world, particularly if you wish to kill them, but that you really want to fucking kill them and they made that somewhat more difficult.

How do we know the gods (for example) didn't save Laudna? She was hanged and she's still alive; Morri would probably count this as saving her and I don't see the same desire to wipe out all Archfey. [real talk I find most discussion of Laudna specifically to be...incomprehensibly ignorant in its refusal to acknowledge that everything about it is player agency related, whether it's the story that the cast played out for Vox Machina or the decisions Marisha specifically made in creating the character, ie, do you think Matt should have said "well you can't play a Hollow One because that would mean the gods didn't save you" not to mention the fact that again, we are playing this within a game system where the existence Deus Ex Machina would in fact fucking suck ass; but even setting aside those reasons why this argument is stupid, it's still stupid. It's like a layer cake of stupid.] Again: do you want more intervention or less? Killing them guarantees less.

I'm assuming the problem with the Calamity is the vast loss of life, in which case, what's the math on how many people have been killed by the Vanguard or Imperium in the pursuit of unleashing Predathos? How many more will die?

If the release of Predathos doesn't result in the immediate demise of all the gods, and the Divine Gate is down, why isn't this a recipe for Calamity 2? What was the motivation for killing the gods again?

Should we kill mortal diviners who do not do all within their power to stop terrible things that may come to pass? If the issue is that some people have power without working for it, why haven't we killed all the sorcerers?

Should we be listening to a single word from someone who consumes random fey to live longer, and that's just the start of the CVS receipt of atrocities?

Is there a point where one's deeply held beliefs due to one's own personal trauma become invalidated due to one's actions as a result of that trauma? If so, why is the limit for Orym "is okay with killing people who are trying, directly, to kill you (which, frankly, isn't even a trauma response, that's just called not wanting to die, which I highly recommend as a personal philosophy), and gets upset when people defend those knowingly collaborating with his family's murderers" and the limit for Vanguard generals "family abandonment/just. buckets of murder of innocents./child soldier recruitment in multiple different contexts/eating fey as biohacking/destroying an entire city and the surrounding forest for hundreds of years (ongoing)/imperialism in multiple different contexts/I was going to make a gallows humor joke about how while neither exist in-world they've violated the Geneva Convention AND the IRB for testing on human subjects multiple times over but actually those both are in fact written in a lot of the same blood/probably some others that I'm forgetting"

[ratinayellowbandana]

lavender thread // a curated imodna playlist

I started curating this playlist over two years ago, and it’s still one of my favorite creations because I put arguably way too much thought into it. I soft-launched this a couple weeks ago, and I was genuinely surprised by how many people checked it out.  

It’s in rough chronological order from pre-relationship to post-campaign. Every song goes through a fairly thorough vetting process for thematic appropriateness, accuracy, tone, and genre. For example, if there are too many references to modern technology, days of the week, months, real places, religion, etc., it will likely be cut to build the "world of the story." Imodna playlist, but make it hyperspecific. Like, corpse falling in love with an embalmer specific. (you can find the "rejects" here)

Right now, the playlist is broken into two acts, with a prologue, an epilogue, and a couple of sub-sections sprinkled in. I personally recommend not shuffling, at least on a first listen, so you get to experience the full journey. But hey, I can’t stop you.

This playlist is a constant work in progress. I’ll add new songs I find that feel fitting, and sometimes they live at the bottom of the playlist for a while before I get around to slotting them in. “Dance in the Graveyards” will always be the end of the structured playlist. Rarely, I’ll remove or shuffle a song if I think it doesn’t fit the vibe, the lyrics aren’t specific enough, or it’s just not working. 

I’m making this post to share my playlist with anyone else who might want it and to write down my reasoning for every song so I don’t forget it. It’ll be updated as new songs get added. Enjoy!

I laid out my reasoning for each song mostly for my own benefit. You'll see the "section," song title, artist, a little blurb from me, and one/two of my favorite or the most relevant sections of the song. Sometimes, I just had to pick something because the whole song was perfect.

Prologue: 

“Stories” - Lilli Furfaro

It’s a beautiful framing device. It’s the premise of the game, the world, the show, and the characters. Fun fact: I found this song two full years before I learned she made a whole Vox Machina album lol.

“We are stories / Bеginnings, middles, ends / Our power lies in living lives that touch a life or two [...] / In this world we’ve built on games of chance / And hours of introspection”

ACT 1

Laudna, Before:

A general note: I looked for songs that were just slightly off-putting with darker over and undertones to match Laudna’s energy.

“Old Churchyard” - The Wailin’ Jennys

Welcome to the world. Foreshadowing and a set-up for the downfall of Whitestone. Speaks to the exhaustion. I imagine a tiny Laudna being ever so hopeful that it might get better but embracing the eeriness of a graveyard in the meantime.

“I rest in the hope that one bright day / Sunshine will burst through these prisons of clay / And the trumpets will sound on the hills near and far / Will wake up the dead in the old churchyard”

“Funeral Bell” - PHILDEL

The aftermath of the banquet. The fear, sadness, and resignation. The sense of relief. 

“Oh mother, I’m scared to die. / Where, where do my good deeds lie? / Oh father, I’m scared to live, / Takes more than I’ve got to give.”

“Apple Tree” - Marika Hackman

Hanging from the tree. A crowd gathering. Wanting to be remembered. Enough said. 

“Here I hang for the sated crowd / To look upon my eyes, look upon my mouth / And say, ‘We were there that day / I saw a face, heard a sound’”

“Special Death” - Mirah

Asking, “Why me?” A sense of confusion and loss along with the saving of Whitestone. Concludes with the beginnings of the la-la-las. 

“But it's a special death you saved / For me, the brown-eyed daughter”

“Ain’t No Grave (Sparse)” - Crooked Sill, Aoife O’Donovan

It’s a little on the nose, yes, but I chose this version specifically for the sense of emptiness it evokes. There’s an implied skepticism of seeing people you think you’re able to trust, specifically “gods’ people” (as I’m choosing to interpret it), and thinking of the clerics who saw a monster. The dismay of being resurrected into a world that hates you. We’ll see if this one sticks; it’s a little heavy on references to Christianity.

“Ain't no grave gonna hold my body down / When I hear that trumpet sound / I'm gonna get up out of the ground”

“Don’t Know Who I Am” - Rebecca Roubion

The distinct loss of identity and a surprisingly apt description. Laudna had no name and no sense of self or what she was. She’s searching for something to identify.  

“Black tears on my shirt / Black tears on my freckles / I've been stung by this hurt / I've been stung by a stinging nettle”

“Lying Beast” - Run River North

Running. Running far and fast, leaving home behind. Seeing herself as a beast and being terrified of it. So alone. 

“And so I flew away with myself / I was the beast all alone in my hell!”

“Drinking Song” - House Phone

What could she have become if she hadn’t been murdered so soon? We see her begin to play and fantasize and dream and grow. 

“'Cause you won't rewrite history / To commemorate the likes of me / And you would not believe me if I tried / To tell you all the things I've seen / And all the places that I've been”

“Mile Magnificent” - molly ofgeography

Starting to explore her magic and Delilah’s influence in her head. It starts to feel... good? The pent-up frustration and anger have a release.

“We bloom beneath the blessings of a goddess with no face [...] / All my better demons have gone the way they came”

“Stolen Roses” - Karen Elson

Digging into the anger, searching for a purpose. Too old and too young at the same time, forced to grow up too fast. 

“There once was a time when I was a girl / That darkness hung in my sky / I was old before I learned to be young / Stone cold till I learn how to cry”

“These Bones” - Azrai (ft. Momo O’brien)

Searching for a home, a place to rest. Crossing the sea to Marquet. (The intro, as you’ll hear, foreshadows the pluckier sound of Imogen’s section.) Skeletal imagery. 

“I am a long time finding home / I have only ever wandered before / It′s a savage sea we're made to roam / Every tide can turn to haunt us / But the ocean reaches past these ghosts / And I will always sail for more” 

“Mountain Song” - Little Chief

A beautiful, adventurous musical introduction. Open to the possibility of new things, still weary, but there’s more here. 

“I’ve been living in a hole in the mountain / Ain’t no sins in there / Oh, these memories they keep on following”

This is our transition into...

Imogen, Before:

A general note: I tried to seek out songs with more of a folky-bluegrass vibe for Imogen to match her background. 

“Second Child, Restless Child” - The Oh Hellos

I imagine a very young, carefree Imogen. Well before her powers kicked in. I like to think she thought she was a bit of a troublemaker, but anything she did was so endearing and mild that it was sweet. A happy kid with big dreams until the signs of something else started to appear. 

“With a spirit running wild, running free / And they saw trouble in my eyes / They were quick to recognize the devil in me”

“I’ve Endured” - Tim O’Brien

Growing up with her father in the mountains and in the fields. The nightmares begin. But this is fine, right? She can handle this. 

“I've seen the lightnin' flashin', I heard the thunder roll / I've endured, I've endured / How long must one endure?”

“Wander. Wonder.” - The Arcadian Wild

The powers are coming on strong. Post-nightmares and in pain, nothing she did was good enough. She felt trapped in her own home, shackled by her mind and father, perhaps, as she tried not to let on that she was changing.

“Half awake I wander through this house / Lost in a labyrinth and left with no way out / I built this hall of mirrors all myself / Faces staring back at me look like somebody else”

“Lost in My Mind” - The Head And The Heart

Everything is So Much. Thoughts of leaving but–

“Momma once told me / ‘You're already home where you feel loved,’ / I am lost in my mind / I get lost in my mind”

“Trouble and Woe” - Ruth Moody

The voices are awful, and the world is so bleak. People are cruel. Getting worse, and hoping it will get better. 

“This world is full of trouble and woe / All I see is trouble, everywhere I go”

“Little Bird” - The Weepies

People have noticed. Trips to town are much harder. The voices are louder. 

“Sometimes it's hard to say even one thing true / When all eyes have turned aside, they used to talk to you / And people on the streets seem to disapprove / So you keep moving away”

“Storm Comin’” - The Wailin’ Jennys

It’s getting worse. Nightmares getting more frequent. Control is slipping. And, you might notice this song is by the same artist as Laudna’s first. I do love a bit of symbolism. 

“Will you listen to that thunder roar and let your spirits soar / When that love calls, open up your door [...] / No, don’t run from the coming storm, ‘cause it can’t keep a storm from coming.”

This leads us to…

Connection

General note: a blending of both genres and styles. 

“Mostly” - Vian Izak, Juniper Vale

A prelude, almost. Are you real?

“I've bought up all my dreams and sold off most my heart / I'd been lying to myself just to bury all my thoughts”

“Maybe” - The Henry Girls

The timid hope of meeting someone and realizing you feel like you’ve known them all your life. Suddenly, things might be okay.

“I feel like I should know you / I feel like we have met before [...] / And all these things that I don't really understand / Would be much simpler if you'd only hold my hand”

“Dandelion” - Heather Maloney

A moment of peace. I like to think of this as Laudna’s adoration of the natural world and its beauty. Her will to bend the laws of the world to give Imogen what she deserves. And, on a more literal level, to offer Imogen the gift of flowers because Laudna has little else to her name. This song also begins the recurring flowers-in-hair motif.

“I have nothing but these weathered hands / And I live nowhere on this wild land”

“Rain Clouds” - The Arcadian Wild

A connection over shared struggles from both sides. A mutual agreement of trust. 

“I’m being frightened by the people / They look at me like I’m a scar upon their perfect skin / Perfect to only them / I’m being shadowed by my past / Reminding me of what I was and what I could become” 

“Daylight” - Watchhouse

Realizing that this person might’ve saved you. 

“My search was unending, and my soul was bare. And darling you came to me like a midnight flare.”

“The Devil In You” - The Haunted Windchimes

The joy of being seen. Of being known. 

“I've walked a long long way it ain't new / Here I sit face to face with the devil in you / It looks a lot like someone I've spoken to / We were broken together it's true”

“Curses” - The Crane Wives

The fear that neither is good enough for the other. Basic choice? Maybe. But it’s too good to pass up. 

"Every word I say is kindling / But the smoke clears when you're around / Won't you stay with me, my darling / When my walls start burning down, down, down?”

“Wildflowers” - The Wailin’ Jennys

You deserve better. You deserve the world, and I can’t give that to you. The feeling that this is too good to be true. Surely, it can’t last. 

“Go away somewhere bright and new / I have seen no other / That compares with you”

“Bruised Feet” - Haunted Like Human

Laudna’s invitation to leave. Together. An escape from mistakes and the past. 

“Do you want to hear the stories these bruised feet could tell / ‘Cause I’ve been chasing sunrises, throwing change in wishing wells / And I’m running to and I’m running from and oh Lord knows that I ain’t done / Running for the sake of running wild, so come with me child”

Unless...

ACT 2

On the Road

“Light in the Sky” - We Banjo 3

And they’re off on a search for knowledge and freedom. 

“So if you’re lost in the night / Stuck between the demon and the knife / As it traces a line across your heart”

“Apple Pie” - Lizzie McAlpine

Transient, finding solace in one another. Home after home. How long can this last? This one has a few more references to modern things than I’d like, but I can’t pass up the vibes. 

“Every house looks the same in my dreams / Every house feels like home for a couple weeks / I've been runnin' 'round trying to find a place where I can breathe...Home is wherever you are tonight.”

“Almost Home” - Keston Cobblers Club

In search of a person, a place to settle. As long as they’re together. 

“The clouds will break the wind will brace these sails of stone / And I have never known a journey take this long / But I'm almost home”

“You and Me” - You+Me

They fit together. 

“They say everything, it happens for a reason / You can be flawed enough but perfect for a person / Someone who will be there for you when you fall apart / Guiding your direction when you're riding through the dark”

“Witchcraft” - Vian Izak

I like to think Imogen is... realizing some things, and getting attached. (We all know she fell first.)

“It's witchcraft / And I've got no defense for it / The heat is too intense for it / What good would common sense for it do?”

“For My Emablmer” - Emily June

Laudna’s turn. Still seeing herself as a dead thing, a little confused by Imogen’s friendship but embracing it all the same.

“I hope you know I won't complain / If I decompose and you're to blame / Abandon your duties, lay down next to me / Grab my hand, feel no shame”

“Home to Me” - The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea

Keep coming back to each other regardless of what other people think.

“How dare you love me like you've never known fear / You've got more troubles than minutes in the year / And a voice like your father's tells you nothing good's for free / Well, that may be / But you're walking home to me”

“The Moon Song” - Brittin Lane, Mitchel Morse

Foreshadowing the importance of the moon later. For now, it’s peaceful. 

“We're lying on the moon / It's a perfect afternoon / Your shadow follows me all day / Making sure that I'm okay”

“You Are My Sunshine” - Lena Hall

Contrasting the last song, when the moon becomes too much… there’s the sunshine. Specifically for Imogen constantly fighting the pull of the moon, Laudna is the sun, her spark, her light. What happens if she disappears?

“As I lay sleeping / I dreamed I held you / In my arms / When I awoke, dear / I was mistaken” 

“Two” - Sleeping At Last

These two self-sacrificial, loyal, dedicated characters. Bonus points for “I will love you without any strings attached.” A double meaning for Laudna and Delilah.

“No, I don't want to talk about myself / Tell me where it hurts / I just want to build you up, build you up / Till you're good as new”

The Campaign

“Growing Up” - Run River North

Apt for both of them as they come into their own. Growing together as they explore the world, adventure with their friends, and learn to take what comes.

“I used to close my eyes / To what stirred under my bed / Now, they're open wide / To the monsters in my head / Instead of claws, they whisper lies”

“I found my way without your help / With broken family / I'll take my breaks with my sins / Do as I do, please / With my friends 'til the end / There lies my loyalty”

“Anything Can Happen” - Tors

Imogen is being pulled. 

“But even when I start to dream / Every little piece of me / Gets a little close to the edge of darkness / I know I've been here before / Long as I'm not falling off / I'll be fine”

“Crawl In” - Upstate

Things are getting harder, but they’re seeking comfort in each other after nightmares and bad days alike. 

“Crawl in my head tonight / Read my thoughts so I don't have to speak / It's been a long, long week but I'm tryin’ / To make do and stop fussin’ and fightin’”

“Bottom of the River” - Delta Rae

The crickets chirping continue the nightmare-ish theme of the last song. However. Shit’s getting real. Holding onto each other as they sink deeper. 

“Hold my hand / Ooh it’s a long way down”

“Raise Hell” - Brandi Carlile

Can’t believe Laura Bailey beat me to this song by 2 days with her Imogen playlist. It’s the perfect mix of angsty and bluegrass-folky. Being born cursed and learning your strengths. May or may not stick because of the substantial references to Christianity, but I do love it for Imogen coming into her god-like power.

“It came upon a lightning strike / And eyes of bright clear blue”

"I'll Bend But I Won't Break" - Red Moon Road

First of all, could that band name be any more perfect? Second, this song is such a good tribute to Imogen's character. The tempo is quick; the drums like rolling thunder; and allusions to dreams, storms, the dark. "Still I will endure" calls back to the second song in Imogen's section, "I'll Endure," and "Still in the eye of the hurricane" is both great storm imagery and foreshadows "Hurricane" which is a song further down the playlist. I imagine this during Otohan Round 1, but it may shift around the playlist depending on how I feel about the flow.

"Lighting lights the sky like it's looking for me / Flashes of the forces the dark has set free / Thunder strikes the land / With the mighty heavy hand / It rocks me to my core / I won't fall down / I'll stand my ground / I'll bend but I won't break"

“Bury Me Smiling” - The Ballroom Thieves

Laudna’s second death. Love and loss. 

“I stood in silence / A mind's worth of violence / Strung me a short rope / Round my neck / A love like an old home / Breathes in these dry bones”

“Afterlife” - Haunted Like Human

Laudna on Imogen’s desperate search to get her back. Asking Imogen not to waste her time. The choice to return. I particularly love the chimes. Musical thoughts and the reflection of death. 

“So darling don’t go digging up graves / When love is lost the afterlife is a choice you gotta make / So put the nails in the coffin, let them rust in place / But darling don’t go digging up graves”

“The Mountain Song (First Dance Version)” - Tophouse

The “I would do anything for you” of it all. Resurrection. Hope. Bonus points for flower-in-hair motif.

“Well the clouds rolled in / There was lightning there was thunder there was rain / As we hid beneath our shelter / All the doubts that we had felt / Came pouring in as a flood we had to face”

“Flowers in My Hair” - Wes Reeve

Yearning. A bit of good old fashioned wanting what can’t be had. I imagine this is the last of the first Whitestone visit and the orange tree is the golden glow of the sun tree. Whitestone Andy mention? Continuing flower motif. 

“I had a dream of a boy who loved me and / We danced in the leaves of an orange tree [...] / Then I went my own way, and you crossed the highway / But just maybe someday we’ll be, my pretty”

“Haven” - We Banjo 3

The Rudius arc is kicking into gear. “You have the biggest spark of anyone I’ve ever seen” vibes. 

“The moonlight's a path we can travel down / River runs wild with what has gone before / Cast aside for new and more and more and more and more and more and more / Let me be your haven / Let me be your light”

Moon Arc

“Wax & Wane” - Alana Henderson

Oooh tension. The drama. The moon is affecting the relationship. We’re starting to see a shift to a darker mood around the Solstice and all that’s around it. Mirrors “Moon Song” - “There’s nothing I’d keep from you.” Oh yeah?

“But we bent and we broke and I meant what I spoke / And the blame game does not produce a winner / We went as far as we could go we had to go that far to know / That we had nowhere left to aim / And no one left to blame but / The moon’s wax and wane and the turn of the tide”

“The Moon Will Sing” - The Crane Wives

This reminds me of Laudna during the separation and immediately after, starting to question everything, seeing herself as dark. That extreme co-reliance. Clinging to each other. Is it a good thing? Laudna starting to lean back into Delilah’s burn. 

“The moon will sing a song for me / I loved you like the sun / Bore the shadows that you made / With no light of my own / I shine only with the light you gave me [...] / I want to feel the fire that you kept from me”

“Always You” - South for Winter

The rush of reunion. The high-pitched start, disbelief. Then: the warmth of returning to Your Person. Being able to rely on them. A bright spot. 

“Should the blood red tides run o’er / Should our nightmares all come true / Should we lose this holy war / I know there’ll still be you [...] Oh my love / The skies are growing colder / Oh, my love / I need you more than ever”

“Tether Me” - Galleaux

In addition to the obvious tether relation, they’re both feeling pulls in different directions: Imogen to the red dawn; Laudna to the darkness of her mind. Being tied to her limbs earns you more puppet symbolism, particularly after Delilah's resurgence. 

“For a moment, I was gone /  The speed of light into the red dawn / In this space, do I belong?/ It’s dark out here in my own thoughts / Pull me back out of my body / I’m tied to my limbs”

“Blood Moon” - Saint Sister

The moon sure is tempting. The pulls for both of them are getting stronger. Things are getting darker, harder, more intense. 

“And so I wonder will those scattered pits / Take root behind your cracking lips / They are always doing that [...] / The hunter’s moon was bleeding red / The night you left our thorny bed / You were always, always”

"Stay" by Haunted Like Human

I try really hard to avoid repeat artists because I feel like it keeps my bias toward one band in check. However. I'm a little convinced this artist is straight-up writing about Laudna at this point. This song isn't quite as musically dark as the other songs by the same artist that have made the playlist. It's a little more acoustic/has more guitar as a connecting bridge to Imogen. Plus, it hits all these specific marks: 1) reassuring that the voice in her head hasn't got the best of her yet 2) begging [Imogen] to stay and to not give up on her 3) apologizing for the weight of her sins and that they're not [Imogen's] to hold 4) addresses [Imogen's] feelings about the voice in Laudna's head.

"Darling you don’t hold me close the way you used to do / And I wonder what you’re thinking when I’m reaching out for you / You’re trying to be patient, yea you’re trying to be kind / But I know that you’re still running from the demons in my mind / But I promise this thing in my head / It ain’t got the best of me yet"

“If We Were Vampires” - Baggio & Hannah Kol

The looming sense that one of them won’t come back. As the end draws near, even if the upcoming fights don’t kill one of them, Imogen will out–age Laudna. 

“It's knowing that this can't go on forever / Likely one of us will have to spend some days alone / Maybe we'll get forty years together / But one day I'll be gone or one day you'll be gone”

“Hesitate” - The Harmaleighs

They’re hiding things from each other as the tension builds. 

“You keep saying you love me / You keep telling me you’re proud / But you don't know who I am / 'Cause you're not even living out loud”

“Soothsayer” - Haunted Like Human

Not gonna lie this is my favorite song on the entire playlist. It is peak Laudna-Delilah. I would quote the entire song if I could. It’s dark, thematically perfect, and haunting. It's also by the same artist as "Afterlife," Laudna's "death" song to reflect that link. I imagine this is late C3 as Laudna continues to feed Delilah. My favorite line: “The thing that you hate / Is the thing you've become.”

“There's a price to be paid / But ain't that every trade? / You're just looking for strength when you're weak / Oh you know there's a flickering darkness / And it sings out like sirens to you / Yea it's sickly sweet and elegantly violent / But these debts that you take / They will someday come due / Hungry hands reaching up / Crave for more, lust for blood”

“Hurricane” - Bandits on the Run

While still being them having to navigate their relationship in the midst of the impending end of the world, this song brings to light Imogen’s relationship with her mother, too. She meets her mother in the storm. 

“They told us run for cover / Stay close to home and mother / Don’t seek out any other”

“Chasing Twisters” - Delta Rae

It’s time. Make or break. 

“I was born with lighting in my heels / Sewed a spur onto my ankle / Bit a horse under the steel / And I lost hope when I was still so young [...] / I’ll take you to the grave / The only love I’ve ever known / The only soul I ever saved / And I went home”

Epilogue

At the time of writing, we’re around C3:E95, so from here on out this is even more so my reinterpretation or guesses about the future. I’m hoping to flesh out this section and the middle/end of Act 2. 

“Oh Mama” - honeyhoney

Our transition song. The cacophonous high of the last song into the unbelieving stillness of the piano, the end of a battle. The world has shifted. There’s no going back. 

“All covered in mud the day is done [...] / Oh mama look at my heart / I’m useless now that it’s dark / We’re praying for rain a thunder of change / And lightning to lighten my way”

“If She Ever Leaves Me” - The Highwomen

Alright, this one’s a little self-indulgent, even more so than the others. But don’t we deserve a little wholesome “we made it” energy? I think it also nicely circles back to and reflects the shift away from the early-on Laudna "I'm not good enough for her; she's going to leave me" vibes we get in songs like "Dandelion," "Curses," "Stay," and even "For My Embalmer."

“I’ve loved her in secret / I’ve loved her out loud / The sky hasn’t always been blue [...] / She loves wild horses and tumbling dice”

“The Time for Flowers” - Emily Scott Robinson

The bookend and parallel to “Dandelion” from much, much earlier. This time, from Imogen’s perspective. Conclusion and continuation of flowers motif. “The skies are clear now. The moon is new.”

“I came upon a woman in a field on her knees / Singing ancient songs and sowing wildflower seeds / Tell me what the point in planting pretty things / In these days of darkness and disease [...] I have witnessed funerals and wars / Worried mothers, empty shelves, and empty stores / The storms will rage and the winds will blow / You are gonna find out that you're stronger than you know”

“Dance in the Graveyards” - Delta Rae

I always knew I was going to end the playlist with this song. It perfectly mirrors “Old Churchyard,” the first of Laudna’s songs. It's also by the same artist as the "climax" of the playlist. The drums give me Laudna, while the folksy sound gives me Imogen. Finding joy in death, in life, in love. Life will go on, new friends and old will come and go. And that’s alright. She’s happy. They’re happy. 

“When I die, I don’t wanna rest in peace / I wanna dance in joy / I wanna dance in the graveyards, the graveyards / And while I’m alive, I don’t wanna be alone / Mourning the ones who came before”

If you're listening to the playlist on a loop, you'll return to "Stories." It reminds us that it was all just a story. It will happen again. Stories and characters and people will move us, make us feel and hurt and love. It is an ending just as much as a new beginning.

[danwhobrowses]

nothing to see here just a crazy shipper guy going crazy over Callowmoore under the bit, if that's not for you then go about your business

So fellow Callowmoores how we feelin' this morning/evening? Because it's evening right now and I'm still bouncing off the walls in my mind

The one post could not keep me contained! No seriously the amount of tags I put in hit a limit and doesn't show them all

I mean yes we didn't get a kiss (yet) but goddamn we got so much, it has possessed me, deranged me, it's leaking outta my brain I gotta talk about it, so either jump out or buckle up because this overflow is gonna be long

First off I just gotta talk about how so many things almost lined up how I imagined them because it just makes it feel like they looked into my head and thought 'hey that's kinda good'. Like, I wanted Fearne to take the shard at Mori's, it was a safer space for her than the Ziggurat which is tainted by bad memories (this and other campaigns), I just didn't expect it so soon, thought they'd at least have a full rest first. In fact I had a whole scene in my mind where in a desperate gambit Delilah took over Laudna while she slept and just knocked on Ashton's door in a form of dread going 'where's the shard Ashton?'. It's key to this I promise not only because I enjoyed the idea of Ashton not taking any of Delilah's shit (plus for you Imodnas out there the mental scene involves Ashton whispering 'Imogen's in danger' to wake her, they also ask where Paté is because they still have that 'Paté is Delilah' theory) but it also expanded on the possible helplessness Ashton would have being unable to assist Fearne with taking the shard

'You're a child, Ashton. A blunt instrument that charges blindly into harm, would you really risk Fearne's life to earn her forgiveness? You know what it can do, what happens when you can't protect her from it?'

Of course, Ashton would never give Delilah the shard, which would frustrate Delilah since she can't manipulate them, but the comment weighs on Ashton a little. Which is when the whole waking Laudna happens and she leaves, but Fearne is in his room (the Vox Machina bathtub scene being inspiration), having asked to sleep there for comfort and asks them if it worries them. Which is where I often got to use this quote

'I don't believe in fate, but I believe in you'

And it sticks with me because it's super romantic, but also on-brand for Ashton, there were variations like the longer 'things only affect our path if we choose to believe they do; fate is complicated, the gods don't give a fuck, and I don't wanna even think about legacy anymore, I don't believe in them, but I believe in you' but then the next morning comes and Ashton gives her the ring, since I forgot about attunement there were instances where it was a sneaky sleight of hand thing, and Fearne completes the process. Of course, with weeks to go on there were a lot more scenarios like Fearne pickpocketing the Ashton doll to practice talking to and putting it back, Ashton seeking Mori for advice, herbal tea visions where Ashton entered their own mind and encounters the empress while on the outside Delilah possesses Laudna to try and drain the power from them, one where the shard having been reshaped through Ashton is less intense on Fearne for the first 4 rounds (since they blew up on the fifth) because Ashton's essence is containing and dissipating the hostile energy, and one where the group secretly vote against Ashton being there for Fearne taking the shard (Imogen, Laudna, and Chetney 3 to 2 against Orym and FCG) but Fearne as the decider pulls them over because she needs them there, stuff like that I'm sure fanfic writers could consume to their heart's content (and are free to, go nuts). But these scenes stood out because it had elements of stuff that are linked to or actually happened in the episode; Fearne does take the shard, Ashton endorses that Fearne is the only one who can take it, Ashton gives her the ring and Shattered Vigor is apparently a thing where Ashton is practically taking Fearne's pain to protect her, that alone is enough to go insane over.

And can we talk about the ring for a moment, because like THE RING. I'm not talking about generically either I mean that this ring has been significant to the shard saga ever since Ashton claimed it. It was found on the corpse of someone infused into stone, into the earth, right between the whole eidolons stuff where Ashton connected with an Earth elemental and then the Grau Dashari stuff with the crystals they merged with their hammer and then the Bor'dor incident, that could've easily been a titan-based punishment. Also, Ring of Volcanic Flesh, like Ashton's stone arm? And if that wasn't enough, what was the first thing Fearne stole from Ashton when they reunited? The ring, the act that broke down Ashton's walls as they let out a most heartfelt 'I missed you, so much' the ring that Fearne stole right off of Ashton's fingers only for them to willingly put in her hand to protect her, because just as they said at the clock tower, everything they have belongs to her. And while legacy and hubris had a part in the shard incident, part of it was also for Fearne. I don't believe there's any situation where if Fearne said she wanted the shard at the clock tower Ashton would've said no; Ashton knows that Fearne was key to the shard dislodging in the lava, they sensed it was in a way key to both of them, but there was no reality where Ashton was gonna force Fearne to take the shard if she didn't want it. And yes it blew up in their face, much like Fearne they saw an image of themselves they didn't want to be, their soul broke with the realisation that they hurt the one person they never wanted to hurt, but thanks to Percy they also realised that they had to change. It wasn't enough to see everyone else having someone at the reunion and internalizing 'if someone has to not come back it's gotta be me' they had to make steps towards being the person the Hells needs them to be, someone who can come back with them.

Which is where last episode started setting it up, and I didn't speak much about it at the time because other than the pretty plain 'I would've rather died than hurt Fearne' insinuation (which in turn was confessed to save Fearne from falling) there was only crumbs that could be interpreted other ways; for instance Birdie's tale with Athion and Olly being somewhat of a parallel to Tevan and Ashton, the formers wooing Birdie and Fearne with temptations of indulgence while the latters drawing their attention by being subjects of intrigue, defiance and kindness, plus they saved the latters (Birdie literally via escaping the prisons and Fearne emotionally and literally), or before the Orym conversation when Ashton takes 'one last look' Taliesin looks towards Ashley last. But I knew there was poetic significance to Ashton failing the communication trial, Marisha sensed the vibe too, but even though Fearne was nervous about guiding Ashton, the fault fell to poor dice rolls (and Liam not keeping shtum and summoning thunderwasps) and once again Ashton in an attempt to prove themselves falls flat on their ass in front of the person they most want to prove it to. And that did break my heart a little I must admit because as poetic as it was who hasn't been there? Ashton's journey of proving themselves has been laden with failure too; being unable to protect anyone from Otohan led to them almost being TPK'd, being unable to keep the group together at the Malleus Key led to the group being scattered, and then Team Trauma's stuff - Orym was despondent and Laudna's a wreck, got a random 'shepherd's boy', a powerful Cobalt Soul teen prodding about the solstice and all of Deni$e here added as mainly combat support, loners but no leaders, Dawnfather angel thinks them insignificant, dark spirits trying to consume their only leads about the Hishari - and the moment Ashton started to trust Bor'dor after the pipe vision what happens? Betrayal, Hunger of the Shadow and Delilah is let back in, Ashton couldn't even keep Laudna safe from herself, they reunite, try to sort out their shit with their past, discover that they might have a destiny to fulfill and end up being too willing to die in place of others, and unable to protect their new family from themselves, because of these recent failures it was important that Ashton proved themselves in the trust trial.

And thankfully they did, there was no way to prove that anyone was a Doppelganger and yet, Ashton still trusted Fearne; twice saving her from the flora even when told to leave her behind. And they were close to another failure when the branch was snatched - after their attempts to keep it safe by throwing it in the pool alone - but they trusted Chet and Orym (father/son duo) to cover more ground while they helped Fearne. And even when FCG told Ashton 'I think it's Fearne', and when Imogen was untrusting of Fearne, Ashton abandoned their held action to save FCG from the brambles because they knew Fearne could be trusted. They trusted Imogen to connect to Ruidus and as mentioned endorsed Fearne to take the shard.

And sure, in my mental scenarios Ashton gives her the shard, doing the same she did for them, but I did say almost like how I imagined. And Ashton still did everything they could, plus Imogen comforted their visible worry, but once it's complete they're just in awe, and then their own spark awakens through her touch, a touch they were unafraid of even at the threat of newfound fire, and now for the first time ever they feel whole. She saved them, and now they finally feel complete, and now this time Fearne is agape, Fearne is in awe, and everything she had hoped Ashton would gain from taking the shard before has come to fruition through her, and it's just, joy, pure incorruptible joy, a kindred connection that belongs to just them. Plus a big piece of paper for all the new powers they are excited to learn about from each other, with each other, and while Matt can talk about there being risks to them because you gotta balance the combat the narrative significance is still there.

But dammit they need to kiss, I've yelled it enough times in my head; like the lava, the clock tower, before and after Fearne took the shard, the only times they did kiss was before the solstice (the forehead kiss) and the ziggurat and both preceded bad times, they deserve a proper one, not one at risk of being a goodbye, something precious, irreplaceable and theirs to have, to share. And I don't know if they should use the patented 'can I kiss you?' or take a tip from BeauYasha and use 'I wanna kiss you so bad right now' or find something else to make their own but I desire it so much, had it happened this ep I probably would've melted out of my seat. They're awkward and nervous but they gotta take the leap, Ashton needs to realise they're loved and maybe even be told that they deserve it even when they feel they don't, and Fearne has to take a risk too, the shard put doubt to her decisions but that doesn't mean she can run from her strong emotions. It doesn't fix everything of course, but sometimes people heal better together than apart. As a currently vorbed half-elf once said 'drink the courage first'.

Curiosity continues to send me after the ep, and while some people are attempting to blemish or rain on the parade (I mean, I try not to speak ill of other ships in general, but if you're gonna be negative about it you can at least do it in your lane, your tags not ours) I am still just riding the high of the possibilities. True, the unknown can make me nervous, and I will admit the group has to give Ashton and Fearne space (they're just excited, and with the bloody bridge hinting to be a final moon-based battle there is that sense of urgency) Imodna had nudges sure but they have been a bit heavy-handed and kinda chaperoned around them, Fearne and Ashton seldom get time alone, one can hope they can get that time with each other next episode.

[saphirered]

hi! i loved your partner in crime fic for vax, do you think you could do another part? its so good ❤️❤️

This turned into some tooth rotting fluff. Hope you enjoy! 😘

Vax has not slept all night. Sleep would not find him but not for his usual reasons. No nightmares haunt him, neither do intrusive thoughts or at least no negative ones. Despite of his lack of sleep he is not tired. He’s wide awake and buzzing. He can’t seem to sit still. He has to fiddle with something; the button of his shirt, his daggers, the braids beads in his hair, his own fingers. He has to be in constant motion to get rid of these jitters. He feels alive in a way he’s not felt in a very long time. He feels like the missing part of him is just within reach. It is. You are. He’s meeting you for lunch. He hasn’t seen you in years and while he dared not dream he always wished your paths would cross again. He thought about how that meeting might go and compared to how your first meeting in years went, he could never have imagined. It was perfect. Everything was perfect. Though far too much time passed between your last goodbye and your reunion and it ached his heart more than he’d like to admit, when you’re there it feels as if not a day has passed at all. Everything feels so much easier, so unburdened and so natural, he longs for more and so the mere thought of you, of seeing you again this afternoon, it fills him with energy and joy. Some might say it’s entirely out of character for him. 

Seeing you at that ball, or rather your illusions, your nimble fingers making bank and your keen eyes ever precise. He’d spot you from a mile away, just like you would him. To think Vax tried to get out of his attendance to the ball, he doesn’t dare think of what might have been had he succeeded or slipped into the shadows. He’d have been none the wiser. He’d not be pacing in his room deciding on his outfit and the place to go. He’d not have been fumbling with that jewelled necklace you gave him. “My treat” you’d said for your lunch date. He doesn’t want to get rid of that necklace. It’s the only thing that tells him this wasn’t some figment of his imagination for his mind to cope with a terribly dull evening, or worse a dream entirely. If this is a dream he doesn’t want to wake up. The gold and gems remind him that you’re real and this did happen and he is about to meet you soon. Another hour passes and he asks his sister for some gold instead. She asks too many questions. He gives too little answers. 

It didn’t take you much digging. Vox Machina; heroes of the realm. Everyone knew where they lived, their keep in Emon. It was no secret. Dragon slayers, saviours of Whitestone. You’d slept soundly after last night; with your pockets full of gold, your heart filled with warmth and your mind entirely engulfed by the rogue you thought you might never meet again when your lives separated. Your dreams were just that; filled with memories of the past, and some figments of what could be. You don’t think you’ve smiled this much in more time than you’d like to admit. You’ve felt the exhilarating thrill of a big heist and a prosperous job but no amount of adrenaline or satisfaction fills you with the thrill of reuniting with him again. Vax will forever hold a special place in your heart. It just happens to be the piece that makes you feel so alive. You are grateful for his return even if it leaves a little blow to your pride that even after all these years, he’s still able to see right through your disguises and deception. In reality you wouldn’t want it any other way. 

You embraced the dreams until it was time to get ready. You’d go out without your armour, without all the tools of your trade, save for some you could hide beneath your specially chosen attire. Pockets are a must. It’s stylish but not too fancy. It’s light and leaves for full range of movement in case you need to run and dive and jump and hide. You’ll have no trouble blending into any crowd. When you said you’d meet Vax for lunch and let him pick the place, you didn’t think to ask the occasion so you’d play it safe. You haven’t put this much thought in a look for anything other than a job that required it. It feels good to do so without that pressure and leaves you feeling giddy inside. It’s time to go and thus with a skip in your step you wander down to that keep in Emon. 

He didn’t notice you yet when you approached. He was too caught up in conversation with a gnome dressed in purples; Scanlan Shorthalt you’d learned because how could you not after the ball. You slow your step and stick to the shadows a bit more. Vax’ back is turned to you and the gnome doesn’t notice you until you step out of the shadows. To which his expression changes to a sly and charming one. He all but pushes Vax aside which results in him turning on his heels. You have no eyes for Scanlan and do not even hear his blatant flirt. You just stare into those dark eyes of your half-elf and smile. His lips are parted and he seems entirely caught off guard, as if the realisation only hit now, as if he only now perceived the previous events as true. You approach. 

“Hey there, stranger.” You say. Your voice makes him melt and forget his own name. You’re perfect. Your presence, your radiance, it's all just perfect. You are the epitome of perfect. He forgets to breathe until his friend hits him in the knee and pulls him back to reality. 

“Well aren’t you-“ The gnome begins but is cut off by Vax who quickly puts a hand over his mouth to silence him. Scanlan protests and his next words are muffled but Vax cares not because he notices how you cover a laugh behind your hand. 

“No we’re not doing this. Ow! Did you just-“ Scanlan bit his hand. The gnome bit his bloody hand! He lets go and shakes the shock more than pain as Scanlan reverts to his flirtatious twat self. What he didn’t expect was for you to step closer and take his hand between both of yours. You inspect the mark, though there barely is any in the first place and chuckle when you bring it to your lips and kiss it gently. 

“Better now?” You raise an eyebrow and earn an offended gasp from the gnome. You acknowledge him with a wink and by some miracle catches the hint which adjusts hit attitude. 

“I’m sure Vax feels much better now, if only for your presence, hopeless love sick puppy he is. You’re too good for him but okay I’ll relent and sing the songs of the heartbroken.” Vax softly kicks Scanlan as if to say ‘piss off’ and the gnome needs not be told twice but it would not be Scanlan Shorthalt if he did not sing some stupid song to prove a point. While Vax does not doubt your observational skills, he offers you his arm and guides you along the road, away from the singing bastard. 

“You don’t think I’m ready for a proper introduction yet? Think I’ll leave a bad impression? Think they won’t approve?” You laugh noting the speed of your walk. Vax slows down and so you do as well. Together arm in arm you walk. 

“It’s more I’m afraid you’ll be the one to run after meeting them.” He laughs and pushes aside the visual of you being introduced to his friends; his found family. He’d love to have you there. He’d love for you to meet them and be part of that collective. He’d love to keep you around but he also wants to be careful. He doesn’t want to push you or move too fast. And that aside, it’s probably best to make introductions slowly and one by one because let’s be real, Vox Machina can be a lot to deal with. At least you already know his sister who will definitely be upset with him for hoarding you for himself. She’ll also undoubtedly be looped in my Scanlan and be able to put together the pieces on her own. Another reason he wants to get away from the keep and into Emon proper. Less chances of her hunting the both of you down. 

Together you wander the streets, sharing stories from your time apart. Many things have changed, even though it all feels the same, all these things just make him love you more. From the little details about your multiple prison escapes and heists to his mercenary work and dealings with the Slayer’s Take and Myriad. You did give him a good scolding for the latter. He appreciates your care. You point out all the mistakes in your flawed plans that got you caught. You laugh about it too. These stories you share with each other, they only nail home the fact you were able to pick up right where you left off. But for Vax it also leaves a lingering feeling. He’s missed so much, so much he wished he could have been part of. He mourns what could have been. What if you’d joined them? What if you came along on these adventures? Would you have been part of Vox Machina with them now? Would your lives have ended elsewhere? He can’t begin to imagine simply because none of it leads here to the now where you laugh at his poor attempts of a joke, and point out the valuables on some of the rich assholes wandering around claiming you’d do a better job at stealing them than him. 

You make it to the market square of the Cloudtop District. The city is lively and bustling. People go about their daily business as much as they are sneaking around. Especially here. The beauty of the upper class district is that it hides many treats of varying kinds from delicious foods to pouches full of coin and jewels aplenty but also the latest gossip and secrets. Now Vax doesn’t care much for the ongoings of the upper class, but he knows you took plenty of joy in it, whether valuable information to sell or exploit or simply because of the sheer ridiculousness of it. He’s had a good laugh with you in the past about the affairs of others and their terrible attempts at hiding them. Here is no different. He watches as your ears perk and your eyes shimmer like those damned gemstones these rich assholes care so much about. Walking by the vendors Vax picks up an array of snacks from savoury to sweet, cold to hot and some drinks too. Arms full you sit down at a bench in the square with perfect view of the people. 

“The best places here don’t have the best view for people like us. And I think the food out here is better too. We can go to a place we’d actually fit in after if you want. It’s every bit as rowdy and with plenty of gambling games to go around.” He explains and offers you some candied fruits. Your eyes spark with mischievous glee.

“Well I do love the sound of that.” You pop a piece of fruit in your mouth and inconspicuously point as you lean in closer to whisper. “Lady with the blue scarf.” Vax raises an eyebrow. 

“What about her?” Of course you notice something he doesn’t but then he takes a closer look and remembers what you taught him, the things to look out for. Fondly he smiles when he notices the lady’s clothes are plain but too well made for anyone of passible average standards even in this district and the way she moves, how she tries to stay out of sight but can’t be bothered to sneak around because of lack of skill or the mere thought of being spotted by acquaintances. Then he notes she seems particularly friendly with one of the merchants. Stays around and talks far longer than any customer, and wanders to come back around again every so often. Then there’s the way the merchant looks at her. He supposes it must be very much the same way Vax looks at you. 

“I think her spouse would pay handsomely for your expertise. Don’t you think?” He bumps your shoulder when you chuckle. You bump back and steal another piece of fruit but right from his grasp this time. 

“I was going to eat that.” Vax deadpans with the same fake exasperation he’s only reserved for his sister in the past years. He picks up another piece which you steal too, though you don’t eat it. Instead you bring it to his lips. He gives you a look but obliges and lets you feed the piece to him. 

“There there, all is well again. Now we’re even?” You tap his chest and he grabs your hand giving you a look only a thief catching onto a scam could. 

“You think stealing my food twice and giving back a piece makes us even?” You fake a pout and you hold each other’s gazes, waiting for the other to relent. You break first.

“Okay okay. Fine. I taught you too well.” You pull back your hand to cross your arms and raise your chin staring out front of you. Vax just kisses your cheek and turns your face back to him. He stares at you and whatever devious little plan you’d been cooking up, the one he can see in your eyes melts away as you just stare at him with such love and affection he cannot begin to fathom. You purse your lips ever so slightly. 

“Oh and now you want a kiss too?” Vax’ lips are frustratingly close yet not close enough. He keeps it that way much to your dismay. He’s playing with you. You suppose it’s fair game. 

“I can offer compensation.” You speak and the way you say it makes him melt but he doesn’t show it just yet. 

“I’m sure we can come to an understanding.” You uncross your arms, and let one hand slide up his chest and rest right over his sternum. “Won’t be cheap.” He adds when you once again try to lean in. 

“Name your price.” He doesn’t say another word and simply presses his lips to yours, soft at first in the sweetest most longing kiss you’ve ever had. The kiss turns slightly more feverish until you hear the clearing of some throats and a scoff and you can’t contain your giggles. You lean your forehead against his, cup his face and peck his lips once more. 

“So this place you had in mind? Is it less opposed to displays of affection?” You smile and Vax just gets up, offers you his hand and together you leave the Cloudtop far behind, ignorant of the looks you’re getting from the inquisitive assholes. You couldn’t care less and maybe they could learn a thing or two. Social stigmas be damned. You run to the streets onto your next adventure but not without diving into a side alley every so often to catch your breath and share another moment of privacy, as much as one can in Emon that is. Lunch is the furthest thing from your minds. Neither of you can be bothered to care. 

[gay-dorito-dust]

How about 29. actions to make them happy for Vox Machina?

Keyleth took immense pride in her upkeep of her botanical greenery within the gardens of the keep and the potted vegetation on her window sill; she’d rise early in the morning to water them, moving the plants that needed the most light whilst keeping others in the more shaded areas of the room.

So when she awoke one morning to start watering her plants, the watering can she kept on the bedside table had been taken and before her thoughts could grow to harbour thoughts like ‘did I misplace it by accident?’ Or ‘did Scanlan have one too many and thought to use it as a toilet?’ The sound of your humming and the sprinkle of water from her watering can filled her ears.

Keyleth couldn’t restrain the tired smile that graced her face as she pulled herself out of bed, uncaring of her subsequent bedhead as she pulled open her widow and looked down to see you tending to her peonies, marigolds, daisies and Lily of the valley. “What’re you doing up so early?” She asked, curiously but the smile never left her freckled face.

“You looked a little out of it after the mission yesterday so I decided to take it up myself to take care of your flowers in your stead so that you may get some extra shut eye.” You told her as you sat the watering can down by your feet before your eyes widened in realisation before looking back up at Keyleth.

“Oh! In the kitchen I made you some food. I’m not great at cooking but I hope it’s to your liking, chuck it away if not, it won’t hurt my feelings in the slightest.” The more you talked the more Keyleth’s emerald green eyes glowed with love and affection at your kindness and selflessness to take up some of her tasks so that she recover as much energy as she could.

It may seem small to others but to the Druid, it meant everything and her heart couldn’t take how happy your actions made her day all the more better and it hadn’t even started.

Vax’ildan only ever had his sister for as long as he could remember. She was the only one whom he truly trusted wholeheartedly and he was content with that being his truth. He didn’t feel the need to hide whom he’d rather save in a heartbeat.

However he had yet to realises that his sister can’t be for him for every goings on in his life as Vex herself had her own life to navigate, she couldn’t keep holding his hand to guide him out of the dark that he got lost within every time either. So whenever he couldn’t find his twin, he would spend his time with the second closest person to him; you.

“Lost in your thoughts again, lil magpie?” You teased as you joined the rouge half-elf on the roof of the keep, seeing how his eyes were seemingly transfixed on the stars above. He scoffs halfheartedly at the nickname you’ve chosen for him. “Why’re you stilling calling me that? I thought we already discussed that I’m nothing like a magpie.”

“Yeah, you talked -well more like ranted- and I was relegated to the listening.” You retorted, shoving him by the shoulder, “and my reasoning for calling you that is because magipies are attracted to shiny, valuable things, they’ve got an eye for those things.” You look at Vax with soft eyes as you uttered your next words, “and so do you.” You broke eye contact with him and chose to look up at the stars instead.

“Look I don’t act like I know you and I don’t because your only showing what you want to show but some parts of me likes to think I do.” You chuckled, amused at your own delusion. “I know it’s stupid to think that but I’d really like to know the real Vax under this facade you’ve placed yourself in.” You spoke softly as you looked into his eyes again.

“It doesn’t matter how long I have to wait in order to see that side of you but I’m willing to wait for as long as you need me to. Try to push me away as much as you want, I don’t care because I’ll keep coming back.”

“Why?” Vax asked, unable to comprehend what you were saying, “why would you do that to yourself?” You shrugged, “your my friend and friend’s have each other’s backs even if the other doesn’t want it. You have my shoulder to cry on whenever you need to vent, cry, scream or just someone to talk to. I’m not that hard to find.” You told him and as you were about to leave him to his own devices, Vax reached out and grasped your hand, preventing you from taking another step.

“You’re not going to leave me out on my own in the cold are you? Besides I could use your company.” He said as he looked up at you with pleading eyes, squeezing your hand tightly like a lost child. “Of course buddy, of course.” You replied, squeezing his hand back as you sat yourself down by his side but neither one of you decided to let go of the others hand. Not just yet.

(Honestly didn’t know what to do for him so I thought, why not give him a friend whom he could open up to.)

Percy didn’t have the best track effort in looking after himself, seeing as he spent so much of his time in his workshop, tinkering, melding, wiring his newest invention together; completely devoid of any sort of awareness of the passage of time.

He frequently ignores his bodily needs and needs someone reminding him almost on an daily basis that he has to eat, hydrate and sleep if he wished to continue his little projects. In due to his bad habit, you took it upon yourself to be the designated person to go up to Percy’s workshop and drag him out by the ear to eat, drink, sleep or just to get a bit of fresh air.

You highly doubted being tucked away in that room with all his inventions certainly weren’t good for his lungs; especially when some of his mechanical works relied on highly reactive and or explosive substances such a gun powder to properly fulfil their function.

“Percy?” You knocked on the door, “just a minute.” Came his muffled reply, followed by some scuffling and before you could blink, the door opened to reveal the gunslinger. “You called?” Percy asked and from the smudge of soot across the brim of his nose, he was in the middle of some tinkering. Typical Percival behaviour.

“I just wanted to ask whether you’d wanna go on a walk with me through town you know? Just to get some fresh air and possibly to clear your mind?” You suggested, clearing your throat halfway through your words, as you now stood awaiting Percy’s answer. He seemed to contemplate on it for quite a bit, looking over his shoulder and back into the room then looking back at you before he sighed in definitive defeat.

“I guess I can accompany you as I have been in the midst of a struggle as of recently and I could sure use a change of scenery.” This was partially a lie, yes he was struggling with some aspects of his recent invention but overall he was just using that as an excuse to indulge you.

Percy wasn’t stupid, he knew what you were doing and for that he found you endearing. He knew his tendencies often caused him greater issues for future him to deal with but right now? a walk in town with you sounded like a great idea. He could even use this as an attempt to thank you for looking out for him, his bodily needs and mental health.

Percy truly didn’t know what he would do without you pestering him to take a break and eat but he’s sure a hell willing to make up for the hassle you put yourself through for him by making something truly as unique as you for he knew he was stubborn but he was happy that you hadn’t given up on him just yet.

Vex’ahlia as Vox Machina’s unspoken leader of sorts had put so much pressure on her aching shoulders. Nobody said being a leader was easy and she wasn’t saying it was easy either but still it didn’t make the cluster of thoughts within her head any more easier to navigate.

With some help from the rest of Vox Machina, you managed to get set up an archery range for Vex’ahlia to use whenever she felt pent up about anything in particular. You even enlisted the help of Trinket to lure her to the archery range as a surprise, also with the added fact that the half elf couldn’t stay as mad at Trinket for very long in comparison to how she’d get when the rest of you came across her at a very bad time.

“Why are we heading so far out trinket? Did you spot something?” You heard trinket grunt in response but you didn’t know whether it was an indication for you that they were here or a response to Vex’s question. It didn’t matter as you were already finished with the preparations by the time you visibly saw the bear and half elf.

“What’re you doing out here? Did something happen?” Vex asked once she saw you and all you did was move aside to show her the archery range you, Percy, Keyleth and Vax put up. “I’ve noticed that you’ve been a lot more pent up lately in, due to everything that has been happening so far, and decided that what’s a better way then to resolve that pent up anger then by shooting some targets as therapy.” You answered back honestly, watching on with bated breath at Vex’ahlia observed the archery with a observant eye.

“This is all for me?” She asked, already knowing the answer but the fact that someone did this for her benefit felt foreign to her. Needless to say she was skeptical but that didn’t meant she was going to look a gift in the eye. “Who else in vox machina is skilled enough to use a bow and arrow if not yourself?” You rhetorically asked as the edges of a smile appeared on the half-elf’s lips but quickly disappeared soon after.

“You didn’t have to go this far.” Vex told you, “but I thank you for having me in mind when coming up with this. I appreciate it.”

Pike was often left exhausted after combat but even more so after having to do double duty as one of Vox Machina’s pivotal healer besides Keyleth. So when she came over to finally heal your wounds, you immediately noticed the fatigue upon her face and immediately began to decline her aid.

“You’re hurt aren’t you?” She asked you, confused, her eyes locked on the wounds littering your skin. “Let me heal you and be done with it before they get worse.” You took a step back when she attempted to get closer to you again, causing the cleric to grunt. “What the hells wrong now?”

“I just don’t want you pushing yourself into healing me, your obviously exhausted from healing the others and besides from the lessons I’ve been taking from Kiki, I’ve managed to nail down some basic healing spells. The rest of my wounds will just have to heal the regular way.” You explained and just as you saw her face turn into one of dishearten, you immediately reached out to touch her shoulder.

“It’s not like I don’t want your help Pike, it’s just. I figured that we’ve come to expect so much of you that we haven’t seen the stress you’ve been under in order to continue meeting our standards when you shouldn’t.” You smiled softly at her as you continued. “So please if not for me then for yourself, take a fucking break. You deserve it more then anyone and if anyone needs you I’ll tell them to wait until you better rested.”

“Are you sure you don’t need me to heal anything-“ “Pike!” “Fine, I’m going I’m going!” She exclaimed, throwing her hands in the air as she walked back to her room to replenish her magic.

(I didn’t know what to do for her either but I thought that she’d needed a break from her constant overexertion of her magic. She needs a definitive break.)

Scanlan groaned as he opened his eyes to you letting in the golden light of the morning, shielding his eyes by burying himself deeper into his bed. “What the fuck happened last night.” He whined out to no one in particular.

You set down a glass of water along with a bacon and egg sandwich to help him with his predicament that you seemed to be responsible for resolving periodically that it had just became routine at this point. “Where do I start? You thought that I wanted to sleep with you-“

“Did you?”

“-no, stop interrupting. Now where was I? Oh yeah! You then proceeded to puke on an unsuspecting tavern patron and I had to haul out asses back to the keep, which leads us up to the here and now.” You finished explaining.

“Oh.”

“Yeah oh. Now eat up, we’ve got things to do today and-“ “thank you.” You looked over at Scanlan who was already halfway through his bacon and egg sand which and looking a lot better then he did a couple of seconds ago. “Whatever for?” You asked, “all I did was make sure you were in the right state of mind for the day ahead.”

“That’s exactly what I want to thank you for.” Scanlan said, “you didn’t have to do this but you do. Everything and I think it’s about time I speak my thanks to you. It’s nice to be cared for once in a while.” Neither of you said anything for a while but soon enough one of you had to speak. “It’s nothing to thank me for Scanlan, what’re friends for?” You told him softly as you left his room.

Unaware of the small smile on his face as he looked down at your bacon and egg sandwich that you’ve prepped for him. “Yeah…what’re friends for.” He uttered softly to himself as he continued to eat the rest of his sandwich.

Grog’s beard belt had been damaged in battle which upset the Goliath who had been grumpy for the remainder of the day, rubbing his fingers against his bare chin muttering, “naked, I feel naked.”

So in order to cheer him up, you took the belt to Percy in hopes that he could in the very least repair it and thankfully he could but voiced his disparity about the whole magic beard aspect of the belt; Saying that he wasn’t certain that even after he fixed it that Grog would never retain his beard ever again as magic wasn’t his field of expertise.

“We’ll have to take the risk.” Was all you told him in response.

Once the belt was properly fixed, you quickly rushed to place it back into Grog’s room before anyone could spot you of suspicious behaviour and the next morning, everyone was awoken by the Goliath’s bellows of. “MY BEARD IS BACK, MY BEARD IS BACK!”

[coffee-colored-hopeless-romantic]

A Flirt and a Hero?

This is my first fanfic on here and it’s been AWHILE so be gentle with me and let me know if you want more!

Slight warning!: hint of violence and gross intoxicated men flirting.

——————————————————

You were on your first month or so working at this tavern/inn and it was the busiest time of week, thankfully it was still early and the rush hadn’t come yet. You had gotten used to the brash comments and drunkards of the nightly crowd, getting to know a bit of the regulars and hearing the tales of adventures near and far, though half the time you know most of the stories are a bit stretched to say the least. Although it paid fine and the tips are typically pretty good, given you were a fairly attractive elven woman, it wasn’t too hard to flirt your way into making a few extra coins. Plus you enjoyed a good flirt once and awhile.

As the night was picking up and the crowd was flowing it slowly but surely you saw some familiar faces, some you like and some you frankly wish they’d lose a bar fight and never come back but what can you do, just smile, get the ladies out a bit and work your magic, just another night.

You were bringing out an order along with another barmaid that worked there, cute curvy tiefling girl named Scarlett who had been working there forever apparently. Walking over to her table she took lead and was doing most of the talking, being respectful to her getting her tips you remained on the quieter side of things and spoke when you had to, dropping off the drinks, it was a loud group that you had seen fairly often, Vox Machina is what they called themselves, you yourself hadn’t heard of the group but a few coworkers sure did.

The small male Gnome was flirting up a storm to Scarlett, not that you could blame him, some of the stuff he said was…creative to put it nicely. Though there was a certain half elf man that caught your eye and luckily you had his drink.

“And this is for you handsome.” You said as you sat his ale down on the table, he turned his head to you and gave a smirk followed with a light chuckle “well well if I knew the service would be so charming I would’ve dressed better.” He returned your energy, you knew were going going to have some fun flirting with this one if he keeps it up. “I bet you say that to all the barmaids” you teased as you playfully pouted and walked away from the table with Scarlett. You felt his lingering gaze upon your back and you couldn’t help but have a slight grin on your face.

As you continued to make rounds, refilling tankards and bringing over food you caught the waving of a hand, your eyes followed the arm and saw that same half elf man dressed in black, although he was at a different, smaller table and his friends were scattered about the tavern. You sauntered over towards him with a sweet smile. “Need something?” You ask as you hold the currently empty tray in front of you, flat against your body. “Yes indeed, I need your name, love.” He stated as he leaned onto the table he was sitting at, resting his chin on one hand, the other gesturing for you to join him. You get closer to the end of the table but don’t sit down, you might get in trouble for that given it’s gotten so busy. “My name? How can you ask me that when I don’t know who you are?” You tap his nose with your finger to further the flirtation and he takes your hand gently before you can pull it away and placed his lips on the back of your hand, giving it a kiss. “The name is Vax, now it’s your turn beautiful.” He gave you a wink afterwards.

Even you, who’s heard every line, every flirt and then some felt your cheeks become slightly warmer than before, he was good and he knew it. “Well if you’re gonna kiss me more to get my name, maybe I won’t tell you!” You playfully pulled your hand back and rushed off, gotta leave them wanting more right? Even though you were the one wanting a bit more this time. He, unbeknownst to you, swiftly followed you back to the bar and was sitting down when you turned back to head back out to deliver yet another ale. You stopped, a bit surprised he was so quick to follow.

“Now, aren’t you a naughty one.” He chuckled out as he scanned you from head to toe and back up. Your uniform tight against your body and corset bringing out your curves. “Wait right here and I’ll tell you anything you want.” You say as you pass him, speaking softer so only he would hear. Your free hand brushing some hair as you do so. You deliver the ale to the table and one of the very drunk men grabbed you a little more aggressively than you’d like. “Oh- was there something else you needed?” You asked, trying to pry away from his grasp slightly, it was no use. He pulled you onto his lap and was trying to convince you to come with him for the night.

“C’mon little lady! A pretty thing like you should have fun with someone like me, let me show you a good time!!” He was slurring his words and barely keeping direct eye contact despite you being literally on his lap, you hop up and push away saying “No! Now let go of me!” He had said some less than respectful things to not only you but every waitress in here so he lost the whole ‘politely decline’ privileges. As per usual this didn’t sit well with him or his other wasted buddies at the table. You were backing away as they advanced and soon you felt an arm snake around your waist and pulled you away, as you looked you saw a familiar black garb and saw Vax. “Now I believe this lady and many others have said ‘No’ and I best believe your respect that before you get your ass beaten.”

The men in front of you both laughed. “And what are you gonna do pretty boy?! Hit me?” Vax, who was calm as still water laughed himself a bit and shook his head “Oh no no, you’re mistaken, I can’t be bothered with that, but he will.” He pointed.. above him? Oh right! He has a Goliath friend! From what you saw he was the cheerful one other that the Druid girl, but when you saw him now he looked battle ready, even without a weapon in hand. He threw his fist into his other hand and had a bloodthirsty grin. “Best we go now, love” Vax spoke softly to you as he weaved you both through the crowed just in time for the brawl to break out. You blinked as you watched the main hall get absolutely destroyed by not only the man and Goliath but everyone else who started fighting elsewhere in here.

You looked up at him as he let you go, his hand resting on his hip paired with his grin. “A flirt and a hero I see, what a combo.” You smile and close the distance a bit, your chest touching his. “My name is Y/n, it’s nice to meet you Vax.” His grin grew bigger as you got close. “Trust me, the pleasure is mine. Wanna get out of this place?” You weren’t sure if he meant to have some ‘fun’ or to just flirt more but either way you were game.

[tiamat-zx]

If there is a single Season 1 moment from Keyleth in “The Legend of Vox Machina” that will always resonate with me… here it is in one word.

Sunbeam.

It was such a powerful moment, one that even made Matt Mercer cry. Because that’s his wife’s character, and it warms my heart knowing that nowadays she’s very well-loved. I’ve seen plenty of reactions. They cry when she hurts or gets hurt, they smile when she’s happy or being her usual anxious self, they are in awe when she gets her moments to shine.

And no moment did she literally shine brighter that season than in the climactic battle with Sylas and Delilah Briarwood in “Whispers at the Ziggurat”.

When she was gut-punched hard by Sylas and sent flying into a wall… only to also collide with a lower level and finally collapse shortly after in the first leg of the battle, I definitely flinched and panicked. This was a story that I’ve known for many years, but seeing this animated gave it more of an impact.

Everyone’s kept at bay, on the verge of defeat. And she tries her best, dear gods she tries her best to get back up… and yet she falters and collapses again, reeling from her pain.

And then she sees them. The roots of the Sun Tree, still clinging to whatever life it has left.

And so she makes her plea, straining to cling to life herself.

“Sun Tree? I’m Keyleth, of the Air Ashari. I know you’re there. And holy shit do I need your help.”

The Sun Tree answers her plea, and she grabs hold of the roots.

“Please. Help me be the light.”

She manages to finally get back on her feet, supported by the Sun Tree… as she channels its energy to bring the light to the battlefield.

The aura from the light breaks the charm on Vax. It invigorates Pike which leads to a Beam-O-War clash against Delilah… which the cleric slowly begins to overcome.

And most importantly, Sylas goes to cut her down only for Grog to intervene, having gotten his second wind.

Thus leading to not only figuring out how to avoid getting charmed, but unleashing a Reckless Attack that overpowers Sylas.

And so we get to the big moment itself, as Grog holds Sylas in place.

And Keyleth remembers Pike’s words from before, which now hold more weight than ever before:

“You’re their light now. Keep them out of darkness.”

So she does so, drawing from the tree and her own power.

And even with so much at stake, she still shows concern for Grog, who just assures her that he can take what she is about to dish out.

Only the slightest bit of hesitation…

…before unleashing the full might of her inherent druidic power and the life-force of the tree in a single blow.

The Sunbeam that turned the tide decisively in Vox Machina’s favor.

As I said, it’s this moment from Season 1 that will always stay with me.

Especially with the amazing score behind this one, “Turning Tides” and “Blinded by the Light.”

Perfection.

And so far in Season 2, her greatest moment to shine was easily in “Pass Through Fire” where she not only unlocked her fire elemental form, but also closed the rift to the Fire Plane all by herself. And she got a new look out of it to boot, on top of now having the power to use Plane Shift.

Granted, as of this post, there are still six episodes left in the second season. Only time will tell if she manages to outdo this one.

But all the same, I’m so glad that at least once per season, she gets to truly be the force of nature that we know she will become.

The Voice of the Tempest.

This post goes out to @waltwhitmansbeard because I say so ;)

[jauffre]

tagged by @dear-massacre !! i'm so excited i haven't done one of these get-to-know-me posts in forever

Last Movie: the return of the king (extended edition ofc)

Last Show: the fall of the house of usher

Last Song: bite the hand by boygenius

Song stuck in my head: for some reason.......the mia khalifa diss track bc my brain hates me

Favourite Colour: green :-)

Currently Reading: bookshops & bonedust by travis baldree! i am also about to start oathbringer by brandon sanderson

Currently Watching: i don't really watch a lot of tv so nothing right now

Next on your watchlist: see last statement, but also i am waiting for legends of vox machina season 3

Currently consuming: a monster energy drink

Currently craving: a nap

Sweet/spicy/savoury: sweet usually bc i have an unbearable sweet tooth

Relationship status: newly married hehe

Current Obsession: baldur's gate 3. i feel very normal about this game

3 favorite foods: fried pickles, tsukemen, and gumbo

Last thing you googled: "best materials to use on shrink plastic" asdflskjdlg i was wondering if alcohol markers would stay or wipe off

Dream trip: for my eventual honeymoon i want to take a cross-country amtrak trip because i feel like it'd be so much fun and intimate and i love trains

Anything I want right now: a fucking break (also my joann package full of yarn)

tags!!! @astrangedoor @ocheeva & anyone else who wants to do it consider yourself tagged

[thetinyblossom]

ੈ✩‧₊˚ All is well ੈ✩‧₊˚

🌙Content🌙

-Hurt/comfort + reassurance

-Vox Machina (Crit Role campaign 1)

-Regressor Scanlan Shorthalt/Caregiver Pike Trickfoot

🌙AO3 Link🌙

Scanlan is a bit… bad at dealing with his emotions, this is a known fact to his group, he is the “funny guy”, the “flirty bard”, that’s his personality, well… at least part of it.

He is also caring and emotional, a father, a husband and a good friend. All those facades of Scanlan are loved by his group of friends, by his love, Pike, but, everybody has their secrets, including the bard.

Growing up, he found a little side of him that he felt ashamed, his age regression (gods he didn’t even know that it had a name!) is a topic he avoids talking about as much as possible, it does feel lonely, but when Pike brought it up, as she was explaining to the group about Grog's own regression, it dawned on him… He himself regresses

“No, no, no, it’s just some stupid feelings”

He thought to himself, but the more time went by harder was to ignore those feelings. Everybody has so supportive of Grog, would they be also supportive with him? Would Pike still love him?

“That’s silly Scanlan, grow up”

“Grow up” and he pushed those thoughts way, he accepts being a caregiver, he enjoys being able to take care of his friends but, when it comes to him, he just ignores as much as possible.

That’s his secret… well… it was a secret, until today.

He had an awful day and he can’t shake off the feeling of being a little boy, wanting comfort and to have a pacifier in his mouth, of warm hugs and being held, being the one getting comfort instead of always comforting….but he felt so ashamed, so vulnerable… but he has no energy to fight those feelings of shame for long, he toss and turns on his and Pike’s bed.

Restless.

He feels useless, he can’t help but hug a pillow and suck his thumb, looking for some comfort as he softly cries.

Pike softly wakes up at wearing his soft sobs

-Scanlan? Dear? Is something wrong?

She asks a bit sleepily, not sure if he is awake or having a nightmare. Her sweet voice brings some comfort to Scanlan, who looks at his lover, his face tear-stained, and can only mumble a bit as he wipes away some tears that keep pouring

-Pike… you know that… that thing? That regression that happens to Grog? Yeah… that’s it and I just… can’t help it

-Oh Scanlan dear

Pike coos him, her tone so soft and caring

-It’s ok, I understand, come here, my love

She pats her lap for him to rest his head on it, the bard does so and clings onto the cleric’s soft and motherly touch

-It’s ok, shhh, you’re alright, mama is here ok? Let me take care of you my sweetheart

Pikes words are exactly what he needed to hear, he hugs her and she embraces him, holding him close to her…

…So comforting, so soothing, like heaven…

Pike cradles her little boy, softly humming and singing a lullaby, making sure Scanlan is comfortable and feeling safe

His tears cease, he feels at ease, suckling on his thumb as he hears Pike’s comforting words and sweet melodies, he feels like baby…. Her baby

And all it’s safe

All it’s well

The night is like a mantle, safely holding him and his dearest love, his dearest cleric, his dearest mama

Soon they fall asleep, cuddling

And all is safe

All is well

All is perfect…

-Goodnight, little one

-Goodnight, mama

…So perfect

[burr-ell]

Hey I was wondering if you’ve read Kith & Kin? If you have, did you like it? Is it worth buying? I was thinking about buying it or listening to the audio book, but I’m not sure. I’m just missing the twins at the moment and that’s the only piece of media I haven’t seen them in. 

Confession time: I had a copy of Kith & Kin on my bookshelf that I bought about four months ago that I hadn't read before you sent me this anon. 😅 So I started it in order to give you a more informative answer, and I have to say I'm really enjoying it so far!

I'm only a few chapters in, but I really like what Marieke Nijkamp is doing with the twins. She takes a lot of care in establishing who Vex and Vax are and why, and takes care to establish their respective attitudes from the beginning—they're not the more open-minded and altruistic twins we meet at the start of C1, but you can see the potential in them already, and since Vex is the first POV character, you get an understanding of her layers and complexities in a nuanced way out the gate. I've really enjoyed Nijkamp's portrayal of Westruun as well; I have a bit of a soft spot for it, especially after Olivia Samson's absolutely beautiful renderings of it in Vox Machina Origins, and their writing really makes it come alive and gives it the same kind of energy that drew me into the comics. The central conflict of the book doesn't take too long to get going, and once it does there's some pretty gripping tension; maybe I just get too lost in a good book, but I did genuinely find myself starting to get worried for the characters even knowing how everything would work out, so the foregone conclusion of a prequel doesn't detract from the experience.

If you're still on the fence, see if your local library has it, or if there's an app like Hoopla or Libby where you can check it out!

[chetney-pockopea]

One last C3 piece before Vox Machina take over my brain again tomorrow; Fearne is the ultimate in weird girl energy.

[nochi-quinn]

legend of vox machina season 2 episode 11: Belly of the Beast OR I said what what

"you came up here to sleep with your daughter" "I feel like I wouldn't have let it get that far??" you didn't know shit, scanlan, you 100% would have

not the flogger having an actual emotional significance

HOLD UP. WAIT. ZOOM AND ENHANCE.

kaylie: >:|

"burt?!"

you've heard of immovable rod get ready for immovable sword

of course scanlan knows how to slip ropes like that

MA'AM

leave him ALONE

"why does your keg say 'for animal consumption only'?" grog's drinking ivermectin

I do like the gold-amber-red gradient on the little fate thread

YOU'D BEST START BELIEVING IN GHOST STORIES

not the campaign 1 death roll

me @ the raven queen:

scanlan looking all despondent :(

like it's an amazing pose/expression, just. :(

the fact that vax really does see scanlan as like a big brother advice-giving type (which is maybe a little bit of liam and sam bleeding through but hey)

thordak: BITCH BETTER HAVE MY MONEY

flashback to mica talking about thordak as a shitty dad

so that's cabal's ruin she's wearing, right? or is she gonna pick that up between now and glintshore

background goliath: "this better be good or I'm killin' something" also me whenever I have to have a conversation first thing in the morning

"please god tell me this is a metaphor"

"we need a good plan" "so…do you have one?" "have one what"

big "it's time for plan b" "do we have a plan b?" "no but it's time for one" energy

keyleth failing six stealth checks in a row

"I put you in this place" technically that was percy

"do not go far from me" HEY. NO. SHUT UP.

this whole thing originally took place post-thordak, after the timeskip when percy had a temple to the raven queen built in whitestone

"this isn't something we have to talk about now. or ever, honestly." mood

"it always matters"

"don't let him get away" I regret to inform you that that is in fact the one thing he will actually do

roommate: is that blood? me: yyyyup roommate, with feeling: gross

"take the plunge" I feel like he maybe wasn't being quite this literal, vax

the coffin pose was not necessary, you dramatic ass

I had to look this up, this is Courtenay Taylor as the Raven Queen, which knocked me 100% for a loop

like. jack masseffect? female soul survivor? in my critical role??

there are six fate threads connected to vax, one for each of the other party members

lays in the floor about it

ngl I did have An Emotion about "all the living share one experience"

I also like the idea that RQ has been scouting vax this whole time, even before the temple

also one of those priestesses was liev'tel and I will not be convinced otherwise

"whose blood is that?!"

and now vax is a born-again

"you…dig…there"

the little "dig" gesture

"he's not very smart, is he?"

interrogating the axe

scanlan really is tryingggggg

it's so hard watching this and knowing where scanlan's character arc ends up and just wanting him to be there Now

(someone on the tag made the point that stream!scanlan played everything as a joke until suddenly demanding to be taken seriously, which was a big cause of everyone's confusion and upset in ep. 85, because he really hadn't earned that kind of pathos. this arc is much more satisfying to watch bc we can see those pieces falling into place in real time, instead of having future events informing them in hindsight.)

they can feel the heat from that fire in the next city

petition for that specific pitch to be removed from everyone's sound libraries forever

passive perception too strong pls nerf

quick someone cast fairy fire

this is going to be an extremely weird sentence but I enjoy what they've done with environmental blood splatter this season

vorugal's ice blasts, umbrasyl's invisible stomps, they're just good

"I found out I'm the champion of the Matron of Ravens" "I found out I'm a father" "…you win"

the little look down at "the other way"

plus vax's face after

DRAGON HADOUKEN

the pupil dilation

"I didn't actually think this would work!" "it really shouldn't have"

"you leave when Scanlan Shorthalt TELLS you to leave"

love that the broom drop fastball special is just their signiature move now

(are there people having the same reaction to finding out Grog and Vex are married that I did to finding out Roy Mustang and Lust are married)

[aspiringsophrosyne]

The Legend of Vox Machina: Season One and Two Post Mortem

So, season 1 and 2 of The Legend of Vox Machina are now out.

Let's do a post mortem on them.

One caveat: the CRew has said in interviews and behind the scenes videos that they wanted to take future events into account when writing early seasons. This means some things in the first twenty-four episodes aren't meant to pay off until later, or won't make sense except in hindsight. Especially if the story's significantly changed from the stream.

However, keeping that in mind, I think we can still look at what the episodes we've seen so far have done right and wrong on their own.

So, let's get to it!!

Episodes 1-2: The Terror of Tal'dorei

Given that the kickstarter for this series was only meant to pay for a thirty minute special that grew to an hour long season opening, I had certain expectations going in.

Basically, pilot energy.

And I was not disappointed. That isn't necessarily bad, but you could detect an extra hard push in this series' beginning. A push to prove itself, establish that this was a capital 'A' adult animation, and that it had somewhere to go from season one. Again not bad....except that some of that energy may have overstayed its welcome at this point.

But we'll get there.

First, let's talk about the good.

The Good

The VAs of the main cast are of course spot the fuck on, which was a given. They are all talented professionals who made these characters, after all. But it was still a thrill hearing them voice VM again after they'd been playing as the Nein and the Hells for so long.

The guests are no slouch either: David Tenant is in turn affably and menacingly Scottish, Indira Varma and Stephanie Beatriz are perfect as Allura and Kima, and Khary Payton, in very little time, portrays Uriel as a regal and noble ruler. Tony Hale makes for a great red herring, and Sunil Malhotra brings a warm, playful yet sincere portrayal of Shaun Gilmore to absolute life. As much passion and verve as Matt poured into the character, I'm glad he handed the role off to someone who's taking such good care of it.

Emon is beautiful. No notes whatsoever. The palace, the city, Gilmore's Glorious Goods....all of it is like a dream come to life. Art team is killing it.

Character design? For these characters? Pretty spot on. Everyone has great, economical designs that are still very recognizable as the Vox Machina we know and love.

Neil's music is sweeping and gorgeous. He brings such a grandiose sense of scale to the world; a scale which Exandria deserved, but I wasn't sure she would be able to get. His use of Your Turn to Role in the soundtrack is always fun to pick out. And last but not least, the themes of the Iron Storm fights in particular serve to get the blood pumping.

Said fights are also a blast. The second one obviously wins out just by nature of it being more of a contested battle, but both have just the right amount of a struggle to make the survival and eventual victory of Vox Machina feel earned. Everyone building on each other's efforts, one after another, in order to bring down Brimscythe once and for all is just perfection. That was the moment it really felt like Vox Machina had truly come alive in this new medium. It's still so much fun to look back on.

One thing the show devotes itself to frequently (sometimes very well and sometimes quite ham-fistedly) is set up for future events. In this instance, I think this was done quite well in the décor of Krieg's abode, and in the orbs (that, according to the cast, were straight out of the home game) that tie the rest of the Conclave to Vox Machina, and specifically Keyleth to Raishan, for future conflicts.

Alright, so? On to the shitty bits.

The Shitty Bits.

In all honesty, there's not much to write here if only because the two parter that starts things off is such a short, self-contained story. Most of my complaints here are nitpicky and come down to personal preference. My bigger problems are things that have carried over into the series at large, and, as of my writing this, either have not gotten better or have gotten better only a negligible amount. These I'll be addressing in full later, so I won't waste time on them here.

Nitpick: Allura's line about capturing the creature is a little awkward. I would switch it around.

From:

"With all due respect Sir Fince, we don't even know what the creature is. Demon? Elemental? And how do you propose we capture it?"

To:

"And how do you propose we capture it? With all due respect Sir Fince, we don't even know what the creature is. Demon? Elemental?"

And of course the "dumbass" remains unsaid, because Allura, in every iteration, is classy like that.

Nitpick: I'm disappointed that when Vax was accused of being "Too weak to tickle [his] own pickle." Pike didn't pipe up from the other side of the bar with: "No he's not!"

Nitpick: The bit with the sandwich feels very contrived in order to get Vax a toothpick and ruin said sandwich. Just saying, could've done it in a way that felt more natural. Or done something else entirely.

A couple of times in Season One Grog get's knocked out of the fight early. This could be an example of the Worf Effect, where a threat is made to look particularly dangerous if it takes out the big/strong/especially skilled guy in the group. However, if you want to pull this but you don't give the character a chance to prove how strong they are in a challenging battle before you do, it's not going to be incredibly effective. (We only had the tavern brawl before this, and just about everyone had a good showing there.) And even if you do give the character that chance, depending on how you use this trope, it can come off as cheap.

This comes up again later, so I'm just pointing it out now.

This next bit is one that'll come up again as well, so I feel like I need to bring this up here before getting into it again later; Scanlan is the first to declare they're killing the dragon. It's not unlikely that he's just reading the room and realizes that everybody else is turning to the idea already.....but he doesn't try to dissuade them or try to get out of it himself.

This is important for season 2.

That's it for now. On to episode 3: The Feast of Realms.

[labrador-tea]

tag someone you want to know better tagged by @patron-minette - thank you!! :)

favorite color: Olive green (to the point where my wardrobe could be described as swamp/bog camouflage)

last song: I've been playing Hozier's latest album (Unreal Unearth) on repeat for a month now. Specifically last song was Butchered Tongue.

last movie: I don't watch movies very often but I finally watched Everything Everywhere All At Once a few weeks ago!

currently watching: Between shows at the moment but most recently watched Spies of Warsaw (yes for David Tennant)

other stuff i watched this year: Our Flag Means Death, Good Omens 2, Mister Sunshine, Lou et Sophie, lots of Time Team episodes, The Legend of Vox Machina, What We Do in the Shadows (the movie), Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro

shows i dropped this year/didn’t finish: Hmm I leave a lot of movies half finished. Most recently didn't finish a French film I was watching for language practice (can't remember the name).

currently reading: I'm actually not a big reader so following along with Les Mis letters has been an accomplishment for me this year. I do listen to a decent number of non-fiction audiobooks while cooking/cleaning/driving, though. Currently listening to Belly of the Beast: The Politics of Anti-Fatness as Anti-Blackness by Da'Shaun Harrison. I listen to fiction books I already know as I fall asleep and my current one for that is Early Riser by Jasper Fforde (his book Shades of Grey is on that rotation of favorites as well).

currently listening to (sneaky additional question!): I already talked about audiobooks so some podcasts I listen to regularly are Tous aux Oiseaux!, Maintenance Phase, Worlds Beyond Number, and recently have started listening to The Old Songs Podcast.

currently working on: My Master's thesis..... I'm getting so close to done but that's taking up 90% of my time and energy rn. I'm also working on translating and annotating lyrics from the Original French Concept Album of Les Mis and trying to draw more.

current obsession: Good Omens + Hozier's Unreal Unearth. Les Mis is a constant.

no pressure, only if you find this kind of thing fun: @deadgayturtles, @auxprouvaires, @the-most-sublime-fool and anyone else who sees this and wants to!

[nellie-elizabeth]

The Legend of Vox Machina: Belly of the Beast (2x11)

Another great episode, sorry to be a broken record!

Cons:

This whole show, I've been so impressed with their ability to get in all the most iconic lines I remember from the stream. Even if the circumstances changed, most of the epic dialogue has made it in. This was the first time I fully expected a line to be in a scene, and it didn't come. During the Scanlan and Kaylie scene, Scanlan said during the stream something along the lines of "of my many faults, ego is one of them. So now, knowing you're a part of me, makes me love you even more." It was a line so good that Matt gave him advantage on his persuasion check. I was sad it didn't make the cut! I feel like thematically it still would have worked. It's funny, but also it still works for the tone of the scene.

The immovable rod being replaced with a sword that Kaylie gives Scanlan is fine, but I wish there had been one line of dialogue somewhere to explain what the sword did, as it ends up being so pivotal later. Maybe I'm underestimating the viewers and it's completely understandable as is, just a small note.

The check-ins between Umbrasyl and Thordak don't seem to add much. It feels like they're only there to remind us again that Umbrasyl wants Vestiges, and Thordak is impatient with him. Not a bad scene, just not anything particularly needed, I feel.

Pros:

The Vax stuff with the Matron of Ravens is STUNNING. Also, did anybody else notice that when we see him with the golden threads of fate in the leadup to her conversation with him, there are six threads? One for the other six members of Vox Machina, perhaps? Everything about the buildup and the imagery and Vax's newfound peace with his fate is making me want to weep.

You start off with seeing him scared, then there's the conversation with Scanlan where Scanlan tells Vax not to let fear hold him back, that he needs to "take the plunge". He's talking about himself and Kaylie as much as he is about Vax's problems, but it resonates so well, and we see Vax take that to heart as he accepts his fate with the Matron later on, diving into the pool of blood.

I love Vex and Keyleth following Vax to the temple... Vex saying "do not go far from me", and Vax gives the tiniest little nod, but pulls away and goes in alone... the SYMBOLISM. The HEARTBREAK. It's such a nice contrast, seeing Vex and Keyleth standing outside, completely isolated from the trial Vax must face, wanting to be there to support him but not knowing how. They discuss Keyleth's feelings for Vax, and Vex tells her: "don't let him get away." Which like. OUCH. But anyway. I love it when Vex and Keyleth get their moments.

I could wax poetic about the visuals of the Matron's temple and the actual meeting between her and Vax for a long time, but suffice to say, it was stunning, it's clear a lot of time and thought and energy went in to making it look as beautiful and intimidating as it possibly could. The Matron tells Vax: "My beautiful champion. There is much to fear, but not death, for it gives meaning to life." Basically, his task is to honor and protect the transitional moment between life and death, shepherd souls to their rest. I know a lot of religions and myths have similar figures, gods who are there to guide souls to the land of the dead. I always find it such a beautiful, simple, calming idea. Having someone like Vax take you by the hand as you reach the end of your life and take you where you need to go? Lovely. I'm still crying about it, though. Oof, this is all going to hurt.

Meanwhile back at the tavern, Percy is fully nerding out explaining the cool trap he wants to build. The herd seems completely numb to whatever he's on about, until Grog cuts through the technical explanation with a much more simple order to go dig a big pit. Loving Percy getting to be his nerdy self more this season, as obviously last season he had to be fully dark and sinister for most of the time. It's a good balance, because we still see him being a broody bad-ass on occasion, but he also gets to be a goofball. God, I love him.

Kaylie and the rest of Dr. Dranzel's traveling band are heading out, and Kaylie really doesn't have a lot of patience for Scanlan's frantic attempts to make amends, build a bridge towards something good between them. She basically tells him that after all that he's failed to do, he would have to do a hell of a lot of good to make up for it. Poor Scanlan is deeply shaken by the revelation of his long lost daughter, but he doesn't quite take the right lesson from his experience with her, either. He tells her that she might be the missing piece in his life, instead of framing it around her experience instead. And during the showdown with Umbrasyl, he nearly gets himself killed in his efforts to prove himself worthy. He and Vax have a moment where they both talk about the new weight they carry. "I just found out I'm the Champion of the Matron of Ravens." / "I just found out I'm a father." / "You win."

And that opening fight with Umbrasyl... so cool! I love that the trap works, because Vex does a trick shot that sets it off even though Umbrasyl saw the pressure plate. I love that they get him pinned, but he's able to break away. I wasn't sure if they'd go with Umbrasyl's ability to turn invisible, as I wasn't sure how that would work visually, but how it worked visually is that it looked SO COOL. Every time he spews acid, his gaping mouth appearing and the acid raining down when you don't know exactly where it's going to come from... everyone running around trying to do their best, but nobody can get a solid hit on him... 

And then Scanlan has his idea. This is different from how it happens in the stream, but it is so Scanlan to suggest getting inside the dragon via his asshole. Just... delightfully unhinged and unsettling imagery, everyone. I loved Pike's reaction of exasperated disgust. Scanlan takes the sword he got from Kaylie, and activates it so it's immovable. This means the dragon can't take off without poking up against the blade of the sword. Effectively pinned once again, Vox Machina does a ton of damage. But Umbrasyl manages to rip himself free, taking Scanlan and Vax with him: and Grog too, who embeds an axe in his hide and hangs on via rope as the giant dragon takes off into the air. Vex ends the episode with what we're all thinking: "oh no..."

So... yeah! I feel like I'm always a little unequal to talking about the action sequences in this show, because I'm mostly just bowled over by the creativity and variety and skill. So many moving parts, so many fights in this show, and yet each one feels distinctive and has its own bad-ass moments to shine. Our party is split once again, with Grog, Vax, and Scanlan all with Umbrasyl, while Pike, Percy, Vex, and Keyleth are on the ground, watching their friends being carried away.

One more episode to go, and then I have to wait forever for more of this amazingness!

9/10