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[the-loaf-of-calamity]

Sonic Frontiers Titans Relationship HCs (because yes)

So, the Titan Brainrot is real again and I want to write more stuff for them, I have returned to share some minor headcanons for the Titans in a more romantic / platonic (take it any way you want, they’re also gender-neutral!) scenario based off of my personalities for them. Here we go!  ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Giganto : Not the most affectionate out of the quartet but he does enjoy your company more than the other inhabitants of the island, although he does remain kind of emotionally cold at first. Once Giganto warms up to you more though, he will soften up and will bring you into multiple talks about the history of the island, facts about the wildlife of the island, and all sorts of nerdy stuff that comes to mind as you were perched on his shoulder, listening in to his various rambles of everything he knew about with a happy look on your face. - Wyvern : The most affectionate out of quartet, Wyvern absolutely loves having you around the island as he lets out a happy little chitter n’ chuff (he would even try to chitter out your name) whenever he sees you out n’ about in his main territory. Despite the major size difference between you and Wyvern, he’s usually very careful whenever he gives you a whole lot of affection, whether it be nuzzles or hugs he still wants to make sure that he doesn’t accidentally smush you into a pancake. Wyvern wouldn’t really let you hop on him since he’s worries that you may slip off without him knowing so he usually remains either completely grounded whenever you would visit or perched on the tower whenever he invites you for a nice stargazing session, especially on Starfall nights. You and Wyvern would blab the night away, at least until you fall asleep as he makes sure to protect you at all costs. - Knight : Prideful yet still has a heart of gold, he’s very kind towards you and even gives out some helpful tips for a humble traveler such as yourself whenever you roll about his area, even pulls out a joke or two just to get a chuckle out of you. He loves to have a nice chat with you, although he doesn’t ramble as much as Giganto does when it comes to chats. Knight still remains rather prideful and shows off quite often by skating around, doing tricks with his main weapon, or even the occasional flex. Although you are impressed by his actions, you watch from a distance as you know that if one trick went wrong that it would probably lead to some not so good stuff. Knight remains oblivious no matter how many times you warn him that he needs to be more careful, but you still enjoy hanging around him no matter what. You’re just lucky that he’s good at what he does, that’s for sure. - Supreme : Supreme is usually too busy to even spend time with you, but whenever he does have free time though he would regularly spend it in the nearby flower field on Ouranos Island. The two of you would usually have a small chat about what happened during the day, although neither of you would talk for long as Supreme merely just chilled there without a thought in his head. You would follow suit and watched the clouds floating by above, spurring a small cloud watching session while pointing out various shapes and objects formed by the puffy white clouds. But Supreme couldn’t stay for long as he had more responsibilities to deal with, he would then depart to take care of his duties but not without a small headpat before heading out. You wish that he could spend some more time with you, although you aren’t super bitter about it. He is the big boss after all, so he’s bound to have a lot of stuff to do, but it still would be nice to spend just a little more time with him... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- And those are the dumb little relationship headcanons for them, I hope y’all like them as I much as I liked writing them!

[maranigai]

character ask: ornstein?

(also unrelated, i would like to hear if you have any thoughts about dragonslayer armour)

Honestly, my only thought about the Armour is that its original owner was that one dragonslayer from the Sacred Oath item description (you know, the guy who presumably served NK and Ornstein) and was probably executed by Gwyn after NK's betrayal, but I never had any deep headcanons about them.

Unlike Ornstein, heh, the man has been my favourite DS paper doll for ages, so...

favorite thing about them

His relationships with NK, but as far as I know, my perception of said relationships is... not exactly common in the fandom. You see, I hc that NK was everything to Ornstein before his betrayal. The master, the tutor, the god - an entire life in one person. And then he left without taking Ornstein with him, leaving him alone to deal with Gwyn's rage and the consequences of betrayal. This was what broke Ornstein as a person, entirely - and what he never forgave NK for. So yes, even after the betrayal, Ornstein still saw NK as his only true lord, the person he had sworn his soul and flesh to - but he hated him with passion, for the lies, for the abandonment, for that damned sacred oath and the impossibility of getting freedom from it. Ornstein had hated NK for so long and lost so much to this hatred that when he finally met NK, finally learned that he was genuinely sorry for leaving him... to Ornstein, it didn't matter anymore, because nothing really mattered. And even when NK freed him after all, it still didn't matter. To me, their story is one of caged loyalty, hollow love and betrayed trust without redemption; I admit this is a more tragic take on them, but I love it this way.

least favorite thing about them

Ornstein as a character consists mostly of my own headcanons, so obviously I like them all lol. But what I don't like is the lack of a normal one-on-one bossfight against him and no, Old Fanservisslayer from ds2 does not count. I mean, come on FromSoft, he's the bloody captain of the Gwyn's four knights, he could easily be on the same level of a fight as Gael or phase 3 Friede, and he's a recurring character in every game of the trilogy, you could easily fit him in as a proper boss somewhere in ds3! Pls sign my 8 year old petition to replace the Ancient Wyvern at the Archdragon Peak with Ornstein.

favorite line

The man doesn't have any lines in canon, so I'll reference my own fanfiction because I can.

Some oaths can only be broken by death, master. And I’ve been walking here for too long.

brOTP

Two of them, actually. The first one is Artorias, who once saw the broken ruin of a man consumed with paranoia and hatred and decided that screw it, this guy is friend shaped and needs an emotional support (cheers for him for at least partly restoring Ornstein's faith in people after NK's betrayal). The second one is Gwynevere, who was there when her brother first brought his new apprentice to Anor Londo, and remained by his side throughout the ages, untill the final days of the final apocalypse in Lothric kingdom. So yeah, Artorias was the one who helped Ornstein not to fall into the despair, at least for a while, but Gwynevere was the only one who actually knew him as a person.

OTP

Surprisingly, Ciaran, in some unhealthy "enemies with benefits" type of relationships. Ciaran doesn't trust him and thinks he's a traitor like his liege who somehow gained Gwyn's forgiveness only to betray him later, but this also means she doesn't care much about Ornstein as a man with actual emotions, and doesn't feel guilty for using his company to distract herself from her own tragic unrequited love for Artorias. Ornstein himself appreciates her brutally honest approach and, frankly, is lonely and broken enough to accept even this surrogate of intimacy. So yeah, if you think this pairing is some sort of fucked up angst, you're correct, it is.

nOTP

Gwyndolin. I hc their relationships to be cold. Very, very cold. For Ornstein, Gwyndolin is a boy who's trying to play for his master without having any actual right to it - and Ornstein is sick of having masters. For Gwyndolin, Ornstein is a dangerous beast on a very thin chain, basically uncontrollable and unpredictable. So when Ornstein left Anor Londo, it was a moment of relief for both of them.

random headcanon

Ornstein was a ringed knight before NK noticed him and took him on as an apprentice. For this reason, he was always out of place in both Anor Londo and human lands, even before NK's betrayal.

unpopular opinion

I believe, my hcs on his personality in general? My Ornstein is cold, paranoid and bitter man with no trust in people and very little personal devotion to the gods of Anor Londo. He's not a completely emotionless monster of course, but he's still far more morally dark than most other versions I've seen in the fandom.

song i associate with them

I failed to pick only one, mea culpa.

Лора Бочарова - О Магии и Предательстве (but I couldn't find this thing on youtube in remotely descent quality, so without the link, sorry)

Мельница - Рукописи

Мельница - Кащей

favorite picture of them

This art by azotho

[dpsisquared]

2 / 3 / 9 / 19 for the ask game? :3

-Sparrow (ashes-of-ailell)

Thank you for playing with me!!

2 strongest unit

Overall, Post skip Dimitri "just stick him out there on enemy phase and watch them fall". But as far as most utility, probably Yuri. I often make him my dancer, and with that extra avo he CANNOT be touched. He owns the map with his relic, can heal, can do it all really!

3. Unit I always recruit

I'm not counting Ashen Wolves since they are "free". In non-AM routes, Sylvain. He can fill any role the other classes lack. Need a wyvern lord? Paladin? Mage? Brawler? Healer? Dodge tank? He does it all.

9. Favorite faculty member

Manuela!!! She excels in like five completely different careers, is beautiful and kind. 💙

19 favorite post skip design

Boy is this one hard. Not counting the lords (because they are all obviously amazing), Sylvain or Bernie.

[bubbleraccoon00]

Can’t hide forever

Witcher Materialist

Past chapters: < 1 > < 2 > < 3 >

Geralt x Fem!Oc

Soulmate Au!

Warnings: mentions of impaling and wounds

Description: Being assigned a soulmate is what everyone put their hopes to. Everyone’s mark is different, unique. Mine is a white strand of hair.

Chapter four

“Hi tree, I won’t let go of you, Tree.” Holding onto a low branch for dear life, I heard the heavy footsteps of a Wyvern. I sometimes regret my life choices, but here I am.

Trying to get up, still holding onto the tree, all I felt all over was pain. Fighting the beast for what felt like forever. The Wyvern pierced it’s claw into the bottom part of my cloak, pulling me down and towards it.

Scrambling I try to reach for one of my swords that had been tossed away. I turned back at the beast, kicking it in its flat head, scrambling to my weapon and impaling it through its head.

Screeches could be heard from the dying beast. Sighing, I held on to my side, leaning forward to try and release some pressure from my ribs.

Thumps.

Turning I see my favorite being in the world, sorry tree.

“Hello sassy.” Grabbing my sword from the head and placing it back into the sheath on my back, I walked to Mouse, rubbing the top of his head. Sighing, “I am glad to see you are safe, Mousey.”

I reached his side, putting one foot into the stirrup, I hoisted myself up. Groaning, I tried to situate myself to hurt less than I was.

It’s been a few days since I had encountered Jaskier and the Witcher. I was currently doing a quest for a local, a Wyvern was terrorizing the villagers hunters, when they saw me come they immediately asked me for help. Well not the men, a woman had asked me for help, her husband and son had been killed by it.

I had been paid before hand, sounds weird, but I stay to my promises. And that’s how I ended up where I am, on the back of Mouse, in pain, moving slowly down the forest path.

It was quiet, more peaceful than when I first entered the forest. It felt nice.

Breathing in and out, I turned my head around and sighed. Another portal, great.

Tugging the reins, Mouse trotted through the portal—

“Hello Yennefer, how may I help you on this, windy day.” I had to hold on to my hood from it falling down. Mouses mane was going crazy.

“Hello V, lovely to see you as always.” Yen smiled. I groaned, looking at my surroundings, we were on the side of a mountain.

“Why am I here?”

“I felt like I needed more female company, also help in slaying a dragon.”

“Slaying a dragon? At least tell me before I enter the portal.” I forgot to say bye to the Tree.

“Yeah well, you’re stuck with us now.”

“Us?”

“Hood?! What are you doing here?” Jaskier smiled up at me. Groaning, if he’s here then—

“What is she doing here?” He’s here too.

“She’s my friend Witcher, where I go she goes.”

“I’m sorry, I wasn’t aware I go where you go, usually you are in places that people get killed in.”

“Well from the looks of it, you go to those places all on your own. How bad are your injuries?”

All she got in response from me was a grunt. Pushing mouse forward, ignoring the one particular stare I don’t want, I followed the group ahead.

“What kind of adventure were you on before, V?” Jaskier asked in a singing voice, obviously bored.

“I was helping a village take care of a Wyvern problem.” Shifting in the saddle, feeling more of a pinch in my torso.

“Oh, I think Geralt and I have experienced a Wyvern before, terrifying beasts.” He skipped beside mouse. We didn’t talk for a bit after that. We took in each other silence, in our own headspaces. Every now and then Jaskier would struck a few cords on his instrument.

“Veri.”

“What?”

“My name, it’s Veri, only those I trust know it.”

Jaskier smiled like a happy fool, nose scrunched-

“you have my word, I will not tell people your secret, Eri.” I scoffed at the nickname, I’m use to those calling me V or Veri, not Eri.

I reached over and ruffled the top of Jaskier’s hair. Unknowingly, a certain someone was watching us.

After while the group decided to take a break, when I got here it was still sunny, now the sun is setting behind the mountain. I tied mouse next to where Roach was.

Setting up my own spot next to a tree, I sat my saddle bag down and used it as a pillow. Some well deserved sleep.

“V.” Someone kicked at my boots.

“Hm.”

“V get up, I brought you food and medicine for the injuries you’re ignoring.”

“I’m not ignoring them, I’m simply resting my body so they can heal.” I said sitting up to eat the food that was brought.

“So you’re ignoring them.”

“Yeah yeah, thank you Yen, I wouldn’t survive without you.” Digging into the stew that I held, already placed the medications that Yen gave me to the side. Yen had left after giving me a face that said ‘I know that was sarcasm, I’ll let you off this time’

Once I finished the meal, I felt uncomfortable now, having to take off my coat in order to assess my wounds.

“Great, just great.” I stood, walking over to mouse and used him as a wall.

“Stay there mouse.” I patted his side, peeling off the leather coat, I placed it over mouses back.

The feeling of the cold breeze was nice, stretching the sore muscles also felt nice. I opened the ointment, take little at a time, I smoothed it out of the gash that crossed my abdomen. It was small, deep, but small. I knew there was one on my back from where the creature had clawed me, I didn’t want to bother Yen again so I didn’t bother trying.

I wrapped up my bruised torso, making sure to make it tight and to cover the gash. Grabbing the looser cloak that I brought over with me, I went to put it on when I heard a twig snap-

“You missed a spot, Hood.” A gruff voice said. Keeping my head down, making sure to keep the braid from his gaze.

“Can’t reach it, Witcher. It’s not like It won’t heal.”

“It might heal, but it might also get infected.” Before I could do or say anything, cold ointment was painted over the gash on my back. Shivering not only at that, but also at the slight skin touch of his hand.

Clearing my throat, “thanks, never knew a Witcher had a heart.” Grabbing the cloak and threw it on, pulling up the hood and walking away before any further words with him.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

So, Veri is getting close to Jaskier. Geralt has seen her figure. It seems as though Geralt knows who she is to him.

I also wanted to go ahead to tell you guys, I’ve been updating a lot for this one series. Tuesday, today, is my last vacation day before I have to go back to school. I will try and update during the week but It might have to wait till the weekends.

Tag list: @youraliendaddo @whatawildone @mcauliffe-rosebuds @katiebellf @shreddedluv @matchesarelit

*if you want to join my tag list please tell me*

[maliro-t]

witcher season 3 part 1: cabbagegate

I’m gonna talk about way more book specifics than normal in this season because. Well one it actually is so far one of the closest to text seasons we’ve had imo. But also two uhhhh I fucking love this book!!!!

- I feel like the first thing I have to do is forgive the show for cutting the Temple of Melitele stuff last season because they definitely did their due diligence to make up for lost time with Yen and Ciri

- Absolutely loved the way the reintegrated the Dear Friend letters in the first episode! It was slightly ridiculous for Geralt and Yen to just be. passing notes while together bc Geralt was giving her the silent treatment, but it was just as endearing the original, and very in character.

- Never underestimate Yennefer of Vengerberg’s ability to say the most romantic shit you’ve ever heard

- I have to shoutout Cassie Clare and Graham McTavish for killing it as my favorite freaks. They are So Good and it is SO FUN to watch Phil and Djikstra properly go to work this season.

-It also was really fun and interesting to approach Thanned already knowing so much of their game-- they keep the climax under wraps, as they should, but it’s neat to go in having spent so much time watching them move chess pieces already.

- Can I get a Wahoo for bisexual Jaskier too (and for Joey Batey who remains just Brilliant)?! Hugh Skinner has been great in everything I’ve seen him in and this is certainly no exception.

- Nah but I have been especially in my feels about the time Ciri and Jaskier are getting to spend with each other, which is so sweet, and rarely seen with much detail in the text.

- ALSO very in my feelings about Cahir! I love him in the books already (despite some obviously uncomfortable things) but the way they have taken the time to flesh him out these past three seasons (which is starting to meet up with the actual text again now) has been a real highlight of the show for me and remains so. Plus he’s just phenomenally performed.

- So thrilled that they played that wyvern scene in episode 3 basically Beat For Beat off the page (plus some extra foreshadowing? we’ll see), and straight into that Aretuza bath scene after, as written-- EXCEPT THEY SKIPPEDTHE PART WHERE CIRI WAS ALMOST ARRESTED FOR A DOG MURDER SHE DIDN’T COMMIT 😭 a tragic loss. still. was so excited watching it

- Ok but now the main event

- ALL IS NOT 👏👏 AS IT SEEMS 👏👏

- I mean, come on. COME ON. 

- Episode 5 was such a love letter to that chapter. Like, truly more than I could have expected. I was teary in the first twenty seconds when I realized they had formatted the entire banquet as anecdotes that Yen and Geralt tell each other in the aftermath of the party; a frame which originally only existed for the Vilgefortz conversation. Thanned is a chapter about the politics and the plot and the social minefield, but above all that (and especially for Geralt) it’s a chapter about how much these two love each other and how fragile that is with everything else around them. That framing is SO gorgeous in the book, with this perfect contrast of scheming and complete tenderness, and they went out of their way to preserve it. Grateful and impressed.

- No bagpipes but COME ON!!!!!!!!

😭 I was weepy for real. Some of my favorite dialogue.

- It’s also clear they had SO much fun playing around with a non-linear timeline of events, which, as a viewer, so did I! I did have like three or four moments because of that though where I was like “Damn they’re really just cutting that whole conversation huh 😔” only to be proven wrong every single time lol

- To that point, the amount that DID make the cut is honestly shocking to me, like, from illusory caviar to Geralt looking at Sabrina’s tits. God bless.

- The Big Three Thanned moments for me are ofc 1) Dijkstra 2) Philippa 3) Vilgefortz, and on the whole I do think they captured the spirit of those conversations well (although there were things I was missing, ofc). Overall, everyone was just less pretentious I think lol which, for time, I get. Dijkstra’s was the most oversimplified if only in its relative lack of subtlety and charm and tentacles and olives, but he got to show off his chops with the head-in-chest scene with Radovid before the ball so I don’t feel like he’s being done a disservice.

- OH and gotta give a shoutout to the Keira pregnancy line. I’m saluting them fr for keeping that in. It’s actually so much funnier for her to say it to YENNEFER

- To address cabbagegate. 😔 ALAS, ALACK, there was no Geralt of Rivia cabbage moment because they cut Vilgefortz’s philosophy lecture. But they did honor that exchange ALMOST word for word with the “Speak in simpler terms Dijkstra. Don’t forget you’re talking to a commoner” moment. Fine. Okay. MORE BASIC. Doesn’t involve vegetables. Doesn't involve Geralt sassing Vilgefortz, just Dijkstra. Doesn’t involve dunking on philosophy. But I will allow it. Clearly, they tried to get it in there.

- What a cut off. I am having a goddamn blast.

organizing a bunch of witcher thoughts since i just finished the series!

Keep reading

[asideofourown]

Happy anniversary to the Good Omens TV show! I didn’t get the chance to write a fic specifically to celebrate (where did May go?  Perhaps I’ll do something in June for my own go-versary), so instead here I am with 25 recs :D  Thanks so much to @forineffablereasons​ for the bingo board (here is her original post)!  And thanks so much to the Good Omens fandom for countless hours of incredible fic to read and enjoy <3  Obviously, this list barely scratches the surface of what’s out there, but here are some of my favorites!  

A fic you’ve read several times: South Downs University series by @nieded​

I’ve read this series probably... ten times, and I still love it.  It fits (one of my absolute favorite) very niche categories with Crowley and Aziraphale being cryptid professors and utterly confusing their students, and i am HERE for it

A fic not abt Aziraphale and Crowley: Bridge over troubled water by @moondawntreader​

LISTEN this fic is so good, I’ve read it probably four times and it’s incredible.  Short, but so powerful in so few words.  Leslie/Maud is the true otp ;D

A fic published before the show aired: Slytherin Vaguely Downwards by @saviobriion​

This fic is really, really well-written, and does a fantastic job transporting many Good Omens characters into the HP universe in a way that works really well!

A fic you followed as a wip: on the same page by @thechekhov​

Still a WIP, and still incredible!  Az and Crowley as authors with their own Arrangement is already fantastic, but add in the fake-dating-while-pining-desperately?  Incredible!

a human AU: secondhand smoke by @paintedvanilla​

This is probably my favorite fic in the entire good omens fandom tbh... human au set in the 1990s, and so so so well done-- this is another fic I’ve read several times, and every time i notice something new.  The characterization and prose is fantastic, the development of Crowley and Aziraphale’s relationship is really sweet and realistic, and this was also the fic that definitively got me on board for Newt/Anathema as well!

A fic shorter than 2k: For Holding by theycallmeDernhelm

Ahh this one is really soft!  Post-apocalypse hand holding is my jam, and the author does a lovely job of saying so much in so few words <3

A fic you stayed up way too late reading: Not So Different by effing_gravity

I stayed up until maybe... three in the morning reading this fic?  After every chapter I would tell myself to only read one more, but it was so gripping I read it all in one sitting!  Reverse omens meets the canon husbands in a super interesting and thrilling fic!

A south downs fic: The consciousness of loving and being loved by yolkinthejump

This is like... the platonic ideal of a South Downs fic imo.  The author does an absolutely incredible job of conveying the depth of their relationship, and it’s so sweet and soft and <3

A fic with a favorite trope: There goes the neighbourhood by @jasmine-cottage-uk​

so technically I’m cheating because the ‘favorite trope’ in this one is ALSO south downs (like above), but.  This fic is so funny, and the author does a great job of capturing Aziraphale and Crowley’s voices and the way the care for each other, it’s very sweet <3

A dowling years fic: Floriography by Frenchmeister

This fic is very cute!  Excellent Dowling-era pining, complete with misunderstandings and veiled communications :D  And the author does such a lovely job weaving the narrative to show Aziraphale and Crowley’s growing relationship

A historical fic: Phersu by JCutter

This fic.  THIS FIC.  Is so fucking incredibly detailed and immersive, oh my god.  I’m still (admittedly) in the process of reading it, but it’s a GEM.  The characterization is on point and the whole thing is beautifully written and wonderfully interesting!  It’s super clear the author knew what they were writing about, and that knowledge and passion really shines through

A favorite canonverse fic: England's pleasant pastures seen by @heavens-bookshop​

this fic is my JAM-- overhearing a conversation, implicit marriage proposals, post-canon sweetness... this one’s got it all!  And, as with all of their fics, squiddz does an incredible job of writing Aziraphale and Crowley in character and so wonderfully in love <3

MY FIC: A Guide to Fame for the Enterprising Demon by me!

This is my favorite fic I’ve written for Good Omens, and quite possibly my favorite fic ever.  Listen, Crowley getting accidentally famous is SO funny to me, as is outsider pov, so if I write about it a lot... ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

A fic that made you cry: reasons wretched and divine by @stammiviktor​

Allison has been one of my favorite writers for a good long while, and this fic is just one of her amazing works.  It’s touching and meaningful and so moving even in only a few thousand words, and between her characterization and writing style... this one packs a punch in the best of ways

A fic that inspires you: The Name of the Star is Wormwood by LusBeatha

So technically this could have gone up above, in the ‘stayed up too late reading’ category, because here’s another that was just too exciting to put down  From beginning to end, the author does and incredible job connecting the past and present, and introducing characters in such an engaging way that, even though the fic is quite long, it goes by super fast.  Probably my fave take on Raphael!Crowley :D

A fic you’d recommend to someone new to the fandom: Shotgun Wedding: sometimes a first date requires paperwork by @charlottemadison42​

Still a wip, and absolutely amazing!  Charlotte is an absolutely incredible author, and from the very beginning this fic does an amazing job of integrating canon characters (and even little nods and references to canon!) into an entirely different human au setting in a super engaging and clever way.  12/10 would recommend to someone new, and the slow burn is incredibly satisfying right up to the (current) resolution!

A comfort fic: it's a new craze by @areyougonnabe​, [podfic] it's a new craze by @niceandaccuratetheatre​

I’ve read this fic a few times, and it never gets old. attheborder’s humor is on point, and the conception itself- aziraphale and crowley on an advice podcast- is incredible!  I would highly, highly recommend listening to the podfic if you can; it’s excellently performed, and in all honesty the podfic that got me onto podfics ;D

A fic that found you at the right time: two dad shaped beings by @jarchivism​

i....... cannot express how much I love ineffable parents.  And this fic seriously, seriously hits the spot.  It’s super cute, super funny, and a really sweet and engaging read!  The author did a lovely job with keeping Az and Crowley in character even as they raise the antichrist together

A fic you’d love to see as a movie: All's Fair In Love And Serial Killing by @wyvernquill​

[Mind the tags] This fic does an incredible job of balancing darker content with humor.  The whole story is fast-paced and exciting, keeping the suspense right up until the last moment, and the author does a fantastic job of constructing a satisfying ‘mystery!’  Most of all, the more morbid moments are countered by Wyvern’s clever writing style and narrative voice, making this fic interesting and even surprisingly fun!

A fic by a favorite author: Four Cups of Wine by borealowl

I really, really love this fic.  The whole concept, of Aziraphale and Crowley getting to know a family of humans and learn about their cultural heritage through celebration is wonderful, and the author does a wonderful job of portraying the growth of their friendship! The entire series (both main fic and the one-shots that come after) is incredibly fun and interesting, and one of my faves in the fandom

A fic that made you laugh out loud: What's in a Name? by @rosen-ritter​

The first time I read this I was in public, waiting at a car rental place for my grandparents.  So the fact that I couldn’t stop laughing out loud was... honestly worth it.  This series is so fucking funny from beginning to end, especially on reread, and has such a fun take on who the archangel Raphael really is ;D

A fic longer than 20k: Dad Omens by @pookaseraph​

have I mentioned I love ineffable parents??? Because I really, really do.  This fic is hilarious, sweet, and adorable, and I absolutely love the progression of Crowley and Aziraphale’s relationship as they raise Adam together-- and, despite not being human, raise him well :D  An absolutely wonderful take on what if the baby swap had been even more confused?

A fic with the them: and i don't care if you don't want me (i'm yours anyhow) by @quidfree​

The main focus of this fic is Warlock, but the Them are featured pretty heavily and in a really important way!  It’s a lovely exploration of kids growing up and going to college, and learning who they really are, and written so well and with such nuance that I really couldn’t put it down!

A fic with a line you still remember: A More Nourishing Love by @qorktrees​

This fic is just.  Really powerful.  It’s so, so clear how much Aziraphale and Crowley care for each other, how much they love and support each other, and their unconditional love for each other makes me tear up every time <3  

A GO: Lockdown fic: New slang by @carishouldbesleeping

This fic is super super cute!  A lovely take on Aziraphale and Crowley’s reunion post-lockdown, complete with fluff and love confessions <3  So well-written and absolutely adorable!

[freelancer-chronicles]

1. Choose an OC.

2. Answer them as that OC.

3. Tag 5 people to do the same.

(found on valleniel’s blog) (anyone can do this please join me)

1. What is your name?

Ivy! No last name, but since everyone in the Fort just calls me Freelancer that rarely comes up.

2. Do you know why are you named that?

It’s my favorite plant.

3. Are you single or taken?

Neither. Both. Sort of? I had my eye on someone, but he doesn’t live in Tarsis so there’s nothing really there. 

4. Have any abilities or powers?

I have a good sense of direction even in my javs.

5. Stop being a Mary Sue.

You know, being rude wins no friends. 

6. What’s your eye color?

I usually hear “cold” when I ask people, but obviously that’s not a color. I’m guessing something between light blue and grey.

7. How about your hair color?

Oh, that one’s easy. Brown.

8. Have any family members?

Blood relatives are in Ponteix... I think. But Owen, Faye, and Haluk are my family now.

9. Oh? How about pets?

[laughs] No! I can barely take care of myself! 

10. That’s cool, I guess. Now tell me something you don’t like?

Tesilars. Wyverns. Rumormongers. The Monitor. [pause] He was an asshole.

11. Do you have any activities/hobbies that you like to do?

I like to snag a cubby at Max’s bar and people-watch. Oh and learn about the Legion of Dawn! The Bard and Chronicler have been really great about answering my questions and loaning me things to read.

12. Have you ever hurt anyone in any way before?

Everyone hurts someone. 

13. Ever… killed anyone before?

Yes. Definitely, yes. Every time I get in a jav I know someone will die. And I’ve never held back in a fight, even when I was a kid.  

14. What kind of animal are you?

A... human? [laughs] Or do you mean, would I be a wyvern or a grabbit? Or maybe a butterfly? The whole Heart of Rage thing could be considered an intense cocoon metaphor.

15. Name your worst habits?

Faye tells me to sit up straight and eat some vegetables around once a week...?

16. Do you look up to anyone at all?

This is a little embarrassing, but okay. I.. really admire... Helena Tarsis, I know, you can be disappointed in me too I just, it’s so amazing how she -- and then the Legion and Magna Strahl -- 

17. Are you gay, straight or bisexual?

Asexual, demi- bi-romantic.

18. Do you go to school?

No, I haven’t gone to school since I was very very small. The closest would be when Haluk was training me to be a Freelancer, which obviously stopped after the Heart of Rage. Since then I’ve been teaching myself, though Owen is... I mean, was borrowing my books.

19. Ever want to marry and have kids one day?

Maybe. The future is a mysterious thing. Assuming I don’t get trapped in a gate or eaten by a Cataclysm is already a big leap. 

20. Do you have any fangirls/fanboys?

Sweet singing saurians I hope not. I’d be a terrible role model.

21. What are you most afraid of?

I worry that one day the contracts will stop coming and I’ll starve to death. 

22. What do you usually wear?

Cotton...? We do live in a jungle so I try to keep it lightweight. Tans and whites, scarves to pull over my head and shoulders, minimal harness for my javs.

23. What’s one food that tempts you?

All foods are good. There really isn’t much the human stomach can’t handle... you may be surprised what I’ve survived eating. [laughs]

24. Am I annoying to you?

You are no Neeson Giles, and you haven’t hit on me yet, so no. 

25. Well, it’s still not over!

Great, I have nothing else to do today. ... That... sounded meaner than I meant it.

26. What class are you (low/middle/high)?

Food is affordable now. That’s a nice change. I’ve gotten more contracts after the attention from Corvus and the Monitor, but I still sleep behind the Forge. I guess I’m upper-low?

27. How many friends do you have?

Friends? Maybe eight. But I like to talk to everyone in the fort and most people seem to enjoy chatting back.

28. What are your thoughts on pie?

It’s good, but so expensive! Non-toxic fruits are hard to find!

29. Favorite drink?

Wwwwater, I guess? 

30. What’s your favorite place?

I really enjoy the ruins up north. I love to sit and watch the shaper relics move. 

31. Are you interested in anyone?

Sort of. I thought I might like to-- but like I said he isn’t in the Fort anymore. Unless you spend a lot of time in the bar you won’t know him.

32. That was a stupid question…

Why, did someone say something? Was I that obvious? Does the whole fort know?? Tarsis’ tits does Haluk know?

33. Would you rather swim in a lake or the ocean?

A lake! Smaller things can grow there. Not to say that the smaller things aren’t still big enough to swallow me whole but... they’re smaller. 

34. What’s your type?

Sassy. [laughs] 

35. Any fetishes?

I dare you to look me in the eye and say “Freelancers only wear harnesses because they have to” three times.

36. Camping or outdoors?

I don’t see the difference. 

[popstarryeyed]

(spotify link)

songs that remind me of the memes about Hozier being a forest spirit/fae creature. many songs on here are ones he has a personal connection to - songs by him, songs by his friends, songs by artists he admires, etc. 

yes this took me a long time to put together, and yes, you can read an explanation of each song choice under the cut:

1. Nature Boy - Aurora

this is the song that gave me the idea for this playlist - i realized “a shy wise boy who wanders out of the forest to tell you about the power of love” is 100% how people on this site see Hozier. i chose to use this version instead of the original by Nat King Cole because a) this was the first version of the song i heard and therefore the one that inspired me and b) Aurora has a nature spirit vibe in her own right, so she had to be on this playlist.

2. Two Turtle Doves - Alana Henderson

she was part of Hozier’s backing band on his last tour (cello and vocals), and her music has a similar morbid-folky vibe. you should check her out.

3. My Lagan Love - Lisa Hannigan & The Chieftains

he mentioned that this was one of his favorite traditional Irish tunes in this interview, and he’s often mentioned being a fan of Lisa Hannigan. i bet he’s heard this version.

4. Exile - Enya

couldn’t make a playlist about Irish fae royalty without acknowledging Enya. this song is structured similarly to My Lagan Love and i’ve always really liked it so it got added.

5. Stolen Child - Loreena McKennitt

this is a musical setting of a W.B. Yeats poem about being abducted by faeries. he loves Yeats and people thing he’s fae. it’s perfect.

6. Blood Moon - Saint Sister

they’re opening for him on his European tour, and this song has a particularly magical energy. i’ve previously put it on a witchy playlist.

7. The Raid - Anuna

originally, i started making this playlist on youtube so that i could add and reorder more easily than on spotify, and the version i had there was the one with hozier singing on it. enjoy.

8. Velvet Green - Jethro Tull

in the track by track video for “In a Week��, Hozier explains that the song is about two lovers who go off to the hills to “do what young lovers do” and then die there. this song is basically that, except without the dying.

9. In a Week - Hozier

see previous.

10. Sweet Thing - Van Morrison

he’s covered it, so it was an easy pick.

11. Hounds of Love - Kate Bush

this song references running into the woods and finding a wounded fox. that very specific image also shows up in “In the Woods Somewhere”, and it was too perfect a coincidence to pass up. also i’m a huge fan of Kate Bush, and this album in particular is one of my favorites of all time.

12. The Bailey - Loah

she co-wrote Someone New, and i felt the vibe of this song fit the playlist. you should check her out, especially her feminist anthem “Nothing”.

13. Carry Me Out - Mitski

a little reference to the Hozier-Hades thing, with the line about the spirits leading her down to the Styx. also, long dark hair, flowers, and death feature in this song. can’t imagine why i’d connect those to Hozier.

14. Mother - Florence and the Machine

the Hozier mythos is often tied up with Florence, so she had to be here. this song in particular has her asking to be turned into a tree and a bird, two things that Hozier has also sung about (”NFWMB”, “Shrike”).

15. Angel Owl - Little Green Cars

Stevie Appleby, one of the lead singers of this band, is one of Hozier’s close friends. he did the tattoo, designed the Hozier logo, and drew this comic about “In the Woods Somewhere”. couldn’t not include him.

16. Deeper Devestation - Jesca Hoop

just felt like it fit the vibe. not every song on this playlist has a deep reason for being on here.

17. Pressing Flowers - The Civil Wars

the imagery in this song is exactly the kind of thing i was going for with this playlist - “we were branches pressing flowers” “meet me in the tintypes of long ago”.

18. Beast at the Door - Wyvern Lingo

Karen Cowley, who featured on “In a Week”, is in this band, and this song has the same energy as “In the Woods Somewhere”.

19. In the Woods Somewhere - Hozier

i’ve referenced it in three different descriptions so far, obviously it was going to be here.

20. My Love Will Never Die - Otis Rush

he’s covered it, plus i needed some old blues music on a Hozier playlist. there should really be more, but i am somewhat limited by my own music taste here. 

21. Rollin’ Stone - Muddy Waters

he covered a little snippet of it here.

22. Lilac Wine - Nina Simone

it’s a Hozier-themed playlist, i can’t NOT include the woman he admires so much he named his EP after her. 

23. El Condor Pasa (If I Could) - Simon and Garfunkel

"i’d rather be a forest than a street”

24. Color Song - Maggie Rogers

just a song about nature with crickets in the background.

25. Blackbird - The Beatles

he’s covered it.

26. Like Real People Do - Hozier

an adorable love song about being dug up from the earth, one of my favorite songs of his.

27. Drop in the Ocean - Hudson Taylor

they opened for him on his North American tour. i saw them. they were good.

28. A Trick of the Light - Villagers

he chose this song for a spotify playlist recently, and i just loved it, it’s so shimmery.

29. Plant Life - Owl City

this and Nature Boy were the only two songs on this playlist at one point. this song gets extra points for mentioning bears. as we all should know, Hozier enjoys a good bear.

30. Compass - Zella Day

i just like the imagery in this song. idk.

31. Better Than That - Suzanne Santo

she’s currently part of his touring band, and is opening for him in Europe. had to include her because she’s awesome.

32. Shrike - Hozier

i mean, obviously.

--

thanks for reading.

[annathetrickster]

part 4 of my thoughts on FE4, covering chapter 3. 

spoilers under the cut obviously.

so first a bit of backstory that will help explain whats going on up to this point; 

in chapter 2 we helped lachesis defend nordion, and rescued eldigan who was being held captive after his unsuccessful attempt at negotiating peace. unfortunately, in the process we also conquered most of augustria (think of it as the state, and nordion one of its many cities/castles). eldigan was obviously unhappy about this and told sigurd he’d have one year to sort out the mess and get them back on their feet and under their own rule.

TLDR: we had no choice but to take over a bunch of land, and now we’re trying to get them back to being self governed.

a lot of this game is politics so i can understand if its hard to follow for most of you.

so even though eldigan said we’d have one year to sort things out, and he opted to let chagall live (ugly guy who locked him up), chagall decided that he’d rather attack us even though we’re apparently almost done restoring the peace.

its about time deirdre opened up more. she’s usually so formal with him even though they’ve been married for a while now. i wonder if something happened between them.

OHHHHHHH SHIT 

they fucked.

no idea why, but i completey forgot about seliph and julia while playing this so this still surprised me quite a bit. still, its very interesting to see deirdre finally go from calling him ‘milord’ to ‘my love’ now that they’ve done the deed. 

its time.

its worth noting that changing class doesn’t reset your lvl, so you stay whatever lvl you are and just gain additional stats. pretty interesting way of handling class change.

right so onto the map. 

as far as difficulty goes, this one seems like the easiest one so far. my main concern is the desert area towards the north of the map since i don’t see any way to access that part of the map, but we’ll cross that currently non-existent bridge when we get there.

and just like that a wild ship appears.

im a total sucker for the whole “girl who’s normally tired of a guys shit ends up actually liking him” deal. its part of why i ship inigo and severa so much. 

take notes guys: flowers are old news. want to impress a girl? get her a 12 might weapon capable of attacking up to 4 times in one round of combat.

and now she feels bad for being so rude to him. lex seems like a genuinely nice guy tbh.

so it took me a few tries but i think we’re just about ready to seize the castle. this chapter so far has definitely been the easiest yet. you really just had to defend your base for a good few turns but once thats taken care of taking the castle is fairly simple.

again, chagall is the ugly guy who imprisoned eldigan and he’s only still alive because eldigan thought it’d be totally cool to let him live and we’d be able to work out a peaceful solution, even though he literally already tried that and it got him locked up.

he goes on to tell sigurd about how his father, lord byron, is a prime suspect in the murder of prince kurth (the prince of grannvale, which is basically the state sigurd’s castle/city, chalphy resides in), and how theres rumors that both he and his father worked together to murder the prince. this is obviously just more of sigurd being setup to fail by the higher ups since his father and prince kurth were very close.

also tailtu was there and she apparently wants in the holy man’s pants.

1 down, possibly 2 more to go.

shanan: deirdre no

deirdre: deirdre yes

so deirdre gets abducted by this cloaked figure who’s been manipulating everything behind the scenes. earlier in the game, i believe around chapter 1, he mentions something along the lines of wanting to ‘resurrect the dark lord’, and that in order to do that you need deirdre. the exact details of what he said are hard to remember atm but there’s definitely some heavy NTR implications with what he said earlier in the game, as well as him mentioning ‘cleansing’ the slate of her life for her ‘true husband’. 

im sure more will be revealed as i progress through the story. as for seliph, he’s still with shanan.

eldigans patience with this guy is incredible. remember he had the chance to kill him last chapter but eldigan opted to let him go, even though he locked him up.

hes about to ride against his best friend all for the sake of honor, loyalty to his country, and his own pride. he reminds me a lot of camus actually in that both are loyal to an extreme fault. if battling against his best friend is whats best for the future of augustria then he’s willing to lay his life on the line for that cause.

great idea, because that totally went well the last 10 times.

top 10 photos taken seconds before disaster

and there it is.

the source of all the headless horseman eldigan memes you’ve probably seen

eldigan fucking dies.

not only does he die, but the way he’s killed is extremely dark compared to other games in the series. its not enough chagall wants him dead, he wants him decapitated, and humiliated. even though all eldigan did was what he felt was best for the future of his country. pretty heavy stuff.

so how is eldigan as a character? basically camus is his closest comparison. both of them have extreme loyalty towards their country, and while eldigan might not have the added complexity of a love interest, i think the fact that he pays the ultimate price for his unyielding loyalty makes him every bit as good of a character as camus is.

rip in pepperoni eldigan. press F to pay respects.

another handsome sailor moon villan appears

also wyvern emblem is a thing

apparently they’re dracoknights, interesting to learn that this is the first you see of them, and not FE8 with the ability to class branch pegasus knights or wyvern riders into them.

of course dracoknight emblem is not match for finn emblem.

also, im not sure how advised this is, but out of all the characters ive gotten so far this is my main force. 

sigurd

finn

quan

ethlyn

lex

ayra

sylvia

lachesis

i tend to favor smaller armies in the main series games and prefer to have a handful of OP units vs a bunch of mediocre ones so we’ll see if i can continue that strategy going forward.

meanwhile all the other characters just kind of hang around the castle. mostly because im way too lazy to drag them along on these ungodly maps.

its time

E҉̳͎̟̖̼̙̞̀n҉̫̩̪͎̮͞t͏̖̯̫̻̫̖̳̱̦e̩̫̟̰̤̙ͅr͎͇̠̼̻̥͔͘͟ ̵͓͟͝t̶̨̢͇̟h̡͉̲̗̱̫̜͔e̜͕ͅ ̼͈̠̖͈̻̩V̥̙̩͔͜ͅÓ̵̠̪͖̗̱͖͍̟Ì̮̬̞̰D̪̯̮̖

gotta say, so far this is my favorite sprite by far. his class is great knight unlike finn and quan who are duke knights. the sprites in FE1-8 just have a certain charm that the newer games can’t match. even with fully rendered 3d models.

ok, several things to point out here;

how does he know eldigan died? we were literally halfway across the globe when he was killed, and we’re currently outside the castle, whereas eldigans body is presumably inside. unless of course he literally has his head on display or something extremely gruesome to that effect.

“youve murdered countless innocents, and eldigan” >implying eldigan isnt innocent?

this guy literally killed your best friend, possibly has his head on display, and the worst you can come up with is something you’d find on a negative yelp review?

i’d really like to see both him and marth just drop an F bomb once in a while.

#let sigurd say fuck

and finally this annoying fuck is dead.

oh boy, not only does he have to face his best friends lifeless body but now he’s about to learn his wife was abducted. i would really hate to be sigurd right about now.

not that shanan is in any easier of a position. imagine telling someone like sigurd you failed to do the one thing he told you to do. as kind and compassionate of a leader he is, he would still be an extremely imposing figure for shanan.

you had one job.

given the heavy NTR implcations, probably getting banged out by some other guy right about now to “resurrect the dark lord”.

after some pretty heavy storyline developments, the second castle is taken, one more to go.

so after all thats happened with eldigan, deirdre, and sigurd we’re kind of forced to care about this nameless character who is now the commander of a group of pirates after their boss died/was killed. she’s been telling them not to pillage and loot but they refuse to acknowledge her authority because she was just some girl their captain found rather than his actual daughter, and they’d rather do whatever they want (as pirates tend to do) than listen to her.

personally i find it hard to suddenly care about the well being of this character after eldigan literally gave his life for his country, and no one knows what happend to deirdre, but apparently the castle must be taken so here we go.

you’ve heard of horse emblem, now get ready for.. pirate emblem

“i know we’re pirates and we’re capable of traveling across water and all, but lets all invade this country through this one fucking bridge where we can only cross one at a time. single file everyone, mind your manners.”

then we have these guys to deal with who somehow ended up on the other side of the map before the bridge was placed.

this guy being a holy man is the only way he has the patience to deal with her tbh.

seriously why wait till now to give him such a powerful weapon, what is with this game and holding out weapons until you’re 80% done with the chapter.

so to put in perspective what you have to go through if you want to recruit tailtu, as i mentioned she starts at the upper left corner of the map and the hoard of pirates from earlier will chase bridget forcing her to retreat west. keep in mind: the only way to progress through the chaper is to seize the castle where we defeated chagall, meaning sigurd needs to be all the way down there. unless you’ve played this game before you have no real way of knowing whats going to happen next and therefore no way to prepare for the shit ton of pirates who will make their way west in an attempt to kill bridget. 

sure you could check the wiki and preemtptively place your units near the bridge, but even then unless you have cavalry movement you still have to chase after them pretty hard and keep bridget, tailtu, and claude out of danger. so again this would be another case where you’d have to reset the original game and try the whole chapter all over again if you want to recruit any of the 3.

thankfully we have the wiki and an ungodly amount of patience and i was able to save all 3 of them, even though ill probably never use either.

auntie ayra took care of all the pirates pretty easily so aside from running away from pirates with tailtu and bridget, this chapter was probably the easiest so far.

again, im not sure why we went out of our way to take this particular castle, and its not really helping sigurds case as a traitor. unless im missing something, the pirates had nothing to do with us as far as i know.

so after we take the pirate castle langobalt (pictured) shows up and apparently has orders to arrest sigurd who is being branded a traitor. another random guy (presumably his advisor) admits that it was langobalt himself who murdered prince kurth and is framing sigurd for the crime.

of course we knew sigurd was innocent already, but we didnt know who exactly killed the prince.

in a rare moment of weakness, sigurd actually loses his cool which is to be expected really. his best friend died, his wife kidnapped, and he’s about to be arrested. how would anyone not lose their cool at this point.

well that is going to do it for chapter 3. to recap, eldigan fucking dies, sigurd and deirdre have a child (seliph), deirdre gets kidnapped and possibly NTR’s sigurd unwillingy or otherwise, some pirate stuff happened, and sigurd is about to be arrested so he’ll be laying low in silesse for the time being.

overall the story sure took an interesting and very dark turn pretty quickly so im definitely looking forward to seeing what happens, especially with deirdre.

thanks for reading and thanks for your patience with me getting these posted.

[tothe-stars-wholisten]

Throne of Glass tag

Tagged by @aelin-and-feyre, ahh thank you so much!

Rules: Answer the questions below, add one of your own. Tag people!

1. Which Throne of Glass book is your favourite and why?

Okay this is tough, I love Queen of Shadows and Empire of Storms both so much.

I love Queen of Shadows because we finally get to see how incredibly smart Aelin really is. Of course we see her bravery and sass and compassion in the previous books, but QoS is where all her scheming reveals her crazy intelligence. 

I love Empire of Storms for the same reason, but for Elide’s intelligence. Yes, it’s seen in QoS, but her ability to manipulate others and their perception of her throughout EoS is way too impressive. I mean, come on, she tricks that Ilken like a total badass. All of Aelin’s surprise reveals in EoS are also fantastic.

2. What character is your favourite?

Manon. I know she’s a total problematic fave, but her character arc is incredible and her ability to go against so much of what she’s been forced to believe in in order to protect those few people she loves is amazing. 

3. What character is your least favourite? (don’t choose a villain, that’s too easy)

If I have to choose someone, I’d say Ren is my least favorite. It’s not like I hate him or anything, I just don’t care too much about him. 

4. Who is your favourite villain and why?

Maeve because I haven’t really figured her out yet. You’ve gotta love a villain that keeps you on your toes. 

5. Who do you think will die in Throne of Glass 7?

I hope Maeve, Iskra Yellowlegs, the Blackbeak Matron and Erawan will die, and really hope they won’t but realize there’s a good chance that members of the Thirteen, Gavriel, Ansel, Nox, and/or Lorcan could die.

6. Would you rather be a magic wielder or be a witch and fly with wyverns?

Magic wielder. Obviously having raw power would be awesome, and if I had to choose something specific I’d say ice and wind like Rowan has would be cool or shapeshifting.

7. What continent/kingdom would you like to live in? Why?

Terrasen because after Aelin and Rowan rebuild the kingdom with their kick-ass court and awesome allies it’ll be fantastic. 

8. Think of your favourite character. If you had one day to spend with them, what would you do?

I cannot express how cool it would be to fly around with Manon on Abraxos and explore. Manon wouldn’t want to talk often, which would be great, and we could stop so Abraxos can take a nap in a field of flowers while Manon teaches me how to fight like the Thirteen.

9. Which character do you identify with the most?

Elide. Even though she can be very quiet and is used to being alone, she does love the few people she trusts fiercely, which I totally relate to. Her tendency to people watch and change who she is depending on who she’s around is also something I do. 

10. What is your favourite scene?

Wow okay, either the Rowaelin reunion in Queen of Shadows in the alley or the Rowaelin reunion in Empire of Storms in Rolfe’s office. They’re both great in their own ways.

11. What are your guesses on what the final book will be called?

King of Ruins? Kingdom of Flames? no clue, but I’m way too excited.

12. What do you think will be Dorian’s reaction to Chaol being married?

Shock, confusion, happiness, more confusion, then a little bit of anger and demands that he can organize both a bachelor party and ceremony that he can be best man at.

13. What character from earlier books are you looking forward to seeing again?

NOX. Every book after ToG I’ve been waiting for him and I’m so ready to see how he plays into ToG7.

14: What is your otp from the series and why?

I think Elorcan because there’s something really endearing about two such unique people realizing the strength in being both individuals and a team. Lorcan taking care of Elide while she was on her period also made me inexplicably happy and set my expectations irl way too high.  

New Question: 15: If you could only choose one character to have guaranteed survival in ToG7, who would it be and why?

Tagging: @mydarlingwhitethorn @aelinfireheart-shadowhunter @queen-fireheart-galathynius @feysand-trash @the-heir-of-terrasen

[papillonrecordhouse]

Papillion x Alex Support C - B

In collaboration with: @karu-ck

Papillion: *siting with woman* So lovely~ Tell me, what would you like today?~ Tea and cake? Maybe a coffee and biscuit? Or a bit of me~ *winks*

Woman: *giggles*

*A man is thrown at their table*

Man: Aggs!

Alex: Now, you little piece of shit, do you regret it or would you prefer to solve this outside?!

Man: You're crazy! I-I regret what I said… *runs off*

Woman: *screams* YOu SaId this place was safe! *cries and runs off too*

Papillion: No wait! Come back please! *disheartened then looks at Alex* What was that for?! You messed up my date! Who even are you?!

Alex: ah? *confused* So who am I? I'm Alex, the last person you want to mess with. With your permission, I'm going to end up my beer *turns around*

Papillion: Oh no you don't! *takes her shoulder* You owe me! I'm a forgiving person, but this crosses the line! *turns her around*

Alex: *still confused* Oh, I owe you what you were drinkin’ *takes out some coins* Now we are even. *smiles naively*

Papillion: *huffs and pushes the money away* I don't want your coins. You owe me for the date you just messed up! The poor girl ran off screaming! *thinking: I was about to get some loving too!

Alex: Did I do that? Oh, for the dragons, I'm so sorry! *picks up Papillion* I'm going to make this up to you!

Papillion: H-Hey! Put me down! *clinging to Alex* What do you think you're doing?!

Alex: We're going to find that lady and fix all this. *both exit* Where did she goes?

Papillion: I don't know! And I can walk you! Look, there's no helping it. *sighs* She's gone and she won't talk to me again.

Alex: I'm so sorry *sighs* What about if I get you another date?

Papillion: I can get my own date, thank you. Here look, first put me down.

Alex: ok, ok. *put her down* I don't understand, what do you want from me?

Papillion: What I want is your time, since you've wasted mine. *dusts herself* To be exact, I want 3 small favors from you. *smiles* Sound fair?

Alex: *thinking: Small favors… What could go wrong?* Sure.

Papillion: Perfect! *claps hands* It's simple really, I want one, you to make me a simple necklace and two, feed the wyverns and pegasi tomorrow for lunch~ Simple right?~

Alex: Consider it done.

Papillion: Great! Well now if you'll excuse me, I have somewhere to be. *bows and leaves*

Alex: *thinking* Now, I have to order another beer. *enters again*                

[End of Support C]

 Alex: *comes into a room* Here is the sample of the necklace. *takes out of her pocket a tiny box with the necklace inside* I forgot to ask you about the details, is this ok?

Papillion: *looks at it and smiles* Oh yes, this is just beautiful! Thank you~ *puts it away* She'll surely love it...

Alex: She...? Oh, the girl from the other night, that sounds great! *thinking: maybe I'm safe from feeding the pegasi and wyverns*

Papillion: Oh no, not her. She's banished me from my favorite yukata shop! *grumbles* She's really cruel. No, this necklace is for my mother's birthday. It's coming soon enough.

Alex: Oh, that’s really cute!! I hope she likes it. *thinking: ... *

Papillion: I'm sure she will... *sighs* I really miss my mom... It's been ages since I've seen her. *looks at Alex* Hey, you alright?

Alex: No, I never knew my mother, when I was born she disappeared.  And my father died when I was 8. But I have lots of foster fathers. *smiles remembering them* How about you, have any other relatives?

Papillion: *chuckles sourly a bit* Other than my mother and my dead father, it's hard to say. My father's family disowned him after he married my mother. Then I never got to know my mother's family, since they lived in Nohr. And my brother. Well if rather not talk about him so... No, it's just me and my mother.

Alex: Sorry for your dad, did he die fighting a long time ago? *thinking: I hope I didn't fight him, I mean, I’ve fought against many Hoshidians, but... I only killed… a few.*

Papillion: Huh? Oh yeah... He died when King Garon killed King Sumeragi, helping Prince Ryoma escape. *fiddles with yukata*

Alex: Are you ok? Sorry I asked about such an unnecessary subject.

Papillion: Y-Yeah! I'm fine. *obviously lying* Well thank you again for the necklace, but don't forget about feeding the wyverns and pegasi tomorrow. *gets up to quickly leave*

Alex: Thanks ... *thinking: At least the only thing I have to do is feed them, and then I’m free.... But now I’m restless.*

[End of Support B]

[gamerszone2019-blog]

10 Things to Do to Prepare for Monster Hunter World: Iceborne

New Post has been published on https://gamerszone.tn/10-things-to-do-to-prepare-for-monster-hunter-world-iceborne/

10 Things to Do to Prepare for Monster Hunter World: Iceborne

Monster Hunter: World alone has hundreds of hours of content (yes, really!) but don’t worry, you don’t have to put that much time into it to be prepared for the massive expansion, Iceborne, even though its Master Rank will be a good difficulty jump from High Rank.Now is a better time than ever to prepare since all of the Event Quests are back, too! This video is a quick look at what you should do, whether you’re new, Hunter Rank 50, or beyond. There’s a lot to cover, so if you need more details about any of it, make sure to check our comprehensive IGN Monster Hunter: World Wiki! Nearly every link in this article is to a guide, so click on anything you want more explanation for. Let’s begin!

1. Beat the Game!

Technically, rolling credits is the only thing you need to do in Monster Hunter: World to be able to access Iceborne’s storyline. If you rush, you can probably get through Monster Hunter: World’s story quests in about 40 hours, give or take. If you need help getting started, check out our Monster Hunter: World Beginner’s Guide!

But, Iceborne’s Master Rank—like previous Monster Hunter’s G-rank—s no joke. You’ll probably want to prepare more not only to shake off the cobwebs, but so the difficulty spike doesn’t feel like a brick wall. Expect the jump into Master Rank to feel similar to how it felt transitioning into High Rank from Low Rank. If you had the best Low Rank armor, you probably felt fine going into High Rank, while you likely had a tougher time if you started High Rank with early-game gear.

Make sure stock up on items so you’re prepared for quests. Here’s a list of recommended items to bring on quests in Monster Hunter: World

2. Master at Least One Weapon

Practice really does make perfect in a game like Monster Hunter: World, where skill is just about as important, if not more, as equipment. Completely master at least one weapon, two if you want to be prepared for anything! I switch based on the challenge at hand. For example, I learned the Bow because Bazelgeuse originally gave me a tough time when using my go-to, the Sword and Shield.

3. Become a True Armorsmith

Not every weapon and every playstyle goes well with just one armor set—and a set of pieces all from the same monster is rarely the best way to go. Choose Armor Skills that complement your playstyle and weapon and upgrade that armor set, and you’ll probably have a much easier time.

Personally, my favorite go-to set for Sword and Shield is built with a mix of defensive and offensive skills, like Health Boost, Evade Window, Weakness Exploit, Crit Boost, and a few more! For a support set, I run Wide-Range. You’ll want to collect Armor Decorations to help round out sets!

Try making a set to counter a specific monster if you’re having a tough time! Or, if you generally feel like you’re not doing enough damage, build for Affinity.

4. Collect Every Palico Gadget

You’ll earn Palico Gadgets by befriending the Grimalkynes in each Locale—or Gajalaka in Elder’s Recess. These are incredibly useful and can be leveled up, so get to finding Grimalkyne doodle’s to collect them all. The Palico Gadget Guide explains how to get them all.

5. Learn How Food Works

Yeah, getting the Chef’s Choice is tempting, but it’s not the best way to go. Collecting Canteen ingredients will open up a plethora of new food skills you can access for the Custom Platter. Find some skills you especially like, and save meal sets based off them. Or, at minimum, eat for the stat you need—like Elemental Resistance against Kirin. Make up for the lack of health with items like Max Potions!

If you’ve done all of your optional and delivery quests, but are still missing ingredients, that means you haven’t collected them all out in the wild. Try going on Investigations with an Upsurge on gathering spots, and gather at spots that sparkle. For example, when there’s an Upsurge: Conch Shells in the Coral Highlands, head through the small cave in the southeastern part of Sector 9 to find a spot to gather Violent Abalone, which will unlock a fish ingredient in the Resilience category. Perfect for getting a large Defense Boost and Felyne Moxie, which prevents fainting one time!

To be honest, I’ve only collected the Canteen ingredients for the skills I use a lot. I am a slacker.

6. Do Your Optional Quests!

Now we’re into the sort of, should do, but don’t really need to do category on the path to Iceborne. Every so often, an NPC will have an exclamation mark above their head, which probably means they have a quest to give out! Make sure to complete these Optional Quests (marked by a speech bubble in the quest list) to gain Canteen ingredients, hunter tools, access to new monsters, and more. And don’t forget to turn in Deliveries at the Resource Center for more important rewards as well – like the Iceproof mantle, which will obviously come in handy for Iceborne!

7. Collect Every Mantle and Booster

Note: This video is missing mantles that released after the game launched! See How to Unlock Every Mantle and Booster in Monster Hunter: World for guides for each.

Speaking of mantles, try to collect all hunter tools available which are useful for myriad reasons. One of the most useful ones—he Rocksteady Mantle—can’t be earned until you reach HR50! But, at the very least, unlock the Temporal Mantle, which grants near invulnerability for 90 seconds and only requires HR16.

First, complete the Special Assignment The Food Chain Dominator—which will unlock the Dragonproof Mantle—and then more on to the line of Special Assignments that begins with The Blazing Sun. This will also unlock the Lunastra, an Elder Dragon whose weapons are the bomb. They have Blast element (hah), skills baked into them, and decoration slots! They’re some of my very favorite weapons.

Our Deputy Reviews Editor, Tom Marks, reached this point at HR38 in 56 hours over the course of two and a half weeks—minus the tools locked behind a higher HR. You can do it too, especially if you have some help!

8. Unlock Augmentation

We’re not sure how exactly this will work in Iceborne, but Augmentation is a huge part of World’s current endgame. It involves reaching HR29 and then earning a rare Warrior’s Streamstone by completing Threat Level 2 Tempered Monster investigations. This will allow you to finally use the more common Streamstones you’ve probably collected along the way, giving you the ability to upgrade your armor’s defense even more. The Warrior’s and Hero’s Streamstones are strictly for adding special skills to your weapons, and are rare and weapon-specific.

9. Challenge Yourself

Are you still with me? Good! There are plenty of other challenges to conquer too, like the Final Fantasy XIV and Witcher 3 collaborations, which both, although greatly challenging, grant amazing rewards. Defeating Final Fantasy XIV’s Behemoth (which is no small feat (see the Behemoth Strategy Guide) will give you access to the amazing Drachen Armor. Want to cheese it? Head into the battle with just one friend and Palico equipped with the Plunderblade. Cut off the tail and break the horns (run Partbreaker), then return from the quest, and repeat.

The Witcher’s Special Assignment is solo-only, and has special side-quests that reward an Attack Jewel and more help from Gajalaka! You can also craft Witcher’s Silver Sword, an amazing SnS. You’ll have to take on the Ancient Leshen to upgrade it, which requires HR50, and is one of the most difficult fights in the game along with Extreme Behemoth. Ancient Leshen materials are also used for Zirael Dual Blades (Ciri’s weapons!).

Once you’re beyond Hunter Rank 50, you’ll then have access to the extremely challenging Event Quest-only Arch Tempered Elder Dragons and the new armor sets that come with them. If you’re going to defeat one of them, though—hunt the massive Kulve Taroth, which only requires HR16. Defeating her rewards incredible new Gold and White Gold weapons.

10. Do Event Quests

Best of all, all of these Arch Tempered Elder Dragons are around as Event Quests in Monster Hunter: World until August 29, 2019—along with most previous Event Quests. Here are the ones we recommend, listed under required Hunter Rank.

HR15 and Below:

Greeting the Gluttons

Vouchers that guarantee food skill activation

Every Hunter’s Dream

Wyvern Ignition Greatsword (it’s really good)

Triple Threat Throwdown

Armor Decorations. Wear Bandit Mantles in a full party for extra cash. Skip this if you can do HR50 quest The Greatest Jagras instead.

Wiggle Me This

The hilarious Wiggler Head

Mosswinin’ and Dinin (8/07 – 8/09 only)

For Golden Eggs, Armor Spheres, Faux Tickets for layered armor sets, and more. Note: Giant Mosswine will one-shot you, but are very weak to status effects, like stun. I had success using the Bow’s Arc Shot.

Rollin’ with the Uragaan

Armor Sphere+ and Advanced Armor Spheres

HR16

The Fury of El Dorado

Accept in the Gathering Hub for Kulve Taroth armor, tons of extra loot to sell for cash, and some of the best weapons in the game. See the Kulve Taroth Siege Guide for tips!

HR30 A Nose for an Eye / Snow and Cherry Blossoms / No Tomorrow for Usurpers

Large boost to Hunter Rank. Mainly just to get to HR50 so you can take advantage of The Greatest Jagras and The Name’s Lavasioth quests,

A Simple Task

Collect Tempered Monster tracks to unlock Tempered investigations

HR50

The Thronetaker and Relish the Moment

Sullied and Shining Streamstones

Tracking the Delivery

Collect Tempered Elder Dragon tracks to unlock Tempered Elder Dragon Investigations

The Greatest Jagras – (7/25 to 8/08) Best to farm BOXES of Armor Decorations – look at this image! This is normal!

The Name’s Lavasioth – ( 8/08 to 8/29) Also to farm boxes of Armor Decorations! Not quite as good as the Greatest Jagras though, so get to it.

Really, that’s it /s! Remember, for complete guides to everything mentioned, click on the links for helpful pages from our Monster Hunter: World: Wiki Guide! For even more game help, here are video playlists of every Monster Hunter: World Game Help stream (aka Monster Hunter Bootcamp) and Monster Hunter: World monster strategy guide videos (aka Monster of the Week) the writer of this article has done.

New Monsters in Monster Hunter World: Iceborne

For more on Monster Hunter: World, check out these 9 Quality of Life Improvements in Iceborne, Gameplay and Impressions of Three New Iceborne Subspecies, and 34 New Monster Hunter World: Iceborne Impressions.

Casey DeFreitas is an Editor on the wikis team at IGN who loves monster hunting, slaying, and catching. Catch her on Twitter @ShinyCaseyD.

Source : IGN

[spiritgriffon]

Rachael’s Favorite FE Characters

Well, since I posted my favorite Pokemon... everything a while ago, I figured I’d post my favorite FE characters class-by-class as well! I’ll also post my least favorites.

The games I own are Sacred Stones, Path of Radiance, Radiant Dawn, Shadow Dragon, New Mystery on an emulator, Awakening, Heroes, all 3 Fates & Echoes. I’ve played a bit of FE4 too but I’m not far enough into it to pick favorite characters.

Favorite Lord:

Male- Chrom (He’s pretty vanilla but I still love me my Blueberry Dorklord)

Female- Erika (Who is not NEARLY as foolish as recent entries would have you believe. She’s quite a bit better than Celica at any rate- there’s no way she’d fall for fkn JEDAH)

Least Favorite- Ephraim (He’s such a... warmonger. There is no point in the entirety of SS where I go “Yes, he’ll make a good king!”)

Favorite Avatar

Robin! Robin’s the best. Robin has the best coat. Do I need to say more?

Well, I guess I’ll say too that Robin’s personality is quite a bit like my own, which is why I prefer Fem!Robin. I too, would relentlessly pelt Lon’qu with figs and, when faced with unwinnable odds would, just resort to a Big Fire™

Least favorite goes to... IDK, I want to say Kiran but Kiran can marry Navarre so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Favorite Cavalier/Paladin/Great Knight

Seth wins, but Xander and Berkut are close seconds. Seth/Erika is my ultimate FE OTP- they’re the only ones in the whole series I can’t even bear to pair with anyone else for a playthrough to get their supports. I like Xander/Corrin and Xander/Sakura quite a bit, but neither come anywhere close honestly. And Berkut is my angry garbage son~

Least favorite goes to Jagan. You honestly think I’m going to kill Frey who arguably has better stat growths than both Cain and Abel and keep you? Screw canon, off you go, old man!

Favorite Myrmidon/Swordsmaster/Trueblade

Joushua, obviously!

...

I mean, Navarre doesn’t really count because he’s my favorite FE character PERIOD. Besides Navarre, I like Joshua.

Least favorite is Marissa. Not that crazy about Mia either, but Marissa is just so inferior to Josh stats wise and while he’s tons of fun, she’s no fun at all. If she were in another game it’d different but Joshua makes her look really bad in comparison. Plus she took his spot in Awakening AND I’M STILL SALTY 4 YEARS LATER

Favorite Mercenary/Hero/Dreadfighter

Navarre in FE1

Ike!... Yes, I’m counting him here... Oh fine, Ogma then. They’re both big gay softies that are 40% pure iron muscle and 60% heart. I bet they give the best hugs!

(And no, I don’t believe Ogma’s “feelings” for Caeda are in any way romantic bc he met her when she was like 5 and he was probably 20. He probably feels like her big brother or father- which is equally impossible for him to express due to his lot in life. Plus, Marth never gets jealous around him, while he practically turns green around any of the other characters interested in her.)

(Oh, and I consider Soren to be the more canon partner for Ike over Sothe and Ranulf bc Priam is a thing and I’m like 70% sure Soren is supposed to be trans. And yes, there is a canon lesbian whose name is currently escaping me & Sothe is canonically bi, they just went with the “heavy implied to the point of being basically irrefutable” route instead of outright stating it, so it is VERY possible Soren is trans. I like all 3 ships tho)

Least favorite is... The dude from SS. I can’t even remember his name. He’s the only freaking mercenary in SS and his personality doesn’t do anything for me.

Favorite Knight/General/Baron

The Black Knight of course! His writing is bit... a lot of a mess, but you can’t deny how badass he is.

On a less villainous note, Forsythe is pretty cool too.

Least favorite is... IDK, was there one in Awakening? I thought there was one on the cover but he’s so forgettable...

Favorite Archer/Sniper/Ballistician/Bow Knight/Hunter

Tacomeme :)

Leon is also pretty cool, but he’s not nearly as useful in-game. I like Niles too! But I’d be lying if I said a good part of that wasn’t bc of Takehito Koyasu and his sexy voice rip

Least favorite is Faye in Heroes Python’s inability to hit the broad side of a barn Zero’s stupid name change to Niles Innes. His stats are nice but his personality rubs me the wrong way.

Favorite Pegasus/Falcon Knight/Sky/Kinshi Knight

Probably Claire! I didn’t expect to like her much (I got Maribelle vibes at first), but she really grew on me throughout the game and her supports. I love the way her friendship with Alm was written- if it had evolved into a romance I would have found it believable, but it’s one of the VERY, VERY few times I think IntSys has handled a one sided crush on the main character well.

Least favorite is... Probably Cordelia. Like I said, VERY few times. (Vanessa, Sumia, Syrene, Palla, Catria, Est, Hinoka, Subaki, Tanith and Sigrun all tie for second to last. This is... not my favorite class.)

Favorite Dracoknight/Wyvern Rider/Wyvern Lord

Hmmm... I would say Camilla, but my headcanon version of her is quite a bit different from the way she actually is in canon lol. So... Probably promoted Caeda. Minerva is utterly useless on the battlefield, unfortunately, and I like Caeda about the same as Clare so I put her here.

I guess I like Haar, Jill, Cormag, Gwin, and Valter (As a villain, not as a person) somewhat too.

Least favorite has to go to Beruka. I find her... bland.

Favorite Villager/Recruit

AMELIA THE GENERAL IS COMING THROUGH! MAKE WAY, MORTALS

Do I need to say who my least favorite is? Do I really need to?

It’s Faye. Because... she’s Faye.

Favorite Thief/Trickster/Assassin/Rogue/Ninja

That has to go to Julian! He’s very similar to Gaius, but instead of candy, his thing is puns. Fun fact: I have a blood sugar condition similar to diabetes IRL that makes me unable to eat sugar, so Gaius just made me crave sweets I can’t have most of the time :/

Second place goes to Gangrel or Rennac. Gangrel is actually my second favorite character to romance in Awakening due to his great redemption arc in his supports with both Robins & his talks with Em in the DLC, and IMO he makes the second best dad to Morgan (And yes, I have ALL of male Morgan’s supports with his fathers, yes, it was boring, repetitive, and took hours, and yes, the only one I like better is Chrom), and Rennac is just... so hilariously cranky. They also both go in the “They deserved better in their endings” bin- Rennac can’t marry L’rachel despite their great chemistry and Gangrel flat-out dies if you don’t marry him.

Least favorite... I guess Nina. I never found her very funny.

Favorite Cleric/Troubadour/Valkyrie/Bishop/War monk

Elise! She is... one of two healers I like. In the entire series.

The other is L’rachel.

And Sakura, Lissa, Natasha, and Rena I... don’t particularly dislike.

I don’t like any others. Tat/iana is the worst of the bunch. Tat/iana is actually my least favorite character in the series

Favorite Fighter/Pirate/Warrior/Barbarian

Maybe... Vaike or Ross? Or Boyd? Basilio? Wow, there aren’t any I really like a lot. Guess this is my least favorite class.

My least favorite of all HAS to be Arthur though.

Favorite Mage/Monk/Dark Knight/Sage

Soren! He’s really well written. At first he comes off as a racist asshole, but as the game goes on & you get his supports, he proves himself to be a really great, three-dimensional character. And he’s so gay for Ike. Like, so, so gay.

Least favorite is all of the little red-headed boys that are clones of each other. Except maybe Ewan, because he’s actually useful in-game. Most of the others aren’t.

Favorite Dark Mage/Sorcerer/Summoner/Necromancer/Druid/Witch/Cantor

LYON!!!! Oh man, I don’t want to spoil exactly what happens but suffice to say that he is my FAVORITE antagonist in the series.

My least favorite is either Validar or Iago... I don’t know which to pick. They are how NOT to do a decent sorcerer villain in FE. But all of the Cantors in Echoes also get a special mention for being FREAKING ANNOYING.

Favorite Manakete/Dragon Laguz

Tiki- particularly young Tiki! She’s so sweet... and badass!

Least favorite... ugh, I have to say Myrrh. I do like her, but her uses of Dragonstone are so limited that you can barely use her and while she’s just as cute as Tiki, she’s not nearly as tough. She also has a lot sadder story than Tiki- she’s a really good character, but she just doesn’t make me feel bubbly and happy when I see her the way Tiki does.

Favorite Beast Laguz/Bird Laguz/Taguel/Wolfskin/Kitsune

All hail King Naesala! He’s another character that brings a smile to my face when I see him-and that’s saying quite a bit, since he has a pretty serious story. This man oozes personality- He shows up on screen and you know he’s there to kick the world and rule the ass. And no, that’s not backwards.

Honorable mention to Reyson- every time these two are on screen together you know that Reyson is about three seconds from punching Naesala right in the nose, never mind the fact he’d probably break every bone in his tiny, fragile fist. The fact that Naesala’s only paired ending is with Reyson’s sister is just hilarious to me.

I guess my least favorite is Lyre... She sort of feels like she’s just there to have one more playable character to me, since she has so little bearing on the story.

Favorite Dancer/Singer

In terms of personality, supports, and gameplay, Feena is far and away my favorite. However... I’m honestly not a huge fan of her design, so in terms of appearance, Azura, who I personally think has one of the best designs in the series, takes the cake. The fact she has such a catchy theme song is a huge bonus too!

Tethys gets the last spot because she’s completely useless in battle. I’ve heard Ninian can’t fight either but she boosts your stats- why did they give Tethys the shaft so badly?

Favorite Lancer/Soldier

And finally... ending this on a weird one. See, neither Nephenee nor Oboro do anything for me- I don’t dislike them, but I don’t particularly like them either. So, I guess this one goes to Azura!

[sapphoesie]

10 Questions Tag - idek what part this is

Thanks to the lovely people who tagged me: @highladyofnorta @dr-woodsprite @lovelylittlebookwyrm @reading-through-the-night @acourtoftears @arya-drottning @wingsofanillyrian

1. Favourite book of all time ugh it’s too hard to choose only one! 2. What are you reading now I’m re-reading/listening to Rebel of The Sands by Alwyn Hamilton 3. Have you ever considered writing a book Yep. I want to do it at one point. Not necessarily fiction though 4. Favourite series Of all time? Probably Harry Potter 5. Book you’d like to read You mean choose just one out of my 370 books on my TBR? 😂 Ughhh... a random one is Anna Karenina. I really want to get into Russian literature but obviously the size of the book has kinda put me off so far 6. What’s in your TBR pile? EVERYTHING! But I’ll mention the books I already own and have with me in Australia: The Raven Boys, Traitor to the Throne, The Wrath and the Dawn and The Rose and the Dagger 7. Favourite fictional characters too many to list! 8. Favourite ship of all time oh man! Maybe Gatsby and Daisy cause it was so dysfunctional but so interesting 9. Pick up the book closest to you, open it to page 1 and write the first paragraph: “It would not be a welcome dawn.” the first para is actually just one sentence so that’s all you get  10. What’s the first book fandom you were in? Harry Potter

1. what type of a phone do you use. I have an iPhone 2. if you could kill someone this instant would you do it? No even though  I have a person who popped into mind instantly lol 3. ends justify the means. do you agree? This is literally the biggest question in journalism so I’ve debated this a lot in the past years with different hypothetical scenarios. I would say no but it’s an extremely tricky question 4. favorite holiday place/city/country. Cote D’Azur on the southern French coast is one of my favourite places ever 5. if your choices were to sing or dance your way out of a bind what would you choose ? why ? I think I’d choose singing cause I’d become self conscious about my dancing if I was put on the spot like that but I’m always good to sing 😂 6. favorite author! Edgar Allan Poe. I read his complete works, I read about the stories and inspirations behind his writing and I read about his life. I’m just so fascinated by him. 7. best tv shows that you think everyone should watch. Friends. 8. the most underrated book in your opinion. All the light we cannot see! Gorgeous prose, beautiful story. Still one of my favourite books 9. the most overrated book in your opinion. Eleanor & Park. 10. have you ever been to the opera ? if yes , describe your experience. if no, do you plan to, are you interested ? Omg yes! My mum and I used to go all the time to operas and ballet shows and classical music concerts and it was always so beautiful and such a magical experience. The opera house in Bucharest is really beautiful (here’s a picture) and I loved the atmosphere in there.

1 - Do you like cold weather or hot weather? I prefer moderate temperatures 2 - Do you actually like studying? I love it! 3 - Dream vacation? New Zealand or Japan atm 4 - Say one thing you like about your home country The scenery in Romania is breathtaking 5 - What’s your favorite book atm? Lord of Shadows probably 6 - What do you like about your best friend? Really easy to talk to 7 - When was the last time you did something nice to someone? I held the door for someone this morning 8 - Do you like shopping? Depends what I shop for and what mood I’m in 9 - Most embarrassing memory of your childhood? I fell off a bike and onto my face once 10 - How would you react if a flirty anon showed up in your ask box? I’d say “ Damn, nonnie, that was smooth af! You’re making me blush but, you know, a dinner or something would be nice first” (I looked back for my actual respons to flirty anon’s first message)

1. Bookmarks or random objects? Bookmarks. 2. Do you prefer harcover or softcover or E-book? Paperbacks all the way 3. What is your favourite book or series that you own? Harry Potter probably 4. Do you have a character that’s your absolute favourite? I have too many! 5. Do you have a character that you completely hate? I can’t think of any off the top of my head... 6. If you could change one thing about a book you like/dislike, what would it be? Why? More diverse characters. Because there aren’t nearly enough. 7. As a child, was there a picture book that you liked? It isn’t really a picture book but it does have pictures so The Little Prince. I was (and still am) in love with that book! 8. Have you come across a fantasy creature that you wanted as a pet? A wyvern from TOG or a Hippogriff from Harry Potter  9. Do you bring a book everywhere with you or not? Not always but technically I always have books on my phone so if in need, I have what to read. 10. If you could pick a book made into a film and turn it into a well-done television series, what would you choose? Percy Jackson and the Olympians

1. What fandom(s) are you apart of? mostly Sarah J Maas stuff,Leigh Bardugo, Cassandra Clare, Harry Potter 2. Top 3 TV shows of all time Friends. Parks and Recreation. The Office. 3. Favorite form to consume books? (audiobooks, e-books, physical books) Physical copies. 4. Must have pizza toppings. Tomato sauce, mozarella, pepperoni. I’m not hard to please. 5. What did you want to do when you were a kid? I wanted to be a teacher for a long time. I would definitely go into teaching if the wages weren’t a joke. 6. What is your favorite “internet inside joke”? The incorrect [insert fandom here] quotes  7. What is your taste in music? Eclectic. 8. What are you most proud of? Getting into a top/Russel Group university as an international student 9. Last thing you ate? a salad 10. Favorite gif to use?

1. If you could bring any fictional character to life, who would it be? Cassian 2. Favourite time period? the 70s 3. If you could swap lives with one character for the day, who would you pick? Hermione Granger 4. Top three authors you want to meet? Cassie Clare, Sarah J Maas, Leigh Bardugo 5. Favourite place to read? anywhere comfy by a window 6. Which book quote can you always remember off the top of your head?  “If you want to know what a man's like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors not his equals.” from Harry Potter 7. Are you a one book or multiple at a time kind of person? One at a time 8. Are there any books you regret reading? No. 9. Pick one book you want to be adapted into a film/show and one you dont. Yes: All the Light We Cannot See. No: ACOTAR  10. Dogs or cats? Both.

1. Black or white? Black. 2. Pineapples on pizza? No. 3. Chocolate or caramel? Chocolate. 4. Role model fictional character? Hermione Granger. 5. Favorite villain? Amy Dunne 6. Least favorite main character? I’m not a big fan of Alina Starkov 7. Fictional world/country you want to live in? Idris maybe 8. Favorite indie author? What qualifies as an indie author? 9. A book/series/tv show that everyone loves but you hate? I don’t know off the top of my head 10. Classic or modern? Why not both? 11. What’s your favorite question to be asked and how would you answer it? How’s life?

1.  What countries have you visited? Well this is relative cause for some of them I’ve seen loads and for others I’ve only seen a couple of cities: Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Hungary, Italy, France, The UK, Ireland, Spain, Belgium, Egypt, Australia, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Serbia, Slovenia and I think that’s it. 2. What’s your favorite word at the moment? Stupendous. 3. What is your preferred writing utensil? fountain pens 4. What’s one book that everyone else loved but you didn’t enjoy? Eleanor and Park. 5. Who’s your ultimate BROtp? Harry, Ron and Hermione. Brot3 forever. 6. Dream job? Investigative journalist or news producer for TV or Radio news. 7. Best advice you have ever received? Think if what you’re worrying about will matter in 10 years’ time. 8. What fictional character would you love to meet? Liesel Meminger  9. If you could time travel, where would you go? tell young me that life is all ups and downs but it’s going to be okay 10. Favorite thing to do on a rainy day? get a cup of tea and read in front of the fireplace 11. What was the last concert you went to? Twin Atlantic.

[awkward-blunt-miserableatbest]

Birthday: May 10

Zodiac: Taurus

Height: 5’7 basically. I think I’m just short and couldn’t spite grow the extra couple millimeters to get there.

Last song I listened to: Sabatoge by Beastie Boys, but my playlist is honestly all over the place.

Hobbies: Watching old westerns, going to thrift shops, art, worms on strings, shooting my bow, fishing, hunting, woodworking and a bunch of other stuff. Just ask and I’ll either be 1. Interested in it already or 2. Immediately want to learn everything and throw myself into it.

Favorite color: Antifreeze green <3

Last movie I watched: A really cheesy, low budget movie with terrible acting about a wyvern that starts attacking a modern day town out in the country.

Favorite book: The Phantom of the Opera

Dream job: Mixing old people, outdoors, and dogs. Maybe some therapy, but honestly I just want them to be happy in this last bit. I <3 them.

Meaning behind URL: Well, I’m very awkward, can be blunt (I’ve improved quite a bit on softening it), and Miserable at Best by Mayday Parade was my jam at the time. The song hit me on a bunch of different levels and I hear music in an interesting way and it was amazing to listen to. Also, I was on the daily literally miserable at best.

Tagging: @hecking-homo @divaanya @waterdragonmp @niamhuncensored @guiltyidealist @whatmakesmehappy @lynmunn @wish-ful-thinking513

Anyone who wants to can, and if you don’t want to that’s obviously okay too!

Answer these and then tag 8 people you want to know better. tagged by @tssf-coffee

1. Birthday

March 18

2. Zodiac?

Pisces

3. Height?

5’4

4. Last Song I Listened To?

Fat bottomed girls by queen

5. Hobbies:

i do tarot and art sometimes

6. Favorite Colour:

Blue

7. Last Movie I Watched:

Star Wars

8. Favourite Books:

Pride and prejudice

9. Dream Job:

working with kids

10. Meaning behind URL:

It’s a lyric from a song called storms by Fleetwood Mac x

I tag @mythtaycal @the-country-witch @111blogger @fundamentally-loathsome-lullaby @cryptic-fox-wanderess @raevinrichardson @xlosthope @cruel–angels–thesis

[blademaster-banryu]

FE Fates character analysis: Camilla's lost potential + defending what’s still good

So in light of the recent character rankings in the Fire Emblem Heroes poll, I’ve seen a lot of backlash in response to Tharja and Camilla being so high in the runnings. (This is why I made my post announcing my support/defense of them, incidentally.) And yes, it most likely IS for the fanservice factor-- however, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they are bad characters who are UNDESERVING of their popularity. 

I seem to be firmly in the minority in thinking this, but Tharja is one of my favorite characters in Awakening and I will defend her and everything she stands for with my dying breath. I honestly think pretty much everything about her personality and writing is solid, and if you don’t like her, that’s totally fine! (If you’re gonna call her a bad character though you can just fite me, come at me scrublord I’m ripped). 

Camilla, however, is honestly a little harder to defend-- but I’d still like to try. So in the interest of objectivity and fairness, I’d like to take a proper look at where she falls short as a character, and what’s still good about her.

Wanna start with her design first; overall, it’s pretty typical femme fatale attire, the outfit pretty obviously-pandering, but I think it’s got some good things going for it; she herself is very pretty, and most of the armor pieces are aesthetically interesting. The battle panties are the biggest offender of unnecessary sexualization here IMO, exposed thighs/booties are sort of a recurring issue with mounted females in the 3DS Fire Emblems and TBH it’s just bad character design, bad for immersion and bad the characters’ dignity. You could also make a case for her exposed cleavage and heels being too unrealistic as well for similar reasons of practicality, but they’re quite not as problematic IMO. Honestly I can see both arguments, and I know there are even some female FE fans who like Camilla’s design the way it is, and who appreciate that she’s a sexy character who’s also powerful, and a really cool/unique type of unit for the series as well. I think it’s fair to say that there are some good appeal factors to her even despite the fanservicey outfit. 

Now there’s a fine line between being sexual and being sexualized, and while I think being sexual is perfectly fine as an aspect of her character, it’s clear that the decision was made to cross that line pretty hard with Camilla in Fates. Camilla’s appearances in cutscenes are rife with boob/butt shots, her behavior and much of her writing panders directly to male players... And to an extent, you know what? I get it. Sex sells. It’s a marketing tactic and it works. BUT... Having Camilla be the eye-catching sex icon does NOT have to come at the expense of her character-- Tharja is a successful example of this, I believe-- but  unfortunately I think that’s exactly what happened with Cam. 

I don’t have much to say on Camilla’s character and personality, since the Ghast Station’s video on Camilla did a great job of analyzing her and I don’t have much to add to that. At the end, Ghast concludes that his opinion is that he doesn’t like Camilla and that she’s a bad character-- and honestly, I can’t fault him for this opinion or the reasoning behind it. Most of Camilla’s writing has to do with doting over Corrin, and while this too is a keystone of her character, far too much time is given over to this and not nearly enough to fleshing out Camilla herself. So in light of that, I want to talk about what they COULD have done with her to make her more than she was and live up to her full potential.

So here’s what we DO get about Camilla: she’s protective, she’s bloodthirsty, she has attachment issues, and possibly the biggest bomb that informs her character/behavior the most: her involvement in the ‘concubine wars’ among Garon’s many lovers using their children to get a leg up on and even kill one another (there’s a great fan-made series of cutscenes about this that does a lot to make up for the insubstantial in-game writing). To me, Camilla has the potential to be one of the darkest and most tragic characters in the Fire Emblem series, but she’s never allowed to live up to that potential due to being sidelined as sex appeal and just an overall, largely inconsequential character (and it’s hard to see this as anything but sexist preference given over to the male characters, since Hinoka largely suffers from the same fate, minus the oversexualization). 

So what would I want to see from Camilla? Honestly, I want to see her being MORE violent and bloodthirsty-- I want the threats she makes to actually mean something, to be backed up by her actions. (Again with the fanmade content, there’s a great AU for this being thought of by @exaltedgrimleal and @lightningbuglane ) She threatens to break Selena’s legs for trying to leave her, to lock up Laslow for torture if he betrays her, and of course to disembowel anyone who threatens Corrin... But never do we get any payoff for these threats during cutscenes. Why not have moments where someone tries to hurt Corrin, and she disregards his/her pleas to spare them, show us that Camilla is not to be trifled with? Maybe instead of Leo, SHE could have been the one to kill Zola after he proved problematic in Conquest, that’s well within her established character to do (but nooo can’t have THAT, a woman can’t be the one to take initiative in the plot that’d be compromising her status as fanservice icon, wouldn't it lol). Even her sexualization isn’t used to further her character; with how she dresses, wouldn’t you expect that she would use her looks to manipulate people who are otherwise inconsequential to her to get something that she wants, or even better, for the benefit of her family and her kingdom? (But nope that would be empowering her sexuality wouldn’t it lol. Women have to be passive, right Japan?) Camilla is a great unit on the gameplay side of things, and having her be so inconsequential in the plot furthers the already-distracting dichotomy between plot and gameplay in Fates.

Speaking of, her class is another area where a lot of character-building (as well as worldbuilding) potential is lost IMO. Malig Knights are supposed to be sorcerous wyvern riders with undead mounts, right? That's SO unique, it’s one of the coolest new classes to be introduced in ANY Fire Emblem game! In her class alone, there's the potential to explore 1) how a wyvern rider becomes a malig knight (do they have to resurrect a wyvern? KILL their own even? think of the psychological impact that ALONE could have and how it could further inform her both the loving and dark/controlling aspects of her character), 2) Camilla's relationship with her wyvern (doesn't even have to be touched on that much, maybe in 1-2 supports), 3) her mix of proficiencies between combat, magic, animal-handling, how she trained, etc.... She, as the sole playable character unit who starts as a Malig Knight, stood to add SO much to the world of Fates, on top of her own character, purely by virtue of her class. But her wyvern/class are literally NEVER acknowledged throughout the course of the game (a flaw that extends to all of the Nohr royals, actually), and instead the focus is put on her male-pandering aspects (or rather, lack of care to make her anything else). Characters’ classes informing their character and behavior is a frequently-used writing tool in the FE series that goes utterly unused and wasted a lot in Fates, but more so with Camilla than any other character, debatably. 

So I think that about wraps it up here. Now make no mistake, despite all my complaints, I really like Camilla... but I can’t overlook her flaws-- writing flaws more so than character flaws (the latter is what makes characters interesting, after all)-- and will never hesitate to point out or criticize all the lost potential she  had to be a truly grim and/or tragic character in Fates' plot (making her be depressed and pass rule to Leo in Birthright is about the bare minimum of what they could have done with that). 

Still, I think the discourse we're even able to have over this proves that there WAS something more to Camilla than just the fanservice... Even if it wasn't much. 

So if you dislike Camilla because of how little there is to her-- or even for what she was intended to be-- that’s fine. If she had been written successfully or the way I wanted, I expect she’d be an even MORE polarizing character than she is now, haha. (Just keep in mind that a character isn’t necessarily bad just because they’re sexualized, folks, I know that’s why a lot of people hate on her lol) 

Thanks for reading and I hope I’ve given Camilla fans and haters alike some food for thought!