#yes I grew up on hard magic systems

[eri-pl]

Let's map the sons of Feanor to the Valar

for no other reason than "there are 7 of them"

Celegorm - Orome (hunting, Orome liked Celegorm and gave him a dog, I don't like them)

Maglor - Ulmo (sea, music)

Curufin - Aule (crafts)

Amrod - Namo (doomed) (unless I'm confusing Amrod and Amras?)

Amras - Irmo (the other one to the doomed)

Maedhros - Manwe (not many Valar left + is the boss of others + mountain)

Caranthir - Tulkas (for some reason... I mean, he's the only one left. Plus hot temper?)

Generally, I'm thinking a lot of the "3/7 of something" scheme, because I love mapping things to other things.

Like: Dads of E&E / Silmarils / elements / some Valar / the 3 rings / Eldar types

Earendil - air - Manwe - Elrond's ring - the Vanyar

Maglor - water - Ulmo - Galadriel's ring - the Teleri

Maedhros - fire - Melkor - Gandalf's ring - the Noldor

No, I have no idea what this accomplishes, I just like giving structure to things and finding symmetries in them.

Also the 3 is often more like a 2+1. Not an equilateral triangle, but a ... how do you call it in English? Two sides equal, one different. isosceles triangle (thank you, @annalysa)

silver/gold + darkness (trees + a spider; ice / fire and evil - the three main elements of Melkor)

alternatively, silver + gold + jewels (sun+moon+stars, especially Earendil)

Fingolfin, Finarfin and Feanor

Namo, Irmo and Nienna

Maedhros, Maglor and Earendil

Elladan, Elrohir, Arwen

those two E-guys whose names I forgot + Elwing

Anglachel, Anguirel, Maeglin (that's how I HC Eol seeing them)

Similarly, the 7 grows to 8:

sons + Feanor => 8-pointed star of their house, 8 of them made the Oath

(male) Valar + Melkor

...? I don't know.

I wonder if there's anything interesting to do with the number 9, or with the whole 1+3+7+9 scheme, this would be awesome.

[swampstew]

hii raven!! i hope you're doing okay 🤲💓 could i ask for law and NSFW prompt 3 for your Captains mini-event? much love!!

Hiiii Ceb bby♥ I'm happy to end this fun little event with your request♥ You requested NSFW, Subtle Intimacy, and I'm happy to present you with [ Hair ] sender slowly reaches out to catch a loose strand of the receiver’s hair and tuck it gently and securely back behind their ear, letting their touch linger afterwards.

Oh Captain, My Captain Law

Warnings: Spicy, Transmasc reader (no pronouns used and light mention of reader anatomy mentioned), handjob/handplay in the submarine, Law being Sassy™ Word count: 587 Minors DNI - you will be blocked.

Lightning ran through your body the moment Law’s finger grazed your ear. You tensed and he tensed for a moment too – before he finished tucking the stray hair behind your ear.

“Was that not ok?”

“No! No. I mean yes! Ah! I’m sorry I meant yes, it was ok. I didn’t mind!” your fists clenched tight as you held them to your sternum, eyes wide in exasperation. It happened every time. Every time he touched your body you felt your nerve endings light up through your central nervous system, flustering you in front of the man you admired most. Adored the most.

Secretly pined for the most.

Law smirked at you, and his fingers crept towards your face once more. Your breath hitched in anticipation and he absolutely saw.

“Missed one,” he whispered, tucking another strand of hair behind your opposite ear, only that time, his touch lingered. His fingers trailed to behind your lobe, then down to the nape of your neck. “Have I ever told you I like you hair?”

It’s hard to tell who moved first but suddenly both your heads instinctively tucked at an angle as your lips crashed into each other. Both his hands pulled at your roots as he angled your head up to his, slipping his tongue past yours in a battle of dominance.

Passionately kissing you while squeezing at your trapezius. Law began grinding his erection against you as his fingers tweaked your sensitive zones. He bit lightly on your lower lip before devouring your mouth again.

“Do you mind this?” he whispered before he pulled the hem of your stretchy sweatpants to snap against your goosebump riddled skin.

You gasped out loud before giving out a shaky nod, “W-wh-whatever you do—” you struggled to pant out through Law’s wandering fingers inside your underwear “—I can d-do better.” His eyes widened in surprise then amusement, watching your hand shyly pull at his button and zipper.

“Wanna bet?”

Caged against the steel wall by Law, he held one arm on the wall above your shoulder as his other hand strobed your sex, spreading your wetness as you mewled. You copied his actions and elicited a pleased sigh from the Captain.

He dropped his face down to suck on your neck as his pace grew noticeably sloppier – you maintained your pace and grip, firmly stroking his lengthy shaft with swift precision. With a twist of your wrist on the upwards slide, the mushroom tip spewed with sticky white all over your hand. His gray eyes were widened orbs – amazed, overwhelmed, lovestruck. A final rope of cum shot from your slowing motions and landed on your skewed sweatpants.

Law’s hand was re-energized and moved swiftly, immediately making you squirm in his hand. He rubbed his still dribbling cock against your exposed hip bone as his fingers worked their magic, returning his lips to bite at your neck. While you whimpered he husked into your ear, “I learned something new.”

He kissed you and held you to the wall as Law applied the trick you did for him to your own pleasure, and your reaction told him he was doing it right. Three seconds later and you came all over Law’s hand.

“Sh-shit. You learned that well far too quickly,” you pouted.

“I’ve always been a quick study,” Law chuckled. “C’mon, let’s change and talk about our bet.”

“But we didn’t actually bet anything.”

“I did, a date. I lost so now you have to take meon one.”

“EXCUSE ME?”

[headspace-hotel]

I think I'm addition to the lack of curiosity about nature you write about, there's something more insidious than just lack of interest. I think a lot about like, food politics and the sourcing of things we use in everyday life, and the fact that we've entered a state of society where we have to accept the fact that most goods we acquire come at some, environmental or human cost (the two are not the same but i think they're close!) The chicken you buy came from a factory farm where it spent all of its life in agony. The shirt you buy was made of fabrics produced with toxic runoff and sewn by people exploited for their labor. The potato you eat came from a monoculture farm which renders the soil barren due to use of pesticides and artificial fertilizers. And it's not like our individual choices can affect this directly - but it still fucking sucks!! And the system works because we don't think about it. Because most of us are removed from it. And it's easier to not have that curiosity: where did my cotton/rayon/wool/polyester come from? How was the soap i use made? Who grew my broccoli and how? Who suffers and who profits? And i know this was a roundabout way, but the curiosity that makes you uncomfortable with these hard facts starts right on the local level. It starts with looking at your lawn and asking what's in the fertilizer. It starts with trying to grow food and realizing how hard it can be. It starts with looking at the goldenrod that grows in the cracks of the highway median and asking "why are you there? What are you up to?" (This path can vary depending on your lifestyle but that's how it went for me) And no amount of "just switch to linen/buy reusable bags/get a farm share/make your own bread idk" hot tips is going to replace that essential need for asking and wondering and learning which starts by just looking at your immediate outside world and asking questions about it

Yes. I certainly agree.

In that post talking about curiosity, I am putting forward curiosity as a way to resist a systemic problem.

The alienation from nature was created by a capitalist system. This system didn't set out to alienate us from nature on purpose, but it set out to make us into consumers, and alienation from nature was the result. People who have access to the natural world are generally happier and more content (this has been studied extensively). They have access to beauty and mental stimulation, slowness, uncontrolled space without expectations, solace, peaceful chaos. Nature shows you an "Is" without "Should Be." Nature shows you to a pawpaw grove and says, here. Take and eat. It is a gift.

Our world says "Everything is owned by someone who has the right to it by virtue of having money, and this ownership of space, time, water, food, and even beauty is the most sacred rule of all. Since you own nothing, you must give yourself, pouring yourself out so you may deserve life in exchange."

But there is a deeper magic. Stand among the plants and trees and listen.

What have you done to earn or deserve this stillness? This softness, this quiet, this mercy? The nourishing food and warming fiber and sturdy shelter that is offered to you? The time here is not measured. There is no authority to command your behavior. Nothing is being asked of you. You will not be punished.

What can you offer to justify resting and partaking of pleasure?

Explore this question until all is quiet, except your own quiet reverence and your own breathing.

Do you see the answer?

[journalsouppe]

Mwah Mwah Mwah I love you the Adventure of Link <3 You're a tough game but you don't deserve all the hate you get. OUGH yall i love this game so much the soundtrack slaps incredibly hard

Genuinely one of my favorite Zelda games esp in terms of lore and musici, if I grew up in the 80s and played this this game would've been my special interest for sure

The stickers are from the ALTTP sticker pack by Comstock Cafe and I just took the stickers that were the most generic to use for this game and the original Legend of Zelda ^_^;

Writing typed below!

Rating: 8.0 Played: Sp 2023 Port: NES Switch Special Edition (YES I PLAYED THE EASY VERSION I WAS TRYING TO BEAT THIS BEFORE TOTK)

Comments

Initial thoughts: reminds me of the claymation mythology movies (aka Jason and the Argonauts and Clash of the Titans)

This reminds me a lot of Joust

little link statue <3

this feels nothing like a zelda game

(in reference to above comment) the mechanics are a little off putting but this is actually a very zelda game, it takes getting used to but i'm enjoying it

I'm actually really obsessed with the zelda II lore and story, love the magic system

omg the iron knuckle

interesting bosses! it would be fun to see them return

damn gooma was so hard

wolfheads can burn in hell

I like how much the future zelda games are insp by this game!!!

how would you ever know how to find new kasuto without a guide T^T

FUCK WIZZROBES

-> they were't too bad in this game bc you can actually block them (I hate top down wizzrobes and hate a visceral reaction lol)

i absolutely love that you can turn into a fairy, this should've been a reused mechanic

"this is the first game where Link shape shifts as well as the first game where the process is voluntary and beneficial" oh my god T^T

I love how Barba/Volvagian returned in Ocarina!!!! LOVE!!

I FORGOT THE CROSS

It's funny how Link can't swim in these games so he walks on water instead

items collected are used in the overworld

I love this game a lot actually

the mega demon looking bubble?? T-T

the regional differences are really interesting

the design of the thunderbird is crazy cool

love the shadow link fight also insane you don't get to heal and replenish magic

zelda and link having 2 different styles is so funny, link looks so goofy

This game had a massive difficulty spike compared to the original The Legend of Zelda game. However, I loved this game so much and you can see how much influence games like OOT and TWW took from it. The music is incredible and iconic, I love the enemy designs and their grittiness, and I love how despite never playing this game before, I had a lot of nostalgia for it bc I played Joust as a kid. This was a great sequel for its time and continued the story well -- Link has gotten 2/3 of the triforce pieces and rescued zelda and defeated Ganon in the first game. Now he has to complete multiple trials in order to get the triforce of courage and save zelda from the past. The end fight being a 2 boss rush AND the true boss being the shadow of youself -- AKA the hardest boss in the series if you don't cheese the battle, it's great what an incredible idea. And OOT used it again with another incredible idea -- reflection, conquer yourself. Are you a true hero if you can't even outmatch, out wit, out last your own self, your own shadow? UGH as a huge OOT fan I just loved this game and seeing all the influence it had. I'd def play it again in the future.

[wizardsandcrystals]

Theistic Satanic/Luciferian Journal

@czortofbaldmountain made this post and I decided to answer them! If you're curious about reading about my practice here are my responses!

Who is Lucifer/Satan to you personally and what is his role in your life?

He is my teacher, mentor, and father– He comforts me, teaches and encourages me, as well as strengthens me in my beliefs and against fears and anxieties. I however do not see him necessarily as a ‘god’ or ‘deity,’ and it is in my particular experience that is not how he would wish to be seen. “No gods, no masters” includes him too.

How did you become a Luciferian/Satanist and why do you remain one?

I found out about non-theistic Satanism through a leftist atheist YouTube channel, who happened to post a video about Paradise Lost, describing how Satan is a representation of liberation and is a sympathetic character and was a start of romantic Satanism. This intrigued me, and he had followed this video with a vlog of a Satanist convention and interviews with Satanists. I felt deeply moved with the leftist and anti-fascist political views that it encouraged as a belief system that had already aligned with my current political beliefs. Through exploring Tumblr, I saw that Luciferian and theistic-Satanists existed. While I had never felt any connection to any deity or particular vein of belief or religion and after leaving Christianity have always been a mixture of spirituality in my witchcraft but it also very atheistic and logical. However, the idea of an actual Satan was so incredibly comforting. My general theory is that if you believe it, it is true to you and you choose whether something is real or not when it comes to spirits, whether or not in reality it is true. I choose to believe that Satan is real, even though I know that this image of Satan (and other demons and spirits) is something that I have in a sense made up in my own head. Therefore, ironically, I identify as an atheistic theistic Satanist witch. 

As for why I remain a Satanist, I choose to stay as one, the community that I have found for myself is incredibly important to me. Two, as I mentioned, I find him comforting, and I have only had good experiences with him and other demons. I have a tendency to be very hard on myself and he keeps me sane in reminding myself that the pleasures of life are okay. He also encourages me to be skeptical and learn. I have always loved learning.

If you were raised in a different religion, what is your relationship to it?

I was raised as a non-denominational Christian in a very small local church. My relationship with Christianity in general has become less fiery and touchy as I know that people can be a leftist Christian who doesn’t force their beliefs on people. However, I am still extremely critical of those who use their religion to harm and bludgeon their own values into law. Which, in the United States, is an extremely common theme. I have and will continue to be vocal about the Christian fascists that are in the government. The church that I grew up in falls under this. The pastor’s son is a state representative in which I live. His father constantly speaks right wing conservative garbage which has completely warped my parents. The community there is very tight-knit to the point of possible cult-like behavior that I have to pretend to be a part of due to my current living situation. Talking to my parents and their constant bringing up of their brand of Christianity leaves me still feeling quite hurt and angry. 

Do you practice magic? If yes, how does it relate to your religion?

Yes, I do and it predates my Satanism. After becoming an atheist, I said fuck it, I want to learn about everything that was deemed off limits. Through Tumblr, I learned about witches and instantly was interested. I still see it as a helpful therapeutic placebo effect to calm and soothe the mind. Does placing ingredients in a jar actually protect you when you’re nervous about traveling? No, but the idea of having something physical is comforting and allows that anxiety to lessen. Remember kid, magic is not a replacement for common sense and medical advice!

Do you work with or venerate demons other than Lucifer/Satan or other beings associated with him? If not, would you like to? Which ones?

I work with a couple demons including Caim, Bune, Vine, and if you consider them separate, Baphomet. In terms of Caim, I call him in my divination practice and work with animals, Bune for my money/work magic, and Vine for protection and justice magic.

Do you consider to be worshipping Lucifer/Satan? How do you personally feel about worship in general?

No. As said previously he is not a god or deity to me which is what worship implies. I feel uncomfortable with worship as a concept as it comes off sometimes as a requirement for a good relationship with the being like in Christianity. In general, I don’t like the idea of hierarchies in any fashion. To worship is to say they are above or better than you in some way. No being is more important than another whether physical or metaphysical. 

How do you feel about Christian God?

I have complex feelings about the Christian god. I don’t like the idea of a perfect being that can supposedly do no wrong. One that has requirements to be subservient to him to not experience eternal suffering on top of the suffering that already exists in this world. I also don’t like him taking credit for human accomplishments. However, due to my upbringing, in certain times of fear, I do also call out to him as well. That small voice in my head that Christian guilt still appears on occasion. 

How do you feel about angels? How about Michael specifically?

My denomination I grew up with did not work with/speak much of angels or saints like Catholics do. Angels are a faceless group of beings acting as a guardian for people or an army that do whatever the Christian god says against demons in the spiritual war. Therefore I haven’t got any strong feelings about them. In a sense I do feel pity, because unlike fallen angels like Satan they are deluded, and in another anger at their inability to question the god they serve.

Do you work with or venerate any Christian spirits?

Nope, and I don’t plan to. 

Write a Luciferian/Satanist poem.

Be the wolf not sheep

Be the stars that light the dark

Uplift the inner god

What aspects of Lucifer/Satan are currently the most significant in your practice?

Resilience. I am going through a rough patch in my life in which I am away from the people and places that I love, have no money, and forced to hide pretty much every aspect of my identity for my own safety. He encourages me to live on and continue to strive for what I want. 

What symbols are significant to you as a Luciferian/Satanist?

For me, the image of Baphomet or the “as above so below” hands is the most significant. Aesthetically I like the inverted pentagram and the Leviathan’s Cross but they don’t hold any religious significance to me.

Write a Luciferian/Satanist prayer.

Satan, guide us in thy flame and morning light

Keep us within thy protective black wings

Come forth and help us raise ourselves up against oppression

Remind us of our common humanity and ourselves as honorable gods

Ave Satanas!

Nema

Is there anything you would like to change about your practice? How can you do that?

I wish that I could be more consistent and diversify my magic. I have worked to be more consistent over the past year but mental health will always affect that. As for diversifying my magic, I need to do more research. I have been intrigued by numerology and astrology, but never fully dove into either. 

If you were not always a Luciferian/Satanist, how did you change since you became one?

I have become much more comfortable and enthusiastic to learn about the occult and the ability to more comfortably engage with Christianity. When I was an atheist or even a Christian I felt so incredibly uncomfortable with interacting with it on my own without the use of a mediator. Now, I am more okay with doing so critically and from a perspective that I’m sure of on my own. Doesn’t make it any more enjoyable, but I can more easily pick it apart.

What is your favorite text relating to your religion and why?

My favorite text is probably Rev. Cain’s The Infernal Gospel, purely for its digestibility, and it's easy to build off of your own personal beliefs. I also enjoyed Ellen Pagel’s The Origin of Satan as it granted me a historical and factual reference for the development of the idea of Satan and Christianity. It really helped me understand Christianity not from an ideological standpoint, but as a text and idea that reflected the humans that lived through social and political events. A way of depicting what the human authors were going through.

What are your favorite and least favorite fictional depictions of Lucifer/Satan and why?

I have not really seen any fictional depictions of Satan, outside of Paradise Lost, that I particularly like. Demons in general on the other hand, my favorite depictions

What has Luciferianism/Satanism helped you with?

Confidence, dealing with that self-critical voice, and giving myself purpose.

What Luciferian/Satanist stories are important to you and why? (ex. stories of the Garden of Eden or the Rebellion of Angels)

The Rebellion of Angels for sure. The act of rejecting dictatorship and embracing yourself and creating your own domain really resonates with me. 

Do you listen to music with Luciferian/Satanist themes? Do you feel your religion has any impact on what you like to listen to?

I adore punk music now. Music that directly calls out injustice or is about embracing yourself as a weirdo and outsider. I jumped into this kind of music after identifying as a Satanist but always had an interest–it makes it that much more meaningful to me. I also listen to some demon hymns.

Write a thank you note to Lucifer/Satan.

Thank you for bringing out the best qualities in me. Caring for me. Allowing me to feel more comfortable in being myself!

What do you find to be hard about being a Luciferian/Satanist?

The hardest is hiding it and the horrid misguided people have about it. At one point in my life I didn’t have to hide it and was quite open about it but now I cannot and it's so frustrating. I also find it frustrating hearing Christians fear-monger about us when it is obvious they have no idea what we really do or are. Constantly being blamed for every bad thing. A good recent example of this is the destruction of the TST Baphomet statue this past winter by a fundamentalist Christian that spewed lies about how horrible we are on TV. Thankfully, the man is being charged for a hate crime and is being tried in May. I hope that the charges stick.

What about being a Luciferian/Satanist brings you joy?

I love the community it brought me and the (near) daily rituals that allow me to engage with the spiritual in a meaningful way to me.

Do you feel alienated sometimes as a Luciferian/Satanist? Do you have or would like to have some kind of community? If you don't but would like to, how can you find it?

Yes. I would love a better in-person community. The one group IRL that I have visited was alright but I do not think I vibe well with them so I haven’t gone back. However I have a couple discord servers and an online satanic church that have been a near lifeline for me. 

Describe your ideal altar or sacred space.

I nearly had it and you can find it on my tumblr. My decks, idols, crystals, jars, candles, and (what I never got to do) my Baphomet tapestry.

What songs, if you have any, remind you of Lucifer/Satan?

TX2-Randy McNally (No Love Like Christian Hate)

Pierce the Veil-King for a Day

Pansy Division-Blame the Bible

Bad Religion-Punk Rock Song

Nine Inch Nails-Happiness in Slavery

Is fun a part of your religious practice and why yes or no? If yes, in what ways? If not, would you like to incorporate it? How?

Yes to an extent. My fun is including pop culture demons to my practice such as Sebastian from Black Butler or Crowley from Good Omens. They bring me happiness. I sometimes wish I could be more silly with it but it is hard because the side of Satan I see and have interacted with is quite serious.

Do you have any Luciferian/Satanist UPGs? What are they?

My UPG is that he loves roses and chocolate, loves physical touch (I have felt him actually touch me multiple times), and in general a quiet man. 

What are some interesting things about your local devil lore? Research if you don't know.

I have tried to do some research for my local area, however, most I’ve been able to find are in Kansas about an hour away. Some say there is a chair that is a portal to hell, a cemetery or that the devil appears in a cemetery’s chapel on Halloween, and a stairway that leads to hell. In general, it seems Stull, Kansas is particularly steeped for devil folklore.

If you have any, what are your favorite songs you associate with Lucifer/Satan or your religion in general?

See 26.

What are your favorite depictions of Lucifer/Satan in visual arts and why? What makes them speak to you?

Le Génie du Mal by Guillaume Geefs, 1848 for its rendition displaying his beauty and his gentleness and L’Ange Dechu (The Fallen Angel) by Alexandre Cabanel, 1847 for how it depicts the rawness of emotion of betrayal by the Christian god. 

Your thoughts on Romantic and Socialist Satanism (if you don't know what they are, research - they are important to the development of Satanism and Luciferianism as religions).

Well I find Romantic Satanism interesting as an academic, its influence on art and literature as a movement off of an accidental sympathetic portrayal seems uniquely…satanic in the twisting of something used to prop up Christian society to create works questioning humanity like Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. I would also argue Rocky Horror Picture Show is a great example. Similarly, Socialist Satanism is a cool political tool that is logical and unique. I am not as familiar with it, however it seems like you could try and compare TST to be a modern (and problematic…and ineffective) rendition . 

Your thoughts on the Bible.

The Bible is a book. A book of myths alongside the mythologizing of history by humans to fit their own beliefs. For example, the worshiping of the golden calf done by Aaron and the jews in the desert while they waited on Moses is a way of shaming a version of Yaweh that originally was in the form of a cow that was still accepted in other sects. The devil was added in later, the use of the word Satan to refer to any nonbeliever. 

Your thoughts on Paradise Lost.

I have only read the beginning as of yet, and from the start it definitely seems that Milton didn’t necessarily mean for Satan to come across as a sympathetic character, but however he did succeed in making him and hell seem pretty damn cool. 

Choose a myth involving Lucifer/Satan and reflect on it.

. The myths of selling your soul to the devil to acquire fame always struck me as odd. Perhaps it's because the idea of fame sounds awful to me.

What has Lucifer/Satan done for you and what can you do for him?

They have given me security and support, and I really want to honor them by continuing my studies and also continuing my offerings. I do need to ask him more for his thoughts and guidance directly. 

Do you meditate as part of your religious practice? Which forms of meditation work best for you, and which do not? Why?

I struggle with meditation, my brain needs stimulation and for my hands to be moving. My version of meditation is usually a couple seconds of quiet in front of my altar I try to do everyday, offering a prayer to the demons.

Do you celebrate any festivals or special days as part of your religious practice?

Holidays I celebrate: 

I do acknowledge the wheel of the year, though not particularly seriously minus Yule and Samhain

Shayreh’s Created Holidays 

Quintessence–Jan 13-14

Florae Infernelle–March 19-20

Flames Out–Sept 15

Ars Trivium–Nov 5

Lightrising–Dec 19-25

Have you ever done an official dedication? If yes, what did you do and how did it affect you? If not, would you like to?

No, I haven’t. I would like to at some point. I see it as an extremely serious commitment and would want it to be done properly and not something done rushed. 

If you were baptized, have you ever revoked your baptism? If yes, how did you do that and what did it change? If not, would you like to or not? Why?

I was baptized when I was a preteen. However I don’t particularly see it as necessary to revoke it at this particular point as it's pretty obvious that I no longer serve the christian god (I didn’t really even when I was baptized) and when I get around to doing an official dedication I believe that formally revokes it.

If you make offerings, what do you like to give Lucifer/Satan (it doesn't have to be physical)? What do you think he likes to receive?

I do make offerings, less often than I’d like/used to when I was living on my own. Now I have to be much more secretive. I offer cigarettes I’m smoking, chocolate, and coffee nowadays. I used to have a jar that I’d recharge every night with moonwater. He also enjoys roses and alcohol.

If you use pre-written prayers, what is your favorite one and why?

I don't usually but I do have a prayer book that includes this one in Latin–and I love any excuse to speak it:

 Sit laus Satanas: laudate Satanas: laudata Satanas.

Satanas in nomine nigra flamma.

Potestatem filios terrae.

Et Rex magnus, glorificamus te iungere

Tantum ergo Sacramentum Veneremur virtutis tuae satanas,

Dominum nostrum de terra deorsum regionum

Satan regit et fortis materia, et floria, et imperium sempiternum

Sic factum est!

Rewrite a Christian prayer. Try to not make it a simple name switch, but something actually fitting the context of your religion.

We never had any scripted prayers in my old church, so honestly I don’t know any minus the Lord’s Prayer that was said to be a template on how to pray–it was supposedly not meant to be recited or prayed word-for-word. 

How do you see Lucifer/Satan? It doesn't have to be based on visions, you can just describe how you imagine him to look when you think of him. You don't have to limit yourself to visualizing either, especially if you struggle with it! What scents do you associate with him, for example?

Most UPG I have is the forms for Satan and the other demons I interact with. The form he comes to me in is similar to Elias from the anime The Ancient Magus Bride, sometimes with large leathery wings like a bat that he wraps me in. Caim comes to me as a blackbird most of the time. Bune as a large dragon with multiple heads. Vine as a man with the head of a lion in golden armor on a white steed.

How has your practice changed since you have started?

My practice is much more slimmed down and streamlined with me moving back in with my christian parents. I cannot have a proper altar how I’d like, I have to hide all my decks, I had to leave my dedicated clothing and items behind. 

Do you consider Lucifer/Satan to be a deity?

No, as previously stated.

Did you use to be afraid of Lucifer/Satan? What were you afraid of and how did it change? Do you have some remaining fears?

I wasn’t particularly afraid of him, more afraid of Hell and eternal suffering. I never understood blaming all bad things on just one random guy. What was his purpose if you already supposedly knew that god was unbeatable? My main anxiety working with Satan was the human judgements.

Your thoughts on Hell.

I still get anxiety around what if all that's said about how horrible Hell is is real. My rational thoughts say that it doesn’t really exist. 

Do you consider blasphemy or inversion a part of your religious practice? Why yes or no? If yes, what is its role?

No. I never felt particularly strongly about being a christian when I was a believer and not really one to be vengeful towards god for just growing up how I was raised. I suppose that falls in line with how a being only really exists or is true to the person who believes him. I wasn’t ever a particularly dedicated believer in the first place. I’m more to go around shaming christo-fascists/nationalists than the christian god.

How can you fight the far right presence and ideas in the Left Hand Path community?

Check your sources. Look for dog whistles. Learn the talking points. Call them out and defend/stand up for those who are being attacked. 

How is your religion present in your daily life?

It's not super consistent but I try to light incense and cleanse my room and self, pray at my altar, sign the inverted cross, draw a ‘demon of the day’ card, anoint myself morning and evening with sun and moon water, and spray myself with my dedicated cologne.

Do you like complex rituals, or do you prefer to keep things simple? Why?

I typically have low spoons so I like simplicity, however I do enjoy more complex rituals on special occasions. They do tend to make me feel particularly close with Satan.

What aspects of Lucifer/Satan do you feel are most present in your practice? Would you like to explore some other ones? Why or why not?

The most present aspects are that I try and participate in activism and spreading awareness of key humanitarian issues, I study and love to learn, I love breaking gender and sexual norms, and strive for my independence. 

What do you think happens after we die? Is it important to you or not? Why?

My religious thoughts are that Hell is just a place where you spend eternity with Satan and the other demons, working with them to help continue to guide humanity when we die. Again my logic says it's an eternal sleep without dreams.

What things about your practice are the most important to you and why?

Divination. It’s my longest lasting aspect and it keeps me focused in my practice.

How would you describe what your religion is about to someone who knows nothing about it?

I have described it as live and let live, do what you want forever, and fuck bigots in a trenchcoat. 

Where do your ethics come from?

My ethics come from a humanitarian perspective to support and respect all. Let people live even if they’re different from you. Fight oppressive systems and those who purport it. Uplift each other. Inaction is an action.

How do your ethics relate to your religion?

They fall in line, however I am not as quick to anger or revenge as stereotypically seen in Satanist philosophy. I also am not as individualistic and highly believe in community and going against the USA’s obsession with hyper individuality. Socialism rules.

What do you appreciate about Lucifer/Satan?

I appreciate his softness that compliments his firmness. He is absolutely not afraid to roast you and then hold you.

Do you use any kind of divination as part of your religious practice? If yes, what methods work best for you?

I use tarot, oracle cards, my ‘demon of the day’ deck, and my pendulum on occasion. 

How does cultural Christianity affect you as a Luciferian/Satanist? What things you do or beliefs you hold are culturally Christian? If you live in a Christian culture, it's likely more than you think even if you were not raised in the religion.

I mostly fall in celebrating some culturally christian holidays from a secular perspective like Christmas (give gifts and be jolly with those you love) and Valentine’s Day (an excuse to be lovey dovey with your partner). Easter is for chocolate.

If you are interested in Lilith (or any closed figure), what are the qualities of her that speak to you? What open figures with those qualities could you explore in your practice instead? Research if you don't know.

Nope. I’ve never been interested in anything related to her. 

What does it mean to you to be a Luciferian/Satanist?

It means bettering yourself and others the best you can for the sake of the greater good.

Is sexuality a part of your religious practice? What is its role in it?

Yes but not to a major degree. I do like dedicating orgasms on occasions and do find queer BDSM with my partner to be beautiful and godly. I have also had Satan come to me in the middle of having sex with him and tell me he chose my partner for me. It was so intense we had to stop because I started crying. It was so moving and special to me that Satan knows me so well to choose someone so wonderful for me. 

If you were planning a ritual or any religious activity for a group of people, what would it be and how would it look?

I’m not sure, perhaps dedicating acts of service or activism with those in need.

What non-satanic philosophies and practices do you find inspiring?

I find the idea of Socialism to be quite inspiring. Fuck capitalism. 

What makes your religious practice personal and truly yours?

The fact that I almost exclusively do sigils, spells, hexes, and rituals that I have created myself (either on the fly or planned) and have a personal relationship with Satan.

What would you like to change about Luciferianism/Satanism and why?

I’d like to change its stereotypes and inaccurate reputation/representation so that we can gain better understanding from the wider public. I also would like for non-theistic Satanists to not try and erase theistic Satanists or claim we’re just as crazy as Christians.

What ideas in LaVey's works do you think are connected to his fascist sympathies and how can you challenge their presence in the LHP community? Do you think you were influenced by them? How can you deconstruct them?

I never interacted much with LaVey’s works–what little I did instantly turned me off as it struck me as generally hostile– and I have never interacted with any LaVeyans either. I stick close to my own current community. However, his belief in the Satanist superiority/hierarchy and beliefs in eugenics is inherently disgusting. It directly goes against what Satanism stands for–the equality and divine in all humans.

What plants and animals in your local environment are associated with Lucifer/Satan? Research!

Aralia spinosa grows in Missouri and is nicknamed the Devil’s Walking Stick!

What popular ideas in your religion do you disagree with and why?

To a certain extent, the inner god. I believe in all beings being on equal ground and the word ‘god’ assumes you rule over others absolutely. While you can to an extent be self-determined, there are just things outside your control. 

What texts were influential for you as a Luciferian/Satanist and how?

I think the most influential text has been Paradise Lost. Just because it is what convinced me to look into Satanism seriously.

How can you connect your religious practice to your culture?

I don’t identify with a particular culture, I'm just a bland white suburban American with no connection to any familial or regional roots and traditions. 

Would you like to incorporate your hobbies or interests into your religious practice? How can you do that?

I love to make gothic and satanic themed sims builds! I also love fashion and including satanic themes and motifs in my outfits!

Research and describe a local folk demon or a folk demon from the culture of your ancestors. If you really can't find one, just describe any folk demon you find interesting.

I found some mysterious monsters rather than demons, but one is the Ozark Howler or the Devil Cat that supposedly takes the form of a large cat like a cougar (however they don’t live in this area) and glowing eyes that can let out a howl that can kill however if you hear it three times. Some people apparently say it’s the size of a bear with shaggy long hair and horns.

Describe a Christian story you perceive differently as a Luciferian/Satanist. How and why is it different?

The myth of Job is an interesting one, Satan and God making a bet on him to test his faithfulness. As a Satanist, my feelings are mixed. On one hand, like in Noah’s Ark, it shows the Christian God’s ability to be cruel and propensity for killing for the sake of his own interest. Especially as Job was supposedly the most faithful man and following God’s will. On the other hand, the actual enactment of the violence was done by Satan. However, when someone hires a hitman, it's not just the hitman who gets tried for murder. Satan is forthright in his actions, even offering Job an out of his suffering, sympathetic to him by offering him the same offer he gave his fellow angels at the great fall–renounce God in order to be free of his tyranny. If anything, at least Satan is willing to be honest and put his face to his actions while God sat invisible, immoveable,  and deaf to Job’s losses.

Your thoughts on the concept of sin.

Sin doesn’t exist, it's merely a way for christians to shame others.

Do you have some personal religious traditions? Describe them.

I’ve only been a Satanist for a year, so I don’t have any personal traditions.

Do you perceive Lucifer and Satan as the same or different and why?

 For me Satan, Lucifer, and Baphomet are a trinity–three in one, each representing an aspect of the same being. Satan being the rebellious political spirit, Lucifer being the skeptical and knowledge-seeking spirit, and Baphomet being the celebration of the human experience and diversity spirit (e.g. inner-gods). They are all obviously intertwined and participate together in the Satanist system, you cannot separate them. I generally refer to all of them as either Satan/Lucifer, however if I want to focus on a particular aspect I will call them by the associated name.

Does your religion bring you comfort? If yes, how?

Yes, as it provides me with a sense of control and a sense of community. 

Describe a folk story about Lucifer/Satan, preferably a local one.

The closest thing I could find are the folk tales of the Ozark Howlers, essentially the american hellhound or Black/Old Shuck. Not exactly about him, but I’m having a h

How do you connect with your own divinity? When do you feel it the most?

When I’m with my partner. They compliment my personality and bring out my best, stretching me and helping me grow!

Recognizing your inherent worth and divinity also means recognizing it within other beings. How does it affect your treatment of them and do you think something about it should change?

I think that I need to be braver and more active with irl interactions. I tend to be a hermit and therefore just don’t interact much with others to appreciate them.

Do you have an interest in the dark and macabre, for example, vulture culture or certain kinds of music? What makes it speak to you? Do you think it intersects with your religion? If yes, how?

Oh yes. I’m fascinated by dark mysteries and ghost stories, goth decor and alt fashion. I also like spending time in graveyards and speaking/being with the spirits. I think it does as I often do death work and find death to be an aspect of life–something that connects us all as humans.

Choose an aspect of Lucifer/Satan and reflect on it.

His thirst for knowledge. I love learning even though it's hard for me to structure time and focus for myself. I like having something in common with him.

Do you consider yourself a pagan? Why or why not?

Not particularly, as I don’t believe in any nature-based beings or practice much nature-based magic. 

Is taking care of yourself a part of your practice? How?

Very much so however I’m still not great at it, I’m working on it and try not beat myself up about it. I try to work on hygiene and skincare.

What makes you appreciate earthly life?

Food and sex for physical appreciation. If you’ve experienced the power behind being in a choir, there’s nothing more beautiful and human.

If you have ex-Christian trauma, has the religion you practice now helped you? How?

I do. My religion has helped me develop my own sense of self outside my parents and my ex partner. To be braver. To be more myself. 

What values and virtues do you associate with Lucifer/Satan? How can you make them more present in your life?

Bravery is what I most associate with him. I also associate rebellion and love with him. I definitely need more bravery–I’m an extremely anxious person. I need to challenge myself more.

Has your religion helped you with accepting yourself? If yes, how?

Definitely. It accentuates my queerness and encourages me to not be so harsh on myself. I’m horribly self-critical.

What makes you feel connected to Lucifer/Satan?

Reading. Academics. Church.

Are you Luciferian or Satanist? Why are you on this path and not the other? Is there something you appreciate about the other one and would like to incorporate into your own practice? If yes, how can you do that?

I identify as a Satanist, though I do have Luciferian tendencies to have Lucifer and Satan as two aspects of the same being and to separate him from Christian lore. However I do not believe in a light and dark and believe spiritual goals are only important to you if you believe so. If you are a casual Satanist because that’s what suits you that’s cool.

What things about Christianity do you think are harmful? What do you appreciate and is it something you would like to take inspiration from? If yes, how can you do that?

Harmful things: blind faith, tendency for text literalism, subservience and superiority, proselytizing, and us vs. them innateness in believers and non believers. I do appreciate taking care of others and loving thy neighbor. I try to do those things daily.

Write down some problematic things about your own religion. How can you counteract them?

The ability for independence to turn into superiority/right-wing fascism and cultural appropriation. I hope the prevalence of anti-fascist Satanists and calling them and those practices out continue to grow and raise awareness.

What good things do you think your religion brings to the world? How can you make the world better as a Luciferian/Satanist?

I think it brings a sense of community to those who are rejected by society or oppressed by established systems. Supporting and being active in your Satanist and local community is your number one way to make the world better.

What makes you proud of yourself?

This is a surprisingly hard question. I’m proud of how I took a giant chance to move to the UK for those few years. The best few years of my life and I wouldn’t change it for the world.

What brings you pleasure? Do you ever feel guilty for enjoying harmless things? If yes, why and how can you help yourself release that guilt?

Food. FOOD. I struggle with disordered eating and feel extremely guilty. It's one of my main things I am working on with Baphomet and Satan. They remind me that you can and should enjoy food. You should have balance at the same time to make sure you stay healthy and don’t spend all your money on it. 

What interesting things about your religion have you learned recently?

I recently learned that Agrat and Azazel enjoy weed lmao.

What are the subjects in the realm of your religion you would like to learn more about?

I want to learn more about more goetic demons, as I’m only familiar with a few! Especially lesser known ones! Also Leviathan too.

[satancopilotsmytardis]

Second chapter of current! Fuck yeah! (I'm writing this as I read and just putting my thoughts down, so some questions I bring up might be answered later in the chapter)

Dabi is so anxious. I mean, there's a good reason for that, but y'know. Nobody explained shit to him, just told him not to worry about it.

They are still disgustingly in love I see.

I understand why Dabi is so unsettled by everyone carrying weapons. As someone who grew up in Europe, where weapons are heavily monitored, thinking about going somewhere where everyone carries them openly sets me on edge, too.

Sire lore!! You know, I think Dabi would make for a very interesting siren. Not in this story, but in general. Hmmm.

Dabiii :(. I'm sure Tomura is happy to answer any and all questions you have.

Oooh chocolate! I really like how you portray the language barrier and how everyone is trying to work around it. As well as how some words don't exist in one language or the other!

Somehow, I don't think everyone eats that much each day.

Please, please explain eating to Dabi. The poor guy. Tomura, you know he is worried. And I know this is all normal for you, but for fucks sake.

I don't know if it's more funny or tragic that Dabi assumes they're guppies. He's trying so, so hard to deal with everything, but he's just missing so much information. He really wants to adapt, and understand. Honestly, I'm surprised Shigaraki isn't asking him more questions.

Shigaraki wants Dabi to be part of his world and sure, I can understand that. He doesn't want his mate to go hungry, but we haven't seen him really try to understand Dabi's culture in turn. Sure, he wants to know, but he doesn't ask about it, even with Toga there to translate. Might come in the future, but yeah.

Magne! Lol, finally someone who tells the others off for literally explaining nothing. Well, not nothing, but y'know. And she's right. Tomura does ask very few personal questions.

Oooh this is good. Explaining about culture for both of them! I was wondering how things in Hollow Reef are goong.

Nice touch that Magne is a clownfish, btw, since with real clownfish the biggest of the group changes gender.

Oh. Since Toga is, technically, a hunter, Dabi makes sure to eat less than her. Or maybe he wants to see how much is eaten on average. Probably a bit of both.

Oh boy! Dabi sure is going through it. But hey, they finally talk about it! About time.

"scared?" "Not of you" oh my god. They are sickeningly sweet. No wonder Tomura wants to tell Dabi that he loves him. They're both so down bad. Oh my god.

Ah, yes. Arena fights and challenges that end with one person dead and eaten. That sure is a way to resolve conflict. Especially since I'm sure Shigaraki totally has the option to refuse a challenge, as prince :)

(that was sarcasm. The eggs I understand. It's a solid system. But we still don't know the rules about fights, so idk about that)

Ah yes, death threats. Pretty sure Spinner only won because they were on land and Shig was distracted, but imagining him just getting pushed into the water and later coming oit again, dripping wet and seething, is very funny.

Oooh, I can't wait for the magic reveal. I think your magic system here is really cool! With all the little details and stuff. Since Rei has told Dabi about sirens, maybe that was just people who couldn't control their gifts? I do think Dabi will end up having one, btw, though I'm not sure which one. Could be it only works above water, if it has to do with fire? But it would be really cool if he could create/control/maintain fire underwater. I wonder if the hunters learn how to use magic?

Disgustingly sweet. Spinner agrees, lol.

I wonder how Dabi plans on hiding his necklace once he has to go back to Hollow Reef. He won't leave it on the island, or maybe he will? But he can't wear it. Too much risk of it being taken away.

Oooh, the finally have the mate talk!!

Learning how to express all that sexual stuff sure is going to be an experience, lol. Dabi's oral fixation is true in every universe. Shigaraki is being responsible and wants to talk first but it's hard when both he and Dabi are so desperate.

Poor Toga has to teach Shigaraki dirty talk in another language. Do it for the chocolate!

Party time! This is where the sneak-peek you gave us is from, right? Nice.

Poor Dabi has a hangover. Good thing Shigaraki is there to take care of him. Dabi just spitting out his whole stomach when he vomits and Shigaraki being caught so off guard by it.

Using a party so there is less to talk about the next meeting is very much unprofessional. Like yeah, that might work, but that doesn't mean issues will actually be resolved.

The meeting sure is something. I'm sure Shigaraki just didn't think of it when inviting Dabi to join them, but the ritual to see if someone is fit to join the sirens is brutal. Good that the kid made it and Dabi didn't have to watch him die? Magical awakening or something, I don't know.

Of fucking course Overhaul causes trouble. I understand why you want to make fried shrimp now. And of course a challenge can't be avoided. Knew there was something up with that law. Like, I'm sure that Dabi will win, simply because Overhaul is too much of a bitch to be able to beat him, but he is at a disadvantage here. I wonder if that fight might activate Dabi's magic? Actually making fried shrimp out of Overhaul would be funny as fuck. (And also tasty)

Oh, too bad. I wanted to see Dabi fight, but I understand he isn't ready yet. Shigaraki will make Overhaul regret ever challenging his mate :)

Oh boy! Dabi sure feels guilty for putting his mate in that position!

Oof, imagine your dad died and you eat him (you know, to pay respect) and suddenly a guard shows up because your king/prince wants a bite too. Kinda fucked up, not gonna lie.

Ah, I suspected eating others is somehow tied up with the magic. I love hearing more about all of this, though "following the natural order of things" is not as good of an argument as you make it out to be.

"I want you to be strong." Dabi has spend so much time forcing himself to be small, he would never want anyone else to starve themselves for his sake.

Overhaul is blocking his own vision with how much sand he's throwing around. And of course his magic causes trouble. Can't wait for Shigaraki to rip his arms off.

Oooh poison! Nice!

Dabi is a shark, after all. And there is a lot of blood in the water :)

Shigaraki holding onto Overhaul's arms because those are his now, dammit.

Dabi is trying so, so hard to adapt and take care of his mate. He just wants to not be small, he just want friends, and family, and to properly live.

Welp. At least Overhaul tastes good, even if he has no other use.

Dabi isn't used to going days without eating anymore. And he's a shark. It's no wonder he's hungry. Especially with so much blood in the water.

Yay! Cannibalism! Shigaraki just wants what's best for him, and he's so worried he fucked up. Oh, they're so sweet to each other in the most deranged way possible.

So much for making sure Shigaraki eats, lol. I mean, he sure eats out, but somehow I don't think that's what Spinner meant.

Oh, Spimner is so mad. And Dabi is being protective of his mate <3. He's letting his instincts take over more.

Oooh! Dabi developed his magic, since he ate "actual meat". We already know it strengthens it, so it wouldn't surprise me if that, combined with him giving in to his instincts more, is what did it. Now, is his magic healing or is he a sorcerer like Spinner?

(also, i'm pretty sure his touch was healing, no matter how funny the thought of healing cum is. Maybe even his tears, since Shigaraki licked those up too?)

Hm, if Dabi didn't heal Shigaraki, it was probably Overhaul's meat, somehow. Sped up the healing process for both of them.

It will be interesting, when Dabi comes back to Hollow Reef (because he promised Natsuo) and while everyone else is weaker coming out of the coma, he will be stronger. And bigger. That might cause problems.

Oops, All for One is home. Surely that will all go over well. Him walking in on them making oit is very funny, though. Welp, it was nice knowing you Dabi.

Hm. I'm interested to see how this version of All for One is like. I don't trust how friendly he acts.

Ooooh, Compress' magic is so interesting! I like how it now also includes other aspects outside of physically shrinking things.

Interesting that Tomura formed the court. I mean, it makes sense, especially considering canon, but still. Monarchies never work well, having a court helps that. Hmm. I'm surprised All for One allowed such a big change.

Hm. It's so hard to tell All for One's intentions. He's obviously talking down Hollow Reef on purpose, trying to use that to make sure Dabi is loyal to Graveforge, but still. He seems to want Tomura to succeed. And unlike canon, this version of AfO isn't as old.

Still, he's making me uneasy. I am, on the other hand, looking forward to what Dabi chooses to do with his life.

Dabi: "Tomura is so sweet. He's obviously a romantic." Almost everyone else: "With you maybe."

Him having the eggs might cause problems. I hope Dabi doesn't get found out :(. He should have hidden them at the island, that would have been safer.

Hopefully nobody asks Natsuo about the lie. Oh god, that would bring up so many questions. I mean, Natsuo knows that Dabi went away, but I don't know how he'd react to Dabi having eggs with him.

Dabi, you can't judge Shouto for his taste in partners. You are literally mated to a prince you met two months ago who you have seen rip the arms off of someone.

Oof, if Hollow Reef is eating their dead because they don't have enough food and then pretend that it's Graveforge who are the only savage ones, damn. That's fucked up. At least in Graveforge people know they'll be eaten.

Damn. Shigaraki can really just destroy magic. So cool. I really really love how you translated their quirks into magic while also switching things up to fit better into the universe.

Eri! Oh shit. I mean, she'll make it, but damn. Poor kid.

Ah, Natsuo will be pretty worried to hear about Dabi's mate. Especially if he figures out what he has been eating.

Woops, Dabi immediately blurts it out. At least he doesn't have to keep that secret from Natsuo anymore?

Oh, this conversation is painful. Very, very painful. Dabi just wants to stay where he is happy and keep his family safe at the same time. But I completely understand where Natsuo is coming from. Because while Dabi was the same, in the beginning, this is different. Natsuo never had to be small. Not like Dabi. And the beginning was hard for Dabi too. This is a lot at once. And, I mean, from Natsuo's perspective it does kind of sound like Dabi joined a cult.

I knew it! The bigger hunters eat the dead to gain access to magic. Oh damn, how much of that did Enji hear??? Oof, I hope Dabi's magic activates before the week is over, because I don't know if he'll survive otherwise. And even if he does, it won't be good for anyone involved. Obviously Enji didn't hear about Dabi's mate, because otherwise he just put himself into a lot of danger willingly.

Oooh, this story is so good! I love love love the worldbuilding.

I am feral and chewing on this ask, oh man yeah holy fuck is so much happening and I'm glad you're enjoying it so far! God, this makes me so excited to work on the next chapter! Thank you so much!!! 🖤🖤🖤

[ahordeofwasps]

Writer Positivity Tag

I've been tagged by the brilliant @blind-the-winds! Thanks for the tag! I'm going to also steal the idea to put the no pressure tags into one of the questions.

Now, onto the questions!

What motivates you to write?

It's fun! I've always really enjoyed stories, so it's fun to try my hand at making my own. I really enjoy putting a bunch of characters in a Situation and exploring what happens.

But, I'm also more motivated to write when there's a task to procrastinate on. I usually get most of my writing done when I supposed to have a thesis I'm working on.

A line/short snippet of your writing that you are most proud/happy of. If not, maybe share a line of someone else's work you love (just please credit them):

I'm currently really happy with this bit I wrote for To Not Falling Off Cliffs:

Steve had made many friends over the centuries. He couldn’t help it. Someone entered his life, grew to like them and then he couldn’t imagine it any other way. He had no lips, so Steve could not smile, but whenever he saw them, he felt his jaw shift in way he could not help. Thoughts about his work were drowned out by ones that if were not pleasant, were at least wanted. He found himself making excuses to be near them, his spirits lifting in their presence. He wanted nothing more than for them to be well. It wasn’t falling in love – Steve never fell in love – but it was something more. Something that went without courtship and ritual, something that demanded nothing of the flesh. A simple bond that rang truer than anything else.

Which OC makes you smile every time you think/talk about them, and what are they like?

All of them? Like each one makes me smile for different reasons. I'll focus on the protagonists from To Not Falling Off Cliffs.

Erika is the one human protagonist. She loves music and old movies. She is also trying her best. She's the kind of person who will look upon eldritch horrors and go "Hmm, this is just like math class."

Steve is one of the reaper protagonists. He is a bit of a tragic character in that the souls he reaps were of those who died slow painful deaths of very preventable causes but he's not allowed to do anything about said causes, as that is "altering Fate." But he tries anyways and is willing to risk his existence on it.

Tiffany is the other reaper protagonist. She's the closest thing reapers have to a celebrity, as she wears entirely gold and has a very distinctive appearance. She's super smart and organized, but also stubborn. She's a bit of a stickler to the rules, but when those rules start harming, she'll break them.

What process of writing do you enjoy the most?

The writing part? I'm a pantser, so I get to see the story develop as I'm writing. Something I find enjoyable is seeing a scene go into a completely different direction than I expected as I'm typing it up and then getting to explore that direction.

What part of writing do you think you are the best at? (Yes stroke your own ego it's okay)

I have a hard time figuring out what I'm good and bad at, so this is a bit of a tough question to answer.

I think plot? I'm just usually kinda happy with the way the plots of my stories turn out.

What is something in the writeblr community that is most enjoyable?

Getting to see everyone else's writing! I enjoy reading the little snippets that get posted for tag games and seeing how writing styles vary. When available, I also enjoy reading the fully written stories, though I haven't read as much as I would like to due to time.

A writing tool/device you use that helps you with writing? (It could be speech to text, a writing program etc)

My keyboard! It is very clacky. Plus I got it setup so that I can swap between American, British, and Canadian Multilingual with just a pair of keystrokes.

A piece of worldbuilding that you like in your own story? (It could be the magic system, a particular place in the story, a law, etc)

I had a lot of fun doing worldbuilding for To Not Falling Off Cliffs, so there's a lot I like. I guess my current favourite bit of worldbuilding is that life on Earth got started accidentally; some god decided to knit some amino acids for fun, made the first cell, and then got distracted by a neutron star and forgot about it the same way one forgets about tupperware in the fridge.

Tag some people whose works you love/have been your biggest supporters:

I love @winterandwords's writing! It has a strong sense of character voice. I'm currently reading her novel, Bridge from Ashes and it's really good!

I also adore @loopyhoopywrites writing! The tone and descriptions are amazing and super well done! I think Trickster is my favourite character, though they're all great.

I also love @spuddlespud's writing! Super fun characters and scenarios! I especially adore the A Worker's Guide to Demonology snippets.

I also adore @emelkae's writing! I read WANNABE a while back and loved it! Love the characters and concept and everything. I get excited whenever I see bits related to it on my dashboard.

I also love @chauceryfairytales's writing! I especially love the descriptions and worldbuilding. Yuni questing to find bees is an amazing plot!

I also adore @blind-the-winds's writing! I enjoy hearing about Mick and Eleanor and all the stuff they wind up getting into.

[physalian]

(decided to throw this ask here since ur last post encouraged me to lol)

tl;dr: going thru a breakup with my current WIP so I'm in limbo and can't move on to a new one

I'm actually not working on anything right now because I'm going through a form of breakup with a WIP I had worked on for so long (6+ years).

My beta readers (3) deemed it uninteresting and full of plot holes from the start. I thought the amount of editing and rewriting I put it through helped with that, but now I believe the problem runs deeper. Maybe it's the plot itself that's too underdeveloped or something.

Long story short, I decided I didn't want to give the trilogy more time (I've given it enough already) so I'm moving on. But it's kind of hard to pick up something new when all I've known for so many years is this one WIP. I even had noncanon fanfic about it just for fun.

Any thoughts, takes or advice is welcome really! And thank you for your time ofc 🌸

I actually had this happen. I had a WIP I started in 2016, unofficially abandoned last year—mentioned it a few times across my posts as the sci-fi WIP with multiple POV. What had happened was that I started writing it my freshman year of college, and the person I grew into through college had completely different goals from freshman me, which meant the very foundations of my world and my characters were no longer meshing no matter how many times I tried to fix the plot.

It didn’t have any holes and my betas said they were interesting enough, but it was a five-book series and upon starting book 3, I just could not figure out how to move on. I had too many characters with conflicting arcs, too many directions I wanted to take it, and it was deeply political (shaped by the 2016 election year) and I just got exhausted with the tone and the parallels to the real world. It wasn’t fun anymore, and a couple of my characters were my therapy stress balls, and I put them through hell that I wouldn’t be comfortable publishing today.

So it sits there, mostly abandoned, while I steal names and themes and a few monologues that fit in Eternal Night. The breath of fresh air I had when starting Eternal Night, a brand-new world with brand-new stakes and brand-new characters that could be whatever I wanted? 100k word first draft was written in 31 days and went straight to beta readers. That sci-fi WIP had multiple magic systems, was deeply political with a lot of moving parts, a rather large ensemble cast that had nearly doubled by book 3. I designed my own alphabet and language, I had cover art and maps done for the first book, I was writing fanfic crossovers in my head with my characters and other media I liked. It was my writing career, everything centered around it.

Eternal Night actually began as me ripping my two favorite characters from that WIP and tossing them into a kind of ‘fanfic’ and seeing what happened. To this day, I still accidentally think of my protagonist and deuteragonist using their original names from the old WIP, and my protagonist's name was only updated like, last week on my character excel sheet, because I never noticed. Whenever I need a new fantasy word in my much-less-robust fantasy languages for Eternal Night, I consult the language matrix I made for the old WIP and change some letters around where needed so in a way, it lives on.

It took me until about halfway though Eternal Night to start actually caring about the new iterations and the rest of the new cast of characters, going through the motions with zero plan, until it kind of hit all at once. Suddenly I could imagine their faces and how they sounded and what dreams and aspirations they’d have. I was rooting for them to succeed and daydreaming about different ways I could take their arcs, what themes I wanted to explore with them.

And now Eternal Night is due back from my editor, today, and it’s about to go up for preorder on Amazon.

So, advice? Just because you abandon a long-running WIP doesn’t mean it was a waste of time. That’s six years of practice, six years of trial and error trying to make it work. There’s no reason you can’t take your favorite aspects and blend them up into something new. Write your own ‘fanfic’ with your favorite characters. Hell, make it a coffee shop AU, and see what happens. You might find yourself onto something to reignite that spark.

[writerfae]

The Alderking

If you know my story, you know about the Alderking.

The bad guy that once upon a time turned against his siblings to become the only ruler of the fair fae and was only stopped through a trick and a curse. The king that my main antagonist wants to reawaken so he can start a new order.

But that's pretty much all you know, except for one or two details and cryptic posts about him. So, of course, he doesn't really make a good impression. In this post, though, I want to tell you more about him. Just so you get to know him a little better. Because while yes, he did horrible things, there's still more to him than just that. And wasn't really all bad, either.

Anyways, here's some Alderking facts to better get to know the man behind the legend of his betrayal:

"Alderking" is technically just his title. His real name is Rook, but it is almost forgotten nowadays. People just know him as the Alderking since he was the very first - and the last - to bear this title

out of the first six fair fae regents, he was the first to be "born", so eldest of the six siblings (though technically they weren't really siblings but it's close enough)

he founded the Alder Court, and over the hundreds of years of his reign, it grew and improved a lot, until it turned into quite the impressive kingdom. Rook worked very hard on it, he loved his kingdom

Rook was actually in a poly relationship. He had a wife, Kyndra, and the two had a lover, too, a wild fae named Nia. He loved them both a lot

he also had a daughter, Runa, that (almost) no one knew about. He only saw her once, tough, because he had sent Nia and the baby away once things got tricky, also he was cursed shortly after her birth (Nia was her biological mother, btw, Kyndra sadly couldn't have children)

his royal guard was actually one of the best. He put a lot of work in his guard and is actually the one who "invented" the guard system the other courts still use to this day (together with his brother, Cathan)

while we're already talking about the guard, Rook was an excellent fighter and hunter. He loved tournaments and going on hunts with his "inner circle"

he also adored reading and participating in religious practices and playing around with magic

our dear king was actually a very charming and charismatic person, with quite some humor and good looks. But he was also stubborn and could be quite grumpy. He was a bit of an idealist, too, and an overthinker

Rook had a personal guard who also happened to be one of his best generals and most trusted confidants (he even knew of Runa). His name was Cyprian (yes, it's the guy I never shut up about - and Talon’s ancestor). The two also happened to be best friends. They were really close

I know, it sounds strange when you know how he betrayed his siblings, but he genuinely loved them all. Before he betrayed them, he was a good big brother

His favorites were his brother Cathan (the Ashking) and his sister Caitria (the Willowqueen). He was very fond of the two and helped them out a lot. Especially with Cathan he spent lots of time and he influenced him a lot (you can still see this influence in some places at the Ash Court)

out of his brothers, Rook was the most mature one, but he was also the proudest and the one with the biggest ego, which is one reason why he fell for darkness so easily

Rook was known to be a pretty strict and kind of dominant king, but also hardworking and benevolent. And he was very beloved by his people

he was also pretty powerful. As child of one of the mighty trees, he was capable of magic, like all his siblings. His special magic field was soul magic, which included spirit connection and dream magic)

each of the first regents and their courts had one "special task" (beside protecting their tree), and as the Alderking, it was Rook's task to manage "foreign affairs" and protect all courts from outer threats

because of his task, he had pretty good connections to the wild fae. Most of them respected him because of his power, his courage (something he was known for) and because he hunted down dangerous creatures like forest demons, which were also a threat to the wild fae clans. He was also a member of the Wild Hunt

his sword, Minha’criahn, was a gift from the goddesses and able to cut through everything if he wanted it to. It was made specifically to fit him and it was pretty much holy to him

at his core, Rook was also a bit of a dreamer. Even his betrayal started out with good intentions. He wanted the courts to focus on their main task (protecting the trees) more and to bring them closer together again. But his pride got in his way, and that led to him getting corrupted by the shadow, which is a true shame

one thing is for sure, if his siblings hadn't lured him into a trap back after he got the mighty Alder's power, their courts probably wouldn't have had a chance in the war he had started. Not just because of his new might. Rook was clever, had the better army, and, due to him being corrupted by shadow, had become very ruthless

a fun fact about him taking some of the mighty Alder's power is that now their life forces are woven together, so he can't die or else the tree will decay too (that's the reason he was "only" cursed after all). BUT the problem (that no one knows about) is that his life force gets weaker over the decades, and one day, his mind and soul might die after all, and you all know what that would mean... not me already collecting sequel material

Anyway, i think thats enough on the Alderking for now. Is now a good time to admit that I'm actually quite the Alderking fan? I do adore him despite him ending up being a tyrant. And I hope you do too after this post xD

@bunnymermaidsblog here's my ramble post about the Alderking, I hope you'll enjoy learning more about him

[koreposion]

Blue gets frustrated with Cross for reasons unknown to himself and Cross helps him sort it out. Which means Cross mostly makes fun of him for being dense.

Hands slammed onto Cross' desk and he didn't even bother to look up from his work. It was already clear to him who was in his offices. Even though he was uninvited,

"You should tell me when you're going to study with Geno!" Blue spoke, upset at himself from finally caving into his own pit of emotions, "I should be there when you're both together."

A sigh left Cross as he continued to work, "Why? For his safety?" He murmured softly as he rubbed one of his temples.

"Because I want to be with him." Blue said while standing up straight, crossing his arms. The way Cross was so unbothered by this was...irritating, "You already have your team why do you need to hang out with him alone."

At that Cross blinked and looked up in bewilderment, "You're upset because Geno is spending time with me and that I already have a support system?" He clicked his teeth and set down his pen.

He stood up and walked from behind his desk to stand in front of Blue, "That is utterly selfish and so unlike you." He squinted as he read Blue's expression.

Due to Cross' heels he was always taller than Blue, looking up at him was a little demeaning, "What if it is? That shouldn't really matter to you, I mean Dream already likes you." He backed away from Cross.

Cross took a step closer to him, leaning down, "Yes but you should be happy that Geno is making friends...but you haven't even mentioned the others. Just me."

Blue started taking steps back from Cross as he kept talking. Every time he took a step back a step forward from Cross met it, "That's because out of the rest of them you-"

He paused looking for the right words, not even noticing that he had been backed against the wall, "You're just.... persuasive."

Amused Cross placed his hands onto the wall and got in Blue's face. With a fanged grin he pressed the skeleton, "Persuasive?"

"Charming?" Blue said bashfully and looked away from Cross' purple eyelights.

"Charming?" Cross echoed Blue's words, "I need a proper explanation of what you're trying to tell me. Do you think I'm attractive, and so you're worried that Geno might fall for my charms?"

"I don't know!" Blue squirmed in place, his emotions being a muddled mess this close to Cross, "Maybe? Yeah wait-"

He should be mad at Cross in this moment. Geno wasn't to blame for anything he just wanted to make friends. And Blue just wanted to be around when Geno was with Cross. Because Cross is an ideal teammate and companion. Who wouldn't be jealous of someone so put together?

"Wait? Blue, I think your stupid is melting your cotton candy brain." Cross said while belittling him, he pressed a finger to Blue's forehead, "Maybe you're just smitten with the both of us, but I just have a better track record when it comes to relationships."

That comment about Blue's character stung and he was shocked into a momentary silence. He paused to consider his words and thoughts on this. To be fair to himself he doesn't even know what being smitten with someone is like. The way he feels about Dream is beyond that and slightly different...

"Don't think too hard your gears might turning." Cross said as he placed his hands onto Blue's shoulders with a smile, "Look, everyone has a dating guide in their AU, right? Just look for one in our library and one might have the explanation for this."

"You're so mean! I can't believe you suggested me liking you!" Blue held up his hands and rolled his eyes, getting sound advice in this moment made him feel stupid. Why didn't he just look at a dating guide, duh, "You're too....I don't even have words to describe it!"

"Dominant may be the word." Cross cooed softly as he brought his mouth closer to Blue's neck.

As Blue opened his mouth to speak he found himself frozen in place. A sharp pain shooting through his neck as his magic hesitated. His eyelights flicked and his body grew hot as something flowed through his magic. At the same time something was being drained from him but he couldn't tell what.

He dropped to the floor in seconds and heard laughter even though it was muffled. A heel was firmly placed in his back and kept him on the floor. The thought of struggling didn't even come up as he was pinned there. A wave of embarrassment hit him as he realized he let his guard down.

"That's cute, you come to me to cement your relationship between you and Geno. But you then let me know I'm an option that you would understand." Cross pinched the bridge of his nose, "Do you understand that means you think I'm partner material? It's very plain to see and anyone could have told you that."

Blue didn't speak, he had no right to and wasn't given the option. The way things were going he wasn't going to get another word in. He was so foolish and blinded by his boldness. Why did he think this would have went well?

"It's adorable how pathetic you are! Ugh, it almost gives me a headache thinking about it." Cross dug his heel into Blue's back, "You won't feel normal for a while, you probably won't even notice it. That's not really my problem, but if you wanted to spend more time with me you could have just asked."

"Now we get to have all the time in the world together. I'll give you back to Dream at some point." Cross said with a smile, looking down at his captured prey.

"I have so much to train you in!"

[poognthebrainbois]

🍄 🍐 and or 💬?

(All 3, let's go!)

🍄 - How did you get your system name?

Okay so technically a friend of ours thought of it.

But:

We've since extrapolated meaning from it that I will now share with you all.

For a little context: we grew up with musical theatre. We were majoring in it at university. And singing has always been important in our life. So in a general sense, we knew it had to be something surrounding that. Anyway,

I can't find it but we wrote a whole thing once about how

the concept of a songbook is a collection of a performer's go-to songs for auditions and such, and how some they may know much better than others, but they're all meaningful in some way to the performer, and each song helps showcase a different aspect of that person's abilities, and shows what they value and the versatility of the person. A performer will often take out old songs that no longer fit or serve them, and add new songs that they've only recently learned, but every song was once a part of the book. And I feel the same way about our system. We're all songs in the Songbook, and some of us are very new, and some of us have seen our worst and best moments. But we're all part of the same book, and we're all important for our own reasons.

That, and we've actually met and/or gotten to know a lot of headmates through singing.

While we were at school, we used to lock ourself in a practice room in the music building and do karaoke by ourself.

Specific songs had meaning/hit hard for some headmates, who would either have picked the song for that purpose, or have come to front during the song without even realizing. It's such a surreal experience.

🍐 - Are there any nonhuman headmates (in the system)?

Yes! Several! That number actually used to be much higher.

We've got a couple vampires, a couple werewolves, a couple introjects of dnd/LARP characters that are very unique (mostly elves but also some more obscure races). Uuummm... We have various magic users? Not sure if that counts... Some fae-adjacent people. A couple pure animals (A cat, a wolf, and a bird), a demon, a couple Time Lords, aaaaand whatever the hell Yakko Warner is.

💬 - Free space! Talk about anything!

OKAY SO

A number of us/our headmates have personal Spotify playlists and/or Pinterest boards. And I would absolutely love to link them for you if you want.

Also! We made a Google Slide Presentation about each of the headmates our friends were likely to meet!

Each headmate has 4 slides.

An Introductory Slide, containing basic information like name/pronouns as well as a little blurb about who they are/what they're like, and other info like system role, indicators when fronting, and likes and dislikes (sometimes containing positive/negative triggers).

A "faceclaim" Slide (we don't usually use the word faceclaim), which is covered in mostly Picrews or personal art of the headmate, to get a sense of what they look like.

An Aesthetics Slide, compiling a lot of stuff from their Pinterest board if they have one. Outfits and aesthetics indicative of their color pallete, Pinterest quotes, things of that nature.

Aaand a Miscellaneous Slide! Most of these are just a bunch of tumblr posts that "fit the vibe". Also other various memes, or pics dreamed "not sophisticated enough" for the Aesthetics Slide.

Another key feature of these slides is that everyone's slides are their favorite color, and the Introductory Slide is typed out in a font that either matches their vibes or is similar to their handwriting.

An example (that's probably outdated) can be seen in this post (cw aro discourse).

As always, feel free to ask whatever questions you want!!! Fill that inbox!!!

Thanks for asking/reading! :)

[rametarin]

An unconventional thought.

Okay. So, imagine it's a year between 1700 and 1880. Wars are won based on manpower, and the consequences of losing wars means the other guy decides how many and what kinds of your peeps get 1.) squashed like grapes to make wine. 2.) spend their miserable lives toiling land, getting nonconsensually fucked and worked to death for the glory of some other society.

This can and did regularly happen and still happens in parts of the world that modern society hasn't stomped the fuck out of and said, "cut it out."

So. Everything you are, everything about your family, your language, your little halceon corner of the earth could come to a screeching halt and be crushed within 1-90 days, all because a bigger, more productive, more breedy nation, or empire, over the horizon, could come over and squash you.

This happened everywhere on earth. You cannot name me a single people on planet earth that never grew big, divorced, then fought for land, resources and uncontested control over it. Having a neighbor that believes it's hot stuff and that military action to solve uncooperative problems for their ambitions, and is constantly threatening you with enormous numbers, is a source of worry.

And then there's the domestic worries to worry about. There's plagues that can wipe out enough of a standing population that there may not BE any big strong strapping members of your society to fight back if members of the Other Tribe start getting ideas about expansionism and looking at your back yard like hungry bears look at honey.

There's social trends that stop the having of babies to replace those people rapidly aging like milk. So you need to make sure as many female people are getting pregnant and are capable of properly raising them to adulthood as possible; and yes it'd be nice if they had a buddy-system person to help raise the babies that actually would help them. So, a system that accommodates and rewards that would be nice.

Then you have the problem of the ones that can't actually contribute too much to the progression of the society because they aren't Able. Those ones at best can help maintain the society or perhaps improve the culture, but otherwise, they require as much food as a person that does positively contribute labor, products and people, while not being able to provide. Those ones add up after a while, and you're still an asshole for not taking care of them, even in stone age shitland.

People are naturally also prone to stupid accidents and imagine life before hospitals and even really advanced surgery. You act stupid when trying to fix a wagon wheel, you get crushed under an iron reinforced wagon. Then the Whackasnake family loses their big breadwinner/wisdom source and shit falls apart quick.

So you need people in trades, you need people making goods, you need people transporting goods, you need people that can go into whatever magical gobbldygook that medicine consists of and just kind of hold your nose and go, "FINE!!" in the face of stupid social trends, when it comes to snake oil like horoscopes and coral calcium.

All because of the fear that another group of people will get big enough to start transporting overwhelming populations over and start using force of occupation and arms to take your land and your culture and your identity from you and leave you buried in the annals of history. A minor footnote of conquered people in somebody's trophy room.

In a society where everything can just go to complete shit due to plague and the necessities of life, with medicine either not existing or being detrimental to life, where just growing food to feed the population is hard, I can kind of understand the reluctance of abolishing slave labor. Things are different NOW, but objectively speaking, having some Dedicated Guys For That before the revolution of machines for industry was tempting both for the labor for stuff for a good quality of life, as well as for making it easier to live- All to be able to have more babies, to be able to contribute more soldiers, in case a horrible army came marching over the hills to reduce everything you have to the squalor and misery of not living outside the other guy's capital state.

I can see, at the time, why some places would be reluctant to give up slavery. That doesn't make it okay. It does make it understandable why they'd be hesitant to want to abolish it immediately, outside of, "because we're superior people and they're inferior humans. Grah grah graaahhh!!"

If our world did not have the grasp of science and understanding of physical forces that it does, an embraced and applied field of mechanistry for labor and manufacturing, medicine and healthcare to where it is, then human tragedy is such and human life so short and the desire for stability and family so strong but fleeting, I could see an argument for why some might think it's better than the alternative. Especially when, as shown even just looking at Europe in the past, the idea of dying at war because someone else wants control of you or your property so bad they're willing to send hundreds of thousands of armed people your way.

If all you've ever known is a simplistic process to do something that's labor intensive and even that which is by tools is hard won by understanding books, and accomplished only by literacy from expensive schooling, then yeah, imagining a world without machines being a world full of consumed time and exhausted muscles is easy.

It doesn't matter what is more moral when the alternative is moral, but near certain disadvantage in the long term, and death in the longest, versus a slightly dirty survival. And this is why, though human slavery is abominable and cruel and a relic we no longer need thanks to machines to do complicated tasks and tedious tasks, I cannot see the worst out of the people two to four centuries ago that desired slaves.

And this is just to underline a modern sentiment:

If you want to end moral tragedy of the day, make it economic and feasible enough to be a more attractive alternative. If you want to end CO2 entering the atmosphere, invent an economic process by which to cheaply extract it and PAY producers for sequestering and selling it, not taxing them for generating it at all as a course of business.

If you want to end shitty wages, advocate for better access to jobs that actually mean something that can't be replaced via tedious labor machines or specialized labor machines. Don't just say, "no matter what you do, you should make the equivalent of 50K a year." That means nothing and creates artificial value for people that may not be contributing that back into society. No matter what kind of economic shell game you're playing, a person that does nothing all day but drink alcohol and dance for fun is not contributing to society. Not when there are people lacking co-workers so bad they can't even fulfill their own jobs properly.

[positivelyghastly]

Ocs. Hand em over

AAAH! Okay, so I’m in work right now and don’t have my IPad so I can’t upload good quality pics but!

Mara, my sweet girl, was the first ghoul oc I made. She started out as a random water ghoul that I had no name for and now she’s my daughter and I love her dearly. I like to base my character designs on actual people at first and then let them evolve from there, so Mara was initially based on Rachel Weiss in The Mummy (my favourite movie lol) and her face has been tweaked and changed every time I draw her until I settled on how she looks in the sketch of her and Aurelia.

The first ✨lore post��� I made about her is here but I’ve had many many Mara thoughts since then lol.

She works in the offices doing mostly filing and admin because she’s scary good at organising things and keeping tabs on where everything is in the ministry’s filing system. When she’s not doing that, however, she’s either hanging out with her girlfriend Aurelia or is in the nearest body of water. I like to describe her true form as a headlight eel that grew legs. I’m still working on a set design for it that I’ll post in the future but just know she is Very Fucked Up looking and I love her.

Aurelia is the second oc I had a design for, but she’s not the second one I have (that’s Helio). She’s my big beefy quintessence ghoul who is one of the ministry’s healers and sometimes does handywork around the Abbey because she’s 7ft tall and BUILT so she can carry heavy stuff and reach most places without a ladder. She’s also the only character who’s face hasn’t been based on an existing person, she just popped into my head fully formed (I guess my love for buff women is just that strong lol)

My dear Aurelia has never had a thought in her life that isn’t “must help friend” or “tiny pretty girlfriend”. I like to think of her as a gentle giant who is suspiciously kind for a demon, but she’s someone who genuinely really cares about the people around her, making her a pretty good healer because she’s willing to help anyone who needs it.

Her true form is a great, hulking cloud of smoke that she can solidify into a physical form at will. When she gets out of her glamour it’s very hard to get her back in by the nature of her true form. The smoke is difficult to capture and bind with magic and because she really does hate scaring people unless absolutely necessary, she tends to stay in her glamour as much as possible. Her eyes are the only thing that peek out of the fog unless she solidifies her body, glowing white hot and staring into the soul of anyone she sees.

The first time Aurelia saw Mara was a little while after she was summoned. She’d been in the gardens and watched this black mass crawl out of the lake before Mara got back into her glamour, climbing onto shore with a fish between her teeth, and Aurelia was instantly in love. Mara thought it was funny that this huge 7ft ghoul was completely obsessed with her but she’s a sucker for big buff ladies so when Aurelia made a move on her, she couldn’t help but say yes.

I’ve only drawn them together once but I think it’s a pretty good example of their relationship dynamic lol

I have a few others like Helio and Sister Stolas but they’re not as fleshed out as my beloved demon girls. Plus, Sister Stolas was made pretty much just so I can draw a slutty nun lol. I’ll probably post more about those two in the future though!

[rabbitdoesarts]

This was meant for International Women's Day. It's not International Women's Day. But I wanted to finish it and show off my three current D&D pcs, all of whom are badass ladies. I've been playing these gals for a long time and I love them all. (Anther for four and a half years, Virga for just over four years, Kole for almost four years.)

From left to right: Virga, Anther, Kole More info about them under the cut

Virga - Water genasi circle of the coast druid. Daughter of a village druid father and a marid mother. Virga had never met her mother, as she left before she could have any sort of memory of her. Regardless, Virga had a happy childhood, helping her papa out around the coastal village and the local lizardfolk clan. Now she is part of a vigilante guild with her friends and party members, aiming to learn more magic and save the world. Always happy to help!

Badass moments include: -Being the tank of the party. (Yes, the druid is the tank of the party. We are a party of squishy wizards.) -Generally proving why you shouldn't mess with the healer. She is not afraid to dish out some damage if you hurt her friends. -Going through a burning building with her party and fighting fires to escape. All at one HP. -Just misty stepping out of a cage with her last second level spell slot because Tandy was in danger.

Anther Homilion - Moon elf hunter ranger. Once a noble in a corrupt elven city, she left after elemental monsters attacked her city. Before joining the party, she spent her time living in the forest, hunting, doing odd jobs where she can, and also committing crimes. This girl has sticky fingers and. Now she works under another noble with a few other individuals and trying to figure out what the hell is going on with these weird plants that cause planar bleeds.

Badass moments include: -Having the most kills / knock outs of bosses in the party. -Working under a noble while also having a criminal record. (Yes, I am counting this. She may be a slight kleptomaniac, but she knows her place.) -Of those knock outs, she killed a storm giant quintessent. Granted, the dragon we were fighting with did most of the work, but she shot it with a ballista and killed it. We were level four. -Convincing a group of oxen in the Frostfell that the party meant no harm and were after a real predator that could hurt them, thus letting the party pass without causing a fight.

Kolaine "Kole" Shava Nailo - wood elf inquisitive rogue / wizard. (Currently no wizard subclass but will go into bladesinging.) A small elf that grew up in the human capital. As she and her family stood out, she garnered some attention and not always in the best way. One day, after chasing down a thief that robbed her mum's bakery, she met and became friends with a city guardsman. After he mysteriously disappeared and the city guard wouldn't share what happened to him, she grew sick of the current justice system and became a vigilante. Now her friends are fighting to protect the material plane from an aberrant cult and a malevolant archfey.

Badass moments include: -Having extremely good perception skills. (Perception, Investigation, and Insight are all +14, passive perception and passive investigation are 29.) -Also generally very hard to knock out. It's happened a couple of times, but Kole is surprisingly resilient. -Making her way out of an ogre and goblin army with nothing but an invisibility potion and her sick stealth skills. -Stabbing her own god. (He stabbed her first.)

[imaginmatrix]

Tbh, I’m not afraid to write slight/more than slight OOC characters anymore. Like, yeah I’ll cringe if someone portrays a character in a way I don’t like, or I’ll complain about misinterpretations of characters I LOVE, but… sometimes it can be fun to read or write characters slightly different than canon.

Percy in a lot of my fanfics IS ooc. Like, not to the point of being unrecognizable as the same character, but enough that I do sometimes get comments about it.

And it’s definitely something I do on purpose.

Most of my fics are AUs— meaning the characters have different experiences, relationships, memories, and privileges that can affect them in a way that might make their personality or even how others see them different than what we’re used to in canon.

For example, TGAR Percy is popular, a golden boy, and he dates around a bit. This is obviously very different from the kid in the books who was branded a trouble maker, who didn’t have any school friends outside of people who turned out to be like him (Grover and Tyson), who had a hard life that showed.

But in TGAR, that wouldn’t make sense— they live in a world where everyone knows the gods exist and their whole society has been built up around that fact. Demigods are minor celebrities. Children of the big three moreso.

Percy grew up with private trainers, with a spotlight on him (but his mom still around to keep him grounded), adhd and dyslexia are revered and accommodated in a way they aren’t in our world because they’re signs of divine blood so he wouldn’t have had as much trouble in school, he didn’t have Smelly Gabe, he didn’t have to worry about money or constant danger or any of that— so while he’s still sarcastic, powerful, loyal, a bit of a doofus but one who has a lot of intelligence other people overlook, he’s also very well adjusted.

Any quests he went on were his choice, for fun or training. Because of his status as a son of Poseidon, people were more eager to befriend him, to date him. Without Sally that could have very well messed him up in other ways, but he had a GOOD support system. He likes to date, because he still craves a genuine connection when surrounded by so many yes-men, but he’s still Sally’s son and very respectful even if his relationships are short lived (they’ve never felt right to him.)

Then in “all of you, all of me”, he’s a little closer to canon Percy, but now with an academic twist. I won’t get too much into it since the story isn’t there yet and spoilers, but he had a similar experience growing up as canon Percy. But in the absence of gods and magic powers, he found something else to focus on, to pull him through, to work hard at.

And then there’s “follow like share” Percy who I honestly think is the closest to what an adult Percy from the books would look like without Annabeth’s influence on him growing up. A little edgier, a little more sarcastic, a little more dry.

ANYWAY, I think a lot of fanfic authors are scared to write their characters as ooc in any capacity— I’ll admit, if I’m reading a story and everyone is acting so far outside what I see them as, it will turn me off of it. And everyone will have a different threshold for that. But especially if you’re writing an AU, don’t be afraid of tweaking their personalities. If the Percy in your story is a hipster who brews homemade kombucha but has the same sense of humor, loyalty to his friends, and outlook on life, who cares if he’s also a little bit more granola? If you want to write Annabeth as a girly girl who loves pink and makeup and skirts, but also is just as driven, prideful, and stubborn, do it! It’s for fun!!!!!

[el1-z4]

Gosh its been a minute since I last posted something here but trust me I've been working on a lot of stuff in the background for this AU.

Anyways this is Felix Elian Lautenbeck. An imperial Lieutenant Quarter Field Marshal for the Coalition. If you wanted a main character, this is him (not really I don't actually have a main character per say).

He's Northern Cinnoen, so he has plant magic, but grew up with his two mums on Kallor, which is where he eventually went on to study wartime strategy, defense, and intelligence gathering. Not only that, he'a fluent in 3 languages including an almost extinct native dialect unique to Cinnamomum. On top of that, he has an interest in advanced 4D Geometry and Mathematics.

Basically, he's wildly smart, and that intelligence coupled with the fact he can shoot real good allowed him to climb the imperial ranks exceedingly fast. Basically, he's 30 years old in a rank occupied usually by people in their late 40s/50s.

While his past is nothing to scoff at, what matters most is his future. He is pretty much the main figure in kickstarting the 3rd Cluster War - Alongside Ickett Faugel but I'll get to that in a sec ;) - having been one of the main players in the Lazulite Trade Blockade, basically the forerunner of the Cinnoen Revolution, a co-organizer of Kel-Ex's Derrinian Assault, and the main delegate between the Coalition and Kel-Ex for the entire existence of the Green and White Treaty. While all of these aspects aren't necessarily his doing, as they involved thousands of people across multiple levels of government and military command structure, it'd be hard to deny how important Lautenbeck was for the complex chain of events leading up to the 3rd Cluster War.

Anyways, now on to something a little more lighthearted:

As for his personal life, Felix is very outgoing. He enjoys spending nights out with his friends and co-workers - usually getting absolutely shitfaced. He has a fond enjoyment for Zero-Grav Batter Ball, which is an upcoming sport based out of the Miranian System (its like baseball but in zero-g and with obstacles in a huge arena). Also, he really enjoys studying the local cultures and dialects of the many places he gets to visit for his work. And he also really enjoys listening to, and poorly attempting to play, music.

Also him and Ickett Faugel - yes, the commanding general of Kel-Ex - kinda have a thing for one another. They've gotten to spend a lot of time hanging about during the process of organizing the Green and White Treaty, meaning they slowly started developing a bond with one another. They do eventually end up dating - and it sure as hell lasts given Ickett's previous relationship track record (absolutely 0 people) - but its kept in near absolute secrecy as to not conflict with either of their images and political importance. They're a physical representation of the Green and White Treaty to be specific.

Anyways yeah thats him I've got more stuff coming up soon bleh