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pick-me-up-im-scared · 1 year

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So Called Revenge (Hiccup x Reader) (Angst)

Author's Note: I felt like doing a one-shot where the reader gets treated shitty, but then gets revenge. I've read stories where the gang (minus Hiccup) treats the reader bad, and I've always thought "but where's the revenge?". So, now I've taken matters in my own hands and wrote the ultimate badass respond. I'm clearly going through something, haha. I'm sorry Astrid for taking it out on you...

Short Summary: You’re getting abused by the dragon riders, both mentally and physically. Ever since you were a kid they seem to have something against you. Though there’s one person who’s not mean to you. Hiccup. You’ve been friends with him for a while now and your getting along very well. Matter of fact, you have a crush on him.

⚠️Warning!⚠️: This story includes swearing and gore and a brief suicide scene.

And if you're very prude, you might consider that this story including smut. There's no sexual acts, just some light "describing".

(y/n/n) = your nickname

Words: 4489

(I don't own any of the GIFs)

Your pov:

Another day in the beloved village called Berk. Notice my sarcasm. Well let's be clear, it's not necessarily the village that's the problem. Rather the people living in it. Even more specifically, a group of dragon riders. My life hasn't been the best, but it could be worse. That's until I hit my teenage years and the dragon riders decided to make my life a living hell. Don't get me wrong, they've had a thing against me all my life. But it's been more physical in the later years. Don't ask me why. Though there's one exception. Hiccup. He´s never said anything rude to me nor laid a hand on me. I think it's cause he feels pity for me. He knows how it feels to be nagged down. Also, the boy doesn't have a bad bone in his body, so he would never even consider doing such an act. And he'd definitely stop them if it wasn't for the fact they never do anything when he's around. They're smart. They know what consequences their actions could lead to if the Chief saw this type of behavior.

But Hiccup and I have more "history" then this. Well, history and history. He tried to interact with me back when we were 15, cause..... well, we were in the same boat. Though I would love to be friends with him, I couldn't even look at him for more then five seconds. Okay, I'll admit it, I have had a crush on Hiccup ever since we were 15. Why not confess your feelings for him? Hum? Well, he's already taken. And Astrid doesn't seem to like me that much to begin with, and I don´t think she would be more found of me if she finds out I've fallen for her boyfriend. Even though I regret not socializing with Hiccup straight from the beginning I've made up for it over the few years. We've grown pretty close, actually. We soon found out we shared an interest in sketching. He loved to watch as my talented hands worked their magic in my sketchbook. I still remember the day he asked me to make a portrait of him. Let me tell you, if I hadn't fallen in love with him already spending 1,5 hours, looking at his gorgeous, freckled face sure would. If you look past the sweating, butterflies in the stomach, and the shaking due to my nerves, I really like to spend time with Hiccup.

I dragged my limping body towards my dresser, changing into my regular outfit. I got down the stairs to make myself some breakfast. Me and my brother barely see each other throughout the day. Just a quick 'hello' or a simple wave whenever we saw each other around the village. It isn't until he comes home at the evening we could properly interact. But he's usually too exhausted by the day's hard work so we just eat dinner then he's off to bed. Due to our 'situation' he has to work harder in order to provide for the both of us. Both our parents has, unfortunately, passed away. Mother died from pestilence, three years ago. No chance of survival, just counting the days she had left. Our whole family got affected by our mother's death, though our father took it the worse. He fell into a deep depression which lead to him taking his life two years later. He hang himself from the wooden beam in their, well his, bedroom. Leaving me and Christopher to take care of our selfs. Remember the part where Hiccup felt bad for me? Yeah, I think this has some reasons for that too.

I did my part, but my payment wasn't in much help in the long run. So I'd stand for the cooking and taking care of the household to try to make it up for him. Especially the long nights. You see, the gang doesn't "just" call me name or tell me what a disappointment I am to my family. There's been a couple of times where they've hurt me physically, too. Punches against the face, kicks in the stomach, even cuts at various body parts. And who has to patch me up again? Christopher. I get mad at myself for not fitting in. Making my brother lack in sleep because I can't stop being seen as a burden. I see Hiccup as my best, well my only, friend and trust him with all of my problems. But how could I tell him his girlfriend and his friends mentally and physically abuse me? He wouldn't believe me. So I try ti stay away from them, but more importantly don´t be around them on my own.

Once the dry slice of bread was washed down by a glass of lukewarm water I was ready to start my day. I opened up the door to be met by grey clouds. This would actually be considered as nice weather for Berk, since we're used to pouring rain or hail. I walked down the village. Noticing my brother at his second shift at the blacksmith. I gave him a wave once we had eye contact. He gave me a warm smile, since his hands were too busy to answer me with a wave back. I chuckled for myself until my eyes fell onto another familiar face. Hiccup. I stopped in my tracks. He was chatting with the rest of the gang, just outside The Great Hall. I got a bellyache just looking at them. Of course Hiccup isn't the reason to my abrupt stop. If it would have been just him and Toothless I would have ran up and hugged him, chatting about something random like we always do. But his company prevent that from happening. Constant flashback of the last solo "meeting" with the rest of the gang went through my head.

I shield my face with my right hand as I quicken the pace, hoping to get away from them as fast as possible. Without getting noticed. "Hey (y/n/n)!" I cringed before looking up to see Hiccup waving me over. Damn it! He saw me. I walked over to the gang, trying not to look too suspicious where Hiccup would notice. It took every nerve in my body to walk over there, being terrified to find out what they'll do if Hiccup leaves. As I reached them Hiccup wrapped his arm around my shoulder while looking down at me, smiling warmly "How are you today, (y/n/n)?". I could tell Astrid's starting to get pissed by the way he approached me. I removed his arm while laughing nervously "I'm great, Hiccup. Thanks for asking". He nodded, giving me another smile. They went back to their own conversations, not really giving me the opportunity to flick in. I began feeling really awkward, just standing there. Seeing this as my opportunity to avoid getting beaten up, I tried to sneak away. As I turned my back to run off, thinking I successfully left without anyone noticing, I felt a pair of arms around my waist. Damn it!

I got dragged back to the group, my hopes of getting back to my house went further and further away. Getting back to the exact position I was in just a few seconds ago Hiccup held his arm around me to prevent me from leaving again. "Where were you going?" he asked as he tried to study my face. I sighed "Nowhere". He looked suspiciously at me, but didn't ask any further. "So (y/n), we were wondering if you wanted come fly with us?" Hiccup asked with his adorable smile. "Uhm, I don't have a dragon, so... very sorry Hiccup but unfortunat-" "You can fly with me and Toothless" he interrupted before I could finish my excuse as to why I 'unfortunately' couldn't join them. I glanced at Astrid before looking back at him "You don't have to. I'll be fine right here". Hiccup chuckled "Stop it, I know how much you like to fly when we're alone" Astrid's eyes widened. "You're coming. That's a Chief's order" he joked.

"I'm just going to do... some manly businesses, then we're ready to go!" Hiccup informed before starting to walked off. I looked at the group who already smirked at me, giving me an idea of what's to come. Answering with a worried look I quickly grabbed Hiccup's upper arm, making him stop. "I-I'll go with you" I said, trying to cover up how terrified I actually am. He looked at me for a while before saying "Uhm.... I'm going to pee, (y/n/n)". I began to panic even more "I know, but you know, it's always better to do things together" I laughed nervously again "I..... I c-can keep you company!". He looked at me confused "It's just around the corner, I'll be quick". "Oh, babe. Could you get me my spare sweatshirt? I seem to have forgotten it at home" Astrid asked, knowing all too well what she's doing. "Yeah, sure! (y/n) it'll take a bit longer including that, but I'll be back as soon as possible" I listen as my last bit of hope blew away. I'm screwed! I watched as Hiccup left.

"He's nice, isn't he?", I snapped my head towards a smirking Astrid. "Huh?" I asked rather confused. Was she genuinely asking or was this some sort of trick? My question was soon answered as Astrid punched me straight in the face, making me fall to the ground. As I dragged my hand under my nose I saw blood. I tried to swipe it up with the sleeve of my tunic. Hiccup can't see this! I looked up at Astrid as she continued "I've seen the way you look at him. But he's mine, and I don't like other girls looking at my boyfriend". "Why? You're afraid he'll leave you for me?" I snapped back, but immediately regret giving such a cocky comeback. Her eyes widened before she punched me again, this time focusing on my eye. My head fell back with the sudden dizziness.

Astrid grabbed me by the hair to keep my head up while she spoke to me "I don't need to worry about you. Sluts isn’t his favorite anyway". She lets go off my hair and instead grabbed my wrist, pressing it against the ground while she strangled me. I grabbed her face with my other hand, trying to make her get off me. "Hey, Snotlout! Grab her other wrist!" she ordered, and soon both my wrists were against the muddy ground. Astrid brought out her dagger. She motioned to Snotlout who lifted up my navy tunic to my neck, exposing my bare chest to the rest of the gang who were circling us. Both to get a better look at what was happening and to cover up the ongoing situation from the people walking by. They laugh at the sight, which made me fight even harder to get out of their grip. I need to get out of here. Come on (y/n)! Come on!

"Let's see what the guys think when your breasts are butchered" Astrid said when she slide the knife over my exposed chest. I bit my lip at first to prevent myself from screaming, knowing they'll punish me hard if I do. But as she continued to slice my flesh I screamed out in pain. Snotlout was quick to cover my mouth until the damage was done. Astrid smirked devilish at her work as I panted heavily. Snotlout let's go of my wrist, figuring I wouldn't have the energy to do anything anyway. "From what I've heard your bed's pretty busy. At least that's what Calvin said", my eyes widened at the mentioning of his name. Calvin were my ex boyfriend, who I've spent 2 years of my life with. Based on his personality, I wasn't surprised he talked to the gang behind my back. What I'm nervous about is what he told them. You'd think I'm over a relationship that ended 2 years ago, but how can I when it's constantly brought up?

"He would brag about taking your virginity before you were wed" Astrid continued. "No he didn't" I said unsurely, looking up at the rest of the gang that still surrounded me. "Yeah he did. What type of things you were willing to do. The slutty behavior you would take on. I still remember Hiccup's disgusted face when he told us" Astrid continued. He told Hiccup, too? "Stop it!" I screamed, tears steaming down my cheeks. "I know Hiccup well enough to know he doesn't like girls with slutty behaviors like yours. He like his girls virgin and pure. Not someone who's willing to spread her legs at any guy that gives her a little attention. Not that you had a chance with him to begin with" she laughed while looking down at me. My blood was pumping with anger as she continued to lie. Even though all I felt was anger, my words just came out as whispering "Please stop" why wouldn't she stop? "What? I'm just telling you the truth. You're sad now that your imaginary fairytale wouldn't come true, cause Hiccup wouldn't even touch you with a stick?" my blood was boiling more and more with every word Astrid feed me "Come on, (y/n)! Don't aim at guys that's out of your league. It's only pathetic. You know they only want you for what's in your pant-". Astrid was cut off as I pushed her off me and slammed her against a house. I wrapped my fingers around her neck and began to choke her.

"I said stop it!" I yelled straight in her face, not being able to handle the anger that was built up inside of me. "Why won't you listen for once and shut the fuck up?" I said through gritted teeth as I squeeze my hands harder around her neck. "(y/n) stop! She can't breathe!" Snotlout yelled as he approached us. "Don't you dare fucking touch me again!" I snapped back, not taking my eyes off Astrid. A satisfaction filled my body as I saw Astrid chip for air. All the anger I've kept inside from all the things she'd said and all the gestures was being thrown into this moment. I heard Snotlout's steps behind me again. Not wanting to risk this opportunity being disturb I pulled Astrid away from the house wall and put her in a chokehold instead. We turned around quickly to face the rest of the group "I said stay away!" I yelled. Thank gods Astrid wasn't able to fight back due to her unconsciousness, otherwise she'd easily take me down. Snotlout was still walking towards us, making me sigh.

I grabbed Astrid's dagger and threw it at Snotlout's thigh. He screamed out in pain before dropping to the ground. I grabbed my own dagger and pointed it towards the rest of the gang who slowly backed away. The pain of Astrid pressed against my opened wounds was nothing compared to the satisfaction. The satisfaction of finally getting my revenge. "(y/n)!", I snapped out off my focus at the yelling of my name by a familiar voice. Tuffnut took this opportunity to unwrap my arm around Astrid's neck while shoving me to the ground. As I looked up I saw Hiccup rubbing Astrid's back as she was coughing like crazy. He looked at Snotlout who's moaning in pain while laying on the ground, before he turned to me. "(y/n)! What did you do this for?" Hiccup asked with an angry tone. He was clearly pissed off, but why? If he had heard just one of the things she was saying we wouldn't have this discussion now.

"She started it!" I said while pointing to Astrid. Hiccup rolled his eyes, clearly not believing me, "Oh come on, (y/n)! Stop act so childish! You could have killed her!" he raised his voice again, especially at that last part. "Too bad you pushed me away, or I could have killed that bitch" I mumbled. Hiccup snapped his head, staring daggers into me "What did you just say?". I'm not back out of this. I stand for what I think, I'm not going lower myself to that pest's level. "I said, too bad you pushed me away, or I could have killed that bitch!" I repeated while standing up with grace, ignoring the pain. Hiccup couldn't believe what I had just said, even though he heard me the first time. He didn't know what to say. His eyes just looked at me with disgust. I brushed off my pants before making my way back to my hut. As I walked past Astrid I quickly went up to her and kicked her in the stomach. I smirked as I walked off, fulfilling my goal of making her feel at least a tenth of the pain she'd caused me. I ignore Hiccup's upset calls for me, and the rest of the gang's insults that was being thrown.

Hiccup's pov:

"You're so delusional, Hiccup" Christopher, (y/n)'s bother, said while I tried my best to comfort Astrid. She didn't coughing anymore, but she was still holding on tight to my shoulders. I sighed and turned to Christopher "What? Your sister were about kill my girlfriend. If there's one thing I'm not it's delusional". "You can't be this stupid, right?", I felt Astrid stiffing in my arms but played it off as fear. "If Tuffnut wouldn't have pushed (y/n) away she would have kept going until Astrid stopped breathing. Or did I get that part wrong?" I asked sarcastically. "Yeah, she probably would, but she had her reasons". I let go of Astrid to stand up and walk over to Christopher. "Oh, please tell me what reasons she had that would make it sain to kill someone!" I yelled. My gods, what's up with this family? "Because Astrid would do the same to her!" I got a bit taken away by the tone of his voice.

"You all would" Christopher gestured to the whole gang, who looked down in shame. What are they doing? Is this true? "They would never do such a thing" I defending the gang, praying to the gods this isn't true. Christopher huffed "You haven't seen what they've done to her, Hiccup. The deep wounds I've had to clean up. The painful screams and sleepless nights. The old wounds barely having a chance to heal until they're met by one ones. Words a 13 year old girl shouldn't even know exist, non the less being called. All the death threats and names being thrown at her. How would you like it to be called 'a useless whore who's the reason her father killed himself'?". I flinched at the harsh words. My eyes began to get glossy as the information gets feed into my head. What have I done?

"And for you to call yourself Chief and don't know anything about it" he said while poked his finger at my chest before walking away. I look around at the gang while asking "Is this true?". My expression showed the guilty I was feeling. "Is what true?" Snotlout asked, playing dumb. "Have you told (y/n) those awful things and abused her behind my back?" I spat, already knowing the answer based on Snotlout's unnecessary question. I cringed as the words came out of my mouth. I can't believe someone would say and do those things to (y/n). The sweet and beautiful girl I´m happy to even call my friend. For people to say that is fucked up, but these people also being the people I refer to as friends. And my fucking girlfriend being the worse? After some time they all nodded, making me feel like throwing up. Everyone expect Astrid. I walked up to her, not even bothering to hunch down to her level. I looked down at her and asked "Have you been apart of any of these actions, Astrid?" She looked at me nervously, not being able to have eye contact with me for more than a second. "No, I would never do such horrible things, Hic. Not to our beloved (y/n/n)". I knew she would lie. "Why are you lying to me?" I ask with a sturdy tone. Her face dropped "I'm not, Hi-". I cut her off by turning my back to her, walking away.

The information Christopher told me clouded my mind. He's right, I am a useless Chief, even more a friend. If I were a good friend I would have noticed this way before. This explains why she never wanted to come down to the lake to swim. Why she'd stay home for days at the time once she'd been felt with the gang by herself. Gods, I'm an idiot for not connecting the dots! I could feel the tears forming in my eyes, but I quickly blinked them away. I can be the one crying when I'm the asshole. I walked up the porch till I was right in front of the familiar door. I knock. I heard Christopher's voice from inside "(y/n), I told you to sit down and rest! I can answer the door!". I heard uneven steps getting closer and closer.

As the door opened I could see (y/n) limping as she took another step towards the doorway. She supported herself against the handle which allowed me to see the bandage that covered most of her upper body though her opened shirt. What have they done to her? My poor (y/n). She widened her eyes when she saw me. I could tell she immediately tried to hide any signs of her injury, straighten her back. "Are you here to continue yelling at me?" she asked bluntly. I shook my head. "If you're here to receive an apology, you can fuck off! I'm not sorry for finally putting that pathetic bitch in her place" I tensed up a bit at her harsh words, but then remembered the things they've done to her. Now the guilt came back "Yeah, about that, I'm so sorry (y/n). I should have listened to yo-" "Yeah, yeah, whatever. Bye" she cut me off and slammed the door right in my face. Okay, I deserved that. I decided there's no need to knock again. She wouldn't answer it anyway.

I was actually quite surprised to see her at The Great Hall at lunch time. She had a plate of food in front of her, but by the looks of it she hadn't touched it. I grabbed my own plate and made my way over to her table. "Is this seat taken?" I asked, pointing at the spot in front of her. She look at me for a while before shaking her head. I sat down and she immediately turned her head, not wanting to look at me. "Chicken isn't your favorite?" I asked jokingly. "There's other things that makes me lose my apatite" she answered brutally, still looking at the floor beside her. I sighed "Look (y/n/n) I-" "Don't call me that!" she snapped. I jumped at her sudden outburst "Okay, sorry.... (y/n), I'm so sorry, I truly am. I should have trusted you. It's just- I never thought Astrid or any of the others would ever do anything like this to you. Not in my wildest, darkest imagination".

"Well they did" she bite back. "I know, and I don't know what to do to make it up to you. I truly care for you (y/n), and I can't forgive myself for letting you go through this for so long" I caressed her shoulder while pouring out my feelings. She look at me shocked "I-I love you, Hiccup". Now it's my turn to be shocked. S-she l-loves me? "I-I'm sorry, what was that?" I asked, wanting to make sure I heard her correct. "I love you, Hiccup. I have ever since we were 15. I wouldn't socialize with you because I got so nervous whenever you were around. I know we'll never be anything, so I've tried to hide my feelings for you. But I guess Astrid noticed it anyway. Half of the things she told me was surrounding that. Me having a crush on you". Okay, Christopher definitely didn't tell me that. She took a deep breath before she continued "I know you're with Astrid, and I don't mean to ruin anything. I just felt the need to confess and now seemed like a good time". She lowered her gaze in order to avoid eye contact.

I sat with my mouth wide open. I can't believe what she just confessed. She love me? She has loved me for six years and she hasn't told me? "Y-you love me?" I asked, still not sure if this was a dream or not. She nodded. "You can go back to your gang now. I won't bother you anymore, don't worry" she informed before standing up and leave. Due to my shock my reactions were a bit delayed. But as soon as my mind was coping the situation I raised up and ran towards her "(y/n) wait!". Once I caught up with her I noticed the tears running down her cheeks "Hiccup, please don't make this harder then it already is" she cried out "Try to forget about me and go to your girlfriend". As she finished her sentence I grabbed her cheeks and kissed her. I could tell she was shocked but soon gave in. As we pulled away she looked at me confused. "She's right here... in front of me" I said while smiling at her. She smiled back before pulling me into another kiss.

_____________________________________________________________

Author's Note: Not how I planned to end this story, but it's cute. Though I would like to know your opinion on endings. Do you like having them being sad (if it's allowed), or do you like this cutesy 'live happily ever after'- type of endings?

#hiccup x reader #hiccup horrendous haddock lll #hiccup #hiccup haddock #httyd #how to train your dragon #hiccup x reader imagines #angst

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yanderes-galore · 9 months

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Can you do yandere hiccup vs yandere astrid

Oooo! Let me see what I got :) Like most rivalry concepts this is going to be me spilling my thoughts about the idea more than following an actual plot.

Doesn't go into the relationship with either of them, mostly talks about the thoughts between them.

Yandere Hiccup Concept

Yandere Astrid Concept

Yandere! Hiccup Haddock vs Yandere! Astrid Hofferson

Pairing: Romantic/Platonic - Rivalry/Sharing

Possible Trigger Warnings: Gender-Neutral Darling, Obsession, Jealousy, Violence, Manipulation, Stalking, Dubious companionship.

Hiccup would be Obsessive, Overprotective, Clingy, Observing, Manipulative, yet Caring.

Astrid is a Loyal, Competitive/Jealous, Dedicated, Persistent, Impulsive, Overprotective, and Caring yandere.

Both of these yanderes have similarities yet are also quite different from each other.

At their core from the yandere behavior I saw in their concepts, they are both overprotective and caring yanderes despite their differences.

Both yanderes tend to use heavy manipulation to gain their darling's favor, often not minding telling little lies to make you believe them.

I feel they are mostly the same due to being so close, but Astrid may be a bit more violent.

Hiccup and Astrid are close friends in this concept, they aren't as romantically involved as in canon.

This could be the result of their feelings for darling or not.

If they see darling in a platonic way then maybe romantic feelings for one another are strained due to the tension between them.

Maybe they just don't feel for each other in a romantic way because they feel for you that way which makes their platonic feelings with each other tense.

Either way the two have trouble getting along due to their relationship with you.

That doesn't happen right off though.

They first have to know how the other feels for you.

A way they can find out is simply observing the other around you.

Surely at least one of them is stalking you, right?

This could lead to them meeting with each other to discuss their involvement with you.

When it comes to Hiccup and Astrid I can see them sharing.

It's possible but I can also see them fighting.

Maybe Hiccup feels Astrid is too reckless with her tendency to dragon race or train too harshly with you?

Or maybe Astrid hates that Hiccup is depriving you of your time together to be stronger or something?

Their rivalry is most tense when romantic, but there's different combos.

They could do a Romantic/Romantic rivalry, Romantic/Platonic rivalry, or Platonic/Platonic rivalry.

I can imagine one of them fighting over you as a best friend protecting their friend from being with an obsessive partner when it comes to them.

Both work well as jealous yanderes no matter how they feel.

Due to being yanderes with dragons, you can bet Toothless and Stormfly eventually get involved.

I imagine Astrid is the more competitive and possessive one while Hiccup is the protective and caring one most of the time.

Astrid is usually very similar to Hiccup's caring personality but in a rivalry she's more on the offensive.

I imagine the two fight but it isn't brutal like some rivalries can get.

It's mostly arguments and deals centering around you, they very rarely get into anything bloody with each other.

They're jealous but have enough respect for one another to not kill each other.

The only time I can see someone like them kill is if they snapped, they both don't really like the idea.

Unfortunately the tension between their riders spills over into Toothless and Stormfly.

The two dragons still like each other but are uneasy due to the hatred brewing between their riders.

It's a good thing the two riders know better than to attack each other.

They often yell and threaten but they'd never do anything that bad.

The dynamic is certainly feelings of betrayal all around.

They either feel like their crush is being stolen away, their friend is being stolen away, or something in between.

They can't believe the other would go behind their back and become close with you.

There's a chance their rivalry will soften and fizzle out into something like sharing.

When it comes to them I can imagine with time harsh feelings can heal with help from you.

Then the two would comply with sharing you and defending you together.

This would work better with one being your romantic partner and the other being a best friend.

But I can also imagine this as poly or two really close protective friends.

They wouldn't lock you away from each other, instead they'd be the types to coax you away from the other.

Their rivalry is rather tame, their dragons often trying to help best they can.

Overall I can't see the two for long.

Somehow in the end, maybe after tension for months or even a year or two, they'll work something up and be supportive of one another again.

Fighting rivalries that do nothing but fight are scary and intense sure...

But rivalries that swap into sharing are quite bad too.

After all, what's worse than two yanderes fighting in a rivalry?

Two yanderes coordinated to keep their darling to themselves.

#yandere how to train your dragon #yandere httyd #yandere hiccup haddock #yandere hiccup horrendous haddock #yandere astrid hofferson #yandere astrid

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starscribes · 7 months

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StarScribes Introduction

About Me

Star (she/her)

Married

Middle School Teacher

I have a lot of responsibilities and don't get much time to myself but when I do I spend that time watching TV, writing, reading, playing D&D, playing video games (the Sims 4), and spending casual time with my family

US located

I used to be @houndsofcorduff but then I disappeared and started a simblr blog and now it's time to get on writeblr again

Writing

Mostly fantasy of varying levels, although I have dabbled in science fiction (I like to watch sci-fi more than write it - that's where my name came from actually, the Stargate franchise)

My favorite author is Brandon Sanderson

No, I don't think I'll ever publish anything, just scribe vibing

I love worldbuilding, magic system building, monster building, etc

Warning: I rarely finish anything I start

Blog

Ask game, tag game, ask, etc friendly

Reblogging stuff I like about writing

Posting snippets of my own writing

Participating in Nanowrimo (buddy me: stargatetribe)

Main/Simblr: @starandsims

Thanks for visiting and learning about me!

WIPs under the cut

Current WIP

Crescent Unbound - A stand-alone fantasy novel following Astrid Vale, a girl left orphaned by the last battle between good and evil. 20 years later she awakens an artifact with great power, it whispers of the return of evil. She must return it to the Chosen One so that it can be used to banish evil once again, but the quest is not as easy as it may seem.

Main Series: The Destiny Chronicles

Overall Synopsis: A generational series that follows a variety of supernatural beings: The Devlins (monster hunters); Seers (see the future), Sandmen (travel/control dreams), Mages (control a variety of magics), Cruth (control elements), and hybrids. Follows certain individuals chosen by Destiny to stop a great evil, and involves a lot of crossover until the end when everyone meets up for the big bad battle.

Book One: Retrospection - 1976 Earth - Russell Walker is a 16-year-old Seer dating Alexis Devlin a 16-year-old monster hunter. When she reveals his identity as a Seer and subsequently explains he's being hunted by a Seer-eating monster, they run away together - unfortunately not to fall in love but rather to save his life.

Book Two: Otherworld - 2007 Otherworld - Maxine Devlin was born into a family of monster hunters, but after 17 years she still hasn’t been allowed to fulfill that role. She has read every journal her ancestors have written and knows everything there is to know about monsters…or so she thinks. After her uncle and cousin go missing, she takes it upon herself to investigate and find them. Very quickly she finds herself in over her head as she travels to a dimension called Otherworld, where she discovers there is much more to magic than she once assumed.

Book Three: Shades of Night - 2010 Shadow - Sebastian Devlin has been to other dimensions before - technically just the one other than the one he was born in. That doesn't make it any easier though when he's dragged through a portal by the monster he's hunting. On his own this time, he'll have to find a way home, if that's even possible. Before he can do that though, he'll have to solve this new dimensions monster problem.

Book Four: Lost in Atlantis - 2011 Atlantis - The Devlin family is back together on a special mission to search the dimension of Atlantis for a particularly dangerous monster - the one that's been hunting Sebastian. The dimension of Atlantis has been abandoned for centuries, but almost immediately they find a single survivor, an impossible face from the past.

Book Five: Vengeance at the Door - 2013 Earth - Sebastian Devlin the monster hunter has become the hunted, chased across multiple states and dimensions by a horrifying visage either of his imagination or reality. Now in Boston, he's just trying to live off the radar of any monster or creature. As the patients at the mental hospital where he works begin to see the same visages he's been seeing, does he run again? Or get himself slaughtered?

Book Six: Heartwood - 2015 Shadow - Janina Heartwood is a good little sister, she picks food off of her brother's plate, puts leaves in his hair, sticks up for him, and trusts him to the edge of the world. After a mysterious man reveals that her brother, Jake, is adopted and descended from a line of monster hunters called the Devlins, she follows him to another dimension to protect him. Now she, Jake, and her boyfriend, Ethan, find themselves trying to destroy an evil entity known as the Sluagh. Janina fights shapeshifters, gremlins, pirates, and more to protect her brother, but will it be enough?

Book Seven: Bring Me a Dream - 2015 Earth - Reynolds McNeil is a Sandman slowly turning into a Nightmare just trying to live out his final few months keeping his friends out of trouble and protecting his little sister from his scary world. Instead, he gets kidnapped and taken to an underground fight ring for augmented humans like himself.

Book Eight: Dream Treader - 2016 Unnamed Dimension - Rescued at the last second by their thought-to-be dead brother, Reynolds and Louie discover there's a lot more to their strange powers than they thought. Things continue to get complicated as they are hunted by a different kind of enemy determined to rid the world of Destiny's chosen - them and their friends.

Book Nine: Moonlight Dreams - 2017 multiple dimensions - Still on the run but now without their leader, Reynolds and his friends try to learn everything they can about why they're being hunted. In the process they rescue their leader, who now must accept that it's time to start the endgame and bring together all of Destiny's chosen before they're hunted down.

Book Ten: Among Infinities - 2017 Isfyd - Carson has lived his entire life in the middle of a Civil War, and most of that was on the wrong side. Although he's on the right side now there are few who believe he's anything other than a spy. When Carson discovers there is a real spy out there he must discover the spy's identity before he's found guilty himself.

Book Eleven: Diplopia - 2018 Isfyd - Carson, now a prisoner of his mother and in the process of resisting her brainwashing, discovers this isn't the first time she's brainwashed him or erased his memories. Exploring his memories and his old home reveals answers and more questions.

Book Twelve: Splintered Crown - 2019 Earth- Freshly rescued, Carson and his friends flee to Earth to find the one thing that can stop his mother and her army - a girl with no idea who she is or how to use her powers, and absolutely no interest in joining their rebellion.

Book Thirteen: Destiny - 2020 Earth - Earth is invaded by soldiers from Isfyd, it will take all of Destiny's chosen to defeat the great evil they've been waiting for. The Devlins, the McNeils, the Moons, and Carson and his friends are the only chance this dimension has. It's looking increasingly like it won't be enough.

Other WIPs

Hounds of Corduff - 1800s Isfyd - A four-book series following the three Cruth apprentices of Corduff as they battle with and against each other in the middle of propaganda and other lies forcing them each further away from the truth.

The Elder Mage - 1976 - 2015 Various dimensions - a series of short stories following Denham Moon, who some would call Earth's most powerful mage. He's been entrusted with bringing together Destiny's chosen at the appropriate time, but he's mostly just procrastinating since he's pretty sure he won't make it through that appropriate time.

Old Gods - a 9-book series following Em'het, a curious and multi-talented boy with great magics who fights the gods to save his family, but after several years of doing the same thing over and over again he wonders if there's a point to any of it if the gods he faces just keep getting stronger and smarter.

Prince of Fireflies - a TV series that follows teenage twins Charlie and Riley as they attempt to keep their younger brother Liam out of trouble with his mysterious light powers. They're mostly unsuccessful.

The Peculiar Adventures of Michael Mallory - an unnumbered book series that follows 9-year-old Michael Mallory after he sneaks aboard his older brother's spaceship. While in the process of trying to return Michael, Nicholas Mallory and his crew are attacked and forced to hyperjump without their navigation machines online. Now they're lost in space, who knows how far from home, and somehow raising a 9-year-old.

The Disappearing Place - just one book - 12-year-old Martin Ramsey has a bad habit of disappearing, blinking in and out of existence seemingly at random. His brother Bartholomew tries to help but ends up making things worse when he starts disappearing too. In a wacky time-traveling dilemma the brothers have to figure out what is happening and why to try and get back home, while continually randomly jumping in and out of time and space.

#writeblr #writeblr introduction #writeblr intro #fantasy writing #writer introduction #writer intro #writers of tumblr #novel writing #author #fiction #original fiction #original characters #writing community

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some-little-infamy · 9 months

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Rare Doesn't Mean Never

(Read on AO3)

Caleb can count on two fingers the number of people he’s trusted enough to travel with alone, just the two of them against the world. One is Nott, a brave soul he’ll count as one of his closest friends for the rest of his life, and the other is the drow wizard standing next to him, Essek Thelyss.

Caleb is no stranger to traveling alone. Honestly, after every significant turning point in his life, it’s the way he imagined spending the remainder of his days. Traveling and making do on his own, with no one to worry about and no one to worry over him. It’s an easy life, a safe life.

But there have been other times when he found himself part of a group. The first being his time with Astrid and Eadwulf. Caleb knows now that their friendship was born of both necessity and shared trauma, but that doesn’t take away from the meaning it held and the way it shaped him during such formative years. Then it was the Mighty Nein, an entire group of unlikely friends that wormed their way into his heart so deeply that there were moments he would’ve - and almost did, on several occasions - die for them.

None of those times hold a candle to what Caleb experiences when he adventures and fights and simply exists alongside Essek. He sleeps easily knowing that their shared protections surround them on the darkest nights and guide their travels during the daylight hours. Being with Essek - holding his hand and hearing his thoughts and sharing embraces once they were alone - often leaves Caleb feeling as if he’s floating on air. It isn’t a complacent comfort, but the kind that leaves Caleb with the feeling that he can try anything, no matter how brazen an idea. If Caleb can think it, Essek will support his every step toward making it a reality. It’s a fire that keeps Caleb questioning, constantly researching, and striving for more.

Unfortunately, it’s a fire that burns as often as it fuels. Researching is rarely as safe as it sounds, leading the pair of them to dangerous places in search of knowledge and answers. Caleb always offers to go alone, and Essek always insists on coming with him. It’s a well-practiced dance between them with every new lead Caleb gets, and each time Essek steps through a portal by his side Caleb hopes for the best and fears the worst.

It’s rare that the worst is what greets them, but unfortunately, rare doesn’t mean never.

“Caleb, behind you!” Essek shouts. Caleb had been preoccupied with the beast in front of him, his fire doing little damage to the creatures that appear to be curiously water-based in nature. He was so singularly focused, that he didn’t see one sliding soundlessly into position behind him.

Caleb starts to turn, but he’s too late. The creature shifts its almost gelatinous body, seeming to wash over Caleb rather than properly attacking him. For a second he thinks he’s unharmed, and then he feels the tingling sensation settle over every inch of exposed skin. His flesh, cold a moment before, begins to feel like nothing at all as his hands fall limp to his side.

“Essek, it’s paralyzing!” He barely manages the words, forcing them through uncooperating lips that rebel against even the slightest opening and closing.

Essek’s eyes widen in concern and Caleb wonders if it’s over his current state or the fact that with Caleb down all three of the creatures are turning their focus on him. It hardly matters. With a renewed urgency Essek closes his eyes, focuses, and unleashes three rays of frost that pierce through the center of the creatures, freezing them from the inside out. Caleb sits before he can fall completely. Just as he loses the last of his muscle control, gentle hands catch his head before it can crack off the earth below.

Essek kneels next to him, panting heavily from exertion. Caleb can feel the slight tremor in the arms that slide under him and lift the upper half of his body into Essek’s lap. A warm wave passes over him, magic that dries Caleb’s skin of any remaining paralytic residue.

“Caleb?” Essek asks, his voice soft.

Caleb can’t speak in reply. He can’t nod, or so much as blink to show that he’s listening. He should be terrified. He should feel helpless, anxious, and unnerved over being exposed and unable to defend himself.

All he feels, however, is reassured knowing that Essek is there with him.

After several failed attempts to pull the poison from Caleb’s veins, Essek curses. “I’m so sorry, my love.”

Caleb wants to reassure him, to tell him that it’s alright. He did what he could, and now all there is to do is wait.

Except Essek has never been good at doing nothing. He stands, pacing back and forth beside Caleb, then turning his attention to their surroundings.

“I don’t want to risk taking you through a portal in this condition,” Essek admits. “I can carry you, but that just puts us both at a disadvantage if there are more of these creatures out here. I can’t believe my research didn’t turn anything up on them… it should have. I should’ve known…” Caleb should’ve known, too. They both did their research, they’re both to blame if either one of them is, but Caleb knows research only goes so far. That’s why they’re out here, in the world, risking the danger of the unknown. The truth is rarely safe, nor is it easy. Finding the answers he seeks has risks they both accept.

“We’ll wait. I’ll stand guard, and we’ll camp here. Are you cold?” Essek asks, immediately frowning when he remembers that Caleb cannot answer. “I’ll start a small fire,” Essek answers himself without hesitation.

Caleb isn’t cold, because he isn’t anything at all. The numbness that stops his limbs from moving also stops his nerves from acknowledging any of the elements around him. He can see the wind moving Essek’s hair, and the patches of frost that slowly begin to form over the ground, but he feels neither the bite of the wind nor the snap of the cold.

As the feeling slowly but surely comes back to him, Caleb almost misses the paralyzing effects that saved him from being aware of just how freezing his body is. He wonders if it was always this cold here or if it’s a lingering effect of the powerful frost Essek spread… minutes before? Hours? Caleb has difficulty placing just how much time has passed since their arrival and immediate attack.

He blinks once, then twice, and feels a small shiver ripple down his spine. The movements feel small and inconsequential but Essek must’ve been watching him like a hawk because he notices them immediately.

“You’re alive,” Essek breathes, dropping to the ground by Caleb’s side without hesitation. Essek lifts up Caleb’s torso to pull him close, pressing Caleb’s cheek against his own. It isn’t often that Essek is the warmer of the two of them, but Caleb basks in the heat his body attempts to absorb through the brief contact. “You were so cold, and I saw you breathing but it was so shallow that I was afraid your lungs would paralyze as well, or-”

Caleb makes a sound that’s more mumble than speech as he forces his lips apart enough to get the words out in the space directly next to Essek’s ear. “M’fine.”

“Oh, you’re fine are you?” Essek says with a huff, carefully pulling away and re-adjusting Caleb’s body to rest in his lap. “Then that makes one of us.”

Caleb would laugh if he could. It’s only in these private moments together that they both allow their guards to drop and their insecurities to show. Only to each other do they bear their truest thoughts and deepest fears.

It’s no secret to either of them that losing the other tops that list of fears.

“S’rry,” Caleb manages. He can’t open and close his mouth enough to form full words, but he thinks it’s enough for Essek to understand him just the same. “Didn’ ‘ean to s’are you.”

Essek doesn’t reply to that, and Caleb stops trying to force out words in order to conserve his energy. As Caleb slowly regains movement in his toes first and then his fingers, Essek runs his long, thin fingers through Caleb’s hair in soothingly repetitive motions. He uses his magic to check for anything on Caleb he can heal, occasionally warming him until his body takes over the action of regulating his own temperature once more.

It’s a long, grueling process. Caleb may not be able to speak properly, but the sounds of pain as his muscles are able to move again are unmistakable. Every nerve that comes back to life feels like it’s on fire for several minutes, a sharp, constant pain that inches through his body at a snail’s pace.

“I could heal you faster, but then I risk not having enough energy to get us back home,” Essek says, eyeing Caleb closely for any sign of a response.

Caleb shakes his head slowly. He’s no stranger to pain, and he’s come back from worse without anyone to aid and reassure him. Still, the comfort is nice. Even the pangs of guilt he feels over putting Essek in danger are coupled with joy in the knowledge that he has someone willing to put themselves in danger for him. Willing to stay, for him.

It’s all the healing he needs, clinging to that knowledge as he pushes through the pain until he can sit himself upright.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you,” Caleb says, waiting until he’s certain he can get the words out with every ounce of strength he possesses. They ring true, as clear and simple as the feeling they’re born from.

“You’d do what you’ve always done, Caleb. You’d survive.” Caleb considers this. It’s true. He knows it’s true, but he also knows a life now that’s more than simply getting by for the sake of survival. Now that he has it he never wants to lose it, or worse, have to re-learn how to live without it.

“Perhaps,” Caleb agrees, taking Essek’s offered hand to stand again for the first time since the attack. His legs are wobbly, but Essek holds him steady until he straightens up fully on his own. “But I much prefer living.”

The statement hangs between them as heavy as the winds that pick up around them. Slowly, Caleb smiles, giving a gentle squeeze to the hand holding his. The squeeze is returned by Essek who smiles softly back.

Wordlessly, they begin the work to open a portal home.

#long post #caleb widogast #essek thelyss #caleb x essek #shadowgast #hurt/comfort #elle writes a few deadbeat lines #critical role #c2

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reviewinghiccup · 1 year

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DEFENDERS OF BERK | HTTYD SERIES | BREAKING DOWN HICCUP

Blog Post Series: Breaking Down Hiccup

Title: The Night and the Fury

Ep/Season: Episode 3, Season 2 (Defenders of Berk)

Premise:

Hiccup and gang set out on a training exercise on Dragon Island in hopes to train their stealth / combat skills without help from their dragons. Unfortunately, they run into a very, very unlikely "friend"...

IN ASTRID WE TRUST

It's no secret that the team needs some polishing. And we're hoping, Astrid's obstacles could do the trick. I love how they groaned, knowing that her tests is going to be difficult. It's very like them to do that and very like her to make things tough.

This exercise is fertile ground for individual members of the team to grow. For example:

(1) TUFFNUT TAKES ON THE RESPONSIBILITY OF WATCHING THE DRAGONS

(2) RUFFNUT GOES OUT ON HER OWN

(3) FISHLEGS, WELL, IT'S JUST ANOTHER DAY FOR HIM REALLY. I.E., DOING SOMETHING HE'S SCARED TO DO

(4) HICCUP, DEALING W DAGUR

(Can we also take a moment to appreciate the little confidence boost Hiccup gives to Fishlegs? We can? Ok. Here you go.)

If you started watching RTTE without first seeing ROB/DOB, you might wonder why Dagur calls him brother. Well, to be fair, I still don't know why he does, but at least from this episode, you'll know when the supposed familial relationship began.

P/S: Look at how small & cute baby is.

It's also really cute that Hiccup tries, for the most part, to keep the peace with Dagur, though for the most part, I hate to watch them pandering to him.

THE DAGUR FIASCO

This episode is where I feel DOB kicks off. Hiccup's in a very precarious position. The last time Dagur showed up, Stoick lied that Berk was still at war w dragons and that they still killed them. For the sake of peace, Hiccup didn't have much of a choice but to play along and reassert the lie.

This episode is definitely one of my favourites, especially in terms of the Hiccup-Dagur dialogue.

It's hard to not enjoy the "bro-mance" sequences. Just look at this one:

In fact, if you only watched RTTE, you might've missed where the Dagur v Snotlout situation also began. And it might surprise you to realise, that Snotlout was very much, a fan of Monsieur Deranged here.

HICCUP'S STAND

But nothing beats, that moment when Hiccup takes his stand.

It was such a DEFINING MOMENT, because Dagur has been looking down on Hiccup for years and NOW, NOW?! He realises what a genuine threat Hiccup could be. And more importantly, how easily his pride is wounded.

I'm all here for HEROIC HICCUP. And what an artistic way to show how much Dagur underestimated him. He even underestimate his shield! Much to his lost...

Also, don't you think that it is very Captain America of Hiccup sometimes, when he's wielding the shield?

And let's not forget, Hiccup is one sassy protagonist. I mean, you know you're an enemy when he burns you.

This episode is way more significant than I realised it at first. This whole time, Alvin was Berk's only viable threat. But his beef was with Stoick, initially at least.

But now, Dagur is another. And the person he's going after is Hiccup. Dagur is Hiccup's first archenemy.

And it doesn't help that he's insane.

So, what I loved about this episode was, it heightened the stakes of the entire show AND also, showcased how Hiccup can out-wit, out-smart and challenge Dagur, who I think, must've been a pretty tough contender to command the massive armada he ends up leading.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAY BARUCHEL (9.4.2023)

I know this may come off super random, but it is Jay Baruchel's birthday today. I think we can all agree that Jay is the life and soul of Hiccup. If you follow me on twitter @reviewinghiccup, you should know that I am down the rabbit hole of Jay Baruchel movies, interviews and podcasts.

And what I love so much about this guy is the respect and reverence he has for the show. I mean, he constantly praises it and not just because of his role, which he believes pales in comparison to the artists designing and working the animation, but its obvious that he's a HTTYD superfan.

I love it when an actor pays their respects to the franchise and I do enjoy his take on the work and how much the line between who Hiccup is and who he is, as a person, is blurred.

He's an eloquent speaker and tries to produce, write and direct movies now, instead of act in them. He's based in Canada.

Anyways, something interesting I learned about him was, in an interview w Tom Power, he talks about the book he wrote and what being a fan means to him. Him being a fan of hockey and how precious it can be to live within a franchise or something as massive as indulging interests. It sorta validates me a little, specially since I've dived deep into HTTYD fandom since changing careers.

youtube

And just like Hiccup, there is way more to this guy than it seems. He's funny, humble, kind and generous with his time. He wears his heart on his sleeve, and he's pretty jittery in real life too. But what kind of broke me, was finding out that even with his own father, he felt like he wasn't the kind of son his dad wanted.

Apparently, he had a complicated relationship with his dad which I believe may have bled into his work.

If you've watched enough of his interviews you'll know that he's had to support his mom and sister at 14-years-old with acting gigs because his father left and passed away when Jay was 21 following a drug overdose. Yet, he still remains so kind. I mean, his upbringing was tough, poor and difficult, yet you can still see him trudging through humbly, not wanting to draw attention to himself as much as he can help it.

In an interview article I read this morning, he explained that he wanted to continue being a good husband, son, brother, friend and I thought that was such a genuine Hiccup thing to say. He shoulders all these responsibilities and have been since he was a kid. Look, I don't know the guy personally, but from the expansive notes and recordings I've looked into, he seems pretty decent and I am such a huge fan.

As I grow older, I understand people on a different level. I accord respect so differently from how I would've years ago. And right now, I think what makes Jay Baruchel interesting is his sheer promise to do better for his family. And I think, in the absence of chiefing, running a village and saving the world, Hiccup is very much the same in that aspect too. A chief protects his own, which seems to be the mantra ringing in my head as I listen to Jay talk about his life.

You guys have no idea how much I know about this dude. I have possibly stalked him silly right now. And am a little embarrass as I admit this. Anyways, all I want is for him to succeed, in his work, life and family.

#HTTYD #DOB #Defenders of Berk #Series Review #How to Train Your Dragon #Breaking Down Hiccup #Dagur the Deranged #captain america #chris evans #happy birthday #jay baruchel #she's out of my league #alice eve #Youtube #hiccup #hiccup haddock #hiccup horrendous haddock iii

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afriendlyirin · 5 months

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Just finished the final season of Hilda. It was... okay, but felt like it lost its sense of direction.

Maybe I'm in the minority, but I was never very interested in questions about Hilda's backstory. We didn't need to know who her family was and why she has blue hair. We didn't need to not know those things, but I don't feel like they added anything significant. For me, the appeal of the series was always in how Hilda interacts with external forces, not her internality.

And unfortunately I think the season really flopped on that one. I was hoping we would get to see how Hilda interacts with genuinely malevolent entities, then nope actually the faeries are good. The whole season felt like it was really confused about what it was trying to say and why. The giants really are hurting people and it is genuinely difficult to coexist with them, but driving them off is still bad because...? Frog-spider eats people, but it doesn't eat humans so it's fine to have it wandering around?

Then the final episode is just whiplash after whiplash -- Hilda has to rescue Anders, then OH WAIT Hilda has to go back to rescue Johanna, then she can't leave but then she can leave but Johanna can't leave but Astrid's going to strike a deal but the deal doesn't work but then it does and then never mind she doesn't have to make a deal at all. Also the faeries are scary and evil and abduct people but actually never mind they're good and were only abducting Hilda's family for good reasons but the island itself is actually evil and it's a stickler for rules and bargains except it's completely opaque what those rules are, sometimes bargains can be renegotiated but sometimes they can't, and it's willing to accept a blood sacrifice just for the sake of it even though it gains no benefit from it?

Like... just... WHAT. I think my head needs time to stop spinning.

(Also, I'm really annoyed that after three seasons of Hilda learning that cutting Johanna out of her decisions always ends badly and Johanna willingly going adventuring with her this entire season Hilda still cuts her out in the finale, even though it's the stupidest possible time to do so because this is going to be a long operation so she's obviously going to find out. Way to regress on all that character development, Hilda.)

And after all that and answering all those questions about Hilda's heritage, it still never answered the question of why the Fairy Isle is dying, even though that seems pretty relevant to, um, everything?! The story didn't seem sure if it even was dying -- the corruption manifests itself to stop Hilda's escape, so that's clearly something the Isle has control over and not a sign of weakness, but then Astrid asserts the Isle is dying. BUT WHY THOUGH. I assumed it had something to do with there being no more faerie abductions, but then Astrid claims it "doesn't need new blood" precisely because it's dying, so the two things are unrelated. I guess van Gale will figure it out, but we never will.

In the end I don't think it did said anything really different, meaningful, or interesting with its magical creatures this season, which is a real shame when it's done that so consistently throughout the rest of the series. It really feels to me like the creators just didn't know where to take the series after Hilda and the Mountain King. I don't dislike the new season enough to wish the series had ended there, but nothing here lives up to it.

#my posts #hilda #hilda netflix #hilda the series #hilda season 3 #media

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sword-symphonia · 2 months

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non persona post?? My word she's gone mad (SPIRITFARER REVIEW WAOW!!!!) (Very long, I'm sorry) (But not really)

This review discusses themes of death, loss and terminal illness, as well as containing language. I swear a fair bit. Sorry, I typed everything as I thought of it, bad words 'n all.

Good afternoon,(it is 9PM in Ireland) fellas! Welcome to: SPIRITFARER- REVIEWED BY A TEENAGE GIRL WHO IS VERY NORMAL ABOUT HER INTERESTS!! Move over, IGN- it's the weird little guy in the corner (me)'s time to shine! I simply word-vomited this so unfortunately this review is very unprofessionally worded- however, I have faith it will be a fun read. I hope. Also, it's mostly spoiler free! ...I hope! I'm sorry!

So! Hi. I'm Luca. I have crippling thanatophobia. What's that? A phobia of death. And what's Spiritfarer about? Oh, baby. You aren't gonna fuckin' believe this! And, would you believe it, this game... actually helped me with that fear!

Currently, I'm only nine hours in, but. Well basically the damage is irreparable and I fear I shall never be the same again. Now, luckily, I have not cried. Yet. But I will! Oh, BABY I will!!! I have gotten five spirits so far (I'm coming for you, Gustav/threat) and have already had my first trip through the Everdoor. I wasn't ready. Come back, my dear. Please.

Spiritfarer is a game I've wanted to play for quite a long time, so to have been able to buy it about a month ago was one of the most exciting parts of my year so far. No, really! I was HYPED! HELL YEAH, THIS HAS BEEN ON MY WISHLIST FOR AGES! That kind of feeling. And then I started playing, and... hooooly shit. Guys. Dudes. Bros. What the hell. The VISUALS. WOW. W-O-W WOW!!! HOLY BALLS!!!

Look at this. Witness it with your eyes.

Bloody breathtakin'. I'm in tears. The game is absolutely chock-full of colourful (and not so colourful) locations, characters, landscapes... god, I'm so unwell about the visuals. And the ANIMATION!! AUGH! Every character has unique animations that just... oh they illustrate their characters so well. Augh...

Atul is nearly always happy, bouncy and smiley in his animations- a reflection of who he is!! One of his happiness perks is playing joyful music! He is literally just a guy! And Alice! Alice is a kindly old lady, and this is reflected in her design and personality- one of her animations involves dusting herself off, and I just think it gives the perfect image of a sweet elderly woman simply making herself more presentable. Also, she calls you dearie. What if I started bawling? What if I threw myself on the ground roaring and wailing?

Another favourite of mine is Astrid. She's also a kindly old lady- but with sass. Alice is an absolute sweetheart, but Astrid? Astrid won't say no to a cheeky bit of gossip now and then...but shh don't tell anyone gossip is bad shhh HEY WANNA KNOW ASTRID'S NICKNAME FOR STELLA??? Munchkin. What the hell. I love that nickname. Wish I had an adoptive granny that would call me Munchkin. Astrid, my most dearest darling, how I adore you. AND she's pro worker's rights- damn, what a woman. Also, her eating animation is funny. Absolutely DECIMATES a sandwich, so she does.

Tragically I will shut my yap about the characters now as there are quite a few of them and unfortunately I cannot put anyone through that (but know that Gustav and Daria also make me insane), so let's move on, eh? Who fancies a bitta tunes? I sure as hell know I do! LISTEN TO THAT! RAAAAAGHHH!!!! The music isn't a massive part of the game, per se- but it doesn't have to be! The music, of course, adds a pleasant ambience as you play- but it's not in your face! It's a nice, calm, beautifully composed soundtrack, with a special, unique little tune for every minigame. While I have no musical bone in my body personally, I am something of a- how do you say eloquently- whore for a good soundtrack. I love music, I love creativity!! Hooray!!

I actually don't have much to say on the music, but know that I do love it! But, I really really really want to talk about the themes of Spiritfarer... like, really bad.

Okay, so... I'm actually going to get into personal territory here, and it's going to get a bit heavy. If you'd prefer to skip over that, then please, by all means, feel free to skip down until you see red text.

So, there's another reason this game is so dear to me. And that reason is the fact that Spiritfarer actually helps me to process my own grief. While it didn't come out until four years after the loss of my older brother... it helps. And if nine-year-old me had had Spiritfarer at that age, I feel like she would have been able to cope better. I was unlucky- my brother passed away at 1AM, while I was asleep. To this day, I regret not being able to say goodbye... but Spiritfarer illustrates this in a poignant way- sometimes, we won't be able to say goodbye, wether due to extraordinary circumstances or simply... not realising how little time you really have left with someone. This brings me to the spirit I actually look forward to the least- not for any fault of his character, but simply what he symbolises to me.

I find myself dreading meeting Stanley later on in the game. Stanley, the youngest spirit you can meet within the game, is a lovely little boy of eight, taking on the appearance of a little mushroom creature. Nothing is wrong with Stanley, but... it's important to remember that every spirit is... well, a spirit. Someone who's died. And given Stanley is only a small child, it hits that bit closer to home. He is younger than my brother was upon his death, but he was still a child. While it isn't specified what illness it was that Stanley died from, I still see a lot of my brother in him. Spiritfarer does help me and bring me comfort, but at the same time, I'm not sure I'm ready to meet a character so close to my own experiences. The fact Stanley always seems so chipper and smiley despite his difficulties... does not help. Bit too similar, you know?

My relationship with Stanley is an odd one. I don't dislike him- absolutely not, far from it- I dislike the fact his character, a little boy, has to exist. I dislike that children like him exist in real life, and the fact I've met so many of them. It's a hard truth to swallow, and not one I'm fully prepared to deal with.

OVERALL:

I think this game can be enjoyed by everyone, even if you've never experienced grief. It's a beautiful story, and its gorgeous visual charm and cozy mechanics have something for everyone. You can fish, mine, cook, craft, and basically everything in between! Also, there is a hug button. You can hug people. Game of the decade. I love hugs! It's so... god. I just... really like the hug button, man. Oh, and did I mention you can play co-op?! If you have a friend you'd like to play with, they can join the fun as Daffodil, Stella's beloved pet cat! Look at him, isn't he gorgeous!!

So, would I reccomend Spiritfarer? Short answer:

Yes.

Long answer: Yes, absolutely. It's an absolutely wonderful cozy game, with tons to do. There's no voice acting, but I don't think this game needs it- it tells an absolutely wonderful tale without it. Each character has a distinct personality and quirks- Summer is vegan and will adjust her diet as such, while Atul will quite literally eat anything you throw at him. Giovanni is brash, confident, and enjoys the finer things in life, whereas Astrid likes things plain and simple. And Daria? Daria just really likes fruit.

If you have an interest in Spiritfarer, I highly encourage you to check it out. It's available on a number of platforms (Playstation, Steam, even on mobile- although that's through Netflix, and also not very good. In my opinion, anyway.) I highly, highly, highly reccomend it to all cosy gams enjoyers, or even just people who like games in general. There's even little bits of platforming here and there, if you're into that! Do you yearn for the mines? How about becoming a woodcutter? Or maybe you just really like smelting. Well, excellent news- you can do all those things in Spiritfarer! The gameplay, music, visuals and most importantly of all, the story, make this game a highly worthwhile purchase in the long run. Chances are, if you like Stardew Valley, you'll like Spiritfarer.

Thunder Lotus Games has shattered my soul in ways I may never recover from- however, I am not upset about it. God, I bloody love Spiritfarer. This review took two and a half hours to type, I shit you not. God bless.

#spiritfarer #this game is killing me #It will kill me #crying screaming throwing up #Spiritfarer when I find you spiritfarer #GHHHH #Members of the jury- I am insane. Thank you

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valpogossip · 2 months

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VALPOGOSSIP TEACAP: APRIL 2024

You lot sure have be busy the last month. If I was of lesser mind or simply someone with something better to do, I would have resigned myself to my silence and let you all carry on. But business pays. And unfortunately for you, it's yours that pays me, and you're all not going to believe this.

It's always the ones in the most denial that scream the loudest and Abril is a banshee. While at La Fiesta De Vindimia, Abril confronted our favorite blonde bombshell, Mallory Jade, about song she assumed was about her. Now theres something about a fight over a song like Pretty Girls ending in a kiss that just doesn't feel all that... straight to me. But Abril was quick to prove all of us wrong by locking in with Giovanni !

Speaking of Giovanni, the timing of this is quite suspicious considering he had a bit of his own meet-not-so-cute with a Yazmin. The two getting off on the wrong food but helping each other find the right one another and getting all cozy enough to take a nap outside. I don't about you all, but I don't think i've ever been that comfortable. Wonder with Yazmin thinks of this. Or Abril for that matter.

We could also ask Aivryn for her opinion on the matter considering how upset she was when Abril's new beau launched to the world to see. Apparently, even as her best friend, Aivryn found out at the same time everyone else did. I can't help but wonder why that is.

In more confusing but entertaining news, Omar and Dante are going on a date to decide which one gets to take which...one... on a... date ? I think I'm reading that correctly. Yes, bowling date. Loser takes other on date. No, yeah that's right. Well, whatever love looks like for you. Whenever there's a Dominguez-Herrera involved we're sure it'll be healthy and sane.

Maybe it's the bowling date nerves that led Dante to break Drew's nose? We hope that's healing up just fine.

Every month we hope Alba will stand up, and this month they came really close ! It was much of a hunch, but hey we'll take it. After a cold war, Milani raised the first white flag but all it took was one. You'll get there Al, we believe in you !

The festival seemed to be a hub for rekindling kisses, as Arlo and Esme were spotted liplocked on one of the benches. Sad thing about Leia bearing eye witness. Has anyone checked on her? What is it about good wine that makes you want to relive the past? Maybe they can go on a double date with Mallory and Abril and relive the past together.

Speaking of rekindling, but this time no kisses, exes Elijah and Sariyah, and Luna and Enzo were both spotted with frowns on their faces and eyes that were looking everywhere but each other. What conversation has you guys that deep in thought? Maybe you should take a drive, we here that helps.

If you're looking for a palette cleanser from all the mess, look no further than Jasper and Hunter. Gentle conversations and cutely planned dates. We wish them nothing but the best and maybe they could teach our many ( many ) confused couples a thing or two.

We hope that's enough to hold you over until next month. And if I missed anything, don't hesitate to send in a little tip to us via our anon box.

Here's some things we're keeping a close eye on for next month:

Ysla and Adem seem to be getting extremely close to little Emmie. Is it all just for her benefit? Astrid and Kaito already have the perfect starter for next month's tea cap, I wonder what else they'll get up to. What's the history there? How is Sariyah involved? Why does vic hate birthdays so much and why does esme suddenly care so much about his? Ximena and Bryce seem to also be spending a lot more time together. Aksel and Sarah's dinner table keeps getting bigger and bigger whole Luna's looks to be getting smaller, why is that? Will Drew ever get his double date? Is Luna like... okay?

If you didn't make this rounds teacap don't worry, we're still watching closely.

#valpoteacap #i feel like i missed.... so much this month im sorry yall

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hotshot624 · 2 years

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How To Train Your Human To Rest

Lee/s: Hiccup Haddock

Ler/s: Toothless

Genre: Fluff

Fic type: Tickle fic

Other characters: Stoic and Gobber

Summary: After the Red Death fight, Hiccup over does it after he just woke up from a coma, and now has to rest in bed. Unfortunately he doesn't want to stay and Toothless is now in charge of keeping him in bed. After many escape attempts, Toothless finds a way to keep his beloved human from going anywhere.

Berk was finally perfect.

Well at least to Hiccup.

Okay fine maybe it wasn't completely perfect but it was getting there.

Hiccup looked around Berk, while walking with Astrid, Snotlout, Fishlegs, and the twins, as they showed him all that he had missed when he was in his coma, with a look of adoration on his face. After hundreds of years of fighting these poor dragons it was finally over. Vikings and dragons could be seen interacting with each other and not just to kill one another. Some vikings were obviously nervous having the dragons so closed to them and some of the dragons were nervous having the vikings so close to them. But Hiccup knew that it was only a matter of time before they would all get along just like he and Toothless have.

Speaking of Toothless, the nightfury was right by his side the while time. Seeing how this was the first time Hiccup had to walk with his fake leg, he tripped and almost fell over a lot. Thankfully Toothless was their to catch him right before he hit the ground every time. As this kept happening, the people of Berk could see how much the dragon cared for the boy and how much he was willing to help. It seemed like because of this, the vikings were opening up more to the dragons. Well mainly Toothless. Every time they'd walk by him, they'd give Toothless a pat, or rub his back, or some sort of affection to show how thankful they were to him. Not only because he helped take down the Red Death but also because how he was help Hiccup. Though most of them weren't big fans of Hiccup before the fight, they still cared for him. Sure he was a clutts but they still liked him. He was sweet and a little awkward but he meant no harm and was always trying to help other people. Of course they all liked him even more seeing how he almost gave up his life trying to protect his village and his people. Speaking of which, people were giving their thanks to Hiccup as well!

People who didn't do much more than give a nod of acknowledgement to Hiccup as he walked by, were now yelling his name and waving at him. Some patted him on the shoulder others going in for a hug. He was given treats, cool weapons, little homemade nick nacks, and all sorts of things. And Hiccup sucked it all in.

He never used to get this much positive attention from anyone so this was mind blowing to him. He made it back to the mead hall where everyone was surrounding him and yelling thanks and toasting to him. He had been lifted into the air and thrown a couple times. Before Toothless, he probably would have gotten sick but now that he had Toothless.... Well actually he was feeling kind of sick, but it was fine. Why would he care. This was like one of the best things to ever happen to him and he wasn't gonna let a little nauseousness stop him from enjoying himself. He was so happy, he didn't even notice himself getting dizzy. He didn't even notice Toothless starting to get antsy and making loud gurgles and him pacing around. He didn't notice the worried and confused glances he was getting from his fellow vikings and father. He didn't even notice himself swaying and the world spinning around him until he hit the floor and passed out. The last things he heard was the loud gasps, the loud roar from Toothless, and the shout of his father yelling "Son!" before his vision went black.

He awoke back in his bed with Toothless staring directly at him, half way on his bed. Hiccup groaned with discomfort from the massive headache he had and tried to sit up. He was stopped by a giant hand placing itself on his chest and laying back down.

"No son, you need to lay back down. You still need rest" His father spoke. "I'm sorry but they were Gothi's orders."

His father had a chair pulled up to the side of his bed along with what looked like a cup of water.

"Ugh" Hiccup groaned "What happened?"

"Here" his father brought the cup to his lips "drink this."

Hiccup drank what was in the cup and immediately went to spit it out, but his father stopped him and Toothless made a bunch of gurgles at him. Well at least now he knew it definitely wasn't water.

"I know! I know it's disgusting but you have to drink it. Gothi said it will help you heal quicker and it should help with any discomfort you have."

Just as his father said that, his headache seem to have gone completely away much to Hiccup's relief. Toothless had gotten down from his spot one Hiccup's bed but had stayed close to him... Incredibly close to him actually. He was pretty much on top of him but Hiccup didn't mind. He pet Toothless affectionately and then looked back at his father.

"You never answered my question ya know" he said to his father as he got more comfortable on his bed.

His father looked at him and sighed. He stood up to collect his cup and went down the stairs. He came up again with a cup that he promised Hiccup this time was actual water and not some concoction that Gothi had made.

"It was my fault" his father said finally after sitting back down again.

Hiccup looked at his confused, wanting him to elaborate.

"I let you get up too fast. You had just awoken from a coma and I let you walk around Berk all day yesterday. It was too much for your body. Hel, it would be too much for anyone's body but more especially your because well you know" he gestured to Hiccup.

Hiccup glared at him.

Stoic immediately went to defend himself.

"Not that that's a bad thing! It's just that...well ya know your... Well"

"Small. Scrawny. Twig like. Stuff like that" Gobber finished for Stoic, looking quite proud of himself for coming up with those answers and he walked up the stairs to Hiccup's room.

Stoic sighed and put his head in his hand, shaking his head.

"Thank you Gobber. Means so much to me" Hiccup said sarcastically while rolling his eyes.

"Of course! Always happy to help" Gobber said.

He turned his attention to Stoic.

"Sorry to interrupt you chief, but need your help. Spitelout is getting into a fight and we need your help to come and settle it." Gobber said looking at him like this happens everyday.

I mean it did but still.

Stoic sighed and got up.

"And who has he gotten into a fight with this time?" Stoic asked, irritation clear as day in his voice.

"Oh ya know, about half the village" answered Gobber nonchalantly with a shrug.

Stoic sighed even louder with even more exhaustion. It was gonna be a looonnng day. And unfortunately that meant he couldn't stay with his son. This made him even more upset. Not only because he wanted to spend some time with Hiccup, I mean he almost died. He almost lost Hiccup. Without him, he'd be alone. He couldn't have that. But he also could leave Hiccup alone either.

He stood up and looked at his son. He had that defiant look in his eyes. Like he was angry. Like he need to prove himself to people. Damn it Gobber! Why'd he have to say anything.

"Hiccup" his father warned.

Hiccup tensed and but didn't look at him.

"Hiccup, I want you to look at me son" said Stoic.

Hiccup reluctantly looked at his father. Not without a huff and a cross of his arms. And his little glare.

"Why are you looking at me like that, I haven't even said anything" Stoic said with some amusement in his voice.

His son always tried to look angry and intimidating but he looked like a baby terrible terror. Especially with his almost pout on his face.

"It's because I know your gonna say 'Son'" Hiccup said now mimicking Stoics voice and sitting up and puffing out his chest.

Stoic let out a laugh along with Gobber.

"'I know your completely fine and not hurt or anything but I want you to stay in bed. Your not aloud to move or even breathe to much because Gothi said so. And if you do, I'll pick you up with one arm and carry you right back up here in front of the whole village for no reason even though your completely fine'" Hiccup finished now laying back down and crossing his arms again.

He was such a dramatic little shit sometimes.

Stoic chuckled, shaking his his head with his hand son his hips.

He was clearly referring to all the times he had to do that to poor Hiccup but on his defense he didn't have much of a choice.

Hiccup always tried to run away when he got sick or hurt and Stoic always had to find him and being him back to bed. Sometimes it was annoying but it was usually amusing because his son, who had no athletic bone in his body, could move as fast as a nightfury to try and avoid having to lie down.

"Well I think you got it down what I want from you. And I expect you to do as I said....or as you said"

Gobber looked at Stoic with a confused face.

"When has he ever listened to that?" Asked Gobber.

He's had his fair share of having a wrangle a sickly Hiccup before and he knows from experience that Hiccup never listens to Stoic especially when he asks Hiccup to stay put.

Stoic sighed. If he kept all this sighing up, he'd end up blowing away all the air in the archipelago. But it wasn't his fault. He had a lot to do with Spitelout and trying to the keep the rest of the village from killing him. That would take up almost the entire day like it usually did. But now he had to make sure his son doesn't get up and move too much so he didn't pass out again. He had no one to watch his son because everyone else was too busy with the other dragons on Berk...

Well.... actually.....he did have someone to look after Hiccup.

Stoic turned to Toothless.

"Dragon" Stoic said. Toothless's head shot up and looked at Stoic. He almost forgot about the offspring of lightning and death it's self was sitting their, cuddling with his son. What a sight to see he thought. "I need you to do me a favor".

At this Hiccup let out a groan already knowing what was coming.

"I need you to make sure my boy here doesn't leave this bed. If he's hurt or it's an emergency, you bring him to me and I'll deal with it. That's the only time he's aloud to leave. Understand dragon?"

Stoic wasn't too sure if the nightfury even understood a thing he just said but after he gave what looked like a nod and sounded like a gurgle of approval, he decided that he did.

And with that, Stoic was satisfied and turned back to a pouting Hiccup.

"I know you'd rather be anywhere else in the archipelago right now, but you have to rest. Thor knows what could happen to you if you get up and pass out again. Please I'm begging you, stay here." Begged his father who now took his hand in his.

Hiccup's eyes softened and he sighed.

"Fine" was all he said after a few seconds.

Stoic knew that that was the best he was going to get and with that sighed (again) and turned to leave. Not without and affectionate pat on his son's head. Gobber followed him out with goodbye to Hiccup and Toothless.

As they were leaving Hiccup could hear Gobber say to his father "ya know he's not actually gonna stay there" to which his father replied with another goddamn sigh and a "yes Gobber, of course I know that but it was worth a try. I'll make sure to tell everyone to keep a look out for him just in case" and then he heard the door shut.

How dare his father think of him like that! I mean he was absolutely gonna try to escape but still.

Hiccup waited in his bed for a couple of minutes. He knew from experience, that his father and Gobber we're waiting for him outside. They scared the shit out of him when that happened for the first time. He swore he'd never do it again..... And then he did it not even two hours later. That was about seven years ago. He couldn't exactly remember why but after that day he didn't try to escape again. They kept doing something when he was sick or hurt and tried to run to the point where he just stop escaping after that. Well up until he was fourteen. They had stopped what ever they had been doing to keep him from escaping for some reason. Maybe because they forgot as well. He wished he could remember. Maybe that would have stopped him from escaping this time.

Hiccup had sat up in his bed and looked around. He was completely alone other than Toothless, who had sat back to stare at him. Now that his father and Gobber were gone he could make a plan to escape. He might be able to use Toothless. He could crouch down and hide under his wing and make it seem like Toothless wanted some fresh air or to get something to eat. Then when they were out of sight they'd go and do.... Something. He wasn't sure yet what they would do but it would be something.

To be honest, he didn't have a real reason to be escaping. Maybe it was because he just didn't want to be trapped in the house. Maybe it was because he didn't want to be seen as weak for having to rest. I mean technically he did rest after the coma when he was unconscious but apparently it didn't count for some absurd reason. Maybe it was because he now finally had friends who seemed to want to hand out with him and he wanted to spend as much time as possible with them. Maybe it was all three of those reasons. He didn't care too much though. All he cared about was getting the Hel out of this damn house.

Hiccup shifted so his feet were hanging off the edge of his bed. Or I guess his foot. He doesn't think he'll ever get used to it not being their. But then again this is only his second day of having to deal with it so who knows.

Just as he's about to get up, Toothless runs to the other side of the bed and used the top head to push him back down and Hiccup let's out an 'oof'.

"Toothless! What the Hel was that for?" He asked his nightfury, annoyed that he was being prevented from moving by his best friend.

Toothless let a a string of soft roars, trying to communicate with him but of course Hiccup had no idea what he was saying.

Then it hit him.

His father had told Toothless to make sure Hiccup didn't leave his bed. And he actually listen to him?! Unbelievable!

"You've got to be kidding bud, seriously? You're actually listening to him?!" Hiccup asked completely flabbergasted.

Toothless stared at him, now sitting in front of him blocking his path.

"Toothless look, I'm fine. I promise. My dad and Gobber are just over reacting. I'm not even tired or anything. Nothing bad is gonna happen if I just go walking around. Besides, Gothi gave me some medicine that made me feel so much better so now I can move around. My head doesn't even hurt anymore. So could you just ya know..." Hiccup gently tried to push Toothless to the side.

Toothless didn't budge.

Hiccup sighed and replied to Toothless's stubbornness to move with a annoyed 'fine' and shifted to turn to the other side of his bed.

Just as he stood up, he immediately got the top of Toothless's head in his stomach again and was pushed down.

Hiccup looked at him, exasperated.

"Really?" He questioned Toothless.

Toothless gurgled at him with a look that said 'try me'.

So Hiccup did.

With all his strength, which wasn't a lot especially since he was still kind of weak from waking up from a coma, he tried to push past Toothless by pushing at his chest, only for him to use his strength, which was not even close to a lot because he didn't want to hurt his human, and pushed him back onto the bed.

Okay now Hiccup was starting to get pissed off.

He sat up and death glared at Toothless. Hiccup was tired, grumpy because upset he couldn't be outside, all together in a very defiant mood. Toothless wasn't helping him feel any better right now and it was pissing him off.

Fine if Toothless wanted to be unfair, well then Hiccup could be unfair too.

Hiccup let out a huff and pretended to give up and looked away from Toothless. Just as Toothless let his guard down, Hiccup shot his had out and scratched that special spot under Toothless's chin. Right when he did, Toothless rolled over on his back with his leg kicking slightly in the air with a face of pure bliss.

Hiccup let a out a victorious 'Yes' and got out of bed. Admittedly he got out a bit slower than he'd like to and had to pause for a few seconds because of how lightheaded he got, but after it went away, he sped walked to the stairs.

He had to hold onto the wall so he didn't fall over. Not just from the dizzy spell he just had but also because of the fact that he still wasn't really used to have his fake foot.

Maybe he would be better at walking if his dad let him move. You know what. That was gonna be his excuse- I mean reason for not staying in bed. He had to get used to walking with the fake foot. He knew his dad wouldn't take that for an answer but still it was good to have one other than just saying he didn't want to be in bed anymore.

Just as his foot was about to touch the first step of the stairs, he heard Toothless let out a roar and saw black jump over him and then run up the stairs in front of him. Before Hiccup even had a chance to process what just happened he had the top of Toothless's right back in his stomach again.

Hiccup tried to stop him and yelped out a bunch of 'wait's and 'stop's and 'please's but unfortunately they didn't nothing to stop the great nightfury.

Toothless finally stopped when the back of Hiccup's legs hit his bed and he fell onto to it with an 'oof'. He looked up to glare at Toothless only to be met with a glare of his own.

Toothless was definitely not happy and let out a low growl just to prove it.

All his human was supposed to do was stay put like he was asked but noooOoo he just had to be difficult. AND not only that but he tried to trick Toothless into thinking he was getting some nice scratches only to be left hanging! The nerve of that guy! Absolute unbelievable the stuff he had to put up with.

Toothless let out a huff and sat down right in front of Hiccup while still glaring down at him. It wasn't even like he didn't have anything to do. He had books near his bed to keep him entertained as well had his pencil and a few papers so he could draw. He had water near his bed and some bread to keep him full. Toothless new he didn't need to use the bathroom so he couldn't tell why his human would just stay put.

While Toothless was contemplating whether or not he should sit on Hiccup to keep him still, Hiccup took the time to roll over to the other side of the bed and get up again.

Okay Toothless was definitely gonna sit on him now.

With a roar of annoyance and a loud huff, Toothless walked in front of Hiccup, going to stop him for what felt like the hundredth time today. The worst part was it had only been an hour since Stoic had left! Toothless was gonna loose it before his dad ever got home.

As Toothless was going to push Hiccup back to bed, Hiccup tried his best to plead with the dragon.

"Toothless please! Come on, I'm begging you! I'm fine I promise! If I wasn't I wouldn't be able to be getting up and running away right?" Hiccup tried with Toothless.

Toothless stopped and thought for a second. I mean he was right. If he really wasn't fine he would have passed out again. But then Toothless shook his head. It wasn't fine! Hiccup needed to rest! Even if he could stand up it didn't matter. He was standing up yesterday until he physically couldn't anymore and that's how they ended up here in the first place! He went to move Hiccup back into the bed but, of course, not without Hiccup fighting him. Hiccup used his bed post to keep himself from hitting the bed all the way, gripping the frame with two hands and using all his body weight against Toothless. Unfortunately for him, it wasn't a lot.

"Toothless stop it! Bad dragon! Let me uhuP-HEHEY!" Hiccup squealed falling back onto his bed while wrapping both arms around his stomach and scooted all the way to the top of his bed.

After hearing this outburst, Toothless jumped back and stared at Hiccup with concern.

All he had done was pushed Hiccup with his nose to try and and get him onto the bed. Oh no, had he pushed to hard? Did he accidentally hurt him? Maybe he was already hurt and was trying to get out of bed to tell someone and get help (Ha! Yeah right. Don't you know how irresponsible Hiccup is Toothless? He wouldn't tell anyone if he was hurt and would just suffer silently). Gods Toothless felt horrible.

Hiccup looked at his dragon after the shock from what happened wore off. He then realized that his reaction may have worried his poor friend and decided to reassure him that he was okay.

"Hey, hey, nonono it's okay bud. I'm okay, I promise. I just wasn't expecting your nose in my stomach is all" He said to Toothless now coming forward again to pet him.

Toothless wasn't convinced. I mean Hiccup had said many times he was fine before and that certainly wasn't true so how did Toothless know he wasn't lying this time? Hiccup sighed and tried again.

"Bud look at me. I swear you didn't hurt me. You just...ya know... It just tickled a little is all, okay? That's it, I promise." He said, cheeks turning a little pink at his admission and looked away from him bashfully.

Toothless took in this new information. It tickled him? Huh. This... This might be pretty useful information. I mean now that Toothless thought about it, Hiccup went back into his bed by himself after all. And this might be a perfect way to keep him in his bed and tire him out, at least enough for a short nap.

When he met the nightfury's eyes again he saw something different. Instead of concern and guilt, it was filled with determination and mischief.

He was confused at first on my his best friend was looking at him like that and then it hit him. Then he gulped. And then he tried to plead with Toothless for the umpteenth time today.

"Wowwowwowwowwow, Toothless come on here bud. Let's not do anything me might reg-EHET NO!" Hiccup yelped out as Toothless tackled him to the bed.

Toothless then shoved his nose into Hiccup's stomach again but this time with a actual motive that wasn't just to keep him from getting out of bed.

Hiccup tried to roll away from his nose but he was caged between both of the nightfury's arms. He started to giggle a little harder when he felt Toothless's nose start to move and wiggle into his stomach and bottom ribs.

Gods, this was so embarrassing! He was literally be tickled by dragon, which he didn't even think was possible but here he was. Well I mean he didn't think riding a dragon was possible but look how that turned out.

"Tohohothlehehss stop ihit" Hiccup giggled out, pushing at the nightfury's head.

Of course though, Toothless was much stronger than Hiccup and kept his head right where it was. I mean why would he stop though? Toothless was having the time of his life! His human looked so upset to be stuck in bed and now he was cheering him up! Not only that but this would also keep him in bed and hopefully tire him out, if not to sleep then to just be too tired to try and escape again.

But as Toothless looked down at his friend, he noticed that he was laughing that hard. Toothless had seen other humans tickle their friends a few times and he knew they could laugh a lot harder and louder than this. But how could make Hiccup laugh that hard? He knew he couldn't use his hands like the other vikings because he might accidentally hurt Hiccup with his claws and that the last thing that he would want.

As Toothless was trying to think of ways to tickle the snot out of Hiccup, Hiccup decided to be a big ole jerk and start squirming even hard than before to get away from Toothless and he almost got away!

Toothless had to grab his shirt with his mouth to pull him back down, but as he was doing so, his lips nipped a little at Hiccup stomach, causing him to let out a loud squeal and fell back down onto the bed again.

Oh.

Oh this would work perfectly.

Hiccup gasped for breathe, and stared up at his big friend with new overcoming dread.

Why did the gods have to curse him with being so damn ticklish!

Once again, Hiccup tried to save himself from the oncoming torture that he was about to endure from his scaly friend.

"Toothless please! I'm begging you don't do it! I'll do anything you want! You Wana go for a flight around Berk? We can do that! Or or do you wanna have some nice fresh cod? Cuz I can get Bucket and Mulch to get us some. Please bud, don't do iht-OHOHO COHOME OHOHN! TOHOHOHLEHEHESS NOHOH!"

Toothless started to nipple at his sensitive stomach and Hiccup was loosing it! It tickled so much! He could feel how the pinches sent shocks of electricity into his stomach giving him butterflies. He giggled so hard that he snorted! This made the nightfury laugh which sent vibrations into his stomach, and made Hiccup laugh even harder.

As much as Hiccup didn't want to admit it though, he kind of was......enjoying it. He didn't get to laugh very often so it was kind of nice to get to relax and let loose. He didn't have any friends that would tickle him. Unless you count Snotlout or Dagur who would just do it because he was small and usually to just make fun of him. He still enjoyed it but not as much as he was enjoying it with Toothless. Of course Gobber and his father would tickle him. They would tickle him a lot especially to-

.....

THAT WAS IT!

NOW HE REMEMBERED!

His father and Gobber used to tickle him to get him to stay in bed!

They'd do it for a bit until he got to tired to stay up any longer and he'd pretty much pass out as soon as his head touched the pillow.

Of course as he got older, he got more embarrassed by it and just stopped trying to escape after they threatened to tickle him. Hiccup hadn't needed to be stuck in bed to rest for a while and I guess after a couple of years they just forgot like he did.

And of course his stupid dragon had to remind him!

"Tohoholehehehessss! Buhuhuhd, stahahap ihiht! Plehehehashe, ihit tihihihihihckles sohohoh muhuhuhch!" Hiccup begged through his giggles but unfortunately Toothless didn't have seem to care to much.

Hiccup was rolling side to side and kicking and flailing his legs but nothing deterred his dragon from his quest.

Hiccup didn't think it could get any worse than this but the gods just loved to prove him wrong.

Through all of his struggling and kicking, his shirt had ridden up revealing his bare stomach to Toothless. He didn't see it at first, to busy looking at his human while nibbling at his shirt and what was underneath it, and Hiccup didn't see to notice either, to busy fight for his life against this vicious dragon attack. But oh boy. He definitely felt it afterwards when Toothless finally noticed.

"AHAHAHA! TOOTHLESS! STOP THAHAHAHAH" Hiccup tried to say but was overcome with laughter as Toothless shoved his shirt up and dove into his bare stomach and started nibbling like he was eating a pile of fresh salmon.

It tickled so much! Especially now because not only could be feel every indent and scale of Toothless's lips, but also because he could feel his breath too!

Hiccup shook his head rapidly and had his eyes squeezed tight. He tried to squirm and tried pushing Toothless head away from his belly, but as soon as Toothless found that spot of pudge right under his navel he absolutely shrieked and went completely boneless.

Toothless pulled back at the noise, chorkled, gave Hiccup a few seconds to catch his breath,.....and the went right back in. Specifically in the new spot he just found.

"TOHOHOHOHLEHEHEHEHSS, PLEHEHEHASE IHIHM BEHEHEHEGGIHIHIHG YOHOHOHU! NOHOHOH MOHOH-"

"Ahand whahat do we have here?" Asked an amused deep voice.

Oh no.

Hiccup knew that voice.

Hiccup opened his eyes and turned his head to see his father standing at the top of his staircase with his hands on his hips staring at him.

......at this point he kind of wishes that that red death had killed him.....might have saved them the embarrassment.

"dAD WHahahat ahahre you doing hehere so early?" Hiccup asked trying to sound as nonchalant as possible while sitting up, since Toothless had so graciously got off of him.

Of course he couldn't sound that nonchalant seeing as how he was still giggling from the previous attack he had just endured.

"Wehell I had just come back to check on you seeing as how no one in the village said they saw you leave. At first I had just thought that you had gotten better at sneaking out of the house in broad daylight but I just wanted to see if you were actually here before I had to send out a search party like I had to do a couple of times before." Said Stoic as he started to walk fully into Hiccup's room. "So you can imagine my surprise when I not only see you in bed where your supposed to be, but also a dragon tickling the daylights out of my son!"

Hiccup swears he didn't think his face could get so red. But here he was. Glowing crimson like a tomato.

"I have to thank him though. I completely forgot me and Gobber's special way of keeping you in bed. Thanks to him I'll be remember that from this day on" Stoic said while clapping his son on the shoulder and carefully pet Toothless on the head, seeing as how he didn't completely trust the beast yet, which Toothless aloud and gurgled out which I suppose was a thanks.

Hiccup, after recovering from almost flying to the other side of the room, turned his head away from his father.

His father chuckled at the sight.

"Ah come now son. Don't be like that. You used to love it when you were younger."

Okay now Hiccup definitely wishes that Red Death killed him.

Just then, loud angry shouting could be heard from outside, which in turn made his father sigh. Stoic still had to keep the other vikings from killing Spitelout. He was honestly just looking for an excuse to get some time to clear his head from all the arguing but of course they just followed him here. Stoic wondered if it would be a good idea to just the the others killing Spitelout that way he would never have to deal with this again.

"Of course, a chief's job is never done. Well seeing as your okay, I best be going now. I suppose Gobber could only hold them off for so long." he sighed. "I'm glad I don't have to worry so much about you though. Seems to me like Toothless knows how to keep you out of trouble, aye?"

Hiccup buried his head in his hands and let out a long groan and snuck into his bed.

His father just chuckled fondly and left the house.

Hiccup could hear Gobber say "Oh thank Thor! I thought you left me with these animals!" Roars of anger and more shouting could be heard as his father shut the door as well as his father loud exhausted sighing.

Toothless looked back at Hiccup, seeing as how he watched Stoic leave feeling slight bad for all the stuff he had to deal with, only to see Hiccup fast asleep.

Wow. I guess that tickling really tired him out after all, huh?

Toothless sighed and walked over to the side of Hiccup's bed. He curled himself around it and rested his head up near Hiccup's body and gave his hand a little lick. Then, just like his rider he drifted off to sleeps.

~The End~

___________________________________

Good lord that took forever. Was this story too long? Was it completely inaccurate? Could this have been completely reduced and have been properly explained with a lot less words? Was this terribly written? Should I just stick to reading fanfiction instead of writing it? Am I not gonna do that and instead gonna make another but this time set in Rtte with hints of Vigcup in it? If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, then you are absolutely correct! Why do I do this to myself? Well I don't fucking know! Anyways I hope you enjoyed and I'm sorry to the people who requested some stranger things agere fics that I never got around to. So sorry guys :( also thank you to the 6 people who left notes on my other post where I was talking about making this, as well as @koala-fluff for the nice comment. So like blame them for this terrible fic /j. Anyways that's all have a good night, day, afternoon or what ever the hell you wanna call it!💜💜💜💜💜💜

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sarnai4 · 14 days

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Amusement Parks

I am a major fan of amusement parks (Cedar Point specifically) and started wondering what it would be like if the RTTE crew went on a group trip there. So, here's a set of headcanons for how this would do.

Gotta talk about the rollercoasters. Fishlegs is probably not getting on most of them, but I bet Dagur convinces him to try out one loop coaster and the blond is surprised by how much fun it is (it'll be like their time hanging out with their Gronckles). Hiccup is on them, but he's also looking at the engineering aspect and considering how he could build a better one. Snotlout is screaming his lungs out, but he's loving every second of it too. At some point, either the twins and/or Dagur are teasing him about probably not being tall enough to get on some of the rides. (If they're ever right, he will never near the end of it) Mala is too proper to scream on rollercoasters, so she's just smiling. Dagur's laughing the whole time. Ruff and Tuff keep trying to make the other one scream by also fighting on the rides. Astrid loves the adrenaline and Throk would let out a cheer, but he's not sure if that's proper or not. After a few times, he might. Heather and Minden ride coasters like normal people. Lastly, Stoick and Gobber just plain aren't fitting. Sorry guys.

For the carnival games, There's a competition going on. You have Dagur, Astrid, Snotlout, and Throk trying to see who can get the most toys for their S.O.'s (even though Ruffnut is definitely still not Throk's girlfriend). Hiccup really doesn't care about getting a toy, but he knows there's no point in trying to have Astrid not be competitive. Minden also doesn't want a toy, but she likes seeing how excited Snotlout is to get her some. Ruffnut and Mala are sorta competing too and betting on who's going to win because 1. the twin still wants toys and 2. Mala can't let her trash talking go without any of it being dished back out to her. She's just classy with how she does it. Gobber's playing too because he wants to show the youngins how the pros do it. The last time Stoick played, he broke the whack-a-mole and had to pay for repairs, so he's picking who to root for.

Fishlegs is mostly enjoying all the foods and has had 3rd breakfast, 5th lunch, and nth dinner by the time the park closes for the night. The twins normally join him to get filled up on garlic parmesan fries...then feel really sick on the rides. I can see Stoick enjoying the turkey legs in particular.

Cedar Point also has an arcade area because it doesn't know how to be anything other than amazing. Fishlegs is probably here more than with the rides. The others trickle in after they've ridden a lot of the coasters. The twins are on air hockey and intentionally aiming the puck at each other's fingers. This is also why none of the others will play against them. Everyone takes turns on the games, but the competitive side has to return, so this is also a competition. Snotlout actively spends his time sabotaging Dagur on all of the games (he will even block the basketball on those hoop games). In his defense, this is payback. You'll see why in a few moments.

For the other rides, Fishlegs and Heather are on the Ferris wheel. Snotlout and Minden are too, but Dagur has found these little bean bags to test out his aim by seeing if he can still bop Snotlout with them. The mood is very killed with Minden, but she also thinks it's funny. And now you know why Snotlout is cheating later on. Astrid is convinced the non rollercoaster rides don't count, but Hiccup gets on some. The big guys still can't ride unfortunately.

When it comes to the shows, they're all enjoying them and the twins try to have the audience start the wave or some type of chant. (At least one of their attempts works). Heather especially likes the live music. She might even be one of the singers who's going to perform later. For the characters that employees are dressed up as, the twins are amazed. This might lead to Throk seeing if they have a position open for him since it would make Ruffnut happy. Hopefully it won't happen because Dagur keeps trying to have the poor individuals break character by tormenting them. Mala and Hiccup get him to stop eventually, but he's still making faces at the workers behind their backs.

Last but not least, the waterpark. The thrill seekers of the group are on the slides and the twins are also having fun at the kiddie section with the dragon head. Admittedly, the reptile caught Hiccup's eye too. After enjoying the slides, Heather joins Fishlegs in the calmer water with the inner tubes. Stoick acts like he thinks the slides are silly, but Gobber gets him to try them since he seems to be having such a great time. If anyone looks at Mala or Minden for too long, they're getting hit or glared at, respectively, by their boys (Throk included for Mala. Only her hubby can make googly eyes at her).

After all this, I think they'd consider their vacation a very nice one

#HTTYD #RTTE #Dagur the Deranged #Snotlout Jorgenson #Hiccup Haddock #RTTE Mala #RTTE Throk #Heather the Unhinged #Fishlegs Ingerman #Ruffnut Thorston #Tuffnut Thorston #Stoick the Vast #Gobber the Belch #Astrid Hofferson #RTTE Minden #HTTYD headcanons #Cedar Point #HTTYD shenanigans

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ecoamerica · 1 month

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youtube

Watch the 2024 American Climate Leadership Awards for High School Students now: https://youtu.be/5C-bb9PoRLc

The recording is now available on ecoAmerica's YouTube channel for viewers to be inspired by student climate leaders! Join Aishah-Nyeta Brown & Jerome Foster II and be inspired by student climate leaders as we recognize the High School Student finalists. Watch now to find out which student received the $25,000 grand prize and top recognition!

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ironwoman359 · 8 months

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A Thief's Gamble - Ch.4

Bedlam and Burglary

Previous: Ch.3 - Honeyed Words, Bitter Deeds ||Next: Ch.5 - The Renegade from Cyrodiil.

Fic Summary: Brynjolf is certain that the only way the Thieves Guild will return to its glory days is by bringing in new, talented members. Unfortunately, Mercer doesn't agree, and it's not like Brynjolf's latest attempts at recruiting have gone well. But when he meets a stranger in the marketplace one morning, he's willing to take the risk and bring her on board....only time will tell if his gamble pays off.

Chapter Summary: While Brynjolf attempts to discover who is behind the sale of Goldenglow Estate, Maven Black-Briar pays a visit to the Guild.

Content: Brynjolf POV, Thieves Guild quest spoilers, game typical violence.

Ships: Brynjolf x Dragonborn OC (slowburn)

Word Count: 2,056

Check the reblogs for a link to read on AO3!

--- --- ---

Despite their dwindling numbers, the Guild still had what Brynjolf considered to be a very capable group of core operatives…which made the fact that not a single person in the entire ratway was able to identify the mysterious symbol all the more frustrating. Even Delvin, who had worked with just about everybody who was anybody, didn’t have a clue.

The only person more frustrated than he was by the lack of leads was Mercer.

“Between everyone here we’ve run jobs across all of Tamriel!” he’d snarled. “Somebody has to know something! I want everyone working on this, no exceptions!”

Brynjolf couldn’t help but agree.

He drafted letters to everyone he could think of who might have the slightest clue how to solve the mystery, and had Vipir and Cynric make up copies of the symbol to send along with them. He asked Thrynn and Niruin to spread the word to any ties they still had with their old crews, and Rune left for the College of Winterhold to talk to an expert on obscure symbols and languages that he’d had contact with in the past. Tonilia and Vekel promised to speak with their customers and contacts as well, and Dirge even took a copy to pass along to Maul on the off chance that he’d run across something in his dealings with the Black-Briars.

And yet, despite everyone’s efforts across days of work, they were no closer to identifying the strange little symbol. Brynjolf was getting to the point where just looking at the damn thing made him grit his teeth, to say nothing of how Mercer was handling it. The Guildmaster had taken to pacing back and forth behind his desk and glaring daggers at anyone who disturbed him.

“I don’t like this, Brynjolf,” he kept saying. “Someone out there is playing us for fools, and I don’t like it one bit.”

As usual, Brynjolf did his best to keep everyone in good spirits, but even his patience had its limits.

“Please tell me you’ve heard something,” he said to Delvin as he walked into the Ragged Flagon, but the old man shook his head.

“Sorry Bryn. I have heard something, but it ain’t something good.”

“The Brotherhood hasn’t ever seen it either,” Brynjolf guessed, and Delvin nodded.

“Astrid said that even little Babette didn’t have a clue, and she’s been around for centuries.”

“Dammit,” Brynjolf muttered, falling into a seat. “Whoever’s behind this is crafty, I’ll give them that.”

“We may have to face it, Brynjolf,” said Delvin. “Nobody knows what that symbol means.”

“Don’t be so quick to give up, old friend,” Brynjolf said. “There’s still a lot of correspondence that has yet to be answered. Maybe nobody in Skyrim has heard of it, but our adversary could be from elsewhere in Tamriel. That reminds me, did you send a letter to your–”

“Look sharp,” Delvin interrupted, lowering his voice. “Look who just came in.”

Brynjolf looked up, and immediately straightened in his chair.

Maven Black-Briar herself was strolling down the walkway around the cistern, Maul trailing behind her like a guard dog. She breezed past Dirge without so much as a nod and stepped up to the bar.

“Good evening, milady,” Vekel said, nodding respectfully. Maven was just about the only person who he didn’t treat with his usual snark. “What can I get for you?”

“I’ll just have a cup of wine tonight,” she said. “I have business to discuss with Brynjolf.”

She took her drink and sat at Brynjolf’s table, and he lifted his tankard to her.

“Maven. To what do I owe to pleasure this fine evening?”

“Thanks to the efforts of the operative you sent my way, I’m in prime position to take over Honningbrew Meadery in Whiterun,” she said. “I have to say, I was skeptical about her at first, but she definitely gets results.”

“She’s one of the best we have.”

Brynjolf had said it without thinking, as yet another part of his usual game of flattery and assurance that he played with Maven, but as he considered the words, he realized that there was an element to truth of them. The lass's somewhat odd behavior aside, she’d had nothing but success since starting with the Guild. The strain of bad luck that they’d all been experiencing seemed not to affect her, and now she’d even managed to impress Maven.

“Perhaps,” Maven said. “At any rate, I wanted to speak with you and Mercer about Honningbrew.”

“Mercer is out meeting a contact,” Brynjolf said apologetically. “But I’ll gladly relay any message you have for him.”

Maven nodded.

“I don’t anticipate any issues in actually acquiring the meadery itself; Mallus has already been placed in charge by the local guard and sale of the property to me is a trivial matter. What concerns me is ensuring the same level of control over the production in Whiterun as I maintain here”

“Is Mallus’s presence at the meadery not enough for that?” Brynjolf asked, and Maven scoffed.

“Mallus is a capable worker and he knows his success is dependent on meeting my standards…for now. But how long until the distance between us gives him ideas about independence?”

“So you want to employ the Guild to keep tabs on the meadery the way we do on Goldenglow.”

“Precisely,” Maven said. “I’m not anticipating a need for high levels of interference in these early days–”

“But you want to be prepared,” Brynjolf finished for her, and a slow smile spread across her face.

“Indeed. I trust you’ll be able to handle that?”

“Well…” Brynjolf said carefully. “Our reputation in Whiterun isn’t what it used to be. It’ll be more difficult to operate there with the same impunity we enjoy here in Riften.”

“I fail to see how that’s my problem. I’ll have my hands full enough establishing my own business presence in the hold without covering for you at the same time.”

“I did say difficult, not impossible,” Brynjolf pointed out. “We’ll make it happen.”

Maven smirked.

“You know, a week ago I may have assumed you to be merely grandstanding. But your Ariene assures me that what she found at Honningbrew will help restore your Guild’s strength, and since you claim she’s your best, I trust that she’s correct.”

Maven finished off her wine and got to her feet, and Brynjolf stood as well.

“For now, a monthly report from one of your operatives to confirm that what Mallus is telling me is true should be sufficient for management of Black Briar Meadery West,” she said. “I’ll alert you if any further action is required.”

“Always a pleasure to have you visit us, Maven,” Brynjolf said with a smile, and Maven tutted.

“Yes, I do so love my little excursions to the sewers. Maybe you could steal yourselves a better headquarters sometime. Or at least a servant to clean the place.”

“And lose our roguish, underworld charm?” Brynjolf asked, chuckling. “I think not.”

Maven rolled her eyes and turned without another word, snapping her fingers for Maul to follow her out of the cistern.

“Well I’ll be damned,” Delvin said when she was gone. “I haven’t seen her in that good a mood in quite awhile.”

“Neither have I,” Brynjolf agreed, slumping back in his seat. “Ariene must’ve really impressed her. I wonder what she meant by the lass finding something that would help the Guild?”

“Well,” said a new voice. “I don’t actually know how helpful it will be.”

Brynjolf turned with a start, just in time to see the woman in question entering the Flagon through the secret entrance.

“You just love appearing without warning, don’t you lass?” Brynjolf asked, and Ariene shrugged, a small smile playing about her lips.

“What’s the point of being able to sneak through rooms undetected if I don’t take any opportunities to eavesdrop?”

“Word of advice, lass,” Brynjolf said as she took a seat at the table. “Those skills will serve you well when you’re out there in the world. But there’s no need to use subterfuge within the Guild itself. We have each other’s backs. If we can’t rely on each other, then there’s not much point in being part of a Guild at all, is there?”

Ariene’s smile stayed locked in place, but it lost the playful ease it’d held a moment before.

“I suppose not,” she said.

Brynjolf opened his mouth to speak, but Ariene plowed onwards.

“And speaking of the Guild, I did find something at Honningbrew. The same symbol from Goldenglow was involved. Whoever gave Sabjorn the funds he needed to take his competing mead to market as quickly as he did is the same person who bought the bee farm to cut Maven out of the picture.”

Brynjolf frowned and leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. As much as he wanted to press the lass on her response to his advice, he knew when to take a hint.

“That makes this beyond coincidence,” he said instead. “First Aringoth and now Sabjorn. Someone's trying to take us down by driving a wedge between Maven and the Guild.”

“And there’s no way we can stay afloat without her influence?” Ariene asked, and Brynjolf shook his head.

“Believe me, there are days when I wish we didn’t rely on her so heavily. But the fact is, her gold is pretty much the only thing keeping the city guard from storming this place and hauling us all off to Mistveil Keep’s dungeon.”

“Then what can we do?”

“We’re working on how to identify that symbol now,” Brynjolf said. “We’ve reached out to all our contacts, though there hasn’t been much luck yet. Besides that, we can continue working on restoring our reputation in other holds…pulling jobs so that people remember who we are.”

“And it’d probably make sense to start in Whiterun, since Maven wants us to start operating there,” Ariene added. “Delvin!” she called over her shoulder. “Have any clients for a job in Whiterun?”

“Nothing specific,” Delvin said. “Though pulling a bedlam job in the hold could be a step in the right direction. What about you Vex, do you have anything?”

Vex looked up from where she was sitting in the corner, and grinned.

“Do I have any jobs in Whiterun? Sure I do. I have a buyer looking for a specific jeweled flagon that’s been traced to a trader named Ysolda, and House Gray-Mane has been on my list of targets to sweep for months now. Lot of old relics in that manor.”

“Ysolda’s place and House Gray-Mane…alright, I know where both of those are,” Ariene said. “And I know a few other spots that would make good targets for the bedlam job. I should be able to pull off all three jobs in one visit.”

“Be careful lass,” Brynjolf cautioned. “We have some sway over the guard here in Riften thanks to the Black-Briars, but it’s much harder these days to get yourself out of a jam in the other holds. It might be more prudent to spread the jobs out over time, have different operatives go for different jobs. If you get caught pulling off a crime spree, your sentence is likely to be far harsher.”

A quick smile flitted across Ariene’s face.

“Your concern is touching,” she said. Her tone was playful, but there was a hint of sincerity in her gaze as she met Brynjolf’s eyes. “I’ll be careful,” she continued. “But of all the things that I have to worry about in Whiterun? The guard is the least of my problems.”

Brynjolf blinked, and filed that statement away with the rest of the rapidly growing questions he had about his newest Guildmate.

“Well then, as long as you don’t mind going back to Whiterun so soon, it sounds like we have a plan.”

Vekel came up to their table and passed out a round of drinks, and Brynjolf lifted his up in a toast.

“To the Guild!” he declared.

“May we show that bloody curse that we won’t be kept down by anything,” said Delvin.

“And may we all make enough to retire in a palace,” Vex added.

Ariene’s eyes flitted around the room, and she smiled again, wider this time.

“May we all have each other’s backs,” she said, and Brynjolf grinned.

“Aye, lass. I’ll drink to that.”

--- --- ---

Previous: Ch.3 - Honeyed Words, Bitter Deeds || Next: Ch.5 - The Renegade from Cyrodiil.

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