Waffles, Wolves & a Flapjack

RP side blog for Hunter from The Owl House. Mun is 25+. Open to threads and asks :)

[rolling-harbinger]

I hate how sometimes he just has this thousand yard stare and just stares off in the distance.

(And considering that the time he was staring off in the distance in ASIAS he was having ptsd flashbacks, I wouldn’t be surprised if all of the other times he was also having other traumatic memories flood to the surface, but we as the audience just didn’t get to see those memories those times)

[thenexusofsouls]

"Who's there? I'm-I'm warning you!" Hunter held a broom in both hands, poised and... ready to strike? Oh Titan, he was way over his head. Flap tweeted reassuringly from his shoulder; He's okay? Who was he? Or was the palisman referring to Hunter?

Raspberry hued eyes darted about the forest edge, where he'd heard a rustling. Luz had gone to school, Amity, Willow and Gus, back to the library to search for various books, and Vi was volunteering with Camilla. Hunter had stayed back at the house. At home? For now, at least. He'd just... wanted some time to clear his head. To think about everything that had gone down in the past couple of months, since before they'd arrived in the human realm. So much had changed.

He'd started... getting a little too in his head, so he'd thought maybe some fresh air! And almost immediately stepping out the front door? Rustling. Lucky for him, the broom was in easy reach; someone had probably been sweeping fall leaves off the porch. Too bad he couldn't ride his staff out to the others, if the rustling turned out to be a real threat like Belos. -goldenflapjacks (for The Creature, if of interest? Or any other muses of your choosing, if not :) )

@goldenflapjacks

Sometimes, the Creature liked to wander the forest, as if patrolling his domain. It was not really that way, for he would never say he owned these woods. No one owned nature, in his opinion. Nevertheless, he liked to be aware of what was going on in the area in which he lived. Sometimes there were things that needed tending to, injured animals or fires or even the occasional lost child. For the most part, though, the forest was quiet, saved for the usual sounds of birds and other wildlife.

Today, however, he had noticed activity near an old cabin that was, as far as he knew, abandoned. It was not uncommon for humans to reclaim decrepit former domiciles. As long as they were respectful of their natural surroundings, he would not mind their presence. As he tried to determine that, though, he was faced with what looked like a very spooked young person waving around a broom, of all things. That would do nothing against him - if dynamite could not kill him then a broom has as much chance as did a toothpick - and yet he admired the young one's bravery.

Not wishing to prolong the encounter and continue to frighten this person, the Creature decided to reveal himself. It was easy enough to do, given his six-foot six-inch height and broad frame. Perhaps his billowing cloak and large hood blended in with the browns of the trees and underbrush, and his deathly still position did not arouse suspicion, but the moment the Creature began to move out from behind the large oak he was half obscured behind, he became far more obvious.

"I do not mean you any harm," he said, not venturing to get very close to the obviously nervous person. "I was unaware... that anyone lived here." His head and face were half obscured by the hood framing his head like a halo and the scarf he wore over his nose and mouth. Only his eyes and a bit of his long hair were visible.

[thenexusofsouls]

On the one hand, maybe Adam could believe that it was not his fault that this boy was so scared. He hadn't meant to frighten him, nor had he done anything overly scary, other than show up unexpectedly. At least, he thought he hadn't done anything scary. But... on the other hand... the boy's fear seemed to very clearly be due to his presence, and so how was he supposed to believe that he was not the one who caused it?

Adam... didn't know what he could possibly say to reassure Hunter at all. In fact, given the circumstances, just about the only thing he could think of that might work was to... leave. He was about to say that he'd do just that, and hopefully by removing himself from the situation, the boy would be able to calm down and feel safer... when Hunter brought up his newly acquired name. It seemed he'd been a bit delayed in processing that Adam had chosen one. That was alright, Adam thought, for sometimes it took him a moment before his mind fully processed things too.

He smiled as the boy seemed to accept his name, supposing that made it something official now, if it was recognized by others. Adam didn't know why he needed that validation. Maybe it was because it was easy to choose whatever name he might want for himself, but if no one else spoke it or recognized it, then was it really his name after all?

As Hunter began to talk of scars, though Adam's heal canted a bit and his brow furrowed. "Mistakes?" he asked curiously, not understaning what he meant. Were his scars due to... mistakes? He'd always just thought that was how he was made, by Victor piecing him together. "Other people... did know how I got them," he refuted. "My maker knew. His brother. His brother's intended. They all knew. I have had... friends... that I have told... in years past." Was he just not understanding this properly or was he missing something? But what Hunter said lastly did make sense. "Yes... in the past. Long ago," Adam said, nodding.

He wondered how a boy of such a tender age knew of something so obscene as a grimwalker, as... what he was... if that really was what he happened to be. Adam was about to ask, when Hunter chose to answer his earlier question of whether there were other grimwalkers like him... by... pointing at himself?

Adam's eyes widened in surprise, certainly, but also with a kind of sympathy one could only have if one knew all too well the pain of another's situation. "You? But... we look nothing alike," was his first confused reaction, however shortly thereafter, he added, "If that is true, then I am sorry... for what you have gone through." Because he probably has suffered in various ways... physically, emotionally, socially... Adam certainly had.

[goldenflapjacks]

It was nice to see Adam's smile, given how heavy his demeanour had otherwise been.

At his confusion over Hunter's phrasing, the teen nodded, hesitantly, "Yeah, you know, failed missions, or uh, not dodging in time in a fight, touching a hot stove, that sort of thing... I suppose scars could be from things that you couldn't really see coming, though. Maybe mistakes isn't the right term then." He scratched at his head, looking a little frazzled as he tried to do mental gymnastics over technicalities. Oh. Others did know. So much for being able to hide the reason behind any shame he might feel in regard to them. "... Alright, so they do know. But if they weren't from anything you did, there's no reason to feel embarrassed about them, right?" Hunter attempted to reassure. "And exactly. Long ago. So there's nothing to stress over anymore. It is what it is." His voice cracked slightly, with a forced smile and a shrug. Had he been trying to tell himself the same thing for ages? Yup.

And then... He said it. Well, he didn't say it, but... He made the message clear. They'd come from similar backgrounds. All the same, Adam made a good point. They didn't look much alike. The teen's gaze lifted, hands wrapping around himself in a self-soothing way as he took a few steps forward. His eyes squinted as he tried to take in the colour of the other's. He was pretty sure they weren't the same grimwalker-raspberry. They looked darker. Were there different types of grimwalkers? "Maybe it's because we're not... from the same people? You were-were brought to life in the boiling isles, right? How did you get here?" The teen's shoulders sunk with Adam's apology. The words were very kind. He wasn't sure what part of being a grimwalker he was empathizing with, though. Was it the means of their creation itself, and the shame and complex feelings that came with it? Or did he assume that Hunter had been feared, as he had? Or was it something else, or all of that? Belos had treated him as though he was disposable, but... he didn't seem to genuinely care about anyone. As for the others, Hunter wouldn't know for sure how they'd feel, outside of Luz, and that was kind of terrifying. "Thanks. You too. Most of my friends, they don't know, so... If you meet them, can you... not tell them?"

[thenexusofsouls]

"Who's there? I'm-I'm warning you!" Hunter held a broom in both hands, poised and... ready to strike? Oh Titan, he was way over his head. Flap tweeted reassuringly from his shoulder; He's okay? Who was he? Or was the palisman referring to Hunter?

Raspberry hued eyes darted about the forest edge, where he'd heard a rustling. Luz had gone to school, Amity, Willow and Gus, back to the library to search for various books, and Vi was volunteering with Camilla. Hunter had stayed back at the house. At home? For now, at least. He'd just... wanted some time to clear his head. To think about everything that had gone down in the past couple of months, since before they'd arrived in the human realm. So much had changed.

He'd started... getting a little too in his head, so he'd thought maybe some fresh air! And almost immediately stepping out the front door? Rustling. Lucky for him, the broom was in easy reach; someone had probably been sweeping fall leaves off the porch. Too bad he couldn't ride his staff out to the others, if the rustling turned out to be a real threat like Belos. -goldenflapjacks (for The Creature, if of interest? Or any other muses of your choosing, if not :) )

@goldenflapjacks

Sometimes, the Creature liked to wander the forest, as if patrolling his domain. It was not really that way, for he would never say he owned these woods. No one owned nature, in his opinion. Nevertheless, he liked to be aware of what was going on in the area in which he lived. Sometimes there were things that needed tending to, injured animals or fires or even the occasional lost child. For the most part, though, the forest was quiet, saved for the usual sounds of birds and other wildlife.

Today, however, he had noticed activity near an old cabin that was, as far as he knew, abandoned. It was not uncommon for humans to reclaim decrepit former domiciles. As long as they were respectful of their natural surroundings, he would not mind their presence. As he tried to determine that, though, he was faced with what looked like a very spooked young person waving around a broom, of all things. That would do nothing against him - if dynamite could not kill him then a broom has as much chance as did a toothpick - and yet he admired the young one's bravery.

Not wishing to prolong the encounter and continue to frighten this person, the Creature decided to reveal himself. It was easy enough to do, given his six-foot six-inch height and broad frame. Perhaps his billowing cloak and large hood blended in with the browns of the trees and underbrush, and his deathly still position did not arouse suspicion, but the moment the Creature began to move out from behind the large oak he was half obscured behind, he became far more obvious.

"I do not mean you any harm," he said, not venturing to get very close to the obviously nervous person. "I was unaware... that anyone lived here." His head and face were half obscured by the hood framing his head like a halo and the scarf he wore over his nose and mouth. Only his eyes and a bit of his long hair were visible.

[thenexusofsouls]

How was it not his fault, for looking so similar to someone who frightened children. It seemed to the Creature that it was exactly his fault. Frightening people seemed to be one of the only things he was truly good at. That and carpentry. So that... that was something, at least. "You are welcome," he said with a small nod, hoping at least his words could do what his disturbing visage could not and reassure the boy just a smidge.

Oh, how he was used to people's demeanors and the looks in their eyes changing the very moment he began to explain even a little bit about what he was and how he was made. Adam hated to explain at all, but people kept asking him, and it felt rude not to respond. He was no liar, for he really had never learned how to lie or why anyone would lie, so if he was going to answer at all, it was going to be the truth. "I have upset you again..." he said, his gaze falling and head bowing. It was neither a criticism nor a complaint, but rather just a very solemn observation. Why did his attempts to connect with other people always have to go like this?

When the boy asked if he was a grimwalker, though, Adam lifted his head, his brow furrowing in genuine confusion. His head canted, almost like that of a dog trying to make sense of things from a different angle. "Am I?" he asked. Was that the term for what he was? if there was a term for it, did that mean that what Victor had done... had been attempted by others elsewhere? "I have never heard... that word before." He hesitated before asking the next question, uncertain if he really wanted to know the answer. "Are there... others like me?"

[goldenflapjacks]

He should really get a handle on his expressions. Hunter's eyes darted upwards, shaking his head immediately in a a reflexive attempt at reassuring the other, "No-no..." And then his cheeks grew pinker. And his eyes trailed downwards. And he shrugged, jaggedly. "It's not your fault. You're not..." The teen released a shaky breath, the other's words had cut deep, not to his intention. Hunter knew what it was like to feel like something wrong. Even before discovering he was a grimwalker, he hadn't known what it was like to feel good enough, just as he was.

"Everyone has a use." That had been Belos's line, and Hunter had constantly sought his uncle's praise. It wasn't until he met Luz and then Willow and Gus and the others, that he'd finally had a chance to just... explore who he was, with no expectations. But he still wasn't comfortable with one huge part of his identity, and so the man's words had lashed out at him in their own self deprecation.

"Wait-" The man. He'd said a name, hadn't he? Hunter had been so stuck in his own head that he hadn't even processed it. "Adam? Okay. Okay. Yeah, Adam it is." Hunter nodded, features still tensed with thought. One thing he did know. "Scars are nothing to be ashamed of, Adam." The teen's voice was kind, trying to reassure and connect with the other on this front, rather than sounding defensive. "Sure, they can be reminders of mistakes we've made, depending on the circumstances, but other people don't know how you've gotten them." Oh. Maybe this wasn't the helpful perspective the other needed. Clearly, the teen had his own issues to work out. How would Luz phrase this? Or Willow? She was good at being gentle. "But regardless, it's all in the past, right?" Eh, that was alright, he supposed?

He'd never heard the word grimwalker? Had his creator never used it around him, as Belos hadn't for so long around Hunter? "You might be... it's the only thing I can think of that sounds similar." The teen shrugged, his voice growing a little quieter, more withdrawn. But then Adam asked if there were others, and Hunter rubbed at his opposite arm, shoulders hunched in on himself. Flapjack settled next to his neck and gave his cheek an affectionate little rub with his beak.

Okay. If he was going to tell someone, maybe this would be good practice. He was going to tell his other friends eventually, right?

But the boy's throat felt tight, and he found his head nodding. And then his hand tapped a finger to his chest, eyes still cast downwards.

[thenexusofsouls]

"Who's there? I'm-I'm warning you!" Hunter held a broom in both hands, poised and... ready to strike? Oh Titan, he was way over his head. Flap tweeted reassuringly from his shoulder; He's okay? Who was he? Or was the palisman referring to Hunter?

Raspberry hued eyes darted about the forest edge, where he'd heard a rustling. Luz had gone to school, Amity, Willow and Gus, back to the library to search for various books, and Vi was volunteering with Camilla. Hunter had stayed back at the house. At home? For now, at least. He'd just... wanted some time to clear his head. To think about everything that had gone down in the past couple of months, since before they'd arrived in the human realm. So much had changed.

He'd started... getting a little too in his head, so he'd thought maybe some fresh air! And almost immediately stepping out the front door? Rustling. Lucky for him, the broom was in easy reach; someone had probably been sweeping fall leaves off the porch. Too bad he couldn't ride his staff out to the others, if the rustling turned out to be a real threat like Belos. -goldenflapjacks (for The Creature, if of interest? Or any other muses of your choosing, if not :) )

@goldenflapjacks

Sometimes, the Creature liked to wander the forest, as if patrolling his domain. It was not really that way, for he would never say he owned these woods. No one owned nature, in his opinion. Nevertheless, he liked to be aware of what was going on in the area in which he lived. Sometimes there were things that needed tending to, injured animals or fires or even the occasional lost child. For the most part, though, the forest was quiet, saved for the usual sounds of birds and other wildlife.

Today, however, he had noticed activity near an old cabin that was, as far as he knew, abandoned. It was not uncommon for humans to reclaim decrepit former domiciles. As long as they were respectful of their natural surroundings, he would not mind their presence. As he tried to determine that, though, he was faced with what looked like a very spooked young person waving around a broom, of all things. That would do nothing against him - if dynamite could not kill him then a broom has as much chance as did a toothpick - and yet he admired the young one's bravery.

Not wishing to prolong the encounter and continue to frighten this person, the Creature decided to reveal himself. It was easy enough to do, given his six-foot six-inch height and broad frame. Perhaps his billowing cloak and large hood blended in with the browns of the trees and underbrush, and his deathly still position did not arouse suspicion, but the moment the Creature began to move out from behind the large oak he was half obscured behind, he became far more obvious.

"I do not mean you any harm," he said, not venturing to get very close to the obviously nervous person. "I was unaware... that anyone lived here." His head and face were half obscured by the hood framing his head like a halo and the scarf he wore over his nose and mouth. Only his eyes and a bit of his long hair were visible.

[thenexusofsouls]

Ah, so there was someone the boy was afraid of, someone he looked like. The Creature didn't know whether he should feel relieved that it was not his own appearance that was frightening the boy, or to feel terrible that he had reminded him of someone else who clearly caused him a large amount of distress. "I am sorry... for the misunderstanding," he apologized. "I have never seen... anyone else here in this forest... who looks as I do. Rest assured... the one you fear... is not here," he said in an attempt to reassure the poor kid.

What offends people about him? Was the boy joking? Could he not see? Obviously he could well enough, if he had only just compared him to someone else he knew, but... the question confused the Creature. "I am... scarred... and misshapen. Strange and frightening. Stitched together by my creator from the bodies of the dead. Corpses. I am something obscene. Something... that never should have been," he explained. "That is what offends others."

When he was asked if there were any names he liked, the Creature wondered if he really might choose one for himself. Could it be that simple? This boy seemed to think so. He thought for a moment about all the names he knew about. Some had stayed with him over the years, like one in particular, mentioned in a story about the very first man and woman god had created. They had been new and naive, led astray in their innocence by a more knowing evil. The Creature could certainly identify with that. "Adam..." he replied after a moment. "I... have always liked the name... Adam."

[goldenflapjacks]

"It's not your fault." Hunter brushed off the apology. The fact that the man hadn't seen Belos in his treks through the woods was reassuring. Sure, it wasn't as though he could cover the entirety of the forest at once, but it was somewhere he clearly spent time. "Thanks." The teen gave him a grateful glance, cheeks rosy with a feeling of awkward vulnerability.

As the man began listing off the reasons others would be offended by him, Hunter's heart sunk. It almost felt like he was taunting him; rubbing salt in the wounds that made up his insecurities. Scars? He had a not insignificant one climbing up from his jaw to his cheek. He'd felt stares, while in the human realm. A small child and their parent had walked by him at one point in the library, and the parent had shushed the younger and apologized after they'd asked "Why is the boy's face like that?" But his scar wasn't something he paid that much mind to. What did dig deep was the startling description of the other's come to being.

His stomach twisted, arms wrapping around himself. Obscene. Yeah... that was probably how the others would feel about him too, once they knew. Sure, Luz didn't seem to mind, but she'd be the exception. He was sure of it. Something that never should have been. His eyes cast downwards, a distant look of somber contemplation embedding into his features. "... So, you're a grimwalker?" The words were spoken softly, without judgement, but they held a definite sadness, too. When had he come over to the human realm?

[thenexusofsouls]

"Who's there? I'm-I'm warning you!" Hunter held a broom in both hands, poised and... ready to strike? Oh Titan, he was way over his head. Flap tweeted reassuringly from his shoulder; He's okay? Who was he? Or was the palisman referring to Hunter?

Raspberry hued eyes darted about the forest edge, where he'd heard a rustling. Luz had gone to school, Amity, Willow and Gus, back to the library to search for various books, and Vi was volunteering with Camilla. Hunter had stayed back at the house. At home? For now, at least. He'd just... wanted some time to clear his head. To think about everything that had gone down in the past couple of months, since before they'd arrived in the human realm. So much had changed.

He'd started... getting a little too in his head, so he'd thought maybe some fresh air! And almost immediately stepping out the front door? Rustling. Lucky for him, the broom was in easy reach; someone had probably been sweeping fall leaves off the porch. Too bad he couldn't ride his staff out to the others, if the rustling turned out to be a real threat like Belos. -goldenflapjacks (for The Creature, if of interest? Or any other muses of your choosing, if not :) )

@goldenflapjacks

Sometimes, the Creature liked to wander the forest, as if patrolling his domain. It was not really that way, for he would never say he owned these woods. No one owned nature, in his opinion. Nevertheless, he liked to be aware of what was going on in the area in which he lived. Sometimes there were things that needed tending to, injured animals or fires or even the occasional lost child. For the most part, though, the forest was quiet, saved for the usual sounds of birds and other wildlife.

Today, however, he had noticed activity near an old cabin that was, as far as he knew, abandoned. It was not uncommon for humans to reclaim decrepit former domiciles. As long as they were respectful of their natural surroundings, he would not mind their presence. As he tried to determine that, though, he was faced with what looked like a very spooked young person waving around a broom, of all things. That would do nothing against him - if dynamite could not kill him then a broom has as much chance as did a toothpick - and yet he admired the young one's bravery.

Not wishing to prolong the encounter and continue to frighten this person, the Creature decided to reveal himself. It was easy enough to do, given his six-foot six-inch height and broad frame. Perhaps his billowing cloak and large hood blended in with the browns of the trees and underbrush, and his deathly still position did not arouse suspicion, but the moment the Creature began to move out from behind the large oak he was half obscured behind, he became far more obvious.

"I do not mean you any harm," he said, not venturing to get very close to the obviously nervous person. "I was unaware... that anyone lived here." His head and face were half obscured by the hood framing his head like a halo and the scarf he wore over his nose and mouth. Only his eyes and a bit of his long hair were visible.

[thenexusofsouls]

He looked... fine? Surely the boy was just being kind. And perhaps a bit brave. The Creature did not comment, lest he draw attention to it too much and make the boy more nervous than he apparently wanted to appear. "Someone you fear?" he asked when the boy said he mistook him for another, based on the terribly frightened reaction he seemed to elicit from him at first. "Does this person reside in this forest?" the Creature asked rather protectively. "Are you in danger?"

"They are peaceful... yes," the Creature said. "I cannot live in the towns. My presence... disturbs others far too much. I remain here... where I am not offensive to others. That is easier... than hearing the constant screams and shouts of disgust and fear... of the townsfolk." There was something to the idea of shelter from the weather, though. Being caught in rain or snow or strong winds was certainly never pleasant, however, they were not the potentially dangerous things to the Creature than they were to normal human beings.

When the boy suggested he choose a name for himself, the Creature's head tilted, his own brow now furrowing in confusion. "Is that possible?" he asked rather innocently. "It was my understanding... that one must receive a name from another. That it is something granted... not taken for oneself. Is that not true?"

He was surprised that the boy actually gave him his name, considering how afraid he'd been only a moment ago, but it was nice all the same. "I am pleased to meet you, Hunter," the Creature said, nodding respectfully to him.

[goldenflapjacks]

Someone you fear? Hunter's heart picked up a little. As Belos's right hand man, he'd worn a mask that had covered his face. He'd been free to emote without others' notice. Since leaving, the teen's expressions were out in the open. His jaw fell slack, eyes cast to the left of the other. "... Yeah, yeah kind of." Well, that was an understatement. The man's second and third questions followed, and Hunter shook his head. "It's- no, I'm being ridiculous, because he wouldn't be here. He..."

Pain radiating up Hunter's arm and through his head. He stared, wide eyed, as the Collector wound Belos's green arm up like a top and then, with the tap of a finger, sent him slamming into a wall across the room... Nothing left but green slime. The boy's stomach clenched, eyes squeezing shut for the briefest of moments, to try and clear the image from his mind.

"He can't be." There were definitely some unprocessed feelings there. He couldn't deal with that right now, though, and was grateful when the topic was shifted off of him. Not exactly onto lighter subjects, though.

What was so disturbing about this guy? Was it just because he didn't look like a typical human? "What... offends them?" Hunter stepped carefully. Of course, growing up in the Boiling Isles, he was used to all sorts of people and creatures being around. Still, he was all too familiar with a societal power that judged others because of their own fear. It had taken time to unlearn a lot of the biases that had been ingrained in him, and even then he still had things to untangle.

As for names, Hunter considered the question. Belos hadn't always been Belos. Hunter hadn't even always been... Hunter, in a way. Well, it wasn't that simple, but he didn't want to think on it too much, it made his skin crawl. Of course, he hadn't named himself, as far as he was aware, but regardless. Names could change, and, "I don't see why not?" The boy offered him a little smile. "Are there any names you like?"

A nod, "Yeah, nice to meet you too."

[thenexusofsouls]

"Who's there? I'm-I'm warning you!" Hunter held a broom in both hands, poised and... ready to strike? Oh Titan, he was way over his head. Flap tweeted reassuringly from his shoulder; He's okay? Who was he? Or was the palisman referring to Hunter?

Raspberry hued eyes darted about the forest edge, where he'd heard a rustling. Luz had gone to school, Amity, Willow and Gus, back to the library to search for various books, and Vi was volunteering with Camilla. Hunter had stayed back at the house. At home? For now, at least. He'd just... wanted some time to clear his head. To think about everything that had gone down in the past couple of months, since before they'd arrived in the human realm. So much had changed.

He'd started... getting a little too in his head, so he'd thought maybe some fresh air! And almost immediately stepping out the front door? Rustling. Lucky for him, the broom was in easy reach; someone had probably been sweeping fall leaves off the porch. Too bad he couldn't ride his staff out to the others, if the rustling turned out to be a real threat like Belos. -goldenflapjacks (for The Creature, if of interest? Or any other muses of your choosing, if not :) )

@goldenflapjacks

Sometimes, the Creature liked to wander the forest, as if patrolling his domain. It was not really that way, for he would never say he owned these woods. No one owned nature, in his opinion. Nevertheless, he liked to be aware of what was going on in the area in which he lived. Sometimes there were things that needed tending to, injured animals or fires or even the occasional lost child. For the most part, though, the forest was quiet, saved for the usual sounds of birds and other wildlife.

Today, however, he had noticed activity near an old cabin that was, as far as he knew, abandoned. It was not uncommon for humans to reclaim decrepit former domiciles. As long as they were respectful of their natural surroundings, he would not mind their presence. As he tried to determine that, though, he was faced with what looked like a very spooked young person waving around a broom, of all things. That would do nothing against him - if dynamite could not kill him then a broom has as much chance as did a toothpick - and yet he admired the young one's bravery.

Not wishing to prolong the encounter and continue to frighten this person, the Creature decided to reveal himself. It was easy enough to do, given his six-foot six-inch height and broad frame. Perhaps his billowing cloak and large hood blended in with the browns of the trees and underbrush, and his deathly still position did not arouse suspicion, but the moment the Creature began to move out from behind the large oak he was half obscured behind, he became far more obvious.

"I do not mean you any harm," he said, not venturing to get very close to the obviously nervous person. "I was unaware... that anyone lived here." His head and face were half obscured by the hood framing his head like a halo and the scarf he wore over his nose and mouth. Only his eyes and a bit of his long hair were visible.

[thenexusofsouls]

The bird definitely seemed like a pet of the boy's. It wasn't behaving quite like a wild bird, the Creature thought. For a moment, he wished he could have a pet of some kind as well, an animal that would stay with him and keep him company. He'd thought of it before, but... something about it felt wrong to him. Animals were wild, and they wished to remain that way... did they not? Even the few over the years that had been injured that he'd taken in had all eventually wanted to return to the forest on their own. He'd always let them do so, of course, but it had left him feeling even lonelier than before.

"There is no need for apology," the Creature said. "I know my appearance is... very disturbing to most." There was no amusement, no pride, and no resentment in his tone as he declared that, only sorrowful understanding. "Yes... it is a lovely forest. I have always preferred forests... to cities."

When he was asked what his name was, the Creature was yet again reminded of the fact that he had no name. Victor had not even considered him worth the time of naming. For some strange reason, that hurt the Creature far more than even actively trying to kill him with fire in the tower. By the time Victor had set that fire, he had grown to resent and even hate him. There were emotions such as frustration, impatience, disappointment, anger, and even jealousy involved. That did not make attempted murder acceptable by any means, but it made it more understandable to the Creature. But... to never grant him a name... meant that, right from the very moment he had awakened in this world, he had not meant enough to Victor to be named. Right from the start, he was nothing more than an experiment to his own creator. Nothing would ever heal that pain entirely, despite that he had long since forgiven Victor for his actions so long ago.

"I have none," was the Creature's simple reply to him. "I was never given one." Surely this boy had one, though...? "What is yours, if you are comfortable giving it?" he asked. If not, he would not take it personally. He was a complete stranger to him, and so he understood the lack of trust.

[goldenflapjacks]

His appearance was disturbing? Hunter's brows furrowed, eyes jolting up to really take in the other's face, now that he had calmed some. The man's features were different to others he'd seen in the human realm, but the idea that they were disturbing was disheartening to say the least. "What? No no, it's not that. You look fine! I just..." His words taper off, features dulling. "Mistook you for someone else."

An understanding nod met the man's preference for forests. "I can see the appeal. Forests are peaceful, and the wildlife is nice. Towns have their perks too, though, and buildings are handy when the weather's less comfortable." Trees didn't do much to protect oneself from boiling rain. That was something the human realm had going for it. There were a good handful of things he'd been enjoying about their time here, actually; he just wished their venture had been under different circumstances.

He didn't have a name. The teen's expression shifted to one of bewilderment, and then sympathy. Belos had likely been the one to come up with his name. Hunter couldn't quite recall. Unfortunately it probably stemmed from his so called uncle's obsessions, too. Witch hunting. Hunter. Very creative. Still, the name was his.

"Why not pick one for yourself?" He asked, voice gentle and inquisitive. The question was returned, and that he didn't mind answering, "I'm Hunter."

[owlwitchs]

luz and hunter

GIF REQUEST MEME » anon asked: the owl house + favorite brotp

[nerdalmighty]

“That looks great!”

Hunter talking about his wolf shirt with Gus, requested by anon.

[lindendragon]

Hunter probaly hesitated at the sight of the rain in the human realm cause he was contemplating if the rain not boiling there was just another one of Belos' lies. But then Gus assured him it was harmless and only then dud Hunter follow after.

[lindendragon]

Let's analyze Hunter's behavior during the Eclipse lake episode, because there is a lot to unpack.

First, Hunter asking Belos about the rain in the human realm. It's such a simple but effective way to show Hunter's age. To show him ask an innocent, curious question like the child he still is. A child that was groomed into the perfect servant since he was young.

At the very beginning of the episode, we actually see Belos' softer side towards Hunter, the times when he actually smiles at Hunter and puts a gentle hand on his shoulder and tells him stories to sate his curiosity. Times where Belos actually seems like a caring parental figure. But even then, we see his true nature slip through when he talks how "Everyone has a use" and "It would be such a hassle to find a replacement."

And as we see throughout the episode, that last line hit Hunter really hard, it instilled a fear of what might happen if he fails again, and that fear is his driving point the entire episode.

As Hunter tries to appease his uncle, we see him almost directly quoting what Belos had said to him many times, "I swear I can do better." It is clear that Hunter takes to heart and internalizes everything Belos says to him, to the point that he repeats it as he talks about himself.

Even at the beginning of the episode, near the caves, we can see Hunter's composure cracking, showing his desperation. But he quickly masks it all with a hopeful and upbeat demeanor and a forced smile.

One might think that when Hunter talked to Amity and told her that Luz' message is a threat that he was purposely planting seeds of doubt into her so that she can sympathize with him enough to later let him go, and it is partially true, but he is not maliciously misinterpreting Luz' messages as threats. Taking his upbringing and the way he acted during the whole episode into account, he genuinely believes that those are disappointed messages urging Amity to do better. He clearly thinks he is only bringing to the surface what is already there. He is looking at Amity's relationship through the same lens he uses with his relationship with Belos. A person with no frame of reference for what a healthy relationship looks like is going to see the slightest setback as a disaster. "There is nothing worse than disappointing someone who thinks you're special."

"I'm an awesome girlfriend."

"Has she told you that?"

This shows how Hunter is desperate for affirmation. He does not think he is enough unless someone explicitly tells him that. It implies that Hunter may have had moments where he thought he did good, only to be told that he wasn't enough, that he can do better.

As he trips up Amity and runs away, you might at first feel like everything he did up until that point was an act, but really, it's just a case of using your situation to the best advantage. His desperation as he pleaded with Amity to release him was not an act, it was real. But once he was free, he decided to buy himself the time he knows he'll need to finish the mission, and trips up Amity and runs away. Besides, he was literally a hostage, the only reason we're mad at him for this is because it was our heroes that did it.

You can be mad at Hunter for betraying Amity's trust in the lake scene, and Amity has every right to be angry too, but considering his circumstances, his behavior makes perfect sense. We all know from the scenes and their implications in Hunting palismen that his fears of what Belos might do to him if he disappoints him are completely warranted. It was all done out of a desperation to remain useful, because he knows what happens when he isn't.

It is literally a survival instinct.

So when he doesn't find the titans blood he needs, when he's exhausted all his options and he realizes that it's hopeless, he has a legitimate mental breakdown. He uselessly digs into the dirt, an instinctual attempt to still somehow fix the situation even though his rational mind knows it's in vain. He laughs as he proceeds to dig his own grave in some kind of morbid coping mechanism. It's all a frantic cry for help that he does not expect to get answered. Once again we see him repeat what Belos said to him "Everyone has a use, and if you don't, bye bye." The line "That's just life." further indicates how he has lived under this mentality for so long that he thinks it's normal.

His resignation is visible in what he says to his palisman, "Go find a better witch to be with." Someone who isn't powerless without his staff, someone who isn't useless to the only family he has.

This is where Amity has a chance to talk to him, tell him that she truly understands how he feels. That he feels like he has to justify existing. "But there are people out there who won't make you feel worthless. You just have to let yourself meet them." because she did. And he can too. And it really does seem like her words may have resonated with him a bit. It really looked like Hunter could have had some acceptance of Amity's help, if only because of a "I have nothing left to lose anyway" mentality. It is unrealistic to think that this could have been Hunter's turning point. What Belos did to him is so ingrained into him that it is going to take time for him to fully realize the truth and come around.

On a side note, we see that his palisman is the first part of that support system he will build for himself, and it seems he will also serve a role of guidance, as indicated by him sitting on Amity's shoulder as she offers help.

Here it is important to note that Amity already has a support system, people who truly care about her and won't cast her aside if she fails. Hunter doesn't. He grew up in complete isolation, dependent on his uncle. He doesn't have anyone beside his uncle who knows and "loves" him, someone to turn to. Without his uncle he has nothing. Without his uncle, he is nothing. Even if Hunter builds the support system he needs, leaving Belos will still be hard because he is still the only family Hunter had for a long time.

So when he sees the key, that desperate hope is renewed once more. He can still be useful to his uncle.

Look at his focused yet somehow empty look. That is not determination or malice. It almost looks as if he is dissociating into a strange tunnel vision.

As he fights Amity, we continue seeing that delirious desperation in how he hyperventilates as he erratically teleports around.

"If you really wanna help then give me that key!" because a few nice words won't fix the issue, they won't make him useful to Belos. No, the key is the only way to fix this. And he has to fix this.

But he's tired, he knows he won't be able to win, but he needs the key, so he uses the one card he still has, threatening Amity and everything she cares about.

When Amity gives him the key, he tells Amity he appreciates that, genuinely meaning it. He seems to actually be a bit apologetic that he was driven to this. But he needs the key more than she does. If what she said is true, she won't get thrown aside and replaced for her failure, he will. What Amity did, it might as well have saved his life in Hunter's eyes.

Even so, it seems Amity's words have come through to him a bit, as he seems contemplative as he holds up the portal key. At that moment his palisman shows up, and he is, albeit surprised, genuinelly grateful that he stuck with him. And it is at that moment that Hunter starts to accept his palisman as his friend, and it is at that moment they start to form a bond and Hunter can understand what his palisman is saying to him. There are people out there who will love him unconditionally.

"You just have to let yourself meet them."

As a sidenote, I just wanna point out that by explaining Hunter's actions I do not mean to insinuate that it justifies them. "Trauma does not justify doing bad things" and "Abuse victims have a warped perception of reality and thus will not always act perfectly or innocently, as well as do bad things out of desperation and cause it's all they've ever known" are ideas that should coexist, otherwise we are demonizing abuse victims and making them feel unworthy of the help they need.

[thenexusofsouls]

"Who's there? I'm-I'm warning you!" Hunter held a broom in both hands, poised and... ready to strike? Oh Titan, he was way over his head. Flap tweeted reassuringly from his shoulder; He's okay? Who was he? Or was the palisman referring to Hunter?

Raspberry hued eyes darted about the forest edge, where he'd heard a rustling. Luz had gone to school, Amity, Willow and Gus, back to the library to search for various books, and Vi was volunteering with Camilla. Hunter had stayed back at the house. At home? For now, at least. He'd just... wanted some time to clear his head. To think about everything that had gone down in the past couple of months, since before they'd arrived in the human realm. So much had changed.

He'd started... getting a little too in his head, so he'd thought maybe some fresh air! And almost immediately stepping out the front door? Rustling. Lucky for him, the broom was in easy reach; someone had probably been sweeping fall leaves off the porch. Too bad he couldn't ride his staff out to the others, if the rustling turned out to be a real threat like Belos. -goldenflapjacks (for The Creature, if of interest? Or any other muses of your choosing, if not :) )

@goldenflapjacks

Sometimes, the Creature liked to wander the forest, as if patrolling his domain. It was not really that way, for he would never say he owned these woods. No one owned nature, in his opinion. Nevertheless, he liked to be aware of what was going on in the area in which he lived. Sometimes there were things that needed tending to, injured animals or fires or even the occasional lost child. For the most part, though, the forest was quiet, saved for the usual sounds of birds and other wildlife.

Today, however, he had noticed activity near an old cabin that was, as far as he knew, abandoned. It was not uncommon for humans to reclaim decrepit former domiciles. As long as they were respectful of their natural surroundings, he would not mind their presence. As he tried to determine that, though, he was faced with what looked like a very spooked young person waving around a broom, of all things. That would do nothing against him - if dynamite could not kill him then a broom has as much chance as did a toothpick - and yet he admired the young one's bravery.

Not wishing to prolong the encounter and continue to frighten this person, the Creature decided to reveal himself. It was easy enough to do, given his six-foot six-inch height and broad frame. Perhaps his billowing cloak and large hood blended in with the browns of the trees and underbrush, and his deathly still position did not arouse suspicion, but the moment the Creature began to move out from behind the large oak he was half obscured behind, he became far more obvious.

"I do not mean you any harm," he said, not venturing to get very close to the obviously nervous person. "I was unaware... that anyone lived here." His head and face were half obscured by the hood framing his head like a halo and the scarf he wore over his nose and mouth. Only his eyes and a bit of his long hair were visible.

[thenexusofsouls]

The Creature also recoiled a bit, though not in fear. Shame crept into his gaze and he lowered it slightly, taking a slow step backward when he saw the boy take a couple of his own out of fear. He was always frightening or disgusting people. Every time he met someone new, it was the same story. Over and over again. Only this time, he was frightening a very young person, which somehow made it all worse. He didn't mean to frighten others, but without even saying a word or doing anything, his appearance always seemed to do that for him.

He was pleasantly distracted from his own shame, though, by a little bird that flew over to him. Was it the boy's pet? He hadn't seen any other birds like it in this particular forest. Smiling as the bird tweeted and flew close to him, he let it tug on a thread that dangled from his cloak without irritation or trying to swat it away. No, he loved animals, and he knew that birds liked to pick up all sorts of things for their nests, from twigs and moss to leaves and even threads from clothing. If the bird wanted it, it could have it. Otherwise, the Creature really didn't mind it's presence at all.

When the boy said he was startled, the Creature was nothing if not apologetic. "It was not my intention... to startle you. I live in this forest," he said, hoping to clarify why he was there at all, lest the boy think that he was trying to hunt him specifically or something.

Hearing that he was staying with people nearby, he was less concerned about finding a random boy in the forest. "You know your way... back home, then?" he asked. "You are not lost?" Concern had prompted him to just make sure, for if the boy really was lost and just afraid to say, then he would be happy to accompany him to somewhere safe if he needed help.

[goldenflapjacks]

The man's features sunk as Hunter retreated. Genuine? Or one of Belos's tricks?

"Hunter, why are you hurting me? I only wanted to help you." Eyes boring into his with what Hunter struggled not to believe was sorrow. The emperor had managed to embed guilt and shame into his chest, and yet his words were all lies.

But that was then, and this was now, and this stranger was just that. A stranger. He knew as much with Flapjack's show of trust. Still, the boy couldn't help but worry that the man might try to swat at his little friend. Luckily, no such reaction came. Quite the opposite; he seemed amused, and warmed by Flap's company. The little bird tugged at the string, lifted it from where it had lay, but then dropped it. He fluttered back to Hunter with a satisfied little chirp.

An nod met the man's apologetic tone. That made sense. It wasn't as if he'd sprung out and shouted Boo! "I understand. Sorry for-for freaking out. It wasn't personal." He lived in the forest? The teen's brows raised in surprise. Unsure of how to respond, he looked about and rubbed at the back of his head with his free, residually shaky hand, "It's nice."

The followed questions took him by surprise. His face swivelled back in the direction of the other, sunlight peering through the trees, leaf shaped shadows danced upon scarred skin. "Hm? Oh, yeah. I know my way back. It's not far." Well, that was an understatement. He didn't think he should give out Luz's address to strangers, though. Of course, he'd have to head back eventually... That was a later problem. Speaking of Luz, maybe she knew him? "What's your name?"

[thenexusofsouls]

"Who's there? I'm-I'm warning you!" Hunter held a broom in both hands, poised and... ready to strike? Oh Titan, he was way over his head. Flap tweeted reassuringly from his shoulder; He's okay? Who was he? Or was the palisman referring to Hunter?

Raspberry hued eyes darted about the forest edge, where he'd heard a rustling. Luz had gone to school, Amity, Willow and Gus, back to the library to search for various books, and Vi was volunteering with Camilla. Hunter had stayed back at the house. At home? For now, at least. He'd just... wanted some time to clear his head. To think about everything that had gone down in the past couple of months, since before they'd arrived in the human realm. So much had changed.

He'd started... getting a little too in his head, so he'd thought maybe some fresh air! And almost immediately stepping out the front door? Rustling. Lucky for him, the broom was in easy reach; someone had probably been sweeping fall leaves off the porch. Too bad he couldn't ride his staff out to the others, if the rustling turned out to be a real threat like Belos. -goldenflapjacks (for The Creature, if of interest? Or any other muses of your choosing, if not :) )

@goldenflapjacks

Sometimes, the Creature liked to wander the forest, as if patrolling his domain. It was not really that way, for he would never say he owned these woods. No one owned nature, in his opinion. Nevertheless, he liked to be aware of what was going on in the area in which he lived. Sometimes there were things that needed tending to, injured animals or fires or even the occasional lost child. For the most part, though, the forest was quiet, saved for the usual sounds of birds and other wildlife.

Today, however, he had noticed activity near an old cabin that was, as far as he knew, abandoned. It was not uncommon for humans to reclaim decrepit former domiciles. As long as they were respectful of their natural surroundings, he would not mind their presence. As he tried to determine that, though, he was faced with what looked like a very spooked young person waving around a broom, of all things. That would do nothing against him - if dynamite could not kill him then a broom has as much chance as did a toothpick - and yet he admired the young one's bravery.

Not wishing to prolong the encounter and continue to frighten this person, the Creature decided to reveal himself. It was easy enough to do, given his six-foot six-inch height and broad frame. Perhaps his billowing cloak and large hood blended in with the browns of the trees and underbrush, and his deathly still position did not arouse suspicion, but the moment the Creature began to move out from behind the large oak he was half obscured behind, he became far more obvious.

"I do not mean you any harm," he said, not venturing to get very close to the obviously nervous person. "I was unaware... that anyone lived here." His head and face were half obscured by the hood framing his head like a halo and the scarf he wore over his nose and mouth. Only his eyes and a bit of his long hair were visible.

[goldenflapjacks]

A tall figure stepped into view, cloak waving in the breeze. The man had long, wavy hair. Unmasked, a green trail of skin made it's way across his face- Hunter's heart beat rapidly in his chest, mouth open as his breathing grew short and panicky. The bravery sunk from his gaze, eyes wide as he took a couple steps back. But then he really saw the man before him.

The patch of skin was more blue in tone. His hair? Deeper in colour than Belos' had been, the last time Hunter had seen him. His cloak was a different colour and much wilder, more natural in appearance than he could picture him ever wearing.

His voice was different, too. Deep. And the words he spoke? Wouldn't necessarily make sense, if this man were Belos. Not unless he was lying, trying to get Hunter's guard down. He's okay. Flapjack's translation echoed in the boy's mind.

"What-what do you think, Flap?" He murmured, catching his breath. The bird in turn flew over to the stranger with little hesitation, tweeting cheerfully, and tugging curiously at a loose piece of string on the stranger's cloak.

"Yeah, I don't think he'd wear that, either." The teen agreed gently, feeling a little less freaked out, with his bird's evident approval of the man before him. He trusted Flapjack's instincts better than his own. The little palisman hadn't steered him wrong, yet.

Slowly, he lowered the broom. Rose hued eyes gaze swept back to the Creature, expression softened, though still a little wary. "I don't... mean you harm either. I was just- startled, sorry." The cuffs of his sweater sleeves half covered his hands. Unusually pointed ears are visible beneath tufts of partially grown out blond hair, a strand of which falls in his face as he glances down a moment. "I'm just staying with some friends, in the area." And by the area, he meant just over in the not-decrepit house practically visible, a little down the street from the cabin through which they'd arrived in the human realm, but he wasn't about to tell a stranger his found family's address.

[intheageoficons]

I figure I can post this here as well.

Hi friends! School has started, and I’m leading my first classroom here in Utah! I have been so blessed with this opportunity, and I am looking forward to the year!I know it’s been hard times for everyone, but I figured I could at least put this out there. I’ve created an Amazon wishlist for my classroom, with things that I would love to have. There’s no pressure, no expectations. If you choose to donate something, I will be forever grateful and honoured. Whatever happens, thank you and have an amazing September!

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1RSEEACYMTE6Y?ref_=wl_share

[intheageoficons]

Rebagel for the early morning crowd.

[caramizie-vrajitoare]

Hi guys! Sorry I haven’t been around much. I have been struggling with some stuff here recently. I haven’t forgotten anyone. Some of the stuff I’ve been doing to keep myself from falling down a deep, deep, dark hole of depression is crocheting. I’ve loved crocheting and haven’t done it in a really long time. Anyways, I’ve looking to sell some of them. I posted some of my stuff on new instagram. All these toys have been made with love and I need to find them new homes! Please feel free to check out my store. Share it with your friends, family, tumblrs, whoever. I could really use some help. 

[agentsterling]

Hey friends! I’ve decided that I want to try and make some more custom funko pops because they are fun and also I could use some extra money since I am an unemployed housewife. My etsy store is being a big old butt for some reason so I thought I would advertise here, my true clientele. 

Above are some examples of my sculpting and painting skills and a funko pop of Sterling I already made for myself. All of it is hand sculpted using Apoxie sculpt which is INCREDIBLY durable. Seriously, I’ve dropped this thing so many times and not a scratch on it. I paint it by hand with acrylics and then I do a matte spray finish with a gloss varnish if the area needs to be shiny like his hair and the back of his vest. That finish keeps the paint from scratching or chipping. I’ve had this finished funko pop for about a year now and it’s still as good as the day I sculpted and painted it. And again, I drop it a lot. 

Above examples are a Sterling funko pop I made, a face I sculpted for a Krumpus doll, and a munny doll I made of Link for my nephew a few years ago. 

Now, because it is hand sculpted and hand painted there will be imperfections, of course. Just know that going in. 

I will use the bodies as they come from the blank pop figures. If you would like a custom pose, custom bodies, or have me just resculpt the legs or arms a little different to hold a specific prop or something, that will be extra. the above figure I did has custom legs and an arm to hold the folder. Here is an example of the bodies and poses the blank dolls have. 

Base price for a custom pop figure of your character or a character you would like a pop of is $60. These blank pops go for roughly $12 and the apoxie sculpt is roughly $24. That doesn’t leave me with a while lot of money for time and labor costs but one container of apoxie can be used for multiple pops and I want to keep it affordable to my fellow poor people who just love their rp characters. 

If you would like custom poses to it it will be extra but we can discuss that when you make an order. I will accept venmo and paypal. 

Hit me up if this is something you’re interested in! 

[promptochocobozine]

Preorders Open!

That’s right, folks, the Prompto Chocobo Zine is open for preorders!

There are 5 different tiers:

Chocobo Greens Tier - Merch only - $20

King’s Knight Tier - Digital zine and DLC - $15

Gunslinger Tier - Physical zine and Digital DLC - $20

MT Unit Tier - Physical zine, Digital zine, and Merch - $25

Photographer’s Ultimate Bundle - Physical zine, Digital zine, DLC, and merch - $35

Preorders end November 26th! Make sure to get your copy before they’re gone! All profits go to The Ocean Cleanup!

[promptochocobozine]

Hey all get ready preorders are going to start Oct 25th this coming Friday!!!!