A/N: Wow time flies! Sorry this took forever but I had a lot going on these last few weeks and life just decided there was no time for writing. It’s short, and I kinda feel like it sucks, but this is the first actual fic writing I've posted in over 2 years, so I'm a bit rusty tbh
Anyway, here is the first of hopefully many blurbs/stories of Luna & Zavrik. Zavrik belongs to lovely @dark-and-kawaii, thanks for sharing him with me 💖
Luna'leivel nearly cried in relief when she was finally able to rest after a long round of 'tests'. She pulled herself into a corner and curled into herself. She then started quietly humming a lullaby her nanny taught her many years ago. It helped her to focus on something other than the throbbing of her body and its many wounds.
To Luna, time passed strangely during these moments. The moments of rest after a particularly rough day, where she'd retreat into her own mind to regulate her emotions and numb the pain. It usually was long enough for Luna to feel at least somewhat better, but on that day it felt like all too soon that her mother, Iliae'vel, was nudging Luna with her foot to stir her.
At that moment, her surroundings shifted rapidly as the pain and dread of having to move caused a new, strange, sensation.
Suddenly, the relative darkness and stuffy air of the basement she knew as her home was replaced with bright sunlight and fresh, crisp autumn air. For a moment, she was awed that she was actually outside. Her body then harshly reminded her of her situation when her knees buckled and pain shot through her from her unhealed wounds, adding a new array of fresh ones from hitting the ground.
The wind was knocked out of her and her senses were muddled, whether from the pain or sudden magic that brought her here, she wasn't quite sure. She tried to take in her surroundings, but her ears felt muffled and her eyes blurry. Getting nowhere with her assessment, Luna curled onto her side and pressed her hands to her eyes. She tried to focus and center herself, panic would not aid her in this moment. So, despite the pain in her chest, she tried to take a handful of deep breaths to collect herself.
Beginning to regain her senses, Luna looked up to see a tall tiefling male coming towards her rapidly. She could tell he was speaking, but she still couldn't quite hear right and it sounded garbled. The man reached out to help her as she attempted to right herself, and her senses cleared just enough to hear him ask if she was alright and where she came from.
He quickly crouched near her and offered a helping hand to steady her. Luna gripped his forearm and struggled, but managed to sit up on her knees with his assistance. Once settled, she held a hand to her ribs to try to dull the pain of breathing and tried to answer his questions. Despite her best efforts, every time she attempted to open her mouth to speak, a sharp pain ripped across her face. Though she tasted her own blood, she kept trying while pained cries slipped out more than words. Noticing her struggle, the man was quick to hush her.
"Hey, hey, take it easy,” He spoke softly as he gently turned her face to assess the damage, “maybe don't try to talk right now, your face is banged up pretty good."
The man started to look around as Luna caught her breath. As they sat for a moment, she started to take in the man's features. He was tall, or at least much taller than her, and broad, wearing ornamental but practical armor with a sizable sword strapped to his back. When he looked back to her, his face showed concern, and while he didn't seem to hold ill intent, Luna was still wary. Even so, Luna knew her chance of escape was limited, so she chose to take the aid of this stranger.
"Do you think you try to stand now?" The man asked.
Luna took a breath and nodded. She grabbed at his offered forearms and readied herself to get up, but the shouting of her name and running footsteps froze her in place, the terror all but paralyzing her.
The man, who seemed to notice the shift in demeanor, moved to stand and face the incoming party.
A tall, thin, well-dressed woman whipped around the corner, her face filled with cold fury. However, her expression rapidly shifted to one of false concern and relief when she noticed there was someone else in the alley with Luna.
Shaking, Luna placed one of her hands on the man’s arm, almost tugging at him.
Introducing my new oc that was created because @dark-and-kawaii made Lofn and Zevlor's kid, and he's unfairly attractive and a sweet cinnamon roll, thus this character idea was planted. I wanted to formally introduce her before I start posting blurbs and headcanons about her and Zavrik. I'll probably do some kind of character info sheet at some point soon, but for now, have this lil intro blurb
Born to a human father and half-elven mother, Luna'leivel being a tiefling child was a shock and a disgrace, especially for a mage of such renown as Iliae'vel Bargou. Iliae'vel and her husband were baffled by this turn of events and wanted to be rid of the 'hellspawn' of a child they'd been burdened with. Ever the creative mind, rather than dispose of the child, Iliae'vel crafted a plan. She had been researching pulling power from alternative sources such as celestial bodies (the sun, moon, stars, etc.) and finding ways to amplify such magics. Rather than test it on herself, Iliae'vel decided to use this child as her test subject. This way she could control all aspects of the child's life and leave no room for error.
As a young adult, Luna'leivel knew nothing besides her room and her mother's study. She spent many of her days reading and playing music, albeit extremely quiet as to not disturb her mother. However, Lulu spent most days being poked, prodded, cut open, and innumerable other horrid physical and mental distress in the name of research. Until luck, or maybe even fate, set her right in the path of Zavrik Cormyr Thay.
However, you gotta give a girl a break. Not only am I thirsting and longing for fictional characters in a video game, but it's now like three levels deep cause it's not even like he's a non-romancable npc, he's a character that's not even part of the story! Not even a Tav or Durge, nope, just the epitome of a perfect dude who's the child of a non-romancable npc and some random person's (said with love) tav..... I'm in too deep, I have a nosebleed now 🫠
I- I don’t know what to say!!!! Oh my gosh, this is so freaking- AHHHHH ♡!!! When I said he captures the attention of people I didn’t think he’d actually capture people’s attention!!! The way I feel so full of knowing you have love for him!!! He really is a cinnamon roll, and I’m glad you’re in deep because Zavrik would treat you so well~ ♡ ♡ ♡ he’s the perfect mix of Zevlor & Lofn so you know you’re in for a good loving time!!! Enjoy these dear - 𝐿𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝒦𝒾𝓌𝒾 𝓍𝑜𝓍𝑜
Whenever you’re around Zavrik the world around you always seems to fade into a soft blur, the sounds of the city always dimming into a distant hum as his very soul envelopes you.
It always feels as if though time itself has paused, holding its breath to witness the moments he shares with you. His arms, always so strong yet gentle, encircle around your waist with a warmth that seeps into your very being… A cocoon of safety and affection that shields you from all that is harsh and unkind.
Zavrik’s eyes, oh those beautiful eyes that remind you of diamonds, are a universe unto themselves. Pools of deep emotion, they lock onto yours with raw passion that makes your heart flutter. In their depths, you see a reflection of yourself, cherished and adored, as if you are- no, that you are the very center of his world. Each time his gaze meets yours, it’s as if he’s memorizing every detail, every scar, every breath you take- committing it to memory.
His touch, a whisper against your skin, his fingers tracing the contours of your face with a tenderness that makes you feel as delicate as a petal. There’s always such great care in his movements, a gentleness, treating you as if you are the most precious thing he’s ever held.
In Zavrik’a embrace- in his presence, you always feel seen, known, and oh so loved. The world may continue to spin, but here in his arms you are the only one who matters. And that feeling always lingers no matter the distance, it is a feel he’s made sure to etch into your very heart so that you always feel as if you’ve found a home in him no matter where you go.
And should the gods be cruel and tear him away from your side, Zavrik has ensured that you will never face this world unguarded. Skjaldrynn, will take his place as your sentinel. A living testament to Zavrik’s promise that you will never be alone until he can great you once more in the heavens above. In the wyvern’s watchful gaze you, you find a piece of Zavrik’s spirit, a guardian that carries his heart, ensuring that his love shields you always ♡ ♡ ♡
I'm definitely, absolutely, positively not now imagining plotlines, wanting to make a tav with a custom comapnion of Zavrik. And there's def not even a possibility of him having been added to the list of maladaptive daydream lovers 🙃
💜ART RAFFLE!💜
You can win free half body illustration, with fully rendered colours of a one character. It could be your Tav or any character from the game (eg cambion, hellrider, the bear). One winner or two winners if post will get 100+ likes 😊 Ending on: 21 July, 8 pm CET.
To enter:
☑️follow me
☑️reblog
☑️write you Tav name / or your favourite character from game name in the comment
More examples of my art and info about commissions: here.
Also, sorry in advance, I can't keep answers short and am a chronic oversharer.......
Do you make your bed?
Nope, but I used to back in college
Favorite number?
89, if that wasn't already obvious. I always get questioned if it's my birth year, it's not. When I was young I couldn't decide if 8 or 9 was my favorite so I combined them lol
What’s your job?
Freelance Creative Writer
If you could go back to school would you?
I want to, but last time it didn't end well for me and my mental health, so it's doubtful.
Can you parallel park?
Nope! Never really needed to learn where I live, so the knowledge didn't really stick
Do you think aliens are real?
I mean, I think there are definitely other forms of life elsewhere, but thinking about the vastness of space tends to send me into an internal crisis so I don't think about it too much
Can you drive a manual car?
Unfortunately not, never had the opportunity to learn
What’s your guilty pleasure?
The massive amount of smut I read daily...
Tattoos?
Yup, two of em with a hope for many more. I have one for my childhood dog who passed away and another for a D&D character I played during a rough time in my life and who I often give credit to my survival through the darkness.
Favorite color?
Black and dark Emerald/Forest green
Favorite types of music
No one type tbh, it very much depends on my mood
Do you like puzzles?
Brain teasers sometimes, and I will occational assist with a jigsaw puzzle, but they are not my favorite thing
Any phobias
Snakes. Which sucks as someone whos motif is very much snakes and darkness
Favorite childhood sport?
Ahahaha, no. Not athleticly inclined at all. I was always an indoor kid. Though I almost tried out for soccer one year, then thought about the heat of where I live and promptly changed my mind
Do you talk to yourself?
Yup, both aloud and in my head.
What movies do you adore?
Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Jurrasic World, Resident Evil Death Island, and Eternals are my top movies.
Coffee or tea?
I dispise tea so for sure coffee
First thing you wanted to be growing up
Fashion Designer or an Equestrain, can't remember which came first lol
Nervous to post my art (words are more my thing but I dabble in digital art) but this is too important to hide... so yeah here's my Mouse Army contribution for the album.
Thanks @hydropyro for putting this lil project together.
So it's been over two years and imma be real with y'all, it's been a very long time since I've felt inspired to write. All of my old stories and love of writing kinda died off over the last four or five years. But recently, I've slowly felt the urge and the creative drive come back to me.
That said, I don't think any of my old series will get updates anytime soon. I lost the creative spark for those fandoms and I don’t want to burn out trying to write what I’m not inspired to.
To be entirely honest, Baldur’s Gate 3 has been the catalyst for this reignition. I’ve fallen in love with so many of the characters and their stories and I’ve just become obsessed in way I haven’t in a long time.
With this refresh of inspiration, I felt it was time to refresh the blog a bit (peep the new pfp and header).
I’ve got a few stories in the works, so I’m hoping to try and publish some short drabbles and headcanons here in the next few weeks before hopefully moving on to more substantial works.
Y'all for real though! Last week I was helping a neighbor with 4 foster kittens (3ish weeks) and I immediately named one Astarion. He was the escape artist, he was way too fast when he did escape his playpen, his little kitten daggers destroyed my hands, and all he wanted was to bite anything he could (mostly me). Also, he always had something to say (as in he screamed nonstop). He wanted to be held, but as soon as he was picked up he would scream louder, but if you put him down he also screamed louder.
A.I. photos are flooding social media and contributing to an Internet where we can't believe what we see. Spotting A.I. 📷s is an important media literacy skill.
None of us have time to research every image we see. We just need people to notice BEFORE THEY LIKE OR SHARE that an image might be fake. If unsure, check it or don't share.
I've started drawing some comics explaining the basic of AI spot-checking and media literacy in the age of disinformation. Follow along here or on my Twitter.
i honestly dont get why people stopped reblogging things they like on here bc like what are you afraid of??? people thinking youre cringey?? guess what bitch! youre on tumblr! it’s all cringey! reblog everything you like and do it shamelessly no one fuckin cares
people stopped reblogging things because it is a lot easier to like things than to reblog them on mobile, and that’s what the majority of people use. It’s a design flaw not the users fault
idk if most people are aware of this, but if you hold the reblog button down you can literally just swipe to the icon of the blog you want it to reblog to. it‘s quick and easy
I legit haven't published anything new in waaaay too long (ADHD is a bitch when it comes to writing while not hyperfocused 😂), but I mean I have a bunch stuff for DC and Marvel....
I know there’s other posts out there but I wanted to make a comprehensive post about being completely inclusive when writing reader inserts. Everyone has their own perspective and ideas so I wanted to share my thoughts and tips that I use myself when I’m writing. Of course I most likely forgot things as well so feel free to add on if you think of something I missed and I’ll add it to the list here!
Quicke note before we get to it: if you spot something on this list that you’ve done before, don’t beat yourself up about it. We all slip up and make mistakes. Just learn from it and keep it in mind for the future! As readers, we understand that it’s near impossible to include every single individual that could possibly read your work, but the point is to be as inclusive as possible with your writing.
Under a cut for length and to make sure you always see the most updated list when you click on it! Reblogs are very much appreciated too, especially if you’re a writer so we can all learn and grow and be better!
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Labeling your reader (a guide to terminology)
Gender neutral (gn)- no pronouns, no gendered nicknames, no mentions of genitals
Assigned female at birth (afab)- no pronouns, no gendered nicknames, reader usually has a vagina
Assigned male at birth (amab)- no pronouns, no gendered nicknames, reader usually has a penis
Female/fem/f- she/her pronouns, traditionally femme nicknames, reader usually has a vagina
Male/m- he/him pronouns, traditionally masc nicknames, reader usually has a penis
Non-binary (nb)- usually they/them pronouns, reader can have either a vagina or a penis
Quick note: terminology changes often and as far as I know this is the most up to date on being inclusive with labeling readers. If it changes or if anyone has suggestions I’ll update this.
If you do want to assign your reader character some type of label, please tag it appropriately. Lots of poc writers like to write black, Latine, Asian, etc readers for example. Or other examples are plus size reader, short reader, tall reader, nerdy reader, shy reader, sporty reader, etc.
Don’t be afraid to write a trans character too! Trans characters can have either the opposite genitalia from their birth assignment or the same, everyone is different! There’s a big lack in trans reader representation!
Please note too that just because reader is labeled one way does not necessarily mean they are cisgender. People can be non-binary and use she/her or he/him pronouns. There’s no need to label your reader as cis at all
And please don’t label your readers' sexuality as straight. Bi/pan/demi/queer people can be attracted to a male character but that does not mean they are exclusively into men. It alienates queer readers.
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Inclusive with skin tones
Please do not use “blush” or “flush” or anything like that! I know that’s one of the top issues when being inclusive with skin tones. Instead, try something like “you felt your skin heat up” or “your palms felt sweaty” or “you felt flustered.” Focus more on the emotions and what reader is feeling or thinking or physically reacting rather than saying reader blushed.
Be careful when describing bruises or injuries. Not all bruises get bright red for example. Instead, try mentioning blood stain, swelling, or just use “discolored” or “beat up” or something like that.
Not everyone’s skin turns red when slapped so just avoid “your skin reddened” altogether.
Not everyone has pink nipples, just skip describing the color altogether
Or pink lips. Again just skip the color description
While all skin is able to get burned, not everyone’s skin turns red/pink from being in the sun. Instead use more feeling descriptors like “your skin felt hot from the sun” or even describing peeling would be ok.
Don’t say that reader looks like an established character.
“Knuckles turned white” doesn’t happen with everyone so just leave it out. Focus more on muscles straining or something instead.
Avoid the phrase “you look white as a ghost” when referring to reader.
If you want to mention makeup, just leave it general and don’t specify colors or shades or anything like that. Not all shades show up the same on all skin tones.
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Inclusive with hair
Not everyone can run their fingers through their hair. Textured/curly hair gets caught or someone may not have hair long enough (or any hair) to run their fingers through.
Instead, try something like “fiddled with your fingers/ear/clothes”
Not everyone has hair long enough to tie up/back so it’s best to just not mention it at all. Your reader can just imagine how they want their hair for the scene.
If you want a more formal look, just “you styled yourself nicely” something like that is enough.
Some people enjoy hair pulling in sex, some don’t. Hair touching can be very upsetting for some people, especially people of color. If you want to include it, just make sure to add it in the tags/warnings so readers are aware before they get into it
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Inclusive with language
Please don’t assume your reader doesn’t speak Spanish! (This is aimed mostly at those who write Latino characters because I see this a lot)
If a character is speaking Spanish, you can either use italics to indicate the language change or provide a translation right there. Avoid adding “you didn’t understand” with that.
Instead you can use something like “you didn’t hear” so your reader can interpret for themselves if it’s because they don’t understand or they simply didn’t hear.
I know it’s tempting but please don’t use google translate to write in another language. It’s fine or a word or a phrase but when it goes into full sentences then it gets a little funky. Try consulting with a native speaker if you can!
When writing in Spanish, please note that n and ñ are not interchangeable!
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Inclusive with body shape and size
Don’t assume your reader is thin or short and the character can easily pick them up or toss them around. If you want to specify a short reader, please tag it.
Also the opposite: done assume reader is taller than a character too!
If you want character to pick up reader, please include it in your warnings.
Limbs generally don’t weigh as much so something like “he hiked you leg over his shoulder” while laying down is more inclusive (I’m short and can pick up limbs from my clients at my day job so trust me your leg itself doesn’t weigh a lot)
Avoid “you got up on your tiptoes to kiss him” because not everyone is short. Instead just say “leaned over/in to kiss” or “angled yourself to kiss” something more generalized
Usually describing a hug/holding reader/cuddling is fine but don’t get overly specific on how much a character is able to wrap their arms around the reader and fit their arms fully around reader. Writing a tight embrace or an engulfing hug should still be fine since it can be a show of emotions.
Wearing a characters clothes. Not everyone can fit their fav’s size and not everyone will “drown in his shirt.”
Again the opposite is true too: not everyone has curves or thick thighs or big breasts or a big ass. Plus size and curvy readers are important to write too since representation is lacking, but just be sure to tag it properly!
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Inclusive with background in general
Be careful when describing readers family because that can be hard for some readers. Not everyone has a good relationship with their family. Yes sometimes a backstory is needed for plot and people can pretend for the sake of the story. Just be sure to include in your warnings for the story, especially if it’s either a really good or really bad relationship.
Religion. Just don’t mention it at all.
Around the holidays especially, Christmas fics are very popular but please be aware that not everyone celebrates the same holidays! Be sure to tag and warn for any holidays that they could be celebrating. And please don’t write Jewish characters celebrating Christmas.
Don’t make your reader biologically related to a white character. If you absolutely want to, there’s options like step family, adopted, childhood friends that are closer than family, etc.
Reader’s job is usually something you have more leeway with but just be sure to tag it appropriately. Disabled readers for example can’t always imagine themselves in certain jobs so it’s just something to keep in mind.
When creating a backstory for reader, try to think outside your own experience and make sure it’s not something that poc readers can’t relate to or wouldn’t have had the same experience from.
This one is more aimed at Americans but please remember that not everyone reading lives in the US. Sometimes yes, a setting is necessary, but please be open to the fact that people from all over the world read fics.
There’s really no need to give your reader an age as it can alienate a lot of readers. Sometimes it can be inferred through context but I find that outright giving reader a specific age is very excluding. There are plenty of people in fandom who are not in their 20s so please don’t assume everyone reading is. And it sends a message to them that they don’t belong when every other fic is a very young reader character.
If you’re at the point where your reader has a name, it’s no longer a reader insert but an original character. Nicknames or code names are totally fine, but please don’t give reader a name.
And if you are writing an oc, please keep it out of the reader tag. Use the oc tags.
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Inclusive with art and moodboards
Please include poc when making moodboards for your fics!! I know from personal experience it can be hard to find the right pic you want, but I promise with some digging it’s possible.
Follow models of color pages here on tumblr, there’s unsplash, Pinterest (I know it’s not the best site but I have found a lot of poc pics there) and other sites too. Curate pictures to save for later when you can!
When it comes to art for reader insert fics, please don’t default to a white woman all the time. It’s disheartening to see white women used for “reader” in 90% of art or more. It makes poc feel like they aren’t welcome and that it isn’t meant for us. My personal opinion is that reader should be just a shadowy figure or outline or something vague like that. Or use a few different body types and skin tones.
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General inclusive tips
These aren't specific to skin tone or anything but rather little things that can help your reader feel more immersed in your story in general. I know some writers have a specific image in mind when writing but these are little things I’ve noticed that can knock the fantasy out for me so I wanted to share some thoughts and pointers. These are lower pressure points and not as big a deal but I did want to include them anyway.
Instead of specifying food or drink, write something like “your favorite (whatever)” or don’t even mention what they make or eat. Just say they made something or they ate something, your readers can fill in for themselves that’s on the plate
If a character buys reader flowers or something, don’t specify the flower. Either leave it vague or use “your favorite flowers”
Instead of a specific outfit, leave it vague or don’t mention at all. Sometimes a certain kind of outfit is required for situations (like a formal event or ball or something), but even then you can use something like “a gown in your favorite color” or “a formal outfit that flattered you well.”
Adding on with the clothing point: please tag if you’re describing clothing in a fantasy type setting. While clothing itself has no gender, sometimes trans and nb people can get hit with dysphoria if you’ve got reader wearing a skirt or something like it with no warning. Either just leave it out, leave it vague, or warn for it!
In the case of an AU or a fantasy setting you have more wiggle room with clothing but still try to leave it more vague if possible.
Same with shoes. Not everyone likes/can wear heels so keep that in mind
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To wrap up, please be aware when writing your reader inserts. It’ll get easier with practice the more you consciously do it! And please listen to poc writers/readers when we ask for inclusivity! And support writers of color too! Thank you for reading and taking it all in because I know this was a lot!
