Don't Lose Your Head - Blog Posts

I haven’t really thought of this until now but I feel like it’s hard for people without strict parents, Ace, to understand just how much having strict parents can affect you mentally and physically. With the way that Ace speaks to Riddle it’s nice but also somewhat insensitive he talks like growing up with strict parents only really meant that you were sheltered but having strict parents is so much more then that. Riddle doesn’t just think his mom is right because she’s distinguished he’s forcing himself to believe everything she taught him was right because if she was wrong that meant he missed out on EVERYTHING. Every “normal” experience others have had hes never experienced hanging out with friends, learning how to build proper bonds with friends, eating “bad” food, having sleepovers, having any interest that isn’t school related, these and more are things often regarded as normal but when you grow older while having strict parents and you start to remember your childhood all you can really focus on is the lack of one you had. Not having any childhood friends you can happily talk about without remembering your parents splitting your friendship is really depressing, and hearing others talk about all the times they’ve hung out with friends, all the times they were able to just be regular kids, while you have none to look back on sucks. Riddle was so upset because if his mom was wrong then that meant he had wasted all of his life until that point. -Sincerely someone with heavily strict parents

hello anon!!

I agree with you, especially taking in consideration how suffocating Riddle's mom is, not letting her son have friends or choose what he wants to do in his free time or what he wants to eat, enforcing him to follow the rules down to a t. it's really heart wrenching to think Riddle was never allowed to be just a kid, there's a heavy weight of expectations on his shoulders that never allowed him to. I think you put it very eloquently anon, Riddle has every right to be upset about his unfair situation.

even when he was in the wrong as well, being strict to the point of tyrany, and needed to learn that what he was doing was wrong, I understand he was doing it because it's all he's ever known. how else was he supposed to take care of Heartslabyul if that's what he learnt to be the right way? he demands a lot out of the students because he has high expectations for them, he wants them to reach their full potential and to make the best out of NRC as they can, he cares about them and about his dorm. "I'm doing this because I love you." "it hurts me to be this strict, but you must learn your place." "you are better than this, you can do better than them." that's probably what he grew up hearing and that's what he thinks is right.

so to learn all his nights of studying, all the time he spent knowing the queen's rules by heart, all the effort he put into being the best, into making his mother proud, into being the son she wanted to have, it was all... for nothing? he could have eaten that candy he reaaally wanted to that one time, or he could have sleept for a little longer, or he could have watched the show all his classmates were talking about, or he could have played in the mud with them, and none of it is wrong, it's just being a kid. it's certainly a lot to take in.

and I think Ace comes from an opposite background. from the amount of mischief he causes and his devil may care attitude, I think his parents may be very lenient with him. so things he thinks about as normal are a different reality from Riddle's normal. that's why they clash heads so much, they have completely different world views and backgrounds that have molded them as people. Ace was right in calling Riddle out on his wrongdoings, but he didn't go the best way about it, that's for sure. their relationship is so interesting because of these differences, how they are both in the right and in the wrong at the same time, how they may clash heads but are still on the same dorm with a certain mutual respect between them.

anon, I'm sorry if you had a childhood similar to his, I hope at least now you're able to experience the things you couldn't before and are broadening your horizons! know that you have a right to be upset about it, your feelings are totally valid! take good care of yourself <3

Personally I'm not 100% sure on Jack. There are no wolves in the Lion King! The only thing I can think of is the big bad wolf from fairytales like little red riding hood, the three little pigs, and the boy who cried wolf.

oh I know this one actually!

Jack isn't based from the Lion King, seeing as he doesn't even come from the same place that Ruggie and Leona do. I don't think he's based on the wolves from traditional fairytales either, since all the characters are from specific disney movies (although there is room to argue he might have been based on the big bad wolf from disney's adaptations of said fairytales, I still think it's unlikely considering Jack's personality).

there's this post that I agree with regarding Jack's origins, but there's some other things I'd like to add to it!

if you take a look at Jack's wiki page, you'll find that "Jack seemingly has no correlation to any character from the Lion King franchise." and that "He may be named after Jack London, author of the novel White Fang, about a wild white wolfdog. Walt Disney Pictures produced a film based on the novel."

in the post I linked above, there's also mention of another of Jack London's novel's adaptations made by disney, The Call of the Wild, which also includes wolves living in a snowy enviroment. I think it's pretty safe to say these two movies are the major inspirations for him!

but there's more, too. like some other characters, I feel that Jack has more than one inspo! especially considering how these two movies he seems to be based on break the previous pattern of animation classics that consist of disney's most remembered movies, since they are live action and I don't think many people know them.

there's is some base to say he might be from Frozen's wolves, too, but I don't think that's very likely since Frozen is a more recent movie. I don't think he comes from Jungle Book's wolves either, as they aren't antagonists and Jack comes from a cold enviroment, not a jungle.

what I do think he comes from is Beauty and The Beast! like his character fact sheet mentions, he comes from the same place as Vargas, and since this movie is one classic I think it's likely there's a bit of inspiration for him on these wolves too! the wolves here have more of an antagonistic role too, justifying why he's on a villain's school despite being. well. Jack.

so while he most likely is twisted from Jack London's novels adaptations, there might be some of Beauty and the Beast on him too!

Yooo, really random thought lmao, but you know how familiars are allowed in NRC, like how Grim was thought to be Yuu's familiar at first? Do you think any of the boys have a familiar? If not, who do you think would be most likely to have one, and what would their familiar be? It'd kinda be cool for Crowley to have a ton of Crow familiars watching over campus or maybe Riddle with a cute lil hedgehog :)) I was just curious, especially how we haven't seen any familiars save for Lucious maybe? No need to answer, just thought it'd be cool to ask you :) Hope all is well!!! <3

hii anon!! I also think it's a very cool question, thank you for asking!! everything is going well for me, despite being very busy, I hope everything is well for you too! <3

it's a bit funny how there was this random lore drop and. it's just never mentioned again. nada. no one has a familiar, it's not a plot point that's brought up again, they didn't even expand on the concept. I do hope they bring it back, as it's such an insteresting dynamic to add to their world!

I guess we could think that only beast tamers have familiars? as MC is enrolled at NRC as a beast tamer, that would make Grim their familiar, thus making him able to take part on the pratical magic classes in MC's place. plus, in the start of the game Crowley mentions how some familiars are more rebelious and difficult to deal with, so maybe being a beast tamer is not a necessary requirement, but something that would be a great help in this aspect.

I do like the theory of Grim actually being MC's familiar, even if neither of them are aware of it! not sure how canon it might prove itself to be, but Grim and MC definetly have some kind of connection, for sure. I think Grim has a paw in what brought MC to Twisted Wonderland in the first place, but I'm not sure what exactly that would be.

I don't think the boys have familiars, as I have the impression it's more common for wizards that already completed their college education to have them. not that's impossible for a student to have one, but it makes more sense in my head that way ig?? like, it seems to be a harder and more advanced branch of magic, so it'd make sense for them to need a complete education in order to have one.

the most likely would be Lilia, a bat (cliche, I know, but look, Lilia already have those bats that follow him to classes, so it's not a stretch to think they are his familiars), Malleus, a raven (making a reference to Diablo, Malificent's pet raven), or Leona (I'm not sure how a beastman would behave with a familiar? but I think it'd be a lion because. c'mon he's a lion too). as I explained, I choose them since they have more experience and are extremely powerful mages already, so I could see it!

I agree, it'd be really cool for Crowley to have familiar crows, especially if they helped around campus! stopping to think of it, it makes a lot of sense, since Crowley always seems to know what's going on campus at all times, so that'd explain it, as he'd be able to have eyes everywhere at the same time like this. I think Crewel might have dog familiars too! and, as you mentioned, Lucious as Trein's familiar. Vargas is not allowed near any animal. Sam is already happy with his friends from the other side, no need for a familiar.

for the other boys, I can imagine them having familiars (in the future) that reference the movies they were twisted from. Riddle with hedgehogs, Cater with a rabbit, Trey with a dormouse or a hare, Deuce with a flamingo (which would be very funny), Ace with a turtle, Che'nya with a cat, the Savanaclaw boys with their respective animals, same for the Octavinelle boys, Kalim with a tiger, Jamil with a parrot (which is a headcanon I love), Vil with a peacock, Rook (which is concerning to think about with any animal at all) with a hawk, Epel with a sparrow, Neige with a deer, Idia with a dog (which is ironic considering he likes cats more, but Cerberus.), I can't think of one for Ortho since he's kind of a robot and I'm not sure if he'd be able to have a familiar at all? anyways, a crocodile for Sebek and literally any forest animal for Silver (they are all his familiars. squirrels sparrows owls rabbits you name it).

it's a very interesting concept to think about and it'd be very endearing to see more pets around campus, so I hope they'll mention it sometime again and expand on it!

holds out the mic to you cause I just octotrio l/tweel thoughts I love—but I wonder what do you think about the tweels parents /azuls mom do you have any lil theories or thoughts to what they may actually be like?

HI ANON!!! in fact, I do!

first, there's canon info about their families in their character fact sheets! (Azul, right at the beggining, and the twins, closer to the end, after Jade's bedroom image.) taking these in consideration, I'll go on about how I think they might be more personality wise.

firstly, Azul. as I mentioned in my Azul brainrot, I think his mom is similar to Ursula, in the way that she's confident and elegant, a true sight to behold! I imagine they looking physically alike too, but not so much as Azul's grandmother did. I think her hair might be longer and wavy, that she wouldn't wear so much makeup and that her eyes are bigger. though in personality, you could see some similarities, as Azul's mother is classy and higly intelligent. she's also very iconic, running an indepent restaurant, getting a divorce to not stay in an unhappy marriage, getting together with the attorney who treats her very well and being a general big inspiration for her son! I stan Miss Ashengrotto so much, I'm sure she's wonderful.

Azul's grandma is very inspired by Ursula in the aspect of being a great witch that helps others out of her "kindness". whether this kindness is genuine or fake, like Azul's, I'm not sure, but surely Azul was able to learn a lot about magic with her.

his stepfather sounds to be very caring towards his family, most likely being close to Azul as another role model. his cleverness and negotiation skills are very powerful, making him one of the best attorneys around the sea. he always has an argument to win any discussion, always keeps his calm and composure during trials, doesn't matter how dire things look. after all, the only time a lawyer can cry is when it's all over. (I couldn't resist making an Ace Attorney reference)

I think he lost contact with his biological father after his mother's divorce, as they didn't have a close relationship. he probably gets along with his stepfather's side of the family, as they are also mages and might have helped him with his own studies.

overall, Azul's family is iconic and I'd love to meet his mother on some event because I'm sure she'd be super cool. he's very proud of his family and takes inspiration in all of them!

now onto the twins. their grandmother is probably a very old cranky lady, these grandmas that are always scwoling but have a soft spot for her michievous grandsons. she's strict and judgmental, as she's been hardened by living so long in the cruel waters of the sea, but she loves her family a lot.

their mother is a bit overprotective, especially because she knows all about the dangers of the real world. she had her sons take self defense classes and probably knows they can handle themselves just fine, but she still worries for her babies! I think she's very present and involved in their lifes, sending messages or calling them everyday to hear how they're doing on land.

if you believe the theory of Jade and Floyd being two of many Leech kids, but the only two that survived, this also might explain why their mother is so concerned with their safety, not wanting to lose the only two babies that she has left.

many think their father might be some influential fish mafia boss, what with the way he's involved in some shady stuff, has many rich people coming to parties and signing contracts, and in Floyd's wish, Idia mentions not wanting to know what he does, as he might end up "sleeping with the fishes". I think that's very funny, so I agree with it. their father runs the façade of just selling trinkets and runs some kind of fish yakuza behind the scenes.

whether Jade and Floyd know what their father actually does, I'm not sure, but I think they might. their father also is as involved as he can with his sons, as he loves them above everything else, and tries to teach them proper decorum to not be eaten up alive in such a cruel setting as the sea. I think they both took his lessons differently, as it's reflected on their personalities, and they value him a lot, seeking his advice when needed and obeying him without a fuss.

I think Jade might be closer to their mother, as he's usually the one that answer her calls to keep her up to date on how their lives are doing. Floyd is closer to their father, as he admires his power and way of doing things, following closely any advice he gives (on his own Floydish way). overall, their family gets along very well, despite their sharp edges, and love each other a lot.

I think Miss Ashengrotto and Miss Leech are friends due to their sons close friendship, and Miss Leech is oftentimes found at Miss Ashengrotto's restaurant spending time with her and chatting. I think she's the one that tells her what Azul has been up to, as Azul doesn't have much time to call his mother everyday and she isn't much of a worrier like the twins' mother.

their families are also of a good wealth, as they went to school with a prince and their parents have influential jobs (best restaurant of the Coral Sea, best lawyer, mafia boss). despite their oddities, all have a very good and caring home life!

in conclusion, I want to hang out with their moms at Miss Ashengrotto's restaurant and gossip with them. I bet they have the best embarrassing childhood stories to tell!!

Hello :D back again with more rambles !!! So as much as the Leech twins say they don’t care about Azul and would leave him; I have a hard time believing they genuinely would. I mean yes they clearly don’t have a traditional friendship but they definitely have one. The twins seem closer to each other but they often shadow over Azul even when he does things that seem boring. Playing more on the thought I mentioned in my Floyd ask, I think they might not say they’re friends because it could be exploited? Of course the twins are obvious with how close they are, but they can protect themselves. Meanwhile, Azul is powerful but not so much in the physical parts. They could avoid showing their friendship simply because it would make them seem “weaker” or that someone could harm Azul to harm them. Their dynamic is interesting because it breaks the stereotype of having 2 loyal servants. The twins are free to do whatever they want and deny a request unlike in other shows. Overall I think they have a friendship it’s just different than a traditional one- 🦭

HIII 🦭 ANON HOW ARE U?? I'm so sorry for taking so long to answer, life has been real busy lately, but I'm powering through!! thank you for sending your thoughts again!!

I agree with you, the twins and Azul are not only friends, but also very close ones! they've stayed with Azul for years and have watched him grow into the person he's now, being by his side the whole time! they all know each other on a very deep level, thus they also care about each other, in their own eccentric ways.

the twins, at first, only stayed because Azul was different from others (as this is the reason he was bullied in the first place). because of that, they didn't know what to expect with him, thus making him insteresting to be around. they ended up actually becoming friends though, and stayed together after that, following each other from dephts of the cold ocean to the lands of the warm earth.

of course, they say they'd leave should Azul start to bore them, but I don't think Azul would ever get boring, not with his witty intelect and shady schemes. Azul says he doesn't control the twins, which is absolutely true, but that doesn't mean they won't stay by his side. as they said themselves, they don't care about the money, as long as they're kept entertained.

naturally, the twins are closer, as they've been working together since their birth, only them against the cold and cruel sea. they always been odd ones as well, so that's why they clicked with Azul so well, but they're still different brands of weird.

hmm, I could see that! with the line of business Azul conducts, it might be dangerous to have weak points such as a soft spot for his two closest and most competent employees. not only that, but being openly friendly with people that are supposed to obey him, as their boss, could crack his intimidating untouchable image, thus making him seem weaker.

still, Azul isn't weaker, as he seems to be! he's actually stronger than the twins, as Floyd mentions on beans fest, so he's got strong magic, strong muscles and a strong brain. I think it'd be hard for anyone to harm him, unless they could get under his skin by attacking his more emotional side. Azul's got an amazing mask of indifference and faux confidence, but he's still very insecure about his past, which could be one way to get to him that would involve the twins.

I personally think that their refusal to be seen as friends might have come from old habits they carry from their home. as I see the Coral Sea, if it's anything like real sea life at all, it's a dog eat dog world, where everyone lives by themselves and protect their own. sea life can be very cruel, even to their own kind, so it would make sense for them not want to appear weak. it also is related to their own personalities, as they're not very open and emotional people, like Kalim for example, and they don't like showing their hand, prefering to keep their cards close to their chest.

their dynamic reflects that of Ursula and Flotsam and Jetsam very well! differently from other disney villains, who are cruel to their minions and oftentimes only put up with them for their own gain, Ursula genuinely likes the eels, as they are her beloved pets, not her servants. the eels are very cunning and like to create trouble, aiding Ursula in her evil schemes. when they are accidently killed by the end of the movie, Ursula gets furious, going on a rampage and attacking the ships. (see background part of the wiki!)

also, I really like this meme that sums up what you said really well lol

their relationship is very insteresting indeed! since they individually are already so fascinating, as part of a dynamic they have even more potential. a non traditional friendship like theirs is a nice break of stereotypes that TWST does once more!

I think something twst does really well is show the characters improving in a realistic way. No one can change overnight which makes the aftermaths of the overblots so interesting. I think it’s shown the most through Riddle during Book 2 you get to see him changing, trying to adapt now that he’s acknowledged what his mom did. You see him slowly improving and of course he isn’t perfect none of them are, but you get to see them make active efforts to better themselves- 🦭

YESSS YOU'RE SO RIGHT ONCE AGAIN 🦭 ANON!!!

I had a conversation with Gabi about Riddle in the reblogs of one of my oneshots (see here, just scroll down to the end) in which we mention a chapter of the anthology that makes this change very clear (this one!) and as you mentioned yourself in the Floyd ask, there's one chapter in which we get to see it more! in my Azul brainrot I also mention how I like the change in his acts and how he puts some efforts into being better. in my writing I love to explore this aftermath and their inner thoughts on it, especially in this Azul oneshot in which his overblot ends up a little differently!

I have individual thoughts on how each character reacts and improves after their overblots, so I'll go over them really quickly!!

first I just wanted to go over the concept of an overblot on itself. it's mentioned at the beggining that's a rare and dangerous occuring, but at NRC it happens every other month after MC's arrival, so that must be shocking. an overblot also leaves them sore and exhausted, both physically and mentally, as it's the result of the dangerous combination of too much magical usage and too many negative emotions due to years of distress. it's truly interesting how MC and/or Grim seems like a trigger of sorts to these overblots, as I believe there wasn't any before they suddenly appeared, getting involved in the middle of each of them. it's definetly not a coincidence how some of the most powerful and influential students suddenly overblot on the same time period, almost as if there was some higher force making it happen on purpose, for some reason. I hope it gets more explained in the future, perhaps after chapter 7!

as stated, I feel that Riddle, for being the first overblot, has gotten more time to show how much he's changed. from the tyrant from the start of the game to an actual dorm leader worthy of his title! he hasn't dropped his appreciation for rules entirely, but he won't go around cutting other people's heads for minor things. he's still strict with proper conduct and Heartslabyul's students' grades, but in a less overwhelming way, as he's seen how the way he's been taught to do things was wrong. during the second chapter, Riddle is much calmer and more rational, he helps MC solve the mystery even when he didn't have to do so. he was a great help at Leona's fight, and it's due to his quick thinking that no one was hurt at the stampade stunt. even when it's hard and causes him some mental turmoil, Riddle has reflected upon his actions and does his best to change for the better! having Trey, Cater and Che'nya by his side, lending him support, is probably a big motivator, as well as Ace's judgment and sharp words, as he's not afraid to speak his mind and call out people who are in the wrong. Deuce's admiration for him also contributes to it all, as he'd like to set a good example for his underclassmen to follow. all in all, Riddle has improved a lot in his behaviour and I'm very proud of him!

Leona is a complicated case, in all aspects. before his overblot, he had such an intense inferiority complex he didn't put effort in anything, thinking he wouldn't be recognized either way. not only that, he stays stagnant at NRC, most likely because he didn't want to have to go back to his kingdom where he's always second place. it's due to this that he tries to win against Malleus, spelldrive is one of the things he's best at and he used to be recognized for it before Malleus appeared and took his spot. for someone as smart as Leona, I feel that the plan from chapter 2 is kind of... half assed? him and Ruggie appear scheming all smug, but it's a pretty shitty and obvious plan, honestly, and he had potential to do something better. maybe, some part of him couldn't bring himself to care, since he was so used to being second place, it's not like that would change anytime soon. and that's why Lilia's words are so important, to make him realize: he wasn't second place because the world is against him and won't recognize anything he does, but because he can't bring himself to put an actual effort into things and get over his pride and ego to do what's best. I could go on about that but I didn't even get to the point yet, so I digress.

going back to the main topic: after Leona's overblot, I don't think I see him changing that much? while in Riddle's case it's plain to see how he's been trying to be better, Leona seems the same as before. he doesn't go to classes nor starts taking an initiative in things, much less apologize for hurting Ruggie and putting so many people in danger. (not that I expected him to actually say "I'm sorry", but maybe show in his own way that he regrets what he did?) even in chapter 3, he doesn't help because he wanted to, he begrudgingly does as MC suggests only because it benefits him too. I don't believe for a minute that Grim and MC posed any threat to his sleep, as he could easily beat them up and get it over with. no, Leona went along with MC's plan an destroyed the contracts because it was what he wanted all along. in the previous chapter he had made a deal with Azul in order to get Ruggie's potion, so he must have wanted to stop beind indebted with him and/or get back whatever it was that he bargained.

don't get me wrong, I do like Leona a lot! when I first started playing, he was on my top3 characters, and even though he isn't anymore I'm still rather fond of him. it's just... disappointing to see how much potential he has and how he doesn't do anything to reach it. one way for him to change would be to drop the unbothered attitude and actually start making an effort. there's still a long way for him to go, and only he can take the first step. I do like how his problems aren't all solved after a little motivational talk (and being beat up), since his overblot doesn't change his depression, nor his country's political state, nor his family issues, nor his complexes.

Jamil's and Kalim's relationship is a major theme of chapter 4 and very connected to Jamil's overblot in the first place. I like how Jamil becomes more open after it, even if he's blunt and rude, possibly making him seem worse than before. the thing is, before he only hid what he was thinking and kept it all to himself, bottling up his emotions to the point that they end up exploding. afterwards, even if he voices his annoyance and is pretty harsh with his words, not trying to spare Kalim's feelings, it feels better that he's being honest for once. the work his family serves under Kalim's family creates a very complex relationship between those two, as there is a power balance, no matter how much Kalim tries to treat him like an equal. Jamil should always present himself as less than the heir of the Al Asim family, should always follow along his heat of the moment decisions and make sure to keep him safe between the sea of shady students that could take advantage of his naivety and positive thinking. the way Kalim's childhood molded him into such a different person, almost the complete opposite, from Jamil also aggravates their dynamic's problems.

anyways! as I discussed in Azul's post, I like how we can also see a change in how he does things post overblot. while he still might do some shady deals, his focus goes into his business and ways of improving it, showing his change of perspective. he no longer tries to hoard other people's powers, as he finally recognizes his own merits and learns to be proud of them. he's still cunning and witty, not losing the interesting parts of his personality, but he's changed on how he uses those traits. he isn't suddenly one of the "good guys" and he doesn't do things out of the kindness of his heart, as he wants people to believe, but he's improved a lot from how he used to deal with things, even helping MC on chapter 4. (he also had other interests, but he didn't necessarily have to help MC, even if he felt indebted to them for the help during his overblot fight)

I throughly enjoy how the consequences of a change in their careful and fragile balance are explored in chapter 5, with Jamil finally putting himself out there and letting his potential show, not holding back, and Kalim feeling frustrated for the first time for not getting what he wants, and how it makes him understand better where Jamil is coming from and be more considerate to his feelings. all in all, even if Jamil doesn't become a good person in the traditional sense, as he's still sassy and deceitful at times, it serves to help him improve himself in a more internal sense, to try to be more open with Kalim and to break some of the old patterns he's been taught to follow.

Vil is quite interesting, as he's the only character that overblots that I liked a lot straight away. I didn't pass through the phases of "I hate his guts he's so annoying" to "alright he's not that bad" to "wait I think I might like him" like I did with the others. and I'm not saying he didn't do a lot of wrong things, since besides almost poisoning an innocent person, there were also times when he acted out of line and showed his arrogance, such as when he fought with and made Epel cry only to prove a point, without much respect or care for his feelings. still, he also felt more reasonable than the other overblot characters, as he's more down to Earth, shows his hard work and efforts, and is up with social causes like gender equality and not conforming to toxic masculinity.

by the end of chapter 5, he expresses regret (as he "wishes they hadn't seen him in such an ugly state") and keeps his head high as he performs with Neige after losing. he doesn't seem to particularly feel sorry about almost hurting Neige though, and maintains his feelings of animosity. I have yet to see how he behaves in chapter 6 and how he might have changed, perhaps by trying to find compromises when things don't go the way he wants them to and by praising people's efforts rather than only criticizing their errors.

so! I agree anon, TWST does very well show that things don't change overnight and that there must have some effort put into these changes. the characters' problems aren't magically solved by the power of friendship (and violence), but they can get started on working on them. acknowledging your mistakes and trying to improve is rather hard, but a very necessary part of personal growth. with each passing chapter, I hope we get to see more about how the overblots have changed them and how they have improved themselves!

Loved your take on him smelling like smoke and I completely agree! I have no idea how his hair works, physics wise his hair would be burning at atleast 2,500 degrees F if not up to 3000 degrees F so by all means simply brushing past him would leave you with atleast a slight burn if not worse, yet we see him tie it up in a ponytail and braid it. Also just a little silly fact since his hair canonically turns red when he’s angry that would mean his hair becomes a colder temperature when he’s angered than it is when he’s completely fine (p.s I love Idia thank you for talking about him with me!!) -🦭

I'm glad you did, 🦭!!!

RIGHT? but I don't think it burns at all, not himself nor other people, since no one has ever mentioned it? Idia is insecure about his hair, yes, but not because it's dangerous and has hurt people before, but because it's different and people might look at him weird. and just like you said anon, simply by brushing past him it would be able to leave a burn mark on someone!! which has never happened at all!!

maybe it has something to do with his curse? I don't know much about his backstory yet, though I'm pretty sure he's not fae or a demigod, but a human like most students, the only difference is that his family carries a curse that causes his hair to be in flames, his teeth pointy and his lips blue. I'm pretty sure that's it? there must be some reason (something involving the underworld?), but I haven't read chapter 6 so I'm not aware of it yet.

this curse might mean his hair is not actually on flames, but these are more like a symbolical fire? it imitates real fire, but acts just like hair (with a few exceptions at the tips that end up floating and giving it a fiery effect). that might be why he's able to touch it and mold it into different hairstyles.

it would also explain this emotional fact! like you said, his hair turns colder when he's angry, which wouldn't make much sense if you consider that there's a tendency of your blood rushing and making you run hotter when feeling strong emotions, particularly one as strong as anger. if you consider the color theory of it, though, it makes more sense: Idia is usually chill and calm, even melancholic, so blue fits his natural state. red is associated with negative fiery emotions, such as anger. pink is a soft color that brings to mind love, so when he's flustered it might burn pink. so on and so forth. it's very cute how you can tell his emotional state by his hair!

Idia is so interesting (and relatable at some points), I totally understand why he'd be one of your favorites, anon! I really enjoy talking about him with you, as you bring up so many good points I wouldn't have thought about!! I can't wait until chapter 6 comes to the english server so I can see more of him!

You cannot convince me Idia smells like anything other than clean laundry like yeah he stays inside a lot and is a gamer but there’s no way his room isn’t clean he probably cleans it weekly and hates smelling bad (by a clean room I mean it’s messy but he doesn’t just leave dirty laundry everywhere) I don’t care how much of a degenerate he might seem like I swear this man would walk outside of his room and you can smell the clean laundry he’s wearing and how he smells like freshly washed bed sheets -🦭

hiii 🦭 anon, you're back with the hot takes on Idia!!

ooh I can see it! since he (and the rest of Ignihyde) stays in his room for such a long time, it's important to mantain it as a clean space! not only that, but he also uses it to work on his inventions, so keeping trash and other stuff scattered around wouldn't be good.

it's also a break of expectation in the Nerd Gamer stereotype that I've talked before! people expect him to be unhygienic because he's always holed up in his room and stays in front of his computer for hours without breaks, but that doesn't mean he can't take care of himself.

it's as you said: Idia's room might be a bit messy, but it's not dirty. his bed is unmade but there aren't any used clothes thrown on it, there are books on the floor but all in little piles to not occupy much room, there are some boxes with tech pieces but it's most likely because it's something he uses often and needs to have close by for easy access.

I'm not sure how exactly laundry works at NRC, but I think each student has to take care of their own (judging by how Ruggie also does Leona's). Idia might not leave his room often, even if the laundry room is still inside his dormitory, but if anything his clothes are always clean because there's NO WAY Ortho would let his big brother walk around in dirty clothes.

Ortho is probably a big help in the cleaning aspect, as he doesn't make messes and takes care of Idia's well being. even if Idia stays the whole day binging some limited time event of one of his games, Ortho will ensure he takes a bath afterwards and gets a change of clothes.

as you mentioned, anon, Idia's parents have a health related business, and as such I believe they'd value hygiene a lot, so Idia might be used to being clean.

though it's funny to think what would happen should he take a shower because like... does his hair just... goes off? how does he take care of it? is there any special product he can use or is it literally some magical fire that do as it pleases on his head?

about his scent, I think he might have a bit of that stuffy room smell, since he does stay in most of the time, but also smoky because... his hair is on fire, you know.

though I can also see him smelling like clean laundry! I belive he wouldn't like strong cleaning products, so it'd be more of a subtle scent. since Idia cares so much about what other's think of him, unless he's about to go on a super stealthy late night snack run, he'd do his best to wear presentable and fresh clothes, no need to give anyone more reasons to mock him.

thank you 🦭 anon, I've never thought about it like that before, but it does make sense! I love your takes, please continue to spread the loving Idia agenda!

Hi hi its the curious anon again from the jade and azul ask !!,HEHR PLEASE DONT APOLOGIZE FOR THE LENGTHY,I love reading long posts so I enjoyed it very much and I loved reading it!!,you honestly had me going /YES YEA THIS/ the whole way through 😂 and if you wanna go off about their designs plea please do!! 🥺,

I dont have too many thoughts to share /myself/ however except maybe a silly one thats a lil shippy on how floyd would call is s/o their actual name and flipflop between the sea animal nickname and actual name cause of the theory that he usually calls those he respects/are close to their names n so on-

HII CURIOUS ANON, I'm glad you liked my lenghty thoughts on them! since you've given me the go ahead, I'll take up your offer and talk a bit about their Dorm Uniform designs! (I didn't include Azul's overblot or any other clothes to focus on these especific ones, but perhaps another time!)

oh, before I start, yes I agree with that! I believe you're refering to this post regarding Floyd's nicknames, and I agree with it! like he does with Azul and Jade, the people he's truly close with and respects he would call by their actual name, not one of his nicknames. although I'm very attached to shrimpy as I find it very cute and I'd kind of miss it if he dropped it altogether, so I like the idea of him varying between it and his S/O's name!

fun fact: I like to draw occasionally, so character design is something I have a lot of interest in!

now, let's get this started, yes?

I feel like my thoughts go along with the general consensus of their designs, but sometimes even the obvious should be stated, so I'll say everything in my mind!

AZUL

I have a confession to make. I'm easily attracted by anime characters with white hair. I KNOOOOW IT'S SUCH A COMMON TROPE AND I FALL FOR IT EVERYTIME, HOOK, LINE AND SINKER. so him having his gray-ish hair color is already a positive point in my books. differently from Ursula, his hair is not wild and free, but rather very well kept, tamed and wavy! (and difficult to draw, lmao. the notes in the 2020 visual book make a comment on how it's important to make an outline before drawing it, or else the right side can come out too big)

even with it's difficulty, I think the little strand that's just a tad longer and curls following his face, reminiscing of a tentacle, is just so charming, it's a nice little detail that makes all the difference! another thing you can't really see it's that he has AN UNDERCUT!! WHICH IS SO COOL!! I miss the time I used to have an undercut too.

the choice of giving him glasses but not the twins is a bit ironic, since octopi don't have much of a bad vision at all, meanwhile eels are almost blind. (I think they use contact lenses. just imagine Floyd forgetting his and he can't see anything and he's just. confused.) I think it's most likely to make him fit even more in the stereotypical "smart and cunning anime character" profile. it miiight have been a reference to the darker shade around Ursula's eyes, but I honestly doubt it. they do fit quite nicely, so I'm not complaining at all!

one thing I like about his eyebrows are how expressive they are, which brings Ursula's eyebrows to mind! they seem to have very similar expressions in that sense, as the drawing of him with a mean grin and arched eyebrows is reminiscent of Ursula's expression! his eyes aren't half lidded like hers tho, a difference that pops out very clearly if you compare both pics of them looking straight ahead while smiling. Ursula's seem more menacing, as if she's up to no good, while Azul's is more polite.

I loooove the mole near his mouth, mirroring Ursula's, it's so charming!! and I don't know if you've ever stared at his lips before but. look. they are very glossy and they SHINE, his mouth looks amazing, he might not pass on Ursula's birght red lipstick but he DEFINETLY has lip balm at least

now let's look at his drip. Octavinelle's dorm uniform makes an homage to the Sea Witch's elegant style, using a stylish combination of suits in more neutral tones, either in black and white or in shades of purple and gray, making a reference for her lavander skin tone and purple tentacles.

look I'm gonna be honest. I don't know what's up with the fedora. the iconic shell is a nice touch, but why must he wear a fedora? he could look professional and mature without it!! I am. not the biggest fan of hats. AND HIS HAIR LOOKS SO PRETTY WHY MUST HE HIDE IT

the bowtie I think it's a bit silly, but that might be because it's not common at all here where I live. I've only seen normal ties, so for me it might have looked better with one (not in this purple shade tho, maybe in a more muted tone of it. I do like the contrast of color against the white). I also don't see much what's the point of the grey scarf but it does help him look fancy, though the Octavinelle crest on it makes it look a bit like Harry Potter merch

as he's the housewarden, he gets a special long coat that does make him look a bit like a mafia boss, especially because he's not actually wearing it, only having it drapped over his shoulders. (or perhaps it's the bowtie. was that why it was there all along!?) and the white gloves? it's very snazzy and suspicious at the same time, but I can see the elegance of hiding your hands as if you're a victorian maiden hiding your ankles and shoulders to preserve your modesty.

the cane is SO COOL. I don't think he uses it for anything other than looking intimidating but's it's so cool. maybe it helped him to get used to walking with only two legs (adapting from eight to two must have been hard) when he started his first year and he's kept it. his shoes are pretty normal, expected even, BUT WHY ARE HIS SOCKS NEON PURPLE. I know it's to match his silly mafioso bow tie BUT WHY.

JADE

I'll start with things that will apply to Floyd as well, but I only want to say it once

Flotsam and Jetsam are... not the prettiest around. I'd say they are very far from it, even. Which only surprises me more that the twins look SO GOOD when they were based off of this??

as a reference to the moray eels, Ursula's beloved pets and minions, the twin's hair follow their color scheme, teal in it's majority with a dark gray stripe, and each have one yellow eye that helps to differentiate from which eel they were inspired by. their merman forms also make reference to them, as their tails are quite similar and they have fins and gills, which is not something the merman in the Little Mermaid used to have.

thankfully, for everyone's happiness, their physical similarities end there.

JADE TIME!! I have another confession to make: I also love character's with hair that has more than one color. I'M NOT TOO HARD TO PLEASE ALRIGHT!

Jade's hair is very unusual and at first glance might even look strange, a mix of color and shapes in an already complicated design. I think it plays along well with him, the little J shaped strand of hair hugs his face and calls attention to it, breaking the monotony from his otherwise short hair and balancing it's color out. the way his side bang is cut in such an angular and sharp way gives it such a nice shape, and I like how his hair is well kept and brushed! (differently from Azul's, his hair is a pleasure to draw, as I sometimes find myself doodling it at the corner of my books, absentmindedly)

THE SHAPE OF HIS EYEBROWS !!! they also feel quite angular and pointed, different from Floyd's, which compliment his eye shape very well. AND HIS EYES?? I could look into then all day. the way they are sharp and pass the feeling of his witty personality, they are angled upwards and give him an alluring sense, his upper lashes are fuller and give a cutting look to his eyes, the little eyebags (?) under them breaking the lightness of his skin and adding some color around them, even his eyelid fold helps to create such a charming gaze. I LOVE THE HETEROCHROMIA!! they aren't wildly constrasting, like I commonly see, but rather a duller tone of the other, which is how it usually happens in real life! such a polite look and by it's shape alone you can tell there's something behind it, something sharp enough to almost break the surface.

even his nose differs from Floyd's, as it feels a little softer and round ended, less curved and more of a straight line. I love these little spot the differences games, while they might seem like such minor details, they come along to create a bigger picture that differentiates the twins and each is their own person very well, not only with their body language but also by their appearence!!

OH AND HIS LIPS. I know I know it's the art style but still. the way his bottom lip is so full and shiny?? the way the corners of his mouth curl upwards just so. the carefully constructed politeness. how he rarely shows his teeth to keep the more harmless appearence, only letting them be seen if he's trying to intimidate someone or if he's actually happy. the dangers of his sharp teeth hiding like a shark under the waves !!!!!!

AND JADE'S EARRING! like on Floyd, it's such a dynamic little shape and gives them a bit of a more approachable look? and then you discover how they even got it in the first place LMAOOO. wait, let me give some context: on Usrula's spell, she says "Beluga Sevruga, Come winds of the Caspian Sea!" what does that mean? beluga is a variety of caviar (and of the more expensive ones), and it's harvested from the Sevruga sturgeon, native from the Caspian Sea. the story of how the twins got those earrings is that they won a fight against a sturgeon and kept the scales as a prize, so really even their cute little silly earrings are indicative of how dangerous they can be and how they like to flaunt that around LOL. in story they are also mentioned to be known as a good luck charm, due to being a popular ingredient in the Sea Witch's potions. it's such a nice reference! and it also implies the twins might have a bit of a supersticious side to them, which is so interesting.

the merman form is so cool too! as mentioned, I really like how they use more elements of moray eels and lets them have a more fish-like look. the stripes are elegant and a nice detail that brings these aspects from the eels, not to mention his body is literally luminiscent! like! he glows underwater!! how cool is that?? the fins in place of ears are cute, and the webbed hand makes a lot of sense! the tail adding lenght to them and making them twice their human size is a nice way of making them grow without distorting their proportions. (just why. why must he have abs. eel abs. it was a whole jumpscare the first time I saw them.)

I'm. gonna sound a bit hypocritical now. but! I think the hat looks nice on Jade. HEAR ME OUT! I'm still not the biggest fan of hats, but Jade's is not like Azul's, it has a wider, less square box like, shape, the shell is hidden as to not overdo with the details and leave it as a more discreet one, and the way it's drapped on his head, following his bangs and the linearity of his longer stripe, gives such a fluidity to the whole thing and manages to make him look suave!

also, one thing about him is how he's always prim and proper, tucked in neatly in any formal suit and showing his diligence. there's something about people who are always so covered up and formal looking. the profissionalism... the maturity... the sense he's above you... the clothes make the man...

ANYWAYS. I like that the shade of the regular uniform is a lavander that goes easy on the eyes (housewarden's neon purple, take notes), it gives a classy feel and goes along great with the general color scheme! I hope they are careful on laundry day to wash those separatedly from the white uniforms.

again with the little bow tie. the white manages to compliment his gloves and the pocket square very well, but it stills looks a bit silly to me. I'm sorry, but here where I live the only people I've seen using those are clowns, literally (look up Patati e Patatá. it's Jade and Floyd).

he thankfully doesn't show his socks, but his shoes have white details on them that I feel that kind of break the sleekness of the whole. I know it would be way too monocromatic otherwise, but I don't think it'd be necessarily a bad thing, especially since they have no problem in doing it with his other designs. with the ones he has on, it looks like he's about to start tap dancing at any minute.

still, Jade is slaying

FLOYD

as I've already discussed some of his design aspects in Jade's part, I'll go over only what I see as unique to him.

his hair is messier than Jade's, wilder and spikier, and it kind of looks like he doesn't brush it in the mornings, but that's part of his charm, this unkept look! the F shaped longer strand seems a bit fuller than Jade's as well.

his eyebrows are higher and less sharp than Jade's, angled downwards and following his eye shape that makes him look sleepy or bored more often, less atent than Jade, and exposes his double eyelid better. his eyes are more expressive, oftentimes curving in excitement or with his pupils contracting when angry.

the shape of his nose is pointy, sharper and slightly more curved. ONE THING I REALLY LIKE: his mouth. Floyd is always showing his emotions, and it's delightful to look at his jagged teeth as he smiles openly! even when he's not emoting so drastically you can still catch a glimpse of them!

the thing is that while they have their differences, the twins designs are very similar, as they really separate from each other in their personalities.

the hat also looks better on him than on Azul (sorry Azul, yours is a bit goofy and doesn't compliment your hair very well), and while it follows some of the reasons I've cited on Jade's, there's also something else. the hat helps to show his impulsive nature! how so? well, I think like this: the rest of the uniform he has to wear, there's no escaping it, but the hat? he can do wathever he wants with it. if he feels like putting it on, he does, if he doesn't feel like it, he can just not. it's not a crucial part like the shirt or the suit, so people won't get much on his case about it. in the card, he's taken it off, simply because he wanted to.

he's also more free than Jade's buttoned up look, as he quite literally doesn't button up many parts of it, his jacket is open, his collarbones are exposed, his silly clown bow tie is untied, his scarf is flowing in the wind. Floyd doesn't like to be restricted by tight fitting clothes and honestly I get him.

as much as Floyd is interested in shoe fashion, I don't like his shoes at all. in most of his cards actually. I don't know if it's because I know nothing about it and use an All Star for every occasion, but his shoes always look goofy because of his socks. ALWAYS. who lets him keep getting away with this??? someone please stop him he's comminting crimes against fashion with those socks. THE NEON PURPLE DOESN'T EVEN GOES WELL WITH THE SOFT LAVANDER OF HIS SHIRT. THERE'S NOTHING GOING ON FOR HIM HERE. not to mention he's also using the tap dancer shoes.

CONCLUSION

I really like Octavinelle's under the sea theme and how well their designs make callbacks for their counterparts, making nice references for such an iconic villain! all in all they are very elegant and pass a professional vibe that's characteristic of the dorm and it's students, leaving enough space for their own little quirks to shine through.

I love to take a look at them like this!! I might have a terrible fashion sense for myself, but when it comes to character design I suddenly become a critic lol. though I feel that the game manages very well to create interesting designs that calls to mind the original villain's and leave enough room for their own personalities to shine, catching your attention and staying easily on your memory! all the characters have unique little things that differentiate them and make even people that have never played the game recognize them!

that's it for their dorm uniforms and general designs, I hope you like it curious anon! thank you for once again indulging me on my rambles!

(I took the images from pinterest but they are from the 2020 visual book, which I found some translations for in their character fact sheets and here, or from the Little Mermaid's concept art book!)

Oho im a curious anon now I gotta know if you have any more thoughts on jade and azul (or just one of them) I like hearing peoples take on characters!

ooh I like curious people, of course I have thoughts on Jade and Azul!! I'll gladly share them with you my dear anon <33 and if you'd like to say your thoughts on them as well, feel free to!

as I mentioned in my Floyd brainrot, I'm not immune to Octavinelle propaganda, they are actually my favorite dorm! they are all sooo interesting, both on their own and as part of a dynamic, be it between themselves or other characters!

time to dive deep into the waters of my Octavinelle thoughts. prepare yourself, it's a deep dive in.

the same warning as in Floyd's post: this is my own view of the characters that may not be 100% accurate and anyone can disagree!

I'll talk about them separatedly and then as a trio later on, so let's get started with the dorm leader, shall we?

AZUL

if you've seen my writing before anon, you might have noticed that I particularly like to make Azul suffer a bit, but I swear I love him!! it's just that I also love to break his carefully constructed façade and look at what's inside, what are Azul Ashengrotto's inner feelings, what are the things that stay in his mind only for him to ever see or hear, what is he hiding deep down?

oh Azul, where to start with him?

Azul is one of the most popular characters in the fandom, he's got a perfect combo going on for him: he's one of the housewardens, part of Octavinelle and he's got a tragic backstory. triple strike!

not only that but his businessman like persona and cunning schemes get a lot of attention, not to mention that he's twisted from such an iconic villain! Ursula from the Little Mermaid is certainly someone that stays in your mind even years later!

I'll begin at the beginning, and go on till I come to the end, then!

Azul's backstory is one many people can relate to, myself included, which gathers a lot of sympathy from the fandom for his woes. it's awful to be excluded as a child simply because you look different and is a bit more introverted, and I get the overachieving academically to compensate for it and feel like you can prove them wrong and that you're just as capable, just as good.

seeing him having a similar story to myself actually created a deep connection with his character, because I feel like I get it. it was awful and cruel and he didn't deserve any of it, the loneliness and the yearning to have what other's have, to be like them, to be acknowledged. (I was also a huge crybaby lol so I was picked on for that as well. Azul struggles.)

that's what makes people be so forgiving towards his wrongdoings, because they get it. they can put themselves in his shoes and feel his anguish and despair and desparation. "should I have been in his place, would I have done the same?"

but here's the thing, I think Azul needed a wake up call. maybe not done so crudely like it was in the story, but I understand the prefect's situation, what could they do? plus, it's much more interesting, narratively speaking, to have some huge drama instead of a much needed therapy session.

having everything he's been working for, during YEARS, be destroyed in front of him like that, literally turning into sand, was a breaking point to his already severely bottled up emotions. so he had a reaction that was understandable, but it doesn't make it right.

he had to get stripped away of all the things he'd stolen to be forced to face that he was more than that. he didn't need to prove his old bullys wrong and get his revenge, what he needed was to realize his own potencial. yes, he's different, but that's not a bad thing. it's wonderful, even, and it should be something to be proud of! he should be proud of who he is by his own efforts, not by stealing and tricking people into unfair contracts then hoarding their powers into his vault. Ursula herself was always very confident and proud of herself, something Azul was lacking in order to follow the Sea Witch's steps.

like the prefect has the option to tell Azul at the museum in the end of chapter 3, he's got something that's better than any magic, and he should be proud of that! he's got drive and wits and he doesn't need to live through others, he can live for himself, too.

after all, Azul's big strong point is how intelligent he is. he doesn't need powerful magic (which he does have, not only his unique magic but also his amazing potions) nor powerful muscles (which he also has. Floyd mentions that Azul as an octopus is stronger and bigger than the twins), because he has a powerful brain that's enough to make him be feared, a silver tongue that can rope anyone into one of his schemes.

my Azul appreciation was a gradual thing, since at first I didn't like him that much. I didn't dislike him either, I just didn't give him much thought at all lol like "oh he's an asshole but Ace, Deuce and Grim should have seen that one coming, come on!" and when he sent the twins to bother the prefect I also expected that, so like that's fair ig?

but then after his backstory?? I got my 'oh. oh!' moment, like yes now I get it!! I really like how they all go and put back the photo on it's original place and how Azul changes his dealings afterwards. yes he's still a little shit who will trick people into them, but it's not as exploitive as before? in chapter 4 he's also a great help, even though he really didn't have to get involved (the twins must have been driving him crazy because they were bored lmao)

actually in chapter 4 I was mad at him for filming it live because YOUR RISKING JAMIL'S LIFE? HE COULD GET INTO SERIOUS TROUBLE FOR THAT YOU KNOW?? and then he reveals it was a lie and I think that was the first time I didn't expect one of his schemes, which was very nice because wow he does have basic empathy!!

I also see some people thinking that his whole personality is a fake and he's still the same as he was years ago, which I don't agree with. Azul has learnt how to keep his façade, how to interact with people to get what he wants, how to keep other's at arms lenght and not let them see him vulnerable, but he's no longer the crybaby octopus that would hide in his pot at his troubles. Azul has learnt to face them head on, at least after his overblot, and he knows how to keep himself composed until the very last straw breaks. he's not clingy or whiny, he does his best to keep his image as he wants people to see him, but it isn't all a mask. sometimes the lines blurry, in which point does the businessman Octavinelle's housewarden ends and in which point does Azul Ashengrotto begins? are they not one and the same?

SO. I think he's neat. and he's my little lab rat that I like to project onto <33

also his family life is so interesting? I've read his mother divorced his father and married her divorce attorney and that's so girlboss of her. I just KNOW miss Ashengrotto is the best and super pretty too. (I imagine her to be a bit like Ursula, so very elegant and confident!) also I think she might own a restaurant too? Azul looking up to his mom and trying to be like her that's so cute

JADE

HIIIMMMM JADE LEECH WHEN HEEEEE <333 I LOVE IT WHEN. WHEN. JADE LEECH WHEN.

fun fact: Jade was the one I took the hand of at the start of the game, so he's also my first SR card! we have a special connection I love him I hope he lives his best life. he's also on my top three favorite characters, so you might get a slight whiplash from the change of tone lol

to get started with, I love how his personality is different from Floyd's, but not in a total opposite way, but in a complimentary one. while Floyd is like a passionate crime, done in the heat of the moment, Jade is a premeditated one, carefully planned down to it's details. neither is more or less dangerous, they simply are what they are.

Jade's superficial image of just a butler type character is very insteresting, but I feel people mistake it as him trying to hide his true self? I don't think that's the case, at least not in my point of view. Jade oftentimes lets his more. uh. let's say sadistic side slip through his polite mask, and it's completely on purpose. the students might be more afraid of Floyd, who's openly threatning, but they're also scared of Jade, who lets his mask slip just enough for them to peer a fraction behind it and think "oh. he's also a little fucked up, so I better behave."

he pretends he just wants to help and seems like a polite pushover who has to deal with Floyd and Azul tormenting him, oh poor thing (like Trey mistakingly thinks on Jade's cerimonial robes vignette), but the truth is that he likes it. he likes Floyd's chaos and does nothing to stop it, at most he only pretends he does. he likes Azul's deals and business, as it keeps him entertained. he likes to be more discreet and stay in the shadows, only observing and appearing inconspicuous, it makes people lower their guards more easily, makes them easy prey to lure in and close his jaws onto. he's sharp and knows how to hit all the right weak points to make people cave in.

Jade could use brute force like Floyd does to get his way, but I think the predictability of the outcome would quickly bore him. a mind game is much more fun, twisting his words and using his charm to make people walk into his carefully laid trap, only to realize it when it's too late to do anything about it. that takes creativity and skill, it's very impressive even! that's why he's sooooooooooooooo * sighs dreamingly * he knows how to use his words to the max, how to weaponize them so! it's common to see him as a big tease in fanfics and I think it's because of this, he likes the word game and he likes the thrill a smart conversation can offer.

there's this mystery aura around him because you never guess what he's thinking, with his carefully constructed expressions. it's pretty unsettling, someone that's an enigma and could be either thinking about the weather or planning on your downfall without you suspecting a thing, all with a polite little smile on his face.

there's also one thing. HE'S VERY CAPABLE. HE CAN ADAPT TO ANY SITUATION! I LOVE CAPABLE CHARACTERS. Jade can do anything he puts his mind to, doesn't matter how hard it seems. if he really wants something, he will get it with his own hands. AND AND AND HE KNOWS HOW TO COOK. I know I'd offer my SOUL to take a single bite of a mushroom casserole that he made. I just KNOW it would be heavenly, the taste of the divine melting in my tongue and making me ascend to the lands above

he knows how to take care of himself, like doing stuff like laundry? easy. washing the dishes? he's on it. moping the floor? it's shining already. something about the maturity and domesticity of Jade doing simple house chores with dedication is so charming, I love capable people !!! like yes king your bedroom is wonderfully organized !!

AND HIS TERRARIUM HOBBY? IT'S SO CUTE. the way he looks at his little plants with so much love makes me wish someone looked at me like that too. imagine his concentrated face as he waters his plants and talks with them about his day??? SO ENDEARING. it's the usual stoic character showing his softer and loving side for me. (yes I am well aware he likes his terrariums so much because he likes the feeling of being the God of a little world of his own creation, living by his mercy. I still think it's very cute.)

another thing I love so much is his Mountain Lovers club. like I can genuinely see he cares about it, not to create a false sense of security because "oh look at silly Jade with his silly mountain excursions" but because he truly likes to explore the land's nature. Jade is very curious (as seen in the vignette where he asks Ruggie to teach him new recipes using herbs from the mountains and in several other instances) and there's a whole new world for him to explore, with so much flora and fauna he's never seen before. who wouldn't want to explore it and see all it has to offer?

also the way he's always promoting his club and everyone just thinks it's weird. JADE I'LL JOIN THE MOUNTAIN LOVERS CLUB SIGN ME UP! RIGHT NOW! yes he'd make me climb mountains and laugh as he sees me struggling after I'm five steps in but it will be all worth it.

THERE'S THIS ONE SCENE IN CHAPTER 4 WHICH HE SAYS WHAT HE'D DO SHOULD SOMEONE BETRAY HIM AND HE'S JUST SAYING SOME HORRIFIC NIGHTMARE INDUCING STUFF WITH A CUTE LITTLE SMILE? LIKE? I LOVE HIM SO MUCH KKSKDJSFKKSKSK (I'm pretty sure he was only joking. or maybe that's what he wants me to think. either way it was so funny)

HIS UNIQUE MAGIC IS SO COOL TOO. like. the first time it appeared I just thought "wait this is so shitty you can't do much with it all" BUT. THAT'S THE APPEAL. IT FITS HIM SO WELL!! Jade wouldn't like a UM that gives him easy answers whenever he pleases. no, having to carefully plan when or if he'll ever use it on someone, how to approach them and make them look into his eye without being suspicious, trying to fill the gaps of the info he does get, it's much more exhilarating than having the answers handed on a silver plater!!

ALSO HIS SMILE!!!!!!!!! IT MAKES ME GO FERAL!!!!!! not the fake ass one he's always got, the REAL ones, the ones when you can see his pointy teeth he usually keeps hidden and his eyes crinkled and there's pure joy on his face (like his union birthday groovy card!). they clean my very soul and give me the strenght to live another day

so. as you can see. I'm very normal about him. I like him a normal sane amount.

DYNAMICS

as they are already so captivating on their own, as a part of a dynamic they always have something to offer and can work well with any setting: comic, serious, dramatic, soft, anything really. it's also why it's so fascinanting to write them!

some particularly interesting dynamics I think they have with other characters are:

Azul and JamilI - IT'S SO FUNNY. AZUL ACTS LIKE A MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRL WITH A CRUSH AND JAMIL REJECTS HIM EVERYTIME HELPPP. also I think Azul genuinely wants to befriend Jamil as he feels they are similar and could get along well? but Jamil knows all about Azul's schemes and is way too smart to get caught in one of them, no matter how much Azul nags at him

Azul and Idia - THE BOARD GAMES CLUB MY BELOVEDS! on Azul's school uniform vignette their relationship is explored more in depth and it's. so very funny. Idia, despite not having an ounce of the social skills' Azul has trained himself to have, manages to get under his skin so easily. he says a taunt that gets in Azul's mind for DAYS

Azul and Riddle - they are besties. I make the rules and I'm saying they are. as the top of their grade and second year (responsible) housewardens, the two of them have a lot in common and are often paired together, such as in the very beggining of the game, in the prologue as they chase after Grim in the first twistune, and many cards have buddy level and duo magic between them! (like their dorm uniform ones!) a study session with these two would be SO productive

Jade and Ruggie - it might sound a bit unusual but hear me out! they are both my favorites. wait I have more reasons! Jade and Ruggie are very similar, both are vice housewardens (or a pseudo vice housewarden in Ruggie's case, since he might as well be one with how he does stuff in Leona's place), both are very capable and responsible, both are mischievous, both can cook and like to discover new recipes, both are cunning and can be deceitful and there's one scene in the game's 2 year anniversary animated short in which they are shopping at Sam's together, so they are also besties.

Jade and Cater - HEAR ME OUT! first things first, Cater is also so interesting and I feel he has so much potential. in Jade's birthday interview, he answers he would like to have Cater as a brother, which might sound a bit unexpected at first but soon becomes clear as to why! they are similar in the way they both hide their feelings and put a mask on for the public to see, even if their motives are different. Cater also has a cunning side that he shows on the beans day event, in which they form a partnership that was so interesting! I wish they had more interactions, as they both can see straight through each other's masks and play a complicated mind game with each other while also having some fun!

Jade and Vil - I haven't seen the vignette they share but the card is very pretty so I do think their dynamic has a lot of potencial! I think Vil, like me, would appreciate someone who's responsible and can take care of themselves, so someone as capable and (seemibly) reasonable like Jade would be a good break from Rook's and Epel's harsher personalities. I think Jade admires Vil as well, especially due to his poison making skills, and would like to learn from him.

Floyd and Riddle - yes Floyd likes to torment Riddle and oftentimes picks on him to the point he's very stressed, they both get under each other's skin (like when Riddle says Floyd is like his brother because he knew it would irritate him enough to make him leave him alone, in the anthology I think?) and it's such an interesting antagonistic relationship. they are not enemies that hate each other or anything, so it's very amusing to see them quarrel.

Floyd and Ace - the basketball buddies! it's shown that they actually get along pretty well when Floyd is not on one of his bad moods, as they bond over their love of fashion (especifically shoes) and of the sport. they also like to goof around in club pratice and cause Jamil headaches, and Floyd has said in his birthday interview he thinks Ace is entertaining enough to chose him as a brother.

Floyd and Kalim - both are very honest, energetic and excitable, easily surrendering to their whims to do as they please. I feel like Kalim doesn't see any malice in Floyd's words, and while that can be dangerous if he doesn't notice the signs of a bad mood, it could also be very entertaining to Floyd and make him want to spend time getting into shenanigans with him. (and, again, causing Jamil a headache.)

between the three of them, as a trio, they work very well too! Jade enables Floyd chaotic behaviour for his amusement and because, according to him, if Floyd is happy then so is he. Jade helps Azul as his right hand man, covering any blind spots in his steel armor and leading him into battle flawlessly, doing as is asked of him with enough leeway for some of his own entertainment. Floyd gets on Azul's nerves with his carelessness and mood swings, but remains loyal at his side. Floyd likes to go along with some of Jade's plots, staying close to him to the point that where one is, the other is expected to be as well. Azul cares immensely for the twins, his first ever friends, the ones that extended their hands to him and didn't doubt he could do it. they all work together well as an unit, years of familiarity driving them to almost read each other's minds, know how they work from inside out. that's the thing with childhood friends, they know your most embarrassing stories and your deepest fears, your most shameful moments and your best hidden desires, and they care about each other as if they were family. (though they refuse to admit it even under gunpoint).

I hope you know I'm not trying to say any of the octatrio are evil masterminds hiding and waiting to enact a fish world domination or any of that. at the end of the day, they are all highschool students with veeeeery dubious morals that just want to have their fun (even if most times it's not harmless at all). Floyd might squeeze someone until you hear something crack and procced to have touble to do his homework. Jade might manipule Azul's clients to perfection and make them sign shady contracts and then calls his mom to tell her about his day and yes, he's been eating his vegetables and making sure Floyd eats his as well. Azul might run a successful business at the school and earn a lot of money, only to geek out about strategy games at his club with one of the most introverted people of the whole school.

none of them are "soft and misunderstood bois who never did anything wrong uwu" but they also aren't "all of that's evil in the world incarnate into three devious merman who will strip you of all your dignity and leave you crying on the floor"

they are very complex and well written characters filled with more layers than an onion, and I could stay here all day peeling them off one by one. that's the allure of Octavinelle, their siren's song is strongly due to how they look at first glance showing to be wrong once you look deeper, this break of expectations fishing your attention and keeping it on them, wanting to watch just how will they surprise you next.

ALSO there's something I haven't discussed at all in this: their designs. I feel like there's a lot I could talk about that but it doesn't enter exactly in this personality focused analysis so I left it out. do let me know if you'd like me to tell my opinions on their designs or maybe on specific cards as well!

TL;DR: there's no way to sum up everything other than I'm insane about Octavinelle and have many thoughts about them

Extra: Jade's fact sheet, that I've rebloged once before as I think it's very interesting, Azul's fact sheet, Raven's Jade brainrot that I also agree on most parts, Jade laugh compilation that is one of my favorite videos in youtube and will add 10 years to your lifespan

Any thoughts on Floyd? I personally think he’s a lot more of a 3 dimensional character than the NRC students think he is! He’s ironically seen as the scariest out of the Octavinelle trio but in certain scenes like in Chapter 3 of the Anthology comic where he tries to reassure Riddle that he’s still a good person despite what he did while overblotted or in his dorm vignette where he makes trades with things clearly holding less value than what he currently has just because the other person seems to need it he seems much more thoughtful and kind. He can be a nice person but he always says he’s only doing it because he’s bored almost making it seem like he has a fear of showing kindness with others. Sorry for the ramble I just think he’s interesting personality wise

hii anon!! and oF COURSE I DO HE'S MY LITTLE SCRUNKLY MY DENTINHO DE TUBARÃO MY BELOVED BLORBO!!!

I agree anon, he definetly is! may I add to your examples: Floyd's labwear vignette, in which he helps Ace and Deuce to master the color changing spell! (it's very cute so if you haven't seen it yet, I suggest you take a look at it!)

NO NEED TO APOLOGIZE I LOVE TO HEAR YOUR THOUGHTS!!! feel free to send an ask anytime and ramble as much as you want!

since you asked for my thoughts, here they come:

same fair warning as the Idia post: this is my opinion and it might not be 100% right, anyone is allowed to disagree!

anon, you're so right, Floyd is such an interesting character! all of Octavinelle are, which is why I get the impression they have the most content in fandom, alongside other popular choices like Leona and Malleus. now get ready, because I have MANY thoughts on him and you just gave me the opportunity to ramble about them in a silver plater.

I think the thing with Octavinelle is that they are very complex, so naturally their interesting personalities and dynamics attract a lot of fandom attention, myself included! although this complexity also can lead to some misunderstandings and many different interpretations.

going along with your line of thought, I think he's the least scary of the trio, depending on how you view it. Azul seems to agree, as in Beans Day he comments how Jade is the scarier twin, since you never know what he's thinking, while Floyd makes his thoughts clear as day (or something along this lines). I personally agree with this, Floyd is very honest with his intentions, if he wants to hurt someone he'll just outright say it and threaten them, giving plenty of body signals. Jade and Azul are not like that at all, making them more dangerous due to never knowing what angle they are planning or what's going on in their minds.

I can see why the students think he's so scary tho! Floyd's squeezes can hurt quite a lot depending on how he does them, I think in chapter 3 a student even passes out because of it? not only that, but his constant mood swings and unpredictability are also very nerve racking and unsettling, as I think I'd have a hard time trying to deal with someone like this in real life, especially as I appreciate some predictability in order to know how to act around people without stepping over any boundaries, so I feel I'd be walking on eggshells around him lol

of course, he isn't all scary! he looks like it even when he's on his happier moods because of his pre-existing reputation and his loudness and lack of personal space, so people don't try to get close to him and actually see his other sides. I feel he'd be a fun friend to have around, because he's always up to something, and since I love physical affection I wouldn't mind much his hugs. (as long as they aren't his deathly squeezes. I like to keep my lungs intact thank you very much.)

another thing about him is that besides his more scary side, he can be quite cute! his laugh is seriously serotonin inducing, he likes to play around and to dance and to experiment new colorful clothes and to have a good time! he's not an "uwu innocent baby", but he's not a "crazy maniac bastard" either. Floyd can be scary when he wants to and he can be cute when he wants to.

I really like his dorm uniform vignette, I think it's a good example of his nature! he gets things because he wanted to at the time, and that's all there is to it. I don't think he had a personal kind motive behind his trades, just that he wasn't using one thing and if he could trade it for another, then why not? tho it's very interesting how at the end, he did it all to get what Azul wanted (at least inicially, he kinda forgot about it halfway through)

Floyd is, at my point of view, very free, as he doesn't care much about other people's opinions about him or about his grades or about his unique magic or anything really, as long as he's having a good time at the moment. The only thing he's tied to are his own whims, as only Floyd could ever stop himself. I feel like he does things sometimes because he's bored, yes, but sometimes simply because he felt like doing it at the time, so he did. (sometimes I wish I could think like him honestly, it would save me a lot of headache!)

he can definetely be a nice person! like all students at NRC, while they have a tendency to be assholes most of the time, every single one of them can be nice and good! I do like your interpretation of him being afraid of showing vulnerability, such as kindness, something others can easily exploit and he'd know very well about it, since both under the sea and at NRC people take advantage of each other at the drop of a hat. I've seen people think that this boredoom and extreme mood swings of his are masks so he doesn't have to do things he doesn't want. if he wants to escape a situation, he'll say he's bored and leave, simple like that. if he wants to help someone, he'll say he was bored and didn't have anything better to do. I can definetly see it!

in my point of view, I think he genuinely does have his mood swings, one time he'll be super excited about something and in the next he just... won't. I don't think they are without a motive tho, there's always something that triggers it, like if things get repetitive or don't go the way he wanted them to. a way to put him in a especially bad mood would be to try to control him, that's when he's definetly not going to do anything he's asked of. just leave him be and do things on his own way and he'll comply (if he feels like it).

he's most definetly capable of being thoughtful and kind, as Floyd is not dumb at all, he understands other people's emotions and how he affects them very well. hell, he even takes pleasure in scaring them sometimes, so obviously he's very aware. tho he won't just come and do something out of the kindness of his heart, he can do things because he wanted to help or to have something to do. he could just disobey Azul's every comand at any time, but he doesn't, and that shows how far his respect for him goes. he doesn't bend himself over every single wish of Azul's either, oftentimes just not showing up to work or doing his job in a lackluster manner. it all depends on how he's feeling really.

TL;DR: Floyd is such an interesting and multifaceted character! he's much more than the scary image the NRC students have of him and can show many different sides, depending on his mood! he's my little weirdo meow meow, thank you anon for sharing your thoughts with me!

Extra: here are some links for Floyd content you might like! his character fact sheet, that shows a lot of curiosities about him, this analysis Raven has made some time ago, that I agree a lot on (as you can see), and this youtube video that I LOVE it's my little serotonin machine!

Everytime I see someone say Idia wouldn’t know what a period is I always wonder whether they know he has to do stuff at his parents company which is literally about health /nm

hi anon!! I've actually never seen anyone saying this, but that might be because I'm very new to the fandom and haven't seen much Idia content so far. I agree with you, tho, I think him (and most of the boys at NRC too) would definetly know what it is!

wait I'll put this under the cut it's time for my (not so in depth) Idia analysis!!

ok so first things first, fair warning: this is my own personal interpretation and it might not be a 100% correct, anyone is allowed to disagree!

another fair warning: I've only caught up with the english server so far so I haven't read the Ignihyde chapter yet, which means I still have a lot to see about Idia, but I don't wanna get spoilers so I'll be going with the knowledge I have from the main story, events and vignettes.

the thing with Idia is that, at a surface level, he's just another Gamer Nerd TM stereotype that's a shut-in with no friends nor social skill and yada yada, and that's what some people might take him for, especially at first glance. I've seen people saying he'd be those misogynistic gamers that have never seen a girl in his life or the ones that think you absolutely have to prove you know everything about a game to be a fan of it. and I know that's all in good fun of course but! I don't agree with it at all!

in my point of view, yes Idia is very introverted and reclusive and he's socially awkward, but that doesn't mean he's that stereotypical gamer, which is what makes him so interesting in the first place! he breaks those expectations you have for his character and shows a lot more depth than this label! I'm not saying he doesn't play into the role at all, but I think he's very well written to break some common patterns.

like! he's such a sweet older brother! he might love his games and his alone time and his room, but he loves Ortho more than those things and would go out of his comfort zone for him (like in the recent Wish Upon a Star event which is one of my favorites btw). he gets very talkative and almost sassy when speaking about something he likes! (like in Azul's school uniform vignette). and yes he can be selfish and headstrong and rude (like in the Ghost Bride event), as is expected for a student of NRC, but that doesn't eliminates his positive traits.

where am I going with this and how does it even ties into the question? it's because in those gamer stereotypes, you'd expect him to not know anything about afab people that isn't in one of his games and have no friends to tell him otherwise. but I think he (and most at NRC) is very educated and would know, you know, basic biology. plus I actually wasn't aware his family's company is about health (I thought it had smth to do with technology, since as I mentioned I haven't read the chapter yet), but since that's the case it's even one extra motive for him to know about it.

like, it's definetly not on top of his mind and he probably never has given it any thought but he does know, it's just not something he has do deal with on a daily basis.

TL;DR: I agree with you anon, Idia is very interesting and there's more than what meets the eye to him, so he doesn't fall into a clear cut stereotype that people often take him for!