Chocolate Box 2018
Dec. 30th, 2017 03:45 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
jaclynhydeDear Chocolate Box Author,
Thank you so much for writing for me! This is my first year doing Chocolate Box, and it looks delightful. I'm including a mix of Yuletide fandoms and larger ones, and I'll be absolutely thrilled with fic for any of them! I've received delightful stories for some of these pairings and some are nonexistent, and I'm always happy with more of them.
Stuff I love:
Crossovers
Gilgamesh (FFV) & Gilgamesh (FFXV)
I did not expect such a serious Gilgamesh in FFXV after being used to the dimension-hopping, fourth-wall-breaking Gilgamesh from FFV; I love them both, but I get the feeling they wouldn't know how to deal with each other. FFXV Gilgamesh would have to deal with a colorful, cheerful idiot going on about worlds that make no sense and trying steal the Genji Blade; FFV Gilgamesh would be dismayed at this overly-serious weirdo who has such a dull collection of swords and is missing seven arms. I'd love to see the two of them being forced to interact in any way; the most likely is FFV Gilgamesh falling through the void into Eos, but the opposite would also be great, as would either being tossed into the plot of the other's game. Bonus points for the two of them bonding talking about their amazing rivals Bartz and Cor.
I like: Any other characters from FFV or FFXV, references to any of the other FF games Gilgamesh has visited, FFV Gil running to embrace FFXV Enkidu, swordfights
I don't like: FFXV Gilgamesh being the same Gilgamesh as FFV (because every possibility is incredibly depressing)
Noctis Lucis Caelum (FFXV) & Nier (Nier)
FISHING TRIP. I want to see these two connecting over their obsessive need to do sidequests and their enduring love of fishing (away from their usual companions who will not shut up). It would be nice to give them a peaceful moment away from their quests (that Noctis wants to escape and Nier could never); it would also be nice to give them someone to share their burdens with. Or maybe Nier was erased from his world only to be reborn in a different one, where humanity will survive (but Nier has lost the ones he holds most dear). I'd also love a scenario where the other characters in their canon interact too (Iggy teaching Yonah how to cook, Prompto showing Emil chocobos, Gladio and Weiss complaining how Noct and Nier never listen to them, Ardyn having a friendly chat with Kainé about hosting daemons).
I like: Papa Nier, if you somehow make this a / go wild, Automata connections, any pairing from either canon
Ignis Scientia (FFXV) & Auron (FFX) & Agrias Oaks (FFT)
HERE THERE BE EPISODE IGNIS SPOILERS
After Episode Ignis, my beta pointed out that Ignis, Auron, and Agrias have a great deal in common. All three were extremely loyal retainers to a person very dear to them (two of them royalty); two of them had to knowingly lead them to their deaths, and the last unknowingly. I subscribe to all three being in love with the people they protect (Ignis/Noct, Auron/Braska, and Agrias/Ovelia), and would love to see how they commiserate with the others in their shoes and how they react to Ignis, in at least one timeline, managing to save the one he loved. I'm not great at giving prompts for crossovers, but anything where they all meet would be great--this could be a Dissidia-type thing, seeing visions of the others, probably a crystal's fault, whatever.
I like: Ignis inspiring the others to make their own Extra Verses
I don't like: explicitly ruling out the above pairings (not explicitly making it shippy is fine)
Final Fantasy IV
I love the epic world and the many characters of Final Fantasy IV; I love how much the game systems support the characterization, and how everyone is bursting with character even with the limited space in a SNES game. I have a love/hate relationship with The After Years (hate the gameplay & how some characters were screwed over, love the new guys and Golbez's role), so include whatever you want or don't want from it. I love the whole cast and setting, so feel free to include any of it in your fic!
Edward "Edge" Geraldine/Rubicante (FFIV)
I love Edge and Rubicante's dynamic, with the noble demon seeing potential in his worthy opponent, and the hot-headed prince realizing he can't blame the demon for everything and be done with it. I'd love to see what would happen if they got the chance to spend more time together, whether in battle or on the same side this time. Some possibilities: Rubicante's ghost haunting Edge (possibly because Edge has his cloak from the After Years one-on-one duel), Edge and Rubicante explicitly joining forces against a larger threat (possibly including the other fiends & Golbez's help as well), Rubicante being reborn as a (grown) human and going to seek out Edge. See my Yuletide letter for lots of words on them!
I like: Edge going "oh no he's hot," Rubicante being fascinatingly inhuman, Rubicante having an attachment to the other fiends and/or Golbez
I don't like: Rydia requiting Edge's interest
Golbez/Kain Highwind (FFIV)
I love how much in common Golbez and Kain have, and how they're both drawn together and apart by their shared history. Considering they both tend to run away from their problems, I'd love to see what happens if they can't, or if they run away together (Mount Ordeals isn't far enough, Kain is going to the moon). I'd also love to see what happened if Golbez showed up and Kain didn't recognize him without the armor--post-game, would he try to atone to someone he personally hurt? Another fun prompt would be Kain and Golbez managing to make a connection while Kain was working for him, somewhere beyond their mutual brainwashing. See my Yuletide letter for more on them!
I like: After Years Golbez (or at least his After Years outfit), Kain loving both Rosa and Cecil, the possibility of future Rosa/Cecil/Kain/Golbez, mask kink, Kain connecting to Golbez's dragon because dragoons, the Four Fiends
Golbez/Rydia
Rydia and Golbez have a surprising amount in common, and I'd love to see how a relationship between them would happen. Both are summoners raised by monsters, and I'd love to see them bonding over shared discomfort with humans, or Rydia adoring Golbez's dragon and feeding it num-nums. I also love Rydia and Cecil's relationship in canon, and how she forgave him for what he did to her mother; how would Golbez react to someone so willing to forgive him? I also really like the scenario in The After Years, where he travels with her as the mysterious Man in Black; something with Golbez in disguise would be great, such as him secretly returning from the moon to ask aid from the summons.
I like: the Fiends having raised Golbez well (or at least attempted to), Rydia showing effects of her unusual upbringing, bonding over neither being able to cast white magic anymore
I don't like: Rydia requiting Edge's interest
Rosa Joanna Farrell/Cecil Harvey/Kain Highwind/Golbez
Rosa Joanna Farrell/Golbez
I wrote a fic with Rosa and Golbez getting to know each other and long story short, I ship it now and I may be the only one. I really like the idea of their love for Cecil drawing them together, with Rosa being fascinated by the Lunarian side of Cecil and Golbez learning how to be good. I picture a relationship/kiss/whatever happening either with Cecil's blessing or as the beginning to some poly combination of Rosa/Cecil, Golbez, and Kain (Kain doesn't need to be included, but please don't sink the possibility in the future!). I like the idea of Golbez asking to learn white magic from Rosa, Cecil and Rosa convincing Golbez to stay with them, or them teaming up against a worse opponent. As for the OT3 or 4, I like the idea of it happening naturally as they all grow closer together, with their love for each other just expanding to include this. Feel free to let the Golbez/Cecil part be romantic or not, but otherwise I like them all being into each other.
I like: Rosa discovering she's just really into Lunarians, Rosa and Cecil rescuing Golbez and Kain from brooding for the rest of their lives
I don't like: breaking up Rosa/Cecil or continuing infidelity ("I kissed him oh no I'm going to tell Cecil" is fine)
Final Fantasy V
I adore Final Fantasy V! I love the big, goofy adventure feel of it, the surprising darkness that occasionally shows up, the characters, the humor, the job system, all of it. I just want to see everyone having more adventures, traveling together to see the worlds, bickering and getting into ridiculous situations and having fun. My favorite translation is the GBA/iOS/Steam version, since the humor comes across a lot better; however, I've gotten into the habit of calling Bartz Butz so go with whatever version of the names you want! I know almost every version of Final Fantasy's Gilgamesh (except Type-0, but I know he's hot so that's cool), so feel free to throw in references to anything and everything. Things I love: all the characters, Boko and his family, job classes, dancer Bartz, Syldra
Bartz Klauser/Gilgamesh (Final Fantasy V)
Gilgamesh has spent the twenty-five years since his original appearance hopping across dimensions, looking for Bartz (and swords). If that isn't love, I don't know what is. I love how Gilgamesh comes to respect the party over their meetings, and how he ultimately sacrifices himself for them; in Gil's later appearances, I love how often he's looking for Bartz and hoping for Bartz to recognize him. I cannot see Gil as anything but totally in love with Bartz (whether or not he realizes it is another question). I'd love to see the two of them getting to meet again post-game, after Bartz knows what he's done for them; this can happen in their original world, in Dissidia, World of Final Fantasy, or pretty much anywhere else they might pop up. I'd also like to see them meeting in the afterlife, since any party members who die in the final battle actually stay dead for a few months. Also I'd love to see Gilgamesh meet an amnesiac Bartz who finally does recognize him--Dissidia is good for that, or whatever you come up with.
I like: swords, everyone else, everyone else being exasperated with Bartz's new suitor (especially Faris)
Bartz Klauser/Faris Scherwiz/Gilgamesh
See above, but with Bartz and Faris in an existing relationship or heading towards one. I love Gilgamesh's affection for all of the Warriors of Light, and although Bartz may be his favorite, he has more than enough love to give. As for Faris, well, if she can love a heroic goofball like Bartz, she can grow to like a heroic, even bigger goofball like Gil. After showing him what she thinks of the "be more feminine" thing. Post-game fics would be great, with Faris and Bartz knowing that Gilgamesh sacrificed himself for them; I'd also love something involving Gilgamesh as a summon, since he has been one in a few games.
I like: Gilgamesh accepting Faris as she is, genderqueer Faris (cis woman is also good), Faris pirating, summoner Faris and Syldra
Bartz Klauser/Galuf Halm Baldesion
I am really fond of their canon interactions, and would love to see the camaraderie between them develop into a relationship (or, well, just slightly awkward flirting). I love how the two of them bicker and rag on each other, but always have each other's backs; it's so sweet when after Bartz leaves his home to chase after Galuf, they have such a hard time having a heart-to-heart and admitting that they care. I'd love to see one of them kiss the other (to their own surprise) in that moment, or admitting they both find Faris hot while they think she's a man, or any other hijinks these idiots get up to. I'd also love Bartz realizing how much he misses Galuf after he's gone, and then finding some way to bring him back (possibly if he's dead for a time after the final battle?). Also job-related silliness with the Tempting Tango, because they are both amazing as dancers.
I like: Mention of Galuf/Xezat, combination with other party & Gilgamesh pairings, Krile, Bartz being kind of into Galuf being royalty and Galuf finding this hilarious
Bartz Klauser/Faris Scherwiz/Galuf Halm Baldesion/Lenna Charlotte Tycoon
Bartz Klauser/Faris Scherwiz/Galuf Halm Baldesion/Lenna Charlotte Tycoon/Gilgamesh
And in culmination of my requests, I adore how the whole party has fun together and supports each other, how they banter and bicker and will leave their home behind forever if it means helping one of them. I love how their personalities complement each other, and how they grow attached over the course of traveling together. As for Gilgamesh, I love that he begins to question his purpose as he gets to know these warriors for good, and how much he respects them. Many of the above prompts work for the OT4/OT5 as well; this would also be great for job shenanigans, or the others being there for one of them after one of the many traumatic events in the game. Gil could dimension-hop them to somewhere where Galuf is alive, or find him in the Void (or maybe Galuf finds Gil in the afterlife). The Faris/Lenna part can be romantic or not, whichever works for you.
I like: Krile (I love her role in the party too, just not in the ship!), Bartz being the only non-royal, Lenna in hard-hitting physical classes
Final Fantasy X
Final Fantasy X is my favorite Final Fantasy--I love how the beautiful, colorful paradise hides a story of overcoming trauma and the endless cycle of death, I love watching Tidus and Yuna grow and learn from each other, and I love how they win in the end and get to see an entire world learn how to adapt to normal life. Auron is my all-time favorite Final Fantasy character; I love how he's this cool, grizzled badass who turns out to have been intensely traumatized himself, who rejected death to keep his promises to his friends. Any worldbuilding about Spira is wonderful, and any characters are welcome (except Seymour (except in general creepy villain territory)). Please ignore -Will-, for the love of god (although Tidus and Yuna growing apart is fine).
Auron/Tidus (FFX)
I absolutely adore Auron and Tidus' relationship, and how Tidus learns so much about Auron and how much they have in common throughout the pilgrimage. My favorite interpretation of them is Tidus having a bit of a crush on him when he grew up, because he's cool and mysterious, and then learned that he was a hothead dork who got himself killed and really falls for him. I like either 'something's between us but it won't happen because Tidus is in love with Yuna' or 'Tidus and Yuna are incredibly important to each other but not romantically into each other/not exclusive'. Something in the afterlife is great too, or Yuna bringing them both back (and Auron is pretty sure he just wanted to rest???).
I like: Scar kissing/touching, Auron opening up to Tidus, acknowledgement that everyone on Yuna's pilgrimage has a crush on Auron, Auron having been in love with a tragically straight Braska, Auron being gay
I don't like: Pre-pilgrimage requited relationship, daddy kink (look Tidus has one dad and that is quite enough), -Will-
Auron/Yuna (FFX)
Auron & Yuna (FFX)
One of the Auron pairings I'd like to see more of--I love the idea of Yuna wanting to know more about her father and convincing Auron to talk about him, and becoming closer to Auron as a result. I like this as shippy, gen, or one-sided feelings on Yuna's side; and my eternal headcanon for Auron is that he was in love with Braska, so being both drawn to and hurt by her being like him is great too! I'd love bittersweet conversations as they approach Zanarkand (with Auron knowing the truth, and knowing there's a chance they could save her), or after, when they're forged a new path. Yuna being able to communicate with Auron after she sends him (maybe his real self is on the Farplane?) would be great too.
I like: Tidus can come too, both of them missing Braska, Auron's conflicted feelings about leading another summoner to their possible death
I don't like: Auron using Yuna as a replacement to Braska, unfavorably comparing Tidus to Auron
Jecht/Yuna (Final Fantasy X & X-2)
Not actually as crack as it sounds! In Dissidia 012, Jecht and Yuna (minus some memories) travel together, and Jecht is gentle and respectful towards her in a way he doesn't sound anywhere else. I love the idea of Jecht being surprisingly sweet (surprisingly to literally anyone who's ever met him), and of Yuna thinking he's just a kind and heroic man. What if she can communicate with Sin like Tidus can? What if Sin doesn't come back to Spira (shut UP Will), but Jecht does? Setting it in Dissidia 012 is good too!
I like: Tidus and Yuna having amicably separated or not been interested romantically, Yuna with her FFX or FFX-2 characterization, Yuna grappling with how she sees Jecht versus how he treated Tidus, both of them missing Braska
I don't like: Unfavorably comparing Tidus to Jecht, Yuna explicitly choosing Jecht over Tidus (I just love Tidus okay)
Final Fantasy XV
This game snuck up on me to become one of my favorite Final Fantasies. I adore the characters and their relationships, and Noct and Ardyn's stories are so well done. This is also one canon where I super see everyone as poly--Noct and the bros are all in love, and Luna and Ardyn and everyone else can be included too. I definitely don't need the OTEveryone in every fic, but I like keeping the possibility of it open. Other things that I adore: Episode Gladio (and the others, but that is my jam), Sania and Vyv, BABY CHOCOBOS
Gilgamesh (Final Fantasy XV)/Cor Leonis (FFXV)
Well this becoming one of my favorite FFXV pairings took me by surprise! I love the story we get of their interactions, how we learn of Cor's feelings of failure, how he felt like his nickname was mocking him, and then seeing that Gilgamesh was so impressed by this boy who did what no one else could. I love the idea of Gilgamesh wanting him to come back, having held on to his sword and clearly thought of him as a worthy opponent. I could see Cor going back to seek out Gilgamesh, or Gilgamesh finally going to seek out him (maybe in the World of Ruin? maybe in disguise?). This is also an exception to my character death DNW, since I love the idea of Gil finally getting to rest when Ardyn does.
I like: Mask kink, size kink, appreciation of Gil's voice and Cor's eyes, Gilgamesh having been Ardyn's shield, Cor's self-doubts
Gladiolus Amicitia/Noctis Lucis Caelum
I ship all of the Chocobros, especially the OT4, but this is one pairing I really want to see more of! I really love how they interact in general, with Gladio's tough love encouraging Noct while the underlying friendship is still clear, but I feel like the game really dropped the ball with making their arguments feel justified on both sides. I'd love to see something like the train argument tackled with Gladio's motivations more clear--something like him bringing up his own loss of his father, his fears and feelings, which he never talks about because he's Gladio. If this comes with feelings for each other simmering over into an angry or conciliatory kiss, all the better! Another possibility: the two of them flirting outrageously while pretending they don't know each other in the power plant suits, because come on. Or World of Ruin (without Gladio being engaged)!
I like: First kisses, scar and tattoo appreciation, Gladio reading (including romance novels), size kink
I don't like: explicitly sinking any Chocobro ships or sinking Noct/Luna
Iris Amicitia/Aranea Highwind (FFXV)
Iris Amicitia/Cor Leonis (FFXV)
Pretty much the same thing I'm interested in for both of these ships: Iris has a crush on the impossibly cool warrior who fights daemons with her in the World of Ruin, and said warrior begins to notice as she becomes impossibly cool herself. For Cor, I like the dynamic of him trying to protect Iris (because of Clarus? because Cor remembers how he nearly got himself killed at her age?) and training her to protect herself. For Aranea, I love her popping in to help and being her flirty self, and becoming more and more of a reliable ally despite herself.
I like: Awesome daemon hunter Iris! Awesome daemon hunter Iris!!!!, Iris' relationship with Gladio & being an Amicitia, cool Amicitia tats, Aranea having been drinking buddies with Ardyn, Cor or Aranea opening up to Iris
I don't like: Cor being sexist towards Iris
Lunafreya Nox Fleuret/Ardyn Izunia (FFXV)
Noctis Lucis Caelum/Lunafreya Nox Fleuret/Ardyn Izunia (FFXV)
Luna and Ardyn have such an interesting relationship, and I'd love to see that get explored more! I love Luna's compassion upon seeing the darkness in his soul, on Eos and in the Beyond; I'd also love to see this compassion combined with her understated sneakiness from Kingsglaive. I'd like to see them bonding over their shared healing abilities and getting fucked over by prophecy; this works in an AU where she lives or in the afterlife. If Noct is involved, see the Ardyn/Noctis section for what I like about them--I like the idea of each of them relating to Ardyn in different ways.
I like: Fun With Shapeshifting, Ardyn actually liking Luna despite himself, Luna(/Noct) wanting Ardyn despite themselves, Ardyn having been a good person long ago, both/all of them being Very Tired and wanting to rest
I don't like: Ardyn pursuing Luna solely to screw with Noct, explicitly sinking any Chocobro ships
Noctis Lucis Caelum/Ardyn Izunia (FFXV)
I absolutely adore Noctis and Ardyn's connection as the beginning and end of the line of Lucis, how Ardyn has been waiting thousands of years for him and how they were both screwed by the prophecy in the end. I love how Noct feels compassion for him in the end, after ten years in the crystal (did he see visions of what Ardyn's life was like?), and how Ardyn was very likely going easy on him in the end because he was so ready to die. I'd like to see Ardyn and Noctis making a connection, especially after the crystal (whether in life or death). Ardyn having very conflicted feelings towards Noct would be great, and vice versa. Other fun possibilities: hatesex or annoyedsex pre-crystal (sex pollen would be really fun here), what allowed for the alternate ending of Episode Ignis (existing BroT4 and/or BroT4/Ardyn would be great for this), in Dissidia (with or without their memories).
I like: Noctis and Ardyn being so very very tired, Ardyn finding himself liking Noct, Fun With Shapeshifting, appreciation of Ardyn's voice, Noctis calling Ardyn "Your Majesty"
I don't like: explicitly sinking any Chocobro ships or sinking Luna/Noct
Nier Gestalt
My favorite thing about Nier is how love drives everyone's actions; although things go horribly wrong for the characters and the world as a whole, people love and care for each other, and make mistakes because of it. The characters are incredible, and their interactions really make the game. I love the tragedy of the game, but I'd also love fix-it fic because oh man everyone deserves to be happy. I also super love how Nier plays with its medium, so if you can think of any way to do that go wild! See my promotion post for more of what I love about Nier.
Grimoire Weiss/Nier (Nier)
The creators have joked that "I've grown rather fond of Weiss" is Weiss' declaration of love for Nier, and, well, it totally is. I adore how after smacking around a pompous, cranky, blood-magic-using book, Nier immediately became friends with him. I love how Weiss, despite his apparent scorn, immediately began sympathizing with Yonah's plight and was inseparable from Nier for the rest of their lives. I'd love to see them somehow reuniting after Ending D--would they recognize each other, if Weiss is his human self and Nier had been erased from his memories? Do they meet in Automata's moon bunker? I'd also love Nier/Weiss while Weiss is a book (if this includes sex, whatever freaky stuff they have to do is a-ok). What was the timeskip like, with both of them becoming more and more bloodthirsty but still staying together? What if they're both text in the Forest of Myth, and Nier gets to see Weiss' dreams? Does Weiss feel it when Nier tapes pictures of swords in him? See my Yuletide letter for more of them!
I like: Sidequest banter, Weiss being exasperated by fishing and gardening, Kainé and Emil, wild boars, Weiss' backstory from Grimoire Nier, spine stroking
I don't like: Weiss having a human body during the game
Kainé/Grimoire Weiss/Nier (Nier)
I adore every interaction of these three, and I'd love to see them in a relationship (that is almost certainly a trainwreck). I love how Nier is open with his affection for both of them (while being slightly confused by romantic feelings), and how Kainé and Weiss care a lot about Nier and each other but mask it through endless, ENDLESS complaining and insults and sniping. I'd love to see the three of them admitting they care, through words or actions; I'd also be into Kainé admitting she's intersex and Nier and Weiss being supportive in their own way ("It's your personality that's the issue, hussy!") Any of my post-game Nier/Weiss prompts would be great with Kainé included, too!
I like: Emil, banter, Nier trying to keep Kainé and Weiss from killing each other, Kainé and Weiss reluctantly bonding over being in love with Nier
I don't like: Weiss having a human body during the game, Tyrann ruining things (see below request for that...)
Kainé/Tyrann (Nier)
I love Kainé and want her to be happy, but HERE WE ARE. I really started shipping these two when Tyrann sacrificed himself for her, admitting it was probably for the same reason Nier did. I'd really love to see Tyrann's slow realization of feelings, basically being confused about what the hell they are. As for Kainé, I love that she comes to recognize herself in him, when she's so tired and ready to be done with the world, and knows what it's like to live solely on hate. Feel free to go darker with these two, and/or extremely dubious with the consent, but I'd like to see that twisted connection of theirs come out. For something potentially less dark, again, post-game reunions would very much change their power dynamics and could be very interesting.
I like: weird sex with one's own arm, Kainé giving as good as she gets
I don't like: more than a mention of Kainé's grandmother's death
Thank you so much for writing for me! This is my first year doing Chocolate Box, and it looks delightful. I'm including a mix of Yuletide fandoms and larger ones, and I'll be absolutely thrilled with fic for any of them! I've received delightful stories for some of these pairings and some are nonexistent, and I'm always happy with more of them.
Stuff I love:
- Shipping! I am a ridiculous shipper at heart, so my favorite thing would be ship fic for the pairings I request; I love sexual tension, slow burn, pining, and lots of other stuff. Porn or no porn are both great--it's the ship more than the smut I'm into. I also love characters falling for others that they never would have expected, as is probably obvious from my ships. I love pining and hurt/comfort and cuddling to avoid hypothermia and all those wonderful fanfic tropes. Shippy pre-relationship stuff is also great!
- Identity porn! As defined by Fanlore, it's focusing on people who have secret identities which focus on the consequences of using multiple personas". So Character A is in disguise, interacting with Character B, who may or may not know who Character A really is, and there may be kissing. This has obvious implications for shapeshifters and characters with masks/secret identities (bonus points if it's hero/villain), but anywhere you can fit it in I will love it.
- Bad guys turning good! I love villains who discover that their worldview is wrong, especially by getting to know one of the good guys. I also love villains who aren't entirely bad, and good guys who can learn from them too. And sometimes, total assholes who the heroes connect with anyway (cough Ardyn).
- Banter! I love the canon dialogue for the characters I'm requesting and would love to see some banter.
- Other characters! I adore everyone in these canons and would love to see any of them who fit into the story.
- Lots of story types--adventure, what-ifs, canon continuations, everyone is mysteriously alive somehow, etc. Both happy and bittersweet/sad fics are great, as long as the angst isn't from the pairing's relationship not working out.
- Your own prompts! I throw out a few specific story prompts for each pairing, but I will be thrilled to read any ideas you have!
- Non-con or commonly squicky stuff like scat. Dub-con is great.
- Character bashing, including canon love interests.
- PWP--porn along with other stuff is great, but I'm more interested in the character interactions.
- Non-canon major character death.
- AUs of the setting instead of plot (mundane AUs, everyone is ponies, etc.)
- Established relationship fic. This isn't as set in stone as the others, but I love seeing my OTPs get together!
Crossovers
Gilgamesh (FFV) & Gilgamesh (FFXV)
I did not expect such a serious Gilgamesh in FFXV after being used to the dimension-hopping, fourth-wall-breaking Gilgamesh from FFV; I love them both, but I get the feeling they wouldn't know how to deal with each other. FFXV Gilgamesh would have to deal with a colorful, cheerful idiot going on about worlds that make no sense and trying steal the Genji Blade; FFV Gilgamesh would be dismayed at this overly-serious weirdo who has such a dull collection of swords and is missing seven arms. I'd love to see the two of them being forced to interact in any way; the most likely is FFV Gilgamesh falling through the void into Eos, but the opposite would also be great, as would either being tossed into the plot of the other's game. Bonus points for the two of them bonding talking about their amazing rivals Bartz and Cor.
I like: Any other characters from FFV or FFXV, references to any of the other FF games Gilgamesh has visited, FFV Gil running to embrace FFXV Enkidu, swordfights
I don't like: FFXV Gilgamesh being the same Gilgamesh as FFV (because every possibility is incredibly depressing)
Noctis Lucis Caelum (FFXV) & Nier (Nier)
FISHING TRIP. I want to see these two connecting over their obsessive need to do sidequests and their enduring love of fishing (away from their usual companions who will not shut up). It would be nice to give them a peaceful moment away from their quests (that Noctis wants to escape and Nier could never); it would also be nice to give them someone to share their burdens with. Or maybe Nier was erased from his world only to be reborn in a different one, where humanity will survive (but Nier has lost the ones he holds most dear). I'd also love a scenario where the other characters in their canon interact too (Iggy teaching Yonah how to cook, Prompto showing Emil chocobos, Gladio and Weiss complaining how Noct and Nier never listen to them, Ardyn having a friendly chat with Kainé about hosting daemons).
I like: Papa Nier, if you somehow make this a / go wild, Automata connections, any pairing from either canon
Ignis Scientia (FFXV) & Auron (FFX) & Agrias Oaks (FFT)
HERE THERE BE EPISODE IGNIS SPOILERS
After Episode Ignis, my beta pointed out that Ignis, Auron, and Agrias have a great deal in common. All three were extremely loyal retainers to a person very dear to them (two of them royalty); two of them had to knowingly lead them to their deaths, and the last unknowingly. I subscribe to all three being in love with the people they protect (Ignis/Noct, Auron/Braska, and Agrias/Ovelia), and would love to see how they commiserate with the others in their shoes and how they react to Ignis, in at least one timeline, managing to save the one he loved. I'm not great at giving prompts for crossovers, but anything where they all meet would be great--this could be a Dissidia-type thing, seeing visions of the others, probably a crystal's fault, whatever.
I like: Ignis inspiring the others to make their own Extra Verses
I don't like: explicitly ruling out the above pairings (not explicitly making it shippy is fine)
Final Fantasy IV
I love the epic world and the many characters of Final Fantasy IV; I love how much the game systems support the characterization, and how everyone is bursting with character even with the limited space in a SNES game. I have a love/hate relationship with The After Years (hate the gameplay & how some characters were screwed over, love the new guys and Golbez's role), so include whatever you want or don't want from it. I love the whole cast and setting, so feel free to include any of it in your fic!
Edward "Edge" Geraldine/Rubicante (FFIV)
I love Edge and Rubicante's dynamic, with the noble demon seeing potential in his worthy opponent, and the hot-headed prince realizing he can't blame the demon for everything and be done with it. I'd love to see what would happen if they got the chance to spend more time together, whether in battle or on the same side this time. Some possibilities: Rubicante's ghost haunting Edge (possibly because Edge has his cloak from the After Years one-on-one duel), Edge and Rubicante explicitly joining forces against a larger threat (possibly including the other fiends & Golbez's help as well), Rubicante being reborn as a (grown) human and going to seek out Edge. See my Yuletide letter for lots of words on them!
I like: Edge going "oh no he's hot," Rubicante being fascinatingly inhuman, Rubicante having an attachment to the other fiends and/or Golbez
I don't like: Rydia requiting Edge's interest
Golbez/Kain Highwind (FFIV)
I love how much in common Golbez and Kain have, and how they're both drawn together and apart by their shared history. Considering they both tend to run away from their problems, I'd love to see what happens if they can't, or if they run away together (Mount Ordeals isn't far enough, Kain is going to the moon). I'd also love to see what happened if Golbez showed up and Kain didn't recognize him without the armor--post-game, would he try to atone to someone he personally hurt? Another fun prompt would be Kain and Golbez managing to make a connection while Kain was working for him, somewhere beyond their mutual brainwashing. See my Yuletide letter for more on them!
I like: After Years Golbez (or at least his After Years outfit), Kain loving both Rosa and Cecil, the possibility of future Rosa/Cecil/Kain/Golbez, mask kink, Kain connecting to Golbez's dragon because dragoons, the Four Fiends
Golbez/Rydia
Rydia and Golbez have a surprising amount in common, and I'd love to see how a relationship between them would happen. Both are summoners raised by monsters, and I'd love to see them bonding over shared discomfort with humans, or Rydia adoring Golbez's dragon and feeding it num-nums. I also love Rydia and Cecil's relationship in canon, and how she forgave him for what he did to her mother; how would Golbez react to someone so willing to forgive him? I also really like the scenario in The After Years, where he travels with her as the mysterious Man in Black; something with Golbez in disguise would be great, such as him secretly returning from the moon to ask aid from the summons.
I like: the Fiends having raised Golbez well (or at least attempted to), Rydia showing effects of her unusual upbringing, bonding over neither being able to cast white magic anymore
I don't like: Rydia requiting Edge's interest
Rosa Joanna Farrell/Cecil Harvey/Kain Highwind/Golbez
Rosa Joanna Farrell/Golbez
I wrote a fic with Rosa and Golbez getting to know each other and long story short, I ship it now and I may be the only one. I really like the idea of their love for Cecil drawing them together, with Rosa being fascinated by the Lunarian side of Cecil and Golbez learning how to be good. I picture a relationship/kiss/whatever happening either with Cecil's blessing or as the beginning to some poly combination of Rosa/Cecil, Golbez, and Kain (Kain doesn't need to be included, but please don't sink the possibility in the future!). I like the idea of Golbez asking to learn white magic from Rosa, Cecil and Rosa convincing Golbez to stay with them, or them teaming up against a worse opponent. As for the OT3 or 4, I like the idea of it happening naturally as they all grow closer together, with their love for each other just expanding to include this. Feel free to let the Golbez/Cecil part be romantic or not, but otherwise I like them all being into each other.
I like: Rosa discovering she's just really into Lunarians, Rosa and Cecil rescuing Golbez and Kain from brooding for the rest of their lives
I don't like: breaking up Rosa/Cecil or continuing infidelity ("I kissed him oh no I'm going to tell Cecil" is fine)
Final Fantasy V
I adore Final Fantasy V! I love the big, goofy adventure feel of it, the surprising darkness that occasionally shows up, the characters, the humor, the job system, all of it. I just want to see everyone having more adventures, traveling together to see the worlds, bickering and getting into ridiculous situations and having fun. My favorite translation is the GBA/iOS/Steam version, since the humor comes across a lot better; however, I've gotten into the habit of calling Bartz Butz so go with whatever version of the names you want! I know almost every version of Final Fantasy's Gilgamesh (except Type-0, but I know he's hot so that's cool), so feel free to throw in references to anything and everything. Things I love: all the characters, Boko and his family, job classes, dancer Bartz, Syldra
Bartz Klauser/Gilgamesh (Final Fantasy V)
Gilgamesh has spent the twenty-five years since his original appearance hopping across dimensions, looking for Bartz (and swords). If that isn't love, I don't know what is. I love how Gilgamesh comes to respect the party over their meetings, and how he ultimately sacrifices himself for them; in Gil's later appearances, I love how often he's looking for Bartz and hoping for Bartz to recognize him. I cannot see Gil as anything but totally in love with Bartz (whether or not he realizes it is another question). I'd love to see the two of them getting to meet again post-game, after Bartz knows what he's done for them; this can happen in their original world, in Dissidia, World of Final Fantasy, or pretty much anywhere else they might pop up. I'd also like to see them meeting in the afterlife, since any party members who die in the final battle actually stay dead for a few months. Also I'd love to see Gilgamesh meet an amnesiac Bartz who finally does recognize him--Dissidia is good for that, or whatever you come up with.
I like: swords, everyone else, everyone else being exasperated with Bartz's new suitor (especially Faris)
Bartz Klauser/Faris Scherwiz/Gilgamesh
See above, but with Bartz and Faris in an existing relationship or heading towards one. I love Gilgamesh's affection for all of the Warriors of Light, and although Bartz may be his favorite, he has more than enough love to give. As for Faris, well, if she can love a heroic goofball like Bartz, she can grow to like a heroic, even bigger goofball like Gil. After showing him what she thinks of the "be more feminine" thing. Post-game fics would be great, with Faris and Bartz knowing that Gilgamesh sacrificed himself for them; I'd also love something involving Gilgamesh as a summon, since he has been one in a few games.
I like: Gilgamesh accepting Faris as she is, genderqueer Faris (cis woman is also good), Faris pirating, summoner Faris and Syldra
Bartz Klauser/Galuf Halm Baldesion
I am really fond of their canon interactions, and would love to see the camaraderie between them develop into a relationship (or, well, just slightly awkward flirting). I love how the two of them bicker and rag on each other, but always have each other's backs; it's so sweet when after Bartz leaves his home to chase after Galuf, they have such a hard time having a heart-to-heart and admitting that they care. I'd love to see one of them kiss the other (to their own surprise) in that moment, or admitting they both find Faris hot while they think she's a man, or any other hijinks these idiots get up to. I'd also love Bartz realizing how much he misses Galuf after he's gone, and then finding some way to bring him back (possibly if he's dead for a time after the final battle?). Also job-related silliness with the Tempting Tango, because they are both amazing as dancers.
I like: Mention of Galuf/Xezat, combination with other party & Gilgamesh pairings, Krile, Bartz being kind of into Galuf being royalty and Galuf finding this hilarious
Bartz Klauser/Faris Scherwiz/Galuf Halm Baldesion/Lenna Charlotte Tycoon
Bartz Klauser/Faris Scherwiz/Galuf Halm Baldesion/Lenna Charlotte Tycoon/Gilgamesh
And in culmination of my requests, I adore how the whole party has fun together and supports each other, how they banter and bicker and will leave their home behind forever if it means helping one of them. I love how their personalities complement each other, and how they grow attached over the course of traveling together. As for Gilgamesh, I love that he begins to question his purpose as he gets to know these warriors for good, and how much he respects them. Many of the above prompts work for the OT4/OT5 as well; this would also be great for job shenanigans, or the others being there for one of them after one of the many traumatic events in the game. Gil could dimension-hop them to somewhere where Galuf is alive, or find him in the Void (or maybe Galuf finds Gil in the afterlife). The Faris/Lenna part can be romantic or not, whichever works for you.
I like: Krile (I love her role in the party too, just not in the ship!), Bartz being the only non-royal, Lenna in hard-hitting physical classes
Final Fantasy X
Final Fantasy X is my favorite Final Fantasy--I love how the beautiful, colorful paradise hides a story of overcoming trauma and the endless cycle of death, I love watching Tidus and Yuna grow and learn from each other, and I love how they win in the end and get to see an entire world learn how to adapt to normal life. Auron is my all-time favorite Final Fantasy character; I love how he's this cool, grizzled badass who turns out to have been intensely traumatized himself, who rejected death to keep his promises to his friends. Any worldbuilding about Spira is wonderful, and any characters are welcome (except Seymour (except in general creepy villain territory)). Please ignore -Will-, for the love of god (although Tidus and Yuna growing apart is fine).
Auron/Tidus (FFX)
I absolutely adore Auron and Tidus' relationship, and how Tidus learns so much about Auron and how much they have in common throughout the pilgrimage. My favorite interpretation of them is Tidus having a bit of a crush on him when he grew up, because he's cool and mysterious, and then learned that he was a hothead dork who got himself killed and really falls for him. I like either 'something's between us but it won't happen because Tidus is in love with Yuna' or 'Tidus and Yuna are incredibly important to each other but not romantically into each other/not exclusive'. Something in the afterlife is great too, or Yuna bringing them both back (and Auron is pretty sure he just wanted to rest???).
I like: Scar kissing/touching, Auron opening up to Tidus, acknowledgement that everyone on Yuna's pilgrimage has a crush on Auron, Auron having been in love with a tragically straight Braska, Auron being gay
I don't like: Pre-pilgrimage requited relationship, daddy kink (look Tidus has one dad and that is quite enough), -Will-
Auron/Yuna (FFX)
Auron & Yuna (FFX)
One of the Auron pairings I'd like to see more of--I love the idea of Yuna wanting to know more about her father and convincing Auron to talk about him, and becoming closer to Auron as a result. I like this as shippy, gen, or one-sided feelings on Yuna's side; and my eternal headcanon for Auron is that he was in love with Braska, so being both drawn to and hurt by her being like him is great too! I'd love bittersweet conversations as they approach Zanarkand (with Auron knowing the truth, and knowing there's a chance they could save her), or after, when they're forged a new path. Yuna being able to communicate with Auron after she sends him (maybe his real self is on the Farplane?) would be great too.
I like: Tidus can come too, both of them missing Braska, Auron's conflicted feelings about leading another summoner to their possible death
I don't like: Auron using Yuna as a replacement to Braska, unfavorably comparing Tidus to Auron
Jecht/Yuna (Final Fantasy X & X-2)
Not actually as crack as it sounds! In Dissidia 012, Jecht and Yuna (minus some memories) travel together, and Jecht is gentle and respectful towards her in a way he doesn't sound anywhere else. I love the idea of Jecht being surprisingly sweet (surprisingly to literally anyone who's ever met him), and of Yuna thinking he's just a kind and heroic man. What if she can communicate with Sin like Tidus can? What if Sin doesn't come back to Spira (shut UP Will), but Jecht does? Setting it in Dissidia 012 is good too!
I like: Tidus and Yuna having amicably separated or not been interested romantically, Yuna with her FFX or FFX-2 characterization, Yuna grappling with how she sees Jecht versus how he treated Tidus, both of them missing Braska
I don't like: Unfavorably comparing Tidus to Jecht, Yuna explicitly choosing Jecht over Tidus (I just love Tidus okay)
Final Fantasy XV
This game snuck up on me to become one of my favorite Final Fantasies. I adore the characters and their relationships, and Noct and Ardyn's stories are so well done. This is also one canon where I super see everyone as poly--Noct and the bros are all in love, and Luna and Ardyn and everyone else can be included too. I definitely don't need the OTEveryone in every fic, but I like keeping the possibility of it open. Other things that I adore: Episode Gladio (and the others, but that is my jam), Sania and Vyv, BABY CHOCOBOS
Gilgamesh (Final Fantasy XV)/Cor Leonis (FFXV)
Well this becoming one of my favorite FFXV pairings took me by surprise! I love the story we get of their interactions, how we learn of Cor's feelings of failure, how he felt like his nickname was mocking him, and then seeing that Gilgamesh was so impressed by this boy who did what no one else could. I love the idea of Gilgamesh wanting him to come back, having held on to his sword and clearly thought of him as a worthy opponent. I could see Cor going back to seek out Gilgamesh, or Gilgamesh finally going to seek out him (maybe in the World of Ruin? maybe in disguise?). This is also an exception to my character death DNW, since I love the idea of Gil finally getting to rest when Ardyn does.
I like: Mask kink, size kink, appreciation of Gil's voice and Cor's eyes, Gilgamesh having been Ardyn's shield, Cor's self-doubts
Gladiolus Amicitia/Noctis Lucis Caelum
I ship all of the Chocobros, especially the OT4, but this is one pairing I really want to see more of! I really love how they interact in general, with Gladio's tough love encouraging Noct while the underlying friendship is still clear, but I feel like the game really dropped the ball with making their arguments feel justified on both sides. I'd love to see something like the train argument tackled with Gladio's motivations more clear--something like him bringing up his own loss of his father, his fears and feelings, which he never talks about because he's Gladio. If this comes with feelings for each other simmering over into an angry or conciliatory kiss, all the better! Another possibility: the two of them flirting outrageously while pretending they don't know each other in the power plant suits, because come on. Or World of Ruin (without Gladio being engaged)!
I like: First kisses, scar and tattoo appreciation, Gladio reading (including romance novels), size kink
I don't like: explicitly sinking any Chocobro ships or sinking Noct/Luna
Iris Amicitia/Aranea Highwind (FFXV)
Iris Amicitia/Cor Leonis (FFXV)
Pretty much the same thing I'm interested in for both of these ships: Iris has a crush on the impossibly cool warrior who fights daemons with her in the World of Ruin, and said warrior begins to notice as she becomes impossibly cool herself. For Cor, I like the dynamic of him trying to protect Iris (because of Clarus? because Cor remembers how he nearly got himself killed at her age?) and training her to protect herself. For Aranea, I love her popping in to help and being her flirty self, and becoming more and more of a reliable ally despite herself.
I like: Awesome daemon hunter Iris! Awesome daemon hunter Iris!!!!, Iris' relationship with Gladio & being an Amicitia, cool Amicitia tats, Aranea having been drinking buddies with Ardyn, Cor or Aranea opening up to Iris
I don't like: Cor being sexist towards Iris
Lunafreya Nox Fleuret/Ardyn Izunia (FFXV)
Noctis Lucis Caelum/Lunafreya Nox Fleuret/Ardyn Izunia (FFXV)
Luna and Ardyn have such an interesting relationship, and I'd love to see that get explored more! I love Luna's compassion upon seeing the darkness in his soul, on Eos and in the Beyond; I'd also love to see this compassion combined with her understated sneakiness from Kingsglaive. I'd like to see them bonding over their shared healing abilities and getting fucked over by prophecy; this works in an AU where she lives or in the afterlife. If Noct is involved, see the Ardyn/Noctis section for what I like about them--I like the idea of each of them relating to Ardyn in different ways.
I like: Fun With Shapeshifting, Ardyn actually liking Luna despite himself, Luna(/Noct) wanting Ardyn despite themselves, Ardyn having been a good person long ago, both/all of them being Very Tired and wanting to rest
I don't like: Ardyn pursuing Luna solely to screw with Noct, explicitly sinking any Chocobro ships
Noctis Lucis Caelum/Ardyn Izunia (FFXV)
I absolutely adore Noctis and Ardyn's connection as the beginning and end of the line of Lucis, how Ardyn has been waiting thousands of years for him and how they were both screwed by the prophecy in the end. I love how Noct feels compassion for him in the end, after ten years in the crystal (did he see visions of what Ardyn's life was like?), and how Ardyn was very likely going easy on him in the end because he was so ready to die. I'd like to see Ardyn and Noctis making a connection, especially after the crystal (whether in life or death). Ardyn having very conflicted feelings towards Noct would be great, and vice versa. Other fun possibilities: hatesex or annoyedsex pre-crystal (sex pollen would be really fun here), what allowed for the alternate ending of Episode Ignis (existing BroT4 and/or BroT4/Ardyn would be great for this), in Dissidia (with or without their memories).
I like: Noctis and Ardyn being so very very tired, Ardyn finding himself liking Noct, Fun With Shapeshifting, appreciation of Ardyn's voice, Noctis calling Ardyn "Your Majesty"
I don't like: explicitly sinking any Chocobro ships or sinking Luna/Noct
Nier Gestalt
My favorite thing about Nier is how love drives everyone's actions; although things go horribly wrong for the characters and the world as a whole, people love and care for each other, and make mistakes because of it. The characters are incredible, and their interactions really make the game. I love the tragedy of the game, but I'd also love fix-it fic because oh man everyone deserves to be happy. I also super love how Nier plays with its medium, so if you can think of any way to do that go wild! See my promotion post for more of what I love about Nier.
Grimoire Weiss/Nier (Nier)
The creators have joked that "I've grown rather fond of Weiss" is Weiss' declaration of love for Nier, and, well, it totally is. I adore how after smacking around a pompous, cranky, blood-magic-using book, Nier immediately became friends with him. I love how Weiss, despite his apparent scorn, immediately began sympathizing with Yonah's plight and was inseparable from Nier for the rest of their lives. I'd love to see them somehow reuniting after Ending D--would they recognize each other, if Weiss is his human self and Nier had been erased from his memories? Do they meet in Automata's moon bunker? I'd also love Nier/Weiss while Weiss is a book (if this includes sex, whatever freaky stuff they have to do is a-ok). What was the timeskip like, with both of them becoming more and more bloodthirsty but still staying together? What if they're both text in the Forest of Myth, and Nier gets to see Weiss' dreams? Does Weiss feel it when Nier tapes pictures of swords in him? See my Yuletide letter for more of them!
I like: Sidequest banter, Weiss being exasperated by fishing and gardening, Kainé and Emil, wild boars, Weiss' backstory from Grimoire Nier, spine stroking
I don't like: Weiss having a human body during the game
Kainé/Grimoire Weiss/Nier (Nier)
I adore every interaction of these three, and I'd love to see them in a relationship (that is almost certainly a trainwreck). I love how Nier is open with his affection for both of them (while being slightly confused by romantic feelings), and how Kainé and Weiss care a lot about Nier and each other but mask it through endless, ENDLESS complaining and insults and sniping. I'd love to see the three of them admitting they care, through words or actions; I'd also be into Kainé admitting she's intersex and Nier and Weiss being supportive in their own way ("It's your personality that's the issue, hussy!") Any of my post-game Nier/Weiss prompts would be great with Kainé included, too!
I like: Emil, banter, Nier trying to keep Kainé and Weiss from killing each other, Kainé and Weiss reluctantly bonding over being in love with Nier
I don't like: Weiss having a human body during the game, Tyrann ruining things (see below request for that...)
Kainé/Tyrann (Nier)
I love Kainé and want her to be happy, but HERE WE ARE. I really started shipping these two when Tyrann sacrificed himself for her, admitting it was probably for the same reason Nier did. I'd really love to see Tyrann's slow realization of feelings, basically being confused about what the hell they are. As for Kainé, I love that she comes to recognize herself in him, when she's so tired and ready to be done with the world, and knows what it's like to live solely on hate. Feel free to go darker with these two, and/or extremely dubious with the consent, but I'd like to see that twisted connection of theirs come out. For something potentially less dark, again, post-game reunions would very much change their power dynamics and could be very interesting.
I like: weird sex with one's own arm, Kainé giving as good as she gets
I don't like: more than a mention of Kainé's grandmother's death
