Avis Alternata
An Antivan Crow AU Zine
About Avis Alternata
There is an eluvian in the rafters of the Cantori Diamond. It can carry an intrepid assassin nearly anywhere in the continent, whether in pursuit of a contract or simple pleasure. But little is understood about the ancient magical mirrors, and there are rumours whispered among the Crows that sometimes the artifact may bring you somewhere you did not expect—the same continent, but not the world you know.
Avis Alternata is a fan-created charity zine celebrating the Antivan Crows across a myriad of alternate universes: modern or medieval, canon-adjacent or canon-breaking, western or science fiction. We welcome human-created art and written fanworks featuring Crow characters in most kinds of AUs.This project is brought to you by Rara Avis Events. Our other projects include Rara Avis: An Antivan Crow Rare Pair Zine and the annual Crow Contracts Exchange.
On Crow Alternate Universes
For the purposes of this zine, we will be seeking art and writing within the following parameters:
At least one primary character must be a canonical Antivan Crow
In pairing-focused works, at least one member of the primary pairing must be a canonical Antivan Crow
To qualify as an Antivan Crow for the above requirements, the character must be an Antivan Crow at some point in canon
while a work in which Taash becomes an Antivan Crow would be more than welcome as an AU, another canon Crow character would need to appear as a primary character.
Example: A work in which Taash becomes a Crow would be welcome as an AU, but another canonical Crow must appear as a primary character.
Rook de Riva or another ORiginal Crow Character do satisfy the canonical Crow character requirements.
Spite does not independently qualify as a canonical Crow character
In AUs where the Crows exist (in their canonical form or otherwise), at least one primary Crow character must remain affiliated with the Crows. In pairing-focused works, this does not have to be the same character from the main pairing.
Example: An AU where Lucanis refuses Caterina's appointment to First Talon and goes on the run is acceptable as-is, but an AU where Illario is a Lord of Fortune and has never been a Crow must also feature another Crow character who is still a Crow, such as Lucanis or Rook de Riva.
AUs in which the Crows do not exist in any form (such as a coffee shop or university AU) are permissible provided they include canonical Crow characters as otherwise set out in these guidelines.
AUs may be set post-canon events, but there must be meaningful divergence in the prior canon events that impacts the post-canon work. Works that simply follow-on or add to canon events without changing anything do not qualify as AUs for this zine.
Canon-divergence AUs are permissible, but the divergence must be central to the plot or readily apparent in the artwork.
Setting change AUs are permissible, but crossover elements must be limited to setting and theme. NPCs and main character from non-Dragon Age media should not feature prominently.
Example: Viago and Teia as Pokemon trainers would be acceptable, but Ash should not be a major character in the work.
Harry Potter AUs will not be accepted.
FAQs
What is an Antivan Crow Alternate Universe?
For the purposes of this zine, AUs must meet the following requirements:
At least one of the primary character must be a canonical Antivan Crow. In pairing-focused works, at least one member of the primary pairing must be a canonical Antivan Crow.
To qualify as an Antivan Crow for the above requirements, the character must be an Antivan Crow at some point in canon.
Original Crow characters, including Rook de Riva, qualify as canonical Crow characters. Spite does not independently qualify as a Crow character.
In AUs where the Crows exist, at least one primary Crow character must remain affiliated with the Crows. AUs where the Crows do not exist must still primarily feature Crow characters.
Setting-change AUs are permissible, but non-Dragon Age characters should have minimal appearances.
In canon-divergent AUs, the divergence must be central to the plot or readily apparent in the artwork.
For more information about qualifying AUs, see the About page.
Can I include non-Crow main characters?
Yes! Your story or artwork can include non-Crow characters in main roles so long as your piece meets the Crow character/pairing requirements otherwise outlined.
What do you mean by "meaningful divergence" from canon?
To qualify for the zine, canon-divergent AUs must feature meaningful divergence from Dragon Age canon. This means that the facts altered from canon should be directly relevant to the plot and/or readily apparent in the artwork, which could include alterations to the setting, events, character roles, or relationships.Works that continue canon events, illustrate canon scenes, or introduce only small, surface-level changes will not qualify as AUs for this zine.If you are unsure whether or not your concept qualifies, reach out to us via email or the contact form before you submit your application.
How were the AU guidelines determined?
Alternate Universe has a broad definition, and while we love that variety, our goal with this zine is to celebrate Dragon Age and the Antivan Crows within an AU framework, not necessarily to celebrate AUs as a broader concept.The guidelines were created with an eye toward allowing creators to explore different AUs while still keeping the content focused on the Antivan Crows.
What if I'm not sure my AU idea is eligible?
Please make sure you've reviewed the full AU parameters, not just the ones here in the FAQ. If you're still uncertain whether your idea qualifies, send us an email or use the contact form on this website. We'll let you know if your idea is in line with our requirements.IMPORTANT: You must do this prior to submitting your application.
What happens if I apply for the zine with an AU idea that isn't eligible?
Applications with pitches that do not follow the guidelines will not be accepted, and you will not have the opportunity to resubmit with a new idea.Please ensure in advance that your pitch is eligible. If you aren't sure, reach out to us via email or the contact form prior to submitting your application. We're happy to answer any questions!
What kinds of contributions will be accepted?
The zine will feature both fanfiction and fanart submissions. Exact specifications will be announced following the interest check.
How will the pitch/submission process work?
Following the interest check, we will release an application form for the zine. Writers and artists will submit pitches for the piece(s) they would like to create as part of their application.More details and guidelines will be shared after completion of the interest check!
My friend and I have a shared AU, can we apply together?
You both are welcome to apply, but your applications will be reviewed independently. We can not guarantee that both of you will be accepted, even if you apply with matching pitches.If your AU involves an OC that belongs to another person, please confirm with that creator that they are okay with your use of their OC, even if they are not applying to or accepted for the zine.Please confirm this prior to submitting your application with this pitch. If they are not okay with your using their OC under these conditions, please submit a different pitch.
How much time will creators have to work on their pieces?
The creation period is currently estimated at approximately four months, with the exact dates to be finalized after completion of the interest check.You can see a tentative schedule here - please note that the timeline may be subject to change, but will be available in its final form prior to contributor applications.
Have a question that is not covered here? Send us an ask on Tumblr, send us an email, or use the contact form.
Contributor Info
General Requirements
Contributors must be 18+ years old.
Explicit material that includes characters under 18 is strictly prohibited.
Explicit non-con material will not be accepted. Works that explore themes of survival, recovery and/or revenge are welcome.
AI-generated content in any form is prohibited.
No whitewashing.
No changing the sexual orientation of canonically queer characters.
No changing canonically trans characters to be cis.
Works should be created originally for this project, not reused, repurposed or reposted. In practical terms, having ideas and notes about your work is fine, but you should not have started the creation process in terms of drafting prior to acceptance into the project.
Works must be created by the individual who was accepted to the project, and no part of the work may be commissioned or otherwise paid for.
Writer Requirements
Create a complete fic between 1,000–5,000 words.
Your story must be able to be read as a standalone piece. Works may involve OCs, or be set in pre-existing worldstates/AUs, but readers should not need to read your 50k longfic to follow the plot.
Fics must be submitted in markdown format.
Artist Requirements
Create at least one full page, colored artwork. Art may be standalone or inspired by a zine writer's story.
Backgrounds are required, but may be minimal or a simple pattern. The background cannot be transparent or a single, solid color.
Exact specifications will be determined and shared with successful applicants.
Schedule
Interest check: May 1 – May 15
Applications open: May 17 – May 31
Mod application review: June 1 - June 14
Contributors Notified: June 15
Writer & Page Artist concepts finalized: June 28
Story artist ranking opens: June 29
Story artist ranking closes: July 5
Matches sent no later than July 7
Writer Check-In (Outlines Due): July 19
Artist Check-In: July 26
Page Artists: Sketches Due
Story Artists: Concepts Finalized
All Roles Check-In: August 30
Writers & Page Artists: 50% point
Story Artists: Sketches Due
Story Artist Check-In (50% point): October 4
All Roles Check-In: November 8
Writers: Full draft complete
Page & Story Artists: Flat color complete
All Final Works Due: November 30
Mods
Exalted-Dawn (Ed)
I was cheese-lured into the Dragon Age fandom some seven years ago and haven’t been able to escape since. I absolutely adore exploring the game’s lore and world-building, and even more so when it’s through the lens of the many unique and inventive original characters this fandom has to offer. I’ve always had a soft spot for the Crows, but with the release of Veilguard, I’ve been truly feasting on a rich tapestry of headcanons, character exploration, and fan content that has been lovingly crafted by the fandom’s creators. You’ve fed me well. I’m excited for the opportunity to feed you well in kind! More Crow content is always a CAWS for celebration.Favorite AUs: Canon Divergent, Arranged Marriage, Mermaid/Pirate, Soulmate
inquisimer (mer)
I face-planted into Dragon Age fandom back in 2021 when my best friend gave me a PowerPoint presentation on Solavellan Hell. I'm an avid lover of Crows, Wardens, and OCs— mine, my friends', and yours! When I'm not rotating my [redacted] number of WIPs, I'm usually planning some kind of fandom event - they're my favorite way to meet new people, and keep the spirit and enthusiasm of Dragon Age fandom alive. I'm excited to be part of bringing this zine to life and can't wait to see what everyone will create!Favorite AUs: Canon Divergence, OC Crossover AUs, Highly specific AUs the author has fun writing
Mossful (Moss)
I fell in love with the world of Dragon Age ever since Origins, and that love not only never stopped, but only grew with each game that came out. The Crows have always been fascinating to me, and the moment I got to meet several of them during the latest game, I knew that was a one-way trip for me.
The Crows were what motivated me to actively interact with the fandom, a little over a year ago, writing and painting and running some events. It has been a joy to meet so many lovely and talented people!Favorite AUs: Any multiple OC crossover AU, Band AU, Knights AU
Wishforhome (Alix)
I’ve been playing Dragon Age games since Origins came out, but only ever dipped my toes into fandom until Veilguard. Now I’m done with lurking, and I’m so passionate about this fandom. We are so fortunate to have so many amazingly talented writers and artists making beautiful things in this space. With this latest game, I’ve become utterly obsessed with the Crows and all the wonderful stories to be found in this world of politics, intrigue and murder-for-hire. I adore AUs, particularly my expansive hockey universe in which Viago is the goaltender for the Antiva City Crows, and I’m so excited to see what everyone else brings to this zine.Favourite AUs: Hockey AU, Band AU, Knight AU, Companion!Viago AU
Contact
Interest Check
The interest check is now closed.
Application
Application Guidelines
Review these guidelines as you choose the samples and concepts you'd like to include in your application! Specific instructions are included in the application form.
The application will ask for:
Creator Info (name, contact info, etc.)
Creator Role Interest (solo/co-creation, story/page art, cover artist, etc.)
Code of Conduct Acknowledgement
1 - 2 Pitch Concepts (see below)
Art or Writing Samples (see below)
Make sure that your Crow AU meets the Project Guidelines BEFORE you apply!
If you are in any way unsure if your AU qualifies, send us an ask on tumblr, email [email protected] or use our contact form before you apply! Applications with ineligible AUs will not be considered.
Be detailed when describing your pitch concepts.
This project prioritizes balanced representation of AU types! As you may have seen from our interest check results, a lot of creators are interested in similar concepts. Make sure your pitch concept highlights the unique details of your idea - when in doubt, more information is better!
Co-Creation vs. Story Art Collaboration
Co-Creation: Two individuals collaborating in the same medium to create a single work within zine guidelines. Examples: two writers create a single 5k fic, or two artists create a single-page comic.Story Art Collaboration: An artist/writer pairing where the artist creates a full page illustration inspired by the writer's fic.You may apply either as a co-creator team OR a solo creator - not both. If you are interested in creating story art, or having your story illustrated, please apply as a solo creator. Matches will be facilitated after the contributor team is finalized.
Works must be created originally for this project, not reused, repurposed, or reposted.
It is okay to pitch concepts that use existing OCs, world states, or series, as long as your zine concept is a standalone concept. It is also okay to have pre-existing notes, or to pitch an idea that you have been noodling on for a while.You should not have started the creation process in earnest prior to acceptance into the zine.
If you have any questions about the application process, your AU concept, or anything else, send us an ask, email [email protected] or use the contact form!
Writer-Specific Guidelines
Samples of all ratings are allowed. Three samples are required.
All samples should be from the Dragon Age franchise.
At least one sample should be a completed one-shot fic with a word count between 1000 - 5000 words. The other two samples may be excerpts from a longer work.
At least one sample should have an Antivan Crow character in a major role. Preferably a main character from one of your pitched concepts, but this is not required.
Samples do not have to be published. Make sure that the share settings on your document allow the work(s) to be viewed by anyone with the link.
A portfolio link (such as your AO3 profile) is highly encouraged but not required.
Writer Pitch Concepts ask for:
Writers will be accepted to create one (1) piece for the zine.
Estimated word count (non-binding; it is okay if the completed work ends up with more or less words, within zine guidelines)
Expected rating
Whether the work will be generic, platonic, or ship/romance focused
Primary Character(s) and Pairing(s)
Description of the AU
Be as detailed as possible - the more info, the better! We are looking for a diverse representation of AUs, so tell us what makes your concept unique and distinct from other AUs of the same type.For canon-divergent AUs, please clearly describe the aspect(s) of canon divergence.
Story Art Interest (story art cannot be guaranteed for any writer and will depend on the number of accepted story artist applications)
Artist-Specific Guidelines
Samples of all ratings are allowed. Three samples are required.
All samples should be from the Dragon Age franchise.
Samples in the style you intend to create for the zine are preferred. If you're applying with a comic concept, show us comics you've created before!
At least two (2) samples should be fully colored with a background. Simple backgrounds (anything more detailed than solid color) are allowed.
At least one (1) sample must include an Antivan Crow character. Preferably a main character from one of your pitched concepts, but this is not required.
Samples do not need to be published/shared, but the application does not support direct file uploads. A link from gDrive, Squidge, or another hosting platform is acceptable.
A portfolio link is highly encouraged, but not required.
Artist Pitch Concepts ask for:
Writers will be accepted to create one (1) piece for the zine.
Artists may be accepted to create up to two (2) pieces: an independent concept + a story illustration, two independent concepts, or two story illustrations.
The cover artist will create two (2) full page illustrations. Cover art cannot be explicit, and pitched concepts should represent the theme of Antivan Crow AUs more generally.
Due to the cover art concept limitations, the cover artist may be allowed to create an additional interior page art with a more specific concept, if they wish.
Be as detailed as possible - the more info, the better! We are looking for a diverse representation of AUs, so tell us what makes your concept unique and distinct from other AUs of the same type.For canon-divergent AUs, please clearly describe the aspect(s) of canon divergence.
Optional: a thumbnail sketch of your concept
Other Artist info:
Artists may be accepted to create up to two (2) pieces: an independent concept + a story illustration, two independent concepts, or two story illustrations.
The cover artist will create two (2) full page illustrations. Cover art cannot be explicit, and pitched concepts should represent the theme of Antivan Crow AUs more generally.
Due to the cover art concept limitations, the cover artist may be allowed to create an additional interior page art with a more specific concept, if they wish.