#and the progression of the character and dynamics between the Trio

[teafiend]

All gifs credited to @Nungchae (Twitter/X)

The LIGHTING. She was just so, so gorgeous in each and every shot 🤍🖤💙❤️‍🔥❤️ And the softness and concern in her expressions 🥹🥹🥹 Ep 10 Kang Gil Young was another layer of subtlety.

[caviarsonoro]

GoGo Penguin - Hopopono (Official Video) [Gondwana Records]

"Hopopono" is a track that encapsulates the essence of GoGo Penguin's distinctive sound—a British trio that has redefined the boundaries of contemporary jazz by blending it with electronic and minimalist influences. This track, taken from their album v2.0, presents itself as a hypnotic and emotionally resonant sonic experience, brimming with dynamism and precision.

At the core of the piece lies the impeccable interaction between the three members of the trio. Chris Illingworth, on piano, develops cyclical melodic patterns that balance simplicity with depth. His performance is precise and evocative, acting as the backbone of the piece. Nick Blacka, on double bass, provides a rich and pulsing rhythmic foundation, often taking on a melodic role of its own, creating a fascinating dialogue with the piano. Meanwhile, Rob Turner, on drums, delivers an almost electronic approach, with rhythms reminiscent of glitch and breakbeat, giving the track a uniquely contemporary energy.

"Hopopono" stands out for its progressive structure. As it unfolds, the track grows in intensity without ever losing its meditative character. The minimalist elements of repetition and gradual variation evoke the music of composers like Steve Reich, while the rhythmic energy and precision recall electronic artists such as Aphex Twin. This balance between the organic and the digital is one of the trio's greatest achievements and is brilliantly showcased in this piece.

The atmosphere of "Hopopono" is both introspective and vibrant. The combination of textures creates a sense of constant motion, like a river flowing uninterruptedly, inviting the listener to immerse themselves in its layers. It is a track that is not only heard but experienced, connecting with emotions and challenging the expectations of traditional jazz.

[class1akids]

How do you feel about the rivalries through the series? Deku & Bakugo then Todoroki & Bakugo?

Actually, I kind of cringe from the classical shonen rivalries of the "I'll beat you next time - no I'll beat you next time" kind, so I'm quite glad that Hori spends relatively little time with that kind of interaction.

For me, the dynamics of the Origin Trio is more interesting in the sense of how the characters impact each other and how the different storylines parallel and intersect.

Deku's and Bakugou's relationship is obviously at the emotional core of the manga - and I enjoyed it to a great degree - especially in Act 1 and 2, when it was its most dynamic and turbulent. The stretch between the Midterm Exams to the Endeavor internship arc where so much of the growth happens kind of between the lines was my favourite time in terms of meta and analysis.

I think for me the relationship peaked with Bakugou's apology, though I'm curious where Horikoshi is going now with Deku's lost quirk (and no doubt soon returning feelings of quirklessness) and Katsuki's personal growth. I do have a feeling that we are heading into a DvK3 that will help Izuku regain his power. But for me, the most interesting thing would be if Izuku's POV also came back more forcefully into the narrative as so much of it focused on Bakugou since DvK2.

We had a great run with Todoroki and Bakugou - obviously it's one of my favourite dynamics in the whole story. I feel like they've come so far: from two antagonistic, loner jerks, they have grown into besties who trust each other without a question. I think because Todoroki spent so much time with Bakugou during their "growth stage", he's one of the people in the class who accepted very quickly and naturally how much he changed. I think he's also been one of the people who really wholeheartedly rooted for Bakugou and Deku to fix their relationship.

And Bakugou obviously went through quite a learning / growth curve understanding Shouto's family issues and the abuse he's suffered - and also how that whole mess parallels a bit his own relationship with Deku. He has been very supportive of Shouto progressively in this area.

And of course the fact that they both stan Izuku is an added bond for them - they both trust the other not just to support each other, but to be there for Deku no matter what.

I don't think there is much else to do or resolve with their relationship - if anything we may get some more fun moments or we may get Bakugou's perspective on any further Todofam mess. But yeah, they are in good shape.

I feel like the Todo-Izu side may get an extra push in the epilogue if it will focus on the "save the villains" theme as they are both part of that narrative. But like Shouto has been the biggest Deku-stan since the Sport Festival, and I don't think anything will ever change that.

[aeruthien]

Basically continuously during this campaign posts have popped up about BH's not talking as much as the Mighty Nein, or the relationships not having as much depth.

And while this may be due to the plot structure or the character dynamics, I think it is easy to underestimate just how much the increase from an (average) of 6, to a 7 and now 8 player group has on the 'screentime' of individual pairings (pairing as in literally two people, not a relationship pairing).

So here is a mathematical breakdown of exactly that. The results might shock you!

Let's focus on the unique one-on-one pairings, so for example Chetney and Laudna, or Caleb and Beau, and limit us to PCs. I'll ignore trios and more because those get even more complicated, and the same principle applies.

Let's say that an average episodes takes 4 hours, and about half of it is dedicated to interaction between characters instead of combat, plot related stuff, etc, so about 120 minutes. These numbers are all arbitrary because it is all relative, but an example makes it easier to interpret. Let's also say for the sake of simplicity that each pairing gets allotted the same amount of screentime on average over all episodes.

The M9 had 6 PCs for most of the campaign. This means that there are 5+4+3+2+1= 15 unique pairings. If each pairing gets an equal amount of dedicated screentime, each pairing has 120/15=8 minutes of screentime.

Now take BHs. They usually had 7 PCs which means there are 6+5+4+3+2+1=21 unique pairings. Each has 120/21= 5.7 minutes of screentime.

So for each episode, each pairing of the BH has 2.3 minutes less than or about 70% of the screentime of a pairing in the M9, just because of the number of players.

So what does this mean?

If BH's pairings only have 70% of the M9s screentime, this means that for each M9 epsiode, BHs need 1,4 episode to reach the same amount for each pairing. Reversely, the amount of screentime that the BHs reach at say episode 100, is reached by the M9 as early as episode 70.

So in other words, in the 100 episode we've had of BHs, they've had the same amount of screentime as the Mighty Nein at episode 70.

So while it is true that BH don't talk as much, they also have literally less time to have one-on-one conversations.

Now with Robbie, the party has increased to 8, which gives us 7+...+1=28 unique pairings, which is almost double of the M9. (28 / 15 =1.86). So we need 2 BHs episode for each M9 episode.

Now of course, an episode needs to do more than just people talking to each other: the plot has to progress; plans have to be made; shenanigans have to ensue. But because the run time is limited, this only detracts from the time for individual pairings.

So while discussing BHs interactions, keep in mind that while there is only an increase of 2 players, that means we have twice as much pairings to deal with, and so half as much time for each of them to talk.

(For those curious, if we look at trios, so let's say, Veth-Fjord-Jester or Orym-Dorian-Fearne, it goes from 20 unique combinations for a 6 player party, to 56 unique combinations for a 8 people party. Yeah.)

[moutheyes]

time for some random thoughts!

I'm finishing three series this week—Miseinen, See Your Love, and Caged Again—and plan on doing a separate post for them, so this is just a space to get some thoughts down. I am looking forward to the Ossan's Love Thailand premiere tonight but will have zero brain cells online for the entire duration of the show. 👍

The YothaGun storyline in Perfect 10 Liners is hitting the spot, and PerthSanta are a big reason why.

If you asked me about anything that happened in the ArmArc part of the series, I wouldn't be able to tell you even though I technically watched all of it. Thankfully, the YothaGun section has me in a chokehold so far. The grumpy/sunshine dynamic is so strong, and Perth (Yotha) and Santa (Gun) are able to elevate the trope to something genuinely engaging, thanks to both their individual charm and their chemistry. I love how quickly Yotha warmed up to Gun, and how little he seems to be fighting against his feelings even if he's still awkward about being Seen; I also love how Gun's initial fascination with Yotha's personality seeded his growing attraction and romantic interest. The progression of their relationship feels natural, feels good to my sensibilities as a viewer.

Also, the little flashes of physical flirting, which Perth has always been so good at, have me vibrating out of my seat. You can just tell that Yotha knows how to reel someone in and make them feel wanted (it's his tactic at the bar, after all), and that makes me anticipate how good this couple will be when they finally put their hands and mouths on each other.

Last thing about this show: One of my favorite things in BL is a silly little ritual—the more mundane the better—and every time Gun happily does up Yotha's tie in the morning, and Yotha gazes at him with that fond quirk to his mouth, it hits so good. It's such a simple act, so domestic, so fitting for them (Gun wants to be helpful and friendly, and Yotha wants to be close to Gun), and until the scene in yesterday's episode, it was kept private between them, so performing the ritual on campus, in front of Gun's friends, was a great way to show just how comfortable they are with each other now, even if others don't understand their relationship yet.

Emi and Bonnie are probably going to ruin my life in Us the Series.

Man, that sobbing apology in the trailer got me good. I was already fully seated for this series but it must be reiterated that Emi and Bonnie look so good together. If the storytelling doesn't go off the rails (I think I can trust p'Fon and her team?) then I am ready to be fully consumed. May Sapphic Saturdays long continue!

The Boy Next World premiere was solid.

Is this considered a slow-burn for MAME? Only half-kidding, but the first episode was... nice. I'm not sure who the director is, but the style feels a bit different. It suits the mysterious, dreamlike quality of the storyline so far; I adored the moody blue lighting in Cir's apartment when he first returned home. Noeul is still channeling ADHD gremlin energy with the scatterbrained behavior, but Phu feels more childlike than Rain from Love in the Air. (I think it's the superstition?) However, I am really enjoying seeing Boss play a softer, less edgy character in Cir. Obviously their chemistry is going to be fire, so I just hope the series can continue building off its premiere. Also, I wanna know more about Jin specifically lol.

Petrichor has been really uneven, and I'm sad about it.

Love Tul, love the way Engfa plays Tul, love Tul's little work trio, but this show isn't keeping me on tenterhooks the way I want it to, even though so much shit happens in every single episode. The big reveal in Episode 6 felt shoehorned in, and the police corruption theme is well-trod territory; yes, characters like Big Tech and Daensiam are imminently punchable, but they don't feel like true foils for Tul, and the Real Killer was kept very well hidden up to this point, so even though there's a sense of danger, there isn't enough of the tension that I want from a crime thriller. Also, Thiwa has been woefully underused as a character so far. I'll stick this one out but I hope we reach a breaking point in the plot soon.

[zorya-reads]

Princess in Practice | Book Review.

The Rosewood Chronicles, Book Two

Let me just start by saying, I devoured this book in four sittings—similar to the first one, Undercover Princess. That’s right, folks, this series is the cure for the dreaded reading slump. If it’s not obvious due to it being a pretty light read, but for me, this was perfect to end the days crammed with stress and studies.

I’ll admit, I approached Undercover Princess with expectations so low, that they were practically burrowing underground: This was confirmed by the first two-thirds of the book. The prequel, however, helped me warm up to the characters, who felt more like old friends than cardboard cutouts this time around (Don't get me wrong! They're still cardboards, but we're making slight improvements). The prequel seemed to have matured a bit more than what we had with Undercover Princess, which was way more :sparkles_sparkles: and Barbie-charm school. (Not that this isn’t still the case. Oh God.)

Characters

I was surprised by how clear the internal conflicts are from Jamie’s and Ellie’s side, which I didn’t remember during my initial read at the age of seven. I loved seeing how Ellie’s insecurities were showing through sometimes.  But especially Jamie’s character managed to keep me at the edge of the page countless times: I often found myself unsure of how he would react to various situations, creating a sort of puzzle-solving experience, trying to piece together the pieces of his personality. To me, this created a sort of parallel between the character and me as a reader, as it effectively mirrored Lottie’s perspective. She, too, is constantly trying to figure Jamie out, and her uncertainty allowed me to share in her confusion and curiosity. With this in mind, I adored the Jamie-and-Lottie side of the triangle, which had the most screen time and exploration this time around. (Revisiting their dynamic totally reminded me why my seven-year-old self shipped them. LOL) However, the focus on Jamie and Lottie came at the expense of Ellie and Lottie’s relationship, which felt underdeveloped in this book (or just cringe and rushed), and I especially wish that we had more of Ellie here. 

Aside from our charming trio: While I’ve started to appreciate the characters, they’re still flatter than a pancake. Most characters are plot devices, and it’s painfully obvious with Lola, Mickey, and the newly introduced character, Percy (oh wow, Percy’s important later? Groundbreaking!). Fingers crossed for some actual internal conflicts and growth because right now, they’re all vibes, no substance.

Plot, Themes

Another thing that surprised me, especially given my lack of prior knowledge and very very low expectations, was how it revisited and intricately wove scenes from the first book. These moments, which previously felt incomplete or unclear, began to make sense with the new information we gained, resolving many of the questions I had lingering after book one.  This finally convinced me that the series was carefully constructed as a whole rather than just an arbitrary extension of the first book—something I had strongly doubted back then. (Is it too obvious that I wasn’t a fan of the writing in the first book? Oops.) The theme of family, which is central to the narrative, was executed particularly well in both parts one and two: My favourite scene was the Halloween party, where the author brilliantly blended the fun, energy, and passage of time with the growing danger that shadows the story … candy, sweets and chocolate. :D The holiday spirit created a perfect backdrop for a shift in tone, and when Binah suggests a séance, to progress the subplot, it fits amazingly. Lottie and the gang sneaking off to perform was amazing to showcase Lottie’s disregard for her duty as well—tied in beautifully with the family theme. It was a chef’s kiss moment for me, truly! However, as much as I enjoyed the first two parts, the exploration of Lottie’s past, which climaxes in part two, loses momentum in part three. Here, I felt there was missed potential. For example, the opportunity to delve deeper into Lola and Mickey’s father to explore Lottie’s emotional aftermath, was largely overlooked. This left the resolution feeling incomplete.

minor pet peeve

Speaking of wasted potential, I’m still fuming over how chapters 34 and 35 weren’t expanded on. These chapters could have served as a major continuation of the book’s opening. I was genuinely interested in the looming threat to Lottie’s identity being exposed and how that would be resolved, especially given the underlying tension with Ollie. They didn’t even properly address it during their encounter from earlier in the book, which left this plotline badly. (And considering the underlying family theme it makes zero sense to not explore this further????) And don’t even get me started on Jamie and Lottie’s concerns about leaving Ellie unattended. Jamie’s dilemma, in particular, was practically begging for a few more pages, yet it barely got any attention. While the scene itself was intriguing, its placement immediately before another field trip completely disrupted the pacing, making it feel out of place. In fact, you could have removed the entire Ollie plotline from the book, and nothing would have changed. Personally, I’m still grateful for it—just a little—but I really, really, REALLY hope it gets the attention it deserves in the following books. Because as it stands, this was just not it.

Personal Thoughts

A personal revelation I found interesting was how wildly inaccurate my memory of the book was upon rereading it. Take the Lollie kiss scene, for instance. I vividly remember it happening because—apparently—both were poisoned, and while Ingrid was present, leading to the awkward aftermath. Honestly, I have NO FUCKING IDEA how my 7-year-old self managed to comprehend it that way. My best guess is that when I first read it with my mom, we got through only part of the book before stopping, and because we were reading at a much slower pace than I would’ve on my own, I likely grew bored with the story — I distinctly recall hating the whole Leviathan aspect. (Still do, Still do. My new most favourite evil evil idiot evil corp.) So, I probably sped through the rest of the book just to get it over with, which would also explain why I don't remember anything about the third book. Rereading it almost a decade later, however, really allowed me the space to understand the story more. It’s funny how much context and nuance can get lost on a younger reader, and how much more can be appreciated with time … or by actually READING than skimming.

I watched some of the promotional material for the books, and honestly, you can feel how much Glynn adores her characters and the world she’s built. (I mean, she was a boarding school student, so that checks out. But even then, Lottie gives off major self-insert vibes, doesn’t she?) However, it’s still evident that the book deal happened because of her YouTube platform, not because of her penmanship. And, yeah, that shows.

And while the writing is "questionable at times," I’ve somehow started having fun with it—though mostly in an “aww, look at my very naive younger self” kind of way—not taking it seriously at all. And on that level? It works. It’s ridiculous, addictive, and a total blast, so yeah, I’ll definitely be sticking around until book five.

Considering how surprised I was by a spoiler/twist I recently stumbled upon regarding book three, I’m pretty sure I’ll be going into the next book of the series completely blind. But I’m super excited about it, and can't wait to see where the story takes me next. *wink wink*

✧ Read All Chapter Reactions

[einsatzzz]

• What plot points would change due to the inclusion of your character in canon?

• What headcanons/theories do you believe fandom would invent about your character?

• What feelings does your character most often instill in their fans? Affection? A desire to protect? Open lust? A love/hate dynamic? Why do you think their fans feel this way?

• How does fandom characterize/mischaracterize your characters ship in fanworks?

• What is the quote between your character and their love interest/whoever they might be shipped with that their fans would latch onto?

I know this is a lot, but for Kana  & or Kurumi,   😭

Thank you for sending this Jojo!!! I don't mind being sent a lot of OC asks, don't worry hehehe (I can just get very slow jdsbfhsdvfhsdf like right now with this one ueueueue) I love yapping about my bebeghurls the most 🫶🥰💖✨😆🤣

What plot points would change due to the inclusion of your character in canon?

I already mentioned some here but here's more for you 🫶🫶🫶

With Kurumi's inclusion:

Tsuna gets to have another friend and support added to his circle 🥹✨(well maybe I should say two friends, because Kurumi usually has Yui in tow with her)

Lambo gets to have another onee-chan too! Their dynamic is very funny and cute.

She'll often be seen as a trio with Kyoko and Haru. I guess the perceived love triangle(?) with Tsuna at the center may upgrade to a some kind of love square lmao

With Kana's inclusion:

Tsuna, Lambo and Mukuro get to have another person beefing against them. Thankfully, Tsuna and Lambo are both under Kurumi's divine protection.

Hibari and Gokudera get to have another person they can beef against. There will be a new committee as well.

Yamamoto successfully wins over and befriends another swordsman who will train him. It's a W that he deserves.

What headcanons/theories do you believe fandom would invent about your character?

Kurumi:

Because she's a "good" character, I feel like it's only natural that there will be people with headcanons or theories that depict her as the opposite.

Another reasonable fandom theory I can think of is that her character will develop into someone similar to Rinko (her 1st Generation equivalent).

Kana:

There will be theories that Kana will either go through character development (into a better person) or character regression (into a worse person) as we progress through the story. There will also be arguments that it's a death flag if she goes and develops into a better person.

There will be people making headcanons that since Kurumi is shit at cooking, then maybe the opposite is true for Kana.

KanaRumi: I have a theory for the shipping fandom in general as well, derived from an amusing thing I read from a shoujo-series fandom I can't remember right now. They'll be forced to romantically ship Kana with the nearest character they can personally ship her with to fight off the incest shippers 🤣😭🤣😭 jdsfbhsdvfsh Sorry, both Sou and I have been in the Gen/shin fandom (and other various ones b4 that), and we both agree that if KHRe had a fandom, there would be this small subset of romantic shippers for the twins 🗿🗿🗿🗿

What feelings does your character most often instill in their fans? Affection? A desire to protect? Open lust? A love/hate dynamic? Why do you think their fans feel this way?

Kurumi: For Kurumi, I feel like there will be a lot of people who will feel affection for her. This is because I think a good amount of people may even see her as someone relatable, because of her efforts and struggles with expressing herself. Another would be a desire to protect her, even if they know that Kurumi is strong.

Kana: I can see a love/hate dynamic for this one. I feel like she's the type of character who will both have dedicated fans (who may woobify her too much) and dedicated haters (who may vilify her too much). There will be a lot of discourse related to her. TsunaRumi shippers might feel frustrated with her for always trying to cockblock their ship, while TsunaRumi antis celebrate her as their champion.

How does fandom characterize/mischaracterize your characters ship in fanworks?

Kurumi: In terms of ships, I feel like there would be depictions of her having this intense & bitter rivalry vs the other characters Tsuna is shipped with. But the truth is that her biggest enemy & rival is own self and personal struggles sjdvfhsdvg

Kana: I already answered for her here!

With the modern fandom environment right now, I feel like there would be way less of those "hating on a fem character because they're in the way of their ship" type of problem. Especially since the twins' genders are pretty vague (esp Kana with masc clothes) and they run the risk of being one of those people that would often be listed in DNIs shfshvfgsdvf I feel like they're more likely to just treat the "third-wheel" fem character as an accessory now, from what I've observed.

What is the quote between your character and their love interest/whoever they might be shipped with that their fans would latch onto?

I just realized the question didn't specify whether it's "latching onto (happily and excitedly, we're so back!)" or "latching onto (despairingly, it's joever...)" or "latching onto (in copium/hopium)". Suddenly, I have a few more lines I can think of on the spot (not a guarantee it will be in the story but still--- hehehe)

Kurumi: "I'm sorry...You're so bright sometimes, I just couldn't face you"

Kana: I already answered here! But another one I can think of is: "It's almost impressive...to be able to follow me even to this place. But this really is the end of the line."

[inspector-montoya-fox]

I want to rewrite/ share my thoughts on this post because honestly what the fuck did I know at the age of 20? The title was a bit overdramatic, I wouldn't go so far as to brand the series misogynistic per se, but admittedly some of its less progressive moments reserved for the female characters really have me questioning if Sucker Punch had their best interest in mind. There are only 7 of them: Carmelita, Penelope, Neyla, Mz Ruby, the Contessa, Henriette, and if we're being extremely generous, Jing King. Also worth noting that out of the 65 guards only 3 are female. That's what I call equal opportunity! I think the main argument lies in whether or not the girlboss moments outweigh the... not very girlboss moments.

Carmelita's development, not only as a character but as a woman, throughout the series is the primary point of discussion here. In Sly 1, she's mainly seen as a foil to Sly's plans, which attaches her to 3 kinda harmful notions. Firstly, the 'woman who has no chill is out to spoil the boys' fun' trope. Secondly, the fact that a high ranking Interpol officer is unable to put 2 + 2 together and see the bigger picture while chasing Sly, who is desperately trying to show her that he's not the mastermind behind the Mesa City casino or the firework factory or the evil volcano lair. It makes it seem like she's not good at her job and lowkey stupid. Thirdly, her appearances are opportunities for Sly to flirt with her. Kind of a thin line here between developing their relationship and Carmelita 100% not reciprocating the flirt. The dynamic being presented is 'goofy guy has crush on serious boss lady' but if we're being a bit realistic, it can also be received as Sly not taking this female law officer seriously.

In Sly 2 and 3, her role transgresses these stereotypes because she's given more depth: her professional relationship with Neyla, her downfall and her conversation with Sly in the helicopter all transform her into a multifaceted character. That last one also shows that, even though she wasn't reciprocating the flirting in Sly 1, she enjoys Sly's company and wants to be with him too. And when she becomes playable in Sly 3, the idea that she's the most powerful character in the series is fully realised. Her move set - mega jump and shock pistol - as well as the fact that her segments are reserved for the bigger threats serve to prove that she is the ultimate force to be reckoned with.

Penelope suffers from having the opposite trajectory. Flight of Fancy and its display of gender commentary is such a strong start for her character but all of that is immediately thrown into the garbage for the sake of turning her into yet another love interest. She's better at hacking than Bentley and can fistfight on a moving plane but instead of allowing her to be one of the boys, she's reduced to Bentley's crush and made a hostage twice. I think this is why it took me so long to understand her character. Because there's this really abrupt switch after her introduction which dilutes all her best parts, mainly how she's a tomboy who couldn't give less of a fuck.

When I was re-reading that original post, I was thinking that maybe I was a bit harsh but then realised the main point I had failed to convey was that... well, there's no nice way to put this but, the series is a product of the male gaze, exclusively. Yes. The protagonist is narrating his own story alongside his two buddies, so the entire world of Sly Cooper, as we know it, revolves around his own understanding of everything, including his perception of women. There is a lot of flirting and a lot of damsel in distress-ing, and these reflect on Sly's character. With the exception of Henriette, all the female characters are treated to either of the two, if not both: the main trio (Carmelita, Penelope & Neyla) are pigeonholed into the role of love interests, the former two also needing to be rescued, whereas Mz Ruby and the Contessa are met with flirty chit-chat from Sly (and I don't want to hear any bullshit that this is not the case again. If Sly handles the female villains with a more suave, teasing attitude as opposed to their male counterparts, guess what that means). And then there's the case of A Cold Alliance, which yay! anti-arranged marriage rhetoric and female empowerment by having the gang absolutely destroy Tsao, a total misogynist scum of the planet. Surely this harrowing experience must've had dire consequences on Jing King... oh wait. Sorry I forgot that Tsao's victim, the character whose rescue mission is the central plot of the entire episode, is not given a face and speaks only 2 lines of dialogue in favour of the pain her father has to go through... Isn't this kinda counterproductive?

I feel like, in closing, I have to reiterate that I don't think the series is misogynistic. Let's make that clear. I just think it's a bit 'one step forwards, two steps back' because its brand of feminism as well as its depiction of femininity are similar to the one in Marvel movies or Katy Perry's 'Woman's World'. Birthed by the male gaze, basically. A woman doesn't have to mega-jump and have a shock pistol to be a "girlboss", however. And, even though the majority of female characters are depicted to have established careers, it doesn't help that they have to have their gender brought up in some capacity. Anyway, I was going to close off by asking you to imagine a game where the developers have Carmelita wear a miniskirt but fuck that. Power to women.

[jasminewalkerauthor]

Trope chats: the core trio

The "core trio" is one of the most recognizable and enduring character group dynamics in fiction, frequently seen across genres ranging from fantasy and science fiction to coming-of-age stories and adventure novels. This trope revolves around three characters who form a central team, often embodying complementary skills, personalities, and perspectives. The core trio offers a flexible structure for storytelling, allowing for a balance of conflict, cooperation, and character development. It also serves as a microcosm of social dynamics, symbolizing friendship, diversity of thought, and the idea that different strengths are necessary to achieve common goals. However, the trope also comes with narrative risks, such as predictability, over-reliance on established archetypes, and the potential for underdeveloping one or more characters.

This essay will explore the core trio trope as a literary device, examine its common pitfalls, delve into its societal influence, and outline the typical archetypes that tend to form this dynamic.

The primary strength of the core trio lies in its ability to create balance within a narrative. By distributing different traits and abilities among the three characters, the trio often becomes stronger as a unit than as individuals. For example, in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, the trio of Harry, Hermione, and Ron exemplifies this dynamic. Harry is brave but often impulsive, Hermione is the intellectual and planner, while Ron provides emotional support and loyalty. Their different strengths are essential to overcoming the challenges they face, and the trio dynamic allows for varied interactions and conflicts that drive the plot forward.

In terms of storytelling, this balance provides flexibility. Each character in the trio can take turns leading, depending on the situation. For example, Hermione's intelligence saves the group in academic or puzzle-based challenges, while Harry's bravery leads them through dangerous confrontations. Ron’s emotional insight often helps resolve interpersonal tensions or find the human element in complex situations. This variety prevents the narrative from becoming monotonous or overly reliant on a single protagonist, enriching both plot progression and character development.

Furthermore, the trio allows for a more layered exploration of themes, as the characters can embody different facets of a central idea or thematic question. In The Hunger Games, the core trio of Katniss, Peeta, and Gale explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and resistance, with each character offering a different perspective on how to navigate the dystopian world they inhabit. Katniss represents a pragmatic, survival-oriented outlook; Peeta brings empathy and a moral compass; Gale embodies a more revolutionary, aggressive approach. The tension and interaction between these perspectives create depth and complexity in the narrative's exploration of rebellion and justice.

Another major use of the core trio trope is that it serves as a microcosm for social groups or even society as a whole. The diversity within the trio often represents a broader spectrum of human experience, allowing authors to explore questions about unity, difference, and teamwork. Trilogies like J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series use their core trios to symbolize the idea that collective strength arises from diversity—whether it's diversity of thought, background, or capability.

In many instances, the trio dynamic underscores the idea that no one individual can succeed alone, highlighting the importance of collaboration and interdependence. This is a particularly valuable theme in genres such as fantasy or science fiction, where the trio often faces larger-than-life challenges. In such stories, the unity of the trio becomes a metaphor for societal cooperation, with the group’s success symbolizing how different kinds of people, ideas, or skills are needed to face complex or insurmountable odds.

The core trio often draws from a set of common archetypes, which serve to maximize the contrast between the characters’ personalities and roles. While these archetypes vary depending on the genre, certain patterns recur in many of the most iconic trios. Below are some of the most frequent archetypes found within core trios.

The leader or hero archetype typically holds the spotlight and is central to the story's main conflict or journey. This character is often the most proactive, tasked with making the major decisions, and carries the weight of responsibility for the group. Examples include Harry Potter (Harry Potter), Frodo Baggins (The Lord of the Rings), and Katniss Everdeen (The Hunger Games).

The hero tends to be morally complex or flawed in some way, as this helps humanize their character. Harry struggles with feelings of inadequacy and destiny, Frodo is weighed down by the burden of the One Ring, and Katniss wrestles with her role as a symbol of rebellion. While they are the focal point of their respective narratives, they often rely on the support of their companions to navigate the emotional and physical challenges they face.

The intellectual or strategist is the problem solver of the trio, typically using logic, reason, and knowledge to overcome obstacles. This character’s main role is to think ahead, analyze situations, and provide the brains behind the trio’s operations. Hermione Granger (Harry Potter) and Annabeth Chase (Percy Jackson) are archetypal examples of this type. Both characters are known for their intelligence and resourcefulness, often formulating plans that keep their companions out of danger.

The intellectual can also be more emotionally detached or socially awkward, often contrasting with the more action-oriented or emotionally-driven members of the trio. This dynamic creates tension but also emphasizes the value of diverse approaches to problem-solving, reinforcing the theme of collaboration.

The third archetype typically fulfills the role of "the heart" or the emotional anchor of the group. This character offers loyalty, emotional support, and a grounding force to balance out the more extreme traits of the leader and the intellectual. Ron Weasley (Harry Potter), Samwise Gamgee (The Lord of the Rings), and Simon Lewis (The Mortal Instruments) all serve as emotional anchors in their respective trios.

This character also often provides comic relief, softening the tension in difficult situations. Though they may initially seem less crucial to the group’s success, their emotional resilience and loyalty often become central in moments of crisis, demonstrating that heart and emotional intelligence are just as important as bravery or intellect.

These archetypes—leader, intellectual, and heart—allow for a complementary distribution of skills and personality traits, creating narrative balance and giving each character distinct strengths. While these archetypes are common, effective trios typically subvert or deepen them over time, adding complexity to the relationships and individual arcs.

One of the major pitfalls of the core trio trope is predictability. Because this structure is so prevalent in fiction, audiences may come to expect certain roles and dynamics within a trio, which can lead to a lack of narrative tension or surprise. For example, if readers know that one member of the trio is the "leader" and another is the "heart," they may anticipate the ways in which these characters will interact or solve problems, diminishing the emotional impact of the story.

Additionally, trios can sometimes fall into the trap of stereotyping, especially when archetypes are rigidly adhered to without room for development or subversion. For instance, the "intellectual" character might be reduced to a walking encyclopedia, with little emotional depth, while the "heart" character is relegated to comic relief without meaningful contribution to the plot. This flattening of characters can make them feel more like plot devices than fully realized individuals.

A related issue is the potential for unequal character development within the trio. Oftentimes, one or two characters receive the majority of the narrative focus, while the third is left underdeveloped. This is particularly common when one character, typically the "leader," dominates the story. For example, in some interpretations of The Hunger Games, critics have pointed out that Gale is often sidelined in favor of Katniss and Peeta’s emotional arc, making him feel less integral to the core trio, despite his thematic importance.

If the trio becomes imbalanced in terms of development, it can weaken the group dynamic and lead to a lopsided narrative, where certain characters feel more like sidekicks than equals. The challenge for authors is to ensure that each member of the trio is given sufficient depth and agency, so that their contributions feel equally valuable.

Another potential pitfall is over-reliance on the group dynamic, which can limit individual character growth. When a trio is defined primarily by how the characters relate to each other, their personal arcs may suffer. The characters become so intertwined in their roles within the group that they fail to develop independently. This issue is common in long-running series, where the trio becomes a narrative crutch, leading to repetitive group interactions and limiting the possibility for solo character arcs.

For example, in some long-running television series, the core trio remains static in their relationship to one another, even as the plot moves forward. The lack of individual growth can make the trio feel stagnant and unchallenged, reducing the emotional stakes of the story.

The core trio trope often reflects broader societal structures, particularly around the themes of collaboration, diversity, and unity. The trio dynamic frequently symbolizes the idea that different perspectives and skills are necessary to achieve success, offering a counterpoint to narratives that glorify the lone hero. This reflects a societal shift toward valuing teamwork and interdependence over individualism, mirroring real-world trends in workplaces, education, and social groups, where collaborative efforts are increasingly prized.

The trio's emphasis on unity through diversity also has a social resonance, particularly in contemporary fiction that seeks to challenge monolithic or exclusionary representations of heroism. Diverse trios, whether through differences in gender, race, or background, embody the idea that strength comes from multiple viewpoints. In this way, the core trio trope can challenge societal norms around leadership, heroism, and cooperation, offering a model for how communities can work together despite differences.

The trio often functions as a symbolic representation of balance and harmony. In many narratives, the trio must learn to align their strengths and weaknesses to achieve their goals, symbolizing the broader idea that balance—between intellect, emotion, and action, or between differing worldviews—is key to success. This idea is particularly common in fantasy or adventure genres, where the trio’s journey often involves learning to reconcile their differences to overcome a larger, external threat.

In stories where the trio fails or fractures, this breakdown often symbolizes larger societal or moral failures. For example, in stories like The Dark Knight Rises, where the trio of Bruce Wayne, Alfred, and Commissioner Gordon temporarily splinters, this schism represents broader thematic concerns around trust, loyalty, and the challenges of maintaining integrity in a corrupt world.

The core trio trope is a versatile and powerful tool in fiction, providing a narrative structure that balances character dynamics, explores diverse perspectives, and offers a microcosm of societal cooperation. By distributing strengths and weaknesses among three distinct archetypes—such as the leader, intellectual, and heart—the trio can reflect themes of teamwork, diversity, and unity. However, this trope also comes with challenges, including predictability, unequal character development, and the potential for over-reliance on group dynamics.

In terms of societal influence, the core trio often mirrors collective ideals around collaboration and balance, emphasizing the value of different strengths working together toward a common goal. When used thoughtfully, the core trio trope not only enhances the storytelling experience but also offers symbolic commentary on the importance of diversity, unity, and mutual support in overcoming life’s challenges.

[jays-nook]

Watched the First 4 Episodes of the PJO Series, Here are My Thoughts:

Cast:

I absolutely love the cast!! They are just so perfect for their roles!! I've seen my fair share of clips and behind the scenes footage to know the chemistry between the actors and how perfectly the main trio embodies their characters, but actually seeing their acting and how well they fit together just makes sense in my brain!! They're all so small as well and adorable that it really puts it into perspective how young they truly are to be going through all of this and the things the characters go through as the books progress. It hurts but it's also endears you more to the actors and the characters.

Walker is just absolutely perfect as Percy. He's such a little shit and the way he delivers his lines, whether they're angry/emotional/sad or just comedic, is simply amazing!

"I am impertinent" THAT PART HAD ME WHEEZING FR

Although I don't have an issue with Lin Manuel Miranda as a person (I absolutely love his works and stuff) it does not make sense to cast him as Hermes, and that's just going off the elevator scene when he delivers the package! Like I honestly can't imagine this man as Luke's father :// It could've been better.

But the others are just great! Their energy is amazing and omg Mr. D was a blast! It's a much different portrayal than I was expecting since Mr. D is so chill and like aloof in the books, but seeing him yell and stuff at Percy to take on the quest just made me look at him in a new light!!

Filming/Aesthetics:

Every scene is shot so beautifully! And the choices they made with the places they add the music too!! Like the entire fight with the Minotaur being void of music was such a good choice. It just makes the entire scene so much more emotionally charged and tense while keeping the audience on the edge of their seat!! It was filmed so well and god it transported me to how it felt like when I read the books for the first time and went through that scene~

And omg the scene with Sally just sitting in the rain on the windowsill :(( That one was so soft and sad istg- any scene with Sally was just perfect, love her and the actress who did such a good job with her!!

Changes from the Books:

It's been around 5 or so?? years since I last read the books, so my recollection of what actually happened and what didn't was a bit fuzzy while watching the series but I was able to see how things changed. And so far, I don't mind the changes that much, like yes some had me staring at the screen like "hm" because they wetn a different way than I was expecting, but overall not too bad!

I did enjoy the scenes with Medusa, I liked having Percy wanting to hear her out and trusting to follow her inside because of what Sally had told him when he was a kid. I liked the conversations between Percy and her in the kitchen and even when she was explaining her side of the story to the trio. It was such a good way to present the scene, to show her resentment of both Athena and Posiedon, and also to show how she interacts with Percy to lure him in and play on his trusting and albeit naive nature at that point in the quest.

I did see people talking about episode 8 and the big reveal tho and I'm both excited to see it but also wary of the change they added cause I've seen a lot of mixed reactions. Some prefer the book version, some the version in the series.

General Thoughts:

I'm honestly enjoying the series, it's exciting seeing it all come to life and the dynamics and just sitting there in anticipation of what's to come.

I'm currently watching it with my big sis and let me tell y'all it's so much fun!! She hasn't read the books so all she knows is purely from when we watched the movies together a long time ago so she doesnt remember much (but unfortunately the big reveal at the end isn't going to be a surprise for her). I'm having the time of my life being a little shit and laughing at her confusion or whenever she'd start yelling "WHAT" at the screen like when Sally dissapeared HAHAHA she keeps turning to me and trying to come to conclusions and theories for things while I just smile or shake my head at outrageous ones. I am excited to see her reactions to certain scenes in the other books, especially when it comes to a certain someones end in the last book (she does not like him rn so I'm like 👀 rn to see if that might change along the way).

Uncle Rick did such a good job with the series so far and I'm excited to watch the rest of it, especially now that news of it being renewed for season 2 came out HEHEHE

And thats it for today! I'll be watching the rest of the series at some point this week and will be sharing the rest of my thoughts then. Thank u for reaching the end haha. Till then, have a good day folks and stay tuned! <3

*Last 4 episodes here*

[suchine-toki]

hello! I read your Tae meta from last year and just wanted to say it was great and really gets to the bottom of the problems with how Sorachi handled Otae. My (unasked for ;)) two cents is that I think he was going for GinTae endgame but then changed his mind somewhere before Lesson 238 which I read as his way of giving a 'this is how it would happen but I'm not going to do it' resolution for GinTae. And it's fine to drop the romance but knowing he's not going to make any couples endgame and 1/2

Hi! First of all, thanks for reading and taking your time to send this to me, I really like hearing other people's thoughts! I hope you don't mind that I combined both asks, given that they've points in common and I already had a draft of the one I received a while ago 🙈 This made me realize that I hadn't thought about it too much before… Even if I've talked about this topic with other people before, usually, the conversation ends with us agreeing and moving on to other topics lol so I think this is the first time I'm analyzing it. I'll try to do it from both the characters' perspective and Sorachi's intentions as the story's author. Before continuing, I want to clarify that my intention isn't to convince anyone to stop liking it, I just wanted to explore this topic and wow, did I explore it, because it ended up being much longer than expected 😂

That said, I think one of the biggest reasons why many of us thought Tae was going to be Gintoki's main love interest is because of the setup. Tae is the first woman from the main cast to appear in the series, and her dilemma kickstarts the story and allows for the formation of the Yorozuya as we know it. Moreover, she's Shinpachi's older sister and also develops a strong bond with Kagura, so it was expected that she would also develop a strong romantic bond with Gintoki, connecting her to the main trio of Gintama.

However, as I mentioned in the previous post, things started to change with the introduction of Kyuubei, which solidified the Kondo-Tae-Kyuubei love triangle, and then with the introduction of Tsukuyo. I watched a video by Abbie Emmons titled "7 Deadly Romance MISTAKES Writers Make ❌ avoid these chemistry killers!" to help identify some points in the relationship between Gintoki and Tae, although I must mention that I don't think these were mistakes on Sorachi's part, quite the opposite, they were very conscious decisions. I won't go point by point; instead, I'll summarize the intent of the message.

Half of the video is about the development of intimacy between two characters. I think most of us can appreciate that at least until the Benizakura arc, it was clear that Sorachi still had in mind to develop the relationship between Gintoki and Tae romantically because they'd a scene where they were alone, had time to talk, and showed that they cared a lot for each other. However, as the series progresses, we stop seeing these kinds of scenes between them, as well as scenes where they're seen thinking about each other or having physical contact.

And although at the beginning of the series Tae participated more actively in the Yorozuya dynamics, after the introduction of Kyuubei, they're seen spending most of their time together, even when they're with the others. Tae remains an honorary member of the Yorozuya until the end, but it's clear that Sorachi wanted her to represent stability, emotional support, the place they can return to that will welcome them with a smile. So, even though Gintoki and Tae still care a lot for each other, their interactions will continue to be framed within the context of the Yorozuya for the rest of the series.

That said, I couldn't say exactly when Sorachi stopped considering a romantic relationship between them. I'd to look up chapter 238 because I didn't remember what it was about lol (for reference, it's the one where they're at a stall and there're only speech bubbles, in which other characters who look like Gintoki and Tae confess they're in love), and I think your interpretation is certainly interesting. The placement also makes sense, which is shortly after the arc introducing Tsukuyo, and it also follows the trend of other characters being the ones who tease them, and not themselves.

The other half of the video is about how the characters' relationships with the rest of the cast are shown. It's highlighted that there needs to be an emotional reaction from a character to the idea of the other being interested in someone else, something Sorachi showed in many different ways but not with Gintoki and Tae. In her case, at most, she was shown getting annoyed at Sacchan, but only when she was provoked first. When it came to Tsukuyo, there was no reaction. Similarly, Gintoki has no reaction when Kyuubei or Kondo demonstrate their love interest.

The last point of the video, but not less important, is when characters have more romantic chemistry with other characters. In Tsukuyo's case, I think Sorachi was already a more experienced writer who knew his characters better and knew what his story needed. In particular, I think he wanted Gintoki to have someone close with whom he could relate but who wasn't directly connected to his past, among other things. And as I mentioned before, most of Tae's emotional energy in the series is with Kyuubei, followed by Kondo.

But why Sorachi didn't continue developing Gintoki and Tae's relationship romantically? The most obvious reason is simply because he didn't want to lol, but the explanation behind this, I think, is due to two main reasons. The first is that he wanted to keep the relationships within the Yorozuya platonic, and since Tae is an honorary member of the Yorozuya, it felt wrong to establish that there were romantic feelings involved. By comparison, it would be like confirming a relationship between Kagura and Shinpachi. And yes, Sorachi did some ship-teasing more than once between them too, but at the end of the day, he chose not to pursue it, and I think maintaining the familiarity is a cause.

The other reason is that as he wrote the story, he realized that Gintoki and Tae didn't fit well together. Tae can give Gintoki a sense of stability, but what can he offer her? Tae clearly values stability as well, hard work, having money. But Gintoki, due to his circumstances, doesn't meet those standards. If you think about it, the only two occasions when Tae unequivocally showed interest in Gintoki were when he lost his memory (Memory Loss arc) and when Hijikata was in his body (Soul Switch arc). Two occasions where Gintoki wasn't himself. But she liked that he seemed more serious and diligent, which implies that Tae's type is different.

It's also worth mentioning that Gintoki isn't shown making the same gestures towards Tae that Kondo or Kyuubei, the other two characters who are canonically in love with her (which is why I think they're a good benchmark) do. For example, while Sorachi chooses to show Gintoki teasing Tae about her breast size, in contrast, he shows Kondo buying her a kimono that will look good on her regardless, you know, like a supportive partner would. Even with all this, I understand that het shippers might've felt uncomfortable with the idea of pairing Tae with Kondo, and the other viable option was Gintoki. I think Sorachi was also aware of this, which is why he decided to develop Kondo and Tae's relationship in the final arcs.

While we're at it, I prefer kyuutae by faaar. As I've also expressed before, although I think Kondo is a great character, his persistence doesn't sit well with me. But whether it was due to heteronormativity or because Sorachi identified with him as a fellow gorilla, it's clear to me that he decided to emphasize Kondo and Tae's relationship much more. Even when gintsu and kyuutae were stagnating, he continued developing kontae as much as he could (probably because he'd already done the heavy lifting with the other two ships, tbf).

Sorachi didn't plan many things in his story, which I think is both a strength and a weakness. One of the things that reflect this is, for example, that Hasegawa was originally going to be part of the Yorozuya, an idea he later abandoned, but the remnant of Hasegawa's presence in the series remained. In the same way, I think his initial idea was to pair Gintoki with Tae, but eventually, he didn't. It seems that he also had the idea at the beginning to end the series with certain couples, but later decided to leave an open ending in that sense, although some of his inclinations were clearer than others.

I've seen people say there're subtle hints throughout Gintama that they fell in love, and while I don't want to say those interpretations are wrong, I think Sorachi is quite straightforward when it comes to these kinds of things. Even with unrequited loves, like (apparently) in the case of Katsura and Ikumatsu, he showed that there was love. However, in the case of Gintoki and Tae, during the 15 years he wrote the manga, he didn't, probably because he felt it no longer fit the story after a certain point. That said, I think their relationship works just fine without the need for any labels.

Thank you again for stopping by, if you've another point that you would like to discuss feel free to message me or send another ask 🤗

[infinitelystrangemachinex]

My ideal season 2 scenario is that Jayce is the only one out of the hextech triad to actually become gravely injured (narratively satisfying the pattern of him being punished for doing the right thing), and Mel and Viktor have to come together to find a way to take care of him/explore their magic artifacts/butt heads politically

Oh man anon I am so excited to see this trio's dynamic in season 2! I love the idea of Mel and Viktor exploring their magic and butting heads. There's a lot of great analysis out there on Jayce and Viktor's character and design similarities, and on Mel and Jayce's similarities, but hey, Mel and Viktor were designed by the same (EXTREMELY talented) man and I'm pretty sure he designed them to be opposites in every way, accommodating the magical forces behind their powers. But being explicit opposites also implies similarities. And I think they are written to appear diametrically opposed, but will end up being much more similar than they are different once the Piltover-Zaun war actually starts.

Without their opposite-but-similar magic, I think we could leave Mel and Viktor's dynamic where it is in season 1 (nonexistent and only acting as a reflection of Jayce choosing between opposing priorities). BUTTTTTT, magic is still a volatile subject in Piltover politics. Piltover tamed Hextech to fit into its image of industrialization, but Mel and Viktor both represent magic that is not like Hextech at all! Viktor's magic is everything Heimerdinger and Piltover have ever feared, and I don't see Piltover reacting with full fellowship to Mel's magic either. Because again, it's not Hextech! It's outside the boundaries of what Piltover knows and is comfortable with! And I think Jayce will be forced to choose between Piltover and Viktor, and likely, he will have to choose between Piltover and Mel too, at least until Mel takes steps to secure her position, which I bet she'll do.

Imagine it, anon! Mel clearly choosing peace over her mother and her birth. Mel revealing her magical secret to, I assume, save not only herself but others in the council room with her. These choices are Mel completely reversing the trajectory she was on for YEARS in order to be who she wants to be, which for her is a moral but still powerful figure, who is opposed to what Ambessa and by extension Noxus represent. And imagine that in season 2, it's Mel who's punished by Piltover, the city she loves, for doing the right thing! Because Piltover as a system has not wanted the "right thing" probably ever - it wants security, power, and profit. And Mel proves by the end of season 1 that those are not her true priorities.

This works well with the unspoken similarity between Mel and Viktor in that they are both technically immigrants to Piltover, outsiders who had to be smart and creative to find a place for themselves in Piltover's system. If Piltover turns on them both, I think this would unite them eventually.

Jayce believes he is doing the right thing, and I think that he's written amazingly well for a lot of reasons. One of those many reasons being that Mel has built him up into this personification of her own idealism. Someone who wants progress for progress' sake and not for profit's sake, who will sacrifice political alliances for peace, and who wants to grace everyday people with power and magic. Where I think the show's true genius lies is that these ideals don't represent who Jayce truly is after the season 1 timeskip. He thinks this is who he is because he is easily influenced, easily convinced, and easily led. Except that while Mel showed a clear break in her characterization at the end of season 1 to redirect herself and be a different person, Jayce so far has simply kept doing the same things he's always done, which is believe he's doing the right thing, make a grand gesture that appears to be the right thing until it turns out it was NOT the right move at all, and then become disillusioned and more frustrated ("They have Shimmer / We have Hextech." - "They're dangerous!" - "Do you not understand? I am a part of this now!").

The first 3 episodes of season 1 were an exception because Viktor showed up in Jayce's life as a total dark horse and reversed Jayce's fortunes, and then Mel was there also totally unexpectedly to save both of their asses from exile. Without Viktor and Mel on his side, Jayce's choices would've turned out badly for him!

The only thing we haven't seen after that final vote in the council chamber is the step where Jayce becomes frustrated and disillusioned. Anon, imagine Jayce, who's just burned all his bridges in Piltover to make the biggest and grandest gesture he could've possibly made, which is to circumvent Piltover's government entirely to make essentially a back-alley deal with a mob boss to create a new nation that would compete with Piltover for resources. With his barely surface level knowledge of economics, politics, and Zaun in general, of course he has every reason to believe he is saving the world with this gesture, he is saving Zaun's civilians as people living in what he believes is a disorganized, undefended place, and he hinged it all on a deal with Silco, whom he neither knows nor took the time to understand, and so of course he has no idea that demanding Jinx in handcuffs was as good as throwing his plan in the trash.

Imagine a Jayce who has done all this work, taken all these risks, and feels on top of the world both for believing he's achieved peace and for spitting in the faces of the council he reviles (except for Mel of course) - only to be nearly killed by the people he thinks he made all these sacrifices for, mere hours after his deal with Silco. The Jayce we know up to this point is not going to react well to thinking that Silco betrayed him, and with Jayce's sweeping generalizations about undercity people, my bet is that in his mind, Silco = undercity = Zaun, and it will be his biggest moment of frustration and disillusionment yet, such that he'll want to go to war.

I always like to remember that Jayce's character flaws don't come from him trying to do the right thing, even clumsily. They come from how he reacts to his plans and his surroundings going pear-shaped.

And goodness gracious, anon, imagine how much worse it'll be if Jayce IS injured in this attack! Jayce takes things personally, and this would make a war that's not really about him feel even more personal!

Contrast this with Mel, who has a line in the sand that she won't cross. She'll find another, less violent way to approach the conflict. And with Viktor's scene where he defuses Jinx's bomb, he'll want something similar. Another thing that will unite Mel and Viktor, in my dearest hopes and dreams lol.

My hope is that the drama for this trio in season 2 will come from Mel and Viktor wanting something very different from what Jayce wants out of the conflict with Zaun. I think that in most other situations, Jayce would still have Mel and Viktor on his side, but in such a huge and violent conflict like this one, I don't think he'll have them on his side. Which isn't gonna go well for him. What I am VERY interested to see is if he ends up allying with someone like Ambessa, and then has to come to his OWN conclusions for once about what he is being guided to do! I don't think he has to be a perfectly "lawful good" protagonist to be a great character, and I don't think that's how he's gonna end up, but I also don't think he'll end the season being a warmonger either. He'll change, and I hope that he either has to forge his own path all on his own, or Mel building him up to personify her ideals comes full circle and he decides to change to be more like who Mel truly is.

As for Viktor and Mel, I won't say too much because of very likely enormous spoilers. But while I think they will work together because of their similarities, Viktor being [REDACTED] and his foreshadowed bitter rivalry with [REDACTED] will force them apart ideologically in the end. My greatest wish though is that even though Mel and Viktor will clash, they will STILL need to work together to achieve their own ends which to me is the most delicious possible situation for season 2.

[starsreminisce]

I saw your tarot card reading on elain and I'm impressed. If it is alright with you, could give a read for koschei, vassa, and jurian. thanks!

I had time today so I thought why not!

Remember readings are for entertainment purposes only. No facts, only opinions. This is what I pulled, what I saw and what I interpreted!

Cards that fell: Knight of Pentacles, Six of Wands, and Sun reversed.

The cards falling could suggest a narrative about how Vassa might have managed to leave Koschei. The Knight of Pentacles represents someone steadfast and determined, possibly Papa Archie, playing a key role in Vassa’s escape. The Six of Wands symbolizes a victory, perhaps the achievement of getting Vassa out, even if the situation isn’t perfect. Sun reversed indicates muted happiness or a situation that isn’t fully ideal, but it still represents progress. The overall message seems to be: “This will do, for now.”

Vassa appears as the Ace of Wands reversed, symbolizing a return to something old, which aligns with her desire for things to return to how they were, including her own situation.

Jurian is the Queen of Swords reversed. It’s interesting that Jurian, a male character, is represented by a Queen energy, often associated with a “mean girl” vibe. This reflects his tendency to provoke others and use his words to manipulate or incite conflict.

Koschei shows up as the Ace of Pentacles, which might connect back to the Knight of Pentacles. This could suggest that Koschei views his actions as providing an opportunity, similar to how he saw his partnership with Briallyn. It’s intriguing to think that Koschei might genuinely believe he’s offering something valuable to Vassa, despite the obvious power imbalance and the curse.

Vassa and Jurian:

The energy between them is the Magician reversed, indicating miscommunication and a lack of alignment. This makes sense, considering Lucien’s observation in ACOSF that their dynamic is worsening. The clarifying cards—King of Cups reversed, Ten of Swords, and King of Pentacles—add depth to this. The King of Cups reversed suggests emotional unavailability or recklessness, while the Ten of Swords indicates betrayal. The King of Pentacles represents someone stable and professional. These cards may symbolize how Vassa and Jurian’s emotional states are betraying their sense of duty. They are de facto leaders, always at odds, which might reflect a struggle between love and duty, something SJM could explore further.

Vassa and Koschei:

The energy between them is the High Priestess, representing the unknown and a need to trust in divine timing. Given how little we know about Vassa and Koschei's dynamic, this card suggests there’s much more to be revealed. It’s also worth noting that we have Major Arcana 1 (Magician) between Vassa and Jurian and Major Arcana 2 (High Priestess) between Vassa and Koschei.

The clarifying cards—Queen of Cups reversed, Seven of Wands reversed, and Page of Swords—suggest that Koschei might not understand why Vassa sees her situation as problematic. The phrase “Don’t be so dramatic, I’m giving you what you want” comes to mind, reflecting a lack of empathy for her predicament. The Queen and King of Cups reversed appearing on either side of Vassa could indicate a connection or parallel between these relationships.

Three more cards for clarity: Death reversed, Six of Pentacles, and Ace of Cups.

This trio suggests avoiding the inevitable, looking back to the past, and starting something new. It indicates that while Vassa can’t return to her old life, she can use her past experiences to forge a new path. The Ace of Cups represents new love, or perhaps a new emotional beginning.

This is interesting, especially considering the cards' imagery with Sailor Saturn and the Holy Grail from Sailor Moon. In that arc, Sailor Saturn sacrifices herself to save the world, and with the use of the Holy Grail by Sailor Moon, Hotaru was able to be reborn as a child while still retaining being the reincarnation of Sailor Saturn. This could hint that Vassa won't rid herself of the curse but might gain the ability to transform at will. SJM’s universe often evolves rather than reverting to the past, so this could be Vassa's path.

Final three cards: Knight of Wands reversed, Strength reversed, and Four of Wands.

Seeing Elain and Lucien’s energies reflected in this pull suggests that their actions will significantly influence Vassa and Jurian's storyline. The Knight of Wands reversed and Strength reversed indicate that Elain and Lucien might be facing their own struggles, but these challenges are leading them towards a potential resolution.

The Four of Wands suggests that despite these struggles, their efforts will ultimately contribute to a positive and stable outcome for Vassa and Jurian. Their actions, even if they seem reckless or uncertain, are paving the way for a happy conclusion, aligning with the idea that their journey will help bring about stability and joy for the other characters.

Alternatively, it might indicate someone taking a reckless gamble, lacking confidence but succeeding in the end.

Hope you enjoy this! Thank you again for asking!

[lindseybots]

SO YOU MEAN WE CAN COME HERE TO TALK ABOUT THE BLORBOS IN YOUR AU??

Ahem, so you mentioned something about trying to find a good balance between Wind and Zelda and what Wind will do during the events of ST... I know you're probably still figuring stuff out but I really wanted to let you know that I'm very excited to see how it will end up as! There's so many options and possibilities for WW Link and ST Zelda's relationship (both my beloveds) and it's making me go dsaiuahkadsakb

The dynamic of a trio is so interesting to explore! Petting your AU and tucking it into bed gently rn...

OF COURSE YOU CAN COME HERE TO TALK ABOUT THE BLORBOS!! I EVEN ENCOURAGE IT!! PLEASE DO!!

Also thank you so much for the kind words! omg that means the world to me!! I will do my best as I explore this AU further!

I’m very excited to explore the trio, so I am very happy you’re looking forward to it too! I think it’s really interesting that Wind is very experienced when it comes to adventuring while Zelda has no experience in that regard. In fact, they make it pretty apparent in the game that she doesn’t really leave the castle AT ALL. In terms of navigation or even some basic life skills, she has no experience.

Zelda and Wind are opposites in that regard, but in other areas I think they get along really well. They’re both very sassy, spunky, and even a bit stubborn. At the end of the day though, they both want to look out for each other and ST Link as best they can.

ST Link is in a bit of a middle ground. He has probably traveled a few places while as an apprentice to Alfonzo, as such he has some experience in terms of talking with people, navigating, and of course his train expertise. I always headcanoned that ST Link is a bit of an inventor too, or, at the very least knowledgeable about machinery. Just pulling into a station in the game can fix your train’s health, even if the location has no other characters. That definitely implies that Link is the one making any repairs.

On top of all of that, Wind was one of the people who raised him. Wind would definitely teach him some skills that he learned. He has no doubt heard all the stories about Wind’s adventures, if not from Wind himself then from Niko. If faced with an enemy that Wind has fought before, he’d be able to have some knowledge on a good way to approach it.

Still, this will be his first time actually on an adventure to save the world. He still has stuff to learn.

This is the perfect excuse for me to give a quick little update on some things I’ve been thinking about. This is already really long, so i’m gonna put it under a break. If you’re interested, keep reading.

I will eventually talk about this again later, as the stuff I’m going to mention is still being worked on. Still, here is some progress on things.

For ST Link’s nicknames, a few I have been debating are:

Little Spirit / Spirit

Specks (for his freckles and because it’s probably pretty common to find specks of dirt or oil or something on him.)

Engineer / Engine / Eng

I feel like using a mix of these might be good, not just sticking to one. Like how Wind’s primary nickname is Wind, but he is sometimes also referred to as Sailor, or something along those lines. None of these are really set yet and are all subject to change. Let me know your thoughts.

In terms of Wind’s involvement in the events of ST, one thing i’ve been debating is him being the one handling the train’s cannon. I feel like because it’s the “Spirit” Train, I can get away with the excuse that spirits or ghosts have a little more ability when in contact with it. Wind knows his way around a cannon. It’s one of the ways I think he could help. Plus, it would allow ST Link to focus fully on driving.

I also feel like Wind can summon any of his belongings for himself. He can’t give them to anyone else to use. They’re more like spiritual / ghostly copies of the real things, and if it’s something like his sword or bow and arrows, they wouldn’t be able to ACTUALLY hit anything. Still, it would allow him to summon things to help teach ST Link through demonstration.

The Tower of Spirits is really the trickiest part for me. I, honestly, don’t want him possessing phantoms. I feel like that’s something that should be reserved for Zelda.

I want Wind and Zelda to have different things that they can do. At least one thing exclusive to each while in the Tower. The excuse I’m going with is that she still has a tie to the living, even if it’s hanging by a thread. Wind, on the other hand, is fully a spirit. As such, the things they can do are different.

[bouncycloud]

I didn’t know you had a tumblr that’s so cool ! And the dresses for the party are so nice !

I am new here and I greedily want to ask, how often can we expect an update ? I want to read everything at once but at the same time I want this book to last forever because it is giving me life ! I haven’t been this excited about a book for a long long time :)

I love the complexity of the plot and the depth of the characters. We readers are grateful for you and you deserve some best author stickers !!!

This new update was such a fun read 💞 I kept laughing!

I read that Wilkins had a crush on Madeline, that’s honestly so funny because he clearly pretends to hate her, or maybe he wants to hate her but she is simply amazing in every possible way.

Oh and I wanted to say that I love lestrange. He is sweet in his own way, and a good loyal friend. I think that he can be a strong ally and friend to Madeline, at least I hope so. His dynamic with regulus is best friend material and I love it too.

And I think that some time in future canon events, Voldemort kills an Amelia bones. Is it the same Amelia that we had in this chapter ??? I can’t wait to meet more interesting characters like her (that won’t be difficult because every one of your characters are amazing).

Barty’s love for his sister is making me tear up man.

I love the relationship between Madeline and Pomfrey, that’s funny lol ! And it was so cute how she told the other professors to not give her assignments.

It’s so nice to see how our favorite to be couple is slowly making progress. And that Madeline is reacting more and more to regulus, till falling for him in the future. It’s very different from any other relationship (if we compare this to Callums). And Reg made me blush in this chapter, I was a proud mom when he transfigured his coat. (I have a cold too please come give me your coat too 🤭)

Currently i'm slowly doing final editting for chapter 37 to 50! But final editting for me is still a messy process hehe - i often have to rewrite everything again. I don't know how often i will write - but you can be sure that i'll update again this weekend.

I'm glad that it's fun! The Marauders seem so quiet when seen from Madeline's point of view, but i can asssure that they're never quiet 😂 they're every bit of the troublemakers they were in the HP book haha

Wilkins has his crush since Madeline helped him in potion when they're just first year. But Madeline's so cold to him.. but she's still amazing and pretty.. it's a crush he would never admit haha.

I love that there are people who love Rabastan! I prepared something for him in chapter 37.. :)

Yes, it's the same Amelia Bones. She's killed in the second war, meanwhile Edgar Bones, her brother, was a member of the order and was killed by Voldemort during the first war.

I know right. Barty's too precious.

Pomfrey-madeline-remus trio is still alive and kicking hehe

Yes! It's about time for them to have some progress! Regulus is slowly learning how to charm the girl she likes - he already noted it in his journal that Madeline loves it when he does impressive magic, and she likes it even better if the magic is for her. The coat was definitely a correct move. Oh- and Madeline seems to feel some discomfort when he touches her? Oh, Regulus can't have that. He'll make sure to make Madeline get used to his touch! Lol

[duhbatmann]

Hearts of Los Santos

Chapter 1: Restless Souls

Michael's Discontent

Scene 1: Michael is seen lounging by his pool, a look of boredom and dissatisfaction on his face. He's surrounded by all the trappings of his wealthy lifestyle, yet there's a clear sense of emptiness. He has a brief, somewhat cold interaction with his wife, Amanda, which only serves to highlight the growing distance in their relationship.

Scene 2: Seeking some form of excitement, Michael decides to go for a night drive through Los Santos. The neon lights of the city reflect his inner turmoil as he grapples with the realization that money and luxury haven't brought him happiness.

Franklin's Dilemma

Scene 3: Franklin is shown in his house in Vinewood Hills, juggling phone calls from two women he's currently seeing. He's trying to keep his romantic life afloat while simultaneously receiving a call from Lester about a potential job. This scene establishes Franklin's struggle to balance his personal life with his criminal activities.

Scene 4: Franklin meets with one of his romantic interests, a smart and ambitious woman named Elisa. Their date is interrupted by a call from Michael, asking for a meet-up. Franklin's divided attention becomes apparent, foreshadowing the conflicts to come.

Trevor's Unexpected Encounter

Scene 5: Trevor is in his trailer in Sandy Shores, engaging in his usual chaotic behavior. A mysterious stranger, Alex, arrives in town, capturing Trevor’s attention. Alex is unlike anyone Trevor has encountered – calm, enigmatic, and seemingly unfazed by Trevor's wild demeanor.

Scene 6: Trevor and Alex have a bizarre and humorous interaction at the local bar, where Trevor is both intrigued and baffled by Alex's nonchalant attitude towards him. This marks the beginning of an unusual dynamic between them, challenging Trevor's typical approach to relationships.

Converging Paths

Scene 7: The chapter concludes with Michael and Franklin meeting at a high-end bar in downtown Los Santos. Michael shares his feelings of disconnection, while Franklin talks about the complexities of his love life. The scene sets the stage for their intertwined stories and lays the groundwork for the events to come.

This chapter sets up the initial state of each character, providing a base for their individual journeys and the challenges they will face, both in their romantic lives and their intertwined stories within the gritty world of Los Santos.

Chapter 2: Vinewood Nights

Unexpected Reunion

Scene 1: Michael and Franklin are already at the upscale bar in Vinewood, engaging in a somewhat philosophical conversation about life, love, and what they're missing. The ambiance of the bar, with its soft lighting and occasional laughter from other patrons, contrasts with their serious discussion.

Scene 2: Trevor unexpectedly arrives at the bar, initially causing a bit of a stir with his unrefined manners. However, he quickly settles in, intrigued by the conversation and eager to join. His arrival adds a layer of unpredictability to the evening.

Shared Vulnerabilities

Scene 3: As they continue to drink, the trio begins to open up about their romantic frustrations and desires, a rarity given their usual tough exteriors. Michael laments his failing marriage and the lost spark in his life. Franklin discusses the challenges of finding genuine connection amidst his complex love life. Trevor, in his own unique way, expresses confusion and curiosity about his new interest, Alex.

Scene 4: Their conversation reveals a deeper bond between them, beyond their criminal endeavors. They share laughs, advice, and even some gentle ribbing, showing a side of camaraderie that's rarely seen.

Reflections and Realizations

Scene 5: As the night progresses, each character begins to reflect on their own situation. Michael realizes he needs to find a way to rekindle passion in his life, Franklin contemplates the kind of relationship he truly wants, and Trevor considers the possibility of exploring something more meaningful with Alex.

Scene 6: The chapter closes with the trio leaving the bar, each deep in thought. The night has provided them with unexpected insights into their own hearts, setting the stage for the decisions they'll make in the chapters to come.

This chapter deepens the characters' development by exploring their vulnerabilities and desires in a setting outside their usual chaotic lives. It's a pivotal moment that sets the tone for their individual journeys and the challenges they'll face as they navigate the complexities of love and relationships in the world of GTA 5.

Chapter 3: Love in the Time of Chaos

Michael's Quest for Romance

Scene 1: Michael, inspired by his conversation with Franklin, decides to reignite the romance in his marriage. He plans a surprise date night for Amanda, attempting to replicate the modern, exciting dates he's heard Franklin describe.

Scene 2: The evening starts off well, but Michael's attempts at being trendy and current feel forced and awkward. Despite this, there are moments of genuine connection, hinting at the possibility of rekindled love.

Franklin's Influence

Scene 3: Franklin, meanwhile, finds himself playing the unlikely role of Michael's love life coach. He gives Michael tips on modern dating and how to bring excitement into a relationship, drawing from his own experiences. Their interactions are filled with humor and a touch of irony.

Scene 4: Franklin also grapples with his own romantic decisions, reflecting on the advice he's giving Michael. This leads him to reconsider what he's truly seeking in a partner and whether his current relationships fulfill that.

Trevor's Unusual Journey

Scene 5: Trevor continues to explore his unexpected interest in Alex. He attempts to show a more thoughtful side, organizing a unique date that's surprisingly considerate, yet still unmistakably Trevor-like in its oddity.

Scene 6: The date with Alex takes a series of bizarre turns, but there's an undeniable chemistry between them. Alex's calm demeanor balances Trevor's erratic nature, and Trevor finds himself genuinely enjoying someone's company in a way he hadn't anticipated.

The Chaos of Love

Scene 7: The chapter concludes with each character reflecting on their romantic endeavors amidst their chaotic lives. Michael feels a glimmer of hope for his marriage, Franklin questions his own relationship choices, and Trevor experiences an unfamiliar sense of connection. The complexities of love in their high-stakes world become increasingly evident.

In this chapter, the characters start to actively explore and challenge their ideas about love and relationships. Their efforts, filled with both humor and heart, reveal new dimensions of their personalities and set the stage for further developments in their individual story arcs.

Chapter 4: Tangled Hearts

Franklin's Risky Romance

Scene 1: Franklin's new romantic interest, Elisa, becomes more involved in his life. However, he soon discovers that she has connections to a rival gang, complicating both his personal and professional worlds.

Scene 2: Franklin is torn between his feelings for Elisa and the potential dangers her connections bring. He finds himself trying to navigate a delicate balance, seeking advice from Michael and even Trevor.

Michael's Misadventures

Scene 3: Michael, in his attempts to bring excitement into his marriage, plans a daring date for Amanda – a heist-themed adventure. However, things go awry when they accidentally entangle with a real criminal operation.

Scene 4: The situation escalates, and Michael must use his skills to extricate them from danger. This unexpected thrill reignites some of the passion in their relationship but also highlights the risks of his double life.

Trevor's Chaotic Love

Scene 5: Trevor's relationship with Alex takes a turn when Alex inadvertently gets involved in one of Trevor's shady deals. The deal goes south, leading to a chaotic series of events.

Scene 6: Amidst the chaos, Trevor and Alex's bond is tested. The experience reveals a new level of trust and understanding between them, but also the complexities of balancing Trevor's unpredictable lifestyle with a relationship.

Converging Complications

Scene 7: The chapter concludes with the three protagonists realizing how their romantic lives are dangerously intertwining with their criminal activities. They meet to discuss the escalating complications, each facing their own dilemmas.

Scene 8: The chapter ends with a sense of foreboding, as they acknowledge that their entangled hearts and criminal lives could lead to serious consequences.

In this chapter, the interplay between love and crime becomes more pronounced, adding layers of complexity to each character's journey. Their struggles to maintain a balance between their romantic aspirations and their criminal endeavors create a web of intrigue and suspense, driving the narrative forward.

Chapter 5: Double Lives

The Job

Scene 1: The chapter opens with the trio planning a high-stakes heist, an operation that requires precise coordination and focus. However, their minds are visibly preoccupied with their romantic concerns.

Scene 2: As they start executing the heist, it becomes clear that their personal distractions are affecting their performance. Michael is constantly checking his phone, worried about Amanda's recent distant behavior. Franklin is distracted, his thoughts on Elisa and her dangerous connections. Trevor, surprisingly, is the most focused, but even he is occasionally lost in thoughts about Alex.

The Fallout

Scene 3: The heist goes wrong. A minor mistake snowballs into a significant issue, forcing them to abort the mission hastily. They narrowly escape, but not without drawing unwanted attention from law enforcement and rival criminals.

Scene 4: Back at their hideout, tensions rise. Blame is thrown around, with each character's personal life being pointed to as a distraction. The argument reveals the strain their double lives are placing on their relationships with each other.

Reflection and Realization

Scene 5: Following the heated exchange, each character takes time to reflect on their current situation. Michael realizes that his efforts to spice up his marriage may be endangering his family. Franklin contemplates the risks his relationship with Elisa poses to his and his friends' safety. Trevor, despite his usually carefree attitude, begins to worry about the impact of his criminal life on his relationship with Alex.

Scene 6: They reconvene, somewhat calmer, and acknowledge that they need to find a balance between their love lives and their criminal activities. They agree to be more cautious and supportive of each other's personal endeavors.

Moving Forward

Scene 7: The chapter concludes with a renewed sense of camaraderie and a collective decision to be more vigilant. However, the complications in their personal lives are far from resolved, leaving a sense of uncertainty about how they will manage their double lives moving forward.

In this chapter, the tension between their romantic relationships and their life of crime reaches a tipping point, forcing the characters to confront the realities of their dual existences. This realization brings a new depth to their relationships and sets the stage for future challenges and developments.

Chapter 6: High Stakes

The Grand Plan

Scene 1: The chapter opens with the trio planning their most ambitious heist yet, targeting a heavily guarded casino. The job promises a huge payoff, but it also requires impeccable coordination and focus.

Scene 2: Each character brings their unique skills to the planning phase, but the tension from their personal lives is palpable. They make a pact to put aside their romantic distractions for the sake of the job.

Romantic Complications

Scene 3: As the heist approaches, their love lives intrude unexpectedly. Amanda becomes suspicious of Michael's secretive behavior. Elisa's connections with the rival gang threaten to leak information about the heist. Alex, increasingly worried about Trevor's safety, pleads with him to reconsider his criminal lifestyle.

Scene 4: The trio meets to discuss these complications. They realize that their relationships could jeopardize the job, but they're too deep into the plan to back out now.

The Heist

Scene 5: The heist begins with high tension. Each member of the trio is acutely aware of what's at stake, both professionally and personally.

Scene 6: Despite their best efforts to stay focused, elements of their personal lives start to interfere. Unexpected calls and messages create distractions, and decisions are second-guessed.

Tested Loyalties

Scene 7: In the midst of the heist, a critical moment arrives where their loyalties are tested. A choice must be made that could either secure their fortune or prioritize their personal relationships.

Scene 8: Each character makes a decision that reflects their current priorities, leading to a tense and dramatic climax. The outcome of the heist is left uncertain as they each deal with the consequences of their choices.

Reflection and Consequences

Scene 9: The chapter closes with the trio reflecting on the events of the heist. They consider the impact of their decisions and how their romantic entanglements have shaped their paths. The true cost of their double lives becomes clear, setting the stage for future challenges and resolutions.

In this chapter, the intertwining of the trio's personal and professional lives reaches a critical point, forcing them to confront the reality of their choices and the complexities of balancing love and crime. The high-stakes nature of the heist combined with the drama of their romantic entanglements creates a gripping narrative that propels the story forward.

Chapter 7: New Beginnings

Michael's Resolution

Scene 1: Michael comes to terms with the state of his marriage. He has an honest conversation with Amanda, where they both acknowledge their mistakes and the distance that has grown between them.

Scene 2: They decide to give their relationship another chance, focusing on genuine connection rather than extravagant gestures. The scene ends with them planning a simple but meaningful date, symbolizing a fresh start.

Franklin's Decision

Scene 3: Franklin faces a tough decision regarding his relationship with Elisa. The risks her connections bring are too great to ignore.

Scene 4: He ultimately chooses to end the relationship but does so amicably, understanding that their worlds are too different. The experience leaves him wiser and more aware of what he truly seeks in a partner.

Trevor's Unconventional Path

Scene 5: Trevor's relationship with Alex reaches a turning point. Alex confronts Trevor about the dangers of his lifestyle and his unpredictable nature.

Scene 6: In a surprising twist, Trevor shows willingness to make changes for the sake of the relationship. They agree to continue their unconventional romance, but with Trevor making an effort to involve less chaos in his life.

Reflection and Looking Forward

Scene 7: The trio meets one last time, in their usual hangout spot. They reflect on the events that unfolded, the decisions they made, and how they've grown through their experiences.

Scene 8: Each character shares their plans for the future, showing a mix of hope and uncertainty. They acknowledge that their lives will always be a blend of love, crime, and complex choices.

Scene 9: The chapter, and the story, concludes with them toasting to new beginnings. They leave the scene separately, each walking into their future, which is filled with new possibilities and challenges.

In this final chapter, the story wraps up with each character finding a resolution in their love lives, marking a new chapter in their personal journeys. Their final meeting is a poignant moment of camaraderie and reflection, bringing a sense of closure while also leaving the door open for future adventures.