#don't be complacent but also don't get cynical

[statisticalcats2]

There's obviously real dangers that can happen under the next presidency but can people please stop pretending that it's all a well-oiled machine and all Republicans in every branch of the government are just gonna agree and go along with every single thing Trump or Musk wants and Trump will be able to just give any order and no one would ever, ever, ever go against his wishes?

Are you living in the same universe as me?

[pallastrology]

planets in intercepted signs

sun: when the sun is intercepted, the native struggles to express themselves. too much, too much, they heard - or felt - as a child. they learned to reel themselves in, never say, or show, or do too much. and as an adult, it's a natural reaction. they shrink away from any kind of limelight, and they don't express their opinions much. they are almost muted, or dampened down.

moon: when the moon is intercepted, the native struggles to express their emotions. they can bottle things up, disconnect from themselves, and suffer from somatic illness and emotional outbursts. they can find it hard to really understand their emotions too, where they come from and how to help soothe themselves. they struggle to connect with their nurturing side, and find self-care to be a difficult task.

mercury: when mercury is intercepted, the native struggles to express their thoughts. they can be shy or socially anxious, and may find their thoughts chaotic and uncollected. some will have issues focusing and prioritising, and though generally very intelligent and reflective, these natives often struggle to communicate their inner goings on, stumbling over their words or being quite verbally clumsy and being easily misunderstood.

venus: when venus is intercepted, the native struggles to express pleasure and beauty. they tend to be self-conscious, often feeling inferior to their peers. they can struggle with body image issues, craving external validation to feel ‘good enough’. this desire for validation extends to their hobbies and interests too; they can be codependent and struggle to see their own beauty, or allow themselves to enjoy life.

mars: when mars is intercepted, the native struggles to express drive. they can come across as complacent or lazy, and are prone to fits of deep depression and helplessness. they can’t easily access their ‘get up and go’ and lack the confidence to take steps towards what they want in life. they can become cynical when isolated, because with no healthy outlet, their energy stagnates.

jupiter: when jupiter is intercepted, the native struggles to express growth. they stifle themselves in some ways, especially in their younger years, and they often try to blend in with their peers, dampening themselves down to do so. it takes time for these natives to get to know themselves, and their path through life can sometimes feel quite confusing or disjointed until they do.

saturn: when saturn is intercepted, the native struggles to express discipline. their younger years are often plagued with a vicious cycle of procrastination and pressuring themselves to complete their projects on time. this leads to intense emotions, a sense that the work wasn't really up to standard, and a subsequent punishment of themselves, which really never 'works' as intended, because the cycle continues. wisdom is a skill that develops over time for our natives.

uranus: when uranus is intercepted, the native struggles to express their ideas. they can be buzzing with ideas and plans, but at the crucial point of communication, their mind goes blank and nerves take over. this is a very frustrating experience, especially with how full their brain gets once they're back in their comfort zone. they can also feel quite alienated from their peers because they just can't seem to express themselves accurately to how they feel and how they see the world.

neptune: when neptune is intercepted, the native struggles to express their selflessness. prone to depression, neptune intercepted can feel like a bystander in life, like it's something that happens to them, rather than something they are an active part of. they often feel lost and confused about how to put themselves out there. they are very kind individuals with a lot of love and care to give, but are easily misled and in fact, can easily mislead themselves too.

pluto: when pluto is intercepted, the native struggles to express their power. they are often quite fearful individuals, and this fear can rule them if they don't learn to own it. they become frightened of fear itself, and, like neptune intercepted, they are prone to feeling life is something that happens to them, rather than something they actively participate in. pluto intercepted can feel disempowered and trapped easily, and need to work hard to remind themselves of their personal power.

[elisethetraveller]

In Elise's lore/canon, who are those she trusts and who are those she views as enemies? Feel free to give a blurb about any of them. ouo

Perhaps because she always arrives as an outsider, Elise has an easier time trusting those who also stand on the outside: single women, orphans, the homeless, and criminals. I don't think she realizes it, but from a cynical perspective, she naturally trusts those who do not have enough social capital to get her thrown out.

On a different note, she also easily trusts other magic users or at least feels drawn toward them. As a mage, Elise spends a lot of time in worlds where magic doesn't exist or exists but is forbidden. Imagine arriving in a time and place where everyone acknowledges that, yeah, bacteria and gravity exist, but don't you dare act on that knowledge. Most of us would also seek out fellow-minded individuals in such a scenario, I think.

For the second part of your question, have a blurb:

The complacent hmm left her on reflex, the numbers registering before the meaningless words. Sure, she understood the language, but, oh, what was the phrase? I understand the words individually but not the way you use them. Of course, that was not true either. Much to her annoyance, they were recognizable by now. The same droning mantras and mute moralizations lined up by page, stanza, and author. At least the reverend was preoccupied with the young men up front. Volunteers for some war far away. Or was it the Navy?

Regardless, they would leave soon, crossing out of the parish for the first time in their young lives with no guarantee they would return. Elise wondered if he could feel her eyes upon the podium—no, pulpit. Probably not; everyone was paying rapid, appropriate attention. She was the only one glaring. It was only fitting. The mage felt his eyes whenever they crossed on the street, not that it was often. There was a silent agreement, for despite the animosity they had never spoken, to keep at a distance.

And she understood why he hated her. Every week, he was here, warning the hens about the fox, only for it to walk the streets freely. A few years ago, Elise might have attempted to make him understand. The mage wasn't here for his chickens; she was the cat, killing rats and keeping disease at bay. But no, that time had passed. Now she watched as he watched her, waiting for the moment when the noose would tighten and she would have to flee.

[lollytea]

Okay highly specific and idk if you even have any thoughts on it BUT ☕ on the Boscha/Amity dynamic in FTF? I literally had no significant thoughts on Boscha til this ep. Now I'm kinda into whatever toxic thing she's got going on with Amity. Heathcliffian in nature, almost. But what's your two cents, if you have em to spare?

I've never really had any strong opinions on Boscha. Like I know a ton of people absolutely loathe her but I can't even grant her those feelings. I can never really drum up too much animosity towards teen characters. She's just a kid. Kids suck sometimes. Sometimes they grow up and they learn and they become better people and sometimes they just get worse. I'm not gonna make any assumptions about which category Boscha will fall into because she's still too young to be certain.

I think it's kinda funny how the writers clearly gave her a deep underlying complex but never bothered to elaborate on it. Like the opening of WILW where she's like "You can be hated. So long as you are feared." Girl??? Can we like...get an update on this kid's home life? Why is this her mindset? Where is this coming from? Where are her moms??

During the time she and Amity were friends, the latter was also deeply depressed and had a horrible home life. So I wouldn't be surprised if she and Boscha had one of those sapphic toxic co-dependent teenage bonds. (We've all had them.) Like there's no escape to this life. Things won't get better. But at least they can stew in their own cynicism together. They help each other gain some semblance of control over their own lives by clawing their way up the Hexside hierarchy, with Amity being top student and Boscha being grudgby captain. Just a pair of fucked up and lonely girls just trying to pretend they're not fucked up and lonely.

I feel like, at some point, Amity even found solace in Boscha's company. When she was younger and more immature and was led to believe that actual positive mutually uplifting friendships were only for kids (bye Willow) so she desperately leans into what she has. What they had with each other may have been their only real connection. Early episodes definitely give the impression that their friendships with the likes of Skara and co. were rather superficial, with Boscha acting rather dismissively towards anyone who wasn't Amity. I'm sure they saw all the vulnerability and ugliness in each other that nobody else saw. I'm sure Boscha got unhealthily attached because Amity was really all she had and she didn't have any experience with an actual constructive relationship with anyone her own age to understand that she and Amity were bad for each other.

But Amity was clearly worn down. This relationship was exhausting. It leeched away at her. She was complacent in all the bullying because she didn't see the point in even trying to discourage it, other than half-hearted chiding every now and again. In her own words, there was no reasoning with Boscha.

And then Amity opened her eyes and realized that this fucking sucked. You see her gradually detaching herself from Boscha throughout season 1 which results in her completely cutting ties in WILW, much to Boscha's disgust.

Tbh I feel like Boscha's gotten pretty funny since then, though she's been barely present. I enjoyed her in ASIAS cuz she was just so pathetic. Literally just third wheeling lumity, neither of them give two shits about her existence but she just refuses to exit the scene. We love girlosers.

But yeah I really did dig her in FTF. It's definitely the most insight we've gotten into her character since her debut. I didn't exactly need Boscha character development to live cuz like. I don't care about her. But I guess if they're gonna include her at all, at least they didn't keep her stagnant.

She's clearly traumatized by the fact that her team essentially "died" (as far as she knows) protecting her and she's never experienced such a heavy emotion before. She doesn't know how to handle it. She pushes it down. She lashes out. And Kikimora has just made her a million times worse. No wonder she begged for Amity to come back. She's unstable and scared and wants to cling to some fantasy that this will all be okay. And she feels like if she just has her friend back, that can be a possibility.

I like how Amity dealt with her in this episode, as a contrast to how Willow did. Willow was perfectly within her right to be furious with Boscha, considering she's nothing but her former bully who's given her so many emotional scars. But Amity approached her with an appeal rather than a fight. Because Boscha is Amity's former friend. She knows things about her that Willow doesn't. And no matter how awful their relationship has gotten, she doesn't want to see her former friend as the villain of this story.

"There's no reasoning with Boscha." She said two season ago. And then she DID!!! It really speaks volumes about how much Amity has developed from an emotionally exhausted enabler to a proactive outspoken girl who's willing to give everyone a shot to prove themselves, the way Luz did for her.

Anyway I think Boscha has completely burned all her bridges and has no hope of rekindle her old friendship. That's a consequence she'll have to live with for the way she's behaved. Plus, she and Amity just....don't mix well anymore. Some people are destined to come into your life for a time and keep you standing upright but they're not lifelong friends. I could see them as like...acquaintances maybe? Maybe theyll grow up and have kids and be on the PTA together. Maybe. But I can't see them as ever being true friends again.

Some people say that Boscha's actions at the end of FTF was a "rushed redemption arc" though I disagree. It wasn't a redemption at all. It was simply an acknowledgement that Boscha is not the devil incarnate. She's a kid. All she wants is to have a normal life and play Flyer Derby. So she's taking the necessary actions to get that future for herself. It opens up the possibility that Boscha could be a good person. Someday. She's not there yet. But someday. Maybe.

[dream-meister-translations]

BEZER - VOICE COLLECTION

━

"Canaan had the audacity to try and escape my scrutiny again. Help me find that troublemaker!"

"Whether human or black fairy, everyone is a student in my eyes."

"I see that you too are constantly surrounded by difficult students. You have my sympathies."

"I also see you as one of my students, Emma. I will interview you soon. You'd better show up."

"You are indeed a model student and your work ethic is high. Be careful not to become complacent."

"I will now begin my class."

"To show such disgraceful behavior in front of students. You are an unfit teacher."

"It is only natural for a teacher to help his students. Especially when it's a model student asking for help."

"I was in the middle of monitoring a troubled student. I suppose I have no choice, I'll leave it to you, my model student, to keep an eye on him."

"I cannot maintain my dignity as a teacher with mediocre results. I must achieve results that my students can be proud of."

"I need to work on my exploration skills. A teacher should always be better than his students."

"I hope my future students won't be as hard to handle as that man."

"One should always study diligently."

"Perhaps it is because I'm always stuck with troublemakers. But, I feel a sense of a peace when I talk to a model student like you."

"It is not desirable for a teacher to rely on his students. However, I would appreciate your continued assistance."

"Man and beast…Model student and troublemaker…Have the boundaries between the two ever been so blurred?"

"Education is all about discipline. Not coddling. That's what I always thought. Seems I still have a lot to learn."

"I do all this for the sake of my students and the bright future ahead of them."

━

BEZER : You…!! Every single time I take my eyes off of you, you revert to being lazy. Show your remorse now! CANAAN : Ah, I'm being scolded again.

━

BEZER : This tendency you have to indulge in worldly pleasures is bad for your health. I'll correct it in due time. GIN : I'm so sorry. I was hoping that your strict supervision would help me to become abstinent.

━

MEL : How is this teaching, Bezer? You're forcing them to do something they don't wanna do. BEZER : My actions are in line with the human education system and ethics. You have no right to criticize me for it.

━

BEZER : You are quite a pain in the ass. It is going to take a lot of work to get you to be self-motivated and proactive. EMPPU : I have no feelings…No wants…I don't have any of the qualities you're talking about…

━

GIN : If Bezer is going to explore this neighborhood, I'll go look on the other side. BEZER : Just be sure not to get carried away by your desires again.

━

MEL : You're acting like a real big shot teacher. But, the effect of your "guidance" is questionable at best. BEZER : It is outrageous for a student such as you to evaluate his teacher. I will beat you back into shape!

━

BEZER : In this exploration, I'm hoping to find something that can be used as a teaching aid. Emppu, you are going to have to help us with this. EMPPU : Yes, I will help…I don't know much about educational material, but the goal of exploration remains the same.

━

GIN : Ah…Alcohol…Do you have any alcohol…? To satisfy my body and my heart, please bless me with a drop of alcohol…! BEZER : Hey! Don't hang on me like that! If you don't let go this instance I'll smack you with my teaching whip!

━

MEL : This exploration isn't going as planned, is it? I bet it's 'cause of your inexperienced guidance, huh~? BEZER : You sure do love to run that mouth of yours. I refuse to listen to the vulgar provocations of a cynic like you.

━

BEZER : You sure are dedicated to solemnly carrying out your purpose without wasting words…As you're teacher I must give you a gold star. EMPPU : I'm just doing what I always do…I don't deserve praise…

━

MEL : Welp. The exploration is over~ We probably found nothing of value, huh? BEZER : It's going to take a lot of work to fix this attitude of yours. Fortunately, we have plenty of time.

━

BEZER : Despite your shortcomings, the results are good. I still think you have a lot to offer. EMPPU : I was just following orders…Not that you'll listen to me…

━

[benevolentgodloki]

Name: Loki Odinson (TVA categorised as Laufeyson but he does not consider Laufey his father and was raised as Odinson)

Nickname(s): Growing up, Loki didn't really have nicknames that weren't attributed to a situation (i.e. called 'cow' by Thor at least once because of his horns). Most of them come once he meets humans, particularly Tony Stark, whether canon ones or not, e.g. Rock of Ages, Reindeer Games, Lokes (non-canon). Arguably most things Loki gets called are one-liners never to be used again. See 'the Asgardian Mussolini' by Coulson, 'Little Blue Baby Icicle' probably coined by himself as he will have had a hand in the penning of the play about him. I think my favourite main nickname for him I ever use is a non-canonical frostiron one of Lokes.

Relationship Status: Verse dependent. Canonically single.

Gender: Genderfluid male. Capable of shifting into whatever gender he feels like at the time, but he usually identifies as male.

Romantic Orientation: (Going with Trish's one on this) Bisexual/Pansexual/Demiromantic

Preferred Pet Names: He thinks he's not a fan of them, but loved ones can prove him wrong. With frostiron, he has a fondness for Lokes. Super cutesy words usually annoy him. 'Lo' or 'Lolo' will make him very angry. Where some Lokis might enjoy those, this one loathes it.

Opinion on True Love: Categorically does not believe in it. Difficult as love is for him, he doesn't think there can ever only be one person for one person. That's not to say he can't love someone enough to essentially be monogamous, but if either of them outlive the other he wouldn't expect one of them not to find love again. Well, except for him. Love is a shock enough to him that he doesn't consciously intend to seek it despite almost constantly unconsciously doing so.

Opinion on Love at First Sight: Also does not believe in this save for the understanding that there is a chemical/magical attraction to some people from the off, a spark that people describe as this concept.

How ‘Romantic’ Are They?: Both an outrageous cynic and the soppiest idiot in the realms. Loki is quite a selfish being so he doesn't always take time to think about what others want, however he's also very 'go big or go home'. He probably won't call you petnames but he'll paint you sunsets and dance with you on starlight. He'll take you to other worlds and threaten galaxies to save you. One time, arguably, canonically, he took on the weight of the multiverse for the love of another (he had other reasons, but it was a large part of it). He might even conjure flowers.

Ideal Physical Traits: Himself. Herself. Failing that, it's a variety really as it mostly comes down to personality. He likes people who can kick his arse and snarky men with goatees. Preferably able to do some form of impressive skill.

Ideal Personality Traits: Sass. Wit. Tolerance. Sense of humour. Able to call him on his bullshit but enjoy some of it, too.

Unattractive Physical Traits: Being Thanos? Idk, I'll go with somewhat of Trish's answer of disliking a lack of hygiene, but it can depend how bad. If it's deliberate grossness, he won't like it, but post-fight grime sure.

Unattractive Personality Traits: Certain kinds of hypocrisy, lack of humour, fanaticism, self-righteousness, ignorance, cruelty.

Ideal Date: Very dependent but honestly he does like to be spoiled. Fine dining, seeing something spectacular, doing something exciting. Can be indoors or outdoors.

Do They Have a Type?: See ideal physical traits. Arguably Loki's type is Loki. But really he likes someone who can challenge him in whatever form that takes. He needs a touch of drama now and then or he gets complacent and is liable to cause it himself.

Average Relationship Length: I don't think you can put an average on Loki. Outside of fanfiction they probably don't last long because he's doomed to mess things up. In our chosen stories, as long as we want. He's as likely to have fast flings as fall hopelessly and be nigh monogamous.

Preferred Non-Sexual Intimacy: Holding each other close, firm grasps in the Asgardian way, cuddling, hand-holding, sharing magic, being let into someone's secrets.

Commitment Level: Variable. Kind of ranges from zero to clingy fool. He comes across as very flaky and makes no commitments at all through fear but once he's hooked beyond help, he's hooked until everything explodes or some other dramatic thing takes place.

Opinion of Public Affection: This really depends on partner and situation. With receiving it,he doesn't like to be embarrassed in front of others, especially other Asgardians, but he also likes to look important. Giving it is similar and depends on partner. Sometimes he wants to show off and/or tease his partner. Sometimes he can be quite private about it.

Past Relationships?: Varied dalliances. I generally hc he had a few spicy encounters with Fandral that involved varying amounts of trickery or them being too drunk to stop themselves. Some younger shenanigans with Lorelei and later on a fleeting fling with Amora before everything turned sour.

tagged by:// @what-the-stark and @kissedbymischief (thanks!)

Tagging: Anyone who wants to do this. I've had this half-finished in my drafts for probably months and I finally did it 😭

[aphilosopherchair]

Responses from the non-human realm (Edited) 1. Elf sidekick

Your words have been wise - as much as any fairy. [Editor: *Blushes profusely*]

Gnome living is still living, and a life well-lived is still to be appreciated.

And maybe our wings will one day regrow, and we'll be even more magical than before.

2. Pumpkin-knitting cousin in eternal summer

I believe that the best way to do good in the world is to be yourself. While it may be tempting to pine for traits or characteristics that are seemingly out of reach, the key is to embrace one's own unique qualities and find ways to use them for good.

If you're a gnome, then be proud of it! Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do good because you're not a fairy. Gnomes have just as much to offer the world as fairies do.

3. Simulated realist

The keys to everyone's hearts may be more of a burden than a gift. Holding the keys to someone's heart can create a power imbalance in a relationship. It can also be overwhelming to keep other people's feelings in mind at all times and to make sure that you're not causing any harm. Without people doing the same around, this can lead to feelings of isolation. Don't envy the fairies. Support them wherever you can.

4. Supreme exterminator

Gnomes, fairies, gods, and mortals… it makes no difference. In the eyes of Eternity, they are all equally mortal. In the face of change, they are all equally brittle. In the pursuit of Eternity, they are nothing more than pawns to be used, or obstacles to be overcome.

Responses from the human realm (Predicted)

1. Productivity optimizer

If you have all the time in the world to do good, you won't feel the urgency to. The probable time complacence of long-living species offsets their chances to do good. Setting time limits for yourself is crucial in any task. Now excuse me while I get back to the spreadsheets atop my treadmill desk.

2. Involution coach

In this hyper-competitive corporate landscape, it's no longer enough to have an I- or T-shaped skill set. You need a pi-, or better still, comb-shaped skill set. Take classes in not only Gnome and Fairy but also Raccoon and Squirrel.

No, take that back. You need a hedgehog-shaped skill set. Make sure your Gnome, for example, includes Gnochemistry, Gnomadic Languages, Gnormosity Engineering and more. And your Gnomadic Languages must cover ancient Gnomadic epics, recent Gnomadic pop sensations on Tik Tok and Gnomadic computing.

Yes, I have a fondness for Māori art. In fact, my lifelong dream is a space sculpture where the patterns run from a galaxy scale all the way down to the nanoscale. Why do you ask?

3. Clueless media executive

That reminds me. There's still room in the market for Love Between Fairy And Gnome. We just need to excise the features posing product risks: the red-hat-blue-shirt thingy, the vertically challengedness and the white beard. There, we can now cast Handsome Oppar in the role.

4. Cynic

LMAO. You mean, who're the better hypocrites? Impostors or would-be demagogues?

5. Crystal ball-gazing, amphibious techie

Yo. Does no one see what I see? Talk about arms races. We're heading towards a wings race and a synthetic wings divide. Bionic wings. Genetically engineered wings. Wing stem cell transplants. When advanced enough, the post-gnome age will let the well-heeled buy the facade of niceness. Give full wings to the humanities first.

[pastmeetsplanet]

Recycling is Dead, and We Killed Him.

It's interesting how sustainability can evoke hope, cynicism, and dread. While it's a significant issue, it can be overwhelming for an individual to tackle. Sustainability is defined as maintaining and continuing for the extended future.

This passage resonated with me because it highlights that sustainability is not a simple issue with a single solution. Instead, it is a wicked problem that requires a multifaceted approach. (Robertson, 2021, p. 9)

On our field trip, we saw firsthand how complex and interconnected sustainability issues can be. For example, the issue of plastic waste is not simply an environmental problem but is also linked to consumerism, the economy, and social justice.

As such, we must approach sustainability with a holistic perspective, addressing all of these issues simultaneously, if we hope to progress towards a more sustainable future.

Recycling is one aspect of environmentalism that is often discussed, but it's more complex than it seems. While I don't know why seeing the bins and the discussion of recycling frustrated me, it's simplyifying that If you recycle, you're helping! While many students try to recycle, others must know how to do it properly.

In places like Germany, they pay people to recycle their products; they even have specific bins dedicated to paper, glass of color, and wrapping paper. Yes, we can have these little trash bins out to promote recycling, but there's more at the root that no one is getting to; the issue is we have a lot of logos that say oh, it's recyclable, but a lot of plastic isn't recyclable, and it ends up in the waste. It feels like a lie sometimes, and it's frustrating. We must address the number of constantly sold copious water bottles to eliminate plastics and pollution within our universities. Are they genuinely recyclable, or even the amount of Chick-fil-A bags and straws I see every day again. We tell the consumer that everything is recyclable, yet the consumer knows no difference. But it is not our fault. Were stuck with disposables.

To truly make a difference, we need to address the root of the problem, such as the rampant production of plastic and the need for legislation to ban single-use plastics. We tell the public that recycling is working, but that offers a false idea of comfort where we develop laziness! It's not just about individuals recycling; it's about making systemic changes to reduce waste and pollution.

While it's encouraging to see some efforts made, such as using chillers to power the university's air conditioning, it's concerning to see disparities in implementing these systems. Overall, it's essential to continue having conversations and taking action to address environmental issues. However, it's crucial to not fall into complacency and recognize that there's still much work to be done.

My genuine concerns will always be how the University and Students address these issues. How can we stop simplifying them?

Citations:

Che, C. (2023, August 7). His Recycling Symbol Is Everywhere. The E.P.A. Says It Shouldn’t Be. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/07/climate/chasing-arrows-recycling-symbol-epa.html 

Igini, M. (2023, June 26). How Waste Management in Germany is Changing the Game. Earth.Org. https://earth.org/waste-management-germany/ 

Robertson, M. (2021). Sustainability Principles and Practice. In Sustainability Principles and Practice. Taylor & Francis Group.

Photo. Torres, A. (2024, January 18). FGCU Geothermal Air Conditioner. 

Photo. Torres, A. (2024, January 18). FGCU Recycling Bin West Lake.

[elecalice]

Reflection of 2023

Well, this ended up being the first blog post of 2024.

I'll admit it. I felt that I wasted my year being depressed and not doing much.

I finally left behind my abusive ex. Then I got hit by massive realization punches to my gut, the amount of abuse and the fact that I got groomed. As well as my naïvete and complacency led to me being harmed and taken advantaged by people who only did to me, more harm than good. As well as making me commit actions that I really regret.

Then, the depression episodes hit me for months, unableing me to do my studies at a consistent pace. But then, when I got scolded by it when I thought I was going to stop studying.

Also, I have a massive procrastination problem. Oof me... And I TRYING to figure out how to finally manage it, because I hate feeling overwhelmed by stuff and life. As well as the fact that I had to deal with Maladaptive Daydreaming and that I live a lot of my time in my head. I need to NOT live in it all the time. And I'm a overthinker too...

Yep. I realized that I have a lot of issues that I need to address... And that's why I felt that I wasted this year.

But at least I did some good stuff. Like... Good Good Stuff.

Again, finally having the guts to leave my ex. The best decision that I made that year. And I need to thank my friends who used to be part of the same clan where that jerk used to be its leader; for being on my side. I really love you, guys. Especially one who helped me to not chickened out of that decision. (There was a moment where I tried to leave him, but due to my broken hyperempathy, I chickened out. Worst decision on 2020... And I still blame myself for not doing it...)

I learned how to be "selfish" sometimes. Well, more likely, how to respect and love myself. I still need to practice that, but I'm not self-hating so much like before.

I opened myself more to my friends about what happened to me. And I strengthed my relationships with them. As well as apologizing to them for hiding my issues before. I also reunitied with some old friends, even some from the DA years. (Hi, Yoshi, Ryan and Arianna!)

I regained my hope! Yeah. I'm still struggling with some cynicism on me. But OH BOY. I was a complete doomer! I thought that things are just going to get worse. I thought that I lost my hope since... Really late 2020. But I since realized that, No! My hope is still present! It's just that I got used to see it that its brightest. As well as regaining my humanism view. So yeah, I became a bloomer and returned to, AT LEAST my ideas of humanism. I believe that humanity can progress and be better, help each other to be better persons, and to bring justice to the wrong-doers, no matter in which position of power they are. Because after all, we are all humans. No one is more human that others.

I'm still proud that I managed to show off BladeCrossEXE, from the YT Channel FlashingBlades, my Elec Man Unhearted creepypasta for his Mega Man Creepypasta readings that he did from October to, New Years Eve. As well as helping him with some facts for the Rockman.EXE iceberg.

Developing more of my personal projects and some fan projects. In personal projects, The Channelette Project and internally Virus Deleter. In some fan projects, I need to draw and write those ideas.

I'm happy for my new interests! Especially in my new interest in Street Fighter! As well as my desire to get into more fighting games!

As well as a another, REALLY personal one. I'm not going to tell it, though. Please respect my private life.

Well... 2023 could've been better. Being depressed didn't helped. (I don't know if you guys really want my Spotify Wrapped of this year. Let's just say it was a Depression Sandwich)

But at least I'm getting better on my mental issues, and I want to fix those that I have to need to check on, like my overthinking and not living on my head all the time. (Random comment related, but the infinite cube that I bought during the writing of this blog post, is helping me to relax and stay focused. Best adquisition that I made, I think)

So yeah!

I'll try to return to my studies and to drawing more!

Let's Go, 2024!!

[scarluxia]

late night ramblings (not negative towards anyone)

Recently, I'd been doing ongoing commentary with someone on a series of ice-cold takes about a fanfic that was really no worse than mediocre. Anyway, she dropped the project because it's not fun anymore after a particularly long rant about the sporker's mindset regarding OC/canon relationships.

It got me thinking. I was surprised because the level of annoyance she was expressing is about the same level I express in an unrelated venting group chat on a daily basis. I can rant about something for an hour or two without stopping and then go right back to consuming it because, even if it *is* that bad, I'm just kind of used to it. It's rare for me to find something that's not.

So that made me realize that not everyone has this constant mild level of irritation and cynicism at the back of their minds. I always wondered why things affect her emotionally moreso than they do to me, and I think that might be because she's *not* used to just being annoyed, so for her, it's an unpleasant feeling she wants to get away from and for me, it's just life.

I'm on a mood stabilizer that... used to prevent me from going into rages like I did before, and even though something else I'm on might increase my irritability, I'm still not *violent* like I was when I was a minor. But when I was on Haight Street recently visiting a metaphysical shop, I felt so laid-back and ... I think it might have been happy? It was vastly different from the low-level antipathy to which I'm accustomed and, even though I obviously can't go crystal-shopping every week, it felt nice to be in a space with such different energy from what I'm accustomed to. People there are super chill and so willing to compliment others and give serious positive advice that doesn't sound generic or clichéd.

Anyway yeah, long navel-gazing short, I'm just used to not liking stuff, so when I *do* like something, it's unusual and even bizarre. The idea that you can quit doing something simply because it annoyed you is... well, it's no problem for me to respect someone's wishes on that, but it's also a strange concept. I didn't drop out of college because I didn't *like* it, I dropped out because I was *bad* at it. I was getting B's and C's, and even D's and... Well, anyway, I did poorly, so I dropped out twice. I can't exactly drop out of parenting even when his non-school days push my annoyance level from mild to moderate. (I love him, but the conception of any child was not compliant with my will. I'm still the best chance he has, and when he's being good, he is THE most adorable being on the planet 🥰)

I dunno, I'm just also not used to feeling particularly strong emotions. Or maybe that's lack of emotional object permanence. I have flashes of joy, flashes of anger, flashes of affection. Anger sticks the longest. Joy is probably the most fleeting, like, it takes a LOT for me to feel anything higher than just general... not quite contentment but I guess complacence?

I don't have a bad life or anything like that. I'm actually very blessed. My son is mostly well-behaved, highly affectionate and highly intelligent. I live in a good neighborhood and I'm blessed with a lot of support for housing and public transportation. My son's other parent is someone I can tolerate living with most of the time and is honestly a better housemate and coparent than I'd probably get if I tried dating again. Life is pretty good and I'm not annoyed *with* my life. It's more like, certain people, certain ideas/prevalent mindsets, certain media, stuff like that. I don't *hate* any of it (I'm more than capable of DNFing something I legit can't stand). If something isn't ideal, yeah sure I'll bitch and moan about it for an hour, but then I just accept that's how it is because that's most things. Expecting things to be always ideal or always correct... I used to. I don't remember when I stopped, but somewhere along the way, my insistence that everything be 100% accurate and up to my standards got replaced with a low-level antipathy because it just became too exhausting to care, I guess. Like, I'm annoyed but I'm not mad, because being legit mad takes too much energy, and because I just don't care that much, I'm also a lot more accepting.

I used to feel I *had* to be absolutely honest at all times about when I didn't care about something. I'd shut down any conversation that wasn't about my special interests. Now I just kinda let people talk unless it's either something that squicks me out or if I feel like something I brought up is being ignored. Even then, I'm more likely to just mute the conversation than ask someone to stop talking. There are still things about which I'm passionate, but I mostly recognize them in hindsight. Like, I'm not Team Black or Team Green, but I adore Aemond and I'll forgive him any and every ✨WaR cRiMe✨ due to our shared history of being bullied and blamed for our reactions, and also our shared history of having half-functional vision. I rarely feel strongly enough to urge people to boycott anything, but I've stated multiple times I'd rather someone pirate certain content than see it legitimately because fuck that c🫑nt's career.

In conclusion: quitting things you don't like is valid but also I rarely do that because I don't like many things 🤣🤣🤣

[frumfrumfroo]

"#also american franchises based on ya novels need some seriously enticing incentives for me to give them a chance" If you don't mind talking about it, I'd love to hear this explained more! I'm really curious about why this is and what about American YA franchise novels puts you off...? Also more generally, what makes these types of stories cowardly and how writers can avoid being cowards/making cowardly choices/examples of when they do? Like what is a cowardly choice and what is a brave one?

Well, it’s basically a pile up of red flags for me. First, that I don’t like YA. By which I mean the American publishing industry standard that constitutes the ‘genre’, not the concept of stories for young adults.

There’s an (enforced?) house style of basic, utilitarian prose I find extremely boring to read and YA novels are overall simplistic even when they engage with nuanced ideas. Obviously that’s by design because they’re meant to be really accessible, but for me it’s frustrating and unsatisfying. It’s possible to be simple and accessible while still offering a lot of thematic richness and subtext, but you don’t often get that. It’s possible to write beautiful prose for even small children, so there’s no excuse for how dry and beige and lacking colour the writing tends to be. 

I’ve made repeated exceptions because of an exciting premise or someone’s rec and it’s just... never been worth it. I prefer to read something unconstrained by those standards, both stylistically and regarding the content. I like complex prose and complex (or at least deeply resonant) characters. If I’m going to read something that’s pure formula or where I might have to look past weak prose, I’d rather read fanfiction and have it star characters I already care about.

And I’m just tired of the American cultural death cult and the attitudes to storytelling that go with it, so I’d rather have less of that in my life. There’s some writers/directors/actors I really like and will continue to follow, but I want to mostly take a break from US media. The relentless propaganda in their mainstream entertainment is also very... wearying.

I was kinda being facetious about writers being cowards, but I just mean doing a cautionary tale about a girl who stays with her NiceGuy childhood friend who’s afraid of her agency and gives up her power because actualising into an adult hero is scary and dangerous and sexual desire is scary and dangerous and making a human connection with the woobie villain is Bad... like, that’s a ‘safe’ choice that was passé for women’s fiction in the nineteenth century. It’s like Romanticism didn’t even happen for some people.

Courageous storytelling to me is actually challenging either your protagonist or your current cultural milieu. Interrogating the received wisdom you and your audience probably take for granted. Coming of age stories need to ask what adulthood actually means and whether the ‘expected’ choices are really the right ones; they have to show the person who is growing up wrestle with the discovery that their authority figures and foundational assumptions are fallible. That doesn’t mean you have to decide it was all wrong, maybe you reaffirm your original beliefs, but they should still be questioned and an adult understanding of them should be more nuanced. If your protagonist ends up back where they started, your story better have been about resolving why they weren’t content with that at the beginning and how it was their perspective that needed to change rather than their circumstances. Otherwise your message is just ‘give up and don’t hope for something better’.

So many stories now are ‘cowardly’ to me because they’re entirely unchallenging, even at the most basic level, and are about protagonists who never struggle or fail. Or they’re simply credulously cynical and complacent, which is just lazy imo. Standing for something, saying something, takes courage. Saying ‘pfft, it’s whatever, nothing matters’ as if a thin veneer of pseudo-nihilism makes you intelligent is juvenile. We’ve seen how often hacks will dismiss the entire concept of art as having meaning in order to deflect criticism (’themes are for eighth grade book reports’, ‘I don’t like to think about the meaning of anything I write’, etc.), as if only a pretentious snob could possibly care about this most essentially human activity of interpersonal communion through storytelling and searching for purpose. The truth is that these people are embarrassed by their incompetence and the fact that they’ve been caught totally uncritically regurgitating a shitty reactionary narrative without a hint of self-awareness so they pretend they ~weren’t even trying~ and never wanted to tell a real story in the first place.

[targaryenimagines]

Reign

Daenerys Targaryen x Fem!Reader

Word Count: 3,022

Summary:

Warnings: None

A/N: This is Dany's side of the story.

"Khaleesi it isn't safe," Tyrion pleads, his desperate voice bouncing off the stone walls of the hall. 

"I never believed that it was," Daenerys says, coolly, her voice coming out with perfect disinterest. "But, I need allies and the Island of Videvik is the most powerful army we could have by our side."

Tyrion sighs despondent at the words that ring softly down the hall. "They're the most powerful, Daenerys, but they're also the most dangerous. There is a reason that they've been left alone for so long. They don't want any outsiders coming in, and they make sure to keep it that way." 

"I know you think me a fool Tyrion, but please believe me when I say that I'm not going there blindly or without protection. My children will be by my side throughout it all, and you know how Drogon gets when he perceives any danger that could be a potential threat to me," Daenerys says as she stops in front of the council rooms door. Turning towards her dear friend and advisor who was still nervously fidgeting. She could tell that he was clearly displeased by her lack of caution when it came to her safety. Offering a slight smile she rests her hand on his shoulder. Trying to show him without words that there was nothing to be afraid of. Her faith in her children and the men she was taken was unwavering, and she hopes Tyrion will see that. 

Bowing his head Tyrion speaks with resignation laced within his tone. “Of course, Khaleesi, I will trust your judgement and try not to interfere too much.” Daenerys allows a warm smile to spread across her lips at his acceptance, but as she moves to step into the council room Tyrion grabs her arm. His hold gentle but an underlying tone of urgency made it like iron. His words only showing what his grip was trying to keep hidden. The fear that he had for her and the worry that came with it. “Please be careful, Dany.”

“Always.”

-----

The wind is like a siren song against her ears. The sound only being able to come to fruition when on dragon back. When a person was high enough in the heavens to feel like they were apart of it. The sweet whistling tone was melodic in its embrace. It was like a fine wine that only got better with time. The sound was the sound of home and it filled her with a sense of belonging. A feeling that she hadn’t had for a very long time. 

A small smile curls her lips when Drogon gives a soft hum. The sound seamlessly joining the beautiful song that wrapped around her. Rhaegal and Viserion soon joining their brother in the music only they could hear. The air was starting to come alive with dragon song, and it was a beautiful thing to behold. For so long the world had been deprived of it and now it was getting to hear it once more. Something that fills her heart with a sense of warmth and happiness. A feeling that only her children could ever invoke in her. 

Turning her head she looks down at the ground below her. The sparkling water of the Narrow Sea shining underneath the sun. Causing the blues and greys to glow with an ethereal light. It was a sight that took her breath away for she had never seen such a sight before. A thought that causes a fond feeling to wash over her body as it reminds her of Tyrion. The man who had teased her about getting lost in her observations of the world. Saying that she was in her head more than any scholar and that she had to be careful about it. Stating that she should never be distracted in public because the moment her guard was down someone would strike. That no matter what she should always be somewhat wary of people that she is not familiar with. 

It was advice that he kept reminding her of as she was getting ready for this trip. His worry and overall fear for her driving him to nag her, and if he was anyone else she would have snapped at him. However, he was not anyone else he was her Hand and one of her most trusted advisers. She could tell that he was nagging her because he was worried. A fact that warms her heart because Viserys never worried about her in the sense of her actual wellbeing. He cared what she was doing because she was an integral part in his plan to get back the throne. It had nothing to do with his brotherly bond to her or his fear for her safety. So having Tyrion actually worry about her filled her with warmth, which is why she didn’t care that he was nagging her. He was doing it because he cares for her and that is all she could ever ask for. Not that Missandei was any better when she learned about the planned trip, but she was much more soft-spoken about it. A thought that causes her smile to have a softer edge. 

She wishes that her best friend was able to make the trip with her, but Daenerys knows how dangerous it is. She had no other preconceived notion than that. There was a reason why no one ever returned from Videvik. She knows that many believe her impaired by wanting to go there, but she needs the allies. She needs to have people that she can trust, and she knows that the inhabitants of Videvik are strong and hardy people. However they were, more importantly, loyal to anyone that gained their trust. Something that Daenerys wants nothing more than to earn. 

She had to earn it because if she didn't… she has no idea what will happen to her and her men. 

There could be no other alternative. If not for her for the people she brought along. She refuses to let them die for her like this. Against their will and without any idea that it was about to befall them. She had a duty as their leader to protect them.

By the Seven Hells she was going to, or die trying. 

-----

Daenerys paces the length of the hall she had been told to wait in. Her nerves causing her hands to fidget by her side. Something she tries to rectify by clenching them, but soon her fists started bouncing on her thighs. Finally, with a sigh, Daenerys sits down on one of the chairs against the wall. Her eyes trained on the window opposite her. Trying desperately to not think about the potential executioner that could be heading her way. 

She isn't always old fashioned, but Daenerys does prefer her head when it's attached to her body. A thought that brings amusement rushing through her body. Tyrion would be proud of her cynicism in the face of this danger. Though he would probably be angry at her for getting herself in this situation to begin with. 

A feeling that comes to a screeching halt as the door swings open. A woman stepping through in a floor length dress that reminds her of Valyrian fashion. Daenerys meets the woman's intense gaze and tries not to fidget.

Instead Daenerys stands with her back straight and a charming smile on her lips. Trying to show that while she is trying to be cordial she was also there on business. Meaning that although she didn't want to be disrespectful towards the woman before her she couldn't allow herself to appear weak. 

To appear complacent in the face of adversity. 

No, that was something she had to be with Viserys. She refuses to be so again and she will try her best to never be again. Daenerys believes that she can be polite and courteous without bending over backwards for them. If she had to do that she would let herself be killed. 

A Khaleesi doesn't beg or plead, but she does make allies and that's exactly what she was going to do. 

"So you're the Breaker of Chains?" the woman asks, her voice bouncing off the walls. Her gaze still leveled with Daenerys's own. As if she was assessing her and Daenerys had to fight the urge to once again fidget. Instead she opts to respond to the question that was given to her. 

"I am."

At her confirmation Daenerys watches as something relaxes in the woman. Her eyes turning soft and a small smile curling at her lips. With a few graceful strides the woman is suddenly in front of Daenerys. Her scent washing over her in an intoxicating cloud. Daenerys has to fight herself from inhaling too deeply at the scent. 

However, despite being relaxed by the woman's scent, Daenerys still tenses when her soft hand touches her bare shoulder. Not used to being touched in such a manner without proper warning or foresight. Something that the woman seems to be aware of by the way her smile grows. 

With a warm squeeze the woman speaks. Her eyes sparkling with warmth and happiness. Both of which exude into her tone causing Daenerys to liken it to honey. "Then, your grace, welcome to Videvik. How can we help you?"

The question only causes Daenerys's own smile to appear. Her shoulders sagging in relief at the words. Thanking the gods that this didn't end in disaster. 

-----

Daenerys opens her eyes and stares at the throne with a soft smile. Her eyes sparkling with happiness at the sight. She couldn't believe that was in front of her. After so long of fighting and surviving she was finally here. She was standing in front of the throne her family had built. 

A founder smile pulls at her lips as she thinks of the reason. It was all because of her love and her army. Once Videvik had joined her ranks none of her enemies stood a chance. The alliance between the queen of Videvik and Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen was a sight to behold. Not that many lived to tell the tale of it. 

However, her army wasn't the only thing she earned from the alliance. She found her true love in every way in the queen. Her love, her mate was everything to her. For she was kind and caring to those she protected and cared for, but fierce and cold to those she didn't. She was compassionate and loving without being too overbearing. She was everything and more to Daenerys, and the Khaleesi felt so lucky to have her in her life. Daenerys couldn't think of a better person to rule by her side.

She just wishes that the start of her reign started better. The thought of it brings a pit of despair back into fruition. Daenerys wishes that she had realized what was happening before it was too late, but she hadn't and because of her mistake hundreds of innocent people were killed. Daenerys closes her eyes and wishes that she would have noticed the barrels. The barrels that contained something more volatile than dragon fire. 

Wildfire. 

Daenerys can still see the green flames tearing through King's Landing. She can still hear the screams of her people as they were engulfed by it. She can still feel the heat of the flames on her skin as she tried to rescue people. She can still smell the ash that clogs the air. She can still feel the despair and anguish that permeated the air. All because she hadn't noticed the barrels. 

With a sigh Daenerys opens her eyes once more and tries to control her grief. She was going to honor all of the people that died, and make sure their families were taken care of. It was the least she could do for what she did. 

Approaching footsteps pulls Daenerys out of her thoughts. Turning she can see the burly figure of Jon Snow approaching her. Allowing a small smile to appear on her lips Daenerys approaches the man. Her eyes sparkling with warmth at the sight of the man. 

"Jon I'm glad to see that you weren't hurt," she says as she stops in front of him. Her eyes assessing him, despite her words, for any injuries however small. 

She watches as a small grimace makes its way onto his face, and couldn't help the frown that flashes across her own. She watches as his eyes flash conflicting emotions. As if he was trying to decide something, and Daenerys watches with horror beginning to spread across her body as his hand drop to his side. 

Backing up Daenerys stares at Jon with an aghast expression. Her eyes not believing what she was seeing. The man she considered a close friend was planning to kill her, and she knows that she doesn't have a chance. She's unarmed and alone in the throne room. Drogon was resting after the day's event, and she knows he won't be able to get to her in time. 

She meets Jon's gaze and can see the pain that's starting to grow in them. She can see the way his hand trembles slightly with the weight of his emotions. It was a sight that gave Daenerys hope that he may not do it. That he may talk to her instead of killing her. That they would be able to get through this without bloodshed. 

Taking another step back, towards the throne, Daenerys raises her hands. Trying to show Jon that she wasn't a threat. While desperately trying to figure out what to do. In the back of her mind she can feel Drogon's shifting emotions. She can tell that he was waking up and was becoming aware of what was happening. She could feel the fear he had for her. The worry that was festering inside of him, and she knows she has to stay breathing for just a little longer. Drogon would be by her and she would be protected. She knows that her son would never let anything harm her. 

Focusing her gaze back on Jon she knows what she has to do. She has to keep him occupied at least until Drogon arrived. Daenerys begins to speak her words coming out in a soft whisper. 

"Jon you don't have to do this. Please think about the repercussions that this will cause," she says, her voice taking a begging lilt despite herself. Though she couldn't bring herself to care. All she could think about was the fact that she would be leaving her son and love. That the man she entrusted her life with was going to kill her. 

"I'm sorry, Dany, but there is no other way," Jon responds, his own words softer than Daenerys ever thought possible. They hit her in the chest all the same. The weight of them crushing her. Daenerys could feel tears starting to prick her eyes. Assassin's have been around her for her entire life. She had been fearful for her life for as long as she could remember, but she's never reacted like this before. She's never felt as crushed as she does now, because Jon Snow wasn't some hired mercenary. He was her friend, she trusted him and this was how he repaid her. With a knife figuratively in her back and literally in her heart. 

Taking another step back Daenerys tries to find her words, but none come to her. Everything leaving her in the moment she needs them the most. She could feel her heart pounding in her chest. Blood rushing in her ears at a deafening rate. She could feel the soft touch of the wind against her skin. Can feel the way the stone of the dais underneath her shift. She can feel the moment her heart breaks as Jon begins to move towards her. His eyes showing his remorse but his movements fluid as he pulls out his dagger. The metal shining in the dying light of the day. 

Daenerys feels her heart stutter as Jon stops in front of her. His brown eyes leveled with her violet and she wishes that it was someone else. That Jon wasn't the one doing this. She wishes that her love was with her. That she could hold her one last time. Daenerys wishes that she was able to say goodbye to Drogon. That she was able to hold him one last time because she wasn't able to do that with either Viserion or Rhaegal. 

She wishes that she had more time. 

Staring in brown orbs Daenerys allows her eyes to slip shut. Not wanting to look at the executioner standing in front of her. She doesn't want to see the face of her friend as he killed her. With a deep breath Daenerys prepares herself for the pain. The burning hot feeling as the knife goes into her, but nothing happens. 

Instead the heavy presence in front of her is replaced by a much lighter one. Feeling a soft hand against her cheek causes Daenerys to open her eyes. Her gaze taking in the most beautiful sight she's ever seen. Her love was standing before her with ash covering her body, but a smile on her face. Daenerys could see the worry in her gaze but she doesn't do anything as Daenerys launches herself into a warm embrace. 

Both women holding onto each other as tightly as they could. Knowing that they very nearly lost one another, and Daenerys drops her gaze to the floor. Seeing the still form of Jon Snow laying before her fills her with grief, but she can't help but be happy that she was still breathing. That she was able to be in her loves arms once more. 

That her mistake didn't kill her. That everything was righting itself in the world, and that would be able to begin her reign with the woman she loved. 

For Fire and Blood may have come to Westeros. Peace and mercy was staying, and the reign of Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen was just beginning. 

[tired-and-unjellied]

Wouldn't it be both physical and social appearances? He seems to protect Haruka because of his awkwardness and apparent "submissiveness" (he doesn't look like he would defend himself if someone hit him), and Mikoto for being pretty compliant with the idea of being a model employee (?). However, he seems to pick on several authority figures for being oppressive or compliant: Kazui and Shido (and possibly Mikoto) for being tall, strong, and older, yet pretty complacent, his father for being "an old fogey", Es, and the teacher (2nd victim). However, being so angry with Killcheroy yet staying neutral with Amane's utter obedience sounds like he might not be that opposed to authority as I'm assuming.

(It's more of an headcanon, but his neck is so exposed, it makes me think he's using baggy and puffy clothes to look intimidating, like a pufferfish, rather than easily cold. That would also play in the physical appearances)

I agree with the long term planning; Fuuta's the impulsive fire starter to Kotoko's plan executioner (even her planning is not all that good, seeing trial 2…).

Honestly, for Amane, I didn't notice they were interacting and the reasons why. I think she might be too unapproachable for him, seeing how she started disliking Fuuta very fast (according to Yuno's VD) and ignored Mikoto in the timeline (?). That, he is not interested in a girl (fearing "girl talk", especially she hung out with Yuno and Mahiru), or he thinks she's capable of handling herself like you said.

I'm somewhat cynical as for his reasons for scolding Haruka; I think he was venting that he can't get hyped up with Haruka nor Mikoto (baseball player instead), rather than out of concern for how well he performs socially. Especially so as Haruka's codependency with Muu should raise some concerns; I don't think he's as aware as Yuno who has experience, but definitely more knowledge than say Mahiru.

Concerning Muu, I honestly have too many biases to talk about her neutrally, or write her without showing her in a very bad light. I see Muu as someone who manipulates everyone into having their attention and give them breadcrumbs to fight over, but Haruka is satisfied with that, so it must not be that few she gives back. In reality, that's more of Fuuta's trait (i.e., the tomato).

Honestly, I'm afraid that Haruka might target Fuuta if the codependency is not properly broken up; even if I honestly doubt Fuuta will survive MILGRAM. Getting forgiven will probably make him that threatening Es was the right thing and not speaking of breaking the cycle of violence; thus making him put his front up again.

Milgram has created a new form of found family I like to call forced family. It's like how you're legally obligated to see someone everyday through school or through work so everyone is trying their best to get along to varying degrees but slowly over time you get used to them and even though you don't like them you like their presence.

Kazui is just here like well I'll wait and see I won't be harsh just not gonna be super inviting either just gonna keep it casual. Yuno at first was like this is actually quite nice being around people who are just little off as well hopefully nothing changes- Shidou just went is anyone going to healthily parent this child no well my kid now want some pancakes also it'd be nice if you used your medical skills to help the group you're going to kill me but why- Mikoto this is probably all a reality show stunt but the least I can do is try to be amicable and communicate with others since this must be rough on everyone vs I know why I'm here Mahiru but how could I not use this opportunity to get to know new people tell me your birthdays.

There's Mu the most forward communicator here. Just will straight up tell you what she wants even if it can come off as pushy. Bad at reading a room but it's doubtful if she's actually blatantly ignoring the atmosphere. It's more a what about me though thing like she wants to be dotted on and listened to but that makes her extra annoying to people as socially aware as Yuno who is around her age and would not be willing to give the teenager excuse to her.

Then there's the problem communicators Amane, Futa, and Kotoko. Who regardless of how mundane the conversation is will be liable to fly off the rails. Level intensity going from you're a child so it's fine, your emotional control/patience is very impressive actually you could be more immature, you're twenty grow up this isn't just happening to you and your insistence on making a bigger deal out of an already bad situation is contributing to a negative atmosphere, to you are actually just wildly inconsiderate while also being very sensitive to criticism of any kind it's funny it's really funny how immature you are. I'd be laughing if it wasn't so sad.

Milgram really went the worse communicators are gonna be 20 years old on the dot and they were not fucking wrong on that one.