#especially the maws version

[helloimamistake]

How i feel about the people in the tags below

[chokulit]

ive never seen anyone talk about this before so i will: i think the second opening of dungeon meshi symbolizes what would have happened if the winged lion won.

[janeaudron]

Happy Thanksgiving peeps! Hope everyone has a lovely day and all the cooking and baking goes well!

[zndr315-blog]

Xenophobic son of a bitch

[jesncin]

The Potential of Asian Lois Lane. Pt 1: Girl Taking Over and American Alien, a comparative analysis

Lois Lane has had many iterations over the years. But specifically in the last decade, Lois has been reimagined as an Asian American woman in both the comics and recently in the animated show My Adventures with Superman.

I believe making Lois Asian is a very inspired choice for the Superman mythos! I would like to take a moment to analyze these versions of Lois from an Asian perspective, seeing what works, what doesn't, and what I'd like to see more of. We'll start with the comics first, as MAWS is going to need its own post.

Usual disclaimers: I'm just one Asian perspective, I do not and never will claim to cover every Asian person's opinion on a thing ever. We're not a monolith, we come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. I'm simply a fan who enjoys media analysis and believes it's valuable to have my perspective in this topic. Secondly, this discussion covers the comic run American Alien, which is written by Max Landis. He's an ultra creep and while I think the comic is worth a read for what it is, I leave it up to you whether you'd like to buy the comic. You can always arg-arg-ahoy otherwise.

I'd like to start with Girl Taking Over: A Lois Lane Story written by Sarah Kuhn with art by Arielle Jovellanos. This is a self contained YA graphic novel about a young Japanese American Lois dealing with the ups and downs of breaking into journalism as a career in National City. When her dream internship at Catco gets a corporate take over, Lois seizes an opportunity to write an exposé on a shady art director. But when her story is turned down, Lois does some out of the box things to get the story of marginalized performers shared with the world.

Girl Taking Over is a fantastic story and I happily recommend it to anyone looking for how an Asian American Lois could be reimagined (with fabulous art by Arielle! The fashion especially is on-point). This story isn't just a diverse coat of paint on a Lois Lane story, being Asian informs Lois' experiences and choices. Both she and her frenemy roommate Miki, are ambitious Asian women yet have hidden insecurities where they still made themselves small to their respective white male bosses. They played into model minority in different ways, and it's only by working together that they're able to foster a community for their stories to be told.

Lois and Miki don't just "have a diverse friend group", that friend group is actively being taken advantage of and suppressed by white gatekeepers. By extension, Lois' friends from work find solidarity in each other. Lois looks up to Cat Grant, a Filipina-American journalist, because seeing Cat succeed made Lois feel like her dream as a journalist is possible. I love how Lois' mom (a character so rarely expanded on in DC canon) acts as a voice of comfort for Lois in the story. All these characters feel holistic and whole, going through their own unique struggles.

It's clear from interviews with both the writer and artist that they care for the history of Lois, and saw an opportunity to reimagine her in a way that aligns with her character but also revitalizes her for new readers of color who aren't used to seeing themselves reflected in media. It's taking Lois' ambition and fearlessness and channeling them into the need to be a model minority, and the insecurities that can come from the desire to succeed constantly. It's taking a character historically frustrated by sexism and disrespected by her male peers- including Clark Kent (who got better treatment than her as a man), and expanding her to be a Lois that has to deal with both sexism and racism in the workplace. It's humanizing Lois' excellence into something painfully specific and relatable for many Asian women.

The only thing I feel I want from this version of Lois is... honestly more of her! I want to see what Japanese Lois does when she moves to Metropolis and works at the Daily Planet. I want to see how her experiences in National City informs her adulthood. Girl Taking Over sets up an incredible groundwork for stories to be told in the Superman mythos. How would Lois react to Superman, a fellow immigrant? Would Superman see himself in Lois? Since she's someone who, in the American context, is perceived as the perpetual foreigner? What would their relationship be like? Out of all the Asian Lois' in media we have so far, this Asian Lois' story has the most rich potential in my opinion.

Up next, we have American Alien written by Max Landis. This 7 issue series swaps artists for each issue, as a means of reflecting different milestones in Clark's life. I will be focusing on issues #4, 5, and 7 since those have the most prominent Lois appearances. With that, I'd like to celebrate the artists for those issues: Jae Lee (issue 4), Francis Manapul (issue 5), and Jock (issue 7). All these artists did a fantastic job, their art styles are energetic and fun to look at. Lee and Manapul are both Asian artists (Korean and Filipino respectively) and I love how they draw Lois- who looks undeniably Asian in their art styles.

American Alien is a modern take on the Superman tale. It expands Clark's story to be connected to Batman, Green Lanterns, Green Arrow, and more. We see Clark grow from his days in Smallville to a city boy in Metropolis, coming into his own as Superman. It's a bold and pretty divisive take with some standout story moments. From what I know, this is likely the first time Lois has been reimagined as Asian- and continues to influence Superman media like MAWS (the producer specifically calls out this comic as inspiration).

In issue #4, Clark moves in to his Metropolis apartment and talks on the phone to his mom about "some bigshot guy named Louis Lane". The reader, likely familiar with the Superman mythos, knows Clark is coming in with biases and a preconceived notion of who he considers a promising student reporter. Once we meet Lois Lane however, the comic turns the reader's expectations on their head:

Lois Lane is an Asian American woman (it's not specified what her exact ethnicity is)! This is a fun moment where the comic metatextually challenged the reader's own biases, showing it's not just Clark who had a different idea of who Lois Lane could be.

Lois' introductory panel is my personal favorite part of her characterization in American Alien. Lois proudly stands as a wall of text behind her recounts how she was considered as a winner for the Daily Planet's Charlton Memorial Laureate Program. When asked why she deserves a place on the program, Lois snaps back that the very question itself is loaded. She's listed her credentials and looks professional- so she's either already been rejected and is just being made to "at least had my say" or she's been accepted and is "meant to garnish my success with eloquent affirmation" to which Lois refuses to do either.

This is a great defiant introduction to Lois, showcasing how jaded she is with the way the world perceives her- but is very confident in her self worth as a journalist. By the end of the issue she reaches out to Clark to combine their exclusive interviews into one story to make a big impression on the news. Her words inspire Clark to seize an opportunity to make a big change in the world as Superman.

Afterwards, the comic plays the classic Superman and Lois dynamic straight. Lois is initially suspicious of Superman, but eventually comes around and is inspired to hope through him. There's a great back and forth between the two where Lois' words initially inspire Clark to be Superman, then Clark assures Lois that Superman is probably just a good guy, and when Clark loses hope from a bad day of heroism, Lois gives him hope again. In the end, Lois realizes her love for Clark Kent over Superman and they share a passionate ending kiss.

Overall American Alien nails the Clark and Lois dynamic and understands their relationship. I consider this Asian Lois "just okay". I like that we get to see an adult jaded Asian Lois meet Clark Kent and Superman, and see them get together. Similarly to Girl Taking Over, I'd like to see how this Lois and Clark would play out. My only issue with American Alien's Lois is a sense of missed opportunities.

The writing overall leaves room for plausible deniability over Lois' Asian identity. The artists (particularly Lee and Manapul) are doing the heavy lifting delivering Asian Lois. If she was drawn as a white woman, none of the writing would need adjustment. Sure her introductory panel implies that people judge her based on her appearance- but that could be just sexism instead of the intersectional experience of Asian Lois going through racism and sexism. Clark did assume she was a man after all- it's never specified if he assumed she was a white man. The only thing you'd lose is the metatextual shock value of Lois Being Asian This Time. That's really what this Lois boils down to, initial shock value with no specific writing to follow through. Her marginalization and identity is written broadly enough that it could be attributed to general sexism and womanhood. It's not specific to being an Asian American woman.

However, because of its broadness, there's room for Lois' Asian identity to be built on in the world of American Alien. The story centers Clark's experiences, but I can easily imagine a continuation of the story expanding on Lois'. The basic groundwork is there. I think it's telling that in a comic called American Alien, we get a more diverse Superman cast system. Jimmy Olsen is Black, Lois Lane is Asian- when Clark moves to the city it feels expansive compared to Smallville. It's a world that feels ready to tackle themes of racism if it was ever to continue (and probably in the hands of a writer with that kind of life experience!). In the end, there's room for this Asian Lois to be something special. Clark isn't the only American Alien in American Alien, if you catch my drift.

You can see how Girl Taking Over has a huge piece of what American Alien is missing. The characters aren't just diverse for shock value, they're not an aesthetic change over historically white characters. They have a story to tell that is inseparable from their identities. Whereas in American Alien, the art is doing the heavy lifting with the reimagined diverse characters- Girl Taking Over has both the writing and art carry the representation. Lois can't be changed into being white in Girl Taking Over.

Both of these stories have potential- but if I had the choice to pick which story should continue, it would easily be Girl Taking Over. This graphic novel works for what it is: it makes sense that this is a younger and idealistic Lois that hasn't met Clark or Superman yet. It's a YA book and Lois can absolutely carry a story on her own. What I want as an Asian fan, is for the potential of Asian Lois Lane to be seen through to the point it's considered the definitive version. As of right now, Girl Taking Over is a fun twist on the Lois Lane story. Not something that is seen as inseparable from the Superman mythos. However! If those themes of marginalization and immigrant identity are tapped into for both Superman and Lois Lane? I feel that has the potential to radically strengthen the overall themes of Superman. It's certainly been touched on before.

(TW/CW: racial slur mention in below image)

Superman Smashes the Klan by Gene Yang with art by Gurihiru is a retelling of the Clan of the Fiery Cross arc in the classic radio show The Adventures of Superman where Superman faces off with the Klan who had been terrorizing a Chinese American family. The graphic novel adapts the story to center the Chinese American characters, and makes it a point to show that Superman relates to them. If that dynamic was applied to Asian Lois, that feels like a definitive love story waiting to happen.

The classic two person love triangle with Clark and Lois is that Lois loves Superman and is indifferent to Clark Kent. She thinks Superman is this ideal macho man and Clark is a cowardly fumbling guy at work who rivals her. What happens when you take that dynamic and made it so Lois identified with Superman- the more othering identity? How complicated would that make Clark Kent feel? How would he navigate that when his marginalization isn't always visible? That's a whole new depth to the love triangle we're not used to seeing. I feel so far, none of these versions of Lois have touched upon this potential dynamic. The perpetual foreigner, Lois Lane and the ultimate alien foreigner that is Superman. The jaded city girl meets the alien farm boy who gives her hope. They inspire each other to be more of themselves in a world not ready to accept either of them.

Up next, we'll be discussing My Adventures with Superman's Korean Lois Lane in pt 2. It's well. You can probably guess how I feel about it from what I wrote here but welp. We'll talk about it.

[dio-icarticaae]

Superman Comic Rec List!

I've seen a couple people curious about Superman comics after watching MAWS. So now that S2 is over, I thought I'd put together a rec list of Superman comics I've really enjoyed that I think are a good way to get into Superman comics. Enjoy!

1) Superman: Birthright

Why: A wonderful and touching origin story comic for Superman and a great introduction to his character, world, and supporting cast, from Krypton to Smallville to Metropolis. It has gorgeous art and a really good grasp on Clark's character and that of his supporting cast. Primary Themes: immigration, xenophobia, homesickness, hope Trigger Warnings: see above

2) Superman Smashes the Klan

Why: Based on the 1940s Superman radio show's "Clan of the Fiery Cross" storyline, Superman battles the Klan. Explores Clark's background as an immigrant. The story itself follows along with Roberta Lee, a young Chinese American girl whose family is being targeted by the Klan. Primary Themes: racism, identity issues, internalized racism, police brutality. Trigger Warnings: see above

3) Action Comics #792

Why: If I was asked to choose just one comic as my favorite Superman comic ever, it would be this one. A self-contained story that highlights Clark's investigative reporter skills and connections to people, as well as Superman's determination to save everyone, no matter their importance. Primary Themes: the importance of life, hope, connection

4) Superman: For All Seasons

Why: 4 issue exploration of Superman, told by various people in his life - Pa, Lois, Luthor, Lana Lang - for each season, at a pivotal point in his life. Primary Themes: family, hope, community, connection

5) Superman Red and Blue

Why: Anthology of Superman short stories, on a wide variety of themes and times in Clark's life. There's some that I like more than others in this anthology, but there's not a single bad story in there, and they're all very enjoyable. Primary Themes: hope, what it means to be a hero Trigger Warnings: see above

6) Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow

Why: Want more Kara? This is a wonderful comic for that! A great exploration of Kara and her rage and grief over the destruction of Krypton. Kara teams up with a girl on a mission to avenge her father's murder, taking them on a universe-spanning adventure in space on the trail of a space mercenary. The art is STUNNING and it is an amazing summation of Kara's character. Highly recommend it. Primary Themes: grief, justice, revenge, loss, kindness, survivor's guilt Trigger Warnings: see above

7) Superman: The Wedding Album

Why: Clois's comic wedding! Lois is really wonderful in this comic. This includes a lot of references to events that happened in the comics at this time so it might be beneficial to read some of them/skim the wiki pages for them before reading this for clarity. Primary Themes: love, joy, communication

8) Reign of the Supermen + Return of Superman

Why: Great encapsulation of who Clark is as a character and what makes Superman Superman. Takes place during Clark's comics death. Also, this is the first time that John Henry Irons (Steel) and Kon-el (Superboy) appear in comics! I also recommend this especially for MAWS because MAWS has already established/hinted at A LOT of story elements of this comic - I highly suspect that MAWS is going to do a version of this storyline in S3 or S4. Primary Themes: what it means to be a hero, legacy, identity Trigger Warnings: exploitation, grooming (Kon does NOT have a good time in this comic)

9) Steel (1994)

Why: Are you in any way curious about John Henry Iron's appearance in MAWS? Then this is the comic for you! His 1994 comic solo establishes who he is as a person and a hero, and his supporting cast. This comic run is great and I cannot recommend it enough. Primary Themes: responsibility, kindness Trigger Warnings: police brutality, American imperialism, drug use

10) Trial of Superman Arc

Why: Great exploration of Clark and the impact he has on the world and people around him. It's great fun, Clark gets kidnapped by aliens blaming him for Krypton's destruction because of his distant ancestors and escapes. You can find the reading order for this arc here. Primary Themes: Justice, redemption, fairness Trigger Warnings: police brutality, incarceration

And if you're interested in more, I highly recommend reading 90s Superman comics! Personally, I've been reading through from Reign of the Supermen/Return of Superman onwards, and there have been some rough patches, but it's also been very fun and I have found some amazing stories that way!

[vinelark]

With the exciting news of Kon being in MAWS season 3 (!!!!!), do you have an specific recs for him when it comes to comics? (I know Young Justice is good for him, but not much outside of that)

hello! exciting news indeed!!! and hell yeah, here are some kon-centric comics outside of yj that i’ve enjoyed reading:

Reign of the Supermen arc (1993)

this arc has kon’s intro, well before he even had the name kon, and it’s worth a read if you haven’t already because of the way he shows up and is peak annoying immediately (said with love). especially Adventures of Superman #501! (the storyline spans a number of titles, reading order here)

(and for a related rec, the reign of the superman (2019) animated movie blends aspects of the original comic arc with the “kon is made with lex luthor’s dna” reveal/retcon; it’s a fun watch! left me with Much To Think About pang-wise, too.)

Superboy (1994)

the most concentrated amount of og jacket and glasses superboy you’ll find in one series; there’s a lot going on here, most of it so very 90s (both in the plot/world and on a more meta level) and also so many adorable kons. special shoutout to my favorite side character, krypto in his “tiny white terrier with a giant attitude” form. (and for a more specific rec i’ll point to issues #60 - 61, in which kon is hopping through multiple realities and we see, among others, robin!kon and “supergrrrl” kon.)

Batgirl (200) #41

this is the issue where cass goes “hmm, i should try to do A Romance” and shows up outside kon’s window to see what all the fuss is about, and they proceed to have the most lavender date of all lavender dates. i adore kon’s inability to shut up here, and also for obvious reasons need to give it a special shoutout for kon taking a “bat-babe” on a date in the clouds.

Adventure Comics (Vol 2) #1 - 6 (2009)

this arc serves to re-settle kon into the world (and smallville) after the whole [waves hand] dying and coming back to life thing. (technically it’s 12 issues, but you’re asking for specific recs so my specific recs are the first six!) this is about kon starting life in smallville and having a prolonged identity crisis re: the superman + lex luthor of it all. cassie, bart, and tim all show up as significant guest stars (one of my fav tim & kon issues of all time is in here) but it’s very kon-centric! i also really enjoy the art, especially when it does wide/landscape shots.

Superboy (2010)

this is a pretty direct continuation from the adventure comics arc, once again feat. kon’s 21st century black t-shirt (sigh) and also kon wearing the tiniest, goofiest pair of Disguise Glasses. that said, it’s a fun, classic “teen superhero juggles school and crushes and a statistically high number of supervillains for a small town (seriously, what the hell was poison ivy even doing in kansas?)” series. also if there were any justice in the world simon valentine would’ve been one of those crushes, but alas.

Convergence: Superboy (2015) #1 - 2

i’ll be honest, i’m not super familiar with the overarching convergence storyline, but i really enjoyed this two-shot featuring a kon who has been stuck in metropolis without his powers, only to suddenly gain them back and immediately start brawling with alternate versions of heroes he knows. i also like the art in this one, and the character designs overall—leather jacket kon my beloved!

Action Comics (2016) #1020 - 1028 (“House of Kent” arc)

this sequence brings kon back into the kent family fold after the timeline fuckery (and i think follows from the young justice (2019) gemworld arc where they re-find kon?)—so basically it’s kon’s re-introduction to clark, and to lois and jon (who’s visiting from his own future adventure) and kara and martha and jonathan. despite spelling conner’s name two different ways in the span of a few issues, it’s a neat speedrun of different kon+superfam interactions, and also a fun time for anyone who’s a fan of kon being solidly part of the kent family. also: jacket kon is back 🙏

this is not at all an exhaustive list, just some of my favs--happy reading!

[universeskies]

I wanna talk and appreciate so much... Marina Ida. AND I mean That since beginnings. Not beginning Splatoon 2, But rather back in the First Hero Mode of Splatoon! Back when, Marina designed and built ALL The kinds of weapons and Octoweaponry bosses We Fought. (Note, Im gonna refer as First Hero Mode as "Hero Mode" and Splatoon 2's Hero Mode as "Hero Mode 2")

Something that I LOVE SO MUCH about Hero Mode and Hero Mode 2!! Is that, there's a nod and details in how much like, Marina isn't there with the Octarians anymore per say, and its not only on the Music! Given that the little music motlifs that Marina loves to give are present in Splatoon's Hero Mode, but it couldn't be heard during the Hero Mode 2 (instead You hear Callie's voice and as well the song titles being a callback to Squid Sister songs)

And that is on the machinery that We see in both Hero Mode. Marina Ida is recognized and very much so well known to be a HUGE Genius when it comes to building and Machinery, especially when it comes to Octarians Weapons. Thus earning Her ranking of quite a GREAT Elite Octarian. And We do see that during Hero Mode. We do have that confirmation during Octo Expansion and a hint from the first Sunken Scrolls from Hero Mode 2.

Upon closer look, Octostomp doesn't look That much threatening. If anything this could Even Be seen as The Testing of Power before going to the Big guns!

And it shows! See, one thing that I noticed is that, the Bosses that We fight during Hero Mode, really relies in so many kinds of Machines that of course to a degree uses the Octo's limbs of course. We know these. Like all kinds of weapons and all of these are really intimidating and incredible design to go against the Inkling Menace. I really appreciate how out of what the Octarians have and the little scraps they got from the Underground to build all of these. Marina Ida, Elite Octarian everyone. Really should SO MUCH get such incredible appreciation of Her insane skills, and not only that? But We also know this as well with how MANY Shifty stations She has made. MONTHLY MIND YOU. The second Boss is based on rotating and throwing so much Ink, to shoot Around! THIS to test The aim. Then The Third to test The reflex and agility of The Inklings Menace. It's ALL and they get stronger to it.

Like LOOK AT THIS!!! THIS IS TERRIFYING. THIS BOSS was a STRONG MAWS. AND IT ONLY GOT STRONGER.

MIND Y'ALL. ALL OF THOSE GREAT AND REALLY TERRIFYING AND DANGEROUS WEAPONRY?! MADE WITH ONLY LIMITED RESOURCES AND SCRAPS. All by Marina! She is an AMAZING GREAT Asset and it shows!!

Now then. With that being said, lets look at Hero Mode 2. And already, There's a really great decrease of what can be considered Octoweaponry compared to Hero Mode. One could even say that the Bosses are easier in Hero Mode 2, though that is mostly subjective to how one plays. Could be harder or easier in-gameplay. Both are valid.

But then lets look at the designs and what goes behind them. See, for me, I believe that the Octoweaponry in Hero Mode 2 isn't as impressive or like...really unique compared to like what We saw in Hero Mode.

Thats a GREAT AWESOME Narrative detail in this retrospective! Marina Ida has desserted the Octarian Army. Marina isn't there anymore to like design or build up or built the blueprints for these kinds of Octoweaponry that We see in the first one. If anything, One of the bosses are more so, a Mano-to-Mano combat, which is the Octo Samurai Himself.

See, You could say, what about the Roller he wields? That has to be that, right? Like very heavy machine? Well yes, but also no. I think its kinda like an Octo Version of the Dynamo Roller. Octo Samurai could be one of the many Strongest Octarians all around to wield such Dynamo Roller with ease like it was a Splatana, or even like a Carbon Roller.

Not only that, if You look more, Hero Mode 2 has a RETURNING Boss, which is Octostomp!! But with a New Sick coat XD

That being said, already in Hero Mode 2, We really only have TWO NEW Octoweaponry designed for the Inkling menace. And these two machines....really don't seem that much impressive.

Octo Oven? Feels more like a Bubbler or Shield like weapon to be defensive rather than Offensive.

Octo Shower? Its just a bigger version of an Octo Drizzler...that can fly and not FLY BY ITSELF. With help. Add Stingray to it, but to be honest, the Inkling Menace can also use Stingrays...and Tenta Missile...AND a Charger. There's already limit with these two.

We talk about Octo Samurai and that dude isn't really a machine. Just one Honorable Octarian that wants a fair duel. Splats with Honor after all.

Then We have Octostomp that of course, is a returning one. And to be honest, the new coat just seems a more of a simple thought going "More face, means more difficult right? The more the merrier." HELL!! IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE THE EASIEST BOSS IN HERO MODE!!! And it came back trying to act like being a Third BOSS! When it's Just... They just simply added few more things to make it more of a nuisance rather than Threatening or DANGEROUS.

I want everyone to ALSO know and be aware That... I won't talk about Both DJ Octavio's fights. Cause I believe That those fights speak already from My point in what I'm speaking ABOUT How Marina is such an incredible skilled Set Elite Octarian.

She built then Octobot King used for Both fights!! The FIRST fight was really challenging and was equipped with SO MANY Special weapons. From a Killer Wail to an ALMOST STINGRAY. A FUCKING STINGRAY.

ANd The Octobot King II simply had an added platform for Callie to dance. And spam Bomb Rush specials. Hero Mode 2 DJ Octavio wasnt at full Power and That Made sense since I lean, there really wasnt much to Work with.

Soooooo, I feel that Marina's skills and mindset is just one INCREDIBLE set of thoughts. If anything, I can feel that the Octarians, dealing with the loss of Marina, decided to so much take inspiration and follow in per say what Marina thought. But thats as best as they could get.

There's nothing much You can do and such with already limited resources and already with Marina gone, they have even more struggles to really seek what could go against an Inkling Menace.

Remember... Marina did ALL OF THAT STUFF WITH LIMITED RESOURCES AND ENERGY.

So I really enjoy how the details of how the struggles of the Octarians are still seen and not only that, but also showcase as well, that Marina is still quite struggling cause I'm pretty sure that She still has to deal with just those kinds of thoughts. She doesn't have to deal with it alone of course, but its simply incredible the kind of attention its given within the narrative of Splatoon's Hero Modes.

Hell, We see inspirations of those Bosses in Side Order. The Ball boss from Side Order is clearly inspired by the same one in Hero Mode from Splatoon. Not only that, but if anything the kind of weapons and the uniform plate armors that Parallel Canon AND Eight uses, are very Octarian-like. Not only that, but also the way that the Pearl Drone functions is really similar to how many Octarians will try to pin point the Inkling Menaces and try to attack with mini Inkstrikes.

All around, MARINA IDA EVERYONE!!! SUCH AN AMAZING SKILL DJ TOO! YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!

[blackdagger456]

Let’s Talk: MAWS Spoilers: Livewire X Heatwave Unexpected But Important & Not Unwelcome

I’m gonna try and keep this short. Mostly due to me just not having much to say about S2 of MAWS in the first place. I’m loving it and any minor issues I may have don’t require me to make an analysis post lime this.

That being said—I don’t have a problem with this at all. I’m an old Superman fan. Weird seeing as I’m in my 20s but that’s still old enough to have grown up on the original Superman TAS show along with the Batman version and Jl/JLU.

Did I think it was weird/interesting to go with these designs for Heatwave and Livewire? A bit yeah, but I like giving things a chance and I liked what they did with Livewires character. Didn’t really have too much an opinion on Rory as we didn’t spend much time with her until this episode.

Even the, it’s still only a little bit we spend time with her but its more than does its purpose when it comes down to her, Livewire and the message the showrunners try to convey.

“You never know when to walk away. But I do.”

Now know what the later reveal…well, reveals. But this feels like an actual conversation and issue the two has. Especially with Rorys last line in the episode. But the fact that scene happens later on at all is the point.

Love is messy. Something Lous herself knows all about due to her relationship with her father and Clark. She’s afraid of it—hell she’s terrified but she wants to make things right.

Her love has always burned her. People leave or she is forced to leave them and that culminated into what she said to Clark before he was kidnapped. But being scared isn’t a be all end all for a relationship.

In fact it’s GOOD to be scared. What’s not good is letting that fear dictate your life. Dictate how you deal with feeling that love for another person.

“Love is not for cowards.”

It’s scary and dangerous and messy and rough but it can be so worth it in the end. Be it the end result is you being happy, simply making that leap forward or finding closure Love is WORTH that risk. Worth the risk of sticking it out to find a good balance and partnership that isn’t abusive but one in which you and your partner give and take from one another in a healthy way.

In an unconditional way.

In a way that makes you both better.

And I love My Adventures With Superman for trying to teach/get that lesson across. Doing it at the end of Pride Month is just another big bonus in the shows favor.

[charliemwrites]

Found you while searching for more nikto content and devoured your writing in the span of a night. Oh my goooodddd, i wanna marry your brain your fics are so gorgeous

Been feeling like a teenage girl again, im so flustered by how much i loved reading everything. My poor neighbors must have heard me squeal just about two dozen times 😭

Your nikto fics are by far my favorite, oh my fucking lord do i YEARN for commandments nikto, how soft and devoted he is ahshsjs. And the feral nikto versions you have? Fucking hell if unfamiliar doesnt get my brain spinning.

Couldnt stop reading your writing for the life of me, and have uncovered a love for other characters that i was previously lukewarm on. Like, your krüger?? What a little shit, i just want to knock him a peg down (affectionately)

Your könig is fucking incredible, by the way. Him with ragdoll reader? The definition of heartwarming. His awkward loser self is soooo endearing and funny as hell too. And him in maw? Perfection! Him and guy also reminded me soooo hard of dave and jackson on tiktok, which is hilarious to think about lol

Anyways, i just wanted to let you know how much i adore your work. Especially your readers! Theyre always such interesting personalities! Weirdo and rabid reader have my whole ass heart, and the competence of assistant reader gives me genuine heart eyes agahshsjsvs

*incoherent screeching*

Hi hi hi!!!! Thank you so much, you got me twirling my feet and kicking my hair 😍😍 I’m so glad you enjoy my writing (and my sweet precious meow meow Nikto who’s never done anything wrong ever)

The more I write Krueger, the more I like him as well, bastard that he is 😅 so I’m thrilled to know you’re warming up to him as well.

But seriously, thank you for coming by to let me know you enjoy my work so much 💕💕 all my love 💕💕

[mullet-stan101]

Werewolf Stan x Reader

Chapter 3, (wrote this one so fast because I love werewolf fluff so much, sorry kinda spoiled it)

Y/n stifles a gasp as the eyes stare her down in the dark, the enormous wolf is silent as it crouches on the bed, watching her intently. Ford puts a hand on her shoulder and pulls her back slowly.

“Just…don’t startle it-”

Before he can finish his sentence the wolf leaps off the bed and stalks towards them. Y/n yelps in fear as she and Ford scramble backwards. The enormous brown wolf circles around the room slowly, his eyes on him the whole time.

“What do we do…?”

“Just…stay calm…I need my tranquilizers…”

Ford steps back slowly and y/n’s eyes widen as he leaves her side. 

“Ford-!”

“It’s alright! Just stay still…”

She does as he says but her heart is beating in her throat as it moves closer, her hands shake as it slowly backs her into the wall.

“Oh gosh…Ford!”

Ford shuffles through his bag of equipment and he can’t find it.

“Just stay calm!”

The wolf presses her against the wall and she squeezes her eyes shut, it leans close and sniffs at her. The house is silent as a church as she waits in horror to see whether she’ll live or die. But as he sniffs her it’s as if he gains some recognition, the hazy yellow eyes dilate to soft brown and he leans back on his haunches with a huff. She blinks as she feels him move away. 

“He-he’s…”

She looks at the big wolf waiting at her feet and her brows knit in confusion seeing the now soft brown eyes.

“He knows me…”

Ford looks up in confusion as he’d found his tranquilizers. 

“Good, now I’ve got the chance.”

Her eyes widen as she shakes her head quickly. 

“What?? No- he’s fine! It’s like…he’s almost conscious.”

She relaxes and pushes away from the wall a little as she looks at the big brown wolf.

“Stan…?

Hearing his name, the wolf’s ears perk up and his tail wags slightly, even if he isn’t entirely Stan; a simpler version. Y/n smiles a little at this and she steps forward tentatively, reaching her hand out for him to sniff.

“He’s almost conscious…come here, he recognizes by scent…”

“What? No! He’s still unpredictable, y/n!”

“But he understands! He’s not some monster…he’s just like a big puppy.”

Stan perks up hearing Ford’s voice, and in his simpler mind he forgets the grudge he has against him, wagging his tail excitedly as he walks over. Ford steps back, his back smacking against the table as Stan walks over, leaning up to sniff him excitedly. He pushes off Ford’s glasses with his nose, his maw opened in a dopey smile as he nuzzles his brother to which y/n laughs.

“Aw…see? He loves you.” 

Ford huffs as he tries to push the big wolf back and he wipes his face.

“I can’t believe this…you trusting a werewolf. What are we gonna do with him?”

She shrugs and smiles softly.

“I dunno…c’mere big boy.”

Stan perks up as he’s called and grins a big stupid smile as he barrels over to her, pushing her back against the couch as he nuzzles his head in her lap. She laughs at this and rubs his ears, getting a good look at him. Despite the canine features the body type definitely carried over, a stocky and rather chubby wolf, but still strong looking. He has brown eyes like always, and a thick brown fur especially on the top of his head and neck. 

“He’s just a big sweety…you don’t wanna stay in that room all night, huh? No you wanna stay on the couch, you’re a big cuddle bug.” 

He huffs happily and nuzzles into her, pulling himself up on the couch despite the tight fit and his tail wags steadily. He rumbles softly as he lays his head in her lap to which Ford scoffs, not admitting that he’s a little jealous.

“I cannot believe this…you’re going to let a half ton monster snuggle with you. You never take anything seriously.”

She shrugs, petting the soft fur behind Stan’s ears with a smile.

“Hey at least we have one less thing to worry about. You can figure out a cure while we don’t have to fear for our lives.”

“I guess so…do you think he’ll let me get some DNA samples…?”

She looks down at Stan about to drift off in her lap and she smiles softly. He looks so calm compared to how he usually is, his big head nestled in her lap with a small smile.

“Let’s just let him get comfortable for tonight…”

[kara-zor-els]

I know that everyone wants to see Bruce in MAWS (and I do to but only a couple of seasons in) and while I do think that the main focus of the show should remain Clark and his cast, here is a list of non-superman related characters I'd personally like to see in MAWS instead, in no particular order:

Martian Manhunter: it would provide an interesting parallel between him and Clark being the last of their species and having to live among humans, with the difference being that J'zonn remembers his home planet. Bonus points if it sets up Kara, who unlike Clark, remembers Krypton.

Mr Miracle, if they eventually decide to bring in 4th World characters. He also parallels Clark on the fact that he's also an alien living on earth, but in his case it's a matter of personal choice. Could also set up Darkseid as a big bad for a later season. Bonus points for Barda and her muscles.

Wonder Woman. Much like with Bruce, I only want her to show up much later on. Also I want absolutely 0 romantic tension between her and Clark. They should bond over being labrador retrievers in human form, while Lois and Jimmy fawn over her biceps.

Green Latern. Either Hal or Guy. (No offense to Jon but he was the main latern in the dcau and I especially think that Guy and this version of Clark interacting would be peak comedy.)

[professoruber]

Quick thoughts on MAWS depiction of Krypton

My Adventures with Superman Spoilers

Okay so I've really been enjoying My Adventures With Superman (I recently re-watched and caught up with the show) but honestly I am personally not the biggest fan of the depiction of Krypton and Kara.

Disclaimer I am not a big comic expert and am still something of an novice, especially with Superman stuff, but I am slowly broadening my horizons.

Some things I like about Superman is the parallels to the story of Moses as well as the general immigrant story. Superman Smashes the Klan is one of the comics I've read so far and I really liked how it explored those latter themes.

So I guess I kinda feel that having Krypton be depicted as this imperialistic empire, especially one who was destroyed due the fights they picked, kinda undermines those parallels/themes? Granted, the immigrant story stuff can still very much be present regardless of the nature of Kryptonian society.

Perhaps it has something to do with my initial expectations that Kara would provide another view of Krypton to contrast the very negative impression which Clark had received from the very limited information he had received in the first season but uh...

While Kara is certainly a rather sympathetic individual, she is also certainly not exactly providing a better view of Krypton. Of course, I'd imagine as well that Primus Brainiac's version of Krypton is much worse than the original one.

(The reason why I had the theory is because I like the contrast between Superman and Supergirl, of the latter generally being depicted as having spent at least her formative years in Krytponian society, either Argo City or Krypton itself. Both are stories of immigrants, but with an interesting difference which makes them distinct in their experiences)

But we did hear from Jor-El that Krypton was indeed an Empire before its destruction (although... Clark's only able to have a proper conversation with Jor-El after the Brainiac systems of the ship had been explicitly activated... hm.)

As I said before, I am really loving MAWS and think its a very fun show. And I also do not want to criticise a show merely because it did not follow my exact personal expectations, that'd just be silly.

But I suppose that watching it has gotten me thinking about my personal thoughts on Krypton in general, and I feel like I might as well write it down.

The season's also not over yet, so there is a high possibility of more nuance being shown in Krypyton. Plus regardless of if Krypton was an empire, the regular civilians didn't deserve total destruction.

Anyway, MAWS is very good .Would recommend. And like I said, this is mostly my personal rambling of thoughts on Krypton and Kara. Can't wait to see the next episode!

Edit: kinda tired today but to slightly expand on my thoughts. I suppose in general I like the idea of Krypton with its own flaws and virtues. While MAWS could still very well show the better side of Krypton outside of Brainiac’s propaganda, it’s status as an imperialistic power which caused its own destruction through its conquests arguably would overshadow that somewhat.

Clark Kent was raised on Earth by the Kent Family. That’s who he is, where he got his values and how he was shaped into the man he is. But I also like him still nonetheless being able to be proud of his Kryptonian heritage and connect to it; being both Earthling and Kryptonian.

But in MAWS; between Jor-El’s A.I getting destroyed, Old Krypton being imperialist, New Krypton being ruled by Brainiac and Kara being a brainwashed war criminal, it leaves Clark with very little connection to Krypton and very little insight to what it was actually like as a society and culture and people.

And unless there’s further reveals about Kara’s backstory (although I do have a theory about that…), there’s a fair chance she won’t have much connection to Krypton once she gets freed from Brainiac’s comtrol. And what connection she does have right now is mostly negative and tainted by Brainiac.

Perhaps I am a bit pre-emptive in some of this and I do think there’s still plenty of room for the writers to expand on Krypton and what it was like and what lead to its empire and subsequent destruction. Regardless of what direction the writers take though, I am looking forward to seeing the show’s story progress!

[jesncin]

Hi, I did an ask a while back, and I don't think I got the point across that I was trying to (which is my fault, I wasn't sure how to explain it so it ended up being convoluted). I was not asking about which name suited Clark/Superman/Kal-El best (all the names are his and are true to him). I was asking about his personality. What is your Clark's personality like?

I'm asking because depending on what media you consume Clark can either be super outgoing, fun, bold, and closer to what we associate with Superman's personality (like in Birthright). Or he can be dorky, awkward, shy, which tends to be more associated with Clark Kent Daily Planet reporter (like in MAWS). Obviously Superman and Clark are one in the same (and these personality traits can coexist), but he presents himself differently depending on who is watching.

So my ask is basically who is your Clark Kent when nobody is watching?

Ah okay! The use of all the different names was confusing haha. So here's another go! I know the spectrum of his personhood as Clark Kent goes from "himbo -> bumbling reporter -> mild-mannered reporter" I prefer "mild-mannered reporter" for the same reasons most modern versions gravitate towards that characterization: to show that while Clark is soft-hearted he's still an exceptional reporter. Himbo characterizations (like MAWS) tend to go overboard to the point of incompetence. Unless it's for comedy, I think that's antithetical to "immigrant trying to assimilate by being a model minority" part of his identity and it also flanderizes him.

But if I had to thoroughly answer "who is Clark Kent when nobody is watching?" I would say: that's one of Clark's perpetual internal struggles that he doesn't have an answer to either. If we whittled down who Clark feels most comfortable with right down to his adoptive parents:

There are times Clark puts on a face for them too. And that makes sense, they might be his parents but they're still human- so there's a distance between them. When he's constantly anticipating how others perceive him, it's hard to know what's fabricated and what's real about himself anymore. Especially when he has no other Kryptonians to look to as reference outside of archives. And even with Kara coming around eventually, they don't share the exact same diaspora experience.

I think it's the questions a lot of diaspora ask themselves "who would I be if I didn't have to worry about what others think?" and "is that version of me even possible when I'll always be subject to others' perceptions of me?"

Under all that code-switching, assimilation, model minority over-achieving, and making himself less threatening, who is Superman? He doesn't know either, and I personally like stories where he comes to peace with that. To be okay with making it up as he goes.

[queen0fm0nsterz]

How do you think the lady statuettes were distributed?

Who were entrusted with them, do you think they knew they were more than just porcelain (or whatever the shadow that escapes them is). All guests presumably die over the year (I loved the lady referring to them as rations in seafarers btw I love her so much) so I don't think any brought them to the city as a souvenir.

Is it possible she gave one to a former employee? Hoping to spread her influence or senses?

Because if they're just packed lunches, I'm not sure why there would be one in the pale city. It would be cool if they make it even easier for her to spread her senses out and "see" what's happening around the figurines. Maybe she was testing how far her senses could extend.

HAH, you fool! /j you should know better than to give me a chance to talk about Seafarers...

Alright SO. Since you mentioned it, I'll give you my personal headcanon of how these little statues came to be and their usage in Seafarers, since it's actually one of those small pieces of the canon that really intrigues me.

Starting off strong, I think the idea of having statues of the figure of the Lady was always something that was part of the Maw. The three statuettes with the offering plate look old, abandoned to the seas of time... but still considerably important when it comes to constructing a timeline, because their existence implies (to me) that the tradition existed before the current Lady rose to the title.

I think what Rascal did was popularize this tradition and turn the thing into an additional marketing strategy for the Maw. And while I agree with you that the Guests are not allowed to leave the Maw all year round, I'm fairly certains letters can be sent from the Maw to the mainland: that's because in LN II there are letters between the ones in the Post Office that should have a picture of the Maw between them, and the person in the apartment with the statuette you are referring had received a letter that was titled in the files as being a "brochure". Maybe someone they knew sent them a statuette as well, who knows. Notably, this one specific statuette didn't hold any magic within it, since it only breaks without any mist when it's thrown. This had me believing that while they look the same, the ones on the Maw have a different purpose rather than being just merchandise - something containing a spell, as you said.

What I DO know is that the Maw is popular enough to have at least one book written about it (seen in VLN), several adds inviting people to visit it and having its head as being worshiped in a manner that seems almost religious. As such, Rascal made a smart choice by making the statues faceless, because it makes them timeless. It doesn't matter who the acting Lady is, the point is the image they're selling.

And about that... there is sentimental value to the four statuettes of the previous Ladies, even though Rascal does her best to keep them out of sight - especially Teapot's. I guess an item can hold value even if the sentiment isn't good... My idea for how those four came to be is that Teapot had originally commissioned the first three, the ones of Fox and the sisters, and hers was later added by Rascal.

The one unspoken rule of the statues is that Fox never leaves her pillar. She's the matriarch. You can't hide her away if you try, and you don't want to try.

While I think Six wouldn't be a follower of this tradition (I am very convinced the statuettes creep her out), I have imagined the Lady's version of her statuette when she takes her place on the eventual fifth pillar would have a hole in her face. But if she didn't, she'd probably look like the one on her music box:

[fistfuloflightning]

Slightly more polished version on ao3 here

They're summoned to a local fishing village to investigate some kind of water demon. Just the three of them, which Shen Yuan thinks is hardly fair. Sure, there’s Shen Jiu, who’s worth at least four decent disciples. Shen Yuan doesn’t think he’s too bad. But Shang Qinghua is so far out of his depth it’s almost funny.

They find out it’s a carp demon, old and hungry and slowly picking off the locals over the span of months. Trapping it is the hard part and it goes wild when it realizes it can’t go anywhere. Which Shen Yuan kinda wishes it wouldn’t, since he’s currently hanging above the thrashing water by one leg and staring down into the gaping maw of the carp demon and wondering why all of this feels so familiar.

Shen Jiu is shouting from the side, sounding panicked. But Shen Yuan sincerely hopes his shixiong (bestie? fbf? boyfriend? what the hell?) doesn’t try to play the knight in shining armor (…again).

But it’s actually Shang Qinghua who frees his trapped leg for him, even though it leaves him cursing the An Ding disciple and plummeting into the disturbed water far below. There’s a glimpse of horrified green eyes, then he’s past. There’s no time to worry about Shen Jiu’s weird hero complex at the moment.

But there is a moment of revelation though, the moment before he hits the water: he knows why this whole situation is familiar. Change the demon, change the people dealing with it. But it’s the same. …Fucking Airplane.

And when the demon is suppressed and Shen Yuan drags himself up into the wharf, he’s spitting water and furious. “You fucking ripped off Journey to the West, didn’t you?”

Shang Qinghua’s eyes grow wide for a split second before the biggest grin practically blinds Shen Yuan. “Do you like that movie too?! I thought I was only one!

“I hated that movie.”

Shang Qinghua has the gall to look betrayed. “But Stephen Chow is a national treasure! It’s hard not to be a fan!”

“And it shows in your writing.”

“What does that mean?!”

Shen Yuan is relentless. “So you don’t deny it.”

“It was a good movie,” Shang Qinghua mutters defiantly, as though that’s going to change Shen Yuan’s mind.

But before he can snap back, Shen Jiu is dropping from his sword and grabbing his shoulders to examine him for injuries. “You absolute fool,” he hisses.

He very easily ignores Shang Qinghua in favor of a much prettier face. “A fool for you.” Shen Yuan’s hazy grin is all that saves him from Shen Jiu’s sharp tongue

“Focus.” His eyes flick between Shen Yuan’s, looking for—what? Concussion? His hands don't leave Shen Yuan’s arms, as if afraid he’ll disappear too.

It’s only afterward in their shared inn room that Shen Yuan fixes a gimlet eye on Shang Qinghua. He’s glad Shen Jiu left to check in with the local magistrate, if only so he doesn’t have to explain more than he has to. “You plagiarized the whole beginning scene—didn’t you. Even the little girl, you sick freak. Is there not a single original thought in your head?”

“The girl lived! You saw it! It’s completely not the same! And you have no room to talk, Mr. I-hated-it. You even remember what happened in such a short scene. Even if you deny that, you liar, I know you like the monsters I made up,” he points out. Now that a scowling Shen Yuan can’t deny. Shang Qinghua’s brow rise pointedly as he adds: “…And my bastard son. When’s the wedding, by the way? You’ve gotta make a honest man of him sometime.” A thought suddenly comes to him and he freezes. “Wait. If you got married, would that make me your father-in-law?”

Shen Yuan gags. “Never refer to yourself like that ever again. I hope Stephen Chow finds a way to kill you in your sleep. And if he doesn’t, I will. We never speak of this again and I pray to any bodhisattva who decides to have pity on your sorry ass, that you have not plagiarized any more of that movie. Especially the pig demon.”

Shang Qinghua’s sweating silence says more than words.

“…Are you fucking kidding me?!”