#his desire to protect the innocence of children at all costs and not wanting his siblings to turn out like him

[stardustdiiving]

Oh my goodness I’ve seen like 2 childe posts in the last 48 hrs drawing parallels between him & SA survivor experiences. Is it finally happening. Are the tides finally turning . Are people finally seeing the vision of interpreting his abyss trauma as a sexual trauma allegory . I

[thebarontheabyss]

Do the characters of your story like children? If they don't, why? What do they think when they see one? How do they act around them? Did they have children in their previous lives? Is there anyone who would adopt the soul of a child if they met one? Would the ROs do it if MC suggested taking care of one together?

This is a tough one - half of what I want to say is in heavy spoiler territory. 😪

TBOTA deals with themes of familial relations, so a lot of the characters have one or two of these connections that I will explore in the near future. It's also worth noting that while spirits can engage in many physical activities akin to mortals, procreation isn't one of them.

Death's encounters with children are inevitably somber, given the nature of their role. There's a gentleness and care in their approach to them, and they often find them as much an enigma as mortals in general. Death, amidst their eternal duties, never had the opportunity for children of their own. The concept of having a family seems like a distant, unattainable dream under their current responsibilities.

To Lilith/Damien, children are more of a nuisance than anything else. They view the idea of having children as rooted in selfish desires, and while they acknowledge their own self-centered nature, raising children is far from their interests.

Morgan/Morgana's attitude towards children varies. They could appreciate the company of an intelligent and curious child, seeing a potential for mentorship. However, they lack patience for what they perceive as foolishness. Deep down, there's a yearning to pass on their knowledge, much like their father did.

For Hastur, children represent the purest form of innocence among mortals – something worth safeguarding at great personal cost - and he may have already done just that. His protective instincts are especially strong when it comes to the young and vulnerable.

Yaga's history with her own children is complex and painful, marred by a tragic outcome. Now, her patience for children is thin, often manifesting as annoyance. Yet beneath her harsh exterior lies a hidden tenderness, a remnant of her maternal nature.

Peisinoe is clear about not being fond of children. They prefer the spotlight to themselves and have no desire to share it with their offspring. Their life and performances are their primary focus, leaving no room for raising children.

Shelly dreams of a large family, reminiscent of the one she cherished in life. Unfortunately, this dream is dead, just like her - another regret of a life not lived.

Once, long ago, He Without Name had a child. It's a distant memory, wrapped in the mists of time, but it remains a poignant part of his existence.

Valuing freedom above all else, The Raven shies away from the responsibilities that come with raising young. Their life is about exploration and adventure, not being tied down to parental duties.

[lance-space-mommy]

I'll Give You a Reason to Cry

Midoriya was thrilled to take Katsuma under his wing once he passed the UA entrance exam. UA High offered housing for those who didn’t have a place to stay, but anyone living at home could commute if they desired. Katsuma had no problem staying at the dorms, but his father had his reservations.

Katsuma's father recalled the young hero who saved his son. Reaching out to Midoriya, the father asked if Midoriya would be okay with hosting Katsuma while he attended UA High. Midoriya already had Kota staying in his place since he lived right next to UA and had no problem having another kid stay.

His apartment had felt very empty alone, so he appreciated the company.

Katsuma and Kota got along much to Midoriya’s joy. Kota saw a lot of Midoriya in Katsuma and took it upon himself to protect Katsuma no matter the costs. Katsuma was introduced to Eri through Kota and boom, a friend group was formed.

It wasn’t until a couple of months before their first year ended that Kota approached Midoriya to explain his worries about Katsuma’s girlfriend. The girl was from the business department.

According to Kota, the chick was trying to keep Katsuma away from him and Eri. That information wouldn’t be as concerning if it weren’t for the fact the girl would get angry if Katsuma talked to them.

Midoriya wasn't inexperienced in the dating world. Midoriya knew what kinds of people to stay away from romantically. He had been in many failed relationships, but most of the time it was because he knew his worth and what he wanted out of life.

Midoriya knew that the red light was blinking and the warning sirens were blaring. Kota's explanation was enough to concern Midoriya. Midoriya would kill for his children. There was no way he was going to let some grubby future Hero Commission worker hurt his baby.

Kota knew just how far Midoriya would go for those he cared about and was more than happy to throw the emotionally and verbally abusive girlfriend under the bus.

Unfortunately, Midoriya didn’t have to initiate the conversation because the following day Katsuma came home crying. Midoriya told Kota to give them a moment, not wanting to risk Katsuma hiding information because Kota was with them.

Kota and Katsuma got along, but sometimes embarrassing things happen in a relationship. Midoriya wasn't naive. After all, he went to UA High and his classmates were less than innocent when their third year at the school rolled around.

“Katsuma? What happened?” cooed Midoriya, letting the young teen rush into his arms.

“It’s Okamura," wept Katsuki, hiding his face in Midoriya's baggy shirt.

Midoriya tried to not sound aware of what was going on to get a full explanation. “Okamura? Your girlfriend? What did she do?”

“I was just talking to Shoji-sensei with Kota and Eri about your upcoming patrol. Okamura must have been watching and started screaming in my face about how I was hiding stuff from her and that I was a horrible boyfriend,” cried Katsuma, clearly distressed that he was screamed at for no reason.

Midoriya did everything in his power to not walk out of the home, tell the kid’s parents everything, and then tell Nezu to expel her. No one made his son cry, especially for no reason.

Midoriya let out a soft sigh before pulling back and cupping Katsuma’s wet face and using his thumbs to wipe away tears. “Has she done stuff like this before?”

“Yes, all the time. She won’t let me have any friends. She’s constantly trying to make me sneak out and spend the night,” revealed Katsuma, making it clear that Okamura isn’t respecting his boundaries or what he cares about.

Midoriya was becoming more worried than anything else. It was clear what Okamura was trying to pressure Katsuma into doing. Midoriya understood Katsuma was getting older and it wouldn’t be shocking if he was curious about sex. But, if Katsuma wasn’t interested in doing it and Okamura was trying to get Katsuma to do dangerous things even if he wasn’t interested, that was a serious problem.

“If she gets this angry at the little things, she will only get worse as time passes. This girl doesn’t respect the people you care about. She doesn’t value your space or privacy. She doesn’t care about your comfort. I’ll support whatever decision you make, but don’t expect me to allow her to step foot in this house because if I see her, she’ll be too scared to even look your way once I’m done talking to her,” said Midoriya in a scarily calm voice.

Katsuka weakly smiled, simply sinking into Midoriya’s touch and hiding his face into Midoriya's puffy sweater. “I’m scared to end things with her.”

“Don’t be. She’d be stupid to try messing with you. Having you under my wing, every hero in the school would be willing to die for you. Okamura would be expelled immediately as well. She's not fit to be a hero if she lashed out at you," reassured Midoriya, brushing Katsuma's bangs around to fluff them.

"You're right. I'll ask Eri and Kota to be nearby when I do it!" chirped Katsuma, feeling a lot better about getting himself out of a bad relationship.

Three days have passed since Katsuma ended his relationship with Okamura. The breakup was far from easy and peaceful. Eri had to step in when it sounded like Okamura was preparing to strike Katsuma. Kota had been waiting for the moment Okamura tried anything so he had permission to physically intervene.

After the breakup, Okamura wasn't backing down. It was clear she wasn't when Kota and Eri couldn't find Katsuma one day. When they were looking around, they soon realized they couldn't find Okamura either. Kota and Eri's calls went to voicemail when they attempted to call Katsuma.

Panicking, the duo ran to the teacher's lounge to help them find Katsuma. Nezu caught the drift of what was happening and quickly checked the cameras only to find Okamura forcefully dragging Katsuma to a vacant classroom.

Kota tried to beat the heroes to Okamura, but they got to the empty classroom first. Katsuma was unconscious and Okamura was caught red-handed restraining a beaten-up Katsuma to a chair. Heroes were sent to capture and restrain the teen.

None of the adults knew what to do. When it came to Midoriya, no one messed with his kids. When it came to children in general, Midoriya would happily destroy anyone who even tried to put a child in harm's way.

The adults were evenly split about telling Midoriya. Half wanted to fix the problem in privacy knowing Midoriya would raise hell. The other half wanted to immediately tell him so hell wasn’t raised upon them, there was no stopping Midoriya and he would find out any moment now.

While the adults were deciding what to do, Kota urgently called Midoriya.

"Izuku! Izuku!" shouted Kota, not waiting for Midoriya to greet him.

Deku, who was currently in the middle of capturing a villain alongside his hero partner Dynamight, froze at Kota's frantic tone. "Kota? What happened? What's going on?"

"It's Katsuma! Okamura-," started Kota, only to be cut off.

"I'm on my way," announced Midoriya in an eerily calm tone.

All Kota could do was smile as Midoriya ended the call abruptly. His dad was pissed and Okamura was going to wish she never met Katsuma when Midoriya was done with him.

Bakugo blasted the villain, watching the police force rush to capture the unconscious villain. Turning to Midoriya, Bakugo froze when he saw Midoriya's dark expression.

"Izuku? What the hell?" yelled Bakugo over the sirens.

"Something happened. I'm heading to UA. Right. Now," seethed Midoriya, shooting his gaze to his best friend.

"I'm coming with. You look like you're going to kill someone," remarked Bakugo, eager to see what was about to go down.

Midoriya chuckled to himself, freaking out Bakugo. "Oh, once I know what that dumb girl did, I just might."

Katsuma was in the nurse's office, currently getting his vitals checked since no one knew exactly what Okamura did to knock someone as strong as Katsuma out. The adults were still discussing their mode of action when Nezu revealed that Midoriya was here.

The adults were panicking, trying to figure out what they were going to tell the number one hero. Their panic only doubled when they found out the number two hero, Midoriya's hero partner, the one and only Bakugo Katsuki, was with him.

Kota and Eri were beside Bakugo as Midoriya took the lead. Midoriya entered the nurse's office, immediately tending to Katsuma. "I'm going to kill that little punk. I guess she is stupid enough to hurt one of my precious jewels."

Katsuma silently cried into Midoriya's chest, feeling safe in the presence of his guardian. "She... she."

Midoriya shushed Katsuma, seeing that Katsuma was not ready to talk about what happened. Turning to the new nurse, the pro-hero Healflame, Midoriya tried to remain kind.

"What did Okamura do?"

"From what I can tell, she failed to properly inject Katsuma with an unknown substance I'm getting tested now. Okamura also physically attacked Katsuma once she injected the substance into him, most likely the way Katsuma ended up unconscious. There will be some bruising on his head, wrists, and legs, but is fine otherwise."

Midoriya screamed at Nezu, Katsuma's teacher, and Okamura's teacher. The fact that Okamura wasn't in handcuffs only enhanced his rage.

"So you failed to protect my child, but you are now protecting a criminal? That monster practically kidnapped and assaulted my child in this school and you all are protecting her?" shrieked Midoriya, his face growing red from how angry he was.

Nezu bowed his head and sighed, "We can't do anything. Okamura's case depends on Katsuma."

"And you wanna know why you can't do anything? My son was knocked un-fucking-conscious!" Midoriya couldn't help but laugh in disbelief. "You know, after all the shit my class went through in our time here, you still manage to fail to protect children Nezu."

Nezu remained silent, staring at Midoriya in shock and hurt. Everyone in the room knew Midoriya hit where it hurt. No one could blame Midoriya because what he said was true.

Shoji rushed to bow before Midoriya. "I sincerely apologize for the harm I have caused Katsuma and I'm planning on apologizing to him personally. He mentioned Okamura was a bit on the crazy side, but I didn't know to the extent. I have failed your son and I promise to make it up to the both of you."

Midoriya smiled, patting Shoji's shoulder before giving it a tight squeeze. "The first thing you can do to make it up to me is to get that brat's parents here... now."

Shoji nodded, leaving the room to make the calls. Bakugo marched over and crossed his arms. "This is why you can't even break the top ten. If you paid attention and cared about your students, none of this shit would've happened."

Kota scoffed, "They didn't even seem to hurry when I told them to find Katsuma!"

"Yeah, they tried to tell us that we were being dramatic," ranted Eri, happy to call out the teacher's neglect.

Midoriya looked at Bakugo. "Kacchan."

"What nerd?"

"I need you to stop me if I can't hold back anymore."

Bakugo nodded, the only one equipped to stop Midoriya if he lost his cool. It wasn't often that Midoriya lost control of his emotions, but then again, Midoriya always struggled to control his heart when those he loved were hurt.

When Okamura's parents finally arrived, Midoriya guided them to a private room to discuss what happened. Midoriya genuinely believed that if he talked to the parents, they'd come to a resolution.

It didn't take long for Midoriya and Okamur's parents to disagree.

"Our precious daughter would never do that!" cried the girl's mother.

Midoriya narrowed his eyes, getting suspiciously calm. "Oh? So you want to play that game."

The woman wasn't having any of it. "How dare you insinuate our child was capable of harming Katsuma! She loves that boy with all her heart!"

"You're daughter may have loved my kid, but she had a horrible way of showing it. Your daughter is the reason why they broke up, she made my son cry. Your child is a demented lunatic! She assaulted my kid!" argued Midoriya, his composure slipping.

The woman gasped, pointing a finger at Midoriya. "You're crazy! I don't care if you're some hot-shot hero, you're the crazy one!"

"I don't care if protecting my son makes me crazy. And... just so you know, parent to parent, I don't care what you say anymore. I was willing to come to some kind of resolution, but that's over now. I won't let your criminal of a child get away with what she did and she will not be getting away with a lousy slap on the wrist. Her future is over," promised Midoriya heartlessly.

"You can't do this!" exploded the woman, her face bright red as panic settled in her gut.

"Oh, but I can, and I am more than happy to let you know that your daughter will never become a hero because I am going to get her banned from this school and all other hero schools. Your child is a villain and if she does manage to get away with this... I will make sure that the rest of her life is a hell she can't escape,” vowed Midoriya, his smile anything but welcoming.

Midoriya happily got up and left the horrified mom and neglectful dad in the room. Opening the door, Midoriya was met with Bakugo and Kota eavesdropping. Midoriya rolled his eyes at Bakugo's stunned expression.

"Damn Izuku. You should date me," suggested Bakugo, shooting his shot.

Kota fake gagged, offended. "Back off old man!"

Midoriya patted Bakugo's bicep. "Ask me later Kacchan. I'm in the middle of something."

"The middle of being a badass," complimented Kota, smiling at the memory of Midoriya giving those parents a piece of his mind.

Thankfully with Midoriya's power and status, Okamura was expelled and charged with assault even though most children don't ever get serious charges. The substance Okamura tried to inject Katsuma with was another piece of evidence that made it easy for Midoriya to get his way.

Katsuma had a quick recovery and his bond with Midoriya somehow managed to get even stronger. Kota and Eri also managed to get even closer to Katsuma, growing even more overprotective. Midoriya was happy to shelter and defend the kids who were put under his care.

No one fucked with Midoriya’s kids.

[bradleymarshall]

My friend wrote this about me

First of all you’re like the only person I’m closer who’s basically on his way to become a known influencer haha, how cool is that. An actual influencer, doing what he loves and influencing and moving people and masses

When we first met I remember thinking that this guy seems so mysterious and cool and I really wanted to get to know him just in general. And I loved that you had a musical side to you and you told us you played piano (From one muso to another I was impressed, now that you know that I too like to play music lol). I wanted to see it unfold and you INFLUENCED me into getting back into music. Like imagine otherwise all my potential would’ve been wasted. So like you literally did that by showing people how to feel and love through music. How cool is that ahahah

At your best you’ve literally got the most gentle and sweetest soul. It’s such a beautiful thing really i just wanna protect it at all costs cos it’s so precious. The sensitive side of reminds me so much of an innocent child but in the best way possible as they do say children are the purest because they aren’t tainted by the pressures and realities of life.

I know you know this but you’re obvious a handsome man too. Bro is literally majestic standing at 6’1”, like goddamn imagine having that physique while being that tall.

You’re also so clever and smart and I’m absolutely in awe by how creative you can be. The world is definitely unfair because why do people who a smart attractive sensitive talented exist in the one body like leave some of those traits for the rest of us yeah? You absorb everything that you study so well and it’s so nice to see how much your face lights when you build on epiphany and create the next best thing.

I sincerely hope you find peace in every single battle that you’re facing rn and you have me to confide anything in. Just remember you are not alone and that not only I too am struggle, but I’m also willing to help however way possible. You’re genuinely so beautifull inside and out and it makes me so warm to realise that I can now hype you up and support you and love you without any desire to be with you or attracted. We both were worried that it wouldn’t be like that once the feeling fade away but hey I’m still here and look at us now.

[jdgo51]

When You Jump into a Pit Today's inspiration comes from: Get Out of That Pit by Beth Moore You Can Jump In "Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then will I be blameless, innocent of great transgression." — Psalm 19:13 "'You can jump in. Before you take the plunge into that pit, you can be well aware that what you’re about to do is wrong, probably even foolish. But the escalating desire to do it exceeds the good sense not to. You had time to think, and then you did exactly what you meant to do even if the pit turned out to be deeper and the consequences higher than you hoped. You, like me, probably do what you do because you want to. You like the trip. You don’t necessarily like the cost but, like all vacations, a great trip can be worth the expense. God does all these things to a person — twice, even three times — to turn them back from the pit, that the light of life may shine on them. — Job 33:29–30 Personal Application Each of us will ultimately do what we want to do. Christ asks, “What do you want, Child?” How will you answer that question? Though we are slaves, our God has not forsaken us in our bondage. He has shown us kindness in the sight of the kings of Persia: He has granted us new life to rebuild the house of our God and repair its ruins, and He has given us a wall of protection in Judah and Jerusalem. — Ezra 9:9 Motive is huge to God. And so is character. Primarily His character, which we are created to emulate. Dangerous Territory Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. — Galatians 6:7–9 The problem with us pit-jumpers is that we don’t want to hear God’s warnings when we get close to a pit. We want what we want. So we stick our fingers in our ears before we jump. This is by far the most dangerous and supremely consequential way to get in a pit. Motive is huge to God. And so is character. Primarily His character, which we are created to emulate. And He will not be mocked. The very segment of Scripture where we’re told God won’t be mocked is strategically centered in the context of reaping what we sow (see Galatians 6:7–9). God looks intently not only at what we’ve done and how, but also why we did it. Reflection Question Why is “jumping in” the most dangerous and supremely consequential method of getting into a pit? Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong. Learn to do right. — Isaiah 1:16–17 Personal Application The psalmist said, I delight to do Your will, my God; Your Law is within my heart. — Psalm 40:8 NASB On a continuum between “not at all” to “yes, I’m there,” how true is this for you today? As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do. — 1 Peter 1:14–15"' Excerpted with permission from Get Out of That Pit: A 40-Day Devotional Journal by Beth Moore, copyright Beth Moore.

[vitos-ordination-song]

Ash as a human being simply isn’t ready for any kind of adult romantic relationship and he never got to the point where he was ready for one before he died and that’s another one of the tragedies of his life. It’s also why I find debating his sexuality to be pointless and insulting.

Ash gets attached to Eiji for many reasons. One of them is that he transfers feelings for other people he loses to Eiji: Griffin, Skip, Shorter. Eiji is the one who survives and is there for Ash to protect. He obviously identifies innocence with Eiji, perhaps even his own younger self (that plays out on a narrative level anyway). He sees in Eiji, “a normal life.” Not for himself, Ash can never quite believe that, but that it’s possible. That it could have been possible for himself. He has to keep Eiji safe at all costs to preserve that.

Eiji is also a refuge for him; the only person he can really truly let his guard down with. Who he can admit his feelings to. Who he can be comforted and soothed by. Relax with. I noticed watching the anime how much Ash broods over a sleeping Eiji—Ash basically never gets a full night’s sleep for the entirety of the story, clearly has a sleep disorder, but he wants Eiji to sleep as deeply and calmly as possible.

He has no desire to inflict his own plight on Eiji, unlike someone like Yut-Lung. Ash does at times feel misunderstood by Eiji or annoyed at his naivety, but he’s often remarkably kind and understanding to Eiji. When he isn’t, they usually work it out quickly, or else Eiji understands without being told.

Understanding and mutual care are the core of the Ash/Eiji relationship. Although this is a strong bond between boys, after having read the entire thing and thought about it, I wouldn’t call it a romantic relationship and I don’t want it to be one. I feel as though this was the best choice for the story. If I want BL I’ll go read one—they’re not hard to find.

The thing is too, and I feel like Yoshida got this, it’s not that Ash/Eiji couldn’t have been more of a romance. It’s that it wasn’t what Ash needed. Eiji was written, in the words of ppl who worked on BF, to be a “healing” character. He is highly empathetic. He feels the feelings that Ash himself is cut off from; I was struck by the scene in volume 2 where Eiji cries and says he couldn’t try to get information out of Ash for the police. Eiji felt Ash’s feelings intensely and expresses them openly. Ash can’t afford to do that. Although Eiji is Ash’s weakness in one way, he’s also exactly what Ash needs to find peace as a person. Eiji provides the unconditional love he never felt in childhood. Ash has been repeatedly dehumanized, misunderstood, mistreated, cast as a villain, victim blamed, you name it, and Eiji doesn’t do any of that, he sees Ash as someone who was wounded and deserves care. He sees the goodness in Ash. All of this is beautiful but it’s not yet the material for a romantic relationship.

It reminds me of Utena/Anthy in the show. Both of them are far away from being able to have an adult partnership. It’s important because really they’re connecting as children. They’re working through their wounds, their tendency to hide from the world. It takes a reboot for them to be ready for the real thing. I don’t know if I want to see an Adolescence style reboot of Banana Fish where Ash/Eiji start making out and end up together. Like Yoshida, maybe that feels wrong to me. Because that kind of relationship is lost to Ash… that’s part of the sadness. Yoshida ended the final volume of BF with a picture of Ash and Eiji in bed together, shirtless, but they never shared a bed in the manga itself. She could have played into more touchy BL tropes. It’s not like she’s afraid to write gays—she’s done it throughout her career. On the one hand, I feel as though Ash/Eiji staying platonic makes it beautiful, a connection of the soul, a desire to heal someone’s deep wounds. It’s where Ash can grieve his inner child. But he never gets to take that step into adulthood. It’s something he could have had, but didn’t.

[morgana-ren]

so, idea: good old fashioned villains vs heroes. heroes massacred, shiggy kills a pro hero and is about to kill their sidekick, then the kids they were protected. sidekick says she'll do anything to save them; shiggy does the whole leering 'anything?' thing, expecting her to punch him, or use her quirk -- but she knows she's outmatched, and so she kisses him instead. slightly older reader (like 28), manchild confused shiggy, then we go from there

He’s a total school boy but he’ll never admit it

Liquid red bleeds into white, seeping into the fabric of your slashed hero uniform and settling into the pores of the fabric. Your knees tremble and your body quakes, gripping the wound across your stomach as blood slips through the slats of your fingers. Gravel embeds into your knees, nerves singing with pain. The tears slipping down your cheeks mingle with ash and soot, the fleeting remains of the brave hero who gave his life to keep you from the same fate.

A group of terrified students cowers behind you, trembling from the nightmare to the front.

These aren't just students- they're children. These are children. They cling to each other, cold and hurt and terrified. The brave ones do their best to tend to the few wounded, staring down at the threat that encroaches. Others shrink. Some cry and pray.

All are shaking.

Don't let them see you like this!

You're grateful for the rain; the tears that slip down across your face through your defiant features are hidden. The pain is blinding but you refuse to fall. They need you. You can't afford to fall now. This isn't about you.

He inches closer, the monster clad in black, careless footsteps sloshing through the puddles on the ground as his red shoes stop just short of you. Hands in his pockets, head cocked as he looks down on you with an expression that reeks of condescension. Rain slips through his silver hair, a hideous cackle resounding along side the thunder. 

“This is the best the heroes have got, huh? Pathetic.”

The sole of his shoe collides with your chest, sending you careening onto your back. The wound in your side sears as you hit the asphalt, a scream ripping from your lungs despite your will. There’s an unforgiving sting in your cheek as it slides across the terrain, forcing a muffled sob from your throat, pain becoming overwhelming. 

He circles you for a moment, sneering with jagged teeth bared. A predator sizing up his fallen prey. Disgust is apparent in his eyes; he hates you. It only lasts a moment before he throws one leg over you, leaning down and straddling your prone form, firm hand gripped on your chin. 

“I’m going to kill you, little hero. It’s going to hurt. But before I do, I want you to know that I’m going to kill them as well. Can’t have the next generation of heroes using you as a martyr now can we?” 

Fear is palpable from behind you. Between the rumbles of thunder, you can hear the crying and pleading. None try to run- they’re surrounded- trapped by villains that circle around them like ravenous wolves. 

You can’t let him do this. You can’t let him hurt them!

“Wait! Please!-” Your mind runs at unforgiving speed, head pulsing and pounding with pain and panic. “Don’t hurt them! Take me instead.”

He scoffs, gripping you by the collar and yanking you up slightly off the ground. “I already told you I was going to kill you. Are you some kind of idiot or something?”

“You can take me back with you. I won’t fight you. You can torture me or kill me or use me as bait. I won’t put up a fight. I’ll go willingly if you please just-” A small hiccup in your chest, knowing you mean every word and the weight it carries. “-Just please let them go. They’re just kids.”

He seems unimpressed, but there’s a small flash across his eyes, one you recognize. Your submission to him in front of all these people, your students, strokes his ego. You swallow down another sob, desperately trying to contain the shivers that wrack your limbs. 

“Please, Shigaraki. I’ll do whatever you want.” 

His eyes narrow, studying your face and then further down your body, gaze lingering on less than appropriate places for far too long for you not to understand where his mind has steered him. “Whatever I want, huh? That’s a pretty stupid thing to say when you don’t know what I’ll ask for.” 

You’re fairly certain now what it is he wants, and if it saves the lives of the innocents behind you, you’ll lock away your pride and your dignity and whatever else you need to if it keeps them safe. Shigaraki Tomura is a man after all, and ultimately men are simple creatures with even more simple desires. With a shaky gesture, you lift your palm up from the ground and place it gently on his own hand that grips your collar. 

“Anything.” 

His eyes widen, and for a moment, his expression falters. He looks confused, flustered even. Given your close proximity, you can even see the blush blossoming in his cheeks and down his neck. He looks almost innocent in this second, like a school boy faced with his first crush. You imagine he almost certainly didn’t expect you to acquiesce, let alone encourage his line of thinking. 

Disbelief. He looks like he doesn’t believe you.

You slowly push up towards him and his fist tightens on your clothing. He expects an ambush. That you’ll get his guard down with your seductions and then strike when he’s lost in the fog. A good tactic, but in this scenario, it sports a one hundred percent chance of failure. Shigaraki is an excellent fighter, and an even more impressive strategist. The only winning move is the one he has never planned for. 

Before he can recoil, you smash your lips against his. 

You can feel his breath hitch, eyes widening in total incredulity. For the first time in nearly his entire life, Tomura Shigaraki is at a complete loss. The hoots and hollers from the low lives under his command mesh into the sounds of the storm that rages around you, but you shove down the humiliation and defeat. Being a hero means saving them- No matter what the cost to you.

When he finally finds the mind to kiss you back, it’s the antithesis of everything he stands for. It’s meek and gentle, almost fragile in nature. It’s painfully apparent he doesn’t know a thing about what he’s doing, but he indulges none the less. His tongue slips across your lips and you’re prepared to take the hit but he pulls away as suddenly as he accepted it. 

“Fine-” He huffs, breathless as he pulls you both callously to your feet, ignoring the agonizing wound laced across your ribs. The pain is too much and you almost fall but he catches you with a strange amount of consideration. He doesn’t quite carry you- That would look weak after all- but he takes a considerable amount of strain off of your body as he keeps you upright.

”Leave the brats. They’re useless.” He commands his small platoon away to some measure of disappointment from them. “I got what I came for anyway.” 

[another-fantasy-world]

Strings Pt. 2

Pairing: Rosalie Hale x Fem!OC

Summary: in which the true queen of vampires found love when she least expected.

Warnings: ...Light Angst? Slowburn and mentions of death,trauma and depression

Timeline: Breaking Dawn - Post-Twilight

Word count: 4, 200 words

!Extra long chapter!

GIF isn’t mine

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧    ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧    ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧  

The witch couple somehow got Rosalie to agree to their terms, much to her distaste. She still doesn’t know what it is that irks her about the couple, she does not trust them, at all but, she trusts Carlisle. Plus, right now, they have more important matters to attend to.

Various thoughts run through Rosalie’s head, as she stands in the vast snow covered field. She may not show it, but she worries for her adoptive sister as Alice strides through the field handing Aro her hand for him to go through her thoughts and visions.

“Now you know. That’s your future, unless you decide on another course.” Alice states when Aro dropped her hand in shock

Rosalie stands rigid, observing silently as she glares and snarls at their “Royalty”, eyes pitch black. She knows in herself that she would do everything for her family, even if it costs her, her life. She stands there, watching as another hybrid walks into the field, she watches as they question him, She watches as Bella sags slightly in relief knowing that Renesmee is immortal and finally, she smiles knowing that they’ve won as the red-coated vampires blurs into the distance.

Joyous screams of victory rips through the air as she joins her family as they rejoice, happy that they did not have to fight the Volturi today. Together, they walk back to their house where their witnesses say their farewells and leaving.

“We won!” Maggie squeals are she rushed into Rosalie’s arms with Emmett trailing behind her

“Yeah, Yeah. Now I have to suffer an immortal life with the smell of wet dog wafting through the air.” Rosalie smirks

“Hey! I heard that!” Jacob complains

“Tsk. You were supposed to.” She retorts as she walks to Carlisle who was holding Esme in his arms.

But as she was walking, she was suddenly thrown into a void, cold, dark, and starry? She was confused as she looks around, panicking when she couldn’t move.

“What the fuck is going on?!” She tries to move her body but she couldn't, she then feels her body get thrown around like a rag doll.

“This is worse than being forced to ride that death machine. What was is called? Rollie? Roller coaster?” She grumbles in her head as she wills herself to not puke. She didn't even think vampires could still be nauseous.

That went on for what seemed to be hours before she was finally dropped into the ground. Opening her golden eyes, her orbs seemed to hyper focus on the gigantic trees and the creatures that live in it. Her ears then pick up the sound of groaning, turning her head, she sees the rest of her family sprawled all over the forest floor.

“Oh my God! Amore! You didn't have to paralyze them that hard!” Veronica thumps Amore in the head.

“I sincerely apologize for what she has done. We needed to take you far away from Forks, The Volturi Coven changed their minds and decided to ambush you and your witnesses. Fear not, your witnesses have been teleported to their homes safe and sound.” Veronica explains while still glaring at the pouting Amore.

“What was that anyways?” Edward groans as he sits up'

“Teleportation. I needed to paralyze you, that lowers the chance of you losing a limb.” Amore explains while Veronica cast a cloud of blue upon them, seemingly healing their “injuries”

“Cooooool. Can we do it again?” Emmett brightens like a child getting a puppy for the first time.

“No.” They all deadpanned at him making Veronica and Amore chuckle.

“Well, I suggest we get going now, even with our speed, it's still a long way to run.” Veronica dusts herself off as she and Amore help the family up and the still dazed shifters.

“Long way to run where?” Jacob asks, utterly confused.

“To the palace of course.” Veronica smiles

“It's high time you guys meet the Queen.” Amore smirks and winks as she speeds off, followed by Veronica then the Cullens and then the Black Pack.

Anastasia pinched her temples in pure stress, the Cullens were coming to visit and everything was in utter chaos. Mud was smeared all over the walls, broken dishes and glass cluttered the floor as little children run past her, screaming her ears off.

“Lance, darling. Clean this up before I rip someone's head off. Make sure this place is spotless before the guests arrive. Get the pups back to their mothers, the children back to the village and contact Maxine, there's a few shifters accompanying the Cullens. I'll be in my lab.” She orders her personal butler who scrambles around trying to get people to help him.

Anastasia ventures down, down until she reaches her own personal laboratory where she herself develops her own type of blood. She's repulsed by the thought of drinking from a clueless human no matter how annoying they are and disgusted at the thought of killing an innocent animal just so she could satiate her desire of drinking blood. And because of this artificial blood, her eyes slowly turn into the rich dark violet that it is now.

As she works, combining different substances and powders that vary colors, her mind drifts to a certain blonde girl. Anastasia for the life of her, cannot even think of what she would do where she faces the blonde beauty, not when her heart if filled with guilt.

1932 Rochester, New York

Anastasia roamed the streets as she keeps her eyes trained on the single glowing golden string attached to her, amongst the other colors. She was born this way, even when she was just a little human, she could always see strings. Of course her feeble mind at that time didn't understand what it was, but now she could. As a vampire, she practiced and willed her strings to be more color coded, since the mere chaos of tangled strings give her a headache. The strings connected each creature in this world, once you make an acquaintance, a blue string connects the two of you and that soon escalates into different colors, However, one color lets her see soulmates, and that's green, which is why she's now following this glowing gold string to wherever it may go. She was tempted to just yank the string as hard as she could and let the creature on the other side find her but somehow, something was holding her back.

As she walked the streets of New York, head held high, she also ignored the stares that she got while walking. She knew why of course, her Italian clothing much different from the posh American clothing everyone around her has, not to mention she was wearing clothes meant for “men” but she never was the one to abide to gender constructs. She also couldn't, for the life of her, think about what she would do when she meets the creature on the other end of the string. Should she kill it? Should she keep it? Should she protect it? Should she-

Her thoughts were then interrupted when her eyes suddenly tunnel visioned. There 'it' was, the 'creature' on the other end of her string, 'it' was actually a woman. An insanely attractive human, being fawned over by boys as she walks by and she was smiling at the small group girls crowding her. Anastasia could suddenly feel the emotions of the said woman: Happiness, Pride, and a little twinge of loneliness and sadness. Anastasia's heart (despite being half-dead) tightened in her chest, she wanted to do everything and anything to make the woman happy. She didn't even care that she just saw her mere minutes ago, she wanted her and only her. And that's when she realized, this woman, no, this angel was meant to be hers. But then again, Anastasia knew that the woman was too good for her, she doesn't deserve this life of pain and eternal suffering, seeing the people you once loved grow old and eventually die, yet she also knew that she cannot live without her, so she settled with being her protector.

“Mr. Lombardi? Did I pronounce that right?” Mr. Hale questioned her, she had managed to manipulate her looks to make her look like a man.

“Yes sir.” Anastasia answered, she named herself Gioele for the sake of her facade.

“And why should I let you protect my daughter?” Mr. Hale raised his eyebrows, staring at the 'guy' infront of him.

“With The Great Depression still happening, I believe your daughter might be in danger. You and your success may make you a target for those who are below you, poor unfortunate...” She trailed off, her moral compass preventing her from saying derogatory words but she knew she had to play by his personality and rules

“We do not talk about them.” Mr. Hale deadpanned

“Yes sir.” 'Gioele' agreed, resisting the urge to roll her eyes.

“Very well then. You have piqued my interest. One wrong move and you'll find yourself hanging on a rope by your neck.” He threatened just as someone entered.

“Father? Mother requested your presence.” Anastasia's eyes widen when she hears the soft, melodic voice right behind her.

“Rosalie! Perfect timing. This is Gioele Lombardi, he will be protecting you from those awful lowlifes scattered around the streets.” Mr. Hale introduces Anastasia to Rosalie who in turn looked at her.

“Rosalie. Rosalie Hale.” She introduces her self while Anastasia promply goes down on one knee and kisses her hand.

“My Pleasure.” She smiled, seeing the faint blush on Rosalie's cheeks.  

Anastasia stood up, offering her arm to Rosalie who accepted and they both followed Mr. Hale outside, Anastasia holding up an umbrella to shield Rosalie and herself from the sun. She didn't sparkle as much as other vampires do but it would have been really suspicious when people see her faint sparkle as her marble like skin hits the rays of the sun.

And in that afternoon alone, Rosalie Hale became more popular, people talked about the attractive guard and of course Rosalie's beauty. Anastasia was annoyed at how people spoke about her and her mate, while they were walking around the city. Rosalie noticed and distracted her by asking her questions and answering questions directed to her as well.

Anastasia just felt herself fall even more as days pass by, She would sit by Rosalie's side while she reads her books, She would accompany her on walks and would help her pick flowers as well. She knew all about Rosalie but Rosalie only knew things Anastasia want her to, that doesn't include the fact that she's a woman and not a man and also the fact that she's an actual vampire. And that proved to be in her disadvantage later on.

A year pass by quickly with Anastasia enjoying every single second she spends with her soulmate, she could feel Rosalie radiating happiness whenever she's around, but of course, Rosalie was getting suspicious as well. It may be because of that one time where they were caught in the rain and their umbrella was much too small for 2 persons so Anastasia insist on Rosalie using it, leaving her wet, making her clothes stick to her body, and even under the dim light, Rosalie could make out a feminine body, toned but still feminine and that left her thinking if she truly knew her guard as well as she thought she did.

One day, Rosalie was sent on an errand to deliver her father's 'forgotten' lunch, and Anastasia knew it was a bunch of shit. She heard the couple discussing their plans to hopefully attract the attention of  Royce King II and they succeeded, she had to watch as Rosalie and Royce flirt with each other, with her silently seething, forgotten. She had to hide her growls and snarls whenever flowers would be delivered at the Hale Household, but she couldn't do anything, Rosalie deserved someone who could grow old with her, and not a half-ling  abomination like her. So she accepted the fate she wished upon herself and made the hardest decision of her life.

The day Rosalie was engaged, she packed her bags and set to leave but unfortunately, Rosalie caught her. And what she did that day, she still regrets up until now.

“Gioele? You are leaving.” Rosalie states, stunned.

“Don't. Don't stop me Ms. Hale. Or should I say Mrs. King?” Anastasia spat out, and she internally flinched when she saw the pain in Rosalie's eyes.

“Where did this come from Gio?” Gio, Rosalie's nickname for her alter ego. She couldn't handle it anymore and looked around before gently dragging Rosalie into an empty room in their house.

“Look, my name's not Gioele.” Anastasia removes the glamour she placed on herself and watched as Rosalie stare at her in shock.

“It's Anastasia. And yes. I am leaving. You are to be married to Royce King II and I cannot get in between that.” She stares at Rosalie's eyes, hoping to relay her feelings, but Rosalie was still much too hurt from her best friend lying to her.

“You lied. You broke two of your promises Lombardi. Is that even your real surname? It is not, is it? God. Why must I be so stupid! Go! Leave! Find some other woman to lie to!” Rosalie walks away from her

“Rosalie! Wait!” She tried to chase after her but Rosalie just turned around and slapped her, she was shocked, not only because the love of her life slapped her, it's also because Rosalie managed to crack the base of her neck. She lifted her hand to cover the cracks that were covering the base of her marble like neck.

“Rose...” She stared at Rosalie.

“Leave.” Rosalie glared, and Anastasia knew that this was her chance... to let go of her soulmate... in the most painful way possible.

“Fine...” She growled out “...I never liked you anyways, You self-centered, smug woman who only lives to please her father and the people around you. I hope you and your cold heart enjoy your loveless marriage!” She grabs her bags and walks away, not bothering to turn back, knowing that if she sees Rosalie's face and the raw emotions in her eyes, she'll just turn back and beg for forgiveness.

But of course, she couldn't stay away, no matter how hard she tried, she just can't so she lingered, hiding herself in the shadows, watching as Rosalie walked the paths they used to walk on, with Royce accompanying her, his arm hooked on hers as they chatted happily. It took everything in Anastasia to not rip off Royce's head whenever she knew he was making Rosalie uncomfortable and It took everything in her to not steal Rosalie away from him.

She was lingering around Vera's house, Rosalie was in there, cradling the baby boy in her arms as she cooed at him. Anastasia smiled as she saw her mate being all cute, she longed to have that with her, but alas she couldn't.

She was just enjoying herself when suddenly a body slammed into her, they fought for the upper hand as they kept tumbling around. Anastasia would straddle the man and he would flip her as well, she knew he was a vampire and didn't bother to pull her punches, cracking his marble like skin while he, in turn would also punch her face. The only difference they had was, Anastasia is actually bleeding. After what went on like hours, something snapped, Anastasia knew something was wrong with her mate so her eyes glowed a bright red, she threw the man off her and tied him with her strings. She growled at him before speeding off, following the slowly fading golden string. She ran as fast as she could, but she was too late.

“Rose?” she stared in horror as the body of her beloved, sprawled on the sidewalk, bleeding out.

“Stasia?” She turned her head and saw Carlisle standing behind her.

“Carlisle! I beg of you, Please save her. Turn her Carlisle please!” Anastasia begged Carlisle

“What happened? I smelt the blood.” Carlisle knelt beside the barely alive Rosalie.

“Turn her first then I'll explain.” Anastasia choked out as she closed her eyes just in time for Carlisle's teeth sinking into Rosalie's skin

She shook with anger and decided that she'll chase after whoever did this to her, her ears hyper focused, trying to find whoever did it. And that's when she heard it: Royce King II.

“I need to find a new fiancee now.” He laughed as his friends expressed their joy in letting them-

Anastasia let out a loud guttural growl as she prepared to speed away but Carlisle held her back.

“Don't. She needs you first.” Carlisle motioned to Rosalie who's writhing in pain. She immediately scooped her mate into her arms and followed Carlisle's mate string, which led her to a two floor house, she barged in with Carlisle hot on her heels.

“Lay her here.” He instructed the distressed Queen.

“Will she be okay Carlisle?” She asked the doctor as he kissed his mate in her forehead.

“Yes. Give it a couple of days, Your Highness.” Carlisle reassured her as she swallowed back her sobs.

“Very well. Uh. My apologies, I barged in without your permission. My name is Anastasia. You must be Carlisle's lover?” She offered her hand to the older woman who in turn just gave her a hug.

“It's fine. Really. You are welcome here. Carlisle told me all about you.” Esme smiled and Anastasia just smirked at Carlisle.

“Still thinking about me Cullen?” Anastasia teased, taking Rosalie's hand into hers and gripping it, calming her nerves.

“He talks about you everyday.” Esme smiled at her.

Anastasia was about to reply when the doors opened and in came...

“You.” Anastasia growled and lunged at the man. He dodged but she caught his arm and used her momentum to flip him over, throwing him through the wall and into the backyard, making him land flat on his back. The man coughed as Anastasia straddled him, planting her foot to the ground, her strings glowing a bright red as they wrap around him as she slowly ripped his head off.

“Anastasia! He's my son!” Carlisle cried out as Anastasia snapped at him, eyes widening in surprise.

“He's yours?” Anastasia's eyes glowed a bright red and Carlisle felt his entire body shiver.

“Y-Yes.” Carlisle stuttered, the murderous aura surrounding Anastasia triggering his fight or flight.

“He is the reason why I didn't get to my mate fast enough. He lunged at me for no reason, leaving my mate in a vulnerable position AND LOOK WHERE SHE IS RIGHT NOW! SHE'S FIGHTING FOR HER LIFE CARLISLE!” Anastasia's body shook in anger

Carlisle could see the cracks growing on Edward's skin, and he slowly approached the furious queen. He managed to calm Anastasia down by sending calming waves into his strings, decades of working alongside the queen was proven to be useful in this moment. The ropes that were once wrapped around Edward slowly loosened until they retreated  back into her body.  

Edward wheezed as he moved away from her while Anastasia composed herself.

“Teach your son better manner s, Carlisle or the next time we meet, you'll see his decapitated head decorating the Volturi Walls.” Anastasia threatened as she walks calmly back into the house through the wall that she made and sat beside her unconscious mate. She noticed the golden string slowly go back to it's natural glow, which made her sigh in relief.

A couple of hours pass by and Anastasia was feeling hungry, she asked for Carlisle's help in looking for food in the forest and he told her where the majority of the animals lived and she set off. While she was hunting, she couldn't help but feel like she failed Rosalie. She let her become something that she protected her from. A Vampire.

Once she had her fill, she slowly walked back to where Carlisle lives, delaying her arrival as much as possible, dreading the fact that she knew Rosalie was awake. She could feel it. She took a deep breath and opened the door, making everyone's head snap towards her. Her eyes caught Rosalie's and instantly, they connected, more so than before, which means that Anastasia feels what Rosalie feels 100 times more than before. Pain, Sadness, Longing and Hatred. And that's when she knew, she knew that Rosalie hated her. Her soulmate hated her. The thought weighed on top of her, slowly crushing her heart, she physically gasped for breath as she could feel Rosalie's anger increased tenfold.

“Rose. Let me-”

“Don't Anastasia. Do what you do best, leave.” Rosalie answered her, putting emphasis on her real name. She tried to move closer but Rosalie only moved and sped out of the house, with Carlisle trailing after the newborn.

She was about to follow as well when Edward stopped her.

“I apologize for my actions earlier, I truly believed that you were preying on them, that's why I attacked you, but you should really trust me when I say that you shouldn't follow her. She's angry.” Edward quickly explained

“And how do you know that?” She asked.

“I can read minds.” Edward simply states, nodding at her.

Anastasia nodded, defeated and sat on a chair with Esme right beside her.

“Give her some time.” Esme advises, rubbing the girl's back.

She gritted her teeth when she felt Rosalie's pain. Not physical, emotional. And she has the power to take it away. But with a great price. A price she was willing to take.

When the Cullen family was complete, with Rosalie, Anastasia quickly worked her gift. Wrapping her strings around them and re-writing their memories, without her in it. Except for Carlisle's, she left some memories of him working alongside her while in the Volturi. Once she finished, she quickly speeds away and forces herself to leave the memories and pain she just took into the back of her mind as she wiped her bleeding nose, her body collapsing under a big tree due to the exhaustion.

She was pulled back into reality when the beaker she was holding in her hand exploded, drenching her in artificial blood. She gritted her teeth, there were two things that could've happened. One, she mixed the wrong chemicals while day dreaming or two, Amore decided to switch the labels again.

She checked everything, and then found out the second one was the truth, she stormed out of her lab, blood dripping from every inch of her body. Her annoyance clouded her brain, forgetting that she sent Amore to pick up the Cullens and if she was here, then so were The Cullens.

She spotted Amore from afar and sped towards her, slamming her against the brick walls of her “castle” . She hated that term.

“What did I tell you about switching my labels Lewis?! Look at me! Blood is in every crevice in my body! There's blood in parts that I didn't even knew were exposed!” She growled out

“Well, to be f-fair, You aren't wearing your usual lab attire so that's partially your fault.” Amore choked out. Anastasia just growls in response.

“Stasia, calm yourself. First impressions are important.” Veronica waves her hand and Anastasia's clothes were back to normal, dry and there was no trace of blood anywhere.

First Impressions? Anastasia then mentally facepalmed herself. She had forgotten the Cullen Family. She releases Amore, then turned to the family, recalling her speech, she started to talk.

“Hello. Sorry you had to see that, but you should really get used to it. My name is Anastasia...” She drifted off as her violet orbs met golden ones. In her brief moment of surprise, she unknowingly let down her guard, causing her previously cast spell break. She knew that her mate would be there and she mentally prepared herself but turns out, she wasn’t prepared at all.  When she recovered from her shock, she could feel that her spell had been broken. The entire coven looked at her with various emotions: Happiness, Confusion, Longing and Familiarity. She may or may not have met all the members before and also wiped their memories.

“Gio...” Rosalie whispered.

“Shit...” Anastasia cursed, she somehow knew this would happen, just not this soon.

“Rose...” She stared at her mate for what seemed like years before Rosalie glared at her with so much anger she didn't know it was possible, and stormed off. Again.

'She always does that.' Anastasia sighs.

“Well, that secret's out. I'll escort you to you ro-”

“We'll do it. Chase after her.” Veronica pats her back before escorting the Family to their respective chambers, but Carlisle stayed behind.

“That... was messed up Anastasiarine.” Carlisle expressed his disappointment before pulling the girl in a brief hug.

“I missed you too Cullen.” She whispered before letting go to chase after her mate.

“I'm sorry. Please forgive me.” She sent that thought to the Cullen Family, including Rosalie and went back to what she did 75 years ago.

She was once again, chasing the glowing gold string.  

[anti-endings]

I’m fairly sure at this point that Naruto is more or less fascist propaganda. There are so many things that we as a fandom want to turn a blind eye to yet when SNK was called out for being fascist, we had no problem boycotting it because it wasnt an anime that we’d come to love throughout our childhood. Unfortunately Naruto was a lot more subtle and pulled a fast one on us towards the end - 14/15 years after its initial release. 

Theres a lot of intricate reasons as to why I’d call it fascist but I’ll list the general points to be made that everyone can easily recognize. 

• Genocide for the good of the nation. This one is pretty obvious but I thought I’d get it out of the way. Slaughtering possible defectors of the state is apparently an honourable and justified choice. Even if some members of the oppressed minority were completely unaware of their leaders planned coup or had no desire to revolt against the system, each and every single one of them apparently deserved death. 

• Brainwashing children into military violence goes completely unquestioned by the narrative. The only people who challenge this idea are portrayed as “hateful.” The best example of this is how the narrative feels the need to emphasize that Itachi murdering his clan was his own decision. I just find it awfully strange that we’re expected to believe that a 13 year old, who was sent to fight in a bloody war for his country when he was just a toddler and was shown to suffer from severe PTSD, apparently wasnt brainwashed with threats of war on his impressionable child brain when he was already completely numb to the concept of killing people. Itachis history details the story of a brainwashed child soldier yet goes to great efforts to brush it aside and give Itachi the autonomy that he never actually had. On a meta level it’s pretty messed up that Itachis actions as a result of his brainwashing, was praised by Hashirama Senju - the ultimate force of “peace” who founded the village and “the will of fire” that were so expected to admire. 

• Consistent denial of blatant military violence. In the manga, the truth about the Uchiha massacre is covered up by Naruto, Sasuke and eventually Sakura to “maintain honour of the Uchiha.” This makes absolutely no logical sense whatsoever. How is it more honourable to say that a clan was slaughtered by a rogue criminal of their own (further perpetuating the selfish, bloodthirsty and power-hungry stereotype) when the truth is that an oppressed group of people were slaughtered off by the government? How can an act of genocide be prevented by a future government when the truth is actively censored by the governemnt? Neither Naruto nor Sasuke did anything to implement some sort of bill of human rights, laws or Geneva conventions in honour of Uchiha to prevent more innocent bloodshed at the hands of the state.

• Ultranationalism at every opportunity. The village is literally gated off. No one enters or leaves without permission from authority. The unification of the village under the statist military + the slaughter of any and all potential defectors is pretty telling. Its scary that “the will of fire” and protecting the state is the only honourable and good goal/ideology to have in this series as shown by Sasuke only ever being seen as “not evil” when he is beaten down into conforming to the government.

• Evil is in the genetics of the oppressed. This was pretty unsettling to witness and I’m surprised there havent been more people speaking out about it. Ideologies are inherited not just by fate, but by your genetics. The Senju-Uzumaki obviously have “The will of fire” which is known to be the supreme ideology. It consists of uniting and enduring the hardships of the world under the totalitarian government but NEVER pursuing revolution or change for the better. “The curse of hatred” is its counterpart which has its origins exclusively to the Uchiha. Its explained to be Uchiha culture to some degree. The narrative very desperately tries to paint the pursuit of revolution to prevent more violence as evil, bloodthirsty and selfish. This, in reality, makes no sense. Why are the Uchiha hateful for trying to fix a situation for the better of their family yet somehow the senju arent characterized by hatred despite openly hating the Uchiha? Simply put, the Uchiha are GENETICALLY undesirable and their push for equal rights are characterized as hateful, selfish and lonely. In reality, Madara Uchiha would not become a rogue ninja who decides to attack the entire village including his own family with Kurama because he could not get equal rights for the Uchiha. This doesnt add up with why he was so angry in the first place. Non of the “bloodthirsty” actions of any Uchiha do. They’re a fictional race of people that are only evil by the design of the author to portray oppressed people as selfish and aggressive. Towards the end of the fourth war, the story of Ashura and Indra is told to Naruto and Sasuke. Indra is apparently the original Uchiha who was influenced by some deranged evil spirit to pursue power over unification for completely selfish purposes. This is very unfairly equated to Sasuke and the rest of the Uchiha clan to explain to audience that the Uchiha are inherently evil and selfish detractors. 

• To be a revolutionary is to be lonely. This ties into my last point. Sasuke is constantly referred to as lonely by just about everyone in the cast, Naruto especially. This has always been bothersome because Sasuke wouldnt have been lonely if his entire clan wasnt slaughtered by the very same people that Naruto stands by. This point is incredibly simple yet its overlooked because the anti-uchiha propaganda is so successful in what it sets out to do. To add onto this point, what if Naruto had simply said to Sasuke “I believe you have every right to bring the murderer of your clan to justice and I’ll stand by your right to justice every step of the way” instead of physically fighting him and screaming at him all the time? Sasuke isnt inherently lonely exclusively by his own means, he is alienated by everyone around him. The narrative acknowledges Sasukes emotional unfulfillment, IGNORES the real reason why hes lonely and then states that the only way that Sasuke will find a sense of family through the acceptance of his peers is if he conforms to the government and adopts the hegemonic ideology…. after “repenting” for ever daring to get justice for his clan in the first place. This eerie emotional blackmail is completely normalized and unquestioned by the narrative. It sends a harrowing message to the audience that it’s more desirable and fulfilling to conform to the government despite their poor treatment of your people and should you question otherwise, you must repent for forgiveness. 

• The leader of the village is the most powerful member of the military, who is chosen exclusively through nepotism by a rich man who owns the land instead of the people, and is in power for an indeterminate length of  time. Again with the military obsession! Not even necessarily the best military commander or anyone with experience in any leadership position at all. This is partly fascist due to the fact that theres no limitations on what a Kage can do to their village, they’re selected through nepotism and not democracy and they’re in power for as long as they please no matter how the public feel. The leader is not necessarily someone who is shown to be compassionate, responsible, trustworthy, intelligent or reliable. In fact, you could be a known, unpersecuted war criminal like Danzo and still get the position. 

• To add on to that, war criminals in the Government or Military go completely unpersecuted and often unpunished - as shown by Danzo and the village elders. The village elders are still in the same position during the events of Boruto as they were in over 20 years ago when they conspired to execute the Uchiha massacre. Naruto and Sasuke know of their involvement yet havent held them accountable in any way. 

• Child soldiers are sent to die for the government. It seems that only Obito notices this when Rin dies. The second he becomes critical of the fact of this reality is the second he becomes “hateful” and “evil." 

Theres plenty more but I’ve already spent an hour typing this up and checking over every little detail. Generally speaking, much like SNK, the theme of Naruto is to just simply ENDURE hardship, stay loyal to your government at all costs even if they cause the hardship and NEVER revolt. Naruto as a character serves as the purpose of being as reductive as possible to every single character that faces hardship with "I too was lonely and oppressed but I coped by worshipping the government for a sense of emotional validation and you can too!" 

[mc-critical]

Do you think MC hurrem, before the bayezid and selim conflict of course, ever considered that the traditional fratricide could possibly happen amongst her sons? Mustafa hypothetically killing her sons if he became sultan is constantly used as a reason for why she had to get rid of him but how could multiple princes having the same mother resolve any potential conflict for the throne? Sorry idk if what i said makes sense

Don't worry at all, I understood you perfectly! ^^

No, I don't think MC Hürrem considered that possibility as strongly before the inevitable occured.

First off, her adaption to the harem was a slow and gradual process and she certainly didn't become aware of all the rules, all the sudden. (as when she was surprised that Mustafa was getting his own harem before the sanjack) She knew enough to set a goal in her mind from the first episode, but didn't get to see the full picture until she went through fulfilling that goal step by step and saw an obstacle that would be impossible to ignore. She was so focused on the path to survive, she brushed off the cost of said path in the first place.

It's true that in the beginning, there wasn't a reason for her to consider possible ongoing rivalry or fratricide between her sons. Nigar told her that she would rule the world if she gives the Sultan a child and when she becomes aware of the competition in the harem, what would make her prevail over them all, guided by her desire to make SS only hers and maintain power, for she would stop undergoing the same trauma and disrespect all over again? More children! We could argue that, throughout season 1, she views having more children as a privilege - not only does it secure more her position as a favorite, but it makes her gain advantage and power over her rival in this game. Notice how she boasts about the possibility alone in front of Mahidevran in both E06 and E11! ("It will be a boy. Then it will be a boy again. Then it will be a boy again and again..."; "I will give birth to many princes, but you won't even give birth to a girl.") These lines could be an attempt of assertion and a mask of vulnerability and insecurity, in a way, but this is far from the only thing going on. Not just the children, but the princes specifically are capilatized on, because bearing one is considered an honor in this harem and for every pregnancy, Hürrem expresses an almost firm confidence that it will be, without a doubt, a prince. The whole system in the show, sadly enough, encourages that whoever has more sons is more powerful and will get everyone else out of their way eventually, without shining a light on the more grim implications and what the mothers will possibly have to go through with their many sons, to the point it simply leaves them to find this out by themselves. It puts the princes in idealized superiority that is one of the first things Hürrem gets used to and that's why she was initially taken aback when Mihrimah was born instead of another prince she wanted so much. By that point, she had no time to consider eventual conflicts or fratricide because of her (initial) upper hand.

The higher stakes were kept under wraps in the series itself, too, because of its Cerebus Syndrome nature that lets you endear with the characters at first in lighter, more mainly interpersonal situations and then move to the wider scale of the historical themes, having them grow as people and political players and realize the bigger context along with the evolution of the narrative. That is coupled with the children's ages, for the small age, to me, was presented as a symbol of innocence. There's this prevailing trend in Hürrem's character during season 2 where she kept saying that Mustafa is too little for doing certain stuff (like going to a campaign, to a province, etc.) and that, I think, is telling enough of the amount of awareness she had for an eventual conflict between her sons. That was a general theme of the show, too, because both Mahidevran and Hürrem held no ill will against the other's children when they were small, as seen by them taking care of them during the janissary rebellion and Mahidevran saving Mehmet in E16. The children themselves weren't a priority of eradication for them back then and when they were little, they were something worth protecting as a mother's value, not tools to be moulded for the future battle for the throne. When their mothers find a common ground in this aspect, would a conflict between children of one and the same mother be possible? Only when they grow up, awareness comes to the surface, bacause by the time they're still small, they're harmless and innocent. (handicapped by SS's words to Mustafa in E46: "As you grow up, the innocence between us disappears, my Mustafa.") Even Hürrem set herself against Mustafa only by E38 and she didn't want his death until then. Knowing this, could she predict that something could go wrong between her own sons, no less? Doesn't she have other stuff to do until she reaches that point? Isn't she too busy in forging her own survival path and not think as much about her children before they grow up?

Then again, Hürrem has shown to be capable of anything to always remain in SS's good graces both because she is devoted to him and for her own goals. The princes play a part in this, because they have to gain the padişah's support first and foremost and that simply cannot be done through quarrels. Hürrem may have grown wise to this, with the many cases of her ordering the children to go away once a conflict of any kind ensues and especially, always telling them throughout season 3 not to fight with each other, not even because of her, and stressing that family is the most important thing. She may have wanted their childhoods to be as peaceful as possible, rendering them (except Mihrimah) oblivious to what she's gone through, which gave them a sense of naivety in the process. And while that naivety turned out to be a double-edged sword (as we saw with Mehmet fully believing Illyas and Cihangir believing in SS's promise that he won't sacrifice Mustafa), it could've been a way for Hürrem to make sure that her children in general would always seek a consensus and look good in front of the sultan. That didn't end up being the case. Despite of these possible measures of hers, I doubt she got fully aware of the possibility, precisely because of her set goals. Even though the dismissal of Selim and Bayezid's conflict became a main arc of Hürrem's in S04, there were also hints of this in S02, shown by E53: "Such a sun will rise that that sun will only rise for me and my children." Her fixation on Mustafa as the single pivotal moment of her life fight is a huge character flaw of hers almost right from the moment she began to see him as a threat and even from her first attempt, as we see by the quote above, she thinks that by eliminating him, it would be all over, assuringly discarding everything else afterwards. And Selim and Bayezid were already arguing by that episode and it only escalated further since then, because of her ignorance as a part of the whole issue.

It's even questionable whether she has ever thought that, maybe there is more work to be done after Mustafa, because Hürrem's fixation became more predominant as the series progressed, in conjunction with the evergrowing Selim and Bayezid conflict. It was already so prevalent by S04 that Hürrem went as far as to blame Mustafa for the first big scandal between them in E112 and Mihrimah had to remind her of their rivalry-slowly-turning-to-enmity's very existence in the first half of the season that is there in spite of who Hürrem thinks is the bigger problem. She didn't give it the significant attention it deserved when they were little and I, for one, believe that she had to investigate more when Selim set Bayezid's arrow up for failure around E91/92 and not scold only Bayezid, for it only heightened his resentment for Selim. She didn't think of it as something that big to deal with, it was probably a problem they would fix by themselves for good measure, because they're still children after all, aren't they? But a resentment of a child could only continue to live on, especially in such a time period, so if Hürrem, knowing how paranoid she could be and how much she tried to evade everything that could oppose her success, predicted the future mass of the conflict, wouldn't she do something more, wouldn't she nullify it? It's a given that she can't be next to them in every single minute of the day, but the possible outcome itself just screams for tiiiny bit more involvement on her part. The earlier you interfere, the earlier would stop the obstacle in its entirety. Hürrem is smart enough to know this, so the logical thing is that she didn't fully take all that into account. She couldn't, and possibly didn't, want to predict this as a mother.

The very realization of the actual massive power of Selim and Bayezid's enmity and her newfound inability to interfere almost at all to it came as such a surprise for her. She not only completely miscalculated, but it broke her heart into pieces. She didn't see coming any conflict of the like, because if she did, even before the whole fiasco happened, early into S01-2, she would never let it reach such extremes. And the realization hit her in such an unexpected way that she wanted to escape the shock that she had to choose and try to solve things as she has always had, doing things that should've been done such a long time ago. Would she be so helpless when she finally came to terms with the following fratricide, if she saw it coming before the conflict even started?

In summary: Hürrem didn't think of something like this at all early on and when it happened, she did see the roots, but could never, not even in her dreams, imagine the devastating results.

Though yeah, could a conflict between sons of the same mother fully be resolved in circumstances like these? I very much doubt it. Even if the mother removed the tension between them, there are other factors we shouldn't forget (I refer to SS's reign in particular): they are sons of the same mother, but they're still candidates for the throne, hence they're rivals and both the people and the padişah will have to pick a favourite. No matter how impartial a sultan seems to be, he does end up picking sides eventually - whether it's about the province one is sent in, when they're sent in it, how often does he visit them, what in them does he approve or disprove of or how competent they are in his eyes. It's inevitable for them to live in absolute peace in an environment that would sooner or later cause them to fight until one's absolute and total failure.

[3rdgymbros]

— pairing; shoko ieiri, suguru getou & satoru gojo

— summary; in suguru comes back and shoko hurts.

— spoilers for the prequel manga

When she wakes, it's late morning, and sunlight warms her skin. The better part of the night had been spent tossing and turning, and the effects make themselves known in the form of her bleary-eyed and aching body, and she sports a massive headache that's probably equal parts hangover and sleep deprivation. She activates her Technique and waits for the headache to pass. Satoru's gone, and the apartment's much too quiet without him, but she finds herself wrapped up in a pale blue blanket and is pleasantly surprised when she notes that the dishes have been washed. Somehow, she suspects that bringing that up to Satoru is a guarantee that the gesture will never be repeated.

Frappy, curled up on the back of the couch, lifts his head and mews plaintively at her when she stirs, but Chino continues sleeping undisturbed in his spot on an armchair, curled up into a tight black ball. Shoko briefly touches Frappy's white head, and scratches behind his ears. His hair feels like the delicate fluff of a dandelion, but his body is sturdy and muscular under all that pillowy down. Frappy's eyes bore into her, shooting sparks of blue into the air while his tail coils and strikes.

"I'm fine." Shoko says, and shuffles into the kitchen.

Shoko makes her usual cup of tea, once again adding half a bottle of vodka into the mixture and wanders over to the balcony, staring out at the sunny day and the Tokyo skyline stretching out beneath her. Frappy jumps off the sofa and rubs against her, but even his comfort isn't enough to keep the leaden weight from creeping back in and settling back upon her shoulders once more, seemingly growing heavier by the minute.

Frappy yowls and purrs.

"He isn't coming back." Shoko says, as much to herself as to him, a dull, quiet sort of acceptance already overtaking her.

Pushing the words out into the air seems to make them real. She closes her eyes, slowly breathing out. Dark beings bury everything, just never deep enough, and Shoko grabs onto the steel railings and waits until the room stops spinning.

However much she wishes she can spend the day soaking in hot water, Shoko dresses quickly, falling back into her usual morning routine. She tugs on a black turtleneck sweater and a decently short pleated skirt in lipstick red. She runs a brush through her hair and lets it hang loose, too lazy to pull it back into something more elaborate. She paints her lips in bright reds, smooths on foundation that does nothing to hide the purple bruises under her eyes, and slides on her usual pair of black studs.

She'd taken it upon herself to pack away Suguru's belongings in cardboard boxes. The wounds of grief had been too raw, too fresh for Satoru, and she'd supposed that she'd dealt him a kindness by clearing away Suguru's things on her own. She'd felt a strange sort of determination as she'd gone through the notions of packing, a desire to ensure that Satoru wouldn't be hurt any further. Satoru protected her in his own way, and she protected him in hers.

Suguru's favorite jacket, his white dress shirt, his jeans, the velvet scrunchies she'd bought for him as a joke, these and other things were littered with memories in every fold and pleat. And she'd packed them all away, except a pair of his earrings, feeling as though all the air had been squeezed out of her lungs.

The first few nights, she'd taken to wearing a T-shirt of Suguru's that hadn't been washed yet. It still held the smells of his skin and the fragrance of his cologne. She hadn't known how to make the scent last. One day long after it was gone, she would find herself wishing for one more breath of his smell, and it would exist only in her memory.

It's eleven when Shoko leaves for work; if the downtown traffic is light, she'll arrive at school in an hour. One thing about her apartment is that the skyline view comes at the cost of work convenience. The school has service apartments for its staff, but she prefers having her own personal space – and she isn't exactly unable to afford it. Working as a Shaman pays well.

Her headache and the last effects of the hangover are gone by the time Shoko walks into the school, her heeled Mary Janes clicking against the concrete. The school is abuzz with students wandering the expansive grounds, but she knows from experience that they'll be leaving on missions in an hour or two, and the muted peace will descend upon the grounds once again.

The first years are clustered by the entrance of the school. Yuta seems particularly anxious, his nose and cheeks bright red from the cold, and his eyes are glued to the sky.

"What's wrong?" She asks him, slowing her footsteps and lingering to hear his answer. There's a feeling of anxious foreboding gnawing at her insides. Whatever's going on, she doesn't like it, as an unwelcome spirit begins to take over her flesh, making her shiver and her stomach roll.

"It's just –" Shoko turns at his alarmed voice, following his wide-eyed gaze. "That's a big bird."

A bitingly cold wind stirs her hair and skirt, chafing her skin. A wind born of enormous flapping wings. That's certainly one way to describe it, Shoko thinks dryly, before inhaling sharply when she feels it. Shoko knows whose Cursed Energy that is, she knows it from a place that goes deeper than memory. But she can't make herself believe it. Not here. Not now.

Suguru's Cursed Energy was at the scene, Yaga had told her yesterday, forced into being the bearer of bad news once again. She'd stared at him with lips pursed, her expression one of forced calm even as hard-won emotion had churned at her insides. It's possible he might approach you.

Suguru, Shoko thinks, swallowing down the lump in her throat. Her hands are shaking. She fumbles about in her purse, finds a squashed packet of Camel Lights and tucks it away into her pocket. She hasn't smoked for years, not since Utahime had nagged at her to quit incessantly, but the weight of it is soothing in her pocket.

"Why don't you all go and get Satoru?" Shoko asks casually, but there's no mistaking her words for what they really are: an order. Challenging, she raises her eyebrows at Maki, who looks as though she wants to argue. "And stay indoors until this is over."

Yuta hesitates. "Will you be okay on your own?"

"'Course." Shoko replies, reassuring as her lips lift up into a smile she doesn't really feel. "I'm the strongest."

She watches the first years scramble away. She doesn't take her eyes off them until she's sure that they're gone; they're just children after all, and she has no desire to involve them in the wars waged between adults. Let them remain children for a little while longer. Might as well give them the chance that we never got.

Turning, Shoko finds herself looking into a pair of dark hazel eyes. It had been easy to ignore her own feelings for him last night while in the throes of alcohol, easy to pretend she'd accepted the situation and had moved on from the past. But now, in the cold light of sobriety, she feels that old ache stir within her chest. She swears she can smell the scent of his skin, mingling with the woodsy apple fragrance of his cologne. The afternoon sunlight illuminates his hair, dark as a raven's wing, and she can perfectly recall what it had been like to touch the lines of his face, the smooth skin of his upper cheek.

Suguru's eyes light up when he sees her. They're much harder now, and stripped away of their childhood innocence, but for one brief moment, it feels as though nothing's changed at all. He would have been returning from a mission and she would have come to greet him, badgering him for souvenirs. It would have been nothing unusual.

He calls out her name, speaks in the voice she's craved for so long, deeper now than in his youth. "Shoko!"

What does he want from her? Is she supposed to care after months, years of silence, Suguru ruthlessly unknotting any ties of friendship between them? But she does care. That’s the problem. Years of their shared memories are steeped in her blood. It would take leeches to suck them out.

"Suguru." Shoko says with difficulty. To give her hands something to do, she tucks her hair behind her ear. She doesn't miss it, how his gaze lingers on her face before flitting to her ears, to the earrings glinting there. "Visiting without souvenirs?"

What she's really saying: How could you leave us for so long? And what brings you back now?

Somehow, she knows that he's seeing through her apparent apathy. It's not surprising. They've always been able to read each other well. The difference is that for the first time, Suguru's mind is closed to her. She is looking at a stranger.

"I'll bring some next time. Do you still hate sweets?"

"I never hated the ones you made." Shoko says, after several moments pass in silence. It's the first bit of honesty she's shown him since he's arrived. "Those were good."

There it is, a tremble so slight Shoko might have missed if she hasn’t known Suguru for as long as she has. Suguru's wearing the mask of a stranger now, but it's slipped for just a second. Enough for both of them to be reminded of what they were once, and how far they've fallen since then. But as soon as it appears, it's gone. Sealed away behind those steely eyes once again.

Distantly, she's aware of the presence of at least half the school, swarming, buzzing like flies. They close in, forming a defensive posture. Satoru's there too, and his Cursed Energy has her skin prickling, as if hundreds of butterfly wings are brushing against her.

Shoko closes her eyes. Blinks them open. Breathes out his name on a needle of pain. "Why did you come here, Suguru?"

Suguru's face twists up into a mockery of a smile. She struggles to see the boy who had been everything to her and the young man who'd protected her from Cursed Spirits and Curse Users. "To declare war."

"You okay?" Satoru asks, his voice low as he comes to stand by her side.

It's as if something has broken inside her, until she feels bent over with the cruelty of this grief, a grief so strong she doesn't even know who or what it is for. Her eyes are burning, tearless sobs shaking her body for a precious few seconds until she breathes in deeply, swallowing the feelings back down to their prison inside her.

"Fine." Shoko says, even as something clutches at her throat.

[ghostmartyr]

SnK 131 Thoughts

Eren what the fuck.

Like.

What in the actual fuck, my dude.

There are parts of this that make sense.

Then there are the parts that absolutely do not, and it’s all wrapped up in this chapter where, as previous chapter posts predicted, people are screaming and dying.

Since that’s pretty much the majority of the content, I guess we have the luxury of a short post that almost entirely focuses on Eren.

With added Annie and Armin. They can go at the start, I guess. They exist, they are cute if you’re into that, they’re also dumb and mopey if you’re into that, Paths make for a great radio, and just generally

WHAT THE FUCK, EREN.

Did I already talk about Rebellion? Is that a thing I did in these past few months? -checks- Damn it. Not that the well can’t be visited again, since it’s very obviously appropriate, but twice in two months starts to look like the laziness that is indeed threatening to take me.

-spins the wheel-

Okay then, let’s talk about Anakin Skywalker.

Cool dude. Rad kid. Born into slavery. Freed from slavery by a dude with magical plot magic who immediately dies. Inherits dude’s desire for him to follow the leanings of the religious sect responsible for plot magic. Has hormones and has a meltdown over having hormones, and also feelings, and proceeds to protect everything he loves so hard that it burns to the ground while someone he eventually throws into a pit laughs maniacally in the background.

It’s mainly that last part that is arguably relevant to today.

Anakin is terrified of losing his wife in childbirth. Instead of contacting a doctor, he decides that it’s best to rely on himself. Plus shady mentor. His fear turns into a longing for a power to destroy that fear, and the combination drives him to the Dark Side. When he starts demolishing the very things he wanted to protect, he digs in deeper. For twenty years, he kills, and kills, and kills, because he can’t admit he was wrong.

(Clone Wars is a good show, if anyone is interested. It fleshes the emotional weight of the script out, and makes the horror and tragedy stab you in the heart.)

I can’t say that I entirely hate this for Eren. I don’t particularly like how it’s been presented, but that might just be the part of me that looks at the “GENOCIDE IS THE ONLY OPTION” button lit up on his forehead and finds it so fundamentally disagreeable that I haven’t been looking at it even when the plot tells me that’s what it is.

Here’s the thing: Genocide is presented as a feasible course of action all throughout this series. From Zeke, from Marley, from Paradis; whoever’s pitch you want to listen to, a conclusion everyone always comes to is that it would be easier if all of these people causing problems would just die.

They can make that happen. They have the technology.

Marley is a cesspit. The moral cost means nothing to them.

Zeke is abused, traumatized, and molded into thinking death is a mercy.

Floch survives, and teaches himself that the evil he lives through needs to be repaid in full.

Kill, kill, kill. If something stands in your way, murder it.

This is a concept of horror to the characters who are establishing the moral center of the tale. They’ve killed people. They’ve fought to the death against people who would gladly see them die. The titans are their victimized kin, and all they can do for the greater good is put them down.

They’re tiny humans trapped in a cage, and they’re just trying to get out. Whenever they try, their jailers try to eat them. That is forever what Paradis is attempting, and whenever they do try to lessen the amount of violence in their tactics, they get fucked over by the plot. As much as the story can, it’s thrown the main Paradis cast into the light of being innocent victims who are just trying to defend themselves.

The whole series is a study in the damage genocide has caused.

Nothing excuses it.

There is no motive that justifies this scale of premeditated violence.

There is the fear that one day the people who belong to you will be victims, and the only way to stop them from being victims is to make victims of everyone else. Kill or be killed.

In self-defense.

Defending from an attack that might never come.

Genocide is not an option that has ever deserved a seat at the table.

Why don’t we just kill everyone off?

Why not erase everyone’s memories of it?

Why not continue to use this power to herd everyone into our vision of what the world should be like?

Why not say that we deserve life so much more than any other living creature on the planet?

The entire story tells us why.

From the very first chapter, we’re exposed to the violence and terror of an uncaring world devouring anyone unfortunate enough to be on the outskirts of what supposedly greater people have decided is most important. Eren’s entire home is destroyed because some children kick down a wall. The people in the core of those same walls are disturbed, but send out their lesser to be fed to the monsters so that they can continue living.

Karl Fritz locks everyone away on an island and tells them the world has ended.

Anyone who is too curious, or too interested in beginning a new world, is killed. They’re robbed of their memories or their life. The remaining Ackermans are alive because they were too far away from the true history of the world to actually know anything.

Marley, the whipping boy of the Eldian Empire, finds its escape through Karl’s mercy, and immediately mimics the way of life that has caused them so much pain. Titans continue to run rampant in the world, simply with different reins. They redefine what’s acceptable based on who’s pulling the trigger.

Every single major plot point comes back to the ruin that perpetrating genocide has conceived.

Nothing is fixed by saving Marley from Eldia. Marley chooses to renew the evil.

Nothing is fixed by Karl walking away from the world. He just picks on smaller targets.

Nothing is fixed by pretending this is a solution.

The series’ history is a cycle of people grabbing power and tormenting their enemies with it. It shows no sign of stopping. It takes Paradis a hundred years, but they go from a blank slate of a starting point to producing someone ready to destroy the world.

Nothing suggests that another hundred years won’t do the same.

We have seen this all before. The only difference is that Eren is trying to commit to a large enough scale that no one alive will have the kind of grudges that will produce this fuckery.

It is vile.

This is not a defensible course of action. Some things are simply wrong, and even without morality coming into play, we’ve spent years reading an object lesson in the consequences of this behavior.

This horror is where Eren comes from.

Eren is not special.

He is a normal human born into this world.

His actions are ones that any other person could duplicate.

Not easily, and not without a great deal of coincidence, but nothing about Eren makes this a choice that only he can make. His power is borrowed, and no matter how he dies, that death means there will be a next person in line.

He isn’t ending a fucking thing. He’s become a cog in the machine that broke him.

So that’s the starting point. Even if killing younglings did have a logical undercurrent, no. No, no, a million times no. Eren chooses this. Eren causes this. Eren picks genocide without anyone putting a gun to his head. Eren picks genocide when he has access to a power that could easily discourage anyone from attacking his home for years.

He chooses to murder people.

Because he’s afraid, and because he can.

Then we get to what I find infinitely more interesting:

Eren doesn’t want this.

In the present day, we have an Eren who no longer has a body, and what amounts to a hallucination of his younger self, dreaming of a world hidden away in a book. His physical self has its eyes closed, and his younger self looks more alive than Eren has in ages. He isn’t looking at the damage he causes, just the open sky.

In the past, we have Eren bawling apologies to a boy he meets once. We have an Eren who realizes that this world is one that has let him down, and that, completely outside protecting his home, is what makes him want it gone.

This doesn’t just happen.

Eren wants it to happen.

Eren looks at this world that wants him and everyone like him dead, and he wants it to be like the book. No mention of other people -- other people aren’t in the outside world anymore. Just beautiful scenery, and the freedom to enjoy it.

He can’t have that, and it hurts. He’s been through Annie, Reiner, and Bertolt. He’s lost friends and seen even more people die protecting him. He’s lost limbs and sleep and sanity to see a world beyond the walls.

It’s a world that wants nothing to do with him.

And Eren, who has rejected that line of thinking since he was a child, rejects the entire world.

He can’t dress it up.

Deep down, he doesn’t like the world he’s going to destroy.

He’s known for four years that he’s going to end countless lives.

He walks off Paradis’ ship knowing that.

But when he sees this world, he does want it gone.

Knowing what he’s going to do is one thing; seeing the beginning of a reason for it is what drives him to his knees. It isn’t some strange inevitability of the future. He’s the one who does this, and behind every bit of love for his friends and Paradis, there’s the knowledge that this world, where so many people live lives just like his, is one he’d liked better in a dream where none of them existed.

And that is where the plot thread loses me.

Not because any of this is something that I find particularly outlandish. There’s a plain, hysterical logic to it, and a small fraction of identifying with that logic has Eren in tears.

Eren does this.

There is no evidence of him wanting it.

He sees the shadow of want in himself, and he freaks out.

Eren of the present is dissociating so hard I don’t view his childhood hallucinations as a stable mind choosing something.

Eren of the past is continually horrified that this is going to happen.

If I had a tablet, this is where there would be a bad drawing of present Eren and past Eren, linked by an unstable line of red question marks.

I don’t have a tablet.

I do have Paint.

In the immortal words of an angry fictional nine-year-old, “If you don’t fight, we can’t win.”

In the immortal words of a very sad fictional nineteen-year-old, “I don’t know when in the future it will happen... But I... am going to kill every one of these people...”

Eren going full villain is a choice, I guess. It’s not a very interesting one. As previously stated, we know what happens in this world when people do a genocide. We also know what happens when the walls go marching. We are now watching a genocide as the walls go marching. There are no revelations here. There’s death and gloom.

I mean this as sincerely as I can: This, on its face, is boring.

Eren is just the latest person killing people for Reasons.

There is very little reason to be invested in that as a plot. As a character drama, there are tears to be shed and hearts to be torn asunder, but as a basic plot??? This has nothing in it.

I don’t personally believe we’ve come this far for nothing, so I apply my magnifying glass where I choose, and where I choose is the part where I believe this all slips:

Eren takes his visions as an inevitability.

He has the conversation with himself, counting out the lives. Paradis versus the world. In a simple game of numbers, the world should win, and he knows that.

Presenting our problem.

Eren can’t accept a future where Paradis, and Eldians, are sacrificed for the world. Paradis is his home, and he’s spent his life fighting for Eldians to be free, even if he doesn’t know them by that name for most of it. In the case of Paradis v World, Paradis wins out. It’s wrong and it’s terrible, and Zeke’s plan means less dead bodies, but he can’t let go of Paradis.

A binary is presented. Paradis can live, or the rest of the world can. Pick one.

Except that’s stupid.

Following this, Eren leans so far into that choice that he does what he can to manufacture an impossibility of any other results. He makes Paradis a priority. He makes Paradis an international concern, not simply a Marley one. He has the power to knock back any assault on the island they can make, but he still goes on offense.

Paradis dies

World dies

That is not the choice. It is the choice Eren locks himself into, but frankly, he doesn’t even try before he jumps at the genocide route.

As a story thing, whatever. Valid, I guess. Let the protagonist’s own misconceptions break him.

As an Eren thing, it falls short of working.

He’s clearly being torn apart by what he’s going to do.

He’s a protagonist who enters the story yelling about people never winning if they don’t enter the ring.

Eren sees a vision of him destroying the world, thinks on it, and effectively goes, “seems legit,” and cries himself to sleep feeling sad about it.

Eren.

You can have your characters fail. You can have them drop their principles one by one until there’s nothing left. You can have their character development be entirely negative. You do not have to have your hero be a Hero.

Eren is appalled by his own feelings, and walking around the world like a zombie. He sees himself ending the world, and plays it back over and over again, never questioning that this is exactly what he’s going to do.

But when he finally starts, there’s not even a trace of this conflict. His eyes light up at the amazing sight he believes is waiting for him. He spits his defiance at Zeke for even suggesting the sterilization plan. He’s still a zombie in every human interaction that happens with his flesh body, but he goes about his plan with an unconcerned ruthlessness that is disconnected from the humanity Eren has spent the whole story personifying.

Arguably, Sasha dying is the tipping point, and that’s where he fully commits, and blah blah blah stuff.

Only defiance, and not bending to anyone else’s will, is the key trait of the Attack Titan. It’s the key trait of Eren. To keep fighting well beyond sense.

This plan’s inception comes from Eren yielding to the inevitable.

He’s going to kill these people.

There is no choice to it, it’s simply what’s going to happen.

Eren has always had a choice. He might not like the options, or know what’s right, but he has always, always known that the decisions he makes are his.

The story is making the case that Eren buys into inevitability so completely that he denies himself freedom.

That isn’t uninteresting, but we don’t see that. We don’t see what convinces Eren that it’s no use fighting. He chooses to save a boy, and his memories of the boy don’t change. Big deal. That’s one kid in four years of choices. As a proof of concept, it’s weak, and it’s weaker still because Eren makes the choice to save him.

None of this was inevitable, but we approach Eren’s actions from the perspective of there being no way out. Maybe if we had even more flashbacks to him trying to change things, and a play-by-play of him slowly realizing that nothing he does changes what he sees --

But even then, if Eren doesn’t want to kill people, he’s allowed not to. He’s allowed to continue working with his friends. He could have told any of them, at any point, that this was an upcoming problem. He’s always trusted Armin’s mind.

Eren hides himself away with his problems and tells himself he can’t fight this.

Bullshit.

I’ve made this argument before, about Historia and Ymir:

If you’re going to have a character renege on a core of their personal identity so completely, you need to put in the legwork of showing how it happens. Otherwise there’s no reason to trust anything the story tells you, and the grand illusion falls to pieces.

The character work in this series has always been solid, even when everything down to the art hasn’t.

This doesn’t quite work.

There’s a compelling case. There’s a viewable logic that pretends to be believable.

The internal consistency is still off. Something’s wrong here, and if it turns out to be the character ball being dropped in the final inning... really, that’s just such a waste. Personal preference colors all of this, obviously, but if this is the whole truth of the matter, it’s boring.

“I still want to believe... that there’s still a world we don’t know about yet out there... past the walls.”

C’mon, Armin. Earn your fandom hatred. Be right one more time.

We’re not done yet.

[lewistan]

Writing a Compelling Villain aka Villian 101:

Disclaimer: Listen, I’m not saying I’m a pro at writing villains. I’m not even saying that I’m a good writer. I’m just saying that I enjoy writing morally ambiguous characters and if I can lend some info that may help other people feel more comfortable doing the same, then I’ll attempt to do that.

Before we begin, I must note that I will be operating within the dichotomy of hero vs villain. I fully understand that morality may be a spectrum, i.e. there are grey moral characters, but for the sake of this piece, let’s pretend that morality is as simple as good vs evil. 

Let’s begin, shall we?

What is a villain:

Writing a villain is no different than writing any other characters. Crafting a villain requires care as the villain is just as important to the plot’s progression as the protagonist. Without a worthy opponent, the protagonist runs the risk of appearing lackluster. When crafting a villain, it is important to keep in mind that villains, like every other character, have to be believable. They cannot simply be evil geniuses who laugh maniacally while twirling around in their capes. Villains have things they love, things they hate, things that motivate them. They have families and histories. They have traumas and things that set fire to their souls. So, then, what separates an antagonist from a protagonist or a villain from a hero?

At the end of the day, villainhood is an expression of morality or the lack thereof. Villains are immoral, meaning that they recognize what society has deemed as good and what society has deemed as evil and actively choose to do something despite it being evil. In contrast, a character that is amoral is one who exists outside of society’s moral code. They do not know that the evil thing they’ve done is wrong. So, the villain who laughs maniacally while laying out their evil plan is immoral, not amoral. 

Villains are not bound by the conventions of law, rules, contracts, or any other kind of societal boundary. They understand that these boundaries exist, but they make the decision to step outside of them. Compelling villains are not simply characters who flaunt rules because they can. Compelling villains flaunt societal rules because they have convinced themselves that they are better than the rules, they know more, or are doing the world a service by committing an atrocity. 

Qualities of villains: 

Villains often think that they are doing a “good” thing. Let’s consider a rather well known villain in pop culture: Thanos. If you’re not aware of him, Thanos is a villain within the Marvel Universe who thought he was doing the world a service by murdering half of the Earth’s population. The rub is that Thanos fully understands that this is a bad thing that he is doing. He knows that this act will require sacrifice, and the likelihood that that sacrifice will come at a great cost, is high; as we continue, we watch as Thanos makes the decision to sacrifice the person he loves most (yes, I know that there are plenty of commentaries out there that question the genuineness of this act, but please stay with me) in order to gain one of the stones that will allow him to commit genocide. Thanos, and villains at large, weigh the cost of their action and view their end goal as being worth the price. 

The villain is set up as the opposite of the hero. This is the definition of the villain -- someone who stands in opposition to the protagonist. Not all stories require a “villain” or “antagonist” character, but all stories do need some sort of conflict at their center. Villains, by their nature, become the face of conflict in the story. Whether they challenge the hero in a fundamental way, or they present a threat, villains serve to drive the plot forward. They are tied to the hero in some way and make the hero heroic. A villain cannot be weak and easily defeated because where’s the fun in that, but neither can they be all powerful so that their defeat comes as random chance. This being said, it is not enough to simply give a villainous character negative qualities in the same way that it isn’t enough to give a hero solely positive qualities. A villain who is only villainous is a villain that is flat. Villains, like any other character, should be dynamic which means that they should be more than the sum of their villainous actions. 

The villain exists outside of society’s rules. I’ll go more in depth on motivation in a bit, but let’s keep that word in mind for now. Society works because a group of people have agreed upon a set of rules. The hero is typically the character who upholds those rules. The villain, on the other hand, goes outside of those rules. The villain understands the rules but chooses not to abide by them. They do things that the reader fundamentally hates, but they do it in such a way, that the reader has no choice but to understand and sometimes, even admire.

Villains are motivated by something and are working towards a goal. Remember how I said that villains are no different than any other character? This is the crux of the matter. A villain shouldn’t simply be a villain because they are evil. An evil person doing evil things just isn’t compelling enough. It’s flat. Put yourself in the shoes of the villain (yes, yes, we all want to be the hero of the story but go with me). What motivates your villain? What are they working towards? What is the thing that they love the most in the world and what would they do to protect it, to avenge it? To a lesser degree, we’re all villains. Think about when you’re driving and someone cuts you off or when you’ve worked hard on a project and someone else takes credit for it or when someone you love and trust looks you in the eyes and lies to you. Chances are that you don’t go out and commit a heinous act as a result -- probably because society has taught us to fear punishment for the breaking of rules -- but think about that first moment. We’ve all imagined keying someone’s car or cursing someone out. It’s that part of us that isn’t bound to society’s rules. This is the aspect of being human that villains most utilize.

The villain has experienced some sort of deep seated trauma. Let’s consider another well known villainous character: Darth Vader. Darth Vader’s origin story is not one that is unique or even special; rather, it’s one that we’ve seen in a lot of villains -- a person experiences a profound sense of loss and retaliates in order to avenge that loss. In Vader’s case, he turned to the dark side after believing that his wife had been killed. As we know, Anakin had long been built up as the one who could tip the scales in the fight between good and evil. He is a likeable but flawed character. He has a desire to be loved (as most people do), and we see that desire used against him. So, when he thinks his wife to be dead, Anakin proceeds to murder a bunch of children. Cue the rise of the villain. Going through life, the chances of experiencing a profound loss are high, but how a character responds to that loss determines whether that character is a villain or hero. For example: Batman. Yes, I know that he blurs the line, but remember we talked about morality being a spectrum… Anyway, Batman (Bruce Wayne) witnesses the murder of his parents at a young age. That single act propels him into becoming the defender of his city. Had Bruce not had Alfred to guide him along the path of goodness, he could have easily become a villain. And therein lies the truth: any character can become a villain if the circumstance calls for it.

A few qualities to incorporate into your villain: 

Believes that they’re the hero.

Has likeable qualities.

Can be very persuasive. 

People are naturally drawn to them.

Is not afraid to break the rules and do something traditionally considered to be evil. 

Is merciless even to innocents. 

Has experienced some sort of trauma and blames everyone for it.

Will stop at nothing to accomplish the goal. 

Allows the reader to see moments of vulnerability which serves to make the villain more relatable and almost endearing. 

[tornrose24]

My Lordsona’s letters, diary entries, and journal entry in Mother Miranda’s Lab.

I remembered that in each of the lords’ areas, there tends to be letters/journal entries/notes that are either about them or that they wrote themselves in addition to what Mother Miranda wrote about each one in her lab. I thought it would be fun to make some for my lordsona as a way to add additional information (including what could have lead to getting a cadou in the first place, because I don’t think those are given out so freely).

There is mentions of  @artistcaptainbendy‘s lordsona Bendypants and their OC Benjamin.

TW: Mentions of gore

(All journal entries located in personal studio in the gallery. Some would hold clues to solving certain puzzles.)

Journal 1

May 3rd, 1968

(page 1)

I would rather swim in Moreau’s lake and be subjected to whatever goes on in Donna’s estate than give another art lesson to Alcina’s girls. She hoped I could cultivate some talent in the three of them, and there was some promise in both Cassandra and Daniela. Bela seemed disinterested and wanted to go to the piano instead. There was some frustration over the past few weeks and it made me thankful I’m their ‘aunt’ or else it wouldn’t have ended well for me.

Weeks later, they presented me with some abominable displays. That one ‘statue’ looked like one of the maids... or what was left of the poor woman. And I doubt that was red paint used on that canvas.

I don’t mind speaking with Alcina herself once in awhile when I want a bit of class and elegance. There’s certainly no denying her sense of taste in decor and her collection of artwork is incredible. But her daughters are too much for me and I don’t agree on her views of all men. She certainly never met my father or my...

(page 2)

Father....

Sorry, I got lost in my memories there for a bit. Tomorrow I am meeting with some of the village children and will give them an art lesson. They are more of a delight compared to those poor excuses for children in that castle.

They admire the other lords, but its possibly for the best that they aren’t allowed to get too close to them.

Reminder to self: Check to see if the Duke has any works of art to add to the gallery when he comes back.

Journal 2

September 2nd 1975

(Page 1)

It appears I finally have a new security guard. The bastard and a friend of his thought he could sneak into MY gallery and steal a painting that I said would cost a fortune. They fell victim to the Escher trap (clearly they didn’t pay attention to his surroundings) and the painting was destroyed.

All that trouble for a Van Gough replica that’d be worth not even a fraction of the true painting.

But then again, what should I have expected from the son of the drunkard who nearly paralyzed me for life with a bullet to the spine and sent me into Mother Miranda?

The man was completely brain dead. The friend was a bloodied mess, but I stitched his arms to the thief, added some details of my own, did a bit of fixing up, and used a Cadou. He’s dull as a rock and doesn’t recall his past life, but he’ll be good at protecting my gallery from other idiots. 

I call him David after the famous statue.

September 5th, 1975

(Page 2)

Unsurprisingly, Heisenberg thought my creation was, and I quote ‘a hunk of shit and dumbassery mixed together’ and said he could have done so much better. Unlike him, MY creations ARE true works of art. Of course I’m not interested in getting into an argument with him as he enjoys doing so with Alcina.

I brought David to someone else who’d be fascinated with him. Bendypants seemed intrigued and wondered if I could lend David to them to help build a set.

I’m deeply disturbed that I’ve sunk as low as the others. I didn’t think I’d actually use a cadou but I try to tell myself that what I’ve done was a fitting punishment. Besides, it keeps Mother Miranda off my back for a bit.

Note to self: Need to do something about the additional arms on David. They don’t look like they are as secure as I would like them to be.

October 10th, 1975

(Page 3)

It turns out David developed a soft spot for Benjamin. As in Bendypants’ favorite lycan. He’s been looking at him like a girl harboring a secret crush.

That was.... rather unexpected. I guess David isn’t as dull as I thought. I need to keep an eye on him in case he remembers anything about his former life.

Journal 3

January 20th, 2004

(Page 1)

Karl is crude and a bit much at times. But there’s no denying that he’s rather handsome and I finally was able to convince him to pose for some sketches for a painting after all these years. It took the finest bottle of whiskey the Duke had on hand to convince him.

Bendypants will be so envious of me. They too have a certain soft spot for our fellow lord. Perhaps I can gift them with a replica painting as a present in the future.

I admire that Heisenberg doesn’t bother putting on airs like Alcina and his.... extraverted nature is a breath of fresh air. However the whiskey caused him to spill something rather concerning. He seemed unusually interested in my family’s plot of land in the graveyard.

I’m very concerned about what his intentions are.

(Page 2)

I just paid the gravekeeper to unearth the remains of my family so I can burn them and bury them under the oak tree.

I am NOT letting any of the lords use my family’s remains for whatever they are planning.

March 15th, 2010

(Page 3)

Bendypants invited me to one of their plays. It was ‘A Midsummer Nights Dream.’ It was a delight and helped me take my mind off things. The idea of making some of the characters not quite fit into certain norms that are expected in the village would have made Mother Miranda squirm.

I showed them that painting of Ophelia drowning when we discussed Shakespeare the next day. Sometimes I wonder why the cadou didn’t make me lose my mind like Ophelia–would I have been happier without my sanity in the village, amongst the others? At least I wouldn’t have been aware of what sins I would be committing across the years.

I have deeply cherished my friendship with them. They were there at the funerals for each family member of mine who died. Their condolences were honest compared to the other lords and those who were trying to kiss up to me. Like me, they too have somehow defied time’s cruelty to the body, and have known the loss of a loved one. 

(Page 4)

The children are the only others in the village that I am fond of and would protect. Such innocence to the violence hidden in the corners. Sometimes I wish to give into the desire of motherhood, but that would have been the greatest pain I could experience....

(letter hidden in Lord Bendypants’ theater) 

Dearest B,

Regardless of what Miranda tells us lords, you are the only true family I have left in this forsaken village. I would have never imagined that wild, mud covered child of the woods would be the one person I could trust.

That woman never was and will NEVER be my mother. Regardless of what she gave to me, I had to watch my family succumb to old age and sickness while I still remain as I am–a Venus forever frozen in youth and beauty. I hope she burns in hell for her sins and for what she has turned me into across the years.

I suspect that whatever she wants with the infant she kept mentioning is not going to end well for us or the village. She is charismatic, but her lack of true warmth makes me uneasy. I get the feeling that death is certain, but as to who for is not clear yet. I have two requests for you if my suspicions are correct.

First, I am going to see if I can hide any children I can find. They were one of the few things that made me happy here and do not deserve whatever Miranda has planned, so I shall sneak them in a room within my gallery. Please do not let any of your lycans harm the children or attack me tomorrow night. Should things go according to plan, they will be able to have the true freedom that was denied to all of us.

Secondly, should I perish from whatever Miranda has in store, retrieve my body, burn it, and bury it under THAT oak tree where I placed the ashes of my family. I think I finally know for sure who was getting into the graves lately, but I will be damned if I let that asshole take my body too.

I will never forget our times together, or the visits to your wonderful theater. Thank you for being there when I needed it the most.

Your friend,

-R

(Journal in Miranda’s lab)

Subject Name: _______ Rose

Cadou Affinity: Somewhat Favorable

Brain Function: Normal

Subject’s spinal chord was damaged by a gunshot wound three days before procedure. Subject has regained full mobility after cadou implantation. Six horn like protrusions have grown out of subject’s skull, yet subject hasn’t suffered any damage to the brain.

Subject’s arms mutate into an armor and bone fragments extend out of limbs like thorns that are strong enough to tear through flesh when provoked. These abilities are somewhat similar to Alcina’s but pales in comparison to what she is capable of.

Insect-like wings extend right out of subject’s backside when the subject wills them to, yet immense pain makes this a rarity. The placement of the wings is exactly where a small piece of cadou was implanted to repair the damaged spine. Additional procedures were required to ensure that the subject could not be able to fly beyond the village borders.

Further mutation turns the subject into something resembling a fae, yet behaves and moves like an insect. However it takes the subject four hours to change back. Subject also becomes predatory in this state.

An unfit vessel for Eva.

[silver-blooded-synthetics]

@an-unlikely-duo asked:

[ 🧱 ] how would you describe your muses’ morality? what are their core values? (all of them please?)

Simon's core values are safety and loyalty. He will go to great lengths to protect those he cares about and do whatever they need him to do. He would die for those he loves. But he will also go to great lengths to keep himself safe. His loved ones come first, and he comes second, but he's still willing to do some sketchy things in order to survive.

Markus values life, both human and android, and even animals and plants. He has an idealist view of the world in that he sees it's imperfections but believes that there can be change to build a better world. Markus does not think violence is the best option in any situation, but understands that sometimes it is necessary as a last resort. He will always try to find another way first though.

Leo is easily misguided and manipulated. He doesn't always know what is right or wrong or what he believes in. He is high empathy though and at least tries his best to treat others the way he would like to be treated. But sometimes that view slips slightly into "do unto others as they have done unto you" territory instead. Overall, he's doing his best, but doesn't always know right from wrong.

Elijah believes in basic decency and compassion in general, but it's more important to him to pursue knowledge. So if it would benefit him to learn something at the cost of being an asshole, he will be an asshole. However, if he gains nothing from it, he will be kind and live by at least a loose set of morals.

Daniel's values revolve mostly around protecting those he loves. He doesn't care if it means he has to be the bad guy, as long as the people he cares about are safe, he'll do just about anything to ensure that. He does believe in kindness, but is often to prideful or too afraid of vulnerability to say kind things. Instead he tries to hide his kind deeds by doing them behind people's backs or in secret.

Ralph values friends and family, but beyond that, he doesn't have much more of a morality than just to be nice to people unless they are mean to him. He isn't against stealing or even hurting people in self defense.

The Jerrys believe in protecting and nurturing. They love children and value their innocence. They want to do their part in teaching and encouraging children to be the light of the future. They also have a desire to help others and to do small, kind things to spread happiness.

Elianna wants to make a positive difference in the world and to be someone special. She wants to prove herself. She values authenticity and spreading love of all kinds rather than hate.

Lysias believes the ends justify the means. They don't care about morality, they care about results and getting what they want. They often choose violence first because they think it's a waste of time to try peaceful methods first. Violence has always gotten them through in the past, and they believe it will serve them well in the future.

Judas doesn't know what he believes in and is currently lost. He has a basic sense of morality in knowing that kindness is preferred, stealing and killing is wrong, and other common sense things like that. But when presented with more complex issues or looks at those seemingly simple things, he becomes confused and distraught. He's still learning his morality and values.

Arda is a pacifist, through and through. She does not believe in harming any living thing. She values peace and serenity and believes that humans create more problems than they would have if they just relaxed and lived in harmony with nature. She's a bit of a hippy, but means well and values those that are true to themselves, as she is.

Alma values the pursuit of knowledge a great deal, but also strongly believes in autonomy. He wants to have free will and to not be controlled by anyone or anything. He also wants to be free to explore and learn the wonders of the universe. He would do just about anything, good or bad, to achieve these things.

[phantomphangphucker]

DannyMay Day 17 & 18: Childhood & Horror- Why (It) Wont (It) Burn

FentonWorks is a place of horrible nightmares and two ignored children.

FentonWorks was a place no one wanted to go. No one wanted to pass by. No one wanted to be near. No one want to see it. All the houses around effectively abandoned.

Some whispered about trying to tear the place down or burn it to the ground. No one ever meant it though. Because that meant dealing with it. Dealing with what happened. Dealing with both the what’s and who’s inside.

And no one wanted that even more.

Everyone knew what had happened. Knew the what’s and who’s. Just because they knew doesn’t mean they had to deal with it. Had to even acknowledge it. Sure those two who’s, the little children, didn’t have a choice. But that wasn’t the town’s problem.

Even if no child was to be left behind. Even if children were the future. Even if children were the ones that should always be protected. Even if children were innocent. And sweet. And cute. And special. Even if children were meant to be protected.

That was supposed to be the parents' job. But theirs couldn’t manage that. Not before and certainly not now. Maybe. Everyone chooses to ignore that too. Whether or not the two parents stayed dead or not. No one knew what option would be better.

Just like no one knew how those two children -so young at eight and ten now- had survived there for four years. How they still survived. All alone. Hopefully alone. The town knew they weren’t really alone, but that was better ignored. Because it would be better if they were alone.

Everyone saw the what’s, the things, that fly past windows. Or stick to the glass. Stick their claws, tongues, or eyes under the door. The things that rattle the doorknobs or shake the walls. The echoing snarls, growls, and shrieks.

Everyone ignores when there are screams that don’t echo. Screams that are undoubted human. Undoubtedly small and tiny, from small and tiny bodies. No one talks about those screams.

No one wants to.

Why would they? It would mean acknowledging everything.

The exploded portal. The things it released. The parents it took. And the children it left behind.

The house kept the things contained. Whether the building did that all on its own or the children had a hand in it, no one wanted to know. But it was more than enough to leave the building untouched and still standing. It was enough to simply pretend the children barely existed.

No one was kind to them. No one helped them. But no one hurt them either.

They could walk, crawl, or run through the Casper High halls all they wanted. Could take whatever cafeteria food they wanted, however much they wanted. They could go to the theatre without paying. Or take groceries right out the doors without ever so much as glancing at the checkout.

The children were kept only in people’s subconscious memory and awareness as much as possible, after all. No one would want to interact with them enough to get payment or grade homework anyways.

But there’s somethings that just can’t be ignored. Jasmine, the responsible one. Always the one with groceries. Always the one patching up the twos wounds. Always the one speaking. So often comforting or encouraging or soothing the boy. An older sister, being an older sister.

She wasn’t okay.

There was a lot wrong with her now.

She repeated herself so much. Muttered more than spoke. Shook and shake more often than not. Her cheeks absolutely were permanently tear-stained; and eyes always rimmed red. Skinny where she was once lean. Crispy stringy hair, that was once smooth and hydrated. If anyone dared or considered to ask a professional, they’d say she had lost bits of her mind. Had broken under hardship and torment.

But no one wanted to think about that. No one wanted to know that. So no one asked, and no helped.

Even if the town, on a deep level, were terrified the girl would end her life.

Most terrified for selfish reasons. Maybe the children were all that held the things in the house back. Some because they still cared on principle, children should never die. Others because of the other child. Because of Daniel.

Daniel had become wrong not even months after everything. After the house became intertwined with death and caused it. The only sounds he ever made matched the snarls and growls, merely lacking the echo. He didn’t know how to smile; only how to bare his teeth like a threat. Hands and fingers always held like claws. Hair black and slick, that seemingly dripped like oil but only at a glance. Bone skinny yet with sharp angular muscles clinging to the bone and underneath taught skin. Pale white skin, that seemed to crack and split to leak green sometimes. Intense blue eyes, sharp as ice and sparkling in a way that eyes just shouldn’t.

He moved too fast. Stared too much. Stilled too often and for too long. He just wasn’t human enough.

No one wanted Daniel left all alone. No one wanted to know or have to see, what would become of him. If he’d became even more wrong.

But the thing everyone feared most was that maybe, just maybe, Daniel was more of a what now than a who. Was something that needed to be contained. Was the one thing that house somehow couldn’t contain.

Jasmine still treated him like a little brother. That was something. But considering her questionable mental state, it didn’t mean much. And half the time, the way she hugged him and clung to him, just felt creepy. Like an addict clutching to the drug destroying them. The way that Daniel seemed to not notice or care, didn’t help ease people’s clenching stomachs or grimaces.

What most of them thought was the worst feeling was the intrusive thoughts urging them to raise that house to the ground with all the what’s and both the who’s inside. Cleanse the town.

Everyone could tell when someone’s intrusive thought became something closer to an actual desire. With how that person would stand and stare at the house. Maybe with a weapon or gas or a lighter or a bottle of hard liquor.

No one ever actually tried. Never acted on it. Never fully meant it. Because...

Daniel always knew.

The wind would blow, the curtains inside the front window moving with the wind somehow.

And the child would be there. He’d be staring. He’d always lock eyes with whoever. And whoever would lose their guts.

It was like the boy was daring them to do it. To try it. Whether or not that was a plea or a threat, was another thing no one wanted to think about.

So the house was left alone. The things inside ignored as best as they could be. The two unfortunate children an avoided staple of the town. And everyone hoping it stayed that way.

The day they all had to deal with the fallout of that curs-ed place would be a truly terrible one. But maybe, just maybe, they’d never have to. Maybe those children’s childhood would be enough payment for whatever sin their parents committed at the cost of their lives.

Course nothing can stay the same. Nothing can stay unchanged. And somethings really can’t be ignored.

One of those echoing glowing things had shown up outside of the house.

Everyone had screamed and ran. It was unbridled panic. Panic that had stilled and stared when the boy had suddenly been there too.

Had stared and bared teeth at the glowing thing. Many could have sworn his eyes swirled with green, and white flames licked off his hair if you had looked at him right.

And the thing had shrieked. Had fled.

But wherever the thing went, Daniel was just somehow there. Why the green thing didn’t think to fly up, no one knows. At they certainly weren’t ever going to ask.

Regardless, Daniel had eventually grabbed the thing. And...

He tore It to shreds.

Ripped off chunks and scraps.

The town -or much of it, having been attracted by gossip or the chaos- had watched the small child devour the thing. Devoured one of the things they were all terrified of.

Shoved bits in his mouth and squished it to splatter around his mouth and face with white teeth.

Curled his tongue around smaller bits while tearing big bits apart with bare fingers.  

Had left nothing but faintly glowing smears on the pavement, licking his lips all the while.

The boy was a predator.

And then he spoke with green stained teeth.

“You, good bait”.

The girl had skipped up on shoes not quite the right size. Had wiped his face off with a too-white handkerchief.

“Where’re your manners. Manners. Manners. Manners. Where? Manners where? Messy Danny. Keep you clean. Clean only to be messy again”.

The girl was a caretaker.

He had stuck out his tongue, dripping glowing neon green, at her. Had left that tongue hanging out while glancing around at the crowd and showing all his teeth in a mockery of a grin.

And they knew then. They weren’t letting that house stay standing. Weren’t letting the children live and do as they pleased. The children, Daniel, was letting them stick around him and his house.

End.