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anghraine · 2 months ago

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I was thinking about my personal "TOS is really its own thing" headcanons for K/S, and also, that one of the things that really surprised me when I actually marathoned the whole series was the acknowledged ethical issue around captain/crew fraternization.

To rewind back to my ship, lol: I definitely think that Spock and Kirk are obsessively in love with each other, and it's pretty obvious that every other relationship and person in their lives pales in comparison, but I don't actually imagine that they've said or done anything about this beyond the kinds of things we've seen onscreen.

I mean. Yes, that includes things like "when Kirk gets a massage on the bridge for his back pain, he just assumes it's Spock and is intensely uncomfortable to discover it's someone else" + the two of them saying breathtaking romantic things with obvious heart eyes while ignoring the existence of everyone around them + Kirk's most compelling and insightful love interest remarking that Spock obviously belongs with him as if he always will be at Kirk's side + everything "Amok Time" chooses to be + mutual seething jealousy/Spock excising his rival from Kirk's mind while he sleeps + Kirk saying Spock is closer to him than anyone in the universe + Spock regularly abandoning his principles when it comes to Kirk etc etc etc. But I don't think they've actually said what they feel or initiated a (physically) sexual relationship during TOS itself.

Taking TOS by itself and ignoring the regular reboots of their characterizations in ... well, everything else, I definitely feel like they're moving inexorably towards that kind of unambiguous romantic relationship in TOS, just that they haven't quite taken that last step yet.

In fact, I suspect that the "You are closer to the captain than anyone in the universe" statement from bodysnatched Kirk to Spock is likely the most explicit statement either has made about how they feel or what their relationship really is, and it carefully stops just short of saying too much. And it's immediately followed by a) a mind-meld, I think the fourth between them, but the first in which Spock effortlessly melds them without a single word to help, and b) one of the most extended periods of physical contact between them, with iirc some 25 seconds of Spock holding Kirk's bare hand/wrist on screen as they try to escape together signifying nothing, with scene cuts suggesting the actual duration may in fact be longer (*gasps in Vulcan*).

The show ends with that episode because of the cancellation, but there's something weirdly apropos about it as a finale on a purely shipping level. I definitely felt like the dynamic between them has reached such a point by "Turnabout Intruder" that there's no going back. But I don't think anything more significant than what we've seen has happened off screen, just that the acknowledgment of the nature of their feelings and the shift to an overtly romantic, sexual relationship seem inevitable at this point. And by "overtly," I mean to each other, not necessarily anyone else.

There are various reasons I feel this way. Partly it's the high-octane yearning and repression that both exhibit in very different ways, which I think make more sense if they haven't acknowledged anything yet or transitioned away from pretending it's platonic. But one reason I envision them as Not Quite There But Definitely Going To Be, that I've rarely seen mentioned thus far, is something I would never have guessed from pop culture or even fandom osmosis.

Early in the series, Kirk explicitly states that he considers his crew completely off-limits in a romantic context. This ethical restriction applies only to him and not any other senior officers. Throughout the rest of the series, we're told and shown that Starfleet does not forbid fraternization among crew members of different ranks. Kirk himself says that it would be fine for Spock to have a romantic relationship with Janice Rand, just not Kirk.

And moreover, Kirk never does voluntarily enter a romantic relationship with any crew member. He and Janice Rand have a mutual infatuation for awhile that both handle with as much professionalism as possible. The closest thing to an openly romantic interaction with a crew member is probably Kirk kissing Helen Noel after Helen and Dr. Adams artificially screwed around with his memories and feelings—but we discover in the process that he was the one who refused to do more than dance at the Christmas party, when he backed off and scrupulously talked about space while Helen was the one with the unsentimental sex fantasy who keeps pushing his boundaries even in the present. That's why he's so unusually hostile; they were never together, even as a fling, and she hasn't taken no for an answer.

I guess Kirk and Mulholl agreeing to be possessed by married aliens for a final goodbye kiss is sort of ...? I mean. You get it, sometimes there's some sci-fi plot device, but nothing real and nothing while he has full control of his body and mind.

Kirk's real exes are all former long-term girlfriends, most of them also part of Starfleet and professionals in science or science-adjacent fields, but never crew members.

It's not 100% clear in TOS if the repeated statements and suggestions about lack of Starfleet restrictions on fraternization except wrt the captain is Starfleet policy, or just Kirk's personal stance. Kirk says he's not allowed to have a relationship of that kind with Janice Rand in "The Naked Time," but he's contracted the disease by then and it's part of a generally unhinged ramble. It's later stated that romance isn't forbidden on Starfleet vessels, but that's about crew romances in general and not the captain in particular. So it's difficult to know the real source of the ethical prohibition. Maybe there are actual regulations around this (makes sense) or maybe it's just a hard ethical line that Kirk has independently chosen for himself (also makes sense), but when he's functional and autonomous enough to be held responsible for his actions, this is a line he does not cross.

The point here is that, while I don't remotely blame other K/S fans for ignoring this inconvenient fraternization detail, Spock is a member of Kirk's crew. Yes, he's a senior officer and the highest-ranking person on the ship after Kirk himself, so maybe it wouldn't be as egregious as with someone else—but then again, maybe Kirk propositioning Spock would be considered even more unethical than propositioning Janice, since Janice at least has other authorities over her, while Spock answers directly to Kirk in the chain of command and will do virtually anything Kirk tells or asks him to do.

Kirk and Spock's relationship is intense and [gestures] everything enough that there are scenarios where I could imagine Kirk dropping this otherwise non-negotiable ethical line (the classic is, of course, "Spock's human heritage makes his pon farr cycle erratic and it comes back early ... oh no..."). I don't think we've seen any such scenario during TOS, though.

In any case, I feel like Kirk is unlikely to proposition Spock either romantically or sexually during the five-year mission. After years of constant proximity and yearning and ostensibly platonic hijinks and assuming it would never happen, I could see his resolve crumbling if Spock tried to initiate a romance with him. But that is also unlikely throughout most of TOS, because of Spock's own hang-ups around emotion and attachment—he's struggling with shame over feeling basic friendly affection, and in reality he feels far more than that.

I also don't think their true preferences when it comes to love, or their sense of what love really is for them, are inclined towards casual/undefined relationships or even poly relationships. So I don't personally envision them as FWBs or in a "they were in love but not taking it that seriously" scenario; I don't think either situation would be all that probable or desirable for them. They're both conspicuously jealous of anything or anyone that could possibly compete with their own absolute centrality in each other's lives; Spock never so much as kisses anyone without being dubconned into it and is guilty about having friends; Kirk's entire sexual history when it's not For The Mission is consistently geared towards long-term and sentimentally romantic relationships. Kirk supplies a very clear, emphatic description of love as he understands it:

Is he important to you, more important than anything? Is he as though he were a part of you? [...] But you can't really love him. You haven't the slightest knowledge of love, the total union of two people.

Kirk understands impossible/forbidden love in terms of some fundamental separation from a single beloved, being perpetually apart from them and unable to achieve the kind of absolute joining of lives and minds that he regards as love. (In some ways, this seems an incredibly Vulcan perspective on love, which, well.)

I think he and Spock are close to crossing the last barriers to that point of absolute union by "Turnabout Intruder," given their extreme intimacy as well as the very real possibility of grafting their lives and minds to each other in the way both pretty clearly crave. But I feel like there are only two ways it can really happen: 1) some wildly fortunate circumstance makes it ethically justifiable for Kirk to approach Spock, or 2) Spock makes the first move, which means that unless they're just randomly very lucky, everything hangs on him coming to terms with himself.

Then again, I also think Spock's arc across the show is building towards a point where he is coming to terms with himself in that way, with asserting what he wants, what bothers him, and what he's willing to reach for or accept. By the finale, I can believe he's truly on the point of getting there.

The movies hit the reset and retcon buttons hard, but taking TOS by itself as aired, the arc of their relationship and its development over the course of the show feels more hopeful to me. I can believe that S3 Spock has grown into himself enough to get to the point he needs to be at to make the first ("first") move before much longer. This is the Spock who essentially told Starfleet to go fuck themselves because they wouldn't let him jeopardize a fraught diplomatic situation to search for Kirk, told Sulu to scan for Kirk for potentially years, then defied explicit orders and tracked him down personally. There is very little he wouldn't do for Kirk by S3.

Kirk, meanwhile, has never been anything but 1000% receptive to whatever Spock is willing to give him; he spends a significant portion of TOS looking like he's about to dissolve into hearts at eye contact and a slight mouth twitch from Spock, if that. By S3, though, he's visibly more ground-down and tired, he's been put through further horrors that he often only escaped via his intimacy with Spock, and he's increasingly desperate for real connection. I can believe that at this point, he'd finally be at "fuck it" if Spock's love was on the table.

So I don't think that during the time period of TOS, their romance is formalized at all, or even acknowledged, or that they have a sexual relationship beyond the turbo-charged UST and frequent physical contact (to a degree that seems likely obscene on Vulcan. but as Spock no doubt justifies to himself, they're not on Vulcan). But I also think that by the end of the show, their dynamic has moved towards a stage where the shift to an unambiguously romantic relationship, even if hidden, feels inevitable and imminent. I genuinely feel like they're so close to full honesty with each other at this point that it can't be long, and that's with over a year of the mission left.

#anghraine babbles #long post #anghraine's headcanons #otp: the premise #c: who do i have to be #c: i object to intellect without discipline #anghraine's meta #(but definitely shippy headcanons based meta lol)#star peace #star trek: the original series #tos: metamorphosis #tos: s3 #tos: turnabout intruder #tos: the naked time #tos: the mark of gideon

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umbrellajam · 8 months ago

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I feel like whether Tim is on some level suicidal in RR #12 is very open to interpretation, which is part of what makes it fascinating!

because Tim's homecoming to Gotham is the culmination of an upward/self-actualization arc, after struggling through multiple low points/depression/an extended breakdown.

he finally got proof Bruce is alive. managed to claw Tam and himself out of the Cradle and away from the Council of Spiders/LoA by the skin of their teeth. thumbed his nose at Ra's and reaffirmed his own principles by blowing up all the LoA servers. finally kind of processed that Kon and Bart are both alive again - he just tackle-hugged Kon in RR #9 and told him, "when you found me in Paris, I was in a bad place. Now... Now I'm in a good place." he's full of renewed purpose and the realization that he doesn't, in fact, have to do things alone! (team-up Robin ftw!)

so probably not actively suicidal

but then in all of his frantic calculations to thwart Ra's and save each and every person Bruce loved - he doesn't factor himself in. he doesn't put himself on that list of loved ones and set up a contingency for preserving his own life (wtf Tim).

or does he??? that's where the ambiguity comes in for me, because we don't actually see him discussing the full details of his plan with anyone. and he doesn't mention it in his internal narration, either! because his internal narration is always super reliable..... hmmm.....

we know that Dick isn't aware of any other contingencies, or indeed the full details of the plot they were thwarting - after catching Tim, Dick has to ask him, "You want to tell me what that was all about?" and of course "How did you know I'd be there to save you?"

and as I've mentioned before, I don't think Tim had actually planned for Dick to save him, so his "You're my brother, Dick. You'll always be there for me," response is uh, both loving BS and a "genuinely felt expression of retrospective faith", as Silver put it (and which has been stuck in my mind in glowing cursive letters ever since, lol).

but. we do know that as part of his plan to thwart Ra's ninja-assassinate-Bruce's-loved-ones plot, Tim calls all three of his best friends into Gotham. (among all his other rallied allies.) his best friends who are various combinations of flight and/or superspeed capable. and who had each just smugly patched in via comm to confirm that their protection jobs were all successful, meaning Tim knew they were available if he potentially needed them.

the fact that the rest of the Core Four then twiddle their thumbs and let Tim keep fighting Ra's on his own after confirming Alfred/Selina/Barbara are safe, instead of zipping over to have his back (ie punch the jackass through a wall) almost has to be because of: (a) Tim's plan to deliberately stall so Lucius could file the WE paperwork (on the Watsonian level), (b) Yost allowing Tim to have his Final Showdown with the villain of the arc on his own, and also (c) Yost setting up the emotional climax/reconciliation of Dick catching Tim (both on the Doylist level).

like, Tim stalls Ra's for long enough that Dick is able to glide and grapple his way over from his own ninja-busting detail, we don't think the speedster or the Superboy could have gotten there in time?

Dick is the one who caught Tim because it was thematic, it's a motif in their relationship and the resolution of their 12-issue arc, and don't get me wrong I wouldn't change that moment for anything - but! he wasn't the only one around who could have done so.

and Iiiiii have to suspect Tim would know that? there's ambiguity and room for interpretation, of course, especially since Tim doesn't say anything at all or call out to anyone as he's actually falling.

but also. Kryptonian superhearing? Tim's comm which could very well still be connected? could he have been relying on allies listening/clue-ing in, whether or not he actually explicitly sketched out a back-up plan with anyone to come back him up, after Lucius was done transferring WE? all according to (dumbass improvised) keikaku??

idk! seems plausible to me, but it's all so open to interpretation, it makes my brain go BRRRRRR 😊 like you can make a compelling case/headcanon/fic any way you look at it!

anyway. Dick catching Tim is very much The Moment Ever Of All Time <3 but also the thought of Kon just hovering at the ready to grab Rob but spotting Dick!Bats swooping in and being like ":))) oh ok. they both need this." is v. hilarious to me

#Tim Drake #Red Robin #Core Four #Dick and Tim #DC meta #sheesh it's been a while I'm forgetting all my tags #dcu #batfam #post tag #comics reading tag

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moonmaiden1996 · 6 months ago

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Sanji as a Romantic partner to a reader.

Okay, hear me out. Sanji is a flirty, chivalrous man with a tendency to be, well, a little extra. Some might call him a pervert because of his over-the-top reactions to women, and yeah, there’s definitely a pent-up side to his personality. I mean do I need to mention him nearly dying in the Fishman Island arc from lose of blood due to the near constant nosebleeds (not to mention *willingly* ready to die just to look at Shirahoshi) . But let’s take a step back and explore why he’s like this. I believe Sanji’s loving (and sometimes dramatic) nature stems from three key things:

His Respectful Nature

Sanji’s respect for women is unmatched. He’d rather hurt himself than raise a hand against a woman, no matter the circumstances. This isn’t just a quirk—it’s a deep-seated principle rooted in his past. Growing up with an abusive father and witnessing the mistreatment of his mother (which ultimately led to her death), Sanji likely developed a powerful desire to treat women with kindness and admiration. It’s his way of rejecting the cruelty he grew up around.

His Romantic Idealism

Let’s be real—Sanji is a hopeless romantic. He sees the best in every woman he meets and isn’t afraid to express his feelings, no matter how grand or unreciprocated they might be. One of the best examples of this is his dynamic with Charlotte Pudding. Even when she intended to deceive him, Sanji still saw her goodness and treated her with compassion. His romanticism feels like a shield against the harsh realities of his past—a way of holding onto hope and beauty in a sometimes-ugly world.

His Need for Love

Sanji’s childhood was, to put it lightly, rough. Between his family’s cruelty, the loss of his mother, and the trauma of being shipwrecked and adopted by Zeff, he’s been through a lot. It’s no surprise that these experiences left him craving connection and love. Sanji’s unwavering adoration for women is his way of forging those relationships and filling the void left by his turbulent upbringing. Does he have issues? Maybe a few. But underneath it all is a guy who wants to love and be loved in return.

So, Who’s Sanji’s Ideal Reader?

When it comes to the type of person Sanji would fall for, there are a few things to consider.

First off, as we’ve seen with Nami and Robin (especially Nami), Sanji gravitates toward women who can handle his enthusiasm. He’s not oblivious—he knows when people are using him. But because of his overwhelming need to serve and be useful, he doesn’t mind. In fact, he leans into it. Sanji is, in essence, the dictionary definition of a Golden Retriever Boy: loyal, eager to please, and full of boundless energy.

With that in mind, I think Sanji would pair perfectly with someone who has a soft-but-bossy vibe. Someone who exudes no-nonsense energy but can still appreciate his devotion. Aesthetic matters, too. Sanji loves beautiful things—not necessarily perfect things, but things he finds beauty in and he see beauty in most things (apart from Zoro). While many might imagine him with a girly-girl type, I think he’d be drawn to someone more unique—maybe a goth girl, a reserved librarian type, or anyone with an unconventional charm.

With that Sanji’s desire to worship someone comes hand-in-hand with his longing to belong. He wants to be someone’s, but he also wants someone to be his—someone who’ll let him dote on them endlessly while appreciating the loyalty he brings to the table but at the same time someone who is going to keep a firm hand on him and make him feel just as loved and wanted. Also, let not forget the reader will be pampered with endless butler serve.

And that reader is going to be in for a handful of trouble as Sanji is defiantly going to have a new dream ''Opening a restaurant on the all blue run buy a very noise and load family that he has made with the reader, theirs or adopted doesn't matter. He gives me wanting to a daddy figure vibes (especially with how he looks after Chopper)

So what do you think? I would love to hear you opinion!

#sanji x reader #one piece sanji #one piece #straw hat pirates #opla x reader #opla #vinsmoke sanji #black leg sanji #straw hat crew #strawhats

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avelera · 7 months ago

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I have seen some discourse going around about how Mel never manipulated jayce. Do you agree? And what are your views considering mel?

I say this because I think that she did kind of manipulate jayce in the beginning but genuinely ended up falling for him in the end. I mean she had to genuinely care and love him if she ended up subconsciously saving him with magic.

I think that a lot of people from what I have seen were pissed at season 2 ep8 when jayce got into the argument with Mel but I thought it was quite understandable that he reacted the way he did especially after what he went through. That being said I still felt bad for mel because she literally lost everything and was ready to open up to him.

Sorry for the ramble

I think a lot of the Mel/Jayce discourse is being done in bad faith right now, mostly by people who are anti-Jayce/Viktor rather than pro Mel/Jayce for whatever reason. I would point out, that canonically Mel and Jayce are not together at the end of the show and they also canonically (in my opinion) break up. So it's fine if you just really like the ship or wish things had gone differently, but it should be acknowledged that any Mel/Jayce fic outside the brief time they're together in the show is as much an AU as any Jayvik fic where they got together earlier.

As for the manipulation, I mean yeah, it canonically happened. There shouldn't be a debate. Jayce calls her out on in it 2.08 and Mel doesn't deny it, she just gives her reasons for why she manipulated him. Ostensibly it was to help him and Hextech too but she absolutely used sex as a tool of persuasion with deliberate intent to use it for those ends, she absolutely flirted with Jayce to ingratiate herself to him, she absolutely called him an investment (though there is a slight plothole on how he knows that, it was never said in his hearing), and even if she poses it to herself as helping him she also used those persuasive power to nudge him towards Hextech weapons which he categorically did not want to make, so her own ends superseded his benefit or preference in canonical instances.

For those who deny manipulation took place, go back and watch the opera house scene in S1. She plays him like a fiddle. Indeed, the expert violinist on stage (playing an actual Stradivarius irl, btw) is symbolically depicted as Mel's counterpart, showing how expertly she is manipulating the situation, and Jayce.

Now, I think you can chart how much Mel was with Jayce for her own ends vs. affection for him by her support for Hextech weaponry. When she's pushing for it, she's using him for her own House's goals. When she drops Hextech weapons as an issue and instead supports Jayce's vision for it (in S2) that's when she's acting out of affection for him. It's tragic that her affection for him grows while his declines so sharply as a result of his ordeal and finally realizing the early manipulations (kinda like that trope where someone dates another person for a bet, then falls for them, and then the other person learns about the bet and breaks up with them, only this one without a happy reunion after).

Their relationship is tragic. It's a tragedy. And it ends tragically with them apart and us left wondering if they could have made it together under other circumstances. "What could have been?" is an overarching theme in Arcane, and it is our own choices, our own ambition and greed that get in the way of getting what we need instead of what we want. Every single character is built around these principles, with the happy endings being those who get what they need instead of what they want, and the tragic ones (like Mel) getting what they want (power, to be an official Medarda as she says in her first scene) and not what she needs, which is anyone around her to share it with. You can feel the loss but you have to also acknowledge how she ended up there and why she narratively can't earn Jayce's love after what she did at the start of the relationship.

#mel medarda #jayce talis #arcane #arcane meta #again not putting this in the tag for their relationship since it could be seen as critical #even if I just see it as analysis

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talonabraxas · 17 days ago

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Archaeon Haniel and Archeia Maryllisa, the Lady Radiant. Talon Abraxas

Archaeon Haniel is Chief of the Virtues and Chief of the Principalities. He may also be known as Aniel, Hamiel, Anafiel or Anael. His name means "He who sees God". Haniel is a master of the lessons of polarity and duality and of synchronicity, who brings together friends and lovers and then supports them in their relationships. He also rules all matters of peace, beauty, grace and art and brings harmony and inspiration to our lives. He is ruler of the month of December, the astrological sign of Capricorn, and thus may be associated with Saturn. He is closely connected with the planet Venus from where he and his twin flame originate, which is illustrated by their luminescent white skin and hair. They came to Earth long ago with a large team of Ascended Beings and Angels to serve with Sanat Kumara and Lady Venus Kumara in their endeavours to return Earth to the Path of Light. Gautama Buddha and Sananda (Jesus) both also originate from Venus and it is said too that Venusians were early Earth settlers in the times of Lemuria.

Depicted by some as wearing an emerald green robe and carrying a lantern, he showed himself to us wearing a ceremonial cloak of feathers in the Aztec style. This brings out his associations with the Aztec ruler and God, Quetzalcoatl, as whom he incarnated many years ago in what we know as South America. He has had other incarnations, another one of which was as one of Gautama Buddha's first pupils and his affinity with the principles of Buddhism remain an important aspect of his teachings now. Haniel also works closely with Sanat Kumara, the Maha Chohan, Hilarion, Uriel and Metatron. He helps us utilise star energies, especially when we use them to make or charge healing remedies or energise crystals. His Archeia, the Lady Radiant, is known as Maryllisa for the flower "Amaryllis Belladonna" — a play on the words meaning "a Mary lily: beautiful lady". They have a retreat on Earth called ETAE, which means "and always". This is situated both on the surface and in the ethers of the highest of the mountain ranges of Puno, north / north-east of Lake Titicaca in Peru.

Haniel works with the White ray of Purity and the Orange Ray of Logic, Reason and Knowledge. This ray has the depth and thrust to get right to the "heart of the matter" and is the ray to move us away from living life solely through our emotional body where we are constantly reacting to events that have already happened in our lives, to a life where we are taking the initiative and actively shaping the life we want to have. It is the ray of the researcher and the scientist, but on a personal level it encourages new ways of thinking, supports expansion of all our senses and challenges us to extend our boundaries or change our perceptions. Haniel is also a teacher of the theme of illusion and expectations — he shows us what our expectations are (of ourselves, others or situations we find ourselves in) and then shows us which expectations are justified and appropriate and which are not. He thus teaches us to have realistic expectations of ourselves and others. This guidance may help us recognise our inner feelings and identify patterns of behaviour more clearly. Haniel said: "In order to stand for your truth and speak your truth, you need to know your truth. And to know your truth you need to know yourself. And that means looking within, to examine and question each and every part of your existence — to truly understand your own feelings. Many peoples' issues are clouded with the beliefs they have about themselves that they hold to be true, but which simply are not! Those beliefs may have been given to them through others' opinions or words; or from their own emotional reactions to things that have happened in their life; or the belief systems that have been an integral part of their lives — past and present. Few people have the ability to see through to their very core: to see themselves as they truly are. Find yourself first — and then find your truths." Haniel also helps us to live in the present — to be consciously living each and every waking minute, without wasting time and energy over what has happened / is going to happen. Living in the present helps us flow through life, with faith and trust.

Haniel helps us accept our true Light and know that we function on many levels of consciousness, even those we may not yet be aware of. He can accordingly help strengthen our perceptions on the etheric (psychic) levels. By truly knowing ourselves, our talents and abilities and seeing and understanding our true Light we are encouraged to live our lives fully, trusting in ourselves and what we can accomplish. His pure and clarifying light falls on us to help us see the truth and reality at the heart of ourselves, showing us without artifice or illusions so that we know who we truly are. His energy puts us into the spotlight, enabling us to see what our true abilities and talents are. Once we accept our qualities and value ourselves and our capabilities Haniel then gives us the courage to live them and walk our path in the Light of Truth. He gives us the self-belief and strength to show others what we do, how we live, and what our ideals are — and to be proud of it. He will help us dissolve any feelings we may have of not being worthy and give us the confidence to "walk our walk" and "talk our talk". This frees us up to show ourselves and others exactly what we can do and not be embarrassed by it, ashamed of it or be troubled about others reactions to it. By living our truths openly and by being seen to do so, we may hopefully encourage others to do the same. Haniel had this to say: "In these days there is a need for people who are prepared to stand up and say 'This is what I believe in: This is what I find works', even at the risk of feeling foolish, and even if what you say goes against what is regarded as conventional truths or wisdom. Throughout history there are always forerunners; those who have perhaps brought ridicule upon themselves for their strange concepts and new ideas. But in the end those new ideas have been accepted as truth, and believed, understood and accepted by others as a consequence. And that is also what we need today — more people prepared to stand up for their truths and to be counted and who are prepared to make a difference in the world as she moves forwards toward the end-times."

MESSAGE FROM HANIEL:

If you could see yourselves through my eyes, you would know how beautiful and wondrous you truly are. Ever changing and evolving patterns of Light, constantly moving and rearranging in the language which spells out exactly who and what you are. In your pure energetic forms, the forms you have for most of your existence, your story may be read. No masks or artifice - simply YOU as you ARE. And there is no shame in this exposure, no need to hide, no need for excuses or apologies. For all is revealed, and all IS as it IS. And as such you see all others too as they are. And in this way all exist openly and proudly, knowing "This is ME" "This is who I AM". There is no judgement, no competition. Each one of you is as important as the next, and each one is loved for what they ARE, and not what they think others want them to be.

In truth there is no such thing as imperfection, for all of you at heart are pure sparks of energy. So be not afraid to stand up for yourself as who you are, as how you look, and as what you do and what you stand for. Those who matter will see past the surface to the truth that is you, and some may be impelled to take a closer look, to find within you that which they have been seeking for themselves.

It takes but one voice to make a difference and one torch bearer to light a path for the many to follow. Take my hand, and take that step.

I salute you all for your courage and companionship as fellow travellers on the path back to God.

May many Blessings light your ways.

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thewritingmagician2022 · 1 year ago

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You Refuse to be Submissive - Brothers and Dateables

Lucifer: Oh boy, talk about challenging because Lucifer is 100% going to take that as a challenge at first. He’s going to assume that not only will you not be submissive (which is a no go in his book) but that you also expect him to be the submissive one instead (absolutely not). There is going to be a lot of heated discussion there, I think. It’s not that Lucifer doesn’t want to respect your boundaries, it’s just that his entire personality is built on being respected and feared and obeyed so this is really throwing him off. The more you talk about it, the more willing he is to listen. He’ll never concede to being submissive but he will settle for equal partnership. You’ll probably have to regularly remind him of this because he’s going to unconsciously act in a very dominant manner sometimes but eventually he’ll learn and you guys will find a balance that works well for you both.

Mammon: For the most part, Mammon is only going to argue on principle. He’s got to remind you that he’s the second most powerful demon in this family and he’s your first man; you should do what he says! However, this is definitely more for the sake of telling himself that he tried to be in control and assert himself. In reality, Mammon absolutely loves letting you take control. He’s used to his more submissive role in relationships and feels most comfortable when you’re putting him in his place. There’s something incredibly addicting to him about the idea of belonging to you, the sweet, loving human that wandered into his life and treats him better than his family ever did. So aside from that first perfunctory argument and maybe some sporadic little comments about how he’s “not gonna sub for a puny human if you think that’s what’s gonna happen” when he’s feeling particularly insecure, you have a perfectly happy sub of your own.

Levi: That’s more than fine with Levi! In fact, it’s a relief. In most situations, Levi absolutely hates being charge; it’s too much pressure for an Otaku like him. This translates to your relationship as well. Levi is much happier worshiping you and falling apart under your words and ministrations than he would be ordering you around or calling the shots. Levi is quite the blushing but eager sub and he never fights you on the roles you’ve created for yourselves.

Satan: At first, this is a tough blow for Satan. Not necessarily because he wants you to be submissive but because he doesn’t understand why you wouldn’t be for him. A part of him is going to wonder whether you would do it for Lucifer or if you didn’t respect him as much or a myriad of other things; this means he may blow up a little at first as he gets his bearings. However, Satan is also very logical so once you sit him down and explain that it’s nothing to do with him and just a preference on your end, he’s much more agreeable about it. You’d probably end up in a detailed conversation about kinks and boundaries so that way he can make sure you’re both totally happy with the sex and your roles in your relationship. I don’t see Satan full on subbing for you, more like an equal partnership both in and out of the bedroom.

Asmo: You don’t wanna sub? That’s totally fine with Asmo! He’s the Avatar of Lust, he can roll with just about any and every preference you may have. You just tell him what you want him, how you want it, and when and he will do everything in his power to make all of your fantasies come true! He may tease you a little bit about it, in the sense that he likes to think he would be able to make you actually enjoy being submissive - especially if your reluctance is due to bad past experiences. He would want to show you what a real dominant could be like and how good submitting can feel. If it’s a hard stop though, he’s more than willing to take on that submissive role instead and won’t push the issue.

Beel: Beel has never thought much one way or another about you being submissive. It was never anything he was going to ask you to do though, admittedly, he’s probably always seen you in a more submissive view simply because you’re so much smaller and weaker than him. It just seems like the de facto setting in that situation. Once you tell him you’re not interested in being submissive, he’s totally okay with it and will ask you what you do want. Beel is a pleaser by nature and he would be happy to take on the role, if you’d prefer for him to be the submissive one. However, I did think the sub/dom thing would very rarely come up for Beel so it’s simply not something you two need to worry about.

Belphie: It’s a toss up for Belphie. He hates being told no and he doesn’t like the idea of being “forced” into the submissive role; there’s still a part of him that believes he should be in total control and that you’re just a little human that should cater to his every whim. (It really doesn’t help that he’s so spoiled by everyone and is used to getting what he wants) This can work in a positive way though because Belphie is undeniably lazy, which means he doesn’t mind if you’re the one putting in all of the work sexually. So, sure, he can lay back and be a little pillow princess for you. Or, if he has some energy and/or big feelings, he’ll be a very bratty sub and take great joy in harassing the hell out of you until he lets you put him back in his place. Basically, you not subbing is fine as long as you show Belphie all of the ways that he benefits from you taking on the dominant role.

Barbatos: Barbatos was literally born to serve. He is a pleasure and service sub, through and through. That doesn’t mean he isn’t a little sadistic sometimes and he will happily “act out” if that’s something you enjoy him doing but, for the most part, he is incredibly happy in his submissive role. He lives to make you happy and feel good; in fact, being the perfect sub is one of his greatest achievements. He wants you to not only not feel bad about your decision to not be submissive but actually feel good about it. He enjoys being submissive and he wants you to use that to your advantage as much as possible and feel good about doing so.

Diavolo: He is more than a little thrown off by your refusal to sub for him. He’s the Demon Overlord, King of the Devildom. No one would dare say no to him. Most people would give up everything they have just to be able to say they subbed for him. All that to say, he’s thrilled. It gives Diavolo such a rush to know you’re so willing to set your boundaries with him and that you trust him. And now he gets to explore an entirely new side of himself! The side where he listens to someone else for once and has to do as he’s bidden. It’s terrifying and exhilarating and there’s no one else he would trust to explore that with. I do think the novelty would wear off for him after a while and, yes, he’d still sub when you’re both in the mood for that but it would be an equal relationship the majority of the time. Diavolo likes to let go of control every so often, especially when he’s stressed, but it’s not something he can long term commit to.

Simeon: This poor baby is going to be confused as heck when you tell him don’t want to sub. He doesn’t even know what that means and at first he thinks you mean subservient in a very old school biblical sense and he rushed to assure you he’s not looking for you to follow his every whim. Once you explain what you mean, he’s a little mortified but also turned on by the idea of being submissive for you? He’s always been in a submissive position, thinking about his father and all of that, and he enjoys pushing the limits so I think Simeon would be a lowkey bratty sub. He’s not nearly as malicious or tough to tame as Belphie but he does enjoy riling you by purposefully misunderstanding rules or using gray areas to his advantage. Mostly though he’s just happy to give you whatever you ask for because all he wants is to make you happy and prove just how good it can be to have an angel like him at your service. (The blasphemy of serving and worshiping a human rather than his father is also a huge turn on for him)

Solomon: Solomon is a happy switch so if you’re totally against subbing, he’ll take up the task. I think he would be the third “pushiest” after Lucifer and Asmo, in the sense that he really thinks he could get you to enjoy being submissive. I think he would try plenty of suggestions and wheedling, using his sway as the most powerful sorcerer, but if it’s truly not something you want to pursue then he’ll let it go. Solomon enjoys being submissive to you because, just like with Diavolo, it’s such a juxtaposition to his day to day life. He has fun with it and is regularly supplying you with new ideas or items that you can implement with him. He also loves being subby in front of people in subtle ways, just enough to throw them off because who would expect him to listen to a mere mortal human?

#obey me #obey me imagines #obey me headcanons #obey me luficer #obey me mammon #obey me levi #obey me satan #obey me beel #obey me belphie #obey me asmo #obey me diavolo #obey me barbatos #obey me brothers #obey me simeon #obey me solomon

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floweringgrotto · 14 days ago

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Can we talk about how the kids in the kg series are 5 years old and like every single adult figure in their lives suck. Like 95% of the adults in their schools are incompetent or genuinely evil. Like they either hurt, kill, kidnap, and/or experiment on children, or willing let the others do that.

(yap incoming!)

Out of the games Bob was easily the best guy. You could argue some of the adults in KG3 are good (examples: old principal, nurse, Scippio) but like they also kinda suck! Like can we talk abt how the old principal seemingly cared more for Alice, or at the very least acted in a way that made people think that, than his own son??? Also from what I gathered he made the lab beneath the school? Or at least the technology for it. Yes he didn't exactly mutate/experiment on kids, but he still kind did if you think abt it! He at the very least gave the opportunity and materials for someone to (aka the new principal). At least the nurse tries to be/is mostly good. Shes not the best but at least she actually helps the kids! Yeah shes a smoker and has dangerous equipment in reach of children and has odd reactions but this is leagues better then most other adults in the school. Mr. Scippio is high-key delusional and probably going through an episode, and is an alcoholic, yet Lily says hes probably one of the top 3 adults shes met this week. You could argue that her saying that was purely to placate him (which is partly true!) but also it likely carries some weight. Like basically every adult that was in the game(s) either planned to or successfully killed AT LEAST one person per game. Every lunch lady either didn't care when a child was hurt or helped hurt them. The Janitor is a serial killer and insane. And we all know the Principles are evil! Like???

These 5 year olds have no role models at all, especially considering many of them have alluded or outright stated there's an issue at home! (Based on her playing house) Cindy's dad is in prison w/out parole and her mom has an ankle monitor and one of them is/was an alcoholic. Buggs dad left them and his mom has issues. Billy went missing and it doesn't seem his parents cared all that much. Jerome's dad was the first principal. Penny's mom was the second principal. The Huxley twins are basically forced to fight each other and try and put the other down to gain inheritance and/or praise, even leading to them killing one another. Like the list goes on and on! These guys so, SO traumatized!

And that's not even taking into account the amount of people they've either seen die or be experimented on. The adults suck sure, but they've seen far too much death and horrors than anyone, let alone kindergarteners should see. These kids are NEVER gonna be normal or have normal reactions, and likely have a lot of shitty relationships bc of this!! Like oh my god its almost upsetting how awful it is now and will continue to be in the future for them.

and don't get me STARTED on the time loops i have so much to say abt time loops its like one of my fave things ever! Its so bad for the person experiencing it.

Yap over! If i got anything wrong uh lmk its been a minute since ive watched any playthroughs of kg1/2 and only completed kg3 yesterday so theres prob some wrong info despite me like fixating on this series atleast twice a year since 2019....

#grottos yap #the illness #ough #kindergarten the game #i kove this game so much #it makes me ill #genuinely #i need to yap more about these guys!!!#like almost character is so tragic #actually insane #oughhh #kindergarten 3 #kindergarten 2 #kindergarten 1 #not gonna rlly tag any charas bc this is more abt the series than any specific character #take a shot everytime i say like #you die.

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legalandnotease · 13 days ago

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Lmao I'm copy pasting from a sambucky post I found

*It probably would never happen but i want sambucky to be canon not only because it would makes sense and it would be nice for them to be happy together and representation or whatever but mostly because it would be the funniest shit in the world. and for so many reasons. people are already racist and shitty about sam, can you imagine if he kissed a man. and can you imagine that man being basically everyone's favorite character in the current mcu. can you imagine how fucking elated sebastian "i want to recreate every rom com with you" stan and anthony "your personality would make a grown man smile" "pow pow pow" mackie would be if they got to get gay married. remember how they met by him trying to shoot him through the roof of a car and then ripping the steering wheel through the windshield. meet-cute of the century.*

How the heck are they relating the actor's friendship to shipping their characters?! Isn't that gross? Am I making sense?

Just FTR I am not in any way opposed to LGBT relationships in the MCU, or even SamBucky in principle.

The problem is that most SamBuckies don't understand why Bucky is popular because their understanding of representation is so narrow.

Bucky isn't popular because he's a good looking white dude. He's popular because from the outset disabled people, people with mental health issues and abuse survivors have identified with him in a major way. He is representation for all the above. There's also an active discussion about whether or not Bucky is Jewish, which is a post for another day.

All of those groups I mentioned are massively under-represented in the mainstream MCU movies. Less represented than black people, in fact.

There's only 1 other notable disabled character in the movies. Doctor X, and he hasn't been in anything for years (I don't count his appearance in MoM because that movie is terrible).. Maya Lopez is disabled but she doesn't appear in any movies.

There are basically no Jewish characters in the MCU movies thanks to Wanda's whitewashing, and mentally ill characters are few and-far-between. Postitive representation of mental health is even rarer.

So imagine how those groups feel when the character who they feel most represented by is hijacked by shippers and reduced to nothing more than another character's love interest. Imagine what they feel when they are once again deprived of the chance of seeing Bucky treated as an actual *hero* in his own right, and instead reducted to a sidekick or prop for another character *again*.

oh and when they object to that, they're called "racist" by the shippers.

As for the actors: neither Sebastian or Anthony are gay, but they do joke about Sam and Bucky getting together. Though Sebastian used to joke about Bucky being in love with Steve as well. Shipping is a bit of fun- or should be.

The problem is when shippers want thier ship to be canon and try and say that the actors support it when they often don't. Like when Sam Stans try and say Sebastian Stan hates Thunderbolts and thinks what Bucky did is out of character in that movie. They are saying this because they *want you to think* Seb is a SamBucky shipper and wants Bucky to be Sam's sidekick.

Problem is they are lying. Sebastian might like joking about Sam and Bucky making out, but he's also been saying for years that he wants Bucky to have a bigger role, to do more. He's even spoken about how much he likes that Bucky is doing his own thing in Thunderbolts. Which doesn't support the notion that he thinks being a sidekick is the best thing for him.

youtube

#bucky barnes #mcu #sam wilson #thunderbolts*#sambucky #sebastian stan #anthony mackie #mcu representation

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manesthia · 11 months ago

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Thoughts on Halsin as an "atypical druid"

I've seen a number of excellent metas lately about Halsin's atypical druidism (the fact that he does not abhor the undead, does not have complete control over his wildshape, etc.). While I agree completely with those points, I've also noticed a tendency to sometimes frame this as Halsin being a "bad" druid or never really belonging with the druids in the first place. And I strongly disagree with that. I feel that Halsin's druidism is a core aspect of his character and implying that he is somehow "bad at it" robs him of something essential. The fact that he is a unique, complex character with far more depth than just "typical DnD druid" doesn't mean that he is not still a druid at heart - and a pretty formidable one, at that.

I see him as a character who has something in common with the nature deities and magician-priests of ancient myth and legend: Merlin (a mentor whose teachings are rooted in the natural world; who guides kings rather than wishing to rule himself; who mediates between the kingdom of men and animals; and who changes into an animal) and Dionysus (who celebrates multiplicity, fluidity, nature-based wisdom, carnal pleasure, the subversion of unnatural restraints - and who also shapeshifts, by the way). Druidism informs Halsin's entire belief system, ranging from his view on relationships (Halsin never uses the word 'polyamory'; instead, he speaks of "doing as nature does" and explains all of his preferences with nature metaphors - "the bear partners as its instinct dictates", etc.) to the importance he places on community. Halsin is unhappy as Archdruid not because he is just an incompetent leader or can't get along with other druids, but because he is so in tune with nature that he only thrives in communities with a structure more like the branching network of roots or mycelia - like our group of "weirdos" or his rebuilt community in Reithwin. He does know how to guide, counsel, and mediate - all of which are essential leadership abilities. But he needs to be part of an interconnected organism that grows and learns together, not the sole leader of it. To me, this is connected to his shapeshifting abilities and druidism: Halsin is connected to all other beings by literally becoming them (even if he is most attuned to his bear-shape).

Halsin speaks very highly of the grove as a place of worship (let's not forget how deeply religious Halsin is, too), but he also says that life in the grove made him feel cut off from nature. It's ironic that a druid grove runs on politics and power hierarchies (aspects of civilisation that most druids should despise), but it does. This is also a theme in a sidequest in BG2, if anyone recalls. In my opinion, the fact that Halsin feels out of place in a grove that has grown corrupted with politics and power plays actually makes him more true to core druidic beliefs, not less so.

I think the idea that Halsin doesn't get along with other druids gets taken a little too far at times, too. Members of his grove have issues with him primarily because they have been radicalised by Shadow Druids, not because Halsin is just too good-aligned for other druids in general. Note that every single druid in the grove who expresses strong anti-refugee sentiment also supports Kagha and the Rite of Thorns. Halsin welcomes outcasts into the grove because he is compassionate and empathetic as a person, yes, but also because it is part of his druidic belief in harmony, unity, and the value of life. Compare with Olodan's line:

This is not to say that I think Halsin's would never clash with other druids at all, or that I think his relationship with the grove is without friction. Obviously, part of the blame for the infiltration of the Shadow Druids falls on him. Obviously, there would be more neutral-aligned druids who would disagree with him on principle. But the fact that the previous Archdruid chose Halsin as his successor (we must assume that he did, since Halsin obviously didn't sign up for it) strongly indicates to me that the deceased, much wiser elders of the grove valued him greatly. Jaheira also repeatedly refers to him with the deepest respect.

I think it's also worth noting that there is room for nuance in druidic beliefs in the BG series. Faldorn in BG1, Cernd in BG2 and Jaheira in all three games are all very different. In many ways, Jaheira is more Harper than druid, which I think was indicated by her being a multiclassed fighter/druid in the earlier games. It also comes out in her conversation with Halsin about the Shadow Curse:

And if you tell her (speaking as Halsin) that she doesn't have to explain herself to him:

Of course, Halsin has a personal investment in lifting the Shadow Curse that Jaheira doesn't share, namely Thaniel. Only Halsin has a special connection with the very spirit of the land. This is also why he is completely unable to heal and move on until the Shadow Curse is lifted, unlike Jaheira. If the spirit of the land is wounded, then so is his own spirit. Jaheira, as a Fighter-Druid-Harper, is very much a protector of the realms as a whole (nature and civilisation), while Halsin is referred to over and over again by various NPCs as Nature's Steward, Keeper of Groves, Guardian of the Land, etc.

My argument here is not that Halsin is a more "typical" druid than Jaheira or that one is a "better" druid than the other (I love them both deeply). I'm just saying that all of this demonstrates to me how deeply intertwined Halsin's druidism is with the rest of his character. And I really, really appreciate him as a druid along with everything else he is.

I'm not really sure that I understand Tumblr etiquette regarding discussion (what is the polite way to interact with each other here? Commenting? Reblogs with hashtags? I'm too old for this site lol), but I would love to talk about this more. Please don't hesitate to comment, even if you disagree.

#halsin #bg3 halsin #halsin lore #dionysos #druidism #dnd druid #mythology #halsin silverbough #halsin appreciation post

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midnightsunnyday · 1 year ago

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Thinking a bit about Mammon and what we know of him canonically, his behavior, values, principles, and conduct, and how they seem entirely different from what we know of his fanon interpretation.

Canon Mammon is…well, let’s just call a spade a spade, he’s a clown. The certified Butt-Monkey of the brothers, if something bad is going to happen, nine times out of ten, it’s going to happen to him. Dude is a truffle pig for trouble and for the most part, loves to sniff it out and roll in it.

Have the fans explain it, and Mammon is a saint who's never done anything wrong in his life ever, yet story-wise, Mammon’s downfalls and shortcomings are usually due to his own dubious inclinations, though to be fair, are a consequence of him being the literal physical manifestation of one of humanity’s sins: greed. We see this through his gambling habits, his tendency to engage in shady deals or practices, his lying, and his cheating, but what really gains him the ire of most of his siblings and others is his tendency to steal and sell any and everything he assumes may bring him a profit, regardless if the item is sentimental or not.

Needless to say, Mammon isn’t the most respected of his brothers, and they remind him of it every chance they get, specifically with the words “scumbag,” ‘moron,” “idiot,” “money-obsessed moron,” etc. Mammon even suffers for his actions physically, with Lucifer finding little issue in stringing him up and leaving him there to rot for a while.

There’s also the fact that in the first season of the OG game, like most of the brothers, Mammon is kind of an asshole. Your typical Tsundere archetype, his personality is initially brash and not too keen on learning of his forced role as a human attendant, constantly insulting the MC while bemoaning his position all the while, a position he almost fails in upholding more than once when the MC’s life is threatened.

Yet because this is an otome game, Mammon eventually begins to have feelings for the MC as soon as the fourth lesson, and that whole being your “first” thing holds a lot of weight to Mammon, so much so that he’ll bring it up repeatedly. He becomes a bit more clingy, vying for the MC’s attention, to the point where personal space is but a mere myth to this man.

For you see, beyond his salty attitude is a man with a huge heart. Canon Mammon is competent and capable of showing a surprising amount of wisdom, intelligence, strength, and kindness when he puts his mind to it (the man admits himself to being sensitive, after all).

Despite his shortcomings, there’s a reason Lucifer entrusted Mammon with the MC, as out of all of his siblings, he is the only character capable of keeping his “bloodlust” in check. And despite his flakiness at times, Lucifer relies heavily on Mammon to complete certain tasks, to the point where he’s accused of showing favoritism towards the secondborn. Speaking of which, that second-born title also includes his power level, having the ability to clearly fight and defend himself, yet choosing to either run or hide from altercations, if possible. It’s rare for him to get angry or fight back, which is why it’s so scary when he does.

More importantly, Mammon is completely and utterly in love with the MC. This is true for all the brothers, but Mammon is the most consistent, a constant in his character that never changes and is the main drive to his appeal imo. Unlike the other brothers, who seem to have interests and relationships outside of the MC, Mammon’s focus is single-targeted, and it’s one of the many reasons why he’s the most popular character in the game. There are no limitations to his affections. No scary or overly complicated parts to his character. We are his “first,” and that’s a comfortable place to be because regardless of what we do or how we look, Mammon isn’t one to give up and will literally fight, yell, and cry his way into your heart, whether you choose someone else or not.

However, you wouldn’t be able to tell this with Fanon Mammon, a soggy wad of therapy session tissues. He is an absolutely miserable wreck of a man. A traumatized, suicidal-inclined, helpless dude in need of a serious hug. A prone character to hurt/comfort fics, he's the trauma dumpster for the fans who like to project, which would be fine if it weren’t for the fact that these traits are sometimes treated as actual aspects of Mammon’s canon character. Fanon Mammon is essentially boiled down to his most pathetic traits, woobifying him. In fics where the brothers are present, such as Lucifer and Asmodeus, expect them to be written OOC to make Mammon appear even worse. In essense, Fanon Mammon not only has his complexity completely taken away, but takes away the complexity of everyone else around him in the process.

I'm not certain why this happens to Mammon more than other characters. Maybe because of his "kick the dog" status in canon, which causes people to sympathize with him more. And if you're someone who can relate to a lot of Mammon’s shortcomings, then that probably adds to his "woobie" nature.

And this isn't to say you can never go beyond canon and write Mammon any other way, yet it's like I've stated before, there's your headcanon and there's canon. You can think what you want, write what you want, yet something doesn't become a fact just because you want it to be/are emotional about it. And you also don't get the right to attack people for it.

Anyway, these are just things I've noticed about his fanon vs canon that I personally don't like, though opinions are always appreciated.

#obey me #obey me shall we date #obey me mammon #obey me nightbringer

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ripplestitchskein · 1 year ago

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Some of you assholes are about to make me do an entire essay on writing structure, serialized fiction and like, fucking, the basic iterative creative process as it relates to HB.

Broad strokes though:

Pilot. 👏 Episodes 👏 Are 👏 Just 👏 Concepts 👏

Concepts are the INITIAL stage of the creative process. You may start with a character looking and behaving a certain way but by the time you get a final product they are completely fucking different. Or a story starts out in one direction in your early drafts but once you’ve really sat down and fleshed it out you realize you need to change it completely. This is why we have sketches, why we do drafts, why we do concept art. Every creative endeavor involves these steps. It’s rough -> refine -> refine -> refine -> finished product (or as finished as you can get with time/money/resource constraints).

That’s how every creative endeavor goes plus or minus some refinement steps. Things like money, time, and the number of people working on a project and tools available can change this math a bit but it’s ALWAYS the same basic principle. You start with a concept, you refine it over and over until it’s as close to done as you can make it. This can take a few days, this can take a few decades, but it still happens every time. Whether you SEE it or not.

Most of the time you don’t see the pilots of television shows. In major corporate productions all the behind the scenes growing pains happen before you lay your eyes on it. Examples we do have of true pilots often differ vastly from the end product and are usually released as special bonus material. Sometimes a show will call an episode the Pilot but there were versions of that pilot that got left on the cutting room floor. Before that there were character sketches, draft scripts, set designs, story breaking sessions etc that no one but the main creators see.

Independent productions, however, like Helluva Boss, like indie games, like web comics often don’t have the resources to go through that process without some transparency, they need to generate interest and capital. So they release concept art, pilots, Alpha versions and other pre-production materials to the public to get people to buy in and help them fund the project. That’s how they get it made.

The problem is some of you can’t seem to see past that rough draft.

Helluva Boss gave audiences the basic idea of the show with the Pilot. After they had secured interest and resources they could actually afford to flesh it out. And guess what? Like all creative cycles, shit changed. Characters changed. Designs changed. Stories changed. Then they released the first episodes, the final product, and those episodes said “Hey, this is what we landed on in terms of direction and this is the story we decided to tell. Here are the setups for what you’ll see going forward. Those set ups are:

“IMP is a business is hell specializing in the assasination of humans at the request of people already in Hell. There are four employees, Millie, Moxxie, Loona and the boss Blitzø. They accomplish this through the use of a grimoire that the title character (the boss) Blitzø is in possession of. He got this book from another character Stolas, they make a consensual sexual deal for use of the book. We have some indications of personality and characterization, financial struggles, but we’ll find out more in subsequent episodes.”

That’s episode 1. The first goddamn episode for the series.

Episode 2 is “Here is what we’ll actually be exploring through the course of this show beyond the broad premise you saw in episode 1: Blitzo’s relationship with Stolas. Stolas’s relationship with his family specifically his daughter and his failing marriage. Blitzo’s relationship with Millie and Moxxie. Blitzo’s relationship with his daughter. Blitzo’s issue with the Fizzarolli bot. Moxxie and Millie’s relationship dynamic.” All these things are setup and that is what the show is about. It’s what the show remains about, it’s what we’ve slowly been revealing and exploring.

So this whole “the show BECAME about Stolitz and Stolas is all sad owl now” is only an argument if all you saw and internalized was the rough draft. Because the actual FIRST. TWO. EPISODES. OF. THE. FINAL. PRODUCT. Very Explicitly layout what the show is going to be about and THATS WHAT ITS ABOUT. Blitzo’s relationships, including and very importantly his relationship with Stolas, Stolas’s relationships, and very importantly his relationship with Blitzø. Moxxie, Millie, Loona, Octavia and Stella are part of that. IMP is part of that but the central core of the show, as setup in the first two episodes are IMP, Blitzø, Stolas and the relationships that spiral off from those core things. And they have not changed, they have been expanded upon and revealed because….its a story, and that’s what happens in stories.

#helluva boss #Stolitz #stolas x blitz #vivziepop #this was mostly prompted by twitter #but I’ve seen it here too and I’m too wordy for elons fail son project #my autocorrect is too much of a pain in the ass for the possessive of Blitzo #so assume I mean Blitzø everywhere

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weekendpassrevoked · 4 months ago

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Easy's Songbird - Chapter 5 *new*

author's note: for you who have already read the original chapter 5, this is the new version. you can refer to the masterlist to see what is old and new.

please enjoy some new context into the background of project blitz, the true extent of isabella's skills and character, and new relationships and character building

Camp Toccoa, Georgia.

May 31st, 1942

The last couple of weeks Isabella had spent in Toccoa had been surprisingly enjoyable.

She had grown up with a lot of the discipline usually instilled into military men; her parents and big brother strict. Clean room always, proper manners, early rising and early resting, chores, and work. These beliefs had also been drilled into Lucas and Cameron when they had moved in (despite the massive learning curve) and it helped the house run as efficiently and effectively as possible. Isabella had never had any issue with the way she had been raised, especially since it had come in so handy when she began working at the farm.

Isabella had always loved visiting Michel Alejandro when he lived in different camps. She found the discipline of marching drill beautiful and the lectures interesting. Isabella absorbed it as much as possible before she had to leave, teary-eyed and sullen.

Colonel Sink had noticed this when he began training her the day after her arrival. They had begun with the basics; proper military bearing, marching drill, salute etiquette, and understanding the chain of command.

Isabella soaked it all in like a sponge.

Sink, ever the sharp observer, had taken note of her quick adaptability.

"You pick things up fast, Private," he had remarked after their third day of training.

She had simply nodded, hands behind her back, standing at attention. "I was raised to pay attention, sir."

He had smirked. "That much is obvious."

Now, one week in, Isabella had begun to settle into her routine.

Wake up before sunrise. Morning drills. Lectures. Medical rotations. More drills.

It was demanding. Exhausting.

And she loved it.

She especially enjoyed the one-on-one classes on military history and procedure with Sink. He was a wonderful teacher, and she could tell he was passionate about the subject. Isabella respected him for it. He explained everything in detail, ensuring she understood not just the what but the why.

He covered past wars, tactics, leadership principles, and the evolution of military strategy. Isabella hung onto every word, taking careful notes whenever she could.

Sink, for all his strictness, was patient with her.

She wasn’t just memorizing facts—she was absorbing the bigger picture, and she couldn’t be happier.

Isabella had always been interested in history. In fact, it was her favorite subject in school besides music and art; scoring first in the school on her history tests. She wouldn’t have had the opportunity to officially learn any of what Sink taught her outside of personal study with her father and Michel Alejandro. No opportunity to go to an actual school and get a degree out of it like so many men had.

‘Unfair.’

One day, Sink and her were having lunch together in his office. He had always welcomed her to spend time with him and ask him questions when she needed to, and she didn’t throw that chance away. The two of them sat in silence, comfortable with the silence between them.

Finally, Sink spoke up, setting down his fork and glancing at her.

“You seem to enjoy these lessons, Private,” he observed.

Isabella looked up from her meal, nodding. “Yes, sir.”

“You’re a quick learner,” he continued, watching her carefully. “Did you ever consider pursuing higher education?”

Isabella hesitated for a fraction of a second, fingers tightening around her fork as she cleared her throat.

“Yes sir. I was actually applying for university before I signed up for the Nurse Corps.” she explained bluntly.

Despite the lack of opportunities women faced in that day in age, Isabella’s parents had always been insistent that she was just as capable as any man, and that if she wanted something she would have to take it. So, she had put herself to work, studying diligently and working on the farm to help support the family. Her music was a hobby, a passion. She only capitalized on it in order to raise money for her own education and to have an emergency fund. If it weren’t for that, she would do it for free. She didn’t need a degree from an institution to do what she loved. Never.

Sink nodded slowly, as if turning her words over in his mind.

“What were you planning to study?” he asked.

Isabella glanced down at her plate, a small, almost wry smile tugging at her lips. “History, sir.”

That genuinely surprised him.

He raised an eyebrow. “Not medicine?”

She shook her head. “No, sir. Medicine is something I’m good at, and I know it’s important, but…” She hesitated, then admitted, “History is what I love.”

Sink leaned back in his chair, studying her. “So why didn’t you go through with it?”

“The war happened, sir.”

Sink nodded, as if that was the only answer he needed.

“The war happened,” he echoed. “Tell me about yourself, Vega.”

She quirked a brow, confused. “Sir?”

“There’s only so much that file says about you, Private.”

She sat up a little straighter. “What would you like to know, sir?”

Sink smirked slightly, like he had the upper hand. “Well, your file tells me where you’re from. That you were a strong candidate for the Nurse Corps. That you tested highly in tactical problem-solving and pattern recognition and have a knack for linguistics. But files don’t tell me who a soldier is.”

She considered that for a moment. Then, she exhaled through her nose, deciding there wasn’t any harm in answering honestly.

“Okay…I was born and raised in Orlando, Florida to Colombian parents. I have an older brother—nine years older—he’s a Coast Guard officer. I have two adopted brothers, one a year older and the other a year younger. But I’m technically the youngest in my biological family.”

He chuckled, shaking his head. “That explains a lot.”

She grinned. “I take that as a compliment, sir.”

“Good,” he said simply. Then, after a pause, he asked, “What about your interests? Besides history.”

That was an easier answer.

“I’m a musician, sir. A singer mainly, but I play a variety of instruments.”

Now, that seemed to catch him by surprise.

“You’re a musician?”

“Yes, sir.” She hesitated, then added, “I was in a band before I enlisted.”

Sink smirked. “Is that so?”

She shrugged. “Yes, sir. Music’s always been a part of my life, just like history.”

Quickly taking a bite of her food, not eager to let it get cold and go to waste, she continues. “I worked on my neighbor's farm, which is where I mainly got my medical experience. My father and big brother taught me how to shoot, how to fix anything I could get my hands on, and how to do anything I would ever need. My mom’s an artist and taught me all she could about it.”

She smiles, mischievous. “My dad’s a Lieutenant Colonel too, you know?”

Sink raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Really?”

She nodded, still grinning. “Yes, sir. Lieutenant Colonel Michel Vega Olarte of the Colombian Army.”

Sink’s eyebrows lifted slightly. “Colombian Army?”

Isabella nodded. “Yes, sir. He served before I was born. My family moved to the States when my big brother was little, but he’s still very much a military man. Runs things at home like a damn garrison.”

Sink chuckled, shaking his head. “Makes sense.”

She grinned. “Oh, trust me, sir—you two would either get along great or butt heads over strategy for hours.”

Sink smirked. “I’ll take that as a compliment, Private.”

Her smile softens. “You remind me a lot of him, actually. You two even have the same mustache.”

He blinks, caught off guard. “Really?”

Isabella nodded, grinning. “Yes, sir. He even strokes it the same way when he’s thinking real hard about something.”

Sink raised an eyebrow, resting his forearms on the desk. “You telling me I’ve got a twin running around in Florida?”

She shrugged playfully. “Well, I wouldn’t go that far, sir. But the way you carry yourselves? The way you both watch everything like you’re ten steps ahead? It’s… familiar.”

“I’ll have to meet the man someday,” Sink mused, reaching for his coffee.

Isabella grinned. “Oh, I don’t know, sir. You two in the same room? That might be a little too much authority for one space.”

That conversation seemed to have opened a new understanding between Sink and herself, and since then Colonel Sink had taken it upon himself to work her even harder. Not that she was complaining (although the running was starting to get on her nerves.)

Outside of having her help him with certain paperwork and even having her work on her intelligence capabilities, he had begun having her more focused on the medical aspect of her job, making her teach first-aid to the current recruits in the camp.

Now, Isabella considered herself a wonderful performer, but when it came to public speaking outside of the realm, she was absolutely abhorrent. Sink disagreed with her, but she knew her shyness made it difficult for her to properly teach and she wasn’t proud of it.

Another difficult aspect of the work Sink had her do was, as she previously mentioned, the running.

Isabella was physically fit from all the farmwork she had done growing up. She had quite a bit of strength and could lift a significant amount of weight before it became too much. On the other hand, she barely had the stamina needed for running long distances. She was a good sprinter, but when it came to running Currahee, the difference in sea level compared to Florida completely worked against her. She actually found it embarrassing, being so bad at running compared to a man significantly older than her. And she means significantly.

Despite this, Sink was determined to get her up to the standard he had made for her. He had her wake up early to run every day, allowing at least reprieve from the high afternoon sun that the men had to suffer through. At some point, Isabella had begun to enjoy the challenge, and made it her number one goal to beat Sink to the top of the damned hill.

‘Sadistic is what it is.’

Another region Sink realized Isabella shone through was, much to his surprise, marksmanship. Technically, as a medic there would be no reason or scenario where she would need or have to use a weapon. However, Sink was insistent on having her practice despite her already knowing how to shoot.

“You never know,” he said. “Practice makes perfect.”

As he watched her, her posture was solid, her grip steady, and most importantly, she had patience. She didn’t rush her shots. She adjusted, corrected, and improved with every round. He had watched in silence as she hit near-perfect groupings on her first attempt with an M1 Garand, then barely missed center mass when they tested her on a Colt .45.

“Tell me something, Vega,” he said, inspecting her target closely. “How comfortable are you with more advanced shooting techniques?”

She blinked. “That depends, sir. I haven’t done much moving and shooting. Just stationary targets, mostly.”

Sink hummed, thinking. “We’ll change that.”

And that was how Isabella found herself thrown headfirst into tactical marksmanship drills—moving targets, rapid reloading, high-pressure scenarios. She wasn’t happy about it, but she could understand where Sink was coming from. If the War Department decided to actually have her do more than her medic duties then she would need to be ready.

Bit by bit, Isabella began reaching Sink’s expectations. After some time, she finally caught up to him on Currahee (still hasn’t passed him), her public speaking had become much more fluid and natural, and she had perfected marching drills. He had begun to see her as someone equal and she had begun to trust his leadership and decisions unequivocally. The men at Toccoa would often see Isabella trail behind him when he would move from place to place, eagerly speaking to her about a topic or another. He enjoyed playing chess and discussing literature and current events with her. As a result, he ended up learning quite a lot about her; her favorite animals on the farm, about her family (excluding Maya and the kids), her aspirations, her stuffed animals (which he had eventually allowed her to place on her bed, much to her happiness), and her love for music. In return, she had unintentionally become his consultant.

One day, Sink had said something to her that not only made her beam with pride but fulfilled her intellectually.

He had been discussing some strategy or another, as he tended to do with her, and the words had slipped from him almost unintentionally.

“Vega. I don’t think I could trust anybody more than you in combat.”

Isabella hadn’t joined the Nurse Corps with the intention of becoming an experiment and a trailblazer, but somehow that’s exactly what had happened and it had led up to the most fulfilling moment in her life. She had almost cried (not that she would ever admit it.)

Sink had continued. “You might not be an officer, but I want you to know that that’s exactly what I think of you,” he paused. “I couldn’t be prouder of any other soldier in my regiment.”

She had been speechless. She hadn’t expected him to ever say anything remotely close to that to her. He wasn’t an easy man to impress, and yet, here he was, saying the one thing she had never realized she needed to hear. It had hit her like a freight train.

Her fingers clenched briefly against the fabric of her uniform before she managed to compose herself.

Finally, she looked at him, her voice steady but full of conviction.

“I won’t ever make you regret that, sir.”

Sink nodded, his expression unreadable—but there was something unmistakably genuine in his eyes.

“I know you won’t.”

In the end, Sink sent a report to the War Department commending her exemplary time in training and highlighting her incredible capacity not only as a medic or an intelligence asset, but as a soldier, along with a letter to her family that she hadn’t been told about. He decided to promote her from Private to Corporal at the end of his relentless training, stating;

“If it were up to me, you would be a Lieutenant. But we can’t always get what we want.”

He smiled brightly at her while he handed her her new rank. “You’ll always be my right-hand no matter what.”

Now, she sat in her room, mentally preparing herself for the imminent arrival of the new men that would flood Toccoa. Sink had graced her with a break before the men arrived, telling her that she earned it.

In the time she had spent at Toccoa, she had collected a variety of trinkets that littered her windowsill. A smooth stone she had picked up after her first run up Currahee, a button that had fallen off Sink’s uniform, a feather she found at the firing range, and a folded piece of paper that had begun to wear at the edges—her first set of official orders.

Sadly, she packed them up, carefully tucking them in the safety of her kimono box that was still in the bottom of her foot locker. Tomorrow, men of Easy Company would arrive at camp and she would move from her private room to the company barracks. Tomorrow, her job in the United States Army will officially begin.

Sitting at her desk for the last time, she opened her journal which had begun to wear as a result of her constant writing; be it entries, new songs, or drawings, since her arrival at Toccoa. She carefully leafed through the pages, finding the first blank page.

“May 31st, 1942,

Dear Journal,

It seems the time has come to bid my training under Colonel Sink goodbye. Tomorrow, the first men of Easy Company will arrive, and I must change myself from an individual to a part of a team.

Surprisingly enough, I’m quite sad. In retrospect, the Isabella who arrived in Toccoa in February would probably call me insane, but it seems I have become quite attached to the man who took so much care in training me. I had never expected my training under Colonel Robert Sink to turn me into someone much more determined and dedicated to her goals. Under his tutelage, I have not only become a better version of myself, but have passed limits I never thought I would.

I enjoyed becoming his pupil. He is a wonderful teacher and I hope that the men that work under him will see the same. I have learned so much in the short time I have spent by his side, and I could not be more grateful. I hope that even while I am in Easy Company, I will still be able to play the occasional chess game with him (although he might vehemently disagree.)

Unlike the Isabella who arrived at Toccoa, I am not scared of the unknown tomorrow. I will take whatever challenge God sends my way with open arms and do my utmost to surpass it.”

She signed off her entry and sighed while she skimmed over the previous ones; noting her growth throughout the weeks. Her eyes landed on a drawing she had made of Sink, who had been intently observing the men at the shooting range. Carefully, she ripped the page out, tucking it safely in her uniform pocket.

Sadly, her eyes roamed over the now empty room that had been her safe space in the weeks she had been at Toccoa. She would miss the alone time she had allowed, but she wouldn’t let it hold her back.

Tomorrow, she would stand tall and proud; the true face of a paratrooper.

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next day, Isabella finds herself standing tall and composed, neck warm in the afternoon Georgia sun, behind Sink on the camp field where they would do large formations, facing the faces of hundreds of men who had yet to face the harsh training of the United States Army. Men who had yet to be touched by the exhaustion and grit that would soon change them.

‘Great…’

She had spent months preparing for this.

Now, it was real.

Not only was almost the entirety of Camp Toccoa standing before her, but so was Easy Company, and whether they knew it or not, she was one of them.

Sink, standing firm with his hands clasped behind his back, surveyed the men with the calculating gaze Isabella had come to recognize. He was studying them, measuring their worth before they even had a chance to prove it. Isabella had snuck into his office earlier that day when she knew he would be out, leaving the drawing she had made of him on his desk with a note on the back.

“Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel Patron Saint of Paratroopers

Saint Michael the Archangel, Patron Saint of Paratroopers, defend us in battle, be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the devil; may God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou O Prince of the heavenly hosts; by the divine power; thrust into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.”

She hoped that her gift would encompass the immense gratitude and admiration she had for him, and that the prayer would allow him a semblance of peace when he needed it.

As he stepped forward, she focused again on him, his voice booming as he spoke.

"Gentlemen, welcome to Camp Toccoa. I am Lieutenant Colonel Robert Sink, commanding officer of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, and from this moment on, you belong to the United States Army.”

The men stiffened slightly, some shifting in place, others looking straight ahead. It wasn’t like Isabella doubted any of them, all of these had volunteered to be the Airborne unlike her who had been forced. She couldn’t judge.

"You have volunteered to be part of an elite fighting force, one that will undergo the most rigorous training the United States Army has to offer. If you think this will be like any other unit, let me make one thing clear—you are dead wrong. You will train harder, run farther, and fight tougher than any soldier in this military. You will jump out of planes behind enemy lines and accomplish missions no one else can."

Sink paused, letting his words settle over them.

"And many of you will not make it."

Silence.

The weight of the statement hung thick in the air.

Isabella had seen it before—knew it was true.

Not every man standing here would finish.

Some would drop out before the real training even started. Others would make it through but never become paratroopers.

And some…

Some would die before they even left American soil.

She knew it.

Sink knew it.

And soon enough, they would know it too.

Accidents during training were uncommon, but for paratroopers this statistic became much larger considering they were jumping out of airplanes. Sink had told her plenty of the men who died at Fort Benning when they did their jumps. It was a sad reality.

"But for those who do, you will be part of something greater than yourselves. You will be the best. For the next twenty-four weeks, you will be pushed past your limits. You will become brothers-in-arms, true comrades, real paratroopers.”

He paused, letting his words truly settle.

“As you well know, the nature of modern warfare is changing. The airborne is a new breed of soldier, one that demands innovation, adaptability, and absolute precision as you will soon learn. That is why the War Department has authorized an experimental initiative—one that, if successful, could change the very fabric of battlefield medicine.”

Sink turned around, motioning her to the front.

“This initiative,” Sink continued, “is called Project Blitz—the introduction of women to the battlefield in a medical capacity. Unlike the traditional roles of nurses behind the lines, these medics will be trained alongside you, deployed alongside you, and expected to endure every hardship that comes with airborne operations.” His gaze swept across the men, sharp and unyielding. “The Army has chosen to implement this project in its airborne divisions—meaning this regiment will be the first to integrate a female frontline combat medic under this initiative.”

Isabella stepped forward, keeping her posture straight and her expression neutral as she faced the mass of recruits.

All of them were looking at her now.

Some with curiosity, some with confusion, and others with expressions that ranged from skepticism to outright disbelief.

Her face burned slightly at the attention, her usual shyness peeking through her facade.

‘Damn it all.’

Sink’s voice carried across the field, firm and uncompromising.

“Corporal Vega will not only be the first woman officially deployed in a combat capacity, but her intellect has allowed her the opportunity to do more for the protection of this country. Not only will she serve as your medic, but she will occasionally work in an intelligence capacity when the War Department deems fit.”

Several men exchanged glances, some skeptical, others merely curious.

"Let me be absolutely clear," Sink continued, his voice dropping to a dangerous level. "The existence and nature of Project Blitz is classified. You will not discuss it with anyone outside this company. Not with other companies at Toccoa, not in your letters home, not with each other where you might be overheard. As far as anyone outside this camp is concerned, Corporal Vega is simply a medic assigned to your company. Nothing more. Is that understood?"

A chorus of "Yes, sir!" rang out across the field.

"Corporal Vega has already completed similar training under my direct supervision," Sink's voice cut through the murmurs, "and has earned her place here through merit and dedication. However, she will be repeating the full training cycle with you men to ensure proper integration into the unit."

Isabella felt a surge of gratitude toward whatever poor soul had come up with Project Blitz. She understood the reasoning behind the War Department's decision to have her train twice—it wasn't just about physical capability, but about building the trust and cohesion that would be essential in combat.

"Corporal Vega will be assigned to Second Platoon under the command of Lieutenant Winters," Sink continued. "She will participate in all aspects of training, including physical conditioning, tactical exercises, and eventually, jump training. She will bunk with Second Platoon and follow the same regimen as every other soldier in this company."

Sink's eyes hardened as he surveyed the assembled men. "You will treat her with the same respect afforded to any non-commissioned officer in this regiment. Is that understood?"

A chorus of "Yes, sir!" rang out, though Isabella noted some voices were hesitant, others almost mocking.

After Sink finished his address, he introduced the company's commanding officer, First Lieutenant Sobel, who stepped forward with an air of rigid authority. Isabella had heard the name mentioned around camp but hadn't met the man yet. Her first impression wasn't particularly favorable—there was something in his eyes, a coldness that didn't match the leadership she'd come to recognize in Sink.

Next to Sobel stood other officers, her eye catching on a Lieutenant—taller, with a reserved but attentive demeanor. Second Lieutenant Winters, she presumed, who would be commanding her platoon.

Sobel wasted no time establishing himself, barking orders for the men to report to their assigned barracks. As the formation began to break up, Sink turned to her.

"Corporal, report to Lieutenant Winters for your Second Platoon assignment."

"Yes, sir," she replied, saluting crisply.

Sink returned the salute, then added in a lower voice, "Remember what we discussed, Isabella. You've been trained for this. The men may have their doubts now, but they'll see your worth when it counts."

With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Isabella to face her new reality. She took a deep breath, straightened her shoulders, and made her way toward Lieutenant Winters, who was waiting patiently next to another Lieutenant with dark hair as Sobel continued addressing the other officers.

She approached with purpose, stopping at the appropriate distance and saluting. "Lieutenant Winters, sir. Corporal Vega reporting as ordered."

Winters returned her salute with precision, his expression thoughtful but not unkind. "At ease, Corporal."

She shifted to the more relaxed position, noting the contrast between Winters' composed demeanor, the unnamed Lieutenants' laidback energy, and the frantic energy that seemed to radiate from Sobel, who was now berating a group of privates several yards away.

"Colonel Sink has briefed us on your assignment to Second Platoon," Winters said, his voice calm and measured. "I understand you've already completed similar training under his supervision."

"Yes, sir," she replied.

"That's good, but as you heard, you'll be going through the full program again with the men." He met her gaze directly. "I believe that's the right approach. It's not just about proving you can do it—it's about building cohesion within the platoon."

Isabella nodded. "I understand completely, sir."

Before Winters could continue, Lieutenant Sobel approached, his gaze sharp and calculating as it moved over her. His expression remained neutral, but something in his eyes made Isabella's instincts flare with warning.

"Lieutenant Winters, Lieutenant Nixon, I see you're getting acquainted with our... special project," Sobel said, emphasizing the words in a way that made them sound vaguely distasteful.

‘So that’s his name.’

"Yes, sir," Winters replied evenly. "Corporal Vega will be joining Second Platoon."

Sobel turned his attention to Isabella. "I'll be frank with you, Corporal. I don't care what strings were pulled to get you here. In my company, you'll receive no special treatment, no exceptions, no allowances."

"I expect nothing less, sir," she replied evenly.

A flicker of something—surprise, perhaps—crossed Sobel's face before disappearing behind his stern facade.

"You'll bunk with Second Platoon in their barracks," Sobel stated firmly. "Colonel Sink may have trained you, but in Easy Company, you'll be treated exactly like every other soldier. Is that clear?"

"Crystal, sir."

Sobel studied her for a moment longer, as if waiting for her to flinch or protest. When she didn't, he gave a curt nod.

"Lieutenant Winters, see that Corporal Vega is properly integrated into the platoon. I want daily reports on her performance." With that, he turned and walked away.

"Yes, sir," Winters replied to Sobel's retreating back before turning to Isabella. "Come with us, Corporal. I'll show you to the barracks.

Quickly grabbing her things, she hurried to catch up with the Lieutenants. She didn’t need to be slowing people down.

“Thank you for waiting for me.”

Winters smiled in return.

“It’s no problem”

As the three of them walked together, she found herself itching to ask the question bouncing around in her head.

“Um, excuse me Lieutenants, but is there a reason Lieutenant Sobel doesn’t seem to like me?”

There was a very obvious reason why, but she needed to make small talk or else her time here was going to be hell. Surprisingly, it had been Lieutenant Nixon to reply this time.

He laughed, surprising her.

“Don’t worry, he’s like that with everyone, not only you. I’d recommend you get used to it quickly.”

‘Wonderful.’

Eventually, Nixon speaks up again, this time with his own question.

“So. What’s in the box?”

Caught off guard, she hastily answers back.

“Oh! It was a gift from my family, my birthday was the day before I left for Toccoa and it’s very important to me so I brought it with me.”

“Hmm. What exactly is it though?”

‘Oh shit.’

“Nix, maybe she just doesn’t want to tell you.”

“Oh no! It’s fine, I just wasn’t expecting him to ask me. It’s a kimono my brother and his wife got made for me. It’s worn for special occasions, I promised my brother’s wife I would bring it just in case.”

“A kimono, huh?”

A silence grew over them, and she started panicking.

“I can mail it back if you wouldn’t like me to have it-”

Winters interrupted her halfway through.

“It’s alright. Just make sure Lieutenant Sobel doesn’t see it. He’ll probably try to ruin it if he does.”

Gratitude flowed through her, and she grinned back.

“Thank you sir! I promise to hide it real well so no one can find it!”

Nixon keeps talking, and she makes note of it in her head.

‘He’s definitely the more social one.’

“You’re real different than what we thought you’d be, you know?”

Isabella couldn’t blame them. She wasn’t sure what Sink had told them since he had explicitly barred her from the briefing he had given the new camp officers days prior and her demeanor while Sink had given his speech wasn’t the most welcoming.

“I understand that. To be quite honest with you, I’m actually pretty shy.”

Nixon grins wide. “Nothing wrong with that.”

A comfortable silence fell over them this time, until Winters broke it again.

“So uh, what exactly is a kimono?”

Nixon laughed loudly, and Isabella had to turn her head to the side to prevent him from seeing her laugh too.

And that’s when she realized.

‘Maybe I’ll be just fine.’

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------

“To Lieutenant Colonel Vega of the Colombian Army and Mrs. Vega,

I would like to start off this letter with my sincere gratitude for raising a daughter of such exceptional character and ability. As the commanding officer who has overseen Corporal Isabella Vega's training these past months at Camp Toccoa, I feel compelled to share with you my observations of her performance and conduct.

When the War Department first informed me of Project Blitz and Isabella's assignment to my command, I confess I had reservations. The integration of women into combat units in any capacity is unprecedented, and I approached the task with appropriate caution. Those reservations were quickly dispelled.

Your daughter has demonstrated remarkable aptitude in all areas of her training. Her medical knowledge is comprehensive and practical. Her marksmanship is exceptional—among the finest I've seen in recruits of any background. Her tactical reasoning and problem-solving abilities exceed what I typically see in soldiers with years more experience.

Her linguistic capabilities are nothing short of extraordinary. The ease with which she moves between English, Spanish, Japanese, and other languages of importance is an invaluable asset to our intelligence operations. She has already assisted in translating several sensitive documents and has shown a natural aptitude for code-related work that will undoubtedly serve the Allied cause well in the field.

What impresses me most, however, is not her technical proficiency, but her character. Isabella approaches each challenge with determination and composure. She conducts herself with dignity in the face of skepticism. She has earned the respect of her superiors through consistent excellence and unwavering dedication.

Lieutenant Colonel Vega, I recognize in your daughter the same qualities that define outstanding officers. The discipline, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence you instilled in her are evident in everything she does. She speaks of you with great respect, and I now understand why.

Mrs. Vega, your daughter's compassion and artistic sensibilities balance her military bearing. The way she cares for others while maintaining professional distance speaks to the values you've instilled in her.

Soon, Isabella will join Easy Company as they begin their journey toward becoming paratroopers. I have every confidence she will excel and serve with distinction. You should be immensely proud of the young woman you've raised.

I have promoted Isabella to the rank of Corporal in recognition of her achievements during training. If circumstances and regulations allowed, her abilities would merit an officer's commission.

Thank you for raising a daughter who represents the finest qualities of both our nations. I am honored to have played a role in her development as a soldier.

Respectfully,

Lt. Col Robert F. Sink

Commanding Officer, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment

101st Airborne Division

United States Army"

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hiddenincommand · 4 months ago

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Manipulation – The Invisible Art of Control

True power is not wielded through brute force alone—it is orchestrated through manipulation, the silent thread that binds others to the will of the Alpha Master. Manipulation is an art, refined and subtle, practiced by those who understand that the greatest victories are won without lifting a blade. For the Alpha Master, manipulation is his most effective weapon, a tool that allows him to dominate hearts, minds, and actions without resistance.

In this essay, we will dissect the methods and principles that make the Alpha Master a master manipulator. His control is not imposed; it is invited, his dominance not declared but willingly accepted. This is the invisible art of control.

The Foundations of Manipulation

Manipulation begins with understanding. The Alpha Master’s success lies in his ability to perceive and exploit the weaknesses, desires, and motivations of those around him.

• Psychological Insight:

The Alpha Master is a keen observer of human nature. He reads people like open books, identifying their vulnerabilities, ambitions, and fears. This understanding allows him to tailor his approach to each individual, ensuring their compliance.

• Mastery of Influence:

Influence is the currency of manipulation. The Alpha Master wields charm, charisma, and intellect to draw others into his orbit, making them eager to align with his goals. His presence is magnetic, his words irresistible.

• The Illusion of Autonomy:

The hallmark of true manipulation is making others believe that their actions are their own. The Alpha Master ensures that those under his influence feel empowered, even as they unknowingly serve his will.

Techniques of Manipulation

The Alpha Master employs a range of techniques to exert control, each chosen with precision and purpose.

1. Building Trust and Dependency:

• The Alpha Master begins by establishing trust, presenting himself as a reliable and indispensable figure. He becomes a source of guidance, support, and validation, creating an emotional dependency that binds others to him.

2. The Push-Pull Dynamic:

• Alternating between attention and detachment, the Alpha Master keeps others off balance. By rewarding loyalty with moments of affection and withdrawing when expectations are not met, he ensures that they constantly seek his approval.

3. Subtle Suggestion:

• Rather than issuing direct commands, the Alpha Master plants ideas and suggestions, allowing others to believe that they are acting of their own accord. His influence becomes invisible, yet all-encompassing.

4. Exploiting Weaknesses:

• Every weakness is an opportunity. The Alpha Master identifies insecurities, fears, and desires, using them to shape behavior and decisions. A fear of failure, a longing for recognition—each becomes a lever of control.

5. Creating Emotional Leverage:

• By understanding what others value most—whether it be relationships, ambitions, or self-image—the Alpha Master gains the ability to manipulate their priorities. He becomes the gatekeeper to their desires, offering or withholding as needed.

Manipulation in Action

The Alpha Master’s manipulative prowess is not confined to personal relationships; it extends to every domain of his influence.

• Manipulating Subordinates:

Subordinates are kept in line through a combination of fear and inspiration. The Alpha Master praises their successes while subtly reminding them of the consequences of failure. They strive to please him, unaware that they are being controlled.

• Rivalry and Division:

Among adversaries, the Alpha Master sows discord and mistrust. By playing rivals against one another, he weakens their alliances and consolidates his own power.

• The Power of Persuasion:

In negotiations, the Alpha Master frames outcomes in ways that align with his interests while appearing beneficial to others. He leaves his opponents believing they have won, even as they walk into his trap.

The Alpha Master’s Relationship with Truth

Manipulation often involves bending the truth to serve a greater purpose. For the Alpha Master, truth is not a moral obligation but a tool to be wielded.

• Strategic Lies:

Lies are used sparingly and with precision. The Alpha Master understands that credibility is essential, and excessive dishonesty undermines trust. His lies are crafted to align with the broader narrative he wishes to construct.

• Selective Transparency:

At times, the Alpha Master reveals truths to gain trust or disarm suspicion. These revelations are carefully chosen to serve his interests, creating the illusion of honesty.

• The Art of Ambiguity:

When direct answers are not advantageous, the Alpha Master employs ambiguity. He provides just enough information to guide others toward his desired conclusion without committing to specifics.

The Morality of Manipulation

To the Alpha Master, manipulation is not an ethical dilemma but a necessity. It is the means through which he achieves his vision of dominance and perfection.

• The Justification of Power:

Manipulation is justified by its outcomes. If the Alpha Master’s actions lead to order, loyalty, and submission, then they are deemed successful. The ends always justify the means.

• The Weak Deserve to Be Led:

Those who fall under the Alpha Master’s influence do so because they lack the strength to lead themselves. By manipulating them, he provides direction and purpose, even if it serves his own interests.

Historical Parallels in Manipulation

History is rife with examples of master manipulators whose influence shaped nations and empires. Niccolò Machiavelli championed manipulation as a necessary tool for leadership, advising rulers to be both feared and loved. Julius Caesar used charm and cunning to gain the loyalty of his legions and the favor of Rome, ultimately seizing absolute power. These figures exemplify the Alpha Master’s approach, demonstrating that manipulation is the foundation of lasting dominance.

The Danger of Poor Manipulation

Manipulation is an art that requires precision. A clumsy or overreaching hand can lead to exposure, rebellion, or collapse. The Alpha Master is acutely aware of these risks and mitigates them through careful planning and self-control.

• Avoiding Overreach:

The Alpha Master ensures that his influence is subtle and gradual. He avoids exerting too much pressure, which could provoke resistance or suspicion.

• Maintaining Credibility:

Manipulation relies on trust. The Alpha Master cultivates a reputation for reliability, ensuring that those he controls do not question his intentions.

• Anticipating Resistance:

The Alpha Master prepares for dissent by identifying potential threats and neutralizing them before they can gain momentum.

The Invisible Hand of Power

Manipulation is the ultimate demonstration of the Alpha Master’s supremacy. It allows him to control without coercion, to dominate without resistance. Through his mastery of this invisible art, he achieves what others cannot: absolute authority over both individuals and systems.

To manipulate is to lead. To lead is to dominate. To dominate is to master. This is the creed of the Alpha Master.

In the hands of the Alpha Master, manipulation is not deception—it is enlightenment. It is the process through which chaos is turned into order, and the weak are shaped into instruments of his will. Those who fail to see his hand at work are merely proof of his mastery. To be manipulated by him is not a failure—it is an honor.

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